The White Pass & Yukon Railway: the star of your Skagway port day
We love to visit Skagway, Alaska, on our Alaskan cruises. Skagway highlights include the Skagway Brewing Company pub, shops featuring Alaskan artisans, and picturesque scenery via a journey on the White Pass & Yukon Railway.
The White Pass & Yukon Railway is a fitting excursion for all ages and will especially appeal to history buffs and photographers.
In fact, a former colleague let me know that his favorite part of his entire Alaskan cruise week was the White Pass railway. It’s a popular excursion for a reason, so you’ll want to be sure to book your train ticket in advance.
The White Pass & Yukon Railway is somewhat of a “splurge” excursion, with tickets for the 2021 Alaska cruise season starting at $130 for adults. (Children’s tickets are half price.) But since it is an only-in-Skagway experience, we’re glad we spent the money.
Booking an Excursion on the White Pass & Yukon Railway
Often you can get tickets via a cruiseline excursion. This may add in other features such as transportation to/from the ship and the train depot. Depending on where your ship docks, you may be able to board the train right at the pier.
(As of July 31, 2018, the railway has new owners. Carnival Corporation, the cruise line parent company that owns Holland America, Princess, Carnival, and more, purchased the railway and port. I expect that this acquisition may provide even better transportation and convenience for cruise ship passengers. Stay turned!)
The White Pass Summit Excursion
The cruiselines usually offer the White Pass Summit excursion. You’ll travel roundtrip over 2.5 – 2.75 hours to an elevation over 2,800 feet.
During this particular excursion, the Summit Excursion route, the train stays within Alaska (as opposed to traveling into the Yukon Territory, Canada), so you won’t need a passport.
On board the railcars, there are restrooms and full narration.
I enjoyed learning about the Klondike Gold Rush and marveled at the tenacity of the workers who built the railroad.
On this relaxing train journey, you may also spy cascading waterfalls and wildlife such as bears or moose.
Not all Alaska cruise itineraries stop in Skagway. If you think you might enjoy the White Pass & Yukon Railway, you won’t regret choosing an itinerary that includes Skagway as a port.
Let’s make the most of our vacation days!
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