Choosing the best Alaskan cruise line depends on your travel style, budget, and must-see destinations. From luxury voyages to family-friendly adventures, this guide breaks down the top options so you can sail Alaska with confidence.
Dreaming of icy fjords, towering glaciers, and bears fishing in rushing rivers? Alaska is one of the world’s most breathtaking cruise destinations—and choosing the right cruise line can make or break your experience. With so many options sailing the Inside Passage, Gulf of Alaska, and beyond, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Are you looking for luxury, family fun, educational enrichment, or rugged adventure? The best Alaskan cruise line for you depends on what kind of traveler you are.
Alaska isn’t just another tropical getaway. It’s a wild, remote frontier where nature takes center stage. Cruise ships become your floating basecamp, delivering you to stunning ports like Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway, and Seward—each offering unique wildlife, culture, and outdoor adventures. But not all cruise lines are created equal. Some prioritize comfort and dining, while others focus on exploration and education. Some cater to kids with rock walls and ice cream parlors, while others offer quiet lounges and gourmet cuisine for adults only.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top Alaskan cruise lines, comparing their strengths, itineraries, onboard experiences, and value. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, you’ll find the insights you need to pick the perfect voyage. We’ll also share practical tips for booking, packing, and making the most of your time ashore. By the end, you’ll know exactly which cruise line aligns with your Alaska dreams.
Key Takeaways
- Holland America Line offers a balanced mix of comfort, enrichment, and scenic cruising with longer port stays and expert-led onboard programs.
- Princess Cruises excels in destination immersion with its “North to Alaska” program, exclusive shore excursions, and Glacier Bay access.
- Royal Caribbean appeals to families and active travelers with thrilling onboard activities and shorter, action-packed itineraries.
- Smaller luxury lines like Seabourn and Silversea provide intimate, all-inclusive experiences with personalized service and expedition-style exploration.
- Adventure seekers should consider expedition cruises from UnCruise or Lindblad Expeditions for up-close wildlife encounters and remote wilderness access.
- Itinerary matters more than brand—focus on ports, glacier views, and wildlife opportunities when comparing cruise lines.
- Book early for best cabin selection and pricing, especially for peak summer months and Glacier Bay sailings.
📑 Table of Contents
Why Alaska Is a Must-See Cruise Destination
Alaska is unlike any other cruise destination on Earth. It’s raw, untamed, and awe-inspiring. From the moment your ship glides into the misty waters of the Inside Passage, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a nature documentary. Towering snow-capped peaks rise from the sea, bald eagles soar overhead, and humpback whales breach just off the starboard side. This is a place where glaciers calve with thunderous cracks and towns cling to the edge of the wilderness.
One of the biggest draws of an Alaskan cruise is the accessibility. You can experience vast wilderness, diverse wildlife, and rich Indigenous cultures—all without roughing it. Modern cruise ships offer comfort and convenience while delivering you to remote locations that would be difficult or expensive to reach on your own. Plus, cruising allows you to see multiple destinations in one trip, from the lush rainforests of Ketchikan to the gold rush history of Skagway and the marine life of Icy Strait Point.
Another reason Alaska stands out is the seasonal magic. The summer months—June through August—offer nearly 20 hours of daylight, mild temperatures, and peak wildlife activity. This is when bears fish for salmon, whales migrate north, and wildflowers bloom across the tundra. Even in shoulder seasons like May and September, you’ll find fewer crowds and lower prices, with the chance to see the northern lights in early fall.
Top Alaskan Cruise Lines Compared
Visual guide about What Is the Best Alaskan Cruise Line to Take
Image source: i.pinimg.com
With so many cruise lines sailing Alaska, it helps to break them down by travel style. Here’s a look at the top players and what makes each one unique.
