Alaska
Discover the UnTamed Beauty of Alaska with UnCruise Adventures
Sponsored by Uncruise Adventures
The first hint of Alaska’s pull on you isn’t just the mountains or the sheer, blue-gray glaciers; it’s the smell of pine carried on the crisp air, mingling with the hope of seawater. It’s the quiet you feel, the kind that settles in when you’re miles from anywhere and closer than ever to the rugged, boundless wilderness that calls out from each and every direction. Alaska’s landscape has a way of drawing you in, unearthing a wildness within that seems to mirror the towering peaks, endless forests, and hidden, untouched bays.
It’s here, away from the hum of large ports and well-worn tourist trails, that UnCruise Adventures shows you a different Alaska, the real Alaska. It’s not a trip filled with half-glances from a ship’s deck but an immersive encounter. With UnCruise Adventures, you’re stepping into the Alaska of hidden fjords and protected coves, where life thrives and the landscape remains as it has been for centuries. This is the true Alaska, where each journey tells a story of its own, woven from the land and the wildlife (both miniscule and giant) that inhabit it.
Imagine spending two days in the untouched wonder of Glacier Bay National Park, surrounded by towering glaciers and wildlife like seals and eagles. Or picture yourself on the Northern Passages route, where intimate encounters with humpback whales, sea otters, and brown bears are part of the day. Above all, the UnCruise experience is crafted to be a close, sustainable journey that puts the utmost respect in nature and immerses guests in the landscape, culture, and wildlife.
With over 25 years of expertise, UnCruise Adventures’ expeditions remain at the forefront of immersive, small-ship travel. Launching with a single ship exploring Alaska, UnCruise now operates the longest cruise season in Alaska, and while its offerings have since expanded, the mission remains to deliver transformative experiences. Now more than ever, that mission aligns with eco-conscious travel. From navigating the lesser-known Aleutian Islands to following viewing guidelines for wildlife protection, UnCruise’s small ships allow for sustainable exploration in places larger vessels can’t reach. Travelers come away not just with stories but with a renewed appreciation for conservation.
UnCruise’s small-group, small-ship model is crucial to its unique approach. With capacities between 22 and 86 guests, these vessels venture into coves, fjords, and back channels beyond the reach of traditional cruises, ensuring an Alaska experience that’s exclusive, personal, and respectful of the environment. This model also opens up rare privileges—such as setting foot in Glacier Bay, where less than one percent of visitors ever tread. Guests watch from ridge hikes along glaciers as some of the big foreign ships pass by and don’t stop.
Alaska is more than just vast landscapes; it’s a world where natural beauty meets rich cultural heritage. Through partnerships with local communities, UnCruise offers insights into the lives of Alaskan natives like the Tlingit people. The Tlingit share their centuries-old traditions through guided village visits, storytelling, and unique customs. It’s a chance for guests to connect on a cultural level with Alaska, understanding the heritage through the eyes of the people who have lived here for generations.
Beyond the exhilarating days, UnCruise offers an all-inclusive experience that’s tailored to each guest’s desires. This means unlimited adventures and unlimited amenities—from gourmet meals crafted with local ingredients to drinks included in the fare. Every detail is thoughtfully arranged to allow guests to immerse themselves fully. After a day spent exploring, guests return to a welcoming onboard experience where they can enjoy a signature daily cocktail, freshly baked cookies, a hearty meal, story swapping, lectures, and the thrill of preparing for the next day’s adventure.
Dining on UnCruise’s Alaska journeys is a highlight in itself. The onboard chef and pastry chef prioritize locally sourced and sustainable ingredients, creating dishes that bring Alaskan flavors directly to your plate. Each day begins with breakfast, is followed by lunches and multi-course dinners, and includes snacks in between, so guests never go hungry. And with an extensive selection of wines, craft beers, and cocktails, the beverages are just as thoughtfully curated (did we mention this is all included?).
