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Alaska: a land like no other.

Presented by Travel Alaska. Within each of Alaska’s distinct regions, Alaska Native people have a deep connection to this land’s beauty, abundance, and extremes. Their stories and ways of life have been passed down through generations. Learn more about the cultures and traditions that make Alaska a land like no other.

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Alaska Family Journey: Wilderness Explorer

9 days, anchorage to anchorage.

• Full itinerary
• Tour details

Epic wildlife, soaring summits, and tundra stretching as far as the eye can see: everything is bigger in Alaska. Journey to the far north—where the sun never quite sets in the summer—and make the most of long days on hiking and wildlife-viewing excursions in the Alaskan wilderness. Explore Denali and Kenai Fjords National Parks, where kids will set out on educational adventures to claim their junior ranger badges.

Anchorage to Anchorage

Is this tour for me, travel style: national geographic family journeys.

Trips for adventure-loving families in search of a meaningful way to discover the world together.

Service Level: Upgraded

Quality accommodations and more inclusions than on other G Adventures tours, like meals, private transport, and activities.

Physical Rating: 3 - Average

Some tours may include light hiking, biking, rafting, or kayaking in addition to walking.

Trip Type: Small Group

Small group experience; 20

Age requirement: 7+

All travellers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

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Trees planted for this trip: 9

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Itinerary Notes

Prices are based on double occupancy; all other room configurations are on request and cannot be guaranteed. We will accommodate triples/quads whenever possible. Please call for further details.

Family Journeys are designed for groups traveling with children between the ages of 7 and 17. Your group must include a child in order to book, and anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

There are new Health & Safety Protocols for National Geographic Journeys tours. Please see here for full details and up-to-date requirements as they may change.

Day 1 Anchorage

Arrive in time to meet your fellow travelers for a welcome gathering this evening. Your arrival transfer is included.

Day 2 Anchorage/Seward

Travel down the scenic Seward Highway, past Turnagain Arm, where one of the largest bore tides in the world surges a massive wave into the waterway each day. Hike to view Exit Glacier on the Glacier Overlook trial. The afternoon is free to explore Seward; or opt for adventure in the Alaskan wilderness while hiking.

Meals included:

Day 3 seward.

Visit the famed Alaska Sealife Center, an aquarium that collaborates with National Geographic on wildlife initiatives. Board a catamaran for a cruise through Kenai Fjords National Park, where nearly 40 glaciers flow down coastal mountains, forging icy pathways into the sea. Our boat takes us to the exit ramp for one of these massive ice sheets, where we may see—and hear—great chunks of ice fall straight into the water. Kenai is also a wildlife-lover’s paradise, home to orcas and humpbacks, puffins, porpoises, and much more. Enjoy lunch on board.

Day 4 Seward/Talkeetna

On our journey back north, experience a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Centre where the National Geographic TV show, Alaska Animal Rescue has been filmed. The show follows dedicated animal caretakers from the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center—as well as other animal centres throughout the state—and showcases their efforts to protect and respond to wild animals in need in the unforgiving climates of Alaska. Wander the scenic loop, learn about the resident wildlife, and try spotting brown bears, moose, wood bison, or wolves in the sanctuary's 200 acres. From here, the group will travel to the Thunder Bird Falls Trail and enjoy a short hike out to the waterfall before finishing the journey to Talkeetna where everyone will have a free evening in town.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Day 5 talkeetna/denali national park and preserve.

As we travel toward Denali National Park, we get ever closer to Denali—or “the great one”—North America’s highest peak. Even among the soaring summits of the Alaska Range, Denali dominates the horizon. Since the beginning of the early 20th century, many explorers have undertaken expeditions within the wilds of Alaska funded by National Geographic. These research initiatives included early aerial photographs and geographical mapping of what was once America’s “Last Frontier.” Once in the park we’ll travel to the home of a true Alaskan hero, Jeff King, who has won the grueling, 998-mile Iditarod dog sledding race four times! Snuggle a husky puppy and watch grown champion sled dogs go through their summer training routine.

Day 6 Denali National Park and Preserve

This morning, venture into the heart of Denali National Park and Preserve on a wildlife safari. The park’s incredible creatures stand out against the sparse landscape, and a drive along the park road is often the best way to see them. As we drive to the East Fork Bridge at (Mile 43) and back, make it your mission to spot Denali’s “big five:” grizzly bears, moose, caribou, Dall sheep, and elusive wolves. The return trip to our hotel offers another chance for wildlife-viewing.

Day 7 Denali National Park and Preserve

This morning, meet up with an Alaska resident to hear all about life in America’s northernmost state. Then set off for a hike with a naturalist guide from the Denali Education Center. Kids will have the opportunity to wrap up their junior ranger activities. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore.

Day 8 Denali National Park and Preserve/Anchorage

This morning stop for a visit to the Alaska Native Heritage Centre, which made National Geographic Travel’s “Top 10-things to do in Anchorage” list as THE cultural site to see during your time here. Enjoy a private tour and a unique presentation about the traditional and contemporary ways of Alaska’s Indigenous cultures. Afterwards, finish the short journey to Anchorage and join the group for a farewell dinner this evening.

Day 9 Anchorage

Depart at any time.

