Royal Princess Alaska Excursions: Decision Brief

Sailing: Royal Princess, July 17 to 24, 2027 (Seattle round trip)

Booking: DX9LVJ, voyage 1724, stateroom C238 BB

Tuned for: Athletic, nature-loving, adventurous family

Checked: 2026-05-25 with live Princess planner data

Three things to know first

Glacier dog-sled: Juneau JNU-840 is the only real one left

Princess's classic Mendenhall heli dog-sled (JNU-845) is SOLD OUT for July 19, 2027. The Skagway TEMSCO product (SGY-845) is officially a 'Demonstration' (no ride). The Skagway AlaskaX 'Dog Sled Ride' (SGY-415) uses WHEELED rigs in summer, not snow. The only remaining real glacier dog-sled on this sailing is JNU-840 Iditarod heli, $829.95, 14 seats.

The real adventure picks for an athletic family

If your family is athletic and nature-loving, the products that get knocked by less-fit reviewers are exactly the ones to pick: JNU-865 Norris Glacier Flight+Paddle+Hike (6 left), JNU-780 Mendenhall Paddle & Trek (6 left), SGY-740 Chilkoot Trail Hike & Float (10 left), and KTN-405 Rainforest Canopy & Zipline (18 left). Demand is HIGH, inventory is single digits on the first two.

Victoria has no full Butchart for this evening

Princess's full daytime Butchart products are NOT offered for the 21:00 to 23:59 evening call. The only Butchart option on the menu is YYJ-345 Butchart Gardens Express, $99.95, 9:30 PM to 11:29 PM. 148 left. Operator (CVS Tours) gets oversold-capacity complaints; the gardens themselves rate 4.7.

Top adventure picks (for an athletic family)

Tours that get bad reviews from less-adventurous people. The kind of "too hard for my parents" or "exhausting" feedback that means it's actually delivering. Click any to open the Princess page.

JNU-865
Norris Glacier Flight + Paddle + Hike
Seaplane + packraft + glacier hike. Operator requires you be able to paddle 1 hour roundtrip and hike 2 miles. 6 left at 2:00 PM.
JNU-780
Mendenhall Paddle & Trek
5-6 mile paddle + 2-mile hike + ice cave. Above & Beyond Alaska. 6 left.
JNU-475
Mendenhall Guide's Choice Trail Hike
Gastineau Guiding small group. 600 to 1000 ft elevation gain. Backcountry feel. 12 left.
JNU-855
Helicopter Glacier Trek
NorthStar, crampons + poles + ice features. Age 12+. 7 left.
JNU-840
Iditarod Heli Dog-Sled
Real glacier sled-ride. Only one left for this sailing. 14 seats.
JNU-830
Taku Glacier Heli + Airboat
Helicopter to airboat. 5 left.
SGY-740
Chilkoot Trail Hike + Float
Historic gold rush trail + Class I-II raft. 10 left.
SGY-475
Laughton Glacier Hike + Rail
Train drops at trailhead. ~7 mi backcountry. 12 left.
SGY-450
Klondike Summit To Sea Bike
Train to summit, 15 mi downhill paved. Min age 13. 12 left.
SGY-490
Klondike Rock Climbing + Rappel
Real outdoor climbing. 12 left.
SGY-400
Adventure Park + Ziplines
Burma loops, balance beams, suspension bridges. More physical than Grizzly Falls. 12 left.
SGY-800
Glacier Discovery by Helicopter
Best non-dogsled aviation. 4.9 / 456. Two morning slots, 36 seats.
KTN-405
Rainforest Canopy + Zipline
8 canopy + 7 zip. 'Stomach muscles sore next day'. 18 left.
KTN-770
Eagle Islands Sea Kayaking
Real sea paddle. Eagles, sea lions, starfish. 20 left.
KTN-400
Zipline Adventure Park
6 ziplines + 8 aerial traverses. 11 left.

Booking priority (in order)

  1. Juneau adventure splurge. JNU-840 Iditarod heli dog-sled (14 left) or JNU-865 Norris Glacier multi-modal (6 left, the dream day for an athletic family).
  2. Juneau real-effort day. JNU-780 Paddle & Trek (6 left) or JNU-475 Guide's Choice Trail Hike (12 left).
  3. Skagway hardest day. SGY-740 Chilkoot Trail Hike + Float (10 left) or SGY-475 Laughton Glacier (12 left).
  4. Skagway aviation. SGY-800 Glacier Discovery by Helicopter. 36 seats split across two morning slots.
  5. Skagway real bike day. SGY-450 Klondike Summit to Sea. Train to summit then 15 mi downhill. Min age 13. 12 left.
  6. Ketchikan adventure. KTN-405 Rainforest Canopy + Zipline (18 left) or KTN-770 Eagle Islands Kayak (20 left).
  7. Ketchikan whole family. KTN-610 Deadliest Catch (18 left) or direct via alaskacrabtour.com.
  8. Ketchikan aviation. KTN-800 Misty Fjords Seaplane. 18 left at 7:30 AM. The boat version is NOT offered.
  9. Victoria. YYJ-345 Butchart Gardens Express (148 left at 9:30 PM) or just take the PNWTS cruise shuttle to the Inner Harbour.

Day 3, Mon Jul 19, 2027 Juneau, Alaska

Port window: 13:00 to 21:15 · Excursions: 63

Juneau, the helicopter port. Everything departs 1:30 PM (ship docks 13:00). One excursion per person.

Adventure splurge
JNU-840
Iditarod heli dog-sled. Last remaining glacier dog-sled for this sailing. 14 seats.
Hardest physical day
JNU-865 or JNU-780
Norris Glacier Flight+Paddle+Hike (6 left) or Mendenhall Paddle & Trek (6 left). Both labeled 'requires good physical condition'. Best fits for an athletic family that wants reviews to say 'too hard for my parents'.
Strenuous heli
JNU-855
Helicopter Glacier Trek with crampons. Age 12+. 7 left. The only Strenuous-rated helicopter product.
Real hike, no aviation
JNU-475
Mendenhall Guide's Choice Trail Hike, 600 to 1000 ft gain. 12 left, small group of 14.
Whole family balanced
JNU-705 or JNU-630
Small-group whales + Mendenhall hike (705) or classic big-boat combo (630).
Self-guided
Blue Bus + Mendenhall + Alaska State Museum
Free Mendenhall area, downtown museum walk. Skip the public bus.
Independent and free alternatives (7)

Independent operators (non-Princess)

Independent

NorthStar Trekking, Glacier Dog Sled Adventure (direct)

Same Mendenhall heli dog-sled experience as Princess JNU-840 but booked directly with NorthStar. $90 cheaper.

Tradeoff vs Princess
No ship-back protection. NorthStar refunds in full if they cannot operate due to weather.
Price
$739 per person
Refund / cancellation
Full refund if NorthStar cannot operate. 10% fee 24h out, no refund inside 24h.
TripAdvisor
4.9 / 543
Best for
If Princess JNU-840 sells out, or if you want to save ~$90/person and accept independent timing.
Independent

Harv and Marv's Outback Alaska, whale watching

Family-run small-boat whale watching. 100% humpback sighting record since 2004.

