August 16, 2011 – 7 Night Alaska Sailing

[mellers]

Well our family is booked for this cruise but things may change...our DS may be going to college earlier than planned as he may play football. Great and exciting but we were hoping this would be our last big family vacation before he goes. First one off to college sad2: Now, I am really happy that we booked a surprise DREAM cruise in Feb. We will all be together then

So now the debate...keep the date...go without him. We have a DS 10 and a Princess 4.

I really want to go on the Glacier and Mush dogs. Bucket list item...so we will see. I will check in later as we would enjoy the FE group. Always fun.

Hope to meet you all...Pops twins are super CUTE!

My DD's starting to approach that college age--I can understand wanting to take your DS along.

 

[godalejunior]

Mellers...you rock for all your work on the excursion post.

 

[mellers]

Mellers...you rock for all your work on the excursion post.

Thanks!

 

[scothen]

DH and I have been there twice before with land and sea packages with Princess. We will go with Princess again in the future (every 5 years) so we are considering this DCL cruise as an inbetween trip. I would NOT pick DCL if this was the only time I would ever be planning to go to Alaska.

On previous trips, we were able to spend time on land in Fairbanks, Denali, Anchorage, etc. Missing the interior of Alaska is rough for me as I love it as much or more than the ports we will be visiting on the DCL cruise. Favorite excursions from the past include fying over the summit of Denali, the 10 hour excursion into Denali park to see wildlife, White Pass railroad trip all the way to the end of the line and a bus ride back (that was 9 hours I think), helicopter trip to walk on a glacier, small boat trip out of Whitier to see many many glaciers close up, etc.

As for the cities we will visit:

Vancouver- we have done the trolley tour of the city twice and visited the aquarium both trips, too. We stay at the Pan Pacific and walk to the Gas Light area. Great little shops and restaurants. We are staying at the Pan Pacific again on 8/15 for this trip and then again on 8/23.

Ketchikan: On our May trip we did a speed boat tour out of a fishing camp. Saw wildlife from the boat and heard great stories about the area. I'd do that one again. I would NOT do the lumberjack show in Ketchikan again. It really wasn't very good. On our August trip, we loved flying to Traitors Cove on a float plane to hike in to a bear viewing platform to watch bears fishing in the salmon run. That was probably my favorite tour. We also toured Misty Fjords with that trip on the way back to Ketchikan. My parents did the totem pole tour when they were in Ketchikan and hated it, said it was really really boring.


Juneau: On our May trip we did the pilot's choice helicopter tour of glaciers. We got out and walked on Mendenhall. If you've never walked on a glacier, I highly recommend this tour. On our August trip we did whale watching from a smaller boat. That was great, too. We were supposed to do the dog sledding on a glacier but that was canceled due to weather. That excursion is supposedly the MOST canceled excursion there is. Weather often does not cooperate to allowe the helicopters to get you to the dog camp.

Skagway: Both trips, we did the White Pass rail trip. I can't imagine going to Skagway and not doing the rail trip. Our first trip we did the Princess excursion with the bus ride up and shorter rail trip back. The second trip we booked on our own and took the train to the end of the line, stopping in Bennet for lunch and seeing the town there from the gold rush days. I don't know if we have enough time for that trip on this DCL cruise but I highly recommend it.

Thanks for the great advice, as I want to make the most of this trip. Look forward to seeing you again.

 

[DisneyDDS]

Hi,

I just found this thread! We booked this cruise last January when we were on the Magic. We couldn't pass up Alaska. We will be traveling with my husband's mom, dad, brother and sister-in-law. No Kids. It looks like most of you have really done a lot of planning already. (I'm behind!!!)

We were thinking of flying into Vancouver or Seattle on the 13th.

Does anyone know if there will be a pirate night?

 

[mellers]

Hi,

I just found this thread! We booked this cruise last January when we were on the Magic. We couldn't pass up Alaska. We will be traveling with my husband's mom, dad, brother and sister-in-law. No Kids. It looks like most of you have really done a lot of planning already. (I'm behind!!!)

We were thinking of flying into Vancouver or Seattle on the 13th.

Does anyone know if there will be a pirate night?

Glad to have you join us! There's a lot that's been posted about various excursions, Vancouver, and Seattle, but I don't know if there's going to be a pirate night--we may not find out until after the May cruisers post their trip reports.

If you want to join the FE exchange, I've been keeping the list--let me know.

 

[mellers]

Hi all--as promised, here is the Shore Excursion Comparison List for Skagway. As before, please read all of the websites CAREFULLY, and before you give anyone any money, make sure you know the cancellation policies, whether or not taxes are paid, whether or not you will need to pay for additional transporation to/from the cruise docks, etc.

Also, one important note: if you plan to do the book-it-yourself option on the "All Aboard Steam Train" excursion (which I would recommend--$50/person for a guide, a champagne toast, a Christmas Tree Ornament and a dock departure seems a bit steep), apparently, they are starting to fill up--a poster on another board mentioned that he could not get reservations, so if that is your plan, you may want to step lively. I reserved the self-book version of the White Pass Scenic Railway about 2 weeks ago, and had no problems.

Again, if people like this, let me know and I'll see what I can do for Juneau:

Excursions not offered by Disney:

Please also see post #230--thanks llkoolj40!

