disney cruise alaska icy strait point

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Icy Strait Point, Alaska

Disney Wonder Alaska Cruise Trip Report

In this post, we (finally) recap our time aboard the Disney Wonder. An Alaskan cruise aboard the Disney Wonder is a bucket list item for many people, Disney fans or not. We lucked into a good rate that allowed us to check off this box a little earlier than we’d expected. It was a fantastic trip, and I’m excited to share with you how it went. So, without further ado (this post is only about 5 months late already), let’s talk about our Alaskan cruise aboard the Disney Wonder!

About This Post + Related Posts

This post recaps our 7-night Alaska cruise aboard the Disney Wonder. It starts way back at the beginning, with why we booked this cruise, before covering everything from booking the cruise, to picking activities and excursions, to our time onboard, to debarkation. As such, it’s a pretty long post.

Even at that, this specific post doesn’t cover everything . Throughout, we link to related posts about this trip. Originally, I’d hoped to have it all as a single post, but it proved to be too unwieldy. As a result, most of the linked posts are “quick guides,” meant to give you an idea of the basics of some topic—dining, kids’ clubs, character greetings, for example—in about 500 words . So if you see a “quick guide” linked, feel free to click over to it for a quick read and then come back to this post. If you don’t want to wait until they pop up in this post, here’s a full list of the quick guides:

Quick Guide to Quick Service Food on the Disney Wonder

Quick Guide to Rotational Dining on the Disney Wonder

Quick Guide to Meeting Characters on the Disney Wonder

Quick Guide to Kids’ Clubs on the Disney Wonder

We also have a look at the ship in a deck-by-deck fashion that covers how to navigate on the Disney Wonder and where everything is located.

But this is where most of our talk about our experience ended up. If you’re looking to hear how our trip went, you’re in the right place. If you’re looking to see who we’d recommend this cruise for, you’re in the right place. So let’s get on with it.

Why We Booked This Cruise

If you’re new to Disney Cruise Line, we’ve got a separate post on How to Pick Your Disney Cruise . That post talks through the different ships and itinerary options, for example.

Emily and I have been on a few Disney cruises before, but all on the same itinerary—the 3-night Bahamas cruise on the Disney Dream. And all without Zoe. A couple years back we were excited to finally get back to cruising when the Disney Wish was announced. We were booked on one of the first Wish cruises when the ship got delayed . Our Wish cruise was cancelled, and everyone booked on the cancelled cruises was offered a 50% discount on a future cruise departing by December 31, 2023.

I think it’s fair to say this was the biggest mea culpa I’ve from Disney that I’ve ever seen. The discount was applicable across all stateroom categories and cruise itineraries. We could have simply used the discount for a rescheduled Wish cruise, but we wanted to get a little more value out of the discount if we could, and the Disney Wonder Alaska cruise had been on our bucket list for a while.

Alaska cruises on the Disney Wonder are not cheap. The 7-night itineraries for 2024, for a family of 3, start at $4,196. But everyone says a verandah room is a must-do for an Alaska cruise (our thoughts on this shortly), so already you’re looking at closer to $10,000. Getting 50% off this cruise would be serious value.

Moreover, that savings is really nice for an Alaska cruise because you’re probably going to have huge expenses on excursions . Excursions were NOT covered by the 50% discount, but it’s nice to have some serious savings in the bank already before you start booking excursions.

The personal kicker for us was that we were able to find an itinerary shortly after Zoe turned 3 years old. Three is the minimum age for using the kids’ clubs—the Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab at that age. Altogether it wound up being a nice balance of factors that came together to make this a good pick.

Our Alaska Disney Cruise Itinerary

As of this post, all the Disney Cruises that go to Alaska depart from and end at Vancouver, Canada. There are a few different itineraries, from 5 to 9 nights in length, visiting some combination of: Ketchikan, Glacier Viewing (Stikine Icecap), Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Sitka, Skagway, and Victoria (Canada).

We settled on the following itinerary:

Day 1 — Embark from Vancouver

Day 2 — Day at Sea

Day 3 — Glacier Viewing (Stikine Icecap)

Day 4 — Icy Strait Point

Day 5 — Juneau

Day 6 — Ketchikan

Day 7 — Day at Sea

Day 8 — Debark in Vancouver

As a bit of an aside, our itinerary actually changed after booking. Day 3 was originally a viewing of the Dawes Glacier before being changed to the broader “Stikine Icecap.” The ship wound up going to the South Sawyer Glacier. Best I can tell, this change was to give Disney more flexibility in exactly which glaciers they view, and it didn’t at all impact our experience.

As for picking your itinerary…I don’t want to get too into the weeds here because things like your personal schedule and pricing are going to be bigger factors than the specific itinerary. Basically, you want a balance of days at sea, ports that you’ll enjoy just walking around in, if you choose, and ports that offer excursions you want to do. If you have to see the Mendenhall Glacier, probably don’t pick an itinerary that skips Juneau, for example.

For us, we felt like two days at sea was a good number, and we expected to just enjoy walking around Ketchikan. This left us the three middle days for excursions.

Booking Our Disney Alaska Cruise

We book our cruises through our travel advisor, Lauren Quirk at Travel With Character LLC . I’ve written elsewhere about why I book Disney trips with a travel advisor , but it’s worth adding specifically for cruises that it’s nice to have help booking excursions and onboard activities.

With Lauren’s help we were able to settle on a Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah with a rack rate of $12,152.66. With our 50% discount, the total came to $6,076.33.

Was our verandah room on the Disney Alaska Cruise worth it?

We’ll discuss our room in more detail when recapping the cruise itself, but I’ll offer some thoughts on the “worth it” question first.

The downside to the discount we received is it makes the “is it worth it…” question a lot more complicated. Disney Cruise Line prices are higher than industry average, and I’m not enough of a cruise expert to opine here. I’ve taken four Disney Cruises. I’ll take more. It’s clear I think at least that Disney’s lowest prices are worth it.

With that context in mind, I’d say our Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah on this itinerary was definitely worth the $6,076.33 we paid. But I’d also say it was definitely not worth the $12,152.66 rack rate.

We made use of our verandah. It provided for a few photo opportunities and “wow” moments. Plus Zoe was still napping at the time, so it was nice to be able to sit out there during nap time. Otherwise, we prefer to be in the rest of the ship. Zoe loved the kids’ clubs, we like the bars and walking the ship. I’d even just find cozy spots around the ship, sometimes with a view, to read. There’s just so much going on outside the room and off the ship that I couldn’t justify the $5000+ premium verandah rooms cost.

I have to say as a personal caveat that I’m simply not a “sit and be awe of good views” kind of person. I think you’ll easily find people who say “sitting on our balcony watching the Alaskan scenery go by was worth every penny.” But I much prefer to be out among the other people on the ship taking in the view.

View of the South Sawyer Glacier from our balcony

Booking Our Disney Alaska Cruise Excursions

With the cruise booked, the next step is booking your onboard activities and excursions. This is different from and usually earlier than check-in, which we’ll discuss later.

Disney Cruise Activity Booking Windows

Disney Cruise Line activities, including “specialty adult dining, Port Adventures, [and] spa services” open for booking 75 to 123 days before your cruise, depending on what level “Castaway Club” you are. Castaway Club is the Disney Cruise loyalty program. If this is your first Disney Cruise, you aren’t a Castaway Club member yet, and activities will open 75 days before your cruise.

Once you’ve sailed a single cruise, you become a Silver Member, and as you hit the required marks you can progress to Gold, Platinum, and Pearl.

Now, I want to point out that if you think you’re going to take multiple Disney Cruises in a lifetime , you should at least be open to some strategic thinking for your first one. Specifically, you might want to take a short cruise (usually Bahamas) before a longer one, like the Alaska cruise. (Even more specifically, you want to take it more than 90 days before the longer cruise.)

This serves two purposes. First, you’ll get to find out if cruising / Disney cruising is for you. Take a 3-night Caribbean trip over a weekend to see if this is something you’re into.

Second, once you take one cruise you’ll be Castaway Club Silver and at least a step ahead of the general public when it comes to booking activities . This may or may not be huge, but if you’re planning a one-in-a-lifetime Alaskan Cruise, every bit helps.

And again, I prefaced above—I’m not saying that just because you’re considering an Alaskan Cruise you should rush out and do some other Disney Cruise first. But if multiple cruises are clearly in the cards for you, it’ll make sense to pay attention to which order you take them in. (And, of course, it might make sense to do Alaska before some other cruise if that other one has higher demand, must-do activities for you.)

Disney Alaska Cruise Onboard Activities

Onboard activities can be some of the toughest things to mentally sort through when it comes to Disney cruises. There isn’t a well-organized, comprehensive listing of these. The DCL website has a listing here , and that’s where you should start.

Unfortunately, you’ll see that if you click into, for example, “Beverage Tastings” you’ll be taken to a list of different tastings, but no schedules / pricing etc.

To the best of my knowledge—and it’s something I hope changes or that you experience differently—you can’t even see the full schedule for bookable onboard activities until your booking window opens and you are paid in full.

Since some of the activities are quite popular, your booking day can be a pretty chaotic race to find and book things you’re interested in. For example, Royal Court Tea—a character / tea experience—sells out really quickly. Consulting with Google or the various forums might help you narrow down what day of the cruise it will be so that you can book it quickly when your time opens. (Again, is this all too much? I agree. Book with a travel advisor. )

You’ll also want to pay attention the the cancellation deadlines for any activities you were hoping for but didn’t get. You might see cancellations at any time, but particularly as that deadline nears, you’re more likely to see people change plans.

Spa treatments, adult dining (Palo on the Disney Wonder), and nursery services are also things you’ll be planning to book at this time.

Finally, there are onboard activities that are not bookable ahead of time. These are things like trivia or arts and crafts that don’t really fill up and that you’ll just see in the schedule on the app when you get onboard.

A Quick Aside About the Disney Cruise Line App (And Internet)

The Disney Cruise Line app basically has two modes—pre-cruise and during cruise. Before your cruise, the app basically functions the same as the Disney Cruise Line website, including options for managing your bookings.

Once onboard and connected to the onboard wifi, the app becomes the hub for any information you’ll need. You’ll find complete listings of all the days’ activities as soon as you’re onboard, along with hours for all the stores / theaters / restaurants, and so on. There’s also a messaging service available within the app while you’re onboard.

The app’s messaging service is complimentary. If you’d like to have internet access, though, you’ll need to pay for an internet package. Unfortunately, our trip was expected to be among the last ones before the Wonder upgraded to the newer internet hardware / software, so my internet experience isn’t worth writing about. (Suffice to say you shouldn’t expect to have internet outside of the ports unless you pay for it.)

Picking Our Alaska Excursions

Excursion options are available for browsing on the Disney Cruise Line website. Disney calls excursions “Port Adventures.” Some flexibility is going to be required, though, because specific availability will vary by cruise. If you’re concerned, this is yet another reason to consider working with an expert travel advisor on your cruise.

The biggest restriction for us picking our Port Adventures was Zoe’s age. At only 3, the options we could do together as a family were limited. We could have done separate excursions, but that’s just not really how we travel.

Browsing the Port Adventures can be tedious. I’m sure it’s something a travel advisor could help with, but honestly I think the variety is great enough that you should at least dedicate an evening to browsing everything to see what’s available. I recommend you start by filtering by “Ports of Call.” Make a list of ones you’re interested in each day and then start honing it into a schedule.

After reviewing the options, at the top of our list was whale watching. We attempted to see whales in Iceland , but the odds were not in our favor that trip. Juneau, Icy Strait Point, and Ketchikan all had whale watching options.

Second on our list was glacier viewing. Personally, I don’t think any of the three of us is too excited to see glaciers, but it’s also just sort of an “Alaska Cruise Must Do” item. Specifically, many of the Alaska itineraries (including ours) have a day dedicated specifically to glacier viewing. On this day, the cruise ship gets moderately close to a glacier, while there is a paid “Port” Adventure option to get on smaller boats and get closer.

Third was some sort of puppy / sled dog interaction. Zoe loves dogs, and sled dog interactions are often considered another “Must Do” item on an Alaska itinerary. Without going down a rabbit hole, I encourage you to do as much research as you feel necessary before booking any animal interactions anywhere in the world (that’s 100% not to say anything about this specific activity, it’s just a general travel suggestion).

We wound up settling on the following Port Adventures (prices per adult / Zoe):

Day 3 — Glacier Viewing — $299 / $199

Day 4 — Icy Strait Point — Whale and Marine Mammals Cruise (IS01) — $209 / $139

Day 5 — Juneau — Sled Dog Discovery and Musher's Camp (JU05) — $219 / $199

We opted not to do any excursions in Ketchikan. We felt the town offered enough to keep us busy, and since it was the end of the cruise we thought we’d appreciate not having the pressure of another activity. Overall this was the right decision, and Ketchikan day was probably my favorite day.

Alternatively to the Sled Dog Discovery and Musher's Camp, I considered one of the excursions that included a helicopter ride to Mendenhall Glacier and dog sledding on the glacier. Ultimately I decided this wasn’t the right time for Zoe’s first helicopter ride.

Our total excursions costs came to $1991. That was $727 for each adult and $537 for Zoe. I think it’s probably a mistake to nitpick these costs (but yea, that’s a big ‘nit’). The fact is that if we were backpacking through Alaska, we’d probably have better experiences at a lower price. But so what? We aren’t backpacking. We’re on a Disney Cruise. You sort of have to look at the trip as a whole and the costs as a whole.

You might decide that none of the excursions are worth the price, and I think you could still have a fantastic cruise experience. But given that there’s already a huge cost to getting to Alaska, and seeing as I don’t plan on roughing it there anytime soon, I’m open to paying a little more to experience these things. That is—as the saying goes—how they get ya.

Booking Third Party Excursions

Okay, fine. After that $$$ rant, it’s worth mentioning that on almost all cruises there is an alternative option—booking third party excursions. Excursions booked through your cruise line are almost always run by third parties anyways, the cruise line is just marketing them.

The risk in doing this is mostly that the third party has no relationship with your cruise line. That means any scheduling / customer service / pick-up, drop-off issues you have are going to be between you and the excursion company only.

Is this practically a huge problem? Probably not. After all, many of these companies are professionals who work with cruise passengers on a daily basis.

That said, this is definitely a case where we recommend—you guessed it!—working with a professional travel advisor. They know reputable tour providers from non-reputable ones, and if something goes wrong you’ll at least have someone you know and trust to help you sort it out.

Disney Cruise Online Check-In

As with booking activities, your online check-in day will vary based on Castaway Club status. The General Public Online Check-In date is 30 days before your cruise embarks. We’re Castaway Club Silver, so we were able to check in 33 days in advance.

Online Check-In is a whole process—submitting travel documents and photos, registering for the kids’ clubs, setting up your onboard account—but the most important part in our mind is your Port Arrival Time. This is the time that you are expected to be at port to get on the boat. In general, earlier is better because it means more time on the ship.

Getting to Vancouver

The easiest way to get to Vancouver for most people is to fly there. The airport, Vancouver International Airport (YVR), is well-serviced and well-connected to the city. We even got through customs and immigration incredibly quickly.

We flew American Airlines there, opting for Main Cabin Extra . Emily has reviewed Air Canada’s A321 business class and Air Canada’s 787 business class before, too.

Flying from Chicago, I sat in an “A” window seat, which I mention because we had awesome views of some mountains flying in (I think the far one is Rainier?):

Pre-Cruise Time In Vancouver

It’s generally not recommended that you fly into a port the same day your cruise leaves. This goes double for an international port, where unexpected flight issues are going to be a lot more difficult to quickly resolve. (Air Canada probably doesn’t just have another plane sitting at your airport in case yours gets delayed or breaks.)

Plus, Vancouver is a great city to spend a few days. We spent four nights in Vancouver before our cruise and found that to be a great amount of time to take in the city . On a return trip, we’d probably only stay two nights, though we think three or four is better for a first visit.

Day 1 - Embarkation

( Note: There’s a lot of new stuff to learn on Day 1. I’m not going to go in-depth on every topic as part of recapping this day. I spread the links to the quick guides throughout this post. So if you read something in Day 1 and think “wow he went right past that major thing quickly”, I hopefully cover it in more depth later or link to a quick guide sometime later.)

We were coming from the Rosewood Hotel Georgia, just a 10-minute walk from the cruise terminal. It was pretty great how conveniently placed the Vancouver cruise terminal was. At the end of our trip, our debarkation day also went quite smoothly, but let’s not jump to the end yet.

We’d booked a Port Arrival time of 11AM and arrived at the terminal at 10:30AM. There were few people around for boarding at this hour. We followed the signage plus the directions of the terminal staff and were through security / passport control / etc. in about 20 minutes with one hiccup—we still had our luggage.

Standard protocol is to tag your luggage (they mail you the tags ahead of time) and drop it off with cruise staff somewhere in this process before boarding. It then gets put on the ship and left outside your room, allowing you to navigate the ship luggage-free for the first few hours while staterooms are inaccessible and still being prepared (the cruise has only a few hours turnaround, remember).

Ironically, I think the reason we wound up with all our luggage stuck with us is that we’re pretty efficient travelers. We didn’t have a ton of bags (and nothing bigger than a carry on), so it isn’t as if someone at the port would think to say something. We also got through all the steps pretty quickly, obviously too quickly to pay attention to what was going on. I imagine if we’d had some bigger bags and struggled to get through security, someone would have at least nodded in the right direction.

Boarding was delayed, which I would have minded less except that we looked relatively clownish trying to navigate our bags while we sat around waiting. Boarding started at about 11:40AM, and our group was called around 12:15PM.

Staterooms aren’t ready at that time, but we knew exactly where we were heading—Cabanas for lunch.

Read More About Cabanas in Our Quick Guide to Disney Wonder Quick Service

Aside from lunch, I had a quick errand to run once aboard. I didn’t mention this above, but we’d booked a backup whale watching excursion for the Ketchikan day. I intended to cancel it after I reviewed my plans, but I was surprised to find the “3 day” cancellation period was 3 days before the cruise departure, not 3 days before the excursion. There were only a few people ahead of me at the Port Adventures desk. The Cast Member there was able to cancel my booking after a short consult with a superior.

After lunch, we headed to the pool. The main pool on the Disney Wonder is Goofy’s Family Pool. It’s located in the middle of Deck 9. You’ll see the giant “Funnel Vision” movie screen above it. The pool is closed and converted to a stage for a few events, like the “Sail-A-Wave” party.

The pools on the Disney Wonder do not allow swim diapers. Besides the Goofy Pool there is the family-friendly AquaLab pool on Deck 9, aft (the back of the ship). There’s also the adults-only Quiet Cove Pool on Deck 9 forward.

The pools are heated, though once you’re far enough north you’re probably only going to be able to stay in them so long. Even Zoe, a pool fanatic, hit a limit within about 30 minutes on chilly days.

Around 1:30PM, staterooms were ready. There may have been some announcement, but the easier way to tell was just that you blink and all of a sudden the decks are abandoned like some sort of apocalypse film because everyone is running to their rooms.

Our Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah

As previously noted, we had a Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah. As part of booking, you can pick a room, and we picked a room on Deck 6, midship. ( Here’s our deck-by-deck breakdown of the Disney Wonder. )

Since we were sailing just after Zoe’s birthday, our travel advisor, Lauren, surprised us with a room decoration package. (Thanks Lauren!)

You can basically break the room into five parts. There are:

two bathroom rooms (sink + toilet, sink + shower)

a space with a queen bed

a curtain-separated space with a couch that converts to a twin bed, a TV, and a desk

and a verandah.

There’s also a bunk bed that can come down from the ceiling above the twin bed, but we didn’t use that.

I don’t have a ton of commentary about the room. Overall it was fine, and I can’t recall feeling significantly better or worse about the rooms we’d previously stayed in on the Disney Dream. The biggest issue for us was simply that Zoe had the twin bed, which meant we could only access the verandah during naps by walking past the sleeping toddler. (Also, there was a bed rail provided, per a request we made at some point.)

I didn’t spend too much time browsing the TV lineup, but it wasn’t too deep. There were all-day cartoons available. Otherwise, with up to two theaters plus Funnel Vision playing movies at any time, you’re unlikely to need the TV for entertainment.

There was a short period in the middle of the trip where our toilet didn’t flush. Then after a few minutes it flushed for all the times we’d pressed the button in a panic. I don’t know much about cruise ships, but I vaguely recall this issue on the Disney Dream once, too.

As mentioned above, I’d heard a lot that a verandah is a “must have” for the Alaska cruise, and I just didn’t feel that way. The idea is basically that, specifically for the first day at sea and the Glacier Viewing day, the views around the ship are absolutely stunning. I don’t much care for a view, but I made sure to take a moment to soak these in. Having a verandah means more private, unobstructed views.

Maybe we had a less crowded ship, or maybe we’re just more inclined to walk around the ship at our leisure. But I felt that I had plenty good views from the decks of the ship, and I generally preferred being outside of the room to being in it.

Emily is a little more measured and says she’s at least glad we did it once, but she probably wouldn’t pay for the verandah a second time. For most people, an Alaska cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime thing, and to that end the verandah could go a long way to making a “perfect” time. But the flip side is that if the verandah prices keep you from cruising, or push you toward a different cruise line, I think you’re probably putting way too much stock in that amenity. It was a “nice to have,” not a “must have.”

After some time in the room, we headed to check out the kids’ clubs. The first day starts with Open House hours in the clubs. This means you won’t be leaving your little ones alone in the clubs at this time. Instead, it’s a chance for you to all get acquainted with the clubs. If you don’t have kids, you’re also welcome in the kids clubs during Open House. Zoe was instantly smitten with the clubs.

At 4PM is the mandatory assembly drill. This is a tedious, but important safety drill. It’s required for everyone on board. But it’s followed at 4:30PM by something much more fun…

The big thing on embarkation day is Mickey’s Sail-A-Wave Deck Party ! This is a 10-15 minute show on Deck 9 featuring your favorite characters and aiming to get you hyped for the cruise. It’s a “can’t miss” insofar as you’ll have plenty of time to take in the ship later, so might as well see this one-time performance while you can.

With our 5:45PM dinner seating coming up, I had just enough time to squeeze in a run. I ran on the treadmills of the ship 6 of the 7 days and generally found the fitness center to be pleasant. When the ship is moving it can be a bit trippy because the treadmills aren’t oriented perfectly forward.

