What Is the Best Norwegian Alaska Cruise

Choosing the best Norwegian Alaska cruise depends on your travel style, budget, and must-see destinations. Whether you’re seeking luxury, adventure, or family-friendly fun, Norwegian Cruise Line offers a range of itineraries that showcase Alaska’s glaciers, wildlife, and charming ports. With flexible dining, immersive excursions, and breathtaking scenery, a Norwegian Alaska cruise delivers an unforgettable experience.

Key Takeaways

• Norwegian Cruise Line offers diverse Alaska itineraries: From 7-day round trips to 10-day one-way voyages, there’s a cruise for every schedule and interest.
• The best ships for Alaska include Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore: These vessels feature top-tier amenities, spacious outdoor decks, and panoramic views perfect for glacier viewing.
• Scenic highlights include Glacier Bay, Hubbard Glacier, and Tracy Arm Fjord: These natural wonders are best experienced from the ship’s deck or during guided excursions.
• Shore excursions enhance the Alaskan experience: Options range from whale watching and dog sledding to helicopter tours and cultural village visits.
• Flexible dining and entertainment make Norwegian stand out: With no fixed dining times and a wide variety of restaurants, you can enjoy meals and shows on your own schedule.
• Travel during peak season (May to September) for optimal weather and wildlife sightings: July and August offer the warmest temperatures and longest daylight hours.
• Book early and consider travel insurance: Alaska cruises fill up quickly, and unexpected weather can affect port arrivals.

Why Choose a Norwegian Alaska Cruise?

If you’re dreaming of snow-capped mountains, towering glaciers, and wildlife like bears and whales, an Alaska cruise should be at the top of your travel list. And when it comes to cruise lines that truly understand how to deliver an unforgettable Alaskan adventure, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) consistently ranks among the best. Known for its “Freestyle Cruising” philosophy, Norwegian gives you the freedom to explore, dine, and relax on your own terms—perfect for travelers who want flexibility without sacrificing luxury.

Norwegian’s Alaska itineraries are designed to immerse you in the raw beauty of the Last Frontier. Whether you’re sailing from Seattle, Vancouver, or Seward, you’ll glide through icy fjords, witness calving glaciers, and dock in charming towns like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway. What sets Norwegian apart is its blend of modern amenities and authentic Alaskan experiences. From onboard lectures by naturalists to locally inspired cuisine, every detail is crafted to deepen your connection to this wild, awe-inspiring region.

But with so many options—different ships, routes, and durations—how do you find the best Norwegian Alaska cruise for your needs? That’s exactly what we’re here to help with. In this guide, we’ll break down the top ships, highlight must-see destinations, and share insider tips to ensure your Alaskan voyage is nothing short of spectacular.

Top Norwegian Ships for an Alaska Cruise

Not all cruise ships are created equal—especially when it comes to navigating Alaska’s rugged coastline. Norwegian operates several vessels on Alaskan routes, but a few stand out for their size, amenities, and scenic viewing opportunities. If you’re looking for the best Norwegian Alaska cruise experience, these ships should be at the top of your list.

Norwegian Bliss: The Ultimate Alaskan Adventure Ship

Launched in 2018, Norwegian Bliss is one of the most popular ships for Alaska cruises—and for good reason. This massive vessel was specifically designed with Alaska in mind, featuring expansive outdoor spaces, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a layout optimized for glacier viewing. One of its standout features is the two-story, open-air promenade deck, which wraps around the ship and offers 360-degree views of icy fjords and mountain peaks.

Onboard, you’ll find a wide range of dining options, from casual buffets to upscale steakhouses like Cagney’s. The entertainment lineup includes Broadway-style shows, live music, and even a go-kart track—yes, really! While the go-karts are more fun than practical in Alaska, they’re a great way to burn off energy between port days. Bliss also offers a robust selection of shore excursions, including helicopter tours over glaciers, whale-watching cruises, and dog sledding on a glacier (yes, that’s a real thing).

What makes Bliss truly special for Alaska is its focus on nature. The ship features a dedicated “Alaska Experience” program, with onboard naturalists who give daily talks about wildlife, geology, and indigenous cultures. You’ll also find locally sourced ingredients in the restaurants, with dishes highlighting fresh seafood like king crab and halibut.

Norwegian Encore: Modern Luxury with Alaskan Flair

If you’re looking for a slightly newer ship with cutting-edge amenities, Norwegian Encore is another excellent choice. Launched in 2019, Encore is nearly identical to Bliss in size and layout but features updated interiors and enhanced technology. Like Bliss, it was built with Alaska in mind, offering wide-open decks and panoramic views from nearly every public space.

