Best Way to See Alaska 2023: Cruise or Land, Fly or Drive?

What is the best way to see Alaska? This is a question that many travelers wonder when planning a trip to the Last Frontier. Should you take a cruise, fly, or drive? Each option offers a unique way to experience Alaska, so it’s not a simple answer.

In this post, I’ll help guide you to discover the the best ways to see Alaska by exploring the advantages and disadvantages of each option.

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Whether you’re looking to witness the majestic beauty of its coastal mountains, glaciers and marine wildlife, or explore its interior and meet the locals, this post will help you make an informed decision to see Alaska’s grandeur and beauty.

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Best Ways to See Alaska

From towering glaciers to abundant wildlife, Alaska is known for its unique beauty and natural wonders. In this section, we will explore the most popular ways to experience Alaska.

1. See Alaska by Cruising

For those who are interested in a relaxed vacation, an Alaska cruise can be an excellent way to see the state’s coastal scenery and wildlife. Many of the cruise lines offer onboard activities and amenities, such as fine dining, live entertainment, and spa services, which can make for a luxurious and enjoyable vacation.

Plus, the convenience of having everything you need onboard can be appealing, especially for those who may not want to spend a lot of time planning or organizing activities.

However, while the cruise itself can be an amazing experience, it’s essential to plan ahead and book land excursions to explore Alaska’s interior. There are plenty of activities to choose from, including hiking, fishing, wildlife spotting, and experiencing Native Alaskan culture. It’s important to book these activities in advance to avoid disappointment as popular excursions often sell out quickly.

2. See Alaska by Driving

Driving through Alaska gives you the ultimate flexibility and control over your itinerary. You can stop whenever you want, stay as long as you like, and explore off-the-beaten-path destinations that are not included in most organized tours. This level of freedom is perfect for travelers who want to create their own adventure.

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Alaska’s highways offer some of the most scenic drives in the world, with breathtaking vistas around every corner. However, driving in Alaska is not for everyone, and there are a few things you should consider before hitting the road.

First of all, many Alaska cities including the popular ports such as Juneau and Ketchikan are not accessible by car. While taking a car on a ferry can be an option, it can also add up to the cost of the trip, including ferry fees, parking fees, and fuel costs. Additionally, the process of loading and unloading a car from a ferry can be time-consuming and may require advanced booking.

In addition, driving through Alaska can involve long distances between towns and cities, with stretches of road that are remote and often unpopulated. This means that you will need to be prepared for long stretches of driving, and be comfortable with the idea of spending many hours on the road, camping in the wild, or staying in budget motels.

Alaska’s highways can be challenging to drive, with narrow roads, steep inclines, and winding mountain passes. You will need to be a confident and experienced driver to navigate these roads, especially if you plan to venture off the main highways and onto gravel roads or backcountry trails.

Here are a few tips for driving in Alaska:

• Plan your route: Research your route ahead of time and make sure to include stops at off-the-beaten-path destinations.
• Bring a map: While GPS can be helpful, it’s always a good idea to have a paper map as well, in case you lose cell service.
• Prepare for all types of weather conditions: Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable and extreme, with sudden changes in temperature, high winds, and heavy rainfall. Be prepared for all types of weather conditions, and ensure that your vehicle is equipped for driving in snow and ice.

3. See Alaska by Flying

Flying into Alaska is a great way to experience the state’s beauty from above. You can get a bird’s-eye view of the magnificent glaciers, mountains, and fjords as you fly over them. Many airlines offer direct flights to the major cities in Alaska, such as Anchorage, Juneau, and Fairbanks. These cities can serve as your starting point for exploring the state further.

You could fly from Juneau to Glacier Bay National Park, take a day boat tour to see the glaciers, and fly back, staying the night in Juneau. This option is great, especially if you have limited time to explore Alaska. When we did this, we got incredible views. Alaska’s landscape is awe-inspiring, and seeing it from above is a unique experience.

However, the disadvantage is the unpredictable weather. Our flight back was delayed, so we had to stay the night in Glacier Bay National Park. Fortunately, the hotel in Juneau helped us check out to avoid additional charges, and our travel insurance covered the night in Glacier Bay National Park.

But you also don’t have to keep flying around Alaska. Once you’ve landed in the state, you can choose to drive or take a train to explore the state’s interior. Driving allows you to experience Alaska at your own pace. There are several car rental companies in the state, and you can choose from a variety of vehicle options, including SUVs, pickup trucks, and RVs.

If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, taking a train tour is an excellent option. The Alaska Railroad offers several train tours that take you through the heart of the state’s interior, offering stunning views of the wilderness and wildlife. You can choose from several itineraries, ranging from day trips to multi-day journeys that take you to remote areas of the state that are otherwise inaccessible by road.

What is the best method of travel in Alaska?

The best method of travel in Alaska largely depends on your preferences and the purpose of your trip. If you want a more relaxed and convenient way to explore several places, a cruise might be the best option for you. However, if you want to see the deeper parts of Alaska, flying in and then taking a train or driving can be a better option. This allows you to access more remote locations, get closer to nature, and have more control over your itinerary.

Final Thoughts: Best Way to See Alaska

Overall, the best way to explore Alaska is to combine different modes of transportation to experience the diverse and stunning scenery that this state has to offer.

But no matter how you choose to explore Alaska, the most important thing is to plan ahead and do your research. Make sure to include off-the-beaten-path destinations, book your excursions in advance, and don’t forget to bring appropriate clothing for Alaska’s unpredictable weather.

Whether you choose to cruise, fly, or drive, one thing is for sure: Alaska is a destination that will leave you in awe of its beauty and wonder.