What's Included

• Your Family Journeys Moment: Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center Visit, Girdwood
• Your Family Journeys Moment: Husky Homestead, Denali
• Your Family Journeys Moment: Denali Immersive Presentation and Hike, Denali National Park and Preserve
• Arrival transfer
• Alaska Wildlife Conservation Centre Visit
• Alaska SeaLife Center admission
• Kenai Fjords National Park cruise
• Alaska Native Heritage Center Visit
• Denali National Park transit bus to East Fork Bridge (Mile 43)
• All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodations

Hotels (8 nts)

8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 1 dinner Allow USD430-560 for meals not included.

Transportation

Private vehicle, catamaran, shuttle bus, hiking

Staff & experts

2 CEOs (Chief Experience Officers) throughout, local guides

Available extras  (Add these to your tour when you book)

My own room - from $2599.00.

If you're travelling solo and would prefer to have your own private room throughout your trip, select this option during the online booking process.

Price Options

• From $ 5399 USD Per Adult
• From $ 5199 USD Per Child

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Cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage on National Geographic Venture

Written by theresa russell, adventure travel | alaska | british columbia | canada | cruises | luxury travel | north america | travel | united states.

Lindblad Expeditions partners with National Geographic to immerse guests in cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage. Read on about the adventures on National Geographic Venture.

Just the mention of Alaska raises my pulse and perks my ears. No matter how often I have explored the Last Frontier, I am ready to return. What could be more interesting than exploring the Inside Passage of Alaska and British Columbia with Lindblad Expeditions ? Lindblad partners with National Geographic to immerse guests in this wondrous area.

What's in This Article:

Joining National Geographic Venture in Seattle

In my broken record voice, I emphasize the importance of traveling to an embarkation port at least one day before departure. I followed my advice, knowing we had very few ports of call and that catching up to National Geographic Venture would be near impossible.

While waiting for the buses to arrive to carry the 63 passengers to the pier, we signed forms, tried on our official jackets, and intermingled with fellow passengers. Many expedition cruise companies include a jacket for all passengers. We selected ours, blue in this case, adding another color to my collection. I am certain that these jackets are mainly used to find guests who accidentally go astray in the wilderness.

Unlike joining a large ship where guests usually pass through a terminal, my husband and I headed to a hotel hospitality room where we waited for a bus to transport us to the ship. I had hoped that we would use Pier 66 in Seattle, the closest to downtown. Well, we boarded just a short way from there, but directly from the pier to the ship.

Boarding Venture in Seattle. Photo by Theresa Russell

National Geographic Venture

Boarding via a stairway, we immediately headed to our stateroom. Noticeably absent from the cabin, what looked like the ideal space for a television was a piece of wall art. Who needs television when most of the entertainment is outside the stateroom?

National Geographic Venture Stateroom. Photo by Theresa Russell

We unpacked and found adequate storage space and several USB ports. Our view was through a slanted window, which bumped me several times as I gazed to see wildlife. Our bathroom had a small shower with an interesting mix of toiletries. All were of a different essence. Would they conflict and result in a poor showering experience?

One exciting fixture in the stateroom was a speaker with volume control but not an on-off switch. Had a hammer been in the room, I may have fixed that. Every morning at 7 am, the expedition leader served as an alarm clock. “Good Morning on the National Geographic Venture!”

Dining on National Geographic Venture

Unsurprisingly, an expedition cruise focuses on nature and activities. Meal times on this expedition cruise offered one seating at each meal. Breakfast came as a buffet with a special dish usually offered each morning. A cooked-to-order grill featured eggs served in a variety of ways. At breakfast, we received a rundown of the activities for the day.

Lunch was from a menu; like dinner, there was meat, seafood, and a vegetarian option. I found that the chef used my cooking philosophy—making various dishes from the same ingredient. For example, if we had couscous in one dish, it would appear in another variation at another meal.

There’s nothing like fish in Alaska. Photo by Theresa Russell

Tables were not assigned, and there were no formal nights. At the daily cocktail hour, we did have an option for hors d’œuvres. During the day, a beverage station was set up in the lounge, which usually offered cookies or other snacks in addition to hot and cold drinks.

Happy Hours encourages guests to gather. Photo by Theresa Russell

Public Spaces on National Geographic Venture

Being a small ship, NatGeo Venture contains few public spaces besides the dining room, a lounge, and an outdoor deck. The lounge became the gathering place for socializing and the classroom for lectures. In one corner was a bar with various beverages, including both alcoholic and non-alcoholic choices. In the other corner, a small library with games, books, and computers drew guests to relax in this intimate space.

The lounge functioned as a window on wildlife , with glass enclosing much of the space. From the lounge, guests could head out to the bow to get an unobstructed view of the surroundings, whether on land or sea.

Searching from the bow. Photo by Theresa Russell

Although sometimes chilly, the observation deck didn’t deter me from enjoying it. It seemed an unexplored, often unoccupied, space with seating, blankets, and awnings for protection from inclement weather.

Lindblad Expedition Basics

First on the list for a good experience is following the recommended packing list! Layering is essential to keep you warm or cool and dry. Knee-high wading boots topped the mandatory items list. Those function to keep feet dry when the zodiacs make wet landings.

