The Best Alaska Cruise Excursions: For Every Port of Call

Planning an Alaska cruise and wondering which excursions are actually worth it? We’ve rounded up the best!

While your time on the ship is a big part of the experience, it’s the days in port that really make the trip. However, Alaska is huge and remote, so it’s not the easiest part of the world to explore on your own. Shore excursions are the easiest way to make the most of those stops, especially in a place like Alaska, where logistics can get tricky.

That’s why we’ve rounded up the best Alaska cruise excursions for every major port of call on most itineraries. From scenic flights to wildlife encounters and more active adventures, these are the tours that are worth your valuable time in port!

Why we book shore excursions independently 

We almost always book our shore excursions independently. We’ve used Viator many times for cruise ship tours, and we’ve never had an issue! The key is to choose tours specifically designed for cruise passengers, like the ones we’ve listed below.

These tours are built around cruise schedules, with start times and pick-up locations that align with ship arrivals in port. They’re also typically much more affordable than booking directly through the cruise line, while offering many of the same experiences. Plus, if a ship-sponsored tour is sold out, you can usually find a very similar option independently.

Another big advantage is the experience itself. Independent tours often run in smaller groups, which makes things feel more relaxed and personal. You’re not stuck moving around in a huge crowd and competing to get the best views and shots! 

There’s also less risk involved than you might think. Many tours offer guarantees to get you back to the ship on time, and full refunds if your ship is late or misses the port altogether, so you can enjoy peace of mind while saving money. When booking, you’ll be asked for your cruise details so operators can plan accordingly and make sure you’re back well before all-aboard. If anything feels tight, it’s always worth double-checking with the tour provider before booking.

Best Alaska Cruise Excursions 

1. Ketchikan

Join a Bering Sea crab fisherman’s tour (best unique experience)

We love this crab fisherman’s tour in Ketchikan because it’s so unique! Instead of going on a typical sightseeing tour, you’ll step aboard the Aleutian Ballad, a real Bering Sea crab boat that’s actually worked in some of the roughest waters in the world. It’s not a replica or a themed experience, it’s the real thing!

Once you’re out on the water, the crew puts on a live fishing demonstration, hauling up massive crab pots and long lines filled with king crab, prawns, and other sea life. You can get up close and even touch the catch before it’s released – how cool is that? The crew also shares stories from their time at sea, which are so interesting, especially for landlubbers! 

It’s very cruise-friendly too. Departure times align with ships in port, and it leaves right from the downtown dock. If you’re at Ward Cove, take the free shuttle to Berth 4. There’s also a 100% refund if you miss it due to ship-related delays.

Go kayaking along Ketchikan’s coastline (best for nature lovers)

We’re huge nature lovers, and we think that this kayak tour is the best way to get up close to Alaska’s breathtaking wildlife. Instead of viewing everything from a distance, you’ll be out on the water in Clover Pass, where the rainforest meets the ocean!

No kayaking experience is needed, and the pace is relaxed. Plus, there’s a low guide-to-guest ratio so you’ll have plenty of support and encouragement from your guide, and lots of chances to ask questions! The guides are also incredibly knowledgeable and take the time to point out wildlife and smaller details you’d normally miss, from sea stars and urchins along the shoreline to bald eagles overhead. You might also spot sea lions or even humpback whales, depending on the day!

This tour is also ideal for cruise passengers, with pickup and drop-off from the port included. Tour times are designed to fit all cruise ship schedules, and they guarantee to get you back before all aboard, so there’s no stress about timing.

Explore Ketchikan by e-bike and hiking trail (best for adventurers) 

If you want something a bit more active but still accessible, this e-bike and rainforest hike is an amazing way to explore beyond Ketchikan’s town center! You’ll start by riding an electric bike along the scenic “road to nowhere,” which makes covering distance easy, even if you’re not a regular cyclist. From there, you’ll head into the Tongass National Forest for a guided hike through dense rainforest, past waterfalls, salmon streams, and coastal viewpoints.

We like this tour because it offers a nice mix of light adventure and nature, without being too demanding. The e-bike assist takes the pressure off, and the small group size means the pace remains manageable.

This tour is especially well-suited for cruise passengers. Pickup and drop-off from the port are included, tour times are designed to fit all cruise ship schedules, and they guarantee to get you back before all aboard, so there’s no need to worry about timing.

