safari quest alaska cruise

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Safari Quest

Four decks provide private nooks and shared lounge space on this cozy yacht. The Observation Deck has an on-deck hot tub and fitness equipment; the Bridge Deck houses the much-coveted Captain cabins, the small library, and our open bridge; the Main Deck features the dining room, bar, and lounge, along with the Commander and Single cabins that work well for guests who don’t manage stairs well. The Cabin Deck below holds the Mariner cabins.

The Dining Room features open seating table service at set times. Unlimited beverages, alcoholic and non, are included in the price of the cruise. Vegetarian options are always available, and dietary restrictions are happily accommodated with advance notice.

Onboard Features: Full-beam swim step; underwater bow-mounted camera; kayaks, paddleboards, inflatable skiffs, hiking poles; on-deck hot tub; fitness equipment; DVD and book library.

Specifications

Accommodations.

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Safari Quest

Former name: obsession.

Cruise line UnCruise Adventures

• Juneau (Alaska)
• Seattle (Washington)

Safari Quest current position

Safari Quest current location is at North America West Coast (coordinates 58.24498 N / -134.89230 W) cruising en route to GLACIER BAY NP. The AIS position was reported 29 minutes ago.

Current itinerary of Safari Quest

Safari Quest current cruise is 7 days, round-trip 7 Night Alaskas Glacier Wilderness with Glacier Bay Cruise . Prices start from USD 7600 (double occupancy rates). The itinerary starts on 30 Aug, 2024 and ends on 06 Sep, 2024 .

Specifications of Safari Quest

•   Itineraries
•   Review
•   Wiki

Safari Quest Itineraries

Safari quest review, review of safari quest.

The 1992-built MV Safari Quest cruise ship is currently owned and operated by UnCruise Adventures USA . The vessel was extensively drydock-refurbished in 2013.

Like all UnCruise ships, Safari Quest (IMO number 8669711) is USA- flagged (MMSI 338891000) and all American-crewed.

History - construction and ownership

The 22-passenger ship Safari Quest has a navy blue hull and offers refined atmosphere, just like all other UnCruise ships – the expedition-style cruising is combined with luxury.

UnCruise Adventures (formerly American Safari Cruises) is a USA-based, wholly-owned cruise company, a subsidiary of InnerSea Discoveries Alaska. In 2013, the American Safari Cruises line was renamed to "Un-Cruise Adventures". Currently, the company has 2 headquarters - main headquarters in Seattle WA  and second in  Juneau AK .

Shipboard facilities and amenities

The yacht Safari Quest has only 11 cabins (in 4 grades), all of which are ocean-view, and have private heated bathrooms. The Balcony Suites are four.

Onboard venues include Salon (bar lounge), Wine Library, dining room (complimentary restaurant). The boat easily visits areas that bigger ships can't and provides its passengers complimentary with adventure equipment - including paddleboards, kayaks, skiffs (inflatable speed boats), hydrophone and underwater camera (linked to the yacht’s lounge and cabin TVs). The spa area includes an on-deck hot tub (Alaska only), fitness equipment, sauna and a complimentary massage. The ship also has a Sun Lounge, Lounge, Bar and Library.

Photos of Safari Quest

Safari Quest ship related cruise news

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One of the smallest cruise brands in the USA - UnCruise Adventures, restarts operations in Alaska on Saturday, August 1, with one boat only. There...

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UnCruise Adventures announced its schedule of Alaska voyages for 2020 with a total of 117 departures on 7 inclusive itineraries throughout Southeast...

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Other UnCruise Adventures cruise ships

• La Pinta Galapagos
• Safari Endeavour
• Safari Explorer
• Safari Voyager
• SS Wilderness Legacy
• Wilderness Adventurer
• Wilderness Discoverer
• Wilderness Explorer

Safari Quest Wiki

The 22-guest Safari Quest cruise ship is a small yacht sailing to off-the-beaten-path regions. The captain often changes the itinerary route to take advantage of passenger interests or wildlife viewing opportunities.

All Un-Cruise Adventures’ ships boast navy blue hulls and refined atmosphere. Safari Quest is best choice expedition cruise ship for those who like adventure-style cruising and activities, combined with luxury on board. Passengers tend to be well-heeled, in their 40s or older Americans, who enjoy the intimate experience this motor yacht provides.

Safari Quest ship's adventure equipment includes stand-up paddle boards and kayaks; inflatable skiffs; hiking poles; hydrophone (for listening to sounds below ocean surface). The bow-mounted underwater camera is linked to the yacht's lounge and to all cabin TVs.

The other Un-Cruise "Safari" ships are  Endeavour ,  Explorer  and  Voyager .

Safari Quest

Embark on an unforgettable journey with Safari Quest, where comfort meets adventure. With room for just 22 guests, explore remote wilderness in style. Luxurious cabins and onboard amenities ensure an unparalleled experience.

The Safari Quest.

Admiral room onboard Safari Quest.

Admiral room with queen bed onboard Safari Quest.

Navigator room onboard Safari Quest.

The library onboard Safari Quest.

The lounge onboard Safari Quest.

The bar onboard Safari Quest.

The dining room onboard Safari Quest.

Kayaking onboard Safari Quest.

Designed for adventure, the Safari Quest is renowned for its ability to navigate into the most remote and untouched corners of the wilderness, ensuring exclusive encounters with nature and wildlife. The vessel boasts spacious and comfortable cabins, each providing a cosy retreat after a day of exploration. The yacht features a welcoming lounge and dining room, and plenty of onboard nooks for relaxation. 

The observation deck provides panoramic views and features an on-deck hot tub and fitness centre. The bridge deck houses the exclusive admiral cabins, a small library and offers open access to the bridge for those curious about navigation. The main deck is the heart of social activity, featuring the dining room, bar, and lounge where guests can indulge in delicious cuisine and refreshing beverages. Onboard amenities include kayaks, paddleboards, and inflatable skiffs for easy exploration. 

Led by expert naturalists and expedition leaders, each voyage on board the Safari Quest offers intimate opportunities for wildlife, adventure, education, and relaxation.  

View suggested itinerary

Wildlife trips

Alaska’s inside passage: bears & whales safari.

This wildlife adventure promises awe-inspiring landscapes and encounters with iconic wildlife. Explore Admiralty Island, home to the highest concentration of brown bears in the world, Glacier Bay National Park with its thriving ecosystem and array of marine mammals, and South Marble Island, a birder’s paradise. Find out more about Alaska’s Inside Passage: Bears & Whales Safari

• Destination : Alaska
• Price (exc. flights) : 8 days from £5,225
• Trip type : Voyage

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Safari Quest

On the 22-guest Safari Quest , UnCruise Adventures’ most intimate vessel, you’ll unwind with included amenities, attentive service, comfortable cabins, welcoming public spaces, and four decks with ample room to get away from it all.

Agile, spry, and with clean design lines, the Safari Quest can cut into the tiniest nooks that even our other small ships can’t reach. This includes coveted wilderness areas with highly limited access to no more than two groups of twelve guests per day. For those most special adventures, she is the ticket in.

While small is her secret for access, on the inside this yacht is anything but. Spacious and comfy cabins. A cozy and welcoming lounge and dining room. And plenty of onboard niches for nestling and relaxing. On a boat this size, camaraderie is near-instant—feel the love.

Safari Quest Details

Accommodations.

There are 11 cabins across 4 cabin categories, including Single. 4 staterooms on the top deck have large sliding glass doors directly opposite the bed for fantastic views.

Beds are deluxe TemperPedic mattresses, and many convert between King, Queen, and Twins for tremendous flexibility.

Cabin features include a TV/DVD player; heated tile floor in all bathrooms; hairdryer, bathrobes, conditioning shampoo, body wash; binoculars; reusable water bottles.

Specifications

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Safari quest.

Cruiseable team

On a cruise ship, cruiseclout score: 95.0, safari quest: explore alaska & the pacific northwest.

On the 22-guest boutique yacht Safari Quest from Un-Cruise Adventures . Four decks offer invigorating spaces to get away from it all and take in up-close views of the surrounding wilderness. Recap the day's activities, relax or watch a movie on the wide-screen TV in the comfortable and sophisticated salon. The yacht also features a fully stocked bar and a library with large view windows for reading or discussing marine life with fellow guests.

Equipped for adventure, Safari Quest comes with kayaks, paddle boards, skiffs and hiking poles, and she offers a full-beam swim step for easy access to water activities and hydrophones for listening to below-surface sounds. The onboard wellness program includes a hot tub and fitness equipment in the sun lounge.

