Many people spend hours upon end trying to figure out that one perfect vacation of the year and how they can make the most of it for the least out of pocket cost. But truth be told, sometimes spending a little more gives you an experience that truly is priceless. One amazing vacation destination every person should take in their lifetime is a trip to Alaska. There’s a reason why most Alaska cruise reviews are always so exciting and here’s a few explanations why.
There are many ways to explore Alaska, but if you are looking for a cost effective more “bang for your buck” way to visit then perhaps a cruise would suite your needs. In fact many cruise lines offer packages such as land-sea options that really allow one to get a taste of all the places to visit in Alaska and everything this stunning destination has to offer.
Alaska cruise reviews always mention that Land-Sea packages are great way to travel, as it allows for more time on land and actual takes your journey further into the frontier of Alaska letting you get a sense of the beauty, culture and geological wonders it has to share. No matter what age, Alaska has something for everyone.
Whether you just want to take it slow and enjoy some of the world’s most spectacular breath-taking vistas, be adventurous and explore the bountiful nature and wildlife or be downright daring and go white water rafting in front of a giant glacier. Alaska is a great choice for all too enjoy. Starting on Land, in the inner part of Alaska, really opens one’s eyes to what Alaska is about and all of its offerings. A lot of people think Alaska consists of only snow, cold and darkness 24/7 365 days of the year but this is not so.
Cities like Fairbanks, Anchorage, all the way down to Juneau during the summer months reach temperatures between 70 -90 degrees with long hours of sunlight. These cities pride themselves with beauty and splendor around every corner with larger than life floral arrangements and decorative artist sculptures that showcase the historical and cultural side of Alaska. The quaint yet vibrant cultural cities are always mentioned when you read Alaska cruise reviews.
If wildlife and nature is your thing, this place is your utopia! Alaska truly is the last frontier when it comes to the plentiful untouched landscape and native wildlife. With all the places to visit in Alaska and the endless vast frontier to explore, you can bet at some point you will encounter or at least catch a glimpse of some form of animal be it eagles, elk, bear, moose or whales. It’s pretty uncommon to hear anyone state that they didn’t experience any wildlife when they are talking about the adventure they had in their cruise review of Alaska.
A great way to see the amazing landscape and wildlife of Alaska is to take a trip on a glass top train through the Tundra. Many land-sea options include this in the package allowing guests to see sights that are truly out of this world. The train runs through and stops at Denali National park. The park allows you to go even further into the tundra and really explore your nature side from hiking to plane tours to rafting down a glacier fed river. Throughout the vast variety of Alaska cruise reviews, the glass top trains and overnights at Denali are always two of the highest ranked experiences.
Being inland also gives you a change to see the Aurora Borealis (northern lights) which is a spectacular mystical sight. This is truly something everyone should see at least once in their life time. When people speak about things that you cannot really put into words and you just have to experience it, this would be one of those moments.
Now once you had your fill of nature which is truly never ending in a place like this, there is still the rich history and cultural side of Alaska to discovery. The towns and cities have a lot to offer, like shopping, historical tours, and art by native artisans to really feel the heart of their people and the culture. As for dining, there are plenty of places that will defiantly leave a sweet taste in your mouth. Did you know Alaskans consume the most ice cream in the USA per capita? That’s true…the ice cream in Alaska is absolutely amazing!
So now that land has been covered, one might think “What does the sea portion offer?” the answer is-plenty! The ships alone offer amazing activities, amenities, dining options and entertainment onboard the entire way. The cruise ships themselves are one of the most talked about things in many Alaska cruise reviews. But if that’s not enough, just look out at the view and incredible waterscape that surrounds you.
You will witness weather from foggy and frigid crisp days to clear and warm sunny days, ever-changing tides, and water as still as a mill pond. Enjoy peace and serenity while watching the sunset upon endless vistas of mountain, water and sky. Spend the whole day on the ship deck observing wildlife at play from seals and dolphins to orca and humpback whales.
Many Alaskan cruise ships travel through the inside passage which offers spectacular views, calm water and an unforgettable stop at Glacier Bay National Park. One can truly be humbled when entering Glacier Bay. It is simply breathtaking and really proves just how insignificant we as humans can feel in comparison to the measurements of this magnificent earth. Most cruise reviews will always touch on this aspect in one form or another.
You will see glaciers that literally tower over the entire ship; you will feel the strength and see up close the sheer size and wonder of these ginormous moving glaciers. The ships allow a generous amount of time so you can really stop and take in such a magnificent creation of nature. The quietness of the bay with the occasion sound of thunder as the glacier moves and cracks in front of you is definitely an experience you and your entire family will never forget.
Once through Glacier Bay National Park the ships will stop at several ports which offer many fun filled excursions such as plane and helicopter tours, salmon bakes, whale watching, nature hikes and more. These are just some of the activities and experiences you can expect and will hear about in numerous Alaska cruise reviews.
A trip to Alaska may feel like a once in a life time dream but why not make it a continuous destination for years to come. As you can see, Alaska has so much to offer, there is always something new to see and with its ever changing landscape you can always find a new adventure around every glacier.
Once you yourself take part in Alaska, you’ll be able to add your voice to Alaska cruise reviews travelers read and help in their decision making process. Many people find that once they experience an Alaskan cruise or Alaska in general, it becomes a destination that they escape to frequently.
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