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What’s the best way to travel to Alaska? The best way to see Alaska and its wilderness and wildlife? Our number-one tip is to go by small ship. Read on to find out why—and for 5 more ways to ensure you get the best experience visiting for the first time.
We’ve compiled this list since we’ve had so many travelers come to AdventureSmith after being aboard a big cruise ship in Alaska saying that they want to return toreallyexperience Alaska. There’s so much more to Alaska than just seeing it from a ship deck in passing, and that’s where we come in. Let us help you plan and book the best Alaska trip.
ON THIS PAGE – The Best Way to See Alaska:
1. Choose a Small Ship Cruise
2. If You Travel by Land, Don’t Miss the Coast
3. Get Outside—in Any Weather
4. Enjoy the Solitude
5. Relax, You Will See Wildlife
6. Don’t Keep the Great Land to Yourself
More Alaska Resources
Find Your Own Best Way to Visit Alaska
1) Choose a Small Ship Cruise
Alaska is a place you must experience by sea. Some of the state’s most iconic features (glaciers, fjords and whales in Alaska) are best accessed by ship, and many towns areonlyaccessible by ship—for example, the Inside Passage’s many island- or mountain-bound towns. Thus, many people choose to cruise the region. What the average traveler doesn’t realize is that the cruise experience can be shortchanged by the wrong ship or itinerary for your interests.
Most travelers do not go to Alaska for midnight buffets; they go to be immersed in the environment.
For instance, big ships have been known to cruise some 700 nautical miles in one day—while small ship Alaska cruises take a week to sail such a stretch. Larger cruise ships can also only peek into the inlets and small bays where small ships sail deep into to make their secluded anchorages.
Most travelers do not go to Alaska for midnight buffets and crowded port towns filled with tchotchkes; they go to be immersed in the environment. Small ships (up to 100 guests) provide this in spades, with most of your travel time spent off the ship in remote areas, exploring by guided hikes and kayaking.
If getting away from the crowds and truly seeing Alaska in an active, immersive way is the experience you seek, you simply must choose a small ship cruise.
I love what some of our past passengers wrote about their Glacier Bay cruise aboard the 12-guest Sea Wolf: “We saw the large cruise vessels poke their noses in the general direction of some of the Bay’s treasures. But at no time did any of us wish we were anywhere but with the crew of the Sea Wolf.” Read more about Alaska big ships vs small ships.
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2) If You Go by Land, Don’t Miss the Coast
Just because we think the best way to visit Alaska is by boat, doesn’t mean we haven’t also stayed in lodges. Combining a small ship Alaska cruise with an Alaska land tour is ideal if you have the time and budget to visit Alaska for more than a week. But if you simply prefer to overnight on land, don’t miss exploring Alaska’s iconic coastlines and tidewater glaciers by boat.
On our Glacier Bay Backcountry Explorer, for example, you can take day boats into Glacier Bay National Park. And our unique options that utilize Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge all take a boat to get to this isolated lodge deep in the park. The journey is truly the reward here!
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3) Think Outside the Boat – In Any Weather
The best way to see Alaska is to be outside, in any weather. If you choose a small ship, it’s a given you’re going to spend a lot of time outside, off the boat.
At AdventureSmith, we encourage our travelers to “Think Outside the Boat” to be best prepared for their trip. Small ships are set up to include many off-ship activity options: everything from daily hikes and inflatable skiff rides to guided kayak tours and even snorkeling (with a thick wetsuit provided) on select expedition ships.
The key to enjoying Alaska: don’t be afraid of a little fog & rain.
The key to enjoying this off-ship adventure in Alaska is that you can’t be afraid of a little fog and rain. The likelihood of rain on your trip to Alaska at any time in the sailing season is high (you’re in a temperate rainforest after all), but that doesn’t have to be a bad thing. It’s truly fun to experience the elements of Alaska, as long as you are ready for it (hint: read our Alaska climate guide).