Tradeoff vs Princess
Direct booking only. No ship-back guarantee.
Price
Harv's Original $210 (max 6, 4h). Marv's Signature $179 (max 18, 4h). Private from $1,150.
Refund / cancellation
Not publicly posted; ask at booking.
TripAdvisor
Very strong; small-sample but consistent 5-star pattern
Best for
Family that wants the most intimate whale boat in Juneau and is comfortable independent.
Independent

Above & Beyond Alaska, Mendenhall Paddle & Trek or Norris Adventure

Same operator as Princess JNU-780 (Paddle & Trek) and JNU-865 (Norris). Bookable direct.

Tradeoff vs Princess
No cruise-line guarantee. They explicitly require good physical condition.
Price
Roughly $245 to $400 depending on product. Verify current pricing.
Refund / cancellation
Per their site; usually weather-cancellation refunds and partial cancellation penalties.
TripAdvisor
4.9 / many
Best for
Athletic family that wants the hardest physical day and books direct.
Independent

Gastineau Guiding (Step Into Alaska), small-group whales + Mendenhall

Same operator as Princess JNU-705 / JNU-700 / JNU-670. Bookable direct.

Tradeoff vs Princess
Direct lets you tailor groups; Princess booking gives ship-back protection.
Price
$200 to $300 range depending on product.
Refund / cancellation
Per their site.
TripAdvisor
4.8 to 4.9 / 7,984
Best for
If Princess versions sell out or you want operator-direct pricing.
Independent

Wings Airways, Taku Lodge Feast (direct)

Same Taku Lodge salmon feast Princess sells as JNU-805. Direct can be cheaper.

Tradeoff vs Princess
No cruise-line guarantee.
Price
Verify direct pricing on Wings site.
Refund / cancellation
Weather refunds standard.
TripAdvisor
4.9 / 1,411
Best for
Anyone who wants the Taku Lodge experience and is comfortable independent.

Free / self-guided

Free / DIY

Mendenhall Glacier on your own (Blue Bus + Visitor Center + Nugget Falls)

Cheapest way to actually visit Mendenhall. Blue Bus is the M&M Tours shuttle from cruise dock.

Tradeoff vs Princess
USFS visitor center has limited hours; Nugget Falls is a 2-mile out-and-back hike.
Price
Blue Bus $49 adult, $39 child. Visitor center has a small entry fee.
Refund / cancellation
Self-guided.
Best for
Budget travelers who still want Mendenhall, or someone who already saw the glacier and wants quiet time.
Free / DIY

Downtown Juneau + Alaska State Museum + Goldbelt Tram (walk-up)

Free downtown wander plus the museum, then the Goldbelt Tram if it's running. Tram entry is steps from the cruise pier.

