Skagway’s Majestic Davidson Glacier Canoe Tour: An Unforgettable Alaska Cruise Excursion

As our incredible Alaskan cruise aboard the Island Princess drew to its breathtaking conclusion, we found ourselves at our fourth and final port: the historic town of Skagway, Alaska. Before navigating the serene waters of Glacier Bay and eventually reaching Whittier, one last grand adventure awaited us. We eagerly booked the captivating Davidson Glacier Canoe Tour, an excursion that promised an intimate encounter with Alaska’s pristine wilderness. This unforgettable journey was generously sponsored by Princess Cruise Lines, and while my trip was hosted, all views and experiences shared here are entirely my own, reflecting my genuine enthusiasm for this remarkable adventure.

My first Alaskan Cruise in May, shared with several dear friends courtesy of Princess Cruises, was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. From the moment we set sail, I was utterly captivated by the majestic landscapes and the unparalleled sense of adventure. Since returning home, I haven’t stopped raving about the journey, grateful for the incredible opportunity Princess gave me to explore the wonders of the Last Frontier.

Davidson Glacier Canoe Tour: Your Alaskan Adventure Awaits

Before diving into the heart of the excursion, here’s a practical tip that might seem a little unconventional but is absolutely crucial for your comfort: visit the restroom before you leave the main shore. While primitive outhouses are available at the remote Glacier Point, they are exactly that – primitive. Given the island’s secluded nature, there’s no regular porta-potty cleaning service, so the facilities can be a bit… rustic. Trust me, your guides will echo this suggestion before you embark!

The Glacier Point Wilderness Safari begins with a scenic 75-minute cruise from Skagway, taking you deep into one of Alaska’s most profound fjords. We traveled on a comfortable vessel, much like the one used for our earlier whale watching excursion. These boats are specially designed with large viewing windows and open decks, perfect for marine wildlife spotting and capturing stunning photographs of the rugged coastline.

Far from boring, the journey through the fjord was a highlight in itself! Every turn offered new, breathtaking terrain, with opportunities to spot diverse wildlife like seals, eagles, and even the occasional whale if you’re lucky. Our boat made a couple of strategic, quick stops for us to capture photographs of Alaska’s magnificent waterfalls, cascading down sheer rock faces into the deep blue waters below. It’s moments like these, surrounded by such raw natural beauty, that truly define an Alaskan cruise.

Our onboard guide, Tex, was an absolute treasure trove of information, sharing fascinating insights into the land, marine life, indigenous cultures, and rich history of the area. He pointed out several remote homesteads, where hardy individuals live completely off the grid, relying on their wits and the bounty of nature. It made us ponder: in a world so reliant on modern conveniences, could we truly adapt to a life without all the essentials we often take for granted?

Glacier Point Arrival and Essential Preparation

Upon arrival at a secluded beach in Glacier Point, we were warmly greeted by the local excursion guides who call this remote outpost home for weeks at a time. After a quick and refreshing bite to eat, we boarded a rugged bus that navigated a winding dirt road, leading us through a strikingly beautiful, moss-draped old-growth forest to the “staging area” for our safari. Along the way, we caught glimpses of the small, primitive cabins where the guides reside, rotating back to town every 2-3 weeks for supplies and a taste of civilization.

Gearing Up for Your Davidson Glacier Canoe Tour

At the staging area, the guides efficiently helped us get outfitted with all the necessary gear: sturdy waders, waterproof jackets, reliable boots, a comfortable life vest, and an oar. It’s important to remember that gloves are not provided, so I highly recommend bringing your own. Ideally, these should be waterproof, as your hands will be exposed to the elements and the occasional splash. My own gloves, though not fully waterproof, were pretty well soaked by the time we returned, a testament to the unpredictable Alaskan weather!

While the provided jacket does have a hood, I still strongly suggest bringing a scarf. We visited in mid-May, and despite the season, it was a rainy day with temperatures hovering in the low 50s. A scarf provided much-needed warmth and protection against the wind and drizzle. Dressing in layers is always key for an Alaskan excursion!

Essential Packing List for Your Alaska Canoe Tour:

• Oilskin Cap: My friend’s husband wore one of these, and he swore by it, especially considering we had rain for the entire duration of our canoe trip. It offers excellent protection from the elements, keeping your head dry and warm.
• Waterproof Gloves: This is a non-negotiable item. You’ll be in a canoe, which means your hands will be near and in the water. While a sunny day might be fine, Alaska’s weather is notoriously unpredictable. One moment it could be clear, the next pouring rain. Waterproof gloves will keep your hands comfortable and functional.
• Scarf: Even if your jacket has a hood, a scarf provides an extra layer of warmth and protection around your neck and face from the often-chilly winds. If you’re traveling in late summer, it might be less critical, but in mid-May, when temperatures can drop into the fifties, it’s a welcome comfort.
• Camera or Cell Phone: You will want to capture every single moment of this incredible journey! From the serene forest to the majestic glacier, photo opportunities abound. Don’t forget video to truly relive the experience.
• Mobile Charger/Power Bank: Trust me on this one. Your cell phone battery will drain surprisingly fast due to the sheer volume of pictures and videos you’ll be taking. A reliable mobile charger is essential to ensure you don’t miss any of those once-in-a-lifetime, picture-perfect moments with a dead battery.

