anchorage alaska cruise ship schedule

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Anchorage AK (Alaska, Denali NP)

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Region Alaska

Local Time 2024-05-01 02:22

Port Anchorage AK cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Anchorage AK, Alaska, Denali NP. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Anchorage AK is Alaska's largest port city, located in Southern Alaska, between Turnagain and Knik arms of Cook Inlet and the Chugach Mountains. To the south is Kenai Peninsula, to the north is Denali National Park (aka Mount McKinley).

Most cruise ship tourists visit Anchorage through Seward or Whittier .

Anchorage AK serves as Alaska's hub for communications, transportation, and finance. The city has a population of around 300,000, ranking it Alaska's largest, containing over 40% of the state's total population. The city was founded in 1914 as the headquarters of the Alaska Railroad (Seward and Whittier) and via Anchorage to Fairbanks (north). With a population of around 32,000 (metro over 100,000), Fairbanks is ranked Alaska's 2nd most populous (after Anchorage).

The local economy is based on tourism and air freight. In 1964 the city was devastated by an earthquake (aka Good Friday earthquake) and much of the downtown area had to be rebuilt. In 1968 was discovered the Prudhoe Bay Oil Field resulting in a boom in construction and oil companies setting up offices in the city.

Anchorage is the cruise port to Fairbanks. The distance between both cities is around 580 km (360 mi). Travel time is 7-8 hours (by car and bus), 12 hours (by train) and 1 hour (by air). Train travel is the longest on Alaska Railroad. Being the most expensive, this is also the best way to enjoy the region's spectacular scenery as there are special glass-domed rail cars. From Anchorage are offered (as shore excursions) plane tours to Fairbanks.

The most popular tourist attractions in Anchorage include Resolution Park, Museum of History and Art, Elderberry Park, Native Heritage Center, Earthquake Park, Eklutna Historical Park, Eagle River Nature Center, Portage Glacier. Also very popular are boat tours (via Seward ) to Prince William Sound's glaciers or Kenai Fjords Park. Bus and plane tours are offered to Denali National Park.

Port Anchorage handles around 95% of all goods shipped to Alaska. Cargo ships from the US container shipping companies Horizon Lines and TOTE Maritime arrive twice per week from Port Tacoma (Washington). Along with handling cargoes, the port also serves as a jet fuel storage facility delivered from Alaskan refineries and used by the local US military base JBER (Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson) and TSAIA (Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport).

Cruisetours starting in Anchorage AK often include bus travel to Talkeetna (Chugach Mountains), scenic train travel to Denali NP (Denali Education Center), an overnight stay in the Park, return bus travel to Anchorage (via Willow AK - popular for its dogsled- and ATV rides). The Wilderness Express Train links to Talkeetna AK, from where (via bus) is accessed Denali NP.

Following the 2-year cruise shipping pause due to the COVID crisis, in 2022 Port Anchorage AK had scheduled only one ship call - by MS Nieuw Amsterdam (on Sept 15) as part of the 14-day "Great Alaskan Explorer" itinerary (roundtrip from Vancouver BC Canada ).

Actually, many cruise ships to Anchorage actually dock in Whittier AK (visited on 7-day itineraries from Vancouver) and transport their passengers to Anchorage on bus excursions. Whittier is approx 100 km (60 mi) from Anchorage, accessible by road and train.

At Port Anchorage, passengers can use bus shuttle service (usually complimentary), taxis and rental cars downtown. Shore excursions (by train and bus) also leave from the cruise terminal.

Following the Coronavirus crisis, in 2022 Port Anchorage was visited by just one cruise ship - Holland America Line 's ms Nieuw Amsterdam .

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Anchorage AK - user reviews and comments

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Cruise From Anchorage

Start your cruise from Anchorage (the actual cruise port is in Whittier), a city where the summer days can stretch to almost 19 hours in July. In Anchorage, you'll find plenty of active things to do and attractions to hike, bike and see wildlife. Take a day trip and explore the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail by bike, or the Flattop Mountain Trail inside Chugach State Park, or choose from our  broad selection of Anchorage excursions . A popular destination to stop into on cruises leaving Seattle, you can find a coffee shop (or espresso shack) anywhere. Among its wildlife, its museums and its airplane "Flightseeing" tours, your adventures and cruises from Anchorage will leave you with an unforgettable experience.

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Cruises from anchorage: learn more, anchorage at a glance.

• When was Anchorage founded?  1914 
• Where is Anchorage located?  Anchorage is located on the south central portion of Alaska (AK) 
• What is the population of Anchorage?  288,000 according to the 2019 US Census 
• What language is primarily spoken?  English 
• Anchorage, AK is GMT/UTC - 9h during Alaska Standard Time
• Anchorage, AK is GMT/UTC - 8h during Alaska Daylight Time
• What currency is used in Anchorage, AK?  USD (Dollar)

Travel Tips for Anchorage

How do I book a flight to Anchorage?  At Holland America we offer cruise travelers low prices on their flights. Please see more information on our  Flight Ease program here .

Where should I stay when cruising from Anchorage?  We offer hotel packages to our already booked guests. For more information, visit our  hotel packages and pre- or post-travel arrangements .

What are some of the top places to see in Anchorage?  Visit our  Anchorage Port page  for more information on our top travel recommendations.

Port Information

What should I expect when boarding for my cruise from Anchorage, AK?   Please visit our  cruise preparation FAQ  for information on how to access or print boarding passes, how to check in online, and to see if you need a passport.