Tradeoff vs Princess
Tram has weather and mechanical closure risk. Lines on multi-ship days are real.
Price
Alaska State Museum about $14 adult, $13 senior, youth free. Tram about $68 adult per the catalog (JNU-140 entry).
Refund / cancellation
Self-guided.
Best for
Backup if a Princess tour gets weathered out, or anyone who wants a slow day.
Full excursion list (63)
Click name to open Princess. Click + for detail panel.
Pick Rec Code Excursion Price Hours Rating Live availability
Book now JNU-850
Helicopter Glacier Walkabout
Shorter version of the glacier trek. Only 5 left.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: MEDIUM
$569.95 3.25 h 4.9 / 58 1:30 PM - 4:45 PM (5 left)
Book now JNU-855
Helicopter Glacier Trek Guest Favorite
Strenuous heli glacier trek with crampons. Age 12+. 7 left.
Adventure fit: YES Demand: HIGH
$609.95 4.25 h 4.9 / 48 1:30 PM - 5:45 PM (7 left)
Book now JNU-830
Taku Glacier Helicopter Landing & Airboat Tour Guest Favorite
30 min helicopter + 1 hour airboat + 10 min on glacier. 5 left.
Adventure fit: YES Demand: MEDIUM
$729.95 3.25 h 4.9 / 25 1:30 PM - 5:00 PM (5 left)
Book now JNU-840
Local Connections: Dog Sledding & Glacier Adventure by Helicopter Created by Iditarod Musher Guest Favorite
Iditarod heli dog-sled, only remaining glacier dog-sled on this sailing. 14 seats.
Adventure fit: YES Demand: LOW
$829.95 3 h 4.9 / 24 1:30 PM - 4:45 PM (14 left)
Book now JNU-825
Pilot's Choice Ice Age Exploration (with Two Landings)
Pilot's choice helicopter, TWO glacier landings out of 36 possible. 1 ticket left.
Adventure fit: YES Demand: LOW
$639.95 2.75 h 4.8 / 19 1:30 PM - 4:15 PM (1 left)
Book now JNU-780
Mendenhall Glacier Paddle & Trek
Mendenhall Paddle + Trek. 5-6 mile paddle + 2-mile hike + ice cave. 6 left.
Adventure fit: YES Demand: HIGH
$374.95 5.5 h 4.4 / 25 1:30 PM - 7:00 PM (6 left)
Book now JNU-865
Norris Glacier Adventure: Flight, Paddle & Hike
Norris Glacier Adventure: Flight + Paddle + Hike. The dream day for an athletic family. 6 left.
Adventure fit: YES Demand: HIGH
$959.95 to $1054.95 5 h no reviews 2:00 PM - 7:00 PM (6 left)
Strong JNU-805
Taku Lodge Feast & Five Glaciers by Seaplane Guest Favorite
Floatplane to Taku Glacier Lodge, salmon feast. 5.0 on Princess, 4.9 with hundreds of reviews on TripAdvisor.
Adventure fit: YES Demand: LOW
$489.95 3.5 h 5.0 / 79 1:30 PM - 5:00 PM (18 left)
Strong JNU-800
Five-Glacier Seaplane Exploration
Pure five-glacier seaplane flightseeing. No landing.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$349.95 to $384.95 1.25 h 4.9 / 80 1:30 PM - 2:45 PM (16 left)
Strong JNU-815
Mendenhall Glacier Helicopter, Guided Walk & Salmon Bake
Helicopter glacier walk + Gold Creek Salmon Bake combo. 15 left.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$529.95 3.75 h 4.9 / 69 1:30 PM - 5:15 PM (15 left)
Strong JNU-670
Local Connections: Discover Alaska's Whales - A Small-Group Experience Created by Alaskan Captain Princess Exclusive
Small-group whales only (no Mendenhall). Princess Exclusive Gastineau Guiding product.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$239.95 to $264.95 3.75 h 4.8 / 249 1:30 PM - 5:15 PM (12 left)
Strong JNU-705
Alaska's Whales & Mendenhall Glacier Trail: Small-Group Experience Guest Favorite
Small-group (8) whales + a real Mendenhall trail hike. Gastineau Guiding rates 4.8 to 4.9 with 7,984 TripAdvisor reviews.
Adventure fit: YES Demand: MEDIUM
$269.95 to $294.95 5 h 4.8 / 214 1:30 PM - 6:30 PM (17 left)
Strong JNU-810
Mendenhall Glacier Helicopter & Guided Walk
Helicopter + 25 min glacier walk. The entry-level aviation pick.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$469.95 2.25 h 4.8 / 193 1:30 PM - 3:45 PM (15 left)
Strong JNU-700
Local Connections: Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier Photo Safari Designed by Alaskan Photographer Princess Exclusive
Whales + Mendenhall with a photo-safari frame. Same operator as JNU-705.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$269.95 to $294.95 5 h 4.8 / 132 1:30 PM - 6:30 PM (14 left)
Strong JNU-630
Mendenhall Glacier & Whale Quest Guest Favorite
Classic large-boat whales + Mendenhall combo. Largest review sample on the sailing (596).
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$269.95 to $294.95 5.5 h 4.5 / 596 1:30 PM - 7:00 PM (34 left)
Strong JNU-475
Mendenhall Glacier Guide's Choice Trail Hike
Mendenhall Guide's Choice Trail Hike. 600 to 1000 ft elevation gain, 3.5 to 4 hours, small group of 14. 12 left.
Adventure fit: YES Demand: HIGH
$134.95 to $149.95 4.5 h 4.5 / 66 1:30 PM - 6:00 PM (12 left)
Strong JNU-760
Mendenhall Glacier Native Canoe Adventure Guest Favorite
Tlingit-style large canoe to within yards of Mendenhall Glacier. 2.5 miles each way. 10 left.
Adventure fit: YES Demand: MEDIUM
$249.95 to $274.95 3.5 h 4.5 / 34 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM (10 left)
Fallback JNU-915
All-Inclusive Luxury Whale Watch by Yacht
8-passenger luxury yacht whale watch with charcuterie and wine. 8 left.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$529.95 to $584.95 4 h 4.8 / 46 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM (8 left)
Fallback JNU-455
Bike & Brew Mendenhall Glacier Tour
Bike & Brew. Princess labels it 'Strenuous' but the operator markets it as easy.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$159.95 to $174.95 4 h 4.5 / 67 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM (24 left)
Fallback JNU-610
Local Connections: Whale Watching & Wildlife Quest Created by the Allen Family Guest Favorite
Allen Marine whale-only product. Cheaper than 630, no Mendenhall.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$224.95 to $244.95 4 h 4.4 / 723 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM (41 left)
Fallback JNU-450
Bike & Tram Elevation Sensation
Bike + Goldbelt Tram. The 'elevation' is the tram, not the bike. 12 left.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$189.95 4.5 h 4.4 / 48 1:30 PM - 6:00 PM (12 left)
Fallback JNU-770
Glacier View Sea Kayaking
Glacier View Sea Kayaking. Princess rating 4.0 / 53 is the weakest in this group.
Adventure fit: NO Demand: MEDIUM
$149.95 to $164.95 3.5 h 4.0 / 53 1:30 PM - 5:00 PM (16 left)
JNU-910 $1599.95 3.5 h 5.0 / 7 not checked live
JNU-445 $229.95 to $254.95 2.25 h 4.8 / 192 not checked live
JNU-611 $224.95 to $244.95 4 h 4.8 / 4 not checked live
JNU-440
Dog Sled Summer Camp Guest Favorite
$229.95 to $254.95 2.25 h 4.7 / 203 not checked live
JNU-621 $259.95 to $284.95 3.5 h 4.7 / 3 not checked live
JNU-385 $164.95 to $179.95 2.75 h 4.6 / 50 not checked live
JNU-901 $739.95 4 h 4.6 / 5 not checked live
JNU-330 $134.95 to $149.95 4 h 4.5 / 429 not checked live
JNU-120 $149.95 to $164.95 4.25 h 4.5 / 408 not checked live
JNU-740 $219.95 to $239.95 3.5 h 4.5 / 114 not checked live
JNU-400 $249.95 3.75 h 4.5 / 15 not checked live
JNU-405 $309.95 5.25 h 4.5 / 8 not checked live
JNU-900 $679.95 4 h 4.5 / 4 not checked live
JNU-100 $84.95 to $94.95 3 h 4.4 / 691 not checked live
JNU-640 $269.95 to $294.95 5 h 4.4 / 257 not checked live
JNU-340 $99.95 to $109.95 2.25 h 4.4 / 153 not checked live
JNU-650 $299.95 6.75 h 4.4 / 119 not checked live
JNU-905 $459.95 4.5 h 4.4 / 38 not checked live
JNU-906 $359.95 4.5 h 4.4 / 32 not checked live
JNU-105 $139.95 to $2923.88 4 h 4.3 / 485 not checked live
JNU-775 $329.95 to $364.95 5 h 4.3 / 13 not checked live
JNU-140 $68.25 1.5 h 4.2 / 800 not checked live
JNU-620 $259.95 3.5 h 4.2 / 93 not checked live
JNU-300 $79.95 to $89.95 1.5 h 4.1 / 362 not checked live
JNU-355 $134.95 to $149.95 3 h 4.0 / 114 not checked live
JNU-101 $84.95 to $94.95 3 h 4.0 / 5 not checked live
JNU-341 $99.95 to $109.95 2.25 h 4.0 / 3 not checked live
JNU-555 $379.95 to $419.95 5 h 3.9 / 38 not checked live
JNU-560 $189.95 to $229.95 3.5 h 3.8 / 48 not checked live
JNU-550 $379.95 5 h 3.1 / 18 not checked live
JNU-750 $599.95 to $659.95 4.25 h no reviews not checked live
JNU-680 $249.95 to $274.95 4.25 h no reviews not checked live
JNU-360 $199.95 to $219.95 3 h no reviews not checked live
JNU-325 $99.95 to $109.95 2.5 h no reviews not checked live
JNU-885 $999.95 6 h no reviews not checked live
JNU-375 $124.95 2.25 h no reviews not checked live
JNU-695 $399.95 8.5 h no reviews not checked live
JNU-315 $179.95 to $199.95 3.75 h no reviews not checked live
Skip JNU-690
Tracy Arm Fjord & Glacier Explorer Cruise
Tracy Arm Fjord boat day. NOT OFFERED for this sailing (does not fit 8.25-hour window).
Adventure fit: NO Demand: LOW
$399.95 7.25 h 5.0 / 20 NOT OFFERED
Skip JNU-845
Dog Sledding on the Mendenhall Glacier by Helicopter Guest Favorite
Classic Mendenhall heli dog-sled. SOLD OUT for July 19, 2027.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$789.95 2.75 h 4.8 / 127 SOLD OUT
Skip JNU-451
Bike Elevation Sensation
Bike Elevation Sensation. NOT OFFERED for this sailing.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$119.95 3.5 h no reviews NOT OFFERED

Day 4, Tue Jul 20, 2027 Skagway, Alaska

Port window: 06:00 to 20:30 · Excursions: 50

Skagway, rail-and-Yukon port. Long window (06:00 to 20:30) means you can stack two activities or do a full-day combo.

