Planning an Alaska cruise? After more than 10 years cruising Alaska, here’s exactly what to pack for changing weather, glacier viewing, rainy port days, and comfortable onboard travel, including the must-have clothing, shoes, cabin essentials, and cruise accessories that actually make a difference.
Category Archives: Alaska
Skagway Alaska Cruise Port: Complete Guide for Visitor
Travels with Mickey Cruises Disney Planning & Packing About Cruises Disney Planning & Packing About More than 2 results are available in the PRO version (This notice is only visible to admin users) Skagway Alaska Cruise Port: Complete Guide for Visitors This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. I only share products I personally use, genuinely recommend, or believe will help make your cruise travel easier and more enjoyable. Thank you for supporting Travels With Mickey! A popular Alaska cruise port, Skagway is a fascinating place to explore, especially if you love history, unique local culture, and spectacular scenery. During a cruise stop in Skagway, you can step back into the days of the Klondike Gold Rush while also enjoying the incredible natural beauty Alaska is known for.Skagway is the northernmost port in Alaska’s Inside Passage, located at the northern end of Lynn Canal. Once a bustling boomtown and the gateway to the Trail of ’98 and the Klondike gold fields, Skagway is much quieter today, with roughly 1,000 year-round residents. During the summer cruise season, however, the town comes alive as more than a million cruise passengers visit Skagway each year.Long before the Gold Rush, the area was used by the Tlingit people as a hunting and fishing ground. In 1896, gold was discovered on a tributary of the Klondike River, about 600 miles from Skagway. When news of the discovery spread, thousands of prospectors headed north, and Skagway quickly grew into a bustling frontier town with a population estimated at 8,000 to 10,000.Many of Skagway’s historic buildings from this era still stand today, along with the town’s distinctive raised wooden sidewalks. On June 28, 1900, Skagway officially became the first incorporated city in Alaska, beating Juneau by just one day. Skagway Cruise Port Most cruise ships visiting Skagway, Alaska, dock at one of the town’s waterfront cruise piers, including the Ore Dock, Railroad Dock, or Broadway Dock. The docks are conveniently located near downtown, making it easy for cruise passengers to begin exploring the historic town.The Railroad Dock has experienced changes in recent years because of rockslide concerns. Depending on current conditions and your ship’s docking location, access to the pier may be limited, so it’s a good idea to check your cruise line’s information before your visit. What You Need to Know About Skagway Cruise Port One of the great things about Skagway cruise port is how convenient it is for cruise passengers. The downtown area is within easy walking distance of the cruise docks, making it simple to explore on your own.There are also plenty of Skagway shore excursions to choose from, including the popular and historic White Pass & Yukon Route. If you haven’t booked an excursion before your cruise, you’ll find tour operators and vendors near the port offering options once you arrive. Currency in Skagway Although Skagway is just a short distance from Canada, it is located in Alaska, USA. The official currency is the U.S. dollar (USD).Most businesses in Skagway accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards, so you shouldn’t have any trouble making purchases during your visit. Language in Skagway English is the primary language spoken in Skagway. However, you may hear some uniquely Alaskan expressions during your visit.A few you might encounter include: Lower 48 – The 48 contiguous United States Break-up – The springtime period when the ice and snow finally begin to melt Cheechako – A newcomer or someone new to Alaska Skagway Time Zone Skagway is in the Alaska Time Zone. During Alaska’s cruise season, the area observes Alaska Daylight Time (AKDT), which is one hour behind Pacific Time and four hours behind Eastern Time.Keep this in mind when booking excursions or making plans for your day in port. Your cruise ship will also provide the official onboard time, which is the time you should follow when returning to the ship. Skagway Weather During Alaska’s cruise season, temperatures in Skagway can range from the 40s to the low 60s Fahrenheit. While Skagway generally has a drier climate than some of the other Southeast Alaska ports, don’t assume you’ll always have sunshine.I’ve experienced some beautiful weather in Skagway—and I’ve also experienced one of the wettest days I’ve ever had in Alaska. It was POURING!Skagway can also be surprisingly windy because of its location at the end of Lynn Canal and the surrounding mountain valley. Even on a relatively mild day, the wind can make it feel considerably cooler.My Alaska cruise packing tip: Layers are your best friend. Mornings can start out chilly, while temperatures may warm up considerably later in the day. A waterproof jacket is also a smart addition, especially if you’re planning to spend the day exploring outdoors.If you’re wondering what to wear on an Alaska cruise, I recommend planning for changing weather rather than packing one heavy coat. Being able to add or remove layers throughout the day will make exploring Skagway much more comfortable.Tip: When considering what to wear on your Alaska cruise, dressing in layers is always a good idea. Mornings will start off cool, but the weather can warm up significantly later in the day. Getting Around Skagway One of the easiest things about visiting Skagway on a cruise is how walkable the town is. The cruise docks are just a short walk from downtown, and the terrain is generally flat, making it easy to explore Skagway on foot.Once you leave the ship, you can stroll along the waterfront and quickly reach the historic downtown area, where you’ll find shops, restaurants, historic buildings, and plenty of opportunities to experience Skagway’s Gold Rush history.One thing to watch for is Skagway’s elevated wooden sidewalks. They’re part of the town’s historic character, but the uneven boards can be an easy place to trip if you’re not paying attention. Take your time, especially if you’re wearing sandals or other shoes that don’t provide much support.Overall, Skagway isContinueContinue reading “Skagway Alaska Cruise Port: Complete Guide for Visitor”
Top Things to Do in Juneau, Alaska
