Choosing the best rated Alaska cruise depends on your travel style, budget, and must-see destinations. From luxury small ships to family-friendly mega-liners, top-rated options consistently deliver breathtaking scenery, wildlife encounters, and expert-led excursions. This guide breaks down the highest-rated Alaska cruises to help you pick the perfect voyage.
Planning a trip to Alaska is like stepping into a postcard—towering glaciers, snow-capped peaks, breaching whales, and charming coastal towns await. But with so many cruise lines, ships, and itineraries to choose from, how do you find the best rated Alaska cruise? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. What’s “best” depends on whether you’re traveling with kids, seeking luxury, craving adventure, or working within a budget.
Alaska cruises typically sail between late May and early September, when the weather is mild and wildlife is most active. Most depart from Seattle or Vancouver, with some round-trip options from San Francisco. The classic route includes stops in Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and often a glacier day at Hubbard or Glacier Bay. But beyond the ports, the real magic lies in the onboard experience—how the crew engages with the destination, the quality of food and service, and the variety of excursions offered.
In this guide, we’ll explore the highest-rated Alaska cruises based on traveler reviews, expert ratings, and overall value. Whether you’re dreaming of sipping champagne as a glacier calves into the sea or hiking through old-growth forests with a park ranger, we’ll help you find the perfect match.
Key Takeaways
- Small ships offer intimate experiences: Lines like UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions provide up-close wildlife viewing and access to remote fjords with expert naturalists on board.
- Luxury comes with personalized service: Regent Seven Seas and Seabourn deliver all-inclusive, high-end Alaska cruises with gourmet dining, spacious suites, and seamless shore excursions.
- Family-friendly options are abundant: Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean feature kids’ clubs, Broadway-style shows, and flexible dining—ideal for multi-generational trips.
- Itinerary matters more than ship size: Look for routes that include Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier, and ports like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway for the full Alaskan experience.
- Timing affects wildlife and weather: Peak season (June–July) offers warm weather and active wildlife, while May and August provide fewer crowds and lower prices.
- Shore excursions enhance the journey: Book glacier hikes, whale watching, dog sledding, and cultural tours in advance for the best availability and value.
- Read recent reviews: Use trusted sources like Cruise Critic and Travel + Leisure to compare real traveler feedback and identify consistently top-rated Alaska cruises.
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What Makes an Alaska Cruise “Best Rated”?
When travelers and critics rate an Alaska cruise as “best,” they’re evaluating more than just the ship. It’s a combination of service, itinerary, onboard experience, and how well the cruise line interprets the Alaskan wilderness. The best rated Alaska cruise doesn’t just show you the sights—it helps you understand them.
One key factor is the presence of naturalists or expedition staff. Ships like those from Lindblad Expeditions and UnCruise Adventures employ marine biologists, geologists, and local experts who give lectures, lead Zodiac tours, and share insights about the ecosystem. These educational elements elevate the experience from passive sightseeing to immersive learning.
Another hallmark of top-rated cruises is thoughtful itinerary design. The best routes balance iconic stops with lesser-known gems. For example, a cruise that includes a full day in Glacier Bay National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—offers more time for wildlife spotting and glacier viewing than a quick pass-through. Similarly, overnight stays in ports like Juneau or Sitka allow for deeper exploration and evening excursions.
Service quality also plays a major role. On luxury lines like Seabourn and Regent Seven Seas, guests enjoy personalized attention, spacious accommodations, and all-inclusive pricing that covers drinks, gratuities, and many excursions. Even on larger ships, attentive crew members who remember your name or favorite drink can make a big difference.
Finally, consistency matters. A cruise line might have a flashy new ship, but if past guests report poor food, disorganized excursions, or lackluster service, it won’t earn top marks. The best rated Alaska cruise maintains high standards across multiple seasons and itineraries.
Top-Rated Luxury Alaska Cruises
Visual guide about What Is the Best Rated Alaska Cruise
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If you’re looking to experience Alaska in style, luxury cruise lines offer some of the highest-rated Alaska cruises on the market. These voyages combine five-star service, gourmet cuisine, and exclusive access to remote areas—all while maintaining a relaxed, elegant atmosphere.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Regent Seven Seas consistently ranks among the best rated Alaska cruise lines. Their ships, like the Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Mariner, offer all-inclusive luxury with no hidden fees. Your fare covers airfare, pre- and post-cruise hotel stays, unlimited shore excursions, premium beverages, and fine dining at multiple restaurants.
One standout feature is their “Unlimited Shore Excursions” program. Whether you want to kayak among icebergs, take a helicopter tour over a glacier, or enjoy a private salmon bake in a Tlingit village, it’s all included. This eliminates the stress of booking and budgeting for activities, letting you focus on the experience.
Guests praise Regent for their spacious suites—even the smallest rooms are well over 300 square feet—and their attentive, multilingual crew. The onboard atmosphere is refined but not stuffy, making it ideal for couples, solo travelers, and small groups.