Can I book an airport shuttle to my cruise?   Book an airport transfer from the airport to your ship after you book a cruise with Holland America Line. We make getting to and from your cruise comfortable, convenient and hassle-free. For more information on EXC City Stays & Overland Tours, please visit:  https://www.hollandamerica.com/en_US/pre-post-travel-cruise.html .

Are you an already booked guest with Holland America Line? For booked guests, please see our  travel planning  details on how to book an airport transfer.

Where is the Port of Anchorage?  Cruise ships that list a departure from Anchorage often leave from the Cruise Ship Terminal of Whittier, Alaska, located on West Camp Road, Whittier, Alaska about 60 miles from Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. Learn more about arranging transportation to and from your cruise with  Holland America Line Transfers .

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Port Schedule

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Port All Ports ADAK ALERT BAY ANCHORAGE ASTORIA BARTLETT COVE COLLEGE FJORD CORDOVA DUTCH HARBOR ELFIN COVE ENDICOTT ARM GLACIER BAY HAINES HOMER HUBBARD GLACIER ICY BAY ICY STRAIT POINT JUNEAU KAKE KENAI FJORD KETCHIKAN KLAWOCK KLEMTU KODIAK LOS ANGELES METLAKATLA MISTY FJORD NANAIMO NOME PETERSBURG POINT BARROW PRINCE RUPERT PRUDHOE BAY SAN FRANCISCO SEATTLE SEWARD SITKA SKAGWAY ST. MATHEW ST. PAUL TRACY ARM VALDEZ VANCOUVER VICTORIA WHITTIER WILLIAM HENRY BAY WRANGELL

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Alaska Cruises 2024

On this page you will find a 2024 Alaska cruise schedule for Glacier Route cruises that travel between Vancouver and Whittier or Vancouver and Seward . In our experience, these represent the best Alaska cruise itineraries , allowing travelers to see more of Alaska's glaciers, wildlife, and scenery from both sea and land. You can use our cruise finder to see additional route options, including roundtrip Alaska cruises from Seattle and Vancouver .

Princess Cruises and Holland America Line use Whittier for their "turnaround" port, while other lines use Seward . Whittier is a bit closer to Anchorage, but Seward is a very scenic option, particularly if you have time to spend a night or two before or after your cruise. See our cruise tour page for ideas on combining your cruise with a land tour.

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UPDATED: March 15, 2024

All Alaska Ports – All Vessels – 2025

ANC – Anchorage – 2025 BRW – Barrow – 2025 CDV – Cordova – 2025 DH – Dutch Harbor – 2025 GB – Glacier Bay – 2025 HNS – Haines – 2025 HOM – Homer – 2025 HUB – Hubbard Glacier – 2025 ISP – Icy Strait Point – 2025 JNU – Juneau – 2025 KAK- Kake – 2025 KDK – Kodiak – 2025 KLW – Klawock – 2025 KTN – Ketchikan 2025 NOM – Nome – 2025 PDH – Prudhoe Bay – 2025 PTB – Petersburg – 2025 SEA – Seattle – 2025 SFO – San Francisco – 2025 SIT – Sitka – 2025 SKG – Skagway – 2025 SWD – Seward – 2025 TA – Tracy Arm – 2025 VAN – Vancouver – 2025 VDZ – Valdez – 2025 VIC – Victoria – 2025 WHT – Whittier – 2025 WRG – Wrangell – 2025

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Anchorage Cruise Ship Schedule For June 2024

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How do I get between Anchorage and my cruise ship?

One-way Alaska cruises either begin or end one of two towns near Anchorage:  Whittier  or  Seward . Traveling between Whittier or Seward and Anchorage is easy. Both are connected by road and  rail . Whittier is about 60 miles southeast of Anchorage, a drive of roughly an hour and a half. Seward is about 120 miles southeast of Anchorage, about a three hour drive, on the Kenai Peninsula.

Many cruise companies provide transportation from these ports to Anchorage, and many local companies offer  cruise transfers  as well. Consider planning a little extra time for the transfer day; there are many attractions and activities worth visiting along the way.

You can also hop aboard the  Alaska Railroad . Passenger trains depart both towns daily headed for Anchorage, and the train is a memorable way to get to your destination and enjoy some of the sights along the way.

Cruise Transfers

By train, motorcoach or shuttle, reaching the dock in Seward or Whittier, Alaska is a breeze.  Just don’t nap on the ride down; you’ll miss one of the most scenic trips in...

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20 Must-Do Experiences in Alaska

By Diana Hubbell

Last updated: April 29th, 2024

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When contemplating your “must do in Alaska” bucket list, bear in mind that there is no place on Earth like the 49th state. Alaskans like to call their home the Last Frontier, a phrase that still fits. After all, this is a state more than twice the size of Texas, but with less than a million residents.

Much of the land is all but untouched by humans and instead inhabited by an incredible array of wildlife. This is one of the few places where you can see humpback whales breaching near calving glaciers, or bald eagles hunting wild salmon.

The Alaskans who do live here tend to embody the fiercely unconventional, pioneer spirit of their Gold Rush-era prospector predecessors. This has long been a place where people have chosen to live according to their own rules, in some cases off the grid altogether. Travelers here will find warm hospitality, avant-garde art, and an infectious sense of adventure.

From seeing the Northern Lights to flying over the Arctic Circle, here are just a few of the must-see in Alaska experiences to plan.

Go Dog Sledding in Seward

Dog sledding in Seward

In January 1925, a diphtheria outbreak was sweeping through Nome, Alaska, threatening the lives of all the local inhabitants. The frigid winter conditions rendered many forms of transportation treacherous or downright impossible.

