What Are the Best Cruise Lines for Alaska in 2024

Holland America Line and Princess Cruises lead the pack as the best cruise lines for Alaska in 2024, offering immersive itineraries, expert-led excursions, and unmatched access to glaciers and wildlife. Smaller luxury lines like Seabourn and Regent Seven Seas deliver ultra-premium experiences with all-inclusive perks and intimate ships for unparalleled views. Whether you seek adventure or indulgence, these top-tier options guarantee an unforgettable Alaskan voyage.

Key Takeaways

• Choose Holland America for immersive Alaska experiences and expert-led excursions.
• Opt for Princess Cruises if you value scenic routes and onboard enrichment programs.
• Book with Norwegian Cruise Line for flexible dining and family-friendly adventure options.
• Consider small-ship lines like UnCruise for intimate, wildlife-focused voyages.
• Prioritize balcony cabins to maximize views of glaciers and fjords.
• Travel in July-August for optimal weather and extended daylight hours.
• Verify included excursions to avoid unexpected costs on premium itineraries.

Why Alaska Cruises Are a Must-Do Adventure in 2024

Imagine waking up to the sight of a towering glacier calving into a pristine fjord, the crisp mountain air filling your lungs as a pod of orcas breaches in the distance. This is the magic of an Alaska cruise—a journey through one of the last great wildernesses on Earth. With its dramatic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and rich indigenous culture, Alaska offers a cruise experience unlike any other. In 2024, demand for Alaska cruises has surged, with travelers eager to explore its untouched beauty, and cruise lines are responding with innovative itineraries, eco-friendly practices, and unforgettable onboard experiences.

Choosing the right cruise line for your Alaskan adventure can make all the difference. Whether you’re drawn to intimate ships that navigate narrow waterways, luxury vessels with gourmet dining, or family-friendly options packed with activities, the options are vast. But with so many choices, how do you pick the best one? This guide dives deep into the top cruise lines for Alaska in 2024, evaluating them based on itinerary quality, onboard experience, shore excursions, sustainability, and value for money. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, we’ll help you find the perfect match for your dream Alaskan getaway.

Top 5 Cruise Lines for Alaska in 2024: A Detailed Breakdown

1. Princess Cruises: The Classic Alaskan Experience

Princess Cruises has been a leader in Alaskan voyages for over 50 years, and in 2024, it remains a top choice for travelers seeking a well-rounded, immersive experience. Their 7-day Voyage of the Glaciers itinerary is legendary, sailing between Whittier (near Anchorage) and Vancouver while visiting Glacier Bay National Park, Skagway, Juneau, and Ketchikan. What sets Princess apart is their MedallionClass technology, which streamlines check-in, unlocks staterooms with a wearable device, and even lets you order drinks to your deck chair.

Why Princess shines:

• Expert-led excursions: Partnering with local guides, Princess offers unique activities like dog-sledding on Mendenhall Glacier and gold panning in Skagway.
• Naturalist programs: Rangers from Glacier Bay National Park board select ships to give lectures and lead wildlife spotting.
• Scenic cruising: Their ships feature the “Discovery at SEA” program, with glass-walled lounges for unobstructed glacier views.

Pro tip: Book a balcony stateroom on the starboard side for the best views of Glacier Bay’s Margerie Glacier. Princess also offers extended 10-14 day itineraries for deeper exploration.

2. Holland America Line: Elegance Meets Adventure

Holland America Line combines old-world charm with modern comforts, making it ideal for travelers who appreciate refined service and cultural immersion. Their Alaska Explorer itineraries (7-14 days) often include lesser-known ports like Haines and Sitka, alongside staples like Juneau and Ketchikan. The line’s Zuiderdam and Noordam ships feature wraparound promenades, perfect for whale watching.

Key highlights:

• Food & Wine: Culinary Council chefs (like Ethan Stowell) create Alaskan-inspired dishes, and wine tastings feature local producers.
• Music Walk: A dedicated deck hosts live jazz, blues, and classical performances.
• Shore excursions: Unique options include a flightseeing tour of Denali National Park and a Tlingit cultural workshop in Sitka.

Insider tip: Holland America’s “Dine in the Wilderness” excursion lets you enjoy a gourmet picnic in the Tongass National Forest—book early, as it sells out fast.

3. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Flexibility for Families and Foodies

NCL’s “Free at Sea” program and casual vibe make it a hit with families and multigenerational groups. Their Alaska: Glacier Bay itinerary (7-10 days) includes stops in Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, and the scenic College Fjord. The Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Joy ships boast innovative features like a two-level go-kart track and a virtual reality gaming zone.

