What Are the Best Cruise Ships to Alaska

Choosing the best cruise ships to Alaska depends on your travel style, budget, and must-see destinations. Whether you’re after luxury, family fun, or intimate wildlife viewing, Alaska’s top cruise lines offer unforgettable experiences through glaciers, fjords, and coastal towns.

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Key Takeaways

• Smaller ships offer better access to remote ports: Ships under 200 passengers can dock in smaller towns like Haines and Ketchikan, offering a more personal Alaskan experience.
• Luxury lines provide premium amenities: Cruise lines like Seabourn and Silversea deliver gourmet dining, spacious suites, and expert-led excursions for a high-end journey.
• Family-friendly ships have activities for all ages: Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean feature kids’ clubs, water slides, and entertainment perfect for multi-generational trips.
• Expedition cruises focus on wildlife and nature: Companies like Lindblad Expeditions and UnCruise Adventures prioritize wildlife spotting, Zodiac tours, and naturalist guides.
• Mainstream lines balance value and experience: Carnival, Princess, and Holland America offer reliable service, scenic itineraries, and a mix of onboard activities at competitive prices.
• Itinerary matters as much as the ship: Look for routes that include Glacier Bay, Hubbard Glacier, and ports like Juneau, Skagway, and Sitka for the full Alaskan adventure.
• Book early for the best cabins and deals: Alaska cruises fill up fast, especially for peak summer months, so planning ahead ensures better selection and pricing.

Introduction: Why Alaska Cruises Are a Must-Do Adventure

Imagine waking up to the sight of a towering glacier calving into icy waters, or spotting a humpback whale breaching just off the ship’s bow. This is the magic of an Alaska cruise—a journey through one of the world’s last great wildernesses, where rugged mountains meet the sea and wildlife roams freely. Alaska isn’t just a destination; it’s a transformative experience, and cruising is one of the best ways to see it.

Unlike road trips or fly-in tours, a cruise lets you glide through pristine fjords, dock in charming coastal towns, and enjoy world-class comfort—all while the landscape unfolds like a living postcard. But with so many cruise lines and ships to choose from, how do you pick the right one? The answer depends on what you value most: luxury, adventure, family fun, or intimate nature encounters. In this guide, we’ll break down the best cruise ships to Alaska, helping you find the perfect match for your dream voyage.

What Makes a Great Alaska Cruise Ship?

Not all cruise ships are created equal—especially when it comes to Alaska. The best cruise ships to Alaska share a few key traits: they’re designed to showcase the scenery, offer expert-led excursions, and provide comfort in a remote environment. But beyond that, the “best” ship really depends on your travel style.

Ship Size and Access

One of the biggest factors is ship size. Larger ships—those with 2,000+ passengers—offer more amenities like multiple dining venues, theaters, and pools. But they’re also limited in where they can go. Due to regulations, only a few large ships are allowed into Glacier Bay National Park each day, and they can’t dock in smaller ports like Haines or Wrangell.

Smaller ships, on the other hand, can access more remote areas and often spend more time in scenic cruising areas. Ships under 200 passengers, like those from UnCruise Adventures or Lindblad Expeditions, can navigate narrow channels and drop anchor near glaciers for Zodiac tours. If you’re after a more intimate, nature-focused experience, a smaller vessel might be your best bet.

Onboard Experience and Amenities

Alaska cruises typically last 7 to 14 days, so the onboard experience matters. Look for ships with large viewing areas—especially forward-facing lounges and open decks—so you don’t miss a moment of the scenery. Some ships even have heated outdoor loungers or glass-enclosed observation areas for chilly mornings.

Dining is another consideration. While most ships offer standard buffet and main dining room options, luxury and expedition lines often feature regionally inspired menus with fresh seafood, local berries, and Alaskan king crab. If food is a priority, consider ships with multiple specialty restaurants or partnerships with local chefs.

Excursions and Expert Guides

Alaska is all about the outdoors, so the quality of shore excursions can make or break your trip. The best cruise ships to Alaska include guided tours led by naturalists, historians, or local experts. These might include whale-watching tours, glacier hikes, dog sledding on ice fields, or visits to native cultural centers.

Some lines, like Holland America and Princess, offer “MedallionClass” or “OceanMedallion” technology that lets you book excursions, order drinks, and navigate the ship with ease. Others, like Seabourn, include most excursions in the fare, so you don’t have to worry about extra costs.

Top Luxury Cruise Ships to Alaska

If you’re looking to sail in style, luxury cruise lines offer some of the most refined experiences on the water. These ships combine five-star service, gourmet dining, and exclusive access to Alaska’s most stunning sights.

Seabourn Odyssey and Seabourn Encore

Seabourn is known for its intimate ships and personalized service, and its Alaska itineraries are no exception. The Seabourn Odyssey and Seabourn Encore carry around 450 passengers, offering spacious suites, all-inclusive dining, and a relaxed, elegant atmosphere. Both ships feature open decks with ample seating, perfect for glacier viewing.

