What’s the Best Alaskan Cruise to Take

Choosing the best Alaskan cruise depends on your travel style, budget, and interests. Whether you crave luxury, adventure, or family-friendly fun, Alaska offers unforgettable voyages through icy fjords, wildlife-rich waters, and stunning coastal towns.

So, you’re dreaming of snow-capped peaks, towering glaciers, and whales breaching in icy waters. You’ve heard the stories—bald eagles soaring above misty fjords, bears fishing in rushing rivers, and towns frozen in time. You’re ready to experience Alaska, and a cruise seems like the perfect way to do it. But with so many cruise lines, ships, and itineraries to choose from, how do you pick the best Alaskan cruise to take?

You’re not alone. Every year, hundreds of thousands of travelers face the same question. Alaska is vast, wild, and unpredictable—and that’s part of its magic. But it also means that not every cruise will deliver the experience you’re hoping for. Some ships are too big, some itineraries too rushed, and others might miss the hidden gems that make Alaska truly special.

The good news? There’s an Alaskan cruise out there that’s perfect for you. Whether you’re a luxury seeker, a nature lover, a family with kids, or an adventure junkie, the key is knowing what to look for. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to choose the best Alaskan cruise—from top cruise lines and must-see ports to timing, budget tips, and insider advice. By the end, you’ll feel confident booking the voyage of a lifetime.

Key Takeaways

• Best Overall Cruise Line: Holland America Line offers a balanced mix of comfort, value, and immersive Alaska experiences with expert naturalists and longer port stays.
• Best for Luxury: Regent Seven Seas Cruises provides all-inclusive luxury with spacious suites, gourmet dining, and shore excursions included.
• Best for Families: Disney Cruise Line combines kid-friendly entertainment with Alaska’s natural wonders, making it ideal for multi-generational trips.
• Best for Adventure: UnCruise Adventures focuses on small-ship exploration, kayaking, hiking, and up-close wildlife encounters.
• Best Itinerary: The 7-day Inside Passage route (Seattle or Vancouver to Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan) is the most popular and scenic for first-timers.
• Best Time to Go: Late May to early September offers mild weather, longer daylight, and peak wildlife activity.
• Book Early: Top cabins and preferred departure dates fill up fast—reserve 9–12 months in advance for the best selection.

Why Take an Alaskan Cruise?

Alaska isn’t just a destination—it’s a feeling. It’s the crisp air after a rain shower in a temperate rainforest. It’s the silence broken only by the crack of a calving glacier. It’s the sight of a humpback whale launching itself into the air, water cascading off its massive body. A cruise is one of the best ways to experience this raw, untamed beauty because it lets you see more in less time, all while traveling in comfort.

Unlike road trips or independent travel, a cruise handles the logistics. You unpack once, sleep in the same bed each night, and wake up in a new, breathtaking location. Ships glide through narrow channels inaccessible to larger vessels, offering front-row seats to glaciers, fjords, and wildlife. Plus, many cruises include expert guides, educational programs, and shore excursions that deepen your understanding of Alaska’s ecosystems and cultures.

But it’s not just about scenery. An Alaskan cruise is also a gateway to adventure. You can kayak beside icebergs, hike through old-growth forests, ride a dog sled on a glacier, or even pan for gold in a historic mining town. And when you’re ready to relax, you can sip hot cocoa on your balcony as the sun sets over the water—yes, in Alaska, the sun can set as late as 10:30 PM in summer.

The Unique Appeal of Alaska by Sea

Traveling by ship offers a unique perspective on Alaska’s geography. The state is massive—over twice the size of Texas—but much of it is roadless. The coastline, however, is dotted with accessible ports connected by water. A cruise lets you explore these remote communities and natural wonders without the hassle of driving long distances or booking multiple flights.

Moreover, ships often travel at night, so you wake up each morning in a new location. This maximizes your time and minimizes travel fatigue. You can spend the day exploring Juneau’s Mendenhall Glacier, then sail through Tracy Arm Fjord as the sun sets, all without changing hotels or packing up your suitcase.

What Makes Alaska Different from Other Cruise Destinations?

Unlike the Caribbean or Mediterranean, Alaska is less about beaches and more about nature, culture, and adventure. The weather can be unpredictable—rain is common, even in summer—and the landscape is rugged and dramatic. This means your cruise experience will be more immersive and less resort-like.

You’ll also notice a stronger emphasis on education and conservation. Many cruise lines partner with local experts, naturalists, and indigenous communities to offer authentic, respectful experiences. You might attend a Tlingit cultural presentation in Ketchikan, learn about salmon conservation in Sitka, or hear stories from a local fisherman in Haines.

Top Cruise Lines for Alaska: Which One Is Right for You?

Not all cruise lines are created equal—especially in Alaska. Some specialize in luxury, others in adventure, and a few cater specifically to families. Here’s a breakdown of the best options based on your travel style.

