Which Alaska Cruise Is the Best

Choosing the best Alaska cruise depends on your travel style, budget, and must-see sights. Whether you want luxury, adventure, or family fun, this guide breaks down the top cruise lines and itineraries to help you pick the perfect voyage through America’s last frontier.

Dreaming of icy fjords, towering glaciers, and breaching whales? An Alaska cruise delivers some of the most breathtaking scenery on Earth—but with so many options, how do you know which Alaska cruise is the best for you?

Alaska’s rugged coastline, abundant wildlife, and rich Indigenous culture make it a bucket-list destination. From the misty rainforests of Ketchikan to the gold rush history of Skagway and the whale-filled waters near Juneau, every port tells a story. But the real magic happens at sea, where glaciers calve into the ocean and bald eagles soar above snow-capped peaks. The key to an unforgettable trip? Picking the right cruise line and itinerary that match your travel personality.

Whether you’re a nature lover craving quiet moments on deck, a family looking for fun and convenience, or an adventurer ready to kayak among icebergs, there’s an Alaska cruise tailored just for you. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top cruise lines, compare itineraries, and share insider tips to help you choose the best Alaska cruise for your next great escape.

Key Takeaways

• Itinerary matters most: Look for cruises that visit Glacier Bay National Park, Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan for the full Alaska experience.
• Ship size affects experience: Smaller ships offer more intimate wildlife viewing and access to remote ports, while larger ships provide more onboard activities.
• Holland America and Princess lead in scenic cruising: Both offer expert naturalists, Glacier Bay access, and refined service ideal for first-time Alaska cruisers.
• Adventure seekers should consider small expedition ships: Lines like UnCruise and Lindblad Expeditions focus on kayaking, hiking, and up-close wildlife encounters.
• Family-friendly options abound: Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line offer kids’ clubs, entertainment, and flexible dining for multigenerational trips.
• Book early for best cabins and deals: Alaska cruises sell out fast, especially for peak summer months and balcony staterooms.
• Shoulder seasons offer value and fewer crowds: Late May and early September provide mild weather and lower prices with still-great wildlife sightings.

Why Alaska Cruises Are a Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience

Alaska isn’t just a destination—it’s a sensory journey. The crisp mountain air, the sound of cracking ice, the sight of a humpback whale launching itself into the sky—these moments stay with you long after the trip ends. A cruise is the ideal way to experience this vast, wild landscape because it combines comfort with access. You get to explore remote coastal towns and national parks without changing hotels every night.

One of the biggest draws is the wildlife. Alaska is home to brown bears, orcas, sea otters, puffins, and countless salmon. Cruising through protected waters like Glacier Bay or the Inside Passage gives you front-row seats to nature’s greatest show. Plus, many ships have onboard naturalists who share insights about the ecosystem, enhancing your understanding and appreciation.

Another advantage? The convenience. Cruises handle logistics—transport, meals, and accommodations—so you can focus on enjoying the views. And with multiple stops along the coast, you get a well-rounded taste of Alaska’s diverse regions, from the temperate rainforests of the south to the dramatic ice fields of the north.

The Magic of Glacier Bay National Park

No Alaska cruise is complete without a visit to Glacier Bay National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most pristine wilderness areas in the world, spanning over 3.3 million acres of glaciers, fjords, and temperate rainforest. Only a limited number of ships are allowed in each day, which helps preserve the environment and ensures a more peaceful experience for passengers.

Cruises typically spend a full day navigating the park, often with a National Park Service ranger joining the ship to provide commentary. You’ll glide past massive tidewater glaciers like Margerie and Grand Pacific, where chunks of ice the size of buildings break off in a process called “calving.” It’s both thrilling and humbling.

The best views are from the outer decks or your cabin balcony, especially in the early morning when the light hits the ice just right. Bring binoculars and a camera with a good zoom—you’ll want to capture every detail.

Wildlife Encounters You Can’t Get Anywhere Else

Alaska’s waters are teeming with life. On a typical cruise, you might spot pods of orcas hunting near the surface, humpback whales feeding in kelp beds, or sea lions basking on rocky outcrops. Shore excursions often include whale-watching tours, bear-viewing flights, or guided kayak trips into hidden coves.

One of the most memorable experiences is watching a glacier calve—when a massive chunk of ice breaks off and crashes into the sea. It’s loud, powerful, and deeply moving. Many passengers say it’s the highlight of their trip.

Birdwatchers will love the chance to see bald eagles, tufted puffins, and marbled murrelets. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a brown bear fishing for salmon along the riverbanks during a shore excursion.

Top Cruise Lines for Alaska: A Detailed Comparison

With so many cruise lines sailing Alaska, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Each has its own style, ship size, and focus. To help you decide which Alaska cruise is the best fit, let’s break down the top players.

