What Is the Inside Passage on an Alaskan Cruise?

By Robert Palmer

The Inside Passage is a popular destination for those taking an Alaskan cruise. This waterway stretches from the Puget Sound in Washington State to the Gulf of Alaska, passing through the beautiful landscapes of British Columbia and Southeast Alaska. In this article, we will take a closer look at what makes the Inside Passage so special and why it is a must-visit destination for any traveler.

What Makes It Special

The Inside Passage boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world. It is home to towering glaciers, snow-capped mountains, dense forests, and crystal-clear waters that are teeming with life. The route offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Alaska up close and personal.

One of the biggest draws of the Inside Passage is its abundant wildlife. Here, you can spot humpback whales breaching, bald eagles soaring overhead, playful sea otters frolicking in the waves, and brown bears fishing for salmon along the shoreline. If you’re lucky enough, you may even catch a glimpse of a pod of orcas swimming by.

What You’ll See

As you cruise through the Inside Passage, you’ll be treated to an ever-changing landscape that will take your breath away. From snow-capped peaks to lush rainforests, there’s something new and exciting around every bend.

Some of the highlights include:

Glacier Bay National Park

This stunning park features 16 glaciers that flow down from towering mountains into crystal-clear waters below. Keep an eye out for seals lounging on ice floes or calving glaciers thunderously crashing into the water below.

Misty Fjords National Monument

This otherworldly landscape is characterized by deep blue fjords surrounded by sheer cliffs that rise over 3,000 feet high. As you cruise through this area, keep an eye out for black bears or mountain goats grazing on the cliffsides.

Tongass National Forest

The Tongass National Forest is the largest national forest in the United States and covers most of Southeast Alaska. It is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bald eagles, brown bears, and Sitka black-tailed deer. The forest’s towering trees provide a stunning backdrop to your Alaskan adventure.

When to Go

The best time to visit the Inside Passage is during the summer months from May to September. During this time, temperatures are mild, and daylight hours are long, giving you plenty of time to explore all that this stunning region has to offer.

Conclusion

The Inside Passage is a must-visit destination for any traveler looking to experience the natural beauty of Alaska. With its breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife, and unique landscapes, it offers an unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss. So why not book your Alaskan cruise today and see for yourself what makes the Inside Passage so special?