How to use this guide:
Look for “My top pick” in each port if you just want the answer. The other options are there if you want alternatives or if my top pick doesn’t fit your schedule or interests.
A quick heads-up:
This guide reflects my personal research and opinions. Operators can change their routes, timing, and requirements at any time. Always confirm details directly with them before booking, and follow their safety guidance. I’m not affiliated with these operators, and I’m not responsible for any changes, cancellations, or issues that come up.
Jump to Your Port
Seward
Ship docks in town
My top pick: Major Marine Tours — Kenai Fjords Wildlife & Glacier Cruise
This is Alaska at its most epic. You’ll see glaciers calving into the sea, whales breaching, sea otters floating on their backs, and puffins bobbing in the waves. It’s a long day on the water, but it’s absolutely worth it. Just dress warm—the wind near those glaciers is no joke.
Good to know: If your ship is only in Seward for a short time, make sure the tour operator can work with your schedule.
A beautiful cruise focusing on glaciers and marine wildlife, with comfortable indoor seating so you can warm up between photo stops.
⏱ ~6 hours
Book at kenaifjordstours.com →
It’s still cold on deck when you get close to the glaciers, so bring layers. The narration is great and the wildlife sightings are consistently good.
A guided hike near Exit Glacier with incredible views of the Harding Icefield. You’ll learn about glacier geology while getting some fresh air and exercise.
⏱ 5–7 hours
Book at exitglacierguides.com →
This is real hiking with sustained uphill sections. If someone in your group isn’t comfortable with that, choose a boat tour instead. Good hiking shoes are essential.
Private salmon and halibut fishing with all gear provided. Great choice if you’ve got anglers in your group.
⏱ 4–8 hours
Book at profish-n-sea.com →
Make sure to ask about fish processing timing if you’re flying out soon after your cruise. The last thing you want is to be dealing with that at the airport.
Helicopter flight to a glacier followed by dog sledding on the ice. This is the kind of experience people talk about for years—big views on the flight and real time with the dogs and mushers once you land.
⏱ 2–3 hours
Weather can cancel these flights with little warning, so have a backup plan. There are weight limits, and you’ll want to ask what gear they provide for the glacier.
Ketchikan
Ship docks in town
My top pick: Island Wings Air Service — Misty Fjords Floatplane Tour
Misty Fjords is the kind of scenery you can only see from the air—granite cliffs rising thousands of feet from the water, waterfalls appearing out of nowhere, and fjords so remote they look unreal. This is hands-down the best way to see Southeast Alaska’s dramatic landscape.
Good to know: Weather can cancel flights, so try to book earlier in the day when conditions are usually more stable.
A private tour customized to your interests—rainforest walks, totem poles, local history, whatever you want to focus on. Your guide adjusts the pace based on your group.
⏱ 1.5–4 hours
Book at emeraldforestours.com →
Some stops have separate entry fees, so ask about that upfront. Rainforest trails can be uneven, so good walking shoes are important.
Private van tour for up to 14 people covering Creek Street, Saxman Village totems, scenic drives, wildlife viewing spots, and more. Your driver-guide keeps the pacing comfortable and adjusts based on what your group actually wants to see.
⏱ ~4 hours
This is perfect if you want to see a lot without feeling rushed. Confirm any admission fees for specific stops when you book, and let them know how much walking your group is comfortable with.
Yes, snorkeling in Alaska! You’ll wear a wetsuit and see marine life up close in these cold, clear waters. It’s unique and surprisingly memorable.
⏱ ~3 hours
Book at snorkelalaska.com →
The water is cold even with the wetsuit, so make sure everyone in your group is comfortable with that before booking.
Zipline through the Tongass rainforest with multiple lines and beautiful scenery. High fun factor if you like a little adrenaline.
⏱ 3–4 hours
Book at ketchikanzipline.com →
There are weight limits, and weather can affect operations. Check the requirements before booking.
