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From rail rides to waterfalls, salmon feasts to metal art, discover Alaska shore excursions that surprise and delight—perfect for tight port schedules.
Alaska has a reputation for glaciers and whales—and it delivers. But the Great Land also hides experiences that surprise even seasoned cruisers. Think salmon feasts in rainforest clearings, railway history etched into cliffs, and snorkeling (yes, snorkeling!) in vivid coastal shallows.
With Shore Excursions Group, our curated, small-group Alaska Shore Excursions go beyond the obvious—more personal, more time “in the moment”, and perfectly timed so you’re back on board with stories everyone else wishes they’d experienced.
Why Look Beyond the Usual in Alaska?
Cruise days fly by, but the best Alaska shore excursions do more than scratch the surface. They immerse you in local culture, wilderness, and the real people who call the Last Frontier home.
Our itineraries favor smaller groups, expert guides, and experiences you won’t get by following a flag through a crowd. We do the planning; you collect the memories—and our return-to-ship and satisfaction guarantees mean you can explore boldly, worry-free.
Unique Experiences Across Alaska Ports
Juneau
Wild coastlines, Gold Rush history, and flavors you won’t forget: Juneau has it all, and our Juneau shore excursions are your ticket to the full experience.
Set between the wild Gulf of Alaska and the rugged mountains of British Columbia, the city hums with history, from Native American traditions to well-preserved buildings that tell tales of stampeders chasing fortune. Downtown adds a modern twist with a vibrant food scene, where fresh seafood, reindeer sausage, and wild berry jams tempt every traveler.
Juneau is the perfect launchpad for adventures that match its adventurous spirit. Our shore excursions capture it all: wildlife encounters, thrilling flightseeing, and flavors that linger long after you’ve returned to the pier. Big scenery, local flavor, and a dash of history—this is Juneau in full stride.
Exclusive Juneau Whale Watching Tour
The whales aren’t waiting, and neither should you. On the Exclusive Juneau Whale Watching Tour, small groups mean you get up close without the crowds, trading rushed glimpses for relaxed, three-hour observations on the water. Glide between the heated cabin and open decks, balancing cozy comfort with front-row views of nature in action.
Expert captains know the channels like a secret map, spotting the telltale blow before you even see it. Keep your eyes open for sea lions lounging on rocky haul-outs, eagles circling the tree line, or porpoises playfully slicing through the bow wave. With more time outside, every moment is a chance for magical wildlife moments and stunning glacial photo ops.
Scenic Juneau Helicopter Icefield Glacier Tour
Strap in, look out, and watch Alaska unfold beneath you. On the Scenic Juneau Helicopter Icefield Glacier Tour, you’ll hover over a world of bright blue crevasses and snow-tipped ridge lines that seem to stretch forever. Your pilot will pick the perfect landing spot so your walk on the glacier feels like stepping onto a frozen postcard: crisp air, ice crunching underfoot, and views that keep going, and going…
The flight itself is part of the thrill. Rock walls soar, icefalls tumble, and winding “rivers” of ice carve their way through the mountains. It’s a fast, exhilarating way to experience Alaska’s epic glaciers—and a rare chance to see them in their full glory before time steals them away.
Gold Creek Salmon Bake Feast Cruise Excursion
Follow the tempting scent of alder-wood smoke into the heart of an Alaskan rainforest, where wild-caught salmon sizzles over open flames. On the Gold Creek Salmon Bake Feast Cruise Excursion, every sense gets a turn: feast on all-you-can-eat salmon, tap your toes to live local folk music, and wander through a lush rainforest clearing that feels like a secret hideaway.
Stroll along Salmon Creek Falls, dotted with old mining relics, pan for “color” at Wagner Mine, or cozy up by the fire to roast a marshmallow. Snap a few photos, breathe in the crisp, woodsy air, and relax under heated, translucent domes while the music drifts through the trees. By the time you head back to the ship, you’ll be full, happy, and just a little smoky—in the absolute best way.
Skagway
Mountains, waterfalls, and the echo of glittering history set the stage for our Skagway excursions. Once here, it’s easy to see why stampeders risked everything for a taste of gold, and why today’s travelers hop aboard the rails to relive the adventure firsthand.
Downtown Skagway charms at every turn, with historic buildings, unique shops, and tempting eateries tucked between mountains. Tucked into the northernmost reaches of the Inside Passage, the town played a pivotal role in the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 19th century, and every street seems to whisper tales of prospectors, daring journeys, and big dreams. Whether you’re wandering the boardwalk or riding the rails with scenery that takes your breath away, history here isn’t just learned, it’s felt.
See White Pass Summit by Rail and Bus
Experience the best of both worlds on the See White Pass Summit by Rail and Bus excursion, where vintage train and coach journeys give you two exciting perspectives on Alaska’s stunning White Pass Summit. The train hugs cliffs and trestles, gliding past Bridal Veil Falls and the photogenic steel span at William Moore Bridge, while the coach takes you to overlooks and stops the rails can’t reach.
It’s an efficient, immersive adventure that lets you soak in the saga of the pass without taking a long hike. Between the wind in your hair, the views around every bend, and the story unfolding with every turn, this is classic Alaskan scenery served from two unforgettable angles.
Summit Views, Yukon Sled Dogs, and Musher Experience
Venture beyond Alaska’s borders into British Columbia and the Yukon on the Summit Views, Yukon Sled Dogs, and Musher Experience, a day trip packed with gorgeous scenery and hands-on fun. Meet the mushers, watch the dogs light up when it’s time to run, and feel the thrill as you glide along forest trails in a wheeled cart, pulled by a team of eager, energetic sled dogs.