The more prepared you are mentally and physically, the more enjoyment you will have. A good waterproof rain jacket, rain pants, the commonly provided “Alaskan tennis shoe” (muck boots) and of course a good attitude can make grey days no big deal. Oftentimes the weather changes fast in Alaska, so those who are ready to experience the varied weather are often treated to beautiful moments like rainbows, sunbows and fast-moving fog. Larger Alaska expedition ships (those in the 40-100 guest range) often have hot tubs on the deck where you can watch the fog lift and the skies clear.
4) Take a Moment to Enjoy the Solitude
Something many travelers crave, but don’t always pinpoint, is their need for remoteness and solitude. Alaska is the perfect destination to unplug as it offers vast expanses of wilderness. Thus, the best way to travel to Alaska is to ensure you’re not among the crowds.
When I was working as an expedition leader in Alaska, I would always ask my guests to sit in silence for a few minutes when out hiking on a trail. At the end of the trip, many remarked this time experiencing the vast Alaskan solitude was one of the most powerful experiences of their whole trip.
While enjoying the silence is something any Alaska traveler can include on their trip, guided or not, small ship cruises create daily opportunities for this, as well as nights anchored in dark, silent coves instead of crowded ports.
If you choose to travel by land, seek solitude by skipping the well-trodden hotel route and stay at a place that shows you remote Alaska at its best. Staying at a wilderness lodge deep in the mountains, out on a remote coast or at the base of Denali offers up-close interaction with the landscape and wildlife, and more chances to take in the views—from your room’s windows or perhaps even your own porch. View all of ourAlaska land tours, curated by our team to deliver such an experience, or learn more in our How to Visit Denali National Park guide.
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5) Relax, You Will See Wildlife
Many travelers heading to Alaska have big name bucket-list wildlife that they want to see. This is great, but so often we can get stuck on seeing one or two big things and then end up disappointed that it didn’t happen. This can then dim down all the other incredible wildlife sightings that happen almost constantly while sailing through Alaska on a small ship.
People are amazed by coastal Alaska and the diversity of wildlife on land and in the water. Many think Alaska’s all Arctic icescapes and are then astonished it’s so rich and full of life. They can be taken aback with the amount of wildlife seen.
Let go of your expectations & enjoy each surprising moment to get the most out of your trip.
We always say the best way to visit Alaska is to let go of your expectations. Enjoy each of the surprising moments to get the most out of your trip. The likelihood of seeing the wildlife you are looking for is high, but if your big-ticket item doesn’t happen, think of it as a perfect opportunity to return.
6) Don’t Keep the Great Land to Yourself
Alaska is a place you will make memories to last a lifetime. Make it better by experiencing this epic destination with friends and family.Travelers can greatly benefit from reduced rates generated by a group. Some ships offer savings for a certain number of travelers booking together, and for smaller vessels, your group can save significantly by chartering the whole ship to design your own experience.
Learn more aboutthe best Alaska cruises for familiesandAlaska chartersto bring the whole gang! Sharing the journey is truly is the best way to travel Alaska I’ve found after returning here with my own children.
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MORE ALASKA RESOURCES:
Alaska Trips
Alaska Small Ship Cruises
Alaska Big Ship vs Small Ship
Best Time to Visit Alaska
Alaska Travel Guide
Small Alaskan Cruise Lines
Alaska Inside Passage Cruises
Alaska Whale Watching Cruises
Alaska Yacht Charters
Luxury Alaska Cruises
Alaska Family Cruises
Alaska Cruise Deals
Alaska Tours
Visiting Denali National Park
Alaska National Park Tours
Alaska Trip Reviews
Comment on this post
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Dave says: January 8, 2019 at 3:00 pm
We’ve traveled to Alaska three times on small ships (Uncruise Adventures) that we booked through Andrew. This article is right on the money. Small ships are the best way to see Southeast Alaska. We’ve seen weather ranging from 70’s to mid-30’s and from clear to snowing. Being ready for the environment is the secret to enjoying the small boat experience.
