What Is the Best Cruise Line to Take to Alaska for Stunning Views

For the most stunning views in Alaska, Holland America Line stands out as the best cruise line, offering expertly curated itineraries, spacious ships with panoramic lounges, and a focus on immersive nature experiences. With its mid-sized vessels and exceptional glacier-viewing decks, it strikes the perfect balance between comfort and unobstructed access to Alaska’s majestic landscapes—ideal for travelers seeking awe-inspiring scenery without the crowds.

Key Takeaways

• Holland America offers best glacier views with expert naturalists onboard.
• Choose small ships for intimate access to remote Alaskan fjords.
• Scenic cruising is prioritized on Princess and Norwegian routes.
• Book balcony cabins for uninterrupted views of icy landscapes.
• Summer sailings (June-August) provide optimal wildlife and weather conditions.
• Expedition lines like Lindblad deliver immersive nature-focused excursions.
• Compare shore excursions to maximize sightseeing opportunities on land.

Why Alaska Should Be Your Next Cruise Destination

Imagine standing on the deck of a ship, wrapped in a warm blanket, as the morning mist lifts to reveal towering snow-capped mountains, glittering glaciers, and a pod of humpback whales breaching just off the bow. This isn’t a scene from a nature documentary—it’s the everyday magic of an Alaska cruise. With its vast wilderness, abundant wildlife, and dramatic landscapes, Alaska offers a cruise experience unlike any other. Whether you’re drawn to the idea of kayaking beside a calving glacier, spotting brown bears in their natural habitat, or simply soaking in the serene beauty of fjords and forests, Alaska delivers on every front.

But with so many cruise lines offering voyages to the Last Frontier, how do you choose the best one? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. It depends on your travel style, budget, preferred activities, and what you hope to see and do. From luxury yachts to family-friendly megaships, each cruise line brings its own flavor to the Alaskan adventure. In this guide, we’ll explore the top contenders for the title of best cruise line to take to Alaska, evaluating them on key criteria like scenery, itinerary variety, onboard experience, wildlife viewing, and value. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, this comprehensive breakdown will help you pick the perfect ship for your Alaskan dream vacation.

What Makes a Cruise Line “Best” for Alaska?

Scenery and Itinerary Depth

The primary reason most people cruise to Alaska is for the scenery—and not just any scenery, but breathtaking, once-in-a-lifetime vistas. The best cruise lines maximize your exposure to Alaska’s most iconic natural wonders: Glacier Bay, Hubbard Glacier, Tracy Arm Fjord, and the Inside Passage. These areas are protected national parks or UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and only a limited number of ships are permitted to enter each year. Cruise lines with priority access or exclusive itineraries often provide more immersive experiences.

For example, Holland America Line and Princess Cruises have long-standing agreements with the National Park Service, allowing their ships to spend extended time in Glacier Bay—often up to 8 hours—compared to just a few hours on other lines. This means more time to watch glaciers calve, spot seals on ice floes, and enjoy ranger-led narration. Similarly, UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions specialize in small-ship, expedition-style cruises that can navigate narrow inlets and anchor in remote bays inaccessible to larger vessels.

Wildlife Viewing and Onboard Expertise

Alaska is a wildlife lover’s paradise. From orcas and humpbacks to brown bears, moose, eagles, and sea otters, the region teems with life. The best cruise lines enhance your wildlife experience with onboard naturalists, biologists, and park rangers who provide educational talks, lead shore excursions, and help you spot animals from the deck.

For instance, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions pairs every cruise with a team of experts, including a certified photo instructor, a historian, and a conservationist. Their ships are equipped with hydrophones to listen to whale songs and underwater cameras to view marine life in real time. Meanwhile, Royal Caribbean and Carnival offer more casual wildlife programs with onboard naturalists and occasional ranger visits during Glacier Bay, but they lack the depth of expertise found on expedition ships.

Onboard Experience and Amenities

The onboard experience can make or break your cruise. While some travelers prioritize luxury and entertainment, others prefer a more intimate, educational atmosphere. The best Alaska cruise lines strike a balance between comfort and authenticity.

• Luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas and Seabourn offer all-inclusive pricing, butler service, fine dining, and spacious suites—ideal for travelers who want to explore Alaska without sacrificing comfort.
• Mid-range lines such as Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) and Princess Cruises provide a mix of relaxation, entertainment, and cultural enrichment, with options for both casual and formal dining, Broadway-style shows, and enrichment lectures.
• Expedition lines like UnCruise and Lindblad focus on adventure and learning. Their ships are smaller (60–100 passengers), with limited amenities but unparalleled access to remote areas and personalized service.

Consider your priorities: Do you want a spa, a casino, and nightly entertainment? Or would you rather have a hot tub on the bow for whale watching and a library full of Alaskan history books?

Top 5 Cruise Lines for Stunning Alaska Views (2024)

1. Princess Cruises: The Classic Choice

Princess Cruises is often called the “Queen of Alaska” for good reason. With decades of experience and a fleet of 10+ ships sailing the region each summer, they’ve perfected the Alaskan cruise formula. Their North to Alaska program includes onboard rangers, cultural events, and a focus on local cuisine and traditions.

Why Princess stands out:

• Itinerary depth: Princess offers 7-, 10-, and 14-day cruises from Seattle, Vancouver, and Whittier (near Anchorage), with stops in Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and Haines.
• Glacier Bay access: Princess ships spend up to 8 hours in Glacier Bay with National Park Service rangers onboard, offering live narration and wildlife spotting.
• Scenic cruising: Their ships are equipped with Princess Patter screens that display real-time glacier calving, wildlife sightings, and GPS tracking.
• Onboard experience: The Discovery at SEA program includes stargazing, cooking demos, and Alaskan-themed trivia. The Sky Suites on newer ships (like Discovery Princess) offer private balconies and 270-degree views.

Tip: Book a balcony cabin on the starboard (right) side for the best views when entering Glacier Bay—most ships turn right into the fjord, so the starboard side faces the glaciers.

2. Holland America Line: Tradition Meets Adventure

Holland America Line has been sailing to Alaska since 1895, making it one of the most experienced cruise lines in the region. Their ms Nieuw Amsterdam and ms Koningsdam are among the most popular ships, offering a blend of classic elegance and modern amenities.

What sets Holland America apart:

• Exclusive partnerships: HAL works with the Alaska Native Heritage Center and Denali National Park to offer cultural tours and land excursions.
• Scenic highlights: Their 7-day “Alaska Inside Passage” cruise includes full-day scenic cruising in Glacier Bay, Tracy Arm Fjord, and College Fjord.
• Onboard enrichment: The Explorations Central (EXC) program features lectures on Alaska’s history, geology, and wildlife, with guest speakers from local universities.
• Food and drink: HAL’s Regional Dining menu highlights Alaskan salmon, king crab, and wild berries. The Pinnacle Grill is a must for a special dinner.

Tip: Opt for a suite with a verandah on the Verandah Deck (Deck 7) for unobstructed views during scenic cruising. The ship’s Lido Deck also has heated loungers—perfect for cold mornings.

3. Lindblad Expeditions (National Geographic): For the True Explorer

If you’re seeking an immersive, educational, and intimate Alaskan experience, Lindblad Expeditions is unmatched. In partnership with National Geographic, Lindblad operates small ships (88–102 passengers) with a 1:10 staff-to-guest ratio, ensuring personalized attention.

Why Lindblad is ideal for nature lovers:

• Small-ship advantage: Their vessels can access remote bays, anchor near glaciers, and launch kayaks and Zodiacs for up-close exploration.
• Expert team: Each cruise includes a National Geographic photographer, a historian, a naturalist, and a conservationist. They lead daily hikes, kayak tours, and wildlife spotting.
• Active excursions: Guests can kayak alongside humpbacks, hike to alpine meadows, and even camp on a glacier (on select itineraries).
• Onboard comfort: While not luxury-focused, Lindblad’s ships have spacious cabins, a well-stocked library, and a lounge with panoramic windows.

Tip: Book the “Alaska’s Inside Passage” 8-day itinerary, which includes a full day in Glacier Bay and stops in Sitka and Wrangell. The National Geographic Quest and Venture are the most popular ships.

