luxury train trips in alaska

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Alaska Luxury Tours by Train

What should you expect on our Alaska luxury tours by train? For one, Alaska Railroa's Goldstar line that offers a multi-story viewing platform and gourmet dining along with dome ceilings so you never miss a view. 

The rest of your travels will be made effortless with our light-aircraft knowledge, private transfer options, remote alaskan luxury lodges and first-class service. , so whether you want to see wildlife, fantastic views, or simply sit back and relax, we can build you a journey from the ground up that’s just your speed. , get in touch with our team to start planning your alaska luxury tour..

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Alaska Train Trips REVIEWS

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Wayne Michigan, United States

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Paul Williams Canada

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Lynne Sydney, Australia

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Jeff Los Angeles, CA

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Jemma L New York

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Haleh M California, USA

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Michael Figueriedo Spain

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Anne Mathews Australia

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Best Alaska Train Vacations with Alaska Railroad | Scenic Road Trips & Luxury Alaska Tours

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Dreaming of a vacation in alaska we like you already. as alaska vacation experts backed by twenty two years of experience, we take the hassle out of trip planning by delivering complete alaskan vacations personalized to your preferences and based on our own first-hand experience..

Covering only the very best of Alaska, our long-standing partnerships guarantee quality experiences at competitive rates. So go ahead, explore our suggested trip ideas across Alaska and contact us for your free consultation.

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Polona Australia

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Ann McKinnon Australia

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Ina Dominican Republic

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Denali Train Tour At A Glance

SUGGESTED LENGTH: 5 DAYS

$4,083 USD PER PERSON

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Denali train tour — the itinerary:

Featuring time in Alaska’s largest city, ample views of stunning landscapes, and a visit to Denali National Park, this journey is jam-packed. Travel by rail really is one of the best ways to view America’s biggest state. You’ll be riding the Railroad Goldstar, a luxury line that offers a multi-story viewing platform and gourmet dining, along with glass dome ceilings that will ensure you never miss a view. At the end of this first leg of your adventure, your accommodation will be at a stunning timber-framed lodge atop of Sugarloaf Mountain. Expect breathtaking panoramic vistas and fine wines — best enjoyed together on the viewing deck! After a day of exploring Denali National Park, the bush-plane flight from the park entrance will bring your Denali train tour to new heights. You’ll soar over glaciers, by the Alaskan range and past the North Face of America’s largest mountain. Other possible highlights include wildlife watching, rafting, and more. If you want to pack in a huge amount of Alaska in a short time period, this is the way to do it!

A Denali train tour with Entrée Destinations:

Alaska is vast, but we know it extremely well. Your travels will be made effortless with our light-aircraft knowledge, private transfer options, and first-class service. We can build you a journey from the ground up that’s just your speed. Whether you would like to see wildlife, fantastic views, or you’d just like to relax, our Denali train tour can be tailored to your unique preferences. Additionally, with our 24/7 travel support, we are always by your side. Download the full itinerary to find out more, it’s a taster of what is possible.

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Our Custom Approach: Your trip is tailored just for you, by our expert travel planners.

The Itinerary

1 | ANCHORAGE, AK

After picking you up at the airport in Anchorage, your driver will transport you to your hotel and you are free to begin exploring the city. This evening you will have the opportunity to enjoy dinner on your own, at one of our recommended restaurants. Accommodations are at the Hotel Captain Cook, Junior Suite.

2-3 | DENALI NATIONAL PARK, AK

After an early morning pick-up, you’ll board the world-famous Alaska Railroad GoldStar dome train for the scenic, full-day ride to Denali National Park. From the open-air platform or glass-covered observation deck, you’ll soak up views of tundra, deep river canyons, and mountains—including magnificent Denali. Accommodations are at the Grande Denali Lodge, View Room.

On the third day of your journey you’ll travel 95 miles into Denali National Park aboard the Denali Backcountry Adventure bus, spotting moose, bear, wolves and other wildlife along the way. After lunch, return to the park entrance in a classic Alaskan bush plane, flying through the awe-inspiring Alaska Range, over glaciers, and past the North Face of Denali. Accommodations are at the Grande Denali Lodge, View Room.

4 | ANCHORAGE, AK

Return to Anchorage on the Alaska Railroad GoldStar dome train, passing over Broad Pass, Hurricane Gulch, and one of the most spectacular views of Denali. Accommodations are at the Hotel Captain Cook, Junior Suite.

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Alaska Railroad

With routes like the Denali Star, Glacier Discovery to Whittier and Coastal Explorer to Seward… the Alaska Railroad is a perfect way to travel. Adventure Class and GoldStar dome service available. Learn More >>

Wilderness Express

Sit back and enjoy true luxury on the Wilderness Express private dome rail cars. Daily summer service to Anchorage, Talkeetna, Denali Park and Fairbanks. Learn More >>

McKinley Explorer

With its unique and convenient train schedule, the McKinley Explorer private dome train is a great way to travel to Denali National Park… in comfort and style. Learn More >>

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The Park Connection Motorcoach is an ideal complement for your Alaskan railway adventure... save time, money and enjoy additional scenery by traveling one direction on the bus. Learn More >>

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Traveling in the winter? Check out the Alaska Railroad Aurora Winter Train .

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Alaska Luxury Vacations

What does a luxury vacation to Alaska entail? That may depend on your definition of Luxury. While some travelers prioritize high-end hotels and transportation, others seek exclusive travel experiences and steering clear of crowded tourist spots. Regardless of your personal definition of luxury, we compiled a captivating list of experiences and tour ideas that will undoubtedly meet the definition of any Alaska Luxury Vacation.

Luxury Alaska Train Trips

Luxurious tours on the Alaska Railroad offer an extraordinary way to experience the breathtaking beauty of Alaska’s landscapes in comfort and style. The Alaska Railroad is renowned for its scenic Alaska rail vacations, traversing through majestic mountains, pristine forests, and picturesque coastal areas. But to experience all of this in their premium class GoldStar dome train, takes luxury to another level.

Lavish, well-appointed train cars offer spacious seating with large glass dome ceilings, which allow for unobstructed views of the stunning Alaska scenery. This luxury train even has an outdoor, upper-level viewing platform. Onboard, the GoldStar service continues with meals and drinks included. 

