Alaska

The Alcatraz ferry awaits your arrival to take you to the notorious prison that once housed the likes of Al Capone and the Birdman of Alcatraz. During your ferry ride, enjoy a panoramic view of the famous San Francisco skyline and prepare to explore the 'Rock'. Tour the small jail cells as an audio tour fills you with images of days gone by. Return to San Francisco by ferry and board your motorcoach for a journey across the Golden Gate Bridge. After a stop at Vista Point for a fabulous view of the city by the bay, it's a short ride into Sausalito Village. Stroll along Sausalito's streets to browse among the many specialty shops and galleries. And take in yet another breathtaking view of San Francisco before returning to your ship. Note: Your tour fee includes the $28.00 National Park Service Entry Fee.

This eco-exploration includes a guided nature hike, Alaskan reindeer, a Native totem carver, raptor center and a historic sawmill at an exclusive reserve located in the forested mountains at rustic Herring Cove. This pristine natural environment is home to bald eagles, black bear, seals and a variety of birds and other species attracted by the major salmon runs in the abundant marine estuary. A naturalist will guide you along a trail through the heart of the dense forest, among tall stands of hemlock, spruce and Alaska cedar, stopping at strategically located viewing areas. At a protected, open estuary, you'll follow Eagle Creek along an elevated wooden boardwalk overlooking grassy wetlands. Major runs of salmon return to spawn here. Listen to the symphony of bird activity in this spectacular setting. Seasonal ecosystem changes result in varying levels of wildlife activity. After a mile trail walk you'll have a chance to feed reindeer, see the historic Herring Bay Lumber Company sawmill, visit birds of prey up-close at the Alaska Wildlife Foundation's Raptor Center, and observe a master Native totem pole carver at work. Snacks and beverages are provided and shopping opportunities await in the general store. Note: Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. Tour operates in all weather conditions. Rain ponchos provided. Wear comfortable walking shoes and warm clothing.

Departing Ogden Point, your driver/guide will point out Mile Zero, the western end of the Trans Canada Highway, Beacon Hill Park and Thunderbird Park en route to Craigdarroch Castle an outstanding landmark home standing most affluent in a city steeped in heritage. Craigdarroch was built between 1887–1890 by Robert Dunsmuir and boasts a unique collection of residential stained and leaded glass, period furnishing, and excellent wood paneling and carving. Enjoy your self-guided visit in the castle with docents available to answer any questions you may have. After your visit, rejoin your driver/guide returning via Chinatown and welcomed by the Gates of Harmonious Interest. Continue to the inner harbor framed by some of Canada's most recognizable landmarks, the majestic Parliament Buildings aglow in 3,333 light bulbs and the ivy-covered Empress Hotel. At the inner harbor and shopping district you'll be given some free time to take in the local sights and sounds prior to your return journey to the pier and your ship. Note: Must have good mobility and be able to negotiate a gradual uphill walk to the castle and 87 steps to view all four floors of the castle. Referred to as a 'castle', the building is more a stately mansion with castellated features. Your visit of this unique neighbourhood stately home is self-guided with docents available to answer any questions you may have. Order of sights may vary.

Your guide will meet you in the Fish House Excursion Lounge to escort you to the tram departure area. A leisurely walk will take you to board the tram for this 2 1/2 hour tour where you will discover firsthand the natural wonders of the wild southeast Alaskan rainforest. Along with your local guide, you'll ride a covered wheeled- tram approximately two miles through an old growth rainforest and along the shoreline where Chichagof Island meets the bountiful waters of Icy Strait. Your guide will describe the ecological and cultural significance of the forest's unique plants and animals and how the island's Native Tlingit people are bound to its rich landscape. pon your return to Icy Strait Point gather at the Heritage Center Native Theater for the Tribal Dance and Cultural Legends performance where outstanding performers will entertain and educate you by sharing their culture and history through song, dance and storytelling. Note: We recommend you bring a raincoat.

This comprehensive tour offers the highlights of Alaska's capital city including a visit to stunning Mendenhall Glacier. Board your deluxe coach and set off to explore a selection of Juneau's most memorable attractions in style as your driver/guide shares tales of Juneau's colorful past. Arrive at the Macaulay Salmon Hatchery and the staff will acquaint you with one of Alaska's most important species - the Pacific salmon. Be sure to check out the raceways with adolescent salmon and the various aquariums displaying the rich sea life of the region.

Next, travel to Glacier Gardens. Relax as a guide ushers you through the rain forest to the 800 foot level via motorized cart where you'll have time to take in a canopy view of Gastineau Channel below and Douglas Island, Lynn Canal, Mendenhall Valley, and the Chilkat Mountains in the background. Your tour culminates with a visit to Mendenhall Glacier. The area offers several vantage points for viewing this stunning river of ice. Explore the visitor center to learn about this Ice Age wonder from the engaging exhibits and visiting with U.S. Forest Service staff.

