tours in skagway alaska

BRINGING SKAGWAY SHORE EXCURSIONS TO A HIGHER STANDARD !

Bennett Scenic Journey

Immerse yourself into Skagway’s premier tour! Travel the historic 67.5 miles (4.5 hours) by train between Skagway, Alaska, and Carcross, Yukon Territory, Canada, traveling the same route that the Klondike stampeders traversed in 1898!

YUKON RAIL & BUS EXCURSION

WHITE PASS SUMMIT RAIL & BUS EXCURSION

White Pass Summit Rail & Yukon Suspension Bridge  

Our NEWEST tour!! Come join us on the one-way train excursion AND visit the Yukon Suspension Bridge to make your day complete.  Create memories, enjoy the scenery and experience two great tours in one!

YUKON KLONDIKE ADVENTURE

Join us on an entertaining mini-bus tour with an outstanding tour guide that will leave you begging for more! Included with this tour is an adventure well into the Yukon Territory to beautiful Emerald Lake and a visit to Caribou Crossing Trading Post. It is a trip of a lifetime for all ages! 

Our Instagram Feed

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Check out some of our amazing tour photos

Safe: we are committed to guest and staff safety at all times

W e ensure that everyone feels safe while traveling with our company.  This will always be our first priority.

Clean: Heightened hygiene & sanitation protocols

Enhanced cleaning protocols throughout entire experience. Hand sanitizer available on all tours.

Informed: staff trained on current guidelines

Training to keep up to date on safety standards.  Collaboration with local partners to make sure we are all working together.

Professional: Taking a proactive approach

We’ve implemented these strategies so you can relax and be inspired by the spectacular scenery that our area has to offer.

Guest Reviews

Alaska is Calling.

(It’s time to answer)

Why Tour With Us?

No local company in the sublime business of sightseeing tours of Skagway, British Columbia and the Yukon–worth their salt–springs from just one individual. Consequently, it takes a terrific team united behind something big. Together, at Skagway Tours, we work hard, we laugh a lot, we brainstorm nonstop, and we give the best high-fives in town. This, supported by the guests’ testimonials, their videos and plethora of pictures below, is why we’re proud of what we offer, being in the top third for Outdoor Activities in Skagway on Trip Advisor and foremost, what we do. Give our guests a tour they’ll never forget!

Trending Tours

Wild adventure yukon & emerald lake tour, yukon sled dogs & summit combo tour, white pass summit & yukon suspension bridge, pet the puppies & summit combo tour, exclusive triple combo bridge, puppies, and summit, arriving by port.

Look no further for your shore excursion in Skagway, Alaska. Let Skagway tours take you on a one-of-a-kind journey through Gold Rush territory and return you back in Skagway with plenty of time to wander the streets, shop for souvenirs, and have a meal before your ship departs.

Cruise ships have an all-aboard call 30 minutes prior to the ship’s departure from Skagway.   We not only can assure you that you will make your ship’s departure, we also guarantee passage to your next port of call if we are responsible for making you miss your ship.

“In all of our years of business, we have never missed a ship!”

Traveling with a group.

As an established company in the business of showing off our state, we offer special discounts for groups and escorted tours that want to experience the Klondike without feeling rushed.  Skagway Tours offers groups a fleet of newer, well maintained 40 passenger touring buses with professional & fun guide-drivers.   Group rates start at 6 passengers, so whether you are a travel agent, a family taking that dream Alaska vacation, or a group who’ve become acquainted as fast friends aboard a cruise ship, drop us a note or you can book special group rates for each tour above.

Our Reputation

Don’t just take our word for it. Hear what some of our past and current customers have to say.

ON FACEBOOK

ON INSTAGRAM

Southeast Tours

• Employment Opportunities
• TripAdvisor

Our Most Popular Tours. Now Booking for 2024 Alaska Tour Season

Southeast Tours in Skagway, Alaska offers a wide variety of exceptional sightseeing and adventure tours.  Please look through our tour offerings and you will find high quality, affordable adventures created for both the cruise ship passenger and the casual tourist coming to Skagway for your next vacation.

• Duration: Full Day
• Price: starting at $375 plus tax (per Jeep)
• Be your own guide! Drive your Jeep into the Yukon!
• Listen to our interactive tour guide!
• Experience all the benefits of a private tour and a rental car combined.
• It's your Jeep for the day, make it your way! No crowds, no lines, no stress.

• Duration: 2 - 2.5 Hours
• $69.00 per person + tax
• Explore the historic city of Skagway
• Climb the White Pass summit following the Klondike Gold Rush Trail.

• Duration: 3 Hours
• $79.00 per person + tax
• 8am and 11:30am departures.
• Guided bus tour to all the scenic waterfall destinations in Skagway and White Pass
• Narrated along the way by your professional guide

• Duration: 6 Hours
• $139.00 per person + tax
• Best sights of Skagway and the Yukon Territory.
• Lunch at an operational dog mushing training camp and meet the dogs who will be competing in the Iditarod Dog Sled Race.

• $199.00 per person + tax
• Includes everything from the Yukon Discovery Tour
• 30 minutes of dog mushing with a professional Iditarod musher. Experience the thrill of dog sledding. Meet the mushers and their teams.
• Includes BBQ chicken dinner and admission to wildlife museum

• Duration: 3.5 Hours
• $99.00 per person + tax
• Climb the White Pass summit
• Venture through British Columbia to the Yukon Territory
• Travel along breathtaking lakes
• Spectacular photo stops on route

Southeast Tours in Skagway, Alaska offers a wide variety of exceptional sightseeing and adventure tours. We provide high quality, affordable alternatives to both the cruise ship passenger and the casual tourist coming to Skagway, Alaska. These exceptional tours include tours of Skagway City, White Pass, the Summit Area near Skagway, Alaska, and the Yukon.

Of all the Skagway tour companies, Southeast Tours is one of the most highly rated and sought after tour companies in Skagway, Alaska. We offer Skagway’s best tours at Skagway’s best tour prices.

To help promote and preserve the natural beauty and resources of endangered habitat by both sharing our love of nature, and affirming our commitment to helping preserve precious natural communities with each potential guest.

We strongly believe we can enjoy and benefit from our environment, while limiting our impact upon it. Southeast Tours is privileged and honored to be an advocate of the Nature Conservancy.

Southeast Tours is one of the most highly rated and sought-after tour companies in Skagway, Alaska. We offer Skagway's best tours at the best prices.

When you purchase your tours from us, you will be supporting a Skagway owned and operated tour company which truly appreciates your business.

We loved our day trip to the Yukon. Wonderful scenery, Emerald Lake is beautiful. Good lunch, animal museum, sled dogs – got to cuddle a puppy. Driver was terrific and provided us with a great commentary.

This was just the BEST tour! We traveled from Skagway into the Yukon and went to the Iditarod camp. We played with puppies, had lunch there, took a sled ride (on wheels)with the dogs and met the Musher

Alaska is a very special place. If you have the chance to visit you want to make the most of the opportunity. Look no further than Glacier ATV Tours (Southeast Tours – Skagway, AK) to do that. Heath, Jaime and their staff are amazing!

Glacier Point Wilderness Safari

Description, what's included.

This popular Skagway tour has a little bit of everything: a catamaran cruise, rainforest hike, and a scenic canoe journey that culminates with an up-close view of Davidson Glacier! This Glacier Point Wilderness Safari is one of the most positively-reviewed excursions and is the only tour in Skagway that ventures this close to a glacier without a helicopter! Journey to a truly remote wilderness setting surrounded by awe-inspiring beauty. Its exclusivity means limited seating and only a couple departures daily, so advanced reservations are highly recommended.

The adventure starts with a 45-minute boat ride on a custom-designed catamaran with an enclosed cabin through the Lynn Canal, North America's longest and deepest fjord. This boat ride provides a whole new perspective on the area: slightly different than you will see from the cruise deck and it's common to see whales and seals along the way. Your naturalist guide provides a wealth of information as you cruise by cascading waterfalls originating from high mountain glaciers. Upon arrival at the secluded Glacier Point beach, a short bus ride takes you to base camp. From there, gear up for a ¼ mile walk where suddenly the rainforest opens up to showcase Davidson Glacier in its majestic beauty.

You'll board a motor-assisted 31-foot voyager canoe to journey towards the glacier. How close you get to the glacier depends on the weather and lake conditions, so while we can't guarantee that you'll be able to get out of the canoe and walk right up to the glacier, rest assured you'll have spectacular views either way. Return to Glacier Point for a picnic lunch on the beach and soak in those last moments of this special wilderness area before the return boat trip back to Skagway.

Looking for other opportunities to explore? Check out the Chilkoot Hike & Float ! And if you want more glacier time altogether, take a look at our Glacier Discovery Helicopter Tour !

Frequently Asked Questions

Know before you book, quick facts, itinerary • 6h 00min • 6 activities.

Meet Your Guides at the Cruise Docks

Your guides will meet you right at the gangway of your cruise ship for a short walk to the small boat harbor to head down to Glacier Point.

Ferry from Skagway to Glacier Point

You'll enjoy a stunning boat ride through Lynn Canal over to Glacier Point. Keep an eye out for Marine wildlife including seals, sea lions, and possibly whales during your ferry.

Safety Briefing, Gearing up, & Bus Ride

After reaching the beach, you'll hop on a bus for a short ride through the forest to the staging area. Here, you'll don your rubber boots and lifejackets for the journey.

Canoe & Glacier Time

After a short walk to the river, you'll hop in your canoes to journey closer to Davidson Glacier. Across the lake, you'll have time to get out of your canoes, venture closer, and take some stunning photos.

Transport to Beach & Picnic Lunch

Returning to shore, you'll de-gear before hopping back in the bus and heading to the beach for a picnic-style lunch including a sandwich, trail mix, and applesauce.

Ferry to Skagway

After Lunch, you'll hop back in the boat for transport back to Skagway. Keep your eyes trained outside for mountains, waterfalls, wildlife, & more. Upon arrival back to Skagway, you'll be escorted back to your cruise ships.

