Eastern Shore|easternshore-123.com
May
28
Filed Under (Cruising) by eastern
Scott Miller asked:
An Alaska cruise can be the most memorable vacation you ever take. Part of what makes a glacier cruise so special are the shore excursions - the activities you select to do in each of the three or four ports you dock at.
This article highlights the most amazing shore excursion at each of the three most popular Alaska cruise ports of call, Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway. Odds are, your cruise will stop at least two of these picturesque towns.
At each of your stops, you will have a wide variety of shore excursions to choose from. So which should you choose? Which excursions should you absolutely, positively not miss out on? That’s exactly what you’re about to find out.
The Best Ketchikan, Alaska Shore Excursion
Ketchikan is the southernmost port of call on most Inside Passage glacier cruises. It’s a beautiful little island town set amongst the lush Tongass rainforest, surrounded by magnificent peaks, waterfalls, and glaciers.
There is actually much to see within walking distance of the Ketchikan cruise ship docks, including the shops along quaint and picturesque Creek Street, with its historic buildings overhanging a crystal-clear, salmon-filled stream.
However, there is one Alaska cruise shore activity in Ketchikan that you will really kick yourself if you miss, and that is the float plane excursion to Misty Fjords National Monument.
Most Alaska cruise ship itineraries do not include a visit to Misty Fjords, so this float plane trip will most likely be your lone opportunity to view one of the most amazing places you will ever see. Known as the “Yosemite of the North”, Misty Fjords is a glacier-carved wonderland, where literally hundreds of waterfalls plunge down steep, verdant cliffs into the pristine waters of the long, narrow bays.
At the end of each fjord is an amazing glacier, which calves, breaking off icebergs which plunge into the bay in a thrilling natural spectacle.
The float plane is simply the best way to experience the majestic beauty of this national monument, and most tours include a stop within on of the fjords, so that you can actually get out and explore an incredible region that few people ever get to see.
Honestly, if I had to choose just one Alaska cruise shore excursion, this would be it. It’s an adventure you will thoroughly enjoy and I doubt you will ever forget.
The Best Juneau Shore Excursion
Juneau is a beautiful small city set on a salt water channel and surrounded by magnificent alpine peaks. The capitol of Alaska, Juneau is a nature lover’s paradise, with great shops, restaurants, and the only glacier within the municipal limits of any city.
The one Juneau shore excursion you really shouldn’t miss is the glacier-top dog sled adventure. What trip to Alaska would be complete without a dog sled ride? Of course, your Alaska cruise will take place in the summer (or late spring), so you will find most areas snow-free and in their lush, green summer state.
However atop one of the area’s massive rivers of ice known as tidewater glaciers, it is always winter. This trip includes a helicopter ride out of Juneau, during which you will get an aerial tour of the massive glacier, an astonishing site. This is without a doubt the best way to get a sense of the size of these glaciers.
Then you land on the glacier will be taken on a one-hour dog sled ride across the snow and ice. This is utterly fun and thrilling, the perfect way to experience Alaska.
The Best Skagway Shore Excursion
The port of Skagway is the northernmost in the Inside Passage. Located at the end of a long, beautiful fjord, Skagway has a rich gold rush history which lives on in its historic buildings and museums.
As with Ketchikan and Juneau, there is much to see within walking distance of the cruise ship docks in Skagway, including the wonderful small shops, museums, and restaurants of the main street.
The best Skagway shore excursion is the Glacier Point Wilderness Safari. The adventure starts with a 45 minute catamaran ride along Alaska’s deepest fjord to Glacier Point, where you will land on a beach, where a bus awaits to take you to a trailhead for a short walk to an overlook with an absolutely stunning view of the glacier.
From there, you will head to a landing, where you will board long canoes for a paddle past massive icebergs, along the base of the huge glacier. This is a simply incredible experience that you just can’t miss.
So those are the three best Alaska cruise shore excursions. Each is an exciting, once in a lifetime experience. If you manage to fit all three into your cruise itinerary, you will have an amazing, memorable, and downright fun trip. In fact, it could even be your favorite vacation ever.
EVAN
An Alaska cruise can be the most memorable vacation you ever take. Part of what makes a glacier cruise so special are the shore excursions - the activities you select to do in each of the three or four ports you dock at.
This article highlights the most amazing shore excursion at each of the three most popular Alaska cruise ports of call, Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway. Odds are, your cruise will stop at least two of these picturesque towns.
At each of your stops, you will have a wide variety of shore excursions to choose from. So which should you choose? Which excursions should you absolutely, positively not miss out on? That’s exactly what you’re about to find out.
