Discover the Wonders of Alaska

Alaska is a land of breathtaking beauty and untouched wilderness, offering an unparalleled experience for adventurers and nature lovers alike. From majestic glaciers and towering mountains to abundant wildlife and vibrant cultural heritage, Alaska is truly one of the last frontiers of the world. Whether you’re watching humpback whales breach in the ocean, taking in the otherworldly glow of the Northern Lights, or exploring the rugged landscapes of Denali National Park, Alaska’s wonders are endless.

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Ways to Explore Alaska



Get ready for an incredible adventure because you can explore the breathtaking beauty of Alaska by sea, land, or even a fabulous combination of both! The stunning landscapes, majestic wildlife, and vibrant culture await you—let’s embark on this unforgettable journey toget

By Sea

  1. Cruising is one of the most popular and breathtaking ways to experience Alaska’s stunning coastline. Sail through the Inside Passage or along Glacier Bay, taking in dramatic fjords, glaciers, and abundant marine life. Several renowned cruise lines offer incredible itineraries:
  • Princess Cruises: Known as a leader in Alaskan cruising, with exclusive access to Glacier Bay National Park and immersive onboard experiences.
  • Royal Caribbean: Perfect for adventure-seekers, with activities like rock climbing walls and excursions like dog sledding or glacier treks.
  • Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Offers flexible itineraries with smaller ships that can access unique ports like Haines and Seward.
  • Cunard: Combines luxury with breathtaking scenery, providing an elegant way to explore the region.
  • Disney Cruise Line: Ideal for families, featuring kid-friendly activities while showcasing Alaska’s beauty.
  • Holland America Line: Renowned for its deep connections to Alaska, offering scenic cruising and in-depth cultural experiences.

Each cruise line has its own unique features, ensuring there’s an option for every traveler.

By Land

  1. Exploring Alaska by land provides an intimate look at the state’s rugged beauty, vast wilderness, and incredible wildlife. Whether you prefer a guided journey or an independent adventure, you’ll find something to suit your style. Some of my trusted travel partners specialize in providing unforgettable land-based experiences:
  • Intrepid Travel: Experts in small group adventures, offering immersive itineraries that focus on culture, nature, and sustainable travel.
  • Backroads: Perfect for active travelers, with biking, hiking, and multi-sport trips through Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes.
  • Globus: Offers seamless guided tours, showcasing iconic landmarks like Denali National Park and the Kenai Peninsula with unparalleled comfort and expertise.
  • Alaska Tours & Travel: Specialists in independent travel packages, including self-drive tours, rail journeys, and wildlife excursions tailored to your preferences.

From scenic train rides to guided hikes and wildlife safaris, exploring Alaska by land lets you immerse yourself in the heart of the state’s untamed wilderness.

By Land & Sea


  1. For the ultimate Alaskan adventure, combine the best of cruising and land exploration with a cruise-and-land tour. These seamless experiences pair a stunning cruise through Alaska’s coastal wonders with immersive land tours into the heart of the state. Many top cruise lines offer these combined packages, including:
  • Princess Cruises: Featuring their exclusive "Denali Explorer" tours, which combine scenic cruising with stays in their custom-built wilderness lodges.
  • Holland America Line: Renowned for their Land+Sea Journeys, which include Alaska Railroad travel and in-depth explorations of Denali and the Yukon.
  • Royal Caribbean: Offering combined adventures that include glacier cruises and land tours to iconic destinations like Talkeetna and Fairbanks.
  • Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Provides immersive Cruisetour packages that seamlessly blend ocean cruising with land exploration, including stays in Denali.
  • Celebrity Cruises: Their Cruisetours combine luxury cruising with guided land tours to destinations like Denali and Anchorage.

These Land and Sea packages are designed to give you the best of both worlds: the awe-inspiring coastal beauty of Alaska’s waterways and the rugged charm of its interior landscapes.

A man and a woman are sitting at a table on a train.
An aerial view of a river running through a lush green forest with mountains in the background.
A mountain is reflected in a lake with trees in the foreground.

FAQs

The Northern Lights
Alaska is one of the best places in the world to witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). During winter months, particularly in Fairbanks, the skies often come alive with vibrant displays of green, purple, and red light.

Home to the Tallest Mountain in North America
Denali, formerly known as Mount McKinley, stands at a staggering 20,310 feet above sea level, making it the tallest peak in North America. This iconic mountain is located in Denali National Park, a must-visit for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

More Coastline Than the Rest of the U.S. Combined
With over 6,600 miles of coastline (and 33,000 miles including islands), Alaska has more coastline than all the other U.S. states combined. Its shores are dotted with glaciers, fjords, and thriving marine ecosystems.

