On our first full day in Vancouver, we did a nature boat trip/whale watching tour with Prince of Whales. 

• You can absolutely do whale watching as part of excursions on your cruise, but... we weren't able to fit that in among our other excursions, so... we did it in Vancouver.

The whales were cool, of course, but the highlight on our trip were Pacific White Sided Dolphins. A pod literally swam with the boat - it felt like there were hundreds of them. Every tour is different, of course, so what you will see will depend. In addition to whales and dolphin, we got to see Bald Eagles, vultures and seals. Awesome! 👍 🐬

• As part of the tour, Prince of Whales shares their photos. And their photos were much better than my iPhone photos.
• I highly recommend having binoculars for your Alaska cruise -- we had these Bushnell binoculars and still ended up purchasing a pair of Nikon binoculars on board the Disney Wonder so we would have a second pair... this a pair of Nikon binoculars are also good. Well worth having.
• There are other whale watching companies. Prince of Whales was great - the staff was knowledgeable and helpful. Highly recommend - 👍
  • One of the other popular ones is Vancouver Whale Watch. They use boats that are smaller than the one we were one. I, of course, did not use them.

Granville Island is a Charming cultural & artistic mainstay famous for a daily public market with 50+ food vendors. Formerly an industrial manufacturing area, it is located across False Creek from Downtown Vancouver, literally under the south end of the Granville Street Bridge.

We visited Granville Island because it is where our whale watching tour docked, but... we loved it. It is an eclectic mix of shopping, dining, performing arts & accommodations.

• We had lunch at Tap & Barrel - Bridges Restaurant after our whale watching tour. Located right on the water, it was a good place to sit down after our tour;
• We then toured the amazing Granville Public Market, which has restaurants, bars & cafes, plus gourmet food stalls & artisan boutiques - you may even find some Disney touches.

Resources:

• Granville Island Web site;
• Granville Island Facebook page;
• Condé Nast Traveler overview and review - Granville Island;
• 5 things you may not know about Granville Island (VIDEO)

Disney Cruise Line does offer post-cruise Port Adventures - who knew!?!

• You can only sign up once you get on board and they will need a certain number of guests.
• They put your bags in the bus so you don't have to worry about storage. VERY convenient.

We had a later flight from Vancouver, so we did an excursion - Northwest Exploration & Capilano Suspension Bridge - Debarkation Day - Onboard Bookings Only (VC01) 

• Discover the cultural and geographical diversity of Vancouver, then take a walk across the Capilano Suspension Bridge.
• We did a bus tour around Vancouver including visiting Gastown and Chinatown.
• We then went to the Capilano Suspension Bridge, which is one of the most popular attractions is Vancouver, but it was very fun, interesting and well done.

Because we had a late flight, we got a room at the Fairmont Vancouver Airport. 

• This is quite a nice airport hotel. It is located literally right in the airport, so it is very convenient.
• It has a good restaurant;
• The rooms even have an airplane guide so you can identify the different planes.

North America's third-largest park is one of Vancouver's top attractions.

This magnificent green oasis, in the midst of the urban landscape of Vancouver, is a hot spot for locals & visitors, with over eight million visitors per year.

Stanley Park is Vancouver’s premier spot to get up close and personal with nature and animals. The grassy expanse offers outdoor teahouses and stunning views, beachfront hideaways and splash parks. It is a typical getaway spot for friends and families, especially as it is home to the Vancouver Aquarium, and some of its best equestrian outlets.

Explore the 1,000-acre natural West Coast rainforest and enjoy scenic views of water, mountains, sky, and majestic trees along Stanley Park’s famous Seawall. Discover kilometres of trails, beautiful beaches, local wildlife, great food & drink, natural, cultural and historical landmarks, along with many other amazing adventures. Stanley Park offers a wide range of unforgettable experiences for all ages and interests.

WHAT WE DID - On our arrival day, we just walked the waterfront and the sea wall in Stanley Park. It was a gorgeous day.