Throughout the journey, knowledgeable guides share fascinating insights, historical facts, geological wonders and point out wildlife sightings along the journey.

Luxury Alaska train tours on the Alaska Railroad GoldStar dome train allow you to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Alaska while enjoying the finest comforts and amenities. The Alaska Railroad train tours offer various itineraries to suit the needs of many different travellers. From day trips to multi-day journeys, a train journey through Alaska is sure to meet your definition of luxury travel.

Visit AlaskaRailroad.com to learn more.

Luxury Small Ship Cruises to Alaska

Small ship cruises to Alaska offer an intimate and immersive way to explore the region’s stunning landscapes, wildlife, and fascinating history. They provide unique itineraries that allows guests to access remote areas and navigate narrow channels and fjords that larger ships cannot reach. 

Whether you’re seeking an active adventure, cultural immersion, or indulgent relaxation, a small ship cruise to Alaska can provide an unforgettable journey.

Here’s an overview of some notable small ship cruise companies that offer luxury Alaska vacations:

Uncruise Adventures 

Uncruise specializes in small ship expeditions that focus on active adventures and personalized experiences. Their itineraries often include activities like kayaking, hiking and paddleboarding. With a fleet of expedition vessels, Uncruise emphasizes close encounters with wildlife and opportunities to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations in Alaska’s wilderness.

Alaskan Dream Cruises

Alaskan Dream Cruises offers intimate cruises with a strong focus on authentic Alaskan experiences. Their small ships provide a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, while their itineraries often include visits to remote villages, cultural immersion activities, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Alaskan Dream Cruises is committed to sustainable and responsible tourism practices.

Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises is a luxury small ship cruise line that offers all-inclusive voyages to Alaska. Their fleet includes elegant expedition ships with spacious suites and world-class amenities. Silversea’s Alaska cruises feature enriching onboard lectures, gourmet dining experiences, and guided shore excursions. They prioritize personalized service and aim to provide a refined and luxurious journey.

Windstar Cruises

Windstar Cruises offers a unique blend of luxury and adventure on their small, yacht-style ships. Their Alaska itineraries focus on exploring hidden coves, narrow fjords, and remote wilderness areas. Windstar Cruises provide exceptional onboard amenities, including upscale dining options, spacious staterooms, and attentive service. They often incorporate activities like kayaking, Zodiac excursions, and wildlife spotting.

Luxury Travel on large Cruise Ships

Not interested in a small cruise ship. It’s still possible to experience amazing luxury, even on a large cruise ship. Many of the large cruise lines also offer luxury options above and beyond standard amenities. These are typically available to guests that book in their exclusive suites.

Princess Cruises offers private concierge service to its suite guests, while Norwegian Cruise Lines offers a private restaurant, exclusive pool, and cocktail bar to guests in their suites and Haven Suite complex. 

Celebrity Cruises also offers guests in “Suite Class” access to The Retreat, with its private lounge, sundeck and pool and Luminae, a dedicated restaurant with a menu curated by Celebrities’ own Michelin Star chef.

Luxury Northern Lights Trips to Alaska

Although Alaska’s best weather is in the summer, many visitors brave the fall, winter, and spring months in hopes of catching the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights .

Alaska’s vast wilderness and pristine night skies provide the ideal backdrop for encountering the captivating Northern Lights. Picture yourself nestled in a cozy, secluded lodge, or a luxurious wilderness resort, awaiting the magical spectacle of shimmering curtains of green, purple, and pink hues dancing across the sky. With minimal light pollution and optimal positioning near the Auroral Oval, Alaska offers prime opportunities for witnessing nature’s most enchanting light show.

Two of Alaska’s most famous accommodations for Northern Lights viewing are Chena Hot Springs Resort and Borealis Basecamp. These retreats provide the perfect haven to explore the awe-inspiring aurora sightings.

While in Alaska in the winter, you may as well indulge in the unique activities that Alaska can offer. Try dog sledding across a wintry landscape, take off on a helicopter tour to remote vantage points, or indulging in gourmet wilderness dining experiences under the Northern Lights. These incredible adventures ensure that you will creating lasting memories to stay with you forever.

Borealis Basecamp

The geodesic domes that make up the basecamp have been uniquely designed with clear roofs, giving you a chance to see the aurora from the warmth of your room in the wintertime. One of the very few unique accommodations like this, anywhere in the world. Located 25 miles north of Fairbanks, Alaska.

Chena Hot Springs Resort

Alaskans and visitors enjoy Chena Hot Springs year-round; however it is best known for its northern lights viewing in the wintertime. Located far away from the light pollution of the Fairbanks, Chena Hot Springs will also provide a northern lights wake-up call, whenever the aurora is out dancing in the sky, and you’ve fallen asleep. While the natural hot springs are the dependable main attraction, several other activities are available including dog sledding. Located 60 miles east of Fairbanks on Chena Hot Springs Road .

Alaska Luxury Tours Destinations

Whether you choose to see Alaska on a luxury tour, or not, you are bound to want to see all the incredible natural wonders that Alaska has to offer. Alaska has incredible national parks, wildlife viewing and unmatched scenery. Here are some of the top destinations for any Alaska luxury vacation.

Denali National Park, located in the heart of Alaska, is a pristine wilderness renowned for its towering peaks, vast tundra, and abundant wildlife. Encompassing over six million acres, it is home to the iconic Denali (formerly Mount McKinley), the highest peak in North America. The park is teeming with wildlife, such as grizzly bears, moose, caribou, wolves, and Dall sheep, providing ample opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.

For a more exclusive and personalized experience, consider booking a private guided tour of Denali National Park. Private tours allow you to create the ideal itinerary, ensuring that you visit the park’s most captivating locations while enjoying the undivided attention of an experienced guide. These tours often include luxury transportation, gourmet meals, and the opportunity to explore the park’s wilderness in a secluded and intimate setting, stepping away from the crowds.