Reply
- AdventureSmith Explorations says:
January 8, 2019 at 4:37 pm
Dave, thank you so much for sharing your first-hand expertise. Feedback from AdventureSmith travelers like you is priceless. And we are so glad to hear you enjoyed your time in Alaska and working with our Adventure Specialist Andrew. The fact that you’ve visited Alaska three times by small ship is a testament to how unique the adventure cruise experience is each time!
Reply
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Dave 
AdventureSmith Explorations Testimonials
Our Traveler Ratings - The Best Way to Explore Alaska in Their Words
Read More Reviews
Heather E. - Tuscaloosa, AL
"This Truly Was the Trip of a Lifetime"
This truly was the trip of a lifetime. Captain Gavin took advantage of the small ship size to take us to places that the big ships can't see. We overnighted in a peaceful inlet, got within a quarter mile of a gorgeous glacier, visited Tlingit cultural sites, and more. The staff on the ship was cheerful and dedicated, and everything ran smoothly.
Monique C. - Sandy, UT
"One of the Most Memorable Weeks of My Life"
The service was impeccable, and I truly appreciated Lindblad's focus on education and developing a better understanding and awareness of our environment. I also completely embraced the true exploratory spirit of this expedition, bushwhacking into the rainforest to find muskeg and salmon streams where there was no trace of any human touch. I absolutely loved it!
Overall
5/5
Accommodations
5/5
Meals
4/5
Read More
Eric J. - Manitou Springs, CO
"Never Had a Better Trip"
We've done a fair amount of travel and have never had a better trip. We wanted to travel with a small group vs a monster cruise. Good travel companions. Small group made it an especially comfortable and friendly environment.
Overall
5/5
Accommodations
5/5
Meals
5/5
Read More
Marilyn M. - Washington, DC
"The Wildlife Spotting Made it Worth the Trip"
We had a TERRIFIC National Park guides. The number 1 experience was the Glacier Bay National Park, and number 2 was Denali National Park. Both segments of the trip were well organized and superb and very relaxing. Imagine being away from cell phones and Internet for days at a time... and not minding at all!!
Overall
5/5
Accommodations
5/5
Meals
5/5
Read More
Amanda K. - San Diego, CA
"The Best Honeymoon Trip"
Everything was planned perfectly and the places selected for us checked every box. They were beautiful and Lauren planned the best honeymoon trip. She really listened to what we wanted and it could not have been more perfect.
Overall
5/5
Accommodations
5/5
Meals
5/5
Read More
Kira L. - Kensington, MD
"Gorgeous Mountain Views, Lots of Wildlife & Glaciers"
Most enjoyed Glacier Bay National Park with gorgeous mountain views, lots of wildlife, and glaciers. Liked the variety of activities available from strenuous hikes for the super fit to easy ambles for the less ambitious.
Overall
5/5
Accommodations
5/5
Meals
5/5
Read More
George N. - Henderson, NV
"PRICELESS!!!"
Having the ability to adjust course and curtail forward progress due to wildlife sightings were... what is the saying ... PRICELESS !!! Anchoring 1/4 mile off glaciers was without a doubt a prime reason to take this cruise versus a large vessel cruise. There is no way I would have taken a trip to Alaska on a large vessel. Our Adventure Specialist, Leslie, did an excellent job of preparing us for the cruise, her understanding of our needs and expected experiences was very much appreciated.
Read More
Heather E. - Tuscaloosa, AL
"This Truly Was the Trip of a Lifetime"
Overall
5/5
Accommodations
5/5
Meals
5/5
Please note: The primary ship operating the mentioned itinerary can change from year to year, so the shipthis guestcruised on may no longer be sailing this exact route.
