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norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

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Skagway, Alaska

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In a single year from 1896 to 1897, this remote town along the Inside Passage grew from a few tents to a city of 20,000 gold seekers. Today, travellers come in search of other riches - to experience yesteryear along Skagway's charming boardwalk lined with buildings that replicate those Gold Rush days.

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  • Bicycle Adventure
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  • Helicopter Tour
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Street Car on an Alaska cruise

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Featured Skagway CRUISE ITINERARIES

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

  • Alaska / Ports of Call / Skagway

The Best Excursion for First-Time Cruisers to Skagway

by Prof. Cruise · Published May 18, 2019 · Updated June 29, 2021

White Pass Scenic Railway excursion in Skagway

Skagway, located along the Northern tip of Alaska’s inside passage, means “the place where the north wind blows” in Tlingit.  It’s home to just over 1,000 residents, but welcomes over 1 million tourists, mostly arriving via cruise ship, every year. It is best known as a former Gold Rush town, restored to offer a sometimes foggy glimpse back to an earlier time, but with the requisite diamonds, fudge, and novelty t-shirts to make it quickly come into focus as a popular cruise port.

downtown Skagway

Why I Booked The White Pass Scenic Railway on My First Visit to Skagway

On my very first visit to Skagway, as a newlywed on my honeymoon, I had more metabolism, but almost no experience cruising.  As an aside, if given the choice, I’d sacrifice all my wisdom if it meant I didn’t have to assign a point value to the six grapes I can eat for lunch at my current age without gaining weight.  But anyway, back then I had no idea what to do at any of our Alaska ports and probably just Googled “the most popular excursion in Skagway” before booking the “White Pass Scenic Railway” through Princess.

White Pass Scenic Railway excursion in Skagway

Three Reasons Why You Should Book the White Pass Scenic Railway on Your First Visit to Skagway

1) it’s easy..

To book. To find. And to enjoy.

There are a number of ways to book the White Pass Scenic Railway excursion. You can book in advance through your cruise line or onboard through the excursions desk, in advance through a private company , or once you arrive in Skagway at the train station, which is a short walk from the cruise pier (assuming there are tickets still available).

Train station to purchase tickets for the White Pass Scenic Railway excursion in Skagway

If you book through your cruise line, the train cars will pull right up to your ship. If you book through a private company or at the train station, your train cars will be slightly further back, requiring a bit more walking. However, you’ll pay less and your cars may be less crowded.

Either way, the length of the excursion is around 3 hours. There are also tours that take the train on the way up and a bus on the way down. You’ll actually get to stop to take some photos at key sites if you choose this option. Here’s a good option: White Pass Railroad And Bus Excursion .

White Pass Scenic Railway excursion in Skagway

2) It’s beautiful.

On your 40 mile round trip journey, you’ll climb 2,888 feet in elevation from sea level in Skagway to the Summit of the White Pass. Along the way you’ll take in stunning views of rivers:

Views from the White Pass Scenic Railway excursion in Skagway

tunnels and waterfalls:

View from the White Pass Scenic Railway excursion in Skagway

dramatic trestle bridges:

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

rocky cliffs:

Views from the White Pass Scenic Railway excursion in Skagway

mountains blanketed in evergreens:

View from the White Pass Scenic Railway excursion in Skagway

and historical markers:

Historic marker in Skagway

Which brings me to reason number three.

3) It’s educational.

The history of the Klondike Gold Rush and the White Pass Railroad is more intense than the final season of Game of Thrones. And it really happened! Below is a brief introduction and some ruminations to wet your palate, but you’ll learn substantially more as you wind through mountain passes snapping photos from between train cars and thinking “how is that possible” and “aren’t we humans cleaver and brave.”

And sometimes hasty and reckless as those who died along the journey or returned home void of gold serve to remind us. But we won’t focus on that part, because words like “hasty” and “reckless” make some of us who quit our real jobs to start cruise blogs feel defensive.

The History of the Klondike Gold Rush and the White Pass Railroad

In 1896 three prospectors, American George Carmack and Tagish First Nation members Jim Mason and Dawson Charlie, discovered gold in what is now called Bonanza Creek, running through Alaska and the Yukon Territory.

When news of gold spread by 1897, tens of thousands boarded boats bound for Skagway and Dyea where they would set out on foot for the Klondike in search of the yellow metal they hoped would bring them riches. 

I Ain’t Sayin He’s a Gold Digger

Gold Digger in Skagway

The above photo should be interpreted as ironic.  Because when Mr. Cruise married me, I was teaching at a private liberal arts college and making less in a year than he made drafting two contracts before taking an early lunch.  He clearly didn’t marry me for my money, but rather for my sophisticated sense of humor.  Fart joke forthcoming. 

But if a Skagway gal were to write home back in the late 1800’s with news of her new beau, the gold digger, her hand remained steady as she penned the honest to God truth and mom and dad waited for a second parcel containing a shiny nugget large enough to fund their dream of an indoor toilet.

But it wasn’t as glamorous as you think.

The Life of a Professional Cruiser vs. the Life of a Gold Miner

Prof. Cruise in downtown Skagway

My son “H’s” first word was “dada.”  I suppose because Mr. Cruise was the one who lived cold sober and decaffeinated for the two years he most needed martinis and mochas in order to bring “H” into the world and sustain him before he sprouted teeth.  “Ouch!” And because Mr. Cruise can’t ever be that 40 year-old woman he criticizes for being “way too old” for that crop top – but secretly envies for keeping it tight – because his stomach looks like the dune fields of the Sahara after an intense wind storm and stays fully covered and camouflaged in bold print fluttery draping over a double pair of Spanx.  Oh wait, that’s not Mr. Cruise at all, that’s me: Prof. Cruise.  Known to my son as, mooooom. 

Mooooom was my son’s third word and came directly after his second word, “ugh.”  As in “ugh, mooooom!”  I’ve been annoying and embarrassing him at least since his first ultrasound photo featuring a hand gesture I delightedly captioned, “look, he’s waving,” on Facebook but have since come to interpret as, “talk to the hand!”

And there’s one expression I frequently use – to encourage him to power through minor to moderate physical discomfort or less than optimal travel conditions – that elicits ughs and eye rolls so drawn out and sweeping that he’s still at it three weeks later: “we’re hardy folk.”  As in “a little rain won’t stop us from enjoying this hike in Skagway – we’re hardy folk!”  Ugh!  Eyeroll!  Moooooom!

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

But when I learned about the journey of the early men and women drawn to Skagway to seek fortune in the Canadian Klondike, trekking 600 miles, with heavy and cumbersome packs containing, per Canadian law, a year’s worth of equipment and supplies each, through dangerous and treacherous mountain passes and waterways, I immediately wanted to head back to the ship for a hot chocolate and a nap.

Even considering the desperate conditions many lived in back then, in the midst of a depression, I suspect I’d choose to survive another day on cabbage soup.  Or I’d just send Mr. Cruise: “you go, I’ll stay here and keep our tar paper shanty warm with my cruciferous gas.”  Maybe I’m not such a hardy folk after all.

The White Pass & Yukon Railroad Company

White Pass sign

The White Pass Trail, also nicknamed the “Dead Horse Trail” because nearly 3,000 horses got stuck in the mud and died on it, began in Skagway and was one of two routes leading to the interior lake country.  There, stampeders would continue another 550 miles to the gold fields.

In 1898 two men, Sir Thomas Tancrede and Michael J. Heney, both with the same idea to build a railroad through the White Pass, met in Skagway and partnered to organize the The White Pass & Yukon Railroad Company.  And in May of 1898, construction commenced on the narrow gauge railroad.

Views from the White Pass Scenic Railway excursion in Skagway

On July 29, 1900, despite staggering costs and equally daunting construction challenges, the 110 mile WP&YR Railroad was completed connecting Skagway to Whitehorse, Yukon, and then to northwest Canada and the interior of Alaska.

As originally organized, the railroad would be operated as three separate entities with the 20.4 mile stretch beginning in Skagway operated by the Pacific & Arctic Railway & Navigation Company. This stretch now constitutes the length of the “White Pass Scenic Railway” excursion enjoyed by Prof. and Mr. Cruise and countless other cruise ship passengers each year.

Final Thoughts on The Best Excursion for First-Time Cruisers to Skagway

Having returned several times, enjoying a variety of different activities, since my first visit to Skagway and my first ride aboard the White Pass Scenic Railway, I stand by my assertion that the White Pass Scenic Railway excursion is the best option for most first-time cruisers to Skagway. It’s easy. It’s beautiful. It’s educational. And you’ll love it!

Although I offer no guarantee, so don’t go sending me your ticket stubs demanding a refund due to fog.

Foggy bridge in Skagway

And with that…

Class Dismissed.

*Check out my other Alaska port posts here and my Guide To Packing For Alaska . And don’t forget to subscribe to the blog (scroll up to the top right) and follow me on social media:

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After many years of cruising we’ve finally found an itinerary we like for Alaska and will eventually get around to visiting it in two years time. The distance to travel from the UK for just 7-day itineraries simply didn’t feel like a sensible use of our annual leave allowances but we’ve found a lengthier Yokohama to Vancouver trip that ticks a lot of boxes. We’re already looking at things to do then even though we have plenty of other cruises in the pipeline ahead of it but have noticed that the White Pass railway trip is getting a lot of love online. Really useful information here, very much enjoyed reading it all.

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I’m so happy you found an itinerary to Alaska that works for you. You’ll love it! We have the same problem with European sailings. It’s so far to travel for shorter cruises, but my husband only has so much time off. We’re really trying to figure out a way to do Norway. And Greece. And so many others on my bucket list! Someday…

Thanks for checking out the blog and your kind feedback!

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About Prof. Cruise

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Given name Sarah, but also answers to Prof. Cruise. Retired after 10 years as a college professor to focus full-time on her primary research interest: travel. With a concentration in cruising.  Home port: Seattle.  Mom of a shaggy-haired dog and a shaggy-haired human.  Lover of books and dessert.  Fancies herself a bit of a comedian – you’ve been warned.

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Cruise Guide: 15 Tips and Things to Do in Skagway, Alaska

It’s hard to imagine a more “Alaskan” port than sailing into Skagway. When you think of the state, you likely imagine small, remote, rustic towns that sit in the middle of soaring mountains.

That’s exactly what you get in Skagway.

Skagway mountains

It served as a hub during the Klondike Gold Rush, but today has transformed into a major tourist destination that plays up the historic charm for cruise ship passengers. All of it is packed into a valley between soaring mountains that has to be seen to be believed.

If it’s your first time visiting the port of call, then there is plenty that you should know before you arrive to make the most of your time. From what to do in Skagway to tips on getting around, we have everything you want to know for visiting the Alaskan port….

Skagway’s Claim to Fame Was a Jumping Off Point for the Gold Rush

Wondering just exactly what a town is doing in such a remote spot, surrounded by nothing by mountains and water? The answer is gold.

In the late 1800s, gold was discovered in the Yukon — a place that to this day can be difficult to reach. While there were several routes there, sailing to Skagway and then making the trek over the White Pass through the mountains was a popular way.

As prospectors flooded in, the town grew. But then, as the gold rush quickly died down, the population plummeted from thousands to just hundreds. With the rise in popularity of cruises, however, Skagway has started to enjoy a second life.

Skagway Today Is Definitely a Tourist Town

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

If you visit Skagway and find it has a different feel than some of the other ports in Alaska, you aren’t alone. In our opinion, many ports are towns that also cater tourists. Skagway is more of a tourist town.

The entire downtown area revolves around cruise ship tourism. In many ways, that’s a great thing as it’s easy to get around, there’s plenty to do and see, and nearly every storefront caters to tourists, such as souvenir shops, restaurants, and breweries .

On the other hand, if you’re looking for what life is like in current Alaska, it’s not a great example. Even so, the scenery makes the port a great spot to visit.

It’s One of the Most Stunning Ports You’ll See (And You Won’t Believe It Until You See It)

Every port you visit in Alaska will have some dramatic scenery and landscape. But perhaps nowhere is as stunning as Skagway. Honestly, no matter how many pictures or videos you see, it won’t do it justice.

That landscape is due to Skagway’s location. It sits at the end of a narrow channel of water, meaning in one direction is the channel and the entire rest of the spot is surrounded by mountains. Even coming in on a cruise ship — which is normally the largest structure around for miles — you are completely dwarfed by the natural landscape.

Hungry? Try a Klondike Doughboy

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

What the heck is a Klondike Doughboy? It might be the tastiest thing in Skagway, even if it’s not the best for you.

On 3rd Avenue, there is a storefront called Alaskan Fry Bread which is home to the Klondike Doughboy. The pastry is essentially a dinner-plate-sized piece of sweet dough deep-fried and then sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar. Think of it as a massive donut or funnel cake. It’s served on paper towels (not even a paper plate!), and you simply walk around town chowing down on it.

Truth be told, the Klondike Doughboy is delicious (and only costs $7!), but it’s large enough to feed 2-3 adults. And it’s definitely not something you want to overeat.

There Are 3 Different Cruise Docks, Accommodating 4 Ships

For such a small town, Skagway can handle a significant number of ships. In fact, the three different cruise docks (Ore Dock, Broadway Dock, and Railroad Dock) accommodate four ships, meaning that there can be potentially 10,000 cruise passengers — or more — during a single day.

During our stop, we noticed Disney at the Ore Dock (which is furthest west in the port), Holland America at the middle Broadway Dock, and Princess and Royal Caribbean at the easternmost Railroad dock. The good news is that all the docks have paths leading right into town, with easy walks.

Look at the “Painted Rock” Time Capsule

Skagway painted mural of cruise ships

If you dock on the easternmost docks in Skagway, then you’ll be right next to what amounts to a time capsule done in paint. It’s seemingly become a tradition for a ship to have an area painted on the rocks that rise above the pier when they come to visit.

You’ll see paintings from Carnival, NCL, Holland America and more. We saw some markings going all the way back to 1982 — 40 years ago. Each one marks the occasion when a ship visited the port.

What will really pique your interest is wondering how some of these were painted. They can rise 20 or 30 feet above the water on a steep rock face.

Take a Ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route Rail

White Pass Rail, Skagway

If there is one excursion that’s most popular in Skagway, then it has to be taking a scenic ride on the railway. Skagway was an important jumping off point to head to the Yukon over the White Pass during the Klondike Gold Rush. In just a few years, however, a railway was built to make that trip easier.

Well, today you can now ride the rails on a scenic route that takes about three hours and carries you up into the mountains. You get some of the most postcard-worthy vistas you can imagine as the train heads along the pass.

It is a bit pricey — around $135 per adult — but you can’t do this anywhere else in the world. You can book an excursion through your cruise line or just head to the ticket office when you get off the ship. The station is right by the cruise docks, so you can’t miss it.

