There's never a dull day on an Alaskan cruise, and whether your ship is scheduled to make a port call, cruise by glaciers, or glide through majestic fjords, you'll have constant opportunities to explore the culture, wildlife, history, and amazing scenery that make Alaska so unique. Most Alaskan port cities are small and easily explored on foot, but if you prefer to be shown the sights, a bevy of ship-organized shore excursions is available at every stop. Popular activities include city tours, flightseeing, charter fishing, river rafting, and visits to native communities. One of the most thrilling experiences is a helicopter flight that lands on a glacier, where dog mushing teams are straining at their harnesses to take you for a ride across the snowy terrain. And if your cruise line doesn't offer a particular pastime that you long to experience, don't be afraid to organize your own tours or activities through a local vendor.