Where Safari Quest sails

You can kayak, hike and bird-watch through the Pacific Northwest and Alaska on Safari Quest.

Ratings & awards

About Ratings & awards

There are four stateroom categories aboard Safari Quest: Single, Mariner, Commander and Captain. This upscale yacht has 11 staterooms, all with Tempur-pedic memory foam mattresses and private bathrooms with heated tile floors. Safari Quest’s four Captain staterooms feature sliding glass doors and French balconies . Each room has a flat-screen TV/DVD and iPod docking stations, as well as hair dryers and bathrobes. 

Have you cruised on Safari Quest? What was the highlight? We'd love to hear about your experience.

Help improve this article. See anything wrong? What did we overlook? Be a co-creator!

Interested in a cruise on this ship?

SEE ALL SAFARI QUEST SAILINGS

Cruiseable team The Cruiseable editorial team consists of award-winning travel writers, cruise bloggers and journalists.

Top dining options on board

Dining room

• Style: Inventive locally sourced cuisine
• No additional cost
• Open: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

“The food was spectacular and abundant. There was an open bar. The real surprise was that boat life could be as active as I wanted it to be.”

New York Times

“We dropped anchor at Princess Louisa Inlet, a glacier-cut gorge with provincial marine park status and a series of waterfalls spilling over 5,000-foot granite canyon walls. It’s one of the most glorious spots in this part of British Columbia, and a place where we could stand-up paddleboard, kayak and hike. The water there was so calm and clear that we could spot the blood-orange frills of a lion’s mane jellyfish pulsing under the surface.”

Your take: share your experience

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UNCRUISE Adventures in Alaska & More

Feb 1, 2021 | 2

UnCruise Adventures

Seattle-based UnCruise Adventures operates a fleet of nine expedition vessels accommodating from between 22 to 86 passengers, mainly those seeking adventure cruises in North America’s coastal, island and inland waters from Alaska south to Mexico’s Sea of Cortés, out amongst Hawaiian Islands, Costa Rica and Panama, and in the Galápagos Archipelago off Ecuador.

The American firm, with origins dating back to 1996, has the largest selection of small ship cruises in Alaska, varied enough for return exploratory voyages. UnCruise Adventures is a shared, unrushed experience. For those who like off-season travel, some Alaska itineraries begin in April as the state’s wildlife is waking up, and the spring months are generally drier than later on.

The 49th state is UnCruise’s prime summer focus. The emphasis is on avoiding the big cruise ship ports and offering outdoor activities — kayaking, skiff excursions, paddleboarding and hiking — in and around scenic coves and fjords, while watching wildlife at close range. The line has creative itineraries and activities to best explore the Alaska Panhandle well away from the big ships.

Safari Voyager. * Photo: UnCruise Adventures

RELATED: Learn more about UnCruising in Alaska in Heidi’s review of her awesome and active week aboard the Wilderness Explorer from Juneau to Ketchikan. 

RELATED: UnCruise Founder Dan Blanchard Discusses the Benefits of Small Ship Cruising with QuirkyCruise.

Safari Endeavour (b. 1983 & 74 p) — Alaska

Safari Explorer (b. 1988 & 36 p) — Alaska & Hawaii

Safari Quest (b. 1992 & 22 p) — Alaska & Pacific Northwest

Safari Voyager (b. 1982 & 66 p) — Latin America

Wilderness Adventurer (b. 1984 & 60 p) — Alaska

Wilderness Discoverer (b. 1992 & 76 p) — Alaska & Pacific Northwest

Wilderness Explorer (built 1976 & 74 passengers) — Alaska

Wilderness Legacy (b. 1983 & 86 p) — Pacific Northwest, Columbia & Snake Rivers

La Pinta (b. remodeled in 2019 & 48 p) — Galápagos islands

The 22-pax Safari Quest is a great ship to charter for private family and friend groups. * Photo: Un-Cruise Adventures.

Passenger Profile

A varied lot spanning the ages who come for itineraries that combine popular and off-beat destinations. Cruises are as informal as they come, and the emphasis is on outdoor activities and exploring. For families, activities are designed for children as well.

The Columbia-Snake rivers cruises had always attracted generally older passengers for its specific slants on history, cultural traditions and scenery, though now with a big focus on active adventure, the passengers’ ages should have a wider spread.

All but one of UnCruise’s ships are American-flagged, and so the crews largely hail from the US of A. The Safari Voyager is registered in St.Kitts.

RELATED: A grandmother shares her UnCruise experience cruising with her children and grandchildren. 

RELATED: Check out our UnCruise Reader Reviews here.

Trying a real ice iceberg in Alaska. * Photo: UnCruise Adventures.

Weeklong cruises are typically upwards of $3,200 per person, and include shore excursions, booze and other perks. Some 7-night itineraries command twice that, while early spring dates (14 nights) may begin below $5,000. Peruse the lot to find the price you can afford.

Private Charters

Family and friend groups are especially well suited for private charters of the 22-passenger Safari Quest and 36-passenger Safari Explorer.

Check out our special full-charter offers on these two ships, HERE

Family on skiff tour near a glacier. * Photo: UnCruise

Included Features

• All onboard meals
• Wine, beer, liquor & non-alcoholic beverages
• Use of onboard water sports equipment
• Exclusive activities & shore visits
• Wellness amenities
• Entry fees to national parks & preserves
• Group airport transfers

Up close and personal on an UnCruise. * Photo: Heidi Sarna

UnCruise Itineraries

Alaska cruises feature prominently, with itineraries ranging from seven, 12 and 14 nights, most either originating or ending at Juneau, or both.

RELATED: Active Alaska aboard the Legacy. by John Roberts

In the Pacific Northwest, there’s a 7-night cruise to explore the Olympic wilderness and San Juan Islands and another 5-night tour of the Salish Sea and San Juan Islands.

UnCruise also offers a 7-night Hawaiian Islands hopper cruise, a 7-night Mexican Sea of Cortés/Baja Peninsula cruise, and 7-night Galápagos Islands  cruise.

In 2023, UnCruise dropped its Columbia and Snake River itineraries as well as its Central America routes — for now — but they could be added back to the fold at a later time as UnCruise likes to keep its offerings fresh.

RELATED: Judi Cohen reviews her UnCruise Hawaii adventure HERE.

RELATED: Heidi reviews her awesome and active week aboard the Wilderness Explorer from Juneau to Ketchikan. 

RELATED: Rivers of Adventure on the Columbia & Snake Rivers. by John Roberts

Hikes with amazing views like this are par for the UnCruise course. * Photo: Heidi Sarna

Sample Itineraries

The 7-night Northern Passages & Glacier Bay cruise begins at Juneau, sailing either the Lynn Canal or Chatham Strait to visit Glacier Bay National Park.

From there, sail through the Icy Strait to Chichagof Island and the Peril Strait, Sergius Narrows and Neva Strait, through the Krestof and Nakwasina Sounds to the final destination at Sitka, Alaska.

RELATED: QC Contributor Judi Cohen reviews her Alaska cruise aboard the Wilderness Legacy.

Kayaking is a big part of the UnCruise ethos. * Photo: Judi Cohen

UnCruise Adventures often spends a whole day in Glacier Bay seeing ice and animals close up. * Photo: Heidi Sarna

In the Pacific Northwest, the 7-night Explore! Olympic Wilderness & San Juan Islands cruise embarks at Seattle, setting sail to the Salish Sea and through Deception Pass to Lopez Island, Orcas Island, Sucia Island and the shores of the Olympic Peninsula and Olympia National Park before returning to Seattle.

Friday Harbor in Washington’s San Juan Islands is a favorite cruise stop when UnCruise ships leave Seattle. * Photo: Ted Scull

The majestic nature of Alaska and the Hawaiian Islands are best seen from the decks of a small ship.

Go for the varieties of wildlife living in Alaska, Sea of Cortés, Galapagos and Hawaii. And go for the cultural connections in all the regions shared close up with fewer than 100 others (and often below 50) rather than amongst multiple thousands in the mega-ship ports.

And go for the fun!

When to Go?

The cruises are scheduled for the best weather times of the year. The UnCruise website has easily understood bar charts showing the prime months for whale watching or enjoying the wild flowers in Mexico, and in Alaska, wildlife sightings and Northern Lights, plus the optimum driest and sunniest periods. Here’s one below:

UnCruise.com graphic highlighting the Alaska season.