Walking to Town? Look for the Shapes to Tell You the Right Way

Skagway is extremely easy to navigate. It’s only about 10 minutes to walk from the ship to town, and it’s laid out largely in a grid. Plus, you can see the ships easily from town as a landmark.

Even so, if you’re worried about finding your way, then there’s a navigation tool to help you. Along the walkways between the ship and town are colored shapes painted on the path. Each dock has a different shape (purple square, orange circle, blue triangle, and red circle). So as you get close to the ships, just look for the shape that corresponds with your pier. Follow it and you’ll easily be able to find your way back.

Don’t Want to Walk? There’s a $3 Shuttle to Town

Heading into town is a bit of a walk — about 10-15 minutes depending on which spot your ship is docked. If you don’t want to walk, then you’re in luck.

In a town the size of Skagway, there isn’t a big transportation network. However, there is a “SMART Bus” (more of a shuttle, really) that picks up and drops off at points around town, including the pier. The cost is $3 for a one-way ride into town or $5 for an all-day pass.

We’d suggest the $5 pass as you’ll see markers all around town where it stops, providing a ride for folks that don’t want to or can’t easily walk.

This May Be the Farthest North You Ever Travel

For many people, visiting Skagway may be a memorable spot because it is the farthest north they will ever venture on the planet. The town sits about 59.5 degrees north — the same latitude as the southernmost point of Greenland, and well north of most of Europe.

And with every step you take into town (and especially if you take a train ride through White Pass), then you are setting a new record for the farthest north you’ve been.

We personally took a walk through the town and before we turned around the head back to the ship, took a picture of the spot realizing that we may never reach a point that far north on the planet again.

Don’t Forget to Mail a Postcard (But It Might Take a While to Arrive)

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

If you want to write to someone back home, then Skagway offers the perfect opportunity. Stores around the town sell all sorts of postcards along with stamps, with pictures of everything from wildlife to mountains, cruise ships, and more.

After you write your note, then you can drop the cards in the mailbox at the Skagway Post Office. It’s located at the corner of 6th Avenue and Broadway, at the farthest edge of all the historic buildings in the main part of town.

Just know that due to the location, it can take more than a week for your card to arrive, depending on where it is headed.

Interested in Learning About the Gold Rush? Head Here…

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

As mentioned, Skagway was a starting point for many as they headed to find gold in the Klondike. If you’re interested in this history (which the town revolves around), then head to the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park Visitor Center. Operated by the National Park Service, this spot tells the history of the gold rush. There’s a museum with photos and artifacts from the era, along with a video that explains the time in more detail.

It doesn’t take long to go through and it will give you a greater appreciation for what so many people went through in hopes of striking it rich. The center is located at 2nd Avenue and Broadway, right as you enter town.

Head on a Helicopter Tour to Glaciers

Want something that’s uniquely Alaskan? What about taking a helicopter ride to go land on and explore a glacier? We can think of nowhere else that it’s possible but here.

When you arrive to Skagway, you may notice that there are helicopters constantly heading in and out of the area. There’s an airport right near the cruise ports. From there, you can catch a ride on a helicopter that will take you out to nearby glaciers. After the ride over, you’ll actually land and be able to walk on the glacier itself.

Just know that prices are expensive. The two-hour tour runs about $340 per adult  for the once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Want a Little Nature in Town? Try the Pullen Creek StreamWalk

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway features stunning natural surroundings. No matter which way you turn, there are gorgeous mountains. If you really want to enjoy the beauty without going far, then look for the Pullen Creek StreamWalk.

This small walking trail with park is located between the docks and the town, so you’ll pass by as you leave the ship. It has a small pond and a stream, along with some grassy areas to sit and enjoy.

In other words, if you want a pretty place to relax with a crystal-clear Alaskan stream, this is it.

Visit the Red Onion Saloon for a Bite, Drink, and a Peek at the Naughty Side of Skagway

It’s a little hard to explain exactly what the Red Onion Saloon is, but you likely don’t want to miss it. Set in a historic building by the cruise piers, you’ll no doubt pass it heading into town.

Inside, it plays up Skagway’s past. You can grab a drink or a bite to eat, but 120 years ago it also served as a bordello. Today it features not just food and drink in a lively atmosphere but upstairs is also a brothel museum. Staff also play a part in the history, dressed up as “madams” as they provide tours.

The Red Onion does suggest that “parents and guardians should use their discretion as tour material is a tad risque…”

Map of Skagway, Alaska

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norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway White Pass Railroad Summit Excursion & Train Tour

2.5-2.75 hrs

$146 / person

One of the most popular tours in Skagway, the White Pass Railroad summit tour isn't one to miss. This fully narrated excursion will take you by train up to the summit of the White Pass which is 2,888-feet in elevation! Enjoy READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Bennett Scenic Railroad Journey Train Tour

$265 / person

Take a ride through history with this full day multi-country tour! Follow the route of the Klondike stampeders on your way to Canada. An exclusive scenic stop at Lake Bennett is a treat for everyone. Enjoy a boxed lunch along READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Dog Sledding & Glacier Flightseeing Helicopter Tour

$659 / person

Dogsledding is Alaska's favorite sport and now you have a chance to take part! After a scenic helicopter ride, we'll take you up to the Denver Glacier dog camp where you'll meet professional 'mushers' and their friendly dogs READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

  • Skagway Glacier Helicopter Tour

$399 / person

This helicopter tour with take you to some of the most remote glaciers in Alaska. You'll fly over mountains, glaciers, and valleys until you reach one of the magnificent glaciers where you'll have ample time to walk on the ri READ MORE...

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Skagway White Pass Summit and Beyond Tour

$116 / person

This 100 miles roundtrip includes a guided scenic drive to the Yukon border with multiple photo stops, admission to the Yukon Suspension Bridge site, and crossing the bridge. Don't miss the chance to take pictures in front of READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Yukon Suspension Bridge & Summit Tour

$126 / person

This three-hour tour includes a small group guided scenic drive to the Summit with photo stops, admission to the Suspension Bridge, and, if time allows, a visit to Reid Falls and the Gold Rush Cemetery in Skagway. Please note READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Yukon Discovery Adventure

$152 / person

With so much to see, this is an incredible excursion for your time in Skagway. You'll learn about the history of the 1898 Gold Rush Trail while driving through the mile-high mountains and lush forests this state has to offer. READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Musher's Camp and Sled Dog Adventure

$174 / person

This dogsled tour will get your blood pumping! Go for a ride through the great Alaskan back-country of a historic Gold Rush Site! The friendly huskies will take you for the ride of your life where you'll enjoy breathtaking vi READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Grizzly Falls Ziplining Adventure

$219 / person

This thrilling excursion is perfect for adventurers who want to fly through the mountains of Alaska. Our course will take you on 10 ziplines while you'll sail over glacially-fed waterfalls. You'll have control of your own spe READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Adventure Park & Zipline Tour

$180 / person

The lush Alaskan canopy provides the perfect backdrop for a high-flying zipline adventure. Cross exciting suspension bridges, test your balance on raised balance beams, and soar through the air on an adventurous zipline seri READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Musher's Camp and Gold Panning

$149 / person

Meet our Alaskan husky athletes, puppies, and dog mushers! Learn about the Alaskan state sport from the actual mushers during the unique "Musher Talk." Wrap up your day by experiencing the history of Alaska - try your hand at READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Musher's Camp and S'Mores Roasting

$134 / person

Learn about the mushing dogs and the history of their sport and then enjoy some delicious S'mores roasting! The best part of this tour is playing with husky puppies! Your affections help to socialize these future athletes, wh READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Step Into the Yukon with Sled Dog Tour

$160 / person

As you depart Skagway for this 4.5-hour tour, you will travel up the breathtaking White Pass, past mountain waterfalls, through the Tormented Valley, a visit to a remote sled dog racing kennel where you will meet the sled dog READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

  • Glacier Point Wilderness Safari Tour

5.5-5.75 hrs

$299 / person

Travel through the fjords and rainforests on this stunning Alaskan excursion. Your guided adventure will give you the opportunity to see everything from whales and seals to cascading waterfalls. Walk through the forest to arr READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve Float Tour

$245 / person

Dramatic views of glaciated snow-capped peaks surround you on a scenic float trip through the Chilkat Valley. Join an experienced guide through the heart of the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. An immersive wildlife excursion w READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Highlights eBike Tour

$115 / person

Come ready to check out historic Skagway on an electric bike. Similar to a regular bike but with the added power of an electric motor for that extra gusto to get you around town. Embark on an adventure to discover the histo READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Lynn Canal Sailing Adventure

$150 / person

A thrilling sailing adventure along one of North America's longest, deepest, and prettiest fjords. Whether you are looking to sit back and relax with a warm beverage or grab the helm and hoist the main with the Captain, this READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Trail and Sail Tour

$255 / person

Break away from the crowds on a self-guided e-bike adventure paired with sailing through the Taiya Inlet. One of the longest and deepest fjords in North America, the Taiya Inlet boasts beautiful scenery and hopeful sightings READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Adventure Hike

$95 / person

A great activity to experience the natural beauty of Southeast Alaska's Tongass Rainforest. Journey on a 2-3 mile hike with several viewpoints along the Porcupine Mountain trailhead. Experienced guides will guide you throug READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway White Pass Mountaineering Adventure

$405 / person

Spend the day surrounded by the snow-capped peaks that line the skies of Skagway on a challenging adventure in the wilds of Alaska! Gear up and take off on a 6-mile, 3,000 feet gain in elevation to the summit of Feather Peak READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Laughton Glacier Expedition

$350 / person

Embark on a scenic train ride aboard the White Pass railway, followed by a guided round-trip hike from Glacier Station, offering stunning views of waterfalls, rivers, and mountain peaks intertwined with Klondike Gold Rush his READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Laughton Snowshoe Expedition

Embark on an unforgettable winter adventure combining a scenic rail journey aboard the historic White Pass & Yukon Route Railway with a wilderness snowshoe trek toward the magnificent Laughton Glacier. Hike through an old-gro READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

  • Skagway City and Summit Tour

$70 / person

Begin your fully narrated journey in historic downtown Skagway as you head to the Gold Rush Cemetery for a visit to our famous outlaw, Soapy Smith. Continue on the Klondike Highway enjoying spectacular views of the railroad a READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Summit, Tormented Valley, and Suspension Bridge Tour

$99 / person

Sit back and relax as you enjoy the best scenery South East Alaska has to offer, on this relaxing scenic drive to the Yukon as you pass by beautiful rainforests, glacially carved valleys, waterfalls, and the dramatic beauty o READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

  • Skagway River Float

2.25-2.5 hrs

After a scenic coastal drive to Dyea, you'll enjoy a relaxing float down the gentle Taiya River. Your guide will share with you the fascinating Gold Rush and the natural history of the area. Wildlife sightings like bald eagle READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Hike and Float

$131 / person

*2024 Tour Schedule Coming Soon* Enjoy a lush, forested nature walk in the historic Dyea townsite before relaxing with a scenic float on the Taiya River. After the hike, you will drive to the rafting departure point where you READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Wildlife Safari Tour to Haines

$205 / person

**LIMITED DEPARTURES AUGUST & SEPTEMBER** Haines is home to breathtaking views and magnificent wildlife. Spend the day with an experienced naturalist as your guide exploring the area and learning about the plants, and animals READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Summit Lake Canoe Adventure

$195 / person

You will enjoy a culture-rich tour of historic Skagway on the way to the Canadian border and Summit Lake. After reaching the lake destination, enjoy the pristine waters of a secluded glaciated lake by canoe that is similar to READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Chilkoot Canoe Wildlife Safari to Haines

$225 / person

Enjoy beautiful Chilkoot Lake by voyageur canoes, similar to the canoes used by trappers and gold miners at the turn of the century. You'll have a chance to explore the inlets, coves, salmon spawning streams, and numerous wat READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Chilkat River Jet Boat Adventure to Haines

Where the road ends, your adventure begins! Experience the true wilderness that Alaska is famous for on our narrated river tour in the heart of the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve which explores miles of tributaries of the stunni READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Liarsville Gold Rush Camp & Salmon Bake

$119 / person

Experience the White Pass and travel back in time to the iconic Alaskan Gold Rush! Nestled by a waterfall and surrounded by sourdoughs, dance hall girls, and prospectors, you will learn all about life during the gold rush. Yo READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Liarsville Salmon Bake

$89 / person

Explore the life of the early prospectors and enjoy a wonderful salmon bake during your stop in Skagway. An all-you-can-eat feast for the whole family includes Alaska's signature Alderwood-grilled WILD salmon, Cheechako chic READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Chilkoot Trail Hike, Float & Summit Drive

$215 / person

Retrace the footsteps of the Klondike Gold Rush stampeders over the historic Chilkoot Trail and float back down on the beautiful Taiya River. Then experience the spectacular views of alpine lakes, towering snow-capped peaks, READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Wilderness Kayak Adventure

Ferry over to Haines, Alaska for a kayaking wilderness adventure on the pristine waters of Chilkoot Lake. Explore the lake surrounded by mountains and numerous waterfalls. Post paddle, an ocean-side picnic awaits with views READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Chilkoot Lake Wildlife Viewing Tour to Haines

$233 / person

Leave the crowds of Skagway behind and visit Chilkoot Lake State Park in Haines for the ultimate wildlife viewing experience. Your experienced tour guide will take you for a relaxing ride through the park, pointing out wildli READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Inside Passage Kayaking Tour to Haines

$235 / person

Knowledgeable guides will take you and your fellow paddlers through North America's longest and deepest fjord. From your tandem kayak, you will be treated to stunning views and ample wildlife sighting opportunities. Skagway' READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Chilkoot Lake Wildlife Kayak Tour to Haines

$221 / person

Breakaway from the crowds of Skagway for some unforgettable kayaking in a true naturalist's paradise: Haines, Alaska. After a scenic ferry ride from Skagway, you'll arrive in Haines and will set out towards Chilkoot Late Stat READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve Rafting Tour to Haines

$244 / person

Treat yourself to a small group rafting and scenic driving tour through the famous Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve on this tour. Escape the crowds of Skagway for an unforgettable journey west to Haines, Alaska! You'll be immersed READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Your Way Private Tour

$238 / person

You choose the path on this small group private tour. One option is to set out in the direction of the wonderland that is the White Pass Summit. Flowing rivers, mountain peaks, and azure lakes await. Or perhaps a drive alo READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Historic Gold Rush Scenic Driving Tour

$80 / person

Begin your adventure at the pier with your knowledgeable guide who will take you on an intimate drive through Skagway's historic district and residential district on your way to the backcountry gold rush-era town of Dyea. Exp READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Grand Slam Town and Summit Tour

$60 / person

Follow the same route taken by Gold Rush pioneers in the late 1800s! This scenic driving tour will take you on a journey through historic downtown Skagway, up the iconic Klondike Highway, and over the Canadian border. You'll READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Private Chilkat Photography Tour to Haines

$329 / person

After a scenic Fast Ferry ride from Skagway, you'll arrive in Haines for the best Chilkat Valley photography opportunities. Your expert photographer guide will assist you in capturing the beauty of Alaska! Have enough time to READ MORE...