Deck 4 also has a “running track.” It’s something like 0.3 miles and always prone to people who don’t know how to handle a shared run/walk space like that. Your GPS will also be worse than useless when the ship is moving. (FWIW, I’ve run the deck of the Disney Dream before and it ruined all my ‘Personal Bests’ in my running apps.) It’s also an outside space subject to the elements. A 0.3 mile loop means lots of turns, which means lots of opportunities to slip. Personally, I’d maybe run on Deck 4 in the morning when crowds are nonexistent, but I actually just stuck to the treadmills all trip.

We were able to squeeze in two character greetings—Mickey and Goofy—before dinner. Coming into the cruise we didn’t realize how much Zoe would love meeting the characters. They’d had some interested at Disney World and Disneyland before, but on the cruise meeting characters really became the thing we needed to do. I’ll cover these a bit more later.

Dinner on night one was a lot. We were scheduled for Triton’s, one of the three included table service restaurants. Zoe hadn’t napped all day. Plus we’d had all the excitement of experiencing the ship. And now it was time to meet our dining staff and find a way to stay seated for a relatively long dinner. Let’s just say we got through it. A Mickey Bar (complimentary) helped.

Besides your scheduled dinner rotation (more on this later), there’s the option for adults only to dine at Palo. Palo requires an advance reservation and costs extra. Palo also has a brunch option, if you don’t want to mess with your dinner schedule. Personally I’d maybe do both in the future since on a 7-night cruise you’re dining in each rotational restaurant at least twice.

Our customary practice for travel nights, particularly on Disney trips, is to alternate who goes out and who stays with Zoe and does bedtime. As the cruise went on, we started letting Zoe stay up later and later, but one this first day—a long day with no nap—we had no interest in trying a late night.

I spent the evening at Crown & Fin, the pub-themed bar onboard. I mostly stuck to Alaskan Brewing Company beers. While I just sat around the read, there was plenty going on around the ship until about midnight, including: character greetings, multiple trivia activities, movies in Buena Vista Theatre and on Funnel Vision, “Disney on Broadway” music, dueling pianos, jazz, and activities in the kids clubs.

Day 2 - Day at Sea

Day 2 is a full day at sea and one of the more scenic days of the cruise. But our first stop of the day was the Laundry Room. There are three laundry rooms on the Disney Wonder, on Decks 2, 6, and 7 midship. Each has around 5 washing machine and 5 dryers. It cost $3 to wash, $3 to dry, and $1 for detergent. There was a kiosk in the laundry room that allowed you to charge these items back to your stateroom.

We did laundry twice (mostly because of my running clothes and Emily and Zoe’s swimsuits). Notifications are supposed to come through the app when your washer/dryer finishes. We had some luck with this but it wasn’t perfect. The kiosks in the laundry rooms also tell you how many available machines there are in the other laundry rooms. Finally, there is laundry service available onboard ($$$), but we were fine using the machines.

We switched up our breakfast plans and tried Triton’s today. Triton’s serves table service breakfast and lunch daily. It’s a smaller menu than the substantial Cabanas buffet, but with a few items you won’t find at Cabanas (in case you can’t tell, I didn’t take a picture of the menu, sorry). As expected, this just wasn’t for us. We much preferred the quick and plentiful options at Cabanas to get our day started.

After breakfast I swung by Cove Cafe to pick us up some cold brew. Cove Cafe is the specialty coffee shop onboard. Drip coffee is free (but available in spots other than cove, like Cabanas and the beverage station outside Cabanas), but anything else—specialty lattes ($5.75), cold brew ($4)—costs extra. There are also complimentary pastries.

Cove is technically right inside the adults only section of the ship. While I think you’d probably be asked not to let kids lounge there, I frequently saw people stopping in to make a quick purchase with kids in tow.

While I was getting the coffee, Emily and Zoe were in line for Minnie. She was greeting in her standard cruise outfit (Captain Minnie) today.

Next, we headed to French Quarter Lounge for “Family Crafts.” This was a mask-making activity that Zoe had a lot of fun with. French Quarter Lounge also operates a combo bar/cafe. I found it had much better cafe vibes so would usually get coffee and beignets when I visited.

Zoe picked to go to the pool quickly before lunch. family-friendly Frozen was playing on Funnel Vision.

For lunch, I cobbled together options from some of the smaller quick service restaurants onboard. Besides Cabanas, there are three smaller quick service options, all on Deck 9.

Read Our Quick Guide to Quick Service on the Disney Wonder

After lunch we stopped at one of Zoe’s favorite spots on the ship—Eye Scream, the soft serve station. This is another complimentary offering. Chocolate and vanilla were available daily, plus there was a daily changing flavor.

By midday, the scenery was starting to look gorgeous. We split the time in the room while Zoe napped, and then Zoe went to the Oceaneer Club while we walked around the ship and took in the sights (and some beers). Here are a few photos:

Dinner tonight was at Animator’s Palate. And—surprise, surprise—it’s with the same staff we had the previous night! That’s how rotational dining works!

Read Our Quick Guide to Rotational Dining on the Disney Wonder

Night 2 also included the debut of the feature entertainment on the ship. Night 2’s show was the Golden Mickeys. The other two feature shows were “Frozen, A Musical Spectacular,” and “Disney Dreams—An Enchanted Classic.”

We wound up skipping all of these. They’re heralded as fantastic shows, so you might consider them “must-do.” They didn’t fit well into Zoe’s schedule, and neither of us felt like doing them without Zoe.

As I mentioned above, we alternated nights out. I won’t detail every night (in part because I don’t have notes about all of them), but they’d usually include a stop at a bar, strolling around the ship, and activities like trivia, listening to musical performances, or watching a movie in one of the theaters (we both watched Haunted Mansion, for example).

Day 3 - Glacier Explorer Day

Day 3 is an interesting day. It’s technically not a “day at sea”, but the ship doesn’t actually dock at a port, and there’s only one excursion—Glacier Explorer. If you’re not doing Glacier Explorer, you’ll be aboard the ship all day. It’s an incredibly scenic day and, conditions permitting, the ship gets close enough to a glacier for some good views.

Besides the excursion, this day had one other huge highlight—the debut of Mickey and Minnie in their Alaska outfits! Mickey’s greeting was set for 9AM on Deck 10 (outside), and Minnie at 9:30AM. We were in line for Mickey 20-30 minutes early, and the line for Minnie, on the opposite side of Deck 10, was closed by 9:10AM.

Mickey and Minnie greeted four times this day. The first three times were outside and these were the only times the entire trip they greeted outside. They did wear the Alaska outfits inside for some greetings later on. We met Alaska Minnie on her last day, Day 6, Ketchikan Day.

Read More In Our Quick Guide to Meeting Characters on the Disney Wonder

We’d gotten notice via the Disney Cruise Line app that our Glacier Explorer excursion was set for 2:30PM (times can shift a little bit just based on ship speed / conditions). This meant we needed to have an early lunch so Zoe could get a full nap in. With Cabanas closed until 11:45AM, I had to once again cobble together options from the other quick service spots. Don’t worry, we still got ice cream to enjoy while we walked around the ship.

The time from noon until about 5PM this day is really the peak scenic time of the cruise. Some photos:

On Deck 10, you’ll find plenty of crowds enjoying the sights. There’s complimentary hot chocolate and coffee, and you can alcohol for a price. Blankets are provided in case you get cold.

Just after 2PM we started turning the corner, with the South Sawyer Glacier coming into view. Here’s the last photo I took from the deck at 2:08PM.

And then from our verandah on the port (left) side of the ship at 2:15PM.

Glacier Explorer Excursion

For our itinerary, there were two times for the Glacier Explorer excursion, an early time and a late time. If you have the earlier time, you’ll transfer from the Wonder to a smaller boat that goes ahead of the Wonder to visit the glacier. Then once the Wonder catches up you get back on the Wonder. At that point, the people with the later time get on the smaller boats. The Wonder heads back while they do their glacier viewing, and the excursion boats catch up with the Wonder at the end of their time.

At 2:30PM, we gathered at the Walt Disney Theater to start our excursion. After some brief introduction, we were on the boat at 2:52PM.

Seeing the glacier from closer up was cool, but my favorite part by far was the perspective we got on the Disney Wonder. The scenery was great, and it was just really cool to see the ship like that.

We were in the area of the South Sawyer Glacier for about 30 minutes. Then we left and went to the North Sawyer Glacier. The Wonder didn’t itself visit the North Sawyer Glacier, though to be fair the South Sawyer Glacier is more fun to look at.

The excursion boat was comfortable. A guide provided some information about the glaciers for much of the tours. There were free donut holes and hot chocolate. I paid $7 for a beer, and Zoe got a free can of water. You could also use a cup of glacier ice for your beverage. They accepted card and cash, but you cannot charge back to your room (the tour is run by a third party, remember).

Back aboard the Wonder at about 5:20PM, we opted for a quick service dinner. Zoe had done really well on the excursion and really deserved some time in the Oceaneer Club rather than having to go straight from the excursion to a 90 minute meal.

Read more about the Oceaneer Club and the Other Disney Wonder Kids’ Clubs

We happened upon Belle while eating some ice cream inside on Deck 5. She stopped to take pictures with a few people (not us, because of the toddler holding the ice cream). We saw a few roaming characters during our time on the ship. Usually they were heading somewhere (like to their scheduled greeting, or to visit the kids’ clubs), but if they had a moment they’d stop and chat and take pictures.

Day 4 - Icy Strait Point

Finally, a real port! Day 4 was at Icy Strait Point. For starters, Icy Strait Point is a privately managed port. It is not a town. There is a town, Hoonah, that is accessible by bus or walking path from Icy Strait Point, but we didn’t make it there. (Note: Hoonah is different from the Hoonah Cannery, which is a part of Icy Strait Point.)

As much research as I did about Icy Strait Point ahead of time, I was still a little confused about it. I’ll do my best to explain how things are set up here, but suffice to say once you get there, it’s a very manageable area.

Icy Strait Point has essentially four parts. We were docked at Ocean Landing. A short walk across a bridge from the ship took us to one of the two hubs of the port. There was a big building with a cafe and some excursion meeting points. Since we’d booked an excursion, we were able to get our “all access” wristbands here, too. These ostensibly included a few things, but the only value we got from them was access to the paid “Skyglider” gondola.

A few minutes walk from Ocean Landing is the Hoonah Cannery . This is a cannery museum, a few restaurants, and lots of stores.

From Ocean Landing, you can take a free “Transporter” (GREEN) gondola to Wilderness Landing . To be clear there are two gondolas at Icy Strait Point. The free “Transporter” gondola takes you between Ocean Landing and Wilderness Landing. Ships can dock at either of these two spots, so it makes sense that there’s free transport between them. The other gondola is a paid “Skyglider” gondola between Wilderness Landing and Sky Peak

There’s also a 10 minute walking path between Ocean Landing and Wilderness Landing. Wilderness Landing is the hub for some excursions. There’s also a store and a few small food / beverage options, though none were open when we were around.

As I mentioned above, Wilderness Landing is also where you can catch the paid “Skyglider” gondola to Sky Peak . If you book basically any excursion for this day, it will include access to this gondola.

This is also the only way to get to Sky Peak—there’s no walking path between Wilderness Landing and Sky Peak. Without an excursion booked, it costs $50 for an adult and is definitely not worth that. We opted to head straight to Sky Peak and then work our way down to Hoonah Cannery.

Sky Peak has a few view points and is the departure point for a few excursions. It’s also home to the zipline, a popular excursion at Icy Strait Point. If you’re not booked on something up there, there’s also a mile-ish trail. However, when we were visiting there were issues with bears.

This necessitated only traveling in groups, with a guide. There also seems to have been a specific bear incident while we were waiting, because delays mounted. I grew impatient and left after about 45 minutes of waiting, but Emily and Zoe stuck with it. Emily said she liked the trail and everyone else seemed to enjoy it, too.

I took the Skyglider back to Wilderness Landing and then the walking path to Ocean Landing. After a little bit of time we reunited and explored the Hoonah Cannery area together.

There were a few restaurants, with the Crab House being the most popular. The donut stand, Lil’ Gen’s Donuts, also had a huge line. There’s also a ton of shopping, along with some museum displays on the history of the cannery.

We spent about four hours total on Icy Strait Point before returning to the ship for lunch (no good vegetarian options in the very crowded restaurants). I really would have liked to have made it to Hoonah, but it was too much of a hike and we had an afternoon excursion.

Zoe’s favorite part of Icy Strait Point was definitely the rock beach.

Whale and Marine Mammals Cruise

Our excursion this afternoon was the Whale and Marine Mammals Cruise. It cost $209 per adult and $139 for Zoe. Unlike some of the excursions that meet inside the Icy Strait Point buildings, ours departed right from the cruise dock, opposite the cruise ship (“Tour Dock C”). We arrived just before 1:45PM, and the 2PM tour departed on time.

At just over 3 years old, Zoe has for a while been able to get through a day without a nap. But this is something that ebbs and flows, or at least some napless days are better than others. This was not a good one.

The main goal of the viewing is usually to see whales, but you might catch some other animals on the way, like sea lions:

The actual animal viewing was 30-45 minutes away, and Zoe did not want to sit still or behave during that time. Eventually we resigned to trying to get a nap in during the excursion. This worked, but left me with a napping Zoe during the actual viewing part of the excursion:

That’s literally me saying “stop coming back here to check on us and just go watch the whales.” Of course I’d prefer that Zoe and I be outside watching the whales too. I think Zoe would have enjoyed it more than me, honestly. I at least had a view through the window, but Zoe slept the whole time.

Meanwhile, Emily had some great views. We spent over an hour in the area with the whales before heading back to the ship.

Back on the ship, we had time to squeeze in greetings with Donald and Pluto before dinner at Tiana’s.

Day 5 - Juneau

Finally, a real town! Day 5 was Juneau day. You can tell from the photo from our balcony that we were docked relatively far from the main part of the city. We were at “AJ Dock,” about a 15 minute walk from the main part of the town. We didn’t walk there, because we were starting the day with an excursion.

The highlight of Juneau for many people will be the Mendenhall Glacier. If you’re taking an Alaska Cruise that stops in Juneau, you’re going to want to consider the options for visiting Mendenhall Glacier. We opted to skip it, not for any particular reason. Instead, we went on the Sled Dog Discovery and Musher’s Camp.

Sled Dog Discovery and Musher’s Camp

Not at all regarding this specific excursion (bold, italics—I cannot emphasize that enough) , but I think in general people should do some background research and consider the ethics of any animal interaction they’re considering.

Obviously you might assume excursions that partner with major cruise lines have been vetted to some degree, but that says nothing about what you’re personally comfortable with. This isn’t a platform for any more of that discussion, so I’m just going to get on with describing our experience.

Our excursion met in Azure (one of the bars, often used as meeting points) at 8:15AM, and by 8:30AM we were boarding the shuttle to the camp, which took about 30 minutes.

The first part of the excursion involved the dogs pulling us around in this cart, along with the opportunity to meet some of the individual dogs. Some weren’t comfortable meeting strangers, so we were told not to engage with them.

Zoe absolutely adores dogs and, spending a lot of time walking around the city, has a basic understanding of how to properly meet new dogs.

After that was a Q&A with a musher. It was interesting to learn about the challenges of the races, conditions, financing, and training a team of dogs.

After that was the chance to meet some puppies. They were very small and very adorable. For many (us included), this was the “it” factor that prompted us to book the excursion. It sort of winds up being $199 for Zoe and $219 for each adult so Zoe can cuddle with a puppy for a few minutes, but learning about sled dog racing is also a pretty quintessential Alaska cruise experience.

There were also some older puppies nearby who were not quite trained. You could visit their fence but there weren’t one-on-one interactions with them. And yes, they nipped at little fingers that went through the fence.

There was complimentary cocoa, along with tea and coffee.

Exploring Juneau

In total we spent about 90 minutes at the camp. On the way back to the ship, the shuttle made a stop in the heart of Juneau, dropping us off at about 10:50AM. Walking around town a bit we popped into Concept Cafe, a fun spot with coffee, video games, and snacks from a variety of Asian countries.

There’s plenty of shopping to be done, both “touristy/cruise” shopping and things like a fun toy store and a used bookstore.

There are also plenty of small cafes and restaurants. We opted for a quick crepe from a stand at Gunakadeit Park. There were several small eateries here.

After lunch we popped into Red Dog Saloon. The “world famous” Red Dog Saloon is probably the most famous saloon in Juneau, and it’s a really fun spot. I’d call it a must-do so long as you don’t have an excursion that takes up your whole day.

Kids are welcome, and they have root beer on tap (which Zoe loved).

After yesterday, we had no intention of skipping the nap today, so we headed back to the ship. With Zoe walking, we made the “15-minute walk” in about 20 minutes.

After the nap we had time to meet Daisy and Minnie before dinner.

After dinner, since Zoe had napped late, we were able to stay up a bit as a family. There was a silent dance party in Azure, which Zoe absolutely loved. We were the last ones to leave.

I spent the night relaxing in the French Quarter Lounge with coffee and a beignet.

Day 6 - Ketchikan

Ketchikan is the last port on this itinerary. As noted above, we opted to keep this day clear just to enjoy the town at our leisure. I think the biggest “must do” here is the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show . On a return trip to Ketchikan, we’d definitely try and see this, but we felt okay missing it this time around.

Ketchikan ashore time wan’t until 11:15AM, which meant we had most of the morning to fill. We started with laundry and breakfast at Cabanas, before an 8:30AM family coloring time in D Lounge. It’s a small thing, but I’m appreciative of the fact that there were family activities as early as 8:30AM.

Afterward there were open house hours at the Oceaneer Club. Donald Duck made an appearance as part of a “pajama party.”

Zoe loved seeing Donald, and then on our way out we ran into Cinderella!

We walked around the ship a bit before being let ashore a little early around 11AM.

There are a few buses in Ketchikan, including a free shuttle that will take you to some of the major points of interest. This is where we caught the shuttle. Our first stop was the Totem Heritage Center (not to be confused with the more popular but farther Totem Bight State Historical Park).

We enjoyed the Totem Heritage Center. It wasn’t huge, but it was a good spot to spend about 30 minutes. We waited 8 minutes for the bus and it was only a 6-minute bus ride away. It’s the endpoint for the bus service, so on our way out we asked a waiting bus driver when he’d depart and found out we had time for a quick visit to the nearby playground (because, with a toddler, of course you fly from New York to Chicago to Vancouver and board a ship to Alaska to go to a playground).

We headed to lunch at 108 Taphouse and Burger Bar. They had Impossible Burgers and this was, by far, our favorite meal of the entire trip. It’s a really popular restaurant and not big, so I had to wait at the bar for a table while Emily and Zoe visited the nearby shops.

After lunch we went to Historic Creek Street. It’s a beautiful boardwalk with an interesting history . Nowadays its mostly just small shops, but it’s really cute and definitely a must-do.

From Creek Street it was a short walk to the Tongass Historical Museum. This was a pretty standard historical museum, but it was high quality, with lots of cool items and a fossil display.

As you’d expect, there’s plenty of shopping near the docks, too. We went back to the ship around 3PM so Zoe could nap and I could run.

This was overall a low-stress, uneventful day, but it was also a great way to start to wrap up our trip. I learned later that we lucked into this weather. Ketchikan is generally quite rainy. While rain would have put a damper on some of our walking, overall I think I’d still plan to do something similar on future visits (but with the lumberjack show, probably). It’s a pleasant city to walk around.

There was a nice photo op onboard:

Dinner was at Animator’s Palate (our second visit, having skipped the second of three scheduled meals there). The activity for the night was drawing a cartoon character. At the end of the night all the characters made appearances on the screens / walls around the restaurant. It was a fun bit.

In the quick guide about rotational dining, I mention that the long mealtimes can be a bit of a burden. Today, for example, I had to hop out a few minutes early to go get in line to meet Minnie. This was her last appearance in her Alaska outfit and we didn’t want to miss out.

days 7 and 8 - Day at Sea and Debarkation

I’m combining these last two days because (1) there isn’t a ton to say about our last day at sea and (2) the most important things that happen on day 7 related to debarkation on day 8.

Day 7 is the last full day aboard the ship, a day at sea. By this point, you’ve probably done just about everything on the ship that you wanted to do. It might be a good day to save something like a meal at Palo for so you have that to look forward to.

After breakfast at Cabanas, we took advantage of open house hours at Edge and Vibe, the kids’ clubs for older kids. Zoe had fun playing some of the arcade games, and I played some Mario Kart.

Besides just enjoying the ship, there are a few key errands you might want to run on this day.

First, I booked my placeholder reservation. This is the opportunity to save some money on a future Disney Cruise.

The Placeholder Reservation is only bookable onboard. It requires a $250 refundable deposit, and you’ll get 10% off the cruise you opt to apply the deposit to (subject to blockout dates , boo). I had some issues doing this in the app (I think unique to me, a problem with my card or something), but was able to get it taken care of with a simple visit to guest services. (As an aside, if you have any Guest Services issues, handle them early on Day 7 to avoid lines later in the day.)

Second, I swung by Shutters, the onboard photography shop. I hadn’t preordered photos because I don’t usually meet tons of characters. Turns out meeting characters was Zoe’s absolute favorite thing this trip, so I wound up spending $350 for the digital package of all our photos. Shutters is typically set to be open on debarkation morning, too, but there’s rarely any reason to wait until then to decide on your photo package (and there will be lines).

Third, I went to the main stores onboard, Mickey’s Mainsail and White Caps. I’d visited a few times during the course of the cruise, but now it was time to make any final purchases. These two stores some overlap, but basically I’d say White Caps is like the Grand Floridian gift shop and Mickey’s Mainsail is like the Pop Century gift shop. Either way, just go to both. Here’s a gallery of some merchandise:

There was a character dance party we were able to catch just before Zoe’s nap:

Now, some debarkation information. Most of the need-to-know about debarkation can be found in the app. However, there’s also a video looping on one of the TV channels that you’ll be reminded to watch several times.

On the last night of your cruise, you’ll get two things dropped off at your room—luggage tags and gratuity envelopes.

Let’s start with the gratuity envelopes. On Disney Cruise Line, you’re expected to tip your server, head server, assistant server, and stateroom host. And by “expected”, I mean that as a default , the tips will be billed to your stateroom. It’s a fixed per-person amount. For this cruise, for three of us, it came to $99.75 for our server, $78.75 for our assistant server, $26.25 for our head server, and $99.75 for our stateroom host. That’s a total of $304.50. This amounts to $14.50 per person, per night , as per Disney Cruise Line guidelines .

You can pre-pay these via the Disney Cruise Line website before your trip. Or they will be added to your stateroom bill. If you’d like to change the amount you can do so at the Guest Services desk.

