5 incredible places you'll see on an Alaska cruise

Explore Alaska’s Majestic Landscapes

If there’s a place that truly feels like the edge of the world, Alaska is it. Vast, untamed and spectacularly beautiful, this is a land of snow-dusted peaks, ancient forests, breaching whales and charming frontier towns — and cruising is one of the most magical ways to take it all in.

You’ll glide past towering glaciers and dramatic fjords, watching bald eagles soar overhead and spotting bears along the shoreline — all from the comfort of your ship. With Alaska’s wild geography, many of its remote villages and natural wonders are best reached by water, making a cruise your front-row seat to the Last Frontier.

The season runs from May to September, with July and August offering the warmest days and the longest golden hours. Whether you’re keen on an all-bells-and-whistles experience with Broadway shows and climbing walls, or a more intimate journey with expert-led lectures and tucked-away ports, there’s a cruise style to match.

But as unforgettable as life onboard is, it’s what you’ll see on land that’ll truly steal your heart.

Here are just a few incredible stops your Alaska cruise might include…

Juneau

Alaska’s quirky little capital is like nowhere else. Tucked between towering peaks and dense rainforest, Juneau is a wild beauty — and the only state capital in the United States you can’t reach by road. You’ll sail right up to it, surrounded by misty mountains and icy-blue glaciers.

Wander the historic downtown where old-time saloons sit alongside modern boutiques and galleries. The Alaska State Museum is well worth a visit — with stories of gold rushes, Indigenous cultures and a frontier past that’s anything but boring.

Nature’s never far away here. Spot humpbacks at Auke Bay, hike across Mendenhall Glacier or ride the Mount Roberts Tramway for sweeping views across the city and beyond. And when you’re done exploring? Pop into the Alaskan Brewing Company and toast your adventure with a pint of their famous Smoked Porter — rich, chocolatey and proudly local.

Highlights:

• Mount Roberts Tramway: Take in stunning panoramic views from the summit.
• Mendenhall Glacier: Experience tundra trekking and explore the glacier.
• Historic Downtown: Wander past centuries-old saloons and modern boutiques.
• Auke Bay Harbor: Ideal for whale spotting.
• Local Brew: Try Alaskan Brewing Company’s Smoked Porter.

Inside Passage

Welcome to one of the most breathtaking stretches of water on the planet. Once the route of Klondike gold rushers chasing dreams of fortune, Alaska’s Inside Passage is now pure gold for modern explorers. Think towering fjords, mist-draped forests and more wildlife than you can point a camera at.

Cruising here feels like gliding through a nature documentary — with over 1,000 emerald islands of the Alexander Archipelago sheltering calm, glassy waters perfect for sailing. You’ll pass through ancient fjords carved by glaciers, drift past snowy peaks, and enter the jaw-dropping wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park.

Keep your eyes peeled: bald eagles soar above, puffins bob on the waves, and whales breach so close you can feel the spray. You’ll also pass remote coastal towns where stories of Tlingit heritage, Russian settlers and gold rush glory still echo through the streets.

If you want to feel small — in the best possible way — the Inside Passage will leave you breathless.

Highlights:

• Alexander Archipelago: Enjoy panoramic views of over 1,000 coastal islands.
• Glacier Bay National Park: Sail through ice-carved fjords and stunning glaciers.
• Wildlife Viewing: Spot bald eagles, seals, sea lions, whales, and puffins.

Ketchikan

Nestled at the southern tip of the Inside Passage, Ketchikan is where wild landscapes and rich culture come together beautifully. Often called Alaska’s “First City” — it’s the first port of call for many cruise ships and the traditional territory of the Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian peoples.

Totem poles are everywhere here, telling stories carved in cedar and steeped in history. You’ll find them in parks, along waterfront walkways and inside the wonderful Totem Heritage Center. If you’re after a special memento, Ketchikan is also one of the best spots to shop for locally made art, jewellery and handcrafted treasures.

Got a taste for the outdoors? The Misty Fjords are just a floatplane or boat ride away — a dramatic wilderness of glacier-carved cliffs and deep, mirror-like lakes. For something a little faster-paced, ziplining through the rainforest canopy will get your heart racing in all the right ways.