One of Encore’s biggest draws is its entertainment options. The ship boasts a full-sized laser tag arena, a sprawling aqua park with multiple waterslides, and a comedy club that hosts nightly shows. Dining is equally impressive, with over 20 restaurants and bars, including the popular Food Republic food hall and the upscale Ocean Blue for fresh seafood.

For Alaska cruisers, Encore offers the same immersive “Alaska Experience” programming as Bliss, with expert-led lectures and cultural activities. The ship also partners with local Alaskan vendors to offer authentic excursions, such as gold panning in Skagway or visiting a Tlingit cultural center in Ketchikan.

Norwegian Jewel and Norwegian Sun: Classic Choices for a Cozy Voyage

If you prefer a more intimate cruise experience, Norwegian Jewel and Norwegian Sun are solid options. These older ships are smaller than Bliss and Encore, which means they can access tighter ports and offer a more relaxed pace. While they don’t have the same high-tech features or go-kart tracks, they make up for it with charm and personalized service.

Jewel, in particular, is a favorite among repeat Alaska cruisers. Its smaller size allows it to dock in scenic locations like Icy Strait Point, where you can zipline through the rainforest or watch brown bears fishing for salmon. The ship also offers a variety of Alaska-themed activities, including cooking classes featuring local ingredients and live music with Alaskan folk influences.

Norwegian Sun, meanwhile, is known for its friendly crew and laid-back atmosphere. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to enjoy the scenery without the crowds. Both ships offer the same Freestyle Dining and entertainment options as their larger siblings, just on a more manageable scale.

Best Norwegian Alaska Itineraries

One of the biggest decisions when booking a Norwegian Alaska cruise is choosing the right itinerary. Norwegian offers several routes, each with its own highlights and travel logistics. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular options to help you find the best Norwegian Alaska cruise for your travel style.

7-Day Round-Trip from Seattle

This is one of the most convenient and popular Alaska cruise options, especially for travelers coming from the U.S. West Coast. Departing and returning to Seattle, this itinerary typically includes stops in Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and Victoria, BC. You’ll also sail through the stunning Tracy Arm Fjord or Endicott Arm to see the Sawyer Glaciers.

Why it’s great: You don’t need to fly into or out of Alaska, making it easy and cost-effective. The round-trip format also means less travel fatigue. Plus, sailing from Seattle allows you to enjoy a pre- or post-cruise city stay in one of the Pacific Northwest’s most vibrant cities.

Best for: First-time cruisers, families, and travelers who want a hassle-free vacation.

7-Day Round-Trip from Vancouver

Similar to the Seattle itinerary, this route starts and ends in Vancouver, Canada. It visits the same key ports—Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway—and often includes a scenic cruise through the Inside Passage. Some sailings also stop in Victoria or Prince Rupert for added variety.

Why it’s great: Vancouver is a beautiful city with excellent international flight connections, making it a great gateway for travelers from Asia, Europe, or the East Coast. The Canadian departure also offers a slightly different cultural flavor, with bilingual signage and local Canadian cuisine onboard.

Best for: International travelers, couples, and those who want a mix of city and wilderness.

10-Day One-Way Glacier Route (Seattle to Seward or Vice Versa)

For a more immersive Alaskan experience, consider a one-way cruise that begins in Seattle and ends in Seward (near Anchorage), or the reverse. These longer itineraries often include extra days at sea, allowing for more time to enjoy the ship’s amenities and take in the scenery.

Highlights of this route include a full day cruising Glacier Bay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a visit to Hubbard Glacier—one of the most active glaciers in North America. You’ll also have more time in port cities, giving you the chance to book longer excursions like flightseeing over Denali or a full-day wildlife tour.

Why it’s great: You see more of Alaska, including remote areas that shorter cruises don’t reach. The one-way format also means you can explore Anchorage or Denali National Park before or after your cruise.

Best for: Adventure seekers, photographers, and travelers who want a deeper dive into Alaskan nature and culture.

9-Day Round-Trip from Vancouver with Glacier Bay

This premium itinerary is ideal for nature lovers. In addition to the standard ports, it includes a full day in Glacier Bay National Park, where you’ll be accompanied by a park ranger who provides expert commentary on the ecosystem. You’ll also have the chance to see humpback whales, sea lions, and possibly even bears along the shoreline.