Holland America Line: The Gold Standard for Alaska

If you’re looking for the best overall Alaskan cruise experience, Holland America Line (HAL) is hard to beat. With over 80 years of Alaska expertise, HAL offers a perfect blend of comfort, value, and authenticity. Their ships are mid-sized—large enough for amenities like multiple dining venues and lounges, but small enough to navigate narrow channels and dock in smaller ports.

One of HAL’s standout features is their partnership with the Glacier Bay National Park Service. Their ships are among the few authorized to enter Glacier Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its towering glaciers and abundant wildlife. Onboard naturalists and park rangers give daily lectures, enhancing your understanding of the environment.

HAL also offers longer port stays—many ships spend 8–10 hours in each port—giving you ample time to explore. Their “Alaska Cruise Tour” options combine a cruise with land tours to Denali National Park, offering a more comprehensive experience.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises: All-Inclusive Luxury

For travelers who want to splurge, Regent Seven Seas delivers five-star luxury with everything included. Fares cover airfare, pre- and post-cruise hotels, unlimited shore excursions, premium drinks, and gratuities. Their ships are all-suite, with spacious balconies and personalized service.

Regent’s Alaska itineraries focus on immersive experiences—think helicopter tours over glaciers, private wildlife viewing, and gourmet dining with local ingredients. While the price tag is high, the value is exceptional if you want a hassle-free, pampered journey.

Disney Cruise Line: Magic Meets the Wild

Yes, Disney does Alaska—and it’s a hit with families. Disney Cruise Line combines their signature entertainment and service with Alaska’s natural wonders. Kids love character meet-and-greets, themed parties, and Broadway-style shows, while parents appreciate the spacious staterooms and family-friendly excursions.

Disney’s ships are larger, so they don’t always access the most remote areas, but their itineraries are well-planned and include must-see ports like Skagway and Juneau. The real draw is the balance of fun and education—kids can learn about marine life in the Oceaneer Club while parents enjoy a quiet moment on deck.

UnCruise Adventures: Small-Ship, Big Adventure

If you’re after a more intimate, active experience, UnCruise Adventures is the way to go. Their small ships (60–80 passengers) focus on adventure, wildlife, and cultural immersion. Think kayaking in fjords, hiking in temperate rainforests, and zodiac tours among icebergs.

UnCruise doesn’t offer luxury amenities, but they make up for it with expert guides, flexible itineraries, and a focus on sustainability. Their “Alaska’s Inside Passage” itinerary is a favorite, with stops in lesser-known ports like Wrangell and Petersburg.

Celebrity Cruises: Modern Luxury with a View

Celebrity Cruises offers a more contemporary, design-forward experience. Their ships feature modern décor, specialty dining, and large balconies—perfect for soaking in the views. They also offer longer port stays and a variety of shore excursions, from whale watching to flightseeing.

Celebrity’s “Alaska Cruise Tour” options include land extensions to Denali and Fairbanks, making them a good choice if you want to combine sea and land.

Best Itineraries: Where Should You Go in Alaska?

Alaska offers several classic cruise routes, each with its own highlights. The best itinerary for you depends on your interests, time, and departure city.

The Inside Passage: The Classic 7-Day Route

The most popular Alaskan cruise is the 7-day Inside Passage itinerary, typically sailing round-trip from Seattle or Vancouver. This route visits four iconic ports: Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and often a glacier day in Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm.

– **Ketchikan:** Known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” Ketchikan offers rainforest hikes, totem pole parks, and cultural tours of Native villages.
– **Juneau:** Alaska’s capital is accessible only by boat or plane. Don’t miss the Mendenhall Glacier, whale watching tours, and the Mount Roberts Tramway.
– **Skagway:** A Gold Rush-era town with historic buildings, the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway, and access to the Chilkat Mountains.
– **Glacier Day:** Most ships spend a full day cruising through a glacier-filled fjord, offering close-up views of calving ice and marine wildlife.

This itinerary is ideal for first-timers and offers a great mix of culture, nature, and adventure.

One-Way Cruises: Seattle to Seward (or Vice Versa)

For a more immersive experience, consider a one-way cruise from Seattle to Seward (near Anchorage) or the reverse. These 7- to 10-day voyages often include additional ports like Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and Glacier Bay, plus a final stop in Seward.

The advantage? You can combine your cruise with a land tour to Denali National Park, creating a seamless Alaska adventure. Many travelers fly into Seattle, cruise to Seward, then take a train or bus to Denali before flying home from Anchorage.

Gulf of Alaska Cruises: The Longer Journey

These 10- to 14-day itineraries sail between Vancouver and Whittier (near Anchorage), passing through the Gulf of Alaska. They often include ports like Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Icy Strait Point, and Hubbard Glacier.

