Welcome to Skagway, Alaska, our fourth and final port of call on a truly unforgettable Alaskan cruise aboard the majestic Island Princess. As the crisp Alaskan air filled our lungs and the breathtaking scenery unfolded before our eyes, anticipation built for one last grand adventure before sailing through the iconic Glacier Bay and disembarking in Whittier. Our chosen excursion? An exhilarating canoe tour leading us deep into the heart of the wilderness to behold the magnificent Davidson Glacier. This incredible journey was generously sponsored by Princess Cruise Lines, but rest assured, every opinion and glowing recommendation shared here is 100% my own, born from an experience I will cherish forever.
My inaugural cruise adventure, taken last May, saw me explore the wonders of Alaska alongside several dear friends, all thanks to Princess Cruises. It was a journey that far exceeded any expectations, truly an absolute highlight of my life. I am immensely grateful for the unparalleled opportunity Princess provided, and honestly, I haven’t stopped talking about the awe-inspiring sights and experiences since returning home. From the moment we set sail, every day brought a new marvel, but the Davidson Glacier Canoe Tour stands out as a unique and deeply immersive way to connect with Alaska’s raw beauty.
Embark on the Davidson Glacier Canoe Tour: An Unforgettable Skagway Adventure
Before we delve into the details of paddling towards a giant wall of ice, allow me to share a practical, yet crucial, piece of advice: use the restroom before you depart from shore. While outhouses are available at the remote Glacier Point, they are primitive and, to put it mildly, not for the faint of heart when it comes to scent. This secluded island wilderness offers no modern conveniences like porta-potty cleaning services, so trust your guides’ suggestion and prepare accordingly. A little planning goes a long way in ensuring your comfort on this wild Alaskan journey.
The adventure, officially known as the Glacier Point Wilderness Safari, commences with a picturesque 75-minute scenic cruise from Skagway. Our vessel navigated through Alaska’s deepest fjord, a waterway known for its dramatic cliffs and pristine waters. The boat itself was similar to one we’d enjoyed during a previous whale watching excursion, purpose-built with expansive viewing decks and large windows, ideal for spotting marine wildlife and capturing stunning photographs. This initial cruise isn’t merely transportation; it’s an integral part of the experience, offering a gradual immersion into the Alaskan wilderness.
Far from being a monotonous ride, the journey was filled with captivating sights and fascinating commentary. There was an abundance of beautiful, rugged terrain begging to be photographed, and we kept our eyes peeled for opportunities to spot various forms of Alaskan wildlife. The captain even made a couple of swift stops, allowing us to capture incredible images of Alaska’s numerous breathtaking waterfalls cascading down sheer rock faces, their icy waters merging with the fjord below. Each turn revealed a new panorama, a fresh perspective on this untamed land.
Our onboard guide, Tex, was a veritable encyclopedia of knowledge. He effortlessly shared an incredible wealth of information about the land, the marine life, the resilient people who call this region home, and the rich history of the area. He pointed out several remote homesteads, tiny specks of civilization where hardy individuals choose to live entirely off the grid, truly disconnected from modern amenities. It truly makes you ponder: could you adapt to a life without all the essential conveniences we so often take for granted?
Glacier Point: Gateway to the Davidson Glacier
Upon arrival at a secluded beach within Glacier Point, we were warmly greeted by the local excursion guides who would lead us on the next phase of our adventure. After a quick and welcome bite to eat, we boarded a rustic bus, embarking on a short but scenic journey down a dirt road. This path wound through a lush, moss-covered forest, an almost fairytale-like landscape, leading us directly to the “staging area” for the canoe safari. Along the way, we glimpsed several small, primitive cabins – a poignant reminder of the remote lives led by the dedicated tour guides who reside on the island for two to three weeks at a time, taking turns venturing back into town for supplies and respite. Their commitment to sharing this wild corner of the world is truly commendable.