Private fishing charter targeting salmon and other species depending on the season. Good local operation with experienced captains.
⏱ 4–6 hours
Book at baranoffishing.com →
Make sure to sort out fishing licenses and fish processing logistics ahead of time.
Another solid private fishing option. These folks know the local waters and will help you target whatever’s running that week.
⏱ 4–6 hours
Book at alaskacatch.com →
Ask what species they’re targeting that week and make sure you’ve got the license situation sorted out before you go.
Juneau
Ship docks in town
My top pick: Jayleen’s Alaska — Private Whale Watching
Juneau has some of the best whale watching in the world, and Jayleen runs a small, personal operation where you’re on a boat with just your group. The guides know these waters, they know the whales, and they genuinely care about giving you an incredible experience. You’ll come away with photos and memories you won’t forget.
Good to know: It’s a small boat, so you’ll feel the waves. Bring seasickness meds if you need them, and dress for spray and wind.
Small-boat whale watching with local guides who know where the whales are. Great reputation and consistently good sightings.
⏱ 4+ hours
Book at harvandmarvs-juneau-whale-watching.com →
Dress for spray and bring layers. It gets cold out on the water even in summer.
Helicopter flight to a glacier where you’ll actually dog sled on the ice. This is the real deal—not a wheeled demo, but an actual sled ride with working sled dogs on a glacier.
⏱ 2.5–3 hours
Book at temscoair.com →
There are weight limits and weather constraints, so read the fine print carefully before booking. It’s pricey, but it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Floatplane tour to see glaciers from the air, with an optional stop at Taku Lodge for a salmon bake. Big scenery with minimal walking required.
⏱ 1.25–3.5 hours
Book at wingsairways.com →
Weather can delay flights, so bring layers while you wait at the dock.
Not a single operator, but a directory of vetted private fishing charters. It’s a good starting point if you want to compare a few boats and find one that fits your group.
Browse options at juneaucharter.com →
Confirm meeting location and return timing with whichever operator you choose. These are private boats, so you’ll have flexibility.
Skagway
Ship docks in town
My top pick: Skagway Private Tours — Custom Yukon & White Pass Tour
Skagway is all about Gold Rush history and jaw-dropping mountain scenery. A private tour lets you stop when you want for photos, ask questions, and actually absorb what you’re seeing instead of being rushed on and off a bus. The drive up to the Yukon is stunning.
Good to know: You’ll need your passport if you cross into Canada, and border wait times can vary. Don’t cut it close getting back to the ship.
Private custom tours through Yukon routes and local stops. Great reviews for flexibility and local knowledge.
⏱ 3–7 hours
Book at beyondskagwaytours.com →
Passport required for Canada options. Confirm your timing plan for the border.
Private full-day tour to Emerald Lake and into the Yukon. You’ll see some of the most stunning mountain scenery in the region.
⏱ ~7 hours
Book at skagwayshoretours.com →
This is a booking portal, so confirm who the actual operator is. Build in extra buffer time for the border—wait times can vary.
Helicopter plus dog sledding. Note that some Skagway dog sled offerings are training demos on wheeled sleds rather than glacier rides.
Book at temscoair.com →
Confirm exactly what’s included before booking. If you want the full glacier dog sledding experience, Juneau is your best bet.
Sitka
Usually docks, sometimes tender
My top pick: Gallant Adventures — Wildlife & Whale Watching
Sitka is beautiful from land, but it’s even better from the water. This tour gets you out into the sound where you’ll see whales, sea lions, eagles, and maybe even sea otters. The guides are knowledgeable and genuinely enthusiastic about the wildlife.
Good to know: Weather can shift fast in Sitka. Dress warm and plan for wind.
An efficient tour covering Fortress of the Bear (where you’ll see rescued brown bears), raptors, and totem poles. It’s a solid overview of Sitka if you don’t want to spend the whole day on the water.