Hardest physical day
SGY-740 or SGY-475
Chilkoot Trail Hike & Float (10 left) or Laughton Glacier ~7 mi backcountry hike (12 left). Both Strenuous, both deliver.
Adventure splurge
SGY-800
Glacier Discovery by Helicopter. 4.9 / 456. Two morning slots, 36 seats total. Cheaper than dog-sled options and better rated.
Real bike ride
SGY-450
Klondike Summit To Sea: train to summit, 15 mi DOWNHILL paved highway. Min age 13. 12 left.
Climbing or aerial
SGY-490 or SGY-400
Rock Climbing + Rappel (12 left) or Adventure Park + Ziplines (12 left). SGY-400 is more physical than the better-reviewed SGY-405 Grizzly Falls.
Whole family pick
SGY-180
Yukon Expedition + White Pass. 119 left. Passport required.
Skip
SGY-845 demo
TEMSCO 'demonstration', not a ride. For a real ride, do Juneau JNU-840.
Independent and free alternatives (6)

Independent operators (non-Princess)

Independent

Chilkoot Charters, White Pass Summit + Yukon Suspension Bridge

Strong independent alternative to Princess SGY-220 / SGY-180. Smaller-group handling.

Tradeoff vs Princess
Not ship-sponsored. Chilkoot refunds in full if your ship does not arrive or arrives too late.
Price
$238 adult / $175 child (2026 public pricing). Verify 2027 rates.
Refund / cancellation
5% fee on cancellations. Full refund if ship does not arrive or arrives too late.
TripAdvisor
Strong, consistently positive
Best for
Group that wants White Pass + a Canada day without Princess motorcoach scale. Strongest non-Princess Skagway pick.
Independent

White Pass and Yukon Route, Summit Excursion (direct)

Same rail as Princess SGY-200 but booked direct. About $15 cheaper per adult, $77.50 child.

Tradeoff vs Princess
No ship-back protection. WPYR direct allows 24h cancellation minus $10/pp; inside 24h no refund.
Price
Adult $155, Child 3-12 $77.50, infants free (2026).
Refund / cancellation
Full refund up to 24h prior minus $10/pp. Within 24h, no refund.
TripAdvisor
4.6 / 5,228
Best for
Budget rail-only riders. Small dollar savings vs Princess; Princess wins on ship-back ease.
Independent

Packer Expeditions, Chilkoot Trail Hike or Laughton Glacier (direct)

Same operator as Princess SGY-740 and SGY-475. Bookable direct.

Tradeoff vs Princess
Direct can be cheaper. No ship-back guarantee.
Price
Verify direct pricing on their site.
Refund / cancellation
Per their terms.
TripAdvisor
Very positive
Best for
Athletic family that wants the hardest physical day in Skagway and is fine direct.
Independent

Sockeye Cycle, Klondike Summit to Sea or Rainforest Bike (direct)

Same operator as Princess SGY-450 and SGY-455. Direct booking for the bike tours.

Tradeoff vs Princess
Direct allows custom departure times not on Princess schedule.
Price
Verify on Sockeye site; usually competitive with Princess.
Refund / cancellation
Per their terms.
TripAdvisor
4.5+
Best for
Bike-focused day with operator-direct flexibility.

Free / self-guided

Free / DIY

NPS Klondike Gold Rush self-guided historic district walk

Free walking tour of Skagway's Gold Rush historic buildings. NPS-run. The town is unusually self-guided-friendly.

Tradeoff vs Princess
No guide. Bring a map or use NPS materials.
Price
Free. SMART bus ($3 one way, $5 day pass) if you want to extend to Gold Rush Cemetery or Reid Falls.
Refund / cancellation
Self-guided.
Best for
History buffs and anyone who wants Skagway without paying.
Free / DIY

Gold Rush Cemetery + Reid Falls walk

1.9 mile walk from downtown to the historic cemetery and a small waterfall.

