What Side of Cruise Ship Is Best for Alaska

Choosing the best side of a cruise ship for Alaska depends on your itinerary, interests, and the direction of travel. Whether you’re chasing glaciers, wildlife, or mountain vistas, knowing which side to be on can dramatically enhance your experience.

Key Takeaways

• Port vs. Starboard Matters: The side of the ship (port or starboard) that offers the best views depends on the ship’s direction and your cruise route.
• Glacier Viewing Tips: For glacier-heavy itineraries like Glacier Bay, the starboard side often provides better views when sailing northbound.
• Wildlife Spotting Opportunities: Coastal wildlife like whales and sea lions are often seen on the ocean-facing side, which varies by route.
• Sunrise and Sunset Views: The east side catches sunrise; the west side offers stunning sunsets—ideal for photographers.
• Cabin Selection Strategy: Booking an ocean-view or balcony cabin on the optimal side can make a big difference in your enjoyment.
• Weather and Lighting Influence: Morning light enhances mountain scenery; afternoon sun illuminates glaciers beautifully.
• Flexibility Enhances Experience: Even if you pick the “wrong” side, cruise ships often reposition for scenic areas, so stay alert.

Introduction: Why the Side of Your Cruise Ship Matters in Alaska

Imagine standing at the railing of your cruise ship, binoculars in hand, as a massive glacier calves into the icy waters below. Or spotting a humpback whale breaching just off the starboard bow. These are the moments that define an Alaskan cruise—raw, breathtaking, and unforgettable. But what if you’re stuck on the wrong side of the ship when it happens?

Alaska’s dramatic coastline, towering glaciers, and abundant wildlife make it one of the most visually stunning cruise destinations in the world. Yet, unlike tropical cruises where the ocean stretches endlessly in all directions, Alaska’s narrow fjords, winding channels, and mountainous terrain mean that the side of the ship you’re on can make or break your experience.

Whether you’re sailing through Glacier Bay, cruising past Tracy Arm Fjord, or navigating the Inside Passage, the direction your ship is traveling and the layout of the coastline play a huge role in what you see—and when. That’s why understanding which side of the cruise ship is best for Alaska isn’t just a fun trivia fact—it’s a practical strategy for maximizing your adventure.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about choosing the right side of your ship, from port vs. starboard dynamics to timing your view for optimal lighting and wildlife sightings. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned Alaska traveler, these insights will help you make the most of every scenic moment.

Understanding Port vs. Starboard: The Basics

Before diving into Alaska-specific advice, let’s clarify a fundamental nautical concept: port and starboard. These terms refer to the left and right sides of a ship, respectively, when facing the front (bow).

– Port: The left side of the ship when looking forward.
– Starboard: The right side of the ship when looking forward.

These terms are fixed, regardless of which way the ship is moving. So, if your ship turns around, the port side remains the port side—it doesn’t switch. This is important because many passengers mistakenly think “port” means “toward the shore” or “starboard” means “ocean side,” but that’s not always true. In Alaska, ships often sail close to one shoreline, meaning one side will consistently face land while the other faces open water.

Knowing which side is which helps you plan where to stand or which cabin to book. For example, if your ship is sailing northbound along the coast, the starboard side might face the mountains and glaciers, while the port side looks out over the open water. But if the ship turns southbound, those roles reverse.

Why Direction of Travel Matters

Alaska cruises typically follow one of two main routes: northbound (starting in Seattle or Vancouver and ending in Seward or Whittier) or southbound (the reverse). Some ships also offer round-trip itineraries from Seattle or Vancouver, which can affect which side offers the best views.

For example:
– On a northbound cruise, ships often sail with the coastline on the starboard (right) side, especially when traveling through the Inside Passage and into Glacier Bay.
– On a southbound cruise, the coastline is typically on the port (left) side.

This means that if you’re on a northbound cruise and want to see the glaciers and mountains up close, you’ll want to be on the starboard side. Conversely, southbound cruisers should aim for the port side.

Cabin Selection: Oceanview vs. Balcony

Your cabin choice also plays a role. While interior cabins are budget-friendly, they offer no views—so you’ll need to rely on public decks for sightseeing. Oceanview and balcony cabins, on the other hand, let you enjoy the scenery from the comfort of your room.

When booking, ask the cruise line or your travel agent about the direction of travel and which side offers the best views for your specific itinerary. Some cruise lines even provide deck plans with directional arrows, showing which way the ship will sail on each day.

Pro tip: If you’re a light sleeper or sensitive to motion, consider that cabins on the side facing the open ocean may experience more rocking in rough seas. Coastal-facing cabins tend to be calmer, especially in protected waters like the Inside Passage.

Glacier Viewing: Which Side Offers the Best Views?

