How to Get the Best Alaska Cruise Deals

Learn how to get the best Alaska cruise deals by booking at the right time, choosing the right itinerary, and using smart comparison tools. This guide reveals proven strategies to save hundreds—even thousands—on your dream Alaskan adventure.

Key Takeaways

• Book early or last-minute: The best Alaska cruise deals often come from booking 12–18 months in advance or snagging last-minute discounts within 6–8 weeks of departure.
• Travel during shoulder seasons: Cruising in May, early June, or September offers lower prices, fewer crowds, and still-great weather.
• Compare multiple cruise lines: Prices vary widely between brands like Royal Caribbean, Holland America, and smaller luxury lines—shop around.
• Use a travel agent or cruise specialist: Experts often have access to exclusive deals, onboard credits, and cabin upgrades not available online.
• Watch for promotions and add-ons: Free drink packages, gratuities, or airfare can dramatically increase value—don’t overlook the fine print.
• Be flexible with ports and dates: Slight adjustments to your itinerary or travel week can unlock significant savings.
• Sign up for deal alerts: Get notified instantly when prices drop on your preferred Alaska cruise routes.

How to Get the Best Alaska Cruise Deals: Your Complete Guide

Dreaming of glaciers, wildlife, and rugged coastlines? An Alaska cruise is one of the most breathtaking ways to experience the Last Frontier. But let’s be honest—cruises can get expensive. Between cabin fares, excursions, drinks, and airfare, costs add up fast. The good news? With the right strategy, you can enjoy an unforgettable Alaskan voyage without breaking the bank.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to get the best Alaska cruise deals—from timing your booking perfectly to uncovering hidden discounts and maximizing value. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, these step-by-step tips will help you save money while still enjoying a world-class experience.

Step 1: Know When to Book for Maximum Savings

Timing is everything when it comes to Alaska cruise deals. Unlike tropical destinations, Alaska has a short cruising season—typically from May to September—which means demand is high and prices fluctuate dramatically.

Book Early for the Best Selection (12–18 Months Out)

Cruise lines release their Alaska itineraries up to 18 months in advance. Booking during this “wave season” (usually January to March) gives you access to the widest cabin selection, including prime oceanview and balcony rooms. Early birds also benefit from lower base fares and promotional perks like free upgrades or onboard credit.

For example, Holland America often launches early-booking deals with $250 onboard credit per person if you reserve 12+ months ahead. Similarly, Princess Cruises has offered free gratuities and drink packages for early reservations.

Wait for Last-Minute Deals (6–8 Weeks Before Departure)

If you’re flexible and can travel on short notice, waiting until 6–8 weeks before your cruise can yield incredible discounts. Cruise lines want to fill empty cabins, so they slash prices to avoid sailing with empty berths.

We’ve seen 7-day Alaska cruises drop from $1,500 to under $800 per person during last-minute sales. These deals are especially common in late August and September, as schools start and demand dips.

Tip: Set up price alerts on sites like CruiseCritic or VacationsToGo to get notified when fares drop.

Avoid Peak Summer Weeks

Mid-July is the busiest—and most expensive—time to cruise Alaska. Families take advantage of summer break, and ports like Juneau and Ketchikan are packed. Prices can be 30–50% higher than in May or September.

Instead, aim for:
– Early June: Mild weather, fewer crowds, and active wildlife.
– Late August to mid-September: Cooler temps, fall colors, and lower prices.

Step 2: Choose the Right Itinerary and Cruise Line

Not all Alaska cruises are created equal. The route, duration, and cruise line you choose will significantly impact both cost and experience.

Inside Passage vs. Gulf of Alaska (Round-Trip vs. One-Way)

There are two main types of Alaska cruise itineraries:

– Inside Passage (Round-Trip): Departs and returns to the same port (usually Seattle or Vancouver). Visits ports like Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan. Typically 7 days. These are the most popular and often the most affordable.

– Gulf of Alaska (One-Way): Sails between Seattle/Vancouver and Seward or Whittier (near Anchorage). Includes glacier viewing in College Fjord or Hubbard Glacier. Usually 7–10 days. These cruises often cost more due to airfare logistics but offer more dramatic scenery.

