Adventures in Alaska

One of the best benefits of working on a cruise ship is the opportunity to travel for free. Another perk of being a crew member is the heavily discounted shore excursions we can go on.

Of the 11 weeks I spent working aboard the ship this summer in Alaska I was able to go on 9 different excursions. I was able to experience zip-lining and kayaking for the first time in my life and in Alaska of all places! I also got the opportunity to go on a scenic train ride which is something I have always wanted to do.

Kayaking in Ketchikan

Below is a list of excursions I did for each port as well as a description provided by Princess Cruises on their website.

Juneau

• Alaska Salmon Bake
  Enjoy an original outdoor salmon bake with wild Alaska salmon grilled over an open alder wood flame, situated in the lush rainforest. Dine with live entertainment, and participate in activities including gold panning, roasting marshmallows over a campfire, and getting your picture taken in a life-sized gold rush mural - on this 1.5-hour excursion.

Skagway

• White Pass Scenic Railway
  Take an unforgettable journey aboard "The Scenic Railway of the World" to the White Pass summit. Carved through some of the North's most rugged terrain in 1898, this engineering marvel climbs nearly 3,000 feet, offering spectacular views, breathtaking scenery and a passenger agent to narrate the experience. All Aboard! 
• Adventure Park & Ziplines
  Take part in an immersive activity amongst truly breathtaking beauty! Join our expert guides on an approximately 3 1/4-hour exhilarating experience in an Alaskan adventure park. Traverse a suspension bridge, maneuver along a raised balance beam and propel through the air on a series of ziplines - it's an experience you won't forget! 
• Musher's Camp & Sled Dog Experience
  Complete your Alaskan adventure by experiencing Alaska's state sport! This easy half-day tour features a dog sled ride in the Tongass National Forest. And there's a "Kennel Talk" with mushers at an authentic summer training camp, puppy play time, a crackling fire, and time to browse the gift shop!

Tip: If you are looking for something to do in Skagway but are not interested in a tour there is a hike located not too far from the port. Just be sure to bring some mosquito repellent.

View from the Lower Lake hike in Skagway

Ketchikan

• Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour
  This 3-hour cruise aboard the Aleutian Ballad from season two of the TV series "Deadliest Catch" reveals the world of commercial fisherman. Get up close with crabs and octopus and view abundant wildlife amid stunning scenery. It's fun for the whole family as you explore in calm, sheltered waters.
• Misty Fjords & Wilderness Explorer Cruise
  Explore Misty Fjords, one of nature's most spectacular creations, while cruising in luxury aboard one of the fastest sightseeing vessels in Alaska. 
• Eagle Islands Sea Kayaking
  Embark on a kayak adventure in Tongass National Forest while learning of the area's natural environment and colorful history. 

Victoria, BC

• Victoria by Horse-Drawn Trolley
  Experience the beauty of Victoria by horse-drawn trolley, a timeless tradition and wonderful way to view this historic city. Your fully narrated tour winds its way through the charming streets of Victoria, revealing stunning architectural monuments, gracious homes, exquisite gardens and cultural points of interest. 
• Victoria Amphibious Hippo Tour
  See both sides of Victoria from inside an amphibious hippo! It's splashtastic fun for the whole family! Take in the historic and charming sights of the capital city, then splash into the Pacific Ocean and soak up the mountain and ocean views aboard the 'bus that floats.'

New Eddystone Rock, a volcanic spire, in Misty Fjords (Ketchikan)