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Skagway Yukon Extended Summit Drive Tour

$135 / person

Soak up the natural wonders of the Yukon as you enjoy a scenic ride exploring the crossroads of the Klondike. Take advantage of amazing photo opportunities and capture the true beauty of sweeping landscapes, towering mountain READ MORE...

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Best skagway tours & excursions.

  • White Pass Railroad Summit Excursion & Train Tour
  • Dog Sledding & Glacier Flightseeing Helicopter Tour
  • Musher's Camp and Sled Dog Adventure
  • Grizzly Falls Ziplining Adventure

About Skagway

Best Skagway Tours & Excursions:

1. white pass train tour, 2. skagway dog sledding tour, 3. skagway glacier point wilderness safari tour, 4. gold rush trail, 5. skagway chilkoot trail hike  , 6. taiya river excursion, 7. yukon suspension bridge, 8. chilkoot lake, 9. horseback adventure, 10. valley of the eagles golf, skagway shore excursions by locals.

We are a local Alaska company that aims to bring you the best tours and experiences that Skagway has to offer. When you buy Skagway shore excursions on your own, instead of through a cruise ship, we can offer you wholesale, local Alaska prices. Our goal is to make your Alaskan cruise the trip of a lifetime!

What are the best tours in Skagway?

The best tours in Skagway are:

  • White Pass Railroad Summit & Train Tour
  • Skagway Dog Sledding Tour

Which Skagway excursions are best for kids and families?

Skagway is a fun and scenic destination for families. Here are the top tours for kids and families:

  • Skagway Musher’s Camp & Sled Dog Adventure
  • Jet Boat and Raptor Adventure to Haines

Is the White Pass Railroad worth it?

Yes! The White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad is a top destination in Skagway. The scenic train ride offers stunning views and a glimpse back in time. The best train tour is: White Pass Railroad Summit & Train Tour .

What is the best way to explore Skagway?

You can explore Skagway and its surrounding wilderness by train, helicopter, ATV, water, or even on foot. The best tours for exploring are:

  • Skagway City & Summit Tour
  • Glacier Point ATV Exploration Tour
  • White Pass Mountaineering Adventure

There is a little bit of everything for everyone in Skagway. You can read our list of the 10 best things to do in Skagway . If you’re looking to get outdoors to enjoy wildlife, our Glacier Point Wilderness Safari is a great option. If you’re looking to learn a little history and enjoy a scenic ride in a vintage passenger train car , then the White Pass Railroad Summit Excursion is the perfect Skagway tour for your party. The nearby Denver Glacier is only accessible via helicopter if you would like to tour Skagway’s glacier and possibly enjoy a glacier , helicopter , or  dog sledding tour . To experience the natural wonders around Skagway, take one of our many trips up into the Yukon Territory  of Canada for some of the most magnificent sightseeing Alaska has to offer!

Known as a gateway town to the Yukon gold rush, it was on August 17, 1896, when gold was first discovered 600 miles from Skagway in the Klondike region of Canada’s Yukon Territory. The following year, hundreds of gold-seekers flocked to Skagway to begin their journeys North. The path the miners took to seek gold would eventually create the foundation for one of the most popular Skagway shore excursions – the White Pass Yukon Railroad Summit Excursion.

By 1898, Skagway’s population had boomed to 8,000. Construction began on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, and the infamous con man “Soapy” Smith who swindled prospectors and controlled a comprehensive spy network was shot and killed.

With the completion of the railroad in 1900 and the once prosperous gold rush nearly over, Skagway was formally incorporated as a city until 2007 when Skagway was re-incorporated as a borough.

The current population of Skagway fluctuates right around 1,000 residents. During the summer tourist season, the first-class borough sees more than 1 million visitors looking to enjoy the great outdoors, history, and natural wonders through many amazing shore excursions and tours that Skagway has to offer!

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20 Best Things to do in Skagway Alaska Cruise Port – Complete Guide

Skagway cruise port guide

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Skagway, Alaska is a popular cruise port with a fascinating history. Cruisers who stop in Skagway will find a town that has retained its gold rush era charm and activities and excursions that will appeal to a variety of ages and interests. 

In fact, Skagway may just be a highlight of your Alaska cruise !

In 1898, Skagway became a base camp and supply station for thousands of Yukon gold rush miners. People seeking their fortunes would start in Skagway and then choose either the steep (but shorter) route over the White Pass Trail or the Chilkoot Pass Trail located in nearby Dyea. 

Growing up in Alaska, I was able to experience many historical gold rush towns. It is enthralling to step into the past and learn about the grit and determination of early Alaskan settlers.

In this post, I share the best things to do in Skagway on a cruise, including shore excursions as well as inexpensive or free activities. I’ve also included the information you’ll need to know about visiting the Skagway cruise port for the day and answered common questions.

Skagway Cruise Port 

holland america cruise ship skagway

Most cruise ships arriving in Skagway will dock at at one of three locations right on the edge of town: Ore Dock, Railroad Dock or Broadway Dock. 

The city of Skagway is within easy walking distance of the cruise port. There are many shore excursions to choose from, including the popular and historic White Pass Trail, that are accessible to cruise passengers.

What Cruise Passengers Need to Know About Skagway Cruise Port

alaska-skagway-cruise-port

Although close to Canada, Skagway is located in Alaska (USA). The official currency is the USD (United States Dollar). 

Businesses in Skagway will accept cash, credit and debit cards.

In Alaska, you might hear some unusual vernacular including “Lower 48” (the 48 contiguous United States), “break-up” (spring time when ice and snow finally melt) and “cheechako” (a newcomer), but the primary language is English. 

90% of Alaska (including Skagway) is within the Alaska Standard Time Zone. Alaska Standard Time Zone is one hour behind Pacific Time and four hours behind the Eastern Time Zone. 

In Skagway, the weather will range from the 40s to the low 60s during Alaska cruise season.  Skagway has the driest climate of any of the Southeast passage port towns, which means you’ll probably enjoy sunny weather during your visit. 

Tip: When considering what to wear on your Alaska cruise , it’s a good idea to dress in layers. Mornings will start off cool, but the weather can warm up significantly later in the day.

Getting Around Skagway

It is very easy for cruisers to get around Skagway on foot. It’s only a short walk from the dock to downtown Skagway. Overall, this city is very walkable. 

Public Transit

alaska-skagway-smart-bus

The Skagway Municipal And Regional Transit (SMART) offers a SMART shuttle bus. Their  “Dock to Downtown” Loop runs every 15 minutes during cruise season.  

An all-day SMART bus pass costs $5 per person or you can pay $3 per person for a one-way pass. 

Electric Bikes (EBikes) 

Renting an E-Bike will give you independence and speed as you explore Skagway. 

You can also book a self-guided tour through Klondike Bikes, and even arrange to have a picnic lunch ready for pickup when you arrive. All rentals include helmets and bike locks. 

Car Rentals

There aren’t many car rental options in this small town. DIY Jeep Tours is one innovative option that combines a rental car with a built-in tour guide. Each rental includes a CD that will give you mile-by-mile guide explaining historic and scenic spots. 

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  • 5 Practical Alaska Whale Watching Tips You Need to Know
  • 13 Alaska Cruise Mistakes that Can Ruin Your Cruise
  • Juneau Alaska Cruise Port Guide

The 10 Best Skagway Shore Excursions

alaska-skagway-cruise-port

The variety of shore excursion options is one reason why Skagway is such a popular stop for cruise ships. From gold mining history to rainforest bicycle tours, it might be hard to narrow down your list of things to do.

Here are some of the best Skagway excursions.

1. Ride the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway 

alaska-skagway-white-rail-pass-tour

This breathtaking train ride will take you on the White Pass Summit route  that gold miners took in 1898. You’ll see glaciers, waterfalls, mountains and even signs of the original Klondike trail worn into rocks. 

The train ride lasts from 2.5-2.75 hours and goes 40 miles round trip. You do not need your passport to ride the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway, but be sure to bring your camera. 

If this is your first Alaska cruise , the White Rail Pass is a shore excursion to consider.

2. Feel the Rush of a Dog Sled Ride

alaska-skagway-dog-sledding

Skagway offers a very unique opportunity to learn about the history of dog sledding and experience an exhilarating dog sled ride. 

There are several different companies that offer sledding experiences including a dogsled ride on a wheeled “summer sled.” Watching trained huskies pull a dog sled is an awe inspiring experience. Not only are sled dogs powerful, they also love what they do (and it shows). 

The dog sledding and musher’s camp shore excursion is a popular Alaska cruise line excursion.

3. Pan for Gold at Liarsville Goldrush Camp

You’ll be transported back to Skagway’s gold rush days with this entertaining excursion that takes two hours and includes transport to and from the cruise ship aboard a bus. 

An all-you-can-eat salmon feast awaits you once you arrive at the “Liarsville” camp. Afterwards, you’ll head to a gold rush era trail camp, for a melodrama performance with costumed 19th century characters. 

You’re guaranteed to strike gold as you learn all about gold panning. Use the rest of your time to walk through the camp’s laundry, bordello and gift shop. 

4. Head to the Yukon Boarder on a Mini Bus Tour 

alaska-skagway-port-guide

On this guided tour, you’ll travel 100 miles roundtrip to the Yukon border. Along the way, there are numerous photo stops and opportunities to see wildlife including bear, moose, caribou and bald eagles. 

This narrated scenic tour will give you a better glimpse into the interior of Alaska and provide you with interesting gold rush history and nature information. 

This tour meets at the cruise ship pier. Because you’ll crosses over into Canada, passports are required for adults and children over age 16. Children under 16 need to have either a passport or an original raised seal birth certificate. 

5. Take in the Majesty of Glaciers with an Aerial Tour

It’s hard to describe the spectacular feeling of seeing a glacier in person. With an other-worldly blue color and colossal size, you won’t want to pass up the opportunity to see (and walk on) a river of ice. 

If you choose an aerial glacier excursion , you can book it through the cruise line, take a SMART bus or walk 5-30 minutes to the helicopter port (depending on your dock location). After 15 minutes of preflight instruction and safety training, you’ll put glacier boots over your shoes and climb aboard a helicopter for a 40 minute round trip flight. 

Guides choose the best route and landing spot depending on weather, but explorers will potentially land on either the Chilkat, Ferebee or Meade Glaciers. After landing, your experienced glacier guide will spend 40 minutes with you on the glacier, teaching you about glaciers and answering any questions you might have before you return back to the helicopter port.

6. Float the Taiya River

For cruisers wanting to experience Alaskan outdoors and wildlife, a Taiya River Float Trip is an excellent choice. Your 2.5 hour trip includes a 10-mile drive along the Dyea Valley and 35-45 minutes floating down the scenic Taiya River. 

Because this river is fed by glacier water, it has a gorgeous green-turquise color. Bits of rock called “glacial flour” reflect sunlight, resulting in a beautiful and unusual color. 

There is a good chance you will see Alaskan wildlife including bald eagles, otters, moose, and potentially bears.  

7. Rainforest Cycling Trip

Did you know that Southeast Alaska is home to the nation’s largest rainforest? You can experience the beauty of a temperate rainforest in this active excursion. 

Your adventure begins with a 25 minute van ride through Skagway, up the coastal mountains to the summit of White Pass. You’ll then begin a 15-mile downhill, 1.5 hour bicycle ride on the paved Klondike Highway past waterfalls, mountains, glaciers and historic sites. 

8. Explore the Shores of North America’s deepest Fjord in an Ocean Raft 

Skagway is home to Lynn Canal, North America’s longest and deepest fjord. This is a high adventure excursion on a speed boat that will have you flying past gorgeous waterfalls, rocky beaches and wildlife. 

Each 17-25 person open air boat includes a captain and a naturalist that share interesting facts. The boats stop often for wildlife viewing and photo taking opportunities. 

This excursion is for ages 10 years and up, and you’ll be outfitted in a one-piece “exposure suit” (basically a giant warm and waterproof jumpsuit), a balaclava hat, goggles and gloves. 

9. Explore the Chilkoot Trail 

The 33-mile Chilkoot Trail is called “The World’s Longest Outdoor Museum” because of the artifacts left behind by hundreds of gold rush miners in the late 1890s. 

Cruisers can get information about the historic Chilkoot trail and a hiking permit at the Trail Center in Skagway, located on Broadway between 5th and 6th Avenues.

If you decide to Explore Chilkoot Trail, all hikers must watch a 30 minute mandatory trail orientation video scheduled at 8am, 10am, noon, 2pm, and 4pm daily  at the Trail Center during the permit season.

The trailhead starts in Dyea, a 10 mile drive from Skagway. SMART Bus has a shuttle that runs to Dyea for $15 a person. 

10. Rainforest Ziplining

You’ll get a bird’s eye view of North America’s largest temperate rainforest as you soar down a zipline in this active excursion. 

The Grizzly Falls Ziplining Expedition includes 10 ziplines and four suspension bridges. You’ll begin with a 35 bus ride from the cruise ship dock to Dyea. After safety training, you’ll have two hours to fly through the rainforest at speeds over 45 miles per hour over spectacular sights including glacier fed waterfalls. 

Cruisers of all ages will love this active adventure in Skagway. 

10 of the Best Free Things do do in Skagway Cruise Port

alaska skagway cruise port

1. Stroll Down a Gold Rush Main Street 

Skagway’s mainstreet is home to darling shops, restaurants and museums. You could easily spend a few hours enjoying the boardwalk and perusing shops that sell jewelry, furs, and unique-to-Alaska gifts and souvenirs.

The downtown boardwalk is about a 10 minute walk from the docks.

2. Enjoy a “Ranger’s Choice” Daily Talk

Every day from Early May to Late September, you can hear rangers from the National Park Service talk about their favorite Alaskan subjects at the Visitor Center. 

The NPS Visitor Center is less than a half a mile from most cruise ship docks, at 2nd and Broadway in the old White Pass & Yukon Route Depot building.

Talks range from 10-30 minutes and include a variety of subjects. 

