Immerse yourself in Alaska’s natural wonders with unforgettable Alaska cruise excursions. From soaring above misty fjords to braving the world’s tallest zipline, these hand-picked experiences bring you closer to Alaska’s epic landscapes and wildlife. Read on for the best Alaska shore excursions to add to your cruise itinerary.
Once you’ve taken in the views from the cruise ship, it’s time to dive deeper into Alaska—on land, sea, and even in the air. From up-close wildlife encounters to scenic rail journeys, there’s an Alaska cruise excursion for every type of traveler. Explore the different types of experiences below to find the excursions that match your interests and travel style.
From whales and eagles to sea otters and brown bears, Alaska is teeming with incredible wildlife—and a cruise excursion offers the chance to see them up close. These excursions are perfect for nature lovers and photographers, offering expert-led wildlife tours designed to maximize your chances of unforgettable encounters.
On this cruise excursion, you’ll get a chance to view sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions, whales, black-tail deer, bald eagles, and brown bears with the assistance of an onboard expert. This is one of the best Alaska shore excursions for animal viewing, as it guarantees you’ll spot wildlife. The waterjet-powered tour ship has been specifically designed for the narrow island passages along Southeast Alaska’s coast. And with large windows, enclosed seating, and an observation deck, you’ll have an unencumbered view of all the wildlife action in Sitka.
With a 1,320-foot vertical drop, the ZipRider at Icy Strait Point is the world’s tallest zipline—higher than the Empire State Building. Your adventure begins with a scenic ride on the Sky Peak Gondola, ascending to the top of Hoonah Mountain. After a short walk to the launch platform, you'll be secured into a special harness seat with your hands free to capture the experience. Six guests launch simultaneously, racing side-by-side at speeds of up to 60 mph. Soar 300 feet above the treetops and take in sweeping views of Port Frederick, Icy Strait, and your cruise ship far below. The ride concludes with a smooth, brake-activated landing on the beach, where cheering fellow cruisers await at the Landing Zone.
Step aboard the Aleutian Ballad for an unforgettable glimpse into Alaska’s commercial fishing culture. Cruising the calm, protected waters of Alaska’s Inside Passage, you’ll watch seasoned crew members haul crab pots and fishing lines while hearing real-life stories from the Bering Sea. The marine life catch is placed in on-deck aquariums for an up-close look, and the vessel’s heated seating ensures comfort throughout. It’s a one-of-a-kind educational experience set against the backdrop of stunning coastal scenery.
Whether awe-inspiring scenery, rich cultural experiences, or once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters are on your bucket list, there’s an Alaska cruise excursion waiting for you. Browse all Alaska shore excursions to see what’s possible, or explore our Alaska cruise itineraries to find the voyage that brings your adventure to life.
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