Walking Tour: http://www.skagway.com/skagwaywalkingtour.pdf
ShoreTrips triple tour: $545/person, includes a Crab Fisherman Tour in Ketchikan, the Taku Glacier Lodge Flight and Feast in Juneau, and the White Pass Summit Rail and Bus in Skagway: https://secure.shoretrips.com/common/search4.asp?rcode=PNW&lcode=SKA&tcode=039109
ShoreTrips triple tour: $150/person, includes the Ketchikan City Tour and Totem Bight tour, Mendenhall Glacier and Juneau City Tour by Bus, White Pass Summit Tour by bus in Skagway:
https://secure.shoretrips.com/common/search4.asp?rcode=PNW&lcode=SKA&tcode=039106
ShoreTrips triple tour: $305/person, includes the Tongass Rainforest Hiking Expedition in Ketchikan, the Canopy Zip Line excursion in Juneau, and the Yukon U-Drive Jeep Stampede in Skagway:
https://secure.shoretrips.com/common/search4.asp?rcode=PNW&lcode=SKA&tcode=039463

Shore Excursions/Self-Book Options:

Liarsville Gold Rush Tour, Salmon Bake and Exclusive Disney Character Experience:

http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...rsville-gold-rush-trail-camp-and-salmon-bake/
http://www.bestofalaskatravel.com/alaska_day_tours/pages/liarsville_gold_rush.htm

Differences: Best of Alaska Travel does not include a Disney Character. Best of Alaska is $49/adult and $33/child, taxes not included, Disney’s is $89/adult and $49/child, taxes unclear

White Pass Scenic Railway with Exclusive Youth Activity:

http://www.wpyr.com/summitexcursion.html
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...c-railway-featuring-exclusive-youth-activity/

Differences: White Pass direct book does not include the separate car for kids to do I Spy and sing railway songs. With the White Pass direct book, you need to walk (or take a bus), the .5-.75 miles from the dock to the station. (Note: If you take the Disney option, you MAY NOT take the train from the station, you must take it from the dock—food for thought, if you plan to explore the town first.) White Pass is $112/adult, $56/child (child age not specified, double-check, but the usual for self-book seems to be 12 and under is a child.) Disney is $169/10+, $99/under 10.

(One further note—if you are first-time cruisers, and have somebody in a wheelchair with you who can get to the station, I would recommend self-book for another reason. You have last priority to get reservations, and wheelchair seats are limited.)

Alaska Nature and Wildlife Expedition:

http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...alaska/alaska-nature-and-wildlife-expedition/
https://secure.shoretrips.com/common/search4.asp?rcode=PNW&lcode=SKA&tcode=001500

Differences: Disney’s is $168/10+, $114 for 5-9. ShoreTrips is $156/12+, $126/under 12. I think this is the same tour as Disney’s. Check if taxes are included; that might swing the needle more towards Disney, depending on the age of your kids.


All Aboard Steam Train:

http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...rsions/skagway-alaska/all-aboard-steam-train/
http://www.wpyr.com/frasermeadows.html

Differences: Disney puts you in a car with other cruisers, includes an attendant, a champagne or cider toast, and a Christmas tree ornament. With Disney, you also depart from the dock rather than the station, .5-.75 miles away. Disney is $214/10+, $105/under 10. The White Pass is $155/12+, $77.50/under 12, and taxes are included.

Glacier Flightseeing and Dogsledding:

http://touralaska.com/daytourssgy.htm
https://secure.shoretrips.com/common/search4.asp?rcode=PNW&lcode=SKA&tcode=032902
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...alaska/dog-sledding-and-glacier-flightseeing/

Differences: Be sure to check to see if Tour Alaska includes transportation from the docks—it’s implied, but not explicitly stated. Shore Trips is substantially less expensive, and includes the White Pass, but DOES NOT include the floatplane tour. Tour Alaska is $489/person, including tax. Shore Trips is $243/12 and over, $167/2-11, $0 under 2 (in lap). Disney’s is $549/10+, $495/under 10.

Best of Skagway

https://secure.shoretrips.com/common/search4.asp?rcode=PNW&lcode=SKA&tcode=001458
https://secure.shoretrips.com/common/search4.asp?rcode=PNW&lcode=SKA&tcode=009030
(be careful—this requires 10 people to book AT THE SAME TIME, so this is for a large group)
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...re-excursions/skagway-alaska/best-of-skagway/

Differences: The first ShoreTrips excursion DOES NOT TAKE THE TRAIN! It follows the same approximate route be road. The second ShoreTrips excursion, I suspect is part of the one Disney is taking, but it requires 10 people to book at the same time—probably worth it if there’s 10 of us who want to take that one, or you are traveling with a very large group. The first ShoreTrips excursion is $81/12+, $73/12 and under, The second ShoreTrips excursion is $167/+12, $115/3-11, $0/under (on lap), Disney’s is $220/person, minimum age of 16, and includes a bit more of a tour of the more risqué aspects of Skagway.

Eagle Preserve Float Adventure and Lynn Fjord Cruise:

https://secure.shoretrips.com/common/search4.asp?rcode=PNW&lcode=SKA&tcode=004036
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...eserve-float-adventure-and-lynn-fjord-cruise/

I think these are both the same excursion. Shoretrips is $176/+12, $156/7-11. Disney’s is $198, minimum age of 10. (Check for taxes; depending upon who’s charging what, and people’s ages, this may shift it towards Disney)

Please see Cycle Alaska post #208 with many thanks to SanDiegoSteph
Experience Yukon by Bike/White Pass Train and Bike Tour:

http://cyclealaska.com/yukonbybike.html
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...ions/skagway-alaska/experience-yukon-by-bike/
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...kagway-alaska/white-pass-train-and-bike-tour/

Cycle Alaska is $183.71 for the motorcoach tour, and $264.75 for the tour with the White Pass included. They seem like very similar (if not the same) tour. Height minimum of 4’6”. Minimum age is 14. Disney’s is $239, minimum age of 16, for the standard Yukon by Bike, and $199 for the White Pass Train and Bike Tour, which seems like the best deal of them all, to me.

Glacier Discovery by Helicopter:

http://www.skagwayadventures.com/glacier_helicopter_tours_landings.asp
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...agway-alaska/glacier-discovery-by-helicopter/

How much the Skagway Adventures tour costs depends upon how many are traveling. If it’s 1 person, it will be $282.45, 2 will be $564.90, 3 will be $847.36, and 4 will be $1,129.80. Disney’s is $309/10+, and $289 under 10. This is another case where taxes may make one more or less expensive than another; be sure to see if they are included.