3. Watch a Movie About the Gold Rush in Skagway

A free 25-minute film “Gold Fever: Race to the Klondike” is shown at the NPS Visitor Center. 

Check in to find out what time(s) the film is shown that day. You’ll leave with a great understanding of Skagway’s part in the Yukon Gold Rush. 

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4. Shop and Learn at Corrington’s Alaskan Ivory & Museum

If you love history and shopping, you’ll want to stop in at Corrington’s. The museum is tucked in the back of this high-end gift store and specializes in native artwork. It tells the history of Alaska in scrimshaw: artwork that is carved into ivory, whalebone and other materials. 

The museum itself takes 30-45 minutes to walk through. Afterwards, you can shop for your own scrimshaw, or another unique souvenir, to take home.

5. Marvel at the Snow and Ice Cutting Train on Broadway

Make your way down Broadway Street in downtown Skagway to get a picture of the snow and ice cutting train formerly used by the White Pass & Yukon Railroad. 

This massive train/snowplow was built in 1898 and cleared the tracks here until 1964. It was restored in 1995 and is now on display for visitors to enjoy. 

6. Take a picture of “The Most Photographed Building In Alaska”

The exterior of the Skagway Visitor’s Center, located in the historic Arctic Brotherhood Hallm is a tourist destination all on its own.The outside of this building is intricately decorated with over 8,800 pieces of driftwood. 

If you step across the street, you can see the letters “AB” (Arctic Brotherhood) and “1899” above the door. This unique building is a must-see!

7. Go Birding at Yakutania Point 

The trail head begins 15 minutes from the NPS Trail Center downtown. You’ll cross the Skagway River on a footbridge, then hike through trees until you come to a glorious overlook of the Lynn Canal fjord and docked cruise ships. 

Yakutania point is a great bird watching spot year round. You can read about the birds you might see and get a  Skagway bird species checklist here . 

This hike is 1-2 miles and will take you 1-2 hours roundtrip. 

8. Step Into History at the Gold Rush Cemetery and Lower Reid Falls

This historical cemetery is 4 mile round trip walk from downtown Skagway. You can also take the local SMART bus shuttle, which will drop you off about a half mile from the cemetery. 

There’s a fascinating list of people interred in the Gold Rush cemetery. You can see their ages and the common (and uncommon) ways that people died during in Skagway during the Gold Rush. 

Lower Reid Falls is a 10-15 minute hike behind the cemetery. This path is suitable for anyone with mobility issues. 

9. Experience the Tranquility of Lower Dewey Lake

If you want more a more challenging hike away from the cruise crowds, head to Lower Dewey Lake. 

It’s a little less than a mile to get to the trailhead frown downtown, and then 3.6 miles around the lake. 

The trail starts out with an uphill climb, but quickly evens out and becomes a leisurely loop. Chances are good that you’ll spot some wildlife as you experience peace and quiet.

Plan to spend 2-3.5 hours on this hike, depending on your speed. 

10. View Gold Rush Artifacts at the Skagway Museum & Archives

If you want to learn about the Yukon Gold Rush, the Skagway Museum and Archives is a fun (and inexpensive!) option. 

Located in a historical building on 7th Avenue & Spring Street, this museum now houses artifacts from Gold Rush Days, historical documents, photographs and even a taxidermied Alaskan brown bear!

A $2 donation is suggested. Your money will be well spent as you walk away with a better understanding of the importance of Skagway in Alaska’s history. 

Eat & Drink in Skagway

alaska-skagway-brewing-company

It can be an Alaska cruise mistake to not eat or drink in the ports of call. Consider having lunch or a local beer at one of the family owned restaurants.

Skagway Brewing Company is a popular favorite for locals, cruise travelers and cruise ship crew. Try a pint of Spruce Tip Ale for a unique taste of this Alaska beer.

The Red Onion Saloon is another popular restaurant in Skagway. Originally established in 1898 as a bordello for lonely gold miners during the Klondike gold rush era, the Red Onion Saloon is a historic landmark in Skagway. Now, you can grab a bite to eat while visiting the on-site brothel museum.

Skagway-Cruise-Port-Guide

What is the best time of year to visit Skagway? 

Skagway has the mildest weather of any port town in Southeast Alaska, so it is a pleasure to visit any time during cruise season. The best time of year to visit is in July or August when the majority of shops and excursions are in full operation and the weather tends to be the driest. 

How far is downtown Skagway from the cruise port? 

Downtown Skagway is a quick walk from the cruise port. There are four different ports available for cruise ships to dock in Skagway. Depending on which port your ship is docked in, the walk from the cruise port to downtown Skagway is between half to three quarters of a mile long. 

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Final Thoughts On Things to do in Skagway Cruise Port

The charming port town of Skagway, Alaska lets cruise passengers step back in time to gold rush days through exciting excursions. Whether you walk through a historical museum, try your hand at panning gold or explore nature, this port will be a memorable stop on your Alaska cruise. 

In this post, I shared a complete guide of the 20 best things to do in Skagway Alaska when you’re on a cruise. 

Have you been to Skagway on a cruise? Please let me know what you enjoyed most in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

If you found this article helpful, please pass it along. Please feel free to share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

Author Bio:

Stephanie Yrungaray grew up in gorgeous Eagle River, Alaska and now calls Utah her beUtahful home. She enjoys traveling and exploring with her husband and five kids any way she can, from cruising to RV camping and everything in-between! When she’s not out exploring, you’ll find her writing about travel, finances and parenting as well as gift ideas on her website,  www.TheGiftyGirl.com . 

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The 6 best Alaska cruise shore excursions — from heli-hiking to whale watching

Gene Sloan

There are some cruise destinations — Barcelona, for instance, or Venice — where you really don't need to sign up for shore excursions . You can just walk off the ship and head to the major attractions on your own.

For the most part, the ports of Alaska aren't like that.

To get the most out of an Alaska cruise , you'll want to sign up for a tour in most if not all of the ports you visit. And not just any old tour. You'll be looking for the best Alaska shore excursions that get you out into the Alaska backcountry.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter.

In Alaska, many of the biggest "attractions" — breathtaking mountain landscapes, glaciers, fjords, breaching whales and feeding bears, for instance — are related to the Great Outdoors. As a result, many of the best Alaska shore excursions for cruisers are found outside of the towns where ships stop. If you just stay in the towns and explore on your own, you'll miss a big part of what Alaska is all about.

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler

Picking the best Alaska shore excursions

People who know me know that I love talking about Alaska port towns. This isn't just because I spent more than two decades writing about Alaska and other cruise destinations for major newspapers. For many years, I was the co-author of Frommer's "Alaska Cruises & Ports of Call" guide. In researching nearly half a dozen editions of that book, I spent many days exploring each of the major cruise ports in the state. I've tried a large number of the shore excursions in places such as Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan. I've also poked around these towns a lot on my own.

As noted above, my biggest message to anyone planning an Alaska cruise is to get out of the towns . Sign up for something — a hike, a rafting trip, a train ride, a fishing outing — that gets you out into Alaska's spectacular outdoor settings.

But I also have a few specific, top-line pro tips when you're thinking about the best Alaska shore excursions:

  • Get up in the air . It'll be expensive. We're talking $250 or more per person. But there's nothing like seeing the grandeur of Alaska from a helicopter or floatplane. The Juneau Icefield, in particular, is a sight to behold. It covers around 1,500 square miles. You can see it on a flightseeing tour from Juneau, with some tours including landings on the ice.
  • Don't miss the whales. Even if you're not a big wildlife person, you'll be mesmerized by the humpback whales of Alaska. They are huge (at up to 52 feet, longer than a Greyhound bus), and there are boat tours that will get you up close to them. The best places to do this are out of Juneau and also Icy Strait Point if your ship stops there.
  • Splurge for a trip to Misty Fjords National Monument . This glacier-carved wilderness area, not far from Ketchikan, is another don't-miss sight. It's everything you think of when you think of Alaska: icy blue lakes, waterfalls, snow-capped peaks and glacial valleys. The only way to get there is on a boat or floatplane tour, and they typically start at over $200 a person.

Unfortunately, as you can see from the above, many of the most spectacular excursions in Alaskan ports are expensive. But Alaska is not a place to skimp. Alaska is a place where you may want to budget almost as much per person for your shore excursions as you do for your cabin.

That said, you don't have to splurge for a big outing at every call. In Juneau, for instance, you can get an outdoor experience with a relatively inexpensive trip to the nearby Mendenhall Glacier. It's just 12 miles from the cruise ship docks and reachable by bus or taxi. The bus will set you back an astounding $45 per person, round-trip, which I find an intolerable gouge (but … it is what it is). If you have a few people, you're probably better off with a taxi, which runs around $35 each way. For two or three people traveling together, it's not all that pricey a trip.

Either way you do it, you'll find some nice hiking trails around Mendenhall Glacier and a visitor center. There's a creek there, too, where I've sometimes seen salmon running. One time, I even saw a bear. Speaking of which: A bear is something you think you want to see in Alaska until you actually see one. Then you're just hoping you don't get eaten.

Related: The best Alaska cruises for couples

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

I should also be clear that the towns themselves aren't devoid of attractions. While I highly encourage Alaska-bound cruisers to get out into the wilderness, there are plenty of worthwhile things to do in each of the main port towns.

In Juneau, food tours have become popular; think King crab bisque and Alaska salmon. The Alaska State Museum is beautiful and worth a visit. Skagway is like a Gold Rush-themed movie set. You should at least walk its main street (Broadway), with its wooden-board sidewalks. If you're a craft beer fan, like me , you also might want to sample a Spruce Tip Blonde Ale at the Skagway Brewing Company. It's made with Sitka spruce tips picked locally in the spring.

In Ketchikan, you should save a few minutes to stroll up Creek Street, along Ketchikan Creek, where you might spot salmon running. It's the ultimate Alaska selfie spot.

Related: The best cruises to Alaska from Seattle

How to book the best Alaska shore excursions

The simplest way to book an Alaska shore excursion is through your cruise line. You check a box on an online form before sailing or while on board, and — poof! — it's all arranged. They send a ticket to your room, and when you walk off the ship, a tour guide will be waiting for you.

Another way to go is to book directly with a tour operator in one of the ports. Many of the tour operators you'll find in Alaskan ports are the same tour operators that operate the ship-sponsored excursions. Often, the tours that the local tour operators will sell you are the same tours that the cruise lines are selling you, at the same price . Shopping around isn't necessarily going to get you anywhere.

Indeed, in some cases, the cruise lines own the tour operators in Alaska ports, or at least a piece of them. For instance, the parent company of Princess Cruises and Holland America is a part-owner of Skagway's big attraction, the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway.

That said, you can sometimes get discounts by calling a tour operator directly. I've had some luck with that over the years. It's hit or miss.

Related: 8 tips for booking the best cruise shore excursion for your money

The 6 best Alaska shore excursions

Below, I've listed six of my all-time favorite Alaska shore excursions. These all are tours that you'll find in the tour lineups at every major cruise line that operates in Alaska. That said, different lines sometimes have different names for these tours — and sometimes different pricing.

For the listings below, I've used the tour names and pricing listed in the current tour sheets at Princess, which along with sister line Holland America, is the biggest cruise operator in Alaska.

Related: The ultimate guide to picking a cruise line

Dog-sledding and glacier adventure by helicopter

Cost: $669.95 per person

Port where available: Juneau

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

For those with a hefty bankroll, this might be the ultimate Alaska shore excursion. Combining helicopter flightseeing over the seemingly endless Juneau Icefield with a landing on a glacier for dog sledding, it hits two of Alaska's most iconic experiences.

It's also insanely expensive, as I know from firsthand experience. I once took my entire family of five on this excursion, dropping more than $2,000 in the process. That's a huge chunk of change for an outing that lasts three hours.

But I'll tell you this: I don't regret doing it. Not one bit. For starters, the views of the Juneau Icefield as you fly to and from the dog-sledding camp are incredible (assuming the weather cooperates). But the real joy was seeing my three young girls interacting with the teams of Alaskan huskies that live at the camp.

Once you arrive at the camp, you'll meet the dogs and their mushers, see where they live, get a quick tutorial in mushing, and then head out for a spin around the camp on a dog-pulled sled.

Related: These are the best times to visit Alaska

Whale watching and wildlife quest

Cost: $189.95

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

If it's Alaska's famous humpback whales that you want to see, you'll want to book a whale-watching tour. The waters around Juneau are particularly known for humpback whales — so much so that the operator of this excursion offers a whale-sighting guarantee.

Setting off from the Juneau harbor in a whale-watching boat, you'll cruise to nearby areas to see not just humpback whales but harbor seals and sea lions, too. You might even spot a killer whale or porpoise.

The boat used for this excursion has both inside and outdoor viewing areas. The trips last about four hours, including transfer time from your cruise ship to the whale-watching boat.

Related: The ultimate list of Alaska cruise tips

Note that if you have a big enough group, it sometimes pays to arrange a private boat out of Juneau to take you to see humpback whales. Many lines offer a private boat charter for whale watching as a tour option, or you can arrange one through a local company.

Klondike rock climbing and rappelling

Cost: $119.95

Port where available: Skagway

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

If you're like me, you may be a little terrified at the idea of climbing the sheer face of a rock cliff. But don't let that scare you away from this 3 1/4-hour tour. It's a hoot.

Experienced climbing guides will meet you at your ship and drive you up the Klondike Highway to an area of granite cliffs that's the perfect playground for beginner and more seasoned climbers alike. Upon arrival, the guides provide you with all the gear you need — climbing shoes, helmets and harnesses — for a safe scramble up a 70-foot-high wall. They'll also offer plenty of instruction (and encouragement) plus a snack of trail mix and hot chocolate.

If it all sounds a bit daunting, know that you don't need any experience at climbing to do it; I sure didn't have any when I tried it, nor did my young daughters, who absolutely loved it. There are multiple routes up the cliffs, some perfect for beginners. After making it to the top, you'll rappel back down — an entirely different kind of thrill.

Related: How to plan a cruise with points and miles

White Pass & Yukon Route Railway ride

Cost: $149.95

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Call it the iconic attraction of Skagway, Alaska. A ride into the mountains on this narrow-gauge railroad is the tour everybody takes when visiting the Gold Rush town-turned-tourist hub. And for good reason. It offers an easy way to get deep into the Great Alaskan Outdoors.

Truth be told, I'm a fan of more active excursions. But for someone who isn't going to hike, bike, horseback ride or raft their way through the wilderness around Skagway (there are tours for all of those things, too), a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Railway is one of the best ways to get a glimpse of the area's classic Alaskan scenery.

