Am I Right in Choosing Flight/Tour Over Cruise?

Question

We'll be visiting Canada next August and plan to take the opportunity to go up to Alaska. We're mostly interested in seeing glaciers and whales. But rather than take a cruise from Vancouver, we're thinking of flying -

1. Fly to Anchorage

2. Train to Seward

3. Stay overnight in Seward

4. Boat tour of Kenai Fjords

5. Stay overnight in Seward

6. Train back to Anchorage

7. Stay overnight in Anchorage

8. 26 Glacier Cruise and Coach from Anchorage

9. Stay overnight in Anchorage

10 Fly back to Vancouver

Any thoughts please?

Answer

Your planned itinerary for Alaska is a very solid alternative to a cruise, especially if your primary interests are glaciers and whales. Flying into Anchorage and combining train travel with overnight stays and boat tours gives you more flexibility, comfort, and a chance to experience Alaska’s landscape up close, rather than spending several days confined to a ship.

Flying and using trains allows you to enjoy the scenic routes, particularly the Alaska Railroad from Anchorage to Seward, which is often described as one of the most beautiful train rides in the U.S. You’ll get views of mountains, glaciers, rivers, and wildlife along the way, which a cruise doesn’t offer in the same way.

Overnight stays in Seward are wise. Kenai Fjords National Park day cruises typically last 6–8 hours, giving you ample time to see tidewater glaciers and, if you’re lucky, humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, and puffins. Staying overnight also reduces the stress of rushing back to Anchorage the same day.

Advantages of flying/train itinerary: More flexibility, less crowded than cruise ships, can customize your schedule.
Kenai Fjords day cruise offers excellent glacier and whale viewing in a shorter timeframe compared to a multi-day cruise.
Overnight in Seward allows for relaxing, exploring the town, and enjoying local dining or short hikes.

The addition of the 26 Glacier Cruise from Whittier (near Anchorage) is a fantastic supplement. It gives a different perspective on glaciers without needing to commit to a full coastal cruise. Combining this with your Seward day tour means you see both tidewater glaciers and more remote, lesser-known glaciers, maximizing your glacier experience.

26 Glacier Cruise: scenic, shorter duration, great for photographers and wildlife watchers.
Coach transfer from Anchorage is convenient and scenic.
Staying overnight in Anchorage afterward allows you to rest before your flight back to Vancouver.

Some considerations to keep in mind:

Check train and cruise schedules carefully in August, as this is peak season and bookings fill up quickly.
Weather can impact whale sightings and glacier views, so build a bit of flexibility into your plan if possible.
Flying in and out of Anchorage rather than cruising from Vancouver allows you to see inland scenery and experience more of Alaska’s wilderness.

Overall, this itinerary is an excellent choice for travelers who want a combination of scenic travel, glacier exploration, and whale watching, without committing to a long cruise. It balances active sightseeing with comfortable pacing, and maximizes exposure to Alaska’s highlights within a limited timeframe.

Am I Right in Choosing Flight/Tour Over Cruise?

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