For instance, in Alaska, spring means lots of newly-born animals, migrating birds and whales, lots of snow on the mountains, waterfalls at their peak with runoff, and the best chance to see the Aurora Borealis (other than in winter).

UnCruise’s Sustainability Initiatives

UnCruise Adventures does a lot to leave the lightest footprint in the areas it visits, including replacing ship engines with more efficient models and working with the ports it visits for responsible recycling and waste disposal.

On board, they purchase supplies with less packaging and sustainable seafood from sources approved by the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch Program. Passengers are provided reusable water bottles and eco-friendly bath amenities in refillable containers.

The cruise line works with local guides and experts at each destination and donates to local causes.

Activities & Entertainment

All ships carry expedition teams who give (often illustrated) talks, some based on what the bow camera catches and the underwater hydrophone sees and hears. They organize adventures ashore, guided shore walks and rigorous hikes and explain use of the available craft such as kayaks, inflatable skiffs, and paddle boards.

The fleet has stern boarding platforms and snorkeling is offered in short sessions, even in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska, using a supplied wet suit. The line’s website features a comprehensive fleet amenities chart showing what’s available on every vessel.

There are a number of theme cruises including photography, marine biology, ornithology and wellness where experts are on board to offer talks and guidance (see UnCruise’s website). All vessels also have fitness equipment, TV and DVD players in the lounge, and small book libraries.

Plunging into Glacier Bay directly from the ship. * Photo: UnCruise Adventures

Dining on the UnCruise Fleet

Aside from a full breakfast, lunch and dinner, there is also a special breakfast offering for early birds and hors d’oeurves at cocktail hour. Meals are multi-course affairs, featuring farm-to-table produce and sustainable seafood catches that are regionally and seasonally specific.

Breakfast might feature avocado toast topped with pesto, grilled tomato, poached eggs and red pepper sabayon; a prosciutto, asparagus and goat cheese omelet; banana pecan pancakes; sweet potato hash; sausage, bacon and ham; and fresh-baked pastries.

Dinner choices include dishes like baked sustainable Alaskan halibut with lemon thyme–infused compound butter or roasted garlic pork medallions with braised apples and cream sherry reduction.

The wine selection highlights labels from Washington and Oregon. Safari Endeavour and Wilderness Explorer each have a wine bar as well.

Fresh fish like halibut and salmon are served on UnCruise. * Photo: Heidi Sarna

All UnCruise ships share similarities across the board, despite variations in size.

Safari Endeavour

On four decks, accessed by stairs, Safari Endeavour accommodates 74 passengers and lots of features (no elevator).

Public Rooms

On the main deck, the dining room has wide windows along both sides, plus a small wine bar. The ship’s library of games, books and DVDs is also located on this deck near the dining room. The lounge has a large viewing area at the bow and another bar. At the aft on the upper deck there are two hot tubs, while the sun deck has fitness equipment and yoga mats, plus another bar underneath a covered area.

Safari Endeavour carries water sports equipment such as kayaks, inflatable skiffs and paddleboards that can be launched from the ship’s EZ Dock hydraulic platform. Like most of its sister ships, Safari Endeavour also has an underwater camera installed at the bow and a hydrophone that provides a rare peek into the underwater world.

There are five cabin categories onboard. Commander cabins open to side promenades and have windows, a desk and chair and twin beds. Other categories have king or twin beds, desk and chair and window. The Commodore Suite has a private balcony and Jacuzzi.

In cabin: en suite, TV and DVD, hair dryer, reusable water bottles.

Safari Explorer

Safari Explorer is a small yacht that accommodates 36 passengers on three decks, without an elevator.

The dining room has windows along one side and is opposite a salon with a bar and a library. The top deck has fitness equipment and a hot tub, which is not in use on Hawaii itineraries.

Onboard water sports equipment includes kayaks, paddleboards and inflatable skiffs. Unlike its sister ships, Safari Explorer doesn’t have the EZ Dock function, but just a simple swim step at the stern. The ship also has a hydrophone that lets passengers listen in on the underwater world.

The 36-passenger Safari Explorer. * Photo: UnCruise

There are six cabin categories, from one single occupancy cabin to two Commodore suites. Most cabins are on the Cabins Deck and open to side promenades. They have either king, queen or twin beds, and windowed doors with sometimes an additional window. Three categories have private Jacuzzi, while the larger suites also have sitting areas and/or French balconies.

A “Commander” category cabin on Safari Explorer. * Photo: UnCruise

Safari Voyager

Accommodating 66 passengers on three decks (no elevator) Safari Voyager reflects the region in which she sails, with Latin American art and handicraft featuring prominently in the décor.

The dining room on the main deck seats all passengers in one sitting. The lounge has large windows, an indoor bar and covered al fresco area, plus a book, game and DVD library. The sun deck has a small area with fitness equipment and yoga mats and storage for kayaks and inflatable skiffs, and there are two additional outdoor deck spaces that include a bow viewing area.

The ship carries paddleboards, but has no wetsuits. Small boats can be launched from the EZ Dock hydraulic platform. Safari Voyager also has an underwater camera installed at the bow and underwater hydrophone capturing the sounds of the sea.

There are seven cabin categories, from single-occupancy to Owner’s Suite. Most have queen or twin beds, desk and chair and window; Admiral category and suites have a sofa that can accommodate a child. Those in the Captain category have a rain shower, while the Owner’s suite has a Jacuzzi. Five cabins on the Bridge Deck open to side promenades.

Safari Voyager’s Bar. * Photo: Un-Cruise Adventures.

Safari Quest

Safari Quest is the smallest of the fleet, built for 22 passengers (no elevator).

The small dining room has windows along one side and is adjacent to a cozy salon with a bar. A small library nook has a collection of games, books and DVDs. The top deck has space to catch the sun or work out with fitness equipment under the shade or just chill out in the hot tub.

There’s a full beam swim step at the stern, and lots of water sports equipment on board including kayaks, paddleboards and inflatable skiffs. Safari Quest also has a cool underwater camera installed at the bow and hydrophone for underwater views and soundtrack.

Guests kayaking near Safari Quest in the Pacific Northwest. * Photo: UnCruise Adventures

There are four cabin categories – two cabins, one single and one double occupancy, open directly off the dining room. Five cabins on the lowest deck have king, queen and twin beds and elevated port lights (no view). Four cabins on the observation deck have sliding glass doors and French balconies.

Captain-grade cabin on the Safari Quest. * Photo: UnCruise Adventures.

Wilderness Adventurer

An expedition ship for 60 passengers, Wilderness Adventurer has three decks connected by stairwells (no elevator).

The dining room and adjacent lounge have plenty of windows and a casual feel in décor. On the sun deck, there’s a hot tub and fitness equipment for down time.

The ship also carries a small collection of books, games and DVDs. Water sports equipment includes kayaks, inflatable skiffs a paddleboards, and there’s an EZ Dock hydraulic platform for direct access to the water.  

There are four cabin categories, most with queen or twin beds, and one single-occupancy cabin.  

Wilderness Discoverer

A 76-passenger expedition ship, Wilderness Discoverer has four decks (no elevator).

The dining room and lounge are casual affairs with small windows. The observation deck has two hot tubs, while the sun deck has open and shaded areas. Board games and DVDs are available, and there’s plenty of kayaks, inflatable skiffs and paddleboards. Snorkel equipment and wetsuits are charged extra.

The EZ Dock hydraulic kayak launch platform allows for direct access to the water. Wilderness Discoverer has an underwater camera at its bow and a hydrophone to view and listen to the underwater world around the ship.

Four cabin categories have queen or twin beds and windows. Pathfinder cabins have outside entries from the ship’s side promenades. Four Explorer cabins on the sun deck have space for small sitting areas.

Wilderness Explorer

Built for 74 passengers, this explorer vessel has three decks (no elevator).  

The dining room is small but can seat everyone in one sitting. The Lounge Deck has a forward bar and lounge with a hot tub, while the Sun Deck has some fitness equipment and yoga mats under a covered section, where passengers can keep fit between excursions.

For downtime, there’s an onboard book, game and DVD library. Water sports equipment are in full supply, with Necky kayaks and inflatable skiffs at the ready, and paddleboards. Snorkel equipment and wetsuits are available for an extra charge.

