Alaska shore excurtions bring the Last Frontier to life, from soaring over glaciers to spotting whales, riding historic railways, and visiting charming port towns. Explore the most unforgettable experiences for your cruise.
Alaska offers new adventures from the moment you step off the ship. Each port brings another chance to see glaciers, rugged mountains, coastal towns, along with incredible wildlife. Choosing your Alaska shore excursions can become one of the best parts of planning your cruise.
You can land on a glacier, watch whales in a quiet bay, ride a scenic train, or meet sled dogs on the snow. Peaceful boat cruises, guided wildlife tours, and drives into the Yukon offer even more ways to explore. Many tours also fit within a single port day.
Tour options change by port and season, so choosing the right experience matters. This guide groups the top excursions by location to help you compare your choices. Get ready to explore the state's glaciers, fjords, forests, and historic towns.
Before your trip, download my Alaska cruise packing list or read The Best Cruise Vacation Tips. You can also find more cruise inspiration on Pinterest.
Juneau Port • Haines Port • Sitka Port • Skagway Port • Ketchikan Port • Seward Port • Anchorage • How to Choose • What to Know Before Booking • Shore Excursons At A Glance • FAQs
Juneau Port
Huge glaciers and rich marine life define this coastal stop. So, you can fly over the icefield, visit Mendenhall Glacier, or look for humpback whales.
Helicopter + Glacier Walk Experience
Fly over the Juneau Icefield before landing on a glacier with an experienced guide. Walk across the ice while viewing blue formations, deep crevasses, and the surrounding mountains.
Book with Viator | GetYourGuide | TripAdvisor
Whale Watching + Mendenhall Glacier Combo
Combine two of Juneau’s top sights in one tour. Cruise the nearby waters in search of humpback whales and sea lions, then visit Mendenhall Glacier for walking trails and scenic views.
Book with Viator | GetYourGuide | TripAdvisor
Juneau Wildlife Cruise + Glacier Visit
Spend time exploring Mendenhall Glacier before boarding a wildlife boat. Watch for humpback whales, orcas, seals, and bald eagles, also enjoy the coastal scenery around here.
Book with Viator | GetYourGuide | TripAdvisor
Haines Port
Rivers, forests, and quiet lakes surround this small coastal town. Here, wildlife tours take you into the Chilkat Valley to look for bald eagles, bears, moose, in addition to salmon.
Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve Float Trip
Float through a peaceful river valley that attracts one of the world’s largest bald eagle gatherings each fall. Along the way, look for bears, moose, and salmon as your guide shares stories about the preserve.
Book with Viator | TripAdvisor
Chilkat River Jet-Boat Adventure
Start with a drive along the scenic byway. Then, ride a jet boat 20 miles into a remote, roadless area of the preserve. Watch for moose, bears, and other wildlife before enjoying a riverside picnic.
Book with Viator | TripAdvisor
Chilkoot Lake Nature and Wildlife Viewing
Explore Chilkoot Lake State Park on a small group wildlife tour from Haines. With help from your guide, you may also spot bald eagles, harbor seals, brown bears, and other local wildlife.
Book with Viator | TripAdvisor
Sitka Port
Rich history and marine life shape this island port. So, you can visit wildlife centers or walk among Tlingit totem poles. You can also cruise the sound in search of whales and sea otters.
Sitka Wildlife & Cultural Highlights Tour
Visit the Alaska Raptor Center and meet rescued bears at Fortress of the Bear. Then, follow forest trails past Tlingit totem poles in the national historical park.
Book with Viator | GetYourGuide | TripAdvisor
Sitka Premier Whale Watching and Wildlife Tour
Cruise the sound with a small group of no more than 13 guests. Expert guides help you look for whales, sea otters, eagles, and also brown bears along the coast.
