Choosing the best Alaskan cruise depends on your travel style, budget, and must-see destinations. Whether you want luxury, adventure, or wildlife viewing, Alaska offers unforgettable voyages along stunning coastlines, glaciers, and charming towns.
Dreaming of towering glaciers, breaching whales, and rugged mountain backdrops? An Alaskan cruise might just be the adventure of a lifetime. With its pristine wilderness, rich Indigenous culture, and dramatic coastlines, Alaska is one of the most sought-after cruise destinations in the world. But with so many options—different cruise lines, ships, itineraries, and price points—how do you choose the best Alaskan cruise for you?
The truth is, there’s no single “best” Alaskan cruise. The right one depends on what you’re looking for. Are you a nature lover eager to spot bears and glaciers up close? A family wanting fun activities and kid-friendly ports? Or perhaps a luxury traveler seeking gourmet dining and spa treatments while sailing past icy fjords? Understanding your priorities is the first step to finding your perfect match.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to pick the ideal Alaskan cruise. From top itineraries and cruise lines to timing, budgeting, and packing tips, we’ve got you covered. By the end, you’ll feel confident booking a voyage that delivers breathtaking scenery, unforgettable wildlife encounters, and memories to last a lifetime.
Key Takeaways
- Itinerary matters most: Look for cruises that visit Glacier Bay, Hubbard Glacier, and ports like Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan for the full Alaskan experience.
- Ship size affects experience: Smaller ships offer more intimate wildlife viewing and access to remote inlets, while larger ships provide more amenities and entertainment.
- Time of year impacts scenery and wildlife: May and September offer fewer crowds and lower prices, while July and August provide the best weather and peak wildlife activity.
- Shore excursions enhance your trip: Book glacier hikes, dog sledding, whale watching, and cultural tours in advance for the best availability.
- Budget wisely: Compare cruise lines, cabin types, and what’s included (drinks, Wi-Fi, excursions) to get the best value.
- Choose the right cruise line: Luxury lines like Regent and Seabourn offer all-inclusive experiences, while family-friendly options like Disney and Royal Caribbean cater to kids and multi-generational trips.
- Pack for variable weather: Layers, waterproof gear, and binoculars are essential for enjoying Alaska’s unpredictable climate and wildlife.
📑 Table of Contents
Why Take an Alaskan Cruise?
An Alaskan cruise isn’t just a vacation—it’s an immersion into one of Earth’s last great wildernesses. Unlike road trips or flights, a cruise lets you experience Alaska’s vast coastline without the hassle of constant packing and unpacking. You wake up each morning in a new port, surrounded by stunning landscapes, with your room, meals, and entertainment all taken care of.
One of the biggest advantages of cruising is access. Many of Alaska’s most spectacular sights—like Glacier Bay National Park and the Inside Passage—are only reachable by boat. A cruise ship glides silently past towering ice walls, giving you front-row seats to nature’s grandeur. Plus, you’ll visit charming towns like Juneau, the state capital with no road access, and Skagway, a Gold Rush-era town frozen in time.
Cruises also offer unmatched convenience. You’ll enjoy expert-guided shore excursions, from whale-watching tours to helicopter rides over glaciers. Onboard, you can relax with live music, cooking demonstrations, and lectures by naturalists. Whether you’re sipping hot cocoa on your balcony as a glacier calves or learning about Tlingit culture in Ketchikan, an Alaskan cruise blends adventure with comfort in a way few other trips can match.
Top Alaskan Cruise Itineraries
Visual guide about What Is the Best Alaskan Cruise to Take
Image source: ostrali.com
Not all Alaskan cruises are created equal. The itinerary—the route your ship takes and the ports it visits—can make or break your experience. The best Alaskan cruise itineraries typically follow the Inside Passage, a protected waterway that winds through lush rainforests, fjords, and icy inlets. Most round-trip cruises depart from Seattle or Vancouver, while one-way “open-jaw” routes start in Seattle and end in Seward (or vice versa), often connecting with land tours to Denali National Park.
One of the most popular routes is the 7-day Inside Passage cruise. These trips usually include stops in Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and often a glacier day at either Hubbard Glacier or Glacier Bay. Ketchikan is known for its totem poles and salmon canneries, Juneau for its whale-watching and Mendenhall Glacier, and Skagway for its Gold Rush history and scenic train rides. Glacier Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers jaw-dropping views of active glaciers and abundant marine life.
For a more immersive experience, consider a one-way cruise that includes a land tour. These “cruise + land” packages let you explore Alaska’s interior, including Denali National Park, where you might spot moose, caribou, or even a grizzly bear. Starting in Vancouver or Seattle and ending in Seward (near Anchorage), these itineraries often include a scenic train ride on the Alaska Railroad, adding a unique dimension to your trip.
