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How to become a travel agent in Alaska
Becoming a travel agent in Alaska is an exciting and rewarding career path that allows you to combine your passion for travel with the unique beauty and adventure of the Last Frontier. As a travel agent, you will have the opportunity to plan and book travel itineraries, organize activities and excursions, and provide invaluable local knowledge to your clients.
To get started, it is essential to understand the role of a travel agent. Travel agents earn their income by planning trips for clients, handling all aspects of travel arrangements, including booking flights, accommodations, and organizing activities. In Alaska, this role is particularly rewarding as you can leverage your local expertise to create once-in-a-lifetime experiences for your clients, from tours of Anchorage and Denali to visits to the epic Alaskan landscapes.
Launched by industry veterans, Vincent Vacations is working to carve out a niche as a boutique, community-driven agency designed by advisors, for advisors.
Become a travel agent with no experience! We provide the education for you to learn and become successful at your own pace.The legal requirements for becoming a travel agent in Alaska are straightforward. The main requirement is obtaining an IATA number, a unique identifier that allows a travel business to conduct business. Most travel agents choose to work with a host business, which provides access to the IATA number, as well as other essential resources and support.
While formal certification is not mandatory, it is highly encouraged. Certifications such as the Alaska Certified Expert (ACE) can significantly enhance your knowledge and credibility. Many host agencies, like Vincent Vacations or Travel Agent Pro and Disney Magical Vacations, offer comprehensive training programs that include certification as part of their packages. These programs cover everything from travel agent basics and industry terminology to practical sales training and how to use proprietary booking systems.
Choosing the right host business is crucial for your success as a travel agent. A host business provides vital support, including access to booking systems, partner programs, marketing support, and training. It is important to find a host business that aligns with your needs, values, and career goals. Some agencies offer additional perks such as community and networking opportunities, which can be invaluable for building your client base and staying updated with industry trends.
As you embark on this career, you will also need to consider how you will earn money. Travel agents in Alaska earn commissions from partners such as hotels, cruise lines, and tour operators. Additionally, you can charge planning fees to clients. The flexibility of this career allows you to work from anywhere, whether it be from home or while traveling, making it an ideal choice for those who value flexibility and independence.
To become a travel agent in Alaska, you must meet some basic requirements. One of the key criteria is the age requirement; you must be at least 18 years old to apply for and work as a travel agent. Additionally, some host agencies and employers may conduct background checks as part of their hiring process. This is to ensure the integrity and trustworthiness of the individuals handling client travel arrangements and sensitive information.
Unlike some other professions, becoming a travel agent in Alaska does not require a formal education such as a high school diploma or a bachelor's degree. However, having some level of education can be beneficial in terms of developing essential skills like communication, customer service, and organizational abilities.
Check out our preferred suppliers list. From luxury to safaris to Hawaii, you can sell all our suppliers and their experiences to your clients in Alaska and anywhere in the US!
Our Suppliers List
While formal education is not mandatory, many aspiring travel agents find it helpful to take courses or participate in training programs that focus on travel industry basics, customer service, and sales techniques. These programs can provide valuable insights and practical skills that can enhance your career as a travel agent.
Host agencies often offer comprehensive training programs that include certification and ongoing education, which can significantly enhance your knowledge and credibility in the field. For example, certifications like the Alaska Certified Expert (ACE) can provide specialized knowledge about Alaska's destinations and travel experiences, making you a more competent and attractive candidate to potential clients.
Even if formal education is not required, staying updated with industry trends and continuous learning is key to success in this field. Many host agencies provide resources and support for ongoing education and professional development.
As a travel agent in Alaska, one of your primary roles is to plan and customize travel itineraries for your clients. This involves understanding their preferences, budget, and the purpose of their trip to create a tailored experience. You will need to leverage your local knowledge to suggest the best destinations, such as tours of Anchorage, Denali, and Fairbanks, as well as visits to Alaska's epic landscapes. The Alaska Certified Expert (ACE) certification program can be particularly helpful in this regard, as it provides in-depth training on the various regions of Alaska and how to design custom itineraries that meet clients' needs.
