What Cruise Lines Leave From Seattle to Alaska in 2024

Several major cruise lines, including Norwegian, Holland America, Princess, and Royal Caribbean, offer unforgettable Alaska voyages departing directly from Seattle in 2024. These convenient roundtrip itineraries typically sail to iconic destinations like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Glacier Bay, combining Pacific Northwest charm with breathtaking Alaskan wilderness—all without the need for airfare to a distant port.

Key Takeaways

• Major cruise lines like Princess, Holland America, and Norwegian offer direct Seattle-to-Alaska routes in 2024.
• Book early for best cabin choices and discounts on peak-season sailings.
• 7-day itineraries are most common, featuring scenic Inside Passage stops.
• Check departure dates—most sailings run May to September for optimal weather.
• Compare onboard perks like free excursions or drink packages when choosing lines.
• Consider repositioning cruises for unique one-way trips between Seattle and Alaska.

Why a Seattle-to-Alaska Cruise Should Be on Your 2024 Bucket List

There’s something undeniably magical about setting sail from Seattle to Alaska. The journey begins in one of the Pacific Northwest’s most vibrant cities—Seattle, with its iconic skyline dominated by the Space Needle, lush evergreen forests, and a deep maritime heritage. As your ship glides through the Puget Sound and into the Inside Passage, the urban energy gives way to snow-capped peaks, cascading waterfalls, and the haunting calls of whales echoing in the fjords. This isn’t just a vacation; it’s a transformative experience where nature’s grandeur unfolds before your eyes, mile by mile.

Alaska, often called “The Last Frontier,” remains one of the world’s most sought-after cruise destinations, and Seattle is the perfect gateway. With its world-class port infrastructure, direct flights from major U.S. cities, and proximity to the Alaskan coastline, Seattle offers a seamless embarkation point for travelers eager to explore glaciers, wildlife, and indigenous cultures. In 2024, the number of cruise lines offering voyages from Seattle to Alaska has expanded, with more itineraries, enhanced onboard amenities, and eco-conscious practices. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or planning your first nautical adventure, the options are more diverse and enticing than ever.

Top Cruise Lines Departing from Seattle to Alaska in 2024

Seattle serves as a primary departure hub for several major cruise lines, each offering unique itineraries, onboard experiences, and shore excursions. Below are the leading cruise lines operating round-trip and one-way voyages from Seattle to Alaska in 2024, along with what sets each apart.

1. Holland America Line: The Classic Alaskan Experience

Holland America Line has been a cornerstone of Alaskan cruising for over 75 years. Their 2024 fleet includes the MS Eurodam, MS Nieuw Amsterdam, and MS Koningsdam, all departing from Seattle’s Smith Cove Terminal. These ships offer 7-day Inside Passage itineraries, with stops in Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and Glacier Bay National Park.

• Signature Features: Award-winning culinary programs, onboard Alaska experts (naturalists, historians), and exclusive partnerships with local indigenous communities for cultural tours.
• Unique Perk: The “Alaska Up Close” program offers immersive shore excursions like gold panning in Skagway, salmon bakes in Hoonah, and glacier helicopter tours.
• Best For: Travelers seeking a balance of elegance, education, and adventure.

Pro Tip: Book the “Have It All” package, which includes drinks, Wi-Fi, and a shore excursion credit—ideal for maximizing your Alaskan experience.

2. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Freestyle Cruising with Alaskan Flair

NCL’s Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Joy offer 7-day round-trip voyages from Seattle, visiting Sitka, Juneau, Ketchikan, and Icy Strait Point. NCL is known for its “freestyle cruising” concept, allowing guests to dine when and where they want, with no formal dress code.

• Signature Features: Broadway-style shows (including Burn the Boats on Encore), a top-deck go-kart track, and a sprawling water park.
• Unique Perk: “Free at Sea” promotions often include free specialty dining, shore excursion credits, and beverage packages.
• Best For: Families and younger travelers who value flexibility, entertainment, and modern amenities.

Insider Tip: Reserve shore excursions early—NCL’s “Alaska Explorer” tours (e.g., dog sledding on a glacier, bear-watching in Hoonah) sell out fast.

