Alaska on Holland America 8/1

My family, which includes our 16 year old son, will be cruising to Alaska for the first time this August on the Amsterdam from the Holland America fleet. We're in the process of searching for quality shore excursions. Our ports include Sitka, Ketchikan and Victoria, BC. (We've already booked a river raft trip in Juneau.) Has anyone taken or heard of really good excursions that you could recommend? Thanks for this and any other info you might provide about this cruise.

I did the cannery and Saxman totem pole village tour which was just great, however I felt like the best part of Ketchikan was Creek Street which was just a short walk away from the ship therefore no tour required.

[Karen16]

Look over a shore excursion list and narrow down your interests. Determine your budget and don't skimp. There are plenty of great tours available in Alaska.

[cruisecrazy]

I recommend walking around Sitka -lots to see for free or pick a tour. In Ketchikan, as Thoth said, Creek Street & Totem poles along the way to & from the ship are great and also free & there are many in Victoria, BC - u might be able to do several if time permits - Butchart Gardens if u like a spectacular flower, tree & shrubbery display in an old quarry with a light display plus spectacular fireworks if u are there in the evening, carriage tour, whale watching tour, a tour around Victoria by sightseeing double decker bus, walking around downtown Victoria - very quaint & English-like & free plus shopping the local, UK & native shops - not free unless u don't buy anything (the handmade chocolates are to 'die for' and don't forget the maple syrup - yummy)!!..You will really enjoy the costumed 'meet & greeters' on the pier when u arrive & look up and see all the hanging flower baskets in Victoria too. Hope this helps & happy cruisin'!