Seabourn Cruise Line
Seabourn is another top contender for the best rated Alaska cruise. Their intimate ships, such as the Seabourn Odyssey and Seabourn Encore, carry fewer than 500 guests, allowing for a more personalized experience. Seabourn’s “Expedition” style Alaska cruises include expert naturalists, Zodiac landings, and flexible itineraries that adapt to wildlife sightings.
One unique offering is their “Seabourn Ventures” program, which features guided hikes, paddleboarding, and glacier walks. These small-group adventures are led by certified guides and often include cultural interactions with local communities.
Dining on Seabourn is exceptional, with menus crafted by world-renowned chefs and a focus on fresh, local ingredients like Alaskan king crab and wild salmon. The all-suite accommodations feature private verandas, marble bathrooms, and 24-hour room service.
Silversea Cruises
Silversea offers ultra-luxury Alaska cruises with a focus on exploration and authenticity. Their ships, like the Silver Whisper and Silver Muse, are designed for comfort and intimacy, with a high crew-to-guest ratio and all-inclusive pricing.
Silversea’s Alaska itineraries often include overnight stays in key ports, allowing guests to experience local nightlife, evening wildlife tours, and extended excursions. Their partnership with National Geographic adds an educational layer, with photographers and scientists on board to enhance the journey.
Guests appreciate the elegant yet relaxed vibe, the gourmet dining options, and the seamless logistics—from airport transfers to shore excursions. For travelers seeking a refined, all-inclusive Alaska experience, Silversea is a top choice.
Best Small Ship Alaska Cruises for Adventure
For travelers who want to get off the beaten path, small ship Alaska cruises offer unparalleled access to remote wilderness and wildlife. These vessels—often under 200 passengers—can navigate narrow fjords, drop anchor in secluded bays, and offer hands-on adventures that larger ships simply can’t match.
UnCruise Adventures
UnCruise Adventures is frequently named the best rated Alaska cruise for active travelers. Their fleet of small, nimble ships—like the Wilderness Adventurer and Safari Quest—are designed for exploration, not luxury. Think cozy cabins, communal dining, and a focus on outdoor adventure.
Each day brings new opportunities: kayaking alongside orcas, hiking through temperate rainforests, or watching brown bears fish for salmon at Brooks Falls. UnCruise employs expert naturalists and local guides who share deep knowledge of Alaska’s ecosystems and indigenous cultures.
One of their most popular itineraries is the “Alaska’s Inside Passage,” which includes Glacier Bay, Haines, and Sitka. The flexible schedule means the captain can linger if a pod of humpback whales appears or delay departure for a rare wildlife sighting.
Guests love the authentic, down-to-earth vibe. There’s no formal dress code, no Broadway shows—just real connections with nature and fellow travelers. It’s perfect for couples, solo adventurers, and small groups who want to experience Alaska up close.
Lindblad Expeditions – National Geographic
Lindblad Expeditions, in partnership with National Geographic, offers some of the most educational and immersive Alaska cruises available. Their ships, such as the National Geographic Sea Lion and National Geographic Quest, are equipped with kayaks, Zodiacs, and underwater cameras for exploring marine life.
What sets Lindblad apart is their team of experts—marine biologists, photographers, and cultural historians—who lead daily excursions and evening presentations. You might learn about glacial retreat from a glaciologist one day and photograph puffins with a National Geographic photographer the next.
Their itineraries emphasize conservation and cultural respect, often including visits to Native Alaskan villages and discussions about sustainable tourism. The onboard experience is comfortable but not extravagant, with a focus on learning and discovery.
Travelers consistently praise Lindblad for their knowledgeable staff, thoughtful itineraries, and commitment to responsible travel. For those who want to understand Alaska—not just see it—this is one of the best rated Alaska cruise options.
Family-Friendly Alaska Cruises
Traveling to Alaska with kids? You’re in luck. Several major cruise lines offer family-friendly Alaska cruises that balance adventure, education, and entertainment. These ships feature kids’ clubs, family cabins, and activities designed to engage all ages.
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
Norwegian Cruise Line is a top pick for families seeking a flexible, fun-filled Alaska cruise. Their “Freestyle Cruising” concept means no fixed dining times or dress codes—perfect for families with varying schedules and preferences.
Ships like the Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore are packed with amenities: water parks, laser tag, Broadway-style shows, and multiple dining options. The Bliss, in particular, is a favorite for Alaska itineraries, offering a race track, go-karts, and a massive outdoor promenade.
NCL’s shore excursions include family-friendly options like whale watching, gold panning in Skagway, and scenic train rides. Their kids’ clubs are well-staffed and offer age-appropriate activities, from science experiments to arts and crafts.
Guests appreciate the value and variety. While not as luxurious as small ship or premium lines, NCL delivers a high-energy, entertaining experience that keeps both kids and adults engaged.
Royal Caribbean International
Royal Caribbean is another strong contender for the best rated Alaska cruise for families. Ships like the Radiance of the Seas and the new Quantum-class vessels feature rock climbing walls, ice skating rinks, and surf simulators—plus spacious family staterooms and connecting rooms.
