Which Alaska Cruise Is Best

Choosing the best Alaska cruise depends on your travel style, budget, and must-see destinations. Whether you’re after luxury, adventure, wildlife, or family fun, Alaska offers a cruise for every kind of traveler—this guide helps you pick the perfect one.

Imagine standing on the deck of a ship, the crisp Alaskan wind brushing your face as a massive glacier calves into the sea with a thunderous splash. Or picture yourself sipping hot cocoa while a pod of humpback whales breaches nearby, their spouts catching the golden light of the midnight sun. This is the magic of an Alaska cruise—a journey through one of the world’s last great wildernesses, where nature takes center stage.

But with so many cruise lines, ships, and itineraries to choose from, how do you know which Alaska cruise is best for you? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. A honeymooning couple might prefer a luxurious, all-inclusive voyage with fine dining and spa treatments, while a family with young kids might prioritize onboard activities and kid-friendly excursions. Budget travelers may seek affordable options with great value, while adventure seekers might want to kayak among icebergs or hike on a glacier.

The good news? Alaska has a cruise for every traveler. From massive floating resorts to intimate expedition vessels, the options are as diverse as the landscapes you’ll explore. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to choose the best Alaska cruise for your needs—covering top cruise lines, must-see destinations, timing, budget tips, and insider advice to help you make the most of your Alaskan adventure.

Key Takeaways

• Itinerary matters most: The best Alaska cruise includes key ports like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway, plus glacier viewing in Tracy Arm or Hubbard Glacier.
• Ship size affects experience: Smaller ships access remote fjords and offer intimate wildlife encounters, while larger ships provide more onboard amenities and entertainment.
• Time of year impacts wildlife and weather: May to September offers mild weather, longer days, and peak wildlife activity, with July and August being the busiest months.
• Cruise line style varies widely: Luxury lines like Seabourn focus on service and gourmet dining, while family-friendly lines like Carnival offer fun activities and kids’ programs.
• Shore excursions enhance the journey: Booking glacier hikes, dog sledding, or whale watching tours can make your Alaska cruise unforgettable.
• Budget influences your options: Inside cabins on major lines are affordable, while luxury suites on small ships come with higher price tags but greater comfort.
• Consider round-trip vs. one-way cruises: One-way cruises (e.g., Seattle to Vancouver) often include more scenic routes and avoid backtracking.

Understanding Alaska Cruise Itineraries

One of the first things to consider when choosing an Alaska cruise is the itinerary. Not all routes are created equal, and the ports you visit—and how much time you spend in each—can dramatically shape your experience.

Classic Inside Passage Route

The most popular Alaska cruise route is the Inside Passage, a scenic journey through narrow waterways, lush rainforests, and rugged coastlines. This route typically departs from Seattle or Vancouver and includes stops in Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway. It’s ideal for first-time cruisers and those who want a balanced mix of culture, wildlife, and natural beauty.

For example, a 7-day round-trip cruise from Seattle with Holland America might include two days at sea, with stops in Ketchikan (known for its totem poles and rainforest hikes), Juneau (home to Mendenhall Glacier and whale watching), and Skagway (a historic gold rush town with access to the White Pass Railway). These ports offer a great introduction to Alaska’s highlights.

Gulf of Alaska and One-Way Cruises

If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, consider a one-way Gulf of Alaska cruise. These voyages often start in Seattle or Vancouver and end in Seward or Whittier (near Anchorage), or vice versa. This route includes the Inside Passage ports but also ventures into the Gulf of Alaska, offering views of massive glaciers like Hubbard Glacier and the chance to visit less-crowded destinations like Icy Strait Point or Glacier Bay National Park.

One-way cruises are especially popular because they avoid backtracking and often include more time in scenic areas. For instance, a 7-day cruise from Vancouver to Seward with Princess Cruises might spend a full day cruising Glacier Bay, followed by stops in Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan. These itineraries are perfect for travelers who want to see more of Alaska’s remote wilderness.

Expedition-Style and Small-Ship Routes

For a more intimate and adventurous experience, consider a small-ship or expedition cruise. Lines like UnCruise Adventures, Lindblad Expeditions, and Hurtigruten operate smaller vessels (often under 200 passengers) that can navigate narrow fjords and anchor in remote bays inaccessible to larger ships.

These cruises often focus on wildlife, photography, and outdoor activities. For example, an UnCruise itinerary might include kayaking in Tracy Arm Fjord, hiking on a glacier with a naturalist guide, or Zodiac tours to spot sea lions and puffins. While these cruises are typically more expensive, they offer a deeper connection to Alaska’s wild heart.

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

With so many cruise lines sailing to Alaska, it’s important to match the cruise line’s style and offerings to your travel preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the top players and what they’re known for.

Princess Cruises: The Alaska Specialist

Princess Cruises is often called the “Queen of Alaska” for good reason. They’ve been sailing these waters for decades and offer some of the most comprehensive Alaska itineraries. Their ships are mid-sized, offering a balance of comfort and access to scenic areas.