A Land of Glaciers
Alaska is home to over 100,000 glaciers, covering roughly 5% of the state’s land area. Mendenhall Glacier, Hubbard Glacier, and Columbia Glacier are some of the most popular ones to explore by land, air, or sea.

The Story Behind the Alaska Flag
Alaska's state flag was designed in 1927 by a 13-year-old boy named Benny Benson. His design features the Big Dipper constellation and the North Star on a deep blue background, symbolizing Alaska’s night sky and its position as the northernmost U.S. state. Benny’s design was chosen from over 700 entries in a contest and remains a cherished symbol of the state’s identity.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Alaska?

Summer (June to August)

  • Best for: Cruises, hiking, wildlife viewing, and warmer weather.
  • Weather: Long daylight hours (up to 20+ hours of sunlight) and temperatures averaging 55–70°F (13–21°C).
  • Highlights: Peak time for whale watching, bear viewing, and salmon fishing. National parks like Denali are fully accessible.

Shoulder Season (May & September)

  • Best for: Fewer crowds, lower prices, and stunning fall colors in September.
  • Weather: Cooler temperatures (40–60°F or 4–16°C) with shorter daylight hours.
  • Highlights: May brings blooming wildflowers and fewer bugs. September is great for seeing the Northern Lights and fall landscapes.

Winter (October to April)

  • Best for: Northern Lights, dog sledding, skiing, and snow sports.
  • Weather: Cold temperatures (-10 to 30°F or -23 to -1°C) and limited daylight hours.
  • Highlights: The best Northern Lights viewing is from December to March, especially in Fairbanks and surrounding areas.

For a first-time visit, June through August is ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the state’s natural beauty. However, the shoulder season in May or September offers a quieter, budget-friendly alternative with unique experiences like the Aurora Borealis.

What Should I Pack?

Packing for an Alaska cruise requires versatility because of the varying weather and activities. Here’s a guide to help you prepare:

Clothing

  1. Layers are Key: The weather can range from chilly mornings to mild afternoons.
  • Base Layers: Lightweight, moisture-wicking tops and bottoms for warmth.
  • Mid Layers: Fleece jackets or sweaters for insulation.
  • Outer Layers: A waterproof, windproof jacket with a hood (essential for rain and wind).
  1. Casual Wear: Comfortable clothes like jeans, casual pants, and long-sleeve shirts for onboard and excursions.
  2. Cold-Weather Gear:
  • Hat, gloves, and a scarf for colder days (especially on glacier excursions).
  • Thermal socks to keep your feet warm.
  1. Activewear: For hiking or zip-lining, pack breathable and flexible clothing.
  2. Cruise Formal Wear: Some cruises have dress-up evenings. Pack semi-formal or formal attire if required.
  3. Swimwear: For the hot tubs or pools onboard.

Footwear

  1. Waterproof Hiking Boots: Essential for excursions like glacier trekking or hiking.
  2. Comfortable Walking Shoes: For onboard and port exploration.
  3. Waterproof Shoes or Rain Boots: Handy for wet excursions like whale watching.

Accessories

  1. Daypack or Backpack: For carrying essentials during excursions (water, camera, snacks).
  2. Binoculars: Perfect for spotting wildlife like whales, eagles, or bears.
  3. Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated during excursions.
  4. Sunglasses: Glare from the water and snow can be intense.
  5. Camera/Smartphone: To capture the stunning scenery. Bring extra batteries or a portable charger.
  6. Glacier Accessories: If you're visiting glaciers, hand warmers or crampons may be helpful.

Toiletries and Medications

  1. Sunscreen & Lip Balm with SPF: Protect against sun and wind exposure.
  2. Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, especially in forested areas.
  3. Motion Sickness Remedies: Sea bands, ginger candies, or medication like Dramamine if you're prone to seasickness.

Miscellaneous

  1. Travel Documents: Passport, cruise tickets, travel insurance, and any required health documentation.
  2. Money & Credit Cards: For souvenirs or tips.
  3. Snacks: While the ship has plenty of food, bring snacks for longer excursions.

Pro Tip:

Pack for layers and comfort, and don't forget weather-resistant gear to fully enjoy the natural beauty of Alaska! Would you like help finding cruise options or excursions to pair with your trip?