Photo stops along the Klondike Highway—think moonscape-like Tormented Valley and the iconic “Welcome to Alaska” sign—break up the drive, while camp stories dive into Yukon culture, tradition, and the legendary Yukon Quest and Iditarod races. And yes, there’s plenty of time to play with adorable puppies, making this excursion as heartwarming as it is exhilarating.
Scenic Waterfall Adventure
If the roar of falling water gets your heart racing, the Scenic Waterfall Adventure is made for you. Wind your way up the Klondike Highway, crossing into Canada and back, to discover a string of breathtaking cascades along the way.
Stretch your legs with a short rainforest walk at Reid Falls, let the mist cool your fingers at Bridal Veil, and feel the thunder of Pitchfork Falls rumble through your chest. Along the route, guides share local lore, and scenic pullouts make perfect spots for photos—including the all-important “Welcome to Alaska” border sign. It’s a splash of adventure, nature, and storytelling all rolled into one unforgettable day.
Sitka
Perched on a rugged island where mountains tumble into the sea, Sitka blends Indigenous heritage, Russian history, and dramatic Alaskan scenery into one unforgettable setting.
Wildlife is woven into the skyline here. Bears lumber along the shores, eagles wheel overhead, and sea otters play in the surf, often stealing the show. Our Sitka shore excursions dive into these layers, offering encounters that surprise, delight, and make you feel part of the story.
Premium Scenic Sitka
From soaring eagles to playful sea lions, the Premium Scenic Sitka tour packs the best of coastal Alaska into just a few hours. Begin at Japonski Island to learn about Sitka’s fishing heritage, then soak in sweeping views at Silver Bay, where whales, sea lions, and other marine life often make a cameo.
Next, meet rehabilitated animals up close at the Fortress of the Bear and the Alaska Raptor Center, where bear cubs, bald eagles, owls, and more live in naturalized settings. Wrap up your adventure with a stroll through Sitka National Historical Park, also known as Totem Park, where Tlingit and Haida carved poles line the coastal trail, telling stories that have endured for generations. It’s a perfect mix of scenery, culture, and wildlife, all in a single, scenic adventure.
Sitka Snorkel at Magic Island
Surprise! The Outer Coast is full of hidden wonders. On the Sitka Snorkel at Magic Island, calm, protected coves reveal a vibrant intertidal world just beneath the surface. After a thorough briefing and gear fitting—including state-of-the-art wetsuits—guides lead small groups (just five guests per guide) into shallow waters where sea stars, rockfish, sand dollars, needlefish, and even Giant Pacific Octopi brighten the seafloor.
Above the water, keep your eyes peeled: bald eagles, sea lions, sea otters, harbor seals, and the occasional humpback whale often patrol the shoreline and surrounding waters. After exploring this underwater playground, warm drinks back at the shop let you toast a day full of marine marvels—and plenty of bragging rights.
Alaskan Metal Art Workshop
Take home more than a souvenir; create a story you can display. On the Alaskan Metal Art Workshop, you’ll texture, shape, and heat-color a steel salmon or halibut under the guidance of a pro. Sparks fly (the fun kind!) colors bloom across the metal, and lively conversations about local fish, fishing techniques, and life on the Alaskan coast make every moment as rich as your creation.
After two and a half hours, you’ll leave with a shimmering 3-D keepsake that’s ready to hang and tells a very Alaska story—handcrafted by you, with a dash of adventure and plenty of memories built right in.
Tips for Planning Shore Excursions in Alaska
Book early for peak days. Popular adventures (like rail rides, flightseeing, and wildlife encounters) fill up fast, especially when multiple ships are in port the same morning. Lock in your spot early to secure the experience you really want.
Match activities to your group. Consider mobility, comfort with heights, and Alaska’s brisk temperatures. If someone isn’t keen on hiking or flying, pair wildlife viewing with cultural stops so everyone enjoys the day.
Layer like a local. Weather changes in a flash. Waterproof shells, warm mid-layers, and comfy shoes keep you smiling on deck, trail, or tundra.
Watch the clock. Our excursions are designed around cruise schedules and include a return-to-ship guarantee, but it’s always smart to add a little buffer—souvenir stops included!
Browse by port to compare options. Start on our main Alaska Shore Excursions page, then explore Juneau, Skagway, and Sitka to find the perfect fit for your adventure.
Make More of Alaska with Shore Excursions Group
The most unforgettable cruise memories happen off the beaten path—meeting spirited mushers, spotting bears from a boardwalk, savoring salmon fresh off the grill, or hovering above an icefield in a helicopter.
That’s where we excel: small groups, expert local guides, and experiences that make every precious hour ashore count. Ready to turn your Alaska cruise into a story you can’t stop telling? Browse all Alaska cruise tours with Shore Excursions Group and craft the kind of day that has your table mates hanging on every word.
FAQs
1) Are these excursions good for first-time visitors? Absolutely! Guided, time-boxed, and designed to highlight must-see sights with a fresh twist—perfect for newbies and repeat cruisers alike.
2) What if my tour runs close to all-aboard? No worries. Every excursion has a return-to-ship guarantee, and small groups move efficiently so you’re back on time.
3) Will inclement weather cancel my helicopter or rail tour? Safety first! If a tour is canceled, you’ll get alternatives or a refund per the tour’s policy.
4) Can families with kids join? Yes! Many tours are family-friendly (check age guidelines), and we’re happy to help you pick the perfect experience.5) How do I choose between whale watching, flightseeing, and cultural tours? Mix one “wow” moment—like whales or a glacier landing—with a cultural or culinary stop. Need help planning? We’ve got you.