Surely you’re wondering why you’re provided envelopes for gratuities that are charged to your room. Well, alongside the gratuity envelopes is a tearable sheet with strips of paper outlining the tip amounts. If you want to give these in the envelopes to the designated people, you can. If you want to provide extra cash in the envelopes, you can.

You’ll see your server team at breakfast on debarkation day, but you’ll probably either try and track down your host during the evening or just leave the envelope in the room.

Now, the luggage tags. The luggage tags are character-themed and correspond to when you’ll get off the ship. You put the luggage tags on your larger bags and leave them outside your room the last night of your cruise (I think the deadline was 10PM). The Cast Members will take the bags from the hallway and store them. You won’t see them again until you’re off the ship. After that, you’ve just got whatever items you’ve kept with you for the last evening and debarkation morning.

Debarkation morning itself is pretty simple—you’ll leave your room, eat breakfast, and get off the ship. Breakfast is table service in the same restaurant where you had your last dinner. You’ll be served by your usual team. Alternatively, I understand Cabanas is usually open, too. I also believe Cove Cafe is open.

Other than that, the only other activity available onboard is Shutters, the photography shop. Hopefully you already purchased your photo package, but if you didn’t, you can usually do so on debarkation morning (I say “usually” because why take the chance of something going wrong?). Nothing else is available debarkation morning—no pools, no shopping, no theaters, etc.

After breakfast, you’ll wait for your group to be called. I think they make ship-wide announcements, but we watched the screens in D Lounge (the spot we found best for waiting at that point). So, here’s what the screen showed when guests with Ariel or Chip & Dale could debark:

When your group is called, your store bags are taken off the ship. You’ll exit the ship and encounter a huge room filled with bags. Find the section corresponding to your luggage tags, then find your bags and exit.

Alternatively, you can just skip the luggage storage altogether. Don’t use the luggage tags and don’t leave any bags in the hallway, and you can just debark immediately after the ship has cleared customs. This was sometime before 8AM on our debarkation day.

We were called around 8:30AM and off the ship at 8:37AM. It took us a few minutes to find our bags (AirTags helped), and we were on our way out at 8:43AM.

As I’ve noted before, the Vancouver cruise terminal has a great location. There’s a Fairmont hotel right across the street. We were staying at the Fairmont at the airport, but that was only an 11-minute walk to the train station plus a 30-minute train ride.

And so our journey came to an end!

Alaskan Cruise on the Disney Wonder — Closing Thoughts

Overall, our Alaskan cruise on the Disney Wonder was exactly what I’d been led to expect—a stunning, fantastically fun, bucket-list-worthy, once-in-a-lifetime (maybe) type of cruise. Would I recommend it? Definitely!

Coming into the cruise, my biggest “concern” was properly balancing our time on and off the ship. Excursions come at a price, but they’re also sort of what the whole trip is about. At the same time, you’re paying a premium for a Disney cruise, and I didn’t want Zoe to miss out on the kids clubs or character greetings.

In the end I think we did a good job balancing things. By Day 7 we felt like we’d done everything we wanted on the ship, but we weren’t bored. The Wonder is one of Disney’s smallest ships, but it isn’t too small for this trip.

Zoe was certainly never bored—the pool, the activities, and the kids clubs were more than enough for a week. In fact, Zoe had such a good time the entire week that I’m actually quite nervous for our upcoming 3-night trip on the Disney Wish. Only three nights?! It almost feels cruel.

The lowlight of the experience was definitely the food and dining. Again, this is partly a product of our dietary choices (vegetarian), but also a product of the limited hours for the restaurants. I think its inexcusable that (1) Cabanas lunch didn’t start until 11:45AM most days and (2) Cabanas isn’t open for dinner. Yea, you’re supposed to do rotational dining, but—as detailed in our quick guide to rotational dining—that isn’t a perfect option, dietary choices aside. It’s just telling that our best meal the entire trip was a burger restaurant in Ketchikan.

But we’ll look back and remember the highlights. Our hearts melting when Zoe met those dogs and puppies. Successful whale watching. Stunning scenery. And So. Many. Characters.

Thanks for reading about our time aboard the Disney Wonder! We can’t wait to get on our next cruise and share that with you too!

Disney Wonder Alaska Cruise – The Essential Guide 2024

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One sailing that is on many people’s bucket lists is a cruise to Alaska.

And if you want to sail on one of the best cruise lines which offer that itinerary you really should consider a Disney Wonder Alaska Cruise.

Here we look at the Alaskan cruises that are available on the Disney Wonder, get an idea of pricing and find out more about what Disney Cruises have to offer.

Disney Wonder Sailings from Vancouver

First, let’s see what itineraries are available.

All the Disney Wonder Alaska Cruises sail from the port of Vancouver, Canada.

There are a number of different cruises available including 5, 7, 8, and 9-night itineraries.

Most of the Disney Wonder Cruises are for 7 nights.

There are some variations on the Disney Wonder Alaska cruise itinerary but most are 7-night cruises sailing from Vancouver.

4-Night Pacific Coast Cruise From San Diego California to Vancouver Canada

• San Diego, California
• Victoria, Canada
• Vancouver, Canada

Sailing on 5/9/24

7-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver

• Glacier Viewing, Stikine Icecap
• Icy Strait Point

Sailing on 5/13/24, 5/27/24,

6/10/24, 6/24/24,

8/5/24, 8/19/24,

Sailing on 5/20/24,

6/3/24, 6/17/24,

7/1/24, 7/29/24,

8/12/24, 8/26/24,

9/9/24, and 9/16/24

9-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver

Sailing on 7/15/24

Do You Need a Balcony Stateroom on a Disney Alaska Cruise?

The very simple answer to this is that a balcony stateroom is always very nice to have, particularly for an Alaskan cruise.

However, balcony staterooms are almost always more expensive than Inside and Outside staterooms – and never more is this true on any Alaskan cruise that you may choose.

Let’s look at this price difference.

These Disney Alaskan cruise costs are shown as correct if you were booking on November 27, 2022. Prices vary a lot so always check the Disney website for up-to-date pricing.

The prices below are for 2 guests including taxes and port fees.

The rates shown are for the lowest rates in that category.

As you can see the rates for a balcony stateroom are considerably higher than for an Inside or Oceanview stateroom.

For some dates, the cost of a balcony stateroom is more than double that of an Inside stateroom.

So should you book a balcony stateroom on a Disney Alaskan cruise?

Only you can decide whether the cost is within your budget.

Of course, it is nice to be able to sit on the balcony and watch the beautiful scenery go by, but you can do that in the public areas of the ship.

Is it as great an experience?

Probably not, but you are saving $3,000 to $4,000. You need to decide how important that is to you.

How to Find the Best Staterooms on Disney Wonder

When is the Best Time to Book a Disney Alaska Cruise?

There is no easy answer to this – as pricing patterns have changed since sailings restarted.

The usual advice prior to 2022 was that you should always book a Disney Cruise as close to the opening date as possible as the prices were likely to go up considerably over time.

However, this has become a little more complicated when you look at the prices for 2022 and how they have changed.

You can see  Disney Alaska Cruise 2022 Prices  here to see how they changed from the release date to right up to before sailing.

Some cruise prices for Alaska even went down from the opening day.

This is really not what you would expect, and was probably unique for 2022.

What you can see is that if you want to sail Concierge on a Disney Wonder Alaskan Cruise then the best idea would be to book as early as possible.

Concierge is likely to sell out quickly on many dates, and 2022 shows that prices can rise considerably.

What Are The Disney Alaskan Cruise Port Stops Like?

A Disney 7-night Alaska cruise has port stops in Skagway, Juneau, and Ketchikan.

It also has a day exploring Dawes Glacier. Each of these experiences has something different to offer.

Disney Cruise Dawes Glacier

This isn’t a port stop in the conventional sense. However, it is an experience sailing around the Dawes Glacier.

This is an amazing experience and is often the highlight of a Disney Alaskan cruise.

To be able to get up close and see the amazing scenery is an experience not to be missed.

Dawes Glacier is part of the scenic Endicott Arm fjord which is located approximately 45 miles south of Juneau, Alaska.

You get very close to the glaciers. Nothing can prepare you for that amazing sight of the spectacular glaciers.

The Tracy Arm experience will last around 5 hours, so there is plenty of time to enjoy the experience from different viewpoints.

Remember to dress in layers and bring those binoculars with you!

Icy Strait Point, Alaska

The 7-night Disney Alaskan Cruises and the 9-night cruise sails to Icy Strait Point, Alaska.

It is a stunningly beautiful port with spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.

A relatively new addition to Icy Strait Point is the gondola which gives spectacular views of the area. The Skyglider climbs 1,600 feet to Sky Peak.

It is well worth the journey for the view from the top.

Gondola Mountaintop and Transporter Port Adventure costs $50 for adults and $40 for children aged 3 to 9.

There are lots of tours which will give you the opportunity to see the abundant wildlife. There are a number of Whale Watching Tours available.

There is also a Discovering Birds excursion.

Other Port Adventures include Family Scavenger Hunt, Seafood Fest, Back Country Jeep Adventure, and the Spasski River Valley Wildlife and Bear Search.

Disney Cruise Alaska Skagway Port and Excursions

Skagway is probably my favorite port stop in Alaska.

This is another town where you dock very close to the center, so it is easy to just walk off the ship and explore.

Skagway is a small Gold Rush town. It is part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park.

This is how you imagine stepping back in time would feel like.

Skagway is a tiny town. It has one main street which isn’t very long. The population is just 1,191 people.

It is well worth the short walk into town though if only to imagine what it must have been like to live in one of the Gold Rush towns.

There are some tourist stores, a couple of bars, and a museum which is worth checking out.

However, you will most likely want to combine your visit to Skagway with some Disney cruise excursions to make the most of your time there.

A highlight for many visitors is the White Pass Scenic Railway.

You really couldn’t dock any closer to the station – it is right next to the ship.

This is a very very popular Port Adventure and it does sell out.

The cost is $149 for adults and $74 for children aged 3 to 9 for the basic journey.

There are other Port Adventures that include the rail journey but add on other elements such as a hike, a bike trail, or a VIP experience.

This vintage train takes you on a spectacular journey on a track that was built in 1898.

This is another one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences which we highly recommend.

One of the most sought-after Disney Cruise Alaska excursions is a dog sledding adventure.

There are plenty of opportunities to book an Alaskan port adventure where you can enjoy this amazing experience.

There are many other options for excursions in Skagway

. One of the least pricey is Skagway’s Original Street Car City Tour which is $52 for adults and $35 for children.

On this excursion, you board an original 1927 sightseeing bus and are taken on a historical journey around the town.

It is a good way to see more of the breathtaking scenery surrounding the town and to get an overview of the history of the area.

Other excursions include Alpine Lake Canoe Adventure, Dog Sledding and Glacier Flightseeing, Evening Wildlife Expedition, Klondike Bicycle Tour, Ocean Raft Nature Adventure, Sunset Horseback Adventure and the Yukon Expedition.

Disney Cruise Alaska Juneau Port and Excursions

Junuea is the only US State Capital that is landlocked.

The only way to get there is by land or sea – there are no roads going in or out of the town.

Disney Wonder docks right in the center of town.

Just step off the ship and you can explore the shops and restaurants.

It is, of course, a town which caters to tourists, so you will find a lot of souvenir shops which start to look the same as each other very quickly.

The Goldbelt Tramway is a very popular attraction in Juneau and it is just a short walk from where the Wonder docks.

The aerial tramway takes guests 1,800 feet into the mountains for a spectacular view of the surrounding scenery.

You can do this on your own, but there is also an excursion available. The lines can be long and if the weather is bad (as it often is) you may not see much of a view.

We would say to wait until you arrive and see what the weather is like before deciding if it is worth standing in line.

There is a huge choice of activities in Juneau – it is difficult to choose just one.

Juneau is well known for the Mendenhall Glacier.

This breathtaking natural feature is the only glacier in Alaska that you can access by road.

There are many Disney Port Adventures that give guests the chance to visit Mendenhall Glacier.

These range from a trip to view the glacier from the ground to plenty of options from a boat or kayak.

The Mendenhall Lake Kayak Adventure gives you an opportunity to explore the glacier up close. It is $229 for adults and $119 for children

Alaska is of course known for its abundant wildlife.

You will likely see whales from your ship, but if you want to increase your odds of seeing one of these beautiful creatures there are plenty of Whale Watching Adventures to choose from.

The Whale Watching and Wildlife Quest is $179 for adults and $109 for children.

Guests will board a catamaran and sail on a whale-watching adventure.

Want to be even more adventurous? The Taku Lacier Adventure by Helicopter is one of those bucket list experiences that you will never forget. It is available for $459 for all ages.

Disney Alaska Cruise Ketchikan Port and Excursions

Another fascinating port on your Disney Cruise is the town of Ketchikan.

Disney Wonder docks right in the town so you can just step off the ship and explore.

As you would expect, the town is full of tourist shops.

It is worth taking a short time to browse around, but you will probably want to book a Port Adventure to explore much more than the town itself.

Ketchikan is most famous for its colorful totem poles which you can see around the town.

The Misty Fjords National Monument by Seaplane is a very popular excursion.

This 75-minute flight will have you flying over spectacular scenery and enjoying a view of the surrounding fjords, waterfalls, and lakes. The cost is $499 for adults and $409 for children aged 2 to 9. Under 2 are free.

Ketchikan is also famous for its lumberjack show, which is a short walk from the cruise ship. You can book the Exclusive Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show at $50 for adults and $28 for children. For an extra charge, you can even try your hand at axe throwing!

There are lots of Disney Alaska Cruise Port Adventures to get you out in the amazing Alaskan scenery. These include an Alaskan Bear Adventure, Zipline Adventures, Hunting for Halibut, Mountain Point Snorkeling Adventure, Rainforest Family Adventure, and a Wilderness Exploration and Crab Fest.

Which Side of the Cruise Ship is Best on an Alaska Cruise?

Visiting Sitka on a Disney Alaska Cruise

The Wonder only has a port stop in Sitka on the 9-night itinerary which only sails once in 2023.

You can easily explore on your own but you will get the most out of your experience if you book a guided tour or Port Adventure.

There are several Disney Port Adventures available to the National Park which is also known as Totem Park. The basic tour is $64 for adults and $44 for children aged 3 to 9.

If you prefer something a little more adventurous then the Alaska Zodiac Adventure and Fin Island Lodge Port Adventures are available for $199 for adults and $139 for children.

Hubbard Glacier

You will only visit Hubbard Glacier on a Disney Alaska Cruise if you are sailing on the 9-night itinerary.

This is subject to actually being able to access the glacier as for part of the cruise season it is too icy to actually pass close to Hubbard Glacier.

It is a spectacularly beautiful place and most guests enjoy the views from the ship.

However, there is one Port Adventure available which is the Hubbard Glacier Explorer costing $299 for adults and $199 for children. This 2-hour tour on a water-jet-powered catamaran  takes you close up to the glacier so that you are likely to see

Want to Know More About the Disney Wonder?

We have spent many months on the Disney Wonder and have written lots of guides about this fabulous ship:

Disney Wonder Staterooms – What Do You Need to Know?

Disney Wonder Restaurant Guide

Disney Wonder Bars

Disney Cruise First-Timer Money Mistakes

Alison Meacham is the founder of EverythingMouse Disney Blog. For over 15 years she has shared her love of Disney Parks, Disney Cruises and Universal Orlando.  In over 30 years of Disney Travel she has spent countless months in Disney Parks and has sailed on over 45 cruises. A British native and now a United States resident she splits her time between California, Florida and the UK. And spends a serious amount of time sailing the seven seas. She helps over 200,000 people per month follow their Disney travel dreams.

Wednesday 30th of November 2022

The photo posted of the Disney Magic in Vancouver - just an fyi that’s not Vancouver! Great article though :)

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An unofficial disney cruise line news, information, weather, and photo blog..

Trip Log Day 4: 9-Night Alaskan Cruise on Disney Wonder – Icy Strait Point

Trip log, day four. Icy Strait Point 9-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver July 27, 2017 Personal Navigator – Day 4

Ooops, I did it again… I always thought this waking up and doing to the gym on a cruise was for the birds, but I’m really digging it. Now I know why Em works out on vacation.

However, the early wakeup requires a double espresso to get in gear.

Today, we called on Icy Strait Point, or as it shall be known as the Castaway Cay of Alaska (without the cabanas). This was the Disney Wonder’s 2nd visit this newer, opened in 2004, Alaskan cruise destination. We also learned that up until 2 years ago ships visiting the port had to tender since there was no pier.

I want to be crystal clear out of the gate, I am in no way knocking this port. We had an enjoyable day walking around. Icy Strait Point is only operational when a cruise ship is in port a la Castaway Cay, except that locals are permitted to visit the area whenever it is open for a cruise ship.

We disembarked at 8:45am. The port is boasts a staff of over 85% locals and is not overrun by your typical cruise stores like Diamonds International and Del Sol.

Everyone we encountered was welcoming & friendly.

The walk from the ship to the cannery is a bit of a hike. We spotted this golf cart to assist guests with limited mobility.

We started off exploring the nature path. It was a very clearly marked path just over a half mile in length. We saw plants & birds, but that’s it.

We continued on along the shore and stopped at the Friendship Fire. The fire was lit and there was a bucket of wood chips to throw in while making a wish. Very nice touch. Plus, bonus – the girls had campfire hair (yes, they like the smell). As we continued along, Emily spotted a cat, and Isabelle was instantly smitten. We pet the cat, and it reminded us of our cats waiting for us back home. This cat was super friendly and loved the attention.

We suspect the cat lived at one of the few private homes along the beach.

The next stop was the Cannery museum & shops.

We enjoyed walking around and familiarizing ourselves with the history. It was a very nice and informative set-up. There will eventually be some video posted. We spent a good bit of time looking around.

At one point, a one of the shopkeepers came up to me and asked if I ever watched the ‘Deadliest Catch’ and then pointed to a crab boat that was sailing past Icy Strait Point. It was the Brenna A, which we were told was tied up overnight and just leaving. She said they were a cool group and were taking photos with everyone the previous night.

We ran into our friend who shared a mini doughnut with Isabelle, so of course we had to get them. It was an amazing donut shop. The proceeds benefit the Salvation Army and the doughnuts are made to order and fresh. They are also a perfect size!

We ordered a split dozen – Isabelle wanted hers tossed in cinnamon sugar, and Em chose apple cider for us. Delicious! Worth every penny.

We continued to walk around and found some old fishing boats, crab pots, and all sorts of neat stuff.

You could rent bikes and make the 1.5 mile trek to Hoonah to see the town.

There were also kayak & boat tours, as well as zip lining adventures. Unfortunately, to zip line you have to be age 10 and a minimum of 75 lbs, and Isabelle does not make weight.

As it was nearing 11am, we made our way to the Crab Station, where I got a specially brewed beer called the Cannery Red ale brewed by Icy Strait Brewing. It was good and hit the spot.

After that, we walked down to the rocky ‘beach’ where the salmon were jumping out of the water. Very cool to see. Also, the sun came out for about 15 minutes! It was incredible. After spending some time here, we started making our way back to the port area.

We walked in to check out the Duck Point Bar & restaurant & found their free one hour wifi, which I took advantage of. I even FaceTimed my mom so that we could all say hello. Since it was getting close to noon, Isabelle was telling us that she was getting hungry. At the same time, the rain began to fall, so we decided to go back to the ship for lunch. As we walked upstairs, we found ourselves in front of Triton’s, and we went in for a sit down lunch.

Triton’s was not busy at all, which made for a fastidious lunch. I was really impressed with the turkey burger which came with freshly made chips.

Our dining room head server found us, and during the course of the meal, our server came by as well. They both did my favorite thing – napkin folding. Yes, I know it sounds lame, but I enjoy the napkin folding. I can make a mean napkin candle.

After a quick lunch, we stopped by the Promenade Lounge for Em to grab a glass of Moët Ice. We headed up to the room and Isabelle glanced at the Navigator, and realized that it was time to make buttons. I decided to go back into the port, and the ladies went to make buttons. We planned to meet back up for the afternoon movie, “Guardians of the Galaxy 2,” which started at 2:45pm.

Back on shore, I went back to the bar Duck Point Smokehouse and ordered the Beer Tour, which was three 10oz local beers for $15.95.

The Beer Tour includes the Icy Strait Cannery Red and a choice for the other two. I picked the Alaskan Brewing White and their Kicker Session IPA. Loved the pineyness of the IPA.

I also discovered the the free 1 hour of wifi just like a parking meter. The clock starts when you first connect. They were logging mac addresses & I was no longer able to connect with my phone, but had no issues connecting with my laptop for exactly 60 minutes.

More than likely, this is more than enough for 99.9% of the port visitors. Just keep this in mind if you are considering connecting when you first arrive and want to get back online after spend time in port or on an excursion. The speed was decent which was good because AT&T service was very poor unlike the awesome LTE service yesterday in Ketchikan.

I boarded the ship and joined the ladies (late) in the theater to catch some of the movie. Afterwards, we headed to the room, as it was just after 5pm. We decided to forgo main dining tonight and have room service. We wanted to be in line to meet Koda from Brother Bear and then Isabelle had plans for an activity that started in the kids club at 7:30pm.

Room service was good. Em had a greek salad, 1/2 of a margherita pizza, and a sliver of key lime pie.

Isabelle had tomato soup, part of a Caesar salad, and some cheese pizza.

I ordered the wings, plus I had the rest of Isabelle’s salad and the balance of Em & Izzy’s pizzas.

We were able to enjoy our meal with the bottle of nice red wine that we brought while enjoying Ratatouille playing on our stateroom TV.

We left the room early to queue for Koda’s meet and greet which turned out to be a good decision. Koda’s line continued to grow by the minute. Koda was adorable.

Isabelle headed to the Oceaneer Club for ’S.H.I.E.L.D. Secret Agent 101 featuring Black Widow.’ There was a laser obstacle course of sorts with bungie cords. The goal was to move through the laser field without sounding the alarm was you made your way to opening the door for the rest of the team. Isabelle says she had a lot of fun and glad she did not miss out on this experience with her favorite Avenger.

While walking around the atrium there seemed to be a flurry of activity near the porthole behind guest services. WHALE SIGHTING!!!! We made a b-line to deck 4 and spotted to whale off in the distance. This time it is actually on video and not just a picture with a circle saying that there is a whale. Only problem is that the video will not be uploaded over the ship’s wifi. Emily and I tried to look for more whales, but we were heading out into the open Pacific Ocean on our way to Hubbard Glacier and with the wind picking up, were were not dressed for the cold.

