Alaska Cruise Bucket List: 30 Must-Do Experiences in Inside Passage Ports

Are you starting to create your Alaska cruise bucket list? If you’re still planning your Alaska cruise, this list is for you. We’ve cruised Alaska several times and handpicked the most unforgettable experiences! From glacier viewing, whale watching to cultural performances and thrilling adventures, these are the top activities worth adding to your plan. This bucket list will help you make the most of your cruise, no matter which itinerary or cruise line you choose.

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Alaska Cruise Bucket List – Our Experiences

Chris and I have been exploring Alaska for years by land and by sea. We’ve driven its wild roads, camped under the midnight sun, cruised its scenic coastline, and visited almost every Alaska port of call at least three or four times.

We share only our firsthand experiences in this blog—no stock photos, no secondhand info. And because Alaska is so big and so diverse, we decided to create two separate bucket lists.

If you’re planning a road trip, our Alaska Bucket List covers the best land-based adventures across the state. And if you’re cruising from Seward or Whittier, this list perfectly complements your cruise itinerary—especially if you’re combining your sailing with a pre- or post-cruise land tour. Be sure to check it out for even more unforgettable Alaska experiences.

But this list is different. It’s created specifically for cruise travelers—for those sailing itineraries that include amazing Inside Passage ports like Juneau, Sitka, Skagway, Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, or Haines.

This article isn’t just about shore excursions. While we do have a detailed guide to the best Alaska cruise excursions in each port, this list goes further. It includes activities you can do on your own, free experiences worth making time for, and a few splurge-worthy moments that are truly unforgettable.

Agnes’ Advice: Take a look at my detailed Alaska cruise planner.

We know exactly how much an Alaska cruise can cost, so with this list, you can choose experiences that also fit your budget—whether you’re looking for free activities or once-in-a-lifetime splurges.

The goal of this bucket list is to inspire and help you prepare for your Alaska cruise adventure. Through our personal experiences, practical tips, and original photos we’ve taken along the way, you can confidently plan your own unforgettable journey.

It’s impossible to experience all of these activities on a single cruise—so choose what excites you most. It took us several years and multiple Alaska cruises to enjoy them all.

No matter which Alaska cruise line you choose—or which ship you’re sailing on—these experiences are possible.

If you’re planning your first Alaska cruise, this bucket list will help you create your own perfect itinerary filled with unforgettable experiences.

Alaska Cruise Bucket List

Now let’s dive into 30 unforgettable Alaska cruise bucket list ideas we picked for you—based on our own cruise experiences. It’s hard to rank them, because honestly, most of them are incredible. Each one shows you a different side of Alaska’s wild beauty.

I want to emphasize that every experience and tour listed below is based on our firsthand adventures and is not sponsored. We paid for each activity out of our own pockets.

When booking shore excursions, we personally use Viator, as it often offers much more affordable prices than the cruise lines—though all of these tours are also available through your cruise line if you prefer that option.

1. Cruise Through Glacier Bay National Park

Glacier Bay National Park is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s remote, protected, and not every Alaska cruise itinerary includes it.

So if cruising Glacier Bay it’s on your cruise ship route—consider yourself lucky.

As you sail through the bay, you’ll pass massive tidewater glaciers like Margerie and Johns Hopkins. You’ll hear the deep cracks and thunder-like sound of ice calving into the sea. You might also spot seals, mountain goats, sea otters, and even bears along the shore. For us, it’s one of the main reasons to cruise to Alaska.

On most cruises, a National Park ranger boards the ship to narrate what you’re seeing. They provide maps, wildlife spotting tips, and fascinating insight into this glacier-carved wilderness.

Agnes’ Advice: Make sure to pack a good pair of binoculars—they’re essential for spotting whales, bears, and glaciers from the ship. And don’t miss our detailed Alaska cruise packing list to help you get fully prepared for your adventure!

2. Witness Humpback Whales in the Wild

Whale watching on an Alaska cruise is unforgettable—and often starts right from the ship.

It’s possible to spot humpback whales and other marine wildlife from the cruise ship deck, especially in areas like Icy Strait Point, Sitka, and Juneau. Look for spouts, tails, or full breaches. Just make sure to pack a good pair of binoculars and a little patience.

However, for the best experience, we recommend joining a dedicated whale-watching tour. You’ll get closer, stay out longer, and often see more. We’ve taken tours in Juneau, Sitka, and Icy Strait Point—and shared detailed reviews from each one.

