Cruise Bucket List: Alaska

Alaska is one of those places that lives in people’s imaginations long before they ever get there. You’ve probably seen photos of glaciers, mountains, and wildlife. But nothing compares to seeing it all with your own eyes.

You can look at all the photos and read all the guides, but Alaska will still surprise you.

There’s something about being there that’s hard to put into words. It’s bigger than you think. Quieter, too. It makes you stop, breathe a little deeper, and

take it all in. And that feeling stays with you.

Thinking about cruising through Alaska? These 10 moments are what set it apart from other cruises. These are the experiences that catch you by surprise, stop you in your tracks, and stay with you long after your cruise ends.

There’s nothing like opening your curtains and seeing a wall of ice outside your window. You’re bundled up, coffee in hand, and suddenly you hear a deep crack as a chunk of ice breaks off and crashes into the water below. 

That’s called “calving,” and it’s one of the most unforgettable things you can see on an Alaskan cruise. If your itinerary includes places like Glacier Bay or Hubbard Glacier, your ship will slow down (or stop), so everyone can watch. And the best part is that you don’t need to fight for a good view on deck. These stops are only available with certain cruise lines, so if this is a high priority for you, please make sure we discuss it during your initial consultation.  

Calving is one of the biggest reasons I recommend a balcony stateroom when cruising Alaska. Watching it in your pajamas turns moments like this into something personal. 

Few things get people more excited on an Alaska cruise than seeing whales in the wild. I’ve had clients spot humpbacks while sipping their morning coffee or soaking in the hot tub. It’s the kind of surprise that makes you stop everything and watch. 

For an even closer look, join a whale-watching tour in Juneau. It's one of the best spots to go. These excursions usually use smaller boats with expert guides who know exactly where to find them. If you’re sailing later in the summer, keep your eyes open for orcas too. Spotting one feels like winning the wildlife jackpot. 

Be sure to ask the onboard naturalists questions and listen as they share unique tidbits about these majestic animals. Depending on the time of year, you may even spot a pod “bubble netting”; this is a unique feeding technique that whales use to stun their prey, and it’s fascinating to watch.  

This one surprises a lot of people. Believe it or not, you can actually go dogsledding in Alaska in the summer. 

You’ll take a helicopter ride up to a snowy glacier where sled dogs train during the warmer months. Once you’re there, you’ll meet the dogs, talk to the mushers, and get to ride across the ice with nothing but snow and sky around you. 

If you’re looking for a truly one-of-a-kind cruise excursion, this is it. It is usually offered in Juneau or Skagway and tends to sell out fast. So if dogsledding is on your bucket list, make sure to book early. 

The Inside Passage is a long stretch of calm water lined with forest-covered islands and snow-capped mountains. You’ll cruise through it slowly, making it one of the most peaceful parts of the trip. 

You might see sea otters floating on their backs or bald eagles flying overhead. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a bear wandering along the shore, which is one of the many reasons I recommend bringing some great binoculars along! 

For many people, this is the moment the trip really sinks in. No rush, no packed schedule. Just quiet, beauty, and open water all around you. 

Alaska is known for its wild salmon. And there’s something special about eating it outside, cooked over an open flame. 

Many towns include salmon bakes as part of their excursions. Along with the salmon, you’ll usually get classic sides like cornbread, baked beans, and blueberry cake. You may also get the chance to sample something unexpected, like reindeer sausage.  Some salmon bakes also include fun extras like gold panning or live music.  

Sampling fresh, local salmon is a must, whether you’re on a guided tour or grabbing a bite in town. Its rich, bold flavor will change the way you think about salmon forever. 

Gold panning is a fun and easy way to step back into Alaska’s history. You might even find a few flakes to take home as a keepsake. 

Excursions in towns like Skagway or Juneau take you to old mining sites where guides teach you how to swirl the pan just right. It’s a hands-on activity that’s great for all ages. 

Even if you don’t strike it rich, you’ll leave with a better understanding of the Gold Rush era and the adventurous spirit of the people who came here chasing their dreams. 

One of the most meaningful stops on some Alaska cruise routes is Icy Strait Point. This small port is owned and operated by the Huna Tlingit (pronounced Kling-kit) people, who have lived in the area for generations. 

You can join tours led by Indigenous guides, watch traditional dance performances, or visit cultural centers to learn about Native stories and traditions. 

It’s a chance to connect with the deeper history of the land and support the local community. If you ask guests what the most memorable part of their trip was, many will point to this experience. 

In Skagway, you can board a historic railway that climbs into the mountains with views of waterfalls, cliffs, and deep green valleys. 

The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway is a favorite for all ages. You ride in vintage train cars with big windows and can step outside on open-air platforms for better views. The ride is smooth and easy, but the scenery is dramatic. 

This is a perfect choice if you want a truly unforgettable moment without hiking or spending hours on the road.

Alaska is full of incredible animals, and there’s something magical about spotting them in their natural habitat. 

You might see bears along the shoreline while sailing. You might catch a bald eagle overhead during lunch. Or notice a sea otter drifting by as you relax on the deck. 

You can also book excursions focused on wildlife viewing. Some are by boat, others by plane or on foot. But the truth is, some of the best sightings happen when you’re not even looking for them. 

One of the most unique things you can do on an Alaskan cruise is book a post-cruise flightseeing tour that takes you over the Arctic Circle. Some cruise itineraries, especially those ending in Anchorage or Fairbanks, give you the chance to fly north and land in tiny towns like Coldfoot or Bettles, where the wilderness stretches in every direction. 

You’ll see mountains, rivers, and miles of untouched land. Some tours even include a certificate saying you crossed the Arctic Circle, which makes a pretty great souvenir. It’s a brag-worthy experience that you can only get in Alaska. 

This isn’t the kind of cruise where the pool deck turns into a dance party. It’s more about the fresh air, the wide-open views, and those once-in-a-lifetime excursions that you think about long after you’re home. 

The Alaska cruise season runs from mid-May through early September. June and July usually bring the warmest weather and the best chances to see wildlife. But if you want to avoid the busiest crowds, try May or late August. 

And if you’re on the fence about booking a balcony, this is the destination where the upgrade really is worth it. 

Alaska cruises come with a lot of choices, like ships, itineraries, excursions, and timing. And finding the right mix is what makes the whole trip feel effortless and unforgettable.  

With my experience and knowledge of Alaskan travel, I help you choose the perfect ship, pick the best excursions, and plan a trip that fits your style and needs. Together, we make sure your Alaska cruise is easy, exciting, and completely worth it. 

So tell me...What kind of moment are you dreaming of? Let us know in the comments! 

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