4. UnCruise Adventures: Wild, Intimate, and Unscripted

UnCruise Adventures is the go-to for travelers who want to get off the beaten path. With ships carrying just 22–86 passengers, UnCruise focuses on adventure, flexibility, and sustainability. Their itineraries are “unscripted”—meaning the captain can change plans based on weather, wildlife sightings, or guest interests.

What makes UnCruise unique:

• Active exploration: Daily activities include kayaking, paddleboarding, skiff rides, and guided hikes. No sitting on the deck—every day is an adventure.
• Small group size: With only a few dozen guests, you’ll have the fjords almost to yourself. No crowds, no queues.
• Eco-conscious: UnCruise is a leader in sustainable cruising, with carbon-offset programs, reusable water bottles, and a ban on single-use plastics.
• Onboard vibe: The atmosphere is casual and friendly. Meals are family-style, and there’s no formal dress code.

Tip: Choose the “Alaska’s Glacier Country” 7-day itinerary for the best mix of glaciers, wildlife, and cultural stops. The Safari Quest and Safari Explorer are ideal for couples and solo travelers.

5. Celebrity Cruises: Modern Luxury with a View

Celebrity Cruises combines sleek, modern design with Alaskan adventure. Their Edge Series ships (like Celebrity Edge and Apex) feature the Magic Carpet—a moving platform that serves as a bar, embarkation point, or viewing deck—offering unparalleled 360-degree views.

Celebrity’s strengths:

• Stunning design: Floor-to-ceiling windows in the Sunset Bar and Rooftop Garden provide unobstructed views of glaciers and mountains.
• Enrichment programs: The Alaska Immersion series includes cooking classes with Alaskan chefs, whiskey tastings, and talks on indigenous cultures.
• Scenic cruising: Celebrity’s 7-day itineraries include full days in Hubbard Glacier and Glacier Bay, with onboard rangers and naturalist-led deck watches.
• Onboard comfort: The Retreat suite area offers a private lounge, concierge, and premium dining.

Tip: Book a Sky Suite with access to the Retreat for the ultimate luxury experience. The Magic Carpet on Deck 16 is the best spot for glacier viewing.

How to Choose the Right Cruise Line for Your Alaska Adventure

Consider Your Travel Style

Your ideal cruise line depends on how you like to travel. Ask yourself:

• Do you prefer luxury and relaxation? Choose Regent Seven Seas, Seabourn, or Celebrity.
• Are you an adventure seeker? Go for UnCruise or Lindblad.
• Do you want a mix of fun and education? Princess and Holland America are excellent choices.
• Are you traveling with kids? Royal Caribbean and Carnival offer family-friendly activities, kids’ clubs, and water parks.

Budget and Value

Alaska cruises range from $1,000 to $10,000+ per person for a 7-day trip. Here’s a general breakdown:

• Budget: Carnival, NCL (from $1,000–$1,800)
• Mid-range: Princess, Holland America (from $1,800–$3,500)
• Luxury: Celebrity, Oceania (from $3,500–$6,000)
• Expedition: Lindblad, UnCruise (from $5,000–$10,000)

Pro tip: Look for “free airfare” or “free excursions” promotions. Many lines offer these in shoulder seasons (May or September).

Itinerary and Port Stops

Not all Alaskan cruises are the same. Consider:

• Glacier Bay: Only certain ships can enter. Princess, Holland America, and Lindblad have priority access.
• Hubbard Glacier: Larger ships like Celebrity and Royal Caribbean offer full-day scenic cruising here.
• Remote ports: UnCruise and Lindblad visit lesser-known towns like Petersburg and Kake.

Maximizing Your Scenic Experience: Tips and Tricks

Best Time to Cruise for Views

The Alaska cruise season runs from May to September, but each month offers different scenery:

• May: Fewer crowds, blooming wildflowers, and active wildlife (calving season).
• June–July: Peak season—longest days (up to 19 hours of daylight), mild weather, and best glacier views.
• August: Warmer temperatures, fewer crowds, and great whale watching.
• September: Fall colors, northern lights (rare but possible), and lower prices.

Where to Stand on the Ship

For the best views:

• Glacier Bay: Starboard side (right) for the first 3–4 hours; port side (left) for the return.
• Hubbard Glacier: Bow (front) of the ship—many lines offer “glacier viewing” events with hot chocolate.
• Tracy Arm Fjord: Any outdoor deck, but the bow or top deck is best for photos.