• Order Status
• Juneau Tours
• Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure
• Mendenhall Lake Canoe
• Dog Sledding
• Juneau Icefield Helicopter Tour
• Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier
• Mendenhall Glacier Dog Sledding
• Mendenhall Glacier Helicopter Tour
• Musher's Camp
• Whale Watching & Salmon Bake
• Taku Lodge Flight & Feast
• Things to Do in Juneau
• Skagway Tours
• White Pass Railroad
• Bennett Scenic Railroad
• Yukon Discovery
• White Pass Summit & Beyond
• Glacier Helicopter Tour
• Chilkoot Horseback
• Glacier Point Wilderness Safari
• Wildlife Safari & Bear Viewing
• Things to Do in Skagway
• Ketchikan Tours
• Deluxe Misty Fjords National Monument
• Mahoney Falls Extended Tour
• Trolley Tour
• George Inlet Lodge Crab Feast
• Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour
• Things to Do in Ketchikan
• Icy Strait Point Tours
• Whale Watching
• Wildlife & Bear Search
• Stream Fishing
• Things to Do in Icy Strait
• Sitka Tours
• Premium Scenic Tour
• Sitka Sound Kayak Adventure
• Whale Watching Tour
• Things to Do in Sitka
• Things to Do

Skagway Summit, Tormented Valley, and Suspension Bridge Tour

• Photos / Video
• Things to know
• Reviews (9)

Excursion Overview

Dramatic beauty surrounds you on this scenic drive out of skagway.

Skagway is known for its proximity to the Canadian border. Embark on a scenic drive up to the White Pass Summit and take in all the splendor that our neighbors to the north have to offer! Your adventure begins in downtown Skagway, where you'll find your tour guide and board the 24-passenger mini-bus. Relax on a scenic ride up to the White Pass Summit, passing by majestic mountains, rainforests, and waterfalls. Upon reaching the summit, you'll enter what is known as the Tormented Valley. The valley is characterized by striking rock formations, brilliant green lakes, and colorful lichen lining the bedrock. Don't forget your camera! After crossing the Canadian border, you'll visit the famous Yukon Suspension Bridge. The bridge is suspended 65 feet in the air, swaying over the rushing white-water rapids of the Tutshi River. There's truly no better way to witness the awe-inspiring power of Alaska's natural landscape. Before boarding the bus again, you'll have time to enjoy the bridge's outdoor walking museum, visit the gift shop, and try some yummy Canadian snacks. Then it's time to sit back and relax for the breathtaking drive back down to Skagway. Please note: passports are required.

Things You Need to Know

Inclusions:.

• Admission to the Yukon Suspension Bridge
• Expert, live commentary
• Multiple scenic stops along the Yukon highway for photos

Requirements:

• A passport is required for this tour. U.S. Passport Cards, Enhanced Driver’s License are also accepted forms of identification for this tour. U.S. or Canadian citizen children under age 16 arriving by land or sea from a contiguous territory may present an original or copy of his or her birth certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, a Naturalization Certificate, or a Canadian Citizenship Card
• Minimum of 4 to operate - groups may be combined. If the minimum is not met - you will be contacted and refunded accordingly.

Duration: 3.5 hours (Roundtrip from a central meeting location near the cruise ship docks.)

• 15 minutes - Driving tour of Skagway
• 60 minutes - Visit and explore the Yukon Suspension Bridge
• 60 minutes - Drive up White Pass to the Suspension Bridge with stops along the way.
• 75 minutes - Return with stops along the way and return to town and ships.

Meeting Instructions:

• This tour meets a short distance, central to the cruise ship docks. Fully detailed instructions are included on your finalized ticket vouchers.

ADA Accessibility of Tour:

• This tour is limited mobility accessible. Guests must be able to climb 3 steps into and out of the bus independently and with relative ease. There is limited space for collapsible wheelchairs and walkers. There is no storage available for motorized scooters. Please leave a comment during checkout if accommodations for collapsible equipment will be required on tour.

Refund Policy:

• You may cancel for any reason up to seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund.
• Please see our Refund Policy Page for complete details.

Tours can be canceled for any reason up until seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund unless otherwise noted on the individual tour product page in the Things to Know section. To cancel a tour, please use the cancelation request link within your e-ticket that was emailed to you OR send an email to  [email protected] with the following information:

- Order number

- Tour you are canceling

- Number of passengers you wish to cancel

Within 0-7 days before the tour date, cancelations are eligible for a full refund only in the following scenarios:

- The tour is canceled by the tour operator for any reason (for example: bad weather or mechanical issue)

- You experience a medical emergency during this window and can provide documentation (documentation must be submitted within 30 days to receive a refund)

- Your ship changes port itineraries causing you to miss an excursion

All refunds are processed through Alaska Shore Excursions, and will not be processed through any cruise line or local tour provider. Refunds will appear under Alaska Shore Excursions on your bank/credit card statement. Credit card refunds are processed within 10 business days of the request. Exceptions to the refund policy include multi-day packages and some day tours. Please refer to the specific refund policy listed on the individual tour product page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wildlife is abundant in Southeast Alaska and sightings are possible on any tour. We sometimes see bears (more frequently in May/June), but this is not a designated wildlife tour, and wildlife is not guaranteed.

No. The cafe at the Yukon Suspension Bridge will have snacks, drinks and sandwiches available for purchase.

No, this area of the highway is a very small part of British Columbia. It takes an extra 40 miles round trip to reach the Yukon from the Suspension Bridge.

Non-alcoholic beverages in closable containers and snacks are allowed on tour.

Backpacks, small bags, and purses are allowed on this tour.

There is open seating on the tour bus, however, if you require a certain seat due to physical impairment then please contact us with your requirements.

We recommend that you dress in layers. It can be cold enough that you want a wool cap, gloves, and a jacket, or it could be so warm you will be in a T-shirt with sunscreen and sunglasses. The weather can change quickly.

The maximum number of guests is 24.

Yes, a passport is required. While you do not travel into Canada, you will cross through the USA border control and will need to treat the crossing as if you have left the country.

Check out other frequently asked questions  here !

Guest Reviews

Catherine s, on jun 2024.

This was a great tour with a very enthusiastic and knowledgeable guide in Marissa. We stopped at several superb vantage points to take photos of the breathtaking vistas and really appreciated her offer of taking group photographs if anyone wished at each stop. The scenery was stunning throughout and the suspension bridge experience itself was absolutely brilliant! So glad we booked this tour.

Great place and to view

Marissa was amazing! She gave a great vivid account of the natural environment and history. It s truly amazing. She astutely pointed out all the photo spots. Very pleasant trip! She took great care of us! High recommend!

Marissa was Ana amazing guide! She was very knowledgeable about the town and history. We stopped at lots of photo ops. Would definitely recommend this tour!

Marisa was a lovely guide. We had many stops at different vantage points, and she was so gracious to offer to take photos of passengers at each stop. She was very knowledgeable regarding the Gold Rush and about the local plants.

• Reviews Showing: 9

Best Price Guarantee!

Duration: 3.5 hours

Date Required

Time Required

# of Passengers Required

Adult: $ 99.00

Child (3-12): $ 79.00

Infant (Under 2): $ 0.00

Why Alaska Shore Excursions?

• Free Cancellation
• Secure Payments
• On Time Ship Return Guarantee
• Alaska Tour Experts
• Best Price Guarantee
• Chat & Phone Support

Skagway Blogs

Best Alaska Zipline Tours

Glaciers in Alaska: Juneau Icefield, Mendenhall Glacier, & More

Best Alaska Land Tours

Related tours.

Skagway Yukon Discovery Adventure

$152.25 / Person

Skagway City and Summit Tour

$70.35 / Person

Yukon Suspension Bridge & Summit Tour

$126.25 / Person

Skagway White Pass Railroad Summit Excursion & Train Tour

$146.00 / Person

• Copyright 2024 Alaska Shore Excursions

Alaska Mountain Guides Adventures & Chilkat Guides:

The premiere shore excursion tour operators in skagway and haines.  locally owned and operated for over 25 years., explore tours departing from skagway, explore tours departing from haines.

Skagway Alaska Tours

• Flight Seeing

Skagway Excursions

Your port-of-call in Skagway will be the highlight of your Alaska vacation. When you arrive, what Skagway excursion are you going to take? Do you want to ride the famous White Pass train? Would you like to walk on an ancient glacier after an incredible Skagway helicopter excursion? Would you like to feel the wind through your hair as you drive a team of Alaskan huskies down the trail?

At M&M Tours, we offer all of the best Skagway excursions. You can book ahead of time or wait until the day of your departure (more on this below). Text or call and we will do our best to make sure you get the Skagway tour you’re looking for. Why else should you choose M&M Tours?

• We offer the best prices on all the most popular Skagway excursions.
• We have been in business for more than TWO DECADES.
• Save hundreds of dollars by booking your tours independently from the cruise ship.
• We are the ONLY tour brokerage contracted by the Municipality of Skagway.
• We GUARANTEE that you will not miss your cruise ship departure.
• Buy local from people that call Skagway home and know your money is staying in our small Alaskan community.
• Call (907) 983-3900 , or text (907) 612-0889 , to reserve a tour, or simply click "book" on our site.

Getting around Skagway Alaska

Before traveling to Skagway, you should take some time to get your bearings. If you’re taking a Skagway excursion while in port, you will first want to know where your cruise ship is berthing. There are three cruise ship docks in Skagway, so depending on where your cruise ship berths, you will have a different route to Downtown Skagway. If you’re unsure where your cruise ship is docking, you can download a Skagway cruise schedule at Cruise Line Agencies website.

• Skagway Broadway Dock - This dock is centrally located. When you disembark your cruise ship, it’s a short walk to the downtown area, as you are already on Broadway Street. The M&M Tours sales booth is conveniently located across the street from the public restrooms, just before entering the downtown business district. The Klondike Gold Rush Historical Park is located one block away, and it’s a great place to start your day after booking your Skagway excursion.
• Skagway Ore Dock - This dock is currently undergoing a significant upgrade that will render it capable of berthing the largest cruise ships on the planet. The M&M Tour sales booth is located immediately to the right after you exit the dock. If you pre-booked a Skagway excursion with us, it usually picks up in the same area. Walking to Downtown Skagway only takes about ten to 15 minutes, or you can catch the local SMART bus and enjoy the short ride to town.
• Skagway Railroad Dock - As the name suggests, this dock is privately owned by the railroad company and can currently berth two cruise vessels. The M&M Tours sales booth is located about 200 feet beyond port security. Many Skagway tours pick up in this area. From the security checkpoint, it’s about one-third of a mile to Skagway. The walk takes about 15 minutes, or you can take the shuttle to town.

Once you’ve scheduled your Skagway excursion, we recommend heading to the Skagway Visitor Center, located at the Arctic Brotherhood Hall. The building is located between 2nd and 3rd Avenue on Broadway in the heart of downtown Skagway. The facade is covered in driftwood and is the most photographed building in Alaska.

"Where can I find information about Skagway before I visit?" Simply click the link and check out the Skagway Tourism Department’s website.

