Cruise ship at Glacier Bay
© PRINCESS CRUISES

The last frontier

Go “North to the Future” on an Alaskan sea cruise

by LOIS ALTER MARK

Filled with everything from glaciers and fjords to bears and whales, Alaska is, unsurprisingly, one of the most popular destinations for cruisers. The 49th state, often referred to as The Last Frontier (state motto: “North to the Future”), boasts millions of acres of untouched wilderness, and there’s no better way to immerse yourself in the stunning scenery than to be surrounded by it on a ship.

With something for everyone to do on both land and sea, an Alaska cruise is the perfect multigenerational vacation. Twenty years ago, my husband and I took our kids on a cruise to Alaska, and it turned us into cruisers. Today, many cruises later, ships are better than ever, adding even more experiences, restaurants and stateroom options.

Almost every cruise line features dozens of onboard activities, including live entertainment, pools, spas, endless dining and kids’ clubs, so you’ll never be bored, whichever ship you choose. Many even offer guest lectures about the ports you’ll be visiting, as well as serving up locally inspired dishes like fresh seafood chowder and crab cakes. On an Alaska cruise, specifically, it’s worth splurging on a stateroom with a balcony if you can, because one of the best ways to spend an afternoon at sea is simply sitting outside and taking in the magical views. You may even spot an orca or a humpback whale!

Although you’ll be tempted to never get off the ship, be sure to sign up for shore excursions to best experience Alaska’s history, natural beauty and wildlife. Two must-do’s on any Alaska cruise are dog-sledding and panning for gold. Because these family-friendly activities are available in numerous ports, though, I suggest first booking port-specific shore excursions that you can’t do anywhere else and then filling in the rest of your schedule around them. Here are the ones you won’t want to miss.

White Pass & Yukon Route Railway
© CARMEN / STOCK.ADOBE.COM

Ketchikan

Alaska’s “First City,” Ketchikan remains true to its origins as a vibrant fishing village. Experience its rich Native American heritage at Totem Bight State Historical Park, featuring a rare collection of authentic totem poles restored by Tlingit and Haida carvers , or Saxman Native Village, where you’ll get to watch carvers in action. Take a walk along Creek Street, once the city’s infamous red-light district, and search for black bears and bald eagles in the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary. Some cruise lines also offer the opportunity to go salmon sport fishing and have your catch cooked on board for dinner.

Skagway

Skagway was once a bustling gold rush town, and you’ll want to climb aboard the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway for a ride back through history. A true feat of engineering, it was built into the mountains in 1898 to make travel easier during the Klondike gold rush, and its vintage cars have been retrofitted for modern-day comfort. Breathtaking views are all around as the train climbs almost 3,000 feet while you’re treated to stories about the people who came to seek their fortunes. You can also take a minibus up to the West White Pass summit via the Klondike Highway, which offers equally spectacular views of the highest coastal range in the world. Back in town, stop at the historic Red Onion Saloon, once a popular dance hall and bordello, for a pizza and beer and maybe even a fun tour of the PG-13ish brothel museum.

Whale sighting at Auke Bay, Juneau
© CHRIS RUSNAK

Juneau

The Mendenhall Glacier is the star of Alaska’s capital; depending on how adventurous you feel, you can get there via motorcoach, canoe or even by air. Spanning half a mile, with ice up to 1,800 feet deep, this natural wonder is amazing to see up close and provides a jaw-dropping background for selfies. For even more sensational scenery, consider a leisurely ride through Tracy Arm, a classic fjord, on a luxury expedition vessel designed to get you as close as possible to both the South Sawyer Glacier and the North Sawyer Glacier. Juneau is also the best port to visit a salmon hatchery and take a whale-watching tour. In fact, whale sightings are so common, many tours actually guarantee them.

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