ALASKAN CRUISES Alaskan cruises have grown in popularity in recent years and are an ideal way to see the beautiful coast. The variety of trips offered allows visitors to customize their experience; just be sure to book early. For a luxurious vacation with all the amenities you can imagine, book a trip on one of the large liners. You’ll be pampered as you watch the impressive scenery. For a more intimate look at the wilderness and wildlife, try a small-vessel cruise. They have less amenities and services, but the focus is more on nature. Also, the smaller boats can go places the larger ships can’t, so you’ll get the chance to see beautiful fjords, and you may even get a close look at some of Alaska’s abundant wildlife. Most people are drawn to Alaska by the beautiful landscapes and variety of wildlife. A cruise is a wonderful way to see both. It’s also a good way to explore several of Alaska’s port towns. The large vessels stop at the large port towns, while the smaller boats stop at these and small towns too. So, take your guide book along and see the sights at the port towns in which you stop. From the cruise ship, you can enjoy views of massive glaciers, deep green forests, snow-peaked mountains, and tundra carpeting the ground. Don’t forget to keep a sharp eye out for the wildlife. Everything from bald eagles to humpback whales may cross your path, and you won’t want to miss any of it. If you’re interested in whales, Alaska is an ideal place to see these amazing creatures. Humpbacks, Orcas, Belugas, Minks, and others are found along Alaska’s shores. Many cruise ships happen upon whales during their trip, but for a closer encounter, you may want to join a kayaking whale watch tour. If you are traveling with a car, but still want to experience Alaska’s waters, the Alaska Marine Highway System provides a ferry that travels between several ports and runs daily. It’s an inexpensive way to see the shoreline from afar. Whatever your interest in Alaska, a cruise is sure to please. With the variety of ships and itineraries available, there’s something for everybody and every budget. |