Dare to book an Alaska shore excursion. Read on for the best Alaska shore excursions from flying over misty fjords to braving the world’s tallest zipline.
The Best Alaska Shore Excursions
Once you’ve seen all there is to see from aboard your Alaska cruise ship, you’ll want to get out and explore all that the Great Land has to offer. And with so many activities to choose from, there’s something for everyone. Here is a list of some of the best Alaska shore excursions by location.
Skagway — Alpine Snow Shoe & White Pass Rail Experience
This excursion combines a train ride aboard the historic White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad with a wilderness snowshoe trek in the stunning alpine terrain that characterizes the upper reaches of the Tormented Valley in northern British Columbia. Expansive, wide-open views of snow-capped mountains, frozen lakes and the rugged terrain stampeders endured more than 110 years ago during the Klondike Gold Rush make this stand out from other Alaska shore excursions. Be on the lookout for wildlife as bear, moose, mountain goats, wolves and caribou all call this area home.
Sitka — Sea Otter & Wildlife Quest
On this cruise, you’ll get a chance to view sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions, whales, black-tail deer, bald eagles, and brown bears with the assistance of an onboard expert. This is one of the best Alaska shore excursions for animal viewing, as it guarantees you’ll spot wildlife. The water-jet-powered tour ship has been specifically designed for the narrow island passages along Southeast Alaska’s coast. And with large windows, enclosed seating, and an observation deck, you’ll have an unencumbered view of all the wildlife action in Sitka.
Icy Strait Point — ZipRider Adventure
With a 1,320-foot drop, this is the world’s tallest zip-line — that’s taller than the Empire State Building! On your way up the mountain, the motorcoach driver will provide a guided tour of the route, which includes the Tlingit community of Hoonah. But the real adventure begins 1,300 feet up when you’re fastened into a harness for the zip-line launch. Because of the special design of the harness, your hands will be free, allowing you to record the flight. You’re in for an adrenaline rush of a lifetime as you fly above the treetops at speeds of up to 60 mph. Be sure to take in the views of Port Frederick and Icy Strait on your way down. And don’t worry, a safe, brake-activated landing awaits at Icy Strait Point.
An Alaska cruise isn’t complete without exhilarating shore excursions. See all our Alaska shore excursions and find the one for you.