Alaska Cruises

To say that Alaska is beautiful would be a tremendous understatement. The first thing you notice when you reach America’s 49th state is the magnificent snow-capped mountains lining the distance. These rugged, majestic peaks are perfectly positioned to emphasise the dramatic landscape as they slope all the way down to jagged trims of Sitka Spruce trees, still dressed in their evergreen coniferous foliage. Tall and towering above the forest floors, these trees line the waterways and stretch across the great expanse of wilderness that is Alaska. Positioned starkly against these awe-inspiring structures are the elegant and slow-moving channels of water of the Alaskan archipelagos, which cut their way through the landscape as though intricately carved all the way to the ocean. These winding waterways of the Inside Passage will guide you between the mountains on your Alaska cruise, revealing remote towns and cities along the way.

Watch in wonder at some of the world’s rarest wildlife

Keep your eyes peeled and your camera at the ready because an Alaska cruise is your chance to catch a glimpse of some incredible wildlife – you may even prove fortuitous enough to see bears on Kodiak Island. But Alaskan wildlife isn’t just for the eyes - it’s not uncommon to hear the shrill cry of an eagle puncturing the deafening silence of the wilderness, lingering in the air for what seems like an eternal moment. You might also have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to spot a whale diving through the waters in the south easterly region. From grey wolves prowling the desolate landscape to moose watching you curiously from the roadside in of one of Alaska’s many national parks, the wildlife spotting experiences available in Alaska are truly unforgettable.

Immerse yourself in Alaska’s indigenous history

One of the integral aspects of Alaskan culture that ought not to be overlooked is its history – and particularly that of the state’s Alaskan Natives. The Iñupiat, Yupik, Aleut, Eyak, Tlingit, Haida, Tsimshian, and a number of Northern Athabaskan cultures all reside in Alaska, and have done so for thousands of years. Witness first-hand the ease with which Alaskan Natives adapt dynamically to the extreme weather conditions, and also learn about the cultural history of these peoples in locations like Anchorage’s Alaska Native Heritage Center. Music, art and dance performances will immerse you in the world of Alaska’s indigenous communities, which were once separated by hundreds or even thousands of miles

An exploration for the taste buds

Alaskan cuisine is something to get excited about, too. Incredible fresh fish can be found all over the state; everybody should try Alaskan salmon and, of course, the local favourite: halibut. Alaskan food is truly unique. Watch the subsistence-hunting locals of Chitina as they forage food to, sample the famous reindeer dogs at a local food stall, or even sink your spoon into the delicious delicacy that is ‘Eskimo ice cream’ – otherwise known as ‘Aqutak’ or ‘Agutuk’, which involves ingredients such as animal fats and berries.

Whether you are an adventurer, wildlife lover or food fanatic, Alaska will be more than capable of fulfilling your wildest desires. The great outdoors doesn’t get much greater than this; filled with breath-taking beauty and wondrous wildlife, this is America’s Last Frontier, and what better way to cross it than on one captivating Alaska cruise?

Which cruise lines sail to Alaska?