Book with Viator | GetYourGuide | TripAdvisor
Experience Incredible Marine Wildlife Tour
Explore the sound by boat while a local guide explains the ecosystem and fishing industry. Watch for humpback whales, sea lions, harbor seals, as well as seabirds. The tour also provides binoculars, drinks, and snacks.
Book with Viator | TripAdvisor
Skagway Port
Gold Rush history and steep mountain scenery define this small port. Follow the Klondike Highway to White Pass Summit, cross the Canadian border, or also visit the historic cemetery. Many tours also stop near waterfalls, valleys, and wildlife areas.
Full Day Yukon Discovery Tour
Visit White Pass Summit and the Yukon Suspension Bridge on a guided tour. During the drive, stop at scenic viewpoints, while learning about the Klondike Gold Rush and local history.
Book with Viator | TripAdvisor
White Pass Deluxe Tour from Skagway
Start with a tour of downtown and the Gold Rush Cemetery. Then, travel to White Pass Summit and Tormented Valley for views of mountains, glaciers, waterfalls, and wildlife.
Book with Viator | Expedia | TripAdvisor
Yukon Border and Suspension Bridge
Follow the scenic Klondike Highway to White Pass Summit as well as the Yukon border. Along the route, stop for mountain views and watch for moose, bears, in addition to mountain goats.
Book with Viator
Ketchikan Port
Totem poles, salmon streams, as well as coastal woodlands define this waterfront stop. Learn about local Indigenous culture, zipline through the forest, or also fish for Pacific salmon and halibut.
Ketchikan Highlights & Wildlife Tour
Visit local totem parks and learn about the area’s native culture. Also look for seasonal salmon runs, bald eagles, bears, and other wildlife along the coast.
Book with Viator
Rainforest Zipline Adventure
Fly through the treetops on a canopy zipline course with rope bridges and forest views. Also take in the cool air and thick greenery of the coastal rainforest.
Book with Viator | Expedia | TripAdvisor
Salmon & Halibut Fishing Charter
Head onto the water with a guide to fish for Pacific salmon and halibut. You can also tailor the trip toward wildlife viewing and coastal photography.
Book with Viator | TripAdvisor
Seward Shore Excursions
Glacier carved fjords and rich marine life make this port a favorite for boat tours. Cruises enter Resurrection Bay and Kenai Fjords National Park to search for whales, sea otters, puffins, as well as sea lions.
Kenai Fjords Wildlife Cruise
Sail through glacier carved fjords while watching for whales, sea otters, puffins, and bald eagles. If available, you can also add a salmon and prime rib buffet to your cruise.
Book with Viator | TripAdvisor
Glacier & Wildlife Cruise with Ranger Guides
Watch for calving glaciers and marine wildlife along a coast lined with steep cliffs. A national park ranger will also explain the landscape, animals, and natural history.
Book with Viator | GetYourGuide | TripAdvisor
Kenai Fjords and Resurrection Bay Wildlife Cruise
Cruise through Resurrection Bay as well as along the national park’s rugged coast. Along the way, see Bear Glacier and look for whales, sea otters, sea lions, seabirds, and also mountain goats.
Book with Viator | TripAdvisor
Anchorage
These tours work best before or after a cruise through Seward or Whittier. From the city, you can explore Turnagain Arm, visit a wildlife center, fly over glaciers, or also reach remote bear habitat by bush plane.
Turnagain Arm + Wildlife Conservation Center
Drive along Turnagain Arm for views of mountains, water, and the rugged coastline. Then, head to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to see native animals. Some tours also offer a Portage Glacier cruise.
Book with Viator | GetYourGuide | TripAdvisor
Helicopter Dogsled Adventure
Fly over towering glaciers before landing on a remote snowfield. Also meet the sled dogs and mushers before riding across the snow by dogsled.
Book with Viator | GetYourGuide | TripAdvisor
Bear Viewing Flight Tour
Fly by bush plane into remote wilderness to look for bears in their natural habitat. From the air, enjoy wide views of mountains, rivers, and open tundra.