For a truly extraordinary experience, consider a helicopter or plane tour of Denali National Park . These exclusive air tours provide a bird’s-eye view of the park’s vast wilderness, towering mountains, and glaciers. Fly over breathtaking landscapes, spot wildlife from above, and land in remote areas for a closer look at the park’s pristine beauty. These tours often come with luxury amenities, including personalized narration and champagne to celebrate your adventure.

Denali National Park is a cherished destination for those seeking adventure, tranquility, and a chance to connect with nature on a grand scale. Its awe-inspiring beauty and untouched wilderness make it a must-visit location for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking an authentic Alaskan experience.

Luxury Hotels near Denali National Park.

Denali princess wilderness lodge.

Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge is your starting point for your complete Denali National Park memory. The park is six-million acres, full of wildlife and, of course, North America’s highest peak. The lodge boasts over 600 rooms, six restaurants, and all the amenities you would expect from a luxury Alaskan lodge. In addition, their tour desk can help arrange a plethora of summer activities, from dog mushing to white water rafting or flightseeing.

Mt McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge

Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge is in a stunning setting and prides itself on terrific views from its massive windows of North America’s tallest mountain – Denali. There is also a hot tub, walking trails, and access to whitewater rafting. The lodge has three dining options appealing to a wide variety of palates. Located at mile 133 Parks Highway in Denali State Park (100 miles south of Denali National Park)

Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge

Talkeetna is a few hours south of Denali but is the basecamp for many Denali adventures. Set on a ridge above the town of Talkeetna, Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge offers majestic views of Denali and the Alaska Range. Be sure to book a mountainside room to wake up and gaze at Denali. This resort offers a gorgeous lodge with comfortable rooms and unique Alaska cuisine at their on-site restaurants.

Kenai Fjords National Park

Kenai Fjords National Park, located on the Kenai Peninsula, near Seward Alaska . It is a spectacular landscape with stunning fjords, glaciers, and diverse marine wildlife. The park is characterized by its rugged coastline, ice-capped peaks, and pristine wilderness. 

The centerpiece of Kenai Fjords National Park is the Harding Icefield, a vast expanse of ice covering over 300 square miles. From this icefield, numerous tidewater glaciers flow down into the ocean. Exit Glacier, a few miles from Seward Alaska, is the only part of the national park that is accessible by road. A short hike from the park’s visitor center will lead you to viewpoints overlooking Exit Glacie r.

Visitors to Kenai Fjords National Park can explore its natural wonders through boat tours, kayaking expeditions, and hiking trails. Boat tours take you deep into the fjords, allowing you to witness the dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, calving glaciers, and abundant marine wildlife. Keep an eye out for sea otters, sea lions, harbor seals, puffins, and even the occasional humpback or orca whale.

Luxury Hotels near Kenai Fjords National Park.

Seward windsong lodge.

Seward Windsong Lodge, located just outside the city of Seward on Exit Glacier Rd offers 216 beautiful rooms and 18 cabins, each nestled throughout the property. End your day at Resurrection Roadhouse Restaurant, for an amazing dining experience.

Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge

To access this remote wilderness lodge, you will take a 12-mile water taxi from Seward to Halibut Cove, a small Kenai peninsula town. The Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge provides remote wilderness on secluded Fox Island. They want to ensure you get away from it all, unplug and unwind so that you won’t find any electrical outlets in the cabins, but you will find gourmet meals and smooth pebble beaches.

Glacier Bay National Park

Glacier Bay National Park, located in Southeast Alaska, is a captivating and pristine wilderness known for its breathtaking glaciers, towering mountains, and diverse marine ecosystems. Encompassing over 3.3 million acres, the park is renowned for its glaciers, with more than a dozen tidewater glaciers actively calving into the sea. 

In addition to glaciers, the park boasts a rich marine ecosystem. Its nutrient-rich waters support an abundance of marine life, including humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, seals, porpoises, and seabirds. Visitors can embark on boat tours or kayak excursions to explore the park’s pristine fjords, witness marine mammals in their natural habitat, and marvel at the diversity of wildlife.

Glacier Bay National Park is also home to much more than just icy glaciers. It includes dense forests, alpine meadows, and rugged mountains. The park is teeming with wildlife, such as brown bears, mountain goats, moose, wolves, and a variety of bird species. 

Glacier Bay can be accessed by boat or plane, although most of its visitors will be aboard the many large cruise ships that cruise its waters on an Inside Passage cruise. Some of the small cruise ships listed above also visit Glacier Bay. These small ships are also able to explore smaller fjords and allow for visitors to disembark on zodiac boats, kayaks or paddleboards to see more of this incredible landscape from up close.

Glacier Bay Lodge

The Glacier Bay Lodge offers the only accommodations in Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. This lodge provides stunning views of the Fairweather Mountain range and Glacier Bay. Dine on fresh Alaskan seafood, watch the glaciers calve, learn something new from the National Park Rangers, or take a hike in the temperate rainforest. Glacier Bay Lodge is a longtime favorite of Alaskans and visitors alike.

Prince William Sound

Prince William Sound is a breathtaking marine region in South Central Alaska renowned for its stunning fjords, glaciers, rugged coastline, and abundant marine life. 

Prince William Sound is home to numerous glaciers, including the magnificent Columbia Glacier, the largest tidewater glacier in the Sound. Boat tours like Stan Stephens Cruises and Glacier Wildlife Cruises on the LuLu Belle offer a variety of tours that explore Prince William Sound. Some of the notable glaciers that are often included in these cruises include Meares Glacier. This tidewater glacier is in Unakwik Inlet, and boat cruises allows passengers to get relatively close to the glacier, providing excellent photo opportunities and a chance to witness the dynamic nature of glacial activity. Surprise Glacier, located in Harriman Fjord, showcases towering ice walls and intricate formations. Another potential stop on a Prince William Sound cruise is Harvard Glacier, located in College Fjord. This glacier is known for its mesmerizing blue hues and grandeur. 

Beside the incredible glaciers, Prince William Sound is teeming with a diverse array of marine wildlife, such as humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, and harbor seals. The region is also a haven for seabirds, including puffins, bald eagles, and cormorants. Along the shoreline, you may spot brown bears, moose, and various bird species.

