Alaska Cruise Which Side of Ship Is Best

alaska cruise which side of ship is best is an essential topic that provides valuable insights and practical knowledge for anyone interested in learning more about this subject.

Key Takeaways

• Choose port side for better views of coastal towns and wildlife in Alaska.
• Starboard side offers stunning glacier and mountain scenery on most routes.
• Book early to secure preferred cabin side based on itinerary direction.
• Check your route—direction of travel determines which side sees key attractions.
• Pack binoculars regardless of side for optimal wildlife and landscape viewing.
• Mid-ship cabins reduce motion and offer balanced views on either side.

Alaska Cruise Which Side of Ship Is Best

So, you’ve booked your Alaska cruise—congrats! You’re probably dreaming of snow-capped peaks, breaching whales, and glaciers calving into icy waters. But now you’re staring at your cabin assignment and wondering: Which side of the ship is best for an Alaska cruise? It’s a question more travelers are asking, and for good reason. Unlike tropical cruises where ocean views are pretty much the same in every direction, Alaska’s dramatic coastline means your port side or starboard side choice can dramatically impact your experience.

I remember my first Alaska cruise like it was yesterday. I was so excited, I didn’t think much about which side of the ship my cabin was on. I ended up on the port side, and while the views were stunning, I missed the sunrise over Glacier Bay because my windows faced west. That’s when it hit me—location matters. Whether you’re sipping coffee on your balcony or snapping photos from the deck, knowing which side of the ship offers the best views can make or break your Alaskan adventure. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to choose the best side of the ship for your Alaska cruise—based on real experiences, expert tips, and a little insider knowledge.

Understanding Ship Orientation: Port vs. Starboard

Before we dive into which side is best, let’s clear up a common confusion: port and starboard. These aren’t just random terms—they’re essential nautical directions that every cruiser should know.

What Do Port and Starboard Mean?

Port refers to the left side of the ship when you’re facing the front (the bow). Starboard is the right side when facing forward. These terms are used instead of “left” and “right” because they’re fixed, regardless of which way you’re facing. So even if you turn around, port is still port.

Why does this matter? Because in Alaska, the direction your ship travels and the layout of the coastline mean one side will often have better views of glaciers, wildlife, and scenic landmarks. For example, if your ship sails up Tracy Arm Fjord heading north, the most dramatic cliffs and waterfalls might be on the starboard side. But if you’re on the port side, you could miss the best photo ops.

How Ship Itineraries Affect Viewing

Alaska cruise itineraries vary, but most follow a general pattern: ships sail north from Seattle or Vancouver, then loop through the Inside Passage, stopping at ports like Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan. The direction your ship travels on any given day determines which side gets the prime real estate.

For instance, on a southbound journey from Skagway to Juneau, the starboard side typically faces the open water and distant mountain ranges, while the port side hugs the shoreline with closer views of forests and wildlife. But on the return trip north, it flips. That’s why it’s not just about picking a side—it’s about understanding the entire route.

Pro tip: Check your cruise line’s detailed daily itinerary. Some lines publish “viewing guides” that show which side of the ship offers the best views for each leg of the journey. If not, forums like Cruise Critic or Reddit’s r/AlaskaCruise are goldmines for passenger reports.

Best Side for Glacier Viewing: Port or Starboard?

Glaciers are the crown jewels of an Alaska cruise. Whether it’s the towering face of Hubbard Glacier or the serene beauty of Glacier Bay, you’ll want the best possible view. So, which side of the ship is best for glacier viewing?

Glacier Bay National Park: A Starboard Advantage

Most ships enter Glacier Bay from the south and travel north, meaning the starboard side typically offers the best views of the major glaciers, including Margerie and Lamplugh. This side faces the open water and the glacier faces, giving you unobstructed views as the ship slows down for photo opportunities.

I was on the starboard side during my Glacier Bay day, and it was pure magic. The ship lingered for nearly two hours, and I had a front-row seat to a massive chunk of ice calving into the bay—complete with a thunderous splash and a wave that rocked the ship. My friend on the port side saw mostly forest and rock. While still beautiful, it wasn’t the glacier spectacle we’d all come for.

