The 49th state is home to stunning natural beauty. A Disney Cruise Port Adventure is one of the best ways to experience it firsthand. Cruising with Disney to Alaska offers great views from the ship, but there’s nothing like getting out and having your own adventure. It’s, therefore, both a blessing and a curse that there are so many excursion options — nearly 200 at last count. To help you decide, here are our picks for the best Disney Cruise Excursions in Alaska.
Jump directly to the best Alaska excursions in:
Or read on to learn more about Alaska Excursions and how to get them for free.
What are Disney Cruise Excursions?
An excursion — also known as a “Port Adventure” on Disney cruise ships — is an organized off-ship activity. You’re always free to leave a cruise ship to explore a port on your own. A Port Adventure is an optional paid experience that gives you greater access and additional benefits.
On a Disney Cruise to Alaska, your excursion options are especially exotic. Imagine taking a helicopter to a glacier, a rainforest family adventure, whale watching tour, or attending “summer camp” for sled dogs. They’re all possible when you visit Alaska with Disney Cruise Line.
How Much are Disney Shore Excursions in Alaska?
Prices for Alaska port excursions vary widely. On the low end, it costs about $47 to attend a lumberjack demonstration in Ketchikan. On the high end, you can spend nearly $5,200 to take a private sea plane to Misty Fjords National Monument.
We checked the prices of all excursions Disney Cruise Line offered in Alaska at the time we wrote this article, and here’s what we found:
- $1 – $49: 1 option
- $50 – $99: 35 options
- $100 – $199: 57 options
- $200 – $399: 67 options
- $400 and up: 26 options
Are Disney Cruise Line Alaska Excursions Worth It?
No one disputes that airfare to Vancouver and the cost of the Disney Cruise itself are already significant expenses. So it’s understandable that some folks hesitate to add multiple high-cost shore excursions to their trip. But for Alaska, excursions really are the key to an amazing experience that you and your family will remember for the rest of your lives.
Alaska excursions are generally pricier than excursions in the Bahamas or Caribbean, where you can find several onshore activities for less than $25. In Alaska, you can certainly find great options for less than $100 per person — but most of the unforgettable “bucket list” type experiences are more likely to cost about $250 – $350 per person. A $450 – $550 price tag is not out of the question for excursions that involve aircraft such as helicopters and seaplanes.
We wholeheartedly recommend splurging on at least one high-dollar excursion during your Alaska Cruise. Our experience is that you will not regret the additional expense; you’ll remember the amazing things you saw and did for much longer than you’ll remember how much they cost.
To put it another way: you’ve already spent a lot to get yourself to Alaska — do you really want to squander that investment by staying in your room onboard the ship or just visiting a few gift shops within walking distance of the dock?
How to Get Free Disney Cruise Alaska Excursions
Here’s a little-known way to cut the cost of your shore excursions in Alaska — many travel agencies will give you a free onboard credit that can be used to pay for your Port Adventures.
Here’s how it works:
- You connect with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner for free help booking your cruise. There’s no fee to use their services.
- Your agent books your cruise and helps you with all your onboard planning. Plus, you can contact them anytime for help without having to wait on hold.
- You’ll receive a credit on your shipboard account, which can be used toward onboard purchases such as souvenirs, alcohol, gratuities, or shore excursions. The amount you receive varies depending on the cost of your cruise.
Our official travel agency partner, The Vacationeer, offers onboard credits of up to $1,000. Plus, booking with The Vacationeer means you’ll have a single, dedicated agent from start to finish. So you won’t have to dial into some giant call center, fuss through dozens of phone menus, and explain your situation to different people.
So why not take advantage of the personalized service and free spending money you get by booking your Disney Alaska Cruise through The Vacationeer? It won’t cost a penny more than booking it yourself!
When Do You Pay for Alaskan Cruise Excursions?
Disney Alaska Cruise Port Adventures charges are applied to your shipboard account, so you won’t have to pay until you settle your account at the end of your cruise.
That means they’re a great way to use your travel agency onboard credit.
Now, on to our list.
We’ve picked some of the best Alaska cruise excursions at each port, but there are plenty more to choose from on the Disney Cruise Line website.
We’ve also noted the ⭐ BEST OF THE BEST ⭐ — the most unique and splurge-worthy experiences.
Prices shown are per person unless indicated otherwise, and note that not every cruise visits every port shown here.