Booking flights and accommodations is a crucial part of a travel agent's job. You will need to use specialized booking systems and partner programs provided by your host business to secure the best deals for your clients. This involves coordinating with airlines, hotels, and other travel providers to ensure seamless travel arrangements. Your host business will typically provide access to these systems and training on how to use them effectively.
Working with a host business like Vincent Vacations or Travel Agent Pro, you will have access to a range of tools and resources that make booking flights and accommodations efficient and straightforward. This support is essential for providing high-quality service to your clients.
Launched by industry veterans, Vincent Vacations is working to carve out a niche as a boutique, community-driven agency designed by advisors, for advisors.
Become a travel agent with no experience! We provide the education for you to learn and become successful at your own pace.Organizing activities and excursions is another key aspect of being a travel agent in Alaska. You will need to recommend and book various experiences such as wildlife tours, aurora viewing, dog sledding, and other unique Alaskan activities. The ACE program and other training resources will help you understand the logistics of traveling within the state, including modes of transportation and seasonal activities.
Alaska offers a range of seasonal activities, from summer hiking and kayaking to winter aurora viewing and the Iditarod Sled Dog Race. Understanding these seasonal variations is crucial for organizing activities that align with your clients' interests and the time of year they visit.
Seasonal Activities
To become a travel agent in Alaska, one of the primary legal requirements is obtaining an IATA number. This unique identifier is essential for conducting business as a travel business. The IATA number allows you to earn commissions on the travel you book and is a standard requirement in the industry.
Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
What started as a side gig has lead to a full-time career that I absolutely love! I truly believe there is nothing like travel and I love what I do. I am SO thankful for everyone that has supported me and trusted me to help plan their adventures. I have made some awesome lifelong friends and look forward to traveling together!
Most travel agents in Alaska choose to work with a host business to simplify the process of obtaining an IATA number and to gain access to various resources and support. Host agencies like Vincent Vacations or Travel Agent Pro, Disney Magical Vacations, and others provide the necessary infrastructure for independent travel agents to operate effectively.
A host business offers more than just an IATA number; it provides access to booking systems, partner programs, marketing support, and comprehensive training. This support is invaluable for new and experienced agents alike, ensuring you have everything needed to succeed in the industry.
When working with a host business, you benefit from their established relationships with travel suppliers, which can lead to better deals and more options for your clients. Additionally, host agencies often provide ongoing training and education, helping you stay updated with industry trends and best practices.
Host agencies offer a range of benefits, including access to proprietary booking engines, customer relationship management (CRM) systems, and fraud and scam detection training. For example, Disney Magical Vacations's training includes modules on how to use their CRM and booking engine, as well as how to detect and prevent fraud.
Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
I'm so thankful I took the leap and joined the Vincent Vacations Team! Fantastic company, fantastic training, fellow agents and so much fun! Looking forward to 2025!
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Access to IATA Number | Legitimizes your business and enables you to earn commissions. |
| Booking Systems and Partner Programs | Provides tools and resources to book flights, accommodations, and activities. |
| Marketing Support | Helps you promote your services and attract clients. |
| Comprehensive Training | Includes training on industry basics, sales techniques, and practical skills. |
By working with a host business, you can focus on what you do best – planning memorable trips for your clients – while the business handles the administrative and logistical aspects of the business.
Obtaining certifications as a travel agent in Alaska can significantly enhance your career and credibility. Certified travel agents are more likely to attract clients and earn higher commissions due to their specialized knowledge and skills. Certification programs provide in-depth training on various aspects of the travel industry, including industry terminology, best practices, and how to provide exceptional customer service.
Certifications demonstrate your commitment to professionalism and expertise, making you a more trustworthy and reliable choice for clients planning their Alaskan adventures.
Kristin Williams
Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
At this time last year this was a dream job. Now this once dream job is a successful reality! This was the best way to kickoff 2025 with an invite to the top 50 agents! I am so excited for 2025 travel! I love seeing your smiling faces traveling and enjoying this beautiful earth!