The Best Ketchikan, Alaska Shore Excursion
Ketchikan is the southernmost port of call on most Inside Passage glacier cruises. It’s a beautiful little island town set amongst the lush Tongass rainforest, surrounded by magnificent peaks, waterfalls, and glaciers.
There is actually much to see within walking distance of the Ketchikan cruise ship docks, including the shops along quaint and picturesque Creek Street, with its historic buildings overhanging a crystal-clear, salmon-filled stream.
However, there is one Alaska cruise shore activity in Ketchikan that you will really kick yourself if you miss, and that is the float plane excursion to Misty Fjords National Monument.
Most Alaska cruise ship itineraries do not include a visit to Misty Fjords, so this float plane trip will most likely be your lone opportunity to view one of the most amazing places you will ever see. Known as the “Yosemite of the North”, Misty Fjords is a glacier-carved wonderland, where literally hundreds of waterfalls plunge down steep, verdant cliffs into the pristine waters of the long, narrow bays.
At the end of each fjord is an amazing glacier, which calves, breaking off icebergs which plunge into the bay in a thrilling natural spectacle.
The float plane is simply the best way to experience the majestic beauty of this national monument, and most tours include a stop within on of the fjords, so that you can actually get out and explore an incredible region that few people ever get to see.
Honestly, if I had to choose just one Alaska cruise shore excursion, this would be it. It’s an adventure you will thoroughly enjoy and I doubt you will ever forget.
The Best Juneau Shore Excursion
Juneau is a beautiful small city set on a salt water channel and surrounded by magnificent alpine peaks. The capitol of Alaska, Juneau is a nature lover’s paradise, with great shops, restaurants, and the only glacier within the municipal limits of any city.
The one Juneau shore excursion you really shouldn’t miss is the glacier-top dog sled adventure. What trip to Alaska would be complete without a dog sled ride? Of course, your Alaska cruise will take place in the summer (or late spring), so you will find most areas snow-free and in their lush, green summer state.
However atop one of the area’s massive rivers of ice known as tidewater glaciers, it is always winter. This trip includes a helicopter ride out of Juneau, during which you will get an aerial tour of the massive glacier, an astonishing site. This is without a doubt the best way to get a sense of the size of these glaciers.
Then you land on the glacier will be taken on a one-hour dog sled ride across the snow and ice. This is utterly fun and thrilling, the perfect way to experience Alaska.
The Best Skagway Shore Excursion
The port of Skagway is the northernmost in the Inside Passage. Located at the end of a long, beautiful fjord, Skagway has a rich gold rush history which lives on in its historic buildings and museums.
As with Ketchikan and Juneau, there is much to see within walking distance of the cruise ship docks in Skagway, including the wonderful small shops, museums, and restaurants of the main street.
The best Skagway shore excursion is the Glacier Point Wilderness Safari. The adventure starts with a 45 minute catamaran ride along Alaska’s deepest fjord to Glacier Point, where you will land on a beach, where a bus awaits to take you to a trailhead for a short walk to an overlook with an absolutely stunning view of the glacier.
From there, you will head to a landing, where you will board long canoes for a paddle past massive icebergs, along the base of the huge glacier. This is a simply incredible experience that you just can’t miss.
So those are the three best Alaska cruise shore excursions. Each is an exciting, once in a lifetime experience. If you manage to fit all three into your cruise itinerary, you will have an amazing, memorable, and downright fun trip. In fact, it could even be your favorite vacation ever.
EVAN
Feb
01
Filed Under (Cruising) by eastern
Bryan Burbank asked:
When deciding to go on a cruise you should consider an Alaskan Cruise because there is so much to offer aside form being on of the most beautiful cruise destinations in the world. There are many shore excursions that you can take advantage of when you are cruising to Alaska and it is important to investigate these ahead of time so that you are not overwhelmed when you are actually on the cruise.
Learn how to find a: Discount Cruise
Many people like the Alaskan Glazier tours because while you get to see the awesome glaziers from the ship the excursion will allow you to get up close to the glaziers.
Get some Advice about: Cheap Cruises
The fishing excursion is also a real nice treat if you like to fish or not it gives you a chance to fish for some of the most sought after fish in the world and the best part is you get to try what you catch.
The Mining tour is another great way to see the Alaska of old when mining what a big industry. You will get a bit of history as well as a nice visual tour of some old mines.
There is also the Rain forest helicopter excursion that you get to see one of the most beautiful scenery there is in this country. You might not have even known there was a rain forest in Alaska.
You must try the Alaska Dog Sledding because it is native to this area and you will have such a great time trying it.
Remember that when booking an Alaskan cruise that you should think about some of the shore excursions a head of time so that you will not be overwhelmed when you are on board the ship.
