Enjoy Food & Excursions On This 7
This 936-foot long cruise ship is packed with everything you need to have a good time while embarking on the adventure of a lifetime. You can enjoy regional cooking, spa and salon amenities, wine tastings, and a host of onboard activities. Some of the activities include a blues club, performance stage, a casino, and a kids activity hall.
Dining options that are included in ticket costs are Pinnacle Grill, Lido Market, and The Dining Room. There are also other dining options onboard including a cafe, sushi restaurant, and a pizzeria.
Day 5 Chatham Strait And Warm Springs Bay
Keen kayakers have time for a paddle before breakfast then well pull anchor and pick up the shrimp pot we set last night. Look out for whales and watch the scenery glide by as we cruise 2 hours north to the natural hot springs at Warm Springs Bay. After lunch guests can opt to soak in a private tub or follow a short trail through lush rainforest to a natural hot spring beside a roaring waterfall. For the energetic the trail continues on to a clear mountain lake and/or a small bluff overlooking the bay. In mid-summer you can collect wild blueberries and salmon berries as you make your way back to the boat.
We can stay here overnight, build a campfire and cook out or continue on for an hour to another pretty inlet tucked beneath towering mountains.
Things To Do In Juneau Alaska
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An Extra Bag Would’ve Come In Handy For All My Souvenirs
Although I brought my “big” 25-inch suitcase, I wish I had a carry-on or my larger 29-inch bag.
I easily could’ve packed more clothes. On a cruise, you almost need three outfits a day: One for shore, one for when you’re back on the ship, and a third for dinner and a night dancing in one of the cabarets.
I also wish I had an extra bag for all the souvenirs I wanted to buy â canned salmon, crafts by indigenous artists, and kitchen towels for my neighbors who were taking care of my cat.
Day 2 Tracy Arm Wilderness
Wake up to the smell of freshly brewed coffee and take a stroll on deck before breakfast. Today we will cruise the length of spectacular Tracy Arm Fjord. Nature is still raw here and you will be awed by the scale and grandeur of Alaskas rugged beauty as we cruise beneath sheer granite walls with cascading waterfalls. Well navigate our way between glittering blue icebergs in the hope of reaching South Sawyer Glacier, a massive tidewater glacier that calves regularly into the sea.
Watch for Bear, Mountain Goats, Bald Eagle, Harbor Seals with pups on icebergs and their nemesis the Orca whale.
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Experience The Rugged Adventure In Comfort And Style With A Variety Of Cruise Lines
Alaska cruises and cruise tours are the ideal way to experience the legendary history of the 49th state. The historic charm and frontier spirit are felt in the Inside Passage and in picturesque ports of call, such as Ketchikan, Skagway, Juneau and Sitka. Alaska is also renowned for its magnificent wildlife, whale migrations, exceptional scenery, dramatic glaciers, and iconic natural wonders, such as Mount McKinley and Denali National Park. With departures and arrivals available from Seattle or Vancouver, youre sure to find an adventure that suits you.
Top Sights & Attractions For Cruises To Juneau
Mendenhall Glacier
Perhaps the most widely recognized of the 38 major glaciers that make up the Juneau Icefield, the Mendenhall Glacier is located in the Tongass National Forest the largest national forest in the United States. Here, guests can start at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center and take off on a beautiful, scenic hike, or stand in one of the viewpoints to watch icebergs calve off the glacier into Mendenhall Lake.
Whale Watching Tours
The waters that surround Juneau are full of krill and small baitfish that feed Humpback whales, making this area a favorite spot for whale watching. During migration season , guests arrive from around the globe to spot Humpbacks and Orcas in these waters.
Glacier Gardens
If you want a break from the frozen face of Juneau Icefield and the glaciers that surround the city, the Glacier Gardens offer a glimpse into the lush, green rainforests of Alaska. Inside the botanical gardens, there are overlook points offering stunning views of Thunder Mountain, Mendenhall Valley, Mendenhall Wetlands, Gastineau Channel, Douglas Island, the Chilkat Mountains, and more. Many guests visit these gardens to see the famous upside-down trees or flower towers. Trees whose tops are buried and their roots exposed, the upside down trees are truly a sight.
Mt. Roberts Tramway
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Best Alaska Cruise Lines
Most big-ship and luxury cruise lines send at least one cruise ship to Alaska every summer. Some of the best Alaska cruise lines are Holland America and Princess because they have especially long histories in the region and offer cruises, as well as cruise and land tour combinations, on multiple ships each season.
If you want a more active trip in less touristed areas, a great choice would be a small-ship expedition line, including Alaska specialists such as Alaskan Dream Cruises and UnCruise Adventures.
Ships in all price ranges sail a variety of itineraries, so dont let budget stop you from visiting. If luxury is what youre after, you can find lines that will go overboard pampering you on your journey north.
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Day 4 Frederick Sound To Baranof Island
After breakfast this morning well don rubber boots and skiff to shore. This particular bay has a pretty hike through temperate rainforest to a salmon stream where we often see Brown Bear. The surrounding mountains provide a spectacular backdrop and you will not run out of photo opportunities as the trail winds through a grassy meadow and tidal flats on the way back to our skiff.