RESOURCES:

• Overview of Stanley Park via Condé Nast Traveler
• Overview of Stanley Park via Vancouver's Best Places
• A guide to Stanley Park;
• 9 Things to Do in Stanley Park + How to Get Around via Vancouver Planner.

Towering high behind downtown Vancouver’s gleaming towers, Grouse Mountain — known as “the Peak of Vancouver” — has been a top destination for locals and tourists for more than a century. What you do there depends on the season: in summer you can hike, mountain bike, zipline over the treetops, catch an uber-Canadian lumberjack show, tour a high-tech wind turbine, and meet giant orphaned grizzly bears. In winter it’s skiing, snowshoeing, sliding, ice skating, and other sports that lure snow lovers. And whether summer or winter, the Skyride gondola offers jaw-dropping views of the city, the ocean, the Gulf Islands, and beyond.

• If it works out, you can do 'breakfast with bears." I haven't done this, but... it sounds SO fun!

There are other ways to spend time in Vancouver:

• Gastown - A historic neighborhood in Vancouver, British Columbia, known for its charming cobblestone streets, Victorian-style architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. It is the city's oldest district, featuring landmarks like the famous Gastown Steam Clock and an array of boutique shops, art galleries, trendy restaurants, and lively bars. With its blend of old-world charm and modern appeal, Gastown is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
• Chinatown - Vancouver's Chinatown is a vibrant and historic neighborhood, celebrated as one of the largest and oldest Chinatowns in North America. Known for its colorful streets, traditional Chinese architecture, and rich cultural heritage, the area offers attractions like the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, herbal medicine shops, and authentic eateries. With a mix of historic landmarks and contemporary influences, Chinatown is a lively hub of history, culture, and community.
• Bike - There are a number of bike shops near the waterfront area where you can rent a bike to cruise around Stanley Park.
• Vancouver Lookout - My general rule about dining locations: The better the view, the worse the food -- and if something rotates, all bets are off. But... there is still something to be said for a location that rotates so you can see the skyline of the city.
• The Butchart Gardens - If you're looking for a bigger adventure, The Butchart Gardens are not in Vancouver itself -- they are located near Brentwood Bay on Vancouver Island, just outside of Victoria, British Columbia. This world-renowned garden showcases 55 acres of stunning floral displays, including the Sunken Garden, Rose Garden, and Japanese Garden. A National Historic Site of Canada, it offers year-round beauty, seasonal events, and a tranquil escape for nature lovers and visitors. Accessible by ferry or seaplane, it's a must-see destination for those traveling through the region. 
• Science World - This science museum has interactive science displays & films for kids from toddlers to early teens, inside a geodesic dome. It is located a short ride fromthe port.

The Disney Wonder departs from Canada Place, which is located on the waterfront of downtown Vancouver. It is wonderfully centrally located.

Disney Cruise Line also works with hotels in Vancouver and you can include a pre-cruise stay as part of your Disney cruise (and the pricing is often less expensive then you will get if you book directly... Disney Cruise Line does have a room block at these hotel, but... they do sell out - the summer tends to be a busy time in Vancouver.)

• We stayed at the Pan Pacific Vancouver, which is located about 9-miles from the Vancouver International Airport and it is right at the Vancouver waterfront, so you can can almost fall out of bed on to the ship.
  • Dreams' content team at The Dis's DCL Fan have an overview on staying at the Pan Pacific Vancouver.
• My parents stayed at the Fairmont Waterfront, which is right next to the Port of Vancouver and about 9-miles from the Vancouver International Airport. (It is the more brown building in the photo above.)
• Post-cruise, we did stay at the Fairmont Vancouver Airport. (We had a late flight heading back to the US East Coast. They may have half-day rates.) The hotel is located literally at the airport -- our room had a fun airplane guide to let us spot the planes outside our window. There was a good place to eat. It was a great stop-over.

