Alaskan Adventure – Valdez

At Cruise.co.uk I get many customers who call me at 0800 408 6084, or email me at [email protected] and ask me questions about Alaska as a Cruise destination. I have collected some information about Valdez and provided an overview below in this blog, that should convince you that Alaska is a great Cruise destination.

It contains the sections History, Shopping, “Things to See” and “Restaurants and Bars”.

History
Dating back to 1790, the Valdez Port in Alaska has plenty to see for cruise ship travelers. This ice-free port was once a well-known gold mining region and now offers the Trans-Alaska oil pipeline.
Located 120 miles east of Anchorage, the Valdez cruise port is a doorway to majestic mountainside scenery, fun whale watching, exciting nature tours and plenty of Alaskan seafood.

After pulling into the John Thomas Kelsey municipal dock, visitors can expect a calm atmosphere and plenty of outdoor activities to keep busy while vacationing.

Shopping
When it comes to shopping in Valdez, tourists should consider local hot spots like the Bear Paw Trading Post. This store is loaded with fun souvenirs, crafts, and items created from walrus ivory.
Another local shop to keep in mind is Burning Impressions. This store is known for its wood burned art pieces, unique signs, and handmade walking sticks.

Things To See
While enjoying the tranquil setting of Valdez, you should give a Colombia Glacier cruise a go as an on shore excursion (is this still on shore ???).

This journey through Prince William Sound features a visit to Columbia Glacier. On board you will have a chance to view the Sound’s wildlife, including sea lions and whales. You will learn about the mining, oil shipping, earthquake, and fishing history, and you will hear stories about the first people to explore and live in the area. Included in this tour is a description of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline Terminal. Columbia Glacier welcomes you with huge blue icebergs. A light meal is served on-board (included). 80-miles round-trip.
Duration: 6.5 hours.

For the hiker, keep in mind Mineral Creek. This outdoor hike involves a 6-mile gravel road that ends with the Stamp Mill. In addition to hikers, skiers and snow mobile riders frequent this beautiful Alaskan trail that’s great for all seasons.

Restaurants and Bars
When searching for a good restaurant in the Valdez Port, visitors should try out the Alaska Halibut House, which is a family owned chain, and is well known for its deep fried halibut sandwich. This eatery offers a fast food setting that is an affordable option for the hungry traveler.
For a variety of seafood platters, Greek cuisine and steaks, visit Mike’s Palace. It can be This eatery offers pizza and other casual dining options.

As for bars, tourists should check out the Pipeline Club. While this local favorite offers an assortment of charbroiled red meat dishes, friendly pub is attached to the restaurant area. While there, enjoy a game of pool, darts or shuffleboard in the game room or test your vocals with karaoke.