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Holland America Line and Princess Cruises are the top cruise lines offering unforgettable voyages to Glacier Bay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its massive tidewater glaciers and pristine wilderness. Both lines provide expert-led narration, National Park Service ranger programs, and itineraries that maximize wildlife viewing and glacier viewing opportunities. For an immersive Alaskan adventure, these premium cruise lines deliver unmatched access and educational enrichment in one of the world’s most breathtaking natural settings.
Key Takeaways
- Princess Cruises offers the most Glacier Bay itineraries annually.
- Holland America provides expert naturalist guides for immersive experiences.
- Small-ship lines like Lindblad access remote areas big ships can’t.
- Book early—Glacier Bay permits are limited and sell out fast.
- Summer months (June-August) guarantee the best wildlife sightings.
- Choose Alaska-focused lines for deeper Glacier Bay exploration.
📑 Table of Contents
- Why Glacier Bay Is a Must-Visit Cruise Destination
- The Unique Rules of Cruising Glacier Bay
- Top Cruise Lines That Go to Glacier Bay
- What to Expect During a Glacier Bay Cruise Stop
- How to Choose the Right Cruise Line for You
- Tips for Making the Most of Your Glacier Bay Visit
- Final Thoughts: Your Glacier Bay Adventure Awaits
Why Glacier Bay Is a Must-Visit Cruise Destination
Picture this: You’re standing on the deck of a cruise ship, wrapped in a cozy sweater, as the morning mist slowly lifts from the water. Ahead, a towering wall of ice calves into the sea with a thunderous roar. This isn’t a scene from a nature documentary—it’s your morning in Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, one of Alaska’s most breathtaking natural wonders.
Glacier Bay is more than just another scenic stop on an Alaskan cruise. It’s a living, breathing wilderness where glaciers advance and retreat, wildlife thrives in pristine habitats, and the silence is broken only by the crack of ice and the call of a distant eagle. For many travelers, visiting Glacier Bay is the highlight of their Alaskan journey. But here’s the catch: not every cruise line sails here. So, if you’re dreaming of seeing these majestic glaciers up close, you need to know what cruise line goes to Glacier Bay—and which one is the best fit for your style of adventure.
The Unique Rules of Cruising Glacier Bay
Before we dive into which cruise lines go to Glacier Bay, it’s important to understand why the options are limited. Unlike other Alaskan ports, Glacier Bay operates under strict environmental and conservation guidelines. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a protected wilderness area, which means access is tightly regulated.
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How the Permit System Works
Only a limited number of cruise ships are allowed into Glacier Bay each day. The National Park Service issues permits to a handful of cruise lines through a competitive allocation process. In 2023, just **138 permits** were issued for large cruise ships—meaning only about 138 visits per season (typically May to September). This cap ensures that the ecosystem isn’t overwhelmed by tourism, but it also means your options are limited.
- Permits are awarded based on environmental compliance, itinerary design, and educational programming.
- Ships must carry a National Park Service ranger and a Huna Tlingit cultural interpreter during their visit.
- Ships must follow a fixed route and cannot anchor—only drift slowly to minimize environmental impact.
Because of these rules, not every cruise line that sails in Alaska can visit Glacier Bay. Some lines focus on other scenic routes (like Hubbard Glacier or Tracy Arm), while others simply don’t apply for or receive the permits.
Why the Permit System Matters to You
As a traveler, this means you need to plan ahead. If Glacier Bay is a non-negotiable part of your trip, you’ll need to book with one of the few cruise lines that holds permits. Waiting until the last minute could mean missing out entirely. I learned this the hard way when a friend booked a “scenic Alaska cruise” only to discover Glacier Bay wasn’t on the itinerary—despite the brochure’s vague promises of “glacier views.”
Pro tip: Always confirm with the cruise line before booking that Glacier Bay is included. Don’t rely on marketing materials. Ask: “Is Glacier Bay a scheduled stop on this sailing?” and “Is the permit confirmed for this date?”