Tracy Arm and Sawyer Glaciers: Port Side Wins

When cruising Tracy Arm Fjord to see the twin Sawyer Glaciers, the port side is usually the better choice. Ships typically enter from the south and sail north, hugging the western (port) shoreline. This side offers closer views of waterfalls, wildlife, and the glaciers themselves.

One passenger shared that they switched sides mid-cruise after realizing their starboard cabin had been facing away from the action. They spent the Tracy Arm day on the port-side promenade deck and said it was the best decision they made. “I saw a bear on the shore, a family of sea lions, and the glacier up close—all from one spot,” they said.

Hubbard Glacier: It Depends on the Day

Hubbard Glacier is one of the most popular stops, but the viewing side can vary. Most ships approach from the west and sail east, meaning the starboard side usually faces the glacier. However, weather and ice conditions can force the captain to alter course, so there’s no guarantee.

That said, cruise lines often announce the expected viewing side the night before. Pay attention to the daily newsletter or ask the cruise director. If Hubbard is a must-see for you, consider booking a starboard cabin—or at least plan to be on that side during the approach.

Wildlife and Scenic Views: Which Side Offers the Best Sightings?

Alaska isn’t just about glaciers—it’s a wildlife paradise. From humpback whales to bald eagles, the coastline is teeming with life. But again, your side of the ship can influence what you see and when.

Whale Watching: Starboard for Open Water

Whales, especially humpbacks and orcas, are often spotted in open waters rather than close to shore. On days when your ship is sailing through channels like Stephens Passage or Frederick Sound, the starboard side tends to have better visibility because it faces the wider, deeper parts of the waterway.

During one cruise, our ship spotted a pod of orcas breaching about a mile off the starboard bow. Passengers on that side had binoculars and cameras ready, while those on the port side were straining to see through the trees. If whale watching is a priority, aim for starboard cabins on open-water sailing days.

Bears, Eagles, and Shoreline Wildlife: Port Side Perks

For land-based wildlife—like black bears foraging along riverbanks or bald eagles perched in spruce trees—the port side is often better. This side typically faces the mainland or smaller islands where animals are more likely to be spotted.

In Ketchikan, for example, the port side offers views of lush rainforests and rocky inlets where bears are frequently seen. One traveler recalled watching a mother bear and two cubs cross a stream just 200 yards from the ship—on the port side. “It was like a National Geographic moment,” they said.

Sunrises and Sunsets: A Balancing Act

Let’s talk about the sky. Alaska’s long summer days mean spectacular sunrises and sunsets, but your cabin side determines which you’ll see.

• Starboard side: Faces west—ideal for sunset views over the water.
• Port side: Faces east—perfect for sunrise over the mountains.

If you’re an early riser, a port-side cabin lets you greet the day with golden light spilling over the peaks. Night owls might prefer starboard for sunset cocktails on the balcony. Personally, I love both—so I try to book a cabin that’s midship, so I can enjoy views from either side depending on the day.

Cabin Location Matters: Beyond Port and Starboard

While port vs. starboard gets most of the attention, your cabin’s location on the ship is just as important. A starboard cabin at the very front might have amazing views but also more motion and noise. A port-side cabin at the back could be quieter but farther from elevators and dining rooms.

Forward vs. Aft: Stability and Views

Cabins at the front (forward) of the ship tend to have the best views—especially on glacier days when the ship slows down. However, they can also feel more motion in rough seas. If you’re prone to seasickness, this might not be ideal.

Aft (back) cabins are generally more stable and quieter, but you might miss the best photo angles. That said, some aft cabins have wraparound balconies with panoramic views—worth considering if available.

Midship: The Sweet Spot

Midship cabins—especially on lower decks—are often recommended for first-time cruisers. They’re more stable, closer to public areas, and less affected by engine noise. While you might not get the absolute best views, you’ll have easier access to decks and lounges where the real action happens.

One couple I met booked a midship, starboard cabin on Deck 8. They said it was the perfect balance: great views, minimal motion, and just a short walk to the main dining room and theater. “We didn’t need a front-row seat,” they said. “We just wanted to enjoy the cruise.”

Balcony vs. Oceanview: Is It Worth the Upgrade?

If you’re deciding between a balcony and an oceanview cabin, consider your priorities. A balcony gives you private outdoor space—perfect for quiet mornings with coffee or late-night stargazing. But if you’re on a budget, an oceanview window still lets you enjoy the scenery.

