What Cruise Lines Go to Alaska from San Francisco This Year

Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Holland America Line are the top cruise lines sailing to Alaska from San Francisco this year, offering scenic routes and immersive experiences. These popular 7- to 14-day voyages feature stops in Juneau, Ketchikan, and Glacier Bay, with departures available from May through September. Don’t miss your chance to explore Alaska’s wild beauty straight from the Bay Area!

Key Takeaways

• Major cruise lines like Princess, Holland America, and Norwegian sail from San Francisco to Alaska.
• Book early for best cabin choices and early-bird discounts on Alaska cruises.
• Peak season runs May to September for optimal weather and wildlife viewing.
• Round-trip options available, simplifying travel logistics and reducing flight costs.
• Smaller ships offer unique itineraries and access to remote Alaskan ports.
• Check visa requirements if your cruise includes stops in Canada.

Why an Alaska Cruise from San Francisco Is the Adventure of a Lifetime

Imagine setting sail from the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, the salty breeze of the Pacific Ocean on your face, and the promise of glaciers, fjords, and wildlife-rich wilderness ahead. An Alaska cruise from San Francisco is more than just a vacation—it’s a journey through some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth. With the rugged beauty of the Inside Passage, the towering peaks of the Chugach Mountains, and the chance to spot humpback whales and brown bears in their natural habitat, Alaska offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. And San Francisco, with its world-class port and vibrant culture, serves as the perfect launchpad for this epic adventure.

This year, several major cruise lines are offering voyages from San Francisco to Alaska, catering to a wide range of travelers—from luxury seekers to budget-conscious adventurers and families. Whether you’re planning your first cruise or looking to return to the Last Frontier, knowing which cruise lines operate this route is essential for crafting your ideal itinerary. In this guide, we’ll explore the top cruise lines sailing from San Francisco to Alaska in 2024, what makes each unique, and how to choose the right one for your travel style.

Top Cruise Lines Offering Alaska Itineraries from San Francisco

San Francisco is one of the few West Coast departure cities for Alaska cruises, making it a strategic and scenic starting point. Unlike the more common Seattle or Vancouver departures, San Francisco offers a longer initial oceanic stretch, allowing for a more relaxed start to your journey before reaching the Alaskan coast. Here are the major cruise lines currently operating Alaska voyages from San Francisco this year:

1. Princess Cruises: The Alaska Experts

Princess Cruises is a household name when it comes to Alaska travel. With over 50 years of experience in the region, they operate the largest fleet of ships in Alaska, and several of their vessels sail from San Francisco. The Grand Princess and Royal Princess are among the most popular ships on this route, offering 10- to 14-night itineraries.

What sets Princess apart is their North to Alaska program, which includes immersive onboard experiences like cooking classes with Alaskan chefs, wildlife documentaries, and cultural performances by Indigenous artists. Their “MedallionClass” technology also enhances the guest experience with contactless boarding, keyless stateroom entry, and personalized service.

Sample Itinerary: A 12-night cruise aboard the Grand Princess departs San Francisco, calls at Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay National Park, and Sitka, and returns via the Pacific Coast. The longer duration allows for deeper exploration and more scenic cruising.

Best For: First-time Alaska cruisers, families, and those who value educational programming and comfort.

2. Holland America Line: Timeless Elegance and Cultural Immersion

Holland America Line (HAL) is known for its refined, mid-sized ships and emphasis on cultural and culinary experiences. Their Eurodam and Nieuw Amsterdam regularly sail from San Francisco on 14-night Alaska cruises, offering a more intimate and sophisticated journey.

HAL’s “Explorations Central” (EXC) program features local experts, destination-focused lectures, and shore excursions curated by historians and naturalists. Their onboard dining includes Alaskan specialties like fresh salmon, king crab, and reindeer sausage, often sourced directly from regional suppliers.

Sample Itinerary: A 14-night voyage on the Eurodam includes stops in Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay, and Sitka, with two full days at sea. The ship also offers scenic cruising through Tracy Arm Fjord, known for its dramatic waterfalls and icebergs.

Best For: Couples, retirees, and travelers who appreciate a slower-paced, culturally rich cruise with high-end amenities.

3. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Freestyle Cruising and Family-Friendly Fun

Norwegian Cruise Line brings its signature “Freestyle Cruising” to Alaska with the Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Encore, both of which operate seasonal Alaska itineraries from San Francisco. NCL is ideal for travelers who want flexibility—no fixed dining times, casual dress codes, and a wide range of onboard activities.

The Joy, in particular, features a top-deck race track, laser tag, and a virtual reality arcade, making it a hit with families and younger travelers. Their “Free at Sea” promotion often includes perks like free specialty dining, shore excursion credits, and Wi-Fi packages.

Sample Itinerary: A 12-night cruise on the Norwegian Joy departs San Francisco, visits Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and Glacier Bay, and includes a scenic cruise through the Inside Passage. Optional add-ons include a visit to the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad in Skagway.

Best For: Families, multigenerational groups, and travelers who want a mix of adventure and onboard entertainment.

4. Celebrity Cruises: Modern Luxury and Scenic Focus

Celebrity Cruises, part of the Royal Caribbean Group, offers a more upscale and modern take on Alaska cruising. The Celebrity Solstice sails from San Francisco on 11- to 13-night itineraries, featuring sleek design, gourmet dining, and a strong emphasis on sustainability.

The Solstice class ships are known for their Lawn Club—a real grass lawn on the top deck—perfect for relaxing while watching glaciers drift by. Celebrity also offers “Celebrity Shore Excursions” with a focus on eco-tourism, such as kayaking in Tracy Arm or visiting a working salmon hatchery.

Sample Itinerary: A 12-night cruise includes stops in Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and Sitka, with a full-day scenic cruise through Hubbard Glacier. The ship also features a “Behind the Scenes” tour of the bridge and engine room.

Best For: Couples, luxury travelers, and environmentally conscious cruisers.

5. UnCruise Adventures: Small-Ship, Expedition-Style Cruising

For travelers seeking a more intimate and adventurous experience, UnCruise Adventures offers small-ship expeditions from San Francisco to Southeast Alaska. Their 65- to 86-passenger vessels, like the Safari Endeavour, provide access to remote coves, wildlife hotspots, and off-the-beaten-path destinations.

UnCruise is all-inclusive, with meals, drinks, and guided excursions (kayaking, hiking, wildlife viewing) included in the fare. Their itineraries focus on nature and culture, with expert naturalists and local guides leading daily excursions.

Sample Itinerary: A 12-night expedition departs San Francisco, explores the Inside Passage, and visits places like Wrangell, Petersburg, and Glacier Bay. The small ship can navigate narrow channels and anchor in secluded bays, offering a truly immersive experience.

Best For: Adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those who want a more personalized, off-grid Alaskan experience.

What to Expect on an Alaska Cruise from San Francisco: Itinerary and Port Highlights

Alaska cruises from San Francisco are typically longer than those from Seattle or Vancouver, allowing for more time at sea and a greater variety of ports. Most itineraries range from 10 to 14 nights, with a mix of scenic cruising, port calls, and sea days. Here’s what you can expect on a typical voyage.

Scenic Cruising: Glaciers, Fjords, and Wildlife

One of the highlights of any Alaska cruise is the scenic cruising through fjords and national parks. Ships from San Francisco often spend full days navigating places like:

• Glacier Bay National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 65-mile-long bay is home to 16 tidewater glaciers. Rangers board the ship to provide commentary and lead educational programs.
• Tracy Arm Fjord: Known for its towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and floating icebergs, this narrow fjord is best experienced on a smaller ship or via a tender boat.
• Hubbard Glacier: One of the few advancing glaciers in the world, Hubbard is over 76 miles long and 700 feet tall. The ship will often stop for 30-60 minutes to allow passengers to witness calving (when chunks of ice break off).

Tip: Bring binoculars and a good camera with a telephoto lens. The best views are from the top deck, but indoor lounges with floor-to-ceiling windows are ideal for colder days.

Key Ports of Call and What to Do

Each port offers unique experiences, from gold rush history to Native Alaskan culture. Here’s a breakdown of the most common stops:

• Ketchikan: Known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” Ketchikan is famous for its colorful Creek Street, totem pole parks, and the Misty Fjords National Monument. Don’t miss a flightseeing tour or a visit to the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center.
• Juneau: Alaska’s capital is accessible only by boat or plane. Highlights include the Mendenhall Glacier, the Alaska State Museum, and the Mount Roberts Tramway. For adventure, try dog sledding on a glacier or a whale-watching tour.
• Skagway: This historic gold rush town is a step back in time, with wooden boardwalks and the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad. Take the scenic train ride to the summit for stunning views.
• Sitka: A blend of Russian and Tlingit cultures, Sitka features the St. Michael’s Cathedral, the Alaska Raptor Center, and the Sitka National Historical Park with its totem pole trail.

