Back-Up Excursion

[VT-HokieCruiser]

We are planning a glacier helicopter flight/dog sledding excursion (in Juneau) and have read many posts suggesting a back-up plan in case the planned excursion is canceled due to weather. Other than reserving and paying for back-to-back excursions, how do you work a "back-up" plan?

[Budget Queen]

It works, by doing your homework and knowing what else is available in the port. Have ideas in place and even phone numbers if needed. You do need to be flexable.

[VT-HokieCruiser]

But - do you reserve your "back-ups" ahead of time, OR are you just ready to call an independent tour operator or stand in line at the ship's Excursion Desk when you find your original excursion was canceled?

[whale-watcher]

We are planning flightseeing excursions in at least two, and possibly three of our ports (on a 14 day cruise)...but we are also booking other excursions as well (for example, misty fjord plus saxman in Ketchikan, whale watching plus helicopter in Juneau). If our flightseeing excursions go as planned, we will have VERY full but exciting days; if they are cancelled, we will still have at least one excursion, as will fill up the free time with other activities (for example, take the shuttle to Mendenhall glacier and do some hiking in Juneau; take a cab out to Totem bight in Ketchikan)...our alternative activities are things that do not require advance reservations, but are still worthwhile and interesting. We also have some possible indoor activities in town planned if the weather is truly horrendous with drenching rains. HTH

[Budget Queen]

But - do you reserve your "back-ups" ahead of time, OR are you just ready to call an independent tour operator or stand in line at the ship's Excursion Desk when you find your original excursion was canceled?

 

You can book them, IF You can live with the cancelation penalities. But mostly- I would suggest you have phone numbers etc for ready use. Many times flights cancel at the last minute. One decision that is best made in advance is IF you will take a regular glacier helicopter landing if a glacier dog sledding is canceled. That may be offered.