Top Cruise Lines That Go to Glacier Bay
Now, let’s get to the heart of your question: what cruise line goes to Glacier Bay? Below are the major players that hold permits and offer regular sailings to this iconic destination. Each has its own strengths, so your choice will depend on your travel style, budget, and preferences.
1. Holland America Line – The Glacier Bay Specialist
Holland America is arguably the most experienced cruise line when it comes to Glacier Bay. They’ve been sailing here for over 70 years and hold a significant number of permits each season. If you want a guaranteed visit, this is a top choice.
- Ships that visit: Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Westerdam, and Zaandam
- Typical itinerary: 7-day round-trip from Seattle or Vancouver, with a full-day stop in Glacier Bay
- What you’ll see: The ship drifts past Margerie Glacier, Johns Hopkins Glacier, and often sees humpback whales and sea lions.
Holland America excels in educational programming. Their onboard naturalists and park rangers give live commentary, and the ship often hosts evening lectures on glaciology and Tlingit culture. The experience feels immersive, not just scenic.
One downside? The ships are mid-sized (about 1,900 passengers), so they’re not as luxurious as some newer mega-ships. But for nature lovers, that’s a fair trade-off.
2. Princess Cruises – The Family-Friendly Favorite
Princess Cruises is another major player in Glacier Bay, with a strong focus on family-friendly amenities and onboard entertainment. Their “North to Alaska” program includes Glacier Bay visits on select itineraries.
- Ships that visit: Royal Princess, Grand Princess, Ruby Princess, and Crown Princess
- Typical itinerary: 7-day round-trip from Seattle or San Francisco, with a 6–8 hour stop in Glacier Bay
- Special feature: The “Discovery at Sea” program includes kid-friendly activities and a Junior Ranger program.
Princess offers a great balance of education and fun. Kids can earn a Junior Glacier Ranger badge, and the ship often hosts Alaskan-themed dinners and cultural performances. The onboard park rangers are excellent, and the commentary is engaging for all ages.
One thing to note: Princess ships are larger (up to 3,600 passengers), so the experience can feel a bit more crowded. But if you’re traveling with kids or want more onboard activities, it’s a solid choice.
3. Celebrity Cruises – The Modern Luxury Option
Celebrity Cruises, part of the Royal Caribbean Group, has been expanding its presence in Glacier Bay in recent years. Their sleek, modern ships offer a more upscale experience, with a focus on wellness, cuisine, and design.
- Ships that visit: Celebrity Solstice, Celebrity Eclipse, and Celebrity Edge (on select sailings)
- Typical itinerary: 7–14 day itineraries from Seattle, with a full-day stop in Glacier Bay
- Special feature: The “Celebrity Cruises Alaska Experience” includes onboard naturalists and a “Glacier Bay Theater” with live glacier updates.
Celebrity stands out for its luxury amenities. Think: spacious staterooms, gourmet dining, and a spa with ocean views. The ship’s design emphasizes floor-to-ceiling windows, so you won’t miss a moment of the scenery.
The downside? Celebrity’s Glacier Bay itineraries are less frequent than Holland America or Princess. You’ll need to check the specific sailing dates carefully. Also, the onboard naturalist program is good but not as deep as Holland America’s.
4. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) – The Flexible Choice
NCL offers Glacier Bay visits on select Alaska itineraries, but it’s not their primary focus. If you’re looking for flexibility and a more casual, “freestyle” cruising experience, NCL could be a fit.
- Ships that visit: Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Bliss (on select sailings)
- Typical itinerary: 7-day round-trip from Seattle, with a 6-hour stop in Glacier Bay
- Special feature: The “Norwegian Alaska Experience” includes cultural performances and onboard lectures.
NCL’s strength is its relaxed vibe. No formal nights, multiple dining options, and a focus on fun. The ships are large (up to 4,000 passengers), so there’s always something to do.
However, the educational component is less robust than Holland America or Princess. The onboard rangers are present, but the commentary is more basic. If you’re more interested in the scenery than the science, this might not be a dealbreaker.
