Once we arrived in Seward, we decided to do a sled dog “excursion” (is it still called that if the cruise is over??). After much research we decided to go with seaveys Ididaride. They were home to three time champion Mitch Seavey and seemed like a really fun program. This way we also had something to do while we waited for the train and allowed us to see other things on port days. We were picked up by their shuttle bus at the cruise terminal.

Once we arrived we checked in, signed waivers and waited for the rest of the people to show up. We were there end of August and I wore my light down jacket and was very happy to have it. Once everyone arrived we were split into two groups. We were first to ride on the dog training land sled.

Our guide explained how the dogs lived and how their homes worked. They were separated by dogs who really got along etc. Their homes were temperature controlled with a long outside section to run and play in.

It seemed to us the pups lived almost better than the trainers. After seeing the homes and learning the history of the Iditarod, we got to ride on the land training sled. At first, to be honest, this seemed a bit cruel to me. Making dogs pull all these heavy humans on land. They must get that a lot because right away our guide explained this was like the dogs summer and fall weight training sessions. It helped them be ready for the deep snow and long days ahead of them. And once the dogs came out, you could tell they loved this. They were literally screaming (watch our YouTube to hear them) to get going.

It was a fun and exhilarating ride. The dogs didn’t even want to pause when it was time to rest. Each dog was called by name and you could tell well loved. After the sled we got to sit down in a barn like structure and listen to some of the adventures of these dogs, how the Iditarod works, how extreme it is and how the dogs prepare and what they were. Our guides personal non-sled dog demonstrated.

Then we got to the best part. Cuddling puppies. We didn’t want to leave.

These sweet babies were adorable. We also got to play with some very hyper old puppies and then our time was over. We went back to the office and the staff airdropped a fun picture and video of us on the sled. We were able to tip and purchase souvenirs. Then we were shuttled back downtown.

Overall, I would give this a ten out of ten. We had a blast. Wear proper clothing, you can get muddy and you are hugging and petting dogs. It was chilly when we went then warmed up so layers were great. Also wear shoes you are okay with getting muddy. See my Alaska packing list for how we handled muddy shoes on the road. Nothing is better than dogs and beautiful scenery. Definitely give it a try!