Alaska Cruise Report: A Majestic Trip For All

Our itinerary featured spectacular stops in Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan (Ward Cove), Glacier Bay National Park, and Victoria, British Columbia. Each destination offered its own unique charm and incredible opportunities to connect with nature.

Our first stop was in Juneau, where we visited the stunning Mendenhall Glacier, affectionately called “the Mighty Mendy” by locals. This 13-mile-long river of ice is one of the most accessible glaciers in North America and an awe-inspiring sight. We hiked the scenic trail to the nearby Nugget Falls, a powerful and roaring waterfall cascading next to the glacier. The trail was easy enough for the kids and scenic enough to delight everyone!

The adventure continued with a whale-watching tour, and I can honestly say it was one of the most memorable experiences of my life! We had the opportunity to witness humpback whales actively surfacing and breaching. Just when we thought it couldn’t get better, a pod of orcas appeared, and swam right up to our boat!

Pod of orcas spotted while whale watching in Juneau

In Skagway, we decided to venture out on our own with jeep rentals and a scenic drive into Canada’s Yukon Territory. This drive gave us the freedom to explore at our own pace, with plenty of photo stops along the way to soak in the sweeping mountain views, pristine lakes, and remote wilderness. Please note: passports are required for anyone over age 16 crossing the border.

For those who prefer not to drive, the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway is a top-rated alternative. It offers a scenic, narrated ride through the same landscape with fascinating historical context about the Klondike Gold Rush.

The next day was a highlight for everyone onboard—scenic cruising through Glacier Bay National Park. Towering glaciers, icebergs, and snow-capped peaks surrounded us in every direction. One of the many reasons I recommend booking a balcony stateroom for Alaska is the ability to take in views like these in cozy comfort. With a hot drink in hand, wrapped in a blanket, I spent hours watching this dramatic and peaceful world go by.

Fun fact: Glacier Bay is home to over 1,000 glaciers, and the park itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rangers come aboard to share insights, adding depth to this remarkable experience.

Glacier Bay scenic views. Just spectacular!

Our next stop was Ketchikan, also known as “Alaska’s First City,” and it offered tons of family-friendly fun. From lumberjack shows that kept the kids laughing, to floatplane tours, wildlife spotting, and local shops filled with unique Alaskan gifts, there was something for everyone. It was also a great port to relax or explore at your own pace. Whether grabbing lunch as a family, taking a nature walk, or shopping for souvenirs, our group loved this lively and charming town.

Our final port was the enchanting city of Victoria, British Columbia. Arriving in the evening made the experience even more magical. The city came alive with twinkling lights, blooming flowers, and an incredible sunset over the harbor. It was the perfect ending to a spectacular journey and a memory we’ll all cherish forever!

This trip was the perfect example of why Alaska cruises are ideal for families, multigenerational groups, and group travel in general:

• It offers activities for all ages: From glacier hikes to scenic train rides, wildlife tours, and cultural experiences, everyone in your group will find something to love.

• Effortless logistics: Unpack once and visit multiple destinations without the stress of flights or long drives.

• Group bonding time: Shared experiences, dinners together, and downtime onboard create lasting memories.

• Customizable excursions: Tailor your day in port to each traveler’s interest or ability level.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our cruises page.