Related: 13 things you should do before every cruise

From the comfort of a vintage rail car, you'll get stunning views of mountains, gorges, glacial rivers and waterfalls as you climb nearly 3,000 feet to the summit of White Pass — the headwaters to the mighty Yukon River. Designated an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark, the 20-mile route is a marvel in its own right, with improbably steep grades at times and segments that pass over soaring wooden trestles and around tight, cliff-hanging curves.

Heli-hike and rail adventure

Cost: $399.95

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

This is another tour with a sky-high cost. But, in my opinion, it's well worth the money. Indeed, it's one of my all-time favorite Alaska shore excursions.

The five-hour, Skagway-based outing begins with a transfer from your ship to a nearby helicopter pad, where you'll find a helicopter waiting to whisk you high into the surrounding Sawtooth Mountain Range.

On a quick flight to your destination — a mountain trail in the Tongass National Forest — you'll get spectacular views of the mountains and Goat Lake. You'll land at Glacier Station, a remote mountain helicopter pad alongside the White Pass & Yukon Railway tracks. From there, you'll set off on a two- to six-mile guided wilderness hike on a trail along the Skagway River. The highlight of the hike: a magnificent view of Laughton Glacier.

Returning to Glacier Station, you'll end the day with a ride back to Skagway on the White Pass & Yukon Railway, which makes a special stop to pick you up.

Misty Fjords National Monument by seaplane

Cost: $299.95

Port where available: Ketchikan

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

There's nothing that says Alaska quite like a trip in a floatplane. And, if you're going to do a floatplane ride, there's nowhere better than in Ketchikan. You'll find a small armada of floatplanes waiting to take you to nearby Misty Fjords National Monument.

Misty Fjords is one of those quintessential Alaska destinations that's so beautiful you just want to cry. That is, if it's not too "misty" to see it. It got its name for a reason. The area is often shrouded in clouds and drizzly rain. Ketchikan is known as one of the rainiest places in North America, with over 13 feet of rain each year. So, yeah, bring a rain jacket.

But, also get ready for lovely views of glacier-carved fjords, cliffs and rock walls jutting thousands of feet out of the ocean. The whole thing is covered with temperate rainforests and features huge waterfalls (thanks to all that rain). It's definitely a sight to see.

Note that there often are two versions of this tour available: One that is about two hours in length and only includes flightseeing and a slightly longer version that includes a water landing within Misty Fjord National Monument.

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Skagway, Alaska: White Pass Yukon Railway and Bus Excursion

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Wondering how to make the most of a day in Skagway, Alaska? Consider combining the iconic White Pass Yukon Railway train ride with a fun bus excursion into the Yukon Territory.

At Skagway, Alaska cruise port, the possibilities for your day are as diverse as the landscape itself. Helicopter tours, dog sledding, exploring the historic Skagway, enjoying frybread at Klondike Doughboy, or embarking on a hiking adventure along the Chilkoot Trail are just a few enticing options.

With many activities available, how you spend your day in Skagway depends on your preferences. Whether you choose independent exploration, back-to-back shore excursions , or an all-day adventure, the choices are yours.

We opted for a Yukon Rail and Bus Excursion for our cruise day in Skagway (over 8 hours in port). This immersive journey took us from Skagway through British Columbia along the Klondike Highway into the Yukon territory. The return leg featured the renowned White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, offering breathtaking views of Alaska and Canada.

Despite its length, the day was an extraordinary experience, unveiling the untouched beauty of Alaska and Canada, particularly the Yukon Territory.

The drive from Skagway to the Yukon treated us to majestic mountain vistas, pristine lakes, and a captivating waterfall. Although wildlife eluded us, sightings were common on this excursion, adding excitement to an unforgettable day.

blog featured image | white pass yukon railway bus excursion in skagway alaska

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we earn a commission at no extra cost. Please refer to our  full disclosure  for details.

We’re sharing why we booked this tour, our experience if it was worth it, and any tips we learned to help you decide whether a similar excursion is for you.

Table of Contents

About Skagway, Alaska

Skagway, Alaska, is a small town in the state’s southeastern part, nestled in a valley surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

The town has a rich history. Skagway was once a bustling gold rush town in the late 1800s during the Klondike Gold Rush. Today, visitors can explore the historic downtown area, carefully preserved to reflect the town’s gold rush past. 

The streets of this charming and picturesque town are lined with colorful buildings, many of which have been turned into shops, restaurants, and museums.

One of the most popular attractions in Skagway is the White Pass Scenic Railway , which takes visitors on a scenic journey through the mountains and into Canada’s Yukon Territory.

The railroad was built during the gold rush era to transport prospectors and supplies to the Klondike gold fields, and today, it remains the top tourist attraction.

Yukon Rail and Bus Excursion

beautiful views leaving skagway

Skagway, Alaska, was the longest day we had in port during our Norwegian Encore cruise . Our favorite is long days at the port because we can see more of what the destination offers.

One of the top things to do in Skagway is to hop on the White Pass Railway for a 3-hour roundtrip ride. We wanted to experience the train ride and fill our day with more. 

As we researched shore excursions , we could book independently, and we came across the  Yukon Rail and Bus Excursion by Chilkoot Charters  (not affiliated), a locally-owned tour company.

This tour truly offered the best of both worlds, combining a scenic bus excursion through Canada’s Yukon territory with a White Pass Railway train ride on the way back. The tour was expertly crafted to include all the essentials, from a delicious lunch to multiple stops for photos and even ticket passes for the train ride back.

Moreover, the tour can be booked in reverse for cruise ships arriving in port earlier.

In all, we loved this tour. It was a small group. There were several photogenic spots. The scenery was incredible. The tour guide was amazing. Lunch was good. The train ride back was spectacular and lived up to expectations.

YouTube video

We’d do the train again when and if we are in Skagway again. We loved it so much.

It also helped that we got lucky and had a gorgeous day. It was sunny and warm, and I was so happy I wore a tank top underneath my button-down that I could take off later.

white pass train riding through white summit

Had the train ride in Skagway not been so high on our list of things to do, we would have done a DIY Jeep Tour or rented a local car to drive ourselves, explore, and make the stops we wanted.

Alternatively, that’s what we had in mind for the day, but as I said, Chilkoot Charters offered the best of both worlds, and they did a fantastic job. Plus, this tour saved hubby from driving and allowed him to enjoy the ride as a passenger.

Bus Ride into Yukon Territory

We decided to start this tour with the bus ride from Skagway Cruise Port and end it with the train ride on the way back.

Along the way, the driver pointed out various landmarks and shared interesting facts about the Skagways’ history, culture, and connection to Canada.

We passed through Tormented Valley, Fraser, and White Pass Summit, marveling at the rugged beauty of the landscape and the ingenuity of the early miners who braved these harsh conditions in search of gold.

We stopped at several scenic viewpoints along the way, including Emerald Lake, where the water was smooth as glass, and the reflection of the mountains was like staring into a painting.

We saw plenty more from the drive but made the following stops…

Bridal Veil Falls

man walking towards bridal veil falls

Our first stop was Bridal Veil Falls, a stunning waterfall just a short drive from Skagway. The falls cascade down a rocky cliff face, creating a misty spray that shimmers in the sunlight. We took photos and admired the beauty of the falls before continuing our journey.

Welcome to Alaska Sign

welcome to alaska sign

As we approached the British Columbia border, we quickly stopped at the “Welcome to Alaska” sign, the Gateway to the Klondike. The breathtaking views surrounding us were too stunning to pass up, making it a must-see destination even if one doesn’t snap a photo of the iconic sign.

kathy standing against the mountain backdrop of where the welcome to alaska sign is located

Tutshi & Tagish Lakes

tutshi lake

Tutshi and Tagish Lakes are two stunning bodies of water in the southern Yukon Territory of Canada. Surrounded by majestic mountains and lush forests, these lakes offer a serene and picturesque setting.

While we passed both lakes, we stopped at Tutshi Lake.

Welcome to Yukon Sign

Yukon sign

The Welcome to Yukon Sign is another fun stop on the itinerary, offering a perfect photo opportunity with its iconic design and stunning backdrop of rugged mountains and pristine wilderness. 

I don’t think I’ve ever taken so many photos of signs in one trip. I never seek them out or wait in line for photos. It was nice to have the driver take photos of us.

Caribou Crossing Trading Post | Wild Adventure Yukon

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Caribou Crossing Trading Post, now known as  Wild Adventure Yukon , is a tourist stop in Carcrass along the Klondike Highway north of the Carcoss Desert.

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

A BBQ lunch with sides and delicious cinnamon sugar donuts was served and included with our booked tour. 

Also included was their Yukon Wildlife Museum, which houses an impressive collection of mounted animals native to the region, including grizzly bears, caribou, and wolves. 

This stop also has a petting zoo, and you could visit puppies trained for dog sledding. Dog car rides are available for an extra cost.

Gift shop with local treats, souvenirs, and t-shirts.

While we thought this stop was aimed at tourists, there isn’t much in the way of food and nice restrooms when traveling up the Klondike Highway.

About an hour was spent here.

Emerald Lake

emerald lake in canada

After we left Caribou Crossing, we stopped at Emerald Lake, a breathtakingly beautiful spot often called the “Jewel of the Yukon.” The lake’s vibrant emerald color results from light reflecting off the fine particles of glacial silt that have settled on the lake bed.

On that beautiful day, the water was so calm that our guide remarked on how lucky we were because it was not always as smooth as glass.

Historic Downtown Carcross

matthew watson general store in downtoan carcross

Historic Downtown Carcross was the last stop before heading to the White Pass Railway in Fraser to catch our train ride back. Carcross Commons, a small shopping mall with shops, is where you can buy local gifts, a visitor center, and a clean bathroom. We didn’t have time, but Bennet Beach is also walkable from here.

It was too short of a stop to enjoy and explore. The guide was great at narrowing down the best things to do in 20 minutes. Besides using the bathroom, getting coffee at the coffee shop (some of the best we’ve had), and getting our passport stamps, there wasn’t time for anything else. I would have preferred to spend more time here than Wild Adventure Yukon.

hand stamping passport with yukon territory stamp

With time constraints and having to get us to our train on time, we understood this was a fast-paced tour.

Tour Ideas: White Pass Deluxe Tour from Skagway Mini-Bus Tour [ book here ] Half-Day Yukon Sightseeing Shore Excursion from Skagway [ book here ] Skagway Shore Excursion: Yukon Discovery Tour [ book here ]

White Pass and Yukon Railway Route

red structure at fraser train stration in canada

Our tour guide drove us back to Fraser to hop on our train. When we got there, there was a delay, which is a rarity. We had to wait around for about 30 minutes or so before the train picked us up. It’s not a bad place to wait, with a view of Bernard Lake.

We almost skipped the train, afraid that the train would be delayed for hours and we’d miss our ship. However, the tour guide made an excellent point and said everyone on the trains was on the cruise ships, half at least booked with cruise-sponsored excursions. The cruise ships weren’t going to leave that many people behind.

We decided to wait, and I’m glad we did.

Undoubtedly, the White Pass Railway was the standout of our excursion. Although we appreciated the bus ride, loved our guide, and the stops it offered, the train ride truly stole the show.

view of train cars riding through the mountains

The White Pass Railway has a rich history that dates back to the Klondike Gold Rush. The railway was built and completed between 1898 and 1900 to provide a transportation route from the coastal port of Skagway, Alaska, to the gold fields of the Yukon Territory in Canada.

The views from the train were simply breathtaking, with the tracks winding their way through rugged mountains, deep gorges, and pristine valleys. 

view of riverbeds from white pass train alaska

Passengers collectively “wowed” repeatedly as the train made its way through the beautiful landscape, each turning revealing a new vista more breathtaking than the last.

Truly showing off Alaska’s magnificence.

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

The train’s vintage carriages and historic locomotives added to the charm and authenticity of the experience. The wooden seats and brass fittings of the carriages took us back to a bygone era of travel, and the rhythmic clack of the wheels on the tracks provided a soothing soundtrack to the journey. 

high-fiving the passengers from the passing train

Everyone loved taking turns outside and standing on the open-air platforms between the carriages, feeling the cool breeze on their faces and taking in the panoramic views that stretched before them.

Our one-way journey from Fraser, Canada, was roughly 1.5 hours back to Skagway. When we returned to Skagway, we had to wait for border patrol to enter our train car and check our passports before getting off. It took only minutes.

white pass train parked in skagway

From there, we walked back into the historic town of Skagway before returning to our cruise ship. But our drive from the bus part of the excursion met us, ready to take us to the cruise terminal if we wanted to.

The Yukon Rail Route is only available with excursions into Canada. You still do pass through the White Pass.

Would we have enjoyed the White Pass Summit 2.5-hour roundtrip that everyone books?

I’m sure we would have loved it. However, 2.5 hours? That’s a long time on a train for scenic views, so perhaps the 1.5 hours was enough to leave us wanting more. 

That said, we wouldn’t mind going on the White Pass Railway and, perhaps, spending a little more to experience the Denver Caboose. 

Tour Ideas: Summit Experience & Yukon Suspension Bridge Tour [ book here ] White Pass Summit and Yukon Suspension Bridge Tour [ book here ]

framed view of mountains from inside the white pass train

Is the Yukon Rail and Bus Excursion worth it?

Overall, we had a great experience and do not regret it. However, combining the Bus Excursion with the White Pass Yukon Railway makes for a long day, but we did set out to see as much as we could in several hours. The stops we made were beautiful, but they were short and fast-paced. So keep that in mind when you decide to book this excursion.

Is White Pass Scenic Railway worth it?

Yes. The White Pass Scenic Railway is an experience that should be done at least once. You get to see a side of Alaska you won’t be able to see staying in town.

If you’re not coming to the railway excursion with a bus tour for the day, you can always book just the White Pass Summier excursion for early morning or afternoon.

How long is the white pass train ride?

The White Pass Summit Excursion is a 2.5 to 3-hour round trip. If you have an excursion that combines a one-way train ride with a trip into the Yukon, that would most likely be the Fraser One Way Service, which is one way that goes into Fraser or returns from Fraser, a 1.5-hour train ride.

In advance of your cruise, don’t miss these related articles:

  • What to Do in Juneau, Alaska in One Day
  • Tips for an Alaska Cruise
  • Pro Tips to Maximize Your Cruise Day in Glacier Bay
  • Alaska Cruise: What to Pack
  • Seattle Cruise Port Guide

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she's become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She's always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.

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Such wonderful photos and details in your post, Kathy! I would enjoy the bus tour. I experienced the round trip tour on White Pass Railway and loved it. The time went by way too fast and it didn’t seem like we were on the train for 3 hours. I enjoyed standing outside on the platform to get a better view.

That is great to hear! We will be back in a couple of years with family and we were wondering if the 3 hours would be too long, if we did it again. I think I’ll still be mesmerized by it all over again. Appreciate you stopping by.