The Alaska Certified Expert (ACE) certification is a highly valued credential for travel agents specializing in Alaska. This program, often offered through host agencies like Disney Magical Vacations, covers extensive knowledge about Alaska's regions, including the Far North, Interior, Southcentral, Southwest, and Inside Passage. The ACE certification includes comprehensive training on how to design custom itineraries, understand local destinations, and provide concierge-level services to clients.
Besides the ACE certification, there are several other online training programs and resources available to help you become a well-rounded travel agent in Alaska. The Alaska Railroad Travel Expert (ARTE) Training Program is one such resource, which educates you on the Alaska Railroad and its connections to various Alaskan destinations. This program includes on-demand webinars, live training sessions, and the option for exclusive webinar trainings for registered travel trade partners.
| Program | Description |
|---|---|
| Alaska Certified Expert (ACE) | Covers Alaska's regions, itinerary planning, and concierge services. |
| Alaska Railroad Travel Expert (ARTE) | Focuses on the Alaska Railroad, its routes, and unique onboard experiences. |
| Fairbanks Aurora & Midnight Sun (FAMS) | Educates on Fairbanks and the Interior of Alaska, including aurora viewing and midnight sun experiences. |
Launched by industry veterans, Vincent Vacations is working to carve out a niche as a boutique, community-driven agency designed by advisors, for advisors.
Become a travel agent with no experience! We provide the education for you to learn and become successful at your own pace.The Fairbanks Aurora & Midnight Sun (FAMS) online training program is another valuable resource. This program is divided into four parts, each followed by a quiz, and covers various topics such as the midnight sun, aurora viewing, and other unique experiences in Fairbanks. Participants who complete all the quizzes can join a familiarization (FAM) tour in Fairbanks, further enhancing their knowledge and skills.
When selecting a host business, it is crucial to consider the level of support and resources they provide. A good host business acts as your guiding star in the travel industry, ensuring you are properly licensed and insured. This legitimacy is essential for conducting business and earning commissions on the travel you book. Host agencies like Vincent Vacations or Travel Agent Pro and Disney Magical Vacations offer access to booking systems, partner programs, and other vital tools that simplify the process of planning and booking travel arrangements for your clients.
A key aspect of choosing the right host business is the marketing and training support they offer. Host agencies often provide comprehensive training programs that cover industry basics, customer service, and practical sales techniques. For example, Disney Magical Vacations’s training course includes over 15 hours of videos and extensive text, covering topics such as travel agent basics, concierge services, and sales training. This training is designed to be completed within 30 days and includes a practical assessment to ensure you are fully prepared.
Vincent Vacations or Travel Agent Pro also offers a similar comprehensive training program with 40+ hours of live, small-group training sessions, along with access to recordings. This ongoing education helps you stay updated with industry trends and best practices.
| Agency | Training Components |
|---|---|
| Disney Magical Vacations | Travel agent basics, industry terminology, concierge services, sales training, and practical exam preparation. |
| Vincent Vacations or Travel Agent Pro | Customer service sessions, booking systems, partner and destination trainings, and advanced certification programs. |
Another vital factor to consider when choosing a host business is the community and networking opportunities they provide. Host agencies like Disney Magical Vacations and Vincent Vacations or Travel Agent Pro foster a supportive community of fellow travel agents. This includes access to community apps, forums, and regular meetings where you can connect with other agents, share insights, and get advice on various aspects of the industry.
Disney Magical Vacations offers a New Agent Orientation, which includes final tips and insights, access to your email, supplier logins, and a comprehensive knowledge base. You also have access to exclusive events, live sales meetings, and specialized office hours for general needs, cruises, and group bookings.
Community Resources
To enhance your expertise as a travel agent in Alaska, the Alaska Railroad Travel Expert (ARTE) Training Program is an invaluable resource. This program is designed to educate you about the Alaska Railroad, its routes, and the unique experiences it offers. The training includes on-demand webinars and live training sessions held on select Thursdays of each month. These sessions provide an engaging and educational overview of the Alaska Railroad, covering its connections to popular destinations such as Seward, Spencer Glacier, Whittier, Anchorage, Talkeetna, Denali, and Fairbanks.
