07/08/2026
I've done Alaska by land...and now I've done it by cruise. And they're two completely different experiences.
One of the things that surprised me most was how relaxing a cruise made such a rugged destination.
Some of my favorite moments weren't even on an excursion. They were curled up on our balcony with a blanket and a cup of coffee, watching Alaska wake up each morning. We'd spot whales surfacing in the distance, bald eagles soaring overhead, waterfalls cascading down the mountains, and glaciers slowly coming into view—all without ever leaving our cabin. Alaska puts on a show, and sometimes all you have to do is step outside your balcony door.
Then we'd pull into port and experience a completely different side of Alaska. Fishing in Ketchikan, whale watching in Sitka, wandering through these incredible little towns, meeting locals, hearing their stories, and getting out into places you simply can't experience from the ship.
That's what I loved most. The ship became this cozy home base where we could slow down, recharge, and let Alaska come to us. Then each day we had the chance to jump into a new adventure before coming back to a hot shower, a great meal, and another evening watching the mountains drift by.
I still think there's something really special about exploring Alaska by land, and I'll always recommend it. But after this trip, I completely understand why so many people fall in love with seeing Alaska from the water. It gives you a perspective you just can't get any other way.
💙 Erica's Alaska Tip: I'm a balcony girl on every cruise, and Alaska is no exception. If you're debating whether it's worth the extra cost, my answer is an easy yes. We spent hours wrapped in blankets, coffee in hand, simply watching the world go by. Those quiet mornings and evenings on our balcony ended up being some of my favorite moments of the entire trip. If you can swing it, book the balcony. I promise you won't regret it. 🏔️☕🚢