Princess is known for their “North to Alaska” program, which includes enhanced onboard experiences like cooking demonstrations with local ingredients, Alaskan beer tastings, and cultural performances. They also offer a wide range of shore excursions, from dog sledding on a glacier to flightseeing over Denali.

Best for: First-time cruisers, families, and those who want a well-rounded Alaska experience with plenty of activities and comfort.

Holland America Line: Classic Elegance with a Focus on Nature

Holland America appeals to travelers who appreciate a more traditional, refined cruise experience. Their ships are known for their elegant décor, excellent service, and strong emphasis on enrichment programs.

On Alaska cruises, Holland America offers “Explorations Central” programming, featuring talks by naturalists, historians, and local experts. They also partner with the Glacier Bay National Park Service, ensuring respectful and educational visits to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Best for: Couples, mature travelers, and those who enjoy a quieter, more cultured cruise with a focus on learning and relaxation.

Celebrity Cruises: Modern Luxury with a View

Celebrity Cruises brings a modern, upscale vibe to Alaska with sleek ships, contemporary design, and a focus on culinary excellence. Their Edge-class ships feature innovative features like the Magic Carpet—a moving platform that serves as a restaurant, bar, and embarkation station.

Celebrity offers a mix of classic Inside Passage routes and longer Gulf of Alaska itineraries. They also provide a range of shore excursions, including helicopter tours and wildlife safaris.

Best for: Travelers who want luxury and style without sacrificing access to Alaska’s natural wonders. Great for couples and foodies.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Freestyle Cruising in the Wild

NCL is known for its “Freestyle Cruising” concept—no fixed dining times, casual dress codes, and a wide variety of onboard activities. This makes it a hit with families and younger travelers who want flexibility.

On Alaska cruises, NCL offers a fun, energetic atmosphere with live music, comedy shows, and multiple dining options. They also provide a good selection of excursions, including ATV tours and salmon bakes.

Best for: Families, groups of friends, and travelers who prefer a relaxed, no-rules approach to cruising.

Royal Caribbean: Big Ships, Big Fun

Royal Caribbean operates some of the largest ships in Alaska, offering a resort-like experience at sea. Think rock climbing walls, surf simulators, ice skating rinks, and Broadway-style shows.

While their massive ships can’t access all the narrow fjords, they still offer great Alaska itineraries with stops in key ports. Their excursions are plentiful and family-friendly, making them a solid choice for those who want entertainment both on and off the ship.

Best for: Families with kids, multigenerational groups, and travelers who want non-stop activities and amenities.

Luxury and Expedition Lines: For the Discerning Traveler

If you’re looking for a more exclusive experience, consider luxury lines like Seabourn, Silversea, or Regent Seven Seas. These all-inclusive cruises offer spacious suites, gourmet dining, personalized service, and expert-led excursions.

Expedition lines like Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic and Hurtigruten focus on adventure and education, with onboard naturalists, photographers, and scientists. Their small ships allow for up-close wildlife encounters and landings in remote areas.

Best for: Luxury travelers, photography enthusiasts, and those seeking a more immersive, educational journey.

When to Go: Timing Your Alaska Cruise

The timing of your cruise can greatly affect your experience—from weather and wildlife sightings to crowd levels and pricing.

Peak Season: June to August

The summer months are the most popular time to cruise Alaska, and for good reason. Days are long (up to 18 hours of daylight in June), temperatures are mild (60s to 70s°F), and wildlife is active. This is the best time for whale watching, bear viewing, and glacier viewing.

However, peak season also means higher prices and more crowds, especially in popular ports like Juneau and Skagway. If you’re looking for the full Alaska experience and don’t mind the bustle, July and August are ideal.

Shoulder Seasons: May and September

Traveling in May or September offers several advantages. Prices are lower, crowds are thinner, and you’ll still enjoy decent weather and wildlife activity. In May, you might see newborn animals and blooming wildflowers. In September, the fall colors paint the landscapes in stunning reds and golds.

One trade-off: some shore excursions may have reduced hours or availability, and daylight hours are shorter in September. But for travelers seeking value and a more peaceful experience, the shoulder seasons are a smart choice.

Early and Late Season Considerations

Cruises in late April or early October are rare but can offer incredible solitude and lower costs. However, weather can be unpredictable, and some ports or attractions may be closed. These times are best for flexible, adventurous travelers.

What to Expect Onboard: Amenities and Activities

While the main attraction of an Alaska cruise is the scenery, the onboard experience plays a big role in your overall enjoyment. Here’s what to expect depending on the cruise line and ship size.

Dining Options

Most cruise lines offer multiple dining venues, from casual buffets to specialty restaurants. Alaska cruises often feature local seafood—think fresh king crab, halibut, and salmon—prepared with regional flair.

Luxury lines like Seabourn and Regent include all dining in their fares, with gourmet menus and wine pairings. Mainstream lines like Carnival and NCL offer a mix of included and à la carte options.