Tradeoff vs Princess
Round trip on foot is 4 miles; SMART bus shortens it.
Price
Free walking. SMART bus optional ($3 one way, $5 day pass).
Refund / cancellation
Self-guided.
Best for
Active travelers wanting a half-day outside the downtown crush.
Full excursion list (50)
Click name to open Princess. Click + for detail panel.
Pick Rec Code Excursion Price Hours Rating Live availability
Book now SGY-800
Glacier Discovery by Helicopter Guest Favorite
Glacier Discovery by Helicopter. Best non-dogsled aviation in Skagway. 4.9 / 456.
Adventure fit: YES Demand: LOW
$469.95 2 h 4.9 / 456 08:15 AM - 10:15 AM (21 left)
11:15 AM - 1:15 PM (15 left)
Book now SGY-400
Adventure Park & Ziplines
Adventure Park + Ziplines. Burma loops, suspension bridges, balance beams, 6 ziplines. Forum confirms much more physical than Grizzly Falls. 12 left.
Adventure fit: YES Demand: HIGH
$179.95 to $199.95 3.25 h 4.8 / 153 08:30 AM - 12:00 PM (12 left)
Book now SGY-490
Klondike Rock Climbing & Rappelling
Klondike Rock Climbing + Rappelling. Real outdoor climbing. 12 left.
Adventure fit: YES Demand: HIGH
$129.95 to $144.95 3.25 h 4.8 / 52 08:30 AM - 12:00 PM (12 left)
Book now SGY-740
Chilkoot Trail Hike & Float Adventure Guest Favorite
Chilkoot Trail Hike + Float. Historic gold rush trail then Class I-II rafting back. 10 left.
Adventure fit: YES Demand: HIGH
$189.95 to $209.95 4.25 h 4.6 / 188 08:30 AM - 12:45 PM (10 left)
Book now SGY-450
Klondike Summit To Sea Bicycle Tour
Klondike Summit To Sea Bicycle Tour. Train to summit, then ~15 mi DOWNHILL paved highway. 12 left.
Adventure fit: YES Demand: MEDIUM
$139.95 to $154.95 2.75 h 4.6 / 130 07:00 AM - 09:30 AM (12 left)
Book now SGY-475
Laughton Glacier Hike & White Pass Rail Adventure
Laughton Glacier Hike + White Pass Rail. Train drops at trailhead. ~7 miles round-trip backcountry wilderness hike. 12 left.
Adventure fit: YES Demand: HIGH
$479.95 to $574.95 9.75 h no reviews 08:30 AM - 6:15 PM (12 left)
Strong SGY-380
Local Connections: Ghosts & Goodtime Girls Walking Tour Created by Madam Jan Princess Exclusive
Madam Jan's Ghosts walking tour. 4.9 / 298 on Princess at $64.95.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$64.95 to $69.95 2 h 4.9 / 298 08:30 AM - 10:30 AM (20 left)
Strong SGY-210
White Pass Scenic Railway - Luxury Class
Same train as SGY-200, luxury class car. Leather swivel seats, mimosas, smoked salmon. 12 left.
Adventure fit: NO Demand: LOW
$469.95 to $514.95 2.75 h 4.9 / 131 10:15 AM - 1:00 PM (12 left)
Strong SGY-710
Ocean Raft Adventure
Ocean Raft Adventure: high-speed turns, whales, seals. 4.8 / 231 on Princess. 10 left.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$184.95 to $204.95 2 h 4.8 / 231 08:30 AM - 10:30 AM (10 left)
Strong SGY-200
White Pass Scenic Railway Guest Favorite
Iconic White Pass rail. Largest review sample on the entire sailing (9,609 on Princess).
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$169.95 to $174.95 2.75 h 4.7 / 9609 10:15 AM - 1:00 PM (379 left)
Strong SGY-180
Yukon Expedition & White Pass Scenic Railway
Yukon Expedition + White Pass rail combo, 8.25 hours.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$289.95 to $319.95 8.25 h 4.6 / 1176 08:30 AM - 4:45 PM (119 left)
Strong SGY-760
Glacier Point Wilderness Safari
Glacier Point Wilderness Safari. Actually in Haines, not Skagway. Boat + bus + motorized canoe + uneven terrain.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: MEDIUM
$359.95 to $394.95 6 h 4.6 / 163 08:30 AM - 2:30 PM (24 left)
Strong SGY-220
Local Connections: White Pass Rail Bennett Lake & Yukon Adventure Created by Train Historian Princess Exclusive
Princess Exclusive: White Pass Rail + Bennett Lake + Yukon (8 hours).
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$329.95 8 h 4.5 / 251 08:30 AM - 4:30 PM (44 left)
Fallback SGY-455
Rainforest Bicycle Tour
Rainforest Bicycle Tour. 5 miles flat dirt/gravel through Dyea ghost town. 13 left.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$119.95 to $129.95 2.75 h 4.8 / 102 07:00 AM - 09:45 AM (13 left)
Fallback SGY-440
Musher's Camp & Sled Dog Experience Guest Favorite
Musher's Camp + Sled Dog Experience. No helicopter, no ride.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$244.95 to $269.95 3.25 h 4.7 / 653 08:30 AM - 11:45 AM (24 left)
Fallback SGY-170
Experience the Yukon & Suspension Bridge
Yukon day + suspension bridge swap on the train. Cheaper at $189.95.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$189.95 to $209.95 8.25 h 4.7 / 368 08:30 AM - 4:45 PM (44 left)
Fallback SGY-405
Grizzly Falls Ziplining Expedition
Grizzly Falls Ziplining. 11 ziplines (longest 750 ft, 45 mph), 4 suspension bridges, monster-truck ride up. 12 left.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$259.95 to $284.95 4 h 4.7 / 134 08:30 AM - 12:30 PM (12 left)
Fallback SGY-225
White Pass Rail & Klondike Highway - Multilingual
Rail + Klondike motorcoach, multilingual.
Adventure fit: NO Demand: LOW
$224.95 to $244.95 3.5 h 4.6 / 603 07:00 AM - 10:30 AM (22 left)
Fallback SGY-775
Chilkoot Lake Kayak Experience
Chilkoot Lake Kayak. Princess labels 'Strenuous' but reviews say calm. 24 left.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$259.95 6.25 h 4.6 / 83 08:30 AM - 3:00 PM (24 left)
Fallback SGY-515
Wilderness UTV Adventure
Wilderness UTV Adventure. Princess 4.0 / 168 is the weakest in the Skagway adventure list.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$329.95 to $364.95 6.25 h 4.0 / 168 not checked live
Fallback SGY-415
Ultimate Musher's Camp Experience: Dog Sled Ride, Gold Panning & S'mores Princess Exclusive
Ultimate Musher's Camp 'Dog Sled Ride'. The 'ride' is on a WHEELED rig in summer, not snow.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$299.95 4 h no reviews 08:30 AM - 12:30 PM (24 left)
SGY-356 $129.95 to $144.95 3.25 h 5.0 / 3 not checked live
SGY-510 $319.95 to $349.95 6.25 h 5.0 / 1 not checked live
SGY-150 $49.95 1.5 h 4.7 / 721 not checked live
SGY-745 $329.95 6.5 h 4.6 / 199 not checked live
SGY-330 $124.95 to $134.95 3 h 4.6 / 185 not checked live
SGY-201 $169.95 to $174.95 2.75 h 4.6 / 39 not checked live
SGY-140 $49.95 to $54.95 1.5 h 4.5 / 913 not checked live
SGY-350 $309.95 to $339.95 6 h 4.5 / 321 not checked live
SGY-240 $239.95 to $264.95 6 h 4.5 / 285 not checked live
SGY-355 $129.95 to $144.95 3.25 h 4.4 / 394 not checked live
SGY-120 $139.95 to $154.95 4.5 h 4.4 / 362 not checked live
SGY-130 $99.95 2.5 h 4.4 / 166 not checked live
SGY-421
Bear & Eagle Quest Guest Favorite
$319.95 6.25 h 4.4 / 137 not checked live
SGY-320 $129.95 2.5 h 4.3 / 128 not checked live
SGY-250 $289.95 to $319.95 5.75 h 4.2 / 271 not checked live
SGY-230 $299.95 to $329.95 7 h 4.2 / 193 not checked live
SGY-315 $99.95 to $109.95 2.5 h 4.2 / 67 not checked live
SGY-445 $159.95 to $174.95 2.75 h 4.1 / 80 not checked live
SGY-420 $299.95 6.25 h 4.0 / 180 not checked live
SGY-101 $79.95 to $89.95 3.25 h 4.0 / 1 not checked live
SGY-100 $79.95 to $89.95 3.25 h 3.9 / 279 not checked live
SGY-700 $329.95 6.25 h 3.9 / 146 not checked live
SGY-110 $99.95 3.5 h 3.5 / 211 not checked live
SGY-295 $239.95 5.25 h no reviews not checked live
SGY-209 $249.95 2.75 h no reviews not checked live
SGY-135 $99.95 2.5 h no reviews not checked live
SGY-290 $254.95 5.25 h no reviews not checked live
SGY-765 $269.95 6.5 h no reviews not checked live
Skip SGY-845
Glacier Dog Sledding Demonstration by Helicopter Guest Favorite
Glacier Dog Sledding Demonstration by Helicopter. NO real sled ride. Princess renamed this to 'Demonstration'.
Adventure fit: NO Demand: LOW
$629.95 2 h no reviews 07:45 AM - 09:45 AM (10 left)
10:15 AM - 12:15 PM (10 left)

Day 5, Wed Jul 21, 2027 Glacier Bay (scenic cruising)

Port window: 06:00 to 14:30 · Excursions: 0

Glacier Bay is scenic cruising. No excursions to book.

On the ship
Park ranger commentary
Bundle up. Aim for Margerie Glacier viewing. No bookings needed.
Full excursion list (0)
Click name to open Princess. Click + for detail panel.
Pick Rec Code Excursion Price Hours Rating Live availability

Day 6, Thu Jul 22, 2027 Ketchikan, Alaska

Port window: 07:00 to 13:15 · Excursions: 53

Ketchikan, short call (only 6.25 hours) with up to 12 cruise ships in port that morning. Pick ONE tour, do not stack.

Hardest physical day
KTN-405
Rainforest Canopy + Zipline. Reviewer: 'stomach muscles sore the next day'. 18 left.
Adventure splurge
KTN-800
Misty Fjords by Seaplane. 18 left at 7:30 AM. The boat version is NOT offered.
Whole family pick
KTN-610
Deadliest Catch Crab Fishermen's Tour. 4.9 / 406 Princess, 4.9 / 2,316 TripAdvisor. 18 left.
Real paddle
KTN-770
Eagle Islands Sea Kayaking. Real sea paddling, eagles, sea lions. 20 left.
Family fallback
KTN-420 or KTN-110
Rainforest Sanctuary Nature Walk (36 left) or Totem Bight + Lumberjack (50 left).
Independent and free alternatives (4)

Independent operators (non-Princess)

Independent

Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour, Aleutian Ballad (direct)

Same Deadliest Catch boat as Princess KTN-610 but booked direct. $30 cheaper adult, $70 cheaper child.