White Pass Railway and Heli-Hike

http://www.alaskaheritage.com/Excursions/SKG-Heli-Hike-WPYR.htm
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...gway-alaska/heli-hike-and-railroad-adventure/

This doesn’t look like a good excursion for kids—more for very athletic teens and adults. Alaska Heritage’s is $275/person, and it does not explicitly state whether or not it includes transportation to the helipad—you’ll want to check on that. Disney’s is $425/person. Otherwise it looks like the same excursion. If both prices are still correct at this time, that’s such a large price differential, it might be worth it to figure out what transportation to the helipad would cost, even if they don’t provide it. Again, however, check it out carefully before booking—either way.

Historical City Tour and Salmon Bake:

http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...-alaska/historical-city-tour-and-salmon-bake/
http://www.bestofalaskatravel.com/alaska_day_tours/pages/liarsville_gold_rush.htm
http://www.alaskaheritage.com/Excursions/SKG-CCTSKGTour.htm

Best of Alaska does not include a city tour, and it does not include taxes, and it is $49/Adults, and $33/children under 12. Disney’s includes a city tour, and it is $72/10 and up, and $42/under 10. If you want to add a city tour, there is a city tour which includes gold panning which is $25/Adults, and $12.50/Children under 12. Which way is a better deal depends upon how many adults are traveling, and how many kids between 10-12.

City Tour, Gardens and Glass:

http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...s/skagway-alaska/city-tour-gardens-and-glass/
http://www.discoverskagway.com/our_tours.php?tour_id=1

Disney’s is 2.5-3 hours, Discover Skagway’s is 3-3.5 hours. Disney’s goes to the Jewell Gardens and Historic Skagway, Discover Skagway’s goes to the Jewell Gardens, the White Pass Summit, and Historic Skagway. Disney specifically includes the Glass Theatre, that is not specifically included in Discover Skagway’s tour. Discover Skagway is $45 for adults and $29 for children, Disney’s is $94 for 10+ and $49 under 10. (I am not sure what the child age is for Discover Skagway’s tour—you may want to ask.)

Klondike Gold Dredge and White Pass Railway:

http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c.../klondike-gold-dredge-and-white-pass-railway/
http://www.wpyr.com/summitexcursion.html
http://www.alaskaheritage.com/Excursions/SKG-CCTSKGTour.htm

By putting two excursions together, you come up with something very similar to Disney’s: The White Pass railroad has a summit excursion for $112/12+, $56/12 and under, and Alaska Heritage Tours has a City Tour and panning at the Gold Dredge for $25/12+, and $12.50/under 12. While I am not sure about the Alaska Heritage tour, I know that taxes are included on the White Pass Railway. The two tours combined are then $136/12+ (plus possible taxes on $25), and $68.50 for 12 and under (plus possible taxes on 12.50). You will have to walk ½ to ¾ mile from the docks to the station to take this tour, or pay about $5 for a day pass on the bus. Disney’s is $175/10+, and $99/for 9 and under. Disney’s would total 4.5-5 hours, these two tours together would total 4.5-5 hours.


Klondike Bicycle Tour:

http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...ursions/skagway-alaska/klondike-bicycle-tour/
http://cyclealaska.com/klond.html

The Cycle Alaska tour is 2.75 hours, and requires a minimum of 4 people. Minimum age is 12, and minimum height is 4’6”. It costs $82.95, including tax. Disney’s tour is 2.5-3 hours, and also requires a minimum age of 12. It costs $87, I am unsure of tax. I suspect they are the same tour.


Rainforest Bicycle Tour:

http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...ions/skagway-alaska/rain-forest-bicycle-tour/
http://www.cyclealaska.com/rain.html

The Cycle Alaska tour requires a minimum of 4 people, and a maximum of 12. Minimum age is 10. Cost is $82.95/person including tax, Disney’s is $94, taxes unclear. I suspect this to be the same tour.

Skagway by Bike

http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...re-excursions/skagway-alaska/skagway-by-bike/
http://www.cyclealaska.com/skagwaybybike.html

Cycle Alaska’s tour requires a minimum height of 4’6” to ride a bike, and under 7 may ride free in carrier. Adults are $45, Kids 7-12 are $30 for the regular tour, or there is a Jewell Gardens option, which includes lunch, which is $63 for adults and $41 for kids. Disney’s is $59/10+, and $36/under 10—it appears to be the “Non-Jewell-Gardens” tour. Disney does not offer a Jewell Gardens addition.

Sawtooth Mountain Nature Hike:

http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...skagway-alaska/sawtooth-mountain-nature-hike/
http://www.skagwayadventures.com/sawtooth-mountains-nature-hike.asp


I think these are the same hike, but I would check to make sure full transportation to the cruise docks is included, and I don’t know about taxes—I suspect both transportation and taxes are included, by the description, but I wouldn’t want to steer someone wrong. Skagway Adventures hike is $120/person, and Disney’s is $135/person.

Sled Dog Adventures and Musher’s Camp:

http://www.skagwayadventures.com/sled-dog-dventures-and-mushers-camp.asp
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...-alaska/mushers-camp-and-sled-dog-experience/

Skagway Adventures is $109/adults, and $89/children, and I would double-check about transportation from the docks and taxes, as it’s implied but not explicitly stated. Disney’s is $132/adult, $125/children, and appears to be more or less the same tour.

Chilkoot Horseback Adventures:

http://www.skagwayadventures.com/chilkoot-horseback-adventures.asp
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c.../skagway-alaska/chilkoot-horseback-adventure/

These appear to be, more or less, the same tour, but again, I would double-check about transportation and taxes. Disney’s is $174 for 12 and up, and Skagway Adventures is $163. Definitely check into taxes, cancellation policies, and transportation, because these are very close in price, and a little bit one way or the other could make the difference as to which is the better deal.

Skagway Triple Adventure:

http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...ions/skagway-alaska/skagway-triple-adventure/
https://secure.shoretrips.com/common/search4.asp?rcode=PNW&lcode=SKA&tcode=004514

The ShoreTrips excursion is $181/12+, and $162/10-12 (minimum age of 10). Not sure if this includes taxes or not. Disney’s is $210 for everybody. Otherwise, I’m pretty sure it’s the same tour.