Image © Disney
Icy Strait Point is a premier destination on Disney Alaskan Cruises. Situated alongside Hoonah, Alaska (the state’s largest Native Tlingit village), this purpose-built cruise port hosts a limited number of ships each day. It is believed by many to be the best spot in Alaska to see whales. Whales are so abundant here that most tour operators in the area offer a money-back guarantee if you fail to see one on your expedition! In our opinion, the stunning natural scenery and abundant animal sightings in Icy Strait Point are impressive enough to be the deciding factor when choosing between an Alaskan Cruise itinerary that visits here and one which doesn’t.
Mountain Top Forest Tram (IS36)
Image © Disney
Ascend more than 1,500 feet to the top of Hoonah Mountain in a modern gondola offering 360⁰ views. Once you’ve reached the summit, take a six-mile open-air tram journey through an old-growth forest filled with spruce trees and wildflowers. Be on the lookout for wildlife during your journey!
Activity Level:
Mild
Requirements:
Open to all ages
Duration:
1.5 to 2.0 hours
Cost:
$99 for ages 10+
$89 for ages 3-9
$0 for ages 0-2
In Alaska’s Wildest Kitchen (IS13)
A true foodie adventure! Learn about local fishing, preservation, and food preparation from an experienced chef during a fun, hands-on experience. You’ll learn how to fillet like a pro, then have an opportunity to personally grill the day’s catch. Afterward, enjoy free time to explore Hoonah, along with unlimited Gondola rides, admission to a Tribal Dance Show, and discounts at waterfront restaurants and select shops.
Activity Level:
Moderate
Requirements:
Ages 8+
Duration:
1.5 to 2.0 hours
Cost:
$99 for ages 10+
$89 for ages 8-9
Discovering Birds of Hoonah (IS17)
This combination of driving and walking expeditions affords multiple opportunities to see the winged residents of Alaska in their native habitats. This experience teems with creatures great and small, from bald eagles to hummingbirds. Among the fowl you might encounter are chickadees, creepers, ducks, flycatchers, gulls, jays, kinglets, sapsuckers, sparrows, swallows, swifts, thrushes, warblers, woodpeckers, wrens. Once you’ve “landed” at the end of your adventure, you’ll enjoy an “all-access” pass for Hoonah that includes gondola rides and other experiences before returning to the ship.
Activity Level:
Moderate
Requirements:
Ages 8+
Guests must be ambulatory.
Duration:
3.5 to 4.0 hours
Cost:
$189 for ages 10+
$179 for ages 8-9
Whale and Marine Mammals Cruise (IS01)
⭐ Best of the Best ⭐
Board a spacious catamaran and sail to Point Adolphus, a premier whale-watching spot and a natural wonder in and of itself. You’re guaranteed to see at least one whale, meaning you’ll get a full refund of the cost if you don’t. Odds are you’ll see many more — and are likely to see both humpbacks and killer whales, possibly even right beside the boat. During this excursion, you’re also apt to spot sea lions, harbor seals, and even bald eagles.
Activity Level:
Mild
Requirements:
Open to all ages
Duration:
2.5 to 3.0 hours
Cost:
$209 for ages 10+
$139 for ages 3-9
$139 for ages 0-2
Whale Watching and Bear Search Combo (IS10)
This Port Adventure combines the best of two different wildlife spotting expeditions, seeking out whales and bears. First, start out with a catamaran trip to Adolphus for a whale viewing experience in an area so hospitable to whales that you’ll get a refund for this part of the excursion if you don’t see one. Then, head out for a walking trip of the rainforests of Chichagof Island, home to the most bears per square mile on the planet.
Activity Level:
Mild
Requirements:
Ages 8+
Not recommended for those who have difficulty walking.
Duration:
5.5 to 6.0 hours
Cost:
$329 for ages 10+
$239 for ages 8-9
Image © Disney
Juneau is Alaska’s state capital — the only state capital which can’t be accessed by roadway (ship and planes only)! For cruisers, it’s home to one of the widest varieties of shore excursions in Alaska. Of course, you’ll find plenty of whale-watching opportunities here (though Icy Strait Point may be a better bet if your Disney Cruise itinerary travels there, too). But Juneau shines when it comes to unique excursions such as glaciers accessible by simply hopping on a bus, dog sledding adventures, and a wide array of air-based touring via helicopter and sea plane.
