What Is the Best Alaska Cruise to Take

Choosing the best Alaska cruise depends on your travel style, budget, and must-see sights. Whether you want luxury, adventure, or family-friendly fun, Alaska offers unforgettable experiences from Glacier Bay to whale watching.

Key Takeaways

• Best Time to Cruise: May to September offers mild weather, long daylight hours, and peak wildlife activity.
• Top Cruise Lines: Holland America, Princess, and Celebrity offer well-balanced itineraries with expert guides and scenic cruising.
• Inside vs. Outside Cabins: Outside cabins with windows or balconies enhance glacier viewing and wildlife spotting.
• Shore Excursions Matter: Book popular tours like whale watching or dog sledding early—they sell out fast.
• Small Ships Offer Intimacy: Ships under 200 passengers access remote ports and provide personalized service.
• Glacier Bay is a Must: Cruising through this UNESCO site offers jaw-dropping views of tidewater glaciers.
• Pack Smart: Layers, waterproof gear, and binoculars are essential for comfort and enjoyment.

What Is the Best Alaska Cruise to Take? A Complete Guide

So, you’re dreaming of snow-capped peaks, towering glaciers, and breaching whales—welcome to the magic of an Alaska cruise. But with so many options, how do you choose the best Alaska cruise to take? It’s not just about picking a ship; it’s about matching your travel personality to the right itinerary, cruise line, and season.

Alaska isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience. From the Inside Passage’s lush rainforests to the dramatic fjords of Tracy Arm, every mile tells a story. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, the key is knowing what matters most to you. Are you after luxury and fine dining? Or do you crave adventure, wildlife, and off-the-beaten-path exploration? The best Alaska cruise for you will align with your priorities, budget, and travel style.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from the top cruise lines and must-see ports to insider tips on booking and packing. By the end, you’ll have the confidence to choose the perfect Alaska cruise that turns your bucket-list dream into reality.

When Is the Best Time to Take an Alaska Cruise?

Timing is everything when it comes to Alaska cruises. The cruising season runs from **May to September**, but each month offers a different flavor of the Last Frontier.

May and Early June: Shoulder Season Advantages

If you’re looking for fewer crowds and lower prices, May and early June are ideal. The weather is mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from 50°F to 65°F. Wildlife is active—bears are emerging from hibernation, and migratory birds are arriving. You’ll also enjoy long daylight hours, with up to 18 hours of sunlight by late June. However, some shore excursions may be limited early in the season, and not all lodges or attractions are fully open.

July and August: Peak Season Energy

These are the most popular months for a reason. July and August offer the warmest weather, the most daylight (nearly 24-hour sunlight in northern regions), and the full range of shore excursions. Whale watching is at its best, especially in places like Icy Strait Point and Juneau. However, expect larger crowds, higher prices, and fully booked tours. If you’re traveling with kids or want the most activities available, this is the time to go.

September: Fall Colors and Quiet Beauty

September brings a quieter, more intimate Alaska experience. The summer crowds thin out, and the landscape transforms with golden aspens and red fireweed. Wildlife is still active—salmon runs attract bears, and whales are often spotted. Weather can be cooler and wetter, but the scenery is stunning. Some cruise lines offer end-of-season deals, making this a great value option for flexible travelers.

Pro Tip: Book Early for Peak Months

If you’re aiming for July or August, book your cruise at least 9 to 12 months in advance. Popular itineraries and balcony cabins fill up fast. For September, you might find last-minute deals, but don’t wait too long if you have specific preferences.

Top Cruise Lines for Alaska: Which One Is Right for You?

Not all cruise lines are created equal when it comes to Alaska. Some specialize in scenic cruising, while others focus on luxury or adventure. Here are the top contenders for the best Alaska cruise experience.

Holland America Line: The Classic Choice

Holland America is a favorite among Alaska cruisers for its **expertly guided itineraries** and **strong focus on destination immersion**. Their ships, like the Koningsdam and Zaandam, spend full days in key ports like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway. They also offer extended Glacier Bay National Park cruises, often with National Park Service rangers on board.

What sets Holland America apart is their **“Alaska Cruise Planning Guide”** and **destination lectures**, which help passengers understand the history, wildlife, and culture of each stop. Their ships are mid-sized, offering a balance of comfort and intimacy. Dining is elegant but not overly formal, and their service is consistently praised.

Princess Cruises: Scenic and Family-Friendly

Princess is known for its **“MedallionClass” technology**, which streamlines boarding, dining, and excursions. Their ships, such as the Emerald Princess and Grand Princess, are larger and offer more onboard amenities—think multiple pools, theaters, and specialty restaurants.