Holland America Line: The Classic Choice
If you’re looking for a traditional, well-rounded Alaska experience, Holland America Line is a standout. Known for its mid-sized ships and refined atmosphere, Holland America strikes a balance between comfort and exploration. Their ships, like the ms Nieuw Amsterdam and ms Volendam, are designed for scenic cruising, with plenty of open deck space and large windows for glacier viewing.
One of Holland America’s biggest strengths is its longer port stays. In ports like Juneau and Ketchikan, you’ll often have 8–10 hours ashore—plenty of time to take a whale-watching tour, visit a totem park, or hike a coastal trail. They also offer excellent enrichment programs, including lectures by naturalists and historians, cooking demos featuring local ingredients, and live music with Alaskan themes.
Holland America’s itineraries frequently include Glacier Bay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Their partnership with the National Park Service means you’ll have a park ranger onboard during the transit, offering insights into the ecosystem and history. This educational focus makes it a great choice for travelers who want to learn as much as they see.
Princess Cruises: Destination Experts
Princess Cruises has long been a leader in Alaskan cruising, and for good reason. They offer some of the most comprehensive itineraries, including roundtrip voyages from Seattle and one-way cruises between Vancouver and Seward or Whittier. Their “North to Alaska” program transforms the ship into an immersive experience, with local cuisine, cultural performances, and themed events.
Princess excels in shore excursions. Whether you want to ride the White Pass & Yukon Route railway, go dog sledding on a glacier, or take a flightseeing tour over Denali, Princess offers a wide range of options—many exclusive to their brand. Their ships, like the Grand Princess and Discovery Princess, are equipped with the “Princess Medallion,” a wearable device that enhances convenience with keyless entry, mobile ordering, and personalized recommendations.
Another advantage? Princess often sails into Glacier Bay, and their ships are designed for optimal viewing. The Skywalk on the top deck offers 360-degree views, perfect for spotting wildlife and glaciers. Plus, their longer voyages (7–14 days) allow for deeper exploration, including stops in less-visited ports like Haines and Sitka.
Royal Caribbean: Fun for the Whole Family
If you’re traveling with kids or love a high-energy atmosphere, Royal Caribbean is a top pick. Their ships, like the Radiance of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas, are packed with activities—rock climbing walls, surf simulators, ice skating rinks, and even bumper cars on newer vessels. While these features are more common on Caribbean cruises, they’re still a hit with families on Alaska itineraries.
Royal Caribbean’s Alaska cruises are typically 7-night roundtrips from Seattle or Vancouver, focusing on the Inside Passage. They visit the classic ports—Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway—and often include a glacier day at Hubbard Glacier or Endicott Arm. While they don’t always enter Glacier Bay, their glacier viewing is still spectacular, with plenty of photo ops.
One thing to note: Royal Caribbean’s ships are larger, which means more crowds and less intimacy. But if you’re looking for entertainment, variety, and non-stop fun, this is the line for you. They also offer family-friendly shore excursions, like ziplining in Icy Strait Point or visiting the Alaska Raptor Center in Sitka.
Seabourn and Silversea: Luxury and Intimacy
For travelers seeking a premium, all-inclusive experience, luxury lines like Seabourn and Silversea are hard to beat. These small-ship cruises offer personalized service, gourmet dining, and spacious suites—many with private verandas. With fewer than 300 passengers, you’ll enjoy a quiet, sophisticated atmosphere and more time with the crew.
Seabourn’s Alaska itineraries often include remote destinations like Wrangell, Petersburg, and Tracy Arm Fjord—places larger ships can’t reach. Their expedition-style voyages feature naturalists, photographers, and guest lecturers, enhancing the educational value. Silversea, meanwhile, offers ultra-luxury with all-suite accommodations, complimentary shore excursions, and fine wines included.
Both lines emphasize immersive experiences. Think Zodiac landings on remote beaches, guided hikes in temperate rainforests, and private tastings of local seafood. While these cruises come at a higher price point, the value lies in the exclusivity, service, and access to untouched wilderness.