Pro Tip: One-way cruises can be cheaper if you book a one-way flight home. Use flight comparison tools like Google Flights to check airfare from Seward or Whittier.

Compare Cruise Lines for Value

Different cruise lines cater to different budgets and travel styles:

– Budget-Friendly: Carnival, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), and Royal Caribbean offer lively, family-oriented cruises with frequent sales. Look for “Free at Sea” or “Buy One, Get One” deals.

– Mid-Range: Holland America and Princess Cruises provide a more refined experience with excellent service, enrichment programs, and scenic cruising. They often include free shore excursions or drink packages in promotions.

– Luxury: Seabourn, Silversea, and Regent Seven Seas offer all-inclusive experiences with gourmet dining, small ships, and personalized service. While pricier, they often include airfare, excursions, and premium amenities—great value if you factor in extras.

Example: A 7-day Holland America cruise might cost $1,200 per person, but include $300 in onboard credit and free Wi-Fi. A luxury line at $3,000 might include everything—making the effective cost similar.

Consider Smaller Ships and Expedition Cruises

Smaller ships (under 500 passengers) can access remote fjords and offer more intimate wildlife encounters. Lines like UnCruise Adventures or Lindblad Expeditions focus on adventure and education, often with expert naturalists onboard.

While these cruises may have higher base fares, they include more excursions and unique experiences—like kayaking among icebergs or Zodiac tours—that would cost extra on larger ships.

Step 3: Use Deal-Finding Tools and Alerts

Don’t rely on cruise line websites alone. Use third-party tools to compare prices and catch flash sales.

Set Up Price Alerts

Websites like:
– CruiseCritic.com
– VacationsToGo.com
– Kayak.com/cruises
– Google Flights (for cruise + flight packages)

Allow you to set alerts for specific itineraries. You’ll get email notifications when prices drop or new promotions launch.

Check Flash Sale Sites

Sites like:
– Costco Travel
– AAA Vacations
– Priceline Express Deals
– Hotwire

Often feature deeply discounted Alaska cruises. Costco, for example, bundles cruises with hotel stays and includes Executive Member rewards (2% back on travel).

Follow Cruise Lines on Social Media

Cruise lines frequently announce flash sales on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. For example, Norwegian Cruise Line once offered 50% off second passenger fares for 48 hours—only announced on social media.

Step 4: Leverage Travel Agents and Loyalty Programs

You might think booking online is cheaper, but travel agents often have access to exclusive deals.

Work with a Cruise Specialist

Certified cruise agents (look for ACCL or CLIA certification) receive perks like:
– Unadvertised group rates
– Free cabin upgrades
– Onboard credit ($50–$500 per stateroom)
– Complimentary drink packages or Wi-Fi

They also handle all the details—shore excursions, dining reservations, travel insurance—saving you time and stress.

Tip: Many agents offer their services for free. They earn commissions from cruise lines, so you pay nothing extra.

Join Loyalty Programs

Most cruise lines have frequent cruiser programs:
– Crown & Anchor Society (Royal Caribbean)
– Captain’s Circle (Holland America)
– Captain’s Club (Princess)

Benefits include:
– Discounts on future cruises
– Priority boarding
– Free internet minutes
– Exclusive member sales

Even if it’s your first cruise, sign up—you’ll get access to member-only deals and earn points toward future savings.

Step 5: Watch for Promotions and Add-Ons

The base fare is just the beginning. Smart cruisers look for bundled perks that increase value.

Free Drink Packages

Many lines offer “free drinks” promotions during wave season. For example:
– Norwegian’s “Free at Sea” includes unlimited beverages, specialty dining, and shore excursions.
– Royal Caribbean’s “Buy One, Get One” often includes free soda and juice packages.

A drink package can save $50–$100 per person per day—especially valuable on longer cruises.

Free or Discounted Airfare

Some cruise lines include airfare from major U.S. cities, especially on one-way Gulf itineraries. Princess Cruises frequently offers “Fly Free” deals from cities like Chicago, Dallas, or Denver.

Even if airfare isn’t free, bundled cruise + flight packages can be cheaper than booking separately.