DUANE
When deciding to go on a cruise you should consider an Alaskan Cruise because there is so much to offer aside form being on of the most beautiful cruise destinations in the world. There are many shore excursions that you can take advantage of when you are cruising to Alaska and it is important to investigate these ahead of time so that you are not overwhelmed when you are actually on the cruise.
Learn how to find a: Discount Cruise
Many people like the Alaskan Glazier tours because while you get to see the awesome glaziers from the ship the excursion will allow you to get up close to the glaziers.
Get some Advice about: Cheap Cruises
The fishing excursion is also a real nice treat if you like to fish or not it gives you a chance to fish for some of the most sought after fish in the world and the best part is you get to try what you catch.
The Mining tour is another great way to see the Alaska of old when mining what a big industry. You will get a bit of history as well as a nice visual tour of some old mines.
There is also the Rain forest helicopter excursion that you get to see one of the most beautiful scenery there is in this country. You might not have even known there was a rain forest in Alaska.
You must try the Alaska Dog Sledding because it is native to this area and you will have such a great time trying it.
Remember that when booking an Alaskan cruise that you should think about some of the shore excursions a head of time so that you will not be overwhelmed when you are on board the ship.
DUANE
Jan
24
Filed Under (Cruising) by eastern
Genna Roberts asked:
When choosing a Caribbean cruise you may well come across some islands you never even knew existed. Princess Cays, Labadee and CocoCay are all examples, and they all have one thing in common; they are used exclusively by the cruise lines who own them. So, forget busy ports, hassling street vendors and uncertain territory, and arrive in style at your own private island instead!
The majority of these islands are far too small for locals to reside in, and therefore have been leased out to the cruise companies, providing an exclusive getaway for cruise passengers and a valuable income for the local governments. The cruise lines have transformed the once “dead land” into their own mini paradise islands.
Typically situated in the Bahamas, these islands feature regularly on many Caribbean itineraries. Often reached by tender only, the islands lie uninhabited out in the middle of the ocean, waiting to indulge the lucky passengers who step ashore.
If you are lucky enough to visit a private island as a port of call, the real luxury is having the freedom to make the day as relaxing or as active as you want it to be. Whether floating out across the bluey–green coral reefs takes your fancy, or even parasailing, it’s all on offer. Whatever you choose, a day in paradise can be surprisingly tiresome, so a big buffet style beach barbeque usually comes as standard.
Royal Caribbean comes out top in the owners’ stake with access to two of its very own islands, Labadee and CocoCay. They are also pretty much the only cruise company to have ownership of an island outside of the Bahamas.
Of all the islands, Labadee is one of the most popular. Situated on the north coast of Hispaniola, Labadee is part of a larger, inhabited island, occupied by Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Labadee boasts 260 acres of beautiful beaches, exotic foliage and coral reefs bordered by contrasting mountain slopes.
Land is reached by tender (an accessible small ship to transfer you to the shore when waters are shallow) which allows for an impressive and truly unique perspective of the cruise ship. Once ashore, Royal Caribbean have provided an abundance of activities and tours, including, kayaking, parasailing and jet ski hire - allowing guests to take a tour down the coast of the island - or, for the less adventurous, floating beach mats (great for both sunbathing, and floating out to sea on!), snorkeling around the tropical reefs and shopping for beautiful handmade local goods. Kids will be a million miles from boredom with an Aqua Park, featuring trampolines and inflatable slides.
CocoCay is Royals second offering, a small, secluded island situated around 50 miles from Nassau, encompassing 140 acres of Bahamian land. Again reached by tender, the island has recently undergone a huge renovation providing an improved guest experience. As CocoCay is an isolated island, the only people occupying it will be guests from the ship and staff; this creating both a relaxing and safe environment.
CocoCay features much of the same activities as its sister island, including the Aqua Park, jet skis and opportunities to parasail and kayak, but in addition, invites guests to snorkel out to sea to explore both a ship and plane wreck, which is not to be missed - if you are brave enough! To wash away the salt water a must is to sample either a “Coco Loco” or “Labaduzee” one of the islands signature cocktails.
The very first ownership of a private island took place in 1977 when the tiny island, today named Great Stirrup Cay, was purchased by Norwegian Cruise Lines.
Situated some 120 miles off Fort Lauderdale, this island has an impressive history of visitors including pirates who used the island as a safe haven, and more gallantly, American troops who occupied the island during World War II to defend the eastern shores of the U.S. Today, Norwegian Cruise Lines has transformed the once somber island into one big beach party!
Accessed by tender, this island will offer everything you would expect; a total of 5, varied, white sandy beaches, and crystal clear waters full of tropical fish, but what sets this island away from all the others is that the guests really have come to party! Fun is the main agenda here, so if you fancy competing in “Olympic” games or Limbo this is the island for you. The island also boasts volleyball courts and ping-pong tables, and for explorers, snorkelling and paddle boats with viewing areas in the base.