IMPORTANT NOTES:  

• Disney Cruise Line does have a room block, but... they can book up, particularly in the busy summer season.

This day of your magical Alaska Disney Cruise is easily overlooked - perhaps that is because it is a 'port of call' without a port. BUT... ENJOY! This is a really amazing day!

You will navigate through an icy fjord... you will pass soaring cliffs... surging waterfalls... seals and Bald Eagles and other animals... 

You will be visiting the Stikine Icecap, which is located about 45-miles south of Juneau, Alaska. (We visited the Dawes Glacier.)

You will spend the day traveling down the fjord with steep valleys and immense rock formations are on either side of the ship.

There is only one excursion for the day - the Glacier Explorer...

And this is the day when you will see your Disney friends dressed in their Alaska outfits.

This may be a day on the ship, but... it is amazing!

PRO-TIP - There will be a lot of people on the open decks for Glacier Day. For both the Disney Wonder and Disney Magic - particularly if the weather is... well, Alaska -- you can go to the gym (Deck 9-Forward). The gym on the Magic-class ships is far forward -- it literally sits above the bridge -- and has a glass wall that looks out over the front of the ship. And... It is weather weather-controlled... and very often is will not be crowded.

RESOURCES:

• South Stewart Glacier Excursion in the Inside Passage of Alaska via Dreams' content team at The Dis's DCLFan.com 

On the 'glacier day,' there is only one excursion that you can do -- the Glacier Explorer.

• It is popular - because it is awesome! It is expensive, but it is amazing!

On the excursion, a high-speed expedition boat will come along side your Disney ship and get you up close to a glacier.

Enjoy exclusive access from the ship to photograph one of the Stikine Icefields prominent glaciers. Guests will experience this amazing adventure while gliding in comfort onboard an Alaskan made expedition vessel through icebergs and dramatic fjords.

• Board a deluxe, Alaskan-built vessel directly from your Disney ship and enjoy nearly 3 hours immersed in the beautiful Alaskan inlet channel connected to the Stikine Icecap, a large icefield that spans the Alaska–British Columbia boundary in the Alaskan Panhandle.
• Weave through shimmering icebergs and travel near the rugged shoreline aboard a boat with exceptional agility. As occasions arise, the captain will stop to allow for viewing and photography of wildlife, such as pigeon guillemots, bald eagles, harbor seals, mountain goats and bears.
• Enjoy compelling narration about the area from a knowledgeable naturalist and crew members. The small group offers Guests personal access to these guides for additional questions and conversations.
• Feel the "white thunder," if you’re lucky enough to see the immense spires of ice break from the glacier and crash into the sea. Although glacier calving is likely, it is not guaranteed. Either way, views from the topside observation decks offer a chance to take in unforgettable views.
• Spend time in an extended drift near the glacier's face.
• Return back to the ship after maneuvering back into open water.

If you are into seeing Disney friends in their special Alaska outfits... Glacier Day is YOUR day!

The characters will be out on the top deck of the Disney Wonder -- and generally fairly early -- at about 9a... sometimes earlier. And I hear you saying, 'I'll get there later,' which sounds good except the line gets L-O-N-G. (I waited more than 90-minutes for both Mickey and then another 90-minutes for Minnie, who was on the other side of the ship.)

It is not the only time you will see Mickey and Minnie on your Disney cruise, of course, but... it is likely the only time you will see them in their Alaska outfits.

And it was awesome to see people prepare for holiday photos -- some even came dressed in the same outfits that Mickey and Minnie were wearing. (I'm not nearly that organized!)

I highly recommend confirming their scheduled appearances on deck on your Disney Cruise Line Navigator App as soon as you board, and it wouldn't hurt to ask a Character Greeter the day before for their best tips and tricks to make sure that you can snap a photo with your favorite friends!

They will also have stations with hot chocolate -- YES, even spiked hot chocolate -- out there while you wait in line.