Before you head back to the ship, grab a coffee at Raven’s Brew — it’s strong, bold and as memorable as the town itself.

Culture, nature, adrenaline – Ketchikan’s got it all wrapped up in one unforgettable stop.

Highlights:

• Misty Fjords National Monument: Gateway to this stunning natural wonder.
• Totem Poles: Learn about the indigenous cultures and see the iconic totem poles.
• Raven’s Brew Coffee: Savor freshly roasted coffee at this local favorite.
• Ziplining: Enjoy thrilling ziplining adventures.
• Local Art and Jewelry: Shop for authentic Alaskan crafts and fresh sockeye salmon.

Skagway

Step off the ship and straight into a living postcard from the Gold Rush era. Skagway may be small, but it’s big on charm — with its wooden boardwalks, heritage saloons and bustling Broadway Street that still hums with the spirit of 1898.

History lovers can dive deep at the Corrington Museum or explore the town’s colourful past through its beautifully preserved buildings and tales of gold-seeking dreamers. But Skagway isn’t just about looking back — it’s also a launchpad for incredible outdoor adventures.

How about mushing your own team of huskies across Laughton Glacier? Or white-water rafting through the stunning Lynn Canal, North America’s longest fjord? For serious bragging rights, hike a portion of the legendary Chilkoot Trail — retracing the footsteps (and blisters!) of the Klondike stampeders to the ghost town of Dyea.

Round off your day with a pint of Blond Ale from Skagway Brewing Co. — brewed with Sitka spruce tips for a citrusy, totally Alaskan finish.

Gold Rush history, glacier adventures and craft brews? Skagway’s the real deal.

Highlights:

• Gold Rush Era Charm: Explore well-preserved historic buildings on Broadway Street.
• Corrington Museum: Delve into Gold Rush history.
• Chilkoot Trail: Hike the historic trail to the ghost town of Dyea.
• Skagway Brewing Company: Try the Blond Ale brewed with Sitka spruce tree tips.

Sitka

Home to a unique blend of Russian, First Nations and American history, Sitka’s snow-capped ranges and volcanic Mt. Edgecombe make it one of the state’s most striking stops. This is off-the-beaten track Alaska, where you can kayak the Sitka Sound or tramp the trails of Baranof Island. Hear native stories, passed down for generations, when you explore the Sitka National Historical Park, home to fascinating indigenous art and the mile-long Totem Trail.

Be sure to visit Baranof Island Brewing Company, where we highly recommend the Silver Bay IPA: It’s perfect for washing down the locally harvested Dungeness crab and freshly made sockeye lox. Sitka is a hidden gem in Alaska, offering a rich cultural experience and stunning natural beauty. The blend of Russian, First Nations, and American history adds a unique flavor to the town, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you choose to explore the waters of Sitka Sound by kayak or hike the trails of Baranof Island, you are sure to be surrounded by breathtaking scenery at every turn.

Immerse yourself in the stories of the native people at the Sitka National Historical Park, where you can admire indigenous art and walk along the Totem Trail. And after a day of exploration, be sure to stop by the Baranof Island Brewing Company for a taste of their delicious Silver Bay IPA, paired perfectly with local delicacies like Dungeness crab and sockeye lox.

Sitka is a place where history comes alive and nature takes center stage. Whether you're interested in learning about the past, enjoying outdoor adventures, or simply relaxing in a picturesque setting, this charming town has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the magic of Sitka, Alaska.

Highlights:

• Sitka Sound: Kayak in the serene waters with stunning natural backdrops.
• Baranof Island: Hike trails offering spectacular views and outdoor adventures.
• Sitka National Historical Park: Explore indigenous art and walk the Totem Trail.
• Baranof Island Brewing Company: Enjoy the Silver Bay IPA with local delicacies like Dungeness crab and sockeye lox.

Inspired to journey into the heart of Alaska’s breathtaking wilderness? Get in touch with one of our cruise specialists today and start planning your adventure of a lifetime!