Mendenhall Glacier Explorer (JU11)
Take a 25-minute motorcoach ride through downtown Juneau, passing the State Capitol building and other historical points of interest before making your way to Mendenhall Glacier. The recreation area includes wilderness trails and a waterfront view of the glacier. Plus, view Nugget Creek Falls and possibly spot Sockeye salmon if the time of year is just right.
Activity Level:
Mild
Requirements:
Open to all ages
Duration:
3.0 to 3.5 hours
Cost:
$64 for ages 10+
$29 for ages 3-9
$0 for ages 0-2
Glacier View Sea Kayaking (JU14)
Head to North Douglas Island to board a 2-person kayak (with a friend or a friendly fellow cruiser) for an unforgettable seaborne sightseeing adventure. See wildlife up close and (weather permitting) view Mendenhall Glacier. If you’re lucky, you might also spot bald eagles, herons, shorebirds, porpoises, and even humpback whales. Before returning to your Disney cruise ship, you’ll also visit the Mendenhall Wetlands (a protected wildlife habitat) and enjoy Alaska-inspired snacks.
Activity Level:
Active, Athletic
Requirements:
Ages 10+. Wheelchairs are not permitted. Guests must weigh between 40 and 260 pounds. Not recommended for expectant mothers in their third trimester.
Duration:
3.5 to 4.0 hours
Cost:
$169 for ages 10+
Dog Sledding Summer Camp (JU04)
Note: This is an older video and pricing has since changed. See below for current pricing.
Visit Sheep Creek Summer Dog Camp to meet a group of professional mushers and teams of Alaskan huskies, all in the shadow of massive mountains. You’ll visit a simulated Iditarod race checkpoint to experience what racers go through, plus you’ll learn how to care for sled dogs. A highlight is cuddling with impossibly fluffy Husky puppies, helping with their initial social training. Then, climb aboard a wheeled sled for a snow-free 1.5-mile mush through Sheep Creek Valley.
Activity Level:
Moderate
Requirements:
Open to all ages
Duration:
2.0 to 2.5 hours
Cost:
$199 for ages 10+
$189 for ages 3-9
$0 for ages 0-2
5-Glacier Seaplane Exploration (JU49)
Image © Disney
Fly high above the Tongass National Forest in an authentic bush seaplane for a narrated tour of five different glaciers in the Juneau Icefield. You’ll soar like a bird past scenic waterfalls and lush rainforests. The highlight is zooming past the Norris, Hole-In-The-Wall, East / West Twin Glaciers, and Mighty Taku glaciers. You might also spot moose, bears, and eagles before your smooth water landing.
Activity Level:
Mild
Requirements:
Open to all ages. Collapsible standard-size wheelchairs are welcome, but electric wheelchairs/scooters are not permitted. The tour operator may cancel with a refund in the event of inclement weather. Children under age 2 must lap-sit. Parties may be separated due to load-balancing requirements. Guests must not weigh more than 300 pounds to participate.
Duration:
1.0 to 1.5 hours
Cost:
$319 for ages 10+
$279 for ages 2-9
$0 for ages 0-1
Helicopter Glacier Walk About (JU38)
Gear up with cold-weather gear, mountaineering boots, crampons, and trekking poles, then board a turbine helicopter for a 20-minute flight to the Juneau Icefield. En route, enjoy a unique vantage point that shows off the ocean, rainforest, and icefield at the same time.
Your chopper lands on an actual glacier, where you receive a safety briefing and set out on a one-hour guided walk on the surface of the ice. Despite the daunting description, it’s not a strenuous trek, and you don’t need any prior experience to enjoy it.
Then, re-board your helicopter for a quick flight back.
Activity Level:
Active, Moderate
Requirements:
Ages 8+. Wheelchairs are not permitted. Must be able to enter/exit the helicopter with minimal assistance. Parties may be separated due to load-balancing requirements. Guests weighing 250+ pounds (including all clothing and personal items) must pay a $199 “half seat” surcharge. The tour operator may cancel with a refund in the event of inclement weather.
Duration:
3.0 to 3.5 hours
Cost:
$549 for ages 10+
$549 for ages 8-9
Additional surcharges may apply
Dog Sled Adventure by Helicopter (JU30)
⭐ Best of the Best ⭐
Image © Disney
Take a 15-minute flight over the Juneau Icefields, marveling at a landscape seemingly at odds with itself — lush forests and Alpine lakes abut jagged mountains and astonishing glaciers. Finally, your helicopter lands on the Norris Glacier, where you’ll meet your dog sled team. Learn from seasoned veterans of the legendary Alaskan Iditarod Sled Dog Race as they teach you the commands needed to zip across a pristine glacier with a team of huskies. Reluctantly say goodbye to your new furry friends and fly back to the heliport before returning to the ship.
