7 Alaska Shore Excursions That Will Get Your Heart Pumping

A cruise in Alaska brings such heart-thumping encounters as watching an icy-blue, house-sized chunk of glacier thunderously calve into a bay. But glacier viewing is just the beginning of the "wow" experiences in the 49th state. Adventure seekers will find outrageous shore excursions that range from the sublime to the extreme — a common denominator being substantial bragging rights.

1. Rock-Climbing and Rappelling 

Ports: Juneau and Skagway

Make sure you're in good enough shape before your cruise if you want to attempt these excursions. - Photo by Jan Mika / Shutterstock

Harness up and join mountain guides to traverse granite cliffs, carved smooth by retreating glaciers. There are more than a dozen climbing routes — some for first-timers and others for more experienced climbers. When you're not concentrating on your next step, keep your eyes open for views of the Skagway River, surrounding wilderness, and White Pass railroad, which will take some of your fellow cruisers up parts of the once arduous Trail of '98. Book now!

2. Glacier Trekking

Ports: Juneau

If you want to experience the glaciers, you need to get up close and personal. - Photo by orangecrush / Shutterstock

Helicopter tours provide thrilling glacier views that you'll talk about for years. But then there’s the outrageous option of actually landing on a glacier, putting on crampons, and getting on the ice, hiking around astonishingly deep crevasses. It's beautiful and slightly terrifying: a close encounter with Mother Nature in all her icy glory. Plus, when else do you get to carry an ice pick? Book now!

3. Ziplining

Ports: Ketichkan and Juneau

You won't find forests like these in the Caribbean. 

In a lot of ports, ziplining would be a No. 1 shore excursion for the adventurous cruise passenger. In Alaska, however, it's mild compared to, say, walking on a glacier. Still, you’ll find courses in several Alaskan ports where a certain amount of skill and concentration are required —and the views are amazing as you fly high in the rainforest. A favorite course is in Dyea, outside of Skagway, where challenges include 11 lines (the longest, 750 feet) and several suspension bridges, with waterfall views. Note: The world's longest zip line provides a quick thrill in Icy Strait Point, but in that case, it's a ride, not a challenge. Book now!

4. Dog Sledding

Ports: Skagway and Juneau

Admit it. You've always wanted to try this. - Photo by Allen G / Shutterstock

In the annual Iditarod race from Anchorage to Nome, mushers are pulled on sleds by dog teams across nearly a thousand miles of frozen tundra, with little time to rest over the course of nine to 15 days — in winter. The race is for the hearty and slightly crazy. Fortunately, you don't need to be either to get a taste of the quintessential Alaskan sport. Your excursion begins with a scenic helicopter ride that lands you on top of an ice field, where you hang out with race champions and their dogs and try your hand at driving a team. Book now!

5. Snorkeling

Ports: Ketichkan and Sitka

This species of anemone is only found in Alaskan waters. - Photo by Ethan Daniels / Shutterstock

Yes, the water is a little chilly. But snorkel in a wetsuit in Ketchikan or a dry suit in Sitka for an experience very different than what you get in the Caribbean and other warm climates. You'll find a colorful underwater world that includes bright purple starfish, bright pink sea anemone and fields of kelp, fluttering seductively like long blond hair in a fan. Through your mask, you may even spot a salmon or two.

6. Salmon Fishing —

Ports: Ketchikan, Sitka, and Other Ports

It may not be The Deadliest Catch, but it's as close to it as any reasonable person would want. - Photo by Willard / Thinkstock

Southeast Alaska waters are so attractive to fish, even novice anglers stand a chance at reeling in a sizeable salmon — or halibut. Book passage on a small boat with an experienced captain who knows where to go, and try your luck at catching "the big one." You can have your fish flash-frozen or smoked and delivered to your home. Book now!

7. Fly-Fishing

Ports: Juneau

The views make this fishing like you've never experienced. - Photo by Bryan Faust / Thinkstock

Only in Alaska does the perfect day of fly-fishing come with unbelievable views of glaciers from a seaplane, exciting water landings, and a guide who carries a shotgun — just in case you encounter any grizzly bears. You head to a remote, uninhabited place and feel the cool water of a creek on your provided thigh-high waders as you cast for such species as Dolly Varden trout. Fly-fishing nirvana.