Luxury Lodges in Alaska

There are many exciting luxury lodges in Alaska. We’ve compiled a list of 33 of Alaska’s best luxury lodges. Many of Alaska’s most luxurious accommodations are remote lodges, that require flying in or taking a boat. However, many fine properties are easily accessible in Alaska’s most visited destinations, such as Denali National Park and Kenai Fjords National Park. Those accommodations have been listed above in their region.

Four of the most famous luxury lodges in Alaska are:

Alyeska Resort

Built to resemble the original owner’s Swiss heritage, Alyeska Resort is renowned for its skiing and views of the rugged Chugach Mountains. Now it is also a great spot year-round for hiking, sightseeing, and a little self-indulgence. Their Nordic spa, Seven Glaciers restaurant and facilities earn them a four-star rating. Located in Girdwood, Alaska, 38 miles south of Anchorage. 

Tutka Bay Lodge

Tutka Bay Lodge, near Homer Alaska, sits in a private Kenai Peninsula cove on the edge of Kachemak Bay State Park. The main lodge is where visitors gather for meals, cooking classes, or complimentary massage and yoga classes. In addition, they offer daily wine and beer tastings featuring Alaska micro-brewed beers. There are six cabins and a few rooms inside the lodge. All provide tranquility and luxury in the Alaskan wilderness.

Tordrillo Mountain Lodge

The six-bedroom main lodge offers rustic Alaskan architecture with posh amenities. There are two private cabins as well. They offer an exercise room, a hot tub, Wi-Fi, massage services, private baths, a sauna, an Astar Helicopter, use of bikes, kayaks, and more. In addition, there are year-round activities to give you a great Alaskan experience. From Heli-skiing in the winter to Heli-Fishing in the summer, the luxury Alaskan lifestyle awaits at Tordrillo Mountain Lodge, only a 40 minute flight from Anchorage.

Winterlake Lodge

Winterlake Lodge is on the Iditarod Trail at the entrance to the Alaska Range. Their private helicopter or fixed-wing bush plane will take you on adventures you have only dreamed of going on before. Enjoy the hot tubs and sauna for that extra curative boost. 198 air miles northwest of Anchorage and only accessible by air.

Amazing Summer Activities in Alaska

Allen marine tours – tracy arm fjord, chugach outdoor center, denali raft adventures, fjord express to juneau, fountainhead antique auto museum, kenai fjords tours, mahay’s jet boat adventures, major marine tours, portage glacier cruise, riverboat discovery, stan stephens glacier & wildlife cruises, talkeetna air taxi, the alaska railroad, the white pass & yukon route railroad, alaska travel tips.

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Wilderness Express Dome Rail

Luxury service on Alaska’s scenic railway from Anchorage to Fairbanks.

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Transportation Finder

The Wilderness Express private rail car service offers daily summer train travel between Anchorage, Talkeetna, Denali, and Fairbanks. The service is owned and operated by a local Alaskan tour company, and the cars are pulled by Alaska Railroad locomotives on the Denali Star route. Wilderness Express ticketholders enjoy their own train car and dedicated staff.

Onboard the Wilderness Express

The luxury Wilderness Express dome cars were custom built with Alaska's big, wild scenery in mind. The most notable feature is a full-length curved glass dome that provides panoramic views. All guests have forward-facing seats beneath that upper level dome window. Seats are set in two pairs with a center aisle down the middle. The leather seats are the widest on the rails and come equipped with power outlets and tray tables. There is also a full-service bar in the upper level seating area offering cocktails, wine, and craft beer for purchase.

The lower level of a Wilderness Express dome car has a private dining room, small gift shop, restrooms, and outdoor viewing platform. Travelers with limited mobility or in a wheelchair can move between the rail platform and both car levels via a lift and elevator.

Standout Service (and Cuisine)

The Wilderness Express boasts some of the best food on the rails. Featuring local ingredients, there's a signature Alaskan specialty available for every meal service. All dishes are made to order by onboard chefs. To see a sample menu, visit our Wilderness Express Dining page. Passengers can expect to pay about $10 to $16 for breakfast, $13 to $16 for lunch, and $17 to $30 per dinner entree. Vegetarian and gluten free options are available.

Even with many luxe amenities, it is the Wilderness Express service experience that guests long remember. A dedicated onboard host narrates throughout, sharing pieces of history, detailing interesting wildlife facts, and pointing out especially scenic views. Seat-side bar service in the upper level completes the luxury feel.

Wilderness Express Tickets

Wilderness Express fares typically fall in between the Alaska Railroad's Adventure Class and GoldStar services. The Wilderness Express also offers both adult and child fares, making this premier rail option ideal for families traveling with children ages 2 to 11. Wilderness Express tickets can be purchased online using our Train & Bus Express Checkout tool. Availability can be limited on some days, even well in advance, so book early. If you'd prefer to chat about your options first, please give us a call at 800-208-0200.

Wilderness Express Anchorage to Denali Park

Enjoy a reserved seat on the upper deck of a private railcar on this specialty service along the Denali Star route between Anchorage and Denali National Park. Learn More >

Wilderness Express Anchorage to Fairbanks

Experience the full length of Alaska's famed 350-mile train route aboard a private dome car featuring leather seats, freshly made meals, and onboard host narration. Learn More >

Wilderness Express Anchorage to Talkeetna

Make the quick trip to Talkeetna aboard a private railcar with upper deck dome seating, full-service dining, and outdoor observation platform. Learn More >

Wilderness Express Denali Park to Fairbanks

Connect from Denali National Park north to Fairbanks via this deluxe private dome railcar featuring reserved top-deck seats and a full-service bar and dining area. Learn More >

Wilderness Express Denali Park to Talkeetna

Settle in for a relaxing luxury train experience aboard this private railcar service. All passengers enjoy upper-level dome car seating on a southbound trip that takes just over four hours. Learn More >

Wilderness Express Denali to Anchorage

Alaskan owned and operated, this premier rail service offers passengers reserved seating in a luxury dome car and delicious dining options for lunch and dinner. The southbound Wilderness Express arrives in Anchorage at 8 PM. Learn More >

