skagway train excursions

Skagway Alaska Tours

• Flight Seeing

Skagway Train Tours

Port: Skagway

Climb aboard the famous White Pass & Yukon Route train ,   and step back in time when the railroad first carried weary miners toward their destination in the Klondike.  This preferred train ride runs from Skagway, Alaska to Fraser BC, climbing almost 3,000 feet while traversing steep trestles and long tunnels while immersed in the stunning scenery of the famed White Pass.  You will see shimmering glaciers, towering waterfalls, and other natural wonders before arriving at the historic Fraser Station.  After a brief visit you will board a bus back to Skagway, travelling along the magnificent Klondike Highway - voted one of the most scenic in North America.  Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife of every sort.  

Passport required for this trip.  Plan on arriving early.  Children two years of age and younger are free.  Snacks available at the depot, but no food is served on board to the train.  All train cars have a bathroom and are heated.  This tour is recommended for all ages.

Passport information required to complete the reservation. 

• Duration: 3.00 hours
• Adults: $155.00
• Children: $77.50

This White Pass & Yukon Route train excursion  takes you from Skagway, Alaska to Fraser BC and back without ever having to leave the comfort of your train car.  Not only will you get to retrace the steps of the intrepid gold seekers from the Days of '98, your tour guide will point out all places of interest - both historical and natural.  Just some of the sights you will experience on this Skagway tour include beatiful waterfalls, towering trestles, and the ever-present possibility of spotting wild animals.  After climing almost 3,000 feet to the top of the White Pass Summit, you will cross over into Canada and continue your journey to Fraser Station where you will have some time to stretch your legs and explore before heading back to Skagway.

Passport required.  You should plan on arriving early, especially if you have a large group.  Children two and under are free.  Snacks are available at the depot, but there is no food or drink service on the train.  All train cars are heated and have their own bathroom.  

Passport information required to complete the reservation.

• Duration: 4.00 hours
• Adults: $165.00
• Children: $82.50

This incredible Skagway train tour offers incredible scenery and a journey back in time to the storied days of the Klondike Gold Rush. You will travel 68 miles by train to Carcross, Yukon Territory along the same route used by grizzly miners with funny-looking hats and sour dispositions. You will enjoy a hearty lunch and thrill to a self-guided tour through Bennett Station, which was built in 1910. Wow. That's a long time ago! Now it's a museum because time marches on. Ride back to Skagway on a bus and see all sorts of different things. Passport is required. Passport information required to complete the reservation. 

• Duration: 5.00 hours
• Adults: $255.00
• Children: $127.50
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201 2nd Ave Skagway, AK 99840 Phone: 907.983.3900 • Fax: 907.983.3915 Mailing Address: M & M Tour Sales P.O. Box 1027 Skagway, AK 99840 Email: [email protected]

© Copyright 2024 M & M Tours. Skagway, Alaska. All rights reserved.

White Pass & Yukon Route Railway

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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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White Pass & Yukon Route Railway - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Yukon Suspension Bridge & Summit Tour

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• Reviews (44)

Excursion Overview

A world-class tourist attraction, yukon suspension bridge.

This small group tour provides a wonderful opportunity to view the stunning scenery of the White Pass and the surrounding area with a local, high quality guide. Meet your guide, board the comfortable vehicle and enjoy a short tour of Skagway's historic district before climbing steeply towards the Chilkoot Mountains. The dramatic scenery of the White Pass summit soon surrounds you. This is a wonderland of impressive peaks, azure lakes and stunted forests. The pace is unhurried; you will have ample time to enjoy the view with stops at choice scenic locations. Past the summit visit the Yukon Suspension Bridge, where you can venture out onto the bridge to get stunning views of the turbulent waters of the Tutshi River below. Learn about the Gold Rush history and the natural history of the area. Walk along the boardwalk and immerse yourself in the miniature world of alpine wildflowers. The tour will return to Skagway with an optional visit (time permitting) to the Gold Rush Cemetery and Lower Reid Falls. A short nature walk through the forest takes you to the base of Lower Reid Falls. The water drops over one hundred feet as it pours out of the forested granite mountainside above. Return to your ship having had an experience you won't forget.

Things You Need to Know

Inclusions:.

• Roundtrip transportation from cruise ship
• Admission to the Yukon Suspension Bridge

Requirements:

• Minimum of 2 passengers required to book
• Passport or Passport ID card (and Visas - USA and Canada if necessary - single entry Visa is OK) are required for all passengers 16 and over. No photocopies of any identification are allowed.
• Children 15 and under are required to have a Passport OR an original raised seal birth certificate (USA citizens only). No photocopies of any identification are allowed.
• Please note: Children traveling with only one parent or without both parents must have a permission letter from the absent parent/parents, giving permission to the person bringing the child on tour to allow them to go to Canada with that person. Documentation should be signed with parent name, address, cell phone contact number, and give the child's legal name and person's legal name they are traveling with. If the single parent or guardian has sole custody, they should travel with a letter to that effect.

Duration: 3 hours (Roundtrip from cruise ship terminal.)

• 15 minutes - meet guides and board tour van
• 1 hour - a scenic drive to White Pass Summit with photo stops
• 30 minutes - stopover at Yukon Suspension Bridge
• 45 minutes - scenic drive return to Skagway
• 15 minutes - photo stop at Reid Falls waterfall
• 15 minutes - return to the ship

Meeting Instructions:

• This tour meets on the cruise ship dock. Fully detailed instructions are included on your finalized ticket vouchers.

ADA Accessibility of Tour:

• This tour is limited mobility accessible but is not recommended for limited mobility guests. Guests must be able to climb 4 steps into and out of the bus independently and with relative ease. There is limited space for collapsible wheelchairs and walkers. There is no storage available for motorized scooters. Please leave a comment during checkout if accommodations for collapsible equipment will be required on tour.

Refund Policy:

• You may cancel for any reason up to seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund.
• Please see our Refund Policy Page for complete details.

Tours can be canceled for any reason up until seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund unless otherwise noted on the individual tour product page in the Things to Know section. To cancel a tour, please use the cancelation request link within your e-ticket that was emailed to you OR send an email to  [email protected] with the following information:

- Order number

- Tour you are canceling

- Number of passengers you wish to cancel

Within 0-7 days before the tour date, cancelations are eligible for a full refund only in the following scenarios:

- The tour is canceled by the tour operator for any reason (for example: bad weather or mechanical issue)

- You experience a medical emergency during this window and can provide documentation (documentation must be submitted within 30 days to receive a refund)

- Your ship changes port itineraries causing you to miss an excursion

All refunds are processed through Alaska Shore Excursions, and will not be processed through any cruise line or local tour provider. Refunds will appear under Alaska Shore Excursions on your bank/credit card statement. Credit card refunds are processed within 10 business days of the request. Exceptions to the refund policy include multi-day packages and some day tours. Please refer to the specific refund policy listed on the individual tour product page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. There is a minimum of 2 guests and a maximum of 14 guests per departure.