Agnes’ Advice: If your budget allows, we highly recommend booking a small boat whale watching tour—it makes a big difference. In Sitka, we loved the Premier Whale Watching and Wildlife Tour. If you prefere Icy Strait Point, check Whale Watching with bonus Drone viewing. In Juneau, go for the Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier combo.

3. Explore Misty Fjords by Floatplane

Flying over Misty Fjords National Monument is one of the most jaw-dropping experiences on an Alaska cruise.

This remote wilderness near Ketchikan is filled with steep granite cliffs, hidden lakes, cascading waterfalls, and endless forest. And the best way to see it? By floatplane.

Tours take off right near the cruise dock. You’ll soar above deep fjords carved by glaciers and may even land on a remote alpine lake. The views are unreal, especially on a clear day.

If your cruise stops in Ketchikan, this is one of the best splurge-worthy experiences you can have.

Agnes’ Advice: We purchased this scenic flight over Alaska’s fjords, and it left us speechless—the views were breathtaking, and we highly recommend this tour. Be sure to read our guide to the best shore excursions in Ketchikan.

4. Ride the White Pass Railway in Skagway

This narrow-gauge railway is one of the most iconic experiences on any Alaska cruise.

The train climbs from sea level in Skagway to nearly 3,000 feet, hugging cliffs, crossing wooden trestles, and passing waterfalls, glaciers, and deep gorges. It was built during the Klondike Gold Rush—and the views are as wild now as they were then.

You can board the train right next to the cruise port. No need to book through the cruise line—independent tickets are available.

It’s a relaxing ride with nonstop scenery, and a top pick for history lovers, photographers, and anyone who appreciates jaw-dropping views.

Agnes’ Advice: Tickets are much cheaper if you buy them independently—either through the official train website or directly at the railway depot. However, during the busy Alaska cruise season, same-day tickets at the station can sell out quickly. If this ride is on your list, book early to secure your seat.

5. Walk to Nugget Falls at Mendenhall Glacier

This short, scenic walk is one of the easiest—and most rewarding—items on your Alaska cruise bucket list.

Located just outside of Juneau, Mendenhall Glacier is one of the most accessible glaciers in Alaska. From the visitor center, a flat 2-mile roundtrip trail leads you to Nugget Falls, a powerful waterfall that thunders beside the glacier.

The views are incredible. You’ll stand just yards from the rushing water, with a clear view of the glacier in the background.

You can visit on your own or through a short shuttle ride from port. If your cruise stops in Juneau, this is one experience you shouldn’t miss.

Agnes’ Advice: To plan your perfect visit, check out my article on how to get to Mendenhall Glacier on your own—plus top-rated Mendenhall Glacier tours if you prefer a guided experience. Also read about the best shore excursions in Juneau.

6. Attend a Native Cultural Performance

Alaska Native performances are one of the most meaningful cultural experiences you can have on a cruise.

In ports like Sitka, Juneau, and Icy Strait Point, you’ll find local dance groups sharing their traditions through song, drumming, and storytelling. Dancers wear traditional regalia and explain the meaning behind each performance.

You don’t need a long tour. Many shows are within walking distance from the cruise dock or part of small cultural centers.

It’s a powerful way to learn about Alaska’s Indigenous heritage—and a moment that stays with you long after your trip.

Agnes’ Advice: We truly enjoyed the tribal dance performance in Icy Strait Point—it was powerful, authentic, and beautifully presented by local Tlingit dancers. If you’re visiting Ketchikan, consider the Saxman Native Village, Dance, Totems & Lumberjack Show combo.

7. Watch a Lumberjack Show in Ketchikan

The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show is a fun, high-energy experience just a short walk from the cruise dock in Ketchikan.

Professional lumberjacks compete in events like axe throwing, log rolling, and chainsaw carving—all with a touch of humor and friendly rivalry.

The show is fast-paced, family-friendly, and perfect even if you only have a few hours in port. You can easily fit it in before or after another activity.

It’s a lighthearted break from nature and one of the most entertaining stops on your Alaska cruise.

Agnes’ Advice: You can buy tickets directly through the official website for a better price. If you’re also interested in Native culture, consider booking this combo tour that includes both the Saxman Totem Park with a Tribal Dance and the Lumberjack Show—it’s a great way to experience two highlights in one.

8. Ride the Mount Roberts Tramway in Juneau

Just steps from the cruise dock, the Mount Roberts Tramway takes you 1,800 feet up into the mountains above Juneau.