On our sailing with 63 guests, we were divided into four groups: Otters, Humpbacks, Puffins, and Sea Lions. This kept the flow moving efficiently when we headed down to the Mud Room to get ready to launch into a zodiac, kayak, or SUP. Our expedition PFDs were stored there.

Bear Watching in Endicott Arm. Photo by Theresa Russell

Farewell Seattle

Leaving Seattle, we headed to the San Juan Islands, a popular spot for orcas. As morning approached, we watched the waters for signs of this most widely distributed mammal in the world. Scanning for black and white colors on the surface, we eventually caught a glimpse of the Dall’s porpoises who like to bow ride. Those porpoises also have black-and-white coloring.

Leaving Seattle. Photo by Theresa Russell

We had signed up for kayaking that day near Sucia Island. When I heard the speed of the winds during our morning weather report, I declared that I would not be participating as I am a fair-weather kayaker.

Later, kayaking was canceled due to the winds, but we took out on the zodiacs to explore the area. Our competent guide and birder pointed out different types of birds and spotted an eagle high in a tree. We learned about the area’s geology before returning to the ship for lunch.

The seas became rougher, and the captain moved the ship to a more protected area. We later set out again in the zodiacs and hiked around another part of Sucia with our octopus expert guide, explaining the local nature along the way.

Hiking on Sucia. Photo by Theresa Russell

Sharing Wisdom While Cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage

For me the high points of the cruise with Lindblad Expeditions happened most evenings after dinner. The experts presented lectures on their areas of expertise. We were fortunate to have Fathoms author, Rebecca Giggs, on board, and she shared her knowledge about whales.

Other speakers included natural historians and a variety of experts in their fields—birding, whales, photography, culture, and even a young man who found a previously unknown octopus colony in Puget Sound. One point made by this young man stuck with me—he claims that octopi is not a word. The experts shared their tales with aplomb, whether out in the zodiacs or in the lounge. Nothing ever got boring, especially with the clever and sometimes cringeworthy jokes sprinkled in for good measure.

Expert expedition leader. Photo by Theresa Russell

Lindblad Expeditions has a photography expert and some Olympus cameras and lenses onboard for guests to try out. Thanks to one of the lectures I attended, I learned a few things about my iPhone that I didn’t know.

The Star of Lindblad Expeditions While Cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage

I knew that big shows and splashy entertainment would be absent from my cruise on National Geographic Venture. But was it?

Nature along the Inside Passage presents the best show of them all. Lindblad knows Alaska. This anniversary cruise celebrated 40 years of exploring the great state of Alaska.

We ventured into inlets, searched for sea life, and hoped for calving glaciers. We saw bears, moose, whales, sea lions, porpoises, puffins, and a variety of birds.

Surprised sea lion. Photo by Robert Russell.

We walked through old-growth forests dwarfed by stately trees and met locals in places like Victoria, Alert Bay, Petersburg, and Sitka. We navigated difficult passages like the Wrangell and Seymour Narrows and mingled at meals with the lecturers who delved into their research and experiences.

Articles Related to Cruising Alaska

• Cruising Alaska on Quantum of the Seas
• Windstar Cruises: Star Legend Small Ship Cruising to Alaska
• Luxury Alaska Cruise Adventure on Regent Seven Seas

Final Thoughts on Cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage

Expedition cruising brings us up close and personal to nature. On NatGeo Venture , just a few of us were new to the Lindblad family. A typical conversation starter asked how many Lindblad cruises we had been on. Guests on this brand are loyal, often apologizing as if they had cheated on their spouse if they mentioned sailing with another cruise line.

Having sailed on other expeditions cruises sans apologies, I knew what to expect. I found the experts extremely knowledgeable and trustworthy while at the same time entertaining. Their shared experiences added to my enjoyment of this cruise.

While not seeing as much wildlife as I had expected, I saw a good sampling of the inhabitants of the Inside Passage. I especially appreciated that we weren’t just taking advantage of the calmer waters of the Inside Passage to steam to a popular port. (I do like that cruising as well.) On such a small ship, we could get into small coves, navigate narrow passages and let serendipity guide us.

A whale sighting in Endicott Arm. Photo by Theresa Russell

Flexibility allows for a tentative schedule. Venture would stop or change course to allow further exploration of a natural phenomenon or in search of certain wildlife.

My cruise ended fulfilling its purpose for me. Cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage reminded me that nature humbles and inspires. I can’t wait to get back!

Let Wander With Wonder be your guide when planning your next cruise or trip to Alaska .

Alaska Cruise | Outdoor Activities | Outdoor Adventures | Pacific Northwest

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I went on a 6-day cruise in Alaska with a National Geographic photographer, and seeing wildlife up close felt like I stepped inside a TV show

• Last year, I won a free cruise around southern Alaska and had no idea what to expect.
• From day one, I saw brown bears catching salmon and humpback whales breaching just yards away.
• The trip gave me a deeper appreciation for nature, and if money were no object I'd go again.

Last spring, I was one of five winners of a college writing contest for environmental storytelling. As a prize, the five of us received a free, six-day cruise that summer in Alaska. The cruise, called the "Wild Alaska Escape," travels from Sitka to Juneau across southeast Alaska and is run by Lindblad Expeditions, an eco-tourism-focused cruise company, in partnership with nature magazine National Geographic.