UnCruise and Lindblad Expeditions: Adventure Awaits
If you’re an adventure traveler or nature enthusiast, consider an expedition cruise with UnCruise Adventures or Lindblad Expeditions (in partnership with National Geographic). These small, nimble ships—often under 100 passengers—are built for exploration, with reinforced hulls for navigating icy waters and tools like kayaks, paddleboards, and Zodiacs for up-close encounters.
UnCruise offers flexible itineraries that change based on wildlife sightings and weather. One day you might be kayaking among icebergs in Tracy Arm, the next watching sea lions on a remote island. Their focus is on active, hands-on experiences, with naturalist guides leading hikes, snorkeling trips, and cultural visits with local Tlingit communities.
Lindblad Expeditions takes a similar approach but with a strong educational component. Their National Geographic partnership means you’ll have photographers, scientists, and filmmakers onboard, offering workshops and insights into Alaska’s ecosystems. Their ships, like the National Geographic Quest, are equipped with high-tech tools for underwater exploration and wildlife tracking.
These cruises are ideal for travelers who want to go beyond the typical tourist spots and experience Alaska’s wild heart. They’re also great for solo travelers, as the small group size fosters camaraderie and shared discovery.
What to Look for When Choosing a Cruise Line
With so many great options, how do you pick the best Alaskan cruise line for your trip? Here are the key factors to consider.
Itinerary and Ports of Call
The route your ship takes is one of the most important decisions. Some cruises focus on the Inside Passage, visiting Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway. Others venture into the Gulf of Alaska, stopping in Seward, Whittier, or even Anchorage. Longer voyages may include Glacier Bay, Hubbard Glacier, or the remote ports of Haines and Sitka.
Ask yourself: Which glaciers do you most want to see? Glacier Bay is a UNESCO site with incredible wildlife and ranger-led programs, but not all ships can enter due to park regulations. Hubbard Glacier, on the other hand, is larger and more accessible, with dramatic calving events.
Also consider the time spent in port. Longer stays give you more flexibility to explore. For example, a 10-hour stop in Juneau allows time for a whale-watching tour and a visit to the Mendenhall Glacier, while a 5-hour stop might only allow for a quick walk around town.
Ship Size and Atmosphere
Ship size affects everything from crowd levels to maneuverability. Large ships (2,000+ passengers) offer more amenities but can feel crowded and less personal. They may also have limited access to narrow fjords or small ports.
Mid-sized ships (500–1,500 passengers) strike a good balance, offering comfort and variety without overwhelming crowds. Small ships (under 500 passengers) provide intimacy, personalized service, and access to remote areas. Expedition ships (under 200 passengers) are ideal for adventure travelers who prioritize exploration over luxury.
Think about your travel style. Do you want a quiet retreat with spa treatments and fine dining? Or a lively ship with shows, games, and family activities? Your answer will guide your choice.
Onboard Experience and Enrichment
What you do onboard matters just as much as where you go. Some cruise lines focus on entertainment—think Broadway-style shows, comedy acts, and live music. Others emphasize education, with lectures, workshops, and guest speakers.
If you’re traveling with kids, look for family-friendly amenities like kids’ clubs, game rooms, and teen lounges. Adults-only areas, quiet lounges, and enrichment programs are better suited for couples or solo travelers.
Dining is another consideration. Luxury lines offer multiple specialty restaurants and gourmet cuisine. Mainstream lines provide a mix of buffet and sit-down dining, often with local Alaskan seafood like salmon and king crab.
Shore Excursions and Value
Shore excursions can make or break your Alaska experience. Look for cruise lines that offer a variety of options—from gentle walking tours to adrenaline-pumping adventures like heli-hiking or flightseeing.
Some lines include excursions in the fare (like Silversea), while others charge extra. Compare prices and read reviews to ensure you’re getting good value. Also check if the cruise line offers exclusive tours you can’t get elsewhere—like private access to a glacier or a cultural performance by local Indigenous artists.
