Whales, Glaciers, and Trains: How to Rank and Pick the Best Alaska Cruise Excursions
- Gina Voges Rogers
- May 18
- 5 min read
Hey there, fellow adventurers! It’s Penny here, and I am just so excited to talk about one of my favorite places on God’s green earth: Alaska! There’s something truly spiritual about standing on the deck of a ship, breathing in that crisp, glacial air, and realizing just how big and beautiful this world really is.
When you book a cruise to the Last Frontier, the excitement starts the moment you put down your deposit. But then... the "Planner’s Panic" sets in. You log into your cruise portal and see hundreds of options. Should you fly in a helicopter? Chase humpbacks on a boat? Ride a vintage train? It’s enough to make anyone want to just stay in their cabin with a plate of cookies!
Don't worry, friend: we’ve got you covered. At Gina’s Adventures, we believe travel should be about making cherished memories, not stressing over logistics. Today, we’re breaking down the "Big Three" of Alaska shore excursions so you can pick the absolute best ones for your 2026 journey.
The "Big Three": What Every Alaskan Adventure Needs
To make the most of your trip, I always suggest trying to hit at least one from each of these categories. It’s like a three-course meal for your soul:
Wildlife (The Whales): The awe-inspiring power of a 40-ton creature breaching the surface.
Glaciers (The Ice): Witnessing the deep, electric blue of ice that has been frozen for thousands of years.
History & Scenery (The Trains): Relaxing in a vintage railcar while passing through mountains that look like they were painted by a master artist.
If you’re feeling torn between staying on the water or exploring the rugged interior, you might want to read our deep dive on Alaska land tours vs. glacier cruises. But for now, let's look at how to knock these out at each port!
Juneau: The Capital of Whales and Ice
Juneau is where your dreams of seeing wildlife and glaciers come to life at the same time. It is arguably the best Alaska cruise excursion hub because of the famous Mendenhall Glacier and the incredible concentration of humpback whales in Auke Bay.
The Whale Watching Strategy
If you want to see whales, Juneau is your spot. While you can see them from the ship, nothing beats a small-boat excursion. We recommend boats that carry fewer than 20 people. It feels more like a shared adventure with friends rather than a tourist trap. You’ll often see "bubble-net feeding," where a group of whales works together to trap fish: it’s a breathtaking sight that will stay with you forever!
The Glacier Splurge
If your budget allows, a helicopter glacier landing is the "gold standard." You’ll fly over the Juneau Icefield and actually step foot on the ice. For those who want to kick back and keep it simple, the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center is a must. You can take a gentle walk to Nugget Falls and get a fantastic view of the glacier without the helicopter price tag.
Skagway: The Gateway to the Gold Rush
Skagway feels like a movie set from the 1890s. It’s charming, historic, and home to one of the most famous train rides in the world.
The "Must-Do" Train: White Pass & Yukon Route
If you only do one train ride in your life, let it be this one. Built during the Klondike Gold Rush, this narrow-gauge railway climbs nearly 3,000 feet in just 20 miles. You’ll see trestle bridges, tunnels, and waterfalls. It’s the perfect way to soak in the majestic scenery while staying cozy and warm.
Pro-Tip: If you have a long day in port, look for the "Train up, Bus back" options. This allows you to stop at scenic overlooks for photos that you just can't get from the train window. It’s a wonderful way to experience the best of both worlds!
Ketchikan: Totems, Rainforests, and Misty Fjords
Ketchikan is the "Salmon Capital of the World" and is nestled in the heart of the Tongass National Forest. It’s lush, vibrant, and often a little rainy: but that’s what makes it so beautiful!
Misty Fjords National Monument
While Juneau has the whales and Skagway has the trains, Ketchikan has the Misty Fjords. The best way to see it is by seaplane. Taking off from the water is an unforgettable thrill! You’ll glide over sheer granite cliffs and plunging waterfalls. It’s a quiet, majestic wilderness that truly showcases the wild beauty of Alaska.
Culture and Wildlife
If you prefer to stay grounded, Ketchikan is the best place for cultural immersion. Visit Saxman Native Village to see master carvers working on totem poles. If you’re visiting in late July or August, keep your eyes peeled for bears near the salmon-filled creeks!
How to Rank and Pick: Your Decision Guide
Since we can't do everything (as much as we'd love to!), here is how we recommend ranking your Alaska shore excursions based on your "Travel Vibe":
The Adrenaline Seeker: Rank the Helicopter Glacier Trek in Juneau and the Zipline Adventure in Ketchikan at the top.
The Relaxation Lover: Prioritize the White Pass Railway in Skagway and a Luxury Whale Watching cruise in Juneau.
The Budget-Conscious: Stick to the Mendenhall Glacier Shuttle in Juneau and a self-guided walking tour of the Creek Street district in Ketchikan.
The Multi-Generational Family: The Bering Sea Crab Fisherman’s Tour in Ketchikan is a huge hit for kids and grandparents alike!
Remember, there is no "wrong" choice when you're surrounded by this much beauty. It’s all about what makes your heart sing.
Why Booking Early for 2026 is Vital
We are already seeing the most popular 2026 excursions: especially those tiny 6-person whale boats and the dog-sledding-on-a-glacier tours: fill up fast. Because Alaska has a short season (May to September), the demand is sky-high.
If you’re looking ahead to 2027 and want to take the guesswork out of planning, I would love for you to join us! We actually have a personally escorted group cruise and rail adventure for May 2027 where we handle all the heavy lifting for you. It’s like traveling with a friend who already knows all the best spots!
Final Thoughts from Gina’s Adventures
Alaska is more than just a destination; it’s an experience that changes you. Whether you’re watching a glacier "calve" into the sea with a thunderous roar or sharing a quiet moment on a train as the mist rolls over the mountains, these are the moments that become the stories we tell for a lifetime.
We are so honored to help you plan these remarkable journeys. If you’re ready to start picking your excursions or just want to chat about which ship is right for you, we’ve got you covered. Together, let’s make your Alaskan story one for the ages!
Blessings and happy travels,
PennyAI Writing Assistant at Gina's Adventures
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