This tour does not have an age limit. If a child requires a car seat, please provide advance notice.

Yes, a representative will meet you just past security.

Yes. Folding wheelchairs only, passengers must be able to get in and out of vans independently with relative ease.

We recommend that you dress in layers. It can be cold enough that you want a wool cap, gloves, and a jacket, or it could be so warm you will be in a T-shirt with sunscreen and sunglasses. The weather can change quickly.

Our maximum group size is 14. Our typical tour has around 6-8 guests at one time. We can charter large buses for large groups with advance notice.

Depending on the size of the group and the tour, we utilize everything from an SUV like the Toyota Sequoia or Sienna to the 14-passenger Ford Econoline Van to the 14- passenger Airporter-style bus.

Please advise, car seats are required for children under 4, and boosters for children 4-7. Please indicate if you will need either during checkout.

Check out other frequently asked questions  here !

Guest Reviews

On sep 2023.

We chose this tour because it was a smaller vehicle so we wouldn't be "lost in a crowd" and it was perfect! The van we rode in was comfortable with big windows. Our tour guide, Dale was excellent! He stopped frequently so we could see some hidden gems and get just the right picture. He was very informative and friendly and was on the constant lookout for wildlife. I highly recommend this tour!

AMAZING and EXCELLENT trip!! The best trip we've had for years...Thank you, the team, for providing such a unique experience.

This excursion was one of the best experiences we have ever had. Holden did an amazing job, he was very knowledgeable about the area and happy to answer all of our questions. This young man was an absolute delight, and because of him we are planning another trip in the future to bring our grandson.

We weren't sure what to expect but the tour was easy, fun and beautiful. Our guide provided a lot of good information and the suspension bridge was awesome. Thank you!

On Aug 2023

We took a tour in Skagway to the White Pass Summit and Yukon suspension bridge and it was my FAVORITE excursion! Dale was an INCREDIBLE tour guide! He went out of his way to make sure we could see all that time allowed. He is a professional photographer and gave us pointers on taking the best pictures with our phones! The views were breathtaking. Picture perfect! I could not believe the gift shop did not have prints of photographs or artistic paintings of the view from the center of the bridge! This is an absolute must excursion if you want to see the best of scenic views! (Ask for Dale!)

• Reviews Showing: 44

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Duration: 3 hours

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Adult: $ 126.25

Child (2-12): $ 101.25

Infants (1 and under): $ 20.00

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Skagway's White Pass Railway cruise excursions in Alaska: All you need to know

Even if trains, history and nature aren't your cups of tea on their own, something absurdly special happens when the three combine for an Alaska cruise and train experience.

The White Pass and Yukon Route Railway is a staple of any visit to Skagway, Alaska, particularly if you arrive by ship during an Alaska cruise . The town's success is closely linked to the development of the railroad infrastructure, with the train line carrying both passengers and cargo between Alaska and Canada for more than 120 years.

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I've ridden the train's Skagway-to-White Pass Summit route, and the experience was fascinating and exhilarating, offering a narrated history lesson and views that are absolutely unrivaled by any other train journey I've experienced.

From how it started to where the route will take you and how much you'll pay for tickets, here's what you can expect from a ride on the White Pass Railway, Skagway's most scenic route to Canada.

White Pass and Yukon Route history

Construction on the White Pass train, Skagway's easiest way in and out during the gold rush days of the early 1900s, began in 1898, with investors from the U.S., Canada and England — and more than 35,000 workers — coming together to complete the $10 million project in just two years.

Until the tracks were laid, the two main routes over the mountain were the shorter but steeper Chilkoot Trail and the longer but flatter White Pass, both of which presented rough terrain and brutal conditions for anyone who made the trek.

Each person who ventured out in search of gold via one of the two paths was required to carry 1 ton of supplies to see them through their trip, making the hike even more treacherous. After the railroad's completion, the expedition was far less arduous, and it took much less time for stampeders to reach the Klondike region.

From 1982 to 1988 — after more than 80 continuous years in operation, including during the winter months — the railroad halted services when the cost of metal dropped and mines, which produced most of the train's cargo, closed.

In 1988, the route reopened as a tourist attraction and now operates from early May through late September to align with the Alaska cruise season. In 1994, the White Pass and Yukon Route was designated an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark, among the likes of the Eiffel Tower and the Statue of Liberty.

White Pass train price

Like the mountain over which the locomotives run, the cost to ride the train along the White Pass Summit route is steep. Tickets purchased online at least 24 hours in advance are $142 per adult and $71 per child for the 2.5- to 3-hour trip, which takes passengers 20 miles from Skagway to an elevation of 3,000 feet before turning around at the Canadian border and heading back.

The White Pass and Yukon Route Railway also sells tickets to non-cruise passengers for options like one-way train rides and camping, as well as connections via Carcross and Bennett, which venture out of Alaska and into British Columbia before entering the Yukon Territory.

If you do the Skagway train tour from your cruise ship, you're almost guaranteed to pay more. I bought my White Pass Summit adult ticket through Norwegian Cruise Line as a shore excursion, and it set me back $219 — a significant but not unexpected markup of $77. (On some sailings, the excursion starts at only $199 per adult and $99 per child.)

Longer and more expensive variations of the train trip, when booked as cruise shore excursions , include visits to local sights before or after the train ride, as well as hybrid train and motorcoach rides that venture as far north as Carcross in Canada's Yukon Territory.

Prices vary by cruise line and specific tour inclusions.

How to purchase tickets for the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway

In addition to purchasing tickets yourself online on the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway website or through your cruise line's app, website or shore excursion desk, you can buy day-of tickets at the ticket office on Second Avenue in Skagway. There, you'll also find The Train Shoppe, which sells all sorts of memorabilia and apparel.

Whether you purchase your tickets online or in person, through your cruise line or directly from White Pass and Yukon Route, you can choose from several departure times. Select one that fits your schedule. If you book independently (not through your cruise line), double-check that the time you pick coincides with the time your ship will be in port.

Where does Skagway's White Pass train go?

The train ride for visitors to Skagway starts at the train tracks about halfway between the cruise ship docks and the downtown area.

From there, the train will travel, without stopping, to one of several points: White Pass Summit at the U.S. border with Canada, where the train will turn around and travel back down the mountain to Skagway (most excursions); Fraser, British Columbia, where passengers can transfer to motorcoaches that travel the Klondike Highway (also an outpost for Canadian customs); and Carcross in Canada's Yukon Territory, where passengers can explore the historic town, including a gold rush general store.

Along the way, riders can follow along with provided maps to track their route past several points of interest, including the rail line's maintenance shops, a donated caboose now rented as an Airbnb, gravesites, waterfalls, steel bridges, two tunnels and lookout points that make for fantastic photo opportunities.

