When clients call me saying, “We want to go to Alaska, but wow, the options are overwhelming!” I get it. They hop online expecting to plan a dream trip, only to be flooded with choices of cruise lines, itineraries, and the elusive “Alaska Cruisetour.” And, well, that dream planning session turns into frustration fast.

That’s when I tell them, “Why didn’t you call me first? This is what I do!” After a quick laugh and chat, they breathe easy, knowing they’re in good hands.

When planning a trip, I start with the basics: Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How. That’s how we customize every journey—because let’s be real, travel isn’t one-size-fits-all. Cruise line, room type, all-inclusive versus à la carte, luxury versus adventure—it’s a lot to consider.

Take my client, Melissa. She’s planning an Alaska adventure for her parents’ 50th wedding anniversary in July, with her sister and spouses joining them. Their dad, a retired geology professor, has always dreamed of exploring Denali. Little do the parents know, Melissa has also invited a group of family friends, who will “accidentally” surprise them along the way. Here’s how we made it work:

WHO: Melissa, her family, and the extended family and friends joining to celebrate.

WHAT: The family wants a National Parks adventure with glaciers and something for everyone in the group, from active excursions to varied amenities and rooms.

WHEN: Next July, perfect for Alaska and for arranging group accommodations in advance.

WHERE: Alaska, of course.

WHY: A 50th wedding anniversary is a big deal!

HOW: Flying into Alaska to start, with no backtracking to Seattle or Vancouver.

After we exchanged details, we chose a Princess Alaska Cruisetour. With over 100 land extension options, plenty of active excursions, and accommodations ranging from simple cabins to luxury suites, this itinerary was perfect. We picked a 5-night land tour to maximize their time in two wilderness lodges.

Let’s walk through what Melissa’s dream trip to Alaska looks like—and maybe you’ll get some ideas for your own adventure.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN ANCHORAGE

Start with a comfortable flight into Anchorage, where you’ll stay at the historic Hotel Captain Hook. You can take in views of the neighboring Cook Inlet and the Chugach mountains from any one of their 546 rooms and suites.  This unique hotel is part of Preferred Hotels and Resorts and the Historic Hotels of America. Settle in and explore the shops and local attractions. Be sure to treat yourself to some authentic Alaskan cuisine. 

DAY 2 & 3: MT. MCKINLEY

From Anchorage, enjoy a scenic drive to the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge. Prepare for incredible views of Denali, North America’s tallest peak. Visit the lodge’s Treehouse for the best sights, hear tales of Alaskan culture, or simply unwind. For extra adventure, try optional tours like gold panning, sportfishing, or trail riding.

DAY 4 & 5: DENALI

  Next, head to the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge, located right near Denali National Park. This is your launch point for exploring Denali’s wild beauty. Take a Tundra Wilderness Tour to see the park’s “Big Five”: moose, bears, caribou, Dall sheep, and wolves. Afterward, relax on the lodge’s deck overlooking the Nenana River.

DAY 6: WHITTIER-EMBARKATION DAY

Say goodbye to Denali National Park and hello to your cruise ship.  You will travel in style via scenic railway with Princess’s exclusive Direct-to-the-Wilderness rail service.  Enjoy jaw-dropping views as you head south to Whittier where your ship awaits. Settle in, unpack, and book those coveted spa treatments for the days ahead.

DAY 7: HUBBARD GLACIER

 Cruise through Hubbard Glacier, an unusual site because this glacier is advancing, not retreating. Hubbard has been monitored by scientists since 1895. It. The advance runs counter to so many thinning and retreating glaciers nearby in Alaska and around the world. 

DAY 8: GLACIER BAY NATIONAL PARK

Grab a window seat at breakfast and view the majesty of Glacier Bay National Park. This incredible park covers 3.3 million acres of rugged mountains, dynamic glaciers, temperate rainforest, wild coastlines, and deep sheltered fjords.  It is also a part of a 25-million-acre World Heritage Site—one of the world’s largest international protected areas. 

DAY 9: SKAGWAY

With 40 excursions to choose from, the day is yours. Take the historic White Pass & Yukon Route train, or opt for epic excursions like hiking, rafting, and cycling.

DAY 10: JUNEAU

In Juneau you will have extensive choices of how to spend your day.  Some of the highlights to see are the Glacier Gardens, Macaulay Salmon Hatchery and Mendenhall Glacier.  It is also a perfect time to head out on a whale watching tour.

DAY 11: KETCHIKAN

Today you have yet again another day full of choices.  The Great Alaskan Lumberjack show is a must for those traveling with young ones or just the young at heart. You can try your hand at salmon or halibut fishing, take part in a bear encounter, or one of my favorites, do a sea to table culinary experience.  

DAY 12: AT SEA

Enjoy a leisurely day at sea, reconnecting with friends, swapping travel stories, or showing appreciation to the amazing onboard crew who made this journey unforgettable.

DAY 13: VANCOUVER

Disembark in Vancouver, where optional tours allow you to explore the city before heading home. If you’re craving more adventure, consider extending your trip to the Rockies or Victoria for views of stunning glacier lakes.

If you’re thinking, “Erika, this sounds amazing, but I want something a bit different,” I’ve got you. Whether you’re looking for an intimate cruise experience, high-adventure expeditions, luxurious all-inclusive journeys, or family-friendly options packed with onboard activities, there’s a perfect Alaska Cruisetour for you. Contact us today and let’s create your dream Alaska experience together.