Explore Top Alaskan Cruise Excursions for Families
An Alaskan cruise was on our family's bucket list for years. We were drawn to the beautiful scenery and diverse wildlife. The stars aligned Summer 2025 and we took a 10-Day Alaska Round-trip Seattle: Hubbard Glacier Norwegian Cruise. We were so excited to take in all of Alaska's landscape, culture and history.
If you are looking to explore Alaskan cruise excursions, below are some our top recommendations for families.
Whale Watching Tours
Whale watching in Alaska is an awe-inspiring experience. The waters around Alaska are teeming with marine life. This makes them perfect for those seeking an unforgettable adventure.
You'll witness humpback whales breaching and orcas cruising by. The thrill of spotting these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is unmatched. These tours offer close encounters with the giants of the sea.
What to Expect on a Whale Watching Tour:
- Incredible views of humpback and orca whales
- Opportunities to see sea lions and seals
- Expert guides providing insights into marine life
We opted for Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier Photo Safari at the Juneau port. We appreciated that this experience was limited to 14 guests so it provided a more intimate experience to learn directly from our guide. We saw amazing wildlife (Orcas, Humpback Whales and Sea Lions)! The professional photographer provided helpful hints in capturing these exciting moments. We made sure our kids (6 & 10 years old) had little cameras with lanyards so they could take photos as well.
This experience was magical and educational. We recommend a whale watching excursion 10/10. Helpful Hints: Dress warmly in layered weather appropriate clothing and wear flat comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots.
Nature Trails and Wildlife Encounters
There were many moderately priced excursions that provided opportunities to be surrounded by nature and wildlife. We did not opt for Kayaking because it seemed a bit too advanced for our family and the ages of our children (4,6, & 10). Instead we opted for the two experience below that were both incredible.
Rainforest Canoe and Nature Trail (Ketchikan, Ward Cove)
Imagine canoeing across a mountain lake while you learn about the native flora and fauna. The large canoe (approximately 40 feet) had a similar design to by those used by Alaska's indigenous people. The lake was serene and incredibly beautiful with the backdrop of the rainforest. The guide provided delicious Alaskan-style snacks.
Important Note: Participants must weigh at least 40lbs for this excursion. Not recommended for guests with physical limitations.
Raptor Center and Historic Park (Sitka)
We had a blast exploring the totem lined trails at Sitka's National Historic Park. The trails were easy to hike and navigate. How incredible it was to see raptors and bald eagles up close at The Bald Eagle Center. Having the opportunity to see the size and majesty of these creatures up close was truly an unforgettable experience.
Helpful Hints: Bring a backpack and water bottle. Pack additional layers and rain jacket for weather variations. Check out the best Alaska Tee Shirts.
TIPS for booking the Best Alaskan Cruise Excursions
Booking ahead can make a big difference. Popular tours fill up fast, especially during peak season. Plan early to secure your spot.
Here are some booking tips to consider:
- Research the excursion options thoroughly
- Check the reviews for tour providers
- Consider your interests and physical limits
Booking in advance ensures a smooth trip. It allows you to focus on enjoying your Alaskan adventure fully.
Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Alaska Cruise Tours
Embarking on Alaskan Cruise Excursions is a gateway to adventure and beauty. Each excursion offers its own unique experience, blending history, wildlife, and natural wonders.
Remember to savor every moment and embrace the pristine landscapes. With these top excursions, your Alaska cruise will become an unforgettable journey. Explore, learn, and immerse yourself in all that Alaska has to offer.
Clothes to Wear on Alaskan Cruise
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