Takshanuk Trail 4x4/Yukon Jeep Klondike Adventures:

http://www.skagwayadventures.com/yukon_jeep_stampede.asp
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...skagway-alaska/yukon-jeep-klondike-adventure/
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c.../skagway-alaska/takshanuk-mountain-trail-4x4/

These are not the same excursion, but they both seem to be “along the same lines”. The Yukon Jeep Stampede is 4 hours, and it is $109.20/person, and the Takshanuk Trail 4x4 is $198/person, and is 6-6.5 hours. Disney’s Yukon Jeep Klondike Adventure is 5-5.5 hours, and it is $164/10+, and $96/8 and 9 year olds. If this is the kind of thing you want to do, you might want to give them all a look and see which would be best for you.


White Pass Scenic Railway:

http://www.wpyr.com/summitexcursion.html
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...ons/skagway-alaska/white-pass-scenic-railway/

Disney’s is $122/10+, $59/9 and under, and it leaves directly from the docks, rather than requiring a ½ mile-3/4 mile walk to the station. The White Pass is $112/12+, $56/under 12. Other than that, there Is no significant difference.

Yukon Expedition:

http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...e-excursions/skagway-alaska/yukon-expedition/
https://secure.shoretrips.com/common/search4.asp?rcode=PNW&lcode=SKA&tcode=025140

These look like the same trip. ShoreTrips is $119/12+, and $86 for 12 and under. Disney’s is $202/10+, and $104/9 and under

White Pass Railway and Trail Camp Adventure:

http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...way-alaska/white-pass-railway-and-trail-camp/
http://www.alaskacoachtours.com/skagway-white-pass-rail.htm

These appear to be the same tour—check for child ages and taxes for Alaskan coach tours—that may push it one way or the other for your family. Disney’s is $168/10+, and $85/under 10. Alaskan Coach Tours is $156/adult and $89/child.

 

[Mrs. Gumdrop]

Mellers! That post is remarkable! I haven't been through the whole thing yet, but thank you for all the work that I am sure went into it.

 

[mellers]

Mellers! That post is remarkable! I haven't been through the whole thing yet, but thank you for all the work that I am sure went into it.

You're welcome! I'll do Juneau next, when I get time.

 

[msnoble]

Oh WOW Mellars! Your post is so helpful--thanks a million

I have been absent from this thread for a while, but am starting to check back now that the cruise is beginning to feel like a reality hahaha. I think we would like to be signed up for the FE; the kids and I did one on the Wonder last February and it was a lot of fun. I am glad to see you are keeping it to a reasonable number (did I see you were going to limit to 15 families in a group?)...that was the one kind of intimidating factor.

Anyway, we'll be:
Maureen, Brian, Erica (age 12 (2 weeks from 13 ) and Russell (age 10); Room 6034. No gum or sticky/chewy candy for Erica please, she has braces. Otherwise no food allergies or issues.

Thanks again for all of your organizational skills Mellars!

 

[Inkmahm]

Must book and pay by Feb 4th:

http://www.panpacific.com/en/specialoffers.html#23465

These rates for the Travelzoo special were better than my booked AAA rates so I have switched. We love the Pan Pacific hotel and look forward to staying there again in August.

 

[disneymath]

I was just on the DCL site checking to see if prices had dropped and, searching for a party of 3 adults resulted in every other date in August EXCEPT the 16th being available! The cruises on either side of ours have gone up significantly in the lowest available fares too.

For those experienced cruises - what, if anything, does this mean for us?

 

[mellers]

Oh WOW Mellars! Your post is so helpful--thanks a million

I have been absent from this thread for a while, but am starting to check back now that the cruise is beginning to feel like a reality hahaha. I think we would like to be signed up for the FE; the kids and I did one on the Wonder last February and it was a lot of fun. I am glad to see you are keeping it to a reasonable number (did I see you were going to limit to 15 families in a group?)...that was the one kind of intimidating factor.

Anyway, we'll be:
Maureen, Brian, Erica (age 12 (2 weeks from 13 ) and Russell (age 10); Room 6034. No gum or sticky/chewy candy for Erica please, she has braces. Otherwise no food allergies or issues.

Thanks again for all of your organizational skills Mellars!

Thank you for the nice note! New list:

Mellers, stateroom 7631, Mellers (41), DH (44), DD (15)
Godalejr, Stateroom????, Jenn (40), Jeff (39), DS (9)
Mrs. Gumdrop & (DH) V.I.N.CENT, 6102, Lauren (32) & (DH) Rich (34)
Wisegal, Stateroom 6111, Nicole (34), DH - Dave (40), DD - Brooklyn (5), DS - Michael (4)
Kgsmith, Stateroom 7092, Karen (40), Stuart (39), Bennett (9)
DumboFan, Stateroom 6090, Debbie, Kenny, Kate (13)
BishopFamily, Stateroom 5524, Nancy, Richard, DS(13), DD(8)
Maureen, Brian, Erica (age 12 (2 weeks from 13 ) and Russell (age 10); Room 6034

Please, no sticky/chewy candy for Erica, and please, no food for Mellers family (2 with hypertension--including DD!, and one with gastroparesis (stomach paralysis)--a cruel, cruel fate for a foodie )

 

[mellers]

I was just on the DCL site checking to see if prices had dropped and, searching for a party of 3 adults resulted in every other date in August EXCEPT the 16th being available! The cruises on either side of ours have gone up significantly in the lowest available fares too.

For those experienced cruises - what, if anything, does this mean for us?

I am not an experienced cruiser, but I suspect "first-timers", like myself, would do better to book shore excursions outside of Disney (that is what I did)--I suspect a lot of the most popular ones will be booked up before we even get a chance at them, if the cruise is totally full.

 

[mellers]

Here is the shore excursion comparison, as promised, for Juneau.

As before, please read all of the websites CAREFULLY! Make sure you know where tour busses pick up, and if you need to get transportation to a meeting point, and how much that will be. Also what child ages are, and whether or not tax is included.