3. Princess Cruises: The “Cruise to Nowhere” Pioneer

Princess Cruises, a leader in Alaskan voyages, operates the Discovery Princess, Enchanted Princess, and Ruby Princess from Seattle. Their 7-day “Voyage of the Glaciers” itinerary includes scenic cruising through College Fjord and Hubbard Glacier, plus stops in Skagway, Juneau, and Ketchikan.

• Signature Features: The “Discovery at Sea” enrichment program with onboard naturalists, glacier lectures, and wildlife spotting tools. The “Princess Patter” daily guide is a must-read.
• Unique Perk: The “MedallionNet” high-speed Wi-Fi and wearable OceanMedallion for contactless service.
• Best For: Couples, retirees, and nature lovers who prioritize scenic cruising and educational content.

Pro Tip: Book a cabin with a balcony—watching glaciers calve from your private space is unforgettable.

4. Royal Caribbean: Adventure Meets Innovation

Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas offer 7- to 10-day Alaska itineraries from Seattle. These high-tech ships feature the North Star observation capsule, robotic bartenders, and a skydiving simulator.

• Signature Features: Adventure Ocean kids’ programs, multi-story climbing walls, and the “Alaska Adventure Academy” with hands-on workshops (e.g., survival skills, wildlife photography).
• Unique Perk: “Cruise Planner” app for real-time excursion bookings and personalized itineraries.
• Best For: Active travelers and multigenerational families who want non-stop entertainment.

Insider Tip: Try the “Glacier Bay & Beyond” 10-day itinerary for fewer crowds and more time in remote areas.

5. Celebrity Cruises: Modern Luxury in the Wild

Celebrity’s Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Solstice offer 7-day Alaska voyages from Seattle, with stops in Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and scenic cruising in Tracy Arm Fjord. Celebrity is known for its “modern luxury” ethos and wellness focus.

• Signature Features: The “Retreat” suite experience with private lounges and butler service, and a rooftop terrace with a glass-bottom pool.
• Unique Perk: “Celebrity Beyond” wellness programs, including yoga on the glacier deck and Alaskan herbal tea tastings.
• Best For: Couples and luxury seekers who want a sophisticated, serene experience.

Pro Tip: Upgrade to “The Retreat” for priority disembarkation during shore excursions.

6. Small-Ship Operators: Unparalleled Access

For travelers craving intimacy and off-the-beaten-path experiences, small-ship lines like UnCruise Adventures and American Queen Voyages depart from Seattle. These vessels (under 200 passengers) access narrow fjords, remote wildlife zones, and indigenous villages larger ships can’t reach.

• Signature Features: All-inclusive pricing (meals, drinks, excursions, gear like kayaks and paddleboards), expert naturalists, and flexible itineraries.
• Unique Perk: “Active Alaska” itineraries with hiking, kayaking, and Zodiac tours included in base fare.
• Best For: Adventure seekers, photographers, and eco-conscious travelers.

Insider Tip: Book early—small-ship voyages fill up 12+ months in advance due to limited capacity.

2024 Itinerary Highlights: What to Expect on Your Alaskan Voyage

While most Seattle-to-Alaska cruises follow a similar route, the 2024 season brings exciting changes. Here’s what to expect on your 2024 voyage, from port stops to onboard innovations.

Classic 7-Day Itinerary Breakdown

The standard 7-day “Inside Passage” cruise includes:

• Day 1: Depart Seattle (Smith Cove Terminal) in the evening. Sail through Puget Sound and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
• Day 2: Scenic cruising in the Inside Passage (watch for orcas and humpbacks).
• Day 3: Ketchikan—”Salmon Capital of the World.” Visit the Totem Heritage Center or take a floatplane tour.
• Day 4: Juneau—Alaska’s capital. Ride the Mount Roberts Tramway or tour the Mendenhall Glacier.
• Day 5: Skagway—Gateway to the Klondike Gold Rush. Ride the White Pass Railroad or hike the Chilkoot Trail.
• Day 6: Scenic cruising in Glacier Bay or Tracy Arm Fjord (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
• Day 7: Return to Seattle.

Pro Tip: Choose a northbound (Seattle to Whittier/Seward) or southbound (Whittier to Seattle) itinerary to combine your cruise with a land tour (e.g., Denali National Park).

