Is an Alaskan Cruise on Your Bucket List?
- paigelandrum
- Sep 16
- 3 min read
Contributed by
Courtney Klover-Kuizinas
A True Bucket List Adventure
Last year I finally got to check off a major bucket list adventure: an Alaskan cruise! We flew into Seattle the day before our sailing, which gave us a chance to relax and settle in before boarding. If you’re ever planning a cruise like this, I highly recommend arriving a day or two early - nothing beats the peace of mind of already being in the departure city before embarkation, especially if it's a destination you have never visited before!
We sailed with Royal Caribbean on Quantum of the Seas, a ship that felt like the perfect mix of adventure and comfort. From our spacious suite to the captivating shows and even the futuristic Bionic Bar, there was never a dull moment onboard. The ship had three pools, six hot tubs, two theaters with nightly entertainment, trivia games, and endless dining options. Whether we wanted to unwind in a hot tub, try something new, or simply grab a cocktail, the ship delivered.
Ports and Excursions
Our first stop was Sitka, a town rich with history and natural beauty. We visited the Raptor Center, a rehabilitation facility for injured birds, and got to see several up close while learning about their flight training. Afterwards, we strolled some nearby trails, taking in the crisp air and scenic views. Sitka still carries a blend of Native Alaskan and Russian influence, which makes exploring downtown an experience in itself.
Next up was Skagway, and this port completely stole my heart. We hopped aboard the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, a three-hour ride that wound us through the mountains and even briefly into Canada. The train followed a route once built during the Klondike Gold Rush, and between the jaw-dropping views and the historic narration, it was hands-down my favorite excursion of the whole trip. The combination of natural beauty and rich history made it unforgettable, and I’d recommend it to anyone considering this itinerary.
In Juneau, Alaska’s capital, we took the tram up into the mountains for a sweeping view over the city and surrounding wilderness. Afterwards, we wandered downtown and even tried crab bisque—despite not being big seafood eaters, it was too tempting to pass up and turned out to be the perfect warm-up on a rainy day. The city itself had a cozy charm, with local shops, art, and a welcoming vibe that made it easy to explore.
Victoria, British Columbia, was our final stop before heading back to Seattle, and it was a lovely change of pace. We strolled the streets, admiring the rich history, beautiful architecture, and manicured gardens. After the rugged Alaskan ports, Victoria had a more European feel that made for a charming end to the cruise.
Things to Consider
If you’re considering an Alaskan cruise, one of the most important things is to think about your goals—what you really want to see or do. Each itinerary is a little different, and while we got to enjoy incredible excursions and stunning scenery, we didn’t get a close-up view of glaciers. That will definitely be a must for our next trip, and something anyone planning a cruise should consider when picking their ports and excursions.
Looking back, the mix of breathtaking landscapes, fascinating excursions, and onboard comforts made this one of my favorite vacations ever. Alaska’s beauty is unlike anywhere else I’ve traveled, and it left such an impression that we’re already talking about going back. If you’re considering an Alaskan cruise, know that it’s more about glaciers than beaches, layers instead of swimsuits, and unforgettable adventures that will stay with you long after you return home.
AMAAB Travel Advisor
To get started planning your Alaskan cruise, get connected with an AMAAB Travel Advisor.
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