reasons to visit Alaska
At the northwest corner of the continent, the largest state in the USA is the land that time forgot. Between the spectacular landscapes, rare wildlife, legendary trappers and indigenous culture, an Alaskan cruise is a truly unique experience. The following are just 5 of the amazing opportunities you can enjoy in Alaska.
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Unmissable Alaska
From national parks to stunning natural landmarks, Alaska is packed with unique and unforgettable sights. Check out our list of must-do experiences to get the most out of your trip.
En savoir plus
5 reasons to visit Alaska
At the northwest corner of the continent, the largest state in the USA is the land that time forgot. Between the spectacular landscapes, rare wildlife, legendary trappers and indigenous culture, an Alaskan cruise is a truly unique experience. The following are just 5 of the amazing opportunities you can enjoy in Alaska.
Follow in the footsteps of trappers and prospectors
The coastal towns of Haines and Skagway experienced a major population surge between 1897 and 1899. Several veins of gold were discovered in the Yukon Territory towards the end of the 19th century, drawing crowds of excited prospectors. Unfortunately, the Klondike Gold Rush resulted in many deaths and failed expeditions. These frenzied years left a mark on the landscape that can still be seen to this day.
Trace the history of the people of Alaska
A journey to Alaska will take you through mystical lands, steeped in the history of their first inhabitants. In Sitka, the carved totem poles reflect the legacy of the Tlingit. Aleuts, Kwakwaka'wakws, Yupiks, Haidas...exploring the traditional villages and meeting the people of the Far North is the best way to discover the human side of Alaska.
Discover spectacular landscapes
Alaska allows travellers to experience the beauty and diversity of nature in all of its glory. In this ever-shifting kaleidoscope of rock, water and plant life, spectacular sights await around every bend: majestic volcanoes, turquoise lakes, snowy mountains, deep fjords, dazzling waterfalls, gigantic glaciers and coniferous forests. There are treasures to uncover at the edge of the world!
Spot the wildlife
A legendary sea route linking Seattle to Juneau, the Inside Passage is renowned for its incredible coastal landscapes. Beyond the mountains and fjords, it provides access to the precious old-growth forests of Western Canada. This land offers the ideal living environment for a wide variety of wild animals, from black bears and grizzly bears to deer, reindeer, sea otters, and many species of seabirds.
Admire the marine animals
Whales and orcas rule the waters of Alaska. In Seward and Alert Bay, cetaceans are a common sight, but it is Johnstone Strait where the marine life puts on a truly unforgettable show. Humpback and fin whales populate these sheltered waters, in addition to the largest population of orcas in the world. Visitors can also spot the many seals that live along the coastline.
Unmissable Alaska
From national parks to stunning natural landmarks, Alaska is packed with unique and unforgettable sights. Check out our list of must-do experiences to get the most out of your trip.
Explore Kenai Fjords National Park
To the south of Anchorage, Seward marks the entrance to Kenai Fjords National Park. This wildlife paradise is home to 23 species of marine mammals and 20 species of seabirds. Penguins, puffins, cormorants, seals, Steller sea lions, grey whales, humpback whales, orcas, porpoises and sea otters all coexist peacefully in this impressive landscape. The park also boasts an impressive 38 glaciers.
Navigate College Fjord
Located in Prince William Sound, College Fjord is one of the natural wonders of Alaska. Sailing in the fjord offers the perfect vantage point to admire the five vast tidewater glaciers and countless valley glaciers. Discovered in 1899, these glaciers bear the names of the American universities attended by the crew who led and funded the expedition. The fjord is a white wonderland, where frozen rivers flow into vertiginous walls of ice and monumental icebergs are formed before your very eyes.
Visit Elfin Cove
Home to just 20 residents, the village of Elfin Cove was a small yet prolific fishing port before the industrial decline of the 20th century. Due to its isolated location, which can only be accessed by boat or seaplane, the port has retained its authentic character. Today, its bountiful waters and hiking trails to secret beaches have made it a popular destination for tourists.
Wander Sitka National Historical Park
Sitka National Historic Park commemorates the defeat of the Tlingit people by the Russians after a bloody battle in 1802. Driven from their ancestral lands, they were able to find refuge on Chichagof Island. The park's extensive collection of red cedar wood totem poles is a testament to the history of the Tlingits. Set in a verdant forest and surrounded by unique scenery, this cultural site offers views of the snowy summit of Mount Edgecumbe.
Discover the Tlingit city of Kake
The 500-strong city of Kake is located around 60 kilometres west of Petersburg on the island of Kupreanof. It is best known for its towering totem pole, measuring over 60 metres. Perched on a hill, this carved monument is ranked among the tallest in the world. Visitors can also enjoy a thrilling spectacle as the salmon swim upstream in the nearby Gunnuk Creek, enticing black bears and bald eagles.
Watch the cetaceans in Alert Bay
Located between Vancouver Island and the mainland, Cormorant Island is home to Alert Bay, a popular spot for watching whales and orcas, as well as dolphins and seals. The only ripples in the tranquil bay are caused by graceful cetaceans leaping out of the water: a truly magical sight!
Marvel at Sawyer Glacier
Sawyer Glacier is widely recognised as one of the most beautiful landmarks in Alaska. Its unique shade of turquoise blue creates a striking contrast against the mountains, leaving onlookers in awed silence.