The outlook was grim until a team of brave dog sledders traveled hundreds of miles carrying diphtheria antitoxin, a life-saving serum.

Almost a full century later, locals in Alaska still commemorate this courageous event with the Iditarod Sled Dog Race. Each year, teams of mushers zoom 1,000 miles over snowy terrain with their trained Alaskan malamutes, Samoyeds, and Siberian huskies.

Although technology may have advanced since the 1920s, dog racing in Alaska is much more than a sport. National park rangers often use teams of dogs to reach off-road spots in winter.

Whether you’re a dog parent or simply an animal lover, it’s hard to think of a better way to spend an afternoon than hanging with these charismatic canines.

In the coastal town of Seward , visitors can tour the racing kennels and snuggle up to puppies. Afterward, you’ll board a custom wheeled sled for a two-mile ride from Seavey Homestead to Resurrection Mountain.

Read: Where to Go Dog Sledding in Alaska

Get Your Heart Racing on the World’s Largest ZipRider

ZipRider in Icy Strait Point Photo by Werner Bayer on Flickr, licensed under CC0 1.0

If you’re the kind of person who instinctively heads straight for the tallest, fastest, most terrifying roller coaster at an amusement park, the ZipRider at Icy Strait Point should be right up there on you “must do in Alaska” list.

But even if you’re not a hardcore adrenaline-junkie, it just might be, too. Since groups of six can tackle this Alaskan adventure together, it makes for a great family bonding activity.

Situated in Icy Strait Point, this ZipRider is the biggest on the planet, featuring six 5,330-foot lines. Over the course of the ride, travelers plummet 1,330 feet at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour.

Taking the initial plunge off the first platform is admittedly daunting and may challenge even the most steadfast of nerves.

Icy Strait Point

Once you’re whizzing 300 feet over the temperate rainforest canopy, however, the ride is pure pleasure. It helps that the scenery is nothing short of spectacular. Keep an eye out for the icy peaks of the Fairweather Range in Glacier National Park in the distance.

While the ZipRider itself is obviously the high point, the journey to get there is an adventure in and of itself.

Drivers keep the bus ride from Hoonah interesting with all sorts of anecdotes and informational tidbits about the area. Take a window seat if you can; bears and other large mammals have a tendency to wander through the area.

Read: Best Zip Lines in the World

Go Whale Watching in Point Adolphus, Icy Strait

Humpback whale in Point Adolphus, Icy Strait Point

A warning: whale watching in Alaska may ruin you for doing it just about anywhere else. Whereas in some places, a stray tail fin sighting may be cause for celebration, Alaskan waters are teeming with marine life.

Among the many possible places to see cetaceans, Point Adolphus in Glacier Bay National Park ranks among the very best. These nutrient-dense waters toward the southern tip of Icy Strait draw large marine mammals of all kinds.

Each year, humpback whales migrate more than 10,000 miles from the warm waters of Hawaii in the winter to Alaska in the summer . Although these majestic giants were once critically endangered, more than 20,000 now swim here. As a result, this is a terrific place to watch humpback calves breaching and adults flashing their tails.

Travelers can expect to see plenty of other species on a whale-watching expedition here. Pods of both resident and transient orcas can often be spotted hunting here. Dall’s porpoises have a tendency to leap alongside boats and play the wake.

Read: How to Spot Marine Mammals From a Cruise Ship

Try a Traditional Alaskan Salmon Bake in Juneau

Alaskan salmon bake, Juneau

Wild salmon have been central to the Alaskan way of life for thousands of years. As a part of the local ecosystem, these fish are crucial. They provide a primary source of nutrition for everything from grizzly bears to bald eagles .

Indigenous Alaskan nations trapped and preserved salmon for generations before European colonists arrived. And when prospectors swarmed the state in a frenzied search for gold, wild salmon were a main source of sustenance.

Today, Alaskan salmon are prized throughout the world for their rich, fatty, exceptionally flavorful meat. It’s also a rare success story when it comes to seafood sustainability. Thanks to decades of careful population management, wild Alaskan salmon is a treat travelers can enjoy with a clean conscience.

For a uniquely Alaskan experience, try an Alaskan salmon bake in Juneau . Traditionally, salmon bakes are community affairs, much like a Midwestern fish fry. The word “bake” is a bit of a misnomer, as the fish is actually slow-roasted over a live alderwood fire.

Visitors have feasted on Gold Creek Salmon Bakes in the temperate rainforest just outside Juneau for more than 30 years. Along the way to your meal, you’ll see a historic gold mine and hear tales of the region. The salmon bake includes a full spread with cornbread, potatoes, wild rice, and baked beans.

Learn All About Sea Creatures in Seward

Alaska SeaLife Center

For a chance to meet adorable sea otter pups, Steller sea lions, and other marine mammals, visiting the Alaska SeaLife Center is one of the best things to do in Seward . The facility actively promotes education for all ages, as well as ongoing research and animal rehabilitation.

Many visitors to the center head straight for the ringed seals and the spotted seals. With their immense eyes and playful dispositions, it’s not hard to see why these mammals capture attention. Nevertheless, there are plenty of other stars here, including ethereal clusters of moon jellies and the formidable red king crabs.

Don’t miss the chance to see a rare giant Pacific octopus. These hyper-intelligent cephalopods can grow to weigh more than 100 pounds and change color at will. Groups of up to six visitors can book a private encounter with these elusive creatures. During the 30-minute experience, travelers can help feed the octopus and learn about its fascinating biology.