Take a scenic floatplane flight over Misty Fjords (best for scenic views)

If you’re looking for a true bucket list experience in Ketchikan, this floatplane tour is hard to beat. It feels surreal from start to finish! Lifting off from the water and soaring over Misty Fjords National Monument is such a beautiful experience that it’s hard to put into words.

From above, you’ll see towering granite cliffs and waterfalls spilling into deep fjords, as well as glassy lakes and endless stretches of untouched forest. It would take multiple days to explore all of this scenery on land, but here you get to see it all in a short amount of time. Every seat is by the window, so you won’t miss a thing, and your pilot shares commentary along the way.

This is also a very smooth option for cruise passengers. This is a worry-free shore excursion with a guarantee to get you back to the ship on time. If anything goes wrong, they’ll even arrange transport to your next port, so you can relax and enjoy the experience – phew!

2. Juneau

Spot humpbacks on a whale watching cruise (best wildlife experience)

Wildlife lovers, this one’s for you! Whale watching is one of the top things to do in Juneau, and this tour is the perfect way to do it. 

You’ll head out on a comfortable, modern boat with large windows and heated cabins, so you can stay warm while still getting great views. There’s also plenty of space to move around, which makes it easy to grab photos when whales surface nearby.

The real highlight, of course, is the wildlife. Humpback whales are the main attraction, and this tour comes with a 100% whale sighting guarantee, which takes a lot of the guesswork out of booking. And the fun doesn’t end there – you’re also likely to spot sea lions, eagles, and other marine life along the way.

It’s also very cruise-friendly, with return transport from the port and multiple departure times to fit your schedule. Everything is well-organized, so you can relax and enjoy the experience without worrying about timing!

Take a helicopter tour and walk on a glacier (best bucket list experience)

If you’re going to splurge on one experience in Alaska, I promise you, this is the one! It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime kind of tour, and it’s the ultimate way to take in the beauty of this unique landscape.

You’ll take off by helicopter and fly over the Juneau Icefield, with views of glaciers, icefalls, and rugged mountain terrain that you just can’t get any other way. Then, you’ll land directly on a remote glacier and step out onto the ice for a guided walk – how cool is that?

Admittedly, this tour is on the more expensive side, but you get to experience so much in just a few hours that we think it’s totally worth it. Plus, it’s completely cruise-friendly, with pickup included and a guarantee to get you back to the ship on time – and if not, they’ll actually fly you to the next port of call!

Explore the Mendenhall Glacier and go whale watching (best combo tour) 

If you’re torn between seeing glaciers and going whale watching, don’t be! This tour is the perfect middle ground because it combines two of Juneau’s biggest highlights into one easy, well-organized experience. It’s ideal if you’re short on time in port on your Alaska cruise, and it’s also very cruise-friendly, with round-trip transport and multiple departure times to fit your schedule.

You’ll start with a visit to Mendenhall Glacier, where you’ll have time to explore the viewing areas, walk the trails, and take photos of this massive 13-mile-long glacier. It’s one of the most accessible ways to see a glacier up close without doing anything too strenuous.

From there, you’ll head out on the water for a whale watching cruise. The boat is comfortable and designed for wildlife viewing, with large windows and outdoor decks. Humpback whales are the main event, but you might also spot eagles, seals, and even orcas – the whole Alaska bingo card, basically! 

Paddle across Mendenhall Lake and hike near the glacier (best adventure)

If you’re after a true adventure in Juneau, this ice adventure is one of the most exciting glacier experiences you can book! Instead of just viewing Mendenhall Glacier from a platform, you’ll actually make your way there by paddling across the lake, weaving past icebergs and waterfalls as you go. It’s absolutely breathtaking!

Once you arrive, you’ll head out on a guided hike to explore the area up close. This allows you to see so many dramatic natural features that most visitors never get to experience, like ancient rock formations and ice caves. Plus, if you’re lucky, you might spot wildlife like porcupines and bald eagles.

We think that this tour is best suited for more active travelers who want something hands-on and don’t mind a bit of effort. It feels like a proper wilderness experience from start to finish. And don’t just take our word for it, because you can read 1,200+ rave reviews here!

Canoe to Mendenhall Glacier and view it from the water (best unique views)

If you want to see Mendenhall Glacier without the crowds, this canoe tour is a great option. Instead of viewing it from a busy platform, you’ll paddle across the lake and get surprisingly close to the glacier itself. It’s a much more peaceful and immersive way to experience it, with calm, motor-free waters and incredible views of the icebergs, jagged cliffs, and bright blue ice.