Whatever you choose to do here, it will be set to the sound of the live Calypso band which plays island favourites for listening or dancing to throughout the day.
Disney puts forward a strong competitor for top private island with Castaway Cay.
The only company to own an island which doesn’t require a tender, here you can walk straight off the ship and into the fun! This combined with paved walkways and a tram service to different parts of the island also makes Castaway Cay the best choice for wheelchair users.
The 1,000 acre island is located 225 miles from Disney’s year-round home port of Port Canaveral.
Parts of this island have been developed like no other island has, even featuring its very own post office! Yet Disney have appreciated the natural beauty of the land and has only developed 10% of the whole island.
Most cruise companies can offer a number of beaches on their island, but few can ensure one to really suit everyone’s requirements. Castaway Cay has Serenity Bay, a 1 mile stretch of secluded beach reserved for adults only, where guests can indulge in massages in private cabanas overlooking the sea, Teen Beach, the name says it all! Or guests can head down to Castaways Family Beach where everyone is welcome to play in the lagoon, paddle out to sea or partake in organised beach games.
Disney can offer its guests so many options of how to spend their day on the island, including a 12 acre snorkelling site to explore, kayaking, paddle boats and parasailing. For the younger visitors there is a dig site for kids to find fossils and sharks teeth among other treasures, and also a water play area situated in the lagoon, just off the family beach.
Holland America is another cruise line in the running for best private island. They own award winning Half Moon Cay, situated less than 100 miles southeast of Nassau. Of the total 2,450 acres they own, 2,400 have been left untouched so guests can truly appreciate the beauty of the remote island.
The island features a 9 mile long beach, a wild bird reserve, a beach front bar, air conditioned beachfront cabanas along with shaded hammocks. And whilst the adults are relaxing, the kids can make use of Half Moon Lagoon, an aqua park which also features the Stingray Adventure Program which involves swimming with stingrays. Beach sports, parasailing, nature trails and windsurfing are all other options to fill your day on the island.
Much the same as the other islands? Not when you look at the amazing excursions offered. Horseback Ride ‘n Swim excursion will allow guests to explore the island on trails that are accessible only by horseback. During the ride, experienced guides will share insight on Bahamian history, people and culture. The trail will lead guests to a deserted beach where you can enjoy refreshments and can take an unforgettable swim in the sea with the horses.
Although Half Moon Cay is reached by tender, which can sometimes prove difficult for less able guests, the island itself is wheelchair friendly and therefore another good choice for those who require this access.
Not to be out done by its competitors, Princess Cruises puts forward Princess Cays as its little piece of private paradise. Located on the southern tip of Eleuthera Island, 30 miles off Nassau, Princess Cays is 40 acres of fun and relaxation set in truly beautiful surroundings.
Unlike the majority of the other islands, Princess Cays is part of a larger island, and therefore does have neighbouring inhabitants. (Maybe better referred to as a private beach than private island then! although a very nice one at that) A range of equipment is available to hire from snorkels, aqua chairs and sea boards to kayaks to aqua bikes for the more adventurous!
Princess Cays is a place where it seems to be more about soaking in the beauty of the island and making use of all the cushioned chairs, tiki huts and hammocks settled between the palm trees than filling your day with water sports.
So, which is the best private island?
Over all, Disney provides an excellent island that caters equally well for families, young children and teens, as well as less able guests and wheelchair users. For those wanting a more “toned down” island, Holland America is also a very strong competitor. Each of the islands has its own unique attractions, but it really comes down to personal choice. And of course, although a fantastic part of your cruise, it is only one day, so other factors may well come higher when choosing which cruise is right for you, i.e. the cruise line, ship, remaining itinerary and of course the price!
So when you book your next cruise, look out for one of these islands on the itinerary and you can judge for yourself who really does own the best private island!
CHUNG
When choosing a Caribbean cruise you may well come across some islands you never even knew existed. Princess Cays, Labadee and CocoCay are all examples, and they all have one thing in common; they are used exclusively by the cruise lines who own them. So, forget busy ports, hassling street vendors and uncertain territory, and arrive in style at your own private island instead!
The majority of these islands are far too small for locals to reside in, and therefore have been leased out to the cruise companies, providing an exclusive getaway for cruise passengers and a valuable income for the local governments. The cruise lines have transformed the once “dead land” into their own mini paradise islands.
Typically situated in the Bahamas, these islands feature regularly on many Caribbean itineraries. Often reached by tender only, the islands lie uninhabited out in the middle of the ocean, waiting to indulge the lucky passengers who step ashore.