That said, during glacier days, having a balcony can be a game-changer. You can step outside without fighting for space on the crowded decks. Just remember: balconies on the same side (port or starboard) will have similar views, so choose based on the itinerary.

Itinerary-Specific Tips: Matching Your Cabin to Your Route

Not all Alaska cruises are the same. Some sail round-trip from Seattle, others one-way between Vancouver and Seward. Your route determines which side of the ship is best.

Round-Trip from Seattle or Vancouver

These itineraries typically follow a loop, so you’ll sail north one way and south the other. That means both port and starboard sides will get their moment in the sun. In this case, it’s less about choosing a side and more about cabin location and deck level.

However, if you’re sailing during peak glacier season (May to September), prioritize starboard cabins for the northbound leg, when Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier are most active.

One-Way Cruises: Vancouver to Seward (or Vice Versa)

One-way cruises offer a more linear experience. If you’re sailing from Vancouver to Seward, you’ll generally head north, then west through the Gulf of Alaska. In this case, the starboard side often has better views of the open water and glaciers.

Conversely, Seward to Vancouver cruises go south and east, so the port side may offer better shoreline and wildlife views. Check your specific itinerary—some days will favor one side, others the opposite.

Inside Passage vs. Gulf of Alaska

Cruises that stick to the Inside Passage (like Seattle round-trips) stay closer to shore, so both sides can offer great views. But cruises that venture into the Gulf of Alaska (like one-way trips to Seward) spend more time in open water, where starboard often wins for whale and sunset viewing.

Practical Tips for Choosing the Best Side

Now that you know the basics, here’s how to make the best choice for your cruise.

Check the Itinerary in Detail

Don’t just look at the ports—study the daily sailing directions. Cruise lines like Holland America and Princess often publish detailed maps showing the ship’s path. Use these to identify which side will face the action on key days.

Use Cabin Selection Tools

Most cruise lines offer interactive deck plans where you can see your cabin’s exact location. Look for cabins that are:

• On higher decks (but not too high—wind can be strong)
• Avoiding noisy areas (near elevators, pools, or nightclubs)
• Close to stairs or elevators for easy deck access

Ask Past Passengers

Join Alaska cruise forums or Facebook groups. Ask people who’ve sailed your exact itinerary which side they recommend. Real experiences beat general advice every time.

Be Flexible

Even the best-laid plans can change. Weather, ice, or wildlife sightings might cause the captain to alter course. That’s part of the adventure! If you’re on the “wrong” side, head to the opposite deck—most ships have public areas on both sides.

Summary Table: Best Side by Cruise Activity

Activity	Best Side	Why
Glacier Bay Viewing	Starboard	Ship sails north; starboard faces open water and glaciers
Tracy Arm Fjord	Port	Ship hugs western shoreline; closer views of waterfalls and glaciers
Hubbard Glacier	Starboard (usually)	Approach from west; starboard faces glacier
Whale Watching	Starboard	Open water sightings more common on starboard side
Shoreline Wildlife	Port	Faces mainland and islands where bears and eagles are spotted
Sunset Views	Starboard	Faces west over the water
Sunrise Views	Port	Faces east over the mountains

Final Thoughts: There’s No One-Size-Fits-All Answer

So, which side of the ship is best for an Alaska cruise? The honest answer is: it depends. It depends on your itinerary, your priorities, and even the weather. But with the right knowledge, you can make a smart choice that enhances your experience.

If glaciers are your top priority, lean starboard. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, port might be better. Love sunsets? Starboard. Sunrise lover? Port. And if you want the best of both worlds, consider a midship cabin or plan to spend time on both sides of the ship.

Remember, Alaska is unpredictable—and that’s part of its charm. Even if you’re on the “wrong” side one day, you’ll likely get a front-row seat the next. The real magic isn’t just in the views—it’s in the moments: the gasp when a glacier calves, the silence as a whale surfaces, the warmth of a blanket on a cool morning deck.

So go ahead, book that cabin, and don’t stress too much about the side. Whether port or starboard, you’re in for an unforgettable journey through one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Just bring your camera, your sense of wonder, and maybe a pair of binoculars. The Last Frontier is waiting.

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