While I love to experience the thrill of watching whales on cruises to Cabo and other ports in the Mexican Riviera, Alaska is equally special. Here though, in the icy northern waters the ships tend to go a little bit slower and especially on inside passage cruises, there's more of an opportunity to relax and watch the whales from the ship. However, one of the big differences between a Mexico cruise and Alaska is that virtually every port here has access to fabulous spots to see whales very close to port. This means shorter rides, more whale sightings, and ultimately more fun too. So, are you ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure through Alaska's pristine waters, where you'll witness the majestic beauty of whales in their natural habitat? From humpbacks to orcas and even elusive blue whales, an Alaska whale-watching cruise offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike.
Read more: Alaska Cruise Guide To The Best Time To See Whales
My absolute favorite place on Earth to watch whales is along the Pacific Coast. During the winter, there is no better place for this than the southern tip of Baja. Imagine sailing into Cabo, sitting on deck (or on your balcony), holding a cup of hot tea and enjoying some breakfast while spotting for spouts and splashes from breaching whales ... all while you get ready for your shore excursion in a few hours that will bring you even closer to these amazing animals. While whale watching excurisons are available at several different ports along your Mexican Riviera cruise itinerary ... it is important to plan ahead so you can maximize your time and money!
Read more: Guide To Baja Whale Watching On A Mexican Riviera Cruise
Alaska cruises are a different experience than almost anywhere else in the world. Depending on your exact itinerary, your ship may be passing close enough to see wildlife and explore the coastline but probably not. While there are many excursion options, few offer the perfect blend of authenticity, affordability, and opportunity to explore something new. That's exactly what we found though, with Lighthouse Excursions and their Lighthouse, Totems, and Eagles excursion from Ward Cove in Ketchikan.
Read more: Lighthouse, Totems & Eagles Excursion in Ward Cove Ketchikan
Catalina Island is one of the not so hidden secrets sitting just off the coast of Southern California. It also happens to be one of the most common ports that folks taking 4-day cruises from Long Beach and Port of Los Angeles will stop at, along with Ensenada, Mexico. While many people who have done this route a few times prefer to simply enjoy another day on the ship and avoid the ctrounds ... you're missing some great stuff if you do. On a recent cruise with Carnival, we were invited to take this tour and see what the island looks like ... outside of Avalon where the tenders drop you off.
Read more: Catalina Island Back Country "Buffalo" Eco Tour Shore Excursion