Go on a Bering Sea Crab Fishermen’s Tour in Ketchikan

Bering Sea Crab Fishermen’s Tour, Ketchikan

Of all of Alaska’s prized wild seafood, no catch is more valuable, or dangerous to hunt, than crab. Red king crabs, which run slightly larger than their blue and gold counterparts, are still highly sought after.

These real-life sea monsters can grow to nearly six feet across and boast remarkably sweet, tasty meat. Dungeness crabs and snow crabs are also in high demand, although they tend to be smaller and are a somewhat more affordable delicacy.

For seafood lovers or anyone else fascinated by this world, the three-hour Bering Sea Crab Fishermen’s Tour is one of the best things to do in Ketchikan . Unlike many real crab-fishing expeditions, this one doesn’t involve risking life and limb—or your lunch.

F/V Aleutian Ballad, Ketchikan

The F/V Aleutian Ballad is a sturdy, solid steel vessel measuring over 100 feet in length and it sticks to the calm waters of the Inside Passage here. Passengers can expect smooth sailing on the open-air deck.

Along the journey, you’ll see crabs of enormous size being pulled from the water. Curious passengers are even allowed to touch these giant crustaceans. More often than not, traps will pull up other sea creatures, including octopuses.

All of these other ocean critters wind up onboard in temporary holding tanks where passengers can see them up close. Before the end of the voyage, they’re released unharmed back into the sea.

Sample Craft Beers in Anchorage

Alaskans tend to be known for their independence, their resourcefulness, and their refusal to adhere to convention. All of these qualities are pretty perfect for starting a craft brewery, which is perhaps why this sparsely populated state sports so many exceptional ones. The best Alaskan craft breweries take advantage of the state’s local ingredients, many of which are rare or wild.

The original here is Midnight Sun Brewing Co., which got its start back in 1995. Today, the Alaskan brewery is a well-established powerhouse with one of the best taprooms in town.

At any given time, The Loft offers 16 rotating draft beers, plus an extensive selection of bar food. The stars here are the boozy barleywines and imperial stouts. If you get a chance, try the heady Monk’s Mistress, an especially potent Belgian-style dark ale.

Glacier Brewhouse Photo by Anchorage Downtown Partnership on Flickr, licensed under CC BY 2.0

Glacier Brewhouse is another one worth seeking out. Opened just a year after Midnight Sun Brewing Co., the brewery is particularly proud of its barrel-aging program. The constantly rotating selection of draft beers alone is worth checking out. It doesn’t hurt, though, that the brewhouse is one of the best places to eat in Anchorage .

The high-ceilinged, woodlined restaurant and taproom has a clear view of the craft brewery. Take a seat at the bar and dine on wild Alaskan seafood and pizzas made using an Old World rye sourdough starter.

See Wolves, Moose, & Other Wildlife Up Close

Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

Located an hour’s drive from downtown Anchorage , the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is one of the best chances to see the state’s charismatic megafauna. Note that this is not a zoo. Almost all of the animals here were orphaned or severely injured and could not survive on their own in the wild.

The center allows them to live out their days in spacious enclosures that closely mimic their natural habitats. Check the schedule for regular talks and educational programming.

Kids will love meeting feathered and furred characters like Snappy, a great-horned owl with a partially amputated wing, and Hugo, a grizzly bear found abandoned more than 20 years ago. Moose, elk, reindeer, wood bison, and muskox also roam these pastures. Of particular note is the small resident wolf pack, who love playing with animal handlers.

Spy on Bears in Lake Clark National Park

Lake Clark National Park

Alaska is known for being home to a vast array of wildlife, but perhaps none are more synonymous with the state than its bears.

The state boasts more than 140,000 of these highly intelligent mammals, including 98 percent of the American population of brown bears. For Alaskans, encounters with brown, black, and polar bears are simply a part of life.

Interestingly, brown bears and grizzly bears are the same species—the former simply inhabit coastal areas while the latter live in landlocked territory. Kodiak bears, meanwhile, are a subspecies of brown bear found exclusively in the Kodiak Archipelago. Black bears often coexist with brown bears, but are significantly smaller and usually less aggressive.

While travelers may very well inadvertently encounter a brown or black bear right in Anchorage, your chances are significantly higher just outside of the city. Lake Clark National Park, roughly an hour and a half drive out of town, is one of the best places to see bears in Alaska .

When snapping photos of brown or black bears, be sure to follow your guide’s safety precautions. In general, bears do not like to attack humans unless provoked. Nevertheless, these are incredibly powerful, wild animals that can run as fast as a horse.

When in bear country, either avoid carrying food or make sure it is tightly sealed. Bear cubs may look cuddly, but maintain a safe distance to avoid upsetting any protective mama bears.

Stroll Along the Homer Spit

Few places are more atmospheric than the Homer Spit on a gorgeous summer afternoon. This spindly peninsula stretches 4.5 miles into the icy waters of Kachemak Bay. The strip of land is so narrow that you’ll see water on both sides as you wander along the promenade.

In the backdrop, the snow-capped peaks of the Kenai Mountains loom. Overhead, birds of prey swoop and soar. Bald eagles are far more prevalent in Alaska than any of the lower 48 states and this is by far one of the best places to see them in the wild.

As spectacular as the surrounding scenery is, exploring the Homer Spit itself is one of the best things to do in Homer . Galleries, cafés, and eateries line virtually the entire peninsula. Homer has a famously bohemian streak, thanks to the many artists who have migrated here and made a home for themselves.