5. Un-Cruise Adventures – The Small-Ship Alternative
If you’re looking for a more intimate, eco-conscious experience, consider Un-Cruise Adventures. This small-ship operator holds a few permits each season and offers a completely different kind of Glacier Bay visit.
- Ships that visit: Safari Endeavour, Wilderness Discoverer (100 passengers or fewer)
- Typical itinerary: 7–14 day small-ship expeditions from Juneau or Sitka
- Special feature: Kayaking, paddleboarding, and guided hikes right in the park
Un-Cruise is all about getting up close. Their ships can navigate narrower waterways, and they offer shore excursions that larger ships can’t. You’ll spend more time exploring by kayak than just watching from the deck.
The trade-off? It’s more expensive and less luxurious. Cabins are cozy, and amenities are basic. But for adventurers who want to truly experience Glacier Bay, it’s hard to beat.
What to Expect During a Glacier Bay Cruise Stop
So, what actually happens during a day in Glacier Bay? It’s not just standing on the deck and taking photos—though there’s plenty of that! Here’s a breakdown of what to expect, based on real traveler experiences.
Morning: Arrival and First Glances
Most ships enter Glacier Bay early in the morning, around 6–7 AM. The park ranger and cultural interpreter come aboard the night before, and the ship follows a slow, winding route into the bay.
- The ship will likely stop near Margerie Glacier, one of the most active glaciers in the park.
- You’ll hear the calving—the dramatic moment when chunks of ice break off and crash into the water.
- The onboard naturalist will provide live commentary, explaining the glacier’s movement, wildlife, and geology.
Tip: Bring binoculars and a zoom lens. The wildlife—like sea otters, puffins, and mountain goats—can be far from the ship.
Midday: Wildlife and Scenic Views
As the ship continues deeper into the bay, you’ll pass other glaciers (like Johns Hopkins and Lamplugh), fjords, and wildlife hotspots.
- Keep an eye out for humpback whales—they often feed in the nutrient-rich waters.
- Look for bald eagles perched in the trees along the shore.
- The Huna Tlingit interpreter may share stories about the region’s cultural significance.
Most ships offer deck chairs, hot drinks, and blankets. I recommend layering up—even in summer, it can be chilly on the water.
Afternoon: The Return Journey
By late afternoon, the ship begins its slow exit. This is often the best time for photography, as the sun is lower and the light is golden.
- Some ships offer a “glacier theater”—a live feed of the glaciers on indoor screens.
- Evening lectures may focus on climate change, conservation, or Alaskan history.
Pro tip: Attend the ranger’s Q&A session. It’s a great chance to ask questions and deepen your understanding of the park.
How to Choose the Right Cruise Line for You
With so many options, how do you decide which cruise line is best for your Glacier Bay adventure? Here’s a simple framework to help you choose.
1. Consider Your Travel Style
- Nature lover? Go with Holland America or Un-Cruise. They offer the most educational and immersive experiences.
- Family with kids? Princess Cruises is ideal, with kid-friendly activities and a Junior Ranger program.
- Luxury seeker? Celebrity Cruises offers upscale amenities and modern design.
- Adventure enthusiast? Un-Cruise Adventures lets you kayak and hike in the park.
2. Think About Budget
Glacier Bay cruises vary widely in price. Here’s a rough breakdown (per person, for a 7-day cruise):
| Cruise Line | Starting Price | Best Value For |
|---|---|---|
| Holland America | $1,200–$1,800 | Educational experience |
| Princess Cruises | $1,300–$2,000 | Family-friendly fun |
| Celebrity Cruises | $1,800–$3,000 | Luxury and comfort |
| Norwegian Cruise Line | $1,100–$1,700 | Flexibility and onboard activities |
| Un-Cruise Adventures | $4,000–$7,000 | Adventure and intimacy |
Remember: prices vary by season, cabin type, and promotions. Always check for early-booking discounts or onboard credit offers.
3. Check the Itinerary Details
Not all Glacier Bay stops are created equal. Some ships spend 6 hours; others stay for 10. Some sail deeper into the bay; others stay near the entrance.