If you are lucky enough to visit a private island as a port of call, the real luxury is having the freedom to make the day as relaxing or as active as you want it to be. Whether floating out across the bluey–green coral reefs takes your fancy, or even parasailing, it’s all on offer. Whatever you choose, a day in paradise can be surprisingly tiresome, so a big buffet style beach barbeque usually comes as standard.
Royal Caribbean comes out top in the owners’ stake with access to two of its very own islands, Labadee and CocoCay. They are also pretty much the only cruise company to have ownership of an island outside of the Bahamas.
Of all the islands, Labadee is one of the most popular. Situated on the north coast of Hispaniola, Labadee is part of a larger, inhabited island, occupied by Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Labadee boasts 260 acres of beautiful beaches, exotic foliage and coral reefs bordered by contrasting mountain slopes.
Land is reached by tender (an accessible small ship to transfer you to the shore when waters are shallow) which allows for an impressive and truly unique perspective of the cruise ship. Once ashore, Royal Caribbean have provided an abundance of activities and tours, including, kayaking, parasailing and jet ski hire - allowing guests to take a tour down the coast of the island - or, for the less adventurous, floating beach mats (great for both sunbathing, and floating out to sea on!), snorkeling around the tropical reefs and shopping for beautiful handmade local goods. Kids will be a million miles from boredom with an Aqua Park, featuring trampolines and inflatable slides.
CocoCay is Royals second offering, a small, secluded island situated around 50 miles from Nassau, encompassing 140 acres of Bahamian land. Again reached by tender, the island has recently undergone a huge renovation providing an improved guest experience. As CocoCay is an isolated island, the only people occupying it will be guests from the ship and staff; this creating both a relaxing and safe environment.
CocoCay features much of the same activities as its sister island, including the Aqua Park, jet skis and opportunities to parasail and kayak, but in addition, invites guests to snorkel out to sea to explore both a ship and plane wreck, which is not to be missed - if you are brave enough! To wash away the salt water a must is to sample either a “Coco Loco” or “Labaduzee” one of the islands signature cocktails.
The very first ownership of a private island took place in 1977 when the tiny island, today named Great Stirrup Cay, was purchased by Norwegian Cruise Lines.
Situated some 120 miles off Fort Lauderdale, this island has an impressive history of visitors including pirates who used the island as a safe haven, and more gallantly, American troops who occupied the island during World War II to defend the eastern shores of the U.S. Today, Norwegian Cruise Lines has transformed the once somber island into one big beach party!
Accessed by tender, this island will offer everything you would expect; a total of 5, varied, white sandy beaches, and crystal clear waters full of tropical fish, but what sets this island away from all the others is that the guests really have come to party! Fun is the main agenda here, so if you fancy competing in “Olympic” games or Limbo this is the island for you. The island also boasts volleyball courts and ping-pong tables, and for explorers, snorkelling and paddle boats with viewing areas in the base.
Whatever you choose to do here, it will be set to the sound of the live Calypso band which plays island favourites for listening or dancing to throughout the day.
Disney puts forward a strong competitor for top private island with Castaway Cay.
The only company to own an island which doesn’t require a tender, here you can walk straight off the ship and into the fun! This combined with paved walkways and a tram service to different parts of the island also makes Castaway Cay the best choice for wheelchair users.
The 1,000 acre island is located 225 miles from Disney’s year-round home port of Port Canaveral.
Parts of this island have been developed like no other island has, even featuring its very own post office! Yet Disney have appreciated the natural beauty of the land and has only developed 10% of the whole island.
Most cruise companies can offer a number of beaches on their island, but few can ensure one to really suit everyone’s requirements. Castaway Cay has Serenity Bay, a 1 mile stretch of secluded beach reserved for adults only, where guests can indulge in massages in private cabanas overlooking the sea, Teen Beach, the name says it all! Or guests can head down to Castaways Family Beach where everyone is welcome to play in the lagoon, paddle out to sea or partake in organised beach games.
Disney can offer its guests so many options of how to spend their day on the island, including a 12 acre snorkelling site to explore, kayaking, paddle boats and parasailing. For the younger visitors there is a dig site for kids to find fossils and sharks teeth among other treasures, and also a water play area situated in the lagoon, just off the family beach.
Holland America is another cruise line in the running for best private island. They own award winning Half Moon Cay, situated less than 100 miles southeast of Nassau. Of the total 2,450 acres they own, 2,400 have been left untouched so guests can truly appreciate the beauty of the remote island.