Another thing to consider is that, if you are ill and quarantined on ship, Disney will automatically cancel and refund your shore excursions, but the same is NOT true of the ones you have booked yourself. Please be aware of cancellation policies--particularly with the more expensive excursions. Missing a $25 tour bus ride would elicit an "Oh, darn." Mising a $500 helicopter ride would be more like . Also remember that there are websites, such as http://www.insuremytrip.com, where you can buy trip insurance, but be sure to buy it ON THE SAME DAY YOU BOOK YOUR EXCURSION! That way, you will get the best coverage.

Unfortunately, booking with Disney will also carry its own set of risks, from the looks of an earlier post. It seems that our cruise is totally sold out, which means that those with Platinum or Concierge-level rooms will get the first crack at the best excursions--some may well be sold out by the time they get down to first-time cruisers like me. This should figure into your plans as well, unless you are a platinum or Concierge Club member.

Whatever you decide to do, or not do, on the cruise, have a wonderful time!

Not offered by Disney:

Please also see post #230--thanks llkoolj40!

Walking Tour (unlike Skagway and Ketchikan, this is guided and NOT free) http://www.juneau.org/parkrec/museum/walkingtour.php
Glacier Gardens (alone; it is available as part of a tour): http://www.glaciergardens.com/
The Alaska State Museum (inexpensive, walking distance from docks, supposedly): http://www.museums.state.ak.us/asm/asmhome.html
ShoreTrips triple tour: $545/person, includes a Crab Fisherman Tour in Ketchikan, the Taku Glacier Lodge Flight and Feast in Juneau, and the White Pass Summit Rail and Bus in Skagway: https://secure.shoretrips.com/common/search4.asp?rcode=PNW&lcode=SKA&tcode=039109
ShoreTrips triple tour: $150/person, includes the Ketchikan City Tour and Totem Bight tour, Mendenhall Glacier and Juneau City Tour by Bus, White Pass Summit Tour by bus in Skagway:
https://secure.shoretrips.com/common/search4.asp?rcode=PNW&lcode=SKA&tcode=039106
ShoreTrips triple tour: $305/person, includes the Tongass Rainforest Hiking Expedition in Ketchikan, the Canopy Zip Line excursion in Juneau, and the Yukon U-Drive Jeep Stampede in Skagway:
https://secure.shoretrips.com/common/search4.asp?rcode=PNW&lcode=SKA&tcode=039463

Disney/Self-Book:

Deluxe Tour of Juneau:

https://secure.shoretrips.com/common/search4.asp?rcode=PNW&lcode=JUN&tcode=004244
http://juneaulimo.com/rates.aspx
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...cursions/juneau-alaska/deluxe-tour-of-juneau/

The ShoreTrips excursion is less expensive, but also shorter (3-3.5 hours, as opposed to 5-5.5 hours). It goes to the Alaskan Brewery rather than the Salmon Hatchery. ShoreTrips requires a minimum of 4 people to book, and it is $88/person. It allows for a flexibility of time at the Mendenhall Vistor’s Center which Disney does not. Disney’s is $125/10+, and $69/under 9. My read is that the ShoreTrips excursion might be a good choice for adults, and Disney’s might be better for kids. With 5 or more people 10 and over, it also might be worth it to pay $110/hr (about $110/person) for Juneau Limo’s 5 hour limo service. You would, however, have to pay the admission fees for the various places, so that probably wouldn’t be much, if any savings. With 6 people you would probably be better off going the limo route. With 7, the prices go up to $130/hr, working out to about $93/apiece. At this point, you’re almost certainly better off. With 10 people, it would be $65/apiece for a limo tour, and even when you figure in admission, you would certainly be better off taking this route.


Disney Exclusive Glacier Dog Musher for a Day:

http://www.juneautours.net/?event=offer.detail&offerId=4928
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...isney-exclusive-glacier-dog-musher-for-a-day/

These are very different excursions, with correspondingly different prices. Juneau Tours’ is much shorter—only 1.5 hour. Disney’s is much longer, 5.5 hours, with more time to spend with the dogs. Disney’s tour is $699/10+, and $499/4-9. Juneau Tours is $478.95, unless you are over 250 lbs, in which case, it is $678.95.

The Enchanted Taku Lodge Flight and Feast:

https://secure.shoretrips.com/common/search4.asp?rcode=PNW&lcode=JUN&tcode=001794
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...nchanted-taku-glacier-lodge-flight-and-feast/

These appear to be exactly the same tour. Disney’s is $345/10+, and $265/2-9. ShoreTrips is $286/12+, and $225/2-11. In both tours, under 2 is free. ShoreTrips also has a bundle with further discounts that includes this tour, a Crab Fishing tour in Ketchikan, and the White Pass/Bus Tour in Skagway for $545/person.

Alaska Custom Hummer Excursion/Private Jeep Excursion:

http://alaskatraveladventures.com/alaska_day_tours/pages/j_alaska_hummer.htm
http://juneaulimo.com/rates.aspx
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...ursions/juneau-alaska/juneau-by-private-jeep/
https://secure.shoretrips.com/common/search4.asp?rcode=PNW&lcode=JUN&tcode=033598
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...juneau-alaska/alaska-custom-hummer-excursion/

These are all, more or less, in the same vein. Disney’s Hummer is $649, and Alaska Travel Adventures’ Hummer is $549, taxes not included, Juneau Limousine’s Hummer is $110/hr, I assume taxes not included. ShoreTrips Jeep excursion is $160/person, minimum of 2, and Disney’s is $750 for the whole jeep, up to 4 people. (4 people for 4 hours on the ShoreTrips excursion would be $640.)

Alaska Whales and Rainforest Trails:

http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...u-alaska/alaska-whales-and-rainforest-trails/
http://juneausbestours.com/Alaska_Whales.php
http://www.juneautours.org/whale.html

I think Juneau’s Best Tours is the same tour as Disney’s, but it’s price is adults/$189, and children/$136. Disney’s is $199/10+, and $127/5-9. Definitely check to see if taxes are included in either Disney or Juneau’s best—that and child ages will really determine which is the best deal. Juneau Tours does not include the rainforest hike, and it is $125/adults and $100/children.