There were characters around that I didn't even see -- Brother Bear was apparently around... Just not enough time!

We had spectacular weather for glacier day, but... it is Alaska. Weather can vary quite drastically from clear skies to chilly fog. It's very important to note that your cruise may or may not get a chance to view Dawes Glacier - well known for moments of frequent and dramatic calving which has been a part of its retreat in recent years. Instead, Glacier Viewing itineraries are always subject to change depending on the weather, visibility and whether conditions are safe for the ship to proceed further into the arms for guests to enjoy more majestic ice field views. (This is among many of the great reasons why ships want to steer clear of icebergs!) 

Nestled at the northern tip of Alaska's Inside Passage, Skagway is a charming town steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Famous for its role in the Klondike Gold Rush of 1898, Skagway retains its historic charm with well-preserved wooden boardwalks, vintage storefronts, and the nostalgic feel of a bygone era.

Visitors can explore the town's rich past at the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, which features engaging exhibits and guided tours. A ride on the iconic White Pass & Yukon Route Railway offers panoramic views of rugged mountains, cascading waterfalls, and deep gorges—a testament to the engineering marvel of the gold rush era.

Adventure seekers will find plenty to do, from hiking scenic trails like the Chilkoot Trail to wildlife spotting and kayaking in the pristine waters of nearby fjords. Skagway's small-town charm, vibrant arts scene, and welcoming locals make it a favorite stop for cruise passengers and independent travelers alike.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking to immerse yourself in the magic of Alaska, Skagway offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Last Frontier.

We did a Disney Cruise Line port adventure - Gold Fever, Alaskan Sled Dogs and Exclusive Scenic Railway (SW65).

• Your adventure begins when you disembark and meet your costumed guide who “lives” in 1898 and accompanies you on your Alaskan experience. Your tour includes a trip through historic Skagway, an amazing encounter with sled dogs and mushers, a heaping dose of gold fever, and a ride on the White Pass and Yukon Railroad.
• Enter the Gold Rush Training Camp and learn how to extract paydirt, sluice, and assay your results.
• Learn the art of gold panning with a humorous and educational show. Practice your technique in heated troughs. Gold is guaranteed! Weigh your fortune with our assayers.
• Learn about the fascinating history of sled dog mushing in Alaska and meet amazing canine athletes as well as experienced mushers. Hear about the history of this breed through personal stories and an amazing collection of all the gear necessary on long-distance journeys. 
• The musher hooks them up to an authentic sled for a fast practice lap around the track. The next generation of puppies are there to cuddle and hold. Puppy kisses guaranteed!
• The adventure continues with your journey aboard the world-famous narrow gauge White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad to the 2,865-foot summit. Your guide will help with narration, some fun games, and a toast and snack at the summit.
• Return to the ship not as a cheechako (newcomer to Alaska) but as a seasoned sourdough (someone who has experienced Alaska and is now a part of its history and culture) with lots of memories to share back home.
• There are OTHER versions of this tour. The "exclusive" trip comes with a specific guide, which was well done and helped us enjoy the day even more.

The dock is right at the end of the main street in Skagway. If you take the train, it pulls right up to the dock - EASY! And if you are visiting the down, it is just a stroll down the street.

We really enjoyed the departure from Skagway as you head south down the Inside Passage.

OTHER OPTION

• Beyond Skagway > Emerald Lake Tour - A guest on a recent DCL Duo podcast - Erin - took these tours to venture beyond just the train.

RESOURCES:

• Skagway Adventures: Charming Streets, Scenic Rails, & Tasty Treats via Dreams' content team at The Dis's DCLFan.com - written by Dreams Unlimited Travel agent Laci Post
• Exploring the Port of Skagway, Alaska During a Disney Cruise via Dreams' content team at The Dis's DCLFan.com

Juneau, Alaska's picturesque capital, is a unique destination that blends stunning natural landscapes with rich history. Nestled between towering mountains and the pristine waters of the Gastineau Channel, this remote city is accessible only by air or sea, adding to its charm and allure.

