Whats the Best Alaskan Cruise

Choosing the best Alaskan cruise depends on your travel style, budget, and interests. Whether you crave luxury, wildlife, or adventure, Alaska offers unforgettable voyages through glaciers, fjords, and coastal towns.

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Planning a trip to Alaska can feel overwhelming—there are so many cruise lines, routes, and experiences to choose from. But if you’re dreaming of towering glaciers, misty fjords, and wildlife sightings that belong in a nature documentary, an Alaskan cruise might just be the adventure of a lifetime. The question isn’t just *if* you should go—it’s *which* cruise will give you the best experience.

So, what’s the best Alaskan cruise? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. It depends on what you value most: luxury, adventure, wildlife, cultural immersion, or budget-friendly travel. Some travelers want to sip champagne while watching icebergs calve from a private balcony. Others prefer zipping through icy waters in a Zodiac, camera in hand, hoping to spot a breaching whale. The good news? Alaska delivers on all fronts—if you pick the right cruise.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to find the best Alaskan cruise for *you*. From timing and itineraries to cruise lines and must-do excursions, we’ll help you navigate the icy waters of decision-making with confidence. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, this guide will ensure your Alaskan adventure is nothing short of spectacular.

Key Takeaways

• Best Time to Cruise: May through September offers mild weather, long daylight hours, and peak wildlife activity.
• Top Cruise Lines: Holland America, Princess, and Celebrity offer reliable service, scenic routes, and expert-guided excursions.
• Must-See Ports: Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway, and Glacier Bay provide cultural immersion, history, and natural wonders.
• Wildlife Viewing: Look for humpback whales, orcas, bears, and puffins—especially on small-ship or expedition cruises.
• Shore Excursions Matter: Book glacier hikes, dog sledding, or whale watching in advance for the best experience.
• Cruise Length Options: 7-day itineraries are most popular, but 10–14-day cruises offer deeper exploration.
• Pack Smart: Layered clothing, waterproof gear, and binoculars are essential for comfort and sightseeing.

When Is the Best Time to Take an Alaskan Cruise?

Timing is everything when it comes to Alaska. The cruise season runs from **May to September**, and each month offers a unique flavor of the Last Frontier.

May and Early June: The Quiet Start

If you love fewer crowds and lower prices, May and early June are ideal. The weather is cooler, but the landscapes are lush and green after the snowmelt. Wildlife is active, and you’ll have a better chance of spotting bears foraging along the shoreline. However, some shore excursions may be limited due to lingering snow or trail conditions.

Mid-June to August: Peak Season

This is when most travelers go—and for good reason. The days are long (think 18+ hours of daylight), the weather is mild, and all excursions are running. It’s the best time for whale watching, glacier viewing, and exploring towns like Skagway and Ketchikan. But be prepared: it’s also the busiest time. Book early to secure your preferred cabin and excursions.

September: The Golden Finale

As summer fades, September brings stunning fall colors, fewer tourists, and a crisp, clear atmosphere. Wildlife is especially active as animals prepare for winter. You might even catch the northern lights on clear nights. Some cruise lines offer end-of-season discounts, making this a great value option.

Top Cruise Lines for an Alaskan Adventure

Not all cruise lines are created equal—especially in Alaska. Some specialize in luxury, others in adventure, and a few in authentic local experiences. Here are the top contenders for the best Alaskan cruise.

Holland America Line: Classic Elegance with Local Flair

Holland America is a favorite among travelers who want a balance of comfort and cultural immersion. Their ships are mid-sized, offering a more intimate experience than mega-liners. They’re known for their **expert naturalists** onboard, who give daily lectures on wildlife, glaciers, and Alaskan history. Their **“Museums of the Sea”** program partners with local institutions to bring authentic artifacts and stories on board.

One standout feature? Their **extended Glacier Bay National Park** itinerary. Many Holland America cruises spend a full day in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, with park rangers joining the ship to enhance the experience. If you value education and scenic beauty, this line is a top pick.

Princess Cruises: Scenic Views and Onboard Comfort

Princess is synonymous with Alaska. They’ve been cruising these waters for decades and operate the **largest fleet** in the region. Their ships feature **Movies Under the Stars**—giant outdoor screens on the pool deck showing nature documentaries or classic films as you sail past glaciers.