@Kathy Ava, My pleasure!

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The 11 Best Alaska Cruise Excursions in 2024

By Janice Wald Henderson

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The best Alaska cruise excursions can range from the thrilling to the serene. Passengers can fly on sleds led by huskies , ogle bald eagles and salmon-gobbling grizzlies , and soar over towering glaciers in a helicopter. And the best part? All these activities are planned for you as part of the cruise itinerary—as a way for travelers to sample the diverse wonders of The Last Frontier in one fell swoop.

Wildlife sightings may be the more popular Alaska cruise shore excursions, but travelers shouldn't overlook incredible opportunities to learn about the state’s Indigenous cultures , as well as culinary experiences centered around local delicacies such as fresh salmon, halibut, berries, and craft beer.

Just know that the real Alaska , teeming with natural beauty and wildlife, primarily lies away from crowded touristy ports. (Pro tip: for fewer people and more animals, the best time to cruise Alaska is in the spring.) Know, too, that different cruise lines can offer similar excursions, so first choose a ship that speaks to you, then immediately book excursions (popular ones sell fast). Here, an array of Alaska-bound ships with the best cruise excursions, sure to resonate long past your vacay.

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Take in Alaska's glaciers and ice fields from above during this Princess Cruises excursion.

Princess Cruises: Dogsledding and Glacier Adventures by Helicopter

Family-friendly Princess Cruises, in its 55 th season plying Alaskan waters, delivers exemplary excursions that include learning about gold rush history and gold-panning, as well as fishing trips on which one of the ship's chefs cooks your catch. The Dog Sledding and Glacier Adventure by Helicopter, created by an Iditarod musher (they lead huskies on annual 1,000-mile races over Alaska’s roughest terrain), combines two top-notch thrills. Don glacier overboots, board a helicopter, and fly over the Alaskan ice field as the pilot points out icefalls and rock formations. After landing on Norris Glacier, meet top Iditarod race veteran mushers and their dogs. Soon you’ll be whisked on a sled pulled by a team of exuberant huskies for the ride of a lifetime.

Ships and sailings to know: From May to September 2024, Princess offers Alaskan cruises ranging between 7 and 17-days on seven ships, including the 3,660-passenger Discovery Princess .

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Assist crew in pulling in crab pots and indulge in fresh Dungeness crab during this popular Celebrity Cruises excursion.

Celebrity Cruises: Wilderness Exploration and Crab Feasts

Adventurous couples relish Celebrity’s adult-oriented amusements, including inviting bars and lounges, fine restaurants, and relaxing spas. Big spenders book the Retreat, a luxurious private enclave—its Luminae restaurant showcases dishes by famed French chef Daniel Boulud. In Ketchikan , a four-hour Wilderness Exploration and Crab Feast in Tongass National Forest (America’s largest national forest) scores big buzz. Drive past jaw-dropping sights, like Native Alaskan totem poles, snowcapped mountains, and thunderous waterfalls. Relish a sightseeing vessel ride, assist crew pulling in crab pots (if you like), before tearing into unlimited fresh Dungeness crab with warm clarified butter, and cheesecake drenched in Alaskan blueberries.

Ships and sailings to know: Three premium ships, Celebrity Summit , Celebrity Solstice, and Celebrity Edge , cruise in Alaska from May until September 2024. The newest and most glam, 2,918-passenger Celebrity Edge, on its maiden Alaska season, offers eight-day voyages between Vancouver and Seattle .

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Several cruise lines operating in Alaska offer whale watching excursions.

Holland America Line: Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Quest

Holland America Line serves sustainable wild Alaskan seafood, with park rangers and local Indigenous tribe members often boarding for presentations. In Juneau, Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Quest rocks everyone’s boat. Gawk at one of North America’s most spectacular glaciers and learn about glaciers’ remarkable force in a compelling visitor center. Ride to Auke Bay and board a water-jet-powered expedition vessel designed for superior wildlife viewing. When sailing Stephens Passage—renowned as a summer breeding ground for humpback whales—you may well get close enough to hear these giants breathe.

Ships and sailings to know: This cruise line has plied Alaskan waters for more than 75 years, with seven ships sailing 6-19 day itineraries from May to September 2024.

The Alaskan Highway Yukon

The Klondike Highway runs from the Alaska Panhandle to Yukon, Canada.

Crystal: Klondike Highway and White Pass

Formerly Crystal Cruises, the ultra-luxury two-ship Crystal, now owned by global travel leader Abercrombie & Kent, has been beautifully remodeled while maintaining its primary lures: beyond-attentive crew and superb dining. Note this sensational Skagway outing offered on Crystal Serenity Alaskan cruises: Motor along on iconic Klondike Highway to White Pass, reaching its 2,865-foot majestic summit and the Yukon Suspension Bridge. Take an exhilarating walk on this iconic bridge, suspended some 57 feet above Tutshi River’s churning rapids below, if you dare. (Make sure somebody gets a pic.) Even if you beg out, you still get the astonishing view and a hearty bison chili lunch.

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Ships and sailings to know: The 740-passenger Crystal Serenity offers eight-and-nine-day Alaska voyages in July and August 2024.

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Several cruise lines offer bear viewing and photography excursions.

Seabourn: Anan Creek Bear Viewing and Photography

The outings on this adventure-minded Alaskan cruise exceed typical cruise ships, featuring Ventures by Seabourn excursions with Zodiac explorations, kayaking, and hiking led by expedition experts. In Wrangell, sign up for Anan Creek Bear Viewing and Photography, joining the expedition team bear expert and a photography specialist for this rousing small-group bear-viewing experience. Travel by boat to the Anan Estuary and Wildlife Observatory in the Tongass National Forest (Anan Creek has Southeast Alaska’s largest pink salmon run) and climb to the observation deck overlooking cascading waterfalls. Expect an electrifying view of salmon jumping and black and brown bears snatching their next meal.

Ships and sailings to know: The ultra-luxury 458-passenger Seabourn Odyssey offers seven-day sailings between Vancouver and Juneau, as well as 10- and 11-day roundtrip Vancouver cruises from May to September 2024. Seabourn fares include all-suite accommodations, dining, alcohol, WiFi, gratuities, and 24-hour in-suite service.

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Several Alaska cruises stop in Icy Strait Point, a remote area ideal for observing wildlife in their natural habitats.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Spasski River Valley and Wildlife

Looking to cruise Alaska with your family in tow? Consider Norwegian Cruise Line. On offer are children and teenage clubs, plus families can come together to play video arcade games, laser tag, and race cars. During a Glacier Bay passage, a park ranger hops aboard to narrate scenic sights. Explore majestic Icy Strait Point—one of the world’s few places where wildlife outnumbers humans—with family-minded excursions like the Spasski River Valley and Wildlife tour. Motor to an elevated observation area in a postcard-perfect remote valley to safely observe bears, deer, and bald eagles in their natural habitats. Learn, too, about Tlingit Indigenous Alaskans who reside in nearby Hoonah, Alaska’s largest such settlement.

Ships and sailings to know: NCL primarily offers seven-to-10-day voyages, April through October 2024, on multiple ships.

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Passengers on Seven Seas Explorer Alaska cruises can enjoy fresh-caught salmon at the Taku Glacier Lodge.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Taku Lodge Feast and Seaplane Discovery

The Alaska-sailing 746-passenger Seven Seas Explorer is mega glam, with a museum-worthy art collection. This writer gives a shoutout to the Taku Lodge Feast and Five-Glacier Seaplane Discovery excursions. Soar by floatplane over the majestic Juneau Icefield, land in a river near Hole-in-the-Wall Glacier, and feast on fresh-caught wild salmon by a roaring fire at a 100-year-old lodge. On this outing, I inhaled two salmon filets that slid down my throat like silk. Spoiler alert: After this culinary escapade, I couldn’t eat salmon for two years anywhere else.

Ships and sailings to know: Regent's Seven Seas Explorer mostly offers eight-day cruises running between Seward and Vancouver, from May to September 2024. On this ultra-luxury line, fares include airfare, unlimited shore excursions (other than select tours), alcohol, dining, WiFi, valet laundry, and gratuities.

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The Kroschel Wildlife Refuge in Haines, Alaska is home to orphaned and rescued animals.

Royal Caribbean International: Kroschel Wildlife Refuge

Animal lovers of every age relish visiting the Kroschel Wildlife Refuge in Haines, a popular excursion among Royal Caribbean Alaska cruise passengers. Steven Kroschel, a wildlife expert who devoted decades to training wild animals for TV and films, owns the center that is home to orphaned and rescued animals, like lynx, Kodiac bears, arctic fox, porcupines, and wolverines. It’s also interactive; get close for photos and learn how the refuge protects these animals.

Ships and sailings to know: Royal Caribbean's nearly 4,000-passenger megaships, Quantum of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas , thrill families via free-fall skydiving, outdoor movies, and escape room games. Their Alaska cruises run from 8-14 days, April to September 2024.

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The Alaska Railroad is one of the most scenic train journeys in the US.

Viking: Scenic Train and Rafting

The Scenic Train and Rafting excursion delivers an inspired eight-hour shore tour, beginning with a train ride on the Alaskan Railroad through the vast wilderness. Gaze out windows, eying otherworldly views of the Placer River Valley and soaring peaks of Spencer Glacier, while enjoying a box lunch. Then meet guides to go rafting, paddling between dramatic icebergs and down the serene and scenic Placer River.

Ships and sailings to know: Viking’s adults-only 930-passenger Viking Orion sails 11 days May to September 2024, between Seward, Alaska and Vancouver. Viking ocean-liner fares include amenities like king-bed accommodations with spacious baths equipped with heated floors and anti-fog mirrors, dining, complimentary wine and beer with lunch and dinner, and spa access.

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Silversea’s lauded S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) program highlights Alaskan ingredients and recipes.

Silversea: Sitka Culinary Adventure

Silversea’s lauded S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) program features Alaskan ingredients and recipes on all its S.A.L.T. Kitchen menus, S.A.L.T. Lab culinary classes, and S.A.L.T Bar mixology offerings. Soon-to-be-scheduled S.A.L.T excursions will showcase regional chefs and ingredients. Meanwhile, foodie fun unfolds with Sitka’s Culinary Adventure shore excursion. Visit a tap room, tasting beers made with filtered glacial water. Then graze about town, tasting pelmeni (popular dumplings evoking Sitka’s Russian heritage), and other local goodies like chowders, shrimp, black cod tips, and “reindeer dogs.”

Ships and sailings to know: Three ultra-luxury Silversea ships offer 7-16 day sails from May to September, but only the 728-passenger Silver Nova presents Silversea’s lauded S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) program. Fares include all-suite accommodations, butler service, most dining, alcohol, a shore excursion in each port, caviar, WiFi, and gratuities.

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Through this UnCruise excursion, passengers can explore one of the most remote national parks in the US.

UnCruise Adventures: Explore Glacier Bay National Park’s Rarely Visited Outback

Attracting high-energy explorers drawn to less conventional shore excursions, this expedition-driven small-ship line visits bays and coves inaccessible to larger cruise ships. Traditional ships just cruise UNESCO World Heritage Site Glacier Bay; on Wilderness Discoverer , the captain drops anchor in Fern Harbor, Sawmill Bay, and Dundas Bay during the Explore Glacier Bay National Park’s Rarely Visited Outback excursion. Count on a full day of activities like kayaking, paddle boarding, skiff expeditions, and beach strolls. Expert-led hikes take you deep into the breathtaking beauty of the backcountry of one of Alaska's most remote national parks . Few Alaskan cruisers can ever claim this experience.

Ships and sailings to know: The 76-passenger Wilderness Discoverer offers eight-day voyages from April to August 2024.

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  • Norwegian Cruise Line

Skagway, AK - Rail Excursion

By NickellKC , March 24, 2008 in Norwegian Cruise Line

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Cool Cruiser

We are considering the rail excursion during the Star Cruise. Can anyone give me feedback on their experience.

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Personally I enjoyed it, but my then 8 year old daughter and 13 & 15 year daughters of friends who were on the same excursion were bored to death. I could reccommend it for adults, but it is a bit long for kids and teens.

Toyz711

i did the round-trip...3 1/2 hours. if we hadn't had a sick FIL on the ship..i would have preferred to do the longer rail/bus combos.

the round-trip is nice. when you book it through the cruiseline, you board right at the docks. the views are great..no air conditioning, but the windows open. plus the great veiwing platform. they have a speaker system and tell you the history of the area. when you get to the summit, you flip the seats over..wait for the other trains to pass and then, if the train is crowded, you change sides (to allow those on the non-view side to see).

each cruiseline has their own train..you can see them in front or behind you on the way down.

if you really want to see more, different stuff...look into the combo trips. the trip goes further north and goes to places like carcross. there's a very good local vendor that does these.

on the alaska boards, this trip is discussed a lot.

i will say, on the round-trips...it's quiet on the way down and DH fell asleep. the views are great, but the trip down is too relaxing with the motion of the train and nothing on the loud speakers.

garycarla

along with the response above, you will find even more by visiting the PORTS OF CALL boards, and then selecting Alaska. Lots of great information.

At the top of the page, click on BOARDS, then scroll down to PORTS OF CALL.

salty dingo

salty dingo

We are on Pearl Aug. 3rd to Alaska and we are doing this on our own. The train sounds like it could be a bit crowded and regulated.

We are renting a car for the four of us. You can book it online with Avis. Total with taxes and all, unlimited miles, is $110. So our tour of the Klondike is going to be about $35 each if you allow for gas.

Check out this walking tour at Carcross . Bit of trivia - Carcross is not named because it's where Cars cross. It's where Caribou cross.

NoPiratesPlease

We did it off the Star last summer (you could have done it off the Pearl as she was in port the same day) and had a WONDERFUL time. We had a 2 1/2 year old who LOVES Thomas The Tank Engine, and a 12 year old and they both had a great time!

We had perfect weather and they actually took us up a little further into Canada. We all got off glowing! On the way back the older boy and some other kids started playing around, nothing dangerous, so they were fine.

That and the sled-dog camp were two of the greatest things we did!

marysb

Definitely worth doing. This is one of the engineering wonders of the world. Great views that cannot be had by driving it in a bus or rental car. I would not say it is regimented. Just a trip to the Yukon and back with a guide to give you some history.

Carcross is not named because it's where Cars cross. It's where Caribou cross.
Well, it could also be where car and Caribou meet.... or would that be Carcus....

NayRN

I did the Best of Skagway (train and Liarsville) on my Star cruise to Alaska in 2006 and I've already booked it again for my Sun cruise in July! It is well worth the money and the view is breath-taking! Liarsville is fun, too!;)

You're killing me :D !