If you’re planning a Skagway excursion, you should plan for any variety of weather. This is especially true if your tour is outdoors. You can find valuable weather information about Skagway on the internet but it makes sense to plan for anything. Wear clothing layers that can be removed or bring along layers that may be added.

Always bring prescription medication with you. If you run out or need medical attention, you can get care at the Dahl Memorial Clinic . It’s more than a mile away from the cruise docks so you probably want to get a taxi or take the city bus.

Lastly, bring along the things you need to get the most out of your Skagway tour or excursion. Make a checklist that includes your smartphone, charger, binoculars, snacks, raincoat, or anything else you desire. If you have questions about what to bring, feel free to give us a call or send a text.

Why book your Skagway excursion with M&M Tours?

If you're planning your cruise to Alaska, then now is the time to sort through our selection of Skagway tours and find the perfect excursion for you and your family. M&M Tours is the only tour brokerage contracted by the Municipality of Skagway, making us the most trusted source for local Skagway tours.

By booking independently from the cruise ship, you stand to save a substantial amount of money. So, why is it that so many people choose to book their tours in Skagway through the cruise lines?

As year-round Skagway residents with over a decade in the local tour sales business, we've met a number of people that see our prices while in port and realize that they paid hundreds of dollars more than necessary. Invariably, these cruise passengers voice the reasons that they booked their Skagway tours on the ship, and what follows is a brief overview.

"I should have booked my Skagway tours with you guys!" - Something we hear every day "They told me that if I book my tours in Skagway independently that I could miss my ship's departure." This is the most common reason we hear why people book their Skagway excursion on the ship, and it's undoubtedly a legitimate concern. At M&M Tours, you will never miss your ship, because every purchase comes with a GUARANTEE that we will pay to fly you to your next port if your tour results in missing your ship.

So, in our 22 years as the leading tour broker in Skagway, how many times have we paid to fly someone to their next port? NOT ONCE!

The threat of missing your cruise ship is fabricated so that you spend your money on the ship. When you think about it, how long would any Skagway tour vendors stay in business if their customers were regularly missing their ship departure? The answer is obvious.

"Should I book my Skagway excursion ahead of time?"

This is a tricky question to answer because it makes sense to book some tours ahead of time but others may be better suited to book after you arrive in port. Let’s look at this question in detail.

If the Skagway excursion you most want to do is in high demand, then it makes sense to book ahead of time. Skagway helicopter excursions are a good example. These tours often sell out well ahead of time because Skagway usually has four ships in port. If you want to take a Skagway helicopter excursion to the glacier or to the dog sledding camp, we urge you to book the tour right now.

The White Pass train excursion is also a high-demand tour but there is almost always plenty of seats available throughout the day. For this reason, we suggest waiting until you arrive in Skagway to decide whether to take the tour.

Why? Because weather can significantly impact your enjoyment of the tour. Sometimes fog or low-level clouds make visibility on the Skagway train excursion poor. If you wait to book your excursion, you can talk to the tour sales agent about the visibility and make other arrangements if necessary.

Whether you book your Skagway tour ahead of time or on the day of the tour, you are going to save a substantial amount of money. At M&M Tours, we are dedicated to offering our guests the best prices combined with top-quality customer care.

"What happens if my tour is canceled?"

Excursions in Skagway may be canceled for a variety of reasons, the most common of which is bad weather. Inclement weather affects every tour operator, regardless of whether you book on the ship or with a local Skagway vendor.

Skagway Tours

When you book your Skagway excursion ahead of time, we hold your reservation with a credit card, but we don’t charge you for the tour until the day you arrive in port. This means we don’t have to go through a cumbersome refund process. If your tour is canceled after you pay, we give you a full refund. This sometimes happens on Skagway helicopter excursions when weather causes them to be canceled at the last minute, or due to unforeseen circumstances.

"What happens after I book my Skagway excursion?"

When you book your tours with one of our agents in Skagway, they will confirm your departure time and send you all pertinent information by email. You are free to reach out at any time with questions or changes to your itinerary.

Best of all, if your tour is canceled or your situation changes, you can choose one of our other tours from our long list of Skagway options.

"I want to wait until the day of my arrival to book a tour in Skagway."

Not everyone likes to plan every detail of their vacation ahead of time. You may be the type of person that waits to book tours until the day of your arrival because you want to see how you feel, make sure the weather cooperates, monitor the mood of your children, or just because you like a little spontaneity in life.

If you want to wait until you dock in Skagway to book your tours - no problem. Browse through our list of Skagway excursions today, and as you look through the website write down the tours you like most. When you are in Alaska, simply call or text us via this website from your smartphone and book your tour.

If you call early in the morning on the same day as your arrival, it is likely we will still have what you're looking for. If not, we will help you find something else. Just because you wait until the last minute, doesn't mean you are forced to book Skagway excursions on your ship. Even if you have a large group, we can usually accommodate your needs if you get a hold of us between 6:00 and 7:00 a.m.

Have any Questions? Contact us in Skagway and Find Our More About Our Tours

Are you excited about your upcoming trip to Skagway and other ports in Alaska? We are eager to show you why we love this place we call home, so take a few moments to familiarize yourself with all of our exciting Skagway tours. You can find us proudly featured on the Skagway Municipal Tourism website .

If you would like to find tours in other ports, we also offer a handful of quality tours in Ketchikan and Juneau, a few of which are listed on this site. If you would like to learn more about excursions in Ketchikan and tours in Juneau , simply follow the links. By booking tours in every port with M&M Tours, you can save additional money via our "package tour options."

Best of all, when you buy with Skagway locals, your money stays in our small Alaskan community, which is important for a town of barely 1000 residents that hosts up to 15,000 visitors daily.

We can't wait to see you in Skagway, so if you need any help with our tours simply call (907) 983-3900 or text (907) 612-0889, and we will take good care of you and your group.

A Brief History of Skagway Alaska

Skagway's history is inexorably linked to the original Tlingit population, who referred to the area as Shgagei, which is an idiom that means "lady in the rock", likely named after the prominent mountain ridge to the west that resembles a woman’s face.

The Lynn Canal is the second-longest fjord in North America, and the deepest in the world at over 2,000 feet in depth. It was first explored by Joseph Whidbey in 1794. George Vancouver named the famed inlet after his birthplace, King's Lynn.

Shgagei is also the nickname of Kanagu, who is a mythical woman who transformed herself into stone along Skagway's shore. According to legend, it is Kanagu who causes the strong winds that blow toward Haines, Alaska to the south, where Tlingit people lived for millennia. Parson's Peak, which is colloquially called "Face Mountain" in Skagway, is likely the Kanagu stone formation of legend. Face Mountain is a prominent Skagway landmark and a highlight of many tours that originate in Skagway.

While the area around Skagway was used by native populations from prehistoric times, Skagway's present location was uninhabited. A former steamboat captain by the name of William Moore made the first recorded survey expedition over what would be named the White Pass. This is the pass that makes Skagway the Gateway to the Klondike and is where the White Pass & Yukon Route Skagway train excursion is centered.

William Moore and his son Ben created a homestead at the terminus of the Skagway River because he recognized it as the most direct route to the goldfields of the Yukon. They named their home Mooresville and built a log cabin, wharf, and sawmill that would prove instrumental to Skagway's development in the coming years.

Moore's instincts were validated when gold was discovered in the Klondike. The ensuing Klondike Gold Rush ushered in a new age for Skagway, and it was incorporated as Alaska's first incorporated city in 1898.

The reason Mooresville didn't become the official name was that Moore's fortunes took a sour turn in 1897. His property was overrun and stolen by prospectors who then sold it. In just a few months, Skagway's population swelled to more than 30,000. Jack London called Skagway "little better than hell on Earth," because the town was lawless and mean. Rival gangs battled amidst a backdrop of gambling and prostitution, while intrepid gold seekers prepared for the 500-mile arduous journey to the Klondike.

Many Skagway excursions focus on this storied history and retell the tale of the famous shootout between Soapy Smith and Frank Reid on the Juneau Wharf, which is called the Railroad Dock in Skagway today.

Modern Skagway - A Great Place to Live

Today, Skagway is a First Class Alaskan Borough with a population of just over 1,000 hardy and friendly souls. The economy is mainly tourism, although Skagway's port provides shipping to and from the Yukon.

The Skagway borough is quite large, with an area of 464 square miles. You would have to take multiple Skagway excursions to see it all. Skagway is also within the Alaskan time zone, which is one hour ahead of the West Coast of the United States. Over a million tourists visit Skagway every season, many of which enjoy tours during their stay. Some of the more popular Skagway excursions we offer include:

• Skagway train excursions
• Yukon tours
• Dog mushing tours
• Local tours
• Skagway helicopter excursions

Skagway is especially loved by the people who call it home. The local K-12 school boasts the highest test scores in the state of Alaska, and families benefit from the small-town atmosphere and many town functions. If you're visiting Skagway on a cruise ship, you will find the locals to be friendly and helpful.

At M&M Tours, we are proud to be locally owned and operated by year-round Skagway residents. All of our employees are year-round residents, and many grew up and went to school in Skagway. When you purchase your tour with us not only are you saving money, but you're also supporting our local economy.

If you buy a tour from us, every penny is staying in Alaska.

Things to Do in Skagway

If you're not the touring type, there is still plenty to do in Skagway. You could also incorporate anything on this list into your day before or after you enjoy a local tour.

Lower Dewey Lake is a short hike from downtown Skagway to a pristine glacial lake stocked with brook trout. This is a popular local getaway. The hike to Dewey Lake in Skagway only takes 20 minutes, and you can follow this trail to other popular hiking destinations like Upper Dewey Lake, Sturgill's Landing, and Upper Reid Falls.

Yakutania Point is another popular local hangout, and part of a larger hike to Smuggler's Cove. From the Skagway Airport, which is near the point of origin for helicopter and flightseeing tours, a bridge over the Skagway River leads to this picturesque spot where whales are often spotted. You can’t see this spot on a Skagway excursion because it’s a public space.

The Gold Rush Cemetery is located along the tracks of the famous White Pass & Yukon Route, so if you're on the Skagway train tour, you will get a brief glimpse of this historical landmark. Not only is this cemetery the last resting place of Soapy Smith and Frank Reid, but it is also the point of access for Lower Reid Falls, which is a stunning 100- foot-high waterfall.

The Klondike Gold Rush National Park spans parts of downtown Skagway, Dyea, the Yukon, and even Seattle, Washington. In Skagway, you can visit park headquarters on 2nd and Broadway, and then head across the street to check out Soapy Smith's Parlour, which was restored in 2015. Another highlight is The Arctic Brotherhood Hall, which is the driftwood-covered building on Broadway and the most photographed structure in all of Alaska.