The normal price of this cruise is around $4,800 per person, but as a prize winner, I received the trip for free, which included food and nonalcoholic drinks onboard. In August, I paid for my own flight from Portland, Oregon, where I'd just finished 70 days of camping and volunteering for AmeriCorps, to Sitka, Alaska, to depart on the cruise.

Here's what the cruise was like, from nature and photography excursions to early morning wildlife sightings.

I arrived in Sitka excited to see a new state and experience a week at sea, since I'd never been to Alaska or on a cruise before.

I was also eager to learn from the resident researchers and scientists on the ship who are known as naturalists, and who would guide and educate us throughout the trip.

As an amateur photographer, I was especially looking forward to having the professional National Geographic photographer onboard, who would lead guided photo walks to share tips for photographing wildlife.

Boarding the ship, I fell in love with the ocean views on deck. I thought the interior was slightly dated, but cozy.

The cruise was on the National Geographic Sea Bird , a small ship with 31 cabins. The ship can fit 62 guests, according to the cruise website, although I noticed that there were only about 40 passengers on my trip. 

On the bottom deck, I found a lounge area with a bar, as well as the sole dining hall. Most guests cabins and the captain's quarters were located on the middle and top decks, where there was also an observation deck and a sundeck.

I thought my cabin was modest in size and decor, and I appreciated the large window.

My room was one of the few cabins on the bottom deck, near the lounge and dining hall. It had two twin-sized beds, a bathroom with a toilet and stand-up shower, and a sink just outside the bathroom.

Next to the beds, there was a small nightstand with drawers, and there was also a spacious closet with hooks and hangers to store clothes.

My favorite part of the cabin was the large window above one of the beds, where I could watch the water as the ship cruised along. Once while getting dressed, I was surprised to see a small whale swim right by my window.

Although I can't compare my cabin with others as this was my first cruise, the room felt small to me since there wasn't much floor space. Still, I thought it was comfortable, and as a solo traveler, I was glad to have the entire room to myself.

On the ship, I found the crew and nature experts to be friendly and knowledgeable about the region and local wildlife.

Lindblad Expeditions began partnered cruises with National Geographic in 2004, according to their website , in order to pair a team of naturalists and scientists with National Geographic photographers to guide cruise passengers on daily adventures.

There were four naturalists on my cruise, with specialties ranging from geology to undersea studies, as well as one National Geographic photographer. The photographer took photos of me and other travelers during our daily expeditions, but also gave us tutorials on how to take better nature photos with cameras and phones. I found the naturalist staff to be personable, and eager to answer any of my questions about the types of plants or animals I saw.

We saw animals like puffins, whales, and sea otters during the trip, often at unpredictable times.

The first morning, I was woken up at 6:30 a.m. by a loudspeaker announcement from our captain, who said there was a whale sighting and invited everyone to come up to the deck to watch. This was the first of many impromptu calls and over the week, we were alerted to sightings of sea otters, puffins, and more animals. 

The unpredictable nature of these sightings made the experience all the more thrilling and magical for me, since it was always a pleasant surprise to hear a new announcement from the captain. The excitement never got old, and I thought the spontaneity added a sense of adventure to the trip.

I especially enjoyed our daily excursions on smaller rafts, since it brought me closer to wildlife in ways I didn't expect.

Each day, we disembarked the ship and boarded smaller boats called Zodiacs , which were inflatable vessels about the size of life rafts and used for expeditions. There was a naturalist on each boat, and we rode through the open ocean, narrow straits, and small bays, hoping to catch glimpses of wildlife.

These smaller rafts allowed us to see animals like bears, whales, and otters up close. On our first Zodiac excursion, I watched a brown bear and two cubs cross over a small waterfall while plucking salmon from the water, less than 20 yards from our boat.

On another excursion, five humpback whales breached right in front of us and shook the boat when they fell back into the water. Even though I knew the trip would be a wildlife cruise, these animal sightings were more frequent and immersive than I'd imagined.

There were optional outdoor activities each day like hiking, kayaking, and rafting, so I never felt bored.

Each evening, we received an itinerary for the following day with options to sign up for outdoor excursions, such as hiking and kayaking. One of my favorite on-shore trips was when we docked in Haines, Alaska, and had the choice of an airplane ride, cycling, rafting, or a tundra trek.

I chose the tundra trek, and although its name made me picture hiking through a blizzard, there wasn't any snow since it was August. Instead, we explored alpine meadows and rolling hills, which I thought were beautiful, and the trek wasn't strenuous for me.

While I had fun on every experience, including the trek, most of the excursions felt leisurely and left me wanting a more of a thrill. Still, since there were multiple outings each day, I never felt bored.

Throughout the trip, I was glad to receive advice from the National Geographic photographer to improve my photography skills.

As a photographer, I've always aspired to take wildlife photos like those on the front page of National Geographic, and was excited to learn from the professional photographer on board.

I didn't take my Nikon camera on the cruise, but I did have my iPhone, and was pleasantly surprised when the photographer on board gave us a lesson on iPhone photography tips. Some of the information was a refresher for me, but I also walked away with new tricks, like using the panorama feature vertically instead of horizontally to capture more of the sky and ground.

