If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting Alaska, let me tell you—it’s even more breathtaking than you can imagine. From awe-inspiring landscapes to unique wildlife encounters, Alaska offers once-in-a-lifetime experiences that make it a bucket-list destination. As a travel agent (and someone who just celebrated my 50th wedding anniversary there!), I’m thrilled to share the highlights of my unforgettable Alaskan Cruise Tour and why you should make Alaska your next adventure.
Flying Into Alaska: Fairbanks and the Arctic Circle
Our journey began with a first-class Delta Airlines flight into Fairbanks, a charming gateway to Alaska’s wilderness. Staying at the Princess Fairbanks Hotel, we were surrounded by lush flower and vegetable gardens thriving under Alaska’s endless summer daylight. The walking trails, featuring a replica hunting cabin and food cache, provided a fascinating glimpse into Alaskan traditions.
Arctic Circle Excursion
One of the highlights of Fairbanks was an excursion into the Arctic Circle. We flew in a small 8-seater plane over untouched wilderness, landing in the remote town of Coldfoot. From there, we traveled to Wildman, home to only 11 year-round residents. Hearing about their unique way of life was eye-opening and unforgettable.
Exploring Fairbanks
Back in Fairbanks, we embarked on a steam-powered paddleboat cruise along the Chena River, where we spotted reindeer and learned about Native Alaskan culture and gold dredging operations. A slow-paced exploration of downtown Fairbanks offered a chance to soak in the local charm.
Denali National Park: A Must-See Destination
From Fairbanks, we traveled to the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge, just a mile from the entrance to Denali National Park. This property provided stunning views and easy access to walking trails that showcased Alaska’s raw beauty.
Witnessing Mount Denali
The highlight of Denali was our guided tour of the national park, where we were lucky enough to see Mount Denali, North America’s tallest peak. Often shrouded in clouds, the mountain is visible only 30% of the time, making this sighting truly special. We brought home a beautiful print to commemorate the moment!
Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge
Our next stop was the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge, where the lodge’s expansive deck provided breathtaking views of the Denali Valley. We even explored a treehouse designed by Animal Planet’s Treehouse Masters for a fun twist. A quick shuttle to Talkeetna, a quaint Alaskan village, gave us the chance to sample reindeer sausage and shop for local crafts.
The Scenic Alaskan Railroad
Boarding the Alaskan Railroad in Talkeetna was like stepping into a living postcard. The train journey to Anchorage and Whittier offered dramatic views of glaciers, rushing rivers, and majestic wildlife like eagles and Dall sheep. It was a scenic prelude to the next part of our journey—our Alaskan Cruise Tour!
Luxury Cruising with Princess Cruises
Onboard the Royal Princess cruise ship, we embarked on a luxurious Alaskan Cruise Tour. Our portside balcony stateroom was the perfect retreat, providing front-row views of glaciers, waterfalls, and even whales.
Unforgettable Excursions
- Helicopter Ride to Mendenhall Glacier: Flying over the glacier was exhilarating, but walking on its icy surface and tasting pure glacial ice was surreal.
- Wildlife Encounters: A short hike led us to a river where we spotted salmon, eagles, and even a young grizzly bear.
- Bering Sea Crab Boat Adventure: Stepping aboard a real Bering Sea crab boat brought the fishing lifestyle to life. Hearing stories from the crew and seeing their gear up close was fascinating.
Why an Alaskan Cruise Tour Should Be on Your Bucket List
1. Once-in-a-Lifetime Experiences
From flying into the Arctic Circle to walking on glaciers, Alaska offers unparalleled adventures that you’ll treasure forever.
2. Stunning Scenery
Whether it’s the grandeur of Denali, the serenity of Talkeetna, or the icy beauty of the Inside Passage, Alaska’s landscapes will leave you speechless.
3. Incredible Wildlife
Few places on Earth rival Alaska’s wildlife, from whales and grizzlies to bald eagles and reindeer.
Travel Tips for Your Alaskan Cruise Tour
- Plan Ahead: Peak season fills up fast, so book excursions and accommodations early.
- Pack Smart: Bring layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy walking shoes for Alaska’s variable weather.
- Work with a Travel Professional: Alaska is vast, and planning can feel overwhelming. A travel agent ensures a seamless, stress-free experience tailored to your preferences.
Ready to Plan Your Alaskan Cruise Tour?
Alaska is unlike any other destination. It’s a place of rugged beauty, unique wildlife, and once-in-a-lifetime adventures. Whether you’re dreaming of a luxury cruise, exploring Denali, or tasting glacial ice, I’d love to help you plan your perfect getaway.
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📧 Email Linda to start planning your Alaskan Cruise Tour: [email protected]
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Let’s make your Alaskan dreams a reality!.