The ride offers sweeping views of Gastineau Channel, your cruise ship, and the surrounding forest. At the top, you can explore a scenic loop trail lined with totem poles, visit a nature center, or browse the gift shop.

It’s an easy and rewarding experience—no excursion needed. Just walk off the ship, grab a ticket, and take in the views. On a clear day, they’re unforgettable.

Agnes’ Advice: No need to book tickets in advance. Wait until you arrive in port—if the weather and visibility are clear, it’s absolutely worth it. But if it’s cloudy or raining, it’s best to skip the Goldbelt Tram and save your time for something else.

9. Visit Totem Parks and Carving Studios

Totem poles are one of the most iconic symbols of Alaska Native heritage—and you’ll find some of the best collections right in port.

Ketchikan is home to the largest collection of standing totem poles in the world, with over 80 located throughout the city. The best places to see totem poles in Ketchikan are: Saxman Native Village, Totem Heritage Center, and Totem Bight State Historical Park.

Sitka’s Totem Park is also worth a visit. It features a beautiful totem trail, carving studio, and a small but fascinating museum—all in one peaceful setting.

Many of these locations are easily reached from the cruise dock, and visiting them offers a deeper connection to the culture and stories of Alaska’s Indigenous people.

Agnes’ Advice: You can explore all these places on your own—but if it’s your first Alaska cruise, or your first time in Alaska at all, we highly recommend joining a local guided experience. A guide will help you understand the meaning behind each totem pole, share the beautiful legends they represent, and give you insight into Alaska’s deep cultural and historical roots.

10. Discover Sitka’s Russian Heritage

Sitka was once the capital of Russian America, and traces of that history are still visible in its downtown streets.

A visit to the Russian Bishop’s House, managed by the National Park Service, offers a rare glimpse into 19th-century Russian colonial life. This restored building is one of the last remaining examples of Russian architecture in North America. Inside, you’ll find period rooms, religious artifacts, and exhibits about the Russian Orthodox Church’s role in Alaska’s past.

Just a short walk away, you can also visit St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Cathedral—a striking green-domed church and one of Sitka’s most photographed landmarks. The original structure burned down in 1966, but it was rebuilt to its historic design.

Together, these two sites make for a meaningful and easy cultural stop—one that brings a completely different perspective to your Alaska cruise bucket list.

Agnes’ Advice: Be sure to read our guide to visiting downtown Sitka.

11. Taste Fresh Alaskan King Crab

Tasting wild-caught Alaskan king crab is a must-do on your Alaska cruise—and there’s no better place to enjoy it than right in port.

In Juneau, head to Tracy’s King Crab Shack. It’s one of the most popular seafood stops, located near the cruise docks. Their king crab legs are massive, buttery, and unforgettable.

In Ketchikan, we recommend The Alaska Fish House—known for its waterfront views and delicious, fresh seafood. Another great option is George Inlet Lodge, often included with crab feast tours.

In Icy Strait Point, try The Crab Station near the cannery. It’s casual, close to the pier, and a great place to enjoy local crab with a view.

No matter which port you’re in, sitting down for freshly steamed king crab is a tasty way to experience the flavors of Alaska. Just roll up your sleeves and enjoy every bite.

Agnes’ Advice: Be prepared for high prices—king crab is a luxury meal and definitely a splurge. But if you’re a seafood lover, it’s worth every bite.

12. Walk the Historic Streets of Skagway

Skagway feels like stepping back into the Gold Rush era—and the best way to experience it is simply by walking it’s historic district.

Just off the cruise dock, you’ll find wooden boardwalks, preserved 1890s buildings, saloons, and historic storefronts. Many are part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park and free to explore.

Pop into the visitor center, browse small museums, or grab a coffee while soaking in the old-town charm.

Agnes’ Advice: No tour needed—just comfortable shoes and time to wander. It’s one of the most authentic and easygoing experiences on your cruise. Also read about free and budget-friendly things to do in Skagway.

13. Explore Creek Street in Ketchikan

Creek Street is one of the most iconic spots in Ketchikan—and it’s just a short walk from the cruise port.

Once a red-light district during the Gold Rush, it’s now a historic boardwalk lined with shops, art galleries, and museums perched above a salmon-filled stream.

During spawning season (July–September), you can watch salmon fight upstream and sometimes even see seals hunting them.

Look for Dolly’s House Museum, once a brothel, now a local landmark full of colorful history.
This blend of charm, history, and scenery makes it a must on your Alaska cruise bucket list.