New in 2024: Extended and Themed Cruises

• 10-14 Day “Ultimate Alaska” Voyages: Norwegian Joy and Quantum of the Seas now offer longer itineraries with stops in Haines, Hoonah, and Valdez.
• Wildlife-Focused Cruises: Princess and Holland America have added “Whale Watch Weeks” with onboard marine biologists and extended time in prime whale habitats.
• Cultural Immersion: Celebrity’s “Indigenous Alaska” itinerary includes storytelling sessions with Tlingit elders and visits to the Sealaska Heritage Institute.

Insider Tip: Book themed cruises early—they’re popular with niche travelers and fill quickly.

Onboard Enhancements for 2024

• Eco-Friendly Upgrades: All major lines now use shore power in Seattle, reducing emissions. NCL’s “Ocean Stewardship Program” includes onboard recycling and sustainable seafood.
• Tech Upgrades: Royal Caribbean’s “Smart Ships” feature AI-powered concierge apps, while Princess’s MedallionClass ships use facial recognition for faster embarkation.
• Culinary Innovation: Holland America’s “Alaska Seafood Experience” highlights locally sourced king crab, halibut, and salmon.

How to Choose the Right Cruise Line for Your 2024 Alaska Trip

With so many options, selecting the best cruise line for your Alaskan adventure can be overwhelming. Use this guide to match your priorities with the right operator.

Step 1: Define Your Travel Style

• Family-Friendly? Choose Norwegian or Royal Caribbean for kids’ clubs, water slides, and family suites.
• Luxury Seeker? Opt for Celebrity or Holland America for refined dining, spa services, and suite perks.

Adventure Enthusiast? Book a small-ship cruise with UnCruise or American Queen Voyages for kayaking, hiking, and Zodiac tours.

Nature Lover? Princess or Holland America offer the best onboard educational programs and scenic cruising.

Step 2: Consider Your Budget

• Economy: NCL and Royal Caribbean offer affordable base fares (from $700/person for 7 days).
• Mid-Range: Princess and Celebrity (from $1,200/person) include more inclusions (e.g., Wi-Fi, drink packages).
• Luxury: Holland America’s “Have It All” package and Celebrity’s “Retreat” suites (from $3,000+/person) offer premium perks.

Pro Tip: Look for “wave season” deals (January–March 2024) for 20–30% discounts on 2024 sailings.

Step 3: Evaluate Itinerary Details

• Port Time: Check how many hours you’ll spend in each port. Some lines (e.g., UnCruise) offer 8–10 hours in Ketchikan, while others (e.g., NCL) may only allow 4–6.
• Scenic Cruising: Prioritize lines that spend full days in Glacier Bay or Tracy Arm (e.g., Princess, Holland America).
• Shore Excursions: Compare costs. Small-ship lines include most tours; large ships charge $100–$300 per excursion.

Step 4: Check for Inclusions

Ask:

• Is Wi-Fi included? (NCL’s “Free at Sea” often includes it; others charge $20–$30/day.)
• Are drinks and gratuities covered? (Small ships include them; large ships add 18–20% service fees.)
• Are specialty restaurants extra? (Celebrity’s “Luminae” and Princess’s “Crown Grill” require reservations and surcharges.)

Practical Tips for Booking and Preparing for Your Seattle-to-Alaska Cruise

Planning ahead ensures a smooth and stress-free voyage. Follow these expert tips to prepare for your 2024 Alaska cruise.

When to Book: Timing Matters

• Book Early (12–18 Months Out): Small-ship voyages and suite categories sell out first.
• Wave Season (Jan–Mar): Look for promotions like “2-for-1” fares or free upgrades.
• Last-Minute Deals (1–2 Months Out): Airlines and cruise lines offer discounts to fill empty cabins.

Pro Tip: Use cruise comparison sites like Cruise Critic or Vacations to Go to track price drops.

What to Pack: Dress for All Seasons

Alaska’s weather is unpredictable—even in summer. Pack:

• Layering Essentials: Thermal base layers, fleece jackets, waterproof rain gear.
• Footwear: Waterproof hiking boots for shore excursions; slip-ons for onboard.
• Accessories: Binoculars, camera with zoom lens, reusable water bottle.
• Extras: Motion sickness remedies, power bank, waterproof phone case.

Insider Tip: Most ships provide rain ponchos, but bring your own for better quality.

