Having visited Alaska both by land and sea several times, we have some great Alaskan art that we cherish.
Alaska has over 60 museums and cultural centers covering its history, the Russian occupation, gold booms – and busts as told in art and artifacts. Of course, the art of the Alaska native cultures is especially exciting to art-lovers. Beadwork, masks, carving, and basketry are some of the favorite collectable items.
Tip: When shopping in Alaska, be sure to look for the silver hand logo that denotes the object was created by an Alaskan native artist using local materials.
This year, due to Covid, many of the major cruise lines are unlikely to be able to sail due to the facts that U.S. maritime law requires most ships to make a stop in a foreign port and Canada has announced they will not allow ships to stop at their ports during 2021. The major cruise lines are trying to come up with work-arounds, but big ship cruising Alaska this year seems unlikely.
However, you still can cruise Alaska on one of the few ships we know will be able to sail. These are U.S. flagged ships that carry 100 or fewer passengers. These cabins will sell out quickly because demand is intense. Also, land only trips are a viable option. There are also land-based guided vacations.
The good news is–if you go this year, the crowds are likely to be much smaller.