Agnes’ Advice: Be sure to read our guide to the best things to do in Ketchikan for free, and exploring Ketchikan downtown.

14. Visit the Alaska Raptor Center in Sitka

If you’re an animal lover or traveling with kids, the Alaska Raptor Center in Sitka is a must-see.

This 17-acre facility is a rehabilitation center for injured birds of prey—especially bald eagles. Each year, they treat over 100 raptors, aiming to release them back into the wild. Some birds, however, have permanent injuries and remain at the center as educational ambassadors.

Visitors can explore the center’s forested grounds, observe eagles in the large flight training enclosure, and learn about the rehabilitation process through educational exhibits and presentations. The center is open daily from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM during the summer season, with the last admission at 3:30 PM .

It’s an easy and meaningful stop—just a short bus or taxi ride or a 30-minute walk from the cruise dock.

Agnes’ Advice: Be sure to read our guide to the free and budget-friendly things to do in Sitka.

15. Sample Alaskan Brewing at a Local Taproom

Alaska may be known for glaciers and wildlife—but it’s also home to some seriously good craft beer.

If you enjoy tasting local flavors, visiting a taproom in port is a must. One of the most popular stops is the Alaskan Brewing Company in Juneau. They offer seasonal brews and classics like their Amber, Icy Bay IPA, and Smoked Porter. You can take a shuttle from downtown to the tasting room or join a short tour.

In Skagway, check out Skagway Brewing Company, known for its spruce tip ale—made with real Sitka spruce tips picked each spring. Sitka and Ketchikan also have small local breweries where you can enjoy a cold pint with a view.

Whether you’re a craft beer fan or just curious, sipping local brews in port is a fun and easy way to toast your Alaska cruise adventure.

Agnes’ Advice: If you’ve got time for a cold one in Juneau, check out Alaska On Tap — a small local company offering fun, guided brewery tours. Sip your way through Juneau’s best craft brews while taking in the stunning views!

16. Enjoy a Scenic Walk in Downtown Juneau

Downtown Juneau is one of the most walkable and scenic capital cities in the U.S.—and it starts just steps from the cruise dock.

Wander through streets lined with colorful buildings, stop by the Alaska State Capitol, visit the Juneau-Douglas City Museum, or browse local shops filled with handmade art and souvenirs.
If you’re into quirky stops, don’t miss the Red Dog Saloon or the famous Whale Fountain.

You can spend an hour or an afternoon—there’s no need for a tour. It’s the perfect laid-back activity to add to your Alaska cruise bucket list.

Agnes’ Advice: For more tips, read my article Free Things To Do in Juneau, to plan your perfect trip!

17. Explore the Quirky Hammer Museum in Haines

Haines is one of Alaska’s lesser-visited cruise ports—but if it’s on your itinerary, don’t miss the Hammer Museum.

This small, quirky museum features over 2,000 hammers from around the world, including ancient tools, bizarre designs, and rare pieces you’ve likely never seen before. It’s surprisingly fun and full of personality.

It’s also just a short walk from the cruise dock, making it an easy and memorable stop during your time in town.

Agnes’ Advice: More tips you can find in my articles: Best Things To Do in Haines, Top Haines Shore Excursions, and Exploring Downtown Haines.

18. Try Gold Panning Like a Prospector

Want to feel like a real Klondike prospector? Gold panning is a fun, hands-on activity and a great addition to your Alaska cruise bucket list.

In ports like Skagway, and Juneau, you can try your luck at finding real gold—often in historic mining camps or recreated setups led by guides in period dress. It’s a fun experience for all ages, and you get to keep whatever you find (even if it’s just a few flakes!).

In Skagway, you can combine gold panning with a tour of a restored 1898 mining site. In Juneau, some excursions pair it with a salmon bake for a full afternoon experience.

No matter where you try it, gold panning is part of Alaska’s wild history—and a great way to dig into its past while making fun memories.

19. Go on a Bear Watching Tour During Your Alaska Cruise

If bear watching during your Alaska cruise is on your dream list—I’ve got great news. Some cruise ports offer unforgettable shore excursions that take you into prime bear country.

The best chance to see wild bears is during late summer, especially from July through early September, when salmon are running and bears gather to feed.

Top bear viewing spots include Traitor’s Cove near Ketchikan, Pack Creek near Juneau, and Chichagof Island from Icy Strait Point. Some tours involve small boats or floatplanes and take you to remote, quiet viewing platforms where you can safely observe black or brown bears in their natural habitat.