Note: This tour operates under a special use permit issued by the U.S. Forest Service. Wheelchair access may be limited – for details, please consult your Shore Excursion staff before booking.

Your excursion begins as you board your motorcoach for a scenic, narrated drive through Ketchikan to Air Marine Harbor. This tour has earned the "Tour Guide of the Year" award for each each of the past 10 years. It features guaranteed abundant eagles, 10 eagles nests, Totem Bight State Park, Vallenar Rocks Wildlife Viewing Area and historic Guard Island Lighthouse. Enjoy wildlife viewing with binoculars provided to you including: Eagles, Harbor seals, Pigeon Guillemots, moon jellyfish, whales, deer, blue heron and a variety of sea birds, all seen through the entire season. Enjoy the heated main cabin or outdoor observation decks. You'll cruise past historic Ward Cove Cannery and circumnavigate the Guard Island Lighthouse established in 1901. No other excursion offers this itinerary, nor offers a view of Totem Bight State Park from the water. You'll view the Totem Bight clan house totem poles, including Ketchikan's tallest totem pole. Your Captain will unravel historic mysteries of Alaska's most dangerous Island, Danger Island and you will circumnavigate or have clear viewing of a total of 12 islands on your tour route. Many of these islands are inhabited only by Alaska's wildlife. Enjoy complimentary "Hot Chocolate Supreme", coffee, tea, water, soft drinks as well as salmon spread, cheese, crackers, fresh fruit, cookies & mints.

Meet the Tlingit performers at the Fish House Excursion Lounge for a short walk to the Heritage Center Native Theater. After being seated in this beautiful cedar building reminiscent of traditional Tlingit structures, you'll be treated to the Tribal Dance and Cultural Legends one-hour performance showcasing the rich heritage of a people shaped by the wild lands and inland seas of southeast Alaska. Wearing their colorful, traditional regalia, a group of proud Huna Tlingit performers share their history and culture through song, dance and storytelling. The show culminates in a lively traditional celebration and you're invited to join in! After the show you'll have an opportunity to have your photo taken with one of the performers.

This wilderness expedition to the spectacular Davidson Glacier leads you through fjords, rain forests, colorful wildflowers, and towering mountains. Your adventure begins with a 75 minute journey through North America's deepest fjord aboard a high speed 26 passenger expedition boat. Watch for whales, seals, sea lions, and cascading waterfalls along the way to a remote beach at Glacier Point, one of the most beautiful places in Alaska.

After a short, adventurous drive across the forested glacial moraines, and a quarter mile walk, the forest suddenly opens to a breathtaking view of the glacier. The crystal blue ice tumbles from the jagged peaks into a pristine lake where 31 foot voyager canoes wait to take you to the very face of the glacier. Throughout your tour, expert guides share their extensive knowledge of this amazing area. Enjoy a picnic lunch at the beach amid fields of wild strawberries and iris tops before your return trip to Skagway.

Note: Participants must be at least 7 years of age, weigh no more than 350 lbs and must be in good health and able to walk over uneven terrain.

The city and cruise port of Victoria are steeped in old world charm. With its manicured lawns and impressive displays of gardens and hanging baskets adorning the streets, on this one hour excursion you'll see why Victoria is nicknamed the "City of Gardens". At the cruise terminal you'll board your trolley, drawn by two magnificent draught horses. Get cozy in your seat and feel free to wrap yourself in the provided blanket.

Your journey will take you past the gorgeous historical homes, located between the cruise terminal and the downtown inner harbor. Enjoy the lively narration of your guide as they "giddy up" and "whoa boy" this tour through town! You'll see the largest park in Victoria, as well as the famous Empress Hotel, and the British Columbia legislative buildings, commonly referred to as the Parliament buildings. Sit back and relax as you're carried by real horsepower back to the ship.

Note: This is an open-air vehicle and we recommend you bring a jacket. Guests will need to navigate two steps to board the trolley and due to safety concerns, wheel chairs, walkers, strollers and scooters must be left at the departure location.

Your tour begins with a drive along the Embarcadero, by the Ferry Building towards Downtown San Francisco. Continue on to Union Square and then head toward the famous Nob Hill for a photo stop and a visit to Grace Cathedral. Continue to the Civic Center and view City Hall. Then it's on to Chinatown for a Dim Sum lunch at one of Chinatown's popular restaurants. After lunch, ride through the streets of North Beach, Fisherman's Wharf, Ghiradelli Square and by the Palace of Fine Arts. A photo opportunity awaits at Vista Point, just across the world famous Golden Gate Bridge. Then it's on to Golden Gate Park and Alamo Square (time permitting) before returning to your ship.