Skagway Alaska

Visiting Skagway is like going back in time to the early 1900s. The small town has changed amazingly little since the Gold Rush, and provides a glimpse how it would have been to live in those times. The port is a little walk to the town (about a half mile). There are also great views of mountains surrounding the town, and you may even see a Bald Eagle from the ship while its docked.

• Walk the old town - While the shopping and restaurant options are limited, the feel of just walking through Skagway is amazing. You're hard pressed to find any modern buildings in the entire town.

• Visit a brewery = Despite having only a population of 1200, there are two craft breweries located in Skagway.

• Alaskan weather - The rainy season starts in late July and runs through fall, but it's not as wet as some southern Alaskan ports. It's the furthest north of the ports, but also notably less maritime so temperatures can actually be warmer or colder than most other ports. Think long pants and maybe a sweatshirt, although you may have to change during the day.

• Enjoy the views sailing in and out - The channel you sail through to get is is absolutely amazing. Grab a spot on deck or on your balcony and enjoy.

Top your Own Excursion: White pass summit train. This is offered by almost every cruise, but you can book on your own and since there will be hundreds of cruisers on the same train, you don't really need to worry about a delay because if there is they will have to wait for those who paid for the excursion through the cruise line. The train ride offers great views as it travels to Canada (no passport needed). Don't worry, Canada isn't far.

Top Booked Excursion: Any glacier or helicopter tour. This is a great port to see any of the numerous glaciers. Skagway is in a narrow pass and the views in and around it are nothing short of spectacular.

Transportation: Very limited. Mainly walking, don't even count on finding a taxi or Uber, the primary roads to Skagway run through Canada.

Safety: A- Overall a very safe port with limited local crime risk. As with other Alaskan ports, you do need to be aware of bear if you wander outside of town.

Port Rating: B+ Limited dining and transportation options, but the downtown is so unique that we love visiting this port. Also spectacular surrounding scenery and surprisingly good breweries. The main downside is limited options if you visit this port multiple times.