What sets Seabourn apart is its “Seabourn Ventures” program, which offers guided kayaking, hiking, and Zodiac excursions led by expert naturalists. Many excursions are included in the fare, and the ship often anchors in remote bays for up-close wildlife encounters. If you want luxury without the crowds, Seabourn is a top choice.

Silversea’s Silver Whisper and Silver Spirit

Silversea’s all-suite ships cater to discerning travelers who value privacy and sophistication. The Silver Whisper and Silver Spirit carry about 380 guests and feature butler service, fine wines, and multiple dining venues. Their Alaska itineraries often include overnight stays in ports like Juneau and Ketchikan, giving you more time to explore.

Silversea also partners with National Geographic, offering enhanced excursions with photographers and scientists. Imagine kayaking beside a glacier with a Nat Geo expert pointing out ice formations and marine life. It’s a premium experience that blends luxury with learning.

Regent Seven Seas Navigator

Regent Seven Seas is all about “all-inclusive luxury,” and the Navigator delivers. This ship includes airfare, unlimited shore excursions, premium beverages, and gratuities in the fare—making it a hassle-free option for travelers who want everything taken care of.

The Navigator sails to both popular and off-the-beaten-path ports, including Sitka, Skagway, and the rarely visited Kodiak Island. With a passenger count of around 490, it’s small enough for personalized service but large enough to offer multiple dining options and a spa. If you want a seamless, high-end Alaska cruise, Regent is hard to beat.

Best Family-Friendly Cruise Ships to Alaska

Traveling with kids? You’ll want a ship that keeps everyone entertained while still delivering that Alaskan wow factor. The best family-friendly cruise ships to Alaska offer a mix of activities, spacious cabins, and kid-approved excursions.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is a favorite for families, and its Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore are among the most popular ships in Alaska. These ships feature multiple pools, water slides, rock climbing walls, and even go-kart tracks—yes, go-karts on a cruise ship!

For kids, there are dedicated clubs like Splash Academy and Entourage, offering age-appropriate activities from arts and crafts to video games. Parents will appreciate the flexible “Freestyle Dining” option, which lets you eat whenever and wherever you want. NCL’s itineraries often include stops in Seattle, Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan, with excursions like whale watching, gold panning, and scenic train rides.

Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas

Royal Caribbean is known for innovation, and its Ovation of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas bring high-tech fun to Alaska. These ships feature robotic bartenders, skydiving simulators, and the North Star—a glass capsule that lifts passengers 300 feet above the ship for panoramic views.

Kids and teens have their own spaces, including adventure labs and teen lounges. The ships also offer family-friendly excursions like dog sledding on the Mendenhall Glacier and wildlife cruises. With a wide range of dining options and entertainment, Royal Caribbean keeps the whole family engaged.

Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Spirit and Carnival Miracle

Carnival is all about fun and value, and its Alaska ships deliver both. The Carnival Spirit and Carnival Miracle offer affordable fares, lively entertainment, and a casual atmosphere. While they don’t have the high-tech features of Royal Caribbean, they make up for it with comedy shows, deck parties, and a wide range of shore excursions.

Families will appreciate the Camp Ocean kids’ program and the variety of dining options, from pizza to seafood. Carnival’s itineraries often include Victoria, British Columbia, and ports like Juneau and Skagway. It’s a great choice for budget-conscious travelers who still want a memorable Alaska experience.

Expedition and Small Ship Cruises: For the Adventurous Traveler

If you’re more interested in wildlife than water slides, expedition cruises offer a completely different—and often more rewarding—Alaska experience. These small ships focus on nature, education, and immersive adventures.

Lindblad Expeditions – National Geographic Venture and Sea Bird

Lindblad Expeditions partners with National Geographic to offer some of the most educational and adventurous Alaska cruises. The National Geographic Venture and Sea Bird carry around 100 passengers and are designed for exploration, with reinforced hulls for icy waters and fleets of Zodiacs and kayaks.

Each day brings new opportunities: hiking through temperate rainforests, spotting orcas and sea lions, or visiting remote Tlingit villages. Naturalists and photographers lead excursions, sharing insights about Alaska’s ecosystems and cultures. If you want to learn while you explore, Lindblad is a top pick.

UnCruise Adventures – Safari Quest and Wilderness Adventurer

UnCruise Adventures specializes in small, adventurous voyages with a focus on wildlife and local culture. Ships like the Safari Quest and Wilderness Adventurer carry fewer than 100 guests and often anchor in remote bays for kayaking, hiking, and whale watching.

What sets UnCruise apart is its flexibility. The itinerary can change based on wildlife sightings—imagine the captain spotting a pod of humpbacks and diverting the ship for a closer look. Meals feature locally sourced ingredients, and the crew includes naturalists and local guides. It’s a truly immersive way to experience Alaska.