An EZ Dock swim step and kayak launch platform provides direct access to the water. An unusual feature, an underwater camera installed at the ship’s bow provides a unique underwater perspective and a hydrophone lets passengers listen in on the underwater world.

Kayaking in Misty Fjords National Monument with Wilderness Explorer. * Photo: Heidi Sarna

Three cabin categories have either twin, double or queen beds and a window. Explorer cabins on the Sun Deck are accessed via side promenades and have fold-down queen beds and large picture windows. Cabins towards the aft of the Lounge Deck also have doors that open out to side promenades.   

In cabin: en suite, TV and DVD, hair dryer, reusable water bottles.  

Wilderness Explorer twin cabin. * Photo: UnCruise Adventures

VIDEO: Heidi shows us around her Wilderness Explorer cabin #202.

VIDEO: Heidi gives us a tour of the top of deck of Wilderness Explorer .

VIDEO: Heidi tours us around the Lounge (middle) Deck of Wilderness Explorer.

VIDEO: Heidi gives us a lay of the land of Wilderness Explorer’s Main (lowest) Deck. 

Wilderness Legacy

The largest ship in the fleet. Wilderness Legacy carries 86 passengers, and is the only ship with an elevator connecting its four decks.

On the main deck, the large dining room has an elegant décor, wide windows along either side, a wine bar and an adjoining viewing area from the stern. The lounge has a viewing area from the bow of the ship and a bar as well as a piano.

There are two hot tubs on the bridge deck, plus fitness equipment and yoga mats. The ship carries an onboard book, game and DVD library. Water sports equipment such as kayaks, paddleboards and inflatable skiffs are accessed via a launch pad.

Six cabin categories include an Owner’s Suite (with a private Jacuzzi) on the bridge deck and two Jr Commodore Suites with wrap-around windows. Most cabins have either queen or twin beds.

RELATED: Ted Sails aboard the SS Legacy on the Columbia & Snake Rivers.

The charming Wilderness Legacy. * Photo: Judi Cohen

A yacht sailing in the Galápagos Islands, the 48-passenger La Pinta has three decks with stairwell access (no elevator).

The dining room has large portholes either side, however, the lounge has floor-to-ceiling picture windows for better views. This ship has a small fitness room and an expedition room with books, maps and artwork.

A sun deck has a covered sky lounge with a bar and hot tub. Perfect for Galápagos, La Pinta has a glass-bottomed boat for an up close and personal view of the underwater life of the islands.

La Pinta has only two cabin categories. All have sitting areas, a deck and chair and either queen or twin beds, however, four larger cabins have an additional fold-out couch.

In cabin: en suite, safe, hair dryer, reusable water bottles.

Guests on a beach walk with La Pinta. * Photo: UnCruise

Special Notes

For adventure trips, UnCruise has a wide variety of price points and a fleet that includes 22- and 36-berth yachts, 60- to 84-berth small coastal-style ships, and a remarkably winsome Victorian atmosphere aboard the one-of-a-kind S.S. Wilderness Legacy.

Private charters are available for all ships, and family and friend groups are especially well suited for the 22-passenger Safari Quest and 36-passenger Safari Explorer. 

Along the Same Lines

Alaskan Dream Cruises , Lindblad Expeditions .

UnCruise Adventures, based in Seattle, Washington.

US & Canada; +1 888-862-8881

International toll-free; +00 800 50060006

www.uncruise.com

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About The Author

QuirkyCruise

Ted & Heidi are long-time travel writers with a penchant for small ship cruising. Between them they've traveled all over the world aboard hundreds and hundreds of small cruise ships of all kinds, from river boats to expedition vessels and sailing ships.

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Looking for small boat family cruise — Alaska, Hawaii or whale. We are 6 member family: myself (66), my brother & sister in law, their daughter & her 2 children 9 & 11. I figure it will probably be late 2019 for travel.

Thanks for your note. Keep in mind the Alaska season is April-September; UnCruise is an excellent choice for small-ship Alaska. Some is Alaska Dream Cruise. Click her for more info about small ship cruising in Alaska: https://quirkycruise.com/cruising-alaska-overview/

Another option is the Galapagos islands; you can cruise there all year round and it’s excellent for families with kids. Here’s more info: https://quirkycruise.com/galapagos-cruises/

Fiji and the South Pacific can also work great for multi-gen families. Here are some ideas, scroll down to “South Pacific Islands”: https://quirkycruise.com/list-77-small-ship-cruise-line-reviews-by-destination/

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Alaska Cruises

Alaska is one of the world’s most popular travel destinations. Once you see it, you’ll understand why.

Alaska is by far the largest state in the United States. In fact, it’s more than twice as big as Texas. It has literally thousands of wild animal species and fewer people per square mile than any other part of the country.

But what makes Alaska especially enticing for USA River Cruises guests is its tremendous coastline, which extends for more than 6,600 miles. That’s bigger than all the other 49 states’ coastlines combined!

With extraordinary vistas from just about every vantage point, cruise-goers will have front-row seats to an extraordinary range of landscapes and wildlife.

USA River Cruises offers an 11-day Alaskan Explorer Cruise aboard the American Constellation that provides an up-close-and-personal trip to breathtaking sights. You might see whale pods breaching the surface of the water or glaciers that seem to glow with an otherworldly blue light.

Or consider our Prince William Sound Cruise — a truly Alaskan adventure package. Ready to cruise the protected waters of Prince William Sound aboard the Pacific Provider? Then hop aboard, and prepare for a smooth trip across calm waters that are home to the world’s densest concentration of tidewater glaciers. Fish for salmon, kayak to a glacier, hike through green, rugged forests, or just relax aboard the ship and watch the sunset.

At USA River Cruises, we aim to please. Our friendly and knowledgeable agents will create an all-inclusive trip just for you. Let’s “Imagine the Journey” together so that we can customize your cruise vacation.

This is worry-free vacation planning at its finest!

Your task is simple: Enjoy yourself!

Contact USA River Cruises today, and you’ll understand why we’ve been the best in the business since 1996. We’re dedicated to customer service and to finding the perfect trip for you.

What’s your Alaskan dream? Let USA River Cruises make it come true!

Grand Alaska National Parks

Fairbanks, AK to Juneau, AK

• August 11, 2025
• From $15,665
• American Constitution

Alaskan Explorer Cruise-American Constitution

Roundtrip Juneau

• June 16, 2025, June 16, 2025, June 26, 2025 -- 2 more dates available.
• From $9,125

Alaska National Parks-American Constitution

• July 14, 2025, July 21, 2025, August 11, 2025 -- 2 more dates available.
• From $13,205
• American Constellation

Alaska Inside Passage – American Constellation

Seattle to Juneau

• May 10, 2025, September 6, 2025, May 9, 2026 -- 1 more date available.
• From $10,810

Alaska National Parks-American Constellation

• July 8, 2025, July 15, 2025, August 18, 2025 -- 3 more dates available.
• June 19, 2025, June 29, 2025, July 23, 2025

Alaska’s Inside Passage & Glacier Bay Wilderness

• September 11, 2024
• From $7,900
• Safari Explorer

Alaska by Rail & Cruise Featuring Glacier Bay

Sitka to Fairbanks

• Please call for information on future dates.
• From $10,126

Alaska’s Glacier Country on the Safari Quest

• From $8,900
• Safari Quest

Alaskan Explorer Cruise-American Constellation

• June 15, 2025, June 25, 2025, July 5, 2025 -- 2 more dates available.
• September 16, 2024, May 12, 2025, September 15, 2025 -- 2 more dates available.

Alaska Yacht Cruise: An Adventure In Splendor And Rugged Paradise

Juneau to Petersburg

• From $4,495
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The 9 best northern lights alaska cruises for 2024 & beyond.

Consider one of these trips for a chance to see this mesmerizing natural wonder.

The Best Northern Lights Alaska Cruises

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There's no other experience on Earth quite like witnessing the northern lights. Also known as the aurora borealis, this spellbinding phenomenon – when brilliant hues of green, yellow and purple dance across the night sky – is visible in Alaska from late August to late April. Clear, dark evenings away from the ambient light of cities provide prime viewing opportunities.

Alaska is one of the best places in the world to see the aurora borealis – especially locations in the Interior and Arctic regions, such as Coldfoot, Wiseman, Utqiagvik (Barrow) and Nome. Fairbanks is regarded as a top location due to its position directly under the auroral oval, a ring-shaped area in the far north where aurora activity is generally concentrated. The Southcentral region of Alaska, where you'll find Anchorage, Talkeetna and the Mat-Su Valley, also offers basecamps for northern lights viewing.

