Not Booking Any Shore Excursions on Our Alaska Cruise: What We Did Instead

This is the last post in my Alaska cruise series. See my previous posts Back from Alaska cruise on Princess: Watching glaciers and getting fancy,  Hyatt Regency Lake Washington: a great option for a short layover in Seattle area and What I liked and disliked about Discovery Princess ship 

Since we had an expensive trip to Europe just around the corner, my husband and I have decided not to splurge on any tours. Those tend to be quite expensive, especially when booked through the ship.

We have already done an Alaska cruise before (and I have been twice), so we didn’t feel the pressure to go all out. Plus, I’m fairly confident that it wasn’t our last time in the area. Nancy just got back from her Alaska cruise, so I’ll be curious as to what she considers a must-do.

If you are planning your first cruise to Alaska, you are probably overwhelmed by the plethora of choices. Rest assured, the best views can be had at no additional cost right from your ship, especially if you will be sailing through Glacier Bay National park.

We still ended up spending a good bit of money, but way less compared to what the cruise line wanted. Here is what we did in the ports:

1) Juneau

Originally, I was planning to book bus tickets to Mendenhall glacier through one of the shuttle companies operating in the area. However, the cost was quite steep at $80 per person roundtrip. On top of it, I was intrigued by Glacier Gardens and wanted to add that stop to our itinerary.

It became increasingly clear that we needed to rent a car. As much as I hate doing it, it was the only logical option. Taxis would be expensive, and we would have to depend on having decent cell signal, which isn’t always a given in Alaska wilderness.

I checked the local Avis office in the downtown, and the rate was $170 for our date. That’s a lot. So I looked at Turo.com, an equivalent of AirBnB, but for cars. Up until now, I didn’t have any experience with this company, but the rate was $113 all-in, substantially cheaper than Avis. That included full insurance in case something went wrong. It’s my understanding that credit cards don’t cover Turo, so I wouldn’t take a chance personally.

On top of it, I had a $10 off $100 offer on Turo via one of my Chase credit cards. That would decrease the rate to $103. For that we got Chevrolet Bolt, an electric car. My husband was super excited to drive it.

Communication with the owner went smoothly, and she left the car in a local library’s parking lot, about half a mile from the cruise ship docking location. The key was hidden, but easily accessible. We never met the owner and interacted via Turo messaging app. You do have to upload your license and then take your photo before the rental, but overall, the process was very smooth. I would use Turo again, especially for short rentals.

It was nice to have the freedom to go where we wanted to go on our own schedule. Plus, it allowed my husband to stop and buy lemonade from a local kid.

Driving in Alaska is super easy and relaxing, similar to Iceland. We were fortunate to find a parking spot at Mendenhall Visitor Center, so that would be my only concern with having your own set of wheels. But many people park on the side of the road leading up to the park, and walk up to the glacier from there.

The glacier itself has receded since we saw it last time eight years ago, but it’s still an impressive sight, especially when the weather is good.

My husband and I hiked to the waterfall and had a great time exploring the area.

Mendenhall glacier is a must in my opinion, so I recommend you make an effort to visit it while in Juneau. The entrance is only a few dollars per person. For a family, renting a vehicle will be the way to go.

Afterwards, we drove to nearby Glacier Gardens. The name is a bit misleading, since the garden area is relatively small and located close to the office where you buy tickets.

What you are paying for ($30 per adult) is a ride up the mountain on a golf cart of sorts. Our guide was engaging and told us some interesting facts about the forest and their company’s conservation efforts. It is quite interesting, and  you get a bird’s eye view from the top:

My husband enjoyed watching small planes land in the local airport

However, I’m torn on whether this place is a must-do. The price is fair considering the fact that they only have a few months to make their money. On the other hand, the cost can add up if you have a family. I put it in a “maybe” category.

2) Skagway

Probably the most scenic Alaska port and my personal favorite.

Since we did an all-day Yukon tour the last time we were here, we’ve decided to just wonder around and shop for souvenirs. We did visit a small museum in the back of a store, which had some interesting artifacts as well as everyday items from Alaska life before it became part of the US.

My family has one of those

I kind of wish I booked a White Pass train tour, but it was $150 per person when purchased on your own. Oh well, there is always next time.

3) Ketchikan

I was seriously thinking about booking Lumberjack Show ($43 for adults) but ultimately decided to pass on it due to weather. It was quite cold in Ketchikan during our visit and the show takes place outside. I’ve watched 15 minutes on YouTube and to be honest, don’t regret skipping it.

I do think it would be a fun watch if you have young kids and most folks seem to enjoy it. It just doesn’t seem worth $43, but maybe I expect too much.

Instead we went to Southeast Alaska Discovery center, which costs only $5 per person to visit. Very much recommended, with various exhibits and interesting ranger talks.

4) Seattle

Technically not in Alaska, but it was part of our itinerary. My husband agreed to do something in Seattle before our afternoon flight, so I did some research. It couldn’t be anything super complicated or out of the way. Fortunately, an idea has presented itself when I was reading a post on No Home Just Roam blog: Chihuly Garden and Glass museum

This was perfect, as it’s located in the downtown Seattle, right next to the Space Needle. We’ve already been to the latter, so didn’t buy the combo tickets. We were able to use Space Needle lockers for free (will only fit carry-on size luggage, nothing bigger).

What a stunning place! It is a bit expensive at $40 per person, but I thought it was worth every penny. Amazing works of art and a unique experience, for sure.

Outside there is a garden area sprinkled with glass sculptures.

This is NOT a real plant:

If you like art, I highly recommend you spend an hour or two visiting this museum.

Final thoughts

As you can see, we still spent a good bit of money on various activities. However, we mostly stuck to a budget. When it comes to Alaska excursions, the sky is the  limit as far as cost is concerned. Glacier helicopter landing, dog sledding etc, those are some serious budget busters. But I firmly believe that you don’t have to spend a fortune to have a great time on your Alaska cruise.