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In general the cruise excursions in Alaska are of very good quality, there is a very wide choice, however they are all rather expensive in my opinion.
Another 'must-do' is the White Pass Mountain Railway in Skagway.
We did a float plane trip, but I think I enjoyed the 'White Pass' better, it was also cheaper! However, that is not to say that you would not think that it was great.
[This message has been edited by Malcolm (edited 03-10-2001).]
quote:Originally posted by cobra:Would anyone recommend any excursions in San Diego, San Francisco, Catalina Island and Alaska. Anyone been on the float plane?Would appreciate hearing from you.
San Diego: There is alwany Sea World if you are interested in that. There is a Trolly Bus Tour that can be booked either on the ship or on the street in front of the pier. It has I believe 6 stops that you can get off look around and re-board to the next one. There is also a free shuttles to a large shopping mall about 3/4 mile from the pier or Seaport Village, an area of shops and a marina. There are also tours of Coronado and the Navy base. Near the dock you can also catch a ferry over to Coronado.
Catalina: Most of the island is a preserve. When we were there we got together with another couple, and rented a golf cart. It cost $30/hr if you keep it for 2-hrs the 3rd if free. It takes about 1 hour to drive everywhere you can. We stoped at the Botanical Gardens ($3)and toured them and climbed up the Wrigley Momorial. Taking our time, we had the cart for about 2-1/2 hrs. There is also a snorkling tour available. It is not as good as the Carib. for snorkling. Water not as clear and you need to use a wetsuit.
San Fransico: Exploring the waterfront is easy from the where the ship docks. There are several boat excursions available right there. Although we do not often eat anything ashore while on a cruise, (why spend the extra money) we do have a sourdough bread bowl of chowder of the Wharf.
Ketchikan: We have taken the floatplane trip. It was wonderful but pricey. I am glad we did it but don't expect to do it again.
Juneau: If you are going to any other glaciers, skip Mendenhal(sp)unless you want to see it my way of the helocopter tour. It is not much to see on the bus tour. I don't recall what else is offered there.
Skagway: As Malcom said, the White Pass & Yukon RR is a must see. You should still have time to explore the town.
It sounds like you are combining a coastal with an Alaska trip. Are you by chance looking at the Radiance for the coastal? You mentioned 3 of the 4 ports it will be stoping at.
quote:Originally posted by cobra:Thank you all for the info. We are taking the Mercury for an 11 night cruise starting in San Diego the end of April.
I did a similar trip on The Mercury in 1998. However we started in LA.
Nice ship the Mercury, very clean, spacious and good food and service. A good choice!
Agree with Malcolm, pre-book Alcatraz tour tickets. There may be quite a few days wait until there is availability when you arrive.
If you are still interested in Orca tours (Captain Larry) email them for info at:whales@ptialaska.net
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