5 Tips on How to Enjoy Alaska Shore Excursions

 

These optional activities available at port destinations throughout Alaskan cruises are well worth including in your vacation to this spectacular part of the world.  Alaska shore excursions can occur within the port of call or even further inland.  In both cases they provide glimpse and experiences of Alaska not possible onboard your cruise ship.  To make best use of these excursions we suggest the following tips.

Plan and budget for any excursions ahead of time

You can leave this until you’re on board and cruising, but as costs are involved and plenty of information available about them on-line devote enough time to either book them before you leave or at least be familiar with their content.  In this way you won’t miss out and will be able to budget for those that most appeal.

Step up and be game

Many of these excursions involve flying in light aircraft.  Sightseeing from the air is a wonderful way to get a ‘bird’s eye’ view of glaciers, rivers, snow capped mountains and much more so if your Alaska shore excursions include small planes or even helicopters be brave and book.  You’ll always be glad you did.

Be flexible in the event of poor weather

Even in summer. Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable and quite often wet.  Some Alaska shore excursions that include float plane or helicopter travel will be cancelled in the event of poor weather conditions.  Refunds will be available in case like this but have an alternate Plan B excursion option to avoid disappointment in the event that this happens.

Enjoy Alaska’s great outdoors

Be prepared to participate in outdoor activities offered in some Alaska shore excursions as that’s where you will discover the most about Alaska and Alaskans.  River rafting, whale watching, canoeing, kayaking, hiking and even rock climbing are just some of the on land opportunities available for Alaska cruise travelers. 

Dress to enjoy

Temperature controlled cruise ships require one level of clothing.  Walking on top of glaciers, climbing rock faces, traveling along rivers all in fine or wet weather require other kinds of clothing – preferably layers with some waterproof items.

If coach or gentle stroll Alaska shore excursions appeal to you more, enjoy these at each port of call and you’ll still be pleased you ventured off the ship to Alaska on land.

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