Don’t worry if you’ve never paddled before. You’ll get a quick lesson, and the pace is easy, so it’s very manageable for most people. Along the way, your guide shares insight about the area and helps point out wildlife, which adds a lot to the experience.

This is a great choice for travelers who want something active but not too intense. It feels adventurous without being overwhelming, and it’s also very cruise-friendly. They guarantee you’ll return on time, with tour schedules built around ship arrival and departure, so you’ll have plenty of time to get back on board without any stress.

3. Skagway

Take a full-day tour into the Yukon (best for in-depth exploring)

If you’re someone who likes to explore in-depth, this full-day Yukon tour is an amazing way to go beyond just Skagway! You’ll travel along the scenic Klondike Highway, following part of the historic Gold Rush route, with constant views of mountains and lakes as you go. There are plenty of photo stops along the way, including the breathtaking Emerald Lake and the unique Carcross Desert, and you’ll have chances to spot iconic Canadian wildlife like moose and bears.

What sets this tour apart is how much ground you cover in a single day. You’ll even cross into Canada and explore parts of the Yukon that most cruise passengers never get to see! There’s also a stop at Wild Adventure Yukon, where you can visit a wildlife museum and see sled dogs, plus the tour includes a hearty lunch. 

It’s all very well organized for cruise passengers, with a guarantee that you’ll make it back to your ship before all-aboard. Just don’t forget to bring your passport for crossing into Canada! 

Visit the Yukon on a half-day tour (best for short visits) 

If you don’t have a full day in Skagway, then we suggest this half-day Yukon tour. You’ll still get to experience the rugged beauty of this remote region, but in just four hours, with the same all aboard guarantee! 

This tour does a great job of hitting the Yukon’s must-see highlights. You’ll travel along the scenic Klondike Highway and climb up to White Pass Summit for those incredible alpine views. It’s a much more time-efficient version of the full Yukon experience, but you still get plenty of memorable stops, like photo opportunities at the “Welcome to the Yukon” sign, views over the dramatic Tormented Valley, and even a visit to the Yukon Suspension Bridge for a bit of added adventure. 

This tour is perfect if your port time is limited or you prefer something a bit shorter and more relaxed. Everything is taken care of for you, including transport, so all that you need to do is remember to bring your passport for the border crossing!

Float down a scenic river near Skagway (best relaxing tour)

If you’re looking for something slower-paced and a bit more leisurely in Skagway, allow us to introduce you to this scenic river float! It’s all about sitting back and taking in the views, rather than doing anything physically demanding, and it’s also a great choice for those who have mobility issues.

You’ll be picked up from the cruise port, and then once you reach the Dyea Valley, you’ll hop into a raft and gently float down the Taiya River, surrounded by mountains and forest – bliss! There’s no effort required here, which makes it ideal if you want a break from more active excursions. 

We also love that you get to hear stories about the area’s Gold Rush history as you float along, and your guides will point out wildlife along the way. This could be bald eagles overhead, seals near the coast, or even bears, depending on the day!

Hike part of the Chilkoot Trail and go river floating (best for active travelers)

If you still want to go river floating but are craving something a bit more active, this hike and float combo is the perfect option! It delivers the best of both worlds, starting with a guided hike along part of the historic Chilkoot Trail before finishing with a dreamy float down the river.

The hike itself is around 2 miles (2.3 kilometers) and takes you through lush rainforest, with your guide pointing out local plants and wildlife, as well as sharing stories from the Gold Rush era. It’s a moderate walk with a bit of elevation at the start, but it’s very doable if you have a decent level of fitness.

After the hike, you’ll hop into a raft and drift along the Taiya River, which is a nice way to unwind after being on your feet. Keep an eye out for wildlife like eagles, otters, and possibly even bears.

This tour is ideal if you want a bit more variety and activity in your day, without going all-in on something too intense.

Meet husky puppies and visit the White Pass Summit (best for families) 

If you’re traveling with kids, we think that this tour is THE best shore excursion to book in Skagway! It combines scenic views with light adventure, and it involves spending time with adorable husky puppies at a real sled dog camp. Can you say “aaaw”?

The day starts with a scenic drive along the Klondike Highway, with plenty of stops for photos at waterfalls, mountain viewpoints, and the White Pass Summit. You’ll also cross into Canada (remember those passports!) and visit the Yukon Suspension Bridge, which adds a bit of excitement en route.