Pullen Park is located near the waterfront and is a great place to relax after enjoying a Skagway tour. You can cook out some food in the covered picnic area while watching locals catch pink salmon in the pond. If you ask nicely, you may even be able to talk them into sharing some of that tasty salmon with you and your tour group.

If You're On a Cruise, We Can't-Wait to Help You Find the Perfect Skagway Tour

AT M&M Tours, we specialize in catering to the needs of our many cruise ship visitors. With convenient locations at every cruise dock, we make it easy to shop locally. We want you to have a good time, so we will help you find a tour in Skagway that suits your interests. Our goal is not to sell you the most expensive tour available, but to find you a tour that you will thoroughly enjoy.

Ask yourself this question: "Why did I choose to come to Alaska for my vacation?

Are you interested in experiencing the life of the Klondike gold seeker? Were you hoping to see an eagle swoop down to the water and scoop up a fish? Did you want to enjoy the tender licks from a husky puppy that may one day grow into an Iditarod champion?

Whatever your fancy, we will diligently work to find the perfect Skagway tour for you and your family.

Drop us a line today and let us help you make your Alaskan dreams come true. We offer group discounts and can combine your Skagway tour with other popular shore excursions in Juneau and Ketchikan for additional savings.

We are eager to share the love of our Alaskan home with you. Book your tour of Skagway with real locals by contacting us today.

• Train Tours
• Flight Seeing Tours
• Adventure Tours
• Family Tours

201 2nd Ave Skagway, AK 99840 Phone: 907.983.3900 • Fax: 907.983.3915 Mailing Address: M & M Tour Sales P.O. Box 1027 Skagway, AK 99840 Email: [email protected]

© Copyright 2024 M & M Tours. Skagway, Alaska. All rights reserved.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

Excursions & Tours

White Pass Summit Rail and Bus Excursion

Yukon Rail and Bus Adventure

Skagway City and White Pass Summit

White Pass Summit Rail and Yukon Suspension Bridge

Bennett Scenic Journey

Self-Guided Jeep to the Yukon

Helicopter Glacier Discovery

Scenic Waterfall Adventure

Yukon Klondike Adventure by Bus, Puppy Camp, and Lunch

White Pass Summit and Yukon Suspension Bridge

Helicopter Dog Sledding Adventure

Chilkoot Wilderness and Wildlife Viewing Tour from Skagway

Ocean Raft Adventure

Scenic Hike and Float

Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve Rafting from Skagway

Yukon Sightseeing Tour

Deluxe Yukon Sightseeing Tour

Scenic Skagway Float

Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp and Salmon Bake

Hike, Float and Summit

Chilkoot Lake Wildlife Kayak Tour from Skagway

Extended Summit Drive

Inside Passage Sea Kayaking

Jet Boat Adventure from Skagway

White Pass Mountaineering Adventure

Wildlife Safari and Bear Viewing - Haines

Alpine Lake Canoe Adventure from Skagway

Chilkoot Lake Canoeing

Yukon Dog Musher Adventure Tour

Historic Gold Rush Scenic Drive

Skagway Zipline and Adventure Park

Summit Views and Yukon Sled Dogs

Summit Views, Yukon Sled Dogs, and Musher Experience

Suspension Bridge, Yukon Sled Dogs, and Summit Views

Yukon Day Trip with Emerald Lake Exploration

Private Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve Rafting

Private Chilkat Valley Photography Tour from Skagway

Private Chilkoot Lake Nature and Wildlife Viewing

Private Chilkoot Lake Wildlife Kayak Tour from Skagway

Private Hike, Float and Summit

Private Skagway Highlights

Skagway, alaska, skagway excursions.

Though Skagway is a small city, home to less than 1,000 people, there is something for every visitor. Nestled in the northernmost reaches of the Inside Passage, it features a wide variety of entertainment venues, streets lined with wooden boardwalks, and restored buildings that look just as they did 100 years ago! Noted for its friendly inhabitants and exceptional hospitality, our collection of Skagway shore excursions and tours offers visitors all the amenities they desire for a relaxing, adventurous, and unforgettable vacation.

Sightseeing Tours Galore

Skagway may be small, but it is packed with some of the best sightseeing opportunities in the entire nation. Skagway is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world, and there's no better way to take it all in than on a sightseeing tour. From the majestic beauty of the Tracy Arm Fjord to the towering glaciers of the Juneau Icefield, there's no shortage of awe-inspiring sights to see. Take a guided tour by land, air, or sea and experience the true beauty of Skagway.

For the adventurous types, we offer Skagway Excursions for hikers, boaters, bikers, kayakers, and those who love the thrill of Jeeps and helicopters. Try zip-lining your way through some of Alaska's largest pines or try Yukon dog sledding and experience a real musher’s camp! You can even try one of our combo excursions, like our popular Helicopter Dog Sledding Adventure , where you can go flightseeing on a helicopter and then sledding with Alaskan huskies.

For the more laid-back tourists, we have Alaskan cruise excursions for photographers, gold miners, and anyone who simply wants to discover the breathtaking beauty of the Skagway wilderness and wildlife. Explore Alaska's wild interiors by taking train ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad or a private walking tour through the scenic Chilkat Valley in Haines. No matter what you choose, you'll have plenty of photo opportunities.

Experience the Gold Rush Era

Skagway played a pivotal role in the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 19th century, and the town is steeped in the history of this exciting era. Take a trip back in time and experience the gold rush for yourself on one of our many historic tours. Go gold panning on our Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp and Salmon Bake Excursion , hike through the Chilkoot Trail with a tour guide, or take a ride on the historic White Pass train. Our Skagway City and White Pass Summit excursion doubles as a city tour and as a train tour, all in one. These excursions offer a fascinating glimpse into the past and are a must-do for any history enthusiast.

Walk Around Downtown Skagway

Downtown Skagway is a quaint and charming area filled with historic buildings, unique shops, and delicious eateries. Try picking up some souvenirs from local shops or strolling down Broadway Street before or after your excursion. Explore the town's rich history, culture, and local flavor. Visit the Skagway Museum and Archives to learn more about the town's fascinating past, or stop by the Red Onion Saloon, a brothel-turned-saloon that serves up refreshing drinks and tantalizing bites.

Skagway is a destination that is sure to captivate and amaze. With its stunning scenery, rich history, and endless opportunities for adventure, Skagway excursions are the perfect way to experience the best of this incredible Alaskan town. Reserve your tour or excursion today and start exploring with Shore Excursions Group. Book now before it’s too late!

Please note that the tours noted above are only a few of the wonderful excursions offered in Skagway and may not work with your cruise line itinerary. Find excursions for your cruise ship itinerary.

• Yukon Discovery Tour

Yukoner Beyond White Pass

• White Pass Summit & City
• White Pass & Rafting Combo Day

Frontier Excursions & Adventures 3rd and Broadway at The Golden North Hotel Skagway, Alaska 99840

1 877.983.2512 – toll free, 1 907.983.2512 – local, email: [email protected].

• Yukoner – Beyond the White Pass

FRONTIER EXCURSIONS est. 1987

Skagway & yukon tours.

Summit and Historic Highlights 2.75 Hours, $70.35

Full Day Yukon Tour to Emerald Lake 6.5 hours, $152.25

Explore Nature-To Summit and Dyea 5.5-7 hours

Skagway's Premier Tour Company

Our Service

Tripadvisor certificate of excellence since 2013.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why Choose Frontier

In operation since 1987, we have been providing quality tours at a reasonable price for 35 years in Skagway. Our professional tour guides are fully trained and happy to go the extra step to make your tour experience memorable. We have hundreds of 5 star reviews. We are the owners and operators of our tours and guarantee their quality. You are not booking through a middle-man with us. You can also come by our office in Skagway to meet us in person and have a contact location in case of problems.  We are also only a phone call or email away. We are very responsive to any questions or concerns you may have.

What to Expect

Our knowledgeable guides will always provide you with an exceptional tour experience. They are friendly, courteous, offer personal service and welcome your questions. Our equipment is clean and professionally maintained, as your safety is always our first concern.

All tours are fully narrated and feature plenty of photo stops where you can disembark the bus and breathe the fresh mountain air. Our tours travel up the Klondike Highway, one of the most scenic highways in North America, through multiple climate zones with dramatic vistas around every turn. Our knowledge of the area allows us to adjust our routes/stops to make the most of the day. We actively search for wildlife and will stop for sightings as long as it is safe to do so.

Do you pick up at the ships?

Yes, we pick up pierside where the pier meets land outside of security gates. This is also where ship tours meet. This is our default pick up location. (See more pier specific details in next section). For all our tours, you do have the option to meet at our office downtown at the Golden North Hotel, 3rd & Broadway. There are SMART bus city shuttles providing transportation to town from the ships for a nominal fee or it is approximately a 10-15 minute flat walk from the ship piers. Your confirmation from us will provide you with full details on meeting instructions and our contact information.

Boarding begins 15 minutes prior to departure. Please be on time and in the pre-arranged pick up location for the tour. Due to scheduling, if you are late, we may not be able to wait and we cannot give refunds in this case. Please call 1-877-983-2512 or 907-713-7527 if you are having problems locating the tour.

At the conclusion of the tour, you will have the option of returning to your ship or you may be dropped off in town. We guarantee we will return you to your cruise ship before departure time. However, if you choose to be dropped off in town, we are not responsible for your return to the cruise ship before departure.

How can I find you at the dock?

For Broadway and Ore docks, we will meet you at the area where the pier meets shore outside security. This is the tour waiting area (where all ship tours meet as well). At Broadway dock, walk across a short pier with a large parking area in front of your cruise ship. At the Ore dock walk across a short pier at the side of the cruise ship and there is a red shelter next to a large parking area. You will look for someone with a FRONTIER EXCURSIONS sign.

What if our ship changes docks?

We will be notified if your ship changes docks. Stay at your ship pier tour waiting area, and we will locate you!

What if our ship arrives late or doesn't arrive at all?

In the case of late arriving of ships (very uncommon), we will try to accommodate you on a later tour. If this is not feasible, you will not be charged. If your ship doesn’t arrive due to unexpected problems, we will be notified. In this circumstance, there will be no charge.

Is there a chance of missing my cruise ship departure?