Wilderness Express Fairbanks to Anchorage

Ride the rails in style with this dome car service. Private cars feature upper level seating, full bar, reserved dining area, and attentive hosts. Learn More >

Wilderness Express Fairbanks to Denali Park

Ride south to Denali National Park aboard this privately owned and operated dome car. Service features a la cart breakfast and comfortable reserved seats in the car's upper deck. Learn More >

Wilderness Express Fairbanks to Talkeetna

Enjoy a la carte breakfast and lunch on this full-day train trip. Wilderness Express cars also feature reserved dome car seating, an upper-deck bar, and outdoor viewing platform. Learn More >

Wilderness Express Talkeetna to Anchorage

Relax after a day exploring the "Gateway to Denali" aboard a private train car with upper-level dome seats, full-service dining area, and onboard hosts. Learn More >

Wilderness Express Talkeetna to Denali Park

Settle in for a relaxing luxury train ride along this especially historic section of railway. All passengers enjoy upper-level dome car seating. The northbound trip takes just over four hours. Learn More >

Wilderness Express Talkeetna to Fairbanks

Spend the day seeing the sites aboard this premier railway service. Wilderness Express features include reserved dome car seating, outdoor viewing platform, and full-service dining area. Learn More >

Wilderness Express Rail Dining

Enjoy food good enough to rival the dome-window views and gracious service aboard the Wilderness Express. Daily trains serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Learn More >

Wilderness Express Rail Rates

Find current prices for adult and child tickets on all segments of the Wilderness Express, a private dome railcar service operating between Anchorage and Fairbanks. Learn More >

Wilderness Express Rail Schedule

See the departure and arrival times for all segments of the Wilderness Express, including popular routes between Anchorage, Talkeetna, Denali Park, and Fairbanks. Learn More >

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RAFA01 - Best of Denali by Rail from Fairbanks

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Join our popular one way Denali railroad tour from Fairbanks to Anchorage. Discover famous Denali National Park - one of Alaska’s most popular attraction and destination in the shadows of towering 20.320 ft. Mt. Denali. Denali National Park is the natural habitat for many types of wildlife including caribou, moose, wolves, Dall sheep, bald eagles, and the mighty grizzly bears. It is most likely you will spot some of them while taking our full day Denali Transit Bus to Eielson Center, Wonder Lake or Kantishna Roadhouse. You may exchange this tour and join the guided Tundra wilderness bus tour. During your stay at Denali Village, enjoy other Denali activities: short guided hikes, Nenana rafting or float trip, backcountry jeep adventure, guided helicopter hiking trips or a sled dog demonstration. If you are of adventurous nature book a flightseeing or helicopter tour around Mt. Denali. The leisure train ride to Anchorage provides many spectacular vistas of the Alaska Range. Travel on board the last full-service railroad in North America and choose between the “Adventure Class” seating in the one-storey railway car or the “Deluxe Dome Railcar” on board the Alaska Railroad or with one of the privately operated trains. All train cars feature large panorama windows ensuring unobstructed views a round every bend of the majestic beauty of the glaciers, mountains and Alaskan wildlife. Visit one of the dining carriages and, over a meal of Alaskan salmon served on fine porcelain, relive the experience. On  request,  this  trip  can  be  customized  and  can  be  organized  in  reverse  order.

Booking Request Inquire A Trip

Prices & Dates

Attractions & add-ons, accommodation, information, rates in us $ / per person, what’s included.

4 Nights Comfort OR First-Class Accommodation

Hotel and State Taxes

Denali Transit Bus Ticket to Eielson Visitor Center

Denali & Fairbanks Railroad Station and Airport Transfers

Tour Documentation

Sightseeing Information

Railroad Transportation Fairbanks – Denali National Park

Railroad Transportation Denali National Park – Anchorage

Comfort Hotel Category includes Reserved Seats in Standard Adventure Class Train ( upgrade to Dome Car Train is available for $280.00 per person )

First Class Hotel Category includes Reserved Seats in Upper Level Panorama Dome Car Train, Priority Check-in & Boarding, Use of Private Outdoor Viewing Platform, Priority Dining Room Seating, Enhanced Reclining Seats

Tour Departures

Daily  from  May  18th  –  September  13th

Customizing Tours

All of our tours are flexible and you can add, modify or exchange nights in destinations to suit your timetable and preferred routing. Thus, sometimes it will be necessary to observe ferry schedules, national park opening/closing dates etc. to match certain dates and/or departures. Please check also each itinerary online.

Included Services

Please refer to the appropriate tour page for a listing of included services. Our service generally includes the rental car, accommodation, applicable local taxes, ferry trips as scheduled, sightseeing as per itinerary, a detailed tour description, highway or road logs. Not included are: Meals, tunnel tolls, gasoline, entrance fees, additional sightseeing tours. The rental of a compact car (automatic) is always included in our flexible self drive tour packages. Additional rental days or upgrade to a Mid and Full Size Car, Mini Van or Sport Utility Vehicles (4x4) are available. The displayed upgrade rental rates are always per car (not per person) - and of course for the total length of the tour package. Our advertised rates include all local taxes, licensing fee, airport fee, road tax and unlimited mileage. Rental Car insurance is not included as most US guests can use their own private insurance. A valid driver license and a valid major credit card are mandatory for all individual vehicle rentals and/or tour packages including vehicle rentals. Driving on gravel roads/highways is at own risk. The rental car insurance is void on the following highways Denali Highway, Dalton Highway, Top of the World Highway, Taylor Highway, McCarthy Road, Dempster Highway and all other gravel roads. You will be responsible for any damages. Drivers have to be more than 25 years of age. Contact us if you are below 25 years of age.

Advance Reservation

If you travel during the high season from the middle/end of June until the end of August we recommend booking as early as possible to avoid disappointments with sold out situations in highly frequented national parks and gateways - because the northern tour season is very short. The same applies in/around national holidays. Any hotel accommodation, rentals cars and ferry space must be definitely booked well in advance. Thus, tour operator such as our company may still have space on a short notice. Accordingly it is well worth to contact us.

Travel Month

The last two weeks of May, June and September are perfect months for a vacation in the Land of the Midnight Sun. The weather is usually stable and sunny with almost 24 hours of daylight. July and August are prime travel months and are obviously very busy.