But the real standout, especially for younger travelers, is the dog sled camp. Kids (and honestly, adults too) get the chance to meet and cuddle playful husky puppies, which tends to be the moment everyone remembers most. I mean, it’s not every day that you get to play with sled dog puppies! 

4. Sitka 

Visit Fortress of the Bear, the Raptor Center, and Sitka National Park (best for wildlife)

If you want a well-rounded introduction to Sitka without dealing with big tour groups, this small-group tour is a great choice! It covers the town’s main highlights in a short amount of time, while still keeping things personal. 

You’ll visit some of Sitka’s top attractions, including the Fortress of the Bear, where you can see rescued brown bears up close, and the Alaska Raptor Center, which focuses on rehabilitating birds of prey like bald eagles. There’s also a stop at Sitka National Historical Park, where you can walk among totem poles set in a beautiful coastal forest. Along the way, you’ll also enjoy scenic stops like Silver Bay, with chances to spot wildlife and take photos.

With groups capped at around 10 people, it feels much more engaging and less generic than a typical bus tour. It’s a great option if you want to see a bit of everything without rushing, and with multiple departure times, it’s easy to fit into your cruise schedule.

Spot a variety of wildlife on a boat tour (best for families)

If you’re traveling with family, this tour is a fun and easy way to introduce the kids to Alaska’s wildlife. Being out on the water makes it feel like a real adventure, and the smaller boat means everyone gets a great view without having to fight for space! 

Sitka Sound is full of wildlife, and there’s a good chance you’ll spot humpback whales, sea otters, sea lions, and bald eagles. For kids, seeing these animals in their natural habitat is something they’ll remember long after the trip. The guides are also great at explaining what you’re seeing in a way that’s interesting and easy for little ones to follow.

At just a couple of hours, it’s the perfect length for families. It doesn’t feel rushed, but it’s short enough to keep younger travelers interested. Overall, it’s a fun and memorable way to experience Alaska together!

Explore downtown Sitka on a guided walking tour (best for history buffs) 

If you’re interested in Sitka’s history, this walking tour is a great way to get your bearings in this unique Alaskan town! In just one hour, you’ll cover the town’s key landmarks while learning about its unique mix of Russian and Tlingit heritage. Stops include places like St. Michael’s Cathedral, Castle Hill, and Crescent Harbor, with your guide bringing the stories behind them to life.

We think that this tour is especially ideal for history buffs who want context before exploring on their own. Because the tour is short and focused, you’ll still have plenty of free time afterward to revisit spots, browse shops, and grab lunch in town.

This tour is also very easy to fit into your cruise day. You can take the free shuttle from the cruise ship into downtown to meet your guide, and there are multiple departure times to match different schedules. Since it’s only an hour and stays right in central Sitka, you won’t have to worry about getting back to the ship on time – happy days!

Where to Stay Before or After your Cruise

Most Alaska cruises either start or end in Vancouver or Seattle, so chances are you’ll be passing through one (or both) of these cities. They’re the two main embarkation ports for Alaska itineraries and are well connected with major airports, making them the most convenient options for cruise passengers.

Spending a night or two before or after your cruise is always a good idea. It gives you a buffer in case of delays and lets you explore a bit without feeling rushed. Both cities have great neighborhoods and plenty of restaurants, as well as easy access to their cruise terminals.

Below, we’ve rounded up the best places to stay in Vancouver and Seattle for every budget. All of these options are within easy reach of the cruise ports, so you can keep things simple on travel days! 

Vancouver

Luxury – $$$

The Pan Pacific Vancouver is one of the most iconic hotels in the city, and if you’re cruising from Vancouver, it doesn’t get more convenient than this! The property sits right on top of the cruise terminal at Canada Place, so you can literally walk from the hotel straight onto your ship. Plus, it’s very on-theme, since the hotel is actually designed to look like a ship!

The location alone makes it a top choice for cruise passengers, but the views are just as impressive. Many rooms look out over the harbor, where you can watch ships come and go. There’s also a great setup on-site, including a bar with an outdoor terrace and a spa with a heated outdoor pool overlooking the water.

It’s definitely a splurge, with rooms starting around $500 CAD per night, but for convenience and views, it’s hard to beat. This hotel is so popular, so snag your stay here before rooms sell out!

Mid-Range – $$

EXchange Hotel Vancouver is a great mid-range option if you want to stay close to the cruise terminal without paying luxury prices. It’s located right in downtown Vancouver, just a short walk from Canada Place, so getting to your ship is quick and easy on embarkation day.