Activity Level:
Mild
Requirements:
Ages 2+. Parties may be separated due to load-balancing requirements. Wheelchairs and strollers are not permitted. Not recommended for Guests with limited mobility. Guests weighing 240+ pounds (including clothing and gear) must pay a $199 “half-seat” surcharge. Tour operators may cancel with a refund in the event of inclement weather or poor ice conditions. No purses or carry-on items.
Duration:
2.5 to 3.0 hours
Cost:
$899 for ages 10+
$799 for ages 2-9
Additional surcharges may apply
Image © Disney
Known as the Salmon Capital of the World, thanks to the five varieties that call the nearby waters home, Ketchikan offers a unique Alaskan experience. Seafood is king here, but there’s much more to explore. Throughout town, find massive totem poles celebrating the area’s indigenous people.
Exclusive Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show (KE41)
The world’s top timber athletes send sawdust flying in this family-friendly competition show. Log rolling, chopping, speed chainsawing, rapid climbing, and more are all part of the Alaska family fun here — and that’s OK! The hour-long performance prepares astounding physical feats with good clean comedy to make an experience great for all ages.
Activity Level:
Mild
Requirements:
Open to all ages
Duration:
1.5 to 2.0 hours
Cost:
$54 for ages 10+
$29 for ages 3-9
$0 for ages 0-2
Wilderness Exploration and Crab Feast (KE31)
Your adventure starts with a 30-minute sightseeing motorcoach ride past canneries, waterfalls, and an old sawmill. Upon arrival at the George Inlet Lodge, board your boat for a 90-minute journey featuring the Mahoney Glacial Cirque (an abandoned gold mine site, snow-covered mountains, and 2,000-foot waterfalls). You’re also apt to spot bears, eagles, salmon, whales, sea lions, and seals in the area.
Your boat then crosses the fjord to reach the crab estuary, where you’ll have a chance to help pull in the crab pots. Inspect your new crabby friends briefly and learn a bit about them before returning them to the water. Finally, reset the pots and return to the lodge to enjoy a tempting Dungeness crab feast (featuring crabs you haven’t yet met).
Activity Level:
Mild
Requirements:
Open to all ages
Duration:
4.0 to 4.5 hours
Cost:
$199 for ages 10+
$134 for ages 3-9
$79 for ages 0-2
Rain Forest Island Adventure (KE09)
⭐ Best of the Best ⭐
Take a 30-minute scenic motorcoach ride to Knudson Cove, where you’ll board a Sea Hawk rigid-inflatable boat for a half-hour wildlife and sightseeing ride. Next, you’ll make your way to Orca Beach and a remote island rainforest. Your knowledgeable guide leads you through forest trails and a few built-in steps as you learn about native plant species and their importance to the early native people of this area.
Following your hike, snack on smoked salmon by the campfire before hopping back onboard the boat for a high-speed cruise along the Clover Passage; along the way, you’re likely to spot bald eagles, harbor seals, sea lions, and bald eagles — and you might even glimpse a porpoise or perhaps a whale or two.
Activity Level:
Moderate
Requirements:
Ages 5+. Guests must weigh no less than 40 pounds to participate. Wheelchairs are not permitted. Not recommended for expectant mothers in their third trimester.
Duration:
4.0 to 4.5 hours
Cost:
$219 for ages 10+
$119 for ages 5-9
Misty Fjords and Wilderness Explorer (KE19)
Take a short walk from your Disney ship to a nearby catamaran and begin heading to your destination. Narration provided by your crew points out items of interest as you travel at speed past the rugged coastline along the Revillagigedo Channel.
Upon entering the Behm Canal, you’ve arrived at Misty Fjords (spotting an immense volcanic spire rising from the sea while en route). Next, explore Rudyerd Bay, and learn the natural history of the fjords while sailing beneath 3,000-foot vertical cliffs. The return cruise to Ketchikan includes wildlife sightings, along with onboard commentary from a Tlingit storyteller and occasional presentations from participating artists and authors.
Be forewarned that some of the presentations could feel like they trend just a bit too close to a sales pitch. Also, note that the Misty Fjords are just that: misty. Areas of heavy fog and rain are likely to obscure portions of the views during this excursion.