Photography Tips

Capture the magic with these tips:

• Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare on water and ice.
• Shoot in early morning or late afternoon for soft, golden light.
• Bring a telephoto lens for wildlife (whales, bears, eagles).
• Ask the ship’s photo instructor (available on Lindblad and Celebrity) for personalized advice.

Comparison Table: Top Alaska Cruise Lines (2024)

Cruise Line	Ship Size	Best For	Glacier Bay Access	Wildlife Expertise	Price Range (7-day)	Unique Feature
Princess Cruises	2,600+ passengers	Classic Alaskan experience	Yes (8+ hours)	Onboard rangers	$1,800–$3,500	Princess Patter scenic screens
Holland America	2,100+ passengers	Cultural immersion	Yes (8+ hours)	EXC lectures	$2,000–$4,000	Alaska Native Heritage Center tours
Lindblad Expeditions	88–102 passengers	Adventure & education	Yes (full day)	National Geographic experts	$5,000–$8,000	Kayaking & Zodiac excursions
UnCruise Adventures	22–86 passengers	Wild, unscripted travel	Yes (limited)	Naturalist-led hikes	$5,500–$7,500	Flexible, eco-friendly itineraries
Celebrity Cruises	2,900+ passengers	Luxury & design	Yes (6–8 hours)	Onboard naturalists	$3,500–$6,000	Magic Carpet viewing platform

Final Verdict: Which Cruise Line Is Best for Stunning Alaska Views?

After evaluating itineraries, onboard experience, wildlife access, and guest satisfaction, the best cruise line to take to Alaska for stunning views ultimately depends on your priorities—but here’s our expert recommendation:

For the most breathtaking, well-rounded experience, Princess Cruises and Holland America Line are the top choices. They offer the perfect balance of scenic depth, onboard comfort, and educational enrichment, with priority access to Glacier Bay and expert-led wildlife programs. If you’re seeking luxury with a view, Celebrity Cruises’ modern design and Magic Carpet platform provide unparalleled vistas. For true adventurers, Lindblad Expeditions and UnCruise Adventures deliver intimate, off-the-grid exploration with unmatched wildlife encounters.

No matter which line you choose, Alaska’s landscapes will leave you awestruck. The glaciers, the mountains, the whales—it’s a place that reminds us how small we are in the grand tapestry of nature. So pack your camera, layer up, and get ready to witness some of the most stunning views on Earth. Your Alaskan adventure awaits—on the right cruise line, it will be nothing short of magical.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best cruise line to take to Alaska for scenic views?

Holland America Line and Princess Cruises are top choices for Alaska, known for their large picture windows, outdoor viewing decks, and routes that navigate narrow fjords and glaciers. Both prioritize sightseeing with onboard naturalists and glacier-focused itineraries.

Which Alaska cruise line offers the most immersive nature experiences?

UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions (partnered with National Geographic) lead in immersive, small-ship Alaska expeditions, offering kayaking, hiking, and wildlife encounters. Their expert guides enhance the experience with educational commentary on marine life and ecosystems.

Are luxury cruise lines worth it for an Alaska trip?

Yes—luxury lines like Seabourn and Silversea provide all-inclusive perks (premium dining, butler service) while accessing remote Alaskan ports. Their smaller ships can dock closer to glaciers and offer exclusive shore excursions for a refined experience.

What is the best cruise line for families traveling to Alaska?

Disney Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line excel with kid-friendly activities, spacious family staterooms, and engaging Alaska-themed programming. Both offer glacier-view balconies and ports with activities like whale watching and dog sledding.

Do any cruise lines focus on sustainable Alaska travel?

Lindblad Expeditions and Hurtigruten prioritize sustainability, using hybrid-electric ships and eco-friendly practices to minimize environmental impact. They partner with conservation groups and offer carbon-offset programs for eco-conscious travelers.

Which cruise line has the best Alaska itineraries for first-time cruisers?

Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean stand out with 7-day roundtrip voyages from Seattle or Vancouver, covering highlights like Glacier Bay and Juneau. Their onboard Alaska experts and flexible excursion options make them ideal for newcomers.