Why it’s great: Glacier Bay is one of the most pristine and protected areas in Alaska, and seeing it from the water is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The longer duration allows for a more relaxed pace and more time to enjoy the ship.

Best for: Wildlife enthusiasts, eco-tourists, and travelers seeking a more educational cruise.

Must-See Destinations on a Norwegian Alaska Cruise

No matter which itinerary you choose, a Norwegian Alaska cruise will take you to some of the most breathtaking places on Earth. Here are the top destinations you won’t want to miss—and what makes each one special.

Ketchikan: The Salmon Capital of the World

Your first stop is often Ketchikan, a charming waterfront town known for its colorful totem poles, historic Creek Street, and abundant wildlife. This is your best chance to see bald eagles up close—there are more eagles here per capita than anywhere else in the U.S.

Don’t miss: A visit to Totem Bight State Historical Park or a guided kayak tour through the Tongass National Forest. For a cultural experience, book a Native Alaskan dance performance or a totem pole carving demonstration.

Juneau: Alaska’s Capital City

Accessible only by boat or plane, Juneau is a rugged, beautiful city surrounded by mountains and water. It’s home to the Mendenhall Glacier, a 13-mile-long glacier that’s easily viewed from a network of hiking trails.

Don’t miss: A helicopter tour that lands on a glacier for dog sledding, or a whale-watching cruise in Stephens Passage. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a zipline tour through the rainforest.

Skagway: Gateway to the Klondike Gold Rush

Step back in time in Skagway, a historic gold rush town with wooden boardwalks, saloons, and steam locomotives. The White Pass and Yukon Route Railway is a must-ride, taking you on a scenic journey through mountain tunnels and over trestle bridges.

Don’t miss: A gold panning excursion or a visit to the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. For thrill-seekers, a mountain biking tour down the old gold rush trail is unforgettable.

Glacier Bay National Park: A UNESCO Treasure

This is the crown jewel of any Alaska cruise. As your ship glides silently through the bay, you’ll witness towering ice walls, calving glaciers, and marine wildlife like sea otters and harbor seals. A National Park Service ranger boards the ship to provide expert commentary.

Don’t miss: Waking up early to see the sunrise over the glaciers—it’s magical. Bring binoculars and a warm jacket, as the air can be chilly even in summer.

Hubbard Glacier: The Big One

At over 700 feet tall and 7 miles wide, Hubbard Glacier is one of the largest tidewater glaciers in North America. Norwegian ships often spend several hours cruising near the glacier, giving you plenty of time to snap photos and feel the thunderous crash of ice calving into the water.

Don’t miss: Watching from the open deck or a private balcony. The sound of the glacier cracking is something you’ll never forget.

Shore Excursions: Making the Most of Your Port Days

One of the best parts of a Norwegian Alaska cruise is the opportunity to explore beyond the ship. Norwegian offers a wide range of shore excursions, from gentle nature walks to adrenaline-pumping adventures. Here are some top picks to consider.

Wildlife and Nature Tours

– Whale Watching in Juneau: Spot humpback whales, orcas, and porpoises in their natural habitat.
– Bear Viewing in Ketchikan: Take a boat to a remote river where brown bears fish for salmon.
– Glacier Hiking in Skagway: Trek across ancient ice with crampons and a guide.

Cultural Experiences

– Tlingit Cultural Center in Ketchikan: Learn about Alaska Native history and art.
– Gold Rush History in Skagway: Tour historic buildings and try your hand at panning for gold.
– Russian Heritage in Sitka: Visit St. Michael’s Cathedral and explore the Russian Bishop’s House.

Adventure Activities

– Helicopter Tour and Dog Sledding: Fly over a glacier and ride a sled pulled by huskies.
– Ziplining in Icy Strait Point: Soar over the rainforest canopy with ocean views.
– Kayaking in Tracy Arm: Paddle among icebergs and waterfalls in a pristine fjord.

Tip: Book excursions early—popular tours sell out quickly. Also, consider booking directly through Norwegian for peace of mind, as they guarantee you’ll make it back to the ship on time.

Onboard Experience: Dining, Entertainment, and Relaxation

While the scenery is the star of an Alaska cruise, Norwegian ensures you’re comfortable and entertained when you’re back on the ship. Here’s what you can expect.

