Seattle

Visitors to the Emerald City find a fusion of American, Asian and Native American cultures, set against a backdrop of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. There’s so much to discover on Seattle cruises. Founded in the 1850’s, Seattle continues to evolve while preserving many of its treasured landmarks. The city’s defining modern symbol is the Space Needle. Head up to the top of the 605ft. hourglass-shaped structure for amazing panoramic views of this beautiful port city. And right next door is the Chihuly Garden and Glass where the extraordinary glassworks and garden installations of Dale Chihuly will dazzle. Stroll through the famous Pike Place Market for a taste of local flavor and style. Established in 1907, the market is brimming with fresh produce and seafood stalls, wonderful restaurants, and specialty shops with local handcrafts that make unique souvenirs and keepsakes.

Ketchikan

You’ve never tasted salmon so fresh. Known as the ‘Salmon Capital of the World’, Ketchikan is also the ancestral home of the Tlingit people, who have carved the world’s largest collection of totem poles. If you’re up for an adventure, take a canoe and nature trail excursion through the rain forest or a wilderness exploration followed by a sumptuous crab feast you’ll long remember.

Endicott Arm

Alaska’s Endicott Arm Fjord marks the southern edge of the 653,179-acre Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness area. As you sail through its 30-mile-long stretch, you can’t help but be amazed by the untouched beauty of the surrounding granite mountains, verdant valleys and numerous waterfalls. Drifting icebergs, deep blue waters and a spectacular tidewater glacier only add to this natural spectacle’s appeal. Endicott Arm is one of the largest breeding grounds for harbor seals on the planet. Keep your eyes open for these creatures splashing in icy waters near the ship or floating with their pups on giant chunks of ice. Along the shore you might also glimpse brown bears, bald eagles, sea ducks, deer, moose and wolves. Your journey through scenic Endicott Arm Fjord ends with a front-row view of the striking Dawes Glacier. Standing over 600 feet tall and a half-mile wide, this very active icecap is known for its spectacular calving displays which noisily produce huge, chunky icebergs that float in area waters. Remember to dress in wind-resistant layers for viewing scenery outside on deck.

Juneau

Here’s your chance to take a glacial dogsled adventure in Alaska’s capital, where cultured sophistication meets the ruggedness of the Last Frontier.

Skagway

The great Klondike Gold Rush lives on in Skagway’s charming downtown of restored 19th-century buildings and its historic railway. Located on the edge of the wilderness, this small town saw its fair share of gold rush, get rich dreamers pass through. Today, it’s residents are more than welcome to share the stories of its untamed past. And there’s so much fascinating history to uncover on a Skagway cruise. Head to Klondike Gold Rush National Park Museum for an in-depth look at Klondike and the two routes out of Skagway – Chilkoot Pass and White Pass. From the vintage train, admire the mountains and see the 1898 trail that fortune seekers traveled on foot. The White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad runs the vintage locomotives through the famously steep Chilkoot Trail and offers sweeping mountain views during its climb toward Canada.

Victoria

The seaside capital of British Columbia, Victoria is located on Vancouver Island at the southern tip of Western Canada. Named after Queen Victoria, this one-time British colony has retained much of its colonial charm with decorative English gardens and castles, but also reflects its modern landscape with bohemian shops, coffee bars and international cuisines. The year-round moderate temperatures are perfect for exploring this incredible city. From hiking and golfing to dining and shopping, there’s much to discover on a Victoria cruise.

Start your day in Victoria with a walk through the enchanting Butchart Gardens and experience one of the world’s finest floral display gardens. Meander along the flower-lined paths and marvel at the brilliant composition of color in Japanese, Mediterranean, and Italian themes, plus much more.

Experience the time-honored English afternoon tea at the historic Fairmont Empress Hotel. The menu includes many traditional favorites, like dainty finger sandwiches, scones, and a host of sumptuous varietal teas.

For a full introduction to the history and culture of Victoria and Western Canada, head to the Royal British Columbia Museum. Explore the fascinating indigenous artifacts dating as far back as 10,000 B.C. to British royalty pottery, glass and papers, plus a wonderful native plant garden. The museum also has a wonderful IMAX theater and rotating special exhibits.