⏱ 2–2.5 hours
Book at baranoftours.com →
Great choice if you want to see wildlife without getting on a boat, or if you want something shorter to pair with exploring town on your own.
Guided kayaking through Sitka’s beautiful coastline. You’ll paddle past islands, watch for wildlife, and get a different perspective on the area.
Book at seakadventuresitka.com →
Plan for cold hands and damp gear—it’s Alaska, after all. If Sitka is a tender port that day, confirm logistics with the operator.
Small-group kayaking with a more personalized feel. These folks keep their groups intimate and adjust the route based on conditions and wildlife sightings.
Book at sitkawildcoastkayak.com →
Perfect for active folks who want time on the water at a quieter pace. Again, confirm tender logistics if that’s in play.
Private fishing combined with wildlife viewing. Great option if you want to fish and still see Sitka’s scenery.
⏱ Half or full day
Book at hooklineandsitka.com →
Confirm the meeting spot and fish processing plans ahead of time.
Valdez
Ship docks in town
My top pick: Stan Stephens Cruises — Columbia Glacier Cruise
Columbia Glacier is one of the most impressive glaciers you’ll see in Alaska. This cruise takes you right up to the glacier face where you can watch house-sized chunks of ice calve into the water. It’s powerful, humbling, and unforgettable.
Good to know: It’s a full day on cold water, and it gets even colder near the glacier. Layer up and bring seasickness meds if you need them.
Whitewater rafting through Keystone Canyon. It’s cold water and a lot of fun.
⏱ Half day
Book at pangaeaadventures.com →
Bring dry layers for after. You will get wet.
This is the high-effort, high-reward option. You’ll take a water taxi to Columbia Glacier, then kayak among the icebergs. It’s physical, it’s cold, and it’s absolutely stunning.
⏱ All day
Book at alaskatours.com →
Conditions change fast out there, so confirm the plan for the day. Dress in serious layers and bring waterproof bags for your gear.
A more moderate option than the Columbia Glacier kayaking. You’ll motor out to Shoup Bay, then kayak near Shoup Glacier. Still cold, still wet, but a bit less intense.
Book at getyourguide.com →
You’ll still need to dress for the cold and wet, but this is a good middle ground if you want glacier kayaking without the full commitment.
Wrangell
Tender port
My top pick: Breakaway Adventures — Anan Bear Observatory
This is one of the most special wildlife experiences in Alaska. Anan Creek is permit-controlled, which means you’re not fighting crowds, and the bears you see are completely wild. During salmon season, you’ll watch black and brown bears fishing right in front of you.
Good to know: Permits are limited, so spots fill up fast. You’ll walk on uneven ground, and the weather can be wet. Listen to your guide—wildlife safety is serious.
Jet boat trip to LeConte Glacier. This is a great backup if Anan is sold out. You’ll see icebergs, seals, and dramatic scenery.
Book at breakawayadventures.com →
Dress warm. It’s windy and cold out on the water near the glacier.
Jet boat tour through the Stikine River’s remote wilderness. Big landscape energy and a lot of solitude. This is for folks who love remote scenery more than “top 10” attractions.
Book at breakawayadventures.com →
Confirm timing with your tender schedule. You’ll need buffer time to get back to the ship.
Icy Strait Point / Hoonah
Ship docks at the pier
My top pick: Glacier Wind Charters — Whale Watching
Icy Strait Point has some of the best humpback whale viewing in Alaska. This small-boat tour puts you out on the water with guides who really know these waters. You’ll see whales feeding, eagles perched along the shore, and probably sea lions too.
Good to know: The water can get choppy. Dress warm and bring layers.
Locally owned whale watching tours. They offer both small-group tours and private charter options, so you have flexibility.
Book at wooshkeetaantours.com →
Confirm boat size and whether you’re getting a private charter or joining a small group. Both are good—it just depends on what you want.
Long zipline with views over the fjord. It’s fun and scenic, though not an intimate experience.