Tradeoff vs Princess
Direct site explicitly promises 100% refund if your ship is delayed and causes a miss. Princess gives ship-back; Bering Sea gives full refund.
Price
Adult $229, Child $189, VIP $299 / $259 (2026).
Refund / cancellation
100% unconditional refund if ship issue causes a miss. Fully refundable 7 days prior. Refund if ship skips port.
TripAdvisor
4.9 / 2,316
Best for
Budget-conscious crab tour. Strongest value-vs-Princess pick on this sailing.
Independent

Island Wings Air Service, Misty Fjords (direct)

Alternative seaplane operator. Picks up at the Visitors Center on Berth 2. Smaller plane than Princess KTN-800.

Tradeoff vs Princess
Public booking only open through 2026 currently; verify 2027 availability. No ship-back.
Price
Verify 2027 pricing. 2026 was roughly $300 to $400.
Refund / cancellation
Weather refunds standard. Terms vary.
TripAdvisor
4.9 / 859
Best for
If Princess KTN-800 is full or you want a more intimate flight.
Independent

Southeast Sea Kayaks, Eagle Islands paddle (direct)

Same operator that runs Princess KTN-770. Direct booking gives schedule flexibility.

Tradeoff vs Princess
No ship-back.
Price
Verify direct.
Refund / cancellation
Per their terms.
TripAdvisor
Strong
Best for
Paddlers comfortable booking direct.

Free / self-guided

Free / DIY

Creek Street + Salmon Walk + Totem Heritage Center

Walkable downtown wander from berth 4. Boardwalk, salmon spawning interpretive trail, and one of the strongest small museums in Southeast Alaska.

Tradeoff vs Princess
Creek Street is touristy. Totem Heritage has a small fee.
Price
Free except Totem Heritage Center entry (~$6 adult).
Refund / cancellation
Self-guided.
Best for
Anyone who wants a low-effort downtown day in a port where Princess only has a 6.25-hour window.
Full excursion list (53)
Click name to open Princess. Click + for detail panel.
Pick Rec Code Excursion Price Hours Rating Live availability
Book now KTN-610
Local Connections: Deadliest Catch Crab Fishermen's Tour Created by Captain David Lethin Princess Exclusive
Deadliest Catch Crab Fishermen's Tour with Capt. David Lethin. Princess Exclusive. 4.9 / 406. 18 left.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$259.95 3.25 h 4.9 / 406 07:30 AM - 10:45 AM (18 left)
Book now KTN-560
Alaska Fishing & Wilderness Dining
Alaska Fishing + Wilderness Dining. 5 to 6 guests per boat. Highest catch rate of any Alaska fishing operator. Only 6 left.
Adventure fit: YES Demand: MEDIUM
$479.95 to $529.95 5 h 4.9 / 71 07:30 AM - 12:30 PM (6 left)
Book now KTN-405
Rainforest Canopy & Zipline Adventure
Rainforest Canopy + Zipline Adventure. 8 canopy ropes + 7 ziplines. Reviewer quote: 'stomach muscles sore the next day'. 18 left.
Adventure fit: YES Demand: HIGH
$249.95 to $274.95 3.5 h 4.9 / 48 07:30 AM - 11:00 AM (18 left)
Book now KTN-800
Misty Fjords National Monument by Seaplane
Misty Fjords by Seaplane. Only Misty Fjords option offered for this sailing. 18 left.
Adventure fit: YES Demand: LOW
$459.95 2 h 4.8 / 16 07:30 AM - 09:30 AM (18 left)
Strong KTN-400
Zipline Adventure Park
Zipline Adventure Park. 6 ziplines + 8 aerial traverses. More technical than basic zip courses. 11 left.
Adventure fit: YES Demand: HIGH
$179.95 to $199.95 3.5 h 4.7 / 126 07:30 AM - 11:00 AM (11 left)
Strong KTN-315
Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show & Crab Feast Guest Favorite
Lumberjack Show + Crab Feast combo.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$149.95 to $164.95 3 h 4.6 / 360 07:30 AM - 10:30 AM (70 left)
Strong KTN-770
Eagle Islands Sea Kayaking
Eagle Islands Sea Kayaking. Real sea paddling, sea lions, eagles, starfish. 20 left.
Adventure fit: YES Demand: MEDIUM
$139.95 to $154.95 3.5 h 4.6 / 140 07:30 AM - 11:00 AM (20 left)
Strong KTN-420
Rainforest Sanctuary Nature Walk & Totem Park
Rainforest Sanctuary Nature Walk + Totem Park. Best non-air, non-crab Ketchikan pick.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$129.95 to $144.95 2.75 h 4.5 / 260 07:30 AM - 10:15 AM (36 left)
Strong KTN-110
Totem Bight State Park & Lumberjack Show Guest Favorite
Totem Bight State Park + Lumberjack Show combo. Best cultural Ketchikan pick.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$109.95 to $119.95 4 h 4.4 / 448 08:00 AM - 12:00 PM (50 left)
Fallback KTN-455
Rainforest Trail E-Bike & Nature Walk
Rainforest E-Bike + Nature Walk. 3 mi gently sloping historic pipeline trail. 12 left.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$179.95 to $199.95 3 h 4.7 / 53 08:00 AM - 11:00 AM (12 left)
Fallback KTN-300
Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show Guest Favorite
Just the Lumberjack Show. 4.6 / 2,962 on TripAdvisor. Cheapest big-name Ketchikan ticket.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$43.00 1.25 h 4.6 / 1898 07:45 AM - 09:15 AM (94 left)
Fallback KTN-650
Crab Feast at George Inlet Lodge & Wilderness Cruise
Crab Feast + Wilderness Cruise at George Inlet Lodge. Fallback if Deadliest Catch sells out.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$209.95 to $229.95 4 h 4.5 / 297 07:30 AM - 11:30 AM (48 left)
KTN-126 $169.95 to $184.95 3.75 h 5.0 / 1 not checked live
KTN-305 $84.95 to $94.95 2 h 4.7 / 195 not checked live
KTN-320 $199.95 to $219.95 3.25 h 4.7 / 53 not checked live
KTN-600 $139.95 to $154.95 3 h 4.6 / 345 not checked live
KTN-630 $229.95 to $254.95 3.25 h 4.6 / 86 not checked live
KTN-385 $89.95 to $99.95 1.5 h 4.6 / 69 not checked live
KTN-900 $799.95 4 h 4.6 / 12 not checked live
KTN-875 $669.95 3.25 h 4.6 / 10 not checked live
KTN-100 $69.95 to $74.95 2.5 h 4.5 / 258 not checked live
KTN-655 $209.95 3.75 h 4.5 / 122 not checked live
KTN-550 $469.95 to $514.95 5 h 4.5 / 67 not checked live
KTN-660 $89.95 1.5 h 4.4 / 495 not checked live
KTN-570 $559.95 to $614.95 5 h 4.4 / 84 not checked live
KTN-430 $129.95 to $144.95 3.5 h 4.4 / 73 not checked live
KTN-885 $319.95 3 h 4.3 / 134 not checked live
KTN-425 $199.95 to $219.95 4 h 4.3 / 66 not checked live
KTN-330 $144.95 to $159.95 3 h 4.3 / 61 not checked live
KTN-500 $229.95 to $254.95 4 h 4.3 / 56 not checked live
KTN-510 $299.95 to $329.95 3.25 h 4.3 / 44 not checked live
KTN-120 $89.95 to $99.95 2 h 4.2 / 301 not checked live
KTN-380 $49.95 to $54.95 1.5 h 4.2 / 213 not checked live
KTN-950 $54.95 to $59.95 1.5 h 4.0 / 420 not checked live
KTN-121 $89.95 to $99.95 2 h 4.0 / 4 not checked live
KTN-621 $259.95 to $284.95 5.25 h 4.0 / 2 not checked live
KTN-820 $419.95 3 h 3.9 / 31 not checked live
KTN-685 $419.95 4.5 h 3.8 / 49 not checked live
KTN-555 $299.95 to $329.95 4.5 h no reviews not checked live
KTN-520 $389.95 to $429.95 4.5 h no reviews not checked live
KTN-635 $129.95 2 h no reviews not checked live
KTN-325 $129.95 to $144.95 2.5 h no reviews not checked live
KTN-565 $499.95 to $549.95 5 h no reviews not checked live
KTN-525 $299.95 to $329.95 3.75 h no reviews not checked live
KTN-615 $319.95 3.25 h no reviews not checked live
KTN-125 $169.95 3.75 h no reviews not checked live
KTN-345 $179.95 to $199.95 2.25 h no reviews not checked live
KTN-705 $299.95 to $329.95 3.5 h no reviews not checked live
KTN-825 $399.95 to $439.95 3 h no reviews not checked live
KTN-340 $229.95 to $254.95 2.5 h no reviews not checked live
KTN-115 $179.95 4 h no reviews not checked live
KTN-575 $1599.95 to $1759.95 4.25 h no reviews not checked live
Skip KTN-620
Misty Fjords & Wilderness Explorer Cruise Guest Favorite
Misty Fjords by boat. NOT OFFERED for this sailing.
Adventure fit: NO Demand: LOW
$259.95 5.25 h 4.1 / 92 NOT OFFERED