We moved back in to a porthole in Crown & Fin which was are original plan as we wanted see if we could do any better at Villains Trivia. Each question can earn you two points if you correctly name the villain and the movie. It is getting easier and we did improve our score, but we still failed with a 52%. I really, really need to commit to memory Colonel Heller from Bedknobs & Broomsticks.

During trivia Emily, ordered the Bourbon Fizz, which was OK, but could’ve used less orange juice. Em is not a huge fan of juices in her drink unless it is a freshly squeezed lime or lemon.

I took a sip and thought it was rather tasty. However, in the future, we’d probably just go over to Cadillac Lounge and get a bourbon or whiskey neat from their beverage cart.

While making our way back to the room, we passed Lloyd, the Hotel Director who was kind enough to introduce us to Captain Zvonimir who was standing nearby. I think it is safe to say that we are all looking forward to the morning when we arrive at Hubbard Glacier.

We stopped by the Oceaneer Club and we could see from the entrance that Isabelle was still in training, so we continued to walk down the hall and guess who appears… Black Widow!!! She had just finished with the recruits and was headed back to her secret hideout; or who knows, maybe even a mission. You never know with these Avengers.

We ended the night watching a bit of Iron Man 3 before retiring for the evening. Tomorrow is another big day and it will be starting early around 8 o’clock when we near Hubbard Glacier.

Complete Trip Log Index

• Day 1 – Vancouver
• Day 2 – At Sea
• Day 3 – Ketchikan
• Day 4 – Icy Strait Point
• Day 5 – Hubbard Glacier
• Day 6 – Juneau
• Day 7 – Skagway
• Day 8 – Tracy Arm Fjord
• Day 9 – At Sea
• Day 10 – Vancouver (Debarkation)
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25 Replies to “Trip Log Day 4: 9-Night Alaskan Cruise on Disney Wonder – Icy Strait Point”

I just wanted to let you know that I have followed your blog for a while and love it. It really brings us back to the cruises when we are not there and we miss it. So last year, you blogged your 7day Caribbean about two weeks before ours and it was such a great insight and heightened the anticipation. Well would you believe you are in Alaska and we are departing on the 5 day on the day you return! You are making me realize that 5 days will not be enough but I do appreciate the info and can’t wait!! Thanks!

That is too funny. I am so glad to hear you are enjoying the trip log and I hope you have a great cruise next week.

We’re doing the 5 night Alaskan cruise next year, which seems like forever from now. Please consider sending in your Personal Navigators if you keep them! I’m curious to see what’s scheduled each day. Thanks.

Random question – were the wings from room service traditional buffalo style? Much to our son’s disappointment and frustration on our last two cruises (2015 and 2016 – Magic and Wonder) they were nothing like the ones in your picture. We left comments so maybe DCL listened!

On our May cruise on the Wonder we were pleased to see the wings had become true buffalo wings and not the former dry or BBQ type

Yes, those wings are from room service. The dry ones are available during the evening in Crown & Fin.

I’m really enjoying your trip report. Now I’m thinking Alaskan cruise 2019!

This itinerary is pretty cool. Look at day 5 , Hubbard Glacier was incredible.

It looks like they’ve improved that port a bit since I was there 2 years ago. If I’m back I’ll still probably make it a fake sea day, but it does look slightly better…

It has the potential to be a fake sea day port if you have been there before and you are not doing any port adventures. Although, the scenery is beautiful.

Good Morning Scott. Looks like your family is enjoying a magical Alaskan cruise! That’s awesome. Just a moment to share this…. I noticed today that Marty Sklar passed away on Thursday. I looked back and didn’t see anything posted in your blog. This is such a huge loss for everyone who loves Disney. Marty worked closely with Walt and eventually became a great historian to the Disney legacy. He will be missed.

This is a great itinerary! Would have loved this port on our cruise – seems somewhat understated, which is nice. Impressed with the morning workouts!! 🙂

Thank you for the informative report. Could you comment on the water activities on board. Is the pool open? Water heated? Slide operational? Thanks

The pools and slides are open, but I have no idea what the water feels like.

The water was very warm when we did this cruise last year, we got in on our last sea day. It was however very cold when we got out!

Hi Scott , I’m taking the alaskan cruise right after yours ,august 2nd , and usually me and my mom have a homemade gift for the captain , usually the same gift we give the men in our fish extender group. I was hoping you could give me the captains name so I coupled properly address the gift. Thank you! And enjoy the rest of your beautiful vacation!

Caleb: Scott mentions in this blog that he and his family were introduced to Captain Zvonimir by Lloyd, the hotel director. It looks like the captain’s full name is Captain Zvonimir Vidak. Hope this helps!

Can you weigh in what made you decide to not do excursions at these earlier ports? Trying to decide what to do where! Thank you!

We had more ashore time in the last two ports allowing us to do an excursion and explore on our own.

Thanks for the update! The nature walk looks beautiful. While we saw amazing scenery at the other ports, I wished we had more time to just walk and take it all in. I do see what you mean about only needing to explore this port once.

Thank you so much for all the fantastic information and details. Reading your blog has convinced us we need an Alaska cruise. Can’t wait to see the next post!

Thanks for following along. Alaska has been wonderful and we are already talking about what we want to do when we return.

Thank you so much for your trip reports on the 9 day Alaska trip. You had notes on things we didn’t get to in Ketchikan that we will use for your next trip. After our 7 night trip this May we booked the 9 night for 2018. The 2018 trip will be the 3rd trip on the Wonder to Alaska–each trip is different event though we got to same ports. It will be good to go farther north as the 9 night trip will take us. The information about Icy Point and Hubbard Glacier will really helped us in our planning for next year. FYI, when you get to Skagway go early (8-9am) to the National Park Headquarters at 4th and Broadway. They have 3 separate walking tours scheduled and repeated through out the day that you can get tickets for. All three are free and tickets are issued on a first come first served for tickets. They only take between 14 and 30 on each walk depending which buildings they enter. Also don’t miss their museum talks and movie–all free, including the walks and you don’t need your National Park Pass to enjoy. We did all three in May and then took advantage of the ticket stub to get our discount on purchases at the National Park Book Store across the street from the headquarters. You can do all this and still have lots of time in port to see and do other things. Remember to use the city shuttle bus to get to and from the downtown area–for $5.00 you get an unlimited on off hand stamp this really cuts down on the walking.

We were also on this cruise and I commented to my husband that Icy Strait was the Alaskan Castaway Cay! It made me laugh to see that you made the same observation!

When we visited Icy Strait Point in 2013 (different cruise line) the town buses had painted labels of “Hoohah” instead of Hoonah Bus Line. Did you notice if that typo has since been corrected?

We went on a whale-watching excursion and as soon as we got back to shore a whale swam up close and personal to the tendering area.

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Disney Cruises to Alaska

Explore Alaska’s breathtaking landscape aboard a Disney cruise departing from Vancouver. Select from five- to nine-night itineraries for couples and families to discover the awe-inspiring northern region of the US. This guide presents essential information about Disney cruises to Alaska, including departure dates, pricing, ship options, and Alaskan ports of call. It also provides important details about Disney Cruise Line’s Vancouver terminal to ensure a seamless and stress-free experience.

Dates & Itineraries   |  Ships   |  Port   |  Airports   |  Hotels

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Dates & Itineraries: Alaskan Disney Cruises

Below are the departure dates and itineraries for Disney Alaskan cruises from Vancouver in 2024 and 2025 . Disney’s 2026 Alaska sail dates are expected to be announced around March 2025.

Note : Disney Alaskan cruises are currently all aboard the Disney Wonder cruise ship and begin in Vancouver, Canada.

5-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver

Itinerary Includes

• Vancouver (British Columbia), Canada (Cruise Start/End)
• Glacier Viewing (Stikine Icecap), Alaska
• Ketchikan, Alaska
• Day at Sea (2 days)

2024 Sail Dates

• July 24 – 29, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $3,236 USD

2025 Sail Dates

• July 16 – 21, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $3,500 USD

7-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver featuring Skagway

• Juneau, Alaska
• Skagway, Alaska
• May 20 – 27, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $3,503 USD
• June 3 – 10, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $4,301 USD
• June 17 – 24, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $4,483 USD
• July 1 – 8, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $4,651 USD
• July 29 – August 5, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $4,623 USD
• August 12 – 19, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $3,769 USD
• August 26 – September 2, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $3,363 USD
• September 9 – 16, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $3,027 USD
• September 16 – 23, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $2,929 USD
• May 12 – 19, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $3,578 USD
• May 19 – 26, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $3,592 USD
• May 26 – June 2, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $4,222 USD
• June 2 – 9, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $4,446 USD
• June 9 – 16, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $4,614 USD
• June 23 – 30, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $4,824 USD
• June 30 – July 7, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $4,922 USD
• July 21 – 28, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $4,810 USD
• July 28 – August 4, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $4,810 USD
• August 4 – 11, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $4,600 USD
• August 18 – 25, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $3,900 USD
• August 25 – September 1, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $3,550 USD
• September 1 – 8, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $3,424 USD
• September 8 – 15, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $3,130 USD

7-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver featuring Icy Strait Point

• Icy Strait Point, Alaska
• May 13 – 20, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $3,490 USD
• May 27 – June 3, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $4,036 USD
• June 10 – 17, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $4,484 USD
• June 24 – July 1, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $4,568 USD
• July 8 – 15, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $4,680 USD
• August 5 – 12, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $4,400 USD
• August 19 – 26, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $3,784 USD
• September 2-9, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $3,252 USD
• June 16 – 23, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $4,646 USD
• August 11 – 18, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $3,932 USD

8-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver

• Glacier Viewing (Stikine Ice Cap)
• Ketchikan, AK
• Skagway, AK
• None currently scheduled for this itinerary
• September 15 – 23, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $3,409 USD

9-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver

• Sitka, Alaska

Victoria (British Columbia), Canada

• July 15 – 24, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $5,765 USD
• July 7 – 16, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $5,800 USD

Do You Have Questions About Disney Cruises to Alaska?

Are you considering a Disney Alaskan cruise and need help deciding between itineraries for 2024 or 2025? Look no further than The Vacationeer , one of the best Disney travel agencies with years of experience and exceptional customer service.

When you have a dedicated Vacationeer by your side, every detail of your Alaskan cruise will be expertly tailored to meet your needs. Their goal is to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience both on land and at sea while securing the lowest rates for your trip . Plus, The Vacationeer offers complimentary Disney onboard credit as a booking bonus, providing you with free spending money to pay for extras not included in the fare.

The Vacationeer isn’t limited to Alaskan itineraries alone. They can also help you explore exciting Disney cruises from New Orleans , San Diego , Galveston , and New York , in addition to the numerous Disney cruises departing from the Florida ports of Miami , Port Canaveral , and Fort Lauderdale .

Let The Vacationeer assist you in making your Disney cruise dreams a reality. Contact them today for an instant price quote and discover how affordable Disney Cruise Line can be. Their planning services are completely free!

Where Do Disney Cruises to Alaska Go?

In 2024 and 2025, Disney Cruise Line will offer sailings from Vancouver, Canada, to ports of call throughout Alaska. Passengers can choose from itineraries ranging from five to nine nights, with stops at various destinations, including Ketchikan, Juneau, Sitka, Skagway, Glacier Viewing at the Stikine Icecap, and Icy Strait Point .

Guests can enjoy fine dining, Broadway-style live shows, and other diverse entertainment aboard the Disney Wonder. Additionally, guests can enhance their cruise packages with excursions (Port Adventures) , allowing for a deeper immersion into the cultures and attractions of each destination.

A Disney cruise to Alaska is the ideal way to experience the magic of this remarkable region. There is no shortage of things to do on a Disney cruise to Alaska, whether you’re looking for breathtaking wilderness, local traditions, walks around lively cities, or exciting adventures.

The following is an overview of Disney’s Alaskan cruise ports of call and points of interest.

About the Juneau Disney Cruise Port

The city of Juneau, Alaska’s capital, is a popular port of call on Disney cruises to Alaska. Visitors can explore the city’s natural wonders, museums, and historic sites, including the Mendenhall Glacier, Alaska State Museum, and Red Dog Saloon.

Other options include:

• Shopping for Alaskan souvenirs.
• Taking a tram to an observation deck for a bird’s eye view of the city.
• Visiting the Macaulay Salmon Hatchery to see salmon eggs harvested and fertilized.

Many excursions (Port Adventures) are available at Disney’s Juneau port , including salmon bakes, zip-lining, dog sledding, glacier tours, and whale watching.

About the Ketchikan Disney Cruise Port

Ketchikan is a city in Alaska that is the fifth most populous and known as the “Salmon Capital of the World.” It is rich in Native Alaskan culture, with towering totem poles and shops offering hand-carved items for tourists.

Visitors can explore the world’s most extensive collection of original 19th-century totem poles at the Totem Heritage Center , enjoy shopping for unique items, stroll along Creek Street, and escape to the Misty Fjords National Monument. Optional excursions include a lumberjack show, a trolley tour, wilderness dining, and salmon fishing.

About the Sitka Disney Cruise Port

Disney cruises to Alaska offer a stop at Sitka , a multicultural port with a rich history as the former capital of Russian America. Visitors can enjoy outdoor adventures in the Tongass National Forest, spot wildlife, and learn about Tlingit and Russian cultures through local museums and performances. Popular activities and attractions include:

• Shopping for unique items.
• Watching traditional Russian and Ukrainian dances.
• Visiting the Fortress of the Bear.
• Exploring Sitka National Historical Park and St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Cathedral.

Your Disney Alaskan cruise package can also include sightseeing tours, salmon fishing, and sea kayaking excursions.

About the Skagway Disney Cruise Port

Skagway, located in the Alaskan Panhandle, is a charming town that served as the setting of Jack London’s book, The Call of the Wild . The town grew during the Klondike Gold Rush of the 1890s, and visitors can explore its history at the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park and Skagway Museum and Archives. Other must-see destinations include the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, Jewell Gardens, and the Chilkoot Trail. Horseback riding, sled dog adventures, hiking, rafting, and touring glaciers are among the many excursions available.

About the Other Disney Alaskan Destinations

Aside from the main port cities, Disney cruises to Alaska offer a number of less-frequented destinations and points of interest. They include the following.

Glacier Viewing at the Stikine Icecap

Disney cruises to Alaska offer a unique opportunity to visit the Stikine Icecap and witness the region’s natural beauty. Passengers can navigate through an icy fjord, observe wild animals and soaring cliffs, and gaze upon sapphire waters and glowing blue ice as they make their way to one of the majestic glaciers along the Stikine Icecap. The icefield is renowned for its granite spires and imposing peaks and is one of the three biggest icecaps in Alaska.

Icy Strait Point

Disney cruises to Alaska offer the opportunity to visit Icy Strait Point, a scenic destination known for whale watching. Visitors can explore the lively fishing community, former logging town, and Tlingit village of Hoonah and enjoy various activities such as kayaking, zip-lining, ATV expeditions, and watching tribal dance performances. The shops offer souvenirs, clothing, salmon products, art, and books. Additionally, visitors can savor an authentic culinary experience and challenge themselves in the Tree Top Adventure Park and Ropes Course.

Home to the world-famous Butchart Gardens, Victoria, Canada is a port that blends natural beauty with a bustling metropolis. Victoria is the capital city of the Province of British Columbia and is known as the “City of Gardens.” Beyond Butchart Gardens, explore Beacon Hill Park or visit the Butterfly Gardens. For an eye towards history, visit Craigdarroch Castle or the Royal British Columbia Museum.

Book With The Vacationeer To Get a Credit Toward Excursions in These Ports

How Many Disney Cruises to Alaska Are There?

Disney Cruise Line typically offers between 15 and 20 departures from Vancouver to Alaska ports between May and September each year . These cruises are organized into several different itineraries, all of which typically stick the the panhandle area of Alaska, including stops at popular ports such as Juneau, Ketchikan, Sikta, Skagway, and others.

Guests can enjoy exceptional service, entertainment, and cuisine onboard, as well as shopping, sightseeing, adventurous activities, and cultural excursions on land.

The Vacationeer can help you select the best Disney cruise that fits your budget and offer valuable trip-planning advice. Don’t hesitate to contact them with any questions you have about your next Disney cruise to Alaska and beyond!

How Long Are Disney’s Alaskan Cruises?

Disney Cruise Line offers a range of cruise options to explore the picturesque beauty of Alaska. The cruises depart from Vancouver, Canada, and usually last from 5-9 nights, with 7-night sailings being the most common .

With various stops at Alaskan port cities such as Ketchikan, Juneau, Sitka, Skagway, Glacier Viewing at the Stikine Icecap, and Icy Strait, Disney’s Alaskan itineraries are designed to cater to the preferences of both experienced and first-time Disney cruisers .

For those who are new to cruising, the shorter 5-night voyages would be a great choice since they offer a glimpse of Disney’s magical experiences without committing to an extended trip. However, experienced cruisers may prefer longer voyages to explore more Alaskan destinations and spend more time in its breathtaking wilderness.

How Much Do Disney Cruises to Alaska Cost?

Disney Cruise Line offers an unforgettable and affordable vacation experience for families who wish to explore the beauty of Alaska.

2024 starting prices for a Disney cruise to Alaska from Vancouver range from $2,733 to $5,765 for two people, depending on the itinerary and sail date chosen. 2025 starting prices range from $3,130 to $5,800. Prices will be higher for some stateroom types and for more than two passengers per stateroom. Prices and availability can change anytime, so it’s always a good idea to check with The Vacationeer for the latest.

One of Disney Cruise Line’s unique selling points is what’s included in a Disney cruise .

The price includes most dining, activities, entertainment, and services , including character meet-and-greets, Broadway-quality shows, movie screenings, water activities, and fireworks at sea. Children and teens can enjoy complimentary activities at Oceaneer Club, Edge, and Vibe. At the same time, adults can access a range of complimentary amenities, such as a pool for adults, a nightclub, and a fitness center.

In addition, the price of a Disney cruise includes port expenses, taxes, and fees, making it an excellent value for families. However, it’s important to note that airfare, gratuities , specialty restaurants , spas, excursions (Port Adventures), bottled beverages, and alcohol purchased on a Disney cruise aren’t covered.

Want To Calculate Your Exact Price? Contact  The Vacationeer

About the Disney Wonder Cruise Ship to Alaska

The Disney Wonder offers cruises from Vancouver to Alaska. The cruise ship, which has been operating since 1999, resembles Disney Magic but boasts Art Nouveau interiors instead of Art Deco. With a capacity to host 2,400 passengers, Disney Wonder features 11 public decks, 875 staterooms, and a crew of about 950. It spans 974 ft in length and has a gross tonnage of 83,000.

The Disney Wonder underway with a gorgeous sunset in the background | Image © Disney

Dining on Disney Wonder

Disney Cruise Line has a unique dining rotation system, where guests switch to a different restaurant each night while keeping the same table number and waitstaff throughout their voyage.

Among the main restaurants on the Disney Wonder are Triton’s, Tiana’s Place, and Animator’s Palate, which serve French cuisine, Southern cooking with live jazz, and contemporary cuisine with Disney characters, respectively. There are also a number of other dining options, including a buffet-style restaurant, a sandwich and salad shop, a pizza place, and an adult-oriented Italian-inspired restaurant with live music called Palo.

Activities on Disney Wonder

Guests of all ages will find a wealth of things to do on a Disney cruise to Alaska aboard the Disney Wonder. Popular attractions on the ship include Goofy’s Pool, AquaLab water playground, Frozen, A Musical Spectacular inside the 977-seat Walt Disney Theatre, and movies at the Buena Vista Theatre. Guests can also enjoy a fully-equipped fitness center, the luxurious Senses Spa and Salon , and many lounges and pubs, including the adults-only Crown & Fin Pub .

Meanwhile, children can enjoy various activities and clubs, including character meet and greets with beloved Disney favorites, the It’s a Small World Nursery, Oceaneer Club, Oceaneer Lab, Edge, and Vibe. With options tailored to all age groups, these activities provide younger guests with a fun and engaging experience.

One of the many onboard adventures for younger travelers at Disney Cruise Line’s Oceaneer Club | Image © Disney

Staterooms on Disney Wonder

The Disney Wonder cruise ship offers a range of staterooms that cater to the different needs and preferences of its guests. These include the Inside, Outside, Verandah, and Concierge categories. We recommend referring to our comprehensive guide on the Best Staterooms on a Disney Cruise for a more detailed understanding of the various stateroom options. Alternatively, if you require further information about the rooms or voyages, we suggest consulting an experienced Disney travel agent.

In terms of overall cruising experience, Disney Wonder is one of the best ships in the Disney fleet , offering guests a unique and enjoyable experience. Regardless of the time of year or destination, a Disney cruise to Alaska on board the Disney Wonder is always a magical experience.

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About Disney Cruise Line Vancouver Terminal

The Port of Vancouver is an established departure point for Disney Cruise Line’s Alaskan cruises. Situated at 999 Canada Place, the terminal can host up to four cruise ships simultaneously and is owned and operated by the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority. With over 900,000 passengers annually and around 300 ship calls per year, the Port of Vancouver Cruise Terminal is Canada’s busiest cruise port, welcoming visitors from late April to September.

For passengers embarking on a Disney cruise to Alaska, the Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal is conveniently located just 12 miles away from Vancouver International Airport. Additionally, the terminal’s location grants travelers access to various amenities and attractions in Vancouver, such as shopping, cultural experiences, and fine dining.

There’s even an on-site flight simulator attraction, FlyOver Canada , which features a ride system reminiscent of the Soarin’   attraction at EPCOT and Disney California Adventure. (Separate admission is required.)

The Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal is easily accessible by various modes of transportation, including Uber, taxi, public transit, and walking for those staying in nearby hotels. Overall, Vancouver’s ideal location and superb facilities make it the perfect starting point for an unforgettable Disney cruise to Alaska.

What is Disney Cruise Line’s Address at the Port of Vancouver?

The address for Disney Cruise Line’s Port of Vancouver cruise terminal is:

Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal 999 Canada Place Vancouver, BC V6C 3E1, Canada

• (604) 665-9000 (for Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal)
• 800-951-3532 (for general Disney Cruise Line help)
• Get free, personalized assistance booking your Disney cruises by contacting The Vacationeer at 1-833-469-8747 .

Driving Directions to Disney’s Vancouver Cruise Terminal at Canada Place

The address for the cruise ship terminal at Canada Place in Vancouver is 999 Canada Place, Vancouver, BC V6C 3E1, Canada. The directions are also available on this printable map if you prefer to see them visually.