Price and Booking Tips
Alaska cruises can range from $800 to $10,000+ per person, depending on the line, cabin type, and itinerary. Mainstream lines like Royal Caribbean and Holland America offer the best value for budget-conscious travelers. Luxury and expedition lines command higher prices but include more in the fare.
Book early—ideally 12–18 months in advance—for the best cabin selection and pricing. Peak season (June–August) fills up fast, especially for Glacier Bay sailings. Consider shoulder seasons (May or September) for lower prices and fewer crowds, though weather can be less predictable.
Watch for promotions like free airfare, onboard credit, or drink packages. And always read the fine print—some deals have restrictions or blackout dates.
Packing Tips and What to Expect Ashore
Packing for an Alaskan cruise is different from a Caribbean trip. Layers are key. Even in summer, temperatures can range from 40°F to 70°F, with rain and wind common. Bring a waterproof jacket, warm layers, gloves, and a hat. Don’t forget binoculars for wildlife spotting and a good camera with extra batteries.
Footwear matters. Waterproof hiking boots are ideal for shore excursions, but comfortable walking shoes work for town visits. Some excursions require specific gear—like rain gear for whale watching or sturdy shoes for glacier hikes—so check with your cruise line.
When you’re ashore, embrace the local culture. Visit totem parks in Ketchikan, learn about gold rush history in Skagway, or sample fresh seafood in Juneau. Many ports have visitor centers with maps and recommendations. And always respect wildlife—keep a safe distance and follow guide instructions.
Final Thoughts: Finding Your Perfect Alaska Cruise
There’s no single “best” Alaskan cruise line—only the best one for you. Whether you’re seeking luxury, adventure, family fun, or educational enrichment, Alaska has a cruise that fits your vision. Holland America offers a classic, well-rounded experience. Princess excels in destination immersion. Royal Caribbean delivers high-energy fun. Seabourn and Silversea provide intimate luxury. And UnCruise and Lindblad offer rugged, hands-on exploration.
The key is to match the cruise line to your travel style, budget, and must-see destinations. Read reviews, compare itineraries, and talk to a travel agent if needed. And remember: the magic of Alaska isn’t just in the ports you visit, but in the moments between—the silence of a glacier calving, the thrill of spotting a bear on the shore, the warmth of a local smile in a tiny coastal town.
Book with confidence, pack wisely, and prepare to be amazed. Your Alaskan adventure awaits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which cruise line goes to Glacier Bay?
Holland America Line and Princess Cruises are among the few lines that regularly sail into Glacier Bay National Park. Their ships are permitted to enter, and they often have National Park Service rangers onboard to provide commentary and education during the transit.
Are Alaskan cruises family-friendly?
Yes, many cruise lines cater to families. Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line offer kids’ clubs, entertainment, and family-friendly shore excursions. Holland America and Princess also provide family programs, though their atmospheres are more relaxed.
What is the best time to take an Alaskan cruise?
The peak season is June through August, offering the best weather, longest daylight, and peak wildlife activity. May and September are shoulder months with fewer crowds and lower prices, though weather can be cooler and rainier.
Do I need a passport for an Alaskan cruise?
If your cruise departs and returns to the same U.S. port (like Seattle or Vancouver), a passport is not always required—but it’s highly recommended. Some itineraries visit Canadian ports, and a passport ensures smooth re-entry.
Can I see whales on an Alaskan cruise?
Yes! Humpback whales, orcas, and gray whales are commonly spotted, especially in areas like Icy Strait Point and Juneau. Many cruise lines offer whale-watching excursions, and sightings are frequent during summer months.
Are Alaskan cruises expensive?
Prices vary widely. Mainstream lines start around $800–$1,500 per person for a 7-night cruise, while luxury and expedition lines can cost $5,000–$10,000+. Booking early and traveling in shoulder seasons can help reduce costs.