In all our years of operation, we have NEVER missed a ship! Even though your ship may suggest an all aboard time of 1-2 hours prior to departure, the gangway remains in place for at least 30 minutes prior to departure.  30 minutes prior to departure is the official all-aboard time for your ship and ship sponsored tours will be returning to the pier close to that time.  We always have at least 1 hour of buffer time before a ship all-aboard time in order to get you back with a comfortable margin of time.  We carry a GPS communication device on all vehicles that allows messaging to our base in Skagway in case of emergencies or delays. We will not book you on any tour that is not back with time to spare to make your ship departure. We do drop off at the ship per and we guarantee that you will make your ship, or we will pay for your transportation to the next port. (This only applies to cruise ships docked in Skagway. If your ship docks in Haines and you choose to make your own transportation plans to Skagway for a tour with us, we cannot guarantee your passage back to Haines.  If there is a ferry breakdown or some other complication in you getting back to Haines for your ship all-aboard there, we are not responsible and will not pay for your transport to the next port). If you choose not to be dropped off at the ship pier after the tour but in town instead and then subsequently miss your ship, we do not take any responsiblity for that as it is up to you at the point of drop off to get back to your ship before the all-aboard time.

What are Passport Requirements and restrictions to crossing the borders?

All our tours travel the scenic South Klondike Highway, which crosses the Canadian border just 15 miles north of Skagway. The USA border station is only 7 miles from Skagway and Identification is checked there on the way coming back into Skagway from the White Pass. Passports are REQUIRED for the USA and Canada border crossing. You will need an Original Valid Passport, Passport Card, Trusted Traveler Cards (NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST) for crossing the border to Canada. Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) are only allowed for the USA border crossing and can be used only on the White Pass Summit & City tour. https://www.frontierexcursions.com/tour/white-pass-summit-city-tour/

For some nationalities, additional documentation (like a Visa) may be required for entry to Canada and/or USA. Single-entry Visas are acceptable for entry to Canada at this border on a tour. Canada Visas (if needed for your nationality) are required on all tours except the White Pass Summit & City Tour which is the only tour that does not cross through Canada immigration. Passports (and USA Visa if required) are still needed on the White Pass Summit & City tour. Children with USA or Canada citizenship (15 and younger) accompanying parents should have a Passport OR an original or certified (raised seal) of birth certificate (no copies allowed). If one or both parents are not traveling with the child, a letter of authorization from the absent parent(s) is also necessary to cross into Canada. Canadian Border Service Agency recommends that parents who share custody of their children carry copies of their legal custody documents. You must carry a consent letter to provide authorization for you to take them on a trip and enter Canada if you share custody and the other parent is not traveling with you, OR if you are NOT the parent/legal guardian of the children you are traveling with. The consent letter must include the custodial parents’ or legal guardians’ full name, address and telephone number, child’s details, and person’s details of who they are traveling with. Having the letter notarized will support its authenticity, especially if you are taking a longer trip and crossing the border several times. Border services officers may ask additional questions to the children you are traveling with if you are not the parent/guardian or are traveling without both parents/guardians.  Here is a link to a sample letter that can be filled out before travel.

Those who lack the necessary identification will not be allowed to board the tour, and, as a consequence, may miss it. No refund will be given under these circumstances. While we will do everything possible to accommodate passengers lacking identification, there is no guarantee that suitable arrangements can be made. If you have any questions regarding proper identification for the border crossing, please contact us.

Passengers with a criminal conviction (misdemeanor or felony) including severe traffic violations, such as DUI or Hit & Run, will be denied entrance into Canada so should not join any tour besides the White Pass Summit & City tour or our rafting tours in Dyea.

How do I pay for the tour?

For most of our tours (White Pass Summit & City Tour, Yukoner, and Yukon Discovery) we have an automated booking system in place for you to enter your Payment information online at the time of booking (through RezdyPay). There is $5 deposit per order charged at the time of booking. The balance on the order will be charged on the day of the tour. (If you pay the $5 deposit with PayPal we will send you a payment link to pay the remainder in full.) Your order will be Pending once entered and we will send it back Confirmed once we review your information and verify availability. For our more White Pass & Rafting combo tour we have you fill out a Reservation Request form. After we receive your Request form, we will email you to confirm we have the space and get any additional information we need from you then send you a confirmation by email and Payment link to pay in full in advance (or we can call you to get a credit card for $5 deposit and charge the balance on the day of the tour). Finally, if you do not show up for the tour, your credit card on file in RezdyPay will be charged the full amount. If we don’t have a credit card on file but have sent you a payment link for the balance of the tour and you do not pay by 24 hours before the tour we will cancel your booking; See our Cancellation Policy below.

What is your cancellation policy?

In booking a tour you are agreeing to pay for all the seats you reserve, unless you give Frontier Excursions & Adventures 24 hours notice of cancellation or changes to your reservation. Failure to give notice of cancellation or changes to your reservation will result in your credit card being charged for all the seats you reserved for the tour. (The only exception is if your cruise ship does not make its scheduled stop at Skagway, if the ship is delayed arriving to port and we cannot reschedule your tour, if you are quarantined in your cabin for illness, or if Frontier Excursions & Adventures must cancel the tour for any reason.) Frontier Excursions retains the right to cancel a tour for any reason, in which case you will receive a full refund. If you do cancel before the 24 hour period we will refund your $5 deposit or your full amount if you have paid in advance.

How should I dress?

Weather may be windier/wetter/cooler/warmer on the tour than at the time of departure as we travel through different climate zones. The best way to dress is in layers, so that you can shed a layer when warm, or add a layer if cool. Top your shirt with a sweatshirt/sweater/fleece, plus a wind/waterproof jacket, and you should be comfortable for the day. Heavy parkas are usually not recommended for summertime. If you come from a warm climate you may also consider bringing a hat or gloves for warmth. Temperatures can vary from upper 30s at the White Pass in cooler weather to 90 in the Yukon on a warm summer day. So, consider the general weather of the day before deciding how many layers to bring. For example, if it is a warm and sunny day in Skagway you will most likely not need raincoats or warm sweaters/hats/gloves. But if it seems cooler/cloudy/rainy then bring more layers. Comfortable shoes are also recommended. Bring a camera and binoculars are recommended although our vehicles have one for use.

Are restrooms available on tour?

Our mini-buses are not equipped with restrooms. Our tours follow the South Klondike Highway through much wilderness but with very limited facilities. There are primitive outhouses available for use on all tours and the 6.5 hour Yukon Discovery tour has modern restrooms available at Caribou Crossing and/or Carcross at mid-point of the tour. Our Yukoner (4 hour) tour stops at the Yukon Suspension bridge and there is a modern restroom available. Be aware there may be the possibility of up to 1.5-2 hours or so without a restroom break. If you have issues with needing more frequent restroom stops, you may be better off booking a roundtrip train tour or bus tour on a large motorcoach equipped with restroom. These are available through your ship offered tours.

What type of vehicles do you use?

For our bus tours, we use comfortable custom mini-coaches, with a 13-to-28 passenger capacity (depending on group size). All feature large touring windows, bucket seats and PA systems. We have an on staff mechanic, and our vehicles are meticulously maintained for safety.

Our vehicles are NOT wheelchair or scooter accessible. If you are semi-ambulatory and use a walker or can transfer from a wheelchair and go up and down a few steps with assistance, we can most likely help you off and on our buses. Please inform us of any limited mobility situation when you book. We would also need to save space on the bus for a walker or folding wheelchair.

How do I decide which tour is best for me?

When considering your tour choice, keep in mind your preferences as to group size, time available, and budget.

To see the most and best variety in your day, consider the Yukon Territory (Yukoner and Yukon Discovery). The scenery is different than what you’ll see along the Inside Passage which is temperate coastal rainforest. As you travel over the White Pass and farther inland toward the Yukon, the climate becomes drier and ecosystems change. You’ll get above the treeline into sub-arctic alpine tundra at the White Pass, then travel into Boreal forest wilderness as you approach the Yukon. Also, regardless of the weather in Skagway, it’s usually better in Canada over the White Pass. Our best chances of seeing wildlife, such as bears, also improves as you go toward the Yukon (though is possible on any of our tours).

If you want a shorter tour that covers the main highlights on a budget and leaves more free time for you to shop or do a second tour during your day in port, then the White Pass Summit & City Tour give you the history of the gold rush and some incredible scenery in the shortest time frame at 2.75 hours. The Yukoner, at 4 hours is also a good option for a shorter tour.

For more active tours and outdoor adventure consider our sister company,  Skagway Float Tours.   We have a Combo day where you can combine one of our shorter bus tours with either the Scenic River Float or the Chilkoot Trail Hike and Float.

Will we see wildlife?

For wildlife sightings such as bears, moose, mountain goats and others, the Yukon is the best possibility. Approximately 30-50% of Yukon excursions see some type of wildlife. Wildlife sightings are most active in May and June. For water-related wildlife, such as eagles and seals, the Skagway Float Tours (Chilkoot Trail Hike & Float or Scenic River Float) are best. Remember, wildlife sightings, while occurring frequently, are at the whim of Mother Nature!

What's the difference between your tours and the train?

The train is a great trip through the mountains and an engineering landmark, and train buffs should plan on including it in their visit to Skagway. However, if you want a great tour no matter the means of transportation, you’ll find that our bus tours do parallel the train route in part and offer advantages including multiple photo stops and a chance to interact with your guide. At the stops all passengers can get out to take in the fresh mountain air and to take as many photos as desired where as the train is in constant motion. Also you can get personalized attention from your guide as you have the opportunity to ask questions and capture family photos with the guide as your photographer. In addition, you’ll find our bus tours offer great value for the money.

How soon should I book?

We highly recommend you book early (several months in advance) to guarantee your desired tour. You may book via our website or call us. Our longer tours to the Yukon and Yukon border book up fastest. Our White Pass Summit and City tour often has closer in availability.

Can I book a tour after arriving in Skagway?

Yes, besides our regularly scheduled tours, we often open up an additional tour bus for day of sales (usually for our Yukoner or White Pass Summit & City tour). Our sales office is located in the Golden North Hotel building at 3rd and Broadway in the heart of downtown. There is a shuttle stop across the street from our location, so if you take a shuttle from the ship, you can request a drop off at our office. Your best rate will always come by booking directly through us. We may also be reached by email at [email protected], phone at 907.983.2512, or out-of-town toll free at 877.983.2512. Please be aware that some tours may be sold out on the day of your arrival.

"Most amazing part of Alaska/Northwest was our 6hr trip into the Yukon with Frontier Excursions! Scenery, bears, porcupines, marmot, snow, lakes, sled dogs and pups, goats, horses, great meal and a great tour guide oh my! We loved her: funny and smart! I would say this was definitely the best part of our cruise."