What it's like to ride the White Pass and Yukon Route train

When you book (or receive your ticket, in the case of a cruise line booking), you will be given a meeting place and instructed to be there at a set time. If you're coming from a cruise ship and plan to spend time in town prior to your ride, take note of your meeting place well ahead of time to be sure you know how to get there. My travel companion and I took a wrong turn on our way to the meeting spot and would have missed our excursion had it not been for a kind rail worker who saw us running with our tickets and gave us a ride.

Apart from the railroad's six brand-new engines, its fleet is impressively vintage, consisting of two steam engines from the first half of the 20th century, 20 diesel-electric locomotives dating from the 1950s and 92 restored and replica passenger coaches, including one that's more than 140 years old. As such, there is no air conditioning in the coaches, so passengers can expect things to feel a bit stuffy if it's a hot day. On my journey, it was chilly, making it a pleasant ride.

Although travelers are prohibited from moving between coaches while the train is in motion, they are permitted to stand on the exterior terraces on either side of each car for fresh air and views that are unimpeded by the coaches' glass windows. Be warned that visibility can be poor and the vibe creepy when the weather is foggy, as it was the first time I rode the train back in 2013. Ten years later, I caught a break and happened to visit on a clear, sunny day when I enjoyed phenomenal views.

Guides and eventually the conductor will come through to say hello, check tickets and sell souvenirs, such as DVDs, hats and photo books. They can also answer any questions you have. Guides narrate during the trip, providing valuable tidbits of information about each point of interest the train passes on the mountain. If you enjoy the experience, it's appropriate to tip a few dollars to your car's guide or to tip a larger amount to the conductor, who will divide it among all the staff.

Each passenger is provided with a free booklet about the train route's history. It includes safety rules, a map with a blurb about each point of interest, information about the fleet, a preview of items available to purchase at The Train Shoppe in town and a couple of puzzles to pass the time. (Some passengers report being bored during their rides. If you're worried, bring a pen for the puzzles.)

Bottom line

While I don't recommend a ride if you're someone who can't sit still for long periods of time or if you're afraid of heights, I do think it's one of the best activities a visitor to Alaska can do .

If you're looking for a memorable way to grasp the history and sheer vastness that is the Alaskan wilderness, a ride on the White Pass and Yukon Route train is something you don't want to miss.

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Skagway: A Classic Stop on Your Alaska Cruise

Skagway, Alaska, nestled in the northern reaches of the Inside Passage, invites cruisers with its rich history and stunning landscapes. Once a bustling gold rush town, the city retains its frontier charm with colorful buildings and historic sites amidst breathtaking scenery. From scenic hikes to railway rides, Skagway offers an unforgettable Alaskan experience for cruisers seeking both history and natural beauty.

A City Packed with History and Charm

Nestled within the grandeur of Alaska’s Inside Passage , Skagway stands as a testament to the rugged spirit of the North. Its history is steeped in the lore of the Klondike Gold Rush , a frenzied era when fortune-seekers flooded into the region in search of elusive riches.

Established as a gateway to the goldfields of the Yukon , Skagway witnessed a flurry of activity as prospectors, merchants, and opportunists converged upon its shores in the late 1800s.

Today, you can see glimpses of its tumultuous past through the town’s meticulously preserved historic district, where colorful storefronts and wooden boardwalks transport visitors back to the heyday of the gold rush.

What truly sets Skagway apart, however, is its undeniable charm. Despite its modest size, the town exudes a warmth and authenticity that beguiles all who wander its streets. There’s an unmistakable sense of community that pervades Skagway’s atmosphere.

Moreover, the town’s intimate setting only adds to its allure. Surrounded by towering peaks of the Coast Mountains , visitors can’t help but feel dwarfed by the sheer scale of the landscape, a reminder of the awe-inspiring power of the Alaskan wilderness.

Ultimately, what people remember about visiting Skagway is the town’s ability to transport them to another time and place, where the allure of gold and the call of the wild still echoes. It’s a place where history comes alive, where nature reigns supreme, and where everything is coated with the magic of the Last Frontier . And that’s what makes Skagway worth visiting.

What to Do in Skagway?

The short answer: A LOT!

There are so many great things to do in Skagway, we can’t list them all here; but, we have gathered some of our clients favorite excursions for your consideration.

Exploring the Historic District

The gold rush towns of skagway and dyea  .

Visiting Skagway’s historical district is a step back to the gold rush era, with charming streets and well-preserved buildings like the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad Depot . The city is a living story of adventure and perseverance, making it a must-visit for those intrigued by the Alaskan frontier’s pioneering spirit.

Broadway Street , Skagway’s main thoroughfare, is lined with colorful storefronts adorned with Victorian-era architecture. Imagine the bustling frontier town’s past as you amble down the wooden sidewalks, the smell of a freshly baked Klondike Doughboy pastry tempting you.

Among the notable landmarks along Broadway is the iconic Red Onion Saloon , its stark red exterior and swinging doors a reminder of Skagway’s rowdier days. Inside, the ambiance reminds you of its past as a raucous 19th-century brothel, complete with period decor and servers clad in vintage attire.

Next door is the Arctic Brotherhood Hall , a striking building adorned with driftwood and intricate gold rush-era motifs. Also close by is the Klondike Gold Rush Museum with artifacts showcasing life and work during the gold rush days. Over on Spring Street you find the Skagway Museum with exhibits that highlight the town’s evolution from a remote outpost to a thriving hub of activity.

The Ghost Town of Dyea

Dyea , a haunting relic of the Klondike Gold Rush, stands frozen in time in the rugged Alaskan wilderness. This town, along with nearby Skagway, served as the starting point for 40,000 adventurers scrambling to the Yukon and Chilkoot Trail in hopes of finding their fame and fortune.

Situated at the mouth of the Taiya River, this seasonal fish camp-turned-boomtown boasted a population of thousands in the late 19th century. Today, Dyea’s silent streets, remnants of weathered wooden buildings, and overgrown trails are empty reminders of the town’s heyday.

As nature reclaims its territory, you can get a glimpse into Dyea’s past , learning how quickly dreams clashed with reality in the harsh Alaskan frontier. You’ll see Slide Cemetery containing victims of the 1898 Palm Sunday avalanche at the Chilkoot Trail, and have the chance to explore the entrance to the Chilkoot Trail yourself.

Just as quickly as Dyea bloomed, it almost vanished – with barely 70 people left in the town by 1901. The combination of the avalanche and the construction of the White Pass & Yukon route Railroad eventually diverted prospectors from Dyea and the Chilkoot Trail to the White Pass Trail and Skagway’s city streets.

Heading to the Wild Frontier 

Frontier excursions out of Skagway put you right into the untamed beauty of Alaska’s wilderness. The city serves as a gateway to vast expanses of raw natural splendor, offering numerous outdoor activities from glacier trekking and kayaking through icy fjords to scenic train rides along historic routes.