Whales and Science Adventure:

http://www.stepintoalaska.com/tour_shore_excursion_details.cfm?tourid=researchexploration
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...u-alaska/alaska-whales-and-science-adventure/

I think this is the same excursion. Disney’s is $196/10+, and $124/5-9. Step Into Alaska’s tour is $195/adults, and $99/for kids. It would be worth checking if Disney’s includes tax, and Step Into Alaska’s does not, because that might swing things one way or the other. Also, the website is not specific about child ages—if you have 10-12 year olds, that might make a big difference.

Alpine Zipline and Glacier Adventure:

https://secure.shoretrips.com/common/search4.asp?rcode=PNW&lcode=JUN&tcode=057059
https://secure.shoretrips.com/common/search4.asp?rcode=PNW&lcode=JUN&tcode=047174
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...-alaska/apline-zipline-and-glacier-adventure/

Combining the ShoreTrips zipline and glacier tours costs $192/12+ and $158/10-12, and lasts 6 hours. Disney’s is $204 for everyone, and lasts 4.5-5 hours. If you have 10-12 year olds, the edge probably goes to ShoreTrips, but if not, check with both ShoreTrips and Disney to see what the tax would be—that could make a difference as to what is actually cheaper. You also want to check tour departure times to make sure you have time to get back to the ship.

Best of Juneau:

http://www.bestofalaskatravel.com/alaska_day_tours/pages/j_best_of_juneau.htm
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...hore-excursions/juneau-alaska/best-of-juneau/

These are both the same tour, as best as I can tell. Best of Juneau costs $169/12+, and $139/12 and under. Disney’s costs $199/10+, and $122/9 and under, so the age of your kids definitely makes a difference on this tour. Best of Juneau does not include taxes; I’m not sure about Disney.

Bike and Tram Adventure:

http://www.cycleak.com/bike__tram.htm
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...neau-alaska/bike-and-tram-mountain-adventure/

These both appear to be the same excursion, as best I can tell. Cycle Alaska’s is $119/12+, and $73/10-12 year olds. Disney’s is $124/everyone. Child ages make a big difference here—I’m also not sure whether or not Cycle Alaska and/or Disney include taxes—that could make a difference as to which is cheaper.

Helicopter and Dog Sled Tour/Dogsledding and Mendenhall Glacier:

https://secure.shoretrips.com/common/search4.asp?rcode=PNW&lcode=JUN&tcode=001393
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...neau-alaska/dog-sled-adventure-by-helicopter/
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...ding-on-the-mendenhall-glacier-by-helicopter/


This is another one where child ages make a big difference. If you have children who are 2-9, the edge is probably Disney’s. If you have 10+ kids, the edge is almost certainly ShoreTrips. These excursion all seem very, very similar, and if there are differences, they seem to be slight. ShoreTrips is $479/person, regardless of age, and Disney’s is $569/10+, and $285/2-9 for the Dog Sled Adventure by Helicopter, and $579/person for the Dog Sledding and Mendenhall Glacier by helicopter.


Dog Sled Summer Camp:

http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...xcursions/juneau-alaska/dog-sled-summer-camp/
http://juneau-guide.com/trDogSled.land.htm

These appear to be the same tour. Disney’s is $154/10+ and $142/9 and under. Juneau Guide and Tours is $124/everyone. I’m not sure about taxes.

Whale Quest and Orca Point Lodge Tour:

http://www.alaskacoachtours.com/whale-watching-orca-point.htm
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...neau-alaska/whale-quest-and-orca-point-lodge/

These appear to be, more or less, the same tour. Alaska Coach Tours is $149/adults, and $79/kids (no ages listed, and I don’t know if tax is included). Disney’s is $168/10+, and $110/9 and under.

Exclusive Whale Encounter

http://www.dolphintours.com/content/tours/Whale-Watching-Tours-Juneau-Alaska.php
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...ions/juneau-alaska/exclusive-whale-encounter/

These are very similar tours, but the Dolphin Tours tour leaves from the Tram Parking Area—you’ll want to make sure you know where to pick it up. Dolphin Tours is $105-$110/12+, and $85-$90/2-12. Infants are free. Disney is $129/10+, and $74/9 and under. Dolphin Tours includes all taxes and fees—not sure about Disney. Again, the best deal seems to depend on the age of the kids. Dolphin Tours also offers further discounts for 8+ people—food for thought for large groups.

Exclusive Whale Encounter and Mendenhall Glacier Tour:

http://www.dolphintours.com/content/tours/Mendenhall-Glacier-Juneau-Alaska.php
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...usive-whale-encounter-and-mendenhall-glacier/

These two look like very similar tours, but I can’t say for sure that Dolphin Tours has the salmon tasting or the snacks—if that’s important to you, you should call and ask. Otherwise, they seem to be about the same tour. Dolphin Tours is $130/12+, $110/2-12, and under 2 is free, tax included. Disney’s is $139/10+, $89/9 and under. Again, this seems to be one where the ages of the kids really matter. Also, it’s worth checking with Disney to see if their excursion includes taxes.

Extended Helicopter Glacier Trek:

http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...neau-alaska/extended-helicopter-glacier-trek/
https://secure.shoretrips.com/common/search4.asp?rcode=PNW&lcode=JUN&tcode=001820

This appears to be the same excursion. ShoreTrips is $517/person, 16 year age minimum, and Disney’s is $527/person, 15 year age minimum. Check for taxes—that may make a substantial difference in these two prices; otherwise, they are very close.

Glacier Adventure by Helicopter:

http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...uneau-alaska/glacier-adventure-by-helicopter/
https://secure.shoretrips.com/common/search4.asp?rcode=PNW&lcode=JUN&tcode=001392

This appears to be the same excursion. ShoreTrips is $267/person, taxes unclear. Disney’s is $355/10+, and $179/2-9. This shifts rather decisively in one direction or the other, depending upon the ages of the participants.