Princess excels in **scenic cruising**, with routes that include Glacier Bay, Hubbard Glacier, and the Inside Passage. They also offer **“Land and Sea” packages**, combining a cruise with a land tour to Denali National Park or Fairbanks. This is ideal for travelers who want to see more of Alaska beyond the coast.

Celebrity Cruises: Modern Luxury with a View

Celebrity brings a **sleek, modern vibe** to Alaska cruising. Their ships, like the Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Edge, feature floor-to-ceiling windows, upscale dining, and stylish lounges. While they don’t spend as much time in Glacier Bay as Holland America or Princess, they offer stunning views of Hubbard Glacier and Tracy Arm.

Celebrity is great for travelers who want **luxury without the formality** of ultra-high-end lines. Their “Always Included” pricing covers Wi-Fi, drinks, and gratuities, making budgeting easier. They also offer unique shore excursions, like helicopter tours and kayaking adventures.

UnCruise Adventures: Small-Ship Intimacy

If you’re looking for a truly immersive experience, consider a small-ship cruise with UnCruise. Their vessels carry fewer than 100 passengers, allowing access to remote inlets and wildlife hotspots that big ships can’t reach.

UnCruise focuses on **adventure and education**, with naturalists and marine biologists on board. Activities include kayaking, paddleboarding, and hiking. Their itineraries often include lesser-known ports like Wrangell and Petersburg, where you can experience authentic Alaskan culture. This is the best Alaska cruise for active travelers who want to get off the ship and into nature.

Must-See Ports and Scenic Highlights

Alaska’s ports are more than just stops—they’re gateways to adventure. Here are the top destinations you shouldn’t miss.

Juneau: The Capital with Wild Charm

As Alaska’s capital, Juneau is accessible only by air or sea, adding to its remote allure. Highlights include the **Mendenhall Glacier**, a 13-mile-long glacier just 12 miles from downtown. Take a guided hike or kayak tour to get up close.

Whale watching is a Juneau specialty. Companies like Harv and Jan offer high success rates for spotting humpbacks, orcas, and even sea lions. Don’t miss the **Mount Roberts Tramway**, which offers panoramic views and a chance to learn about Tlingit culture.

Skagway: Gold Rush History and Mountain Thrills

Step back in time in Skagway, a well-preserved Gold Rush town. Walk the wooden boardwalks, visit the **Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park**, and ride the **White Pass & Yukon Route Railway**. This narrow-gauge train climbs 3,000 feet in just 20 miles, offering breathtaking views of waterfalls and canyons.

For adventure seekers, try dog sledding on a glacier or ziplining through the rainforest. Skagway is also a great base for hiking the **Chilkoot Trail**, a historic route used by prospectors.

Ketchikan: The Salmon Capital of the World

Ketchikan is famous for its **Native American totem poles**, **rainforest trails**, and **fresh seafood**. Visit **Totem Bight State Historical Park** or the **Totem Heritage Center** to learn about Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian cultures.

Don’t miss a **salmon bake**—a traditional Alaskan feast featuring grilled salmon, wild berries, and sourdough bread. For nature lovers, take a floatplane tour to **Misty Fjords National Monument**, a stunning landscape of granite cliffs and waterfalls.

Glacier Bay National Park: A UNESCO Wonder

No Alaska cruise is complete without a visit to **Glacier Bay**. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to over a dozen tidewater glaciers, including the massive **Margerie Glacier**. As your ship navigates the bay, you’ll hear the thunderous crack of calving ice—a truly unforgettable sound.

Wildlife abounds here: sea otters, harbor seals, bald eagles, and even humpback whales. National Park Service rangers often come aboard to share insights, making this a highlight for many cruisers.

Hubbard Glacier: The Largest Tidewater Glacier

Located near the border with Canada, **Hubbard Glacier** is over 7 miles wide and 700 feet tall. It’s one of the few glaciers in Alaska that’s still advancing. Cruising past it is a dramatic experience, with icebergs floating in the water and the glacier’s blue ice glowing in the sunlight.

Some ships offer “glacier viewing days” where they slow down or stop for extended viewing. Bring binoculars and a camera—this is a once-in-a-lifetime sight.

Cabin Types and What to Expect Onboard

Your cabin is your home away from home, so choosing the right one can make or break your cruise experience.

Inside vs. Outside vs. Balcony Cabins

Inside cabins are the most affordable but lack windows. They’re fine for short cruises or if you plan to spend most of your time exploring. However, for Alaska, natural light and views are part of the magic.

Outside cabins have a window or porthole, offering natural light and views of the passing scenery. These are a great mid-range option, especially if you’re on a budget but still want to see the glaciers.