• If you drive to Canada Place from the U.S./Canada border , you can take I-5 north and continue on BC-99 until you cross the Oak Street Bridge. Then, turn left on 49th Avenue, followed by a right on Granville Street. Proceed north across the Granville Street Bridge, take the Seymour Street exit, and continue north on Seymour Street to West Cordova Street. Turn left on West Cordova Street, followed by a right on Howe Street. You will now be facing Canada Place.
• If you drive to Canada Place from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) , you can exit the airport via Grant McConachie Way, cross the Arthur Laing Bridge in the right lane, take the Granville Street exit, and proceed north down Granville Street. Follow the same directions as above from the Granville Street Bridge.
• If you take public transportation , take the Canada Line (SkyTrain) from YVR-Airport Station Eastbound, get off at Waterfront Station (terminus station), exit the station, and walk westbound on Cordova Street. Then, turn right at Howe Street and follow the sidewalk to the Canada Place cruise terminal. TransLink can provide public transit schedules and route planning information.

Parking at Port of Vancouver (Canada Place) for Disney Alaskan Cruises

If you’re driving to Vancouver for your Disney cruise, you’ll need a parking space. Here’s what you need to know.

Official Port of Vancouver (Canada Place) Cruise Terminal Parking Garage

Indigo Park Canada operates a covered parking facility at the Canada Place Cruise Terminal in Downtown Vancouver, which caters to the needs of cruise line passengers, including Disney Cruise Line passengers. It provides 770 parking spaces and is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The facility offers Disney Cruise Line guests the best parking experience in the area, both in terms of convenience and reliability.

Short-Term Parking: Free

There is short-term parking available at Canada Place Cruise Terminal for those dropping off or picking up cruise passengers. Parking in the Canada Place garage is free for vehicles parked for less than 15 minutes .Similar to airports, the terminal has separate areas for dropping off and picking up passengers.

Long-Term Cruise Parking: $234.89 CAD per week

The cost of long-term parking depends on the length of stay, the time of year, and availability. Parking at Canada Place costs $234.89 CAD for a week-long stay, or approximately $33.50 CAD per day (roughly $25 USD) . These rates are based on the latest available information and are subject to change.

For long-term parking, enter the vehicle ramp at the foot of Howe Street. As you enter the garage, take a ticket from the dispenser and proceed to either level P1 or P2 to find a spot. A Port of Vancouver traffic attendant will be on hand to direct you to the appropriate parking area.

The Canada Place cruise terminal parking garage accommodates vehicles up to 6’9″.

Reservations are recommended and can be made by visiting Indigo’s website . For more information, contact Indigo’s parking guest services at 604-669-7275.

Hotels with Parking and/or Shuttles to Port of Vancouver’s Canada Place Cruise Terminal

If you’re planning to drive to the port, many hotels in Vancouver offer cruise parking options. Spending the night before your departure at one of these nearby hotels also lets you unwind and discover Vancouver without worrying about rushing to the terminal.

Here are some great hotel options in Vancouver that provide cruise parking packages, in case you prefer not to park at the Canada Place garage:

• Pan Pacific Hotel (Distance to Cruise Port: 0.1 miles) : The Pan Pacific Hotel’s Cruise Package offers a one-night stay in luxurious rooms with king-size or two double pillow top beds. The package includes breakfast for two in Oceans 999 with a view of Coal Harbour and North Shore Mountains, complimentary luggage transfer to Canada Place Pier/cruise ship, direct elevator access to the cruise ship terminal, on-site cruise ship parking (bookable directly with Westpark at standard rates), and complimentary WiFi. The hotel is conveniently located on the Canada Place pier, allowing for easy access to Disney’s cruise ship terminal. The option of purchasing additional nights is available.
• Lowden Hotel (Distance to Cruise Port: 0.62 miles) : Staying at Loden Vancouver is the perfect way to kick off your Disney cruise to Alaska. This luxury boutique hotel is only .62 miles from the Canada Place cruise terminal and offers a free shuttle service to take you there. Although they don’t have long-term cruise parking, you can park just down the street at the Port Canada garage at Disney Cruise Line’s departure terminal. With elegant accommodations and excellent service, the Loden Vancouver is a great choice for a comfortable and stylish pre-cruise stay.
• Atrium Vancouver Inn (Distance to Cruise Port: 3.5 miles) : Book your pre-cruise stay at Atrium Vancouver Inn and take advantage of their Stay and Park Package . This package lets you park your car for up to seven days with a paid room night in the hotel’s underground parking and enjoy complimentary shuttle transportation to the Canada Place cruise terminal. Start your Alaska cruise stress-free with this convenient and affordable package.

The hotel’s rates, availability, and offers are subject to change, so be sure to contact them directly. Better yet, speak with a Disney travel expert at The Vacationeer and let them handle all the details.

Restaurants Near Port of Vancouver (Canada Place) Cruise Terminal

If you’re embarking on a Disney cruise from the Port of Vancouver’s Canada Place terminal and looking for nearby dining options, here are seven great restaurants within walking distance:

• Cactus Club Cafe Coal Harbour : Enjoy upscale casual dining with a West Coast flair and a stunning waterfront view at this popular restaurant.
• Chewies Steam & Oyster Bar : Savor fresh seafood and Southern-inspired dishes in a cozy, rustic setting at this local favorite.
• Chop Steakhouse & Bar : Enjoy perfectly cooked steaks and other mouth-watering dishes in an elegant and sophisticated setting.
• Miku Vancouver : Sample fresh and flavorful sushi and Japanese-inspired dishes at this stylish, modern restaurant with stunning waterfront views.
• Steamworks Brewpub : Indulge in delicious pub fare and locally crafted beer in a lively and inviting atmosphere at this popular brewery and restaurant.
• Top Of Vancouver Revolving Restaurant : Treat yourself to breathtaking panoramic views of the city and mountains while dining on gourmet cuisine that’s both classic and contemporary.
• Water St. Café : Experience contemporary Pacific Northwest cuisine made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients at this charming and intimate restaurant.

And if you’re in a hurry and looking for quick fast-food options, there’s a nearby McDonald’s and Tim Horton’s within walking distance of the terminal.

Airports for Disney Cruises From Vancouver to Alaska

For those embarking on a Disney Alaskan cruise from Vancouver, flying into the city is the preferred mode of transportation. Luckily, the Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal, which serves as the embarkation point, is conveniently situated near Vancouver International Airport (YVR).

Here are some crucial details to keep in mind when flying into Vancouver for a Disney cruise to Alaska.

Which Airport Should I Fly Into for a Disney Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver?

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is the best airport to fly into if you’re planning a Disney cruise to Alaska departing from the Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal .

First and foremost, YVR is incredibly convenient as it’s just 9.5 miles (or 15.3 kilometers) away from the terminal.

Additionally, the airport offers a wide range of transportation options, including Uber, taxis, shuttles, limos, public transit, and car rentals, making it easy to get to your destination quickly and efficiently.

YVR is also known for its world-class amenities, such as restaurants, lounges, and shops, providing passengers with everything they need to relax and refresh before or after their journey.

Vancouver International Airport’s convenient location, efficient transportation options, and excellent amenities make it the perfect choice for those embarking on a Disney cruise to Alaska from the Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal.

Can You Fly Into Seattle for a Disney Alaska Cruise?

Disney Cruises to Alaska sail out of Vancouver, so Vancouver’s airports are the obvious choice for flights. But travelers with a bit of extra time — and a little wanderlust — might instead opt to fly into Seattle-Tacoma Airport (SEA) a day or two in advance of their cruise. Domestic flights into Seattle can be cheaper than international flights to Vancouver, and allow for a great day of sightseeing in the Pacific Northwest ahead of the cruise.

Spend the afternoon exploring the iconic Pike Place Market or visiting the Space Needle , stay overnight, and get up early the next morning to catch Amtrak’s Cascades Route for a stunning scenic train ride up the west coast to Vancouver. The early morning train should get you to Vancouver in time to catch the ship, though a safer bet would be to arrive the day before you set sail.

How Do I Get from Vancouver Airport to Disney’s Canada Place Terminal?

There are several ways to get from Vancouver International Airport to Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal. These include the following:

Ridesharing Apps (Uber, Lyft)

One popular and convenient method is using ridesharing apps like Uber or Lyft. After landing at the airport, passengers can easily request a ride through the app. Ridesharing services are convenient and generally more affordable than taxis and shuttles. For these reasons, ridesharing is the preferred transportation for many guests heading to the Canada Place Cruise Terminal.

Taxi Service

For those who prefer a more traditional mode of transportation, taxis are readily available at the airport and provide the same level of convenience without needing your phone. The drawback is cabs can be more expensive than alternatives like Uber and Lyft.

Public Transit

Another convenient way to get from Vancouver International Airport to the cruise port is by taking the Canada Line Rapid Transit SkyTrain. The station is located between the international and domestic terminals. A covered walkway (with escalators and elevators) makes walking to the station easier, even with baggage.

Passengers should take the Canada Line , which has two routes; one runs from Vancouver Airport to the cruise port on the waterfront, and the other serves the City of Richmond. The journey takes 26 minutes and runs every 6 minutes at peak times, starting at YVR airport. There are 13 stations along this route.

Check the SkyTrain website for fare and schedule updates, but you can expect to pay approximately $8-$10 (Canadian) per person per trip.

Renting a Car

Although renting a car at Vancouver International Airport is possible, it’s not necessary since it’s only 9.5 miles (15.3 km) away, and there are plenty of transportation alternatives for getting to Disney’s Port of Vancouver cruise terminal. In addition, renting a car is likely to be more expensive.

Official Disney Ground Transportation (Shuttle Service)

Disney Cruise Line provides a convenient ground transportation shuttle service for guests traveling from Vancouver International Airport to the Canada Place Cruise Terminal. By opting for a Disney ground transportation package, you can enjoy a stress-free and seamless Disney experience from the moment you arrive until the time you depart.

Although other transportation options, such as Uber, may be less expensive, Disney’s transportation service takes care of everything for you, ensuring you have a hassle-free experience. For this reason, we believe that the additional cost of the Disney transportation package is worth it .

Upon arrival at Vancouver International Airport, guests will undergo a Canadian Border Services Agency Immigration inspection before heading to Baggage Claim. A Disney Cruise Line representative will be waiting for guests outside of customs. Transportation options may include a motor coach, minibus, or taxi, depending on arrival time and party size.

Ground transfers are available on embarkation and debarkation days only and can be purchased in advance for $25 per guest ($50 roundtrip) . If guests have booked a hotel stay before or after their cruise, transfers are available for an additional fee between the airport, hotel, and cruise port.

Guests should make reservations for ground transfers in advance. If you wish to add air travel, ground transportation, or a hotel stay, please contact Disney Cruise Line or work with a Disney travel planner like The Vacationeer .

What is the Uber Fare From Vancouver Airport to Disney’s Canada Place Cruise Terminal?

Uber fares from Vancouver International Airport to Disney’s Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal can vary depending on the vehicle you choose, and the distance traveled. The following is an estimate of fares between YVR and the Disney Cruise Line Terminal at Port of Vancouver’s Canada Place cruise terminal. Please remember that these figures are estimates and that the final fare may vary due to traffic, surge pricing, and other factors.

Estimated Cost of an Uber From YVR to Disney’s Canada Place Cruise Terminal:

• Uber X or Uber Green: $29.32
• Uber XL: $45.55

*estimates do not include tips.

According to our calculations, Uber X and Uber Green offer the best way to save money on Disney cruise transportation between the airport and the Disney’s Vancouver cruise port.

How Much are Taxis from the Airport to Canada Place?

Plenty of taxis are readily available at the airport to transport you to the Port of Vancouver’s Canada Place pier. However, they tend to be more expensive than comparable ridesharing services like Uber X and Uber Green. The evidence is as follows:

• The estimated taxi fare from YVR to Disney’s Canada Place Cruise Terminal is $45.35

How Much Does the Disney Shuttle Cost From the Airport to the Cruise Port?

Looking for a convenient and hassle-free way to travel between Vancouver International Airport and Disney’s Cruise Port at Canada Place? Consider taking the Disney shuttle service, which offers a seamless and enjoyable experience from start to finish.

Disney’s Vancouver ground transfers cost $25 one-way or $50 round trip, which is more expensive than a taxi or Uber, especially for families or groups of two or more. However, the peace of mind and convenience that comes with the Disney brand can be well worth the investment.

To learn more about Disney cruises to Alaska, including Disney Cruise Line’s ground transfers (shuttle service), contact The Vacationeer . They can provide helpful advice and guidance to make your trip extra magical.

Bundle Your Cruise, Hotel, and Ground Transit Into a Single, Carefree Package

Hotels Near the Airport and Canada Place

Fairmont Waterfront | Image © Disney / Fairmont

It is recommended that you arrive in Vancouver at least one day before your cruise departure to avoid missing it. Additionally, travelers may wish to extend their vacation by exploring the beautiful city of Vancouver, British Columbia, before or after their cruise. In either case, there are several excellent hotels near Disney’s Canada Place Cruise Terminal and Vancouver International Airport, where you can stay for one or more nights.

Consider the following nearby hotels:

Official Disney Pre/Post Cruise Hotels:

There are three Disney affiliate hotels in Vancouver where you can combine your Disney cruise reservation with pre- or post-cruise accommodations.

• Fairmont Vancouver Airport : Relax and recharge at the fully soundproofed Fairmont Vancouver Airport hotel, conveniently located within Vancouver International Airport. With stunning views, luxury amenities, and close proximity to the airport and Port of Vancouver (9 miles), this hotel is an excellent choice for a hassle-free pre- or post-cruise stay.
• Fairmont Waterfront : Enjoy a comfortable and luxurious stay at the prime harbor-front location of Fairmont Waterfront, an official Disney hotel within walking distance of popular attractions like Gastown and Stanley Park. With luggage-only transfers available and proximity to the Port of Vancouver cruise terminal, this hotel is perfect for Disney Cruise Line guests departing for Alaska.
• Vancouver Marriott Pinnacle Downtown Hotel : Stay at the Vancouver Marriott Pinnacle Downtown Hotel, an official Disney hotel just two blocks from Disney’s cruise ship terminal and within easy reach (9 miles) of the airport. Enjoy spacious accommodations with upscale style, stunning views of Coal Harbour, and nearby attractions like Stanley Park and Gastown.

Contact The Vacationeer for more information about booking a room at a Disney Cruise Line partner hotel.

Other Nearby Hotels:

Besides Disney’s official partner hotel, there are many excellent lodging options within walking distance of Disney’s cruise terminal. Below are four hotels that are ideal for pre- or post-Disney cruises to Alaska:

• Pan Pacific Vancouver : This hotel’s prime location is quite literally right on top of Canada Place’s cruise terminals — you can take an elevator from the hotel down to the boarding area of the terminal! Add in elegant décor and stunning views, and it’s an ideal choice. Chic rooms have upscale amenities, and guests can enjoy an outdoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, and spa. The hotel offers both casual and fine dining options.
• Days Inn by Wyndham Vancouver Downtown : This hotel’s location, just a 5-minute walk from Canada Place, provides easy access to the cruise port, while the Waterfront SkyTrain station offers transportation to the airport. The hotel’s straightforward rooms include free WiFi, TVs, and coffeemakers, and children stay free with a paying adult. Suites are also available for larger groups.
• Vancouver Marriott Pinnacle Downtown Hotel : Just a 6-minute walk from Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal, this hotel features comfortable rooms with city views, an indoor pool, a whirlpool, a sauna, a gym, and a chic restaurant with a bar.
• Auberge Vancouver : An upscale hotel within a 5-minute (downhill) walk of the Canada Place cruise terminal. For a true splurge, opt for a Deluxe King Harbour View Suite, offering a trendy apartment-type setting with giant wall-to-wall windows overlooking the port. Get up early to watch the Disney Wonder arriving in port for your cruise!

Are You Ready to Book Your Disney Alaskan Cruise?

Booking a Disney cruise to Alaska has never been easier thanks to The Vacationeer , an Earmarked Diamond-Level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner . Their vast experience planning trips to Disney destinations allows them to find the best Disney cruise itineraries for families or couples.

Your dedicated Vacationeer will handle every aspect of your trip from start to finish, so you won’t have to deal with multiple agents . Whether you’re looking for the cheapest month to cruise , a last-minute Disney cruise deal , tipping policies on Disney cruises , or discounts on your Disney cruise package, The Vacationeer can assist you with all your requests. They work diligently to find the perfect cruise that meets your vacation goals at the lowest possible price .

In addition, The Vacationeer offers valuable onboard cruise credit as a booking bonus, which can be used as free money on your Disney cruise for expenses not covered in the base cost. This alone makes working with The Vacationeer worthwhile!

Plan and book your Disney cruise with ease with the help of The Vacationeer . With their expertise, you can trust they will manage all the details and logistics for you . Request a free quote today, and they will respond promptly. Their services are completely free , so don’t hesitate to ask them anything you wish about Disney cruises to Alaska!

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California Family Travel

By Gwen Kleist · August 14, 2022

Icy Strait Point Alaska Cruise Port: An Honest Review (2024)

Last updated on February 6th, 2024 at 11:07 pm

Looking for Icy Strait Point reviews before your upcoming cruise?

Look no further! If you’re wondering if Icy Strait Point is worth visiting, I’ve got all the details on what to do and see right here.

And spoiler alert – Icy Strait Point is indeed worth visiting!

I’ll be honest—when we first arrived, Icy Point Strait struck me as a BS destination, a place they diverted our ship to visit after our originally-scheduled stop at Ketchikan was cancelled.

Icy Point Strait is the kind of place that looks like it pops up for the summer cruise season, then gets neatly packed away for the winter (which – as it turns out – it does). Icy Strait Point is only open when there is a ship in port.

To be fair, this port is a beautiful spot, with towering trees, mountains, and an expansive beach with clear, calm water. We only had a three-hour stop and almost didn’t even get off the boat, but it turned out to be a nice destination worth exploring.

If you are tempted to stay on the ship, don’t do it! Take Icy Strait Point for what it is—a small, rustic, scenic point designed to give you a tiny taste of the Alaskan wilderness.

Here is an honest review based on our personal experience and ideas for what to do in Icy Strait Point Alaska Cruise Port.

Table of Contents

A Locally Owned Cruise Port

Located on Chichagof Island about 35 miles west of Juneau, Icy Strait Point is a small and rustic cruise port, packed with activities and some amazing views of the Alaskan wilderness. It may not be as well-known as some other Alaskan cruise ports, but it is a scenic spot with some amazing wildlife and a variety of things to do.

Icy Strait Point is the only cruise port in Alaska that is 100% privately owned and operated. It is run by the Alaska Huna Totem Corporation, and all profits directly go to support the people and town of Hoonah.

This means that the dollars you spend at Icy Strait Point support the native people who have called this region home for thousands of years!

Things to Do in Icy Strait Point Alaska

What to do in Icy Strait Point Alaska? Turns out, there are lots of options!

With over 30 shore excursions, a restored 1912 salmon cannery and museum, nature and hiking trails, a beach, and several restaurants and shops, you can easily spend a day at this pretty cruise port.

Fly down the world’s longest zipline, take a whale watching cruise, go fishing, search for Alaskan brown bears or go on a Jeep expedition through the unspoiled wilderness of Chichagof Island’s back roads.

It is recommended that you book all Icy Strait Point excursions and tours directly with your cruise line, but we have found that the prices are lower when you book on your own or wait until you arrive. However, this is risky as many excursions will sell out in advance.

Different cruises offer a number of excursions, so check with your cruise line to explore the options and prices! You can also find a list at icystraitpoint.com .

Our ship was only in port for a few hours in the evening, so many excursions were not available, which was a bit of a disappointment! But if you are at port for a good chunk of time, here are some top picks.

1. Icy Strait Point Zipline

Icy Strait Point is home to the world’s largest zipline, the ZipRider. The Icy Strait Point Zipline features six 5,330-foot ziplines dropping 1330 feet.

Take in the views on the bus ride to the top, then race to the bottom on the zip line at speeds up to 60 miles per hour, 300 feet above the forest!

The excursion begins with a narrated bus ride to the top of Hoonah Mountain. Keep a watch out for wildlife! Deer, eagles, and bears are occasionally seen.

Several overlooks offer spectacular vantage points of Hoonah, Port Frederick and Icy Strait. On clear days, you can even see Glacier Bay National Park in the distance!

2. Hoonah Cannery Museum

Icy Point’s legacy lies in its long history as a salmon canning industry. The former fish processing center has now been transformed into a museum, shops and a restaurant.

We really enjoyed wandering around the museum on our recent visit to Icy Strait Point. The museum is completely free to enter, and offers a very interesting (and somewhat graphic!) look at how the cannery operated.

You’ll get to check out the machinery, nets, equipment, and other artifacts as informational displays on the history and culture of Hoonah, Alaska.

3. Take a Gondola Ride

We talked about the free Transporter gondola, but there are actually two different gondolas at Icy Strait Point!

One of the newest additions to Icy Strait Point is the Mountain Top Gondola. The new gondola (opened in 2022) ascends 1,600 feet up the mountain. The 54 gondola cabins each hold eight passengers, and everyone gets a window seat! They even accommodate wheelchairs.

The ride up takes approximately 45 minutes, and the views are magnificent. Once at the top you can hike around (unless closed due to bear sightings) or ride the zipline.

4. Guaranteed Whale Watching Tours

The whales are so plentiful near Icy Strait Point that they have guaranteed whale watching – meaning they guarantee you will see one! They even promise a 100% refund if a whale is not spotted on the trip.

Whale-watching cruises depart from the cruise port and travel through the bountiful waters of Icy Strait to the renowned Point Adolphus area, home to Alaska’s largest summer population of humpback whales. Along the way, there is the possibility of spotting some of the region’s other marine life, including orca (killer whales) and seals.

An onboard naturalist will narrate and talk about the biology and behavior of the diverse species that gather every summer to indulge in Alaska. Bring your binoculars if you have a pair!

5. Take a Nature Walk

A beautiful nature walk connects the Wilderness and Ocean Landings. Enjoy an easy forest walk and look for eagle nests above, check out native plants, and take in views of the rugged shore.

We took the Transporter one way, and then enjoyed the nature walk on the way back. It is just over a mile long and mostly flat. This is a really nice way to enjoy Alaska’s beautiful natural setting without having to commit to a more strenuous hike.

If you do want to enjoy a more extensive Icy Strait Point hiking experience, there are 196 acres of hiking trails in the surrounding Tongass National Forest .