Well pull our crab pots, hopefully providing enough Dungeness Crab for a feast tonight, then cruise into Frederick Sound to search for Humpback Whales, Orca and other marine life.
The snow-capped mountains of distant Baranof Island draw ever closer as we cruise toward Point Gardener on Admiralty Islands southern tip. If time permits well fish for Salmon before crossing Chatham Strait to one of the Captains favorite bays. This inlet is serene and beautiful with many turns and guests usually gather on the bow to fully absorb the mystical waterfalls and tall mountains reflected in the calm waters below.
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Things To Do In Juneau
Whilst Juneau is mainly a start and endpoint for cruises of the Northern Passages Alaska Islands, including Glacier Bay, Baranof Island, and Chichagof Island, there is still plenty to enjoy within close proximity of the city. Some of the best things to do in and around Juneau include:
Seeing the Mendenhall Glacier – The incredible Mendenhall Glacier is one of the most accessible glaciers to Juneau. Juneau cruise packages typically include a visit to the glacier on their itinerary. Stretching across 1.5 miles and sitting in its own sparkling lake, the mammoth glacier regularly calves, sending giant blocks of ice crashing into the otherwise calm waters below. A photogenic spot, you are sure to be awestruck.
Exploring Juneau Icefield – One of the biggest ice fields in the Western Hemisphere, the expansive Juneau Icefield boasts many glaciers, including the above-mentioned Mendenhall Glacier and the still-advancing Taku Glacier. Soaring peaks, yawning chasms, scenic valleys, and winding fjords add to the wild and rugged landscape. Small ship cruises typically visit parts of the ice field, and helicopter excursions are immensely popular, allowing visitors to marvel at the spectacular natural beauty from above.
Top Food And Drink Spots Near The Juneau Cruise Port
Eating and drinking are also some of the top things to do when taking a cruise to Juneau, Alaska, due to its fresh seafood and local craft beer. Here are some of the top places to dine while in Juneau cruise port.
Hangar on the Wharf
Address: 2 Marine Way #106, Juneau, AK 99801
Enjoy 20+ beers on tap in an old converted airplane hangar with large windows and excellent views.
Tracys King Crab Shack
Address: 1328, 432 S Franklin St, Juneau, AK 99801
A waterfront walk-up shack where you can savor the taste of fresh, locally-caught crab legs, bisque, cakes and other delicious seafood bites.
Twisted Fish Company Alaskan Grill
Address: 550 S Franklin St, Juneau, AK 99801
Fantastic waterfront views and the extensive wine list are the two main reasons visitors come to this casual seafood restaurant.
Salt
Address: 200 Seward St, Juneau, AK 99801
At Salt, youll find craft cocktails, wine, and regionally-inspired New American cuisine in a sleek, modern atmosphere.
Gold Creek Salmon Bake
Address: 1061 Salmon Creek Ln, Juneau, AK 99801
A fun-filled and family-friendly atmosphere, Gold Creek Salmon Bake has an outdoor setting, all-you-can-eat barbeque, live local entertainment, and Alaska Gold Rush themed décor.
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Longer Sailings From The West Coast
Finally, youll find some San Francisco round-trip itineraries usually 10 nights long as well as longer sailings between San Francisco and Vancouver. These cruises are best suited to travelers who love days at sea.
Youll have four sea days plus a day of scenic cruising at a spot like Tracy Arm , Endicott Arm, Hubbard Glacier or Glacier Bay National Park. The waters before you enter the Inside Passage can be calm, rough or anything in between, depending on when you go.
Ports on these longer sailings may include Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point and Victoria, British Columbia.
You may also find one-way repositioning cruises between southern California ports and Vancouver at the beginning or end of a ships Alaska cruise season.
Your Adventure Is Only A Click Away
“Recently retired and this was our first real trip, what a way to start. An exceptional operation, the best staff ever and the spark has ignited for travel. Uncruise will be in our future! “ – Mary L., UT
“This is our 3rd Uncruise, we love the small boat cruise because of their access to nature & personal service. Bears, humpback whales, eagles, stellar sea lions, otters, dalls purposes, puffins, mountain goats,,,,,,, and Glaciers! The Uncruise guides are highly educated & love nature, they are excited to tell you about everything. Yoga, photo tips, kayak training, gear,,,, they had it all for us!” – Martha V., CA
– Linda B., Tasmania, Australia
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Best For Couples And Big Celebrations
The luxury cruise lines are your best bet if youre a couple and enjoy spacious suites, gourmet food, pampering and the opportunity to meet other like-minded cruisers. The personalized service and all-inclusive nature of luxury voyages may also be attractive to anyone celebrating a milestone, such as an anniversary, big birthday or retirement.
Look at Oceania, Regent Seven Seas, Scenic, Seabourn, Silversea, Windstar Cruises and Viking.
