So, you want to experience one of the Earth’s most rugged
destinations without having to deal with a lot of the ruggedness? No problem.
The cruise industry in Alaska is extremely vibrant, with cruise companies like
Royal Carribean, Princess and Holland American Line offering multiple
opportunities to cruise the “inside passage” of Alaska.
If you have experience with cruises and have the money (figure
at least $2,000 per person for a seven-10 day cruise) then there’s no need to
sell you on the idea. A cruise anywhere is normally fantastic.
Cruises to Alaska are seasonal (non-winter months) and will
take you on an amazing tour of some of Alaska’s most interesting cities like
Skagway, Ketchikan and Glacier Bay. The trips will normally start from
Vancouver, Wash., and turn around near Whittier, Alaska (which is roughly two
hours from Anchorage).
Almost any cruise you schedule will provide extra opportunities
for fishing or even helicopter rides to the top of glaciers.
Cruise Trip: If you have a flexible schedule, you can often
score an Alaskan cruise for a fraction of the normal price. Often, cruise
companies will drastically cut their rates days before a scheduled excursion,
as a way to fill up their rooms. Check with your travel agent, or the cruise
companies for deals such as these, but be prepared to travel on the spur of the
moment.