This truly was the trip of a lifetime. Captain Gavin took advantage of the small ship size to take us to places that the big ships can't see. We overnighted in a peaceful inlet, got within a quarter mile of a gorgeous glacier, visited Tlingit cultural sites, and more. The staff on the ship was cheerful and dedicated, and everything ran smoothly. The Tracy Arm, to see the Sawyer Glacier, was truly extraordinary. I also loved our visit to Kake, to visit with Tlingit tribe members. Because I was unable to kayak due to recent surgery, the Taku Harbor stop was not as fun for me as it was for others, but that is not Alaskan Dream's fault!
Alaskan Dream was a good choice for us because of their focus on Alaskan culture as well as outdoor adventure. I recently had surgery, and my mother is almost 80, so we would not have enjoyed a trip with a heavy focus on strenuous athletic activities.My mom is about to turn 80, and I turned 50 in April, so we were looking for a landmark adventure. We found it!
Accommodations Review
We stayed in a deluxe cabin aboard the Admiralty Dream. It was quite spacious for an onboard accommodation. The beds were VERY comfortable, with a plush yet supportive mattress and crazy-soft sheets. The bathroom was set up in a way that made showering easier than it has been on other, bigger ships. The ship's common spaces were very comfortable - a lounge with great windows for viewing passing sights and a dining room with plenty of space for the 54 of us.
Meals Review
The food was creative and delicious. There were certain back-up foods that were always on the menu (burgers at lunch, fish or chicken at dinner), but we almost always chose one of the specials of the day, which included (for lunch) halibut tostadas and venison chili and (for dinner) rack of lamb and cioppino. A heavy focus on local Alaskan products (salmon and halibut, spruce tips, elk) was very appropriate.
Crew & Guides Review
Captain Gavin ran the ship and was completely dedicated to giving us the best experience possible. Erin was our naturalist, and she was top-notch (she got her master's in environmental science at Duke's top-rated environmental school, so they definitely hired for killer qualifications). Erin gave short, info-packed presentations most evenings after dinner, which were well-conceived and presented. We were joined by Ranger Cindy at Glacier Bay, who is also a naturalist, so we received tons of valuable information from her too. Our Tlingit cultural guide, Mary, gave an exciting story of the Tlingit origin story of the Raven, as well as a lot of interesting information about Tlingit culture. She left the ship halfway through to go to the Celebration in Juneau (First-Nations dancing groups from all over the world), so then we were joined by Joe, who was also great. We were also joined by Tlingit Elder Alice at Glacier Bay, who told us of the special history of the Tlingit who lived in the valley before the glacier expanded in the 18th century.
AdventureSmith Explorations Review
Nick was tremendously helpful in our selecting which trip to go on, and then in handling all the lead-up organizing. We also received assistance from Justin when we needed to change our plans by a week and Nick was on a trip in Mexico.I handled all our transportation apart from booking the cruise, but AdventureSmith was very helpful booking us into the Admiralty Dream trip.
Traveler Advice
Follow the instructions about bringing warm and waterproof clothing! The ship provided us with waterproof jackets, pants, and boots, but they were not insulated, so our own layers were essential. It was often down in the 40s (F) in the morning and evening. And it rains off and on every day.
Learn More
Featured in this Traveler Review
- Admiralty Dream
- Alaskan Dream Cruises
Monique C. - Sandy, UT
"One of the Most Memorable Weeks of My Life"
Overall
5/5
Accommodations
5/5
Meals
4/5
Starting with Andrew who has been the best travel consultant to date, the trip with Lindblad/Nat. Geo. Expeditions to Southeast Alaska has been one of the most memorable weeks of my life. The service was impeccable, and I truly appreciated Lindblad's focus on education and developing a better understanding and awareness of our environment. I also completely embraced the true exploratory spirit of this expedition, bushwhacking into the rainforest to find muskeg and salmon streams where there was no trace of any human touch. I absolutely loved it!
Accommodations Review
The bed was incredibly comfortable, and the ship sailed so smoothly that I could tell if we were cruising or anchored. Bathroom was quite adequate.
