6 Reasons You Should Take An Alaskan CruiseTour

When dreaming of a trip to Alaska, most people long to explore the rugged outdoors, gaze at towering mountain ranges, spot wildlife, and photograph some of the world's most incredible glaciers - and a lot of those people dream of taking an Alaskan cruise to experience it.

While most cruises take you to iconic towns like Ketchikan, Juneau, or Skagway along with a view of Alaska's beautiful coast, passengers must base their activities near the cruise port. That's why opting for a cruisetour is a game-changer. This type of vacation allows you to venture into the interior of Alaska, which is inaccessible to passengers on a standard cruise itinerary.

That's why opting for a cruisetour is a game-changer. This type of vacation allows you to venture into the interior of Alaska, which is inaccessible to passengers on a standard cruise itinerary.

What is an Alaskan Cruise Tour?

An Alaska cruise tour is a remarkable fusion of the best experiences the Great Land has to offer. It seamlessly blends a 7-day cruise, an enchanting rail journey, lodge/hotel stays in each destination, coupled with ample time to explore the renowned Denali National Park. If you're seeking an Alaska experience that is truly immersive and in-depth, then a cruise tour is the ideal choice.

What is included with an Alaskan CruiseTour?

Your Land portion of the trip typically includes:

• Hotel accommodations in Fairbanks or Anchorage

• A riverboat tour and gold mine tour in Fairbanks

• Rail transportation in a domed railcar

• Hotel accommodations near Denali National Park

• Bus tour into Denali National Park to look for bears, Dall sheep, etc.

• Hotel accommodations in the Mt. McKinley area (probably near Talkeetna)

• Transfers and baggage handling

Your cruise portion typically includes:

• A 7-day Alaskan cruise

• Deluxe accommodations on the ship

• All meals and 24-hour room service

• Non-alcoholic beverages

• Entertainment

• Lectures by local experts or National Park rangers (National Park rangers will speak while visiting Glacier Bay National Park)

• Port charges, taxes, and fees

Here are 6 Reasons You Should Take an Alaskan CruiseTour:

1. A cruisetour offers more wildlife viewing opportunities.

Those participating in a cruise tour will have an opportunity to explore Denali National Park or Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. While on an excursion or onboard the motorcoach, grab your binoculars for possible wildlife spottings for moose, caribou, grizzly bears, Dall sheep, and wolves.  

2. A cruisetour provides the chance to experience deeper cultural immersion.

Take a deep dive into the state's culture and history. Board the Riverboat Discovery and journey down the river on the historic sternwheeler. Immerse yourself in frontier living in the Chena Village Living Museum with a guided walking tour of an Athabascan village. Visit the famous saloon named after a prominent homesteader and listen to fascinating stories about Talkeetna's gold seekers and trappers. Celebrate the rich heritage of the Dena'ina Athabascan culture at the Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage, where the traditions of Alaska's elders and youth are honored.

3. A cruisetour allows you to stay in traditional Alaskan lodge accommodations.  

Discover peaceful stays in traditional hotels and lodges in the heart of major cities like Anchorage, Fairbanks, and near the beautiful Denali National Park. Cruise tour operators carefully choose these accommodations to provide a comfortable haven and the added perk of being close to local communities, popular attractions, and the breathtaking beauty of nature.  

4. A cruisetour provides an exciting train ride through the Great Frontier.

The rail cars are very comfortable and spacious, allowing you to walk around and enjoy the scenic views. Rail hosts narrate the journey as you wind your way through the the peaks and valleys of Alaska. Different viewing platforms and areas between rail cars allow you to breathe in the fresh air and have a wonderful experience while traveling on the train.

5. Better Value Overall

Alaska cruisetours offer exceptional value by combining the land, rail, and cruise into a fantastic adventure. Instead of planning a cruise now and returning to Alaska in the future for a land visit, a cruise tour bundles it all together- in ONE trip! You have the opportunity to experience wilderness, culture, and train travel, and an incredible cruise in one convenient package. Cruise lines have skillfully blended urban and wilderness areas, uncovering hidden gems and famous attractions, giving you a comprehensive view of the state without overwhelming your time. It's the perfect way to explore Alaska hassle-free and make the most of your trip.

6. Visit with Locals

During your trip, you'll see glaciers and visit charming towns along the coast. Connect with local folks in Chena Village, a living history museum depicting life in an Athabascan village. Ask questions to your local rail host guide on the train about the mountain peaks, valleys, local lore of the area.

❄️ Alaska’s awe-inspiring landscapes, incredible wildlife, and rich cultural heritage make it a bucketlist destination for many travelers. Whether you’re drawn to the majestic glaciers, scenic rail journeys, or immersive experiences in Denali National Park, an Alaskan cruise tour is the perfect way to see it all! Combining the cruise voyage + a fun rail ride + a great time in the Denali National area is the way to go!

Would you like to view a sample Alaskan Cruisetour Itinerary?

It may be a challenge to imagine what the day-to-day itinerary looks like on a cruisetour to Alaska. View a Sample Itinerary here! There are multiple itinerary options and I am happy to help you find the perfect one when you are ready to

Need help planning an Alaskan Cruisetour?

As an Elite Cruise Counselor with CLIA (Cruise Line International Association) and a Verified Travel Advisor with ASTA (American Socity of Travel Advisors) specializing in Alaskan cruises and cruisetour itineraries, I bring expert knowledge and personalized service to help you enjoy the best the Great Frontier offers. Contact me today, and let’s start planning a seamless, unforgettable adventure that suits your dreams perfectly. Your ultimate Alaska experience awaits! 🌲🚢