Alaska, the largest state in the United States, has breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and diverse wildlife. One of the best ways to experience the wonders of Alaska is through a cruise, which allows visitors to explore the state’s stunning coastline, glaciers, and charming port towns. If you’re planning an Alaska cruise, you might wonder which ports are the best to visit. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most popular ports and what they offer to help you make the most of your Alaskan adventure.
Juneau
The Capital City Juneau, Alaska’s capital city, is a popular port of call for many Alaska cruises. This charming city offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and cultural attractions, making it a must-visit destination for any Alaska cruise.
One of Juneau’s top attractions is the Mendenhall Glacier. This stunning glacier, located just 12 miles from downtown Juneau, is one of the most accessible glaciers in Alaska. Visitors can take a guided tour of the glacier, hike the nearby trails, and even go ice climbing on its surface.
Another must-see site in Juneau is the Mount Roberts Tramway. This aerial tramway takes visitors from the cruise ship dock to Mount Roberts, offering stunning views of Juneau and the surrounding mountains. At the top of the tramway, visitors can explore hiking trails, watch a film about Tlingit culture, and even see a bald eagle up close at the Juneau Raptor Center.
Those interested in Juneau’s history and culture must visit the Alaska State Museum. This museum offers exhibits on Alaska’s natural history, Native cultures, and the Russian colonial period. Visitors can also take a walking tour of downtown Juneau, which features historic buildings, galleries, and shops.
Skagway
The Gateway to the Klondike Skagway, located in southeast Alaska, is known as the “Gateway to the Klondike” due to its role in the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1890s. This charming port town offers a perfect mix of history, outdoor adventures, and stunning scenery, making it a popular stop for many Alaska cruises.
One of the top attractions in Skagway is the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad. This historic narrow-gauge railroad, built during the Klondike Gold Rush, takes visitors on a scenic journey through the mountains and forests of Alaska and Canada. Along the way, visitors can see stunning waterfalls and historic sites and even catch a glimpse of wildlife.
Another must-see site in Skagway is the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. This park offers visitors the chance to explore the history of the gold rush through exhibits, ranger-led tours, and even a chance to pan for gold. Visitors can also take a walking tour of downtown Skagway, which features restored buildings from the Gold Rush era.
For those seeking outdoor adventures, Skagway offers plenty of options. Visitors can take a guided hike on the Chilkoot Trail, which follows the route of the gold rush stampeders, or go rock climbing on the nearby cliffs. Skagway is also a popular spot for kayaking, with guided tours available to explore the nearby fjords and glaciers.
Ketchikan
The Salmon Capital of the World Ketchikan, located in southern Alaska, is known as the “Salmon Capital of the World” due to its rich fishing heritage. This charming port town offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures, making it a popular stop for many Alaska cruises.
One of the top attractions in Ketchikan is the Misty Fjords National Monument. This stunning wilderness area, just a short float plane ride from Ketchikan, features towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and pristine glacial lakes. Visitors can take a guided tour of the monument, kayak or fish in the fjords, or a flightseeing tour for a birds-eye view of the stunning scenery.
Another must-see site in Ketchikan is the Totem Heritage Center. This museum features a collection of 19th-century totem poles and exhibits on the history and culture of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples. Visitors can also take a walking tour of downtown Ketchikan, which features historic buildings, galleries, and shops showcasing the work of local artists.
For those seeking outdoor adventures, Ketchikan offers plenty of options. Visitors can take a guided fishing trip to catch salmon, halibut, or even king crab or go hiking on one of the many nearby trails. Ketchikan is also a popular spot for zip-lining, with several companies offering thrilling rides through the forest canopy.
Sitka
The Russian Capital of Alaska, Sitka, is located on Baranof Island in southeast Alaska. It was once the capital of Russian America and is known for its rich history and stunning natural beauty. This charming port town offers a perfect mix of cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and spectacular scenery, making it a popular stop for many Alaska cruises.
One of the top attractions in Sitka is the Sitka National Historical Park. This park features a collection of totem poles and hiking trails through the temperate rainforest and along the coast. Visitors can also explore the Russian Bishop’s House, a restored 19th-century building that showcases the history of Russian colonization in Alaska.
Another must-see site in Sitka is the Alaska Raptor Center. This wildlife rehabilitation center offers visitors the chance to see bald eagles, owls, and other birds of prey up close and learn about the center’s conservation efforts. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the Fortress of the Bear, a sanctuary for orphaned and injured bears.
Sitka offers plenty of options for those seeking outdoor adventures. Visitors can take a guided kayaking trip to explore the nearby islands and wildlife or go fishing for salmon or halibut. Sitka is also a popular spot for hiking, with several trails offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and ocean.
Conclusion
In conclusion, an Alaska cruise allows visitors to explore some of the world’s most stunning and diverse landscapes, from glaciers and fjords to charming port towns and historic sites. While each port of call offers unique attractions and experiences, some of the best ports to visit on an Alaska cruise include Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and Sitka.
Whether interested in outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or simply taking in the stunning scenery, an Alaska cruise has something to offer everyone. By exploring these popular ports of call and their many attractions, you’ll be sure to make the most of your Alaskan adventure and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to set sail on the adventure of a lifetime. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and endless opportunities for exploration, an Alaska cruise is sure to be a trip you’ll never forget.