The island features a 9 mile long beach, a wild bird reserve, a beach front bar, air conditioned beachfront cabanas along with shaded hammocks. And whilst the adults are relaxing, the kids can make use of Half Moon Lagoon, an aqua park which also features the Stingray Adventure Program which involves swimming with stingrays. Beach sports, parasailing, nature trails and windsurfing are all other options to fill your day on the island.
Much the same as the other islands? Not when you look at the amazing excursions offered. Horseback Ride ‘n Swim excursion will allow guests to explore the island on trails that are accessible only by horseback. During the ride, experienced guides will share insight on Bahamian history, people and culture. The trail will lead guests to a deserted beach where you can enjoy refreshments and can take an unforgettable swim in the sea with the horses.
Although Half Moon Cay is reached by tender, which can sometimes prove difficult for less able guests, the island itself is wheelchair friendly and therefore another good choice for those who require this access.
Not to be out done by its competitors, Princess Cruises puts forward Princess Cays as its little piece of private paradise. Located on the southern tip of Eleuthera Island, 30 miles off Nassau, Princess Cays is 40 acres of fun and relaxation set in truly beautiful surroundings.
Unlike the majority of the other islands, Princess Cays is part of a larger island, and therefore does have neighbouring inhabitants. (Maybe better referred to as a private beach than private island then! although a very nice one at that) A range of equipment is available to hire from snorkels, aqua chairs and sea boards to kayaks to aqua bikes for the more adventurous!
Princess Cays is a place where it seems to be more about soaking in the beauty of the island and making use of all the cushioned chairs, tiki huts and hammocks settled between the palm trees than filling your day with water sports.
So, which is the best private island?
Over all, Disney provides an excellent island that caters equally well for families, young children and teens, as well as less able guests and wheelchair users. For those wanting a more “toned down” island, Holland America is also a very strong competitor. Each of the islands has its own unique attractions, but it really comes down to personal choice. And of course, although a fantastic part of your cruise, it is only one day, so other factors may well come higher when choosing which cruise is right for you, i.e. the cruise line, ship, remaining itinerary and of course the price!
So when you book your next cruise, look out for one of these islands on the itinerary and you can judge for yourself who really does own the best private island!
CHUNG
Nov
05
Filed Under (Cruising) by eastern
Scott Russell asked:
Ketchikan, Alaska is one of the most popular stops on the Inside Passage cruise route. If your cruise will be stopping in this picturesque fishing village, you’ll find you have a huge variety of shore excursions to choose from — everything from the inexpensive to the exotic.
Ketchikan is located on an island in the Inside Passage of southern Alaska, and the town is surrounded by amazing natural beauty, from incredible fjords to soaring mountains, so there is much to see and do when your ship is in port.
With all the choices available, which Ketchikan excursion should you pick? After all, you’ll probably only visit this region once, so you want to select the very best trip. This list of the top three Ketchikan shore excursions can help you select the perfect trip for you, one that will you will never forget.
1. Misty Fjords Float Plane Trip
Misty Fjords National Monument is simply one of the most spectacular areas in all of Alaska. Known as the “Yosemite of the North”, Misty Fjords is a series of glacier-carved fjords with cliffs rising up some 3000 feet from the water below. It is a place few cruise ships visit, and it’s one of my favorite spots in all of Alaska. So if you have the budget, consider taking this excursion from Ketchikan. It’s one you’ll remember for a long time to come.
2.Orca Beach Rainforest Excursion
Take a cruise in a large, motor-driven inflatable boat along the beautiful Southern Alaskan coastline. You will take in the lush temperate rainforest and incredible wildlife of this region, including everything from orcas to bald eagles. Then, when you arrive at Orcas Beach, you will head off on a hike through the rainforest, which is simply beautiful. This trip is one of the best ways to experience the coast, forest, and wildlife of Southern Alaska up close.
3. Half Day Salmon Fishing Excursion
Ketchikan is famous for its salmon fishing, and this excursion allows you to fit in an actual salmon fishing trip during your cruise. Any salmon you catch can be shipped home for you. The sea life in this region is some of the most diverse and abundant anywhere, and there is a good chance you will see whales, Orcas, and even bald eagles on this trip. It’s a great way to enjoy coastal Alaska up-close while also having an absolutely amazing fishing experience.
CORTEZ
Ketchikan, Alaska is one of the most popular stops on the Inside Passage cruise route. If your cruise will be stopping in this picturesque fishing village, you’ll find you have a huge variety of shore excursions to choose from — everything from the inexpensive to the exotic.
Ketchikan is located on an island in the Inside Passage of southern Alaska, and the town is surrounded by amazing natural beauty, from incredible fjords to soaring mountains, so there is much to see and do when your ship is in port.