Nature enthusiasts will be captivated by the awe-inspiring Mendenhall Glacier, a must-see attraction just a short drive from downtown. Adventure seekers can explore the Tongass National Forest, the largest temperate rainforest in the world, offering opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. Whale-watching tours in the surrounding waters promise unforgettable encounters with humpback whales and orcas.

History buffs can delve into Juneau's past at landmarks like the Alaska State Museum and the historic Red Dog Saloon. The city’s gold mining heritage comes to life at the AJ Mine Gastineau Mill Tour, where visitors can learn about the gold rush that shaped the region.

Juneau's vibrant downtown features local shops, art galleries, and restaurants serving fresh Alaskan seafood. With its stunning scenery, fascinating history, and warm hospitality, Juneau is a destination that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.

RESOURCES:

• DOCK - Disney Cruise Line docks at the Franklin Dock [Google Map]. It is a little bit of a walk. I didn't mind the walk, but... this is also a shuttle bus that will take you there and back.
• Mendenhall Glacier is one of the places many people visit - and it is well worth seeing. You cannot walk -- Google Map here. There are Disney Cruise Line Port Adventures in Juneau that include it, but there are other ways to get there. 
  • There are a number of short walks around Mendenhall Glacier (via the U.S. Forest Service);
• Gold Belt Tram - This will take you 1,800-feet from the cruise ship dock in downtown Juneau through the rain forest to the Mountain House, offering expansive, panoramic views of Juneau and Gastineau Channel.
  • There are tours from Gold Belt Tram... and hikes that you can do when you get to the top.
• WHALE WATCHING IN JUNEAU - This is a non-DCL port adventure. It comes via a guest on the DCL Duo podcast - Alaska Sea to Shore is a family owned and operated business in Juneau, AK. They offer small, personalized and private whale watching adventures, shore explorations, water taxi services, and custom charters for those who want to get off the beaten path.

In short - AH-mazing!

I remember listening to one of the Disney Cruise Line podcasts featuring one of the authors of The Unofficial Guide to Disney Cruise Line and she called this one of the best Disney Cruise Line Port Adventures across the entire fleet.

• Dog Sled Adventure by Helicopter (JU30)

I'm putting this out there up front -- This is expensive -- nearly $1,000.00 per person! 💵

• The question I get all the time: 'Was it worth it?' And my general response is that 'value' is a very personal assessment. I try to give you the data so you can assess whether it is valuable to you.

Some information:

• The Helicopters operated by North Star Helicopters;
• If you have never been in a helicopter before, it is a unique experience -- very different. 
• The views are simply AMAZING;
• And... the dogs!

Mush a dog-sled team across a snow-covered glacier after taking an amazing helicopter ride over the Juneau Icefield.

Ride a helicopter to secluded locations and learn the art of mushing before getting on a dog sled yourself.

On this adventure you will...

• Board a motorcoach for a quick transfer to the heliport, where you'll receive instructions and gear up for this incredible adventure.
• Take off on a helicopter for an approximately 15-minute flight and soar over the massive, otherworldly landscape of the Juneau Icefields. Accessible only by air, the region Guests fly to is filled with lush forests, spectacular icefalls, glassy alpine lakes, jagged mountain peaks and awe-inspiring glaciers. Observe Alaska's unique glaciers in differing stages: advancing, retreating, cascading and floating.
• Land on the Norris Glacier and experience the rare opportunity to mush your own dog sled team across a snow-capped glacier.
• Learn the tricks of the trade from our seasoned Alaskan mushers. Master the all-important commands of "Hike!" "Gee!" and "Haw!"
• Experience the unique thrill of zipping across a pristine glacier with a team of friendly huskies. Enjoy the fresh mountain air and scenic vistas during your approximately 20-minute ride and one-hour visit.
• Take off again for another 15 minutes of awe-inspiriting scenery and unparalleled natural beauty, before reaching the heliport and transferring back to the ship.