It does take a little time for everyone in the group to get properly geared up, so don’t feel rushed when selecting your waders. I learned this the hard way: I rushed and didn’t choose a pair that was long enough, resulting in wet pant cuffs. So, take your time to ensure a good fit. And generally, be prepared to get a little wet – especially if it’s a rainy day, which is always a possibility in Alaska!

Once everyone is fully equipped and ready, you’ll embark on a short, invigorating hike through the lush forest, descending towards the serene lake shore. Here, you’ll be greeted by a truly breathtaking panoramic view of the expansive lake, stretching out towards the distant, glittering glacier. As you walk along the well-maintained trail, look for trees marked with years – these poignant markers indicate the glacier’s edge during those specific times. It’s a humbling and truly incredible experience to witness firsthand how significantly the glacier has receded over the past several decades, a stark reminder of our changing planet.

Canoeing to The Magnificent Davidson Glacier

The impressive 31-foot long voyager canoes are designed to comfortably accommodate up to ten people. Our group consisted of eight passengers and our experienced guide, who skillfully navigated from the stern. Before setting off, your canoe tour guide will provide clear instructions on how to paddle in unison, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey. Once you and your fellow canoe-mates have expertly rowed out of the shallow waters, your guide will start the motor, and you’ll then cruise effortlessly across the serene lake towards the glacier’s ancient, icy shore.

It’s truly remarkable how, even as you approach its shores, the glacier doesn’t initially appear as massive as you might expect. However, the true scale of the Davidson Glacier becomes incredibly apparent once you step out of the canoe and gaze across the landscape. We could spot other groups of people trekking near the glacier face, and from our perspective, they looked no larger than tiny ants! This optical illusion highlights the sheer, immense size of this natural wonder.

If you look very closely at the photo above, you’ll discern small, dark specks near the face of the glacier. Yes, those are actual people! This gives you a profound sense of scale and truly emphasizes the awe-inspiring grandeur of Alaska’s magnificent glaciers. Standing before such a powerful natural force is an experience that stays with you long after the journey ends.

From the landing spot, you’ll have the incredible opportunity to trek across the unique black sand beaches directly towards the Davidson Glacier. Here, you can truly connect with this ancient ice: taste fresh, pure glacier water, capture indelible photographs that will serve as cherished memories, and even hold a tangible piece of the glacier’s age-old ice in your hands. It’s a sensory experience that brings the vastness of Alaska right to your fingertips.

The ground leading up to the glacier is a fascinating tapestry of smooth, rounded stones, dazzling in a multitude of colors. Among them, we discovered some deep green stones adorned with distinctive white stripes. Our guide shared that these were locally known as “moon rocks,” though you might recognize them as “story stones.” He explained that they are believed to bring good luck, and we were kindly permitted to collect a couple as unique souvenirs of our journey to the glacier.

After a memorable exploration of the glacier’s surroundings, it was time to re-enter our canoes and begin the journey back. We paddled with renewed energy back to the base camp, then boarded the vessel for the scenic return cruise to Skagway. The entire round trip felt like a journey through time, a perfect blend of active adventure and profound natural appreciation.

Exploring the Historic Town of Skagway

Upon your return to Skagway after the invigorating canoe tour, I highly recommend taking the convenient shuttle into town. This quaint, historically rich town is a gem, offering a delightful contrast to the wild expanses you just experienced. Skagway holds a significant place in Alaskan history as a gateway to the Klondike Gold Rush, and its streets still echo with the tales of prospectors and pioneers.

While Skagway is indeed small – its main street stretches only about a mile – it’s packed with character. You’ll find a surprising number of jewelry shops, alongside a variety of other unique local stores perfect for finding souvenirs. There are also a couple of excellent eateries where you can enjoy a hearty meal after your adventure. Beyond shopping and dining, take time to appreciate the well-preserved false-front buildings, which transport you back to the late 19th century. You can also visit museums detailing the Gold Rush era or even take a ride on the scenic White Pass & Yukon Route Railway if time permits.

For all you motorcycle enthusiasts and Harley-Davidson lovers out there, you’ll be thrilled to discover the Chilkoot Pass Harley-Davidson shop right here in Skagway! It’s a fun and unexpected find in this historic frontier town, offering unique merchandise for riders.

Fun Fact: Did you know the town’s name was originally spelled “Skaguay”? The U.S. Post Office eventually insisted on a spelling change to “Skagway.” Interestingly, the historic News Depot building in town still proudly carries the original “Skaguay” spelling on its façade, a little nod to its past.

At the end of an exhilarating day, there’s no better feeling than heading back to the comfort and luxury of your cruise ship. Forget the hassle of fighting traffic back to a hotel room; simply climb aboard the magnificent Island Princess. You can then unwind and reflect on your adventures, perhaps by ordering a delightful Key Lime Pie Martini or indulging in a rich serving of Espresso Creme Brulee. It’s the perfect way to relax and rejuvenate after an exhausting, yet utterly deliciously fun, day exploring the Alaskan wilderness!

Curious about the rest of my Alaskan Cruise?

If this taste of Skagway has piqued your interest, you’ll love reading about my other incredible adventures in Alaska! Be sure to check out my detailed reviews of the exhilarating whale watching excursion I embarked on at Icy Strait Point, the truly once-in-a-lifetime Mendenhall Glacier helicopter tour I experienced while visiting Juneau, Alaska, and the serene yet spectacular boat cruise through the iconic Glacier Bay. Each experience was absolutely breathtaking and offered a unique perspective on the unparalleled beauty of Alaska!