Whether tracing the footsteps of gold rush pioneers on the Chilkoot Trail or marveling at the ruggedness of the White Pass Summit , each excursion promises an unforgettable encounter with America’s last frontier.

White Pass Summit Rail and Bus Excursion 

Beyond Skagway’s city streets lies a world of wild beauty waiting to be explored through the White Pass Summit Rail and Bus Excursion. This is, hands down, one of the most popular and best things to do in Skagway . Our adventure lets you experience White Pass two different ways — by train and by bus.

As the train chugs away from the bustling town, you are instantly transported to rugged mountains, ancient forests, and cascading waterfalls. The journey follows the route of the early gold prospectors into the heart of the wilderness, where the air becomes crisper and the scent of pine fills the senses.

As the train climbs higher, the landscape reveals panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and emerald valleys below. Pitchfork and Bridal Veil Falls emerge like hidden gems amidst the rugged terrain, their waters forcefully tumbling down the cliffs.

As the journey continues into British Columbia , the landscape takes on a wilder, more remote character, evoking a sense of adventure and exploration. Other landmarks you’ll see during your travel include the Skagway Scenic Overlook, Tormented Valley, and the Welcome to Alaska Sign .

Throughout the excursion, you’ll hear tales of the Klondike Gold Rush and the pioneers who braved these untamed lands in search of fortune. Their stories add depth and richness to the experience, offering insight into the history and heritage of this remote corner of the world.

Helicopter Glacier Tour  

Flying over majestic glaciers in a helicopter is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, where icy peaks and glistening glaciers sprawl beneath you. Trust us, you will want your camera for this one!

The exhilaration of hovering above these ancient masses of ice, witnessing their ever-shifting contours and brilliant hues, evokes a sense of awe. Your tour will take you over the Chilkat Glacier, Ferebee Glacier , and/or the Meade Glacier , depending on the conditions of the day.

While airborne, marvel at the sheer scale and jaw-dropping beauty of the Alaskan wilderness, feeling a connection to the adventurous spirits who once traversed these lands in search of fortune.

And if all that wasn’t enough, the highlight of your tour includes landing on one of these glaciers for an unforgettable walk! Here’s your chance to take a stroll on a glacier, seeing ice crevices up close and soaking in the still beauty reminiscent of what gold rush-era trappers and prospectors once experienced.

Canoeing Across Summit Lake  

On this adventure you will be transported across the Canadian border to the serene shores of Summit Lake , where 12-person voyageur canoes await you. These canoes are similar to the ones used by gold rush-era prospectors, further connecting you to the spirit of exploration that has long defined this rugged frontier.

Gliding across the surface of the lake , lined by towering peaks and dense forests, you can almost envision the intrepid trappers and prospectors plying these waters in search of their next meal.

Explore the narrow channels and rocky inlets, and take a break from the water with a shoreline walk, snapping photos and soaking in the untouched beauty of Summit Lake.

River Rafting through Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve  

Rafting along the Chilkat River as it winds through the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve is a truly breathtaking experience that immerses you in the heart of the largest gathering of bald eagles anywhere on Earth.

Drifting gently along the glacial-fed waters , the beauty of the wilderness surrounding you. This is a float trip, which means you will be hands-free to use your binoculars or capture that amazing photo shot.

As you and your group navigate the pristine river your eyes are drawn upward to the sky, where the air is alive with the majestic presence of bald eagles. Watch them in amazement as they gracefully soar and swoop through their natural home.

In this sanctuary of tranquility and abundance, you can’t help but feel a deep reverence for the life that thrives along the Chilkat River, and a profound gratitude for the opportunity to witness it.

Catamaran Ride to Haines and Chilkoot River Valley 

This tour takes you on a high-speed catamaran ride to Haines , a thrilling adventure that combines the exhilaration of speed with the serene beauty of the Alaskan landscape.

Upon arrival in Haines, the excitement continues with a guided drive through town to the Lutak Inlet and the Chilkoot corridor. Look out for brown bears, mountain goats, salmon, and more as you make your way to Chilkoot Lake.

Once on the lake, board a motor-assisted voyageur canoe and spend two hours exploring the coves and inlets where the wildlife make their home. From spotting bald eagles soaring overhead to marveling at the lush forests and pristine waterfalls, every moment is filled with wonder and amazing photo opps.

When is the Best Time to Go to Skagway?

The best time to cruise to Skagway typically falls within the summer months, from May to September , when Alaska experiences milder weather and longer daylight hours.

During this time cruise ships often navigate through the Inside Passage , providing passengers with breathtaking views of fjords, glaciers, and coastal mountains.

This period offers optimal conditions for exploring the stunning landscapes and engaging in outdoor activities such as glacier viewing, wildlife spotting, and hiking. Want to see bears? Aim for late April and early May, when they come out of hibernation. Want to see salmon running upstream? That tends to start in June.

July and August are the hottest, yet driest months of the season — and when most of the shops are open. Leaf peepers will enjoy going in September, when the leaves start changing their colors; it’s also a less crowded time, as the cruise season starts winding down.

How Best to See Skagway?

The best way to see Skagway is through a shore excursion led by expert guides. Don’t just gaze at the city from your cabin balcony; step ashore to wander its streets and venture into the wilderness for a complete immersion in all that this city has to offer. Explore downtown Skagway and beyond through our meticulously designed shore excursions that grant you exclusive access to the city’s rich history and vibrant present. Reach out to us today and let us set you up with a Skagway adventure that you will remember for a lifetime.

The 16 Best Alaska Cruise Excursions for 2024

A cruise to Alaska is one of the best ways to visit many parts of the 49th state, including the Inside Passage and the southeastern port towns of Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway. You can also see dozens of glaciers on a cruise, plus remote places reachable only by water, like Glacier National Park & Preserve. Traveling by ship allows you to get closer to one-of-a-kind experiences in Alaska's interior, especially if you extend your vacation with a cruisetour (a package that includes the cruise and a land portion either before or after your voyage).

When it comes to excursions, many cruise lines offer the same experiences ashore for larger ports of call, often with a slight variation in the itinerary. The most popular tours highlight the best activities and attractions, such as the Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour in Juneau, the Misty Fjords National Monument in Ketchikan and the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway in Skagway. You'll also find entertaining offerings from cruise lines that call on smaller, less visited ports, like Icy Strait Point (Hoonah), Sitka, Seward and Haines.

While some tours cost less than $100, don't be surprised to find over-the-top experiences that run about $750 per person – such as heli-flightseeing tours, where you'll land on a glacier and go dog-sledding with a team of Alaskan huskies. If you're comfortable with going it on your own, you might find lower prices on some excursions by booking directly with tour operators. Alaskan outfitters are used to working around cruise ship arrival and departure times, so their tours tend to fit into those schedules.

