Are you planning a cruise stop at Skagway, Alaska, but not sure what to expect? This small coastal town, nestled in a glacier-cut valley, is rich with gold rush history and natural beauty.
Our handy guide shares all you need to know – from transport options to local surprises – to ease your travel worries. Ready to uncover the charm of this unique destination? Dive in!
About the Port
The Port of Skagway sits as the northernmost ice-free, deep-water port in North America. Located in a narrow glaciated valley at the head of Taiya Inlet, it is an important hub for Pacific shipping lanes.
The strategic location on Alaska’s Inside Passage makes it incredibly accessible and navigable all year round.
Specifically designed to cater to cruise ships, Skagway offers three berths: Ore, Railroad, and Broadway docks. These comfortably accommodate your cruise ship like a perfect glove fitting over a hand.
Ore and Broadway berths are just a stone’s throw from the southern part of town – only around three minutes on foot! This enables cruise passengers to embark on their Alaskan adventures promptly upon arrival. The railroad berth is only a few minutes further away.
Cruise Terminal Information
Skagway has four accessible piers where mighty cruise ships arrive. Each pier is conveniently situated in the part of Skagway, known as one of Southeast Alaska’s finest cruise ship ports.
Docking options at this busy port are plentiful, with multiple departures scheduled daily. This reliable frequency allows cruise ship passengers to plan their onshore excursions without worry or stress.
Whether you are after an adventure or prefer a relaxing walk, your adventures begin right at the edge of the dock due to Skagway’s walkability factor.
How to Get Around
Navigating your way around Skagway is incredibly easy due to the various transportation options available. One service is the SMART Shuttle bus that carries passengers directly from the dock to downtown Skagway for just $5 per person for an all-day pass.
Taking advantage of this shuttle service lets you explore tourist attractions and sightseeing opportunities while enhancing your experience in this locale. If you prefer getting some exercise during your trip, Skagway’s historic downtown area is known for its walkability.
An easily accessible footbridge near the cruise port makes walking an easy option.
Things to Do
Explore the history of Skagway by visiting the Skagway Museum. Here, you can learn about the local history through its collection of mining artifacts, photographs, and historical items.
Stroll through Skagway Downtown and see its charming historic buildings and unique shops. Don’t miss the opportunity to try gold panning at Alaska 360, where you can experience the Klondike Gold Rush firsthand.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure, board the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway for a train ride with picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Beach Pass Information
Skagway does not have traditional sandy beaches like most locations. Skagway is in a mountainous area, and its shorelines are covered in rocks or gravel. But they have five: Nahku Bay, Smuggler’s Cove, Yakutania Point West, Small Boat Harbor, and Airport Beach. Check with the port authority or your cruise ship operator for more information.
Local Cuisine & Best Places to Eat
When visiting Skagway, indulge in local cuisine and experience the best places to eat. The Red Onion Saloon is a popular choice among visitors, known for its tasty dishes and cozy atmosphere.
If you’re a seafood lover, head to Skagway Fish Company for their delicious seafood options to satisfy you. For coffee lovers, the Glacial Coffeehouse is a must-visit spot where you can enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee while taking in the mountains and the sea.
If you’re looking for an all-you-can-eat feast of Alaskan favorites and an adventure, too, Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp & Salmon is worth a reservation. Lastly, don’t miss out on seafood dishes and hand-crafted local ales at The Smokehouse, which is also highly regarded for its grilled meats and barbecue specialties, including reindeer sausages.
Shopping Opportunities
Skagway offers a range of shopping opportunities for cruise ship travelers, with products made by local artisans. You can find unique souvenirs like native artwork, custom jewelry, and traditional handicrafts.
Skagway has a vibrant artistic tradition, so you’ll also discover boutique shops featuring pottery, sculptures, and other artistic creations. Some items available include ivory carvings, wooden crafts, gold nugget jewelry, and silverware – all made right here in Skagway!
The best part? Skagway is a walkable town, making it easy to explore the various shops near the cruise port.
