Why an Alaska Cruise Should Be Your Next Adventure
If you’re dreaming of a once-in-a-lifetime vacation filled with jaw-dropping landscapes, abundant wildlife, and unforgettable experiences, look no further than an Alaska cruise! It’s one of the most sought-after cruise destinations for a reason. Sailing through Alaska means glacier-filled fjords, charming coastal towns, and daily adventures you won’t find anywhere else in the world. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, nature lover, or simply want to unplug and reconnect with awe-inspiring beauty, cruising Alaska offers something for everyone.
With sailings available from Vancouver and Seattle, and a variety of Alaska cruise itineraries for 2025, now is the perfect time to plan your trip! Here are the top things you won’t want to miss on your Alaska cruise vacation, with stops in iconic ports like Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and Glacier Bay.
1. Witness the Power of Hubbard Glacier
No Alaska cruise experience is complete without watching the massive Hubbard Glacier calve into the sea. This glacier, over 400 feet tall and 6 miles wide, is one of the most active and awe-inspiring natural wonders in North America. As your ship edges closer to the ice wall, you’ll hear thunder-like cracks and see enormous chunks of ice plunge into the water. It’s a highlight on many Alaska glacier cruises and an unforgettable sight you’ll talk about for years.
2. Cruise Through Glacier Bay National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Glacier Bay National Park is a must-see on any inside passage Alaska cruise. Accessible only by boat or plane, Glacier Bay offers a surreal mix of tidewater glaciers, towering peaks, and pristine wilderness. National Park rangers often come aboard to narrate your journey through this protected area, making it one of the most enriching and photogenic segments of your cruise.
3. Take the Historic White Pass Railway in Skagway
Step back in time in Skagway, where you can ride the famous White Pass and Yukon Route Railway. This narrow-gauge train was built during the Klondike Gold Rush and now offers cruise passengers a breathtaking journey past glaciers, waterfalls, and deep gorges. It’s one of the most popular excursions on any Alaska cruise from Vancouver or Seattle, offering history, views, and an easy way to see inland Alaska.
4. Kayak Through Misty Fjords in Ketchikan
If you’re craving immersive outdoor adventure, try sea kayaking through the majestic Misty Fjords National Monument near Ketchikan. Paddle past dramatic granite cliffs, waterfalls, and rainforests in one of Alaska’s most peaceful settings. This is a top pick for travelers looking for active Alaska cruise excursions and a chance to get up close with the wild beauty of the state.
5. Get Up Close to Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau
A visit to Juneau, Alaska’s remote capital city, isn’t complete without seeing Mendenhall Glacier. Located just 12 miles from downtown, this enormous glacier is easily accessible via shuttle or guided tour. Explore nearby hiking trails, watch for bears and salmon at the viewing platforms, or book a thrilling helicopter tour for a glacier landing you’ll never forget.
6. Feast on Alaskan King Crab and Fresh Seafood
An Alaska cruise vacation offers more than scenery—it’s also a culinary journey. Be sure to indulge in fresh-caught Alaskan king crab, wild-caught salmon, and halibut. Local favorites like Tracy’s King Crab Shack in Juneau or The Alaska Fish House in Ketchikan deliver world-class seafood with unbeatable views. Many cruise lines also offer Alaska-themed dining on board, so you can sample local flavors at sea.
7. Go Whale Watching in Icy Strait Point
Alaska’s waters are teeming with marine life, and Icy Strait Point is one of the best places for consistent whale watching on an Alaska cruise. Whether you book a small-group boat tour or watch from the shore, expect to see humpbacks, orcas, sea lions, and possibly even breaching whales. 
Bring your camera and your binoculars—this is one of the most memorable wildlife experiences in North America.
8. Watch Bears in the Wild
One of the most unique things to do on an Alaska cruise tour is to see bears in their natural habitat. Several shore excursions offer access to remote wildlife viewing areas like Pack Creek or Anan Creek, where brown and black bears fish for salmon during peak season. These guided trips are safe, educational, and deeply moving—perfect for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
9. Discover Indigenous Culture and Totem Heritage
Alaska’s Indigenous heritage is rich and deeply woven into daily life. Visit totem parks in Ketchikan, the Sitka National Historical Park, or cultural centers that offer storytelling, traditional art demonstrations, and dance performances. These excursions add depth to your journey and highlight the importance of cultural preservation in Alaska cruise destinations.
10. See the Midnight Sun or Northern Lights
Depending on your sailing date, you may witness one of Alaska’s iconic natural phenomena. In midsummer, experience the midnight sun—where daylight lingers well past 10pm. In early spring or late fall, some lucky travelers may even glimpse the Northern Lights from their Alaska cruise ship. Either way, the ever-changing sky is a key part of the Alaska magic.
Why Book Your Alaska Cruise with a Travel Agent in Kelowna, BC
Booking an Alaska cruise from Canada doesn’t need to be overwhelming. As a small, independent travel agency in Kelowna, BC, we help our clients find the perfect cruise line, ship, cabin, and shore excursions to match their travel style and budget. From exclusive offers to insider tips and 1-on-1 personalized service, we make the planning process simple and stress-free.
Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with the whole family, we’ll ensure your Alaska cruise adventure is unforgettable from start to finish!