Day 7, Fri Jul 23, 2027 Victoria, BC, Canada

Port window: 21:00 to 23:59 · Excursions: 31

Victoria, very late evening call (21:00 to 23:59). Princess only offers 8 evening tours. The full Enchanting Butchart product is NOT on the menu.

If you want Butchart
YYJ-345
Butchart Gardens Express. The only Princess Butchart option. 148 left.
Quick taste
YYJ-145
O Canada Night Lights. 1.25 hours. Lower effort.
Self-guided
PNWTS shuttle + Inner Harbour
PNWTS Victoria shuttle ($15 day pass). Ogden Point Breakwater starts at the terminal.
Skip
Independent Butchart
Butchart only admits the public if the ship docks on time. Late dock = high risk on this call.
Independent and free alternatives (3)

Independent operators (non-Princess)

Independent

Sightseeing Victoria, Butchart Express from cruise terminal (direct)

Direct cruise-terminal-pickup Butchart shuttle. Same operator Princess uses but bookable direct on Viator.

Tradeoff vs Princess
Direct is slightly cheaper. No ship-back; Butchart only admits the public if the ship docks on time.
Price
From about $153 on Viator (verify 2027 price).
Refund / cancellation
Viator free cancellation up to 24h prior on most listings.
TripAdvisor
Operator (CVS Tours) 4.1 / 248. Reviews flag oversold capacity. Gardens themselves rate 4.7.
Best for
If Princess YYJ-345 sells out. Princess is still the safer choice for a 21:00 to 23:59 evening call.

Free / self-guided

Free / DIY

Ogden Point Breakwater + Inner Harbour walk

The breakwater starts right at the cruise terminal. Walk it for the views, then walk or shuttle into the Inner Harbour and James Bay.

Tradeoff vs Princess
Nighttime visibility. About 1 mile from breakwater to Inner Harbour.
Price
Free.
Refund / cancellation
Self-guided.
Best for
Tired travelers who want a low-effort Victoria taste without committing to a 2-hour bus.
Free / DIY

PNWTS cruise shuttle to downtown

PNWTS Victoria runs a shuttle for every cruise call. Sold after customs at the terminal.

Tradeoff vs Princess
Walk-up only, not pre-bookable. Frequency at least every 15 minutes.
Price
$15 USD day pass or $10 USD one way (2026).
Refund / cancellation
Walk-up.
Best for
Easiest downtown option for an evening call. Pair with Ogden Point or the Inner Harbour walk.
Full excursion list (31)
Click name to open Princess. Click + for detail panel.
Pick Rec Code Excursion Price Hours Rating Live availability
Strong YYJ-145
O Canada: Night Lights City Highlights
O Canada Night Lights City Highlights. 1.25 hours. Lowest-effort Victoria taste.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$99.95 1.25 h 3.5 / 162 9:30 PM - 10:45 PM (50 left)
Strong YYJ-345
Butchart Gardens Express
Butchart Gardens Express. The only Princess Butchart product for this evening call. 148 left.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$99.95 2 h no reviews 9:30 PM - 11:29 PM (148 left)
Fallback YYJ-111
Easy Victoria: City Lights Highlights
Easy Victoria City Lights. Lower Princess rating (2.8 / 69).
Adventure fit: NO Demand: LOW
$79.95 2 h 2.8 / 69 9:30 PM - 11:29 PM (150 left)
Fallback YYJ-450
Victoria by E-Bike
Victoria by E-Bike. Beacon Hill, Fisherman's Wharf, Dallas Road waterfront. 12 left.
Adventure fit: MAYBE Demand: LOW
$99.95 2 h no reviews 9:30 PM - 11:29 PM (12 left)
Fallback YYJ-346
Butchart Gardens Express (Wheelchair Accessible)
Wheelchair Accessible Butchart Express.
Adventure fit: NO Demand: LOW
$99.95 2 h no reviews not checked live
YYJ-341 $189.95 4 h 4.7 / 3 not checked live
YYJ-331 $149.95 4 h 4.5 / 4 not checked live
YYJ-120 $99.95 1 h 4.3 / 325 not checked live
YYJ-140 $99.95 2.5 h 4.3 / 292 not checked live
YYJ-100 $99.95 3 h 4.3 / 62 not checked live
YYJ-170 $109.95 3 h 4.3 / 20 not checked live
YYJ-365 $129.95 5 h 4.3 / 4 not checked live
YYJ-311 $139.95 3.5 h 4.3 / 3 not checked live
YYJ-385 $44.95 2 h 4.1 / 174 not checked live
YYJ-300 $169.95 2.5 h 4.1 / 160 not checked live
YYJ-316 $139.95 4 h 4.0 / 1 not checked live
YYJ-110 $89.95 2 h 3.9 / 349 not checked live
YYJ-301 $129.95 2 h no reviews not checked live
YYJ-375 $109.95 2.75 h no reviews not checked live
YYJ-376 $99.95 2 h no reviews not checked live
YYJ-180 $89.95 1.75 h no reviews not checked live
YYJ-380 $169.95 2.5 h no reviews not checked live
YYJ-165 $109.95 3 h no reviews not checked live
YYJ-400 $199.95 4 h no reviews not checked live
YYJ-290 $114.95 2 h no reviews not checked live
Skip YYJ-360
Local Connections: Royal Tea at Abkhazi Garden & City Highlights Created by Historian Princess Exclusive
NOT offered for this sailing.
Adventure fit: NO Demand: LOW
$119.95 2.5 h 4.5 / 46 not checked live
Skip YYJ-340
English Tea at Butchart Gardens
NOT offered for this sailing.
Adventure fit: NO Demand: LOW
$189.95 4 h 4.4 / 95 not checked live
Skip YYJ-310
Enchanting Butchart Gardens Guest Favorite
Enchanting Butchart Gardens. NOT OFFERED for this sailing (daytime product).
Adventure fit: NO Demand: LOW
$139.95 3.5 h 4.3 / 858 NOT OFFERED
Skip YYJ-330
Best of Victoria: Butchart & Butterfly Gardens Guest Favorite
NOT offered for this sailing.
Adventure fit: NO Demand: LOW
$149.95 4 h 4.0 / 579 NOT OFFERED
Skip YYJ-600
Ocean Wildlife & Whales Exploration Cruise Guest Favorite
NOT offered for this sailing.
Adventure fit: NO Demand: LOW
$179.95 3 h 4.0 / 299 not checked live
Skip YYJ-315
Fireworks at Butchart Gardens Guest Favorite
NOT offered for this sailing.
Adventure fit: NO Demand: LOW
$139.95 4 h 3.8 / 25 NOT OFFERED