On one outing, I opted for a guided photo walk through a small island off the Chatham Strait. We didn't see any animals, so I focused on photographing the underbrush.

Back on the ship, the National Geographic photographer helped select my best pictures and gave me advice to improve my shooting. He also suggested cropping some of my photos to eliminate a distracting background and draw a viewer's eyes to the subject more easily.

Each day ended with an educational recap led by the ship's team of naturalists, which I found insightful and supportive.

I was impressed by how much I learned about nature and wildlife over the course of the trip, both from our daily activities and nightly educational recaps. 

After dinner each day, everyone on board gathered in the common lounge for drinks and dessert. Photographers would show off their photos from the day, and the naturalists gave educational presentations on what we'd seen and done that day, like the type of whales we encountered and the geology of the glaciers we sailed past.

Following the recaps, the passengers and crew spent time in the lounge getting to know each other and chatting about our days. I appreciated these recaps as a refresher on the day, and as a nice chance to bond with my fellow shipmates.

The highlight of my trip was seeing receding glaciers. I felt lucky to see them knowing one day they might be gone.

For me, the highlight of the trip was seeing glaciers, which I'd never seen in person before. While they weren't as exciting as brown bears or as cute as otters, the beauty and size of these massive blocks of ice left me in awe.

Taking the Zodiac rafts allowed us to get within a few hundred yards of the Dawes Glacier, located in the Endicott Arm Fjord about 85 miles south of Juneau. From the raft, I could hear the ice crackle, and watched huge chunks calve and splinter and fall into the sea.

While seeing the glaciers felt magical, I was also left with a sense of sadness knowing that I might never see these ice structures in the same way, as glaciers are rapidly receding as a result of climate change. The Dawes glacier, which we visited on the Zodiacs, has retreated 3.8 kilometers since 1985 , at a rate of 105 meters per year, according to the American Geophysical Union . The Mendenhall Glacier, which we visited in Juneau, has receded 800 feet just between 2021 and 2022 , according to Juneau's KTOO News.

I felt grateful to see these glaciers in person, knowing that even if I return to Alaska in the future, they may not be the same.

I enjoyed Alaska's summer weather, and the comfortable temperatures meant we saw more animals than usual, according to the naturalists on board.

It was warmer than I expected on the cruise, between 50 to 60 degrees on average. The coldest day was when we visited the glaciers, since we could feel the chill from the icebergs.

I usually wore Crocs or sneakers, waterproof pants, a long sleeve shirt, and a puffer jacket to stay warm on deck. When we went on the Zodiac rafts, I also wore knee-high boots to avoid wet feet. Some passengers brought their own waterproof pants and boots, but I used rentals that the cruise offered instead.

Since it was August during salmon spawning season that began in June, the naturalists explained the salmon encouraged brown bears and eagles to come out to hunt.

Throughout the trip, the naturalists and photographers told me that even they were shocked by the amount of wildlife we saw. Although they do the same expedition route for weeks or months at a time, they were just as excited as the passengers by the many animal sightings, so I knew our cruise was a special experience.

As another perk, thanks to the sunny weather and regular spurts of mist and rain, I also saw rainbows over the ocean on most days.

The cruise exceeded my expectations in nearly every way, and I left wishing it could last longer.

Between the animal sightings, group excursions, and educational sessions, the trip gave me a greater appreciation for Alaska's wildlife and landscape, plus a renewed enthusiasm for nature photography. 

Although I haven't been on other cruise ships to compare, I enjoyed the small-ship atmosphere of this cruise. I appreciated that the limited number of passengers allowed everyone to spend time with the naturalists and experts, and made the excursions feel more personal and inclusive.

Although the regular price tag might deter me, I wouldn't hesitate to take another cruise with a team of nature experts.

I was grateful to receive the cruise for free, since I couldn't have afforded the $4,800 price on my own as a recent college graduate. But if money were no object, I wouldn't hesitate to take another Lindblad Expeditions - National Geographic cruise to explore a new destination, like Portugal or Iceland . 

In terms of other Alaska cruises, there are more frugal ways to plan a trip, and you can find cheaper rates on routes in the Sitka region with carriers like Carnival , as of May 2023. However, if you're willing to splurge, I think the wildlife excursions, nature experiences, and connection with naturalists and National Geographic experts are worth the price.

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National Geographic Traveler: Alaska, 3rd Edition Paperback – October 1, 2013

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• Publisher ‏ : ‎ National Geographic; 3rd edition (October 1, 2013)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 272 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1426211627
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1426211621
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.02 pounds
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.3 x 0.64 x 8.42 inches
• #2,590 in Pacific West United States Travel Books
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• #24,676 in U.S. State & Local History

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National Geographic Traveler: Alaska, 3rd Edition

By bob devine, part of national geographic traveler, category: travel: usa & canada.