Glacier Flightseeing Adventure:

http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...uneau-alaska/glacier-flight-seeing-adventure/
http://www.juneau-guide.com/trJuneauIcefield.htm

Juneau Adventure and Tours is $199/person, and Disney’s is $225/10+, and $185/2-9. Again, it seems that the best deal depends upon the ages of the travelers.

Glacier View Bike and Hatchery:

http://cycleak.com/bike_&_hatchery.htm
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...juneau-alaska/glacier-view-and-bike-hatchery/

There is no information available to compare on these two tours, but I rather suspect that Cycle Alaska is running Disney’s tour, and I would call for independent booking rates.

Glacier View Sea Kayaking

http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...ions/juneau-alaska/glacier-view-sea-kayaking/
https://secure.shoretrips.com/common/search4.asp?rcode=PNW&lcode=JUN&tcode=024415

Disney’s is both shorter and cheaper than ShoreTrips excursion. It is 3.5-4 hours, and $119/person. ShoreTrips is $132/adult, and $111/8-12, and it is 5.5 hours long. ShoreTrips also does not have a minimum age of 10. It’s minimum age is 8.

Gold Creek Salmon Bake

http://www.alaskaadventures.com/alaska_day_tours/pages/j_gold_creek_salmon.htm
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...ursions/juneau-alaska/gold-creek-salmon-bake/

Disney’s is $48/10+ and $27/9 and under. Alaska Adventures is $42/12+ and $28/12 and under; taxes are not included for Alaska Adventures, not sure about Disney.

Helicopter Glacier Trek

http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...rsions/juneau-alaska/helicopter-glacier-trek/
https://secure.shoretrips.com/common/search4.asp?rcode=PNW&lcode=JUN&tcode=001812

ShoreTrips is $407/person, Disney’s is $429. Disney’s minimum age is 12, and so is ShoreTrips. I think this is the same excursion.

Helicopter Glacier Walkabout

http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c.../juneau-alaska/helicopter-glacier-walk-about/
https://secure.shoretrips.com/common/search4.asp?rcode=PNW&lcode=JUN&tcode=004079

ShoreTrips is $366/person, and Disney is $379/10+, and $310/8-9. Disney’s minimum age is 8, and ShoreTrips minimum age is also 8.

Historic Gold Mining and Panning Excursion:

http://alaskatraveladventures.com/alaska_day_tours/pages/j_gold_mining_panning.htm
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...a/historic-gold-mining-and-panning-adventure/

I think these two are the same excursion. Disney’s is $64/10+, and $38/9 and under. Alaska Travel Adventures is $55/12+ and $37/12 and under; this does not include tax—I’m not sure about Disney.

Historic Gold Mining and Panning Excursion with Gold Creek Salmon Bake:

http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...panning-adventure-and-gold-creek-salmon-bake/
http://www.alaskaadventures.com/alaska_day_tours/pages/j_gold_mining_bake_combo.htm

I think these two are the same excursion. Disney’s is $95/10+ and $58/9 and under, and Alaska Travel Adventures is $85/12+ and $57/12 and under; this does not include tax—I’m not sure about Disney.

Juneau City and Mendenhall Glacier Tour:

http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...aska/juneau-city-and-mendenhall-glacier-tour/
http://www.juneautours.org/purchase_tours.php

These tours are similar, but Disney’s tour is an hour longer. Juneau Tours picks up in the parking lot of the Mount Roberts Tramway, so you need to make sure you know where this is (It is near the cruise ships). Juneau Tours tour is $27/12+, $23/4-11, and free for 3 and under. Disney’s tour is $50/10+, $26/9 and under.

Glacier Adventure Hike

https://secure.shoretrips.com/common/search4.asp?rcode=PNW&lcode=JUN&tcode=009036
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...eau-alaska/mendenhall-glacier-adventure-hike/

These two are very similar. ShoreTrips is $85/12 and under, $56/8 to 12. Disney’s is $89/10+, and $49/8-9.

Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Quest

http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...au-alaska/mendenhall-glacier-and-whale-quest/
https://secure.shoretrips.com/common/search4.asp?rcode=PNW&lcode=JUN&tcode=034442

These two are very similar. ShoreTrips is $153/12+ and $90/12 and under. Disney’s is $165/10+ and $94/9 and under.

Mendenhall Glacier By Helicopter and Guided Walk:

http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...enhall-glacier-by-helicopter-and-guided-walk/
http://www.juneautours.org/helicopter.html

These two are very similar, but Juneau Tours is twice as long, owing to the transportation to the helicopter. Juneau tours is $250/seat, and Disney’s is $305/seat. The actual flight and glacier part seems to be the same.

Mendenhall Glacier Explorer:

http://www.juneautours.org/city_glacier.html
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...ns/juneau-alaska/mendenhall-glacier-explorer/

These look like similar tours—Juneau Tours departs from the Mount Roberts Tramway parking lot, and costs is $27/12+, $23/4-11, and free for 3 and under. Disney’s is $49/10+ and $25/9 and under.

Mendenhall Glacier Explorer and Mount Roberts Tramway

http://www.juneautours.org/city_glacier.html
http://www.goldbelttours.com/mount-roberts-tramway
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...l-glacier-explorer-and-mount-roberts-tramway/

It’s very easy to combine the Glacier Explorer Tour on your own with the Mount Roberts Tramway—Juneau Tours departs from, and returns to, the Tramway parking lot. The tramway is $27/12+, $13.50/6-12, and 5 and under are free, so combining the two tours gives you $54/12+, $40.50/12 year olds, $36.50/6-11 year olds, $23/4-5 year olds, and free for three and under. Disney’s is $89 for everyone. The “self-book” combo tour does not include a wine and cheese tasting.