Entertainment and Enrichment

On larger ships, you’ll find live music, comedy shows, and theatrical performances. Smaller ships focus more on enrichment—lectures by naturalists, photography workshops, and cultural presentations.

Many lines also offer Alaskan-themed activities, such as totem pole carving demos, indigenous storytelling, and local music performances.

Fitness and Wellness

Most ships have fitness centers, jogging tracks, and spa facilities. Some even offer yoga classes with ocean views or hot tubs on outdoor decks—perfect for soaking while glaciers drift by.

Family-Friendly Features

If you’re traveling with kids, look for ships with youth clubs, teen lounges, and family-friendly excursions. Royal Caribbean and NCL are particularly strong in this area, with activities like ice skating, mini-golf, and character meet-and-greets.

Shore Excursions: Making the Most of Your Port Stops

Shore excursions are one of the highlights of an Alaska cruise, offering chances to explore glaciers, wildlife, and local culture up close. Here are some must-try experiences.

Glacier Viewing and Hiking

Don’t miss the chance to see a glacier up close. Options include:

• Helicopter glacier landing: Fly over ice fields and land on a glacier for a once-in-a-lifetime hike (available in Juneau and Skagway).
• Kayaking in Tracy Arm: Paddle among icebergs with a guide in one of Alaska’s most stunning fjords.
• Glacier Bay cruise: Many ships include a full-day scenic cruise through this protected park, with ranger-led commentary.

Wildlife and Nature Tours

Alaska is a wildlife paradise. Popular excursions include:

• Whale watching: Best in Juneau and Icy Strait Point, where humpbacks, orcas, and gray whales are common.
• Bear viewing: Visit areas like Pack Creek on Admiralty Island (near Juneau) to see brown bears fishing for salmon.
• Flightseeing: Take a small plane tour over Denali or the glaciers for breathtaking aerial views.

Cultural and Historical Experiences

Learn about Alaska’s rich heritage with tours like:

• Totem Bight State Historical Park (Ketchikan): Explore restored totem poles and native culture.
• White Pass and Yukon Route Railway (Skagway): Ride a historic steam train through the mountains.
• Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center (Juneau): Combine glacier viewing with exhibits on Tlingit culture and natural history.

Budgeting for Your Alaska Cruise

Alaska cruises can range from budget-friendly to ultra-luxury. Here’s how to plan your budget.

Base Cruise Fare

Inside cabins on mainstream lines (like Carnival or NCL) can start as low as $500–$800 per person for a 7-day cruise. Balcony staterooms and suites cost more, especially on luxury lines.

Additional Costs

Don’t forget to budget for:

• Shore excursions: $50–$300+ per person per tour.
• Gratuities: $14–$18 per day per person.
• Beverages: Alcohol and soda packages can add $50–$100 per person.
• Wi-Fi and souvenirs: Optional but common expenses.

Tips for Saving Money

• Book early for the best cabin selection and lower prices.
• Travel during shoulder seasons (May or September).
• Choose a round-trip cruise from Seattle or Vancouver to avoid airfare to Anchorage.
• Pack snacks and drinks to avoid overpriced onboard purchases.

Final Tips for Choosing the Best Alaska Cruise

To sum it up, the best Alaska cruise is the one that matches your interests, budget, and travel style. Here are a few final tips:

• Read reviews: Check sites like Cruise Critic for real passenger feedback.
• Compare itineraries: Look for ports, scenic cruising days, and excursion options.
• Consider the ship size: Smaller ships offer intimacy and access; larger ships offer more amenities.
• Book excursions early: Popular tours sell out quickly, especially in peak season.
• Pack layers: Weather in Alaska can change quickly—bring waterproof gear and warm clothing.

Whether you’re marveling at a calving glacier, spotting a breaching whale, or sipping coffee as the sun sets over a fjord, an Alaska cruise is an experience you’ll never forget. With the right planning, you can find the perfect voyage that brings the wild beauty of Alaska to life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to take an Alaska cruise?

The best time is typically June to August, when weather is mild, daylight is long, and wildlife is most active. May and September offer fewer crowds and lower prices, with still-good conditions.

Which cruise line is best for families in Alaska?

Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line are top choices for families, offering kids’ clubs, entertainment, and family-friendly excursions. Both have ships with activities like rock climbing and ice skating.

Do I need to book shore excursions in advance?

Yes, especially for popular tours like helicopter glacier landings or whale watching. Many sell out months ahead, particularly during peak season.

Can I see the Northern Lights on an Alaska cruise?

It’s rare. The Northern Lights are best seen in winter, but Alaska cruises run in summer when nights are short. You’re unlikely to see them on a standard cruise.

Are Alaska cruises expensive?

Prices vary widely. Budget options start around $500 per person, while luxury cruises can cost $5,000 or more. Factor in excursions, drinks, and tips for the full cost.

What should I pack for an Alaska cruise?

Pack layers, including a waterproof jacket, warm fleece, gloves, and sturdy shoes. Don’t forget binoculars, sunscreen, and a camera with extra batteries.