⏱ 1–2 hours
Book at icystraitpoint.com →
Weight limits apply. Book early in the day for better timing.
A classic Hoonah day: river fishing paired with wildlife watching in places the locals actually go. You’ll fish, watch for wildlife, and get the kind of on-the-ground context you don’t get on big tours.
⏱ Half day (typical)
Book at natventuretours.com →
Great pick if you want a real Alaska day without a long van ride. Ask what species they’re targeting that week and confirm license requirements.
A lot of fun and it’s right in town, so you’ll have plenty of time after for walking around and shopping. The lumberjack show is entertaining, and the crab feast is exactly what it sounds like.
Best fit if you want an easy win with minimal logistics. Keep an eye on show times if you’re on a tender.
Beautiful scenery, wildlife viewing, and all-you-can-eat crab. This combines the best part of Icy Strait Point (the water and wildlife) with a fun meal at the end.
Great for food-focused folks who still want time on the water. Dress for wind and spray.
Hear real stories from seasoned crab fishermen and see the gear in action. It’s part live show, part working boat, and surprisingly fun even for people who don’t usually do tours.
This is a great choice if you like behind-the-scenes stories. It works well for multi-generational groups too.
This isn’t an excursion—it’s lodging. But if you’re extending your stay in Icy Strait Point, this is a comfortable, low-key base close to town that lets you slow the pace and enjoy Hoonah beyond the standard cruise stop.
Good for folks who are doing their own thing and want a home-base feel. Availability can be tight in peak season, so book ahead.
Haines
Usually a tender port
My top pick: Rainbow Glacier Adventures — Chilkat Valley Wildlife Tour
Haines is one of those ports that rewards people who appreciate real, unpolished Alaska. This tour takes you through the Chilkat Valley where eagles are everywhere, moose sightings are common, and if you’re lucky, you might see a bear. The guides are local and genuinely love where they live.
Good to know: Wildlife sightings vary from day to day. Bring binoculars if you have them.
Gentle float trip through the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. Peaceful and beautiful.
Book at tourhaines.com →
Dress for splash and wind. It’s a float, not whitewater, so it’s relaxing.
Want help planning your entire Viking Alaska cruise?
You can absolutely book these tours yourself – I’ve given you all the links. But if you would like help managing your cruise from end to end, I would love to work with you! If you haven’t booked yet or if you have but are not already working with a travel agent AND have paid the deposit less than 60 days ago, schedule some time with me. to chat or email me at jess@jesspeterman.com to start working with me. I always am working for you and not Viking, so I am always checking new promos, keeping up to date on the latest travel trends and help you with any questions you might have!*I waive my planning fee for Viking cruise clients.*
Make an appointment to chat with me Complmentary Consultation Call. You can also email at jess@jesspeterman.com if that works better for you.
Questions I Get All the Time
Which ports are tender ports?
Tender logistics can shift based on ship traffic and pier availability. Wrangell is a tender port. Haines is usually a tender port. Sitka can be either a dock or tender depending on where your ship is positioned.
What’s the difference between “private” and “small group” tours?
Private means you book the whole boat or vehicle just for your group—nobody else joins you. Small group means it’s a local operator with limited capacity, so you’ll have other people with you, but it won’t be a giant bus or a boat packed with strangers.
What’s the best dog sledding option on a Viking Alaska cruise?
If you want the real glacier dog sledding experience, Juneau is your best bet. TEMSCO Helicopters flies you out to a glacier where you’ll actually ride on a sled pulled by dogs on ice. Some Skagway operators offer “dog sled experiences,” but those are often training demos on wheeled sleds.
Affiliate Disclosure
Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you choose to book through them, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. I only include operators I would personally feel good about recommending.
Important Note
Excursion details and schedules can change. Always confirm timing, safety requirements, and return-to-ship logistics directly with the operator before booking.
You are responsible for your own booking decisions and participation. I am not liable for third-party services, weather delays, cancellations, or schedule changes.
