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Denali Explorer: Alaska Adventure with Princess
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Amber McLaughlin
Maple Grove, MN Travel Agent· 23 Years of Experience
A full-service Travel Leaders Associate Agency
108 reviews
99% Recommended
23 Years of Experience
4.9
(108)
99% Recommended
My girlfriends and I booked an all inclusive hotel in Puerta Viarta. It was helpful having Amber narrow down our options based on our budget. ... Read More >
COUNTRIES VISITED:Alaska, British Columbia
PLACES VISITED:Anchorage, Denali National Park, Fairbanks, Glacier Bay, Hubbard Glacier, Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway, Vancouver
SUGGESTED DURATION:12 Days
Get ready to immerse yourself in the wild beauty of Alaska with this inspiring 11-day journey that combines land and sea in one unforgettable expedition. From the rugged allure of Fairbanks and the grandeur of Denali National Park to the serene waters and calving glaciers of the Inside Passage, this Princess cruise offers an extraordinary blend of scenic wonders, wildlife encounters, and cultural discoveries. Whether you're panning for gold, witnessing towering tidewater glaciers, or enjoying the vibrant local heritage of coastal towns, every day brings something spectacular. Here’s your day-by-day itinerary with highlights and overview to picture your adventure perfectly.
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DAY1
Fairbanks
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Day 1: Fairbanks — Welcome to Alaska’s Golden Heart
Arrive in Fairbanks, the gateway to Alaska’s interior. Known as the “Golden Heart City,” this charming town provides a perfect introduction to Alaska with its blend of frontier spirit and modern amenities. Settle into your hotel and prepare for the incredible experiences ahead.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Iconic Alaskan welcome with a city check-in
DAY2
Fairbanks
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Day 2: Fairbanks — Pioneer Spirit and Gold Rush Tales
Spend a full day exploring Fairbanks’ unique culture and history. Cruise the scenic Chena River on an authentic sternwheeler, then try your luck panning for gold at Gold Dredge 8, accompanied by a hearty miner’s lunch. Evening at leisure to rest or uncover local eateries.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Sternwheeler Riverboat cruise and gold panning adventure
DAY3
Denali National Park
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Day 3: Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge — Into the Wild
Leave Fairbanks behind for a stunning trip south to Denali National Park. Check in to Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge, nestled close to the Nenana River. Enjoy the lodge’s cozy atmosphere, from Fannie Q's Saloon to the outdoor fireside patios. Adventure options abound here—from husky tours to glacier flightseeing—and the natural beauty is all around you.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Scenic motorcoach journey to Denali National Park
DAY4
Denali National Park
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Day 4: Denali National Park — Wildlife Safari and Mountain Majesty
Start the day with a delicious breakfast at Fannie Q’s. Then experience a captivating Natural History Tour through Denali National Park, keeping an eye out for bears, moose, caribou, wolves, and Dall sheep. Return to relax overlooking the Nenana River or grab a bite at the Grizzly Burger or Lynx Creek Pizza.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Denali Natural History Tour spotting the “Big Five”
DAY5
Anchorage
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Day 5: Anchorage to Whittier — Scenic Rail to the Sea
Board the train for a scenic ride through spectacular wilderness on Princess’s exclusive rail service. Arrive in Whittier, nestled at the base of the Chugach Mountains, and board your cruise ship. Whittier's rich history and stunning surroundings set the stage for your cruise.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Direct-to-the-Wilderness rail journey through Alaska’s wild heart
DAY6
Hubbard Glacier
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Day 6: Hubbard Glacier — Majestic Ice Giants
Cruise past the magnificent Hubbard Glacier, known as the "Galloping Glacier." Watch massive chunks of ice calve into the sea, an unforgettable natural spectacle, all while surrounded by snow-capped peaks and abundant wildlife.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Awe-inspiring scenic cruising by North America’s largest tidewater glacier
DAY7
Glacier Bay
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Day 7: Glacier Bay National Park — Nature’s Frozen Panorama
Glide through Glacier Bay National Park, taking in the grandeur of Margerie Glacier and other spectacular ice formations. Learn about the park’s ecology and wildlife from knowledgeable Rangers aboard, and enjoy the fresh, crisp Alaskan air in this pristine wilderness.
HIGHLIGHTS:
UNESCO World Heritage scenic cruising with expert Park Rangers
DAY8
Skagway
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Day 8: Skagway — Gold Rush History Comes Alive
Explore Skagway, a town steeped in gold rush legacy. Walk the historic streets where stampeders once passed through, and absorb the spirit of adventure as you visit old saloons and mining landmarks that preserve the vibrant past.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Step back in time to the Klondike Gold Rush era
DAY9
Juneau
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Day 9: Juneau — Capital City with Glacial Grandeur
Discover Juneau, founded during the gold rush and now Alaska’s bustling capital. Experience breathtaking glacier vistas, explore cultural sites, and enjoy the mix of wilderness and urban charm that this vast city offers.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Stunning glacier views and rich heritage in Alaska’s capital
DAY10
Ketchikan
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Day 10: Ketchikan — Totems, Salmon, and Misty Fjords
Arrive in Ketchikan, known for its vibrant totem pole heritage and incredible fishing traditions. Explore the colorful town, visit the Totem Heritage Center, and consider an optional excursion to the serene Misty Fjords National Monument.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Alaska’s “First City” and its rich Native culture
DAY11
Alaska
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Day 11: At Sea — Leisure Aboard the Grand Princess
Enjoy a day at sea in style aboard Grand Princess. From movies under the stars to fine dining and entertainment, take the time to unwind and celebrate the memories you’ve made so far.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Relaxation and premier onboard amenities
DAY12
Vancouver
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Day 12: Vancouver — The Stunning Gateway to the Pacific
Disembark in Vancouver, where mountain views meet a vibrant urban scene. Wander historic Gastown, bike Stanley Park’s scenic trails, or savour the city’s diverse culinary delights, wrapping up your Alaska Explorer adventure with an unforgettable cultural experience.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Explore one of the world’s most beautiful cities
FINAL THOUGHTS
This Denali Explorer cruise blends Alaska’s wild beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture into one seamless adventure. From glacier calving to gold rush tales, it’s the ultimate way to travel better and create lifelong memories. Ready to explore?