I had read the reviews of people sleeping on their way back down, so we booked with Chilkoot Charters - train up/mini-bus on the return. The cruise ship train cars were PACKED, and we had only 10 people in our car! No, we couldn't board the train at the dock, but they picked us up at the dock and took us to the station. And what a GREAT trip we had on the return trip with a super tour guide who made lots more stops than the cruiseship tours made!

The best place for ALASKA discussions if you want to hear from more people is over on the Alaska boards under PORTS OF CALL.

Just a suggestion.

We are considering the rail excursion during the Star Cruise. Can anyone give me feedback on their experience.   Thanks.

Definitely worth doing. If you have anyone elderly like my parents (75 and 85) when we did this, it was great as there was lots for them to see and not much exertion. On another note, one thing about Alaska being part of the U.S.A., the Americans with Disability Act makes getting anyone elderly or handicapped around much easier than say Mexico.

vacationfool

vacationfool

We did the Railroad trip in Alaska and there is no way a car ride will ever compare! It would be a lot more reasonable by car if budget is called for, but the train ride was awesome! The scenary above the hilltops and the tourguide telling you the history is awesome. also the bridges and tunnels are so fun! We took so many great photos of waterfall and some animals. I would recommend the train to anyone--ages 1 yr to 105 ! ( take a snack-they serve bottled water)

ute_fan

We did the longest train ride available last year and booked through NCL. We went by bus clear to Carcross -- stopping a couple of times for photo shoots of scenery and a 10 minute stop to watch a black bear by the side of the road. Then, we boarded the train in Carcross and rode it all the way back to Skagway, stopping at the old train station in Bennett, Canada for lunch.

It was a marvelous excursion. Bennett is only available by train or boat, and I enjoyed seeing scenery that relatively few others will ever enjoy. It's a train ride, however, and if you're into more "active" excursions, you'd probably be bored.

RT train was great with us out in the front with the camcorder shooting straight down on the big curve & being picked up & dropped off at the ship was the "royal" treatment. Lunch was a nice break too.

Our cars were not packed & folks of all ages were having fun. Weird that Princess got the first 2 cars that were the last 2 cars on the way back.

We did the longest train ride available last year and booked through NCL. We went by bus clear to Carcross -- stopping a couple of times for photo shoots of scenery and a 10 minute stop to watch a black bear by the side of the road. Then, we boarded the train in Carcross and rode it all the way back to Skagway, stopping at the old train station in Bennett, Canada for lunch.   It was a marvelous excursion. Bennett is only available by train or boat, and I enjoyed seeing scenery that relatively few others will ever enjoy. It's a train ride, however, and if you're into more "active" excursions, you'd probably be bored.

WhenIsOurNextCruise

We took the train a few years back, and while it was absolutely beautiful, I was a little concerned about maintenance (how often do they check the stability of the tracks as some of them are huge wooden trestles with no place to pull over in the event of a problem). On the way back down we suddenly braked and everyone went flying out of their seats. Anyone walking down the aisle, ended up rolling. My niece was on the platform between train cars and fell down, out of our line of vision. She didn't fall off and wasn't injured, but there were injuries including a few people with broken bones. When we reached Skagway we were met by emergency vehicles and their incident command system was in effect, with lots of people sorting through the crowd to determine who was injured. My husband broke his camera the second time it braked. Anyway, that was my LAST trip up the mountain. I've never heard of anyone else ever having a single problem. And we have beautiful pictures and a scary memory.

sjbdtz

We've done this trip twice (Whitepass & Yukon Railroad). I'm not sure what people are referring to when they say that each cruiseline has their own train....the Whitepass & Yukon Railway line is a narrow-gauge rail line...the steepest climb in the world for a narrow-gauge!

There is a point going UP where if you're on the left side of the railcar...the ground just disappears & you're staring about 1500 feet straight down!

Inspiration Point is appropriately named.

The entire trip is awesome. The first time we took the train up, and the bus down....that was pretty cool because you could see what an engineering marvel the train tracks are, from the bus.... plus there's a neat cantilevered bridge where they explain because it's such an active seismic area....and there are FIVE fault-lines which converge there.... they didn't want to fully attach the bridge to the other side....so that IF there's any movement, the bridge will stay intact..... kinda fun facts... AFTER you're over the bridge!!!!!!! :eek:

I highly recommend this tour.... there is NO WAY; NO WaY at all that a car rental will even BEGIN to approximate what this train ride can give you.

Google the railway White Pass & Yukon Railway for more history, photos, etc. It's an experience worth not missing, and one you'll talk about for years to come.

P.S. I attached a pic I took last September. I love the way the sun reflects off the railcar windows, and gives the illusion that the train is splitting & going in opposite direction in the distance.

1230881281_CopyofP1020315.jpg.bcb434d2faf5f8f41428e59048317044.jpg

No, I believe it would be the caribou :)

nderoche

Hello: My DW took this pic on a cruise to Alaska a few years ago. We are going June 1st on the Pearl and we will definitely do it again.

whitepass.jpg.c56ccb7613232efcaa077a85c02a008c.jpg

GORDONCHICK

We booked through Chilkoot Tours and did the 7hr trip, which was riding the train up to Fraser, BC, then boarding a small motorcoach (held about 20, but we only had 10 in our group). We went to Caribou Crossing for lunch, playing with the Husky puppies, and the museum. You could pay extra for a sled ride (not on snow). Then we went to Carcross. Our guide/driver stopped when ever we wanted a photo or we just asked her to. Chilkoot will have their own train car, and there may be others from different ships on there. Our 6yo DS loved the trip as well.

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6 top luxury alaska cruises for 2024 & beyond.

Book a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to The Great Land on one of these top luxury ships.

Top Luxury Alaska Cruises

Veranda of Aquamarine Suite on Crystal cruise ship.

Courtesy of Crystal

Cruising to Alaska on a small luxury ship affords a very different experience than sailing through The Great Land on a larger vessel. On a smaller luxury ship, you'll enjoy the expected perks like fewer passengers and more personalized service – but you'll also physically get closer to the boundless wilderness, abundant wildlife, icy blue glaciers and majestic snow-capped mountains that you've waited a lifetime to see.

While the fares to sail on such vessels are quite a bit higher than those of larger cruise providers, the all-inclusive (or mostly all-inclusive) prices typically include all-suite accommodations with balconies, all meals, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, 24-hour room service, Wi-Fi access, gratuities, welcome bottles of sparkling wine, pillow selection, some shore excursions and butler service. Best of all, you won't feel like you're being nickel-and-dimed while on board. As a special touch, the attentive crew members may even learn your name and memorize your preferred pre-dinner cocktail.

Unlike many mainstream lines, most luxury Alaska cruises do not offer pre- and post-cruise tours to extend your adventure. However, you can plan these experiences on your own through third-party providers.

Alaska Tour & Travel has pre-cruise packages that include visits to Denali National Park & Preserve and the small, quirky Alaska towns of Homer and Talkeetna. You can also see a different side of Alaska via a train ride on the Alaska Railroad, take a national parks tour that includes Kenai Fjords National Park or head northbound to Fairbanks , one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights (if you visit during aurora season, from late August to late April). In addition, the company can plan a self-drive tour from Anchorage to Seward, which includes a stay at a wilderness lodge, helicopter flightseeing over Knik Glacier and guided tours in the parks.

The following luxury cruise lines will ensure you make the most of your voyage in Alaska – one of the most magical destinations on Earth.

Find your perfect cruise

Silversea Cruises

Pool deck on the Silversea Nova.

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises' small luxury ships are designed for adventurers interested in visiting a mix of Alaska's top ports and more rugged, off-the-beaten-track locales. Extended itineraries offer stops in less-visited destinations like the towns of Haines and Wrangell. On board, guests can expect a personalized experience that includes luxurious ocean-view suites with butler service, multiple gourmet dining options, complimentary alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, and attentive service with one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios in the industry.

Base fares for Silversea's 2024 and 2025 Alaska itineraries start at $3,250 per person. If you upgrade to Silversea 's door-to-door fare (which starts at $5,200 per person), you'll receive private chauffeur service from your home to the airport (and back home upon your return) and round-trip flights, with business class upgrades in some destinations.

Silversea also offers immersive pre- and post-cruise land experiences, departing from Seward, Alaska. Highlights include sightseeing flights over Denali National Park & Preserve or into bear country to see Alaska's magnificent grizzly bears. In Vancouver, travelers can take a flightseeing transfer to Victoria to tour the 55-acre Butchart Gardens or board the Rocky Mountaineer for a two-day train ride through the Canadian Rockies.

Silversea's Alaska itineraries extend from May to September, with voyages ranging between seven and 16 days. The line's newest and largest vessel, the 728-passenger Silver Nova , sails its inaugural Alaska season in 2024 along with two smaller ships, Silver Muse (596 guests) and Silver Shadow (392 guests). There are 35 Alaska voyages available in 2024. In 2025, luxury cruisers can hop aboard one of 45 scheduled voyages on either Silver Nova or the 596-guest Silver Moon .

For a seven-day itinerary, consider a sailing from Seward, Alaska, to Vancouver, British Columbia. This voyage cruises the Hubbard Glacier and the Inside Passage and stops in the Alaska towns of Juneau, Skagway, Sitka and Ketchikan. Complimentary excursions in Ketchikan include a tour of Saxman Native Village; a visit to Bonfire Bay Oyster Farm, featuring a sea-to-table oyster tasting; the Alaskan Cultural, Culinary & Lumberjack show; the Alaskan Lodge Adventure & Seafeast and a day as a fisherman aboard the Aleutian Ballard, as seen on Discovery Channel's "The Deadliest Catch." You can also opt for a Selected Shore Excursion (for an additional cost), such as mountain biking or a private fishing trip.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Bed in the Concierge Suite on the Regent Seven Seas Explorer.

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises' elegant Seven Seas Explorer sails the line's Alaska itineraries in 2024 and 2025. The lavish 746-guest ship was coined "The Most Luxurious Ship Ever Built" when it debuted in 2016; among its impressive features are the 3,875-square-foot Regent Suite and a high-end collection of art displayed throughout the ship, including works by Pablo Picasso.

Alaska voyages with Regent in 2024 and 2025 start at $4,799 per person. Upgraded 2-for-1 all-inclusive fares (starting at $5,499 per person) cover elegant all-balcony suite accommodations; round-trip airfare (business class on international flights); a one-night pre-cruise hotel package; free two- or three-night land programs; free unlimited shore excursions; free unlimited beverages (alcoholic and nonalcoholic); complimentary specialty dining; and prepaid gratuities. You'll also receive complimentary airport transfers, unlimited Wi-Fi access and valet laundry service.

Every suite style includes a private balcony, roomy closets and upscale finishes. Concierge Suites (and above) add cozy in-room amenities like cashmere blankets, perfect to bundle up in while you take in the scenery. Meanwhile, Penthouse Suites (and higher) include a private butler who can book excursions, make dinner and spa reservations, unpack your luggage, arrange for a private cocktail soiree in your suite and indulge any other special requests.

Between May and September 2024, Regent sails 22 Alaska voyages. There are 16 Alaska sailings scheduled for the same period in 2025. Itineraries range from seven to 14 nights. For plenty of scenic cruising days, consider a round-trip itinerary from Vancouver departing May 28, 2025. The cruise includes five relaxing days at sea, where you'll enjoy scenic cruising through the Inside Passage (twice), Hubbard Glacier (twice) and Endicott Arm Fjord. Ports of call in Alaska include Wrangell, Juneau , Skagway, Sitka, Seward, Icy Strait (Hoonah) and Ketchikan. You'll also have a full day in Victoria, British Columbia, before returning to Vancouver.

While in Wrangell, consider the Tongass Botanical Forest Walk excursion. Tongass National Forest is the largest national forest in the U.S., with towering old-growth trees and unique flora, fauna and ecosystems. While in the temperate rainforest with your naturalist guide, look for local wildlife like Sitka black-tailed deer, porcupines and birds of prey. Other complimentary excursions at this stop include a round of golf at Muskeg Meadows Golf Course; a canoe trip through Wrangell harbor and nearby islands, and a heritage tour about Tlingit culture and the history of the town.

Nobu restaurant on a Crystal cruise ship.

Recently relaunched Crystal offers just seven voyages in Alaska aboard Crystal Serenity in July and August 2024. The 740-guest luxury vessel was refurbished in 2023 and features the line's signature top-notch service, elegant interiors and suites, and personal butler service in every room category.

Other perks and amenities include plush bathrobes and Sicily's Ortigia bath products; an impressive passenger-to-crew ratio; prepaid gratuities; complimentary beverages; and outstanding cuisine, including Umi Uma (an exclusive Nobu restaurant at sea, available only on Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony ). Guests can also feast on Italian cuisine at Osteria d'Ovidio; book an exclusive dining experience at The Vintage Room; indulge in Parisian cafe-style fare at The Bistro; opt for American cuisine at Waterside Restaurant or take their pick of several other casual indoor and alfresco options.

Cruisers also have their selection of unique shore experiences curated by Crystal's parent company A&K Travel Group, such as a ride on the world's largest zip line in Hoonah (Icy Strait Point); dog sledding and glacier flightseeing in Skagway; fishing and wilderness dining in Ketchikan and the Wildlife Quest and Fin Island Lodge experience in Sitka, boasting a feast of Alaska king crab and wild salmon.

Crystal offers seven- and eight-night round-trip voyages from Vancouver , as well as one-way cruises from Vancouver or Seward, Alaska. Select itineraries – like the July 30, 2024, voyage from Vancouver to Seward – offer a scenic cruising day in the Seymour Narrows in British Columbia. On this sailing, you'll also enjoy a day at sea cruising Hubbard Glacier, as well as stops in Ketchikan, Sitka, Hoonah (Icy Strait), Skagway and Sitka in Alaska. Or, opt for the July 2, 2024, round-trip sailing from Vancouver for three scenic cruising days in the Inside Passage, Endicott Arm and the Seymour Narrows.

The line's Aug. 13, 2024, round-trip sailing from Vancouver features a special guest: Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio, the executive chairman of A&K Travel Group. As such, the cruise will include an exclusive gala dinner and other unique experiences. Other special voyages welcome marine biologist and National Geographic photographer Flip Nicklin, who will share personal stories from his extensive career and expert insights about humpback whale habitats and behaviors.

norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Viking Ocean Cruises

The Restaurant on a Viking cruise ship.

Courtesy of Viking

Viking Ocean Cruises' 11-day Alaska & the Inside Passage cruise is available on 11 dates during the 2024 season. It sails from Vancouver to Seward (or the reverse) on the 930-passenger Viking Orion . In 2025, the line offers the same itinerary on 22 dates between May and September, split between Viking Orion and its sister ship, the 930-passenger Viking Sea .