Princess also offers **“North to Alaska”** programming, including cooking demos with local ingredients, live music, and cultural performances. Their **MedallionClass** technology lets you order drinks, unlock your cabin, and check in for excursions with a wearable device—making the experience seamless.

Celebrity Cruises: Modern Luxury with a View

If you want a more contemporary, upscale experience, Celebrity is a strong contender. Their **Edge-class ships** feature **infinity pools**, **martini bars with ice counters**, and **floor-to-ceiling windows** in many cabins. The **Magic Carpet**—a movable platform on the side of the ship—doubles as a lounge or dining area, offering unparalleled views.

Celebrity’s **Alaska itineraries** often include **Hubbard Glacier**, one of the most active glaciers in North America. Their **expedition-style excursions**, like kayaking among icebergs or helicopter tours, cater to adventure seekers who still want comfort.

UnCruise Adventures: Small-Ship, Big Experiences

For travelers who want to get off the beaten path, **UnCruise** offers a completely different vibe. These are **small ships** (60–80 passengers) that focus on **active exploration**. Think kayaking in hidden coves, hiking through temperate rainforests, and dining on fresh-caught salmon.

UnCruise itineraries often include **remote areas** like the Inside Passage’s lesser-known inlets and **wildlife hotspots** like Steller sea lion rookeries. If you’re the type who prefers a hiking boot to a high heel, this could be your best Alaskan cruise.

Must-See Ports and Destinations

Alaska’s ports are more than just pit stops—they’re gateways to some of the most stunning landscapes on Earth. Here’s what to expect at the most popular stops.

Juneau: The Capital with a Wild Heart

Juneau is Alaska’s capital, but there’s no road to get there—only boat or plane. This makes it a true frontier town. Don’t miss the **Mendenhall Glacier**, just 12 miles from downtown. You can hike to the ice or take a guided tour.

For adventure, try **dog sledding on a glacier**—yes, really! Companies like **Alaska Icefield Expeditions** offer helicopter rides to a remote glacier where you can mush with sled dogs. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Ketchikan: The Salmon Capital of the World

Known for its colorful totem poles and boardwalks over the water, Ketchikan is a cultural hub. Visit the **Totem Heritage Center** to see restored 19th-century totems, or take a **rainforest canopy tour** via zipline.

This is also the best place to see **bald eagles**—hundreds nest here during salmon runs. If you’re lucky, you might spot one diving for fish right from the dock.

Skagway: Gold Rush History and Mountain Thrills

Step back in time in Skagway, where wooden sidewalks and false-front buildings recreate the 1898 Klondike Gold Rush. Take the **White Pass & Yukon Route Railway**, a narrow-gauge train that climbs 3,000 feet through steep cliffs and tunnels.

For a modern thrill, try the **Musk Ox Farm tour** or a **helicopter glacier landing**. Skagway is also a gateway to the **Chilkoot Trail**, a historic route used by gold prospectors.

Glacier Bay National Park: A Moving Monument

This is the crown jewel of many Alaskan cruises. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Glacier Bay is home to **16 active tidewater glaciers** and a thriving marine ecosystem. As your ship glides silently through the bay, you’ll hear the thunderous crack of ice calving into the water.

Park rangers come aboard to share insights, and you’ll likely see **humpback whales**, **sea otters**, and **glacier bears**. The silence—broken only by wind and water—is unforgettable.

Hubbard Glacier: The Great Ice Wall

At over 7 miles wide and 300 feet high, Hubbard Glacier is one of the most impressive sights in Alaska. Some ships get within a half-mile of the face, where you can feel the cold air and hear the ice groan.

Unlike Glacier Bay, Hubbard is not in a national park, so cruise lines can get closer. It’s a dramatic finale for many itineraries.

Choosing the Right Itinerary: Inside Passage vs. Gulf of Alaska

Alaska cruises generally follow two main routes: the **Inside Passage** and the **Gulf of Alaska**. Understanding the difference helps you pick the best Alaskan cruise for your interests.

Inside Passage: Classic Coastal Beauty

This is the most popular route, hugging the coastline from Seattle or Vancouver up to Alaska and back. It’s known for **calm waters**, **lush forests**, and **charming towns**. Ships typically visit Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and Glacier Bay.

Best for: First-time cruisers, families, and those who want a mix of scenery and culture.