The Anchorage Wild Expert (AWE) Training Program offered by Visit Anchorage is another specialized training that can significantly enhance your knowledge. This free online training program certifies you as an Anchorage Wild Expert, providing you with in-depth information about Anchorage and its surroundings. The program includes online training webinars held twice a month, covering topics that help you sell Anchorage and Alaska to your clients effectively.
Additionally, you can request live training sessions to be hosted in your office, which can be particularly beneficial for teams looking to boost their Alaska sales. These live trainings are informative and designed to help you leverage your local expertise to create compelling travel packages.
Local destination training and FAM (Familiarization) tours are excellent ways to gain hands-on experience and deepen your knowledge of specific regions in Alaska. For example, the Fairbanks Aurora & Midnight Sun (FAMS) online training program educates travel agents on all that Fairbanks and the Interior of Alaska have to offer. This program is divided into four parts, each followed by a quiz, and covers various topics such as the midnight sun, aurora viewing, and other unique experiences in Fairbanks.
| Training Component | Description |
|---|---|
| General Training | Covers main selling points for independent visitors and group tours. |
| Midnight Sun & Denali Fun | Focuses on summer activities and experiences around Denali. |
| Aurora Capital & Winter Wonderland | Highlights winter activities and aurora viewing experiences. |
| Odds & Ends and Current Events | Covers miscellaneous topics and current events in Fairbanks. |
Participants who complete all four parts of the FAMS training and pass the quizzes are eligible to join a FAM tour in Fairbanks. These tours, held twice a year (once in winter and once in summer), include accommodations, local transportation, activities, and meals, providing a comprehensive and immersive experience of the region.
Launched by industry veterans, Vincent Vacations is working to carve out a niche as a boutique, community-driven agency designed by advisors, for advisors.
Become a travel agent with no experience! We provide the education for you to learn and become successful at your own pace.Growing your client base and increasing your earnings potential involves a combination of effective marketing, strong customer service, and continuous networking. Host agencies like Vincent Vacations or Travel Agent Pro and Disney Magical Vacations offer marketing tools and support that can help you promote your services and attract new clients. These agencies often provide access to community apps, forums, and regular meetings where you can connect with other agents, share insights, and get advice on various aspects of the industry.
Building relationships with clients and providing exceptional service can lead to repeat business and referrals, which are key to growing your client base. Offering personalized travel plans and ensuring client satisfaction can significantly boost your earnings potential.
| Tool/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| Community App | Stay connected with fellow agents, access resources, and stay updated on industry trends. |
| Marketing Courses | Comprehensive courses on how to market your services and build your brand. |
| Regular Meetings | Participate in weekly sales meetings, AMAs, and specialized office hours for ongoing support. |
To stay ahead in the competitive travel industry, it is essential to stay updated with the latest trends and resources. Host agencies and specialized training programs offer ongoing education and continuous support. For example, Vincent Vacations or Travel Agent Pro provides ongoing training programs, including an advanced certification and regular partner and destination trainings. These resources help you stay informed about new destinations, travel technologies, and industry best practices.
Disney Magical Vacations also offers continued education courses, such as their Travel Agent Marketing Course, and access to a comprehensive knowledge base. These resources ensure you have the latest information and tools necessary to succeed in your career.
Ongoing Education and Support
Becoming a travel agent in Alaska does not require a formal license or certification, although having one can be highly beneficial. The main legal requirement is obtaining an IATA number, which is typically provided by the host business you join. This number is essential for conducting business and earning commissions on the travel you book.
There are no specific travel agent schools in Alaska, but there are several comprehensive training programs and certifications available. Host agencies like Disney Magical Vacations and Vincent Vacations or Travel Agent Pro offer extensive online training courses that cover everything from travel agent basics to advanced sales techniques and destination-specific knowledge.
These training programs are designed to be completed online and provide the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed as a travel agent in Alaska.
