Last updated: Aug 20, 2023 • Read time: 9 min
When it comes to the top Alaska destinations, adventure is around every corner. From Tongass National Forest to Glacier Bay National Park, here are the most popular Alaska destinations to explore on your next Princess cruise or cruisetour.
On this page: - Alaska destinations on a cruise - Alaska destinations on a cruisetour - FAQs
Sail with Princess to get up close to some of the world’s most famous glaciers. Journey through breathtaking fjords and witness beloved wildlife in their natural habitat
Glacier Bay National Park is one of Alaska’s marquee experiences. Admire snow‑capped mountains and towering glaciers from the comfort of the ship. Park rangers come aboard to share expert commentary, and wildlife like sea otters and whales are often seen in their natural habitat — all without leaving your Princess ship.
While Alaska’s largest city boasts modern buildings, Anchorage also retains historical charm with late Victorian and Tudor Revival architecture. The true allure is the local lifestyle and nearby wilderness: see locals fishing for salmon, watch moose cross neighborhood streets, board a raft on Spencer Lake to drift past glacial monuments, or take a trolley for a 15‑mile look at the city’s past and present.
Covering more than 17 million acres, Tongass National Forest is a haven for wildlife and rich, coastal rainforest. Walk boardwalk trails beneath Sitka spruce, look for eagles overhead, and keep an eye out for grizzly bears along salmon streams.
Start your Alaska adventure. View cruises.
On a Princess cruisetour, spend more time on land exploring Alaska’s winding rivers, meeting locals and their sled dogs, or flying over rolling mountains. With the ability to reach smaller fjords and stay at exclusive Princess Wilderness Lodges near legendary parks, you’ll enjoy easy access to untouched lands by day and fireside relaxation by night.
Denali National Park spans six million acres of wild terrain. Rivers carve valleys beneath glaciers, and Denali’s “Big Five” — grizzly bears, caribou, moose, wolves and Dall sheep — call the park home. Explore with knowledgeable guides who illuminate Denali’s landscapes and wildlife.
At 669,000 acres, Kenai Fjords is crowned by the Harding Icefield, which feeds glaciers that meet crystalline fjords. Look for humpback whales breaching and seals basking on rocky outcrops as you cruise through pristine waters.
America’s largest national park, Wrangell–St. Elias contains nine of the 16 highest U.S. peaks as well as some of North America’s largest volcanoes. Drift past powder‑blue glaciers and, in season, cast for salmon on the Copper River.
Known as the Golden Heart City, Fairbanks blends Gold Rush history with outdoor fun. Ride a sternwheeler, visit historic mines, kayak beneath the centennial footbridge on the Chena River, or visit Trail Breaker Kennel to see sled dog training. Families can play at Pioneer Park, from the antique carousel to disc golf, and taste fresh Alaska salmon.
From exploring Denali to rafting past calving glaciers, Alaska’s top destinations offer adventures for every kind of traveler. Ready to plan? View Alaska cruises or browse Alaska cruisetours. For day‑by‑day ideas, explore Alaska shore excursions.
Glacier Bay National Park, Anchorage and Tongass National Forest are among the most popular, featuring scenic cruising, wildlife viewing and easy access to adventure.
What’s the difference between a cruise and a cruisetour?
A cruise explores Alaska’s coast and glaciers by ship. A cruisetour combines a cruise with a multi‑day land tour, including overnights at Princess Wilderness Lodges near parks like Denali, Kenai Fjords and Wrangell–St. Elias as well as time in Fairbanks.
Will there be experts on board to enhance the Glacier Bay experience?
Yes. Park rangers come aboard during Glacier Bay scenic cruising to share insights on glaciers, geology and wildlife.
What wildlife might I see?
At sea and along the coast: whales, sea otters, seals and eagles. On land: moose and, in select regions, grizzly bears. In Denali, look for the “Big Five” — grizzly bears, caribou, moose, wolves and Dall sheep.
Where can I find excursions for these destinations?
Browse curated options on the Alaska shore excursions page and filter by port or interest.
How do I start planning a cruisetour?
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