Local Currency
The local currency in Skagway, Alaska, is the U.S. dollar (USD), accepted throughout the state. To get cash, you can visit a nearby ATM to withdraw U.S. dollars.
Credit cards are widely accepted, but having some cash with you is always a smart move.
Safety Tips
Follow the safety guidelines provided by the marine pilots to ensure a secure visit to Skagway’s port. These guidelines are being drafted to address crowded conditions, minimizing any potential risks.
When exploring Skagway, keep in mind that it is generally considered a safe town. Feel free to explore its streets with confidence and enjoy all that this charming destination has to offer.
If you plan hiking at various Alaskan ports, including Skagway, pack the right gear and take necessary safety precautions.
Time management is crucial when engaging in activities at Skagway. Allow enough time to return to your cruise ship as scheduled.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Skagway, Alaska, is April and October. This period offers the perfect weather for exploring the outdoors and enjoying various activities. May or June is the best time to take an Alaskan cruise, as it provides a perfect opportunity to witness the best scenery of Alaska and observe wildlife in their natural habitats.
Additionally, May or June is the least rainy time of year in Southeast Alaska and the Inside Passage, ensuring you can make the most of your trip without worrying about wet weather.
Popular Cruise Lines that visit Skagway Cruise Port
Celebrity Cruises is one of the popular cruise lines that visits Skagway Cruise dock, allowing you to explore all that Skagway has to offer.
Norwegian Cruises is also a popular cruise line that visits Skayway Cruise Port and other ports around Alaska, making sure you see the beauty of many ports of Alaska.
Skagway Cruise Port is a popular stop for many cruise lines. With its picturesque scenery and rich history, Skagway attracts numerous cruise ship visits annually.
FAQs
Here are some FAQs answered to help you on your cruise to the Skagway port.
Is Skagway walkable from the cruise port?
Skagway is a walkable town from the cruise port. Most attractions, points of interest, shops, restaurants, and galleries are conveniently located within easy walking distance from the cruise ship docks.
You will have no trouble exploring this relatively small town on foot and enjoying everything it has to offer right at your doorstep.
Why are cruise ships not stopping in Skagway?
Several cruise ships are not stopping in Skagway, Alaska currently. The announcement was made on May 1, 2023. This is due to damage to the piers last summer because of rockslides. This will depend on the size of the ship, so check with your preferred cruise line. This is only temporary until repairs are made.
How do you get around Skagway, Alaska?
Skagway Alaska offers various transportation options to help you easily navigate the area. The town is accessible through the Klondike Highway, allowing convenient travel to and from Skagway.
Once you arrive at the cruise pier, you can take advantage of the SMART bus service, which operates from the dock to downtown Skagway. For just $5 per person, you can purchase an all-day pass and explore all that Skagway has to offer.
Additionally, there is a city shuttle available from the cruise port for $5 for a day pass or $3 per ride. With bus stops conveniently located around town, getting around Skagway becomes hassle-free and affordable.
Booking Information
Are you looking to book tours and explore Skagway during your cruise stop? Look no further! We have provided links to walking tour maps and scenic routes in Skagway so you can easily plan your day of sightseeing.
Whether you’re interested in historical landmarks or natural beauty, there are plenty of options for guided tours and attractions in Skagway. Don’t miss out on experiencing this charming town – check out the booking information and start planning your adventure today!
But the best option for visitors to Skagway is to book tours for the day at various places around town. You can book train rides through Alaskan landscapes, hikes along scenic trails, and more. Take advantage of the locals by joining a walking tour or signing up for a guided excursion.
Conclusion & Call to Action
Discover the wonders of Skagway, Alaska, at its bustling cruise port. Enjoy the town’s rich history, explore the charming streets and historic buildings, and embark on exciting outdoor adventures.
With scenery that will amaze you and a variety of attractions, Skagway offers an unforgettable Alaskan experience for cruise ship travelers. Start planning your trip today and get ready to make lasting memories in this beautiful Alaskan destination.