After poking around the local galleries, stop for brunch at La Baleine Café. Chefs Kirsten and Mandy Dixon pride themselves in sourcing organic ingredients from the Homer Farmer’s Market.

Order a “Musher Meal,” which the duo served to participants in the Iditarod Sled Dog Race for 30 years. It’s a hearty plate of reindeer sausage, eggs, Manchego, and salsa on corn tortillas.

Walk Along a Glacier

Exit Glacier, Kenai Fjords National Park

There are estimated to be around 27,000 glaciers in Alaska , but many of these are all but inaccessible to humans. Luckily, there are a few key exceptions to this rule, which are a breeze to reach.

One of the most beautiful places in Alaska , the Exit Glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park is located a mere 15-minute drive from downtown Seward.

For generations of mountaineers, this massive, flowing expanse of ice has served as an entry point to the sprawling Harding Ice Field. Yet even without technical climbing equipment, visitors can easily walk the Glacier View Loop. This well-maintained, one-mile trail offers incredible photo-ops of Exit Glacier and is manageable for all levels of hikers.

Mendenhall Glacier

Another stunning glacier that makes for an ideal afternoon trip is the 13-mile Mendenhall Glacier. Located an easy 12-mile drive from downtown Juneau, this tidewater glacier is accessible by kayak or by road. As a bonus, the visitor center goes above and beyond with top-notch exhibits.

Board the White Pass Railway

White Pass Railway

The White Pass Summit Excursion near Skagway is arguably one of the most stunning rail journeys in the world. The vintage train cars hug the sides of the mountain for virtually the entirety of the two-and-a-half hour round-trip sojourn. The views are something every visitor interested in both history and scenery must see in Alaska.

As you wind along sheer slopes, it’s hard not to think of the brave workers who risked life and limb to build the route in the first place. At the onset of the Klondike Gold Rush, the routes into Alaska’s vast interior were treacherous. Neither the Chilkoot Trail nor the White Pass Trail were safe for the tens of thousands of miners pouring into the area.

Michael J. Heney, a railroad builder with the grit and the chops to take on such a challenge, joined up with Sir Thomas Tancrede, who had investor connections. In 1898, construction on one of the most difficult rail construction projects known to man began. At one more, around 2,000 men were working here to lay track as fast as possible.

Pan for Gold in Fairbanks

Gold panning in Gold Dredge 8, Fairbanks

Alaska’s Gold Rush history may have only lasted a little over three years, but it forever changed the state. From 1896 to 1899, more than 100,000 prospectors headed north to seek their fortune.

Many would return home penniless, while a few struck it rich. In the process, a network of boom towns sprung up to accommodate the miners. Some likened it to the Wild West, a quasi-lawless period of big dreams and grand adventures.

Gold Dredge 8, Fairbanks

Even after the initial fervor subsided, people continued to search for gold in these lands. The Goldstream Dredge No. 8 was a mining operation in Fairbanks from 1929 to 1959. Today, this carefully preserved historic site allows visitors to learn all about the past.

Along the way, you’ll hear true stories of the larger-than-life figures who once populated this place. At the end of the tour, visitors can even try their hand at panning for gold. More than a few have walked away with a very valuable Alaskan souvenir .

Marvel at the Tongass National Forest

Tongass National Forest

As the largest intact temperate rainforest in the world, the Tongass National Forest is a marvel. Wandering along the hiking trails here, it’s possible to imagine a time before humans reshaped their surrounding landscape.

The rainforest covers more than 11,000 miles of Alaska’s southern coastline. Just about everything everywhere you look in here is alive. Ancient Sitka spruce, alder, hemlock, and yellow and red cedar trees form a dense, verdant canopy. Meanwhile, the forest floor is vivid green with ferns, moss, and other vegetation.

It’s possible to enter the rainforest at many points, but the trails around Juneau are particularly well-maintained.

Keep an eye out for both brown and black bears, both of which thrive here. Salmon run through the streams in season, which means there are a number of places to watch bears hunting in preparation for winter. Shy Sitka deer also regularly flash through the trees and lucky visitors may even spot a wolf.

Go Fly Fishing in Denali

Fly fishing

Even if you’ve never tried your hand at fly fishing, Alaska is a great place to start. The state boasts pristine streams with healthy fish populations. That means that even relative novices have an excellent chance of snagging a trophy-worthy catch.

Denali National Preserve, adjacent to the Alaskan national park itself, allows for sport fishing and is a great place to start. Note that in order to go fishing, you’ll need a non-resident fishing permit. Luckily, these are easily obtainable and guides on organized fly fishing trips will typically pick one up for you.

One of the best places to fish in Alaska , travelers can expect to haul in trout and wild salmon in this area depending on the season. Fly fishing here tends to be catch-and-release—although locals can and do eat their catch. Even if you’re not planning to cook and clean your catch, you can still pose for a killer photo with it.

Learn About the History of the Alaskan First Nations

Alaska Native Heritage Center

Thousands of years before European colonists arrived on Alaskan shores, Indigenous people fished, foraged, farmed, and hunted on these lands. The languages and traditions of Alaskan First Nations are still a vital part of life in this region. More than 20 percent of the state’s population identifies as Alaska Native to this day.

There are all sorts of ways to learn more about First Nations including the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian. One of the best things to do in Anchorage is to visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center, which offers insights into the sophisticated strategies Indigenous people once used to survive Alaska’s harsh climate. First opened in 1999, the center delves into the past and present of 11 distinct cultural groups.