Balcony cabins are ideal for Alaska. Imagine sipping coffee on your private balcony as a glacier calves in the distance. You’ll have front-row seats to wildlife and scenery without leaving your room. While more expensive, many travelers say it’s worth the upgrade.

Onboard Amenities and Dining

Most Alaska cruise ships offer a range of dining options, from casual buffets to fine dining. Look for lines that feature **local Alaskan seafood**, like king crab, salmon, and halibut. Some ships even host “seafood nights” with fresh catches.

Entertainment varies by line. Larger ships have Broadway-style shows, live music, and casinos. Smaller ships focus more on lectures, wildlife documentaries, and stargazing. Wi-Fi can be spotty in remote areas, so don’t expect constant connectivity.

Service and Staff

Service quality can vary, but top lines like Holland America and Celebrity are known for attentive, professional staff. Many crew members are from Alaska or have extensive experience in the region, adding authenticity to your experience.

Shore Excursions: How to Make the Most of Your Stops

Shore excursions are where the real adventure happens. But with so many options, how do you choose?

Book Early—They Sell Out Fast

Popular tours like **whale watching in Juneau**, **dog sledding in Skagway**, and **helicopter tours to glaciers** fill up months in advance. Book through your cruise line as soon as your itinerary is confirmed. While third-party operators can be cheaper, cruise-line excursions offer reliability and seamless logistics.

Match Excursions to Your Interests

If you love wildlife, prioritize **whale watching**, **bear viewing**, or **kayaking in protected bays**. For history buffs, choose **Gold Rush tours** or **Native cultural experiences**. Adventure seekers should look for **ziplining**, **glacier hikes**, or **flightseeing tours**.

Families might enjoy **salmon bakes**, **tram rides**, or **interactive museums**. Many lines offer kid-friendly excursions, so check the age requirements.

Budget Wisely

Shore excursions can add up quickly. Budget $100–$300 per person per port, depending on the activity. Some lines offer excursion packages or discounts for booking multiple tours. Consider doing one splurge activity and exploring others on your own.

Packing Tips for an Alaska Cruise

Alaska’s weather is unpredictable, so packing smart is essential.

Layer, Layer, Layer

Even in summer, temperatures can range from 40°F to 70°F. Pack **base layers**, **fleece or wool mid-layers**, and a **waterproof outer shell**. A warm hat, gloves, and scarf are useful for glacier days.

Footwear Matters

Bring **waterproof hiking boots** or sturdy walking shoes. Many excursions involve uneven terrain, rain, or mud. Flip-flops are fine for the ship, but not for shore activities.

Don’t Forget the Extras

Binoculars are a must for wildlife spotting. A compact camera with a good zoom lens will help you capture distant glaciers and animals. Pack motion sickness medication, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle. And yes, bring a swimsuit—some ships have heated pools or hot tubs.

Dress Code Tips

Most Alaska cruises are casual, with one or two formal nights. Pack a nice outfit for dinner, but don’t overdo it. Comfort and practicality win over fashion.

Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Alaska Cruise

So, what is the best Alaska cruise to take? The answer is: the one that fits you. Whether you choose the classic elegance of Holland America, the family-friendly fun of Princess, the modern luxury of Celebrity, or the rugged adventure of UnCruise, Alaska will leave you in awe.

Focus on what matters most—scenic views, wildlife, cultural experiences, or onboard comfort. Book early, pack smart, and embrace the unexpected. From the roar of calving glaciers to the silent glide of a whale, Alaska’s magic is in the details.

Your perfect cruise is out there. All you have to do is set sail.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best month to take an Alaska cruise?

The best month depends on your preferences. July and August offer the warmest weather and most activities, while May and September provide fewer crowds and lower prices. June strikes a great balance with good weather and active wildlife.

Do I need a passport for an Alaska cruise?

If your cruise starts and ends in the same U.S. port (like Seattle or Vancouver), a passport is not required for U.S. citizens. However, having one is strongly recommended in case of emergencies or flight changes.

Can I see the Northern Lights on an Alaska cruise?

The Northern Lights are rarely visible during the summer cruise season due to nearly 24-hour daylight. For aurora viewing, consider a fall or winter land tour instead.

Are Alaska cruises suitable for families?

Yes! Many cruise lines offer kids’ clubs, family-friendly excursions, and educational programs. Princess and Disney Cruise Line are especially popular with families.

How much should I budget for shore excursions?

Plan to spend $100–$300 per person per port, depending on the activity. Booking early ensures availability and sometimes better pricing.

What wildlife can I expect to see on an Alaska cruise?

Common sightings include humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, bald eagles, bears, and seals. Glacier Bay and Icy Strait Point are prime spots for wildlife viewing.