If you're hoping to see the magic aboard an Alaska cruise in 2024 or 2025, then you just might be in luck. Experts predict the next few seasons will be particularly good for northern lights sightings, due to increased solar activity. While seeing the northern lights is never guaranteed, your best chance of seeing them is during these high-activity solar cycles, which occur about every 11 years.

Find your perfect cruise

When to take a cruise to view the northern lights

The Alaska cruise season falls between May and September, with a few cruise lines extending the season from April to October.

Holland America Line recommends booking a cruise or cruisetour (a combined sea and land package) during the autumnal equinox, or the official start of autumn, which falls around Sept. 22 in the Northern Hemisphere. Disturbances in the Earth's magnetic field are more likely around the autumn and spring equinoxes, which could increase your chances of seeing the aurora. For the best views, Holland America advises heading to higher ground in Anchorage , to vantage points like Glen Alps, the Knit River Valley and Point Woronzof.

Princess Cruises also suggests booking your vacation in the fall. September is an ideal month to watch for the spectacle in the sky as the nights start getting longer and darker. The elusive display is most likely to appear on crystal-clear evenings between midnight and 4 a.m. While you can see incredible light shows in Anchorage, consider an extended tour of Fairbanks or the Interior that takes you away from light pollution (such as to Denali National Park & Preserve).

U.S. News has compiled a list of the nine best cruises and cruisetours to give you the optimal chance of viewing these whimsical lights in the sky, with a focus on sailings around the autumnal equinox in 2024 and later dates in September 2025. We've also included an early sailing in April, before the end of the aurora season. (Keep in mind: Many of these trips and itineraries are also available on other dates during the season. Cruise fares were accurate at the time of publication.)

Holland America Line

Princess cruises, celebrity cruises, norwegian cruise line, royal caribbean international.

Thierry Guenez | Courtesy of Holland America Line

9-Day Denali: Tour D8l

This nine-day land and sea tour on Nieuw Amsterdam includes an opportunity to search for the northern lights in Fairbanks, one of the best places to see them in Alaska (and in the world). Holland America offers a four-hour aurora borealis viewing tour outside the city in a yurt; it operates between the last week of August and mid-September.

If you'd like more options, there's no shortage of tour operators in town that can take you on a northern lights adventure in Fairbanks. You can even fly into town early to stay in the wilderness in an igloo with clear views of the night sky at Borealis Basecamp, located less than 30 miles from Fairbanks. Be sure to notify your hotel that you'd like a wake-up call or a knock on the door if the northern lights are on display.

You'll have more opportunities to see the aurora when you head to Denali National Park & Preserve for a stay at Holland America 's exclusive 60-acre McKinley Chalet Resort, located near the entrance to the park. After a full day exploring the park by ATV or a bucket list flightseeing adventure over Denali, you'll have another chance to see the colorful light display in Alaska's wilderness after midnight. The rest of the cruisetour itinerary includes scenic cruising days, with one spent in beautiful Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve. You'll also call on Juneau , Skagway and Ketchikan before disembarking in Vancouver .

14-Day Denali: Tour D3c

This 14-day adventure includes scenic cruising of the Inside Passage, Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve and College Fjord, with stops in the ports of Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Whittier and Seward. You'll then have nearly a week on land in Anchorage, Denali National Park & Preserve and Fairbanks to go aurora hunting. If you spend an extra night or two in Fairbanks at the end of the trip, you'll be in town for the autumnal equinox, maximizing your northern lights viewing opportunities.

With the extra time in town, plan to book the Arctic Circle Air Adventure with Northern Alaska Tour Company. This unforgettable journey takes you on a flight over the Yukon River and Brooks Range, just east of the Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve. You'll then land 60 miles north of the Arctic Circle in the community of Coldfoot and receive an Arctic Circle Adventure Certificate before your return flight to Fairbanks.

7-Day Glacier Discovery Northbound

If you're interested in a cruise-only option and would prefer to arrange the land portion independently, consider this seven-day voyage on Nieuw Amsterdam. The itinerary includes three scenic cruising days, with one day in Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, and calls on the ports of Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway before disembarking in Whittier, which sits roughly 60 miles south of Anchorage.

From Whittier, there are many options to transfer to Anchorage (by rail or by road), including the iconic Glacier Discovery Train. Plan to stay a few evenings in Anchorage with a multiday guided aurora tour, or reserve a spot on an evening outing in search of the northern lights.

Read: The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

11-Day Denali Explorer – Tour DA4

This 11-day cruisetour begins with a seven-night voyage embarking from Vancouver on Royal Princess or Sapphire Princess . The itinerary includes three sea days, two of which are dedicated to scenic cruising through Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve and College Fjord. You'll make stops in the coastal towns of Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway and Anchorage (Whittier) before disembarking to depart for the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge via the line's direct-to-the-wilderness rail service.

Spending three nights at the lodge – located just outside the entrance to the park – in mid-September will offer excellent opportunities for aurora viewing. Keep your fingers crossed for high solar activity and clear, dark skies. Throughout your trip, learn photography tips to capture the mesmerizing display through Princess' North to Alaska Program. After your stay in Denali, you'll take a motor coach to Anchorage and stay overnight in a hotel there to finish up your voyage.

10-Day On Your Own – Tour BBX

The 10-Day On Your Own cruisetour with Princess Cruises begins with three nights on land, including overnights in Fairbanks, the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge and the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge. While at the Mt. McKinley resort, be sure to check out the lodge's treehouse. Designed by Pete Nelson of Animal Planet's "Treehouse Masters," this vantage point offers impressive views of Denali – the highest peak in North America at 20,310 feet above sea level.

Before heading off to bed, get an update on aurora activity from the tracker on your smartphone, especially if you have clear skies that night; the app My Aurora Forecast & Alerts has excellent reviews. Request a wake-up call to have the Princess lodge staff call your room if the dazzling bands of light begin to dance in the sky. The next day, after traveling to Whittier by motor coach, you'll embark on your cruise to Vancouver aboard Royal Princess or Sapphire Princess.

The voyage from Whittier includes three sea days for relaxing activities on board the ship, with two days of scenic cruising around Hubbard Glacier and in Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve. During your time in Glacier Bay, park rangers will board the ship to offer commentary about this captivating wilderness area's pristine glaciers and abundant wildlife. Younger cruisers and teens will also appreciate learning about this spectacular place through the Junior Ranger program, which features interactive games, activities and presentations. (All cruise ships visiting the park participate in this program with the National Park Service.) Ports of call for the rest of the journey include Icy Strait Point or Skagway (depending on the cruise), then Juneau and Ketchikan. The voyage ends in Vancouver.

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Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

The Great National Parks Expedition Cruisetour

Celebrity's pre-cruise national parks adventure takes guests on a wildlife viewing quest to destinations in the north and the Interior where you can watch for the aurora. The 12-night trip begins in Fairbanks with a free day to explore.

Consider a trip to the University of Alaska Museum of the North, which features exhibits on Arctic dinosaurs, diverse wildlife, Alaska Native cultures and 2,000 years of Alaska art. You could also visit the impressive collection of antique cars and clothing at the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum, or take a walk with the reindeer into the woods at Running Reindeer Ranch. The second day in town includes a Riverboat Discovery ride and a tour of the city, as part of the cruisetour.

On the third day, you'll board the Wilderness Express (a glass-domed railcar) for the ride to Denali. Then, you'll embark on the Tundra Wilderness Tour in search of the park's grizzly bears, moose, Dall sheep and other wildlife. Be sure to put your name on the list before bedtime to get a wake-up call for aurora activity. You'll also have one evening in Anchorage, where you can arrange for a northern lights tour, and one night in Seward before setting sail on Celebrity Summit the next morning. Highlights of the voyage include cruising Hubbard Glacier and the Inside Passage as well as stopping in Juneau, Icy Strait Point and Ketchikan. You'll disembark in Vancouver.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

13-Day Denali Explorer – Pre-Cruise Cruisetour

Norwegian Cruise Line's six-day pre-cruise adventure begins with overnights in Fairbanks, Denali and Anchorage, where you'll have the best chances to view the northern lights. Other highlights for the first part of the trip include a deluxe dome car rail journey from Talkeetna to Anchorage on the Alaska Railroad and a private tour to an Iditarod sled dog musher's kennel. You'll also have plenty of time in Denali National Park to book a flightseeing tour, go whitewater rafting, or take a hike with a park ranger to look for bears, moose, Dall sheep, wolves and other local wildlife before starting your cruise in Seattle .