To be successful as a travel agent in Alaska, you need a combination of skills and qualities. Strong communication and customer service skills are essential for understanding client needs and providing personalized travel plans. Organizational skills are also crucial for managing multiple bookings and itineraries. Additionally, having a passion for travel and local knowledge of Alaska can make you a more effective and attractive agent to potential clients.
| Skill | Description |
|---|---|
| Communication Skills | Ability to understand and meet client needs effectively. |
| Customer Service Skills | Providing excellent service to ensure client satisfaction and repeat business. |
| Organizational Skills | Managing multiple bookings, itineraries, and travel arrangements efficiently. |
| Local Knowledge | Understanding Alaska's regions, destinations, and unique experiences to create tailored travel plans. |
Staying updated with industry trends and continuous learning is also vital. Many host agencies provide ongoing education and resources to help you stay informed and adapt to changes in the travel industry.
Becoming a travel agent in Alaska is a rewarding and exciting career path that combines your passion for travel with the unique beauty and adventure of the Last Frontier. From obtaining the necessary legal requirements like an IATA number, to choosing the right host business and gaining specialized knowledge through certifications like the Alaska Certified Expert (ACE) and Alaska Railroad Travel Expert (ARTE), every step is crucial in setting you up for success.
With comprehensive training programs offered by host agencies like Disney Magical Vacations and Vincent Vacations or Travel Agent Pro, you are well-equipped to handle all aspects of travel planning, from booking flights and accommodations to organizing unique activities and excursions. These programs not only provide the foundational knowledge but also offer ongoing support, community engagement, and continuous education to help you grow in your career.
The support and resources provided by these host agencies are invaluable. They offer access to booking systems, partner programs, marketing support, and a community of fellow agents who are always ready to help and share insights.
Heather Huber
Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
It's been over a year now since I fully switched careers to travel and I couldn't be happier. I am thankful for those who have helped me grow this dream job into a reality and the support my Vincent Vacations family has given me! Thank you to everyone who has trusted me to help with their vacations, it truly is my passion!
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Legal Requirements | Obtain an IATA number through a host business. |
| Host Agency | Choose a host business that aligns with your needs and career goals. |
| Certifications | Pursue certifications like ACE and ARTE to enhance your knowledge and credibility. |
| Ongoing Education | Stay updated with industry trends and continuous learning opportunities. |
As you embark on this exciting journey, remember to leverage your local knowledge, build strong client relationships, and continuously seek out new opportunities for growth and learning. With the right mindset, resources, and community support, you can make your dreams of becoming a successful travel agent in Alaska a reality.
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The Aleut people called it Alyeska, the great land. Alaska is one of the world's special places, full of exotic wildlife, magnificent mountains, glacier-carved valleys and steep, rocky coastlines.
Alaska is bigger than life, its sheer mass hard to comprehend. The distance from Barrow, on the northern coast, to Ketchikan, at the southern edge, is more than 1,350 mi/2,174 km—about the same as New York City to Miami. Alaska has six distinct climatic regions, the tallest mountains, the biggest glaciers, the most plentiful fishing and the wildest nature preserves on the North American continent.
Visitors go to Alaska for the fishing, hiking, hunting or camping—Denali National Park is a big attraction. Some go for the northern lights, or to whale-watch while cruising the Inside Passage. Some even go to Alaska for the Iditarod dogsled race.
Even as Alaska vacations become more accessible, distance creates costs. Per-day expenses in remote parts of the state are comparable with those in major urban centers. The abundance of spectacular scenery and wildlife, however, should more than compensate.
Alaska borders the northwest edge of Canada and is actually closer to Russia (just 39 mi/62 km by air across the Bering Strait) than it is to the rest of the U.S. The landscape is dramatic and, because it covers such a huge territory, quite varied. In the south is temperate rain forest (Tongass), and in the north is Arctic desert.
