Our cruise ship docks at Skagway but we would really like to see the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve near Haines. What would be the best way for a family of 4 to get from Skagway to Chilkat?

There is a ferry that takes you to Haines (very scenic route) but we did our Haines excursion through the cruise like so regretfully I don't remember the name of the boat portion company. You may perhaps see whales along the way. Hopefully someone else will be able to tell you more.

You will not see many eagles, if your travel time is the Summer, as most eagles migrate into this area during winter. The eagles find enough food outside the area in other times of the year.

We visited Haines middle September and saw several eagles (20 to 30) close to the ferry terminal.

If you can get near a stream where the salmon are running, I'd be surprised if you don't see a few eagles. Taking the ferry to Haines might be more cost and money than the Preserve warrants. Any thoughts from other Fodorites who have been to Skagway in the summer?

I was in Skagway last Aug and was on the Skagway Float Tours on their hike/float trip which was my favorite activity all week ! We saw a few eagles on the float trip and I was able to get some great photos up close !! You will find the skagway.com website a great tool.... all the businesses in Skagway have links to their web sites. Anything you want you can find there ! FYI... also did the Yukoner tour with Frontier Excursions which was great. Skagway is also THE best stop for souvenirs/gift for those back home. Check out this web site for info on the high speed ferry: http://www.dollyvardenalaska.com/Ska..._FastFerry.htm
14 mi by ferry, 360 mi by car !

Check this web site for more info on alternative modes of transportation. http://www.haines.ak.us/hainesweb/transport/index.html

One more: http://www.chilkatcruises.com/schedule.html#skagway

Have a great trip !