If you’re short on time, 5-day cruises are available, though they may skip some key ports. For a longer, more luxurious journey, 10- to 14-day cruises offer extended time in Alaska, sometimes including stops in British Columbia or even the remote Aleutian Islands. No matter the length, prioritize itineraries that include Glacier Bay or Hubbard Glacier—these are the crown jewels of any Alaskan cruise.
Best Cruise Lines for Alaska
With so many cruise lines sailing Alaska, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Each company offers a different vibe, price point, and level of service. Here’s a breakdown of the top cruise lines and what makes them stand out.
Holland America Line is a favorite among traditional cruisers. Known for its elegant ships, excellent service, and strong focus on enrichment, Holland America offers daily lectures by naturalists and historians. Their 7-day Inside Passage cruises are consistently rated among the best, with a perfect balance of scenic sailing and port time. Ships like the Nieuw Amsterdam and Koningsdam feature spacious balconies, fine dining, and a relaxed atmosphere ideal for couples and older travelers.
Princess Cruises is another top contender, especially for first-time Alaska cruisers. They offer a wide range of itineraries, including the popular “Connoisseur” and “Discovery” cruises, and are known for their “North to Alaska” program, which includes local cuisine, cultural performances, and expert guides. Princess also partners with the National Park Service, offering exclusive access to Glacier Bay. Their ships, like the Grand Princess and Ruby Princess, are large but well-designed, with plenty of outdoor viewing areas.
For families, Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean are excellent choices. Disney’s 7-night Alaskan cruises feature character meet-and-greets, kids’ clubs, and Broadway-style shows, all while delivering top-notch Alaskan scenery. Royal Caribbean’s ships, such as the Radiance of the Seas, offer rock climbing, surfing simulators, and family-friendly dining, making them ideal for multi-generational trips.
If luxury is your priority, consider Regent Seven Seas Cruises or Seabourn. Regent offers all-inclusive fares that cover drinks, gratuities, Wi-Fi, and even some shore excursions. Their ships are smaller and more intimate, with spacious suites and gourmet dining. Seabourn takes it a step further with ultra-luxury service, private verandas, and expedition-style excursions like Zodiac tours and guided hikes. Both lines offer exceptional value for travelers seeking a high-end experience.
For a more adventurous, small-ship experience, UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions (in partnership with National Geographic) are outstanding. These companies operate intimate vessels that can navigate narrow channels and remote bays, offering up-close wildlife encounters and expert-led excursions. While pricier, they provide a more immersive, expedition-style cruise that’s perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Best Time to Take an Alaskan Cruise
Timing is everything when it comes to Alaska. The cruise season runs from May to September, but each month offers a different experience. Understanding the pros and cons of each can help you pick the best time for your trip.
May is the start of the season. The weather is cooler, and crowds are minimal, making it a great time for budget travelers. Wildlife is active as animals emerge from winter, and you might see newborn calves among whale pods. However, some shore excursions and attractions may still be closed, and daylight hours are shorter than in summer.
June brings longer days and milder weather. This is a popular month for families, as schools are still in session but the weather is pleasant. Wildlife viewing is excellent, and most tours and restaurants are open. You’ll also have a good chance of clear skies for glacier viewing.
July is peak season. The weather is warmest, with average temperatures in the 60s°F (15–20°C), and daylight lasts up to 18 hours. This is the best time for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and dog sledding on glacier ice. However, it’s also the busiest and most expensive time to cruise, with larger crowds at ports and on excursions.
August offers similar weather to July but with slightly fewer crowds. It’s still a great time for wildlife, especially bears fishing for salmon in rivers near Ketchikan and Juneau. The autumn colors begin to appear in the mountains, adding a new layer of beauty to the landscape.
September is the end of the season. The weather can be unpredictable, with more rain and cooler temperatures, but the scenery is stunning with fall foliage. Wildlife is still active, and you’ll enjoy lower prices and fewer tourists. Some cruise lines offer last-minute deals, making September a smart choice for flexible travelers.
Ultimately, the best time to take an Alaskan cruise depends on your priorities. If you want the best weather and full access to activities, go in July or August. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, consider May or September.
What to Expect Onboard and in Port
An Alaskan cruise is more than just scenic sailing—it’s a full experience that blends relaxation, education, and adventure. Onboard, you’ll find a mix of entertainment, dining, and enrichment programs designed to enhance your journey.
Most cruise lines feature daily lectures by naturalists, historians, or park rangers. These talks cover topics like glacier formation, marine biology, and Alaska Native cultures. They’re a great way to prepare for the day’s excursions and deepen your appreciation of the region. Many ships also offer cooking demonstrations featuring local ingredients like salmon and halibut, as well as live music and cultural performances.
