July Alaska Cruise-southbound

Question

Hello, I’m looking for some advice as to what the best excursions are for three couples in their early 70’s but good health. What have YOU done and loved or regretted spending your money on? Any recommendations appreciated to help us decide what to do in each port. Thank you

Answer

Traveling on a southbound Alaska cruise in July offers a wide variety of excursions, and for active couples in their 70s, it’s important to balance adventure with comfort. Here’s a detailed breakdown of popular and highly recommended options, as well as some to approach with caution or skip.

General Tips:

Book excursions early, as many fill up quickly, especially wildlife-viewing tours and glacier hikes.
Consider your physical limits; some hikes or kayaking trips may be strenuous.
Dress in layers and waterproof gear, as weather can change quickly even in summer.
Prioritize experiences that maximize Alaska’s unique scenery and wildlife.

Excursion Recommendations by Port:

Juneau: Helicopter glacier tours, whale watching, and the Mendenhall Glacier walk are top picks. Helicopter trips with a glacier landing are unforgettable, but note that walking on ice requires some mobility. Whale watching tours are generally gentle and excellent for photography.
Ketchikan: Consider the Misty Fjords floatplane tour, which is scenic and low-impact. Alternatively, explore local culture via the Totem Bight State Park or a salmon fishing excursion. Walking tours of historic Creek Street are also enjoyable and easy-paced.
Sitka: Wildlife kayaking, rainforest hikes, or cultural tours including the Sitka National Historical Park are highly rated. Kayaking can be mild or more active depending on the company, and hikes are generally moderate.
Skagway: White Pass & Yukon Route train ride is iconic and requires minimal effort. Alternatively, a gold rush history tour or short local hikes (like Lower Reid Falls) offer manageable activity levels. Avoid strenuous mountain treks unless everyone is confident in mobility.
Glacier Bay or Hubbard Glacier (if included in cruise): Scenic cruising is usually enough, but if excursions are offered, consider a mild boat tour or short guided hikes near the visitor center. Most passengers simply enjoy the views from the deck, which is excellent for photography.

Excursions to Consider Skipping:

Intense multi-hour hikes or glacier treks if mobility or stamina is a concern.
Whitewater rafting – very active, physically demanding, and wet.
Kayaking in rough water or long distances for those not experienced, though calm bays are fine.

Extra Tips:

Combine high-impact excursions (helicopter, flightseeing, whale watching) with easier options (short walks, cultural tours, scenic drives) to avoid fatigue.
Check if the cruise offers “skip-the-line” boarding for excursions, which saves time.
Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting from both excursions and the ship deck.

In summary, the best excursions maximize Alaska’s dramatic scenery with minimal physical strain. Helicopter and floatplane tours, whale watching, the White Pass train, and mild hikes or cultural experiences are generally well-loved by travelers in good health but seeking comfort and safety. Avoid overly strenuous or wet activities unless all participants are confident and experienced.

July Alaska Cruise-southbound

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