With all the choices available, which Ketchikan excursion should you pick? After all, you’ll probably only visit this region once, so you want to select the very best trip. This list of the top three Ketchikan shore excursions can help you select the perfect trip for you, one that will you will never forget.
1. Misty Fjords Float Plane Trip
Misty Fjords National Monument is simply one of the most spectacular areas in all of Alaska. Known as the “Yosemite of the North”, Misty Fjords is a series of glacier-carved fjords with cliffs rising up some 3000 feet from the water below. It is a place few cruise ships visit, and it’s one of my favorite spots in all of Alaska. So if you have the budget, consider taking this excursion from Ketchikan. It’s one you’ll remember for a long time to come.
2.Orca Beach Rainforest Excursion
Take a cruise in a large, motor-driven inflatable boat along the beautiful Southern Alaskan coastline. You will take in the lush temperate rainforest and incredible wildlife of this region, including everything from orcas to bald eagles. Then, when you arrive at Orcas Beach, you will head off on a hike through the rainforest, which is simply beautiful. This trip is one of the best ways to experience the coast, forest, and wildlife of Southern Alaska up close.
3. Half Day Salmon Fishing Excursion
Ketchikan is famous for its salmon fishing, and this excursion allows you to fit in an actual salmon fishing trip during your cruise. Any salmon you catch can be shipped home for you. The sea life in this region is some of the most diverse and abundant anywhere, and there is a good chance you will see whales, Orcas, and even bald eagles on this trip. It’s a great way to enjoy coastal Alaska up-close while also having an absolutely amazing fishing experience.
CORTEZ
Oct
18
Filed Under (Cruising) by eastern
Laura Scott asked:
Shore excursions are offered at each port of call you visit. This gives you a great chance to see more of the destination, whilst enhancing your cruise experience. Here is a selection of shore excursions that the whole family can enjoy.
Castaway Cay Bottom Fishing, Castaway Cay. Disney Cruise Line:
Enjoy this amazing fishing experience, in the beautiful waters of the Abaco Island. Your captain will take a small group of you to the best location of the day, where you will set anchor, and cast your line out in this private bit of island in the Caribbean.
Minimum age for children is 6 years old. Adult/Child price $117 per person.
Swimming with Dolphins, Nassau, Bahamas. Royal Caribbean Cruise Line:
Swim with dolphins in Nassau, and experience these fascinating creatures. Learn all about dolphin’s behaviour, and spend thirty minutes in the water touching and connecting with the dolphins.
Minimum age for children is 6 years old. Adult/Child price £99.50 per person.
4×4 Adventure and Green Monkey Encounter, Bridgetown, Barbados. Royal Caribbean Cruise Line:
Take part in touring the local wildlife reserve, which is home to the Green Monkey. Responsible for 70% of the worlds Polio vaccine, experience the habits of these exceptional animals. Travelling by 4×4 vehicles you will explore the lush surroundings.
Minimum age for children is 5 years old. Adult price £32.24 per person, Children £22.88 per person.
De Palm Island, Aruba. Island Cruises:
Escape to a private island, which is renowned for its amazing water attractions. You can swim and snorkel, before visiting the state of the art Blue Parrot Waterpark. There is a selection of water slides, along with pools for all ages.
Adult price £59 per person, Children £29.50 per person.
Sunshine Glass Bottom Boat Tour, Nassau, Bahamas. Disney Cruise Line:
Enjoy a relaxing glass bottom boat tour of Nassau Sea Gardens, taking in all the amazing sea life below you. Setting sail on a 70ft double decker glass bottom boat, you will sail across the turquoise Caribbean Sea, whilst learning the history of Nassau from your tour guide. Along the way, you will see all the local landmarks and even all the celebrity homes.
Minimum age for children is 3 years old. Adults price (10+) $27 per person, Children (3-9) $18 per person.
Fox Studios and Rosarito, Ensenada, Mexico. Carnival Cruise Line:
Visit the film studios where the movies Pearl Harbour, Deep Blue Sea, and The Far Side of the World were all filmed. You will be able to view displays of props, costumes and sets, along with interactive exhibits for the movie world.
Adult/Child price $20 per person.
Rainforest Canopy and Zip Wiring Expedition, Juneau, Alaska. Princess Cruises:
Get set for an adventure, with an amazing opportunity to slide more than 6,000 foot along 10 zip lines and suspension bridges. Over 130 feet off the ground, you are guaranteed a once in a lifetime experience.
Minimum age for children is 12 years old. Adult/Child price $179 per person.
Tortoise Time, Ajaccio, Corsica. Ocean Village:
Visiting the Tortoise Protection Centre, you will see 130 different species of land and water based ‘cupulattas’ and turtles. Afterwards you will head to the seaside resort of Porticcio, to spend time relaxing on the beach and hitting the shops.