Meals Review
The food was inconsistent, though many meals were great, some were not as good. Pancakes and french toasts were so dry that they were some of the worst. Some meals were rather salty. Overall, I was quite satisfied, however.
Crew & Guides Review
All naturalist guides were excellent and were clearly passionate about their work and sharing the wilderness with us.
Itinerary Review
The opportunities to land on pristine rainforest bay areas with untouched wilderness was simply magnificent. My best day was Kelp Bay in Baranof Island, where we had a fantastic encounter with 2 bears in the salmon stream. I will never forget that for the rest of my life. I was hoping to see more marine wildlife, but that did not turn out to be the case during our week. The fantastic bear encounter made up for the entire week, however.
AdventureSmith Explorations Review
Andrew has been the best consultant ever. Always prompt, always full of information and detailed in his response. I have never had a better person to prepare me for a trip. Anyone would be so fortunate to have Andrew's guidance.
Traveler Advice
Be prepared for whatever weather that Alaska throws at you. It rained the entire week, and so good waterproof gear is a must. Don't expect to find wildlife up close -- it does not happen reliably, or you might get disappointed. Make the most of each day and get the most out of the naturalists.
Learn More
Featured in this Traveler Review
- Exploring Alaska's Coastal Wilderness
- Andrew Browning
- Lindblad Expeditions
Eric J. - Manitou Springs, CO
"Never Had a Better Trip"
Overall
5/5
Accommodations
5/5
Meals
5/5
We've done a fair amount of travel and have never had a better trip. We had never visited Alaska and wanted to see at least a small part of it.We wanted to travel with a small group vs a monster cruise.We prefer active trips rather than sightseeing, so the hiking and kayaking were exactly what we wanted. Kayaking Ford's Terror in the rain [was an] engaging activity in a peaceful and beautiful setting. Campfire/dinner on the beach at The Brothers was unexpected and thoroughly enjoyable evening on shore whale watching and wildlife viewing everywhere. Crew did a great job of spotting and allowing opportunities to view a wide variety of wildlife. Low-tide hike/excursion at Wood Spit was difficult footing in places was really the only negative. Good travel companions.Small group made it an especially comfortable and friendly environment.
Accommodations Review
Individual cabins were admittedly very small, but the Catalyst was more comfortable and accommodating than we expected.The addition of the private head in our cabin was an unexpected plus.We loved the boat!
Crew & Guides Review
Paul, Shane, Caroline, Michael and new trainee, Jimmy, made a wonderful team. Always professional, yet very personable and engaging as individuals.Constantly interacting with guests.Paul was great at spotting wildlife, getting the boat in the best position and allowing us to linger and watch.Caroline was always enthusiastic and extremely knowledgeable about all things animal, plant, and other.Shane never failed to entertain and demonstrate/explain the running of the boat.
AdventureSmith Explorations Review
Andrew provided complete/thorough information. We felt very prepared.
Meals Review
Meals prepared by Michael - delicious, beautiful presentation, varied and always interesting. No room for improvement.
Traveler Advice
Be flexible. Leave expectations at home and just enjoy what comes. We did decide that headlamps/flashlights are not necessary in Alaska in June.
Marilyn M. - Washington, DC
"The Wildlife Spotting Made it Worth the Trip"
Overall
5/5
Accommodations
5/5
Meals
5/5
The number 1 experience was the Glacier Bay National Park section of our "un-cruise" on the Wilderness Explorer because of the variety of activities: hiking, kayaking, wildlife spotting - just one thing after another. We had a TERRIFIC National Park guides. Number 2 best experience was Denali National Park. The highlight was the presentation at the Kantishna Roadhouse on dog sledding and the Iditarod by Emmett, whose Dad has won the Iditarod four times. It was informative and entertaining, and then he took us out back to meet the sled dogs in training - all rescue animals! The least enjoyable part was the LONG bus ride - over six hours into and out of Denali. But the stay at Kantishna Roadhouse and the wildlife spotting made it worth the trip. Both segments of the trip were well organized and superb and very relaxing. Imagine being away from cell phones and Internet for days at a time..and not minding at all!! And we were also blessed with remarkably good weather for August.
