Today, we're excited to share the story of an incredible day in Juneau, Alaska during our cruise on the Disney Wonder. Although our original plans for a helicopter and dog sled adventure were canceled due to high winds, we managed to salvage the day and maybe improve on the original itinerary! Goes to show you that sometimes a disappointing start to a vacation day can lead to unexpected memories!  Join us as we embark on a unique journey through the stunning landscapes of Juneau.
Exploring Taku Glacier:
Undeterred by the cancellation of our initial port adventure, we decided to make the most of our time in Juneau. We were fortunate to come across several tour operators at the port, offering alternative options. We fortunately met a tour operator (www.northstartrekking.com) offering an opportunity to explore Taku Glacier from the sky and the water.
Our first experience took us on a beautiful helicopter ride to Taku Glacier as the weather had cleared for that direction of travel.  We enjoyed the sights of Juneau and even spotted the Disney Wonder from the sky. Upon landing on Taku Glacier, we disembarked to explore our surroundings. We took a leisurely walk, captured some stunning photos and marvelled at the sheer beauty. The water we drank directly from a fresh glacier stream was invigorating and tasted as pure as the icy landscape itself.Â
Airboat Adventure:
After our unforgettable time on the glacier, we embarked on a thrilling airboat ride. The boat took us up close to the same glacier we had just explored from above. As we cruised along, our kids couldn't contain their excitement, enjoying the adrenaline rush as the boat picked up speed.
During our airboat adventure, we were treated to breathtaking views of the glacier's icy blue hues. We were also treated to a natural show when a bald eagle flew overhead with a salmon in its beak. The eagle gracefully dropped the salmon onto a nearby rock, regarded us briefly and returned to savoring its fresh catch. It was a sight that reminded us of the incredible wildlife that calls Alaska home.
Conclusion:
Despite our original plans being canceled, our day in Juneau turned out to be nothing short of remarkable. We learned that sometimes the best experiences are the ones that unfold spontaneously. From the awe-inspiring helicopter ride we were able to arrange on the spot to a stroll on Taku Glacier and finally to the exhilarating airboat adventure, every moment was filled with wonder and excitement.
In the end, it's these unexpected adventures that often become the most cherished memories. Our day in Juneau taught us the importance of embracing flexibility and being open to what the day brings with the people we love. A place like Alaska never fails to leave a lasting impression no matter the excursion, and we feel grateful for the opportunity to have explored a fraction of its wonders. Stay tuned for more tales from our family travels!