U.S. News has compiled this list to help you find the best Alaska cruise excursions, from the most popular (and affordable) options to once-in-a-lifetime adventures.

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Even though it's surrounded by water and mountains – and there's no road into town – Juneau is one of the most visited ports in Alaska, welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors each summer. You'll find plenty to do in Alaska's capital, including whale watching tours, salmon bakes and more.

Mendenhall Glacier

The Mendenhall Glacier is one of the top attractions in Juneau, so many tours include a visit to the Tongass National Forest to view the 12-mile-long sheet of blue ice. Some cruise lines, like Princess Cruises , offer self-guided trekking excursions that include a ride on the Juneau Goldbelt Tram, which affords views of the Chilkat Mountains and other panoramic scenery. You can also opt to see the glacier from the water by boat or kayak, or on a float trip.

However, if you're going to splurge on any one excursion, it's this one: Sign up for a helicopter landing on Mendenhall Glacier, followed by a dog-sledding adventure with a team of Alaskan huskies. During the approximately 30-minute helicopter ride, you'll fly over rainforests and spectacular summits, but the real fun is when you arrive at the camp to go zipping through the snow led by your team of dogs and a professional musher.

The Mendenhall Glacier helicopter excursion is offered on Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line and Silversea Cruises.

Whale Watching and Wildlife Quest

Whale watching is another top activity when visiting Juneau, and many cruise lines offer several options for tours. Holland America Line has a five-hour, small-group excursion for just 20 guests; you'll search for humpback whales on a safari vessel, then hike on Mendenhall Glacier where you can look for beavers, Arctic terns, porcupines and black bears. If you prefer an even smaller group, Princess Cruises offers a 3.5-hour private whale watching tour for six people. Possible sightings include humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, eagles, harbor seals, lighthouses, glaciers and maybe even a bear along the shoreline.

One of Viking Ocean Cruises ' excursions, the Best of Juneau, lasts more than six hours and takes guests on a naturalist-led whale watching cruise by catamaran. Before heading back to shore, you'll have a lunch of local wild-caught Alaska salmon on remote Colt Island, followed by a scenic drive to Mendenhall Glacier to end the day.

Alaska whale watching and wildlife excursions are offered on Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

Taku Lodge Salmon Bake

Norwegian Cruise Line offers a 3.5-hour Taku Glacier Lodge Flight & Feast excursion that will tick several quintessential Alaska adventures off your bucket list. After flying over the Juneau Icefield (the fifth-largest ice field in North America) in a classic De Havilland seaplane, guests will land in the river at the historic Taku Glacier Lodge across from Juneau's largest glacier, the 5-mile-wide Taku Glacier.

A traditional Alaska salmon bake (with all the fixings) and drinks made with glacier ice are another highlight of the day. You might even see a black bear sniffing around for leftovers after your feast. Following lunch, take a walk in the lush Tongass National Forest before heading back from the wilderness.

Salmon bake excursions are offered on Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

Ketchikan sits at the southernmost entrance to Alaska's Inside Passage. It is one of the most visited ports in Alaska, according to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). Visitors come to this part of the state for the beautiful scenery, Alaska Native culture and fresh seafood, including Alaska salmon and king crab. And they just might enjoy an entertaining lumberjack show or floatplane ride to kick off their day while in town.

The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show

Watch Alaska's hearty lumberjacks battle British Columbia's tough woodsmen in a head-to-head competition to see who can win the title of "Bull of the Woods." The thrill-a-minute show – a guest favorite – features a 50-foot tree climb, ax throwing, log rolling, buck sawing and springboard chopping, along with plenty of lumberjack lore. Some lines, like Princess Cruises, offer just the show; it lasts a little over an hour, so there will be plenty of time for a self-guided tour of Ketchikan before heading back to the ship. You may also be able to book a combination tour that includes the show and an ax throwing lesson (plus a competition of your own), or a trip to Totem Bright State Park, where you'll learn about the significance of totem poles and the Native Tlingit and Haida cultures.

Holland America Line offers a tour with the lumberjack show and a feast of local Dungeness crabs. For another culinary option, check out the 3.5-hour excursion with Norwegian Cruise Line . It includes a visit to Saxman Native Village, where you'll sample smoked wild game meats, dine on chef-selected dishes prepared with regional ingredients, and taste local wines and beers.

Lumberjack shows are offered on Alaska voyages with Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises , Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises.

Bering Sea Crab Fisherman's Tour

Embark on the Aleutian Ballard, the Bering Sea fishing boat made famous by the Discovery Channel's "Deadliest Catch" television series. The approximately three-hour excursion gives guests a firsthand experience of what it's like to sail on the vessel as a Bering Sea crab fisherman and catch massive king crabs, octopuses and other marine life with 700-pound crab pots. The boat may also stop at nearby Annette Island, where you'll have the chance to see whales, sea lions, seals and bald eagles soaring overhead (one may even try to snag your catch!). You may also get to watch local fishermen at work.

Some lines that offer the fisherman's tour include Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises.

Misty Fjords by Floatplane or Cruise

The more than 2 million-acre Misty Fjords National Monument is one of the top attractions in Alaska . Described by naturalist and author John Muir as "the Yosemite of the North," the awe-inspiring destination is best viewed from above on a floatplane. From the sky, you'll see towering 1,000-foot waterfalls, the volcanic Revillagigedo Island, snowcapped peaks, verdant forests and 3,000-foot walls of granite descending into the fjords. On a floatplane tour, you'll also have the chance to land on the water and take in the spectacular scenery from another viewpoint.

If you're not a fan of small planes, some lines offer the option of taking a cruise from Ketchikan's harbor. You'll sail into Behm Canal surrounded by the scenery of Misty Fjords, and you may even see wildlife or bald eagle nests. You'll also cruise by Eddystone Rock, a massive volcanic spire emerging from the sea, as well as waterfalls and 3,000-foot cliffs sculpted by glaciers.

Cruise lines that offer floatplane or cruisetours of Misty Fjords include Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Viking Ocean Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises.

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Skagway is another busy and popular cruise port in Alaska. It's one of the most popular towns on the Inside Passage itinerary; its fascinating Klondike Gold Rush history dates back to 1897. Take notice of the historic false-front shops reminiscent of the gold rush days as you explore. Many of these buildings are part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, and you may even see people strolling down the streets dressed in period costumes.

White Pass & Yukon Route

One of the top-rated attractions in Skagway is the White Pass Summit Scenic Railroad journey through Alaska's wilderness. The narrow-gauge railroad is an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark – an honor shared by the Panama Canal, the Statue of Liberty and the Eiffel Tower. Dating back 125 years, the historic railway features vintage rail cars and climbs to a steep 2,865 feet at the summit over just 20.4 miles. Along the way to the summit – located at the official international border between the U.S. and Canada – you'll listen to the history of the Klondike Gold Rush while passing by Inspiration Point, Dead Horse Gulch and Bridal Veil Falls. After making a loop at the top, the train will head back down the mountain. You might even see snow on the ride if your cruise to Alaska is early in the season .