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About National Geographic Traveler: Alaska, 3rd Edition

Active travelers trust National Geographic to deliver what they want in a guidebook: expert advice, insider tips, and the cultural feel of each destination not easily found online. These guides are pitch-perfect for today’s experiential travel enthusiasts who want an authentic, enriching immersion. Alaska, The Last Frontier, is a land of breathtaking natural scenery and a rich cultural heritage. From Denali and Glacier Bay National Parks to the outpost of Ketchikan to arctic Barrow to the spectacular Dalton Highway, expert travel writer and Alaska authority Bob Devine is a deft guide to all the best spots, and lesser-known ones as well. The book’s seven chapters cover the Southeast’s Inside Passage, Anchorage, Kenai Peninsula, the Southwest, Prince William Sound and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Denali National Park and environs, and the Bush. Special features include in-depth spreads on native arts, bear watching, the birders of Attu Island, sled dog touring, sea kayaking instruction, gold panning, and national park field seminars; as well as specially mapped driving and walking tours, among them a spectacular drive around Kodiak Island. As in all  National Geographic Travelers , vivid photographs capture Alaska’s beauty, and detailed maps ensure you won’t get lost. A robust Travelwise section provides all the essentials on getting to an

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7 Best Cruises to Alaska, According to Travel Experts

Book a once-in-a-lifetime trip to see glaciers, national parks and wildlife!

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While some travelers dream of lounging on a beach in the Caribbean, others might be itching to put on hiking shoes and explore the great outdoors. If glaciers, wildlife and picturesque coastline have long been on your bucket list, consider booking a cruise to Alaska. The northernmost American state offers an activity for everyone's interest and level of adventure. You can take a thrilling helicopter flight to explore a glacier on foot or observe miles of Alaska’s lush scenery and spy whales from a comfortable seat on a boat.

Princess Cruises

A top choice for multi-generational families and larger groups seeking on-board experiences for a wide age range, Princess will sail seven ships to Alaska in 2024 — more than any other line. Princess also offers the most departure cities , potentially saving you money on airfare. Alaska sailings range from 4 to 22 days, though a week is the sweet spot. The line is also only one of seven permitted to enter the magnificent Glacier Bay National Park (shown); check out the tips at the end of the story for details.

Good Housekeeping Contributing Travel Editor Karen Cicero and her daughter recently sailed on Majestic Princess, a Family Travel Awards Winner , and raved about the ship's amenities, especially the Hollywood Pool Club. She described it as “an indoor space with a heated pool, plush loungers, and cabana-like spots that are free for all guests to use.” Cicero was also impressed with the entertainment and activities suitable for all ages, the excellent dining options and a supervised kids’ club for ages 3 to 12. "We saw grandparents and grandkids on the dance floor, at the shows, on the excursions — bonding moments were everywhere," Cicero said.

In 2024, Majestic Princess and Discovery Princess, the line's newest Alaska ship, will both sail roundtrip from Seattle. "You can't beat Princess if you're looking for an experience that will please all ages," said Cicero.

Departure Cities: Los Angeles; San Francisco; Seattle; Vancouver; Whittier, Alaska Cruise Ships: Crown Princess (2024 only); Grand Princess, Caribbean Princess (2025 only), Royal Princess, Sapphire Princess, Discovery Princess, Majestic Princess (2024 only), Crown Princess, Coral Princess (2025 only)

Norwegian Cruise Line

Passengers are loyal to Norwegian for its beautiful ships, top-notch service and innovative amenities. The cruise line pioneered the concept of “freestyle cruising," which includes a flexible dining time. Flexible cruising continues to be a major selling point , according to our testers who recently sailed roundtrip from Seattle to Alaska on the Norwegian Encore (pictured). "We enjoyed not having to rush back to the ship after an excursion because we had a dinner reservation," said our tester who sailed with her spouse.

They also frequented the Encore’s Observation Lounge, where they were able to cozy up and spend hours searching for marine life from floor-to-ceiling windows. Activities and entertainment, like go-karting, slides and laser tag, are abundant. For a premium experience, consider booking a stateroom in The Haven. The Encore's most luxurious accommodations feature spacious rooms — the bathrooms are nearly double the size of those in standard staterooms — a private sundeck and a concierge.

The variety of sailings to Alaska is also another reason to choose Norwegian. "If Hawaii is also on your bucket list, Norwegian is one of the only cruise lines to offer a 16-day cruise departing from Honolulu that sails through both Hawaii and Alaska so you explore two dreamy destinations on one vacation," said Cicero. She added that Norwegian sails to Alaska until late October — about a month longer than most cruise lines.

Departure Cities: Honolulu; Seattle; Seward, Alaska; Vancouver; Whittier, Alaska (2025) Cruise Ships: Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Jewel (only in 2024), Norwegian Spirit (only in May 2024), Norwegian Sun, Norwegian Jade (only in 2025), Norwegian Joy (only in 2025)

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Disney Cruise Line

Disney lovers will have the time of their lives sailing roundtrip from Vancouver to Alaska aboard the Disney Wonder. "It was the best experience ever," said a mom of two young adults who sailed on the ship in May 2023. "We felt like it was a great combination of Disney and Alaska."

On-board experiences brilliantly align with the destination. For instance, Disney characters are dressed in special outfits for Alaska and are on deck during the days at sea. "We were able to get incredible photos with the glaciers behind the characters," said the mom, who also noted that you can order Mickey Mouse ice cream bars from room service. Cicero added, "Disney has the best kids' and teen clubs of any cruise line. They're enormous, filled with epic activities like superhero training and are a great place for kids and teens to make friends."