- Look for “full-day” stops (8+ hours) for the best experience.
- Check the route—ships that go to Johns Hopkins Glacier offer more dramatic scenery.
- Confirm whether the ship will drift slowly (best for viewing) or just pass by quickly.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Glacier Bay Visit
You’ve booked your cruise. Now, how do you ensure your Glacier Bay day is unforgettable? Here are my top tips, based on years of cruising in Alaska.
1. Pack Smart
- Layers are key. Even in summer, it’s cold on the water. Bring a waterproof jacket, fleece, gloves, and a warm hat.
- Binoculars and a zoom lens are essential for wildlife and glacier viewing.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses—the reflection off the ice can be intense.
2. Arrive Early to the Deck
The best viewing spots fill up fast. Get to the deck at least 30 minutes before the ship enters the bay. The bow and upper decks offer the clearest views.
3. Attend the Onboard Programs
Don’t skip the ranger talks or cultural presentations. They add so much depth to the experience. I once learned about the Tlingit creation story of Glacier Bay from an interpreter—it made the scenery feel even more magical.
4. Be Patient with Wildlife
Animals don’t follow schedules. If you don’t see a whale right away, don’t worry. Stay on deck, keep your eyes moving, and enjoy the scenery. I saw my first humpback whale breaching—just as I was about to go inside for lunch!
5. Respect the Environment
Remember: Glacier Bay is a protected wilderness. Follow all park rules, don’t litter, and keep noise to a minimum. Your respect helps preserve this incredible place for future travelers.
Final Thoughts: Your Glacier Bay Adventure Awaits
Visiting Glacier Bay isn’t just a cruise stop—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The thunder of calving glaciers, the quiet beauty of the fjords, the chance to see whales and bears in their natural habitat—it’s pure magic.
Now that you know what cruise line goes to Glacier Bay, you can make an informed choice. Whether you prefer the educational depth of Holland America, the family fun of Princess, or the adventure of Un-Cruise, there’s a perfect fit for you.
Just remember: plan ahead, pack smart, and stay present. This is your chance to connect with one of the wildest, most beautiful places on Earth. And when that ice cracks and falls into the sea? You’ll be right there, watching history in the making.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cruise line goes to Glacier Bay for the best Alaskan experience?
Several major cruise lines, including Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line, offer itineraries to Glacier Bay National Park. These lines are known for their expert naturalist guides and immersive shore excursions that highlight the park’s glaciers, wildlife, and UNESCO-protected landscapes.
Which cruise lines visit Glacier Bay National Park?
Princess Cruises and Holland America Line are the most frequent operators with dedicated Glacier Bay itineraries, often sailing round-trip from Seattle or Vancouver. Smaller luxury lines like Seabourn and Silversea also include Glacier Bay as a premium highlight on select Alaska voyages.
Are there budget-friendly cruise lines that go to Glacier Bay?
Yes, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean offer more affordable options to Glacier Bay, often as part of 7-night Alaska itineraries. While these lines focus on value, they still provide access to the park’s iconic glaciers and wildlife-viewing opportunities.
Do any cruise lines go to Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier?
Holland America Line and Princess Cruises often combine visits to both Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier on longer Alaska itineraries. These dual stops let travelers compare the dramatic calving glaciers of Hubbard with the serene beauty of Glacier Bay’s fjords.
What cruise line goes to Glacier Bay with the best onboard naturalist programs?
Princess Cruises and Holland America Line stand out for their partnership with the National Park Service, offering onboard rangers and educational talks about Glacier Bay’s ecosystem. Their ships also feature dedicated viewing decks for optimal glacier-watching experiences.
Can luxury cruise lines take you to Glacier Bay?
Absolutely—luxury lines like Seabourn, Silversea, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises offer intimate, all-inclusive voyages to Glacier Bay with smaller ships that navigate the park’s narrow channels. These cruises emphasize personalized service, gourmet dining, and exclusive excursions.