Best things to do in Skagway,Juneau and Ketchican

[newbie2468]

I am booking shore excursions in the above places.. A little leary of the helicopter/dog sled trips (although I would love to be brave).. What are the "must see" things in each places.. Should I go through Princess or book on my own and if so, where to go to book? We are in those places for pretty much the day... I want to experience the most I can.. I am not much of a hiker.. would like to see the dogs and perhaps do a dog camp... heard about Neets Bay ad the bears, but we are going in July.. and I think the Salmon aren't ready to go "up steam"... If you could make "the most" what would you do with the time allowed? WHat about the train in Skagway? What about the Carcross ? so confusing and not enough time.. In Juneau I have booked the Princess tour of the Photo tour (mostly all day) is that worthwhile? I don't know where/what to book at this end of the world.. Thanks for any help..

 

 

Thanks

 

Tory

[Toyz711]

first, before you get too confused...read down a few pages. everything you have asked about has been discussed recently.

some book through independent vendors, some book with the ship. your choice. the independents are usually smaller busses or smaller boats...less crowds.

if you want to go to carcross/emerald lake and/or visit the dogs there..you need to rent a car, take a bus trip or do a combo trip.

the round-trip train (3+ hours) is just to the summit and back. you do not get off the train. to see the other places and do the train, book a combo tour.

my must see were the humpbacks, with others is the glacier flight trips.

every people has their own things they like to do.

http://www.traveljuneau.com/ http://www.fs.fed.us/r10/tongass/districts/mendenhall/

http://www.skagway.com/

http://www.visit-ketchikan.com/

you can't do everything in 1 trip, pick what is the highlight for you and trust your judgement.

my SIL and family didn't plan anything, just went to mendenhall glacier on the shuttle, did the train (round-trip purchased on the cruise ship), kayaking in ketchikan...had a great time. still can't believe they didn't want to go whale watching with me?

are you doing a landtour with your cruise?

[Budget Queen]

I suggest you look over a shore excursion list for ideas and narrow down your interests. There are way too many excellent tours to recommend, otherwise.

 

Make a list of perhaps your top 5 choices in each port, then repost. You will get more specific information that will be more helpful in selecting tours.

 

You are too early for Neets Bay, but probably not for Anan, also a fly in out of Ketchikan.

 

Independent vendors in Alaska can offer you great tours, more personal tours, longer, smaller groups. Don't expect big savings.

[qiangf2]

As BQ prescribed!