Activity Level:
Mild
Requirements:
Open to all ages, but recommended for ages 10+. Collapsible, standard-sized wheelchairs are welcome; no electric wheelchairs or scooters. Strollers are welcome but may need to be folded for portions of the excursion (lightweight strollers are recommended).
Duration:
5.0 to 5.5 hours
Cost:
$239 for ages 10+
$149 for ages 3-9
$149 for ages 0-2
Disney Exclusive: Bering Sea Crab Fishermen’s Tour and Dinner with Crew (KE29)
Those who are fans of the Discovery Channel show Deadliest Catch might be surprised to know that the Aleutian Ballad is now a charter vessel that hosts cruise passengers. So you’ll hop onboard and settle into unique stadium-style seating for a look into what it takes to bring home this popular catch (fortunately, in a much safer environment).
Watch the skilled Bering Sea crab fishermen bait and drop long-line fishing gear in search of prized seafood. You might spot bald eagles, whales, sea lions, and seals along the way. Later, the main event is set to begin — hauling in 700-pound king crab pots just like those seen on the show. Everything caught is placed in an on-deck aquarium for closer inspection (and even hands-on selfies if you’d like). You’ll also learn about barrel pot fishing which often yields octopus and eels. Finally, see Dungeness crab, prawn, and shrimp fishing before returning to port.
That’s where the Disney-exclusive perks kick in. First, visit the wheelhouse to meet the Captain — learn about the ship’s navigation system and snap a photo while sitting in the Captain’s chair. Next, try on a survival suit and learn about seafaring safety firsthand from those who have faced the harsh and unforgiving Bering Sea. Finally, end the day with a delicious King Crab picnic on deck as the crew continues sharing their story.
Activity Level:
Mild
Requirements:
Ages 5+
Duration:
4.0 to 4.5 hours
Cost:
$389 for ages 10+
$249 for ages 5-9
Hunting for Halibut (KE36)
If fishing in Alaska is on your bucket list, this is a great way to do it. Small groups of 5 or 6 passengers set out with an expert guide on board a custom-built 24-foot cruiser. Your destination is the well-protected Ketchikan fishing grounds for an all-day expedition. As any fisher knows, what you catch is just as much up to the fish as it is up to you, but you could find rockfish, cod, flounder, shark, skate, or halibut on the hook. If you’d like to keep what you catch, you can opt to pay a bit extra for custom processing and shipping of your halibut.
Activity Level:
Moderate
Requirements:
Ages 8+ (ages 12+ recommended). Any fish caught which are not in season must be released. Not recommended for expectant mothers or guests with neck, back, or heart conditions. Collapsible, standard-sized wheelchairs are welcome; no electric wheelchairs or scooters. Must be able to board and disembark without assistance.
Duration:
4.5 to 5.0 hours
Cost:
$504 for ages 10+
$419 for ages 8-9
Additional cash-in-hand surcharge of $25 per person (ages 16+) for fishing license.
Step back in time to the Gold Rush days during your visit to this “Gateway to the Klondike.” This unique port is great for exploration, with a Wild West-like historic town center and train tracks that lead almost directly to your Disney Cruise ship. Here you can catch a saloon show or hop on the White Pass scenic railway for a journey deep into Yukon territory.
Skagway’s Original Street Car City Tour (SW19)
Board a yellow 1927 sightseeing bus for a tour led by a costumed tour guide inspired by famed storyteller Martin Itjen. You’ll explore the waterfront and travel through the National Park Historic District, travel to the scenic waterfront, and experience a lively retelling of a historic gunfight at the Gold Rush cemetery.
Activity Level:
Mild
Requirements:
Open to all ages. Guests must be able to board and disembark without assistance. These vintage vehicles cannot accommodate wheelchairs, scooters, or large strollers. Space is limited; only small backpacks and bags can be accommodated.
Duration:
1.5 to 2.0 hours
Cost:
$55 for ages 10+
$39 for ages 3-9
$0 for ages 0-2
Klondike Campfire Breakfast (SW63)
Start your day in Skagway with a hearty breakfast of steak, eggs, and blueberry sourdough pancakes, whipped up outdoors by the Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp camp chef. This camp near a waterfall at the foot of the White Pass is named for those who came to Alaska during the Klondike Gold Rush and sent plenty of tall tales back home.
While you eat, you’ll be entertained by the music and poetry of Robert Service, the “Bard of the Yukon.” Then, it’s time to go prospecting yourself; learn how to pan for gold. Thanks to a bit of Klondike magic, you’re guaranteed to find gold in every pan!
