Nome, Alaska

Perched at the edge of the Bering Sea on the southwest corner of the Seward Peninsula, Nome is unlike any other cruise port: a living tapestry of gold rush grit, Inupiaq heritage, and Arctic light. Here, signature experiences unfold along the snow salted streets of Old Nome, where weathered clapboard facades tell stories from the 1899 population surge and the gold rush era, inviting passengers to step into a time capsule of saloons, arches, and the shimmer of local museums. Shore excursions pair culture with nature: guided walks through historic districts, visits to the Nome Visitors Center, and a chance to trace the path to Cape Nome, where the earth still carries the memory of early mining days; if you’re lucky, you’ll witness a traditional dog sled demonstration under the midnight sun or the aurora if the season is right. Nome also serves as a doorstep to extraordinary wildlife viewing along the Bering Sea, with opportunities to see seabirds, seals, and marine life from shore or aboard small-boat excursions. The port's intimate scale makes every stop feel personal, while expedition style fleet features such as Zodiacs for intimate landings, stabilized viewing platforms, and expert naturalists aboard bring a scientific edge to the journey. Onboard, guests enjoy Alaska-forward service: locally inspired menus spotlight king crab and wild salmon, regional storytelling and cultural performances, and attentive hospitality teams that tailor shore days to weather and wildlife sightings, ensuring a seamless balance between rugged exploration and comfortable respite. Nome's combination of dramatic coastlines, gold rush lore, and living culture creates a cruise experience that feels less like a port of call and more like a frontier of discovery.