Norwegian Encore will call on Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay and Ketchikan (Ward Cove) in Alaska. The Mill at Ward Cove near Ketchikan is a newly built cruise ship port that serves as a jumping-off point for outdoor activities in the Tongass National Forest, from hiking and biking to kayaking and sea cycling. You can even pick up souvenirs, grab a bite to eat and sample a cold Alaska brew at the mill. The cruise itinerary also includes one day at sea and a stop in Victoria, British Columbia, before you disembark in Seattle.

7-Night Alaska: Dawes Glacier, Juneau & Ketchikan

Consider this seven-day cruise on Norwegian Bliss if you prefer to travel early in the spring and take your chances at catching the northern lights toward the end of aurora season, which falls around April 21. This round-trip itinerary from Seattle is one of the earliest sailings of the year to visit the Great Land and features two sea days, with one day of scenic cruising in Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier. You'll also visit Sitka, Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan (Ward Cove) and Victoria before disembarking in Seattle.

Juneau will offer one of the best opportunities during the cruise for seeing the northern lights, although chances are dependent on the weather and solar activity. There are several apps and websites with real-time updates for aurora tracking, including My Aurora Forecast & Alerts. If the skies are clear in the evening and the forecast looks promising, ask guest relations if there's a sign-up sheet to get a call or a knock on the door in the event of aurora activity.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

12 Night Mountain Panorama Adventure Cruisetour 5B (Pre Tour)

This 12-night cruisetour with Royal Caribbean International begins with an overnight in Anchorage before boarding the Wilderness Express, where you'll have a glass-domed rail car for the journey to Talkeetna. The quirky community of Talkeetna is said to be the inspiration for the fictional Alaska town of Cicely in the 1990s show "Northern Exposure." It's also an excellent base for chasing the aurora – especially at the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge, where you'll be staying.

After an overnight at the lodge, your tour moves on to Denali, where you can search for wildlife by day and look for the aurora at night. Another evening on land at Hotel Alyeska in the remote town of Girdwood affords more opportunities to chase the finnicky lights before heading to Seward to board your ship, Radiance of the Seas .

Ports of call on this voyage include Juneau, Skagway, Icy Strait Point and Ketchikan. There are also two days of scenic cruising through Hubbard Glacier and the Inside Passage before disembarking in Vancouver. While there are plenty of activities, dining venues, bars and lounges on board to keep you entertained all night long, be sure to save up enough energy to wake up in the middle of the night should you get a call to see the magical natural wonder that is the northern lights.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is a U.S. News & World Report contributor and an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times both by land and sea to view wildlife and chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. She's even considered moving to The Great Land as a full-time resident. Pratesi used her deep knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• Alaska Cruise Packing List: Must-Have Items
• How Much Does an Alaska Cruise Cost?
• The Best Luxury Alaska Cruises
• The Best Alaska Cruises for Families
• The Best Alaska Shore Excursions

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Safari Quest Alaska cruise from Seattle 2024

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American safari cruises.

American Safari Cruises promises an intimate, all-inclusive cruise to some of the more out-of-the-way stretches of the Inside Passage -- and it succeeds admirably. The price is considerable -- but so is the pampering. The company's three small vessels carry between 12 and 36 guests, guaranteeing unparalleled flexibility, intimacy, and privacy. Once passenger interests become apparent, the expedition leader shapes the cruise around them. Black-bear aficionados can chug off in a Zodiac boat for a better look, active adventurers can explore the shoreline in one of the yacht's kayaks, and slacker travelers can relax aboard ship. A crew-to-passenger ratio of about one to two ensures that a cold drink, a good meal, or a sharp eagle-spotting eye is always nearby on the line's comfortable 120-foot ships. In 2012, the ships offer 7-night Discoverers' Glacier Bay itineraries and season-beginning and season-ending 14-night Inside Passage cruises as well. The core 7-night itinerary includes an unusual 2 full days in Glacier Bay National Park, in which passengers can hike on glaciers or in the rainforest with a park ranger, as well as stops in more off-the-beaten-path Alaskan areas such as Frederick Sound and Dawes Glacier.

Passenger Profile -- Passengers, almost always couples, tend to be more than comfortably wealthy and range from 45 to 65 years of age. Most hope to get close to nature without sacrificing luxury. Dress is always casual, with comfort being the primary goal.

Ships -- The line's newest ship, the 36-passenger Safari Explorer, entered service just in time for the 2008 cruise season, after a 10-month refurbishment costing $3.5 million. Add in the 22-passenger Safari Quest (1992) and the 12-passenger Safari Spirit (1991), and the fleet has three small-ship options for people looking to explore Alaska in a non-big ship environment that offers an unhurried, flexible adventure. Cabins are comfortable, and sitting rooms are intimate and luxurious, almost as if they were transported whole from a spacious suburban home. A big-screen TV in the main lounge forms a natural center for impromptu lectures during the day and movie-watching at night. A shipboard chef assails guests with multiple-course meals and clever snacks, barters with nearby fishing boats for the catch of the day, and raids local markets for the freshest fruits and vegetables -- say, strawberries the size of a cub's paw and potent strains of basil and cilantro. Sample nightly rates per person: Lowest-price outside cabin from $699 for the 7-night cruises on Safari Explorer; no inside cabins or suites.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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The 16 Best Alaska Cruise Excursions for 2024

A cruise to Alaska is one of the best ways to visit many parts of the 49th state, including the Inside Passage and the southeastern port towns of Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway. You can also see dozens of glaciers on a cruise, plus remote places reachable only by water, like Glacier National Park & Preserve. Traveling by ship allows you to get closer to one-of-a-kind experiences in Alaska's interior, especially if you extend your vacation with a cruisetour (a package that includes the cruise and a land portion either before or after your voyage).

When it comes to excursions, many cruise lines offer the same experiences ashore for larger ports of call, often with a slight variation in the itinerary. The most popular tours highlight the best activities and attractions, such as the Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour in Juneau, the Misty Fjords National Monument in Ketchikan and the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway in Skagway. You'll also find entertaining offerings from cruise lines that call on smaller, less visited ports, like Icy Strait Point (Hoonah), Sitka, Seward and Haines.

While some tours cost less than $100, don't be surprised to find over-the-top experiences that run about $750 per person – such as heli-flightseeing tours, where you'll land on a glacier and go dog-sledding with a team of Alaskan huskies. If you're comfortable with going it on your own, you might find lower prices on some excursions by booking directly with tour operators. Alaskan outfitters are used to working around cruise ship arrival and departure times, so their tours tend to fit into those schedules.

U.S. News has compiled this list to help you find the best Alaska cruise excursions, from the most popular (and affordable) options to once-in-a-lifetime adventures.

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Even though it's surrounded by water and mountains – and there's no road into town – Juneau is one of the most visited ports in Alaska, welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors each summer. You'll find plenty to do in Alaska's capital, including whale watching tours, salmon bakes and more.

Mendenhall Glacier

The Mendenhall Glacier is one of the top attractions in Juneau, so many tours include a visit to the Tongass National Forest to view the 12-mile-long sheet of blue ice. Some cruise lines, like Princess Cruises , offer self-guided trekking excursions that include a ride on the Juneau Goldbelt Tram, which affords views of the Chilkat Mountains and other panoramic scenery. You can also opt to see the glacier from the water by boat or kayak, or on a float trip.

However, if you're going to splurge on any one excursion, it's this one: Sign up for a helicopter landing on Mendenhall Glacier, followed by a dog-sledding adventure with a team of Alaskan huskies. During the approximately 30-minute helicopter ride, you'll fly over rainforests and spectacular summits, but the real fun is when you arrive at the camp to go zipping through the snow led by your team of dogs and a professional musher.

The Mendenhall Glacier helicopter excursion is offered on Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line and Silversea Cruises.

Whale Watching and Wildlife Quest

Whale watching is another top activity when visiting Juneau, and many cruise lines offer several options for tours. Holland America Line has a five-hour, small-group excursion for just 20 guests; you'll search for humpback whales on a safari vessel, then hike on Mendenhall Glacier where you can look for beavers, Arctic terns, porcupines and black bears. If you prefer an even smaller group, Princess Cruises offers a 3.5-hour private whale watching tour for six people. Possible sightings include humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, eagles, harbor seals, lighthouses, glaciers and maybe even a bear along the shoreline.