Activity Level:
Moderate
Requirements:
Open to all ages. Collapsible, standard-sized wheelchairs are welcome; no electric wheelchairs or scooters. Guests must be able to board and disembark the motorcoach without assistance and walk approximately 100 yards on uneven rocky terrain. Strollers are permitted but may need to be folded for portions of the experience.
Duration:
1.5 to 2.0 hours
Cost:
$89 for ages 10+
$49 for ages 3-9
$0 for ages 0-2
Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp & Salmon Bake Featuring Exclusive Disney Character Experience (SW36)
Image © Disney
Discover Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp and Salmon Bake on this “only from Disney” excursion. Then, start at the Liarsville Hippodrome for a fun-filled puppet show highlighting tales of the Gold Rush era.
Next, you’ll learn how to pan for gold — but first, you’ll take part in a fun scavenger hunt around the camp to gather your equipment. Favorite Disney Characters join in as you search for gold, with everyone guaranteed to find gold in their pan.
Roast marshmallows around the campfire, snap selfies with Disney Pals and enjoy an all-you-can-eat outdoor feast in the forest (featuring freshly-grilled Alaskan-caught salmon).
Activity Level:
Mild
Requirements:
Open to all ages. Collapsible, standard-sized wheelchairs are welcome; no electric wheelchairs or scooters. Guests must be able to board and disembark the motorcoach without assistance and walk approximately 100 yards on uneven rocky terrain. Strollers are permitted but may need to be folded for portions of the experience.
Duration:
2.5 to 3.0 hours
Cost:
$139 for ages 10+
$79 for ages 3-9
$0 for ages 0-2
White Pass Scenic Railway — Adult Exclusive (SW66) or Children Welcome (SW09)
There are several different excursions that feature this breathtaking historic railway, but this one is probably the most straightforward. You’ll board a vintage rail car that has pulled up right in front of your Disney Cruise ship and embark on a fully narrated trip aboard the historic White Pass & Yukon Route.
Carved through some of the North’s most rugged terrain in 1898, this engineering wonder climbs nearly 3,000 feet over 20 miles of steep grades and cliff-hanging turns. Passengers on this round-trip loop remain onboard the train from start to finish without disembarkation.
Activity Level:
Mild
Requirements:
Standard version SW09 is open to all ages. Adult-Exclusive departure SW66 is open to ages 18+. Collapsible, standard-sized wheelchairs are welcome; electric wheelchairs or scooters may not be able to be accommodated. Must be able to board and disembark (including a few steps) without assistance.
Duration:
2.5 to 3.5 hours
Cost:
$152 for ages 10+
$76 for ages 3-9
$0 for ages 0-2
Yukon Expedition (SW31)
⭐ Best of the Best ⭐
A true gem of Skagway is the Yukon Expedition, which features round-trip exploration via motorcoach and train.
Start out onboard a deluxe motorcoach headed up the South Klondike Highway to the top of the White Pass (elevation 3,292 feet). The 75-minute drive passes scenic waterfalls and glaciers before crossing the international border into Canada (so bring your passport!). There, you’ll head into the Yukon territory, seeing not only the chain of lakes that form the headwaters of the Yukon River but also the world’s smallest desert.
Then, make a stop at Caribou Crossing (Carcross). Here, you’ll feast on a barbeque chicken lunch (with homemade donuts for dessert) and explore the Yukon’s most complete museum exhibit of local wildlife. You can also visit the Dog Musher’s Village and say hello to a few furry friends there.
After heading to Fraser, British Columbia, you’ll board the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad for an unforgettable train ride down this historic narrow gauge railroad, descending nearly 3,000 feet over 20 miles. Your train ride features amazing views and narration that blends historical facts with tall tales of the Yukon. At the end of your journey, you’ll be dropped off within walking distance of your ship.
Activity Level:
Mild
Requirements:
Open to all ages. Passports are required for all Guests, as the tour crosses between the United States and Canada. A visa may be required for citizens of some countries; see your consulate for details. For children traveling without their parent or legal guardian, special authorization forms for the responsible adult are required. Collapsible standard-sized wheelchairs are welcome; electric wheelchairs and scooters are not permitted. Must be able to embark and disembark without assistance and be able to walk on gravel terrain. Strollers are welcome but may need to be collapsed for part of the experience. Lightweight strollers are recommended.