6. Tree Top Adventure Park & Ropes Course

Icy Strait Point offers a number of self-guided courses ranging in difficulty from very easy to challenging.

Courses include a wide variety of obstacles, from log bridges and climbing planks to a net and uneven circles. Throughout the course learn about the nature and environment with integrated quizzes and informative signs. Gloves and helmet are provided.

One cool thing to note: when you are riding the Transporter between Wilderness and Ocean Landings, you will actually go over the ropes course and be able to check it out!

7. Kayaking

Icy Strait Point has a Kayak Center and offers several kayak excursions.

Kayak through the protected waters of Port Frederick as you set off from the beach in a two-person wilderness kayak. You will paddle along the Hoonah waterfront where bald eagles are often seen. Humpback whales have also been known to feed along the very same route.

Tours are led by a safety-certified local guide. A motorized safety boat accompanies the tour but guests should be able to paddle through small waves against a moderate current.

8. Back Country Jeep & ATV Expeditions

Step into an Alaska experience as you navigate a Jeep or ATV through the unspoiled wilderness of Chichagof Island’s back roads. Keep your eyes open for wildlife and breathtaking scenery on this adventure.

Each tour lasts around two and a half hours and yes – you are able to drive your own vehicle!

Dining Options at Icy Point Strait

Icy Strait Point has a couple of eateries if you want to grab a quick bite and try amazingly fresh seafood.

The Crab House

Belly up to the Crab House for Alaska’s best king, snow and Dungeness crab. When in season, our fresh Dungeness crab is caught in local waters and kept alive until cooked—you really can’t get any fresher! The restaurant features seating inside as well as on the dock.

The Cookhouse Restaurant

The historic Cookhouse Restaurant has been feeding cannery visitors (and workers) for more than a century! Featuring a variety of delicious, casual fare, the Cookhouse is the perfect spot to refuel on the waterfront after taking a tour.

Popular dishes include Alaska halibut & chips, the Alaska salmon BLT, Alaska blue burgers, salmon chowder and reindeer chili and fries.

The Cookhouse Restaurant has a lovely waterfront deck with a fire pit, and a campfire out front.

Duck Point Smokehouse Restaurant

Duck Point Smokehouse Restaurant overlooks the beaches of Icy Strait. Their signature dish the Icy Strait Point Surf and Turf, which features house-made crab tater-tots and our Alaskan Blue Sliders, provides a rich mix of flavors which are sure to delight even the most discerning foodies.

Icy Strait Point Donuts

Okay, while not technically a restaurant, the donut stand at Icy Strait Point is worth a mention. This popular spot had a long line of people waiting to try the freshly baked, warm mini donuts. A yummy little treat while you are wandering around this Alaskan cruise port!

Where Do Cruise Ships Dock at Icy Strait Point?

Designed to not interfere with the natural beauty and views of Icy Strait Point, there are two cruise ship docks at the port. They are located about a mile apart. The docks are named the Wilderness and Ocean Landings.

Depending on which one your cruise ship uses, you will either disembark right in the center of town or have to walk or take the free gondola. Both the docks and the gondolas – called the Transporter – are completely accessible.

The Transporter gondola connects the two cruise piers. This was a nice surprise and the ride was quick but very pleasant! In fact, I would recommend taking this free ride even if you don’t need it just to enjoy the views.

Icy Strait Point Cruise Port Map

To help you navigate the cruise port and its restaurants, shops and attractions, here is a map of the Icy Strait Point Alaska cruise port.

Final Thoughts: Is Icy Point Strait Worth Visiting?

If you are seeking a nature-centric Alaskan adventure during your cruise , Icy Strait is a great port of call to include on your itinerary!

However, I advise you find a cruise that has a stop at Icy Strait Point *in addition to* the Alaskan ports you want to see, not *instead of* (as happened to us when Ketchikan was replaced by Icy Point Strait just days before our cruise.)

Icy Strait Point is a lovely spot with an authentic cultural connection. But unless you spend money on port excursions, there is really not enough to do to fill a whole day.

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Reader Interactions

August 18, 2022 at 2:44 pm

We had a cruise stop at Icy Strait Point. Most of the activities were shutdown when we arrived at 5:30 pm. None of the restaurants were open. Disappointing.

August 19, 2022 at 5:27 pm

Unfortunately that is the experience for many people, us included!

August 25, 2022 at 3:20 pm

My wife and I were also disappointed to have Icy Strait point as a replacement stop and for only 3 hours. However, it turned out to be one of our favorite stops when we discovered hundreds of Starfish on the beach. There were so many we had to be careful not to step on them.

August 28, 2022 at 7:25 pm

The Adventure Park is closed and in major disrepair. I was just there, unless you want to spend a lot of money on tours or over priced food, this stop is a big yawn.

September 3, 2022 at 4:31 pm

Were you given the opportunity to walk around the native village of Hoonah?

September 7, 2022 at 1:01 pm

You can go there. It is about a mile and a half from the attractions.

September 3, 2022 at 6:51 pm

Been to Icy Strait Point and had a wonderful time. Rode the Zipline. What a ride ! Lunch at the cannery was delicious. Cannery tour was informative and watched as a couple native Alaskans worked on a totem pool. Love this port. Can’t wait to visit again next year!!

September 7, 2022 at 1:12 pm

This review is older. In May of this year (2022) they opened the Sky Glider, another gondola system similar to the free ride from Wilderness Landing to the Cannery area.it takes you from another station in Wilderness Landing up to the summit of the mountain. It is extremely steep in areas! Such cool views, especially seeing your cruise ship from above. It’s great.

September 14, 2022 at 12:23 am

I’m on a cruise ship and we left just 2 days ago. I was so pleased with whales and the food. The food was delicious. I did not do the zip lining. I chose to walk around on the beach. I’m now heading back to San Francisco. It’s been a wonderful 10 day cruise. (Carnival Miracle)

September 14, 2022 at 9:34 am

That is so great to hear! Enjoy the rest of your cruise! 🙂

June 7, 2023 at 7:43 am

Thank you for your wonderful review of Icy Strait Point and the map of the area.

June 7, 2023 at 2:54 pm

So glad you found it helpful!

July 2, 2023 at 6:01 pm

We will be in Icy Strait Point on a cruise in a few weeks. Do we need to book excursions from our cruise line or would you advise walking around and deciding while we’re there? We will be 2 adults, 3 kids (13, 11 and 7). Thanks

July 2, 2023 at 9:51 pm

You can do either, but since Icy Strait Point is a very small port, I would recommend booking in advance with your cruise line if there is something you realllly want to do, because some excursions will sell out! But if you just want to wing it there is plenty to see once you’re there even without an excursion. Have fun! 🙂

August 6, 2023 at 9:15 am

Im going on a cruise in september, that has icy straight point as one of the destinations. Ive booked the ziprider and the whale and wildlife cruise. Im wondering if we are able to walk to the nearby Chichagof Island or are we not able to? how far is this chichagof island from the port. Im not sure if during mid september we will see bears or any wildlife on ground, this of course if ideal. Id like to hike and wonder around on our own and not with an excursion, it makes the trip just more personable and more enjoyable for us. Any help is great. thanks!

February 6, 2024 at 7:46 am

Hello! Do you use Twitter? I’d like to follow you if that would be ok. I’m definitely enjoying your blog and look forward to new updates.

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Step into an Alaska Experience

Native tlingit culture.

Icy Strait Point is Alaska Native owned-and-operated, with all profits directly supporting the community of Hoonah, Alaska’s largest Native Tlingit village. Our dedicated staff (85% of which call Hoonah home) is committed to providing a one-of-a-kind experience for every guest that is infused with our local Native culture and hospitality.

Unspoiled Wilderness

Chichagoff Island is home to more brown bears than humans, its a place where eagles soar overhead and whales are regularly seen just offshore. Surrounded by towering rainforest and set against the backdrop of mist-shrouded mountains, guests can truly immerse themselves in our wilderness environment.

Alaska-Sized Adventure

With over 30 exciting tours, a restored 1912 salmon cannery and museum, nature trails, and even a beach! Icy Strait Point is the port for adventure. Fly down the world's largest ZipRider, whale-watch in the nutrient-rich waters of Port Frederick and Point Adolphus, search for the coastal brown bears that inhabit the area, and soar high above in a helicopter.

Wildlife & Bear Search

Journey from Icy Strait Point into the wilds of Chichagof Island as you explore the Spasski River Valley in search of local wildlife.

Whale And Marine Mammals Cruise

Depart directly from Icy Strait Point on your safe, stable, covered, and comfortable whale-watching vessel and travel through the bountiful waters of Icy Strait to the renowned Point Adolphus, home to Alaska’s largest summer population of humpback whales...

• HBsurferwife: We LOVED this experience! We have three kids and even they just loved it! We would highly recommend this experience... Read full Testimonial
• @CaptHarry1: The Landing Zone Restaurant Bar has a great view and the staff was very friendly and happy. Worth a visit to chill out... Read full Testimonial

Scenic Mountain Ascent & World's Largest ZipRider

Icy Strait Point features the world's largest ZipRider, with six 5,330’ ziplines dropping 1330’. If you are looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, then the ZipRider is for you.

ATV & Jeep Expeditions

Step into an Alaska experience as you navigate your Jeep or ATV through the unspoiled wilderness of Chichagof Island's back roads. Keep your eyes open for wildlife and breathtaking scenery on this adventure.

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Cruise Port Guide: Best Things to Do in Icy Strait Point, Alaska on a Cruise

By: Sherry Laskin · Updated On: March 30, 2023

Trying to choose the best things to do in Icy Strait Point, Alaska can be overwhelming. I’ve compiled my list of what to do in Icy Strait Point with only a few hours in port.

Icy Strait Point, Alaska is a purpose-built and Alaska Tlinglit native-owned cruise port. The nearest town is Hoonah, a flat, walkable 1.5 miles from the port. 

Unlike other congested Alaskan downtown cruise ports, you will find plenty of authentic Alaskan experiences to fill your day. Plus, plenty of wildlife sightings abound; bears, eagles, and whales can all be seen from the port area. 

Here’s what you can do in Icy Strait Point in one day on your Alaska cruise.

Best Things to Do in Icy Strait Point, Alaska

In This Post...

In a nutshell, you’ll want to explore the port area of Icy Strait Point, take a shore excursion in search of whales, see the cultural attractions, grab fresh seafood for lunch and possibly spot wildlife. All in one day! 

Along the way, you’ll learn how Icy Strait Point truly preserves the indigenous culture of the Tlingit people and in the nearby town of Hoonah. 

Keep reading for my detailed list of what to do, inspiring Icy Strait Point photos plus where your ship will dock, food, entertainment and more. 

RELATED:  21 Best Things to Do in Sitka, Alaska

Icy strait point – 100% locally owned.

Icy Strait Point is the only cruise port in Alaska that is privately owned and operated. The port is under the authority of the Alaska Huna Totem Corporation and its Alaska native shareholders. All profits directly go to support the people and town of Hoonah.

The port features authentic replications of the culture and history of the Huna people and includes the completely restored salmon cannery that burned down in 1944. All of the proceeds from tourism in this town go back to the Huna Tlingit and the Huna Totem Corporation. 

This means that your visit helps to support the native people to remain on the land that they have called home for thousands of years. 

RELATED:  Complete Guide – What to Pack for Your Alaska Cruise

In addition, Icy Strait Point is a great jumping-off point for all sorts of shore excursions. Guaranteed whale watching tours, plus more Alaskan wildlife such seals, brown bears, otters, eagles, and more!

Read on as we go over all the things you can do in Icy Strait Point on a cruise day in port. 

Where is Icy Strait Point?

Icy Strait Point is located on Chichagof Island in Southeast Alaska, about 35 miles west of Juneau, the state capital. It’s where Port Frederick Bay meets Icy Strait Point. 

There is a floating dock where two cruise ships can berth and passengers can walk directly into Icy Strait Point. 

Nearby, just 1.6 miles (2.6km) away, is Alaska’s largest native Tlingit village, the town of Hoonah. This isn’t a touristy town with lively attractions. However, if you want to get there, you can catch a shuttle bus for around $5. Surrounded by lush vegetation and a surprise sighting of wildlife, a visit into Hoonah is well worth it. 

Icy Strait Point – A Little History

Magnificient Glacier Bay, in the panhandle of Alaska, has been home to the Huna Tlingit for thousands of years. Although their homeland was traditionally farther north, glacial growth during the Little Ice Age sent the Tlingit south to Icy Strait Point, where they usually traveled in the summertime for the harvest. 

The Huna quickly made Icy Strait point their permanent home, as resources were plentiful. Since the residents are still mainly Huna Tlingit, the town is named Hoonah and located about 1 1/2 miles from the port. 

READ NEXT:  Best Things to Do in Ketchikan, Alaska on a Day in Port

In 1912, the Hoonah Packing Company, a prosperous salmon canning company, opened for business on Icy Strait Point, providing the locals with factory jobs. However, the cannery only stayed in operation until 1953. 

It wasn’t until May 2004 that the Huna Totem Corporation began operations at Icy Strait Point. That year saw 32 ships and 55,000 passengers visit the newly-opened cruise destination. 

The Corporation works to preserve the culture and practices of the Huna people by helping them find jobs and promoting local businesses without destroying the expansive wilderness that makes the town so beautiful and resources so bountiful. 

Currently, Icy Strait Point’s primary industry is cruise ship tourism, and 85% of the people who work in the port are Tlingit locals.

Where Do Cruise Ships Dock in Icy Strait?

Icy Strait Point is a destination port, meaning it has its own attractions. Your cruise ship will drop you off right in the middle of all of the action. 

There are now two cruise ship berths located on the “corner” of Icy Strait and the Port Frederick Inlet.

The port area, with most of the shops, restaurants, and excursion meet-up spots in Icy Strait Point, is the place to start. The local venues are just steps away from the cruise ship floating docks. 

Where to Eat in Icy Strait Point and Hoonah

If you stomach starts to growl, there are several restaurants in Icy Strait Point. In fact, don’t retreat to the ship for lunch…enjoy something local instead. 

One of the most popular restaurants for lunch is The Cookhouse Restaurant. It’s the first eatery you’ll find along the seawalk, just past the cute residences. Outdoor seating is abundant though if weather is not cooperating, you can enjoy your fish and chips indoors.

Just past The Cookhouse and the Cannery, is the Crab House. Go little crazy here with succulent crab legs and butter. 

If you just want a snack or a sugar rush, stop by Lil’ Gen’s Donuts shack. Their freshly made donuts are fabulous.

Also in Icy Strait Point is the Duck Point Smokehouse, right next to the docks. For some reason, it’s never been open for business when I’ve been there…but if you want a nice cocktail and a pizza, it looks like the place to go. 

Finally, if you decide to visit Hoonah (and you should), have lunch at The Fisherman’s Daughter. Excellent salmon quesadillas and a lot more. 

Getting Around in Icy Strait Point

From the map, you can get a good idea of the layout of Icy Strait Point and scope out the areas at the port that most interest you.

There’e a shuttle bus that operates from Icy Strait Point to Hoonah for just $5 per ticket for a round-trip ride. Or if you want a one-way ticket, it’s only $3. 

Either you walk or take the shuttle; there are no ride share services like Uber or Lyft available in Icy Strait Point. 

If you walk into town and don’t want to walk back to the ship, shuttle bus tickets are available to purchase at Huna Outfitters, located next to City Hall.

Here’s what you can expect for average walking time from the ship, beginning with the closest:  

• Adventure Center: 3 minutes
• Excursion Hub: 5 minutes
• Historic Cannery where you’ll find dining, shopping and the museum: 7 minutes
• Crab House Restaurant at the Cannery: 8 minutes
• Cultural Theatre, Tickets and the bus from town drop-off:  9 minutes

RELATED:  Review of Whale-Watching Tour in Icy Strait  

Shopping in icy strait point.

At the Cannery complex, you’ll find excellent shopping for souvenirs. There are about 12 shops located within the historic Cannery. All are 100% owned by Alaskans with a wide-range of authentic Alaska items.

From small jars of Devil’s Club ointment and salmonberry jam to kitchen essentials, t-shirts and hand-carved treasures, you won’t have to lug your purchases very far to get back to your ship.

Be sure to stop by the Icy Strait Museum and gift shop for more Alaskan memorabilia to purchase. Bring home a box of smoked salmon, beautiful hand-carved sterling silver jewelry with Alaska Tlingit moieties; the Raven and Eagle.

Best Things to Do in Icy Strait Point

What to Do in ISP – Read on for all the details to plan your day.

• Go whale watching.
• Try the ZipRider.
• Take a birdwatching tour.
• See the bears at the Wildlife & Bear Search.
• Take the Ocean Raft Adventure.
• Join a tasting session at Alaska’s Wildest Kitchen.
• Explore the beach and nature trails.
• Have lunch at the Cookhouse Restaurant.
• Go shopping at the Warehouse Shops.
• Visit the Historical Cannery Museum.
• Watch the Tribal Dance & Cultural Legends Show.
• Walk into the town of Hoonah – have lunch at Fisherman’s Daughter

1. Take a Whale Watching Cruise

Icy Strait Point offers some of the best opportunities for whale watching on your Alaskan cruise, so don’t miss the Whale & Marine Mammals Cruise here! 

Point Adolphus, a one-hour boat ride away from Icy Strait Point, is the prime site to catch a view of humpback whales. 

Whales flock from Hawai’i to Point Adolphus in the summertime to enjoy the bountiful food in the area. There are so many humpback whales here that all of the tour guides at Icy Strait Point guarantee that you’ll see at least one when you take the tour.

On the tour to Point Adolphus, you might also see other Alaskan wildlife, such as seals, porpoises, sea lions, otters, and killer whales. Keep your eyes on the shoreline and you could spot brown bears and bald eagles, too. 

So, if you want to see the most wildlife possible in one 2.5-hour trip, look for a whale watching tour while you’re here. You won’t regret it!

2. Try the ZipRider

Icy strait point has the world’s largest ZipRider, which will send you on a breathtaking coast down a 5,330-foot zipline in the heart of the Alaskan wilderness. 

Before your exhilarating trip down the mountain, you’ll ride to the start, via gondola. Look around to catch a glimpse of the old forests, possibly wildlife, the bay and its stunning islands that surround Icy Strait Point’s port. 

Once you’re over 1,300 feet (396.2 m) up the mountain, you’ll undergo a safety briefing and be strapped into a sturdy seated harness. Then down you go! 

Listen to my interview with Tyler Hickman, Vice President Operations at Icy Strait Point. This interview was recorded before I ever visited Alaska or moved there. Tyler is very proud of Icy Strait Point and loves to talk about this small slice of heaven.

As you glide down from the scenic old-growth mountains, you’ll get a spectacular view of all of Icy Strait Point’s landscapes and the sea. If you keep your eyes peeled, you might even see bears, whales, birds, and other wildlife. 

You can’t miss this excursion, so check your ship’s plans to get the best prices for this unforgettable ride. 

3. Sign up for a Birdwatching Tour

If you’re a bird enthusiast or want to take in all of the fantastic local wildlife Icy Strait Point has to offer, take the Discovering the Birds of Hoonah Tour .  

Hoonah is home to hundreds of species of birds with its unique mixed coastal and rainforest ecosystem.

On this tour, your guide will take you on a hike to explore the native habitats of the many birds in Icy Strait Point. 

They’ll help you identify and find bald eagles, gulls, ducks, warblers, sparrows, flycatchers, jays, woodpeckers, sapsuckers, wrens, kinglets, swifts, hummingbirds, creepers, chickadees, thrushes, and so many more! 

This tour is always a big hit for families and birdwatching enthusiasts, so take advantage of it while you can!

4. See Bears at the Wildlife & Bear Search

If you want to catch a glimpse of native Alaskan brown bears and other unique forest wildlife, sign up for the Wildlife & Bear Search  excursion.

On this tour, you’ll travel by tram through Hoonah into the rainforests of Icy Strait Point. Your guide will tell you all about the village, the animals, birds, and plants that live nearby, teaching you all about the forest’s ecosystem. On the way, you’ll see Sitka black-tailed deer, bald eagles, and many species of birds. 

Then, your guide will lead you to a specially designed platform that overlooks the clearings near the Spasski River, where brown bears often hunt for the salmon that leap from the water. 

This tour offers some of the best opportunities to see the forest wildlife of Alaska since the locals have never cut down or developed the wilderness that surrounds them. If you want to have a wild time, don’t miss this excursion. 

5. Take the Ocean Raft Adventure

One of the best boat tours available in Icy Strait Point is the Ocean Raft Adventure . 

Your guide will take you out onto the water in a large engine-powered ocean raft, traveling at high speeds in the open sea’s air. During the tour, your guide will also teach you more about the local Tlingit peoples and the wildlife in the area. 

They’ll also take you searching for deer, bears, whales, otters, sea lions, seals, eagles, and puffins. 

So, if you want an exciting ride on the stunning Strait Point Sea, go on this tour. You’ll never forget it. 

6. Join a Tasting Session at Alaska’s Wildest Kitchen

Have you ever been curious about authentic Alaskan cuisine and cooking practices? Well, you can learn all about it with this one-of-a-kind cooking class! 

Alaska’s Wildest Kitchen offers cooking-class-style demonstrations and tastings led by a local Alaskan fisherwoman and wilderness chef. 

In the interactive tour, she will teach you how to cut and prepare fresh, locally-caught salmon and halibut while telling you stories about the local wildlife and cuisine. 

Then, you’ll get an opportunity to season, cook, and eat your own fish fillet on the kitchen’s huge, authentic alder grill. So, with this tour, you get a fun experience and lunch, too!

You’ll also get an alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage included in the cost of the tour, and you’ll get to take home some recipe cards to help you bring traditional Alaskan cooking into your home!

For a taste of what you’ll experience at Alaska’s Wildest Kitchen, check out this short YouTube Video by Norwegian Cruise Line: 

7. Explore the Beach and Nature Trails

There are a lot of exciting things to do in Icy Strait Point if you want to skip the excursions. Go wilderness walking on your own, but always stick to the Icy Strait Point and Nature trail! 

The Icy Strait Point and Nature Trail is a paved path that starts right beside the port and wraps around the coastline to the west. It’s an excellent spot to catch some stunning views and get a glimpse of the local wildlife. 

The trail is a 0.9-mile (1.4 km) loop, and it isn’t strenuous or steep, so expect a relaxing and short walk. However, as you pass the beach and work your way into the woods, there are three other short trail loops that you can take if you want to get deeper into the forest and see some more local animals and birds on your own. 