Excursions on some lines combine the rail journey with other activities, like biking on the Klondike Highway from the summit or visiting Liarsville, a gold rush trail camp. Others include a stop (and a cold beer) at the Skagway Brewing Company. In addition, some cruise providers offer the train ride in a luxury class rail car, which includes complimentary beverages, snacks and a private guide who will explain the history of the railroad as you watch the scenery pass by.

Norwegian Cruise Line's six-hour excursion features a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route, a salmon bake at Liarsville and an adult beverage with one of the "madames" at the renowned Red Onion Saloon. Meanwhile, Silversea Cruises ' new 5.5-hour tour includes the train ride; a trip to the Yukon Suspension Bridge, which sits 65 feet above the white water rapids of the Tutshi River; and a hearty lunch of bison chili.

Cruise lines that offer the railroad (and combination) tours include Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Musher's Camp and Sled Dog Discovery

If you want to cuddle with Alaskan husky puppies, then this excursion is for you. Norwegian Cruise Line's approximately three-hour excursion takes guests to a professional musher's summer camp in Dyea Valley, where they train sled dogs for the Yukon Quest and Iditarod races. After a thrilling ride into the rainforest on a four-wheel-drive vehicle, you'll head out on a summertime dog sled with 16 Alaskan huskies at the helm. Before puppy play time, you'll learn how the mushers care for the dogs and prepare for the races. Depending on the cruise line, some tours may end with roasting s'mores by the fire.

Some lines that offer this excursion are Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Chilkoot Trail Hike and Float Adventure

The historic Chilkoot Trail was the main route for those in search of untold riches during the famous gold rush years. Today, the trail, located in Gold Rush National Historical Park, is a rainforest full of birds and wildflowers. Excursions to the park include hikes with river floats on the Taiya River (there are no rapids) or bike tours of the trail. There are also wilderness kayaking outings to Chilkoot Lake, which is home to the five species of Pacific salmon, waterfowl, bald eagles and one of the largest brown bear populations in southeast Alaska.

Some cruise lines that offer these excursions include Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Sitka is the only community in the Inside Passage that sits on the Pacific Ocean. The small city – home to just 8,500 residents – was owned by Russia before the U.S. purchased the land in 1867. Today, you'll find remnants of this Russian heritage, like onion-shaped domes and Saint Michael's Russian Orthodox Cathedral. Sitka also has a strong Tlingit culture. In terms of shore excursions, you'll find plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing surrounded by pristine landscapes.

Sea Otter and Wildlife Quest

Royal Caribbean International's three-hour jet boat cruise on Sitka Sound features panoramic scenery (including snow-capped peaks) and the chance to see abundant wildlife. During the tour, look for playful sea otters, whales and brown bears walking along the coast. The line also offers another tour – Sea Otters, Raptors and Bears Oh My – that features a naturalist-guided catamaran cruise followed by visits to the Alaskan Raptor Center (a rehabilitation center for birds of prey) and the Fortress of the Bear (a rescue operation for orphaned bears).

In comparison, Carnival Cruise Line 's VIP wildlife quest in search of whales, sea otters, coastal brown bears and more concludes with a feast of wild salmon cooked over a wood-fired grill, Alaska crab and prime rib at the Fin Island Lodge. Following a wildlife Zodiac cruise around the archipelago, Holland America Line's version of this excursion also visits the lodge for lunch in partnership with Food & Wine magazine.

You can find this excursion on Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

The Best of Sitka

Several cruise lines offer a version of this tour, which features an exploration of the top attractions in Sitka. On this excursion, you'll visit the Fortress of the Bear in Tongass National Park to learn about the facility's work with orphaned bears. There's also a stop at Sitka National Historical Park, where the 1804 "Battle of Alaska" between the Russians and the Tlingits was fought. Here, you'll see handcarved totem poles created by skilled Tlingit artists and get to meet local Native artists to learn more. The excursion also includes a visit to the Alaska Raptor Center.

Lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Icy Strait Point (Hoonah)

Icy Strait Point in Hoonah may be a much smaller port than others on this list, but it is a jumping-off point for endless outdoor explorations, including whale watching tours and searching for coastal brown bears. Icy Strait Point is Alaska Native-owned and -operated and is home to the largest Native Tlingit village in Alaska. While here, explore the wilderness areas of Chichagoff Islands, visit the 1912 cannery museum, and grab lunch with fresh Alaska king and Dungeness crabs before taking a ride on the world's largest ZipRider. (Or, play it safe and plan to take that ride down the mountain before lunch.)

Whale Watching & Bear Search

The waters surrounding Icy Strait Point host the largest summer population of humpback whales in the state, especially around the Point Adolphus area. If you purchase a tour directly with the Icy Strait Point website, they'll even guarantee you'll see whales – or they'll refund your money. During the tour, look for orcas, Steller sea lions, porpoises and seals. But be sure to also gaze overhead for bald eagles and search along the shore for bears; the Spasski River Valley in the remote wilderness of Chichagof Island has one of the highest densities of coastal brown bears in the world. Some cruise lines offer a variation of this excursion that includes a boiled seafood feast back on shore at Icy Strait Point.

You can find this excursion on voyages with Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Silversea Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Scenic Mountain Ascent & World's Largest ZipRider

Thrill-seekers (who love heights) will jump at the chance to ride the world's largest and longest zip line, which sits more than 1,300 feet above sea level at the top of Icy Strait Point. The ride to the summit on the SkyGlider mountaintop gondola is also a rush, but the real excitement comes as you zoom down 5,330-foot zip lines with five other riders at 60 mph – with views of the forest below and Glacier Bay National Park in the distance. A break-activated landing on the beach brings riders safely back to the ground. The price also includes unlimited rides on the gondola.

Cruise lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises , Viking Ocean Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

A less visited port than some others on this list (according to CLIA), Seward is the ancestral home to the Alutiiq, or Sugpiaq, people. Its breathtaking natural beauty – with mountains on one side and Resurrection Bay on the other – has been shaped by glaciers over thousands of years. Top attractions in Seward include the Alaska SeaLife Center and a charming downtown area. It also offers access to Kenai Fjords National Park.

Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise

During your stop in Seward, take a full-day excursion to see the astounding beauty of Kenai Fjords National Park. The impressive fjords are surrounded by mountains standing more than 6,000 feet tall and an ecosystem rich in wildlife. While there, watch for a variety of whale species, sea otters, porpoises and sea lions, and onshore, you might see bears and mountain goats. There are also 191 documented species of birds in the park and many glaciers. As you get up close to Holgate Glacier, listen as chunks of blue ice calve into the water.

Some cruise lines, such as Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, offer this as an individual tour, while others like Holland America Line include it as part of a cruisetour. You can also book the excursion directly with a local tour operator if you're embarking or disembarking in Seward.

