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Alaska Cruise Guru was created from a deep love for the Last Frontier and an unwavering belief that travel can transform lives. We exist for travelers who crave something extraordinary—towering glaciers, breaching whales, hidden fjords, and the thrill of exploring the raw edge of the world. Our passion is helping people experience the magic of Alaska in a way that feels effortless, personalized, and unforgettable.
Sailing Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier in Alaska
At the core of Alaska Cruise Guru is attentiveness. We listen first. Every traveler has unique dreams, interests, and styles of adventure. Because of that, our recommendations aren’t cookie-cutter. Instead, we take the time to understand our clients on a personal level. Then we match them with the perfect itinerary—whether it’s a luxury small-ship cruise through the Inside Passage, a family-friendly round-trip from Seattle, or an expedition deep into Glacier Bay National Park.
Our Alaska cruise specialists don’t just sell cruises—they’ve experienced them. We’ve sailed multiple routes, explored ports firsthand, and built strong partnerships with the top cruise lines and small-ship operators across Alaska. That insider knowledge allows us to simplify planning, unlock value-packed offers, and elevate every detail—from excursions and lodging to pre- and post-cruise adventures.
We believe travel is more than checking off a destination. It connects us to nature, culture, and a wider sense of belonging. Alaska has a way of awakening something inside people, and we are honored to guide guests through that experience. Every itinerary we build is crafted with care, tailored to the traveler, and designed to spark lasting memories.
Travel stands at the crossroads of dream and discovery—and Alaska is the perfect place to experience both. When you’re ready to witness glaciers calving, watch bald eagles soar overhead, and sail through landscapes that feel untouched by time, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Explore Alaska with confidence. Explore it with Alaska Cruise Guru.
by Mark Faldmo
Owner Alaska Cruise Guru
As a third generation travel professional travel is in my blood. The story of Alaska Cruise Guru starts in 1957, well before I was born. My grandfather was a construction worker and was asked to travel to Hawaii to help build what is now BYU Hawaii in Laie, Hawaii. My father often shares the memory of his 6th birthday when his family set sail from San Francisco to Honolulu on the SS Lauraline. This event was the first spark of the love of travel in my family.
Despite initial reservations, my grandmother soon fell in love with Hawaii and was reluctant to leave when the family’s adventure concluded. As they set sail back to San Francisco from Honolulu Harbor, a rainbow appeared over the water. The ship’s captain announced, “If there is a rainbow, it means that you will return to Hawaii someday.” My grandmother clung to that promise and yearned to return to Hawaii.
In 1963, my grandmother got her wish. She arranged for a group of neighbors to attend the opening of the Polynesian Cultural Center. This trip was so successful that it sparked widespread interest among other neighbors. By word of mouth, a thriving tour company was born, offering tours not only to Hawaii but to destinations worldwide.
My father eventually took over this travel business and built it into one of the largest travel agencies in the western United States before it was sold. Given that travel is in our DNA, we have since started several other travel companies.
I have always been involved in the family business – starting with mowing lawns, sorting brochures, delivering airline tickets (back when airline tickets were physical paper tickets), and eventually working as a travel agent. Growing up, I had the incredible opportunity to travel the world with my parents, instilling in me a passion for travel and exploration.
In my career, I have had the pleasure of taking some truly unique trips, including a cruise to the Marquesas Islands on a ship that is part container and part cruise ship. I’ve also ventured to exotic destinations like Thailand, Fiji, and Tahiti, experienced unique river cruises, and taken over 150 cruises (Alaska being my favorite).
With a deep desire to help people explore the world, I founded Blue Planet Vacations & Alaska Cruise Guru. Our tagline, “Explore Your World,” embodies our mission. Travel creates lifelong memories, builds strong connections with our family and friends, and fosters an understanding of diverse cultures and people.
So, get out there and “Explore Your World!”
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Call or Text: 801-295-5999
As a third-generation travel professional, travel is truly in my blood. The roots of my passion for travel stretch back long before I was born.
The story begins in 1957 with my grandfather, a construction worker who journeyed to Hawaii to help build what is now BYU Hawaii in Laie, Hawaii. My father often shares vivid memories of his 6th birthday when the family set sail from San Francisco to Honolulu on the SS Lauraline. This trip sparked a deep-seated love...
In 1995, I embarked on an unexpected journey at Mark Travel Corporation, starting with a part-time role that soon blossomed into a lifelong passion for uncovering the world's wonders. Fueled by a deep belief that travel doesn't just change scenery, but transforms perspectives and crafts unforgettable moments, I dove headfirst into the rich tapestry of cultures and destinations.
Specializing in leisure travel, I have turned my wanderlust into expertise spanning some of the...
My love affair with travel began in 1996 with my first cruise—an experience that ignited a passion powerful enough to chart the course of my career. It was a chance radio advertisement for an airline reservation position that opened the doors to the travel industry. After five years, I became a travel agent. I was turning dreams into journeys for countless clients. 25+ years later, I am continuing my dream at Blue Planet Vacations.
What keeps my enthusiasm...