Dining varies by cruise line, but most offer a range of options from casual buffets to fine dining. Alaska-themed menus are common, with fresh seafood and regional specialties. Don’t miss the chance to try king crab legs or a reindeer sausage—Alaska’s culinary scene is as unique as its landscape.
When you’re not eating or learning, you’ll likely be on deck, binoculars in hand, scanning for wildlife. Humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, and bald eagles are commonly spotted. Some ships even have whale identification programs, where naturalists track individual whales and share their stories with passengers.
In port, the real adventure begins. Each stop offers a different flavor of Alaska:
– Ketchikan is known as the “Salmon Capital of the World.” Visit Creek Street, a historic boardwalk overhanging a creek, and explore the Totem Heritage Center. Popular excursions include kayaking through Misty Fjords and visiting a Native Alaskan village.
– Juneau, the state capital, is accessible only by boat or plane. Take a whale-watching tour, hike to the base of the Mendenhall Glacier, or ride the Mount Roberts Tram for panoramic views. Don’t miss the Alaska State Museum for a deeper dive into local history.
– Skagway feels like a step back in time. Stroll down Broadway, visit the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, and take the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway—a scenic train ride through steep mountain passes. Dog sledding on a glacier is a must-do for adventure seekers.
– Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier are not ports but highlight days of your cruise. The ship slows to a crawl as you glide past towering ice walls. Keep your camera ready—calving glaciers can send massive chunks of ice crashing into the water with a thunderous roar.
Shore excursions range from gentle walks to adrenaline-pumping adventures. Book early, especially for popular tours like helicopter glacier landings or bear-viewing flights, as they fill up quickly.
Tips for Choosing and Booking Your Cruise
With so many options, booking the best Alaskan cruise can feel daunting. Here are some practical tips to help you make the right choice.
First, decide on your budget. Cruise prices vary widely based on the line, ship, cabin type, and time of year. Interior cabins are the most affordable, while balcony and suite options offer better views and more space. Don’t forget to factor in extras like drinks, Wi-Fi, and excursions, which can add hundreds to your total cost.
Next, compare what’s included. Some cruise lines, like Regent and Seabourn, offer all-inclusive fares. Others charge extra for specialty dining, alcohol, and internet. Read the fine print and choose a line that matches your spending style.
Book early for the best selection of cabins and shore excursions. Popular itineraries and balcony rooms sell out months in advance, especially for peak season. If you’re flexible, last-minute deals in May or September can save you money.
Consider adding a land tour if you want to see more of Alaska. Many cruise lines offer pre- or post-cruise packages that include stays in Denali, Fairbanks, or Anchorage. These tours often feature train rides, wildlife safaris, and visits to national parks.
Finally, pack smart. Alaska’s weather can change quickly, so bring layers, a waterproof jacket, sturdy shoes, and binoculars. Don’t forget sunscreen and insect repellent—yes, even in Alaska, mosquitoes can be fierce in summer.
Conclusion
Choosing the best Alaskan cruise is about matching your travel style with the right itinerary, cruise line, and timing. Whether you’re drawn to the luxury of a small ship, the family fun of a mega-resort at sea, or the raw beauty of a glacier day, Alaska delivers an experience unlike any other.
Focus on itineraries that include Glacier Bay or Hubbard Glacier, prioritize ports like Juneau and Skagway, and choose a cruise line that fits your budget and preferences. Book early, pack for variable weather, and be ready to be amazed.
An Alaskan cruise isn’t just a trip—it’s a journey into the heart of the wild. With its stunning scenery, incredible wildlife, and rich culture, it’s no wonder so many travelers call it the trip of a lifetime. So set sail, keep your camera ready, and prepare to fall in love with the Last Frontier.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best month to take an Alaskan cruise?
The best month depends on your priorities. July and August offer the warmest weather and most activities, while May and September provide fewer crowds and lower prices. June is a great balance of good weather and availability.
Do I need a passport for an Alaskan cruise?
If your cruise departs and returns to the same U.S. port (like Seattle), a passport is not required—but it’s highly recommended. If your itinerary includes foreign ports like Vancouver, a passport is mandatory.
Are Alaskan cruises family-friendly?
Yes! Lines like Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean offer kids’ clubs, family activities, and age-appropriate excursions. Even luxury lines often have family cabins and youth programs.
What should I pack for an Alaskan cruise?
Pack layers, a waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, binoculars, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Don’t forget a camera and extra memory cards for all the stunning views.
Can I see whales on an Alaskan cruise?
Absolutely! Humpback whales, orcas, and gray whales are commonly spotted, especially near Juneau and Icy Strait. Many cruises offer whale-watching excursions for the best views.
Are shore excursions worth it?
Yes, especially for unique experiences like dog sledding on a glacier, helicopter tours, or bear viewing. Book early, as popular tours sell out quickly.