An Alaskan Cruise Adventure for Someone Not So Adventurous

On a social media page for cruisers,  the question was asked about what there  was to do in Alaska if you weren’t an outdoors enthusiast. They were contemplating not going, fearing that their family wouldn’t enjoy all that Alaska has to offer. We’re here to tell you that there is so much to see and do as you plan your Alaskan cruise adventure.

If you’re feeling the same way, then read on and we’ll offer up some first hand tips – from a family that will never be found climbing up the steps to a zip line excursion, but that absolutely love our trips (yes, we’ve been twice) to Alaska.

Excursion Options

We’ve done plenty of research on Alaska cruise excursions. While the excursions do vary slightly, in most cases you’ll be able to find plenty to do on shore no matter what your interests might be. 

Twice we’ve done the inner-passage cruise on Disney Cruise Lines. Of all the cruise itineraries we’ve done, the Alaska circuit is the only one that we’ve done twice. That should speak highly of how much we loved this trip, and how much fun you can have with your visit to “The Last Frontier” of Alaska.

We love being outdoors and exploring the world, but we are not the type to hike up a mountain, go off-roading on motorbikes or climb a rock wall for a cruise shore excursion. For some travelers, that is the impression that they have for what port adventures Alaska has to offer. That couldn’t be further from the truth.

Itineraries will vary by cruise line, so you may not go to the same place we’ve done. But if the cruise you are planning to take happens to be stopping off at Skagway, Ketchikan, and Juneau and you are looking for the perfect excursions for people that are not ready to buy hiking gear at Cabella’s for their trip, we have you covered.

The Charm of Skagway

Alaska has some unique history, and you can learn a lot about that when you visit the quaint town of Skagway. The wooden sidewalks of downtown will lead you to some unique shops, where they await the cruise traffic that brings this town to life. Be sure to check out the Red Onion Saloon, a staple downtown since the 1890s. Known at one point as a bordello during the gold rush which helped bring this town to life, today it is a place to grab a meal and a drink.

The star of the show in Skagway is the opportunity to take a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway. Anytime you hop on a train, it feels like you’re stepping back in time, and that is certainly the case here. You get to experience this historic route in vintage passenger cars. It is a 40 mile round trip that puts you up close to beautiful scenery while hearing about the adventures of the pioneers that came to the Klondike in search of fortune. You’ll go on the original route to the White Pass Summit, getting to view Bridal Veil Falls, Inspiration Point and Dead Horse Gulch. Intermixed with stories of those that helped conquer the Alaskan frontier, you’ll see nature’s best with great views of the mountains, glaciers, gorges and waterfalls along with several historic sites as well. 

Shops and Shows in Ketchikan

While in Ketchikan, the marina and stores in town provide you with some unique shops worth checking out. But make sure you leave plenty of time for the other opportunities that await. We did not check out the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, but heard great reviews about this family show. Log rolling, chopping and sawing along with a high energy interactive show is good for all ages. For fans of the reality TV show Deadliest Catch, you can spend some time on a crab boat that was featured on the show a few years ago. We were scheduled to do this our second time, but chose to do a float plane after our flight at another port was cancelled due to weather. 

Top Alaskan Cruise Excursion: Float Plane

The number one recommendation from us for your visit to Alaska is to enjoy a ride on a float plane. This excursion is offered at multiple ports, including in Ketchikan where you’ll get breathtaking views of pristine forests and lakes surrounding the Misty Fjords National Monument and the Tongass National Forest. Stunningly beautiful is one way to describe the scenery as you fly across the Alaskan sky. The plane will bank from side to side in a slow, methodical way to ensure you have the perfect view. The highlight of the excursion is landing the float plane down on a calm, crystal clear lake where you can, if you dare, climb out of the plane and stand on the float to take it all in. Of all the shore excursions we’ve done over the years, a float plane in Alaska ranks at the top of the list.

Drinking Spots in Juneau

Food and drink was at the top of our list when visiting the Alaskan state capital of Juneau. Near the port will be the downtown area of Juneau, where you’ll want to make the quick stop for a drink at the Red Dog Saloon. This historic pub is best known for their display of a gun they say belonged to Wyatt Earp, who eligible visited the area in 1900. Is it a true story or not? No one knows for sure, but be sure to check it out while you enjoy your favorite beverage.

Perhaps the best deal in Alaska for a shore excursion is a visit to the Alaskan Brewing Company headquartered in Juneau. They have a merchandise store in downtown, where you can catch a shuttle and visit their local brewery. The brewery tour is available for a small fee, which included the transportation. It also included unlimited tastings of their selection of 20 beers on tap. 

Looking for a more traditional excursion while in Juneau? Then our recommendation is to do a salmon bake and whale watching excursion. Getting out on the water was a treat itself, and seeing whales made it even better. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to see these amazing creatures which is guaranteed, all while having a climate controlled environment with snacks and restrooms at your service. After the boat trip, you’ll be taken to a lodge for a salmon bake that we promise you will taste like nothing you’ve experienced. We’re not salmon fans, but loved the taste of this Alaskan treat.

Alaskan Cruise Adventure Options

There are many ways to enjoy Alaska port adventures. If a zipline excursion is for you, you’ll find plenty of opportunities. But you’ll find some great adventures that are not so adventurous like we experienced that will create lasting memories for you. 

Let us know if you’ve been to or are planning an Alaskan cruise adventure. Waterfalls, wildlife and glaciers can make the perfect destination for just about anyone and we’d love to share our trip ideas with you.