Duration:
8.0 to 8.5 hours
Cost:
$259 for ages 10+
$139 for ages 3-9
$0 for ages 0-2
Looking for another excursion to round out your trip? Here are a few more suggestions for other Alaskan Cruise ports.
Glacier Explorer — Stikine Icecap (DG01) or Hubbard Glacier (HUB01)
⭐ Best of the Best ⭐
Possibly one of the most unique experiences on a Disney Alaska Cruise is the Glacier Explorer excursion. While everyone can see the glacier from the Disney Cruise ship (without purchasing an excursion), this tour offers an intimate, up-close view.
Your adventure starts when you board a deluxe expedition vessel directly from your Disney Cruise Ship — no pulling into port first! You’ll then set sail on your once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Travel through dramatic fjords and past foreboding rocky shorelines as you weave through a maze of beautiful icebergs. Keep an eye out for wildlife sightings along the way!
The highlight of the excursion is the significant amount of time spent alongside the glaciers — as close as anyone can safely get while onboard a boat. Your vessel drifts along slowly, providing plenty of chances for photos, video, and good old-fashioned gawking. Dramatic displays of calving can occur at any time, with huge chunks of ice cleaving from the glacier with an earsplitting CRACK! These chunks land in the water below with a huge splash, becoming yet another iceberg to pass on your way back to the ship.
Activity Level:
Moderate
Requirements:
Open to all ages. Guests must be ambulatory. Standard wheelchairs, electric wheelchairs, and scooters are not permitted. Walkers and strollers may not be used on the ship gangway. Tour operators may shorten or cancel the experience at any time — including during the excursion — due to inclement weather, sea conditions, or ice conditions. Passports are required for Stikine Icecap (DG01).
Duration:
DG01 Stikine Icecap…
2.5 to 3.0 hours
HUB01 Hubbard Glacier…
2.0 to 2.5 hours
Cost:
DG01 Stikine Icecap…
$299 for ages 10+
$199 for ages 3-9
$199 for ages 0-2
HUB01 Hubbard Glacier…
$349 for ages 10+
$229 for ages 3-9
$229 for ages 0-2
Sitka: Alaska Bears & Silver Bay Homestead Experience (SI20)
Visit Fortress of the Bear, a home for orphaned bears, where rescued cubs are nursed back to health and provided a long life full of enrichment. The onsite interpretive staff shares interesting information and the inspiring story of the couple who founded this important mission.
Next, board a boat to explore a glacier-carved fjord dotted with historic sites and lessons about the important role that natural resources play in Southeast Alaska’s economy. Head onshore at Silver Bay, where a private Alaskan homestead awaits. Here, wilderness guides pass on to you the knowledge that Southeast Alaskans have used to survive and thrive for thousands of years. Enjoy spectacular views of the bay from the beach or snuggle up at the campfire for s’mores and hot cocoa.
Climb back aboard your watercraft for a wildlife expedition in search of sea lions and brown bears. You’ll wind up at Sawmill Creek for a driving tour that ends downtown at the Sitka visitors center. You’ll have a bit of time to explore before hopping on the regularly-running free shuttles back to the cruise ship terminal.
Activity Level:
Athletic
Requirements:
Open to all ages. Must be ambulatory, able to walk at a steady pace up to 100 yards at a time, and capable of navigating uneven terrain, gravel, steps, and inclines. Wheelchairs, electric wheelchairs, and scooters are not permitted.
Duration:
4.0 to 4.5 hours
Cost:
$269 for ages 10+
$229 for ages 3-9
$0 for ages 0-2
Sitka: Sea Otter and Wildlife Quest (SI03)
Board a deluxe, waterjet-powered vessel to explore the wildlife of Sitka Sound. An onboard naturalist explains this remarkable ecosystem as you watch for sea otters, whales, sea lions, porpoises, harbor seals, brown bears, black-tailed deer, and marine birds. Along the way, you’ll learn about the remarkable recovery of the area’s sea otters, which had been brought almost to the brink of extinction in the early 1800s. You can choose the level of adventure — either stay toasty warm in the cabin (enclosed seating and large windows) or head topside to the open-air observation deck. This expedition guarantees you will observe sea otters, a whale, or a bear during the excursion. If none of these animals appear during the experience, you’ll receive a $100 (USD) cash refund as you disembark.
Activity Level:
Moderate
Requirements:
Open to all ages. Collapsible, standard-sized wheelchairs are welcome; electric wheelchairs and scooters are not permitted. Guests must be able to embark and disembark without assistance.