One of Viking Ocean Cruises ' excursions, the Best of Juneau, lasts more than six hours and takes guests on a naturalist-led whale watching cruise by catamaran. Before heading back to shore, you'll have a lunch of local wild-caught Alaska salmon on remote Colt Island, followed by a scenic drive to Mendenhall Glacier to end the day.

Alaska whale watching and wildlife excursions are offered on Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

Taku Lodge Salmon Bake

Norwegian Cruise Line offers a 3.5-hour Taku Glacier Lodge Flight & Feast excursion that will tick several quintessential Alaska adventures off your bucket list. After flying over the Juneau Icefield (the fifth-largest ice field in North America) in a classic De Havilland seaplane, guests will land in the river at the historic Taku Glacier Lodge across from Juneau's largest glacier, the 5-mile-wide Taku Glacier.

A traditional Alaska salmon bake (with all the fixings) and drinks made with glacier ice are another highlight of the day. You might even see a black bear sniffing around for leftovers after your feast. Following lunch, take a walk in the lush Tongass National Forest before heading back from the wilderness.

Salmon bake excursions are offered on Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

Ketchikan sits at the southernmost entrance to Alaska's Inside Passage. It is one of the most visited ports in Alaska, according to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). Visitors come to this part of the state for the beautiful scenery, Alaska Native culture and fresh seafood, including Alaska salmon and king crab. And they just might enjoy an entertaining lumberjack show or floatplane ride to kick off their day while in town.

The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show

Watch Alaska's hearty lumberjacks battle British Columbia's tough woodsmen in a head-to-head competition to see who can win the title of "Bull of the Woods." The thrill-a-minute show – a guest favorite – features a 50-foot tree climb, ax throwing, log rolling, buck sawing and springboard chopping, along with plenty of lumberjack lore. Some lines, like Princess Cruises, offer just the show; it lasts a little over an hour, so there will be plenty of time for a self-guided tour of Ketchikan before heading back to the ship. You may also be able to book a combination tour that includes the show and an ax throwing lesson (plus a competition of your own), or a trip to Totem Bright State Park, where you'll learn about the significance of totem poles and the Native Tlingit and Haida cultures.

Holland America Line offers a tour with the lumberjack show and a feast of local Dungeness crabs. For another culinary option, check out the 3.5-hour excursion with Norwegian Cruise Line . It includes a visit to Saxman Native Village, where you'll sample smoked wild game meats, dine on chef-selected dishes prepared with regional ingredients, and taste local wines and beers.

Lumberjack shows are offered on Alaska voyages with Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises , Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises.

Bering Sea Crab Fisherman's Tour

Embark on the Aleutian Ballard, the Bering Sea fishing boat made famous by the Discovery Channel's "Deadliest Catch" television series. The approximately three-hour excursion gives guests a firsthand experience of what it's like to sail on the vessel as a Bering Sea crab fisherman and catch massive king crabs, octopuses and other marine life with 700-pound crab pots. The boat may also stop at nearby Annette Island, where you'll have the chance to see whales, sea lions, seals and bald eagles soaring overhead (one may even try to snag your catch!). You may also get to watch local fishermen at work.

Some lines that offer the fisherman's tour include Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises.

Misty Fjords by Floatplane or Cruise

The more than 2 million-acre Misty Fjords National Monument is one of the top attractions in Alaska . Described by naturalist and author John Muir as "the Yosemite of the North," the awe-inspiring destination is best viewed from above on a floatplane. From the sky, you'll see towering 1,000-foot waterfalls, the volcanic Revillagigedo Island, snowcapped peaks, verdant forests and 3,000-foot walls of granite descending into the fjords. On a floatplane tour, you'll also have the chance to land on the water and take in the spectacular scenery from another viewpoint.

If you're not a fan of small planes, some lines offer the option of taking a cruise from Ketchikan's harbor. You'll sail into Behm Canal surrounded by the scenery of Misty Fjords, and you may even see wildlife or bald eagle nests. You'll also cruise by Eddystone Rock, a massive volcanic spire emerging from the sea, as well as waterfalls and 3,000-foot cliffs sculpted by glaciers.

Cruise lines that offer floatplane or cruisetours of Misty Fjords include Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Viking Ocean Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises.

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Skagway is another busy and popular cruise port in Alaska. It's one of the most popular towns on the Inside Passage itinerary; its fascinating Klondike Gold Rush history dates back to 1897. Take notice of the historic false-front shops reminiscent of the gold rush days as you explore. Many of these buildings are part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, and you may even see people strolling down the streets dressed in period costumes.

White Pass & Yukon Route

One of the top-rated attractions in Skagway is the White Pass Summit Scenic Railroad journey through Alaska's wilderness. The narrow-gauge railroad is an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark – an honor shared by the Panama Canal, the Statue of Liberty and the Eiffel Tower. Dating back 125 years, the historic railway features vintage rail cars and climbs to a steep 2,865 feet at the summit over just 20.4 miles. Along the way to the summit – located at the official international border between the U.S. and Canada – you'll listen to the history of the Klondike Gold Rush while passing by Inspiration Point, Dead Horse Gulch and Bridal Veil Falls. After making a loop at the top, the train will head back down the mountain. You might even see snow on the ride if your cruise to Alaska is early in the season .

Excursions on some lines combine the rail journey with other activities, like biking on the Klondike Highway from the summit or visiting Liarsville, a gold rush trail camp. Others include a stop (and a cold beer) at the Skagway Brewing Company. In addition, some cruise providers offer the train ride in a luxury class rail car, which includes complimentary beverages, snacks and a private guide who will explain the history of the railroad as you watch the scenery pass by.

Norwegian Cruise Line's six-hour excursion features a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route, a salmon bake at Liarsville and an adult beverage with one of the "madames" at the renowned Red Onion Saloon. Meanwhile, Silversea Cruises ' new 5.5-hour tour includes the train ride; a trip to the Yukon Suspension Bridge, which sits 65 feet above the white water rapids of the Tutshi River; and a hearty lunch of bison chili.

Cruise lines that offer the railroad (and combination) tours include Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Musher's Camp and Sled Dog Discovery

If you want to cuddle with Alaskan husky puppies, then this excursion is for you. Norwegian Cruise Line's approximately three-hour excursion takes guests to a professional musher's summer camp in Dyea Valley, where they train sled dogs for the Yukon Quest and Iditarod races. After a thrilling ride into the rainforest on a four-wheel-drive vehicle, you'll head out on a summertime dog sled with 16 Alaskan huskies at the helm. Before puppy play time, you'll learn how the mushers care for the dogs and prepare for the races. Depending on the cruise line, some tours may end with roasting s'mores by the fire.

Some lines that offer this excursion are Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Chilkoot Trail Hike and Float Adventure

The historic Chilkoot Trail was the main route for those in search of untold riches during the famous gold rush years. Today, the trail, located in Gold Rush National Historical Park, is a rainforest full of birds and wildflowers. Excursions to the park include hikes with river floats on the Taiya River (there are no rapids) or bike tours of the trail. There are also wilderness kayaking outings to Chilkoot Lake, which is home to the five species of Pacific salmon, waterfowl, bald eagles and one of the largest brown bear populations in southeast Alaska.

Some cruise lines that offer these excursions include Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Sitka is the only community in the Inside Passage that sits on the Pacific Ocean. The small city – home to just 8,500 residents – was owned by Russia before the U.S. purchased the land in 1867. Today, you'll find remnants of this Russian heritage, like onion-shaped domes and Saint Michael's Russian Orthodox Cathedral. Sitka also has a strong Tlingit culture. In terms of shore excursions, you'll find plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing surrounded by pristine landscapes.

Sea Otter and Wildlife Quest

Royal Caribbean International's three-hour jet boat cruise on Sitka Sound features panoramic scenery (including snow-capped peaks) and the chance to see abundant wildlife. During the tour, look for playful sea otters, whales and brown bears walking along the coast. The line also offers another tour – Sea Otters, Raptors and Bears Oh My – that features a naturalist-guided catamaran cruise followed by visits to the Alaskan Raptor Center (a rehabilitation center for birds of prey) and the Fortress of the Bear (a rescue operation for orphaned bears).