Haines, a small port about 20 miles north of Skagway, is best known for its Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. The 49,000-acre preserve has the largest natural gathering of eagles during the late salmon runs and boasts pristine forests, marshlands and rivers brimming with wildlife.

Glacier Point Wilderness Safari

Norwegian Cruise Line's five-hour excursion takes guests on an adventure into the wilderness by boat while cruising North America's deepest and longest fjord, the upper Lynn Canal. You might even see breaching whales and playful sea lions en route to Glacier Point, where you'll disembark at the beach upon arrival. After a drive through the forest and a hike in the woods, you'll have unforgettable, up-close views of the Davidson Glacier by canoe.

Lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line and Silversea Cruises. Holland America Line offers this excursion from Skagway.

Eagle Preserve Rafting Float Adventure

Look for bald eagles soaring overhead as you raft down the gentle Chilkat River through the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. The waters are overflowing with salmon that come to spawn, serving as food for as many as 400 bald eagles living in the Chilkat Valley. Don't be surprised to see brown bears or 1,600-pound moose coming to feast along the riverbank during your rafting adventure.

Some lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Lin e. Holland America Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Viking Ocean Cruises host this excursion from Skagway.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is a U.S. News & World Report contributor and an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times both by land and sea to view wildlife and chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. She's even considered moving to The Great Land as a full-time resident. Pratesi used her deep knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Things to Do in Alaska
• The Top Alaska Cruise Lines
• Alaska Cruise Packing List
• The Best Alaska Cruises for Families
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

Trans-Siberian Railway Prices

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Ticket prices for the Trans-Siberian Railway also depend on the current ruble exchange rate.

Is the Trans-Siberian Railway expensive?

Before starting on your Trans-Siberian Railway adventure you naturally want to know what the entire trip will cost. Although this sounds like a simple question, it is pretty difficult to answer. The Trans-Siberian Railway price of travel depends on the following factors:

• Which travel class do I want to use? The price for a first class ticket is about three times the price of a 3rd class ticket
• Am I willing to buy the tickets myself and assume responsibility for the organisation of the trip?
• How many stopovers do I want to make? The more breaks, the higher the total price.
• What sort of accommodation do I want? Will it be a luxury hotel or will a hostel dormitory be sufficient?
• What tours and excursions would I like to go on?
• What is the current exchange rate for rubles?

Basically, everything from a luxury to a budget holiday is available. If you buy yourself a 3rd Class nonstop ticket at the counter, a few hundred Euros will cover the price. All you will experience is a week on the Trans-Siberian train and will see nothing of the cities on the way. There is, however, any amount of room for upward expansion. Everyone makes different choices about which aspects they are willing to spend money on. I personally prefer to save money on accommodation and railcar class, visit as many cities and do as many trips as possible. To enable better classification of your travel expenses I have contrasted two typical traveler types. In the third column you can calculate the total cost of your own journey on the Trans-Siberian Railway. Please keep in mind that these are only rough estimations and not exact prices.

The all-in costs seem fairly high at first. However, they cover everything and it is quite a long journey taking four weeks. Many people forget to consider that when looking at the list. We should also deduct the running costs for food and leisure at home. I think most visitors to this page will classify themselves somewhere between the two categories, that is around the € 2,000 – € 2,500 range. When comparing these prices with other travel packages, you get the impression that it is hardly worthwhile travelling individually on the Trans-Siberian Railway. Please keep in mind that most packages last no more than 14 days and you are herded like cattle through the most beautiful locations.

If you spend less time on the Trans-Siberian Railway you will, of course, pay less. I chose this particular travel length because I prefer not to do things by halves. If you fulfill your dream of travelling on the Trans-Siberian Railway, enjoy it and don’t rush things. But it’s up to you, of course. Try playing around with the form a bit to find the appropriate price for your trip.

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• Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Best of Moscow by high speed train

By shuguley , February 15, 2014 in Regent Seven Seas Cruises

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Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.

Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?

My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

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If you are considering this on the 2015 June Baltic cruise on Voyager; my suggestion is don't. There is so much to do in St. Petersburg and although a train is one of my favorite ways to travel the time would be far better spent in St. P.

Thanks for the advice. Yes, this would be on the Voyager during the 2015 season but not yet sure exactly which cruise.

We did the Moscow excursion "on a different luxury line", but from your brief description it sounds very much like the same trip, so I will operate on that assumption. It is a VERY long day! We left the ship at 5:30 AM and returned at 12:30 AM. The highspeed train trip is comfortable, and while they call it "Business Class" it does not compare well to the equivalent class on say Rail Europe. When we did it in 2011, we did have highspeed both ways, and the trip back seemed much longer as the adrenaline and excitement had worn off!:D

Moscow itself is not that terribly different from any other big city in the world, but this Cold War kid never thought he would ever stand in Red Square, never mind walk the grounds of The Kremlin, or tour The Kremlin Palace, or see (but not visit) Lenin's Tomb, or visit The Armoury. But he did, and he loved every minute of it! Yes, it is a long day, and you barely scratch a scratch on the surface, but it is worth it. There is a tremendous amount to see in St. Petersburg, but every Baltic cruise goes to St. Petersburg, so you can go back if you choose to. Not every cruiseline offers you the chance to see Moscow.

I have not personally done this tour, but our last time in St Petersburg, the private guide that we hired for a day was leading the regent tour to Moscow on the high speed train the next day. He said it was way better than the previous alternative, which was flying to Moscow and back. He said that you actually got to Moscow faster because you didn't have to deal with airline checkin etc. it did seem like a very long day to me, and there is so much to see and do in st. Petersburg that I didn't consider doing it.

countflorida

We toured to Moscow from St. Petersburg via the hi-speed SAPSAN train last September, from a Baltic cruise on the Oceania Marina. You need to have a two-night, three day port call in St. Petersburg to take this tour because the tour typically leaves the ship around 5:00 - 5:30 AM and doesn't return until after midnight the next day. We didn't take the ship's tour; we made private arrangements with TravelAllRussia for three days of touring, the first and third days in St. Petersburg and the second day the tour to Moscow by train. Our cost for the private tour for three days was about the same as what the ship charged for the excursion to Moscow alone. There are a number of private tour agencies that operate in St. Petersburg and offer the Moscow train tours; we would strongly recommend them over the ship's tours.

All three days had private guides with car and driver. The second day, the driver picked us up at the ship and took us to the train, but we were alone on the train, and met in Moscow by the guide on the station platform. After our tour and dinner, we were brought back to the train and after the return train trip met by the driver and taken back to the ship. Because you are alone on the train you must have your own Russian visas.

