Raelene Parsons, LeGrow's Travel Advisor
​Corner Brook-Dominion
rparsons@legrowstravel.ca

“With literally thousands of miles of scenic coastline to explore, Alaska accommodates every kind of adventure. From authentic and charming frontier towns to awesome glacial fields and mountain scenery, this is a magical destination filled with raw energy and fresh air!”

All Aboard for Alaska!
Prime Sailing Season: May-September

“Alaska is one of my favourite destinations,” says Janet Chambers, Maritime Travel Advisor, ​Vernon, BC.  “It offers literally thousands of miles of scenic coastline that make it a draw for cruise ships and each port of call – from the charming islands of Ketchikan to Glacier Bay National Park and on to such iconic Alaskan frontier towns as Skagway – offers a unique perspective on this wonderfully diverse destination.”

For sure, passengers enjoy trolling Alaska’s history and frontier ambiance, but the 49th state’s main calling cards are its wildlife and scenery. “You get to witness wonders like the roar of calving ice atop bright blue glaciers, or sightings of bears, seals and seabirds in their natural tundra habitat – right from the deck of your ship. It’s almost beyond words,” says Raelene.

As to Alaska’s most preferred port? “It’s hard to pick a favorite, although Ketchikan and Skagway top most Alaska bucket lists. These are mainstay ports of call on Inside Passage sailings from Vancouver and well worth the price of admission.”

Recommended Port Stop: Ketchikan

Comprised of three picturesque islands, this lovely community is situated right in the heart of the 16-million-acre Tongass National Forest. The ship ties up just metres from charming shops and of course, the local tour departure points.

While in Port …

Deanne recommends the Ketchikan Salmon Fishing excursion available on many itineraries. This four-hour fishing adventure includes a guided 25- to 30-minute coach tour along the Tongass Narrows en route to the marina. From there, passengers board a modern fishing boat and head to the nearby salmon fishing grounds in the sheltered waters of Clover Passage. “Keep an eye out for eagles, whales, seals, sea lions and lots of other wildlife,” says Raelene. ​

Recommended Port Stop: Skagway

At the height of the Klondike Gold Rush, the port town of Skagway served as the primary gateway to the legendary gold fields, and quickly grew into Alaska’s largest settlement. Today it has been reinvigorated as a gateway for a new kind of visitor: those looking to explore Alaska’s colorful history, pristine wildlife and unrivaled natural beauty.

While in Port …

For an experience that’s straight out of an adventure novel, Deanne recommends the Glacier Discovery by Helicopter excursion. You’ll lift off by helicopter from the historic Skagway waterfront and head into a rugged region of sheer mountains, majestic valleys and massive glaciers. Once you arrive at your destination you’ll enjoy the walking tour of a lifetime—directly on the surface of an actual glacier.