Yet as fascinating as the history of the First Nations may be, it’s important to remember that these Alaskan cultures are evolving with each new generation. Juneau, in particular, has become a hotbed of contemporary Alaskan Indigenous art. At the city’s state-of-the-art Sealaska Heritage Arts Campus, artists reinterpret traditional crafts such as textile weaving and wood carving.

Catch a Glimpse of Mount Denali

Mount Denali

Standing a staggering 20,310 feet above sea level, Mount Denali is the highest mountain in all of North America.

In 1897, the peak was renamed Mount McKinley by a gold prospector by the name of William Dickey in honor of a U.S. president. In 2016, this Alaskan mountain was officially rechristened Mount Denali, which means “Great One” in the Alaskan Native Koyukon language.

“Great One” feels like an apt moniker for this mighty summit. The sight of its snowy summit and glaciers catching the sunlight is truly something wondrous to behold. Unfortunately, very few people can claim to have seen it. The mountain is so massive that it tends to create its own weather patterns, meaning that the summit is often veiled by clouds.

Travelers and locals fortunate enough to see the mountain in all its glory often refer to themselves as part of the “10% club”—or 30% club, depending on who asks. Either way, it’s a rare and privileged minority. Though the chances may be slim, a clear shot of Mount Denali is special enough to warrant trying your luck.

See the Northern Lights From Fairbanks

Northern Lights in Fairbanks

Witnessing the Northern Lights firsthand is one of those ubiquitous bucket list items that is very much worth doing. The aurora borealis, as it’s also known, manifests as undulating sheets of luminous violet, blue, and emerald up in the northern night sky.

Part of its allure lies in its elusive nature. Although it’s possible to monitor the conditions to find times when the probability of seeing the Northern Lights is highest, no one can predict them with complete certainty.

There may never be a guarantee of seeing the Northern Lights, but Fairbanks, Alaska , offers some of the best odds anywhere of catching this breathtaking sight. At 65 degrees north latitude, this is one of the closest bastions of civilization to the Arctic Circle.

During the late summer nights, when there is some darkness, the chances of seeing colors dance across the Milky Way are fairly high.

Ride ATVs in Denali National Park and Preserve

Denali National Park

Rugged, wondrous Denali National Park is one of the best places to visit in Alaska to see some of North America’s megafauna out in the wild.

The park itself is home to 169 species of birds , plus 39 species of mammals, including many of Alaska’s most iconic favorites. Both brown grizzly bears and black bears forage in these woods and fish in the park’s streams. Moose, caribou, and elk all graze here. Eagle-eyed visitors will often see herds of snow-white Dall’s sheep clambering along sheer rock faces.

The area is also one of the few places travelers have a good chance of seeing wolves in the wild. Although gray wolves can be found in many parts of North America, these intelligent predators often tend wisely to steer clear of humans. At one point, these creatures had been hunted to near extinction.

The more biologists study them, the more they have come to realize how crucial wolves are to a healthy ecosystem. Denali National Park is one of the few places where the population is substantial enough that fortunate travelers might see these creatures roam.

Part of the reason wildlife thrives here is the relative lack of paved roads and other hallmarks of human civilization. That means that visitors looking to explore the national park and nearby preserve have limited transportation options. Inside the park, guided bus tours and park shuttles run along a single, winding road towards the mountain itself and back.

To get off the group bus, you’ll need a sturdy, all-terrain vehicle and an experienced guide. An ATV ride offers an unbeatable opportunity to get off the main drag and see Alaskan animals . It’s also a thrilling adventure in and of itself.

Fly to the Arctic Circle

Flightseeing in Arctic Circle

The Arctic Circle is one of the most surreal places on planet Earth. This northernmost latitude is home to the midnight sun and the polar night on the summer and winter solstices. On the former, the sun never sets for 24 hours; on the latter, it never rises.

The far northern city of Fairbanks is less than 200 miles from the Arctic Circle, but the land journey is not for the faint of heart. Around 75 percent of the road there is unpaved and there are few signs of human civilization along the way.

While intrepid travelers with camping gear still make the trek, travelers who are pressed for time may wish to opt for a faster and far more scenic route. Flightseeing is one of the best things to do in Alaska , and round-trip flights from Fairbanks can whisk passengers to the Arctic Circle and the Brooks Mountain Range in a matter of hours.

Along the way, you’ll see the Yukon River glinting majestically in the sun, not to mention miles and miles of some of the last true remaining wilderness.

There’s simply no better way to experience all the wonder of the Last Frontier than aboard a cruise with Celebrity. Browse our upcoming Alaska cruises and book your next great adventure today.

Diana Hubbell

Diana Hubbell has been covering food and travel for publications including The Guardian, The Washington Post, Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, VICE, Architectural Digest, The Independent, Eater, and Atlas Obscura for more than a decade. Although she is currently happy to call New York City home, she previously lived in Berlin and Bangkok.

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How to Get to Anchorage Airport from Seward, Alaska

S o your Alaska cruise ends in Seward, but you have a flight out of Anchorage that evening. How do you get to the Anchorage airport from the Seward cruise port? Don’t worry, it’s really easy!

You have a few options for getting from Seward to Anchorage: you can book a transfer bus or private van, you can ride the train, or you can rent a car and drive yourself.

Each option has its own benefits, and your choice may depend on when your cruise docks and when you need to be at the airport.

Making the trip from the Seward cruise port to the Anchorage International Airport doesn’t have to be stressful! I’ve got plenty of tips to help you plan this last leg of your journey and put an eventful end to your Alaska cruise.

How Far is it from Seward to Anchorage?