Essential Gear for Your Davidson Glacier Canoe Tour
At the staging area, the guides efficiently helped us get outfitted with all the necessary gear: sturdy waders, insulated jackets, waterproof boots, a snug life vest, and an oar. While most essentials are provided, it’s vital to remember that waterproof gloves were not included. I strongly recommend bringing your own, and ideally, they should be fully waterproof, as our hands were quite soaked by the time we returned. The unpredictable Alaskan weather means even a calm day can turn wet, and paddling naturally splashes water into the canoe.
Though the provided jacket came with a hood, I still found myself grateful for bringing a scarf. During our visit in mid-May, the day was rainy, and temperatures hovered in the low 50s Fahrenheit, making the wind feel particularly biting. A scarf provided that extra layer of warmth and protection against the elements, significantly enhancing comfort. Being prepared for varying weather conditions is key to enjoying your Davidson Glacier excursion to the fullest.
Recommended Items to Enhance Your Canoe Tour in Alaska:
- Oilskin Cap: My friend’s husband wore one of these throughout our rainy canoe trip and swore by its effectiveness. It’s excellent for keeping your head dry and warm, especially when the rain is persistent.
- Waterproof Gloves: As mentioned, these are a non-negotiable. You’re in a canoe, which means you’re close to the water. While a sunny day might feel fine, Alaska’s weather is famously unpredictable. One day can be gloriously sunny, and the next can bring pouring rain, making waterproof gloves essential for comfort and warmth.
- Scarf: If your visit to Alaska is in late summer, you might find this less necessary. However, for a mid-May trip when temperatures were in the fifties and winds were brisk, a scarf was an absolute blessing. It offers crucial protection for your neck and face against the cold and wind.
- Camera or Cell Phone: This goes without saying! Alaska offers an endless tapestry of photo opportunities – pictures, pictures, and more pictures! Don’t forget to capture videos as well. You’ll be incredibly busy documenting every breathtaking moment of your Davidson Glacier adventure.
- Mobile Charger/Power Bank: If there’s one lesson I learned on this trip, it’s that your cell phone battery will deplete rapidly. The sheer volume of photos and videos you’ll be taking will quickly drain it. Bringing a reliable mobile charger ensures you won’t miss any of those once-in-a-lifetime, picture-perfect moments near the Skagway glacier.
Allow ample time for everyone to get properly geared up; there’s no need to rush when selecting your waders. I, unfortunately, rushed and didn’t choose a pair long enough, resulting in wet pant cuffs – a minor inconvenience, but easily avoidable. Most importantly, be prepared to get wet, especially if it’s a rainy day, as embracing the elements is part of the Alaskan experience!
Once everyone is fully equipped, a short, invigorating hike through the dense, verdant forest leads you down to the shore. Here, you’re immediately greeted by a breathtaking vista of the serene lake, stretching out towards the distant, majestic Davidson Glacier. Along the well-maintained trail, trees are thoughtfully marked with years, serving as striking indicators of the glacier’s historical retreat. It’s truly humbling and somewhat startling to visualize just how far this immense ice formation has receded over the last several decades, offering a powerful testament to the dynamic nature of our planet.
Paddling to The Davidson Glacier: An Icy Encounter
Our journey continued aboard robust, 31-foot long voyager canoes, each capable of accommodating up to ten people. Our particular canoe had a total of nine – eight passengers and our experienced guide, who skillfully managed the stern. Before setting off, our canoe tour guide provided clear, concise instructions on how to paddle effectively and in unison, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable start. Once we and our fellow canoe-mates efficiently rowed out of the shallows and into deeper water, our guide engaged the canoe’s motor, allowing us to cruise effortlessly across the tranquil lake towards the magnificent glacier’s shore.
It’s truly remarkable how, even as you approach by water, the immense Davidson Glacier doesn’t appear as overwhelmingly large as you might imagine. However, the true scale of this natural wonder only reveals itself once you step out of the canoe and gaze out towards its towering face. We quickly spotted other groups of people trekking near the glacier, and from our perspective on the shore, they looked no bigger than tiny ants against the colossal backdrop of ice. This striking visual truly underscores the awe-inspiring, monumental scale of Alaska’s glaciers.