Decision matrix by family role

Adventurous family (you)

Pick the hardest products that get knocked by easy-tourist reviews.

  • Juneau: JNU-865 Norris Flight+Paddle+Hike, or JNU-780 Paddle & Trek + a separate JNU-840 heli dog-sled if budget allows
  • Skagway: SGY-740 Chilkoot Trail or SGY-475 Laughton Glacier + SGY-800 Glacier Heli on a separate slot
  • Ketchikan: KTN-405 Canopy + Zipline or KTN-770 Sea Kayak
  • Victoria: YYJ-345 Butchart Express or onboard

Whole family with kids

Small-group whales, iconic rail, crab tour, light Victoria.

  • Juneau: JNU-705 Small-Group Whales + Mendenhall Trail
  • Skagway: SGY-180 Yukon Expedition + White Pass
  • Ketchikan: KTN-610 Deadliest Catch
  • Victoria: YYJ-345 Butchart Express or onboard

Grandparents focus

Easy activity, comfortable transport, short days, no aviation.

  • Juneau: JNU-630 Mendenhall + Whale Quest, big boat 5.5 h
  • Skagway: SGY-200 White Pass rail, or SGY-440 Musher's Camp
  • Ketchikan: KTN-110 Totem Bight + Lumberjack, or KTN-300 Lumberjack Show
  • Victoria: Stay onboard or PNWTS shuttle to Inner Harbour

Budget conscious

One Princess marquee, then self-guided.

  • Juneau: Blue Bus to Mendenhall + downtown + Alaska State Museum
  • Skagway: SGY-380 Madam Jan's Ghosts walking tour + NPS historic district
  • Ketchikan: KTN-300 Lumberjack Show + Creek Street walk
  • Victoria: PNWTS shuttle to Inner Harbour

Logistics quick reference

Itinerary
Sat 7/17 Seattle 15:00 depart; Sun 7/18 sea; Mon 7/19 Juneau 13:00 to 21:15; Tue 7/20 Skagway 06:00 to 20:30; Wed 7/21 Glacier Bay 06:00 to 14:30; Thu 7/22 Ketchikan 07:00 to 13:15; Fri 7/23 Victoria 21:00 to 23:59; Sat 7/24 Seattle 07:00.
Juneau (Day 3)
Princess docks at 13:00. Every Princess Juneau tour starts at 1:30 PM. There is no morning option. One excursion per person.
Skagway (Day 4)
06:00 to 20:30. Most schedule headroom of any port. Yukon excursions need passport or WHTI ID + notarized child consent for unaccompanied minors.
Glacier Bay (Day 5)
Scenic cruising. Park rangers board. Bundle up for Margerie Glacier viewing.
Ketchikan (Day 6)
07:00 to 13:15 with up to 12 ships in port that morning. Royal Princess docks downtown at berth 4. Pick ONE tour.
Victoria (Day 7)
21:00 to 23:59. Useful window is the final 2 hours. Butchart Night Illuminations 2026 schedule: Wed-Sun, gates close 10 PM.
Weight surcharges
Vary by product. JNU-840 Iditarod heli: $200 over 250 lb. KTN-800 Misty Fjords: $150. TEMSCO independent: $150. NorthStar independent: $150.
Cancellation
Princess helicopter excursions are not refundable unless cancelled by noon the day after embarkation. Bering Sea Crab direct: 7 days prior or 100% refund if ship issue causes a miss. WP&YR direct rail: full refund 24+ hours minus $10 pp.

FAQ

Is it normal that some tours are sold out 400+ days out?

Yes. Princess opens shore-excursion booking 12 to 18 months ahead. Helicopter operators (TEMSCO, NorthStar, Coastal, ERA) sell finite daily slots to all cruise lines. JNU-845 has 127 Princess reviews, so it has been the long-running pick that loyalists grab first.

Will Princess release more inventory?

Sometimes. Princess may add departures as the sailing date approaches if the operator agrees, and may open a waitlist. Worth checking again 60 to 90 days out. You can also call Princess and ask to be added to a waitlist manually.

Why is SGY-845 marked Skip if Princess sells it?

TEMSCO's own page says guests cannot ride the sled on the Skagway product. Princess officially renamed it 'Glacier Dog Sledding Demonstration by Helicopter' in 2025. For a real ride, do Juneau JNU-840.

Why are six Victoria tours marked NOT OFFERED?

The Victoria call is 21:00 to 23:59. Daytime Butchart products and the Whales cruise are not sold for this evening window.

Why does SGY-415 say 'wheeled sled, not snow'?

AlaskaX reviews confirm that in summer the 'Dog Sled Ride' uses a wheeled rig on dirt. Dogs and ride are real, but it is materially different from JNU-840 on glacier snow.

How does the Adventure mode toggle work?

Each excursion has a 'Demand' tag (HIGH, MEDIUM, or LOW physical demand). Adventure mode hides LOW-demand rows so you only see real activity tours.

Where do the third-party ratings come from?

TripAdvisor URLs and ratings for the underlying operator and, where available, the specific tour product page. Cruise Critic mentions and forum signals were folded in qualitatively. Google operator ratings were checked where the operator is a single-location business.

Sources used

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