Their Alaska itineraries often include stops in Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan, with glacier viewing at Hubbard or Tracy Arm. Shore excursions range from dog sledding on a glacier to flightseeing tours over the Inside Passage.
Royal Caribbean’s Adventure Ocean kids’ program is highly rated, with activities tailored to different age groups. Teens can enjoy video game lounges and social events, while younger kids participate in science and nature-themed programs.
The onboard dining is diverse, with options like Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen and Chops Grille, plus casual spots for pizza and burgers. With so much to do, families rarely get bored—and parents appreciate the balance of activity and relaxation.
Best Value Alaska Cruises
You don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy a top-rated Alaska cruise. Several lines offer excellent value, combining solid service, good itineraries, and affordable pricing—especially if you book early or travel during shoulder seasons.
Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity Cruises strikes a great balance between luxury and value. Their ships, like the Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Eclipse, feature modern design, spacious balconies, and high-quality dining—often with specialty restaurants included in the fare.
Celebrity’s Alaska itineraries are well-planned, with full days in Glacier Bay and overnight stays in ports like Juneau. Their “Celebrity Shore Excursions” offer a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation, with options for all budgets.
Guests praise the attentive service, the clean and stylish cabins, and the overall value for money. While not all-inclusive, Celebrity offers drink packages and excursion bundles that can help control costs.
Holland America Line
Holland America Line is known for its classic elegance and strong Alaska presence. Ships like the Nieuw Amsterdam and Volendam offer a more traditional cruise experience, with live music, cooking demonstrations, and enrichment programs.
Their Alaska cruises often include extended time in ports and a focus on cultural and historical sites. The “Holland America Line Academy” features lectures on Alaskan history, wildlife, and indigenous cultures.
One standout feature is their partnership with the Glacier Bay National Park Service, which allows for deeper access and educational programming. Guests enjoy the relaxed pace, the quality of service, and the authentic Alaskan experience.
How to Choose the Best Rated Alaska Cruise for You
With so many options, how do you pick the best rated Alaska cruise for your needs? Start by asking yourself a few key questions:
– Who’s traveling? Families, couples, solo travelers, and groups have different needs.
– What’s your budget? Luxury lines cost more, but value lines can offer great experiences at lower prices.
– What activities matter most? Wildlife, hiking, culture, or relaxation?
– How much time do you have? Most Alaska cruises are 7 nights, but some extend to 10–14 days.
Once you’ve narrowed your focus, read recent reviews on trusted sites like Cruise Critic, Travel + Leisure, and TripAdvisor. Look for consistent praise about service, food, excursions, and overall experience.
Also consider timing. Early season (May) offers lower prices and fewer crowds, while peak season (June–July) has the best weather and wildlife activity. Late season (August) can be ideal for fall colors and lower fares.
Finally, book early—especially for small ships and luxury lines—as they fill up quickly. And don’t forget travel insurance, which can protect your investment in case of cancellations or delays.
Conclusion
There’s no single “best” Alaska cruise—only the best one for you. Whether you’re drawn to the luxury of Regent Seven Seas, the adventure of UnCruise, or the family fun of Norwegian, the highest-rated Alaska cruises share a common trait: they deliver unforgettable experiences in one of the world’s most stunning destinations.
By focusing on itinerary, service, and your personal travel style, you can find a cruise that matches your dreams. From glacier calving to bald eagle sightings, from gold rush history to Tlingit storytelling, Alaska offers a journey like no other. And with the right cruise, you’ll experience it all in comfort, style, and wonder.
So start planning, pack your layers, and get ready to explore the Last Frontier—one incredible cruise at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to take an Alaska cruise?
The best time for an Alaska cruise is typically June through July, when weather is warmest and wildlife is most active. May and August offer fewer crowds and lower prices, with May featuring spring blooms and August showcasing fall colors.
Which cruise line has the highest ratings for Alaska?
Regent Seven Seas, Seabourn, and UnCruise Adventures consistently receive the highest ratings for Alaska cruises, based on service, itineraries, and guest satisfaction. Each excels in different areas—luxury, adventure, or all-inclusive value.
Are Alaska cruises worth it?
Yes, Alaska cruises are widely considered worth it for the breathtaking scenery, wildlife encounters, and access to remote areas. The convenience of seeing multiple destinations without constant packing makes cruising an ideal way to explore Alaska.
Do I need travel insurance for an Alaska cruise?
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended for Alaska cruises. It can cover trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and delays due to weather, which are more common in remote regions like Alaska.
Can you see glaciers on an Alaska cruise?
Absolutely. Most Alaska cruises include glacier viewing at Hubbard Glacier, Glacier Bay, or Tracy Arm. Some ships even offer close-up Zodiac tours or helicopter excursions for a more immersive experience.
What should I pack for an Alaska cruise?
Pack layers, including a waterproof jacket, warm fleece, comfortable hiking shoes, and binoculars. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera. Even in summer, temperatures can vary widely from port to port.