In comparison, Carnival Cruise Line 's VIP wildlife quest in search of whales, sea otters, coastal brown bears and more concludes with a feast of wild salmon cooked over a wood-fired grill, Alaska crab and prime rib at the Fin Island Lodge. Following a wildlife Zodiac cruise around the archipelago, Holland America Line's version of this excursion also visits the lodge for lunch in partnership with Food & Wine magazine.

You can find this excursion on Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

The Best of Sitka

Several cruise lines offer a version of this tour, which features an exploration of the top attractions in Sitka. On this excursion, you'll visit the Fortress of the Bear in Tongass National Park to learn about the facility's work with orphaned bears. There's also a stop at Sitka National Historical Park, where the 1804 "Battle of Alaska" between the Russians and the Tlingits was fought. Here, you'll see handcarved totem poles created by skilled Tlingit artists and get to meet local Native artists to learn more. The excursion also includes a visit to the Alaska Raptor Center.

Lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Icy Strait Point (Hoonah)

Icy Strait Point in Hoonah may be a much smaller port than others on this list, but it is a jumping-off point for endless outdoor explorations, including whale watching tours and searching for coastal brown bears. Icy Strait Point is Alaska Native-owned and -operated and is home to the largest Native Tlingit village in Alaska. While here, explore the wilderness areas of Chichagoff Islands, visit the 1912 cannery museum, and grab lunch with fresh Alaska king and Dungeness crabs before taking a ride on the world's largest ZipRider. (Or, play it safe and plan to take that ride down the mountain before lunch.)

Whale Watching & Bear Search

The waters surrounding Icy Strait Point host the largest summer population of humpback whales in the state, especially around the Point Adolphus area. If you purchase a tour directly with the Icy Strait Point website, they'll even guarantee you'll see whales – or they'll refund your money. During the tour, look for orcas, Steller sea lions, porpoises and seals. But be sure to also gaze overhead for bald eagles and search along the shore for bears; the Spasski River Valley in the remote wilderness of Chichagof Island has one of the highest densities of coastal brown bears in the world. Some cruise lines offer a variation of this excursion that includes a boiled seafood feast back on shore at Icy Strait Point.

You can find this excursion on voyages with Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Silversea Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Scenic Mountain Ascent & World's Largest ZipRider

Thrill-seekers (who love heights) will jump at the chance to ride the world's largest and longest zip line, which sits more than 1,300 feet above sea level at the top of Icy Strait Point. The ride to the summit on the SkyGlider mountaintop gondola is also a rush, but the real excitement comes as you zoom down 5,330-foot zip lines with five other riders at 60 mph – with views of the forest below and Glacier Bay National Park in the distance. A break-activated landing on the beach brings riders safely back to the ground. The price also includes unlimited rides on the gondola.

Cruise lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises , Viking Ocean Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

A less visited port than some others on this list (according to CLIA), Seward is the ancestral home to the Alutiiq, or Sugpiaq, people. Its breathtaking natural beauty – with mountains on one side and Resurrection Bay on the other – has been shaped by glaciers over thousands of years. Top attractions in Seward include the Alaska SeaLife Center and a charming downtown area. It also offers access to Kenai Fjords National Park.

Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise

During your stop in Seward, take a full-day excursion to see the astounding beauty of Kenai Fjords National Park. The impressive fjords are surrounded by mountains standing more than 6,000 feet tall and an ecosystem rich in wildlife. While there, watch for a variety of whale species, sea otters, porpoises and sea lions, and onshore, you might see bears and mountain goats. There are also 191 documented species of birds in the park and many glaciers. As you get up close to Holgate Glacier, listen as chunks of blue ice calve into the water.

Some cruise lines, such as Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, offer this as an individual tour, while others like Holland America Line include it as part of a cruisetour. You can also book the excursion directly with a local tour operator if you're embarking or disembarking in Seward.

Haines, a small port about 20 miles north of Skagway, is best known for its Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. The 49,000-acre preserve has the largest natural gathering of eagles during the late salmon runs and boasts pristine forests, marshlands and rivers brimming with wildlife.

Glacier Point Wilderness Safari

Norwegian Cruise Line's five-hour excursion takes guests on an adventure into the wilderness by boat while cruising North America's deepest and longest fjord, the upper Lynn Canal. You might even see breaching whales and playful sea lions en route to Glacier Point, where you'll disembark at the beach upon arrival. After a drive through the forest and a hike in the woods, you'll have unforgettable, up-close views of the Davidson Glacier by canoe.

Lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line and Silversea Cruises. Holland America Line offers this excursion from Skagway.

Eagle Preserve Rafting Float Adventure

Look for bald eagles soaring overhead as you raft down the gentle Chilkat River through the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. The waters are overflowing with salmon that come to spawn, serving as food for as many as 400 bald eagles living in the Chilkat Valley. Don't be surprised to see brown bears or 1,600-pound moose coming to feast along the riverbank during your rafting adventure.

Some lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Lin e. Holland America Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Viking Ocean Cruises host this excursion from Skagway.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is a U.S. News & World Report contributor and an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times both by land and sea to view wildlife and chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. She's even considered moving to The Great Land as a full-time resident. Pratesi used her deep knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Things to Do in Alaska
• The Top Alaska Cruise Lines
• Alaska Cruise Packing List
• The Best Alaska Cruises for Families
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

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Last Frontier Adventure

• Explore Glacier Bay National Park
• See marine life in Frederick Sound
• Participate on hiking in Sitka
• Kayak along the Waterfall Coast

Alaska's Inside Passage Sojourn

• Watch glaciers calve giant icebergs
• Journey through Tracy Arm Fjord
• Kayak along the Alaskan coastline
• Visit the highlights of Juneau

Remote Alaska Adventure

• Adventure on flight-safari tours
• Stay in comfortable cabins
• Spot a variety of wildlife
• Adventure on foot, by kayak, or ski

Alaska Bear-Viewing Lodge

• Watch bears up-close with a guide
• Spot otters, seals, and foxes
• Enjoy the rustic comfort of a cabin

Kenai Backcountry Lodge

• Travel deep into Kenai backcountry
• Raft the Kenai River to the lodge
• Set out on hikes and spot wildlife

Tutka Bay Wilderness Lodge

• Fish the deep sea for salmon
• Visit Katmai National Park
• Kayak around Tutka Bay
• Tour an oyster farm in Sedovia

Alaska Kenai Camping Adventure

• Adventure camp at Kasitsna Bay
• Cruise past glaciers in Kenai Fjord
• Hike alongside Exit Glacier
• Spot bears, moose, and wolves

Exploring Alaska's Coastal Wilderness

• View unique wildlife such as orcas
• Visit Tracy or Endicott Arm fjords
• Explore Alaskan ecosystems
• Hike & kayak in Icy Strait

Wild Alaska Escape: Haines, the Inian Islands, and Tracy Arm Fjord

• Journey by kayak into dramatic bays
• Raft the Chilkat River with guides
• See Haines by raft, bike, or foot
• View glaciers and icebergs

Glacier Bay National Park Adventure

• Discover Glacier Bay National Park
• Admire Alaskan wildlife
• Visit Grand Pacific Glacier
• Hike down Fairweather Mountain

Northern Passages & Glacier Bay

• Attend Park Ranger presentations
• Hike at Glacier Bay National Park
• Spot bears, otters, and whales
• See Krestof and Nakwasina Sounds
• Observe puffins and sea lions

North to True Alaska Expedition

• Visit Glacier Bay
• Explore Baranof Island
• Stroll the town of Skagway
• Cruise Chatham Strait & Lynn Canal

Kenai Explorer

• Stay in a remote Kenai Fjords Lodge
• Spot seal, sea otters, and birdlife
• Go on a dog-sled adventure
• Walk on the Exit Glacier in Seward

Alaska Denali Camping Expedition

• Spot wildlife in Anchorage
• Camp next to Maclaren Glacier
• Trek through Denali National Park
• Enjoy evenings around the campfire
• Explore St. Elias National Park
• Explore Alaska's coastal wilderness

Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge

• Cozy log cabins offer glacier views
• Explore by canoe, kayak, and boat
• Spot wildlife and stunning glaciers

Alaska's Glacier Country

• Discover orca and humpback whales
• Enjoy wildlife viewing
• Admire Alaska's natural beauty
• Explore Alaska's coast

Top Alaska Travel Destinations

• Chichagof Island
• Denali National Park and Preserve
• Endicott Arm
• Frederick Sound
• Glacier Bay National Park
• Inside Passage
• Misty Fjords National Wilderness
• Stephen's Passage
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