Expert guides, well-versed in Alaska’s natural and cultural history, work to tailor each day’s activities based on guest preferences. Whether it’s kayaking through the calm waters of Endicott Arm, snorkeling in cold yet crystal-clear fjords, or going for a hike high above a glacier, the choice is yours and dependent on what level of physical activity you are most comfortable with. The guides make sure each exploration has a personalized touch as they offer insights, assistance, and flexibility that let you make the most of each day.
From Alaska’s vast, icy waters to its remote forest trails, every experience on UnCruise is about pushing the boundaries of exploration. Travelers are encouraged to immerse themselves fully, whether that’s through hands-on encounters like glacier hikes or simply enjoying the peaceful rhythm of Alaska from the deck. For those who dream of snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and paddleboarding, UnCruise provides all the gear you’ll need, ensuring safe, convenient access to these thrilling experiences.
At UnCruise Adventures, Alaska’s natural beauty and cultural richness are respected, cherished, and preserved. This is not your typical Alaska cruise; it’s a journey where each detail is considered, every adventure is included, and every traveler is a part of the story. As Alaska’s landscapes stretch before you, you’re not just an observer—you’re part of something bigger.
For more about Uncruise Adventures, visit their website at Uncruise.com and follow along on their social channels.
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Alaska
This Alaska cruise port lets you experience the wild, untouched state
At Icy Strait Point, visitors can spot whales and eagles while supporting a small Alaska community.
How cruise tourism could help and hurt Alaska’s environment
Although Alaskans rely on revenue tourism cruise ships bring in, some locals are raising concerns on the impact of tourism on Alaska’s environment.
Icy Strait Point in Hoonah, Alaska, offers a rare kind of cruise stop — one where nature, culture, and community take center stage. It was also specifically developed with tourists in mind.
Built on Huna Tlingit land near Hoonah, this privately owned destination was designed to spread visitors across 23,000 acres of wilderness rather than overwhelm the town. The result is a place where travelers can see bald eagles, sea lions, and crashing waves instead of traffic and tour buses.
Beyond its dramatic scenery, Icy Strait Point generates about $20 million in annual economic impact for a community of roughly 900 people, supporting hundreds of jobs, making it a model for how tourism can benefit residents while preserving Alaska’s character.
Why it matters
Located on Huna Tlingit land, Icy Strait Point shows how tourism can support small communities while preserving their identity. Places like this reflect a broader American story of stewardship, self-determination, and economic opportunity.
According to Icy Strait Point’s Senior Vice President, Tyler Hackman, the destination generates “$20 million a year of positive economic impact on a community of 900 people,” creating jobs while allowing Hoonah to remain distinctly itself.
What to see today
Unlike many cruise ports, Icy Strait Point feels remarkably undeveloped.
“This place is mostly untouched,” Hackman said. “When a ship comes into a dock here, somebody can be standing on the top deck of the ship, and you don’t see a parking lot, you don’t see a bus, you don’t see a vehicle.”
Visitors can take a gondola to the mountaintop for sweeping views, then follow Hackman’s advice and head to the beach in front of the historic cannery. There, they can search for shells, dip their hands in Alaska’s icy waters, and take in snowcapped peaks on the horizon — and maybe spot a humpback whale or an orca.
Ask a local
For a sweet stop with a bigger purpose, visit Lil’ Gen’s Mini-Doughnuts.
Operated by The Salvation Army, the shop serves warm mini-doughnuts to cruise visitors all summer. The impact extends far beyond dessert: Hackman said that in 2025, profits from the shop helped fund “$130,000 worth of food to the local community.”
It’s a delicious way to support Hoonah residents directly. Try the lemon sugaring.
Plan your visit
- Best time: May through September during the Alaska cruise season.
- Hours/admission: Open seasonally. Access is included with most cruise itineraries.
- Getting there: Primarily reached by cruise ship from Southeast Alaska itineraries.
