Cruising to Alaska this August on Holland America and looking for shore excursion advice, especially on the best port for kayaking. I'm open to recommendations for using ship-sponsored excursions or going independently.

- Kayaking - We're stopping in both Ketchikan and Haines. Is one better than the other for kayaking?
- Juneau - Thinking of renting a car, driving out to Mendelhall Glacier and hiking around on our own. Any advice on this or recommendations for doing something else?
- Sitka - Thinking of walking around or renting a bike? Any advice on this or suggestions for doing something else?

We cruised to Alaska back in 2000 - and I did a kayaking shore excursion in Ketchikan that was arranged through the ship.

It was a nice tour - we first kayaked out into the bay - we saw some otters - then kayaked back and then inside along Creek Street.

Only thing is that it was really hard work - we were in a group and my kayak was consistently straggling behind. This seemed strange to me, since I've kayaked several times before with no problem. Then I realized that the woman they paired me with in the kayak (we both showed up by ourselves) was just sitting there and not paddling at all. Aargh.

Ketchikan was interesting because we were able to paddle along Creek Street. In Haines we just walked around - pretty small town. Unless there was something unique to Haines, I think Ketchikan would be more interesting to kayak.

Ketchikan is excellent for kayaking, consider direct booking with Southeast Kayaking, excellent vender. I would not rent a car just to go to Mendenhall Glacier- you can take a round trip shuttle for $10pp. For car rentals in Juneau, it can take too much time if you aren't doing a lot that requires a car. Also most do NOT shuttle from downtown, adding cab costs. Rent a Wreck- does downtown pickup, but office usually closes at 6pm. As mentioned it requires time most likely better spent at attractions.

We took a wildlife cruise out of Sitka that was very nice--only 3 hours or so if I recall correctly, but we saw lots of animals. If you decide to walk around be sure you take time to see the totem pole park. We also walked to the raptor center, which was small but nice.

Thanks for the great ideas!

We were thinking of kayaking at Ketchikan but wondered if this would be a good idea for a group of 9 that includes 2 active but inexperienced 70 year olds and a 12 year old since its water you DON'T want to fall into.

I think Kayaking is for just about anyone and if of interest, consider booking independent with Southeast Kayaks. They could probably arrange a private trip for your group?

I talked with SE and we might take the longer more wilderness kayak trip. It would leave one hour between arrving and one hour before departing on the cruise ship. Is this enough time? I wouldn't want to have something happen and not make it back before the ship leaves.

You actually will have to be ON BOARD 1/2 hour before the stated departure time. Verify directly with the vender your times and go with their recommendation.