How Early Should I Book my Shore Excursions?

Last Updated: Jan 21, 2026

This is one of the most common questions we hear from guests cruising to Alaska. As a general rule, shore excursions for the summer cruise season become available for booking during the fall and winter prior to the season. We recommend starting your search as early as possible to ensure the best selection and availability.

Many guests tell us that trying to book excursions after arriving in port can be stressful—especially for families or larger groups with varying interests. Booking in advance helps eliminate that uncertainty and allows you to relax and enjoy your Alaska vacation knowing your plans are already in place.

Some excursions do sell out quickly. High-demand tours such as helicopter excursions, floatplane flightseeing, and the popular Skagway White Pass Railroad tend to fill up early each season. To help with this, we offer an email inquiry list so guests can be alerted as soon as these popular tours open for booking. You can access the inquiry list for 2027 tours HERE.

Planning ahead also comes with added flexibility. When you book through Alaska Shore Excursions, you can cancel up to seven days prior to your tour date for a full refund. This allows you to secure your spot early while still having the freedom to adjust your plans if needed.

For the best availability, the widest selection, and the most stress-free experience, we always recommend booking your shore excursions as early as possible.