It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience—and one of the wildest adventures you can add to your Alaska cruise bucket list.

20. Paddle a Kayak in Sitka Sound

Gliding through the calm waters of Sitka Sound by kayak offers an intimate way to experience Alaska’s coastal beauty.

This beginner-friendly activity lets you explore hidden coves, kelp forests, and small islands. Along the way, you might spot sea otters, seals, bald eagles, and even whales. The backdrop of snow-capped mountains and the dormant volcano Mount Edgecumbe adds to the breathtaking scenery.

Several local operators offer guided tours, providing all necessary gear and safety instructions. Tours typically last around 2.5-3 hours, making them perfect for cruise passengers with limited time ashore.

Agnes’ Advice: We purchased the Island Discovery Kayak Paddle, and can highly recommend it. Other great ports for kayaking in Alaska include Icy Strait Point and Haines, both offering calm waters, scenic coastlines, and chances to spot wildlife.

21. Go Ziplining Above the Rainforest

If you’re looking for a thrill during your Alaska cruise, ziplining through the rainforest is an unforgettable adventure.

You’ll find zipline courses in ports like Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, Skagway, and Juneau. Some include multiple platforms, suspension bridges, and views of ocean coves, mountain peaks, and thick spruce forests.

In Icy Strait Point, you can ride one of the longest ziplines in the world—it drops over 1,300 feet in just 90 seconds.

The experience is fast, fun, and offers a whole new view of Alaska’s wild beauty. If you’re not afraid of heights, this is a must-try.

Agnes’ Advice: If you decide to try this activity, let us know how it went—we’d love to hear about your experience! Ziplining is still on our Alaska cruise bucket list, but so far, neither Chris nor I have built up the courage to give it a go!

22. Take a Helicopter and Dogsled Tour in Juneau

This is one of the most unforgettable—and thrilling—experiences you can have on an Alaska cruise.

In Juneau, you can board a helicopter right from the port area and fly over glaciers, mountains, and deep valleys. The flight alone is breathtaking. But it gets even better—you’ll land on a glacier and meet a team of Alaskan sled dogs.

After a quick intro from the mushers, you’ll hop on a real sled and ride across the glacier. It’s fast, quiet, and absolutely incredible.

Agnes’ Advice: This tour is a splurge, but truly one of those once-in-a-lifetime moments. Book early—these spots sell out fast, especially during peak cruise season.

23. Visit the Hoonah Packing Company Cannery

Just steps from the dock, the beautifully restored Hoonah Packing Company Cannery is a mix of history, shopping, and waterfront views.

You can walk through original processing equipment, read displays about the fishing industry, and learn how locals lived and worked here over a century ago. The wooden boardwalks lead to art galleries, souvenir shops, and food stands—all housed in historic buildings.

No tour is required and admission is free, making this a great independent activity. It’s a fun and easy addition to your Alaska cruise bucket list, especially if you enjoy small-town history.

Agnes’ Advice: Icy Strait Point is a magical place with so much more to offer than you might expect. From cultural experiences to outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to check out our articles on free things to do in Icy Strait Point, the best shore excursions, and top activities in nearby Hoonah to help you plan the perfect visit.

24. Ride the Skagway–Haines Fast Ferry

Want to experience two ports in one day? Take the scenic fast ferry between Skagway and Haines.
It’s a short 45-minute ride through stunning fjords, often with views of waterfalls, seals, and eagles.

You can explore one town in the morning and the other in the afternoon. Easy to book on your own—and a great add-on for curious cruisers.

25. Hit the Trails: Go for a Scenic Hike in Port

Alaska cruises aren’t just about tours and excursions—you’ll find incredible hiking trails in nearly every port of call.

If you’re an active traveler who loves nature, lace up your shoes and hit the trail. Hiking is one of the best free or low-cost ways to explore Alaska’s wild beauty, and many great hikes start close to the cruise dock.

In Skagway, hike to Yakutania Point for peaceful views, or head toward Lower Reid Falls, a beautiful waterfall tucked behind the Gold Rush Cemetery—an easy, short walk filled with history.

In Juneau, one of the best hikes in the Mendenhall Glacier area is the East Glacier Loop, offering lush forest and glacier views. If you’re taking the Mount Roberts Tram, explore the Alpine Loop Trail at the top for sweeping panoramas.