Mendenhall Glacier Float Trip:

http://www.bestofalaskatravel.com/alaska_day_tours/pages/j_mendenhall_glacier_float.htm
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c.../juneau-alaska/mendenhall-glacier-float-trip/

It looks like pretty much the same trip. Disney’s is $149/person, minimum age of 10. Best of Alaska’s is $119/12+ and $79/under 12; not including tax.

Mount Roberts Tramway:

http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...neau-alaska/mount-roberts-tramway-at-leisure/
http://www.goldbelttours.com/mount-roberts-tramway

Disney’s is $27/10+, $13/9 and under. Gold Belt Tours is $27/12+, $13.50/12 and under.

“Pilot’s Choice” Glacier Explorer

http://www.portpromotions.com/index.php?region=Alaska&port=1&exc=277#277
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...juneau-alaska/pilots-choice-glacier-explorer/

Disney’s takes the edge as far as richness of the tour goes—you will stop twice on the glacier and get out—but you will pay steeply for the privilege. Disney’s is $437/10+ and $416/9 and under, and Port Promotions is $277/11+ and $268/11 and under.

Private Fishing Boat-Salmon Fishing Charter/Salmon Sportfishing Adventure

http://alaskatrophyfishing.com/alaskatrophyfishing.html
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...u-alaska/private-boat-salmon-fishing-charter/
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c.../juneau-alaska/salmon-sportfishing-adventure/

Disney’s boat is $1,299, totally private, and will take up to 6 people. Alaska Trophy Fishing is $199/person for 4 hours of fishing (1 hour of travel time), and does not promise a private experience. It’s closest to the Salmon Sportfishing Adventure, which Disney sells for $225/10+ and $205/9 and under.

Canopy and Zipline Adventure:

https://secure.shoretrips.com/common/search4.asp?rcode=PNW&lcode=JUN&tcode=057059
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...aska/rainforest-canopy-and-zipline-adventure/

These look to be about the same tour. Disney’s is $184/person, and ShoreTrips is $149/12+, and $111/10-12. Both have a minimum age of 10.
Underground Juneau Gold

http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...rsions/juneau-alaska/underground-juneau-gold/
http://www.juneau-guide.com/trJuneauGold.htm

Alaska adventure and tours is $65/person. Disney’s is $72/10+ and $39/9 and under. Otherwise, this looks to be the same tour.

Whale Watching and Salmon Bake

http://www.bestofalaskatravel.com/alaska_day_tours/pages/j_whale_cruise.htm
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...juneau-alaska/whale-watching-and-salmon-bake/

Best of Alaska’s is $149/12+ and $119/12 and under. Disney’s is $169/10+ and $129/9 and under. Otherwise, it looks like the same thing.

Whale Watching, Salmon Bake, and Mendenhall Glacier (Disney’s is Adults Only)

http://www.bestofalaskatravel.com/alaska_day_tours/pages/j_best_of_juneau.htm
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...almon-bake-and-mendenhall-glacier-adult-only/

Disney’s tour is adults only, but Best of Alaska’s is open to kids as well. Disney’s is $189/adult, and Best of Alaska’s is $169/12+, and $139/under 12.

 

[mellers]

(did I see you were going to limit to 15 families in a group?)

Just realized--I didn't answer your question. Yes--I am keeping it to 15 families in an FE group. If we get more, I'll break us up into groups.

 

[mellers]

One final thing (then, I promise, I'll shut up )

Remember, this is a cruise to have fun, and if you really feel you can't afford the excursions, you won't have fun. While you can spend an almost unlimited amount of money on Shore Excursions, you can also do the Ketchikan walking tours (free), The Skagway Walking tour (free), and the Alaska State Museum in Juneau ($5/adults, free for kids), get a feel for the places we visit, and pay very little.

I hope we all have a great time on the cruise!

 

[SanDiegoSteph]

Bear Country Wildlife Expedition:

http://www.alaskarainforest.com/Tours/Wildlife-Expedition.html
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/c...-alaska/bear-country-and-wildlife-expedition/

Differences: Minimum age for Disney tour is 5; for self-book, it’s 12. Disney’s is $192 for those 12 and over, and $129 for ages 5-9. Self-book tour is $199 per person. Self-book tour is 3.25 hours, Disney’s is 3-3.5 hours. Self-Book tour is supposed to have a “limited” group size (not specific).

Just an update for folks interested specifically in the Bear Country and Wildlife Expedition...I spoke to the folks at Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary today about whether we could book directly with them since we are lowly Silver members and may not get a chance to book this trip through Disney.

Our DS is only 5 (actually will be 6 days shy of 5 when we arrive in Ketchikan) and they said they could probably still accomodate us, but on a "private tour" of just the 5 of us. Their reason for having an age 12 minimum is that little kids are often too noisy and scare away the bears so the rest of the folks on the tour would miss out if there was one noisy kid along.

So, I guess my advice to anyone interested in this trip, that has kids under 12, is to call directly especially if you have a decent size group and they may be able to set something up for you..of course you'd have to be willing to duct tape your kids' mouth (just kidding of course!!)

 

[mellers]

Just an update for folks interested specifically in the Bear Country and Wildlife Expedition...I spoke to the folks at Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary today about whether we could book directly with them since we are lowly Silver members and may not get a chance to book this trip through Disney.

Our DS is only 5 (actually will be 6 days shy of 5 when we arrive in Ketchikan) and they said they could probably still accomodate us, but on a "private tour" of just the 5 of us. Their reason for having an age 12 minimum is that little kids are often too noisy and scare away the bears so the rest of the folks on the tour would miss out if there was one noisy kid along.

So, I guess my advice to anyone interested in this trip, that has kids under 12, is to call directly especially if you have a decent size group and they may be able to set something up for you..of course you'd have to be willing to duct tape your kids' mouth (just kidding of course!!)

Great info!

 

[mellers]

Must book and pay by Feb 4th:

http://www.panpacific.com/en/specialoffers.html#23465

These rates for the Travelzoo special were better than my booked AAA rates so I have switched. We love the Pan Pacific hotel and look forward to staying there again in August.

Good to know!