While you’re walking, keep an eye out for whales off the coast, deer in the brush, and eagles and other birds high in the trees. 

Also, be aware of your surroundings to ensure that you don’t run straight into a bear when you’re in the woods! Bears love Icy Strait Point. Don’t worry too much, though. They’re pretty used to the tourists, and they won’t attack unless you provoke them, so just watch out and ensure that you make plenty of noise as you walk. 

8. Have Lunch at the Cookhouse Restaurant

Icy Strait Point is most famous for its authentic Tlingit traditions. So, while you’re here, why not eat like a local? 

The Cookhouse, once the go-to restaurant for the old cannery’s workers, has plenty of options for everyone. Most of their food has a local flair, and their menu includes freshly fried halibut, salmon burgers, crab, shrimp tacos, reindeer burgers, and more. 

They also offer locally-brewed beers, such as Icy Strait’s signature brew, Cannery Red Ale. Their beers are brewed with unique locally-grown ingredients, so be sure to give them a try if you’re a beer drinker!

The Cookhouse also has a fantastic atmosphere with scenic ocean views, and you might even get a performance from local singers and dancers while you eat! 

If you can’t decide what to get, I recommend their best-selling halibut and chips! The halibut is perfectly flaky and crisp with a flavor that you can’t get outside of Alaska!

9. Go Shopping at the Warehouse Shops

You can find most of the shops in Icy Strait Point near the Cannery Museum in the long red buildings. These shops are all locally owned businesses stocked with Alaska-made products.

Hoonah is well-known for its expertly crafted soaps, candles, canned salmon, and native art, so be sure to browse the shops or buy a souvenir to make your trip even more unforgettable! 

10. Visit the Cannery Museum

In the center of the port district, don’t miss a brief walk through the Icy Strait Point Historical Cannery Museum. The museum, housed in the restored Hoonah Packing Company of 1912, will teach you all about the salmon industry’s long-standing history in the area. 

In the museum, you’ll learn about all of the different varieties of local salmon, and you’ll get a glimpse of what the factory would have looked like in its heyday. 

Be sure to check out all of the restored machines, which were once used to smoke and can salmon. It’s unbelievable to think that they still stand where they did over 100 years ago!

11. Watch the Tribal Dance and Cultural Legends Show

If you want to sit back and relax after a long day of whale-watching, wildlife-spotting, walking, and touring, head on over to the Tribal Dance and Cultural Legends show on the east side of the port. 

This show makes for a perfect introduction to Hoonah’s culture and the unique legends that the natives have carried down here for centuries. 

Performed by the native Hoonah Tlingit, the performances include music, dancing, and storytelling in a lively and entertaining atmosphere that will teach you more about what makes Icy Strait Point so unique and memorable. 

While you’re at the theater, be sure to stop and admire the enormous totem poles outside the entrance! They’re quite marvelous. 

12. Walk or Take the Shuttle into Hoonah

The walk into Hoonah is about 1 1/2 miles from the Shuttle Bus ticket stand. It’s a flat, scenic walk along the sea. There’s a good chance to spot a whale or if you feel like something’s starting at you, there could be a bear up in the hill overlooking the seawalk. 

Don’t worry. As long as you can run faster than the person you’re with, all should be okay. Just kidding. Don’t do something stupid like I did and munch on my salmon quesadilla on the walk back to the ship. Yes, a bear was following me from above. 

Conclusion: What to Do in Icy Strait Point

Icy Strait Point is an amazing place to view Alaskan wildlife, especially humpback whales. You’ll have a chance to do everything from soft adventure like a nature walk to the adrenaline-pumping ZipRider high above the treetops. 

Everything’s authentic here, from the old-growth forests and local cuisine to the Tlingit people and their cultural displays. 

From a historic and cultural standpoint, you’ll learn a lot about the Tlingit people who have inhabited the area for thousands of years. Grab some fresh seafood and an Alaska-brewed beer. For such a small town, Icy Strait Point has more to choose from than is visible at first glance.

Want More Alaska Travel Inspiration?

• What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise
• Tour Review:  Bike and Brew Tour in Juneau, Alaska
• Radiance of the Seas Alaska Cruise Review

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About Sherry Laskin

I'm the editor and creator of CruiseMaven.com, a solo traveler cruising the world without flying. I hope my articles and photos entertain, advise and inspire you to travel the world without flying. Take a breath...stop for a local meal and a glass of wine along the way.

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July 27, 2023 at 2:00 pm

Hi Wendi, Thank you for taking the time to report back after your cruise. I’m happy to learn that your lunch in town was really good and worth the walk into Hoonah. I hope the rest of your Alaska cruise was just as wonderful! And thank you for reading my Icy Strait article.

July 25, 2023 at 9:50 pm

I just visited Icy Strait last week and your blog was very informative. The Salmon tacos (not quesadilla) were amazing! Worth the hike into Hoonah.

July 2, 2023 at 7:58 pm

Thanks for your follow-up comment from your cruise. I agree about the souvenir prices. But it sounds like you had a good day after all. Seafood in all Alaska restaurants is expensive. Gas was $5.10/gallon last week. Everything costs more up here.

June 17, 2023 at 4:03 pm

You are right, I have been to this port three times. The food is way overpriced, though I did not take the walk to Hoonah. The only part I liked was the walking trail directly behind where the cruise ships park. We walked the beach, and continued up the trail and around. It was a beautiful walk. The souvenirs are overpriced, get an ice cream, sit on a bench and wait for the whales to do their show.

June 10, 2023 at 11:04 pm

Hi Peggy, Thanks for reading my article! That’s a really good question and I am sorry that I do not know the answer. You should give them a call and ask. Or you might be able to rent one online. I’ve never done that but I know others who have rented cameras and lens for their trips.

And you’re right! It would be a great video taken on that zip line! Have a wonderful cruise to Alaska! Sherry

June 8, 2023 at 2:26 am

Hi Sherry, I am going on my cruise in July. My question is do you know if they have go-pro cameras for rent at the ziprider in Icy Strait Point? I think it would be fun to film that ride, I am not sure I want to buy the camera though.

August 12, 2022 at 4:25 pm

I just visited icy straight point on the cruise inwas on last week. I can honestly say i have never ever been more disappointed in a port than ibwas at this one, none of the resturants were open at the port we went minto town and had food at the fishermans daughter it was absolutely disgusting the food had no flavor at all, my soda was piss warm and sonwas my milk shake. The town looks like a complete dump buildings falling apart all over and super dirty. The souvenirs were way over priced and had a horrible selection. The people were extremely rude at the port shops. The excursions are outrageous price almost double the price from the other ports we visited and everyone that did an excursion at the port was severely disappointed. I have seen that this port won port of the year in 2020 and was on the travel channels 50 places that are a must see i am completely confused about how this is possible i would have had a better time eating a sewer rat in the ghettos in detroit than we had at this port

July 15, 2022 at 11:45 am

Hi Amber, Thanks for reading my article. It certainly isn’t necessary to spend a ton of money to enjoy all of Alaska’s amazing cruise ports. I’m glad my Icy Strait Point suggestions were helpful. Be sure to stop by the “playground” trail. There’s plenty for the kids to do there to burn off steam, lol. Enjoy your cruise! And thanks again for taking the time to leave a comment.

July 13, 2022 at 2:11 pm

Super helpful, we are taking all five kids on an Alaska cruise in a few weeks. We are looking for lower-cost options to have fun at all the ports. Thank you for taking the time to put this thoughtful list together.

May 27, 2022 at 9:45 pm

Hi Lyn, Thank you for reading my Icy Strait Point article! Your fishing adventure sounds amazing. For such a small place (ISP and Hoonah) there is SO much to do. Interesting that you had guards at the ready in case of bears. Bears outnumber the people on Chichagof Island and easy pickings for a free and effortless meal! I curious now and will look into your fishing tour. Some people might really prefer to do that as well. Thank you very much for taking the time to leave your comment. I’m sure it will be helpful to others, too.

May 27, 2022 at 7:45 pm

The last time we were in Icy Straight, we arranged a Salmon fishing expedition with 2 local guides at a river on the far side of the island for our family of 10. It was great fun, everyone hauled in a few beautiful Salmon & released them quickly. The guides took turns standing guard with their rifles at the ready in case any bears tried to join our fishing outing. The high point of our cruise!

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Icy Strait Point: The Rugged Side of Alaska

Nestled at the mouth of Port Frederick, Alaska's Icy Strait Point is home to the Huna Tlingit tribes, which have remained in this area for more than 2,000 years. Translated to "Where the north wind doesn't blow," the Tlingit have sustained their home environment at Icy Strait Point by using resources available within a 50-mile radius. Luckily for passengers on an Alaskan cruise , the illustrious scenery of Icy Strait Point has remained unharmed by modern pollutants, and wildlife roam freely throughout the rugged landscape. Fewer than 1,000 people live in the Hoonah village, and locals welcome visitors, eager to share their beautiful land with all those who arrive on their shores.

During an Alaska cruise of Icy Strait Point , passengers will learn about a truly unique side of Alaska. The Tlingit have managed to keep their day-to-day lives humble by fishing, farming and handcrafting stunning goods such as baskets, wooden bowls and paintings. Originally built as a salmon cannery, Icy Strait Point served as an economic mainstay for Hoonah natives who wanted to learn more about the world outside of their isolated home.

The Native Heritage Center is an ideal place to get to know the history of this secluded part of Alaska and provides cruise passengers the opportunity to look through genuine, centuries-old Tlingit artifacts before settling down to enjoy a live cultural performance.

Located within the Native Heritage Center, the theater displays entertaining and informative live performances that showcase the rich and colorful history and legends of the Tlingit people. Dancers and actors don traditional garb as they tell audience members the story of their land and people.

Icy Strait Point shore excursion packages include the seafood feast and tribal dance experience, during which passengers can wine and dine on fresh seafood including salmon, king crab and halibut while watching the cultural performance.

Surrounded by snowcapped mountains and endless rows of evergreens, Icy Strait Point is a nature lover's dream destination. The land is teeming with wildlife such as brown bears, bald eagles and moose, along with stunning flora that blossom in the early summer - right when Princess Cruises docks.  

Visitors won't want to miss the chance to take a road trip inland, where they'll be treated to incredible views of the jagged coastline as well as the dense wilderness. Princess passengers can experience The Great Land in any way that suits their fancy, from thrilling ATV rides through the forest to fishing and whale watching along the glimmering shoreline.

The land surrounding Icy Strait Point supports the largest concentration of brown bears in the world, and Princess passengers should have their cameras ready and fingers on the shutter to capture these majestic beasts as they catch salmon in their mouths.

Formerly one of the world's most productive salmon canneries, The Icy Strait Point Cannery once exported more than 150,000 cases of salmon every year - amounting to about 3600 tons. Today, the cannery has been converted into a popular shopping strip where Princess passengers can browse through the local shops and craft workshops, gaining a better understanding of who the Tlingit people are.

Among the unique shops, Alaska Wood Creations features products made by Tlingit natives, and visitors are encouraged to ask about the meticulous etching and sculpting process.

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Cruise to Icy Strait Point, Alaska

Icy strait point shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in icy strait point.

SCENIC SOARING

Longest Zip Line, Icy Strait Point, Alaska

Brave the ZipRider®, the world’s longest zip line, and enjoy amazing views of the forest as you race from a mountain peak at 60 miles per hour.

GO WHALE WATCHING

Whale Watching, Icy Strait Point, Alaska

See the amazing humpback whales that call the waters of Icy Strait Point their home. You might even catch them bubble net feeding!

CULTURE TRIP

Watch members of the Huna Tlingit Dancers troupe tell the story of their tribal heritage through song and dance at the Native Heritage Center Theater.

LOCAL CUISINE

Hearty and rich, Alaska cuisine is made to hit the spot. Most meals spotlight local fish or caribou, and Dungeness crab when it’s in season. For a real Alaska specialty, head to the Cookhouse Restaurant and try the reindeer chili or the Alaska Blue Burger, made with reindeer meat, blue cheese and merlot steak sauce.

You’ll find plenty of authentic Alaska gifts just a quick stroll from the dock at the historic Cannery Shops. Look for jewelry made from fine gold nuggets, handcrafted objects, and warm winter fashions.

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Alaska Itineraries: Icy Straight Point vs. Skagway

• Thread starter TooBoyz4us
• Start date Jan 16, 2024

DIS Veteran

• Jan 16, 2024
• Glacier Viewing (Stikine Icecap), Alaska
• Icy Strait Point, Alaska
• Juneau, Alaska
• Ketchikan, Alaska
• Skagway, Alaska

TooBoyz4us said: In doing my research for our first Alaska Cruise, which will be in 2025, I noticed that for 2024 the itineraries swap each week, being either : Glacier Viewing (Stikine Icecap), Alaska Icy Strait Point, Alaska Juneau, Alaska Ketchikan, Alaska OR Glacier Viewing (Stikine Icecap), Alaska Skagway, Alaska Juneau, Alaska Ketchikan, Alaska Almost ALL of the video reviews I have watched go to Skagway. Does this mean that the Icy Straight Point cruises are less full? What exactly is the difference (and preference) between the two ports other than the fact that the Skagway itinerary is slightly more expensive? Click to expand...

It could end up curdled

Icy Strait Point is known for whale watching. And bear watching. Skagway is known for the railway up the mtn. Basically it depends on what you want to do. Google shore excursions for both ports for pics and descriptions. Both ports are worth a visit; it just depends on the activities your family wants to do.  

figmentfinesse

We visited Icy Strait Point with a different cruise line (before DCL started sailing there.) Some friends recommended the port because of all the whales they saw -- said it was almost boring to spot another whale. We didn't see quite that many; in fact the closest we came to a whale was when we got back to the ship and a whale was swimming right next to it, ready for a photo op. Our shore excursion also included bear watching, so we took a bus through the local village to get there. Lots of poverty, like some of the Caribbean islands. Some of the Icy Strait Point locals weren't too thrilled when cruise ships started visiting their remote town but the almighty dollar has certainly helped the economy. The side of the tour bus was supposed to say "Hoonah Tours" but an unfortunate typo called it the Hoohah Tour. ahem. I would assume that's been corrected by now. We went on a small hike to a bear viewing platform. The guide was well-armed; literally loaded for bear, and watching for fresh tracks and bear scat. We saw some bear through binoculars, which was close enough for us, thanks. Meanwhile, the train in Skagway is very scenic -- that town is more upscale with more touristy shops.  

DisneyConvert

Terrific tourer.

We booked our own trip in Skagway with "Frontier Excursions & Adventures." Very modern and roomy 1X-passenger bus with lots of room to stretch out, and big windows. Guide/driver kept us entertained and we saw A LOT (way more than the train would, and I am a choo-choo fan) at a much lower price. Made it all the way up to Carcross and Craig Lake YK and got a real flavor of the route of the Klondike excursioneers in 1890's. Yes, I recommend.  

justafigment27

We visited both Skagway and Icy Strait Point on our cruise and they were my two favorite ports. I’d happily go to either one again. Skagway was great for heading to the Yukon, taking the scenic railway, etc. It’s a very busy port and there were other ships in port and some large bus excursions. We had a great tour guide on a small bus/big van with Chilkoot charters and actually saw a Mama Bear and two cubs thanks to the tour guide’s eagle eyes and and driving skills (he spotted the bears along side the road and whipped us around and we were able to watch them from the bus windows until they ambled back into the bush). We had several stops along the way and then took the train back. It was a long, tiring day … but we enjoyed all the stops and our tour guide was great. Because of ISP’s proximity to Point Adolphus, whale watching is excellent (humpbacks). We took a private charter (6 passengers max) whale watching and it was my favorite excursion - saw lots of whales and even some sea otters and other wildlife. Scenery was pristine and amazing. It was a more relaxing port with fewer activities and less hustle and bustle than Skagway and it was just the Wonder in port (not sure if they can accommodate more than one ship or not).  

Incidentally, if whale watching is one of your goals, then consider booking a whale watching cruise in Vancouver before or after your DCL cruise. There are plenty of them on offer and they almost always see whales (usually humpbacks and orcas). They might be cheaper than what you can book in Alaska, too.  

ScooterScott44

• Jan 17, 2024

We stopped at both on a cruise (Royal Caribbean) back in 2019. Both have things to do but vary in what may interest you. Icy Straight Point is technically owned by the cruise lines, but is near the town of Hoonan. Most everything (excursions) originates from the port area which is maintained and run by the cruise industry but there is the real town just down the road. There is a large zip line and some other adventure land based things to do but more focus on getting out on the water. There is a little walking path and “cannery” area inside the actual grounds. Icy Straight Point definitely looks towards the sea as the star of the show. Skagway is different in that the town can be explored just by walking off the ship. Not that there is no history in Hoonah, but the restaurant , bars, and shops can really be explored with ease In Skagway. The railway up to the Yukon, zip lining in the valley, and other tours give a little more variety here but expect a little less in the way of water focusing tours. Skagway leans into the mountains and gold rush aspect more than having a sea focus. They both have positives and negatives. The historic aspect of Skagway is easier to see and access. The wildlife was plentiful at ISP, we saw whales, seals, bears eagles all with hardly trying. Good luck planning.  

Icy Strait Point is less developed. Way less developed. They have a very nice zip line - that is rather pricy (approaching $300 for a 90-second ride), although it is spectacular and long/steep. It is a seated zip, so it may be more accessible to those who have physical limitations or some fears. A gondola system is new in the last few years; no need to ride a school bus to the top of the mountain. There are two commercial areas for the tourists - and these are very small, tasteful. Somewhat like being in a National Park. But nothing to keep you occupied for hours. A few miles away is the community of Hoonah, the residential fishing?village. If it weren’t for the two dock areas at Icy Strait Point itself, you wouldn’t think “cruise destination.” I did a combo whale watch and zip line excursion there in 2021. Great whale viewing on a beautiful September day. Skagway is definitely a cruise destination. Take a very small town that looks like a Main Street from a western movie, set it by the Lynn Canal and mountains. Add a port that handles five or so cruise ships at a time. Historically, the starting point for men to begin the Yukon Trail in their search for wealth in the Gold Rush. The train can take you up the mountain to Yukon, Canada. Bring you back or put you on a bus for return (or vice versa). Peaceful excursion. You can take a classic AK cruise staple - the helicopter flight to land in a glacier. Or to play with husky/sled dog puppies. Rent a car and drive into Yukon to see an inland desert or an Emerald Lake. Visit a dog sled interaction. We drove all the way to Whitehorse, the capital of Yukon Terr. You can even take the fast ferry up the Lynn Canal (the deepest fjord in North America) to visit Haines, a very small community. Hike, bike, kayak. Eat fudge, drink beer, visit an old-time saloon, shop for souvenirs, drink Starbucks. You can walk the Main Street in less than a mile, or so it seems. This is tourist Alaska. But not like tourist Caribbean. No one waiting to greet you and sell you stuff. I don’t remember seeing kiosks offering excursions, even. (They have those in Juneau and Ketchikan. But they aren’t aggressive, just there if you need them). Skagway is typically a walk to town situation. Several if the cruise ships are a straight walk up the street to the main area. A few might be tendered? Or at the dock near the landslips that occurred in the last few years. We had a shuttle bus that ran from that location when in the Wonder.  

I loved both ports while we cruised last year on a different line. Icy Straight Point port has the zip line and feels more remote, while Skagway is an actual town with more to do. The train was nice, but if we go back I would rent a car and drive up towards Canada so that we can stop along the way. The weather was beautiful in Skagway and rained in ISP, so it made a difference too.  

The Wonder is not so big - and AK is still a big draw for many people - that I don’t think a difference in guest count would be significant. If Icy Strait Point weeks are less expensive, it may pull in cruisers who are looking for any way to cut the cost of Disney to Alaska.  

Kwami said: In previous years, almost all of the cruises went to Skagway. That's why you see so many Skagway videos. I haven't been to Icy Straight Point, so I can't compare the two. Sorry! Click to expand...

Earning My Ears

The first 2 times, I loved Icy Strait Point and couldn’t wait to go back there in 2023, but there was a huge Norwegian ship in prior to our arrival and it was so crowded, we couldn’t wait to get back on the Wonder. There are more things to do and Skagway seems better prepared to handle crowds.  

We wouldn’t skip Skagway - it was amazing! We rented a car, grabbed a picnic lunch, and drove to the Yukon Territory. Some of our most memorable moments from our Alaskan cruise!  

• Jan 18, 2024

I’ll throw this out there. If you are looking for the “I went in an Alaskan cruise” experience, pick Skagway. If you are the type who likes less tourism, less developed - but with a pricey ZipRider (and, yes, I love it), go for Icy Strait Point.  

I have not been to ISP, but will say that Skagway was my favorite part of our cruise last summer. We booked a third-party hike and float excursion that was hiking in the historic Dyea area and a gentle river raft ride. We also had time in the afternoon for a sort hike near the cruise port.  

• Jan 23, 2024

Go with what your family wants to do with activities in those specific ports. Icy strait is another chance of whale watching if you want to do other things in Juneau. Personally after going last year to both ports I would skip icy strait and do Skagway. Icy strait has the zipline but it wasn't anything I was interested in. I did do whale watching but it was the same pod watching over and over but In Juneau I saw them bubble feeding which was amazing. Skagway there are tons of things to do and you can purchase specific things. Ie pandora charms get crafted beers.  

Salmon are running in the river near Haines in late August and September, and as a pp mentioned, you take the ferry from Skagway. I did the bear and eagle excursion. It was pouring rain, and the bears hesitate to go to the river in the rain, so we struggled to find some. Luckily, at the very end of 2 hours of driving and looking, we did see Mom and 2 cubs catching salmon in the river. Good thing because I think there might have been a mutiny! Weather definitely impacted my Alaska cruise; it poured in Skagway and Ketchican and was just gentle raining in Juneau and Sitka. Not sure I want to return unless you can promise me clear skies, and I know you can't. ETA-I did choose September because I wanted to see bears. They don't do that excursion earlier in the year because they are drawn to the salmon.  

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The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Disney Cruise Line ship

I s a voyage on a Disney Cruise Line ship on your bucket list? You'll find a growing number of options when it comes time to pick an itinerary.

While the cruising arm of Disney has long focused mostly on voyages to the Caribbean and the Bahamas, with year-round sailings to those destinations out of Florida, it also now offers a relatively wide range of seasonal sailings to Alaska, the Mexican Riviera, Bermuda, Europe and Canada.

The family-friendly cruise brand, notably, is expanding its footprint worldwide as it adds four new vessels in quick succession.

