Alaska is a land of untamed beauty and awe-inspiring wilderness, making it one of the most extraordinary cruise destinations in the world. From towering glaciers and snow-capped peaks to dense forests and icy fjords, Alaska offers a raw and powerful connection to nature. Passengers can witness incredible sights like the calving ice of Glacier Bay, the majestic peak of Denali, and the unique wildlife that includes whales, bears, moose, and bald eagles. With its rugged charm and breathtaking scenery, Alaska delivers a sense of adventure that few places on Earth can match.
Cruising through Alaska allows you to experience its most iconic ports, such as Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway. Each stop offers something different—whether it’s dog sledding across a glacier, learning about native Alaskan cultures, or exploring Gold Rush history. You can take a helicopter ride to land on remote icefields, ride the scenic Alaska Railroad, or simply soak in the views from your ship. With a rich mix of natural wonders and authentic frontier experiences, an Alaska cruise is an unforgettable journey into one of the last great wildernesses on the planet.
Top things to do in Alaska
Alaska offers some of the most breathtaking natural beauty on Earth, combining rugged wilderness with unforgettable adventures. Here are the top things to do in Alaska, sorted by experience and destination:
1. Cruise Through Glacier Bay National Park
A highlight of any Alaska cruise, Glacier Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its awe-inspiring tidewater glaciers and dramatic scenery. You’ll sail past towering ice walls that frequently calve into the ocean with a thunderous roar, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and rugged coastline. Wildlife sightings are common—look out for humpback whales, sea otters, bald eagles, and even grizzly bears along the shoreline. Many cruise ships slow or pause to give guests plenty of time to take in the views.
2. Explore Denali National Park
Home to Denali (formerly Mount McKinley), North America’s tallest peak, this national park offers pristine wilderness, vast tundra, and incredible wildlife. Visitors can take a guided bus tour or hike through the backcountry in search of moose, caribou, wolves, and grizzly bears. On clear days, the view of Denali’s snow-covered summit is unforgettable. Summer is the best time to visit, and if you’re lucky, you’ll spot the “Big Five” animals of Alaska.
3. Ride the Alaska Railroad
The Alaska Railroad offers one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. The route from Anchorage to Fairbanks, especially the section through Denali, features glass-domed cars and open viewing platforms for uninterrupted views of forests, mountains, rivers, and wildlife. It’s a relaxing and immersive way to experience the vast Alaskan landscape, often with expert narration and local insights provided on board.
4. Visit Juneau and Take a Helicopter to Mendenhall Glacier
Alaska’s capital city, Juneau, is only accessible by air or sea, giving it a remote and adventurous feel. One of the most thrilling excursions here is a helicopter ride to Mendenhall Glacier, where you can land on the ice and go glacier trekking with a guide. For those staying on the ground, the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center offers hiking trails and incredible photo opportunities. Whale-watching tours are also popular from Juneau, especially in summer.
5. Go Dog Sledding or Meet the Sled Dogs
Dog sledding is a beloved Alaskan tradition, especially associated with the famed Iditarod race. During summer, you can still experience it by visiting sled dog kennels or taking part in “dryland” training runs with wheeled carts. Some helicopter tours even bring you to snowy mountaintops for real sledding on ice year-round. Interacting with the energetic huskies, especially the puppies, is a major highlight for many visitors.
Each of these experiences offers a unique way to connect with Alaska’s wild landscapes, rich traditions, and unforgettable sense of adventure.