Emergency Assistance

You can contact us in case of an emergency. We have a dedicated 24/7 helpline available for our guests.

Available Room Occupancy / Bed Configuration

Single: A room assigned to one person. Room with one bed (double, queen, king size)

Double: A room assigned to two people. Room with two double/queen beds or a king size bed.

Triple: A room assigned to three people. Room with two double/queen beds

Quad: A room assigned to four people. Room with two double/queen beds The maximum occupancy per room is four. Please request if you require a roll-a-way bed.

We can arrange our self drive tours including 2 rooms and 1 rental car if your group is larger than 4.

Bed and Breakfast (B&B) Option

We can substitute the overnight in a hotel with the overnight in a Bed and Breakfast. In this case breakfast is included. The rate of the first class / comfort hotel class will remain the same. We can only exchange some of the hotels since B&B’s are not available in all locations.

Northern Lights Observation

Because of the long daylight hours it is uncommon to see the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) displays from mid May until mid August. The Aurora occurs mainly during the fall / winter months from September – April. Please refer also to our winter touring program.

VISA / Identification

The Visa/entry requirements do change frequently. Please check requirements on the appropriate government pages. We are unable to take any responsibility for such information however you will definitely need your passport to cross the US/Canadian Border. Please ask us if your self drive tour enters Canada.

Travel Insurance

We strongly encourage you to purchase travel insurance to cover: cancellation fees associated with an outing as well as airfare or other nonrefundable expense in the event you need to cancel a trip; medical expenses incurred on a trip; and the cost of a possible medical evacuation from a trip, canceled flights due to weather. We have made arrangements with our trusted travel insurance provider for you to purchase a comprehensive travel insurance plan. Please contact us for details

Mia, Maine: We have just been back from our Alaska rail tour. We enjoyed it very much, Everything worked perfectly. Your office did a very good job and we wish to thank you for that. The train journey from Fairbanks to Anchorage offered spectacular views of Denali and even a few stops for photo ops. Good on board meals and a wonderful staff. The shuttle bus tour was practically all day long but it ranged well into the park. The only animals we didn't see were wolves, coyotes and mountain goats. We did see several types of birds, two Grizzly Bears, Caribou, a large red fox, Dall Sheep, and several female moose with their young. The driver/guide was experienced and very knowledgeable about all aspects of the park, including its history, its animal, bird and fish inhabitants, and all the rules of the road in a place full of visitors.

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Alaska Rail Tours & Luxury Alaska Vacations

Alaska’s wild beauty, abundant wildlife and colorful culture offer great appeal to those looking to travel off the beaten track on our Alaska Road Trips or Alaska Rail Tours. 

Alaska railroad is by far the best way to do so, from the rugged mountains of denali national park and the calving glaciers of prince william sound to the wildlife-rich waters of kenai fjords . , alaska introduction.

Depending on where you start your trip, your Alaska train vacation will include at least one route aboard the legendary Alaska Railroad. In 1903, the privately-owned Alaska Central Railway began constructing the rail line in Seward and created a route that extended 50 miles north. Today, the Alaska Railroad stretches much further - 470 miles north to Fairbanks via Denali National Park. In fact, the railroad was the catalyst behind the tourism boom in the national park, and continues to bring hundreds of thousands of travelers through every year.

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"Agents were knowledgeable, easy to work with."

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"Excellent Trip and loved Alaska Railroad"

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"Just a note to tell you how much we enjoyed our unexpected trip. "

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"They were a pleasure to work with, very knowledgeable and responded timely."

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"Excellent service. Clients enjoyed a wonderful experience!"

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"Alaska Rail Vacations were very helpful and had a quick turn around on price quotes."

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"We are so grateful for the careful planning and ideal itinerary for our vacation."

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6 Top Luxury Alaska Cruises for 2024 & Beyond

C ruising to Alaska on a small luxury ship affords a very different experience than sailing through The Great Land on a larger vessel. On a smaller luxury ship, you'll enjoy the expected perks like fewer passengers and more personalized service – but you'll also physically get closer to the boundless wilderness, abundant wildlife, icy blue glaciers and majestic snow-capped mountains that you've waited a lifetime to see.

While the fares to sail on such vessels are quite a bit higher than those of larger cruise providers, the all-inclusive (or mostly all-inclusive) prices typically include all-suite accommodations with balconies, all meals, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, 24-hour room service, Wi-Fi access, gratuities, welcome bottles of sparkling wine, pillow selection, some shore excursions and butler service. Best of all, you won't feel like you're being nickel-and-dimed while on board. As a special touch, the attentive crew members may even learn your name and memorize your preferred pre-dinner cocktail.

Unlike many mainstream lines, most luxury Alaska cruises do not offer pre- and post-cruise tours to extend your adventure. However, you can plan these experiences on your own through third-party providers.

Alaska Tour & Travel has pre-cruise packages that include visits to Denali National Park & Preserve and the small, quirky Alaska towns of Homer and Talkeetna. You can also see a different side of Alaska via a train ride on the Alaska Railroad, take a national parks tour that includes Kenai Fjords National Park or head northbound to Fairbanks , one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights (if you visit during aurora season, from late August to late April). In addition, the company can plan a self-drive tour from Anchorage to Seward, which includes a stay at a wilderness lodge, helicopter flightseeing over Knik Glacier and guided tours in the parks.

The following luxury cruise lines will ensure you make the most of your voyage in Alaska – one of the most magical destinations on Earth.

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Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises' small luxury ships are designed for adventurers interested in visiting a mix of Alaska's top ports and more rugged, off-the-beaten-track locales. Extended itineraries offer stops in less-visited destinations like the towns of Haines and Wrangell. On board, guests can expect a personalized experience that includes luxurious ocean-view suites with butler service, multiple gourmet dining options, complimentary alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, and attentive service with one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios in the industry.

Base fares for Silversea's 2024 and 2025 Alaska itineraries start at $3,250 per person. If you upgrade to Silversea 's door-to-door fare (which starts at $5,200 per person), you'll receive private chauffeur service from your home to the airport (and back home upon your return) and round-trip flights, with business class upgrades in some destinations.