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Alaska Cruise Guide: Best Itineraries Planning Tips And Things To Do
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Alaska may be one of the most beautiful places in the world, but it can also be rugged and tricky to get around. Explore the Last Frontier by cruise ship and you can travel to Gold Rush towns, glaciers, Alaska Native heritage sites and natural areas brimming with wildlife in comfort, even luxury.
When planning an Alaska cruise, you have many things to consider: when to go for the experience youre anticipating, which cruise line is best suited to your travel style, the best Alaska cruise ports to visit and which shoreside activities you want to prioritize. Its not the kind of trip you want to throw together at the last minute especially since the best fare deals typically go to organized travelers who book early.
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If youre eager to spot bald eagles in the wild, ride a dogsled atop an ice field or pan for gold after a hearty salmon feast, an Alaska cruise is calling your name. Dive into The Points Guys Alaska cruise guide for all the planning tips you need for your dream cruise up north.
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Culture & History Of The Juneau Cruise Port
In many ways, Juneau is a melting pot of cultures that is largely a mixture of Native American heritage and the 19th century mining industry. Most people that currently live in Juneau reflect these cultures as well.
For a clear understanding and a better look at the fascinating melting pot cultures of Alaska in general, and Juneau specifically, carve out a little time in your trip to visit the Alaska State Museum. Featuring exhibits on the culture, art, and history of the states Native American heritage, the museum is the official repository for the natural and cultural history of the state. Additionally, the Juneau-Douglas City Museum features an extensive history of the mining industry with exhibits about how it helped found Juneau during the 19th century.
The Auke Tribe of Tlingit Indians was among the first to settle the area that eventually became known as Juneau. The surrounding lands were abundant with food and natural resources, providing ample reasons for these original settlers to live comfortably and be productive. Although these were the first to settle into a life in this area, Juneau showcases a myriad of different Native American tribes from the Northwest Coastal areas.
In 1880, during the peak of the Gold Rush, gold seekers Joe Juneau and Richard Harris stumbled upon the area that was first named Harrisburg, and later renamed Juneau. The Tlingit Chief Kowee pointed the newcomers in the direction of gold when they arrived.
Best For Multigenerational Groups
Sailing with grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles and kids? Try Celebrity Cruises, Holland America and Princess Cruises. These cruise lines, especially on their newer ships, offer something for everyone, as well as a higher caliber of onboard dining than on the cheapest cruises. Kids can hang out in the youth lounges while parents hit the spa or try a wine tasting class. Everyone can come back together for dinner and evening entertainment or onboard activities suitable for all ages.
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Best Cruise Lines For Adventure
Active travelers may prefer expedition-style voyages on smaller ships that include more time for adventurous activities, such as hiking in the Tongass National Forest, wildlife and glacier viewing from Zodiac rafts or kayaks, or even overnight camping. These ships often feature complimentary shore excursions, kayaks and bikes for guest use and onboard scientists and naturalists.
If youve got active teens who have an interest in nature and the environment, an expedition voyage could be exactly what will keep them engaged and off their devices. Just expect the majority of your shipmates to be older adults.
Look to UnCruise Adventures, Alaskan Dream Cruises, Hurtigruten, Lindblad Expeditions and Ponant for the best adventure cruises.
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When Do Cruises Go To Alaska
Nearly every major cruise line has a presence in Alaska from May through mid-September, with some offering sailings as early as April or as late as October. The season is short due to weather cold temperatures, icy waters and a long snowy season are not conducive to early spring and late fall cruises.
Alaska cruise weather can be chilly first thing in the morning and at night. However, if its a sunny summer day, temperatures can shoot into the 70s and even low 80s. It does rain a lot in Alaska, too its drier in the spring months than in the summer.
When you want to go will depend on which activities you want to do, how you feel about cool weather and rain, and the price. Cruises at the beginning and end of Alaskas cruise season are generally a bit cheaper than those in June, July and August.
Related: Best time to cruise to Alaska
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Things To Do In Alaska
Alaska cruises offer a wide range of activities in port, with options for active travelers, wildlife lovers, history buffs and shoppers. Whether youre traveling with young kids or require more sedentary recreation, the Alaska cruise ports wont disappoint.
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Wildlife tours are available in every port. Hop a bus, kayak, boat or plane to look for bears, eagles, whales, sea otters and other wildlife. Note that moose dont regularly show up in the Inside Passage youll need to head more north to find them.
Book a fishing trip to try your hand at catching salmon or halibut, or go out crab fishing for a glimpse into that type of work.
Active travelers can explore Alaska by sea kayak or canoe, hike on glaciers and through rainforests, zip line, bike, ride an ATV and even snorkel . You can even opt for a round of golf at the course in Haines.
In Alaska, sightseeing doesnt only take place on the ground. Floatplane and helicopter tours take you around scenic areas like Misty Fjords or land you on a glacier, perhaps for a dogsledding or hiking adventure on the ice. If you prefer to stay grounded, you can find informative trolley tours of ports like Skagway.
Shopping abounds, and you can buy everything from diamond jewelry to T-shirts and other souvenirs. Youll need to look carefully for Alaskan-owned stores selling local handicrafts, but theyre worth seeking out.