Alaska & Japan Transpacific from San Francisco, CA

Seaports have always been important throughout history… it’s about more than just the cargo, but the import and export of ideas. You could say that a city’s seaside status almost necessarily creates a crossroads of cultures. All that said, something sets San Francisco apart! Maybe it’s the year-round comfy weather that makes people want to spend their time outdoors, or perhaps it’s the spectacular food culture, or the history, or the hills, or the architecture. But one thing can be proven: San Francisco is beautiful, arguably the most romantic and cosmopolitan city in the U.S., and all of these elements go into the mix of making it a place you want to be, whether you know it or not. From the world’s most recognizable bridge, The Golden Gate, to the quirky, flower-lined Lombard Street… it’s no surprise that in SF even a former prison island — you knew we’re talking about Alcatraz, right? — ends up being an iconic destination.

For more than 100 years, Ketchikan, Alaska has been the gateway to the North. Ketchikan cruises dock along the famed historic waterfront. Check out the flourishing art scene and spectacular totem poles that have transformed this former frontier town into a popular southern Alaskan port of call. Experience the sights, atmosphere and excitement of the Last Frontier as soon as you cross the Alaska border on Carnival cruises to Ketchikan.

Icy Strait Point is a sight, alright, for eyes that hunger for the greens of the dense Tongass Forest, the azure waters of Port Frederick, and the spot where these come together. Make landfall here and find yourself in Hoonah, where the native Huna Tlingit tribe have lived for thousands of years. Not quite as old — only about 100 years young — are remnants of the local cannery, a symbol of the industry that put this area on modern maps. Hugely important then but long out of operation, the cannery today is restored and tourable, just one historical signpost in a place as well-known for its natural sights.