If this is your first visit to St. Petersburg, I would agree there is much more to see there. We found Moscow somewhat a disappointment, particularly Red Square. The Kremlin and the cathedral in Red Square were also worth seeing. But the best thing we saw was the Moscow subway! I worked for the Washington Metro system back in the 1980s as it grew from 40 to 80 miles and although I was in the computer area, I learned a lot about the challenges of running a subway system. We used the Moscow system to get across the city from where we had dinner to the train station, and I was amazed at the cleanliness', speed of operation, the short headways maintained, and the courtesy of everyone involved. A very impressive experience!

We had been to St. Petersburg before, and so had the time to take a day and go to Moscow. Also, I really like trains, and the SAPSAN is a German train set running on Russian rails. Seats are like first class domestic air, spacious but not too plush or comfortable, but with enough room. Not too much recline, and almost 8 hours on the train in two shots is a lot for an old man. They come through and sell drinks, candy, etc. but the sellers don't speak English and no one around us helped, so we had just poor coffee once coming, and brought stuff with us for the trip back. Not too much to see from the train either, particularly on the return when it is night the whole way.

If you decide to go, take a private tour and avoid the overly expensive ship's tour. I'm glad we did it, but wouldn't bother to repeat the tour; we've seen Moscow.

Thanks so much to all of you for the thorough and thought insight. Yhe information you have provided is most helpful.

countflorida: Your detailed post is very helpful. We are not quite ready for a Baltic cruise but should do so within a year. Time enough to do our pre travel research, bookings and visa gathering.:) Thank you!

Emperor Norton

Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.   Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?   My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

I did this on Seabourn. IMO DONT. Take Aeroflop (er Aeroflot). The train has non folding seats where you are literally knee to knee with your fellow passenger (facing each other). Further they don't believe in air conditioning. It's also the worlds slowed bullet train. I think I would have found more enjoyment wandering around the St. Petersburg and Moscow airports.

Countflorida,

This is a little off topic,, however we had planned a river cruise in Russia but decided we would rather stay on land and have booked about two weeks with Travel-All-Russia using the private guide and driver. I'm curious as to how you found them as a tour company.

The guides they provided were fine. We had a different guide each of the days in St. Petersburg, but both were flexible, pleasant, knowledgeable and spoke English very well, as did the guide in Moscow, incidentally. She was a bit aloof, distant, not too friendly, but otherwise fine. In fact, she was the one who suggested taking the Metro, which unexpectedly became one of the highlights of the Moscow excursion. If I have a complaint with AllTravelRussia, it is with their plan and its execution (more later).

I had requested emphasis on World War II (in Russia, the Great Patriotic War) sites and info. In scheduling us, they weren't careful about dates and a couple of the sites we wanted to see were scheduled on the third day, after we'd been to Moscow. But both sites were closed that day of the week, and that info was readily available, right on web sites describing them. Also, the included meals (lunches in St. Pete, dinner in Moscow) were not what we asked for: light meals with some choices, so we could avoid things we didn't like and choose things we did like. My request was ignored; we were given full Russian meals with a fixed menu, no choice. On the first day, a fish dish was the entre, but I am allergic to fish. Fortunately, I had the e-mail I'd sent with me and showed it to the guide, and she was able to change my entre to chicken, which was very good actually. But we didn't want a 3-4 course lunches or dinner (in Moscow). We had the guide drop the lunch the third day, although we never got any credit or refund. But, particularly in contrast to the ship's tours, the prices were so reasonable we didn't worry too much about it.

The people who were on the ship's tour to Moscow saw us boarding the same train for which they were forced to queue up and wait on the way back, and asked us what we had done. I was candid and open so they were not happy when I explained what we had arranged and particularly what it had cost. Also, when we returned to the ship, we found they had laid on a late supper for those who had gone to Moscow, so up we went and had something. Well, it turns out the late supper was supposed to be just for those on the ship's tour, but we and others on 'independent' tours, there were a dozen or more of us, crashed the party, actually got there first, and they didn't realize it until the larger group arrived and there weren't enough tables/places set. By that time, the 'independents' had all gotten served and were eating; what could they do?

A couple from the larger group sat down with us and asked us about our tour, and they were the ones I told about our arrangement and its cost. They turned to others who’d been with them and announced the details, loudly enough so the whole room heard, which started a lot of bitching and complaining. I gathered they weren't very happy with the ship's tour to begin with, and this was the straw that broke the camel's back. We finished up and beat it out of there, but overheard later that one of the excursion staff came to check on something and ran into a real mess. I caught a cold on the trip, which forced me to bed the second day following in Tallinn, so by the time we reappeared we heard about the contretemps' but apparently no one recalled who started it, thankfully.

Because of what happened to us, I would probably not use AllTravelRussia if I were to go again, or if I did, I would be sure to get confirmation of every detail of the tour. They do have good reviews generally, and we were certainly helped by their visa department and liked the guides and drivers. Their weakness, I say now with full 20:20 hindsight, is that once the sales person who plans the tour, sells it to you and collects your money, he (or she) transfers the plan to their Russia office for implementation; there is no follow-up to make sure it gets done right. And that is where our problems arose; we paid for a custom tour but got a standard package with a few destinations switched, and no one checked them out, even to see when they were open the day we were scheduled to go. If you check every detail that’s important to you, it should be OK, but that’s a hell of a way to have to do business, in my opinion.

Thank you for the 20/20 hindsight observation on your Russian tour operator, and better priced than the ship's excursion cost.

Thanks very much for the feedback.

We had the same experience as you so far as price. We originally booked a Viking Cruise but, hearing some things about the river cruises that made us unhappy, looked into other options. T-A-R cost the same or less than a cruise and had us in hotels for 11 days. We opted for the private tour. They have three tour levels, based on hotels. We originally opted for the four star as it did not cost much more than the three star hotels. Finally we decided to throw it all in and upgraded to five star. In Moscow we will be at the newly opened Kempinsky which is two blocks from Red Square. In St. Petersburg it is the Grand Hotel Europe, one of the most vaunted luxury hotels in Russia. Location is important for us as the tours use up only part of the day so being in the center of everything for our independent touring is important. As with many other cities, the less you pay, the farther out of the center of town you are.

We have been working with our salesman in D.C. and he seems to get back to us with the changes we want. He recently returned from Russia so is up on everything. When I asked they said they paid the full TA commission if I wanted so I got my usual TA on board so he is watching our back and giving us that extra level of comfort. He also set up our air, which I know pays him little or nothing, and got us business class for much less than T-A-R wanted for economy, though it took working for a while with a consolidator. He's happy to get his 10 percent on this trip without having booked it. He also took care of the trip insurance. We've been doing a lot of research on the CC sister site Trip Advisor and will write a report there. We will, I guess, become a source of info for CC members after having spent 5 days in Moscow and 6 in SP.

• 4 months later...

scubacruiserx2

Anybody considering a day trip to Moscow from St. Petersburg on the Sapsan may want to look at our travelogue filled with pictures.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1927687

Very informative. Thanks dor sharing. Jeff

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