Freestyle Dining: Eat When You Want

Unlike traditional cruises with fixed dinner times, Norwegian lets you dine whenever and wherever you like. With over 20 restaurants and cafes, you’ll never run out of options. Favorites include:

– Cagney’s Steakhouse: Premium cuts and seafood.
– Ocean Blue: Fresh oysters, lobster, and Alaskan king crab.
– Food Republic: A global food hall with small plates from around the world.
– The Local: A casual pub with comfort food and craft beer.

Tip: Make reservations for specialty restaurants early, especially on sea days.

Entertainment and Activities

Norwegian ships are packed with things to do. Enjoy Broadway-style shows like “Jersey Boys” or “Rock of Ages,” catch a comedy show, or dance the night away at a themed party. During the day, relax by the pool, visit the spa, or try your luck at the casino.

For families, there are kids’ clubs, game shows, and movie nights. Adults can unwind at the adults-only Spice H2O sun deck or enjoy a cocktail at a poolside bar.

Stateroom Options

Norwegian offers a range of accommodations, from interior cabins to luxurious suites. For Alaska, we recommend:

– Balcony Staterooms: Perfect for glacier viewing and enjoying the fresh mountain air.
– Mini-Suites: Extra space and priority boarding.
– The Haven: Norwegian’s luxury suite complex with private pools, restaurants, and 24/7 concierge service.

Tip: Book a starboard (right) side cabin if sailing north from Seattle—you’ll have better views of the coastline.

When to Go: Best Time for a Norwegian Alaska Cruise

The Alaska cruise season runs from May to September, with each month offering a unique experience.

– May and June: Fewer crowds, lower prices, and blooming wildflowers. Wildlife is active, and you may see newborn animals.
– July and August: Peak season with the warmest weather and longest days. Ideal for outdoor activities, but also the busiest time.
– September: Cooler temperatures, fall colors, and fewer tourists. Great for photography and a more peaceful experience.

Tip: Pack layers! Even in summer, temperatures can vary widely from port to port. Bring a waterproof jacket, warm layers, and sturdy walking shoes.

Tips for Booking the Best Norwegian Alaska Cruise

To ensure you get the most out of your trip, keep these tips in mind:

1. Book early: Alaska cruises fill up fast, especially on popular ships like Bliss and Encore.
2. Consider travel insurance: Weather can cause delays or port changes.
3. Pack smart: Bring binoculars, a good camera, and motion sickness remedies.
4. Arrive a day early: Flights to Seattle or Vancouver can be delayed, so give yourself buffer time.
5. Check visa requirements: If departing from Canada, ensure you have the proper documentation.

Conclusion

Choosing the best Norwegian Alaska cruise comes down to matching your travel style with the right ship, itinerary, and timing. Whether you’re drawn to the luxury and size of Norwegian Bliss, the intimate charm of Norwegian Jewel, or the scenic depth of a one-way Glacier Bay voyage, Norwegian Cruise Line offers an unforgettable way to experience Alaska’s wild beauty.

With flexible dining, world-class entertainment, and immersive shore excursions, you’ll enjoy the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. From the thunder of calving glaciers to the sight of a whale breaching in the distance, every moment on a Norwegian Alaska cruise is a memory in the making.

So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to sail into one of the most spectacular destinations on Earth. Your Alaskan adventure awaits.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best Norwegian Alaska cruise ship?

The best Norwegian Alaska cruise ship depends on your preferences, but Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore are top choices. Both offer expansive outdoor decks, modern amenities, and excellent views of glaciers and wildlife.

How long is a typical Norwegian Alaska cruise?

Most Norwegian Alaska cruises are 7 days long, but longer options like 9- or 10-day itineraries are available. One-way cruises from Seattle to Seward (or vice versa) offer more time to explore.

What ports does Norwegian visit in Alaska?

Norwegian typically visits Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and Victoria (BC). Some itineraries also include Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier, and Icy Strait Point.

Can you see glaciers on a Norwegian Alaska cruise?

Yes! Norwegian cruises pass by stunning glaciers like Hubbard Glacier, Mendenhall Glacier, and the Sawyer Glaciers in Tracy Arm. You’ll often spend hours cruising near these icy giants.

Are shore excursions worth it on a Norwegian Alaska cruise?

Absolutely. Shore excursions like whale watching, dog sledding, and helicopter tours greatly enhance your experience. They’re led by local experts and offer access to remote areas.

What should I pack for a Norwegian Alaska cruise?

Pack layers, including a waterproof jacket, warm sweaters, and sturdy shoes. Don’t forget binoculars, a camera, sunscreen, and motion sickness medication. Even in summer, it can be chilly on deck.