Accommodations Review
The cabins at Kantishna were quite comfortable. The cabin on the Wilderness Explorer was fine, good shower pressure and lots of storage space (!) in our Trailblazer cabin.
Meals Review
All meals, at both Kantishna Roadhouse in Denali and onboard the ship were EXCELLENT. I particularly liked the fact that each night on the ship we were offered a choice of meat, fish, or vegetarian.
Crew & Guides Review
At Kantishna, we had no principal trip leader. Took two easy hikes. Particularly enjoyed the second one with Darryl along an old mining road. On board the Wilderness Explorer, the chief activity honcho was well organized but a seemed a bit distant at times. Very adequately supported by an excellent team: Jeremy, Julie, Hannah, Jen, Debi...sorry if I have left anyone out! They were all great!
AdventureSmith Explorations Review
Chris managed my Denali extension and also the Wilderness Explorer booking. He was immediately responsive to my questions and gave full and helpful answers. Wedded the two trips together seamlessly. We especially appreciated the Goldbelt Hotel in Juneau - very centrally located and nice rooms.
Traveler Advice
Take along your sense of adventure and be willing to leave the world at home behind...then you can really enjoy it!
Learn More
Featured in this Traveler Review
- Denali Backcountry Explorer
- Kantishna Roadhouse
Amanda K. - San Diego, CA
"The Best Honeymoon Trip"
Overall
5/5
Accommodations
5/5
Meals
5/5
Everything was planned perfectly and the places selected for us checked every box. They were beautiful and Lauren planned the best honeymoon trip. She really listened to what we wanted and it could not have been more perfect. We met the nicest people on our trip. Everyone was open and welcoming each place we went. We were looking for adventure, outdoor activities, variety of activities, and wanted to see as many places as possible and Lauren made it happen.
Accommodations Review
The lodges were amazing, great food all around, especially at the Bear Track Inn and Riverside Lodge. The Kenai river lodge and glacier lodge were our favorite because of their beauty and access to outdoor activities. The Bear Track Inn was great, but less to do there. If we hadn't been there for the fourth of July it would not have been as eventful.
Meals Review
The food was incredible. Snacks and appetizers at each lodge were great, even the packed lunches were tasty, and the food was always fresh!
Crew & Guides Review
All guides were very knowledgable, enthusiastic, and kind. They answered all of the questions and offered great insight into all things Alaska. Many had over 10 years experience and held various degrees. They made the experiences so wonderful!
Transportation Review
There was always some one waiting for us and all were timely.
AdventureSmith Explorations Review
The packing list and detailed itinerary was so good to have. Lauren even continued to email us to remind us of things as we went along our trip which was very helpful. Everything was taken care of. We were singing your praises the whole time on the trip. Thank you, Lauren! We could not have done this without you. We will definitely be using your assistance when we go back to Alaska!
Traveler Advice
Definitely go fishing one day in Kenai, do the rafting trip, and end at the Glacier lodge as it is the perfect way to relax.
Learn More
Featured in this Traveler Review
- Glacier Bay Backcountry Explorer
- Kenai Riverside Lodge
- Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge
- Bear Track Inn
- Lauren Pilholski
Kira L. - Kensington, MD
"Gorgeous Mountain Views, Lots of Wildlife & Glaciers"
Overall
5/5
Accommodations
5/5
Meals
5/5
Had the best humpback whale watching of my three trips to SE Alaska. Liked the variety of activities available from strenuous hikes for the super fit to easy ambles for the less ambitious. Lots of kayaking too.