The hotel itself is set inside the city’s former stock exchange building, which gives it a bit of character, but the rooms feel very modern. With comfy beds, espresso machines, and rainfall showers, this place offers a nice step up in comfort without going overboard on cost – if you’ll pardon the pun. 

There’s also a stylish restaurant and bar on-site, which is handy if you’re arriving late or just want something easy the night before your cruise. Prices typically sit around $400 CAD in summer and drop closer to $250 in winter, making it a solid value for the location. EXchange Hotel Vancouver is a popular choice with cruise passengers, so it’s worth booking ahead to lock in a good rate!

Budget – $

If you’re cruising from Vancouver on a budget, the YWCA Hotel is one of the best value options in the city! It’s located in downtown Vancouver, about a 15-minute walk or a quick 5-minute drive from the cruise terminal at Canada Place. It’s not quite as close as some of the other hotels, but it’s still very manageable on embarkation day.

The hotel is simple but comfortable, and a great choice if you just need a clean, convenient place to stay before or after your cruise. There’s a shared kitchen on-site, which is ideal if you want to save money on meals, plus free coffee in the mornings and water in the lobby.

You can choose between rooms with a private bathroom or shared facilities, depending on your budget. Prices are usually around $250 CAD in peak season and closer to $150 in the off-season, making it one of the most affordable options near the port. Book your stay at the YWCA Hotel here!

Want more choices? Check out other hotels listed for Vancouver here before you plan your stay!

Related Read: Need help choosing the right area? Explore our full Vancouver neighborhood and hotel guide here.

Seattle

Luxury – $$$ 

Located right across from Elliott Bay, Seattle Marriott Waterfront is a great pick if you’re cruising out of Seattle and want to stay close to the action. It’s within easy reach of the cruise terminals, so getting to your ship is quick and straightforward on embarkation day.

The biggest draw here is the view. Many rooms come with private balconies overlooking the marina, and on a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of the Olympic Mountains. It’s a great spot to soak in those waterfront vibes before or after your cruise.

The location is also ideal for exploring. You’re just a short walk from Pike Place Market, the waterfront piers, and the Olympic Sculpture Park, so it’s easy to fit in some sightseeing. Rooms typically range from $350 to $1,000+ USD per night, depending on the season and view. Check availability and book your stay here!

Mid-range – $$ 

Mayflower Park Hotel is a great mid-range option in Seattle, especially if you like a bit of character over modern chain hotels. Built in 1927, it has a classic, old-world feel with traditional décor, but still offers all the essentials for a comfortable stay before or after your cruise.

The location is a big plus. You’re right in downtown Seattle, within a 10-minute walk of Pike Place Market and within easy reach of the cruise terminals, so getting to your ship is simple. There’s also direct access to the monorail, which is handy if you want to visit the Space Needle or Seattle Center.

Prices start at around $200 USD per night but range up to $600 USD during peak season. Find the best prices for the Mayflower Park Hotel over at Booking.com!

Budget – $

While there aren’t many true budget options in downtown Seattle, Ace Hotel is one of the best picks if you’re cruising and want to keep costs down without sacrificing location. It’s less than a mile from Pike Place Market and within easy reach of the cruise terminals, making it a convenient base before or after your trip.

The hotel has a cool, slightly quirky vibe with simple but comfortable rooms. It’s clean, well-rated, and does the job if you’re just looking for a place to sleep without paying for luxury extras. You can choose between rooms with shared bathrooms to save money, or upgrade to a private bathroom for a bit more comfort.

At around $220 USD per night, it’s not ultra-cheap, but for central Seattle, it’s about as budget-friendly as it gets! Grab your room at the Ace Hotel here, before they sell out!

Looking for more options? Browse all the hotels listed for Seattle here!

Related Read: Want a deeper dive? Check out our full guide on where to stay in Seattle here for the best neighborhoods and hotels.

Thanks for reading!

An Alaska cruise is one of those trips that sticks with you long after it’s over, and choosing the right excursions makes all the difference. From spotting whales in Juneau to exploring the Yukon from Skagway and getting out on the water in Ketchikan, every port offers something completely different. We hope this guide helps you make the most of your time ashore and experience the highlights without the stress of planning it all yourself.

Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out our other Alaska guides here for tips, itineraries, and can’t-miss experiences. Or keep browsing to find even more ideas to help plan your next adventure!

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