The state is traversed by 14 major mountain ranges, encompassing 17 of the highest peaks in the U.S., including North America's highest mountain, Mount Denali, as well as most of the country's active volcanoes. It has more coastline than all of the other states combined. The geography ranges from endless miles/kilometers of tundra to sheer mountain walls, from the densely forested temperate coasts of the Inside Passage to the permafrost of the treeless Arctic Circle.
The first settlers in Alaska arrived at least 20,000 years ago, when hunters from Asia followed large game over the Bering Strait land bridge into North America. By the time the first Europeans arrived in the mid-1700s, they found several diverse cultures living in Alaska: Whale- and seal-hunting Inupiat and Yupik peoples inhabited the treeless tundra along the Arctic Ocean, Chukchi and Bering sea coasts, and nomadic Athabascan caribou hunters roamed the forested interior along the Yukon River. Alaska's panhandle was home to members of the Tlingit, Tsimshian and Haida groups, who lived in a lush coastal environment.
Even though Russian explorers had seen the Alaskan coast as early as 1741, Europeans didn't venture into the territory's immense interior until well into the 1800s. Even after the U.S. purchased the area in 1867 for cents an acre/hectare, the region remained largely unexplored.
As was often the case elsewhere in the opening of the American frontier, it took the discovery of gold in Juneau in 1880 to get folks headed for Alaska. During the famous Klondike Gold Rush of 1898-99, thousands of rowdy, ambitious and gutsy prospectors and speculators flooded into Dawson, Skagway, Valdez and other towns.
Alaska was made a U.S. territory in 1912, but statehood wasn't granted until 1959. Then the discovery of oil at Prudhoe Bay in 1968 sparked a new rush to Alaska. The construction of the Alaska Pipeline from the Beaufort Sea to the Gulf of Alaska in the 1970s brought new wealth, new jobs and new environmental concerns.
Even now, the debate continues as to how much of Alaska's pristine wilderness should be developed. Most recently, the focus has been on oil development in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, declining populations of marine mammals in the Bering Sea, and the impact from cruise-ship travel and other tourist activity, especially in southeastern Alaska.
Alaska's main attractions include spectacular scenery, wildlife viewing, camping, skiing, the northern lights, volcanoes, Inside Passage cruises, hiking, riverboat rides, fishing, canoeing, river and sea kayaking, friendly people, Alaska Native and Russian cultures, totem poles, glaciers and dogsled rides.
Most people will like Alaska, but the state has special appeal for nature lovers and the adventurous. Those on a strict budget may opt to tour the coasts via Alaska's Marine Highway ferries rather than by cruise ships. Motor homes, recreational vehicles and camper vans are available to rent for those who want to explore the state's interior highways or drive the Alaska Highway through Canada.
Alaska is from an Aleut word meaning "great country" or "what the sea breaks against."
The state of Alaska has 33,904 mi/54,585 km of coastline, more than the rest of the U.S. combined.
All Alaskans (who apply and qualify for it) receive an annual Permanent Fund Dividend check that averages around US$1,100 per person (including children). The dividend is funded by North Slope oil taxes and profits from investments.
In the unique history of Alaska, the male-to-female ratio across the state has often been quite imbalanced. As a result, a saying began among Alaskan women that in Alaska "the odds are good, but the goods are odd." This joke has failed to wither with time or the balancing of the odds.
Juneau is the only U.S. state capital that cannot be reached by highway. It is located 573 mi/916 km by air from Anchorage, the state's largest city and populated area. With as many roads as a New England state but a landmass triple the size of Texas (only 12 major highways are open year-round), Alaska is a place where flight is commonplace and pilots are many.
Geologically, Alaska is an amazingly active location. Small earthquakes are common in many parts of Alaska, and midsized ones frequently shake the thinly populated Aleutian Islands. The devastating 1964 Good Friday Earthquake registered 9.2 on the Richter scale, making it the most powerful temblor ever recorded in North America. In addition, 80% of the active volcanoes in the U.S. are in Alaska, and major eruptions in the Aleutian Islands occur almost every year.
Dog mushing is the official state sport of Alaska.