It’s a 125-mile drive from the Seward cruise port to Anchorage airport. Whether you drive yourself or book a transfer, you’ll be taking the scenic Seward Highway, a National Scenic Byway and an absolutely beautiful road trip.

And if you choose to ride the rails, don’t worry — you won’t be missing out on any of the scenery!

By car or bus, the trip from Seward to Anchorage takes about 2.5 hours, depending on traffic.

By train, the trip from Seward to Anchorage takes about 4 hours.

Bus or Van Transfer from Seward to Anchorage

There are plenty of companies that offer coach, bus, and van transfers from the Seward cruise port to the Anchorage airport. You can book through your cruise line or you can book a local company direct.

These transfer companies have schedules that will fit in with your cruise docking times. They often include a driver-guide who will tell you more about the area as you drive, and many include additional stops on the way to Anchorage. Companies include Park Connection Motorcoach and Alaska Cruise Transportation ACT Big Bus .

This is the option we chose on our Alaska cruise. We took this Seward-to-Alaska transfer bus which had options for a simple direct transfer, a transfer with one stop, and a full-day tour with multiple stops. We chose the transfer with one stop so that we could see bears and moose at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center .

Top Transfers from Seward to Anchorage Airport

• Alaska Crafted Tour and Cruise Transfer – Port of Seward
• Seward to Anchorage Private Tour and Transfer
• Private Transportation: Seward to Anchorage

Train Transfer from Seward to Anchorage

The Alaska Railroad Coastal Classic has a train that runs daily from Seward to Anchorage. The rail journey passes the scenic Turnagain Arm, the Kenai Mountains, active glaciers, and inaccessible wilderness.

This 120-mile historic backcountry route is one of the most scenic rail rides in Alaska.

There are Adventure Class services that have large picture windows, and Gold Star services with second story seating with domed windows and a viewing deck. Along the journey, you can expect to see glaciers, waterfalls, rivers, lakes, mountains, wetlands, and wildlife.

The train journey takes 4 hours. Service from Seward to Anchorage is only offered in the evenings during the summer , departing at 6 p.m. and arriving around 10:15 p.m. This means it’s only a good choice for those with very late flights out of Anchorage or flights the next day.

Getting to the train station from the cruise ship terminal is really easy. It’s just a short walk, and Seward is very walkable!

Renting a Car from Seward to Anchorage

The drive from Seward to Anchorage Airport is about 125 miles and 2.5 hours. You can definitely make this drive yourself if you want to rent a car in Seward .

Many agencies will allow one-way car rentals from Seward to Anchorage .

Getting to a rental car agency from the cruise ship terminal is really easy. It’s just a short walk, and Seward is very walkable!

What Sights are Between Seward and Anchorage?

The trip between Seward and Anchorage is very scenic. Whether you’re driving yourself or opting for a guided transfer, you have tons of options for stopping off and enjoying the sights.

For much of your drive, you’ll have the beautiful Turnagain Arm on one side and the Chugach Mountains on the other. There are plenty of turnoffs along the way if you want to stop for a quick photo opp.

In Girdwood, you have the Alyeska Tramway aerial tram that takes you soaring over glacier, mountain, and water views.

You also have the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center takes in orphaned and injured animals, like bears, moose, bison, and reindeer.

More Things to Do in Alaska

Make the most of your vacation to Alaska! Check out these other Alaska travel guides to plan your perfect trip:

• Where to View Bears on Your Alaska Cruise
• Things to Do in Ketchikan, Alaska: 1 Day Itinerary
• Things to Do in Icy Strait Point & Hoonah, Alaska
• 3 Things to Do in Sitka, Alaska: 1 Day Itinerary
• 4 Things to Do in Skagway, Alaska
• What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise: Ultimate Guide

Ready to visit Anchorage, Alaska? Plan your trip with these tips.

• Book Your Flight: Find the cheapest flights using Skyscanner , my favorite flight search engine.
• Find Accommodation: You can find top hotels in Anchorage using Expedia.
• Start Packing: Check out my packing list resources so you’re prepared for your trip.

Are you making the trip from Seward cruise port to the Anchorage Airport? Let me know in the comments below!

The post How to Get to Anchorage Airport from Seward, Alaska appeared first on Paige Minds The Gap .

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With commitment from Royal Caribbean, Alaska Railroad advances $137M plan to revamp Seward dock

Children play by the Resurrection Bay coastline in Seward as as the Royal Caribbean cruise ship Radiance of the Seas departs on June 22, 2018. The ship traveled Southeast Alaska toward its destination, Vancouver. (Marc Lester / ADN)

The Alaska Railroad is making a new push to replace its aging cruise ship dock in Seward with a larger one that can handle much bigger ships.

The $137 million plan also calls for construction of a 60,000-square-foot terminal that is much larger than the current one, railroad officials said. The effort will require the Legislature to approve the railroad’s plans for issuing bonds. If the funding process is approved, the project should be completed before the 2026 cruise season, railroad officials said.

The plan is backed by an unusual 30-year commitment from Royal Caribbean Group, which will essentially act as an anchor tenant while other cruise lines will also use the dock, the railroad said in a statement this month.

The effort comes as Alaska prepares for another big summer of cruise ships.

A record 1.7 million cruise passengers visited Alaska last year, said Jillian Simpson, president of the Alaska Travel Industry Association.

About 190,000 cruise guests last year used Seward as their port of call, she said. The picturesque town of 3,000 sits at the head of Resurrection Bay.

This summer, the number of cruise passengers coming to Seward is expected to fall, the railroad said. Norwegian Cruise Line is transitioning its ships from Seward to Whittier, where a new cruise port is being completed.