Book with Viator | GetYourGuide | TripAdvisor
How to Choose an Alaska Shore Excursion
Choose your main experience. First, decide what you want to see most. Whether it's wildlife, exploring a glacier, a train ride, going fishing, or traveling into the Yukon.
Match the activity level. Boat cruises and scenic drives require little walking. But, glacier walks and zipline tours involve more movement.
Check the tour length. Compare the schedule with your time in port. Then make sure to leave enough time to return to the ship.
Review the requirements. Some tours have age, weight, or mobility limits. Trips from Skagway into Canada also require a valid passport.
Plan for changing weather. Wind, rain, or low clouds can affect boat trips, helicopter flights, as well as glacier landings.
What to Know Before Booking
Check your time in port. Compare the tour’s end time with your ship’s all aboard time. Also, leave room for traffic, bad weather, or other delays.
Find the pickup point. Some tours meet beside the ship. Although some leave from a harbor, visitor center, or downtown area. So, if your ship uses tenders, allow more time.
Watch the weather. Rain, wind, fog, and low clouds can affect boats, flights, and glacier landings. Because of this, the tour company may change or cancel your trip.
Bring the right ID. Tours from Skagway into Canada require a valid passport. Before you book, check the rules for your trip.
Be realistic about wildlife. Guides know the best places to look for animals. But, no tour can promise every animal on its list.
Alaska Cruise Packing List
Not sure what to bring? Use my complete Alaska cruise packing list to prepare for changing weather, wildlife tours, as well as your outdoor adventures.
Best Alaska Shore Excursions at a Glance
Use this table directly after your introduction so readers can quickly compare ports, experiences, and activity levels.
| Cruise Port | Shore Excursion | Best For | Activity Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Juneau | Helicopter + Glacier Walk | Glacier landing and aerial views | Moderate |
| Juneau | Whale Watching + Mendenhall Glacier | Whales and glacier scenery | Easy |
| Juneau | Wildlife Cruise + Glacier Visit | Wildlife and relaxed sightseeing | Easy |
| Haines | Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve Float Trip | Eagles and peaceful scenery | Easy |
| Haines | Chilkat River Jet-Boat Adventure | Remote wilderness and wildlife | Easy |
| Haines | Chilkoot Lake Nature and Wildlife Viewing | Bears, eagles, and lake scenery | Easy |
| Sitka | Wildlife & Cultural Highlights Tour | Wildlife, history, and culture | Easy |
| Sitka | Premier Whale Watching and Wildlife Tour | Small-group wildlife viewing | Easy |
| Sitka | Incredible Marine Wildlife Tour | Marine wildlife and local stories | Easy |
| Skagway | Full-Day Yukon Discovery Tour | Yukon scenery and Gold Rush history | Easy |
| Skagway | White Pass Deluxe Tour | Mountains, waterfalls, and history | Easy |
| Skagway | Yukon Border and Suspension Bridge | Scenic drive and wildlife sightings | Easy |
| Ketchikan | Highlights & Wildlife Tour | Totem parks and Indigenous culture | Easy |
| Ketchikan | Rainforest Zipline Adventure | Outdoor thrills and rainforest views | Active |
| Ketchikan | Salmon & Halibut Fishing Charter | Fishing and private sightseeing | Easy |
| Seward | Kenai Fjords Wildlife Cruise | Fjords, glaciers, and marine wildlife | Easy |
| Seward | Glacier & Wildlife Cruise with Ranger Guides | Glacier calving and expert narration | Easy |
| Seward | Kenai Fjords and Resurrection Bay Cruise | Bear Glacier and coastal wildlife | Easy |
| Anchorage | Turnagain Arm + Wildlife Conservation Center | Wildlife and mountain scenery | Easy |
| Anchorage | Helicopter Dogsled Adventure | Glacier flight and dogsledding | Moderate |
| Anchorage | Bear Viewing Flight Tour | Remote bear viewing and aerial scenery | Easy |
Final Thoughts: Your Alaska Cruise Awaits
Each port reveals another side of the state. One day, you may walk across a glacier or fly above an icefield. On another, you may watch whales, explore a historic town, or enjoy the view from the ship.
