ALASKA SHORE ALASKA BLOG

The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center is a hub for exploring Juneau’s wildlife and nature via scenic walking trails, endless information from knowledgeable U.S. Forest Service Rangers, and stunning views of the Mendenhall Glacier itself. Locate... READ MORE...

We get asked all of the time by guests how early they should book their shore excursions. The simplest answer? As soon as you know you're going on a cruise! Every year we see guests wanting to book their shore excursions with us earlier and earlier. ... READ MORE...

Ketchikan, Alaska is the sourthernmost entrance and gateway to Alaska's Inside Passage, which is a route of waterways known for its history, abundant wildlife, and awe-inspiring scenery. But Ketchikan is also a vibrant destination in its own rig... READ MORE...

The Icy Strait separates the Alaska mainland to the north and Chichagof Island to the south. Here visitors will find everything they hope to experience in Alaska - wildlife, adventure, history, and exposure to native cultures.  On Chichagof I... READ MORE...

Sitka is rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. You can learn about native Tlingit culture, its time as the capital of Russian America, and its importance to the United States from the Klondike Gold Rush to hosting a WWII fort. That’s no... READ MORE...

A highlight for many travelers visiting Alaska, a helicopter tour offers a unique opportunity for guests in search of that “once-in-a-lifetime” experience. However, once the decision has been made to take a helicopter tour, a few more con... READ MORE...

Though weather can be hard to predict, especially in Alaska, there are trends that’ll help you know what to expect during your summer cruise. So, check the weather before you pack, but these will give you a guesstimate. The best time for an ... READ MORE...

Congratulations! You’re going on an Alaskan cruise, hooray! Glaciers, rainforests, and wildlife galore await you -  but what to pack? After all, this isn’t your average bikini and flip-flops cruise... 1. Layered Clothing  ... READ MORE...

Some people prefer to experience Alaska from a bit of a distance, sticking to the more passive sort of tours. Then there’s the other people, those who appreciate seeing a glacier from afar - but who’d really prefer to be right on top of i... READ MORE...

Some of the largest creatures in the world’s oceans reside in the nutrient-rich waters of southeast Alaska: humpback whales. These gentle giants feed on krill, which they isolate by streaming ocean water through filter-like plates in their mout... READ MORE...

Both brown (grizzly) and black bears live in Alaska, but, despite their names - color isn’t a good indicator of which is which. Black bears in southeast Alaska are indeed usually black, or black-ish, but in other parts of the state they can be ... READ MORE...

With Skagway and Haines both being chock-full of adventures to discover, it can be tough to decide what to do and where to spend your time while you are in port. The good news is; you don’t have to choose! You can do both with the con... READ MORE...

Misty Fjords National Monument is a quiet, pristine protected wilderness area in Southeast Alaska, near Ketchikan. Its rugged landscape is breathtaking, featuring mountain views, fjords, forest, and wildlife, making a visit one of the best things to ... READ MORE...

Experiencing the majesty and splendor of an Alaskan glacier is a must-do activity in Juneau and surrounding ports. Rugged crevasses, azure blue ice, and the sheer expanse are humbling and awe-inspiring, giving you glimpses of what the Ice Age was lik... READ MORE...

Alaska offers adventures that range from mild (a peaceful train ride) to extreme (riding a dog sled across a glacier, after traveling via helicopter). Outlined below are 10 of our favorite Alaska adventures, perfect for tourists and cruisers ready fo... READ MORE...

Dog sledding in Alaska is the most popular shore excursion. Dog sledding tours typically include a helicopter trip into the mountains and a dog sledding ride with Alaskan sled dogs on a glacier. These trips offer a glacier tour experience most people... READ MORE...

Climbing aboard the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway is among many travelers’ favorite things to do in Skagway, especially when visiting from an Alaskan cruise. Built in 1898 during the Klondike Gold Rush, the White Pass & Yukon Route (... READ MORE...

Helicopter tours in Alaska are popular shore excursions. Though a helicopter trip can be an investment, almost everyone agrees that they’re worth every penny and are a once-in-a-lifetime experience that the whole family can enjoy. In Alaska, sc... READ MORE...

Zipline tours are a thrilling way to experience Alaska’s rainforest, mountains, and wildlife. Offering high speeds and stunning views, they’re a great option for adventurous couples, families, and tour groups. On your zipline tour,... READ MORE...

Sea kayaking tours in Alaska allows you to get close to marine wildlife, including seals, sea otters, and fish. You’ll see birds soaring in the sky and sometimes even spot bears or goats on land as you paddle along Alaska’s shores.These l... READ MORE...