Alaska is one of the most beautiful and unique destinations in the world. Known as the last frontier, it offers visitors stunning natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and a fascinating history. An Alaska cruise is a great way to experience all that this amazing state has to offer. Check out all the available cruise excursions you can choose from to make your getaway truly unforgettable!
“My experience aboard The Millenium Celebrity Cruise Ship was nothing short of awe inspiring! The views of the Alasan landscape were simply breathtaking. Alasks is truly a one of a kind destination, and to experience in on a Celebrity Cruise is the best way.”
– Jacqueline Maddison, Editor-in-Chief
Alaska cruise:
An Alaska cruise is an excellent choice for those who want to see the best of Alaska without the hassle of planning an itinerary about transportation. On a cruise, you can enjoy the scenery while your ship takes you to some of the most breathtaking destinations in Alaska.
Highlights
Natural beauty:
Alaska is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, which draws visitors from around the world. From towering mountains and glaciers to pristine lakes and rivers, Alaska’s landscapes are truly awe-inspiring. Here are some of the top natural wonders that make Alaska so special.
Wild life:
Alaska is renowned for its abundant wildlife, thanks to its vast land and pristine environmental conditions. If you’re embarking on an Alaska cruise, don’t miss the opportunity to spot the “Big 5” of Alaskan land mammals: bears, moose (the state animal), caribou, wolves, and Dall sheep. Along with these magnificent creatures, you’ll also have the chance to see plenty of bald eagles, colorful puffins, humpback whales and orcas. Make sure to bring along a pair of binoculars and a good camera to capture these incredible sightings.
History:
Alaska was a territory of Russia before the US purchased it in 1867 for $7.2 million, or about two cents an acre. Many people called it “Seward’s Folly” because they believed the land was worthless, but it later proved to be valuable with the discovery of gold in Juneau in 1880 and oil in Cordova in 1902. Alaska became the 49th state of the US in 1959.
Celebrity Cruise Tours:
A Cruise tour is a way to explore further into Alaska and the Canadian Rockies by extending a cruise with a land tour. This includes travel by motor coach and railway to inland destinations such as Anchorage, Talkeetna, Fairbanks, Homer, Girdwood (Alyeska), and Denali National Park. The tour includes hotel accommodations, a dedicated tour director, luxury transportation, and some activities.
Top destinations
Icy Strait Point:
Icy Strait Point, owned by Alaska Natives, offers a variety of activities including hiking, whale watching, and cultural experiences of the Tlingit people. It is also home to the world’s largest and highest Zip Rider, with a 5,495-foot ride, a 1,300-foot drop, and a top speed of 65 mph. Visitors can also explore the fully-restored salmon cannery, which was originally built in 1912.
Juneau:
Juneau, Alaska’s second-largest city, offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking through the rainforest by taking the Mt. Roberts Tram, glacier trekking on Mendenhall Glacier in the Juneau ice field, and whale watching in Auke Bay. Visitors can also take a helicopter up the glacier for dog sledding, or simply explore the city. With more hiking trails than roads, Juneau is a paradise for nature lovers.
Hubbard Glacier:
Hubbard Glacier, named after Gardiner Hubbard, the founder of National Geographic, is the longest tidewater glacier in the world. It’s stretching 76 miles long and towering as tall as a 30-story building. Visitors can witness calving, where massive chunks of ice break off the glacier and fall into the water, on a daily basis.
“Being able to witness The Hubbard Glacier from the deckks of the cruise ship was a once in a lifetime experience. At first the coudy haze led us to believe we might not get to see it, but the tremendous talent of the Cruise Captain, made it absolutely possible. He navigated us closely and carefully and with his patience, we at last had the most spectacular view of this natural wonder!”
– Jacqueline Maddison, Editor-in-Chief
Denali National Park:
Denali National Park is a vast wilderness covering 6 million acres and centered around North America’s tallest peak, Denali. The park is home to diverse terrain and wildlife, including Alaska’s Big 5. Visitors can visit as part of a pre- or post-Cruise tour from a sailing on Celebrity Millennium, Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Summit.
Top departure points
Vancouver, British Columbia:
Vancouver, situated among snowcapped mountains, sandy beaches, and a rainforest, offers visitors a diverse range of experiences. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, whale watching, and kayaking in the natural surroundings, while those interested in history and culinary delights. We can explore the city’s attractions before or after embarking on an Alaska cruise from Vancouver.
“The whale watching experience was truly joyful! We got to see so many whales, and even a family of orcas, plus a group of lazy sea lions. From start to finish, this Alaskan cruise excursion is an absolute must! Being out on the beautiful sea with a fresh breeze, and perfect nature, there is nothing better than this.”
– Jacqueline Maddison, Editor-in-Chief
Seattle, Washington:
Surrounded by mountains, water, and evergreen forests, Seattle is an ideal starting point for an Alaskan adventure. Visitors can explore the city’s attractions, such as the Pike Place Market before embarking on an Alaska cruise. Alternatively, outdoor enthusiasts can venture to the surrounding islands for whale-watching, hiking, and other adventurous activities.
Seward, Alaska:
Sail through Kenai Fjords National Park and witness the breathtaking views of whales, puffins, and sea lions. Seward is a quaint and charming town. It is also the southernmost starting point of the Alaska railroad connecting Seward to Anchorage and further north. Its small size adds to its appeal, making it a popular destination for cruising in Alaska.