"our tour guide, mike, helped make the tour one of the highlights of the entire cruise. his knowledge and sense of humor is second to none. i know i emailed multiple times prior to our arrival and each time you provided a quick response. i truly appreciated that. frontier excursions far exceeded my expectations and i will definitely recommend and use you for my future bookings.", "my mother and i took the yukon discovery excursion and had a fantastic time the van was very comfortable and our tour guide, brooke, was fun and knowledgeable. we made plenty of stops to view the beautiful scenery and take photographs.", "just wanted to take a minute and tell you how much we thoroughly enjoyed our tour with frontier excursions. beverly was an absolutely fantastic guide. she was very friendly, knowledgeable, walked the cemetery with the group and up to the falls. stopped at beautiful sites for us to take pictures, took some pictures for us with our cameras. she was a great driver . certainly recommend frontier excursions to anyone i know.", premier skagway tours, frontier excursions & adventures.

brings you incredible natural beauty, unique Gold Rush history, and world-class scenery around every turn.

Our goal is to provide a high-quality tour, friendly and helpful service, and a fun day for your family on a Skagway tour. We make lots of stops for viewing, photography, and breathing the fresh mountain air!

We hope you’ll join us for a great tour day in Skagway.

We pick up at the Cruise ship docks and our office – 3rd and Broadway, at the Golden North Hotel, Skagway, Alaska.

Frontier Excursions & Adventures

Visit skagway & the yukon, spectacular scenery:.

Gold Rush Trail White Pass Yukon Territory Pitchfork Falls Bridal Veil Falls Moore Creek Bridge Welcome to Alaska Sign Summit Lake Tormented Valley Yukon Suspension Bridge Welcome to Yukon Sign Lake Bennett Carcross Desert Emerald Lake Caribou Crossing Chilkoot Trail Dyea Valley Taiya River

Activities:

Sightseeing Scenic Driving Photography Rafting Hiking

Watch for Wildlife:

Bears Moose Caribou Eagles Dall Sheep Mountain Goats Marmots

VISIT SKAGWAY ALASKA

1 877.983.2512  – Toll Free 1 907.983.2512  – Local

[email protected]

SeaCraft Hover Tours

  Alaska Hovercraft Tour  Excursions

Discover Alaska like never before on the newest unique excursion

About SeaCraft Hover Tours

Looking for a unique and exhilarating way to explore the breathtaking landscapes of South-central, Alaska? SeaCraft Hover Tours is Talkeetna's first and only hovercraft excursion. On our tour, you and your family will have unrestricted access to many places inaccessible to traditional watercraft. Instead of riding on the water, you will fly just above it in a true amphibious vessel.  With our state-of-the-art Explorer 24 hovercraft, you'll be able to glide effortlessly over the water, taking in stunning views of majestic glacier-covered mountains, and countless species of wildlife.

Your experienced guide and naturalist will lead you on a thrilling journey through the wilderness, stopping along the way to share fascinating facts and stories about the local history and ecology. As you hover above the water, keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles, moose, and even bears, as you explore the Susitna glacial outwash plane or Knik River/Glacier. Our hovercraft tours are environmentally friendly, perfect for explorers/adventurers, and are truly an epic way to experience the natural wonders of Alaska. Book your tour today and get ready for an unforgettable ride!

Our Services

Scenic Wilderness Tour

1 hr 30 min

Wasilla, AK, USA

[email protected]

(907)-521-5777

Subscribe Form

Thanks for subscribing!

Find Your Destination

2024 Alaska Princess Cruise Plus Las Vegas Photo Gallery

2024 alaska princess cruise plus las vegas recap with tour manager estrella roznerski.

Last week, we embarked on our adventure aboard the Majestic Princess ship with tour manager Estrella Roznerski! The adventure kicked off with a tour of Seattle, where our local guide Theresa led us through the city’s rich history and captivating stories. Pike’s Market was a highlight, with fellow travelers immersing themselves in the local charm.

While sailing to Alaska, we enjoyed the ship’s amenities, starting with a cocktail party at the Double Down Bar. We stopped in Ketchikan and Skagway, enjoying the local sights, shopping, and food!

Our finale ended with the vibrant lights of Las Vegas, where luck smiled upon one lucky tour member with an exciting win at the California Hotel & Casino!

Get more information about Princess Alaska Cruises !

Travel Photo Gallery

Click on a photo below to open up the image gallery.

Explore more adventures in our photo and video galleries below!

Related Posts

2024 Iberian Discovery Tour Photo Gallery

2024 Heart of Europe Circle Tour #2 Photo Gallery

2024 Seoul Mahalo Shopping Tour Photo Gallery

2024 Exalted East Asia Cruise Photo Gallery

Why the journey is the destination when it comes to Alaska cruises

They say getting there is half the fun. Usually, I disagree. When I travel, I want to get to where I’m going as quickly as possible to make the most of my time there. However, sailing Celebrity Edge on its maiden Alaska voyage from Seattle, I was all about the journey.

Staring up at the snow-capped mountains through the ship’s floor-to-ceiling windows and watching for wildlife in the icy waters below, I was mesmerized by the famed Last Frontier. And I realized that on an Alaska cruise , the journey is a destination.

Here’s why and what travelers should know about cruising Alaska.

Why is Alaska a popular cruise destination?

Alaska is a bucket-list destination for many people. Some may wait their whole lives for the trip. While Alaska Airlines and other carriers fly throughout America’s largest state , it isn’t as easy to navigate as the Lower 48.

Cruises allow travelers to visit multiple destinations without taking separate flights, renting a car or moving from hotel to hotel. My Edge itinerary included stops in Ketchikan, which is surrounded by the lush Tongass National Forest ; the state capital of Juneau, which is only accessible by air or sea; and Skagway, home of Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park . The ship also carefully navigated the stunning Endicott Arm fjord toward Dawes Glacier, a highlight of the trip.

The easy trip can also be more accessible for people with mobility issues and other disabilities. Like other cruise lines, Celebrity has a team dedicated to accessible cruising . Numerous guests on board my sailing used walkers, canes or wheelchairs. Plus, it’s just nice to be able to take in the dramatic coastlines from the comfort of a cozy cabin or lounge when it’s chilly outside.

Are cruises to Alaska worth it?

They can be. At last check, the lowest price on a seven-night Celebrity Edge Alaska Dawes Glacier sailing, roundtrip from Seattle, for the remainder of this summer is listed at $778 per person on the cruise line’s website, based on double occupancy in an inside stateroom. That does not include travel to or from Seattle nor any taxes or fees, which can balloon the bottom line on any cruise. Nor does it include promotional discounts, which are pretty much always available. After taxes and fees, that works to about $2,212 for two people or $1,106 per person. 

The cheapest seven-night Southbound Glacier sailing on the Edge’s sister ship, Celebrity Summit , is much less at $249 per person, based on double occupancy in an inside stateroom. It’s worth noting the Southbound voyage goes from Seward, Alaska, to Vancouver, British Columbia, not a round trip. Also the Summit is not an Edge-class ship , The Celebrity Edge is the first Edge class ship to sail Alaska; it was also the first ship in Celebrity’s most recent series, which also includes the new Celebrity Ascent . Edge-class ships were designed to bring guests closer than ever to their destinations, with their signature Magic Carpet cantilevered platform that extends beyond the ship’s edge and other features that bring the outside in. After taxes and fees, the Summit sailing adds up to about $1,231 for two people or about $615 a person.

Both are cheaper than flying between cities and staying at hotels for a week in Alaska, but they're also cheaper than other popular vacations. For example, seven nights at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort , a value resort at Walt Disney World , costs $955 for the room alone, including taxes and a summer promo deal. Adding seven days of park tickets, without park hopping, and the total becomes $2,195 for two people or about $1,098 per person, excluding food.

Meanwhile, cruises include all onboard meals – except optional specialty dining and alcohol. There are also a boatload of included activities, like nature talks, tai chi classes, guided arts and crafts, trivia, games and childcare. There’s live music available through the day and nightly stage shows. I sampled a little bit of everything, but for me, the best part of the ship was the views.

Inside Ascent: 3 takeaways from Celebrity Cruises' new ship

Do you see wildlife on an Alaskan cruise?

Yes. I saw whale spouts three times from the ship, though the whales didn’t breach above water. I also saw a handful of harbor seals and a dozen eagles from the ship and from shore. Bald eagles are so common in Alaska that a tour bus driver jokingly called them bald seagulls. There are 30,000 bald eagles in the state, according to the Alaska Department of Fish & Game. 

I kept an eye out for bears on an excursion to Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. I didn’t see any walking along the paved, wheelchair-accessible Nugget Falls Trail, but I did spot all sorts of spring buds and the most beautiful moss.

The ship’s onboard naturalist gave us a heads-up on what to look for and taught us about various species in presentations in the ship’s theater. She also broadcasted live on the ship’s TV channel and inside speakers while traveling through the Endicott Arm. However, her voice wasn’t carried on outside speakers to avoid potentially disturbing wildlife.

What is the best month to go on a cruise to Alaska?

The Alaska cruise season runs from late April to early October, though dates vary by cruise line. Guests who sail early or late in the season may find lower rates than during the height of the summer, but they may miss out on warmer weather.

It was in the 40s to 50s most days of my May sailing, and it rained on our Juneau day. The onboard naturalist warned that there is no bad weather in Alaska, only poor clothing choices.

How much should I budget for an Alaskan cruise?

You should pad your budget with several hundred extra dollars for excursions and dining off-ship. Both can be pricey but enriching. My Mendenhall Glacier excursion was just under $130, including transportation and an off-site Gold Creek Salmon Bake , with all-you-can-eat fresh salmon cooked over a wood-burning fire.  I’ve never had better fried fish than the local halibut at The Alaska Fish House in Ketchikan, and I will be dreaming of the sweet, plump red king crab at Tracy’s King Crab Shack in Juneau for years to come.  If you want freshly caught Alaska seafood, you’ll want to get it at port.

You may be able to spot whales from the cruise ship, but if you really want to go whale watching, salmon fishing, dog sledding, or get up close to glaciers, that’s generally going to require an excursion. Excursions offered through cruise lines tend to cost more than those booked independently, but booking through the cruise line can streamline payment and ensure that the ship won’t leave without you if the excursion runs late.

One port you can enjoy on the cheap is Skagway. You can explore several exhibits and historic buildings on your own, as part of Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. However many visitors splurge on a scenic train ride on the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway up to the Canadian border and back.

Is it worth getting a balcony on a cruise?

Yes and no. The views throughout Alaska are breathtaking, and being able to enjoy them from your cabin any time of day feels luxurious. I loved waking up to mountains, thick with trees, outside my window and scanning the waters for marinelife before bed.

