What Are the Best Stops on an Alaskan Cruise

An Alaskan cruise offers some of the most breathtaking scenery and unique experiences in the world. From towering glaciers and abundant wildlife to charming coastal towns rich in Indigenous culture, the best stops on an Alaskan cruise deliver unforgettable moments. Whether you’re marveling at calving ice in Glacier Bay or spotting whales near Ketchikan, each port tells a story of wild beauty and frontier spirit.

Dreaming of icy fjords, towering glaciers, and rugged coastlines teeming with wildlife? An Alaskan cruise is one of the most magical ways to experience the Last Frontier. Unlike traditional vacations, a cruise lets you glide through pristine waters while waking up each morning in a new, awe-inspiring destination. But with so many ports to choose from, it can be hard to know where to focus your time and energy.

The best stops on an Alaskan cruise aren’t just about pretty views—they’re about immersion. You’ll walk through ancient rainforests, hear stories from Native elders, feel the thunder of ice breaking off a glacier, and maybe even spot a bear catching salmon in a river. These moments stay with you long after you return home. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or adventure seeker, Alaska delivers in spades.

Most Alaskan cruises follow a classic Inside Passage route, sailing from Seattle or Vancouver up through British Columbia and into southeastern Alaska. Others venture further north into the Gulf of Alaska, visiting glacier-rich regions like Hubbard Glacier and College Fjord. No matter your itinerary, you’ll likely stop at a mix of national parks, historic towns, and remote wilderness areas. The key is knowing what to expect—and how to make the most of each stop.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best stops on an Alaskan cruise, sharing insider tips, must-see sights, and practical advice to help you plan the trip of a lifetime. From the icy wonders of Glacier Bay to the Gold Rush charm of Skagway, let’s dive into the ports that define an unforgettable Alaskan adventure.

Key Takeaways

• Glacier Bay National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site where you’ll witness massive glaciers calving into the sea—best experienced with a park ranger onboard.
• Juneau: Alaska’s capital, accessible only by boat or plane, offers whale watching, Mendenhall Glacier hikes, and gold rush history.
• Ketchikan: Known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” it’s rich in Tlingit culture, totem poles, and rainforest adventures.
• Skagway: A preserved Gold Rush town with the scenic White Pass & Yukon Route Railway and trails into the Klondike wilderness.
• Hubbard Glacier: One of the largest tidewater glaciers in North America, best viewed from the ship with opportunities for Zodiac tours.
• Seward & Whittier: Gateway ports to Kenai Fjords National Park, offering boat tours, kayaking, and close-up views of marine life.
• Plan Ahead: Book excursions early, dress in layers, and bring binoculars for the best wildlife and scenic viewing.

1. Glacier Bay National Park: Where Ice Meets Ocean

Few places on Earth rival the raw power and beauty of Glacier Bay National Park. This 3.3-million-acre UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the crown jewels of the Alaskan cruise experience. As your ship navigates the narrow fjords, you’ll be surrounded by snow-capped peaks, lush temperate rainforests, and—most dramatically—towering walls of ice.

Why Glacier Bay Is a Must-See

Glacier Bay is home to over a dozen active tidewater glaciers, including the famous Margerie and Grand Pacific Glaciers. These glaciers can stretch over 200 feet high and stretch for miles across the landscape. The real magic happens when a chunk of ice calves—breaking off and crashing into the sea with a thunderous roar. It’s a natural spectacle that feels both humbling and exhilarating.

One of the best parts? The park is protected, so cruise ships must travel slowly and quietly to minimize environmental impact. This means you’ll have plenty of time to soak in the views without feeling rushed. Plus, a National Park Service ranger boards your ship to provide live commentary, sharing fascinating insights about glacier formation, wildlife, and conservation efforts.

Wildlife You Might Spot

Keep your binoculars handy—Glacier Bay is a hotspot for marine and land animals. Humpback whales often feed in the nutrient-rich waters, and you might see them breaching or slapping their tails. Sea otters float on their backs, cracking shellfish on their chests, while harbor seals lounge on ice floes. On land, look for brown bears foraging along the shoreline, especially in late summer when salmon run.

Birdwatchers will love spotting bald eagles perched in tall spruce trees, puffins diving for fish, and marbled murrelets—small seabirds that nest in old-growth forests. The combination of ice, water, and wildlife makes Glacier Bay a photographer’s dream.

Tips for Visiting Glacier Bay

– Book a balcony cabin: Even if you’re not in your room, having a private view of the glaciers is priceless.
– Dress warmly: Even in summer, it can be chilly on deck. Bring a windproof jacket, gloves, and a hat.
– Stay alert: Calving can happen at any time. Keep your camera ready and your eyes on the horizon.
– Respect the silence: The park encourages quiet observation. Turn off loud music and enjoy the natural sounds of ice and water.

