When it comes to the top Alaska destinations, adventure is around every corner. From Tongass National Forest to Glacier Bay National Park, here are the most popular Alaska destinations to explore on your next cruise or cruise tour holiday.
Alaska Destinations on a Cruise
When you sail on a Princess cruise, get up close to some of the world’s most famous glaciers. Journey through breathtaking fjords and witness beloved wildlife in their natural habitat.
Glacier Bay National Park
Glacier Bay National Park is one of the most popular destinations in Alaska. Admire the snow-capped mountains and sky-high glaciers from the comfort of the ship. Learn about this unique area from park rangers who come on board, or sit back and watch animals — like sea otters and whales — relaxing in their natural habitat. However you choose to experience Glacier Bay National Park, do it without ever having to leave your Princess ship.
Anchorage
While the largest city in Alaska boasts modern buildings, Anchorage also retains historical charm with notes of late Victorian and Tudor Revival architecture. However, you won’t find Anchorage’s most alluring characteristic in the construction of this town, but rather in the people — and the wildlife — that reside here. Locals fish for their own dinner in shallow waters off the shore while moose meander across paved streets. Anchorage is truly an adventurist’s nirvana. Steps away from the heart of the city, lakes and calving glaciers invite visitors to take in the scenery by boat, plane or train. Board a raft on Spencer Lake and drift past glacial monuments. Or hop onto a charming tram for a 25-kilometre exploration of Anchorage’s past and present.
Tongass National Forest
With over 7 million hectares of land, Tongass National Forest is home to a collection of landscapes and wildlife. Ferns carpet the forest floor while Sitka spruce trees tower over the terrain. Traverse rivers by way of wooden boardwalks and descend hills with the help of man-made stairs that blend perfectly into the environment. Weave your way through these lands and keep an eye out for grizzly bears scouring the waters for fresh catch or eagles soaring above.
Alaska Destinations on a Cruise Tour
On a Princess cruise tour, spend more time on land exploring Alaska’s winding rivers, meeting locals and their sled dogs, or flying over the rolling mountains. With the ability to sail into smaller fjords, our Alaska cruise tours bring you to breathtaking national parks as well as the Golden Heart City, also known as Fairbanks. Spend even more time on land with an overnight stay at one of our exclusive Princess Wilderness Lodges. Located amid legendary natural preserves like Denali National Park, enjoy convenient access to untouched lands and then relax fireside with emerald forests and regal mountains as your backdrop.
Denali National Park and Preserve
Lined with flowers, the sole park road woven throughout Denali National Park and Preserve welcome you to explore parts of this untouched natural land that is spread over two and a half million hectares. Rivers carve through the base of mountains, glaciers decorate the landscapes and hundreds of animals claim residence, including Denali National Park’s Big Five: moose, bears, Dall sheep, caribou, and wolves. Explore these regions on a tour with knowledgeable guides who can teach you about the unique landscapes and the wildlife that call Denali National Park their home.
Kenai Fjords National Park
At 270,000 hectares and decorated by one of the four major ice caps in the United States, Kenai Fjords National Park is a sight to be seen. The Harding Icefield, expanding over 1120 kilometres in length, paints the park white and feeds the glaciers that surround the crystalline fjords. Regal humpback whales leap out of the waters while seals draped over rocks bask in the sun. In this oasis, cruise through the unspoiled water and relish in the artistry of Mother Nature.
Wrangell St.-Elias National Park
As America’s largest national park, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is home to nine of the 16 highest peaks in the United States. Snow blankets the rocky topography, adding even more character to this national treasure. Amidst the vast waters and powder blue glaciers lie some of the largest volcanoes in North America. Raft out and cast your rod into the salmon-filled Copper River to reel in your next meal, all the while taking in the glacial sights around you.
Fairbanks
Known as the Golden Heart City, Fairbanks still holds true to its historical roots. Experience the city’s rich Gold Rush history via sternwheeler or visit one of the region’s many gold mines. You can also tour the city by kayak, floating under the centennial footbridge and enjoying the still waters of Chena River. Or watch sled dogs undergo training at Trail Breaker Kennel. Over in Pioneer Park lies a wonderland of activities for parents and children of any age. Saddle up on the antique carousel, try your hand at disc golf or taste delicacies plucked from Fairbanks’ waters — like fresh Alaska salmon.
From exploring Denali National Park and Preserve to fishing for fresh salmon in Anchorage, the top Alaska destinations are home to adventures for every kind of visitor. Book an Alaska cruise or cruise tour with Princess today and uncover the thrills that await you.
