Exploring the Last Frontier: My Alaska Cruise Adventure

Courtney Nealis
May 29, 2025

This May, I had the incredible opportunity to set sail on a cruise through Alaska—an unforgettable journey through breathtaking scenery, charming coastal towns, and rich cultural history. Each port of call offered its own unique character and beauty. Here’s a look at the highlights from each stop on our itinerary:

Seattle, Washington

Our adventure began in Seattle, the vibrant gateway to the Pacific Northwest. Surrounded by water, mountains, and evergreen forests, the city has a laid-back yet energetic feel. From the iconic Space Needle to the bustling Pike Place Market, Seattle was the perfect place to kick off our journey before heading north into the wild beauty of Alaska.

For those with just a short window of time before boarding the ship, Seattle offers a perfect bite-sized adventure. We grabbed scooters and zipped through the city, taking in the Space Needle, exploring the vibrant energy of Pike Place Market, and coasting along the newly renovated bike lanes on the pier. It was a fun and breezy way to soak in the sights before setting sail.

Juneau, Alaska

Juneau, Alaska’s capital, is nestled between towering mountains and the Gastineau Channel. It’s only accessible by sea or air, giving it a remote charm that feels worlds away from the mainland. Known for its proximity to the awe-inspiring Mendenhall Glacier and whale-filled waters, Juneau offered a breathtaking introduction to Alaska’s natural wonders.

Juneau gifted us with incredible weather and an unforgettable wildlife encounter. While cruising the nearby waters, we witnessed orcas gliding gracefully alongside a mother humpback and her calf—a rare and magical moment that left us in awe. Surrounded by mountains and glacier-fed waters, this port was a true highlight of our journey.

Skagway, Alaska

Stepping into Skagway felt like stepping back in time to the days of the Klondike Gold Rush. This small town is rich in history and surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks. With its preserved wooden buildings, scenic railway, and opportunities for outdoor adventure, Skagway blended nostalgia and nature in the best way.

In Skagway, we joined the White Pass Scenic Railway tour, a historic route that winds through steep mountain terrain and stunning vistas. We were lucky enough to have a train car all to ourselves along with our friends, making for a peaceful and memorable ride. The combination of fresh alpine air and rich Gold Rush history made Skagway feel both adventurous and serene.

Sitka, Alaska

Sitka stood out with its unique blend of Tlingit and Russian heritage, reflected in its architecture, art, and culture. Located on Baranof Island, this picturesque town offered rugged coastal beauty, rich wildlife,

and a deep sense of history. The quiet charm of Sitka made it one of the most peaceful and reflective stops on the trip.

Sitka welcomed us with a calm, coastal charm and deep cultural roots. We wandered through the Sitka National Historical Park, where moss-draped trees and a forested trail led us past a collection of striking totem poles. Bald eagles circled overhead as we strolled, adding a majestic touch to an already tranquil and picturesque setting.

Victoria, British Columbia

Our final port of call before heading back was Victoria, the elegant capital of British Columbia. Known for its beautiful gardens, colonial architecture, and seaside charm, Victoria was a perfect blend of British influence and West Coast hospitality. With its walkable downtown and scenic harbor, it offered a relaxing end to our adventure.

In Victoria, we headed back out on the water for another whale-watching excursion. While sightings were more modest than what we experienced in Juneau, we still encountered flocks of cormorants, playful porpoises, and clusters of harbor seals lounging along the coast. A few distant whale spouts teased us from afar, rounding out our final stop with peaceful Pacific scenery.

Final Thoughts

Traveling to Alaska is such an unforgettable experience, especially when you do it on a cruise! Not only do you get to enjoy all the natural wonders and beauties of Alaska, you’ll do so while also enjoying all the amenities of life onboard your ship.

Courtney Nealis

I love to travel and talk about travel! Since 1993, I’ve helped clients plan big vacations and small getaways on every continent. Having been to more than 30 countries, traveled to all 50 states, and sailed on a wide array of cruises, I’m often asked which place is my favorite to visit. My answer is always the same, “I’ve had amazing experiences everywhere I’ve been, but I’ll never turn down traveling to the beaches of Hawaii.” The most memorable trips I plan are for people who are trying to check things off their travel bucket list. I love to help identify what they’re looking to do and then architect their perfect experience. Whether you’ve always dreamed of a foodie tour in NYC, a long weekend in Charleston, a hideaway in Thailand, or an exploration of the Amazon River, I’m not just a travel agent, I’m a maker of lifetime memories!

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