Pro Tip: Book shore excursions early—popular tours like glacier hiking or bear viewing sell out months in advance. Check if your cruise line offers “exclusive” excursions not available to the general public.

Sea Days: Relaxation and Onboard Activities

With longer itineraries, you’ll have 2-3 sea days, perfect for unwinding. Cruise lines offer a variety of activities:

• Onboard lectures by naturalists or historians
• Alaska-themed cooking classes
• Spa treatments and fitness classes
• Evening entertainment (live music, shows, movies)

Insider Tip: Use sea days to visit the ship’s library or attend a “behind the scenes” tour. Some ships even have bridge tours where you can meet the captain.

Choosing the Right Cruise Line: A Comparison of Key Features

With so many options, how do you choose the right cruise line for your Alaska adventure? Here’s a detailed comparison to help you decide based on your priorities.

Size and Ship Type: Intimacy vs. Amenities

The size of the ship greatly impacts your experience:

• Large ships (1,000+ passengers): Princess, NCL, and Celebrity offer more dining options, entertainment, and onboard activities. Ideal for families and those who want a resort-like experience.
• Mid-sized ships (500-1,000 passengers): Holland America and some Celebrity vessels strike a balance between amenities and intimacy.
• Small ships (under 200 passengers): UnCruise and select expedition lines provide a more personalized experience, with access to remote areas and fewer crowds.

Example: If you want to kayak in a quiet cove without other tourists, UnCruise is the best choice. If you prefer a Broadway-style show, NCL or Princess is better.

Pricing and Value: What’s Included?

Alaska cruises range from budget-friendly to ultra-luxury. Here’s what to look for:

• Base fare: Typically includes stateroom, meals, and basic entertainment. Prices start around $1,200 per person for a 12-night cruise on NCL or Princess.
• All-inclusive: UnCruise includes drinks, excursions, and gratuities. Celebrity and HAL often offer “inclusive” packages for an additional fee.
• Extras: Specialty dining, spa treatments, and shore excursions usually cost extra. NCL’s “Free at Sea” promotion can save you hundreds.

Tip: Book early for the best cabin selection and pricing. Look for “early saver” rates, but read the fine print—some promotions are non-refundable.

Onboard Experience: Dining, Entertainment, and Enrichment

Each cruise line has a distinct vibe:

• Princess: Educational programming, family-friendly activities, and traditional dining.
• Holland America: Refined ambiance, live classical music, and destination-focused lectures.
• NCL: Casual, energetic atmosphere with a wide range of bars, restaurants, and activities.
• Celebrity: Modern design, gourmet dining, and wellness-focused amenities.
• UnCruise: Rustic-chic, adventure-oriented, and all-inclusive.

Pro Tip: If you’re a foodie, check out the specialty restaurants. Princess’s Crown Grill and NCL’s Le Bistro are highly rated.

Sustainability and Environmental Practices

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

• Clean fuel technology (e.g., LNG-powered ships)
• Waste reduction programs
• Partnerships with local conservation groups

Celebrity and UnCruise are leaders in sustainability, with carbon offset programs and eco-certified excursions.

Best Time to Cruise to Alaska from San Francisco: Season and Weather Guide

The Alaska cruise season from San Francisco runs from May to September, with peak months in July and August. Here’s what to expect each month.

May: The Early Season Advantage

May is the start of the season, with fewer crowds and lower prices. The weather is cooler (40-55°F), but you’ll see wildflowers blooming and bears emerging from hibernation. Some glaciers may still be frozen, but wildlife is abundant.

Pros: Best chance to see bears, lower prices, fewer tourists.

Cons: Limited shore excursion availability, cooler temperatures.

June: Mild Weather and Long Days

June offers pleasant temperatures (50-65°F), 18 hours of daylight, and vibrant greenery. It’s ideal for hiking and kayaking, and the Inside Passage is at its most scenic.

Pros: Mild weather, long daylight hours, good wildlife viewing.

