If you’re planning an Alaska cruise, there’s one shore excursion that pops up on almost every itinerary: the historic White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad in Skagway. In this guide, David (our resident train geek) and I break down what the train ride is actually like, reveal three essential seating hacks most reviewers miss, and share our honest verdict on whether the $400+ luxury VIP carriage is genuinely worth your money or if a Yukon combination tour is the smarter pick.

Stepping out onto your cabin balcony at six o'clock in the morning to watch Juneau's snow-capped mountains drift past is pure magic. But as Alaska's isolated capital, navigating a port day here comes with a few unique logistical surprises—from eye-wateringly expensive excursions to tendering headaches. Having sailed into Juneau across Celebrity Cruises, Virgin Voyages, and Norwegian Cruise Line, we’re sharing our honest, real-world guide to the best things to do, what to skip, where to eat local fish tacos, and how to avoid the most common cruise mistakes.

When Virgin Voyages announced it was taking its adults-only, no-buffet formula up to Alaska, we had the exact same question as every other cruiser: can a line built for sunny pool parties and tropical vibes actually work in the freezing fjords? Having sailed Alaska across traditional lines like Princess, Holland America, and Royal Caribbean, we boarded Virgin’s Alaska sailing to see whether trading classic observation lounges for adults-only energy and world-class included food works among the glaciers—or if you’re better off sticking to traditional ships.

Join us on an epic Alaska cruise adventure in the Fire and Ice Vlog Series! We'll take you through the stunning destinations of Hawaii and Alaska, experiencing a perfect blend of fire and ice that will leave you in awe. From the vibrant beaches of Honolulu to the majestic glaciers of Alaska, our Norwegian Spirit cruise will captivate you with breathtaking scenery and thrilling experiences. Watch the full vlog series on YouTube and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature as we explore Mendenhall Glacier, ride the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, and pan for gold in Skagway. Don't miss this unforgettable journey filled with adventure, culture, and beautiful memories aboard the Norwegian Spirit cruise ship!