Hurtigruten’s MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen

Hurtigruten, a Norwegian line, combines expedition cruising with sustainable travel. The MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen are hybrid-powered ships that reduce emissions and offer a more eco-friendly voyage.

These ships feature science centers, expert-led lectures, and excursions like glacier hikes and polar bear spotting (in the northern regions). With a focus on sustainability and education, Hurtigruten appeals to travelers who want to explore responsibly.

Mainstream Cruise Lines: Reliable and Scenic

For many travelers, mainstream cruise lines offer the best balance of value, comfort, and scenery. These ships are larger but still deliver excellent Alaska experiences with reliable service and well-planned itineraries.

Princess Cruises – Grand Princess and Ruby Princess

Princess Cruises is a longtime favorite for Alaska, known for its “North to Alaska” program that includes local cuisine, cultural performances, and expert talks. The Grand Princess and Ruby Princess offer spacious cabins, multiple dining venues, and large viewing areas.

Princess ships often include a stop in Glacier Bay National Park, and their “Movies Under the Stars” screens show nature documentaries on the pool deck. With a mix of relaxation and adventure, Princess is a solid choice for first-time Alaska cruisers.

Holland America Line – Nieuw Amsterdam and Westerdam

Holland America is known for its classic elegance and focus on destination immersion. Ships like the Nieuw Amsterdam and Westerdam offer refined dining, live music, and a calm atmosphere. Their itineraries often include scenic cruising through Tracy Arm Fjord and stops in ports like Ketchikan and Juneau.

Holland America also offers the “Have It All” package, which includes drinks, Wi-Fi, and shore excursions—making it easier to budget. With a strong emphasis on Alaskan culture and history, it’s a great option for travelers who want a more traditional cruise experience.

Choosing the Right Itinerary and Time to Go

Even the best cruise ship to Alaska won’t deliver if the itinerary doesn’t match your interests. Most Alaska cruises run from May to September, with peak season in June, July, and August. Here’s what to consider:

Best Ports to Visit

• Juneau: Alaska’s capital, accessible only by boat or plane. Don’t miss the Mendenhall Glacier and whale-watching tours.
• Skagway: A Gold Rush town with historic railways and hiking trails.
• Ketchikan: Known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” with totem parks and rainforest walks.
• Sitka: A cultural hub with Russian history and abundant wildlife.
• Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier: Must-see natural wonders for glacier viewing.

When to Go

May and September offer fewer crowds and lower prices, but cooler weather and shorter daylight hours. June through August is peak season, with warmer temps, longer days, and the best wildlife activity—but also higher prices and more tourists.

Round-Trip vs. One-Way Cruises

Round-trip cruises from Seattle or Vancouver are convenient and often cheaper. One-way cruises (e.g., Seattle to Seward) let you explore more of Alaska by land, but require flights at the end. Consider a cruise-tour combo for the full experience.

Final Tips for Booking Your Alaska Cruise

Ready to book? Here are a few final tips to ensure you get the most out of your trip:

• Book early: Alaska cruises sell out fast, especially for summer sailings. Booking 12–18 months ahead gives you the best cabin selection and deals.
• Check visa and passport requirements: Even though you’re in the U.S., some itineraries stop in Canada, so check entry rules.
• Pack layers: Weather in Alaska can change quickly. Bring waterproof jackets, warm layers, and binoculars for wildlife viewing.
• Consider travel insurance: Weather delays and cancellations can happen, so protect your investment.
• Download offline maps: Cell service is limited in remote areas, so plan ahead for navigation.

Alaska is a destination that stays with you long after you return home. Whether you’re sipping champagne as a glacier calves or laughing with your kids on a dog sled ride, the memories will last a lifetime. By choosing one of the best cruise ships to Alaska, you’re setting yourself up for an adventure that’s as comfortable as it is unforgettable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to cruise to Alaska?

The best time to cruise to Alaska is from June to August, when the weather is warmest and wildlife is most active. However, May and September offer fewer crowds and lower prices, with still-decent weather and beautiful scenery.

Do I need a passport for an Alaska cruise?

If your cruise starts and ends in the U.S. and doesn’t visit foreign ports, a passport is not required—but it’s highly recommended. If your itinerary includes Canada, a passport is mandatory.

Can large cruise ships enter Glacier Bay?

Yes, but only a limited number of large ships are allowed into Glacier Bay National Park each day. Smaller ships often have better access and more time for scenic cruising.

Are shore excursions included in the cruise fare?

Most shore excursions are extra, but luxury lines like Seabourn and Regent include many in the fare. Always check what’s included before booking.

What should I pack for an Alaska cruise?

Pack layers, including a waterproof jacket, warm sweaters, gloves, and sturdy shoes. Don’t forget binoculars, sunscreen, and a camera for wildlife and glacier viewing.

Are Alaska cruises suitable for families with young children?

Yes, many cruise lines like Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, and Carnival offer kids’ clubs, family cabins, and child-friendly excursions. Just choose a ship with activities that match your children’s ages.