[Previously: Tiny Whittier debates an Alaska Native corporation’s proposal for a second cruise ship dock ]

The railroad hopes the new dock will attract more cruise lines to Seward, president Bill O’Leary said in a statement from the railroad. He said maintenance is an increasing challenge for the current dock, which was built in the mid-1960s and is nearing the end of its useful life.

Seward Mayor Sue McClure said many people in town seem to support the railroad’s plans and the idea of more tourism in the future. “I don’t hear a lot of outcry that we’ll be overrun with tourists,” she said in an interview.

The Viking cruise ship Orion is docked in Seward on May 12, 2022. Seventy-six cruise ship dockings are planned for 2022. (Marc Lester / ADN)

Many cruise guests already hop on buses or the train to depart Seward for other destinations in Alaska, she said. But if larger ships and new cruise lines arrive, that would mean additional tourists sticking around Seward to visit attractions like the Alaska SeaLife Center and Kenai Fjords National Park.

That would help many businesses, she said.

Also, the larger terminal will better support community events that take place there in winter, she said. And the city hopes to provide electricity to the ships so they no longer run their engines while waiting in port. That will cut emissions and provide revenue to Seward through the local electric utility, she said.

“I can’t speak for the city council, but I feel this is all so far positive,” she said.

Changes to plans

The plans to replace the dock date back to at least 2019.

The railroad secured legislative bonding authority for $60 million in 2022 in an initial effort to pay for a new dock with minor improvements to the existing terminal, railroad officials said.

Sharply rising inflation and labor shortages led to higher construction costs and made project timelines uncertain, said Meghan Clemens, a spokeswoman for the railroad. That caused the railroad to rethink its plans, she said.

Other important changes also came about.

A new business, The Seward Company, provided an unsolicited proposal to the railroad in the fall, offering to build the project and fund construction, the railroad said. The company presented a new design for the large terminal and a new dock. It also secured the commitment from Royal Caribbean Group for the proposal.

Under the plan, the Alaska Railroad will buy the new dock from The Seward Company once it’s complete, issuing bonds to help pay for it. Also, $30 million from “internal funds generated through port improvement fees assessed to current Seward dock customers,” will help pay for it, the railroad statement said.

A computer rendering of the proposed dock. The Alaska Railroad is pursuing a $137 million plan to revamp its old cruise dock in Seward, after Royal Caribbean Group committed to a 30-year use of the new dock. (Rendering courtesy of The Seward Company)

The railroad is now seeking an additional $75 million in bonding authority from the Legislature for the project, atop the $60 million in authorization it already holds. The project faces extra costs now compared to two years ago because of higher prices and the additional expense of building a much larger, new terminal, Clemens said.

The debt will be “solely an obligation of the railroad and not that of the state,” the railroad said in its statement. Authorizing legislation in both chambers has moved to the Finance committees after clearing the Transportation committees, Clemens said.

Royal Caribbean Group has committed to providing revenue for 30 years based on passenger fees associated with the equivalent of 140,000 guests a year, said Mickey Richardson, chief executive of Port of Tomorrow, which owns The Seward Company.

Royal Caribbean last year brought about 70,000 guests to Seward.

The increase in guests will happen over time after the new dock is built, Richardson said.

Richardson formerly worked on other cruise dock projects in Alaska for Huna Totem Corp., a Southeast Alaska Native corporation, including the new cruise dock and terminal in Whittier that’s being completed.

“Tourism is a bright spot in the Alaska economy, so it makes sense to add infrastructure for tourism,” Richardson said.

Jason Davis, president of Turnagain Marine, an Anchorage-based firm that will build the Seward dock project, said plans calls for construction of a 750-foot floating dock.

It will be the largest floating dock in the state, he said. The old dock would be demolished late next year, with no disruption to service before the new dock is built, he said.

The dock will be able to support Royal Caribbean’s Quantum-class ships, which carry more than 4,000 guests, about double the number of guests many cruise ships bring to Seward.

A floating dock will be safer than a fixed dock for passengers getting on and off ships, Davis said. It will rise and fall in tandem with the ship, eliminating concerns like the need to use steep ramps.

An Alaska Railroad train car idles in Seward on Monday, July 4, 2022 with a Norwegian Cruise Line ship behind. (Emily Mesner / ADN)

‘The more the merrier’

Preston Carnahan, regional vice president for Royal Caribbean Group, said the 30-year commitment to the cruise port is unprecedented in Alaska.

Royal Caribbean Group “remains strongly committed” to the future of Seward and the state, Carnahan said in the statement from the railroad.

Business owners in Seward said more cruise visitors in the future would be a positive step for the economy, though the level of support for the plans was mixed.

Scott Reierson, who owns Seward Adventure Lodge and a surfing charter business in Seward, said more tourists will generally be good for businesses in town.

But he said there needs to be a responsible plan to ensure Seward receives adequate revenues for the extra strain more visitors will put on city services, such as roads, water and sewer.

“I don’t know if it’s an absolute win-win for the town, but it’s hard to find a win-win in anything,” he said.

Dorothy Urbach, with Urbach’s Clothiers, said the idea of more cruise guests is “wonderful.”

“The more the merrier,” she said.

More summer visitors in Seward can help extend the tourism season, since travelers sometimes decide to return to Seward in winter.

“It means more businesses will be open,” she said of the plan.

Alex DeMarban

Alex DeMarban is a longtime Alaska journalist who covers business, the oil and gas industries and general assignments. Reach him at 907-257-4317 or [email protected].