‘One of the best trips ever!’ This is a quote from one of our boys after our two week Alaskan adventure a couple of years ago. And I have to say I agree. If you're looking for more than your run-of-the-mill beach vacation this season; consider escaping to the wilds of Alaska. This land of glistening glaciers and polar bears is a destination gold mine for adventure seekers, wildlife lovers, and anyone wanting to enjoy some pure, natural beauty. Taking a cruise is one of the best opportunities to experience this unique destination. Cruise travel offers guests the chance to experience Alaska from both water and land.
Glacier Bay National Park
One of the largest World Heritage sites, Glacier Bay National Park spans 3.3 million acres of icy wilderness. True to its name, a large percentage of the park is the bay itself, making it the perfect place to see by water. Park rangers will join guests on board and point out the beautiful ice attractions, one of which includes a tidewater glacier, a 200ft- tall wall of ice that forms the mouth of a frozen inland river. Be sure to look for harbor seals frolicking amongst the floating ice caps.
Prince William Sound
Bordered by the Chugach Mountains to the East and the Kenai Peninsula to the Southwest, this area is best-known for its beautiful landscape, expansive forest, and varied wildlife. It is home to seabirds, killer whales, harbor seals, and sea otters. If you're lucky, you may even have a bald eagle soar alongside your ship. The renowned College Fjord is located in the North of the sound, where 8 fjords (deep inlets created by glacial movement) can be seen at once.
Skagway
Dubbed the "Gateway to the Klondike" during the Gold Rush days this borough is a great starting point for Alaskan land adventures. Take a helicopter tour for an aerial view of the wilderness, or join local mushers as you dogsled across the glaciers.
Juneau
As the state capital, Juneau is a thriving community filled with cultural attractions, great restaurants, adventurous hiking trails, and natural wonders. The Mount Roberts Tramway is an exciting way to experience both the natural and cultural sides of the city. Beginning at the cruise ship dock, guests can take a gondola ride through the rainforest up to the 1,800ft. Mount Roberts, where they can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views. There are also a variety of mountain-top cultural activities, including native and historical art and artist demonstrations, bear viewing platforms, the Juneau Raptor Center Bald Eagle Display, a nature center, and scenic hiking trails.
Many cruise lines - including Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Princess, Holland America and Norwegian - offer Alaskan cruises with 7-day and 11-day itineraries. And if you think Alaska seems too far away, think again. Many of these cruises are round-trip and depart from such convenient locations as Seattle or Vancouver. During cruise season- May to September- temperatures range between 50 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, making it ideal weather to enjoy the outdoors. Be sure to book between January and March to enjoy the best deals and ask about cruise-tours, if you're looking to extend your trip with more time on land.
Happy Cruising!
No comments:
Post a Comment