🌅 Day 10: Ketchikan, AK
🗿 Totem Bight State Historical Park
Our day in Ketchikan kicked off at Totem Bight State Historical Park, where we explored beautifully carved totem poles set against lush coastal forest.
The setting felt quiet and reflective, giving us time to slow down and appreciate the craftsmanship and stories behind each pole.
Along the paths, we spotted more banana slugs, which quickly became an ongoing highlight for the kids throughout the trip.
🌊 Salmon Falls Resort
Next, we headed to Salmon Falls Resort for lunch and the views did not disappoint.
Perched right over the water, this was one of those meals where the scenery rivaled the food.
Between bites, we took in sweeping views of the ocean and surrounding wilderness, soaking up the calm before the afternoon’s excitement.
🪓 The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show
The energy shifted into high gear at The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show. From the moment it started, it was loud, fast-paced, and wildly entertaining. The competitions were exciting, the crowd involvement kept the kids fully engaged, and the whole thing felt like classic Alaska fun turned up to eleven.
What made it extra special was that this performance was coordinated with the Disney Cruise, complete with a surprise appearance by Goofy, which absolutely thrilled the kids and made the show feel uniquely ours.
After the excitement of the show we spent a bit of time walking around the port area soaking in the views before boarding the ship.
🎨 Casual Dinner at Animator’s Palate
After returning to the ship, we wrapped up the day with a casual dinner at Animator’s Palate and it was a perfect way to wind down. The kids loved drawing their own characters and watching them come to life on the screens throughout the restaurant.
The food was excellent, the atmosphere playful, and our waiter once again stole the show with magic tricks after dinner, keeping the kids laughing right to the end of the meal.
Back in the room, the nightly towel animal was waiting for us, which somehow never got old and was the perfect final touch to the day.
💡 Tips for Travelers
Totem Bight is an easy, low-stress excursion that’s great for families and offers a strong cultural perspective.
Salmon Falls Resort is worth it for the views alone. Don’t forget to bring a camera.
If your sailing includes The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, don’t miss it, especially with kids.
Animator’s Palate is best enjoyed when you lean into the experience. Let the kids take their time with the drawing activity.
🧳 Day 11: Farewell to Alaska & Journey Home
🌅 Morning on Board & Final Memories
Our final morning came quietly, with the kind of calm that only arrives after a week of full days and happy exhaustion. Breakfast felt slower, photos were taken with a little more intention, and there was that familiar mix of excitement to get home and sadness that the adventure was ending.
Back in the stateroom, the kids discovered one last bit of Disney magic. Neatly arranged chocolates and coins laid out by our incredible stateroom host. It was a small gesture, but one that perfectly captured the care and thoughtfulness we experienced throughout the cruise.
🛫 Disembarkation & Airport Downtime
Disembarkation was smooth and well-organized, making the transition from ship to terminal far easier than expected. By the time we reached the airport, the boys settled into their seats, tablets in hand, fully content and clearly running on cruise-mode energy.
Watching them quietly play side by side felt like a fitting end to the trip. A reminder that even the in-between moments become memories when you travel together.
❤️ Closing Thoughts
Combining Alaska’s raw beauty with Disney’s unmatched family-focused experience made this trip truly special. From historic parks and scenic ports to Broadway-level shows and thoughtful details, it was a journey that balanced adventure, comfort, and connection.
We left Alaska already reminiscing and quietly wondering where Disney Cruise Line might take us next.
💡 Tips for Travelers
Build in buffer time on departure day: Disney disembarkation is efficient, but airports can still surprise you.
Let the kids unwind: After an active week, quiet screen time during travel is a win, not a loss.
Take photos of the small things: Stateroom surprises and candid airport moments often become favorites.
🔮 Looking Ahead
With Alaska checked off the list, we’re already dreaming about future sailings. Maybe warmer waters, maybe another northern adventure. One thing’s certain: cruising as a family has officially become a tradition.