NON-DCL OPTION

• There are non-DCL options. A guest on a recent DCL Duo podcast booked with Coastal Helicopters and said that they had a great experience. It can also be less expensive to book directly with the company. 

Deckhand Dave's Fish Tacos on North Franklin Street

https://maps.app.goo.gl/Ggz4vmpQtoESybp87

https://www.deckhanddaves.com/

Seating at Gunakadeit Park 

drinks available

Ketchikan, Alaska, is a charming coastal town renowned for its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking scenery, and world-class fishing. Often called the "Salmon Capital of the World," this vibrant community is a haven for anglers and seafood lovers alike.

The town is famous for its Native Alaskan culture, showcased through intricate totem poles found in places like Totem Bight State Park and the Totem Heritage Center. Visitors can also explore Creek Street, a historic boardwalk perched on stilts above a salmon-filled creek, which now houses unique shops, galleries, and restaurants.

Surrounded by the lush Tongass National Forest, Ketchikan offers incredible outdoor adventures, from kayaking and wildlife viewing to hiking trails that wind through its pristine landscapes. Wildlife enthusiasts might spot bald eagles, black bears, or even humpback whales in the area.

Whether you're drawn by the chance to experience Alaska's indigenous culture, its legendary fishing, or the natural beauty of the Inside Passage, Ketchikan is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking authentic Alaskan charm.

To come

https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/port-adventures/ketchikan-alaska-black-bear-and-wildlife-exploration/

https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/port-adventures/ketchikan-alaska-alaska-bear-adventure/

Some Alaska YenSid Travel pro-tips

• Book your excursions when your booking window opens. Some will go quickly;
• Glacier day can be busy. It isn't a port, but there is SO much to do.
  • If you can get the Glacier Explorer, it is interesting - and fun... and that Glacier Explorer can be pricy - more than $350.00 for an adult (as of when I'm writing this). (All Alaska excursions can be expensive.)
• There is Disney Cruise Line Alaska specific merchandise - shirts, jackets, mugs, Spirit Jerseys.

Disney Cruise Line has released it's summer 2026 itineraries...

• Disney Cruise Line will have not one, but TWO ships spending the summer in Alaska - both the Disney Wonder and the Disney Magic;
• The Disney Dream will be returning to Europe for summer 2026;
• More details about DCL summer 2026 itineraries here: YenSid.Travel/DCLSummer2026

Disney Cruise Line has released new itineraries for late 2026-early 2027 - this includes the Halloween season - Thanksgiving - holiday season - New Year 2027 - Spring Break.

• Get details on those itineraries - booking windows - and you can find The DIS Unlimited DCL Show podcast all about the new itineraries - go here.

Personally, I adore a New Year's Eve Disney Cruise - go sailing into the New Year... with fireworks at midnight, but also an early evening celebration for families... all with your Disney pals.

In 2023, we got to do a Disney Dream trip to Italy and Greece. Hear our trip report with the DCL Duo podcast here.

Disney Cruise Line's newest ship - the Disney Treasure - is in its inaugural season.

• The ship sails 7-night itineraries out of Port Canaveral, toggling between the Eastern Caribbean and Western Caribbean itineraries.

The 8th ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet... Setting sail from Fort Lauderdale in November 2025.

Legends of epic proportions spring to life on board the Disney Destiny, the 8th ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet. When iconic Disney, Pixar and Marvel heroes and villains meet, that’s where the magic happens. Setting sail on 4- and 5-night cruises from Fort Lauderdale to The Bahamas and Western Caribbean — beginning November 2025.

The third theme park for the Universal Orlando Resort... 

Stay updated on details about Universal Epic Universe with its five immersive worlds. And I put updates in my YenSid Travel News email newsletter.