In Sitka, enjoy forested trails through Totem Park or the quiet Herring Cove Trail near the water. In Icy Strait Point, if the weather’s clear, ride the Skyglider Gondola and hike the Top of the Mountain Trail—a scenic path with views stretching across Chichagof Island.

Whether you’re looking for a short scenic walk or a more challenging trek, adding a hike to your Alaska cruise bucket list is a rewarding way to experience Alaska’s wilderness—on your own two feet.

26. Experience Summer Sled Dog Adventures and Mushing

You don’t have to visit Alaska in winter to enjoy dog mushing—it’s possible even in summer, and it’s an unforgettable addition to your Alaska cruise bucket list.

In ports like Skagway, Juneau, and Seward (if you extend your trip), you can visit a summer training camp where sled dogs live, train, and prepare for racing season. You’ll meet real Iditarod dogs, cuddle with husky puppies, and take a thrilling ride on a wheeled sled through the forest or along mountain trails.

It’s a family-friendly and educational activity, perfect for dog lovers and those curious about Alaska’s mushing culture.

You’ll leave with a big smile, muddy shoes, and a deeper appreciation for these incredible canine athletes.

27. Explore Alaska’s Oldest Saloon

Step into the past with a visit to one of Alaska’s oldest and most legendary saloons.

In Skagway, the Red Onion Saloon is a must-see. Originally opened in 1898 during the Klondike Gold Rush, it once operated as both a bar and a brothel. Today, it’s a lively restaurant and bar filled with antiques, creaky floorboards, and walls that tell stories.

You can enjoy a drink, browse historic photos, or even take a short guided “brothel tour” upstairs for a cheeky glimpse into Skagway’s wild history. It’s located right on Broadway Street, just a short walk from the cruise dock.

This fun and quirky stop adds a bit of Old West flavor to your Alaska cruise bucket list—and makes for great stories back home.

28. Shop for Locally Made Art and Crafts

Alaska’s ports are full of gift shops—but skip the mass-produced souvenirs and look for locally made art and crafts instead.

In places like Juneau, Sitka, and Ketchikan, you’ll find shops and small galleries featuring handmade items by Alaska Native artists and local creators. Look for carved ivory, hand-beaded jewelry, cedar boxes, salmon leather goods, and prints inspired by the land and wildlife.

Many shops are just steps from the cruise dock, so it’s easy to explore on your own.

Buying local not only supports Alaskan communities—it also gives you a one-of-a-kind memory to take home.

29. Join a Fishing Excursion in the Salmon Capital of the World

If fishing is on your Alaska cruise bucket list, you’re in luck—Ketchikan is known as the Salmon Capital of the World, and it’s one of the best ports to cast a line.

You can join a guided fishing charter right from the harbor, just a short walk from the cruise dock. Depending on the season, you’ll have a chance to catch king salmon, silver salmon, or even halibut. Local captains provide all gear, licenses, and expert guidance—perfect even for beginners.

The best part? Many charters offer fish processing and shipping services, so you can have your catch delivered right to your doorstep.

It’s a rewarding, hands-on experience—and a delicious way to bring home a true taste of Alaska.

30. Witness Calving Hubbard Glacier from Your Ship

Hubbard Glacier is one of the most dramatic sights you can experience on an Alaska cruise—and it’s only accessible by ship.

Located within Wrangell–St. Elias National Park, it’s the largest tidewater glacier in North America. The glacier stretches over six miles across and towers up to 400 feet above the sea.

Hubbard is famous for dramatic calving. Massive ice chunks break off and crash into the ocean, echoing like thunder. It’s a raw and powerful sight.

No tour is needed. Just bundle up, step out on deck, and enjoy one of Alaska’s most unforgettable natural moments. If it’s on your cruise route, this will be one of the most awe-inspiring moments of your entire trip.

Final Thoughts: Alaska Cruise Bucket List

An Alaska cruise is more than just scenic sailing—it’s a journey packed with unforgettable moments both onboard and in port.

We created this Alaska cruise bucket list to help you plan experiences that truly matter. From glacier viewing and wildlife encounters to cultural performances and historic walks, these activities reflect the best of what Alaska’s ports have to offer.

This list could easily be much longer, but we decided to focus on the top of the top experiences—to help you plan the very best activities for your Alaska cruise.

Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or planning a return trip, this list gives you a mix of splurge-worthy adventures and free, meaningful experiences.

Use it as inspiration to build your perfect cruise itinerary—and if you’ve already tried some of these, let us know your favorites or what you’d add next time!

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