Skagway’s rugged coastline, historic streets, and breathtaking wilderness make it a prime spot for cruise and boat tours. Unlike many cruise ports that offer generic excursions, Skagway provides authentic opportunities to connect with its gold rush past, pristine waterways, and abundant wildlife. Whether you’re keen on exploring via eco-friendly E-bikes or eager to see bald eagles soaring in their habitat, these tours offer a taste of Alaska’s true outdoors.
What sets Skagway apart is its combination of historic charm and untouched wilderness. Many tours focus on immersing visitors in local history and natural beauty—crucial for travelers who want more than just views. The two standout options here include a unique self-guided E-bike and sailing combination and an exhilarating jet-boat adventure into the Chilkat River. Explore them below to find the best fit for your interests and schedule.
1. Skagway Trail and Sail
At number one, the Skagway Trail and Sail combines eco-friendly exploration with a scenic boat adventure. It’s perfect for travelers who want to experience Skagway’s history, wildlife, and stunning vistas all in one day. The tour kicks off at Klondike Electric Bicycles, where you’ll enjoy a self-guided ride along the historic streets and into nature. You’ll pass by the Gold Rush Cemetery, learn about the colorful characters of Skagway’s past, and see the Lower Reid Falls, a picturesque 65-foot waterfall.
What makes this tour stand out is the blend of active exploration and relaxing sailing. After your bike ride, you meet Captain Brendan at the Small Boat Harbor and board the sailing sloop Hopscotch. The 3-hour Inside Passage sail explores the Taiya Inlet, revealing waterfalls and marine life you wouldn’t see from land. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a charcuterie box – a thoughtful touch that adds to the experience. The tour is rated 5.0/5 based on three reviews, emphasizing its quality and memorable moments.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a balanced mix of history, outdoor activity, and a scenic boat ride, this tour offers excellent value for its $265 price. It’s suited for active travelers who enjoy self-guided experiences with a touch of sailing.
2. Chilkat River Jet-Boat Adventure from Skagway
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the Chilkat River Jet-Boat Adventure delivers a thrilling wilderness experience. Starting with a scenic 30-minute drive along the Haines Scenic Byway, you’ll enter the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, home to hundreds of majestic eagles. Once on the river, your specially designed boat will take you 20 miles into the remote wilderness—a feat possible only with a craft built for silt-laden waters.
This tour is notable for its wildlife sightings, especially of bald eagles and moose habitat, and the chance to traverse numerous channels into untouched regions. It’s a longer tour at roughly 6.5 hours and costs about $348.44 per person, reflecting its exclusive access and adventure focus. Reviewers haven’t yet rated this tour, but the itinerary promises a unique peek into Alaska’s pristine wilderness away from crowds.
Bottom Line: If you’re into wildlife watching and exploring remote waterways with a dash of excitement, this jet-boat tour offers a true wilderness adventure. It’s ideal for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers willing to invest a bit more for an immersive day in Alaska’s wild heart.
How to Choose
When deciding between these options, consider your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend on water or active exploration. If you prefer a combination of biking, history, and sailing, the Skagway Trail and Sail offers a well-rounded experience at a more accessible price point. For a wilder, more adrenaline-filled day, the Chilkat River Jet-Boat Adventure delivers a true wilderness immersion that’s hard to match.
Both tours are best booked early, especially during the busy summer months, to secure your preferred time. Think about your physical activity level—active travelers will appreciate the biking and boating, while others might prefer the more relaxed sailing option.
To sum it up, Skagway’s cruise and boat tours showcase the best of Alaska’s history and natural beauty. From the scenic E-bike and sailing combo to the wilderness jet-boat adventure, there’s a perfect outing for every explorer. For a balanced day, consider the first tour, but if you crave true wilderness and wildlife, the second is unbeatable. Remember, booking early helps ensure you won’t miss out on these memorable experiences.