Standout features:

• Freestyle Dining: No fixed dining times—eat at 15+ restaurants, including Alaskan specialties like king crab legs.
• Kids’ programs: Splash Academy offers age-specific activities, while teens have their own lounge.
• Excursions: Adventure options like kayaking in Misty Fjords or zip-lining in Icy Strait Point.

Pro tip: NCL’s “More at Sea” add-on includes free shore excursion credits—ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

4. Celebrity Cruises: Luxury with a Focus on Sustainability

Celebrity Cruises elevates Alaskan travel with sleek, modern ships like the Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Solstice. Their Alaska: Hubbard Glacier itinerary (7-12 days) emphasizes eco-conscious practices, including advanced wastewater treatment and partnerships with local conservation groups. The line’s “Celebrity Revolution” initiative aims for zero waste-to-landfill by 2025.

Why Celebrity stands out:

• Infinite Verandas: Staterooms with floor-to-ceiling windows that convert into open-air balconies.
• Alchemy Bar: A speakeasy-style bar with craft cocktails inspired by Alaskan ingredients (try the “Glacier Mule”).
• Excursions: Exclusive access to private wildlife reserves and Indigenous-led cultural tours.

Insider tip: Celebrity’s “Behind the Scenes” tour lets you explore the ship’s galley and bridge—great for kids and curious adults.

5. UnCruise Adventures: Intimate and Immersive

For travelers seeking a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, UnCruise Adventures is unparalleled. Their small ships (carrying 22-86 guests) sail to remote areas like the Kenai Fjords and Prince William Sound, where larger vessels can’t go. The Alaska’s Glacier Country itinerary (7-14 days) focuses on wildlife, kayaking, and hiking.

Unique perks:

• All-inclusive: Meals, excursions, and alcohol are covered—no surprise bills.
• Expert guides: Naturalists and historians lead small-group excursions.
• Adventure focus: Activities like paddleboarding near glaciers or hiking in old-growth forests.

Pro tip: UnCruise’s “Wildlife Guarantee” promises a full refund if you don’t spot a humpback whale or bear—a testament to their expertise.

How to Choose the Right Cruise Line for Your Alaskan Adventure

Step 1: Define Your Priorities

Ask yourself: What’s most important to you?

• Wildlife & nature: Opt for small-ship lines like UnCruise or Lindblad Expeditions.
• Luxury & dining: Choose Celebrity, Regent Seven Seas, or Silversea.
• Family fun: NCL, Royal Caribbean, or Disney Cruise Line (new in 2024).
• Culture & history: Holland America or Princess for Indigenous-led excursions.

Step 2: Evaluate Itinerary Details

Not all Alaska cruises are created equal. Key factors to compare:

• Glacier viewing: Ensure your itinerary includes Glacier Bay (UNESCO site) or Hubbard Glacier.
• Port stops: Juneau (state capital), Skagway (Gold Rush history), and Ketchikan (salmon capital) are musts.
• Scenic cruising: Look for “Inside Passage” or “College Fjord” in the itinerary.
• Ship size: Larger ships (2,000+ passengers) offer more amenities but less intimacy.

Example: A 7-day Princess cruise spends 8+ hours in Glacier Bay, while a similar NCL itinerary may only offer 4-5 hours.

Step 3: Consider Onboard Experience

• Entertainment: Broadway-style shows (NCL), live music (Holland America), or enrichment lectures (Celebrity).
• Dining: Gourmet options (Celebrity), casual buffets (Royal Caribbean), or all-inclusive (UnCruise).
• Staterooms: Balcony rooms for glacier views, or interior cabins for budget savings.

Step 4: Budget Smartly

Alaska cruises range from $1,000-$10,000+ per person. Save by:

• Booking early (best deals 12-18 months in advance).
• Choosing shoulder season (May or September) for lower prices.
• Opting for interior cabins (savings of 30-50% vs. balcony).
• Using cruise line promotions (e.g., “Free at Sea” or “Buy One, Get One 50% Off”).

Must-See Destinations & Shore Excursions in Alaska

Glacier Bay National Park: A UNESCO Treasure

This 3.3-million-acre park is a highlight of any Alaskan cruise. Key sights:

• Margerie Glacier: A 21-mile-long glacier that calves daily—listen for the thunderous cracks.
• John Hopkins Inlet: Spot harbor seals on icebergs and mountain goats on cliffs.
• Bartlett Cove: A ranger-led hike through a temperate rainforest.

Pro tip: Bring binoculars and a zoom lens—wildlife is often spotted at a distance.

Juneau: The State Capital with a Wild Side

Alaska’s capital offers:

• Mendenhall Glacier: A 13-mile-long glacier with a visitor center and hiking trails.
• Tracy Arm Fjord: A scenic cruise past towering cliffs and waterfalls.
• Whale watching: Juneau’s Auke Bay is prime orca territory (May-September).