Silversea also offers immersive pre- and post-cruise land experiences, departing from Seward, Alaska. Highlights include sightseeing flights over Denali National Park & Preserve or into bear country to see Alaska's magnificent grizzly bears. In Vancouver, travelers can take a flightseeing transfer to Victoria to tour the 55-acre Butchart Gardens or board the Rocky Mountaineer for a two-day train ride through the Canadian Rockies.

Silversea's Alaska itineraries extend from May to September, with voyages ranging between seven and 16 days. The line's newest and largest vessel, the 728-passenger Silver Nova , sails its inaugural Alaska season in 2024 along with two smaller ships, Silver Muse (596 guests) and Silver Shadow (392 guests). There are 35 Alaska voyages available in 2024. In 2025, luxury cruisers can hop aboard one of 45 scheduled voyages on either Silver Nova or the 596-guest Silver Moon .

For a seven-day itinerary, consider a sailing from Seward, Alaska, to Vancouver, British Columbia. This voyage cruises the Hubbard Glacier and the Inside Passage and stops in the Alaska towns of Juneau, Skagway, Sitka and Ketchikan. Complimentary excursions in Ketchikan include a tour of Saxman Native Village; a visit to Bonfire Bay Oyster Farm, featuring a sea-to-table oyster tasting; the Alaskan Cultural, Culinary & Lumberjack show; the Alaskan Lodge Adventure & Seafeast and a day as a fisherman aboard the Aleutian Ballard, as seen on Discovery Channel's "The Deadliest Catch." You can also opt for a Selected Shore Excursion (for an additional cost), such as mountain biking or a private fishing trip.

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Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises' elegant Seven Seas Explorer sails the line's Alaska itineraries in 2024 and 2025. The lavish 746-guest ship was coined "The Most Luxurious Ship Ever Built" when it debuted in 2016; among its impressive features are the 3,875-square-foot Regent Suite and a high-end collection of art displayed throughout the ship, including works by Pablo Picasso.

Alaska voyages with Regent in 2024 and 2025 start at $4,799 per person. Upgraded 2-for-1 all-inclusive fares (starting at $5,499 per person) cover elegant all-balcony suite accommodations; round-trip airfare (business class on international flights); a one-night pre-cruise hotel package; free two- or three-night land programs; free unlimited shore excursions; free unlimited beverages (alcoholic and nonalcoholic); complimentary specialty dining; and prepaid gratuities. You'll also receive complimentary airport transfers, unlimited Wi-Fi access and valet laundry service.

Every suite style includes a private balcony, roomy closets and upscale finishes. Concierge Suites (and above) add cozy in-room amenities like cashmere blankets, perfect to bundle up in while you take in the scenery. Meanwhile, Penthouse Suites (and higher) include a private butler who can book excursions, make dinner and spa reservations, unpack your luggage, arrange for a private cocktail soiree in your suite and indulge any other special requests.

Between May and September 2024, Regent sails 22 Alaska voyages. There are 16 Alaska sailings scheduled for the same period in 2025. Itineraries range from seven to 14 nights. For plenty of scenic cruising days, consider a round-trip itinerary from Vancouver departing May 28, 2025. The cruise includes five relaxing days at sea, where you'll enjoy scenic cruising through the Inside Passage (twice), Hubbard Glacier (twice) and Endicott Arm Fjord. Ports of call in Alaska include Wrangell, Juneau , Skagway, Sitka, Seward, Icy Strait (Hoonah) and Ketchikan. You'll also have a full day in Victoria, British Columbia, before returning to Vancouver.

While in Wrangell, consider the Tongass Botanical Forest Walk excursion. Tongass National Forest is the largest national forest in the U.S., with towering old-growth trees and unique flora, fauna and ecosystems. While in the temperate rainforest with your naturalist guide, look for local wildlife like Sitka black-tailed deer, porcupines and birds of prey. Other complimentary excursions at this stop include a round of golf at Muskeg Meadows Golf Course; a canoe trip through Wrangell harbor and nearby islands, and a heritage tour about Tlingit culture and the history of the town.

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Recently relaunched Crystal offers just seven voyages in Alaska aboard Crystal Serenity in July and August 2024. The 740-guest luxury vessel was refurbished in 2023 and features the line's signature top-notch service, elegant interiors and suites, and personal butler service in every room category.

Other perks and amenities include plush bathrobes and Sicily's Ortigia bath products; an impressive passenger-to-crew ratio; prepaid gratuities; complimentary beverages; and outstanding cuisine, including Umi Uma (an exclusive Nobu restaurant at sea, available only on Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony ). Guests can also feast on Italian cuisine at Osteria d'Ovidio; book an exclusive dining experience at The Vintage Room; indulge in Parisian cafe-style fare at The Bistro; opt for American cuisine at Waterside Restaurant or take their pick of several other casual indoor and alfresco options.

Cruisers also have their selection of unique shore experiences curated by Crystal's parent company A&K Travel Group, such as a ride on the world's largest zip line in Hoonah (Icy Strait Point); dog sledding and glacier flightseeing in Skagway; fishing and wilderness dining in Ketchikan and the Wildlife Quest and Fin Island Lodge experience in Sitka, boasting a feast of Alaska king crab and wild salmon.

Crystal offers seven- and eight-night round-trip voyages from Vancouver , as well as one-way cruises from Vancouver or Seward, Alaska. Select itineraries – like the July 30, 2024, voyage from Vancouver to Seward – offer a scenic cruising day in the Seymour Narrows in British Columbia. On this sailing, you'll also enjoy a day at sea cruising Hubbard Glacier, as well as stops in Ketchikan, Sitka, Hoonah (Icy Strait), Skagway and Sitka in Alaska. Or, opt for the July 2, 2024, round-trip sailing from Vancouver for three scenic cruising days in the Inside Passage, Endicott Arm and the Seymour Narrows.

The line's Aug. 13, 2024, round-trip sailing from Vancouver features a special guest: Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio, the executive chairman of A&K Travel Group. As such, the cruise will include an exclusive gala dinner and other unique experiences. Other special voyages welcome marine biologist and National Geographic photographer Flip Nicklin, who will share personal stories from his extensive career and expert insights about humpback whale habitats and behaviors.