- Learn more: https://icystraitpoint.com/
Alaska
Governor Dunleavy Names Stephen Cox his new Counsel to the Governor – Mike Dunleavy
Governor Mike Dunleavy today announced the appointment of Stephen Cox as his new Counsel to the Governor. The appointment comes after the legislature’s decision to not confirm him as attorney general, despite his extensive legal and public policy experience and proven record of defending Alaska’s interests both at home and on the national level. Cox’s responsibilities will be to advise Governor Dunleavy on a wide range of legal, regulatory, and constitutional matters affecting the State of Alaska.
Governor Dunleavy also appointed Cori Mills acting attorney general for the Alaska Department of Law. Mills has been with the department for 14 years and most recently served as deputy attorney general.
“Stephen Cox has a strong understanding of Alaska law and the challenges facing our state,” said Governor Dunleavy. “His experience, professionalism, and commitment to public service make him a valuable asset as Counsel to the Governor. I look forward to working with Stephen as we continue advancing policies that strengthen Alaska’s economy, uphold the rule of law, and serve the people of our state.”
As Counsel to the Governor, Cox will continue to work closely with the Department of Law and other executive branch departments to provide counsel on policy initiatives, legislation, and executive actions.
“I am honored to serve Governor Dunleavy and the people of Alaska in this new role,” said Stephen Cox. “I look forward to continue supporting the administration’s efforts to promote responsible resource development, governance and opportunities for Alaskans across the state.”
Cox assumes his new role effective today.
Alaska
Why Juneau should be on every Alaska traveler’s bucket list
Juneau blends towering glaciers, the Tongass National Forest and rich Indigenous culture.
How cruise tourism could help and hurt Alaska’s environment
Although Alaskans rely on revenue tourism cruise ships bring in, some locals are raising concerns on the impact of tourism on Alaska’s environment.
Juneau, Alaska, is the only U.S. state capital not accessible by road — a remoteness that adds to its magic and appeal.
Nestled between mountains, rainforest, and the waters of the Inside Passage, Juneau combines Alaska Native heritage, Gold Rush history, and some of the state’s most spectacular scenery.
Visitors can watch humpback whales surface offshore, ride a tram above downtown, stand face-to-face with or even on Mendenhall Glacier, a river of ice flowing from the vast Juneau Icefield. Surrounded by the Tongass National Forest — the world’s largest temperate rainforest — Juneau offers a quintessential Alaska experience where nature feels immense, and adventure begins just minutes from the cruise dock.
Why Juneau matters
Long before prospectors arrived in search of gold, the area now known as Juneau was home to the Áak’w Kwáan, whose name for this place — Áakʼw, often translated as “little lake” — reflects a deep connection to the surrounding land and water.
Russia later expanded into Alaska through the fur trade, bringing Orthodox missionaries, new trade networks, and profound cultural change to Indigenous communities across the region. Though Juneau rose to prominence during the Gold Rush and became the territorial capital after the United States purchased Alaska in 1867, the city still bears traces of both worlds.
As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, Juneau offers visitors a richer understanding of America’s layered history — one that’s shaped by Native stewardship, Russian influence, and the enduring resilience of southeast Alaska’s Indigenous peoples.
What to see today
The star attraction is Mendenhall Glacier, a 13.6-mile-long glacier that descends from the Juneau Icefield into a turquoise lake.
Easy trails lead to roaring Nugget Falls, while boardwalks along Steep Creek offer chances to spot spawning salmon and black bears. Back downtown, colorful floatplanes skim the harbor and the Mount Roberts Tramway lifts visitors above the city for sweeping views of Gastineau Channel and the surrounding mountains.
Ask a local
One of Juneau’s most whimsical attractions is Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure, tucked into the Tongass rainforest just outside downtown.
Locals and visitors alike love the upside-down trees known as “Flower Towers” — massive spruce trunks planted root-side up, bursting with colorful blooms. The display is a unique (and accidental) creation of master gardener Steve Bowhay.
It’s an eccentric sight that feels uniquely Alaskan, blending lush rainforest scenery with a touch of horticultural imagination.
Plan your visit
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