Alaska is considered the Last Frontier. It’s a magical place where wilderness still reigns supreme, untouched by human intervention. It’s a place of breathtaking beauty — which is why a luxury Alaska vacation is on so many travelers’ bucket lists. If it’s on yours too, here’s how to explore Alaska the sophisticated way. Discover how luxury amenities and high-end comforts complement unbelievable excursions and activities that grant you incredible access to one of the world’s last truly wild places:
1. Stay in a Luxury Alaska Vacation Lodge
It’s the perfect combination of rusticity and refinement — an ultra luxurious lodge experience in the Alaskan wilderness. Luxury lodges take “glamping” to a whole new level. Imagine coming home after a day spent exploring Alaska’s incredible landscapes to a top-shelf whiskey nightcap waiting for you beside the roaring fire. Or reveling in the designer touches of your suite, replete with hand-hewn wood pieces and warm cashmere throws. And if you’re looking for a good meal — Alaska’s luxury lodges deliver. Many have on-site fine dining restaurants or offer morning breakfasts that showcase Alaska’s wild bounty.
Perhaps the best thing about staying in a high-end lodge during your luxury Alaska vacation is the remoteness. Many of these lodges are far removed from Alaska’s main cities, requiring a car ride, floatplane, or helicopter to get there. You’ll truly feel like you’re living on the edge of the world — and there’s nothing more luxurious and restorative than that.
In a luxury Alaskan vacation lodge, you're living on the edge of the world. Click To TweetLuxury lodges in Alaska worth a stay include: Ultima Thule Lodge, accessible only by bush-plane; Favorite Bay Lodge, a luxury fishing lodge in Southeast Alaska; and Talon Lodge & Spa, featuring Alaska’s only open-air massage pavilion.
2. Pack Your Itinerary With Wow-Worthy Activities
For a truly luxury experience, be sure to go beyond hiking during your luxury Alaska vacation. Here are a few of our favorite ways to upgrade a getaway to the Last Frontier:
Photography Tours:
Alaska is a photographer’s paradise. Whether you’re an amateur enthusiast or a pro, a luxury Alaska vacation is the perfect opportunity to pull out your camera and capture pictures of some of the most breathtaking landscapes on earth. For a truly luxurious and educational experience, opt for a tour with a professional photographer who can take you to prime spots that most miss.
Helicopter or Small Plane Tours:
This remote state may best be viewed from above. Charter a helicopter for a few hours — or even a full day — to explore the most remote regions of Alaska from the air in luxurious style. In fact, a helicopter or plane tour may be the best way to see Denali, the highest mountain peak in North America.
Whale Watching:
The Alaskan wilderness is known for its animals — from gruff grizzlies to migrating bison. Don’t forget, though, that Alaska’s chilly waters are teeming with incredible wildlife as well. In fact, a whale watching tour aboard a top-notch vessel is a must-do luxury Alaska activity. Spot majestic humpback whales, athletic orcas, and other giants of the deep from your ship.
“We had the most marvelous time of our lives on this luxury cruise. I’ve never thought that I would be spoiled and pampered as I did for my birthday. The staff treated me like I was the only passenger on the ship, and the food — omg! You couldn’t get enough; they had so much of a variety to choose from! I want to thank you for your help on choosing this luxury cruise for us and I’m already looking forward to next year!”
3. Explore Luxury Alaska Cruise Options
For a true luxury experience, a high-end cruise may be your best bet. Nimble cruise ships get you close the action while keeping you comfortable on board. Here are a few of our favorite luxury Alaska cruise lines:
Crystal Cruises:
Marvel at the Last Frontier aboard a sophisticated ship from Crystal Cruises. Nine passenger decks shared between fewer than 900 passengers means this mid-size luxury Alaskan cruise line gives you plenty of space. What’s more, many of Crystal Cruises’ Alaskan itineraries also include a ride on the White Pass Scenic Railway for an unforgettable train experience.
Regent Seven Seas:
Regent Seven Seas offers all-inclusive Alaska cruises for the adventurous at heart who also crave luxury and comfort. Unlimited excursions, fine wines and premium spirits, plus free specialty restaurants add up to an incredible experience on board and off. Plus, every Regent Seven Seas luxury Alaska cruise comes with guest lectures by a noted Alaskan specialist.
Seabourn Cruises:
Nothing’s more luxurious than the yacht style cruising you’ll experience with Seabourn Cruises. Seabourn’s ships have no more than 300 suites, making for a truly intimate experience. Marvel at glaciers, old growth forests, and fjords during the day, then celebrate with caviar and champagne at night on the ship!
Let Us Plan Your Bucket-List Luxury Alaska Vacation!
Ready to escape to the wondrous wilderness of Alaska — and want to do it in style? The team at Southern Travel Agency, experts in luxury vacations, would love to help you get there. Get in touch today for a complimentary planning call so we can bring your luxury Alaska vacation dreams to life!