FOCUS ON: ALASKA
Are you an adventurer at heart? Do you long for the wild outdoors? Have you got a hidden passion for adrenaline fuelled activities? If so, then Alaska is the place for you.Once you’ve chosen your adventure into the wilderness, the next step is just as exciting – filling your itinerary with a selection of some of the most exhilarating, scenic and immersive excursions in the world. If there’s one place in the world where excursions truly complete the package, it’s Alaska. Here’s a pick of our favourites:
1. Pilot's Choice Glacier Explorer
Juneau - Experience from the skies the beauty of alpine lakes, stunning peaks, glaciers and icefalls hanging from sheer cliffs. From the comfort of a helicopter, you’ll be flown over the Juneau Icefield for 50 minutes, witnessing Wonderland, Glacier King, the Mendenhall Towers and Devil’s Paw.
2. Backcountry Jeep & Canoe Safari
Ketchikan - Enjoy an adventurous ride in a Jeep through the mountainous roads of Alaska’s Tongass National Forest, where you’ll be exploring off road, before paddling in a 20 passenger canoe across a spectacular mountain lake. Both the driving and the canoeing provide excellent views of the magical Alaskan landscape.
3. Skagway's White Pass Scenic Railway
Skagway - On a high speed catamaran journey along the fjord to Skagway, you’ll witness grand views of waterfalls and ice-sculpted peaks. This is followed by a fully narrated, 40-mile round trip on a narrow gauge railroad train. Witness the magnificent scenery of the area as the historic carriages take a thrilling route, bending around the edges of cliffs.
4. Kayaking in Prince William Sound
Anchorage - Beginning with a brief lesson in basic kayaking and safety, you’ll soon be gliding through the majestic waters of Prince William Sound. Enjoy the spectacular views of the towering mountains which surround you, whilst also looking out for any wildlife. The journey through the pristine water is a perfect way to relax and enjoy the Alaskan scenery.
5. ZipRider® - One of the world's longest Zip Lines
Icy Strait Point - Perfect for those wanting an exhilarating and thrilling experience of Alaska. After a narrated bus ride through the town of Hoonah, you’ll arrive at the start of the zip-line. 1,300 feet above sea level, you’ll drop downhill at nearly 60 mph. If you can bear to look down, you’ll be able to take in sweeping views of Port Frederick, Icy Strait and your awaiting ship.
6. Historic Gold Mining & Panning Adventure
Juneau - Relive Juneau’s history of the gold rush era as you pan for gold in the authentic setting of Gold Creek. Enjoy a narrated tour through Juneau’s history and make your way to Last Chance Basin. Finding gold is guaranteed on the tour, but if you’re lucky, it might be a big gold nugget that you’re taking home.
7. Turnagain Pass Float Trip
Anchorage - Sit back and appreciate the scenery as skilled guides navigate through the Granite and Bertha Creek region. Feel the thrilling rapids underneath the boat, whilst keeping your eye out for local wildlife. This relaxing journey is a wonderful way to appreciate the beauty of the land around you.
8. Mendenhall Glacier & Whale Quest
Juneau - Enjoy a narrated coach ride where you’ll have the chance to view and photograph the stunning Mendenhall Glacier. Afterwards, board a water jet powered catamaran and experience the beautiful peaks and glaciers whilst the onboard naturalist explains about the wildlife and nature..
9. Explore the Kenai Mountains
Anchorage - Take a 90-minute drive through the majestic Kenai Mountains, where the stunning scenery is continuously by your side. Then, experience a breathtaking aerial tram to the top of the 2,300 feet high Mount Alyeska. You’ll witness spectacular views that go on for miles, including the Turnagain Arm, numerous glaciers and the Chugach Mountain range.
10. Cruise George Inlet & Crab Feast
Ketchikan - Take a picturesque cruise along the scenic coastline to George Inlet Lodge, where you will board a 36-foot fully enclosed pontoon boat for a 90-minute cruise along the Inside Passage, passing the historic George Inlet Cannery and a short-seam silver mine. Help to pull up crab pots in the estuary, and return to the lodge where a crab feast awaits you.
Now you know where to go for the best Alaska shore excursions, read our guide on the best time to cruise Alaska to help you choose the perfect season for your adventures.
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