There Are Many Ways to Explore Alaska

Is there a best way to do Alaska? No, all of them are great! Yes, the most popular is 7-day cruise from Seattle or Vancouver with a 4-night interior Alaska (Denali & Fairbanks) add on. But by no means is that the only way to enjoy and discover this incredible destination.

In this blog, we just share some of the ways to journey to Alaska but completely customized is always a choice. Our goal is to overview the different itineraries and then discuss with you what is your dream idea of an Alaskan vacation.

Large Ship

Royal Caribbean: is considered to be the top cruise line for family vacations. These ships hold anywhere from 2,000 up to 6,000+ passengers. Royal Caribbean caters a children’s program based on kid’s ages and keeps them entertained onboard. Their huge ships are outfitted with multiple entertainment areas for adults and children. There’s multiple pools and sport centers on the upper deck.

Shore Excursions:

  • as with most large ships, your excursions are not included in your cruise fare. Average price for Alaska excursions per person range from $100 to $400 depending on what you want to do. You’re looking at adding an additional $2,000 to your vacation cost when you calculate cost of excursions for a family of four.
  • Large ships are limited in the ports they can visit, so you’ll be exploring the destinations in really large groups from Royal Caribbean alongside other large ship groups. Being herded from place to place while wearing a sticker and following someone around with a stick and a number on it is not the dream Alaska vacation most people dream about.

Dining: You have access to two dozen restaurants, including a massive buffet. There’s also multiple lounges and bars though out the ship. Eating and drinking options are endless!

CLICK HERE TO EXPLORE SOME ROYAL CARRIBEAN ALASKA ITINERARIES

VIDEO OF ROYAL CARIBBEAN IN ALASKA

Land (Guided)

G Adventures: This company puts together small-group itineraries that average only 8 people per group and a maximum of 15 people! This is the authentic and up-close experience you want when visiting destinations. G Adventures also offers a select few itineraries partnered with National Geographic. The NatGeo itineraries are a collection of unique tours designed to take you deeper into the cultures and habitants of the places explored.

A few suggested Alaska Itineraries from G Adventures:

MT Sobek: As an Adventure Travel Specialist, my all-time favorite travel company is MT Sobek. They customize and personalize any vacation specifically to you, your likes/dislikes, budget, and how to best experience a destination. They consistently deliver fantastic results for my clients and have phenomenal itinerary suggestions that include adventure options to get you started. See below for a few ideas from MT Sobek to see what they can do for you!

VIDEO OF MT SOBEK ALASKA ADVENTURES

A couple suggested Alaska Itineraries from MT Sobek:

Expeditions

UnCruise: If you’re looking at off-the-beaten path and adventure, UnCruise is AMAZING! Their vessels only host up to 86 guests. This gives them the freedom to go places large ships are unable to get to! Their itineraries include hiking, skiff boats, paddle boarding, and kayaking. All the adventure equipment from kayaks, paddle boards, and snorkel gear is onboard for guest use. The sports marina opens off the back of the ship giving you instant and easy access to nature.

Shore Excursions: Shore Excursions are included in price! Excursions are organized on board each day; you’ll talk one on one with your expedition team regarding the activities best suited to your interest and activity level.

Dining: Even though you’re on a small adventure ship, the dining is still fantastic. You get well fed with delicious regional cuisine consisting of king crab, salmon, and steaks!

VIDEO OF UNCRUISE IN ALASKA

Sue
Travel Central Advisor
Monday-Friday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and by Appointment
Alaska, California, Dominican Republic, Europe, Florida Keys & Key West, New York City, San Francisco, Scotland, USA, Venice
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Azamara
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Disney Travel Company
Holland America Line
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Norwegian Cruise Line
Princess Cruises
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Royal Caribbean Cruises