If you examine the photo above closely, you’ll discern small, dark dots near the face of the glacier. Yes, those are indeed people! Their tiny figures serve as a powerful reminder of the truly monumental and awe-inspiring scale of Alaska’s glaciers, which effortlessly command respect and wonder from all who witness them up close.
From the landing point, you can embark on an exhilarating trek across the unique black sand beaches that stretch towards the Davidson Glacier. This incredible opportunity allows you to fully immerse yourself in the glacial environment. Here, you can refresh yourself with a drink of pure, fresh glacier water, capture truly memorable photographs with the towering ice as your backdrop, and even hold a tangible piece of the ancient ice itself – a chillingly wonderful souvenir.
April of Mama Loves Food
The ground leading up to the glacier’s edge is adorned with an astonishing array of smooth, water-worn stones, displaying a multitude of captivating colors. Among these, we discovered some particularly striking deep green stones, each encircled by a distinct white stripe. Our guide shared that these were locally known as “moon rocks,” though you might recognize them as “story stones.” He explained that they are widely believed to bring good luck, and we were kindly permitted to collect a couple as unique, natural souvenirs of our extraordinary visit to the Davidson Glacier. After this profound and exhilarating encounter with the ice, we re-boarded our canoes, ready to begin our peaceful journey back to camp, and subsequently, back to the boat for our return to Skagway.
Wet hair, don’t care
Exploring the Quaint Town of Skagway
Upon your return to Skagway after the exhilarating Davidson Glacier Canoe Tour, I highly recommend taking the convenient shuttle into town. Skagway, though tiny, is an incredibly quaint and charming historic town that offers a delightful contrast to the wild natural beauty you’ve just experienced. It’s a perfect opportunity to stretch your legs and soak in some local Alaskan flavor.
Despite its small size – spanning only about a mile at its longest – Skagway boasts a surprising number of shops, including an astonishing concentration of jewelry stores, more than I’ve ever seen in such a compact area! You’ll also find a couple of excellent local eateries where you can refuel and reflect on your day’s adventures. It’s a town steeped in Gold Rush history, with wooden boardwalks and historic buildings that transport you back in time.
For all you motorcycle enthusiasts out there, Skagway holds a special treat: you can find the Chilkoot Pass Harley-Davidson shop, a unique outpost for Harley lovers amidst the Alaskan frontier!
Here’s a fascinating historical tidbit about Skagway: the town’s name was originally spelled “Skaguay.” However, the U.S. Post Office eventually insisted on a spelling change to its current “Skagway.” A delightful nod to this history can still be found today: The News Depot building proudly retains the old “Skaguay” spelling on its facade, a small but charming link to the town’s past.
As the day gracefully concludes, there’s no need to worry about the typical travel stresses of battling traffic or finding your way back to a hotel room. Instead, you simply head back to the comfort and luxury of your cruise ship, the magnificent Island Princess. Once aboard, you can indulge in a sophisticated Key Lime Pie Martini or savor a serving of decadent Espresso Creme Brulee. It’s the perfect way to unwind and relax after an exhausting, yet utterly deliciously fun and fulfilling, day exploring the Skagway wilderness and town.
Curious About More Alaskan Cruise Adventures?
The Davidson Glacier Canoe Tour in Skagway was just one highlight of my extraordinary Alaskan cruise. If you’re planning your own adventure or simply dreaming of one, I invite you to explore more of my travel chronicles. Dive into my detailed reviews of the exhilarating whale watching excursion I embarked on at Icy Strait Point, where majestic marine life put on an unforgettable show. Discover the thrill of the Mendenhall Glacier helicopter tour I took while exploring Juneau, Alaska, offering unparalleled aerial views of ancient ice formations. And don’t miss the serene yet utterly captivating boat cruise through the legendary Glacier Bay, a destination of unparalleled natural grandeur. Each experience was absolutely breathtaking and showcased a different facet of Alaska’s incredible beauty!
