A Field Guide to Cruising Alaska: My Top Highlights in the 49th State 

Alaska is unlike anywhere else on Earth—a realm of wild beauty where nature’s grandeur is displayed daily. During my Holland America cruisetour through this untamed wilderness, I witnessed glaciers, incredible wildlife, and dramatic landscapes. I was also treated to an unbelievable show—the Northern Lights in all their glory. Here’s a recap of the experiences that made my Alaska adventure exceptional. 

Towering, Ice-Blue Glaciers 

Nothing can quite prepare you for the first time you see Alaska's glaciers from the deck. It’s an actual "pinch-me" moment. When you're face-to-face with these icy giants, the word "surreal" doesn’t just apply; it’s the only word that captures the essence of this encounter. Time stands still as you watch and listen for the thunderous crack of massive ice walls as they calve into the frigid waters of Glacier Bay.  

Magnificent Wildlife Encounters 

During my Alaska cruise, I experienced unforgettable wildlife encounters. As we sailed along the coastline, I watched seals and sea otters frolicking in the water with their playful antics. I also spotted a moose family grazing peacefully in the wilderness. The scenery can be mesmerizing, but don’t forget to look skyward—eagles soar overhead, their wings slicing through the crisp, cool air. 

One of my highlights was a shore excursion to Glacier Bay National Park, where I had the chance to go whale watching. Seeing those massive creatures breach the surface was awe-inspiring. Whether I was snapping photos or just taking it all in, the wildlife in Alaska felt as magnificent as the landscape itself. 

Yukon Territory Exploration 

If exploring one of the most pristine and remote regions is on your bucket list, take a cruisetour and spend up to three nights in the rugged terrain of Canada’s Yukon Territory. Dawson City, with its sweeping, untouched landscapes, felt like stepping back in time to the Gold Rush era.  

The Yukon is more than breathtaking landscapes and historic sites; it’s a living testament to ancient traditions and storytelling passed through generations. At Saxman Native Village, you’ll connect with the region’s rich cultural heritage. Watch as master carvers create intricate totems, each telling its unique story. 

The Northern Lights 

Witnessing the Northern Lights in Alaska was a once-in-a-lifetime experience I’ll cherish. The Aurora Borealis, created when solar wind particles collide with Earth’s atmosphere, paints the sky in mesmerizing greens, purples, pinks, and reds. The best time to see this celestial spectacle is on an Alaska cruise in September when the nights are longer and clear. 

Fairbanks, nestled in the Auroral Oval, is the prime location for viewing, and I was lucky enough to stay at the Borealis Basecamp, about 25 miles outside the city. Sleeping in an igloo hotel with a glass roof, I was surrounded by the rugged wilderness and had a front-row seat to the dazzling light show. It was a magical, otherworldly experience, connecting me to the beauty of the universe. 

While your experience in Alaska may be unique to mine, I can guarantee that a cruisetour here will leave you with a lifetime of memories. As I reflect on my journey, I’m glad I documented it so well that I can relive it. Whatever you do, bring your camera to capture those unforgettable memories.