Most enjoyed Glacier Bay National Park with gorgeous mountain views, lots of wildlife, and glaciers. The weather was great as a bonus. Enjoyed the river trip at Haines with the chance to see lots of bald eagles. Olympic National Park was another highlight, just wish the weather had been better when we went to Hurricane Ridge where we really couldn't see any distance. Least enjoyed the stop in Ketchikan, maybe because I've been there twice before and it always rains hard, not just the misty rain which is to be expected in Alaska and adds an appropriate atmosphere.
Accommodations Review
I had sailed on Wilderness Discoverer before, so it was like coming home again.
Meals Review
The breakfast bacon on UnCruise ships is the best in the world, and I always eat more on my trips than I do all year at home. A big plate of perfectly ripe fruit available at the pre-breakfast made it easier to resist the two baked offerings that were there too. The variety and imaginative combinations of ingredients--who knew you could do so much with kale! Impressive how the single gluten intolerant guest had her requirements met at every meal.
Crew & Guides Review
Kelly was enthusiastic beyond words, and very knowledgeable. Our guide at Glacier Bay National Park who spent two days with us was a pleasure to have along, and I think she enjoyed us as much as we did her (sorry don't have her name) because we were a very receptive audience for all the information she had to share.
AdventureSmith Explorations Review
Adventure Specialist Andrew has arranged all my trips over the years, and he is as good as it gets. He even advised on which side of the ship was a better choice of cabin on this trip, and he was spot on.
Learn More
Featured in this Traveler Review
- Wilderness Discoverer
- UnCruise Adventures
George N. - Henderson, NV
"PRICELESS!!!"
Overall
5/5
Accommodations
5/5
Meals
5/5
This cruise and the crew as well as the vessel were as excellent as you had informed us.In addition, the weather even cooperated for a fabulous experience. The captain was able to redirect course several times to take advantage of wildlife sightings both on land as well as in the water. Food, service and accommodations were superior. My wife thoroughly enjoyed the kayaking while I loved the bushwacks (hikes without trails).Again, the food and service were exquisite!Having the ability to adjust course and curtail forward progress due to wildlife sightings were... what is the saying... PRICELESS!!! Anchoring 1/4 mile off glaciers was without a doubt a prime reason to take this cruise versus a large vessel cruise. There is no way I would have taken a trip to Alaska on a large vessel.
Accommodations Review
The room had adequate space and except our having it made up into a queen, the bed was the only detriment. Other passengers had their room made up as twin beds and said they had more space.
Meals Review
Having the entire 60 complement of travelers eat at the same time was fabulous! We were able to eat with and get to know most of the travelers due to open seating. We loved everything about the food, service (Kyle and Sharron were wonderful and welcoming each meal), and dining room.They should not serve one of the best dinners of the trip the first night, the salmon that night was superb!!! This is not to say the other meals were subpar, it is simply to say I LOVED the salmon served that night.
Crew & Guides Review
Kim, Dawn, and Emily were extremely knowledgeable, happy to be doing what they do, and sharing information about the flora and fauna.The National Park ranger, Russ, who accompanied us was great in these areas as well, the Park ranger who was the liaison for the local tribes was wonderful too.
Transportation Review
Everything went smoothly, I chose to not take advantage of the travel insurance though she suggested it.We traveled the day prior and the day following to reduce the problems of delays causing challenges for the cruise and/or getting home.
AdventureSmith Explorations Review
Leslie did an excellent job of preparing us for the cruise, her understanding of our needs and expected experiences was very much appreciated.Having to not purchase items which we would not likely use again (rubber boots) was most appreciated.
Traveler Advice
The weather is highly unpredictable, ours was unseasonably sunny but we would have enjoyed it (mostly) had it been rainy as expected. Our rain gear was inexpensive as it only needed to last the week, it was definitely needed though.
We recommend having the beds made up as twins vise queen, as it provides greater utilization of space and keeps one of you from having to crawl over the other to get out of bed.
Learn More
Featured in this Traveler Review
- Glacier Bay Adventure Cruise with 2 Days in Glacier Bay