Gulf of Alaska: Open Water and Big Glaciers

These cruises often start in **Seattle or Vancouver** and end in **Seward or Whittier** (near Anchorage), or vice versa. They cross the open waters of the Gulf, offering **dramatic glacier views** like Hubbard and College Fjord.

Because they’re one-way, you’ll need to fly home from a different city—but many travelers combine the cruise with a land tour of Denali National Park.

Best for: Adventure seekers, photographers, and those who want to see more remote areas.

Round-Trip vs. One-Way Cruises

Round-trip cruises (starting and ending in the same city) are convenient and often cheaper. One-way cruises offer more variety but require extra planning for flights and transfers.

Shore Excursions: Making the Most of Your Time Ashore

A cruise is only as good as its excursions. Alaska offers some of the most unique adventures on the planet—but they sell out fast.

Wildlife and Nature Tours

– **Whale Watching:** Juneau and Icy Strait Point are prime spots. Look for humpbacks, orcas, and even gray whales.
– **Bear Viewing:** Katmai National Park or Admiralty Island offer guided bear-watching tours (often via floatplane).
– **Birdwatching:** Puffins, eagles, and cormorants are common. Bring binoculars!

Glacier and Ice Experiences

– **Helicopter Glacier Walks:** Land on a glacier and walk on ancient ice.
– **Kayaking Among Icebergs:** Paddle through calm fjords surrounded by floating ice.
– **Dog Sledding:** Experience the thrill of mushing on a glacier (seasonal).

Cultural and Historical Tours

– **Native Cultural Centers:** Learn about Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian heritage.
– **Gold Rush Tours:** Pan for gold or visit historic saloons in Skagway.
– **Fishing Charters:** Catch salmon or halibut with a local guide.

**Pro Tip:** Book excursions **as soon as you book your cruise**. Popular tours fill up months in advance.

Packing Tips for an Alaskan Cruise

Alaska’s weather is unpredictable—even in summer. One minute it’s sunny, the next it’s raining. Pack smart.

Essential Clothing

– **Layered clothing:** Base layer (moisture-wicking), mid-layer (fleece or wool), outer layer (waterproof jacket).
– **Waterproof pants and boots:** For excursions and deck walks.
– **Warm hat, gloves, and scarf:** Even in summer, it can be chilly on the water.
– **Swimsuit:** For hot tubs or heated pools.

Gear to Bring

– **Binoculars:** For wildlife and glacier viewing.
– **Camera with extra batteries:** Cold drains batteries fast.
– **Reusable water bottle:** Stay hydrated during excursions.
– **Motion sickness remedies:** Just in case.

What Not to Bring

– **Drones:** Most national parks and cruise lines prohibit them.
– **Excessive formal wear:** Most dinners are casual or smart casual.

Is an Alaskan Cruise Worth It?

Absolutely—if you choose the right one. Alaska is not a destination you can fully experience in a week on land. A cruise lets you see vast stretches of coastline, access remote areas, and enjoy comfort between adventures.

The best Alaskan cruise is the one that matches your pace, interests, and budget. Whether you’re sipping wine as a glacier calves or hiking through a rainforest at dawn, Alaska will leave you in awe.

So, what’s the best Alaskan cruise? It’s the one that takes you deeper into nature, closer to wildlife, and further from the ordinary. Start planning, pack your layers, and get ready for the trip of a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best month to take an Alaskan cruise?

The best time is typically July or August, when weather is warmest, daylight is longest, and all excursions are available. However, September offers fewer crowds and beautiful fall colors.

Do I need a passport for an Alaskan cruise?

If your cruise starts and ends in the same U.S. port (like Seattle or Vancouver), a passport is not required—but it’s highly recommended in case of emergencies or itinerary changes.

Can you see the northern lights on an Alaskan cruise?

Yes, especially on cruises in late September. Clear, dark skies increase your chances, though sightings are never guaranteed.

Are Alaskan cruises family-friendly?

Yes! Many lines offer kids’ clubs, family excursions, and educational programs. Holland America and Princess are particularly strong in this area.

How much do shore excursions cost?

Excursions range from $50 for a city tour to $500+ for helicopter glacier landings. Budget $100–$200 per person per port for a mix of activities.

What should I wear on an Alaskan cruise?

Pack layers, including a waterproof jacket, warm fleece, and comfortable walking shoes. Even in summer, evenings can be chilly on deck.