2. Juneau: Alaska’s Remote Capital

Juneau is unlike any other state capital in the U.S.—it’s not accessible by road. You can only reach it by boat or plane, which adds to its sense of isolation and adventure. Nestled between towering mountains and the Gastineau Channel, Juneau blends natural beauty with rich history and a vibrant arts scene.

Top Attractions in Juneau

The star of Juneau is the Mendenhall Glacier, just 12 miles from downtown. This 13-mile-long glacier is one of the most accessible in Alaska, with a visitor center, hiking trails, and viewing platforms. The Nugget Falls Trail leads to a stunning waterfall that cascades right next to the glacier’s edge—perfect for photos.

For a dose of history, visit the Alaska State Capitol building, a modest structure compared to other state capitols, but full of character. Nearby, the Juneau-Douglas City Museum showcases Gold Rush artifacts, Indigenous art, and exhibits on local wildlife.

Whale Watching and Wildlife Tours

Juneau is one of the best places in Alaska to see humpback whales. From May to September, these majestic creatures migrate here to feed on herring and krill. Many cruise lines offer whale-watching excursions that take you into the channel, where you can watch whales breach, spout, and even bubble-net feed—a coordinated hunting technique where whales blow bubbles to trap fish.

Other wildlife tours might include bear viewing at nearby Admiralty Island or kayaking through the calm waters of Auke Bay. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a helicopter tour that lands on a glacier—yes, you can actually walk on ancient ice!

Local Culture and Food

Don’t miss the chance to experience Juneau’s local culture. Visit the Alaska Native Brotherhood Hall to learn about Tlingit and Haida heritage, or browse handmade crafts at the Juneau Arts & Culture Center. For food, try fresh seafood at a local restaurant—Alaskan king crab, halibut, and salmon are staples. Many cafes also serve reindeer sausage and blueberry pie, a nod to Alaska’s wild bounty.

Tips for Exploring Juneau

– Book excursions early: Whale-watching and glacier tours fill up fast.
– Wear sturdy shoes: Trails can be muddy and uneven.
– Bring cash: Some small shops and food trucks don’t accept cards.
– Check the weather: Juneau is rainy—pack a rain jacket and waterproof bag.

3. Ketchikan: The Salmon Capital of the World

Ketchikan is a colorful, compact town perched on the edge of the Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the U.S. Known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” it’s a hub for fishing, Indigenous culture, and rainforest exploration.

Explore Native Heritage and Totem Poles

Ketchikan is home to the largest collection of standing totem poles in the world. Visit the Totem Heritage Center to see restored 19th-century poles and learn about the stories they tell. Nearby, Totem Bight State Historical Park features a reconstructed Tlingit village with traditional longhouses and carved totems.

For a deeper dive, take a cultural tour with a Native guide. Many tours include storytelling, traditional dancing, and visits to local artists’ studios. You might even get to try your hand at carving or weaving.

Rainforest Adventures

Just outside town, the Tongass National Forest offers endless opportunities for exploration. Walk the Rainforest Trail, a boardwalk path that winds through moss-covered trees, ferns, and streams. Keep an eye out for deer, bald eagles, and maybe even a black bear.

For a more active adventure, try a zipline tour through the canopy or a guided kayak trip into Misty Fjords National Monument. This dramatic landscape of steep cliffs, waterfalls, and deep inlets was carved by glaciers thousands of years ago.

Fishing and Seafood

If you love seafood, Ketchikan is paradise. Many locals fish for salmon, halibut, and crab right off the docks. You can join a fishing charter for the day or simply enjoy a meal at a waterfront restaurant. Try the grilled salmon with alderwood smoke—it’s a local specialty.

Tips for Visiting Ketchikan

– Visit the Creek Street boardwalk: This historic red-light district turned tourist hub is full of shops, galleries, and restaurants.
– Bring insect repellent: Mosquitoes can be fierce in the rainforest.
– Respect cultural sites: Ask before taking photos of people or sacred objects.
– Try the local brew: Ketchikan has a growing craft beer scene—don’t miss a pint at a local brewery.

4. Skagway: Gateway to the Klondike

Step back in time in Skagway, a Gold Rush town frozen in the late 1800s. With its wooden boardwalks, false-front buildings, and historic saloons, Skagway feels like a movie set—but it’s very much alive.

The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway

One of the most popular excursions in Skagway is the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway. This narrow-gauge train climbs 2,865 feet in just 20 miles, offering jaw-dropping views of waterfalls, canyons, and snow-capped peaks. The train follows the same route prospectors took during the Klondike Gold Rush of 1898.

The journey takes about 2.5 hours round-trip and includes a stop at the summit, where you can walk across the U.S.-Canada border. It’s a thrilling ride with plenty of photo ops.

Hiking and Outdoor Adventures

Skagway is a hiker’s paradise. The Chilkoot Trail, a historic route used by gold seekers, is a challenging but rewarding trek. For something easier, try the Upper Dewey Lake Trail, which offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding mountains.

You can also take a dog sledding tour (in summer, they use wheeled carts), go horseback riding, or explore the nearby Liarsville Trail Camp for a taste of frontier life.