Adult price £30 per person, Children £15 per person.
Menorca on Horseback, Mahon, Menorca. Island Cruises:
From a local riding school, you will set off on horseback to experience an amazing nature walk in the Holm forest. Surrounded by traditional Menorca farmstead, you will experience the incredible landscapes and breathtaking views.
Minimum age for children is 12 years old. Adult/Child price £49.00 per person.
Tallinn and Rakvere Castle, Tallinn, Estonia. Carnival Cruise Line:
A perfect trip for the whole family, touring the city you will take in the sights of Tallinn. Along with visiting Rakvere Castle, where costumed characters who will entertain you, re-enacting how life was centuries ago, including Medieval games and interactive exhibits.
Adult/Child price $50 per person.
CLEO
Shore excursions are offered at each port of call you visit. This gives you a great chance to see more of the destination, whilst enhancing your cruise experience. Here is a selection of shore excursions that the whole family can enjoy.
Castaway Cay Bottom Fishing, Castaway Cay. Disney Cruise Line:
Enjoy this amazing fishing experience, in the beautiful waters of the Abaco Island. Your captain will take a small group of you to the best location of the day, where you will set anchor, and cast your line out in this private bit of island in the Caribbean.
Minimum age for children is 6 years old. Adult/Child price $117 per person.
Swimming with Dolphins, Nassau, Bahamas. Royal Caribbean Cruise Line:
Swim with dolphins in Nassau, and experience these fascinating creatures. Learn all about dolphin’s behaviour, and spend thirty minutes in the water touching and connecting with the dolphins.
Minimum age for children is 6 years old. Adult/Child price £99.50 per person.
4×4 Adventure and Green Monkey Encounter, Bridgetown, Barbados. Royal Caribbean Cruise Line:
Take part in touring the local wildlife reserve, which is home to the Green Monkey. Responsible for 70% of the worlds Polio vaccine, experience the habits of these exceptional animals. Travelling by 4×4 vehicles you will explore the lush surroundings.
Minimum age for children is 5 years old. Adult price £32.24 per person, Children £22.88 per person.
De Palm Island, Aruba. Island Cruises:
Escape to a private island, which is renowned for its amazing water attractions. You can swim and snorkel, before visiting the state of the art Blue Parrot Waterpark. There is a selection of water slides, along with pools for all ages.
Adult price £59 per person, Children £29.50 per person.
Sunshine Glass Bottom Boat Tour, Nassau, Bahamas. Disney Cruise Line:
Enjoy a relaxing glass bottom boat tour of Nassau Sea Gardens, taking in all the amazing sea life below you. Setting sail on a 70ft double decker glass bottom boat, you will sail across the turquoise Caribbean Sea, whilst learning the history of Nassau from your tour guide. Along the way, you will see all the local landmarks and even all the celebrity homes.
Minimum age for children is 3 years old. Adults price (10+) $27 per person, Children (3-9) $18 per person.
Fox Studios and Rosarito, Ensenada, Mexico. Carnival Cruise Line:
Visit the film studios where the movies Pearl Harbour, Deep Blue Sea, and The Far Side of the World were all filmed. You will be able to view displays of props, costumes and sets, along with interactive exhibits for the movie world.
Adult/Child price $20 per person.
Rainforest Canopy and Zip Wiring Expedition, Juneau, Alaska. Princess Cruises:
Get set for an adventure, with an amazing opportunity to slide more than 6,000 foot along 10 zip lines and suspension bridges. Over 130 feet off the ground, you are guaranteed a once in a lifetime experience.
Minimum age for children is 12 years old. Adult/Child price $179 per person.
Tortoise Time, Ajaccio, Corsica. Ocean Village:
Visiting the Tortoise Protection Centre, you will see 130 different species of land and water based ‘cupulattas’ and turtles. Afterwards you will head to the seaside resort of Porticcio, to spend time relaxing on the beach and hitting the shops.
Adult price £30 per person, Children £15 per person.
Menorca on Horseback, Mahon, Menorca. Island Cruises:
From a local riding school, you will set off on horseback to experience an amazing nature walk in the Holm forest. Surrounded by traditional Menorca farmstead, you will experience the incredible landscapes and breathtaking views.
Minimum age for children is 12 years old. Adult/Child price £49.00 per person.
Tallinn and Rakvere Castle, Tallinn, Estonia. Carnival Cruise Line:
A perfect trip for the whole family, touring the city you will take in the sights of Tallinn. Along with visiting Rakvere Castle, where costumed characters who will entertain you, re-enacting how life was centuries ago, including Medieval games and interactive exhibits.
Adult/Child price $50 per person.
CLEO
