5 Onboard Activities You'll Love on Your Alaskan Cruise

by Marcia Frost

Ready to take a meaningful vacation you'll never forget? It's time to head North to Alaska! On an Alaskan cruise, you will not only get to experience the beauty and history of the state, but you'll get to immerse yourself in its culture and food through onboard experiences. Would you love to learn about dogsled racing from the first woman to win the Iditarod, or partake in an authentic Klondike Festival — all before you arrive at your destination? Take a look at just five of the many options available to you while you're on board your Alaskan cruise:

1. Dining on Local Cuisine

You don't have to wait until your Alaskan cruise docks to taste the cuisine for which this region is famous. Wild Alaskan seafood is available on board in main dining rooms and specialty restaurants. Thanks to a partnership with Alaskan culinary experts, chefs will be trained to prepare authentic dishes for you to enjoy throughout your Alaska vacation. And with a host of Alaskan favorites from local restaurants — think crab cakes and fish tacos — available onboard, you'll have plenty of opportunities to sample the state's fresh, delicious cuisine.

2. Discovery at Sea

On your Alaska vacation, you'll get the chance to learn amazing and historical information about Alaska with Discovery at Sea™. Participate in sea trivia or watch programs from Animal Planet and the Discovery Channel to get you ready for the adventures you are embarking on. Available programs include The Klondike and The Deadliest Catch — which provides a detailed look at the lives of crab fishermen at sea. For a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, book an excursion recommended by Discovery™ and Animal Planet™.

3. Guest Speakers

On your Alaskan cruise, you'll have the chance to hear guest speakers recount real life experiences. Among those who may present on board during your Alaska vacation are Nick Jans, author of A Wolf Called Romeo, which catalogs the story of one wolf who had an amazing effect on the people of Juneau; Libby Riddles, a dog musher and the first woman to win the Iditarod; and an authentic lumberjack.

4. An Alaskan Party

Why wait until you get to Alaska to celebrate? You'll be able to attend a Klondike festival right on board your Alaskan cruise. The festival, which calls back to the days of gold rush fever, offers authentic entertainment, penny whistle classes, Tlingit art demonstrations, and so much more.

5. Authentic Shopping Experiences

Want to get a head start on shopping, and find treasured gifts for your loved ones right away? You can purchase souvenirs right on board during your Alaskan cruise. The Alaska Marketplace on your ship features native crafts, hand-carved totems, Alaskan spirits, and other authentic regional items. Once you find the perfect keepsake, you can spend your time exploring on some of the many excursions available in Alaska.

Ready to plan your visit to Alaska? Discover the Alaska cruise that's perfect for you.

 
A park ranger shares commentary onboard
Enjoy regional food on your Alaskan cruise.