Former Secretary of State William H. Seward bought Alaska from Russia for US$7.2 million in 1867. At approximately US$0.02 per acre/half-hectare, it was a bargain that some called Seward's Folly.
There's nothing quite like experiencing the Last Frontier from a cruise ship: Icebergs and rugged islands glide by, porpoises play in the ship's wake, and whales breach off the side. In Alaskan towns along the way, you can shake a gold pan in a rushing stream and watch native carvers at work on a new totem pole. You can raft down whitewater streams and fly to (and land on) glaciers.
The state is so big, its extremes of climate and geology so great, and its wildlife and history so fascinating that Alaska delights (and uses up film and camera capacity) like few other places on Earth. In fact, with so much to choose from there, it's easy to become overwhelmed. A cruise simplifies some of the decision-making.
Ship lines offer a wide variety of Alaska cruises, so there's an itinerary to satisfy almost everyone. You can ride on a megaship with more than 2,000 passengers and all the comforts of home, and then some, as you visit the state's main ports. Or you can cruise aboard an exploration ship (with 100 other people) that can slip into the narrowest of fjords and get close enough to watch a brown bear snatch a salmon out of the water.
The big cruise lines usually offer a choice of two routes, both of which take you through the Inside Passage, the protected waterway between the mainland and the coastal islands. The emphasis is different, however. The trips known as Inside Passage cruises usually begin in Vancouver, British Columbia, include stops at such southeast Alaska ports as Ketchikan and Juneau, turn around in Glacier Bay and return to Vancouver. Gulf of Alaska cruises (sometimes called Glacier Route cruises) usually run between Vancouver and Seward, with connections through Anchorage so you can add excursions into the interior of the state.
Both routes often include stops at Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway—one of the most visited ports along the Inside Passage and the main jumping-off point for tours into the Yukon Gold Rush area. Small ships combine the best of both routes, offering stops in smaller ports, visits to hard-to-reach landmarks and more personal attention. Of course, their prices are usually higher, too.
What sets Alaska cruises apart from other cruises is what you can see from the ship's rail: the state's geological wonders. They're just as much a part of the Alaska cruise experience as stops in port.
Some of the sights you may see as you sail past include Columbia Glacier (most ships pass it); College Fjord, with its quintessential examples of tidewater and hanging glaciers; and the vast Glacier Bay National Park, with 35 named glaciers and 11 active tidewater glaciers.
Hubbard Glacier, Misty Fjords National Monument and Tracy Arm Fjord are other dramatic sights that offer visitors the chance to see nature in action.
The Alaska Highway is the ultimate North American driving adventure. A remarkable feat of civil engineering and a reminder of the immense projects undertaken by the Allies in World War II, the Alaska Highway was built in 1942 with the express purpose of strengthening Alaska against invasion.
Cutting through rugged wilderness in an unforgiving climate, the scenic route makes for a splendid long road trip. The road runs 1,387 mi/2,233 km from the interior of Alaska (from Delta Junction, near Fairbanks) through Canada's Yukon Territory to Dawson Creek, British Columbia. Side routes lead southeast to Alaska's Panhandle area, although most southeast cities lack road access.
The Alaska Highway is a reasonably comfortable stretch of road (it is paved for its entire distance, except for areas under construction), but be sure you're prepared for it. You may go long distances between gas stations, stores and motels. A broken water pump may delay you for days, thrown gravel can shatter a windshield, and most of the time you'll be driving outside the range of radio stations and cell phone reception. The breathtaking scenery and wildlife make it all worthwhile.
Northeast British Columbia (near the borders of Alberta, the Northwest Territories and the Yukon) is beautiful, sparsely populated and easily seen by driving the Alaska Highway. Begin in Dawson Creek, the southern terminus of the highway. While in town, take the time to see the Dawson Creek Art Gallery, situated in a renovated grain elevator. Just southeast of Dawson Creek is Pouce Coupe, a classic example of a northern pioneer town.
The fishing is excellent on several area lakes, including Moberly, Williston and Carp. Other recreation options include hiking to Old Baldie (near Chetwynd) and canoeing on Gwillim Lake. Heli-skiing is big business in winter.
