Alaska by Sea: The Ultimate Princess Cruise Experience

Glacier Bay scenic cruising: Nothing prepares you for the thunderous crack of Margerie Glacier calving or the sight of towering glaciers meeting the sea. Between the dramatic ice formations, floating bergs, and curious sea lions hauled out on ice floes, you’ll want your camera ready every second of this unforgettable day.

Glacier boat excursion (Tracy Arm/Endicott Arm): Board a smaller vessel directly from the cruise ship for an intimate glacier encounter. You’ll feel the cold radiating off the ice face, hear the ancient glacier groaning, and if you’re lucky, the tour guides might fish out a piece of crystal-clear glacier ice filled with tiny air bubbles trapped for centuries.

Whale watching tour (Juneau): Sail out to Admiralty Island near Point Retreat Lighthouse, where humpback mothers teach their calves to feed. Watching these massive creatures surface near your boat while sea lions lounge on nearby buoys feels like stepping into a nature documentary, except you’re living it.

White Pass and Yukon Route Railway (Skagway): This narrow-gauge train climbs through dramatic mountain passes all the way to the Canadian border before returning. The vintage cars and gold rush history combine with spectacular views of waterfalls, glaciers, and steep gorges that photos simply can’t capture.

Wildlife watching from ship: Keep your binoculars handy while sailing between islands since pods of orcas, playful dolphins, and sea otters often appear without warning. During one memorable sailing, we encountered all three species within an hour, turning the open decks into an impromptu wildlife viewing party.

Mendenhall Glacier (Juneau): Skip the pricey tour and take the city bus for an affordable adventure to this accessible glacier. The short hike to Nugget Falls rewards you with stunning views of the glacier face and thundering waterfall, perfect for photographers or anyone wanting to stretch their legs.

Downtown exploration: Each port offers unique character worth discovering on foot. Browse Creek Street’s historic boardwalk in Ketchikan, explore Juneau’s mix of government buildings and local shops, and stroll Skagway’s preserved gold-rush streets where history feels frozen in time.

Crown Grill (Onboard): This specialty steakhouse elevates surf and turf to an art form with perfectly grilled lobster tails and steaks that earn rave reviews. The warm artisan bread service alone sets the tone for an exceptional meal that rivals any high-end restaurant on land.

Salty Dog Gastropub (Onboard): Forget typical cruise burgers, since this spot takes comfort food and adds gourmet twists that actually work. The elevated pub fare pairs perfectly with craft beers, making it an ideal spot for a casual but satisfying meal between adventures.

Good Spirits Bar (Onboard): Watch skilled mixologists transform ordinary cocktails into visual and flavor masterpieces using ingredients from around the world. These aren’t just drinks—they’re conversation starters that add a touch of sophistication to your evening.

Twisted Fish (Juneau): Their smash burger with two patties, cheese, and onions hits differently after a morning of whale watching. The crab cakes here set the bar impossibly high, easily the best I’ve encountered anywhere, with fresh local crab that tastes like the ocean.

V’s Cellar (Juneau): This hidden gem in a cellar space serves creative Mexican and Korean comfort foods paired with beer and wine. The kimchi tacos blend spicy, tangy, and savory in ways that make you rethink everything you know about street food.

Skagway Brewing Company: This warm brewpub offers American comfort food and house microbrews in a cozy atmosphere. After riding the railway, their hearty menu and local beers provide the perfect respite, with the upstairs dining area serving seriously good food.

Sittin’ Sasquatch (Skagway): This quiet, cozy diner serves breakfast worth rushing off the ship for, think fresh omelets with creamy avocado on perfectly toasted bagels. I enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and very friendly staff who make every visit feel welcoming.

Tracy’s King Crab Shack (Juneau): The aroma alone will pull you in, though the crowds might give you pause. Those who brave the lines swear by the fresh Alaskan king crab, and watching happy diners crack shells makes the wait look worthwhile.