For more cruise news, guides and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Already, the first of those ships, the 2,508-passenger Disney Wish , has arrived, boosting the size of the Disney fleet from four ships to five and allowing for more departures to the Caribbean, Mexico and Europe.

Two more sister vessels to Disney Wish are due to begin sailing in 2024 and 2025, respectively, allowing for further expansion in Disney cruise itineraries. In addition, the line has yet another new vessel coming in 2025 that isn't related to the other three. Called Disney Adventure, it's a one-off vessel originally designed for an Asian line , and it'll sail in Asia (perhaps catering mostly to Asian travelers; Disney has been mum so far on the target audience for it).

All these new ships arriving in quick succession will likely mean not just more departures to destinations where Disney Cruise Line is established but also sailings in new regions. For example, Disney has never before offered Asia sailings.

Here are our picks for the five best Disney cruise destinations you can visit with your family.

Caribbean and Bahamas

Disney Cruise Line's top destination has always been the Caribbean and the Bahamas. Since its founding more than two decades ago, the brand has based the bulk of its fleet in Florida to offer sailings to the islands. Port Canaveral, which is just an hour away from Disney's Orlando-area theme parks, has always been its biggest hub.

The line is particularly known for three- and four-night cruises out of Port Canaveral to Castaway Cay and Nassau in the Bahamas. These short getaways let families get a taste of Disney cruising that some Disney fans pair with a stay at Disney World.

The cruise line also regularly offers seven-night sailings out of Port Canaveral that visit Caribbean islands like St. Thomas and Tortola.

Related: First look at Disney Wish in photos

In recent years, Disney has also built up its Caribbean and Bahamas cruise offerings from other ports in Florida — initially Miami and, more recently, Fort Lauderdale. The ships the line has based in these ports typically offer four- and five-night sailings to Castaway Cay and one other port, such as Cozumel or Grand Cayman.

In addition, Disney is offering a growing number of Caribbean sailings out of Galveston, Texas, and New Orleans.

For 2024, the line will have four of its five ships — Disney Wish, Disney Dream, Disney Magic and Disney Fantasy — sailing to the Bahamas and Caribbean out of one of the above ports, with their home bases often shifting between them.

Disney Wish, which is Disney's newest ship, will be based in Port Canaveral year-round to operate the line's classic three- and four-night sailings to the Bahamas. These voyages are designed to be paired with a visit to nearby Disney World for a longer Disney vacation.

Disney Fantasy will also sail out of Port Canaveral to the Bahamas and Caribbean year-round, offering longer voyages.

Disney Dream will spend the start and the end of the year sailing short trips to the Bahamas and Caribbean out of Fort Lauderdale, with a stint in the middle of the year (from May to October) sailing in Europe.

Disney Magic will take Disney Dream's place sailing short trips to the Bahamas and Caribbean out of Fort Lauderdale from May to October. During the early and late months of the year, it'll sail out of Galveston.

Come 2025, Disney will have four ships — Disney Fantasy, Disney Wish, Disney Dream and Disney Magic — sailing three- to five-night getaways from Florida to the line's Bahamian destinations, including its new private beach destination Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and its long-open private island Disney Castaway Cay. Disney Fantasy and Disney Wish will operate the trips from Port Canaveral, while Disney Dream and Disney Magic will sail from Fort Lauderdale.

Before taking up residence in Florida in April 2025, Disney Magic will also offer three months' worth of sailings out of Galveston, Texas, to Progreso and Cozumel in Mexico and Grand Cayman.

All of the 2025 sailings are already open for bookings.

Related: The best Caribbean cruise for every type of traveler

Disney has cut back on voyages out of San Diego for 2024, after increasing its San Diego departures sharply in 2023. But it still offers several trips to Mexico out of the city on Disney Wonder.

For 2024, the 1,754-passenger vessel will offer a mix of three- to seven-night sailings to Mexico during March and April. Shorter three- and four-night sailings typically feature calls at Ensenada, Mexico, and California's Catalina Island. Seven-night sailings include calls at Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta in Mexico.

Related: 11 ways to save money on a Disney cruise

The big factor driving Disney's cutbacks on sailings out of San Diego in 2024 is its new focus on voyages out of Australian ports. Disney Wonder will spend much of January and February sailing out of Australian ports and then return to the region in October for another season of Australia trips.

Disney offers a wide variety of itineraries in Europe every summer, from Mediterranean voyages out of Barcelona and Civitavecchia, Italy (the port for Rome), to Northern Europe sailings out of Southampton, England.

Ranging from seven to 11 nights, Disney's Europe voyages each year typically take place on a single ship that sails from multiple home ports throughout the season. For 2024, that ship will be the 2,500-passenger Disney Dream. The line has yet to announce which of its ships will go to Europe in 2025.

Typical for the shorter itineraries the line offers in Europe are seven-night sailings out of Civitavecchia to the Greek Islands. These sailings stop in Mykonos, Santorini and Crete in Greece, as well as Naples, Italy.

Related: 17 tips for sailing on Disney Cruise Line

A longer, 11-night itinerary starting in Civitavecchia and ending in Barcelona includes calls at Piraeus (the port for Athens), Santorini and Mykonos in Greece; Messina (on the island of Sicily), Naples and Livorno in Italy; and Toulon, France.

Among Northern Europe itineraries, Disney offers focused, weeklong sailings to Norway with calls at the Norwegian ports of Alesund, Nordfjordeid, Eidfjord and Stavanger.

Disney does not have a large presence in Alaska. The line sends just one ship to Alaska each year. Family-friendly cruise rivals Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line, by contrast, each send three ships to Alaska each year, and Norwegian Cruise Line sends five vessels to the destination.

Still, Disney fans won't feel like they're missing out. The one vessel Disney sends to Alaska each year, the 1,754-passenger Disney Wonder, stays for nearly the entire summer season, from late June to mid-September and offers a distinctly Disney take on The Last Frontier.

Always beginning and ending in Vancouver, British Columbia, and lasting seven nights, Disney's Alaska sailings typically include stops at three of these four Alaska ports: Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan and Icy Strait Point (which three vary by departure date). Itineraries also include a visit to Stikine Icecap, which is south of Juneau.

Related: 5 reasons Disney cruises aren't just for kids

These are fairly typical ports for an Alaska cruise. But the (extra-charge) activities that Disney has organized for the ports aren't always the same as what other lines offer.

As one might expect for Disney, the line has crafted some of its shore excursions in Alaska ports with special Disney touches, such as Disney character appearances at the Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp & Salmon Bake tour in Ketchikan. (Having done this one myself, I will say, for the record, that it's a little hokey; but it does get you a Disney character fix if that's your aim.)

Another shore excursion with a Disney touch is the outdoor Family Scavenger Hunt at Icy Strait Point, where participants join a local guide on a hunt for items such as clam shells and native plants, as well as a "special surprise" with a Disney theme.

Unlike many lines, Disney does not offer one-way sailings to Alaska from Vancouver or Seattle that can be paired with add-on land tours to create an extended sea-and-land Alaska vacation — something known as a "cruisetour." If that's what you're looking for, and you want to stick with a family-friendly line, you might want to consider the one-way cruisetour offerings from Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line.

Related: The ultimate Alaska cruise guide

Disney typically offers at least one and sometimes several cruises to Bermuda each fall, ranging from quick, five-night trips to longer, eight-night sailings.

For the year just ending (2023), the line offered four such sailings, and it's offered even more than that in certain years. Alas, for the coming year (2024), Disney currently does not have a single Bermuda sailing scheduled — a bit of an anomaly.

That said, we would expect Disney to bring back its Bermuda sailings for 2025 or 2026. It's been such a mainstay of the brand.

So ... stay tuned.

Related: The ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line

Bottom line

Family-friend Disney Cruise Line is a relatively small cruise brand, with just five ships (one of its biggest rivals in the family cruise market, Royal Caribbean, has 26 vessels). But that doesn't mean its itinerary choices are limited. The line offers regular sailings to the Caribbean and Bahamas, Mexican Riviera, Alaska, Bermuda and Europe.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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* Terms & Conditions Package not available on sailings less than 5 days or charter sailings.

Shore Excursions

Whale Watching & Seafood Fest

Icy strait point, alaska.

Whale and Marine Mammals Cruise

Scenic Mountain Ascent & World’s Largest ZipRider

Spasski River Valley & Wildlife

Hoonah Sightseeing - April Only

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Shore EXCURSIONS

Shore excursions (21).

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Duration 3 1/2 hrs

Cruise into waters teeming with humpback whales and other marine life, and then dine on traditional Alaskan dishes at a seafood feast. Point Adolphus has the highest concentration of humpback whales in the Alaskan panhandle, so be on the lookout for these majestic and intelligent creatures. They will be breaching the water’s surface, waving their flukes up and down as they dive, and feeding voraciously to fatten up for their winter migration south. You might also observe frolicking Dall’s porpoises, Stellar Sea Lions, curious Harbor Seals and Orca whales, which sometimes feed on infirm or wounded humpbacks. Be sure to look skyward for majestic bald eagles, too. Following the whale-watching adventure, you too will have the opportunity to feast. A sumptuous meal of classic Alaskan dishes awaits you back in Hoonah. The menu will include seasonal shrimp and crabs, Andouille sausage and all sorts of sides. Afterwards, you can roast marshmallows around the campfire.

• Adult from: € 304,91 EUR
• Child from: € 249,31 EUR

Duration 1 1/2 hrs

Drive through nearby Hoonah in an open-air tram that presents unobstructed views of this former logging town that is also Alaska’s largest Tlingit village. Commentary will describe how centuries ago advancing glaciers forced the Tlingits from Glacier Bay to present-day Hoonah, a word that means “where the wind doesn’t blow.” Another life-changing event occurred in 1944, when a fire broke out destroying much of the village. The federal government helped rebuild the downtown with housing that was supposed to be sent to Hawaii during World War II. These homes are still referred to as war houses. While riding through Hoonah, you will likely see depictions of ravens and eagles on many of the buildings, which represent the two complementary Tlingit social clans. Hoonah lies on the Alaska Marine Highway, a coastal route that ferries travel to give locals easy access to the southeastern part of the state.

• Ride through Hoonah in an open-air tram and hear commentary that describes the highlights. • Learn about momentous events in the history of Hoonah. • Gain an understanding of the indigenous Tlingits that have lived in this area for centuries.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing. • Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

• Adult from: € 91,75 EUR
• Child from: € 54,68 EUR

Whale Watching & Bear Search

Duration 5 hrs

Venture into the pristine wilds to look for iconic Alaskan animals such as humpback whales and grizzly bears in their natural habitats. Your adventure will begin aboard a whale-watching boat accompanied by a naturalist that will describe the creatures that you may soon observe. The nutrient-rich waters here are teeming with humpback whales that come to feed each summer before heading south to their breeding grounds. What a sight to watch these behemoths, which grow to about 50 feet long, as they breach the water’s surface and then dive down to feed again. Chances are, you will also catch sight of porpoises, sea lions and seals. After disembarking, you will drive deep into the remote Spasski River Valley to a raised observation platform to look for grizzly bears. They take their name from the gray, grizzled tips of their fur. Bald eagles and Sitka black-tailed deer are also commonly spotted here.

• Adult from: € 277,11 EUR
• Child from: € 240,04 EUR

Seafood Feast - April Only

Duration 1 hr

Savor a sumptuous meal of Alaskan favorites while enjoying spectacular views from the waterfront. Icy Strait Point was first developed in 1912 around a salmon cannery that operated until the fire of 1944 destroyed nearby Hoonah. The cannery was eventually converted into a support facility for the area’s fishing fleet, which thrives today. All the seafood for your feast will have been located caught in the deep cold waters off Icy Strait Point, so you can be sure that it will be fresh and flavorful. The menu includes shrimp and crab, which depending on the season may be king crab, which is prized for its sweet meat. The seafood is traditionally boiled in Southern seasoning, a preparation that really enhances the flavor. Other specialties include Andouille sausage – which has a sharper, smokier taste and a chunkier texture than most other sausages. For dessert, head for the campfire to roast marshmallows and make s’mores.

• Feast on a classic Alaskan seafood lunch that includes shrimp and seasonal crab. • Enjoy an array of side dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. • Roast marshmallows and make s’mores around the campfire.

• Adult from: € 119,56 EUR
• Child from: € 73,22 EUR

Wildlife & Sea Cruise - April Only

Duration 2 1/2 hrs

Look for humpback whales and other marine life in the nutrient-rich waters off Point Adolphus, one of Alaska’s premier areas to observe wildlife. During the cruise, a naturalist will describe the diversity of animals that converge there each summer. They come primarily to feed in the waters that are extraordinarily rich in halibut, salmon and plankton. Point Adolphus is noted for having the highest concentration of humpback whales in the Alaskan panhandle, so be on the lookout for these majestic and intelligent creatures. Humpback whales are but one of the species that congregate in the summer feeding grounds off Point Adolphus. You might also observe Dall’s porpoises, Stellar sea lions, harbor seals and orca whales.

• Cruise the nutrient-rich waters off Point Adolphus, where countless marine creatures feed. • Look for majestic humpback waters breaching the water’s surface. • Scan the coastline for sea lions and harbor seals.

• Adult from: € 184,43 EUR
• Child from: € 119,56 EUR

Wildlife & Seafood Feast - Cruise - April Only

Be on the lookout for humpback whales and other marine life and then feast on an array of seafood. No place along the Alaskan panhandle attracts more humpback whales than Point AdolphusThe sight of a whale breaching the water’s surface is absolutely mesmerizing. Dall’s porpoises, Stellar sea lions, harbor seals and orca whales are also plentiful in these nutrient-rich waters. A sumptuous meal of classic Alaskan dishes awaits you back on shore. The menu will include shrimp, crabs, Andouille sausage and every imaginable side dish. Afterwards, you can roast marshmallows and make s’mores around the campfire.

• Watch for whales breaching the water’s surface. • Look for porpoises, sea lions, seals and bald eagles, as well. • Feast on classic Alaskan seafood dishes and roast marshmallows around a campfire.

• Adult from: € 258,57 EUR
• Child from: € 221,50 EUR

Watch humpback whales and other marine creatures cavorting in the nutrient-rich waters at Point Adolphus, one of Alaska’s premier observation points. During the cruise, a naturalist will describe the diversity of animals that converge here each summer. They come primarily to feed in the waters that are extraordinarily rich in halibut, salmon and plankton. Point Adolphus is noted for having the highest concentration of humpback whales in the Alaskan panhandle, so be on the lookout for these majestic and intelligent creatures. You can expect them to be breaching the water’s surface, waving their flukes up and down as they dive, and feeding voraciously to fatten up for their winter migration south. You might also observe frolicking Dall’s porpoises, Stellar sea lions, curious harbor seals and Orca whales. You may also see graceful bald eagles swooping down to grab fish in their talons, and perhaps even bears and deer in the surrounding wooded landscape.

• Adult from: € 240,04 EUR
• Child from: € 184,43 EUR

Ride the world’s largest and longest zip-line high above the treetops and down a mountain at hair-raising speeds. This exhilarating adventure on the ZipRider is for the thrill-seeker, not the faint-hearted. Available to virtually everyone, your fun starts with a mesmerizing ascent on the Mountain Top Gondola. You will find the views of Icy Strait, your ship, and maybe even a glimpse of the Glacier Bay National Park breathtaking. Upon reaching the staging area at 1,300 feet above sea level, the real thrill begins as you are strapped into the harness seat and step off the zip-line platform into thin air. Traveling at speeds up to 60 miles per hour, you will zoom along over the dense forest. As you look down, the scenery will zip by. The ride is more than a mile long with a plummeting vertical drop. It is just like flying but without the airplane. As you approach the landing zone on the beach, the ZipRider will automatically brake, easing you onto the soft sand. Incudes unlimited Gondola rides!

• Adult from: € 249,31 EUR
• Child from: € 212,23 EUR

Look for bears, deer and bald eagles in their natural habitats from an elevated observation area in the remote Spasski River Valley. As you leave Hoonah, Alaska’s largest Tlingit Indigenous settlement, the guide will enlighten you with stories about the Tlingits and their fascinating history. Upon reaching the valley, you will walk along a gravel path and boardwalk to the elevated viewing platform. Be on the lookout for the diverse wildlife that makes its home here, including grizzly bears, which are highly intelligent omnivores that primarily eat vegetation. While this is an excellent area to observe animals, they roam freely, so there are no guarantees that you will see them. The Sitka black-tail deer is another native that may be spotted from the observation area, as well as land otters, mink and marten. And don’t forget to look skyward for bald eagles, a highly efficient bird of prey that frequents the valley.

• Adult from: € 147,36 EUR

Icy Strait Point Kayaking

Your guide will meet you at the Kayak Center to escort you to the staging area for an orientation and safety instruction. The protected waters of Port Frederick are yours to explore as you set off from the beach at Icy Strait Point in your two person wilderness sea kayak. Led by your safety certified, local guide, you'll paddle along the Hoonah waterfront enroute to quieter waters where bald eagles are often seen. Keep your eyes open and your spirit of adventure high throughout this 2 1/2 hour tour as humpback whales have been known to feed along the very same route you'll be paddling.

• Adult from: € 202,97 EUR
• Child from: € 156,63 EUR

In Alaska's Wildest Kitchen

Learn hands-on how to prepare and grill locally caught seafood and then savor the feast that you have masterfully created. This one-of-a-kind culinary class isn’t just educational and entertaining; it’s immensely satisfying to the palate, as you will dine on the specialties that you have grilled. First, you will learn how to prepare the dishes, using the preferred methods of filleting fish and adding seasonings that bring out the full flavors. Depending on the recipe, you may use freshly picked herbs or traditional sauces concocted from local ingredients. After the dishes are prepared, they will be grilled over alder wood, which imparts a unique smoked flavoring because of the natural sugars stored in the wood. Your mouth will surely be watering as the seafood is expertly grilled. Then comes the moment you have been waiting for: feasting on the grilled bounty of the sea; a delicious meal you now know how to recreate at home.

• Child from: € 101,02 EUR

Ocean Raft Adventure

Duration 2 hrs

Look for wildlife while zipping along the rugged coastline in an open-air, high-speed boat. You will ride in a Rigid Hull Inflatable vessel that is 27 feet long and designed to race through the sea with maximum maneuverability. The exact route will depend on the weather conditions, but you can expect to enjoy close-up views of tidal flats and land animals such as brown bears and Sitka black-tailed deer. The seas here are also teeming with iconic Alaskan animals. You may spot humpback whales breaching the water’s surface, pods of orcas, frolicking sea otters and sleek seals. Be sure to look up, as bald eagles and puffins also make their homes in the area. Along the way, the captain will throttle back and elaborate on the importance of the waterways to the native Tlingit, many of whom still follow a traditional lifestyle around Icy Strait Point.

• Adult from: € 230,77 EUR
• Child from: € 230,77 EUR

*Prices vary by ship and sail date. See Terms & Conditions

NCL makes arrangements for Guests for shore excursions solely for the convenience of the Guest; NCL does not act on behalf of or supervise the parties or persons who own, furnish, or operate such excursions, and the same are provided by independent contractors. NCL assumes no responsibility for, nor guarantees the performance of, any such excursion provider, and Guests acknowledge that NCL shall not be liable for losses or injuries arising from the acts or omissions of such provider.

Participation in activities and excursions may involve physical exertion, and may be potentially hazardous or dangerous. It is the responsibility of each individual to determine whether you are capable of engaging in any activity. Participation in any activity or excursion is at your own risk.

Photographs are for illustration purposes only used to represent the excursion experience and may not accurately depict the excursion, location, or activity indicated.

Die Teilnahme an Aktivitäten und Exkursionen kann körperlich anstrengend sein und unter Umständen Risiken und Gefahren beinhalten. Jeder einzelne Gast trägt die Verantwortung dafür, einzuschätzen, ob er/sie in der Lage ist, an entsprechenden Aktivitäten teilzunehmen. Die Teilnahme an Aktivitäten und Exkursionen erfolgt auf eigene Gefahr.

Die Fotos dienen ausschließlich zur Veranschaulichung der Exkursionserfahrung und bilden möglicherweise die entsprechende Exkursion, den Ort oder die Aktivität nicht akkurat ab.

A participação em atividades e excursões pode envolver esforço físico e pode ser perigosa. É sua responsabilidade determinar se você é capaz de participar das atividades. A participação em qualquer atividade ou excursão é por sua conta e risco.

As fotos são apenas para fins ilustrativos, usadas para representar a experiência da excursão e podem não retratar com precisão a localização ou atividade indicada.

アクティビティや寄港地観光ツアーには激しい活動を行うものもあり、危険が伴う場合もあります。 内容がご自身に適したものかは各自でご判断ください。 アクティビティや寄港地観光ツアーへは、あくまでもご自身の責任でご参加いただきますようお願いいたします。

写真は寄港地観光ツアーの体験を表現するためのもので、実際のツアーや場所、アクティビティとは異なる場合があります。

La partecipazione ad attività ed escursioni potrebbe prevedere sforzi fisici e potrebbe essere potenzialmente rischiosa o pericolosa. È responsabilità di ciascun individuo stabilire se si è in grado di partecipare a qualsiasi attività. La partecipazione a qualunque attività o escursione è a proprio rischio e pericolo.

Le fotografie utilizzate per raffigurare l'escursione sono unicamente a fini illustrativi e potrebbero non rappresentare accuratamente l'escursione, il luogo o l'attività indicata.

La participation aux activités et excursions peut demander un effort physique et peut parfois être potentiellement dangereuse. Il revient à toute personne de déterminer si elle est capable de participer à une activité ou non. La participation à toute activité ou excursion se fait à vos propres risques.

Les photos sont affichées à titre d'illustration uniquement et de représentation de l'expérience et peuvent ne pas représenter l'excursion, le lieu ou l'activité indiqués avec précision.

השתתפות בפעילויות ובסיורים עשויה לכלול מאמץ פיזי, ועלולה להיות מסוכנת. זוהי אחריותו של כל אדם לקבוע האם הוא מסוגל להשתתף בכל פעילות. השתתפות בכל פעילות או סיור היא על אחריותכם בלבד.

תמונות מוצגות לצורך הדגמה בלבד, הן משמשות כדי לייצג את חוויית הסיור ועלולות שלא לתאר במדויק את הסיור, המיקום או הפעילות.

Las fotografías son solo para fines ilustrativos y se utilizan para representar la experiencia de la excursión y es posible que no reflejen con precisión la excursión, el lugar o la actividad indicada.