When you're ready, pick up the Alaska Highway in Dawson Creek (480 mi/775 km northeast of Vancouver) and head north. Built in a hectic nine months during World War II, the Alaska Highway winds 1,387 mi/2,233 km through wild, dramatic terrain. Fort St. John (50 mi/80 km north of Dawson Creek) was established as a fur-trading settlement in 1793. Beyond that is Pink Mountain, renowned for its abundance of wildflowers and two species of colorful and rare butterflies. A fair distance north (324 mi/522 km) is Fort Nelson, another town that began as a remote fur-trading post.
In Stone Mountain Provincial Park, you'll find beautiful alpine meadow trails and glacial lakes, and in Muncho Lake Provincial Park, wild sheep and moose come down to the salt licks by the highway—have your camera ready. The Liard River Hot Springs are located near the town of Liard River. Each of these destinations offers great views of the northern lights.
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5/12Cruising is one of the most exciting—and relaxing—ways to explore the world. But if it’s your first time, you might be wondering: “What should I pack? How does dining work? Will I get seasick?” As a...
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3/5An Alaskan cruise offers the perfect combination of adventure, breathtaking scenery, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers or teenagers, an Alaskan cruise provides som...
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2/2There’s no better way to kick off your cruise than with a few days of exploration in beautiful British Columbia. Whether you’re setting sail from Vancouver or disembarking in Vancouver, a pre or post ...
Read moreClick on a location below to learn more. We recognize that vacations are not just an investment, but often the highlights of our lives, and we take that responsibility seriously. We want to ensure you have the best experience.
All of these are signs that you are a great fit to become an independent travel agent, and turn your love of travel from passion into profit!
Learn MoreOur motto at Vincent Vacations is, we go so you know! We want to ensure you have the BEST experience, whether it's a river cruise, or a corporate group incentive trip, we want to ensure your vacation is a success.
Many of our travel agents have been in travel since 2002! With Vincent Vacations, all travel components are taken care of - this includes accommodations, air, transfers, tours, activities, insurance, contracts, EVERYTHING.
Destination weddings, Anniversaries, vow renewals, honeymoons, engagements, elopements, retie the knot, babymoons, proposal trips and more
Corporate group retreats and incentive trips, seniors-only river cruises, friends & family getaways, special group anniversary celebrations and more
All-inclusive resorts, Hawaii, cruises, Europe, African Safaris, exotic Fiji and the islands, there are so many travel options for families
Adventures by Disney, Disney Cruise Lines, Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Resorts, Aulani, Universal, MyDisneyExperience, Disney Genie, characters dining, and more
We know Europe! Paris, London, Rome, Florence, Barcelona, Swiss Alps, Prague, Amsterdam, Venice, Athens, Vienna, Madrid, let's go!
Ocean cruising, river cruising, yacht charters, expeditions, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Viking, Lindblad, there are so many options when it comes to cruising
We create custom travel itineraries and trips, and we know travel - Whether it's Universal, river cruises, safaris, yacht charters, Australia, Thailand and more!
Get A Free QuoteWe serve customers all across the USA
Debt free and in business since 2013. Vincent Vacations has agents in Dallas, Kansas City, Houston, Shreveport, Little Rock, Roswell, Oklahoma City and more locations.
Travel agents can help save time and stress by doing the research and handling all your bookings for you. An experience travel agent is best at finding great deals and packages, as well as providing you with helpful information and tips. They can also help you plan special activities and experiences that you may not have thought of on your own. All in all, using a travel agent can be a great way to make sure you get the most out of your trip.
In travel since 2002, and in business since 2013, our travel team serves clients all over the US! Planning a vacation away from home takes a great team. We have taken the time to build a team of dedicated, smart, hard-working personnel who are each committed to excellence and service. We work side-by-side, creating and ensuring INCREDIBLE vacation experiences for you and your group. Our store front in-office team, and our travel consultant independent contractors, work all around the US.
In business since 2013, we are your #1 source for travel!
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