Glaciers are one of the main reasons people cruise to Alaska. Places like Glacier Bay National Park, Tracy Arm Fjord, and Hubbard Glacier offer jaw-dropping ice formations, calving events, and serene blue waters. But to see them at their best, you need to be on the right side of the ship.

Glacier Bay: Starboard for Northbound Cruises

Glacier Bay is a highlight for most Alaska cruises. Ships typically enter from the south and travel northward, with the dramatic mountain-lined coastline on the starboard (right) side. This means that if you’re on a northbound cruise, the starboard side offers the closest and most impressive views of the glaciers.

For example, when your ship approaches Margerie Glacier or Johns Hopkins Glacier, you’ll want to be on the starboard side to see the towering ice walls and hear the thunderous cracks as chunks break off. The lighting is often best in the morning, when the sun hits the glaciers at a low angle, creating stunning contrasts of blue and white.

Tracy Arm and Sawyer Glaciers: Coastal Side Wins

Tracy Arm Fjord is narrower and more intimate than Glacier Bay, with steep cliffs and waterfalls cascading down the mountains. Ships sail deep into the fjord, often turning around near the twin Sawyer Glaciers.

In Tracy Arm, the best views are usually on the side facing the glaciers, which is typically the starboard side on northbound cruises. However, because the fjord is so narrow, the ship may rotate or reposition to give both sides a chance to see the ice. Still, being on the coastal side increases your chances of spotting wildlife like black bears on the shore or seals lounging on ice floes.

Hubbard Glacier: A Southbound Showstopper

Hubbard Glacier, one of the largest tidewater glaciers in North America, is often visited on southbound cruises. Ships approach from the north and sail southward, with the glacier on the port (left) side. This means southbound passengers should aim for the port side to get the best views.

The glacier is massive—over 7 miles wide—and calving events can send house-sized ice blocks crashing into the water. The sound is unforgettable, and the sight is even better when the sun hits the ice in the afternoon, creating a dazzling blue glow.

Timing and Lighting Tips

Even if you’re on the right side, timing matters. Glaciers look most dramatic in the late afternoon when the sun is low in the sky. The angled light enhances the texture and color of the ice, making it appear more vivid and three-dimensional.

Morning light, especially around sunrise, can also be magical, casting a golden hue over the mountains and glaciers. If your ship passes a glacier early in the day, don’t sleep in—get up and grab a spot on the correct side.

Wildlife Spotting: Where to Look for Whales, Bears, and More

Alaska is a wildlife paradise. From humpback whales and orcas to bald eagles and brown bears, the opportunities for animal sightings are endless. But again, the side of the ship you’re on can influence what you see.

Whale Watching: Ocean Side vs. Coastal Side

Whales, especially humpbacks and orcas, are often seen in open water or near the edges of fjords. They tend to follow food sources, which can be on either side of the ship. However, many whale sightings occur on the ocean-facing side, especially in areas like Frederick Sound or Stephens Passage.

That said, don’t ignore the coastal side. Whales sometimes feed near shore, and you might spot them breaching just off the cliffs. Keep binoculars handy and scan both sides, but if you had to pick one, the ocean side offers more open water—and thus more opportunities.

Bears and Land Wildlife: Coastal Side is Key

If you’re hoping to spot a brown bear foraging along the shoreline or a mountain goat perched on a cliff, the coastal side is your best bet. In places like Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway, the ship often sails close to land, giving passengers a chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat.

For example, in Endicott Arm, passengers have reported seeing black bears on the shore near the water’s edge. These sightings are almost always on the side facing the coastline.

Birds and Marine Life

Bald eagles are common along the coast, often perched in tall trees or soaring above the water. They’re easiest to spot on the coastal side. Sea lions and harbor seals are also frequently seen lounging on rocks or swimming near the ship—again, usually on the side closest to shore.

Dolphins and porpoises sometimes ride the bow wave, so keep an eye on the front of the ship regardless of side. But for consistent wildlife viewing, the coastal side generally offers more action.

Scenic Sailing: Maximizing Mountain and Fjord Views

Beyond glaciers and wildlife, Alaska’s rugged coastline and towering peaks are a visual feast. The Inside Passage, with its lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and misty mountains, is one of the most beautiful sailing routes in the world.

The Inside Passage: Starboard for Northbound, Port for Southbound

As mentioned earlier, the Inside Passage is typically sailed with the coastline on the starboard side for northbound cruises and the port side for southbound. This means that if you’re traveling from Seattle to Alaska, you’ll want to be on the right side of the ship to see the best of the coastal scenery.

The views are especially stunning in the early morning, when the mist rises off the water and the sun breaks through the clouds. The combination of deep green forests, snow-capped peaks, and calm waters creates a postcard-perfect scene.