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Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking Ocean Cruises' 11-day Alaska & the Inside Passage cruise is available on 11 dates during the 2024 season. It sails from Vancouver to Seward (or the reverse) on the 930-passenger Viking Orion . In 2025, the line offers the same itinerary on 22 dates between May and September, split between Viking Orion and its sister ship, the 930-passenger Viking Sea .

Viking's destination-focused itineraries are curated for travelers who are interested in history, science, culture and cuisine, as they feature onboard enrichment like lectures by Viking's resident historians. You'll also find regionally inspired dishes in The Restaurant and special access to unique tours and excursions ashore.

The line's mostly all-inclusive fares cover accommodations in spacious all-veranda staterooms and suites; beer, wine and soft drinks at lunch and dinner; meals at all the dining venues; one shore excursion in every port; free Wi-Fi access; 24-hour specialty teas, coffees and bottled water; complimentary access to The Nordic Spa & Fitness Center; and other upscale amenities.

Voyages traveling northbound from Vancouver include one day of scenic cruising through the Inside Passage before stopping in Ketchikan, Sitka, Juneau, Skagway and Icy Strait Point in Alaska. The eighth day of the cruise sails through picturesque Yakutat Bay, which includes the Hubbard Glacier. The ship then calls on Valdez, Alaska, before the trip ends with two days in Seward.

While in Valdez, take an optional tour to explore the incredible scenery surrounding the small fishing town. Viking offers a kayaking trip to see the Valdez Glacier; a scenic cruise through picturesque Prince William Sound to view the Columbia Glacier; a wildlife cruise where you can look for humpback whales, orcas, porpoises, sea otters and bald eagles; a helicopter ride over the area's rugged, icy wilderness; or a UTV adventure through the Chugach Mountains to Mineral Creek Canyon.

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Seabourn Cruise Line

Between May and August 2024, Seabourn Cruise Line will host 20 Alaska voyages aboard the Seabourn Odyssey , before the ship leaves the cruise line in the fall. In 2025, the line offers 27 Alaska sailings on Seabourn Quest. Both yacht-inspired ships accommodate up to 458 guests and feature Seabourn's signature all-inclusive amenities, including luxurious oceanfront suites with verandas; personalized service; complimentary fine wines and premium spirits; complimentary dining; and caviar served throughout the sailing. You'll also have a complimentary W-Fi package and an in-suite minibar stocked with your favorite beverages. Ashore, sign up for exclusive programs like shopping for fresh salmon, halibut and Alaska king crab alongside a Seabourn chef.

Guests booking Seabourn Quest for 2025 will be able to sample the line's new dining concept, Solis. Inspired by destinations in the Mediterranean, the menu features a fresh, modern take on traditional dishes and whimsical cocktails. The restaurant is a collaboration with master chef and culinary partner Anton Egger and senior corporate chef Franck Salein. In addition to dishes like salt-encrusted whole branzino and Tuscan-style steak, guests will also find a wide selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes.

The seven-day Alaska Fjords & Canadian Inside Passage itinerary on May 31, 2024, aboard Seabourn Odyssey, sails from Juneau to Vancouver and includes a day in either Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm, depending on the ice conditions. From there, you can take one of the optional guided excursions: Ventures by Seabourn. These tours are an additional cost but offer opportunities for up-close Zodiac, kayaking or catamaran experiences in the wilderness to see glaciers calving and view local wildlife, such as black bears, mountain goats, seals, wolves and seabirds.

You'll also enjoy many days of scenic cruising on this voyage, and have the opportunity for more optional adventures in Rudyerd Bay (Misty Fjords). The ship makes additional stops in Wrangell, Alaska, and Prince Rupert, British Columbia, before disembarking in Vancouver.

If you want to see stunning Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, then consider booking the seven-day Alaska Inside Passage & Glacier Bay sailing on May 10, 2024, from Vancouver to Juneau. This itinerary also includes the Seymour Narrows and Snow Pass, cruising Queen Island Sound and the Lynn Canal. There's a stop for Ventures by Seabourn activities like kayaking and Zodiac rides in the Inian Islands. The Alaska ports of call on this voyage are Ketchikan, Sitka, Icy Strait Point and Haines. You'll disembark in Juneau.

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French luxury expedition line PONANT offers 10 Alaska cruises in 2024; itineraries span between seven and 11 nights. Aboard the 264-guest yacht-style Le Soléal, you'll meet up to 10 naturalist experts and guides specializing in geology, history, ornithology or marine or land mammals. Guests can attend onboard lectures and embark on Zodiac landings with the guides.

The ship features elegant staterooms and suites, a library, a spa, a hair salon and a gym. Guests will be treated to movies in the theater, wine tastings and cooking demonstrations throughout the expedition. All fine dining meals, 24-hour room service, an open bar (including an in-room minibar) and complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi access are covered in the pricing.

Two of PONTANT's eight-night voyages from Vancouver to Sitka are in partnership with Smithsonian Journeys and are curated for English-speaking travelers. Fares for these expeditions include transfers to and from the ship and a shore excursion in each port. On board, you can attend talks and discussions hosted by two Smithsonian Journeys experts: geologist Scott Burns and natural history filmmaker John Grabowska.

On these voyages, there is a sea day after departing Vancouver. You'll cruise through the Johnstone Strait, where you'll have an excellent chance of seeing humpback whales and orcas. After a day spent in the Inside Passage, the ship will call on the village of Metlakatla, Alaska, on the western coast of Annette Island, which is home to the Tsimshians from British Columbia. Other unique Alaska ports of call in this itinerary include the commercial fishing town of Petersburg, the Tlingit village of Kake and the small fishing community of Alfin Cove.

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Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is a U.S. News & World Report contributor and an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times both by land and sea to explore the state's vast wilderness and abundant wildlife, and to chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. Pratesi used her extensive knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• Alaska Cruise Packing List: Must-Have Items
• The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises
• The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska
• The Best Alaska Cruise Lines
• The Best Alaska Cruises for Families

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