Choose tours that match your interests, budget, and activity level. Weather can change quickly, so stay flexible and prepare for delays. Then if time allows, explore the port towns before returning to your ship.
Take plenty of photos, but remember to enjoy the moment as well. Since, the glaciers, wildlife, and mountain views will stay with you long after your cruise ends.
Alaska Shore Excursions FAQs
Do I need to book tours in advance?
Yes, popular tours can sell out early. Helicopter flights, whale cruises, and dog sled rides often have limited space. Therefore, booking early gives you more times and options.
Should I book through the cruise line or on my own?
Both choices have benefits. Cruise-line tours make planning easy and coordinate with the ship. However, local companies may offer smaller groups, lower prices, or more tour choices.
Which tours are the most popular?
Top choices include whale watching, glacier flights, dog sled rides, scenic trains, and wildlife cruises. Many guests also enjoy bear viewing, fishing, and cultural tours.
What should I wear?
Dress in light layers that you can add or remove. Also, pack a raincoat and wear sturdy shoes. A warm hat and gloves may help on cold or windy days.
Can I join a tour with limited mobility?
Many boat rides, scenic drives, and cultural tours require little walking. However, steps, steep ramps, and uneven ground may still cause problems. Ask the tour company about access before you book.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Most tours still run in light rain. However, fog, wind, or low clouds may stop flights and glacier landings. The tour company will explain your options if it cancels the trip.
Will I see wildlife?
No tour can promise a wildlife sighting. Still, local guides know where animals often feed, rest, and travel. You may see whales, bears, eagles, sea otters, or seals.
How long do tours last?
Many tours last between two and six hours. However, train rides and trips into the Yukon may take most of the day. Check the start and end times before you book.
Do I need a passport?
You will not need one for most tours within the state. However, trips from Skagway into Canada require a valid passport. Read the tour rules before leaving home.
Can I explore a port without booking a tour?
Yes, you can explore many port towns on foot. For example, you may find shops, museums, trails, and local places to eat near the ship. A paid tour is only needed if you want to travel farther away.
This really shows how different each Alaska cruise port can be. I always pictured every stop being pretty similar, but glacier walks, historic train rides, wildlife cruises, and even dog sledding all sound completely different. If it was your first Alaska cruise, which one shore excursion would you consider the one experience you absolutely wouldn’t want to miss?
If I could only choose one, it would be the helicopter flight with a glacier landing in Juneau. Flying over the icefield is incredible, and actually stepping onto a glacier is one of those experiences that’s hard to describe until you’ve done it. If that’s outside the budget, I’d recommend a whale watching tour combined with Mendenhall Glacier. It’s a fantastic way to experience two of Alaska’s biggest highlights in a single excursion.
This guide makes Alaska shore excursions sound incredibly exciting. I like how each port offers something completely different, from glacier landings in Juneau to wildlife cruises in Seward and historic routes in Skagway. The mix of adventure tours and scenic experiences seems perfect for cruise travelers who want to make the most of their limited time in port. For someone planning their first Alaska cruise, which excursion would you recommend as the one experience they absolutely shouldn’t miss?
For many first-time Alaska cruise visitors, a glacier experience is the one excursion that truly stands out. Seeing a glacier up close, especially during a helicopter landing or guided glacier walk near Juneau, gives you a completely different perspective than viewing it from the ship. Standing on the ice, surrounded by deep blue crevasses and massive frozen landscapes, makes the scale of Alaska’s wilderness feel real. Whale watching tours are also incredibly popular, but glacier landings tend to be the most memorable because they combine dramatic scenery with a rare opportunity to step directly onto a glacier. Experiences like this capture the spirit of Alaska and often become the highlight of the entire cruise.