Fjords and Narrow Channels

In narrower passages like Endicott Arm or Holkham Bay, the ship may sail very close to one shoreline. This gives passengers on that side an up-close view of waterfalls, rock formations, and even wildlife. The other side may have a more distant view or open water.

Because these areas are so narrow, cruise ships often slow down or even stop to allow passengers to take in the scenery. This is your chance to snap photos, use your binoculars, and simply soak in the beauty.

Photography Tips

If you’re a photographer, consider the lighting when choosing your side. Morning light is soft and golden, ideal for landscapes. Afternoon light can be harsh, but it also brings out the blue tones in glaciers and water.

Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the water and enhance the colors of the sky and ice. And don’t forget to shoot in both directions—sometimes the view behind you is just as stunning as the one ahead.

Sunrise, Sunset, and Lighting: The Role of Time of Day

Lighting can transform a good view into a breathtaking one. In Alaska, the long summer days mean you have plenty of time to enjoy both sunrise and sunset—often from the deck of your ship.

Sunrise: East Side Wins

The sun rises in the east, so if you’re an early riser, head to the port side (on a northbound cruise) or starboard side (on a southbound cruise) to catch the first light of day. Watching the sun illuminate the mountains and glaciers is a magical experience.

Many passengers sleep through sunrise, so you’ll likely have the deck to yourself. Bring a warm jacket, a thermos of coffee, and your camera.

Sunset: West Side Delight

Sunset occurs in the west, so the opposite side offers the best views. On a northbound cruise, that’s the starboard side; on a southbound cruise, it’s the port side.

Sunset in Alaska can last for hours during the summer months, with the sun dipping below the horizon and then lingering in a twilight glow. The colors—pinks, oranges, and purples—reflect off the water and ice, creating a surreal atmosphere.

Golden Hour and Blue Hour

The period just after sunset, known as blue hour, is especially beautiful in Alaska. The sky takes on a deep blue hue, and the glaciers glow with an ethereal light. This is a prime time for photography and quiet reflection.

Practical Tips for Choosing the Best Side

Now that you know the factors that influence which side is best, here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your Alaska cruise.

Check Your Itinerary and Direction

Before you book your cabin or plan your deck time, review your cruise itinerary. Note the direction of travel and the key scenic stops. Use this information to determine which side will offer the best views.

Ask the Cruise Line

Don’t hesitate to contact the cruise line or your travel agent. Ask which side of the ship faces the coastline on specific days. Some lines provide detailed sailing directions and even recommend optimal sides for glacier viewing.

Be Flexible

Even if you’re on the “wrong” side, cruise ships often reposition during scenic areas. Crew members may announce when the ship will turn or slow down, giving both sides a chance to see the highlights. Stay alert and move to the best spot when needed.

Use Public Decks

If you’re in an interior cabin or your balcony faces the less scenic side, head to the public decks. The forward and aft decks often offer 360-degree views, so you can enjoy the scenery no matter which way the ship is sailing.

Bring the Right Gear

Binoculars, a good camera, and warm clothing are essential. Alaska’s weather can change quickly, and you’ll want to be prepared for wind, rain, or sudden sunshine.

Conclusion: Make the Most of Your Alaska Cruise

Choosing the best side of a cruise ship for Alaska isn’t about luck—it’s about strategy. By understanding the direction of travel, the layout of the coastline, and the timing of scenic highlights, you can position yourself for unforgettable views of glaciers, wildlife, and mountain vistas.

Whether you’re on the port or starboard side, the key is to stay engaged, stay flexible, and stay present. Alaska’s beauty is fleeting and ever-changing, and the right side of the ship can make all the difference in capturing those once-in-a-lifetime moments.

So as you set sail into the wilds of the Last Frontier, remember: the best view isn’t just about where you are—it’s about how you see it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which side of the cruise ship is best for Alaska glaciers?

For northbound cruises, the starboard (right) side typically offers the best glacier views, especially in Glacier Bay. Southbound cruisers should aim for the port (left) side, particularly for Hubbard Glacier.

Do I need a balcony cabin to see the best views?

Not necessarily. While balcony cabins offer private views, public decks provide excellent sightlines and are often less expensive. Choose based on your budget and preference for convenience.

Can I see wildlife from both sides of the ship?

Yes, but wildlife is often spotted on the coastal side. Whales may appear on the ocean side, while bears and birds are usually seen near shore. Scan both sides for the best chances.

What time of day is best for glacier viewing?

Late afternoon offers the best lighting, with the low sun enhancing the blue tones of the ice. Morning light is also beautiful, especially for photography.

Do cruise ships turn to give both sides a view?

Yes, many ships slow down or reposition during scenic areas like Tracy Arm or Glacier Bay to ensure all passengers get a good view.

How can I find out which side is best for my specific cruise?

Check your itinerary for the direction of travel and contact the cruise line or your travel agent. They can provide details on which side faces the coastline on key days.