Nestled between towering mountains and the waters of the Inside Passage, Juneau is one of the most breathtaking destinations on an Alaska cruise itinerary. From spotting humpback whales and exploring glaciers to riding scenic tramways and sampling local breweries and distilleries, Juneau offers the perfect mix of adventure, wildlife, and small-town charm. Whether you’re visiting for a few hours on a cruise stop or spending several days exploring Alaska’s capital city, there are countless unforgettable experiences waiting around every corner. Here are some of the best things to do in Juneau, Alaska. Fun fact: Juneau – the capital of Alaska — is the only U.S. state capital you can’t drive to. The only way to reach it is by air or by water, whether that’s by ferry, private boat, or cruise ship. This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy, I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. Some of my favorite things to do in Juneau include browsing the shops near the cruise docks, zip lining through the rainforest, taking a whale watching excursion, exploring Mendenhall Glacier, and visiting the local breweries and distilleries. Located about 12 miles from downtown Juneau, Mendenhall Glacier is part of the 5,815-acre Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area within the Tongass National Forest. There are several excellent ways to experience the glacier, including Mendenhall Glacier Trolley Tour, Mendenhall Glacier Express Tour, a Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watching Tour or even Mendenhall Glacier Lake Canoe Tour. Prefer to explore Juneau at your own pace? A self-guided walking tour is a fantastic way to discover the city’s history and culture. Stroll through downtown while visiting popular spots like Red Dog Saloon, Juneau-Douglas City Museum, and Amalga Distillery. Along the way, you’ll hear fascinating stories about the gold rush era, Alaska Native heritage, and the unique architecture that gives Juneau its charm. Best of all, you can start, pause, and continue the tour whenever it fits your schedule. Ride the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway for some of the best views in Juneau! This scenic tramway lifts you 1,800 feet above the city in just five minutes from the cruise ship pier. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Chilkat Mountains, the Gastineau Channel, downtown Juneau, Douglas Island, and the towering peaks of Admiralty Island. At the top, you can explore hiking trails, cultural exhibits, local artisan crafts, and nature displays while soaking in one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in Alaska. One of our all-time favorite excursions in Juneau was zip lining. It’s the perfect adventure if you’re looking to do something a little different while visiting Alaska. One of the most popular options is Alaska Canopy Adventures, a locally owned company offering an unforgettable experience on Douglas Island. Your adventure begins with a scenic drive through the Tongass National Forest as you make your way toward Eaglecrest Ski Area. From there, you’ll soar through the rainforest canopy on a series of exhilarating zip lines, stopping at elevated platforms along the way to take in the incredible scenery and capture photos. The experience also includes crossing a suspension bridge over a rushing stream and ends with the chance to try axe throwing. The entire excursion lasts about three and a half hours and is an exciting way to experience Alaska’s wilderness from above Whale watching is easily one of my favorite excursions in Alaska. Seeing these incredible animals in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience and often becomes the highlight of an Alaska cruise. In Juneau, there are several tour options available, ranging from larger group cruises to more intimate private excursions. Many tours also offer combination experiences that include a visit to Mendenhall Glacier, allowing you to experience two of Juneau’s top attractions in one memorable outing. Looking for even more adventure in Juneau? A kayaking excursion with humpback whales is an unforgettable way to experience Alaska’s incredible wildlife and scenery up close. Your journey begins with a scenic boat ride through the Inside Passage, where you’ll travel toward the whales’ feeding grounds while taking in breathtaking views of glaciers, dense forests, and snow-capped mountains. Once you arrive, you’ll hop into kayaks and paddle through the calm waters in search of humpback whales, sea lions, bald eagles, and other native wildlife. It’s an incredible combination of adventure, nature, and unforgettable Alaskan scenery. Is fishing in Alaska on your bucket list? A small-group salmon fishing excursion in Juneau is a fantastic way to experience Alaska’s famous fishing culture without heading out on the open ocean. This half-day shore fishing adventure lets you skip the possibility of seasickness while still enjoying a hands-on experience focused on catching salmon. Guides provide all the necessary equipment and helpful instruction, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced anglers. Even better, any salmon you catch can be sent to a local fish processor and shipped directly to your home, so you can enjoy your Alaska catch long after your trip ends Did you know that Juneau has a thriving brewery and distillery scene? It’s a great destination for craft beer lovers looking to experience a local side of Alaska. One of the most popular stops is Alaskan Brewing Company — often called “ABC” by locals. Their downtown gear shop is a fun place to pick up souvenirs, clothing, and branded merchandise, and it also features a restaurant where visitors can enjoy local brews. If you want the full brewery experience, head to the main brewery located about five miles from downtown Juneau and just a few miles from the airport. A complimentary shuttle makes getting there easy, and guests ages 21 and older can sample a rotating selection of more than 20 Alaskan beers on tap for a small tasting fee. Did you know Alaskan Brewing Company also produces a creative lineup of ready-to-drink canned beverages beyond beer? One standout from their innovative craft lineup is the Rainforest Gin & Tonic canned cocktail—a crisp, refreshing drink made with house-distilled gin and spruce-tip tonic inspired by Alaska’s coastal rainforest. In addition to their canned cocktails, Alaskan Brewing also offers hard seltzers with a distinctly Alaskan twist, often infused with local flavors like Sitka spruce tips. My favorite is distillery is AmalgaContinueContinue reading “Top Things to Do in Juneau, Alaska”