The longer duration allows for more time in each port and greater chances of wildlife sightings. Hubbard Glacier, one of the largest in North America, is a highlight—ships often stop for hours to watch ice calve into the water.

Best Time to Take an Alaskan Cruise

Timing is everything in Alaska. The cruise season runs from early May to late September, but each month offers a different experience.

May–Early June: Shoulder Season

Pros: Lower prices, fewer crowds, and the start of wildlife activity. You might see newborn animals and blooming wildflowers.

Cons: Cooler weather (40s–50s°F), some excursions may be limited, and daylight is increasing rapidly.

Mid-June to Mid-August: Peak Season

Pros: Warmest weather (50s–60s°F), longest daylight (up to 19 hours), and full access to excursions and parks.

Cons: Highest prices, largest crowds, and more competition for cabins and tours.

Late August–September: Fall Foliage

Pros: Stunning fall colors, fewer tourists, and active wildlife preparing for winter. Whale activity increases, especially in September.

Cons: Cooler temperatures, shorter days, and some attractions may close.

For most travelers, late June to early August offers the best balance of weather, wildlife, and availability.

Budget Tips: How to Save on Your Alaskan Cruise

Alaska cruises can be expensive, but there are ways to save without sacrificing the experience.

Book Early or Last Minute

Booking 9–12 months in advance locks in lower rates and better cabin selection. Alternatively, last-minute deals (6–8 weeks before departure) can offer significant discounts, though choices may be limited.

Choose an Inside Cabin

Balcony cabins are tempting, but inside cabins are much cheaper and perfectly fine for Alaska. You’ll spend most of your time on deck or in port anyway.

Skip the Drink Package

Alaska cruises often include free coffee, tea, and water. Skip the expensive drink package and enjoy local brews or wine during dinner.

Book Shore Excursions Independately

Cruise-line excursions are convenient but pricey. Research local operators in advance—many offer the same tours for less. Just ensure you return to the ship on time.

Travel in Shoulder Season

May and September offer lower prices and fewer crowds. You’ll still see glaciers, whales, and wildlife—just with a bit more rain and chill.

What to Pack for an Alaskan Cruise

Packing for Alaska is all about layers and versatility. Weather can change quickly, so be prepared.

Essential Items

– Waterproof jacket and pants
– Warm layers (fleece, thermal underwear)
– Waterproof hiking boots
– Binoculars (for wildlife and glaciers)
– Reusable water bottle
– Camera with extra batteries (cold drains them fast)
– Seasickness remedies (ginger chews, patches)

What Not to Bring

– Formal wear (most ships have casual or smart-casual dress codes)
– Excessive electronics (outlets are limited)
– Single-use plastics (many ships and ports are eco-conscious)

Final Tips for Choosing the Best Alaskan Cruise

– **Read Reviews:** Check sites like Cruise Critic and TripAdvisor for recent passenger feedback.
– **Compare Itineraries:** Look at port times, glacier days, and included excursions.
– **Check Ship Size:** Smaller ships access more remote areas; larger ships offer more amenities.
– **Ask About Naturalists:** Ships with onboard experts enhance the experience.
– **Consider a Cruise Tour:** Combining sea and land gives a fuller picture of Alaska.

Conclusion

The best Alaskan cruise to take is the one that matches your travel style, budget, and sense of adventure. Whether you choose the refined elegance of Holland America, the all-inclusive luxury of Regent, the family fun of Disney, or the rugged charm of UnCruise, you’re in for an unforgettable journey.

Alaska isn’t just a place—it’s a transformation. It’s the moment you see your first glacier calve, hear the echo of a whale’s song, or stand in silence as the northern lights dance above. A cruise is your front-row seat to this magic. So pack your layers, bring your curiosity, and get ready to fall in love with the Last Frontier.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best month to take an Alaskan cruise?

The best time is late June to early August for warm weather, long daylight hours, and peak wildlife activity. May and September offer fewer crowds and lower prices but cooler temperatures.

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 in case of emergencies. For Canada departures, a passport is mandatory.

Can you see glaciers on an Alaskan cruise?

Yes! Most itineraries include a glacier day, with stops at Tracy Arm, Endicott Arm, or Hubbard Glacier. Some ships even enter Glacier Bay National Park for up-close views.

Are Alaskan cruises family-friendly?

Absolutely. Lines like Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean offer kids’ clubs, family excursions, and entertainment. Holland America and Celebrity also cater well to families.

How much does an Alaskan cruise cost?

Prices vary widely. Budget options start around $800 per person for inside cabins, while luxury cruises can exceed $5,000. Shore excursions, drinks, and gratuities add to the total.

What wildlife can I see on an Alaskan cruise?

Common sightings include humpback and orca whales, sea lions, puffins, bald eagles, and bears. Glacier days often feature seals and otters, while land tours may offer moose and caribou.