Viking's destination-focused itineraries are curated for travelers who are interested in history, science, culture and cuisine, as they feature onboard enrichment like lectures by Viking's resident historians. You'll also find regionally inspired dishes in The Restaurant and special access to unique tours and excursions ashore.

The line's mostly all-inclusive fares cover accommodations in spacious all-veranda staterooms and suites; beer, wine and soft drinks at lunch and dinner; meals at all the dining venues; one shore excursion in every port; free Wi-Fi access; 24-hour specialty teas, coffees and bottled water; complimentary access to The Nordic Spa & Fitness Center; and other upscale amenities.

Voyages traveling northbound from Vancouver include one day of scenic cruising through the Inside Passage before stopping in Ketchikan, Sitka, Juneau, Skagway and Icy Strait Point in Alaska. The eighth day of the cruise sails through picturesque Yakutat Bay, which includes the Hubbard Glacier. The ship then calls on Valdez, Alaska, before the trip ends with two days in Seward.

While in Valdez, take an optional tour to explore the incredible scenery surrounding the small fishing town. Viking offers a kayaking trip to see the Valdez Glacier; a scenic cruise through picturesque Prince William Sound to view the Columbia Glacier; a wildlife cruise where you can look for humpback whales, orcas, porpoises, sea otters and bald eagles; a helicopter ride over the area's rugged, icy wilderness; or a UTV adventure through the Chugach Mountains to Mineral Creek Canyon.

Seabourn Cruise Line

The aft pool on a Seabourn Cruise Line ship.

Courtesy of Seabourn Cruise Line

Between May and August 2024, Seabourn Cruise Line will host 20 Alaska voyages aboard the Seabourn Odyssey , before the ship leaves the cruise line in the fall. In 2025, the line offers 27 Alaska sailings on Seabourn Quest. Both yacht-inspired ships accommodate up to 458 guests and feature Seabourn's signature all-inclusive amenities, including luxurious oceanfront suites with verandas; personalized service; complimentary fine wines and premium spirits; complimentary dining; and caviar served throughout the sailing. You'll also have a complimentary W-Fi package and an in-suite minibar stocked with your favorite beverages. Ashore, sign up for exclusive programs like shopping for fresh salmon, halibut and Alaska king crab alongside a Seabourn chef.

Guests booking Seabourn Quest for 2025 will be able to sample the line's new dining concept, Solis. Inspired by destinations in the Mediterranean, the menu features a fresh, modern take on traditional dishes and whimsical cocktails. The restaurant is a collaboration with master chef and culinary partner Anton Egger and senior corporate chef Franck Salein. In addition to dishes like salt-encrusted whole branzino and Tuscan-style steak, guests will also find a wide selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes.

The seven-day Alaska Fjords & Canadian Inside Passage itinerary on May 31, 2024, aboard Seabourn Odyssey, sails from Juneau to Vancouver and includes a day in either Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm, depending on the ice conditions. From there, you can take one of the optional guided excursions: Ventures by Seabourn. These tours are an additional cost but offer opportunities for up-close Zodiac, kayaking or catamaran experiences in the wilderness to see glaciers calving and view local wildlife, such as black bears, mountain goats, seals, wolves and seabirds.

You'll also enjoy many days of scenic cruising on this voyage, and have the opportunity for more optional adventures in Rudyerd Bay (Misty Fjords). The ship makes additional stops in Wrangell, Alaska, and Prince Rupert, British Columbia, before disembarking in Vancouver.

If you want to see stunning Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, then consider booking the seven-day Alaska Inside Passage & Glacier Bay sailing on May 10, 2024, from Vancouver to Juneau. This itinerary also includes the Seymour Narrows and Snow Pass, cruising Queen Island Sound and the Lynn Canal. There's a stop for Ventures by Seabourn activities like kayaking and Zodiac rides in the Inian Islands. The Alaska ports of call on this voyage are Ketchikan, Sitka, Icy Strait Point and Haines. You'll disembark in Juneau.

Bed in cabin on PONANT Le Soléal.

Francois Lefebvre | Courtesy of PONANT

French luxury expedition line PONANT offers 10 Alaska cruises in 2024; itineraries span between seven and 11 nights. Aboard the 264-guest yacht-style Le Soléal, you'll meet up to 10 naturalist experts and guides specializing in geology, history, ornithology or marine or land mammals. Guests can attend onboard lectures and embark on Zodiac landings with the guides.

The ship features elegant staterooms and suites, a library, a spa, a hair salon and a gym. Guests will be treated to movies in the theater, wine tastings and cooking demonstrations throughout the expedition. All fine dining meals, 24-hour room service, an open bar (including an in-room minibar) and complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi access are covered in the pricing.

Two of PONTANT's eight-night voyages from Vancouver to Sitka are in partnership with Smithsonian Journeys and are curated for English-speaking travelers. Fares for these expeditions include transfers to and from the ship and a shore excursion in each port. On board, you can attend talks and discussions hosted by two Smithsonian Journeys experts: geologist Scott Burns and natural history filmmaker John Grabowska.

On these voyages, there is a sea day after departing Vancouver. You'll cruise through the Johnstone Strait, where you'll have an excellent chance of seeing humpback whales and orcas. After a day spent in the Inside Passage, the ship will call on the village of Metlakatla, Alaska, on the western coast of Annette Island, which is home to the Tsimshians from British Columbia. Other unique Alaska ports of call in this itinerary include the commercial fishing town of Petersburg, the Tlingit village of Kake and the small fishing community of Alfin Cove.

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 explore the state's vast wilderness and abundant wildlife, and to chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. Pratesi used her extensive knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

  • The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises
  • The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska
  • Alaska Cruise Packing List: Must-Have Items
  • The Top Alaska Cruise Lines
  • The Top Antarctica Cruises

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Alaska Vacations

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IMAGES

  1. Skagway, Alaska Ocean Raft Wildlife Adventure Excursion

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  2. Ketchikan (Ward Cove), Alaska Misty Fjords & Wilderness Explorer

    norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

  3. Best things to do in Skagway from a cruise ship 2023 🏔 + free on your

    norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

  4. Skagway, Alaska ~ Norwegian Cruise Lines

    norwegian cruise line skagway excursions

  5. Skagway, Alaska Skagway's Original Street Car Excursion

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  6. 7-night Alaska Round-trip Seattle Glacier Bay, Juneau, and Ketchikan

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VIDEO

  1. (4K) NORWEGIAN GETAWAY 02/26/2023

  2. UTV excursion in Skagway Alaska Review

  3. Norwegian Getaway

  4. Boarding a Cruise Ship in Port (Skagway, Alaska)

  5. NCL Jewel

  6. Amazing Ride on the White Pass Railway + Skagway, Alaska Part 1

COMMENTS

  1. Alaska Cruises Skagway, Alaska Shore Excursions

    Skagway, Alaska. Duration 2 1/2 hrs. Ride through some of Southeast Alaska's most inspiring wilderness on a vintage railway that operated during the Klondike Gold Rush in the late 1890s. ... Adult from: $209.00 USD. Child from: $109.00 USD. No reviews yet. DURATION 2 1/2 hrs.

  2. Skagway, Alaska White Pass Scenic Railway Excursion

    No trip to Alaska is complete without a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route narrow gauge railroad. Take the unforgettable journey aboard the "Scenic Railway of the World" and travel from tidewater to the summit of White Pass, a 2,865 foot elevation. Ride 40 miles round-trip in vintage rail cars as you retrace the original route to White Pass ...

  3. Skagway, Alaska Skagway Adventure Hike Excursion

    Dining on sale - Exclusive Dining Offer. Reserve your dining now. 25422881. Apr 1, 2014. Norwegian Communications Center. Norwegian Communications Center. Make a payment and confirm your reservation. Don't Lose Your Reservation! 25422881.

  4. Musher's Camp & S'More Roasting Adventure

    14-Day Authentic Alaska - Northbound Cruisetour | Norwegian Cruise Line; 14-Day Authentic Alaska - Southbound Cruisetour | Deck Plans | Norwegian Cruise Line ... Flexibility to modify or cancel excursions without penalty up to 48 hours prior to arrival into port. ... Your journey begins with an entertaining historic tour from your knowledgeable ...

  5. Cruises to Skagway, Alaska

    Norwegian Communications Center. Norwegian Communications Center. Make a payment and confirm your reservation. Don't Lose Your Reservation! 25422881. Apr 1, 2014. Skagway.

  6. Skagway White Pass Railway cruise excursions in Alaska

    White Pass train price. A train conductor looks out at a docked cruise ship in Skagway, Alaska. WHITE PASS AND YUKON ROUTE RAILWAY. Like the mountain over which the locomotives run, the cost to ride the train along the White Pass Summit route is steep. Tickets purchased online at least 24 hours in advance are $142 per adult and $71 per child ...

  7. The 5 Best Skagway Shore Excursions for Your Alaska Cruise (2024)

    As you can see, the top options for cruise excursions in Skagway have changed a lot recently; many of the shore excursions I recommend are new on the list this year, and most of those are more traditional Alaska cruise excursion activities you'll see in other ports (ziplining, flightseeing, etc.) - but there are a few great ones that have held on to the list in 2024.

  8. Skagway Shore Tours & Excursions

    Skagway Shore Tours & Excursions. We provide the best tours in Skagway for cruise ship passengers and independent travelers. Locally-owned and operated by expert guides. We're passionate about sharing the best of Skagway with our guests and are here to help you with all of your travel planning needs!

  9. Skagway White Pass Railroad Summit Excursion & Train Tour

    The Skagway White Pass Railroad Summit Excursion is our most popular Skagway excursion! Begin your excursion as you board the train in Skagway and travel 20 miles from tidewater to the Summit of the White Pass - a 2,865-foot elevation! Every passenger enjoys vast canyon views and complimentary bottled water throughout the fully narrated tour.

  10. Skagway Shore Excursion Reviews

    Find Things to Do in Skagway on Viator. 1. White Pass Scenic Railway. 2. Dog Sledding. 3. Yukon Van Tour. 4. Scenic Drive.

  11. The Best Excursion for First-Time Cruisers to Skagway

    There are a number of ways to book the White Pass Scenic Railway excursion. You can book in advance through your cruise line or onboard through the excursions desk, in advance through a private company, or once you arrive in Skagway at the train station, which is a short walk from the cruise pier (assuming there are tickets still available).

  12. Cruise Guide: 15 Tips and Things to Do in Skagway, Alaska

    Take a Ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route Rail. One of the most popular excursions is a ride on the White Pass railway, which takes you from Skagway up into the mountains. If there is one excursion that's most popular in Skagway, then it has to be taking a scenic ride on the railway.

  13. Best Skagway Excursions & Tours

    Skagway White Pass Railroad Summit Excursion & Train Tour. 4.7. 2.5-2.75 hrs. $146 / person. One of the most popular tours in Skagway, the White Pass Railroad summit tour isn't one to miss. This fully narrated excursion will take you by train up to the summit of the White Pass which is 2,888-feet in elevation!

  14. 20 Best Things to do in Skagway Alaska Cruise Port

    Here are some of the best Skagway excursions. 1. Ride the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway. This breathtaking train ride will take you on the White Pass Summit route that gold miners took in 1898. You'll see glaciers, waterfalls, mountains and even signs of the original Klondike trail worn into rocks.

  15. The 6 best Alaska cruise shore excursions

    The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway travels through the mountains around Skagway, Alaska. TRAVEL ALASKA. Call it the iconic attraction of Skagway, Alaska. A ride into the mountains on this narrow-gauge railroad is the tour everybody takes when visiting the Gold Rush town-turned-tourist hub.

  16. Dog Sledding in Alaska: What You Should Know

    A dog sledding excursion is likely to be the highlight of your cruise to Alaska.Dog sled tours are offered in Juneau and Skagway.We chose Norwegian Cruise Line's "Dog Sledding & Glacier ...

  17. Best Alaska Shore Excursions

    Alaska shore excursions give you an up-close view of this wild, beautiful state. Check out our list of the best Alaska cruise excursions, from Alaska helicopter tours to the White Pass Railway.

  18. Skagway, Alaska: White Pass Yukon Railway and Bus Excursion

    The White Pass Railway has a rich history that dates back to the Klondike Gold Rush. The railway was built and completed between 1898 and 1900 to provide a transportation route from the coastal port of Skagway, Alaska, to the gold fields of the Yukon Territory in Canada. The views from the train were simply breathtaking, with the tracks winding ...

  19. The 11 Best Alaska Cruise Excursions in 2024

    Family-friendly Princess Cruises, in its 55 th season plying Alaskan waters, delivers exemplary excursions that include learning about gold rush history and gold-panning, as well as fishing trips ...

  20. Skagway Cruise Reviews (2023 UPDATED): Ratings of Skagway Cruise Port

    1 - 10 of 1,142 Skagway Cruise Reviews. Review for a Alaska Cruise on Norwegian Encore. Jaworskym. 2-5 Cruises • Age 50s. Read More. Sail Date: October 2023. Helpful. Review for a Alaska Cruise ...

  21. Best of Skagway Shore Excursion NCL Star 6/26 Sailing

    Hi, we are first time crusiers sailing on the Star on 6/26 and are trying to decide which excursions to book in advance. We have decided to stick with the NCL trips but would like imput from people who have been on these excursions especially the Best of Skagway (SGY-0041 6 1/2 hours).

  22. What excursions have you taken in Skagway?

    Norwegian Cruise Line ; What excursions have you taken in Skagway? Please Read: COVID-related Discussion ... go to ncl.com, click on ship excursions, then destinations, then select each port you're going to. ... In Skagway, we did an excursion that NCL doesn't appear to offer anymore. It was a half-day hike and train combo that they charged ...

  23. Skagway, AK

    i did the round-trip...3 1/2 hours. if we hadn't had a sick FIL on the ship..i would have preferred to do the longer rail/bus combos. the round-trip is nice. when you book it through the cruiseline, you board right at the docks. the views are great..no air conditioning, but the windows open. plus the great veiwing platform. they have a speaker system and tell you the history of the area. when ...

  24. 5 Independent Shore Excursions For Cruise Visitors In Flåm ...

    If you're planning to visit Flåm on a Norwegian fjords cruise this summer, you certainly won't be alone. Last year, 112 cruise ships with almost 240,000 passengers called in at the small ...

  25. 6 Top Luxury Alaska Cruises for 2024 & Beyond

    Regent Seven Seas Cruises' elegant Seven Seas Explorer sails the line's Alaska itineraries in 2024 and 2025. The lavish 746-guest ship was coined "The Most Luxurious Ship Ever Built" when it ...