Onboard Credit and Upgrades

Look for promotions that include:
– $100–$500 onboard credit (use for excursions, spa, or shopping)
– Free cabin upgrades (from inside to oceanview)
– Complimentary Wi-Fi or specialty dining

Example: A $1,500 cruise with $300 onboard credit and a free upgrade is a much better deal than a $1,400 cruise with no extras.

Step 6: Be Flexible with Dates and Cabins

Flexibility is your secret weapon for scoring deals.

Adjust Your Travel Week

Prices can vary by hundreds of dollars depending on the day you sail. Mid-week departures (Tuesday, Wednesday) are often cheaper than weekend sailings.

Also, avoid holidays like Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day—demand spikes, and so do prices.

Choose the Right Cabin Type

– Inside cabins: Cheapest, but no window. Best for budget travelers who plan to be out exploring.
– Oceanview: Window or porthole. Great value for the price.
– Balcony: Private outdoor space. Ideal for glacier viewing. Look for “guarantee” cabins (you pick the price, the line assigns the room) for potential upgrades.
– Suites: Luxurious, but expensive. Only worth it if included in a promotion.

Tip: Book an oceanview cabin on a lower deck—it’s often cheaper and more stable in rough seas.

Consider Repositioning Cruises

These are one-way cruises that move ships between seasons (e.g., from the Caribbean to Alaska in spring). They’re longer (10–14 days) but often significantly cheaper per night.

Example: A 12-day repositioning cruise from Los Angeles to Vancouver might cost $1,200—just $100 per night—and include multiple Alaskan ports.

Step 7: Book Shore Excursions Wisely

Shore excursions can double your cruise cost if you’re not careful. A single whale-watching tour can run $150–$300 per person.

Book in Advance for Discounts

Cruise lines often offer early-bird pricing on excursions. Book online before you sail to save 10–20%.

Compare Third-Party Options

Local tour operators in ports like Juneau or Skagway often offer the same tours for less. Use sites like:
– Viator.com
– GetYourGuide.com
– ShoreTrips.com

Just ensure the tour ends before your ship departs—most cruise lines won’t wait for late passengers.

Look for Free or Low-Cost Activities

Many ports have free attractions:
– Juneau: Walk to Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center (free shuttle available)
– Skagway: Explore the historic downtown and White Pass trail
– Ketchikan: Visit Creek Street and the Totem Heritage Center

Step 8: Don’t Forget Travel Insurance and Hidden Costs

Even the best Alaska cruise deal can turn sour without proper planning.

Get Travel Insurance

Alaska weather can be unpredictable. A sudden storm or medical issue could force a cancellation. Travel insurance covers:
– Trip cancellation/interruption
– Medical emergencies
– Missed port departures

Look for policies that include “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) for maximum flexibility.

Budget for Extras

Beyond the base fare, expect to pay for:
– Gratuities ($14–$18 per day per person)
– Specialty dining ($20–$50 per meal)
– Wi-Fi ($10–$30 per day)
– Souvenirs and shopping

Tip: Some cruise lines include gratuities in the fare (e.g., luxury lines). Check the fine print.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

“I Missed the Early Booking Window—Can I Still Get a Deal?”

Yes! Focus on last-minute sales, repositioning cruises, or shoulder-season departures. Also, check for group rates or military discounts.

“The Price Dropped After I Booked—Can I Get a Refund?”

Most cruise lines have a “price protection” policy. If the fare drops within a certain window (usually 48–72 hours to 30 days), you may be eligible for a refund or onboard credit. Contact your agent or the cruise line immediately.

“I Can’t Afford a Balcony Cabin—Any Alternatives?”

Book an oceanview cabin on a higher deck with a public promenade nearby. You can enjoy glacier views from the open decks—many of which are free and uncrowded early in the morning.

Conclusion

Getting the best Alaska cruise deals doesn’t require luck—it takes strategy. By booking at the right time, choosing the right itinerary, using deal-finding tools, and staying flexible, you can save hundreds or even thousands on your dream voyage.

Remember: The cheapest fare isn’t always the best value. Look for promotions that include onboard credit, drink packages, or free airfare. And don’t underestimate the power of a good travel agent—they can unlock perks you won’t find online.

With these tips, you’re ready to set sail on an unforgettable Alaskan adventure—without overspending. Start planning today, and get ready to witness towering glaciers, playful whales, and the raw beauty of the Last Frontier.