Just over 80% of Celebrity Edge’s staterooms have a balcony. I had an Infinite Veranda , which is unique to Edge-class ships. Rather than a traditional balcony with a sliding glass door, Infinite Verandas incorporate what would be exterior balcony space into the interior of the cabin and have a window that slides halfway down the exterior wall with the push of a button. I loved how much bigger it made the cabin feel and appreciated the extra climate-controlled living space. It was still chilly during my early season sailing, so I rarely put the window down and think I would have enjoyed a non-balcony, oceanview room just as much.

Of course, if you book an inside cabin, you can still enjoy the scenery from public areas of any ship. The Celebrity Edge brings the outside in with tons of windows, including in the buffet restaurant, Oceanview Cafe, where I spotted my first whale spout. In the back of the ship, there’s a relaxing mixed-use space called Eden with three stories of windows that I found myself drawn to daily. The solarium, with its tall windows and rows of lounge chairs, also offered expansive views. 

Do I need a passport for an Alaskan cruise?

Maybe. For a closed-loop cruise that starts and ends in the same U.S. port, like the one I was on, all you need is proof of citizenship. 

“According to U.S. Customs & Border Protection, this includes an Enhanced Driver’s License, which is a state-issued driver’s license that provides proof of identity and U.S. citizenship; a government-issued birth certificate (issued by the Vital Records Department in the state where the person was born) or passport; and if 16 or older, a government-issued driver’s license or picture ID denoting photo, name, and date of birth,” according to Celebrity.

Of course, not all Alaska cruises are closed-loop cruises. Some start or end in Vancouver, Canada. There are also cruises on several smaller U.S.-flagged cruise lines like Alaska Dream Cruises and Uncruise Adventures , which may not require passports depending on the itinerary.

Can you see the Northern Lights on an Alaska cruise?

It’s possible, but because daylight hours are so long during the summer in Alaska, the best chance to see them would be on a cruise late in the season.

I woke up in the middle of the night a few times to look for Northern Light. I didn’t see any, but I heard passengers on a previous sailing spotted them. Then again, so did people all across the country during the solar storm earlier this month.

The reporter on this story received access from Celebrity Cruises. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of reviews.

• Alaska Tourism
• Alaska Hotels
• Alaska Bed and Breakfast
• Alaska Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Alaska
• Alaska Restaurants
• Things to Do in Alaska
• Alaska Travel Forum
• Alaska Photos
• All Alaska Hotels
• Alaska Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Alaska
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Cruise or not! - Alaska Forum

• United States    
• Alaska (AK)    

Cruise or not!

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• United States forums
• Alaska forum

June 1 - 14 2025

13 replies to this topic

Fly into & out of Anchorage (ANC).

... If you are active people (hikes/or good walks) and it is only 7 nights, I'd drop Homer, Denali , and W.St.Elias. to reduce the time spent in a car . So this would be:

---- south as far as Seward , north as far as the Matanuska Glacier (to get a professionally guided trek), with all points in between (Anchorage, Girdwood, Portage/Whittier area). Minimze your time in Anchorage (it's great, but the rest of AK is even better)

--- if you want more locations, then you really need to add more days.

---- google map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/V86JrX8F4dEWB8g48

Appreciate your thoughts on limiting the driving and have considered dropping Denali since the road is closed from mile 43 anyway. I will be the only driver.

Thanks for reply

The Alaska Marine Highway ferry runs from Gustavus Juneau 2 or 3 times a week......the ferry schedule for next year will not be published until Jan 2025, though ........But Seaplanes has regularly scheduled flights between Juneau, Gustavus, Haines and Skagway so if the ferry didn't work out, the smaller planes would work as Plan B......

You wouldn't need to rent a car in Gustavus but renting a car in Haines makes a lot of sense.....if you stayed in Haines for a couple of days you could take the fast ferry to Skagway if you are interested in taking the train......it operates several times a day and you wouldn't have to spend the night there.....

Fly Seaplanes or take ferry back to Juneau and fly Alaska Air to Anchorage to pick up your rental car there for your final week.....

It just takes a little planning but you would have a great trip......These links might help

https://dot.alaska.gov/amhs/map.shtml

https://www.flyalaskaseaplanes.com/?gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMImf2tvtbFhgMVlS6tBh12RR_HEAAYASAAEgLD2_D_BwE

https://www.hainesskagwayfastferry.com/

member thankyou. Good tip to go straight to Gustavus

Another option: fly to Anchorage for a 7 day land tour (you don't have time for all the places you listed, though--it would help to let us know what you intended to do in each place). Then take this 7 day southbound cruise which includes Glacier Bay:

June 7, 2025: Sapphire Princess , Schedule: Whittier, Alaska (07 Jun d2030); Hubbard Glacier , Alaska (08 Jun 1500-2000); Glacier Bay, Alaska (09 Jun 0915-1930); Skagway, Alaska (10 Jun 0700-2030); Juneau, Alaska (11 Jun 0630-1600); Ketchikan, Alaska (12 Jun 1000-1800); Vancouver, Canada (14 Jun 0730-1800)

BTW, check the above itinerary directly on the Princess site to make sure it's accurate, I got that from a cruise search site and on rare occasion I've caught a mistake (which they immediately corrected when I told them about it.)

There are direct flights from Vancouver to ANC (1 per day, with Air Canada, usually in the afternoon), or if you don't mind a plane change, there are numerous flight options if you head back to Seattle then on to ANC.

Thankyou @maple_marshmallows,

This was our original plan but in reverse. May 31st saphire Princess northbound.

Wrangell St Elias tour to mine

Kenai Fjords cruise full day

Homer kayaking.

In my 30s I spent 3 months campin inland BC and Alaska but missed Glacier Bay hence its a must and wanting to share the magic with my daughter who has never been. I've been to Juneau , Valdez, Haines and Skagway but she hasn't.

Mmmm yes unfortunately a possibility

Re Wrangell St. Elias, did you mean the Bonanza Mine hike? That's a 10 mile round trip and isn't even offered until June 15: https://www.steliasguides.com/trips/bonanza-mine/ Driving to McCarthy adds 12+ hrs. of driving (round trip from Palmer) and means you need to either rent a vehicle allowed on gravel roads (McCarthy Rd.) or take a flight or shuttle from Chitina or Glennallen, info at bottom of this page: https://majohnsonshotel.com/getting-here/ That would take up at least 3 of your days....

• 6 days in Juneau 4:48 pm
• Cruise or not! 4:31 pm
• Westmark Hotel and a day to kill 4:22 pm
• Looking for a Anchorage to Seward (One way Bus tour) 11:02 am
• Alaska on our own or something organized? 10:32 am
• advance lodging reservations today
• Concern about negative reviews for small expedition cruises yesterday
• Cell reception yesterday
• Itinerary help yesterday
• Options July 2024 yesterday
• Advance payments for cruises yesterday
• Trying to plan an inside passage tour using AMHS in June yesterday
• That's a Wrap - '24 GAH Spring Adventure Package Trip Report yesterday
• "TOP 10" Recommended Things to See & Do in Alaska 7 replies
• Best way to see Alaska 5 replies
• Alaska cruise - best choice cruise line 10 replies
• Train to Alaska from Vancouver 3 replies
• Alaska in August... WHat to expect 7 replies
• Holland america vs Princess Cruise 16 replies
• Bear Lodge in Fairbanks 10 replies
• Estimated Drive Times - are these accurate? 5 replies
• Cell Phone Coverage 16 replies
• Best time of year for Whales & Bears 3 replies

Alaska Hotels and Places to Stay

• Why KEEP ALL QUESTIONS in 1 original thread?
• Why post SPECIFICS about your question initially?
• RESOURCES for planning a trip?
• Why study a MAP of Alaska?
• Weather and sunrise/sunset?
• Which rental companies offer one way car rentals?
• BEAR viewing trips?
• Coupon books?
• FISHING in Alaska?
• CLOTHES for summer travel?
• Renting an RV in Alaska?
• Web cameras for Alaska?
• Car camping in Alaska?
• Trip Reports 2020
• Self-serve laundromats?
• Free wifi in Alaska?
• Panning for gold ?
• Seeing NORTHERN LIGHTS?
• Mileage and travel times?
• Scenic drives?
• Alaska by TRAIN: Alaska Railroad?
• BEAR SAFETY in Alaska?
• Where can I go bear viewing by boat?
• TRIP REPORTS 2020
• TRIP REPORTS 2019
• Trip Reports for previous years

The best Alaska cruises for every type of traveler

MSN has partnered with The Points Guy for our coverage of credit card products. MSN and The Points Guy may receive a commission from card issuers.

Even with a season that only runs from April through October, there are some 40 big ships and dozens of small ships cruising Alaska , making it one of the most popular cruise destinations in the world after the Caribbean and Europe. The best Alaska cruises range from off-the-beaten-path voyages on vessels carrying fewer than 100 passengers to weeklong jaunts through the Inside Passage aboard megaships that hold thousands.

The itinerary choices are numerous in Alaska. Some ships stick to tried-and-true ports, sailing through Southeast Alaska and into western Canada. Others wander deeper along the Alaska coastline to places such as the Kenai Peninsula, north to Nome and Barrow and even deep into the Bering Sea.

Some trips hit multiple national parks; others dive into Alaska culture, allowing guests to learn the stories told by totem poles or hear about “the big one” from a fisherman at a dive bar.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG’s cruise newsletter .

It can be hard to figure out which ship will deliver your idea of a “bucket list” experience in The Last Frontier. A lot comes down to your travel style, preferences and budget. Some travelers demand luxury, while others don’t mind going less fancy if it means close encounters with bears and other creatures in the wilderness. Some look for romance, while others want to introduce the kids or grandkids to glaciers and eagles, gold panning and sled dogs.

The good news is there’s a ship in Alaska for you no matter your taste or style. Here’s a beginner’s guide to the best Alaska cruises to help you narrow down your choices.

Best for megaresort fans

Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean both sail some of their largest ships in Alaska. They are floating megaresorts, carrying thousands, and are big on amenities, glitz and a certain amount of glamor — think flashy casinos, Broadway shows, lavish spas. Dining and drinking venues number in the dozens, while amusement park features thrill the kids and adrenaline-seekers.

Norwegian Encore

On Norwegian Encore, you can race along a go-kart racetrack, compete in outdoor laser tag and zoom down slides at the water park while you traverse Alaska’s Inside Passage. The ship sails seven-night cruises from Seattle, visiting Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan in Alaska, as well as Victoria, British Columbia, and Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve .

Related: A beginner’s guide to picking a cruise line

Ovation of the Seas

On Royal Caribbean’s Quantum-class ships, you can order a drink from a robotic bartender, try simulated skydiving or surfing experiences and take a ride in a glass capsule that travels high above your ship on a mechanical arm — a weird and wonderful way to see the Alaska scenery.