Cons: More crowded than May, slightly higher prices.

July and August: Peak Season

The most popular months, with the warmest weather (60-70°F) and the highest number of cruise departures. Whale-watching is excellent, and all shore excursions are available.

Pros: Warmest weather, best selection of tours, peak wildlife activity.

Cons: Highest prices, most crowded, limited cabin availability.

September: Fall Colors and Fewer Crowds

September is a hidden gem, with stunning fall foliage, fewer tourists, and a higher chance of seeing the Northern Lights. Temperatures drop to 50-60°F, but the scenery is unforgettable.

Pros: Beautiful fall colors, lower prices, fewer crowds.

Cons: Cooler weather, some excursions may close.

Weather Tips

• Pack layers: Even in summer, temperatures can vary by 20°F between morning and afternoon.
• Bring a waterproof jacket: Rain is common, especially in Ketchikan.
• Don’t forget sunscreen: The sun is strong, especially when reflecting off glaciers.

Data Table: 2024 Alaska Cruise Itineraries from San Francisco

Cruise Line	Ship	Itinerary Length	Departure Months	Sample Price (Per Person)	Key Features
Princess Cruises	Grand Princess	12 nights	May, June, July, Aug, Sep	$1,399	North to Alaska program, Glacier Bay access
Holland America	Eurodam	14 nights	June, July, Aug	$1,799	EXC lectures, Alaskan cuisine
Norwegian Cruise Line	Norwegian Joy	12 nights	July, Aug	$1,299	Race track, “Free at Sea” promotions
Celebrity Cruises	Celebrity Solstice	12 nights	June, July, Aug	$1,899	Lawn Club, eco-excursions
UnCruise Adventures	Safari Endeavour	12 nights	June, July, Aug	$6,495	All-inclusive, small ship, guided adventures

Final Thoughts: Making the Most of Your Alaska Cruise from San Francisco

An Alaska cruise from San Francisco is a unique opportunity to explore one of the world’s last great wildernesses while enjoying the comforts of a modern cruise ship. Whether you choose the educational depth of Princess, the refined elegance of Holland America, the family-friendly fun of NCL, the modern luxury of Celebrity, or the adventurous spirit of UnCruise, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable journey.

To make the most of your trip:

• Book early: Popular itineraries sell out fast, especially in peak season.
• Pack wisely: Layers, waterproof gear, and binoculars are essential.
• Choose excursions carefully: Prioritize experiences that align with your interests—whether it’s wildlife, history, or adventure.
• Stay flexible: Weather can impact scenic cruising and shore excursions, so have backup plans.

Alaska is more than a destination—it’s a state of mind. From the moment you leave San Francisco’s skyline behind to the awe-inspiring sight of a glacier calving into the sea, every moment is a reminder of nature’s grandeur. This year, let the Last Frontier call you. Your adventure awaits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines go to Alaska from San Francisco this year?

Major cruise lines like Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line offer voyages from San Francisco to Alaska in 2024. These itineraries typically run from May to September, featuring stops in Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway.

What cruise lines go to Alaska from San Francisco with scenic glacier viewing?

Princess Cruises and Holland America Line are top choices for Alaska cruises from San Francisco with guaranteed glacier experiences. Both lines include Hubbard Glacier or Glacier Bay National Park in their 7-14 day itineraries.

Are there round-trip Alaska cruises from San Francisco?

Yes, several what cruise lines go to Alaska from San Francisco operators offer round-trip voyages. Norwegian and Princess Cruises provide 10-14 day round-trips with port stops in Ketchikan, Juneau, and Victoria, BC.

When is the best time to book an Alaska cruise from San Francisco?

For the best rates and cabin selection, book 8-12 months in advance of the May-September Alaska season. Last-minute deals sometimes appear 60-90 days before departure, but availability is limited.

Do any luxury cruise lines sail to Alaska from San Francisco?

Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises operate premium Alaska itineraries from San Francisco. These luxury options feature smaller ships, inclusive pricing, and extended port stays for deeper exploration.

What family-friendly cruise lines go to Alaska from San Francisco?

Norwegian Cruise Line and Princess Cruises offer excellent family programs on their what cruise lines go to Alaska from San Francisco routes. Both feature kids’ clubs, multi-gen cabins, and shore excursions suitable for all ages.