Alaska is a dream destination for many cruise lovers, and Princess Cruises provides the perfect gateway to this majestic wilderness. From breathtaking glaciers to quaint frontier towns, an Alaskan cruise offers something for everyone—but it’s the excursions that truly make the experience unforgettable.

If you’re sailing with Princess Cruises, here’s your guide to the best Alaskan excursions by port, with the adventure and natural beauty that Alaska is known for.

1. Juneau

Princess Cruises’ Alaska hub—discover glaciers, wildlife, and more!

Top Excursions with Princess Cruises:

Helicopter Glacier Landing & Dog Sledding For an unforgettable adventure, board a helicopter and land on a glacier. Experience dog sledding on ice—something you can’t do anywhere else. This Princess Exclusive excursion is a highlight of the Alaskan journey. Mendenhall Glacier & Nugget Falls Take a scenic bus ride from the port to Mendenhall Glacier for an easy, family-friendly hike. Princess also offers a Mendenhall Glacier Tour, perfect for those looking for a guided adventure and a glimpse at the stunning falls. Whale Watching in Auke Bay Princess Cruises offers amazing whale-watching opportunities. Head out on a dedicated boat to search for humpbacks, orcas, and other marine wildlife in the stunning waters surrounding Juneau.

2. Skagway

Step into history with the Klondike Gold Rush and epic scenery.

Top Excursions with Princess Cruises:

White Pass & Yukon Route Railway Hop aboard the historic train ride—one of the most famous excursions offered by Princess Cruises. Travel up into the mountains and take in stunning views of waterfalls, gorges, and lush forest landscapes. Yukon Discovery Tour (Canada) Take a border-crossing journey into Canada to see breathtaking wilderness, wildlife, and sled dog camps. This Princess exclusive is perfect for anyone interested in getting off the beaten path. Glacier Point Wilderness Safari This Princess Cruises excursion combines boat, hiking, and kayaking, so you can experience Davidson Glacier from multiple perspectives—by land, sea, and air.

3. Ketchikan

Explore Alaska’s native history and coastal beauty.

Top Excursions with Princess Cruises:

Misty Fjords Seaplane Tour One of the most scenic air tours you’ll find, this Princess Cruises experience takes you high above the Misty Fjords, offering stunning aerial views of the coastline, fjords, and glaciers. Totem Bight State Park & Saxman Native Village Princess Cruises provides a guided tour through these culturally rich sites, where you’ll learn about Native Alaskan traditions, including totem pole carving and local art. Bering Sea Crab Fishermen’s Tour Get up close and personal with the crew from Deadliest Catch as you board a real crab boat and experience the world of commercial fishing first-hand. This immersive Princess exclusive experience is one of the more unique excursions in Ketchikan.

4. Icy Strait Point

Icy Strait is a peaceful gem—perfect for wildlife and adventure.

Top Excursions with Princess Cruises:

Whale Watching & Wildlife Tour With fewer crowds and clear waters, Princess Cruises offers an unforgettable whale-watching experience in Icy Strait. You may also spot eagles, otters, and other Alaskan wildlife on this scenic journey. ZipRider Zipline One of the longest and highest ziplines in the world, Princess Cruises offers this exhilarating ride through the Alaskan wilderness. It’s a must for adrenaline seekers looking for an unforgettable view of the coast. Tlingit Cultural Tour & Walking Tour Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Tlingit people on a walking tour that dives into the culture, art, and traditions of Alaska’s native population. This cultural experience is Princess exclusive.

5. Sitka

An off-the-beaten-path gem with a mix of Russian history and natural beauty.

Top Excursions with Princess Cruises:

Sea Otter & Wildlife Quest Explore the pristine waters of Sitka Sound on a wildlife tour that is sure to delight. From sea otters to whales, this Princess Cruises tour guarantees plenty of opportunities for wildlife sightings. Fortress of the Bear & Raptor Center For animal lovers, this is a must-see. Visit the Fortress of the Bear and the Sitka Raptor Center to learn about rescued Alaskan wildlife. It’s a great excursion for families with children. Kayaking in Sitka Sound Paddle through the tranquil waters of Sitka Sound surrounded by towering mountains and remote islands. This excursion, offered by Princess Cruises, is perfect for active families looking to experience Alaska from a peaceful vantage point.

Booking Tips for Princess Cruises Alaska Excursions:

Book early! Princess Cruises allows you to reserve excursions in advance, and the best tours can sell out quickly—especially the glacier and wildlife tours. Compare prices. While booking with Princess is easy, consider also researching local options for the same excursions—it may help you find a great deal. Layer your clothing. Weather in Alaska is notoriously unpredictable. Dress in layers, and always bring waterproof gear to be prepared for sudden showers. Bring binoculars. For whale watching, wildlife viewing, and glacier sightings, binoculars are essential for getting the best views.

Final Thoughts

An Alaskan cruise with Princess Cruises offers endless opportunities for adventure. Whether you’re dog-sledding on a glacier, riding a historic train, or getting up close to the wildlife, the excursions you choose will shape your journey and create lifelong memories.

Have you been on an Alaskan cruise with Princess Cruises? What excursions would you recommend? Let us know in the comments!

Planning your Alaskan cruise with Princess? Don’t forget to bookmark or share this list of must-do excursions to make your trip even more magical!