If you want an equal dose of Disney and Alaska, this is the cruise for your crew. Sailings range from five to nine nights. All routes head to Stikine Icecap so guests can observe stunning glaciers, cliffs, waterfalls and wildlife.

Departure City: Vancouver Cruise Ship: Disney Wonder

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean doesn’t only sail to the Caribbean. This global cruise line whisks passengers to Alaska from popular ports such as Seattle and Vancouver. You can choose a classic seven-night itinerary or a 13-night land-and-sea getaway.

Cruise enthusiasts at the Good Housekeeping Institute are fans of Royal Caribbean for its state-of-the-art ships, exceptional service and high-quality entertainment. "Royal Caribbean had the first rock-climbing wall and ice-skating rink on a cruise ship," said Cicero. "Since then, they've brought so many other epic activities to sea." For instance, Royal Caribbean’s Quantum Class, which includes Quantum of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas, offers skydiving, a surf simulator and a robot bar. "This line is an especially good fit for families with tweens, teens and young adults ," said Cicero, who sailed on Royal Caribbean with her teen daughter.

Departure Cities: Seattle; Seward, Alaska; Vancouver Cruise Ships: Quantum of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas, Brilliance of the Seas (only in 2024), Ovation of the Seas (only in 2024), Serenade of the Seas (only in 2025)

National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions

For an incredible small-ship experience, look no further than the Lindblad Expeditions–National Geographic team-up. The largest of its ships that sail to Alaska can accommodate no more than 138 passengers — just a sliver of the 4,900 or so that Royal Caribbean's Quantum of the Seas can hold. " Being on a smaller vessel means that you’ll be able to sail right up to less frequented glaciers, waterfalls and fjords, " said Cicero.

Of course, an intimate experience comes at a higher price tag — its eight-day Alaskan adventure starts at about $6,200 per person, though you won't need to pay extra for excursions. "Voyages tend to be themed and stress the educational component," said Cicero. For instance, one focuses on coastal wildlife while another explores native cultures. A Good Housekeeping staff member who sailed the line to the Galápagos Islands (a providence of Ecuador) raved, "The ship was beautiful! I was super impressed with the staff and the service felt above and beyond.”

Departure Cities: Juneau, Alaska; Ketchikan, Alaska; Seattle; Sitka, Alaska Cruise Ships: National Geographic Quest, National Geographic Venture, National Geographic Sea Bird, National Geographic Sea Lion, National Geographic Resolution

Holland America Line

Holland America has a well-earned reputation for bringing guests to new destinations for more than 150 years. Its ships tend to be mid-sized — larger than Lindblad's offerings but smaller than the Quantum ships from Royal Caribbean. While Holland attracts an older demographic, its Alaskan cruises are often filled with multi-generational families.

One of the cruise line’s most popular itineraries is the Seven-Day Inside Passage, which takes you through Glacier Bay National Park, the Inside Passage, Tracy Arm Inlet and several must-visit port towns. But for adventure seekers curious to see as much of Alaska as possible, you’ll find tons of extended itineraries including a robust 28-day voyage that crosses the Arctic Circle.

Holland America is the only cruise line permitted to serve glacier ice, using it for cocktails like the Blue Iceberg and Juneau Gin & Tonic. The line also launched a new Alaskan-themed brunch menu offered once per cruise.

Departure Cities: Anchorage, Alaska (for land-sea tours only); Fairbanks, Alaska; Seattle; Vancouver, Whittier, Alaska Cruise Ships: Eurodam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Zuiderdam, Zaandam

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity is popular with adults and couples looking for a premium onboard experience, including delicious cuisine, luxurious staterooms and a high-end spa . We can’t imagine a better way to rest and relax after spending a day exploring the Alaskan wilderness. Our travel experts suggest choosing one of Celebrity's many Alaska itineraries that sail through the Inside Passage and up to Dawes Glacier or Hubbard Glacier, two of the state’s gems.

Of the three Celebrity ships that sail to Alaska, we recommend the Celebrity Edge for those new to cruising or seeking a more contemporary experience. Launched in 2018, the ship features standout innovations like Eden, a multi-level bar with panoramic views, and the Magic Carpet, a multi-purpose floating space suspended directly above the sea.

Departure Cities: Seattle; Seward, Alaska; Vancouver Cruise Ships: Celebrity Solstice, Celebrity Summit, Celebrity Edge

Tips for booking your cruise to Alaska

✔️ Check your itinerary. The itinerary you choose is key on an Alaskan cruise. If you have your heart set on visiting Glacier Bay National Park, make sure that your cruise line has it listed on the schedule. "Only seven lines were awarded the Glacier Bay contract by the National Park Service ," Cicero said. If you're not sure whether the cruise you have in mind will go through Glacier Bay, double-check with the cruise line or your travel agent.

✔️ Book shore excursions well in advance. Alaskan cruises generally sail from April to October. Because of the shorter season, your ship will likely be close to capacity and several ships may overlap in ports. Excursions will book up quickly. To secure your spot, book excursions well in advance or as soon as they're available.

