We are planning a cruise to Alaska in August 2013. We would like to also visit some land sites; Denali, in particular. We are trying to decide whether to book a cruisetour or rent a car and travel the land portion independently. We are two 60-ish couples who have traveled in Europe independently. We don't particularly like the bus tour style of travel. However, we would do so if the travel between sites is more convenient and we still have the opportunity to have a wilderness experience. Thanks for any advice you can provide.
Cruisetour or Independent
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Independent would offer more freedom as well as price flexibility, especially to Denali. Cruise tour with the cruise line offer a comfort level that things will be looked after, and worry free when it comes to transfers, luggage etc.
Car rental is expensive in Alaska and must be booked way ahead in advance.
It all depends on which cruise tour you book. Typically they will get you there, stay at a lodge for a couple of nights, you take in soem activities there, they get you out. That's about it.
Which cruise line are you going with?
We took the cruisetour with HAL and were satisfied with it. It was mostly by train and we had good views and the accomodations were fine. For us older types now independent Alaska travel would be daunting.
Thanks for your replies. We will be going with Holland Cruise line.
Never took the crusietour with HAL but I have heard from friends that they were well looked after. It tpically involve a scenic train ride, a wilderness tour and some options to do silly things like playing a round of golf or go fish. We were there years ago at late June and we teed off at midnight (9 hole course). I don't know if they still do the midnight golf thing.
Independent or cruise tour, you'll have fun either way.