Gold Rush History

Visit the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park to learn about the stampede that brought 100,000 people to the region. The visitor center has exhibits, artifacts, and ranger-led talks. Don’t miss the Red Onion Saloon, a restored brothel that now serves drinks and tells wild stories of the past.

Tips for Skagway

– Book the train early: It’s one of the most popular excursions.
– Wear layers: Weather can change quickly in the mountains.
– Try the local cuisine: Many restaurants serve hearty frontier-style meals like stew and sourdough pancakes.
– Shop for souvenirs: Look for handmade jewelry, mukluks, and gold nugget keychains.

5. Hubbard Glacier: A Frozen Giant

Hubbard Glacier is one of the largest and most active tidewater glaciers in North America. Stretching over 70 miles long and up to 7 miles wide, it’s a force of nature that commands respect.

Witnessing the Glacier Up Close

Most ships approach Hubbard Glacier slowly, giving you time to take in its sheer scale. The glacier’s face can be over 300 feet high, and it calves frequently—sending massive icebergs into Disenchantment Bay. The sound is like thunder, and the waves can rock the ship.

Some cruise lines offer optional Zodiac or kayak tours that get you even closer. These small boats can navigate among the ice floes, offering a unique perspective on the glacier’s blue ice and underwater formations.

Wildlife in the Area

The waters around Hubbard Glacier are rich in marine life. Look for seals resting on icebergs, sea lions basking on rocks, and whales feeding in the cold, nutrient-rich currents. Bald eagles often soar overhead, scanning for fish.

Tips for Viewing Hubbard Glacier

– Stay on deck: This is one of the most scenic parts of the cruise.
– Bring a zoom lens: The glacier is far away, so a good camera helps.
– Be patient: Calving doesn’t happen on schedule—wait quietly and you might be rewarded.
– Dress warmly: The glacier creates its own microclimate, so it’s often colder nearby.

6. Seward & Whittier: Gateways to Kenai Fjords

While not always included in Inside Passage cruises, ports like Seward and Whittier are essential for those exploring the Gulf of Alaska. Both serve as gateways to Kenai Fjords National Park, a stunning landscape of glaciers, fjords, and marine wildlife.

Boat Tours in Kenai Fjords

From Seward, take a full-day boat tour into the park. You’ll sail past the Aialik Glacier and Holgate Glacier, both known for frequent calving. The tours often include narration from naturalists and opportunities to see puffins, sea otters, and even orcas.

Kayaking and Hiking

For a more intimate experience, rent a kayak and paddle among the icebergs. Guided tours are available for all skill levels. On land, hike the Exit Glacier Trail, which leads to the foot of a retreating glacier.

Tips for Seward and Whittier

– Book tours in advance: These ports are popular with independent travelers.
– Check road access: Whittier is accessed via a tunnel—allow extra time.
– Bring waterproof gear: Weather can be unpredictable.

Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Alaskan Cruise

An Alaskan cruise is more than a vacation—it’s a journey into one of the last great wildernesses on Earth. The best stops on an Alaskan cruise offer a perfect blend of natural wonder, cultural richness, and adventure. From the icy grandeur of Glacier Bay to the Gold Rush charm of Skagway, each port tells a unique story.

To get the most out of your trip, plan ahead. Book popular excursions early, pack for changing weather, and bring binoculars and a good camera. Most importantly, stay present—Alaska has a way of grounding you in the moment, whether you’re watching a whale breach or hearing the echo of calving ice.

So set sail, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and let Alaska work its magic. It’s a trip you’ll never forget.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to take an Alaskan cruise?

The best time for an Alaskan cruise is from late May to early September. During these months, the weather is milder, daylight lasts longer, and wildlife is most active. July and August are peak season, so expect more crowds and higher prices.

Do I need to book excursions in advance?

Yes, it’s highly recommended. Popular tours like whale watching, glacier hikes, and the White Pass Railway fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Booking in advance ensures you get your top choices.

What should I pack for an Alaskan cruise?

Pack layers, including a waterproof jacket, warm sweater, gloves, and a hat. Bring sturdy walking shoes, binoculars, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle. Don’t forget a camera with extra batteries—Alaska is incredibly photogenic.

Can I see the Northern Lights on an Alaskan cruise?

It’s unlikely. The Northern Lights are best seen in winter, but Alaskan cruises run in summer when nights are short. However, some extended itineraries in early September might offer a slight chance if you’re far north.

Are Alaskan cruises family-friendly?

Yes, many cruise lines offer family-friendly activities, kids’ clubs, and educational programs. Excursions like wildlife tours and train rides are great for all ages. Just be prepared for variable weather and plan accordingly.

How long is a typical Alaskan cruise?

Most Alaskan cruises last 7 to 10 days. Shorter trips focus on the Inside Passage, while longer itineraries may include the Gulf of Alaska, Glacier Bay, and even a stop in Victoria, Canada.