Ovation of the Seas sails round-trip from Seattle on seven-night cruises, but the exact itinerary varies by week. The ship cruises Endicott Arm for scenic views of Dawes Glacier and typically visits three Alaska ports and Victoria.

Best for land and sea adventures

You’ve traveled far to get to Alaska, and it would be a shame to miss inland sights such as Denali National Park and Preserve and the sight of Denali, North America’s largest peak — so big it’s often shrouded in clouds caused by its own weather system.

Market leaders Holland America Line and Princess Cruises both send a half-dozen ships to Alaska each year, and they have 75 and 55 years in the market, respectively.

They top the list in terms of cruises, as well as cruise tours, which combine time sailing with overnight stays on land. The companies operate their own lodges, rail cars and motorcoaches for exploration of Alaska’s interior and beyond. Many of the ships have permission to sail in Glacier Bay.

Related: The coolest things to do on an Alaska cruise

Choose from 10- to 17-night land tours that combine a standard weeklong cruise (sometimes half a cruise) with time spent exploring Alaska’s interior by bus, train or even plane.

Holland America will base six ships in Alaska in 2024, with tour offerings to Denali, Fairbanks and Anchorage.

However, it also offers nine- to 14-night cruise tours on Koningsdam that head into the Canadian Yukon, following the route of the Klondike Gold Rush from Alaska to northwestern Canada. Disembark your cruise ship in Skagway, then travel to Whitehorse and Dawson City in the Yukon before continuing on to Fairbanks (the gateway to Arctic Alaska), Denali National Park and Anchorage.

Sapphire Princess

Princess Cruises offers a cruise tour where you visit four national parks: Glacier Bay, Denali, the Kenai Fjords and America’s largest national park, Wrangell-St. Elias. The 15- and 17-night trips combine a seven-night cruise on Sapphire Princess from Vancouver to Whittier, Alaska, with another week or more on land, ending in Fairbanks or Anchorage.

Best for travelers on a budget

Older ships in Norwegian and Royal Caribbean’s fleets tend to offer more reduced prices than you’ll find on the lines’ larger and newer ships, based on the fact the older ships don’t have as many bells and whistles.

Since they have so many ships in the market, Holland America Line and Princess Cruises also tend to offer frequent sales — especially on their older tonnage. These ships have a loyal following and tend to have fewer families on board, which some couples find particularly appealing.

Related: Best time to cruise Alaska

If you’re looking for other surefire ways to save, consider sailings in the area’s shoulder season. You’ll find better deals from April to early June and in September than you will in the height of summer.

Also, in Alaska, balcony cabins are highly desirable, with everyone seeking views of the wilderness, snow-capped peaks and glaciers. As those reserves get low, the prices tend to get higher. Bargain seekers should either book early for these accommodations or choose inside, outside or guarantee cabins (where you don’t pick your room location) to save more.

Radiance of the Seas

Royal Caribbean’s 20-year-old ship Radiance of the Seas mainly sails weeklong, one-way cruises between Vancouver and Seward, Alaska, with prices below $100 per person, per night, for inside and outside cabins on many departures.

However, its early-season May 2024 sailing from Seward to Vancouver is the cheapest Royal Caribbean Alaska cruise of the season. It starts at $368 per person for an inside cabin.

Grand Princess and Sapphire Princess

Princess Cruises has so many ships based in Alaska that you’re bound to find deals, especially on shoulder-season cruises. Both Grand and Sapphire Princess offer weeklong Alaska cruises in May 2024 starting from $548 per person for inside cabins. The itinerary starts in Vancouver and ends in Whittier, Alaska, with calls in Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway and scenic cruising in Glacier Bay and College Fjord.

Best for off-the-beaten-path travel

Want to see and deeply experience coastal Alaska, and don’t mind a mellower environment where lectures and impromptu guitar singalongs replace casinos and show productions? Consider lines such as UnCruise Adventures , Lindblad Expeditions and Alaskan Dream Cruises, all with ships that carry fewer than 100 passengers (and in the case of Alaskan Dream, even under 20 passengers).

On these small ships, captains have the flexibility to alter itineraries and linger if the naturalist onboard spots a pod of whales or bears digging for clams on a beach.

Small ships can go places bigger ships can’t, so itineraries stretch far beyond the traditional ports. You’ll visit more remote places such as Petersburg, a fishing town with strong Norwegian roots, and Wrangell, one of Alaska’s oldest communities. Some itineraries are conducted entirely in the wild, with no port calls at all.

UnCruise Adventures

UnCruise Adventures explores Southeast Alaska on seven-, 12- and 14-night itineraries. A day might start with a morning birding expedition, continue with a kayaking adventure and end with an evening campfire ashore. You might visit LeConte and Baird Glaciers (where the big ships don’t go), plus UnCruise has the only permits for hiking and biking adventures on Chichagof Island.

Lindblad Expeditions

Lindblad Expeditions frequents off-the-beaten-path destinations in both Alaska and British Columbia, with itineraries ranging from six to 15 nights.

Guests might explore the small fishing town of Petersburg or discover native petroglyphs on the beaches of Wrangell Island in Alaska, or search for grizzly bears in Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest. Lindblad has special permits to bring passengers into the wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve and the Tongass National Forest, beyond what the big ships can offer.

Alaskan Dream Cruises

Alaskan-owned Alaskan Dream Cruises’ ships carry 12 to 76 passengers to remote Native villages that rarely see visitors, with plenty of time for wildlife viewing far from the cruise ship crowds. Itineraries range from five to nine nights, from departure ports such as Sitka, Ketchikan and Juneau.

Best for families

If you’re traveling with your kids or grandkids in Alaska and want an activity- and entertainment-packed experience, target the newest and biggest ships of Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Carnival and especially Disney Cruise Line. All have excellent camp-like activity programs for kids, plus eye-popping amusement attractions.

Disney Wonder

On Disney ships, Goofy might make an appearance as you admire soaring eagles, blue icebergs and glaciers. The extensive children’s program, entertainment and such activities as water slides and play areas deliver what you would expect from the purveyor of dreams. Bonus: Cabins are designed with families in mind and include split bathrooms (one with a toilet and sink, the other with a shower/tub combo and sink).

Related: 5 best cruise lines for families

Discovery Princess

While lacking in whiz-bang attractions, Princess Cruises is another good choice, both for its children’s and teens program, complete with spacious facilities, and for such programming as bringing sled dogs on board, which is a hit with young passengers. The line’s newest ship, Discovery Princess, sails round trip from Seattle, a convenient U.S. home port for families to fly or drive to.

Carnival Spirit

Water slides, a partnership with Dr. Seuss and three hangouts for kids and teens make Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Spirit a great bet for families in Alaska.

The ship’s huge array of included quick eats — pizza, tacos, Guy Fieri’s burgers and unlimited soft serve ice cream — and casual atmosphere take the stress out of dining with the family. The ship sails round trip from Seattle on seven-night itineraries that call in Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan and Victoria, with scenic cruising in Tracy Arm Fjord.

Best for luxury lovers

If you envision sipping Champagne as you watch a glacier thunderously calve into the sea, consider booking one of the all-inclusive luxury cruise lines in Alaska: Seabourn , Regent Seven Seas Cruises or Silversea .

All these lines include ships that are experts at delivering gourmet cuisine and the other finer things in life in intimate, cushy floating environments. Additionally, all the lines are big on featuring lectures by experts, which provides passengers with a deeper insight into Alaska.

Itineraries tend to include the popular ports and beyond. You might, for instance, visit Wrangell and Prince Rupert, a port city in Canada, and linger in places such as the Misty Fjords and Prince William Sound. Seven- to 14-night sailings embark from ports such as Vancouver, Seward and Juneau.

Seven Seas Explorer

Regent’s 750-passenger Seven Seas Explorer is an all-suite ship offering guests in Alaska multiple gourmet onboard restaurants, all-inclusive beverages, free airfare and included gratuities. Many shore excursions are complimentary. Enjoy little luxuries, like an afternoon in the thermal suite of the two-story spa-and-fitness center, or really splurge out by booking the Regent Suite, the most lavish suite you’ll find at sea.

Seabourn Odyssey

The 450-passenger Seabourn Odyssey boasts an onboard expedition team and does a posh version of expedition cruising in Alaska, using inflatable Zodiac craft and kayaks.

Seabourn calls its program Ventures by Seabourn. Experts onboard these sailings include naturalists, biologists and other scientists who are members of the expedition team. Once guests finish communing with nature, they can indulge in complimentary Champagne and caviar on board or relish a meal created by famed chef, Thomas Keller.

Related: The 4 best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Best for solo travelers

Solo travelers don’t always have to pay double to cruise Alaska on their own. Several ships feature cabins designed and priced for one. Single cruisers should also note that luxury lines Silversea and Seabourn, while not cheap, do a great job of taking care of single cruisers, hosting them at dinner and providing easy opportunities to meet and mingle with other travelers.

Norwegian Bliss

The ships in Norwegian Cruise Line’s Breakaway and Getaway classes all have cozy studio cabins designed and priced for one person. Additionally, they’re located in a complex where a private lounge encourages mingling. Norwegian Bliss offers 82 solo rooms on its round-trip Seattle cruises that visit Dawes Glacier, Sitka and Icy Strait Point.

Quantum of the Seas

Royal Caribbean’s studio staterooms, on its Quantum-class ships in Alaska, give solo travelers the benefits of both decent space and balconies.

On Quantum of the Seas, choose a 101-square-foot inside cabin or a 119-square-foot ocean-view room with a 55-square-foot balcony. Either way, you get a full-size bed and plenty of space for one person. The ship sails a similar weeklong itinerary to sister ship Ovation of the Seas, round-trip from Seattle with scenic sailing along Endicott Arm.

Holland America offers ocean-view accommodations for one in Alaska only on Koningsdam. Measuring 127 to 172 square feet, these rooms come with a full-size bed and a picture window.

Koningsdam sails round trip from Vancouver to Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan, with scenic cruising in Tracy Arm and Glacier Bay. Its cruises can be combined into nine- to 14-night cruise tours to the Yukon and Denali.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Additional reporting by Erica Silverstein.

SPONSORED:  With states reopening, enjoying a meal from a restaurant no longer just means curbside pickup.

And when you do spend on dining, you should use a credit card that will maximize your rewards and potentially even score special discounts. Thanks to temporary card bonuses and changes due to coronavirus, you may even be able to score a meal at your favorite restaurant for free. 

These are the best credit cards for dining out, taking out, and ordering in to maximize every meal purchase.

Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.