Duration:
3.0 to 3.5 hours
Cost:
$169 for ages 10+
$129 for ages 3-9
$129 for ages 0-2
Vancouver, Canada: Northwest Exploration & Capilano Suspension Bridge (VC01)
The excursions don’t have to end just because your cruise has. Instead, extend your Disney cruise line vacation ever so slightly by spending a few hours on a guided tour through parts of Vancouver after you disembark your Disney Cruise ship for the final time.
You’ll board air-conditioned transportation and ride approximately 75 minutes through one of North America’s largest Chinatown districts, a gorgeous park system, and downtown Vancouver. Explore the old-world charm of Gastown, including the famed Steam Clock.
Pass through Stanley Park (with a quick 15-minute photo stop) and continue to the Capilano Suspension Bridge and Park for a treetop adventure. This pedestrian bridge crosses a deep gorge of the Capilano River — and yes, it sways as you walk across! Once you finish the 450-foot trek, cross a series of platforms that wind their way along the primordial forest of British Columbia.
Re-board your transportation for a ride that ends at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) for your flight home.
Activity Level:
Moderate
Requirements:
Open to all ages. Must be booked at the Port Adventures desk onboard the ship — cannot be booked online in advance. Departing flights from YVR airport should be booked no earlier than 3:00 PM. Collapsible, standard-sized wheelchairs are welcome; electric wheelchairs or scooters are not permitted. No wheelchairs of any type are permitted on the suspension bridge. Must be able to board and disembark without assistance. Strollers are welcome but may need to be folded for portions of the experience.
Duration:
3.5 to 4.0 hours
Cost:
$99 for ages 10+
$59 for ages 3-9
$0 for ages 0-2
Do I Have to Book Alaska Excursions through Disney?
It’s not a requirement to book your Disney Alaskan cruise excursions directly through Disney Cruise Lines, as many similar offerings can be booked directly through private tour operators. But there are benefits to booking through Disney that you won’t get when booking privately.
First — and most importantly — Disney will wait, if necessary, to allow official excursions to return to the ship should they run late (or pay for you to catch up to the ship at the next port-of-call). This courtesy is not extended to unofficial tours, which risks leaving you stranded! Your Disney excursions will also be automatically adjusted if the ship’s port schedule changes.
Payment terms are typically much more flexible for Disney excursions, whereas privately-booked excursions may require payment in full up-front and might be nonrefundable.
Finally, Disney works with tour providers to put just a bit more magic into Disney excursions. For example, many private rainforest tours include snacks around a campfire at the end — but only Disney Guests get to make s’mores.
Disney Alaska Cruise Port Adventure FAQs
Can You Book Alaska Disney Cruise Excursions Once You’re Onboard?
Yes, excursions can be booked at the Port Adventures desk onboard the ship — but it is subject to availability.
Do Disney Alaska Cruise Tour Offerings Sell Out?
It’s common for the most popular excursions to sell out well in advance of the cruise. Book as early as possible to avoid disappointment. There are no wait lists.
When Can You Book Disney Shore Excursions?
If it’s your first time cruising with Disney, you can book your Port Adventures 75 days prior to your sail date. Your cruise must be paid in full — no outstanding balance.
Repeat passengers get an early booking advantage based on the number of times they’ve cruised with Disney.
Are Disney Cruise Excursions in Alaska Wheelchair Accessible?
Given the outdoor nature of many of the activities, accessibility may be limited. However, as of March 2023, Disney listed 24 of its 191 Alaska Excursions as fully wheelchair accessible. An additional 61 excursions can accommodate wheelchairs for at least part of the experience, with a transfer required during the expedition. For more information, see Disney Cruise Line’s list of accessible excursions in Alaska.
Get Free Help from a Disney Cruise Expert
There’s a lot to consider when booking a Disney Cruise to Alaska — excursions, staterooms, ground transportation, dining, and onboard activities.
It’s easy to miss something important, so why not get completely free help from the Disney Cruise experts at The Vacationeer?
They’re an Earmarked Diamond level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, meaning they book thousands of Disney Vacations each year for families just like yours.
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The Vacationeer also provides a free onboard credit of up to $1,000 to use toward excursions, gratuities, and virtually anything else you pay for onboard the ship.
So what’re you waiting for? Your cruise won’t cost a penny more than if you booked it yourself. It might even cost less!
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