✔️ Focus on family. Alaskan cruises are best for kids who are at least 5 years old. "Keep in mind that cruise lines don't allow kids who aren't potty-trained to be in pools, even if they're wearing a swim diaper," Cicero said. It's also worth noting that most cruise lines don't permit babies under 6 months or pregnant passengers who are 24 or more weeks along. Cicero advises families with school-age children to look for on-ship amenities, such as an indoor heated pool, a supervised kids' club and a variety of family-friendly nighttime entertainment. "Before you sail, you should also find out which non-alcoholic beverages are complimentary," Cicero said. "Many cruise lines charge extra for soft drinks, but milk and juice are usually included." Free room service is another big perk for families, she notes, so see if that's offered on the line you're considering.

✔️ Check your passport. Even if your cruise starts and stops in a U.S. port like Seattle, there's a high chance your ship will dock in Canada at some point throughout your trip. Also, " some of the excursions in Alaskan ports venture into Canada and will require a passport," explained Cicero. For instance, you may take the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway from Skagway into Yukon, a Canadian territory. Your passport will need to be valid for at least 6 months following the cruise.

✔️ Pack layers. This is especially crucial if you're traveling in Alaska's shoulder season — May and September. While May tends to be drier, temperatures remain relatively chilly. Likewise, September marks the end of the summer season and welcomes cooler temperatures and more rainfall. Because you'll be spending a lot of time outdoors, it's important to prepare for all weather scenarios, including windy conditions common to sailing cruise ships.

✔️ Book next summer's cruise soon. To get the best staterooms and excursions, start looking for a 2025 cruise in 2024, Cicero said, noting that many ships start to fill up at least 6 months in advance. And don't forget about major sale days. "Last year, cruise lines had fantastic Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals," she said.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Good Housekeeping Institute Writer and Product Analyst Olivia Lipski covers everything from tech to travel, fitness, outdoor, home and more. Not only does she have years of product review experience under her belt, but she’s also a travel enthusiast who has been on more than 20 cruises (and counting)!

The former travel editor at Parents magazine, Karen Cicero specializes in travel, children's book, lifestyle and food coverage. She manages the experience portion of the Good Housekeeping Family Travel Awards. She has sailed on four cruise lines with her family and toured several others. She recently was a featured speaker at several travel industry conferences, including PRSA, Mid-Atlantic Tourism Alliance and the Family Travel Association.

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Jessica Gee, The Bucket List Family - Family Travel Special The Travel Diaries

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Today’s episode has a particular focus on family travel, and I’m joined today by Jessica Gee, the matriarch of one of the most well known travelling families in the world, The Bucket List Family, who I’m sure many of you follow on Youtube and social media.  The Bucket List Family’s story began back in 2015 when Jess and her husband Garrett decided to sell everything and leave home with their two children, for a journey around the world together. Eight years and another son later, they've visited more than 90 countries, have grown a following of 1.5 million YouTube subscribers and 3 million Instagram followers, and continue to find ways--big and small--to add to their lifelong travel bucket list. As a family of five, they’ve swum with whales in Tonga, slept in castles in Ireland, lived on a houseboat in Amsterdam and eaten breakfast with giraffes in Kenya. Jess shares how having been raised “a traditional all-American girl” whose family favoured trips to Disneyworld over international travel, she never imagined she would end up seeing so much of the world. Now she’s partnered with National Geographic on her debut book, which provides all the know-how to fulfil your own family’s bucket list—including how-tos for picking a destination, packing, budgeting, and even surviving a 12-hour plane ride. And it’s these kind of practical questions as well as her Jess’s travel chapters, that now as a parent myself, I’m so excited to uncover today.  I’ve followed Jess and the family for years now, with a mixture of admiration and envy, and it’s so interesting to hear about life on the road with three little ones.  Destination Recap TongaSwallow’s Cave, TongaRwanda Rwanda Genocide Memorial Building, RwandaSoneva Fushi, MaldivesSoneva Jani, Maldives Miavana, Madagascar Dominica Rosalie Bay Eco Resort & Spa, Dominica New Zealand AntiguaBelize Alaska, USATordrillo Mountain Lodge, Alaska, USAAnchorage, Alaska, USAHomer, Alaska, USABorneo AntarcticaThe ArcticSouth GeorgiaThe Falkland Islands Hawaii, USAKona, Hawaii, USAMaui, Hawaii, USAHonolulu, Hawaii, USAKauai, Hawaii, USA Tahiti, French Polynesia Rangiroa, French Polynesia  Jess’s new book, National Geographic Bucket List Family Travel: Share the World with Your Kids on 50 Adventures of a Lifetime is out now and available wherever books are sold. You can follow Jess and her family’s travels on Instagram @thebucketlistfamily  With thanks to my sponsors today -  Airbnb - Visit Airbnb.com and find out more. Prospective Hosts can learn more about how much they can earn sharing their space through the What’s My Place Worth Tool. Lindex - Fom their UV 50+ protection swimwear to the cutest hats and tees, Lindex is a one stop shop for chic kid's clothing. Beachcomber Resorts & Hotels - For a tropical family holiday unlike any other with endless opportunities for fun and adventure, Beachcomber Resorts & Hotels are the place to stay. Book your next getaway here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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