I'm a first time cruise goer and yes I waited until today Sunday to start looking at excursions for the cruise that is departing in 6 days. I know I'm very last minute and please don't make me feel worse reminding me as such.
That said - I am very eager to maximize the shore days and I am also looking to be as physically active as possible - rigorous hikes, etc, for a nature lover who is in pretty good shape. Sadly, the only things left on the NCL excursion list are whale watching boats (endless varieties of the same boring thing) and mediocre low-energy walks etc. For the Sitka stop, there is literally nothing, zero items listed, not even the lame ones. I called and she told me everything was sold out and tough luck I should have planned ahead. Not a great feeling ahead of a vacation that is supposed to be a trip of a lifetime.
SO....I'm thinking it will be best for me to just plan my own excursions. I really don't need the company of others, anyway. 🙂. Does anyone have experience hiring non-NCL tour operators, or just planning hikes and outings yourself, during any of the Alaska shore days? All advice welcome, and thank you!!!!