Pre-Cruise Logistics: Seattle Essentials

• Arrive Early: Stay overnight in Seattle (e.g., at the Hyatt Regency near the port) to avoid flight delays.
• Transport: The Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is 15 miles from the port. Use the Link Light Rail ($3) or a rideshare app.
• Embarkation: Arrive at the port 2–3 hours before departure. Bring your passport, cruise documents, and a printed boarding pass.

Onboard Etiquette and Safety

• Wildlife Viewing: Follow the “100-yard rule” for bears and whales. Use binoculars, not drones.
• Glacier Safety: Never approach calving ice—it can create dangerous waves.
• Environmental Responsibility: Use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid single-use plastics.

Data Table: 2024 Seattle-to-Alaska Cruise Line Comparison

Cruise Line	Ship Name(s)	Itinerary Length	Avg. Price (7-Day)	Key Inclusions	Unique Feature
Holland America	Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam	7 days	$1,500	Alaska expert lectures, cultural tours	“Alaska Up Close” program
Norwegian	Encore, Joy	7–10 days	$1,200	Wi-Fi (Free at Sea), specialty dining	Go-kart track, Broadway shows
Princess	Discovery, Enchanted	7 days	$1,800	MedallionNet Wi-Fi, glacier lectures	Scenic cruising in Hubbard Glacier
Royal Caribbean	Quantum, Ovation	7–10 days	$1,400	Adventure Academy, kids’ programs	North Star observation capsule
Celebrity	Edge, Solstice	7 days	$2,200	Retreat suite perks, wellness programs	Glass-bottom pool, rooftop terrace
UnCruise	Wilderness Discoverer	7–14 days	$3,500	All meals, excursions, gear	Kayaking in Tracy Arm Fjord

Note: Prices are per person, based on double occupancy and do not include airfare.

Conclusion: Your 2024 Alaska Cruise Awaits

Seattle to Alaska in 2024 is more than a cruise—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime journey through a land of towering glaciers, untamed wildlife, and indigenous cultures. Whether you’re drawn to the classic elegance of Holland America, the high-energy entertainment of Royal Caribbean, or the intimate wilderness access of UnCruise, there’s a perfect fit for every traveler. The key to an unforgettable experience lies in choosing the right cruise line, itinerary, and shore excursions that align with your passions.

As you plan your 2024 voyage, remember: Alaska rewards those who embrace spontaneity and respect its fragile ecosystem. Pack your layers, charge your camera, and prepare to be awestruck. From the moment you leave Seattle’s bustling harbor to your final glimpse of the Inside Passage, every mile of this journey will etch itself into your memory. The glaciers are waiting, the whales are calling, and the adventure of a lifetime begins with a single step onto the gangway. Your Alaskan dream cruise is closer than you think.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines leave from Seattle to Alaska in 2024?

Major cruise lines offering 2024 departures from Seattle to Alaska include Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Royal Caribbean, and Carnival Cruise Line. These operators provide 7- to 14-day itineraries, often visiting Glacier Bay, Juneau, and Ketchikan.

Which Seattle-based Alaska cruise line offers the best value for families?

Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean are top choices for families, with kid-friendly activities, flexible dining, and budget-friendly balcony staterooms. Both cruise lines leaving from Seattle to Alaska include onboard amenities like water parks and entertainment at competitive prices.

Do any luxury cruise lines depart from Seattle to Alaska?

Yes, Holland America Line and Princess Cruises offer premium experiences with elevated dining, smaller crowds, and curated excursions. Their mid-sized ships balance luxury and accessibility to scenic routes like the Inside Passage.

When is the best time to book a 2024 Alaska cruise from Seattle?

Book by late 2023 or early 2024 for the best rates and cabin selection, though last-minute deals (1-2 months prior) can also save money. Peak season (June-August) sells out fastest, so plan early for summer 2024 sailings.

Are there themed cruises from Seattle to Alaska in 2024?

Princess Cruises and Holland America Line offer themed itineraries like “Denali Explorer” (land+sea tours) and “Holland America’s Music Walk.” These specialty cruises departing from Seattle to Alaska often include expert-led excursions or onboard enrichment programs.

What’s the average price for a 7-day Alaska cruise from Seattle in 2024?

Expect to pay $1,200-$3,000+ per person for a 7-day cruise, depending on cabin type and cruise line. Norwegian and Carnival offer the most affordable options, while Princess and Holland America’s mid-tier pricing includes more inclusions.