Excursion highlight: The “Glacier Dogs & Helicopter” tour combines a helicopter flight with a dogsled ride on a glacier.

Skagway: Gateway to the Klondike Gold Rush

Step back in time with:

• White Pass Railway: A scenic train ride to Canada’s Yukon Territory.
• Gold Rush Museum: Learn about the 1898 stampede.
• Chilkoot Trail: A 33-mile hiking trail (day hikes available).

Ketchikan: The Salmon Capital of Alaska

Must-do activities:

• Totem Bight State Park: See intricately carved totem poles.
• Misty Fjords: A seaplane flight over jagged peaks and waterfalls.
• Rainforest Hike: Spot eagles, otters, and salmon spawning in streams.

Sustainability in Alaskan Cruising: What to Look For

Eco-Friendly Practices to Prioritize

Alaska’s fragile ecosystem requires responsible tourism. Look for cruise lines with:

• Advanced wastewater treatment: Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian use cutting-edge systems.
• Shore power connectivity: Ships like Celebrity Edge can plug into ports to reduce emissions.
• Wildlife protection: Lindblad Expeditions partners with the National Geographic Society.
• Plastic-free initiatives: UnCruise bans single-use plastics.

How Cruise Lines Are Innovating

• Norwegian: Testing biofuels on select ships.
• Princess: “Ocean Medallion” reduces paper waste.
• Holland America: “Save the Waves” program funds marine conservation.

Pro tip: Choose excursions with local operators (e.g., Alaska Raptor Center in Sitka) to support the community.

2024 Alaska Cruise Line Comparison Table

Cruise Line	Best For	Avg. Price (7-Day)	Ship Size	Unique Feature
Princess Cruises	First-time cruisers, families	$1,800	2,000-2,600	MedallionClass tech
Holland America	Culture, foodies	$2,200	1,900-2,100	Music Walk
Norwegian	Families, flexibility	$1,600	3,000-4,000	Freestyle Dining
Celebrity	Luxury, sustainability	$3,000	2,900-3,000	Infinite Verandas
UnCruise	Adventure, small groups	$4,500	22-86	All-inclusive

Final Tips for Booking Your 2024 Alaska Cruise

Alaska’s 2024 cruise season (May-September) is booking fast, but with these tips, you’ll secure the perfect trip:

• Book early: Top cabins and excursions sell out 12+ months in advance.
• Pack smart: Layers, waterproof gear, binoculars, and a reusable water bottle.
• Check vaccination rules: Some lines require COVID-19 boosters.
• Buy travel insurance: Covers weather delays and missed excursions.
• Arrive early: Spend 1-2 days in Vancouver or Seattle to explore before boarding.

Whether you choose the timeless charm of Princess Cruises, the adventurous spirit of UnCruise, or the luxury of Celebrity, Alaska promises an unforgettable journey. In 2024, the Last Frontier awaits—start planning today to witness glaciers, wildlife, and wild beauty like nowhere else on Earth. As the Tlingit people say, “Lingít yoo x̱ʼatángi”—”May the spirit of the land guide you.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best cruise lines for Alaska in 2024?

Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line consistently rank among the top choices for Alaska in 2024 due to their exceptional service, glacier-focused itineraries, and onboard amenities. Smaller luxury options like Seabourn and Regent Seven Seas also offer immersive experiences with fewer crowds.

Which cruise line has the best Alaska itineraries and excursions?

Princess Cruises and Holland America Line stand out for their extensive Alaska itineraries, including Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier, plus curated shore excursions like dog sledding and wildlife tours. Their partnerships with local guides ensure authentic, unforgettable adventures.

Are there luxury cruise lines for an Alaska trip?

Yes, luxury cruise lines like Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas, and Silversea offer all-inclusive Alaska voyages with gourmet dining, spacious suites, and personalized service. These lines often include perks like private excursions and onboard naturalists for a refined experience.

What is the most family-friendly Alaska cruise line?

Norwegian Cruise Line and Disney Cruise Line are top picks for families, featuring kid-friendly activities, spacious accommodations, and engaging onboard programs. Both lines also offer Alaska-specific excursions, like wildlife spotting and interactive cultural experiences.

Which cruise lines visit Glacier Bay National Park?

Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line are among the best cruise lines for Alaska that include Glacier Bay National Park in their itineraries. These ships often carry park rangers onboard to enhance the educational experience.

What budget-friendly cruise lines travel to Alaska?

Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean offer affordable Alaska sailings with frequent promotions and shorter voyages. While more budget-conscious, these lines still provide access to major attractions like Juneau and Skagway.