What is the best way to visit Alaska?

How Should You Visit Alaska?  Cruise vs. Land Tour — Which Adventure Is Right for You?

-Todd Tribby - Travel Advisor

Alaska is one of those rare destinations that lives up to the hype. Wild. Majestic. Untamed. Whether you dream of towering glaciers or Denali’s snow-draped peak, the best way to see the Last Frontier comes down to one big decision: cruise or land tour?

Let’s explore the pros and cons of both so you can choose the adventure that fits your travel style.

Alaska by Cruise: Coastal Majesty from Ship to Shore

Why Go by Sea?

An Alaska cruise offers a front-row seat to some of the state’s most breathtaking coastal scenery—glaciers calving into the sea, bald eagles overhead, and humpback whales breaching beside the ship.

Highlights:

• Glacier Bay & Inside Passage: See otherwise unreachable glaciers and fjords.
• Port Excursions: Explore towns like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway with curated day trips—think dog sledding, totem carving, and gold rush history.
• Comfort & Convenience: Unpack once, enjoy fine dining, and soak in the scenery from your stateroom balcony.

Ideal For:

Travelers who enjoy relaxed travel, want coastal views, and like having amenities onboard.

Alaska by Land: Into the Heart of the Wilderness

Why Go by Land?

If you want to dive deeper into Alaska’s interior—think Denali National Park, Talkeetna, and Fairbanks—a land-based tour puts you right in the middle of the action.

Highlights:

• Denali National Park: Home to North America’s tallest peak and iconic wildlife like moose and grizzlies.
• Authentic Local Culture: Visit remote towns, meet locals, and get a deeper feel for Alaskan life.
• Flexibility & Depth: With time to hike, fish, or even ride the Alaska Railroad, land tours allow for more immersive experiences.

Ideal For:

Adventurers, nature lovers, and travelers who don’t mind a bit of ruggedness for a richer, more in-depth experience.

Cruise + Land Tour: The Best of Both Worlds

Many travelers opt for a “Cruisetour”—a combined cruise and land itinerary that gives you the glacier-filled coastline and the untamed interior. You’ll cruise the Inside Passage and then travel inland via rail or coach to Denali and beyond.

So, Which Should You Choose?

• Choose a Cruise if you want easy travel, sweeping coastal views, and prefer a guided, low-hassle experience.
• Choose a Land Tour if you’re seeking adventure, deeper cultural connection, and time to explore inland Alaska.
• Combine Both for the ultimate Alaskan adventure.

 

No matter how you go, Alaska will leave you changed.