Holland America Line: The Classic Choice

Holland America has been cruising Alaska for over 50 years, and it shows. Their ships—like the ms Nieuw Amsterdam and ms Westerdam—are mid-sized, offering a balance of comfort and access. They’re known for their refined service, elegant dining, and strong emphasis on destination immersion.

One of Holland America’s biggest advantages is their consistent access to Glacier Bay National Park. They hold a limited number of permits, which means their ships can enter the park daily during peak season. That’s a huge plus for first-time cruisers who want the full Alaska experience.

Onboard, you’ll find expert naturalists from the National Park Service and local Alaskan guides who lead lectures and deck talks. Their “Dine on the Fly” program lets you enjoy room service with a view, perfect for sipping coffee while watching glaciers drift by.

Holland America also offers a wide range of shore excursions, from dog sledding on a glacier to cultural tours with local Tlingit communities. Their itineraries typically last 7 nights and follow the classic Inside Passage route, stopping in Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and Victoria, BC.

Princess Cruises: Scenic and Spacious

Princess Cruises is another Alaska veteran, with a fleet of modern ships designed for scenic cruising. Their vessels, like the Grand Princess and Ruby Princess, are larger than Holland America’s but still navigate the Inside Passage with ease.

What sets Princess apart is their “North to Alaska” program, which includes enhanced shore excursions, local cuisine, and cultural performances. They also offer the “Movies Under the Stars” experience—giant outdoor screens on the pool deck showing nature documentaries and classic films.

Princess has strong ties to Alaska, with many crew members from the region. This local knowledge shines in their onboard programming and excursion options. They also provide excellent service and a variety of dining venues, from casual buffets to specialty restaurants like Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria.

Like Holland America, Princess ships often visit Glacier Bay, and they offer both 7-night and longer 10- to 14-night itineraries that may include stops in Anchorage, Seward, or Whittier for land-and-sea packages.

Royal Caribbean: Fun for the Whole Family

If you’re traveling with kids or want a more energetic vibe, Royal Caribbean is a top pick. Ships like the Radiance of the Seas and Serenade of the Seas are packed with activities—rock climbing walls, ice skating rinks, surf simulators, and Broadway-style shows.

While they don’t always get into Glacier Bay (due to size restrictions), they offer excellent views of glaciers from the outside and focus on ports like Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan. Their shore excursions are adventurous, with options like zip-lining, helicopter tours, and ATV rides.

Royal Caribbean excels at family-friendly dining and entertainment. Their kids’ clubs are top-notch, with age-appropriate activities and supervised programs. Parents can enjoy a night off while the little ones make new friends.

Their itineraries are typically 7 nights and often start or end in Seattle, making them convenient for U.S. travelers. They also offer combo cruises with land tours in Denali National Park, perfect for seeing more of Alaska.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Freestyle Cruising

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is known for its “Freestyle Cruising” concept—no fixed dining times, casual dress codes, and a relaxed atmosphere. Ships like the Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore are modern and vibrant, with a focus on flexibility and fun.

NCL offers a variety of Alaska itineraries, including 7-night cruises from Seattle and longer voyages from Vancouver or Seward. They visit the usual ports but also sometimes include lesser-known stops like Icy Strait Point, a private destination with a thrilling zip line and bear viewing platforms.

Their onboard experience includes multiple dining options, live music, and comedy shows. While they don’t emphasize naturalists as much as Holland America or Princess, they do offer educational programs and wildlife spotting guides.

NCL is a great choice for travelers who want freedom and variety. You can dress up or down, eat when you want, and choose from a wide range of activities. It’s ideal for couples, friends, or families who prefer a less formal cruise experience.

Small Expedition Ships: For the Adventurous Traveler

For a more intimate and immersive experience, consider a small expedition cruise. Lines like UnCruise Adventures, Lindblad Expeditions (in partnership with National Geographic), and American Queen Voyages operate smaller ships with capacities under 200 passengers.

These cruises focus on adventure and education. You’ll spend more time in remote areas, often kayaking among icebergs, hiking in temperate rainforests, or Zodiac cruising into hidden fjords. Naturalists and marine biologists lead daily excursions and lectures, offering deep insights into Alaska’s ecosystems.

UnCruise, for example, offers themed trips like “Whales & Wilderness” or “Glacier Bay Small Ship Adventure.” Their ships are cozy and casual, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and local culture. You might enjoy a beach barbecue with fresh salmon or attend a traditional Tlingit storytelling session.

These cruises are perfect for active travelers who want to get off the beaten path. They’re typically more expensive, but the personalized service and unique experiences make them worth it for many.

Choosing the Right Itinerary: Ports, Duration, and Timing

Not all Alaska cruises are created equal—your itinerary can make or break your trip. Here’s what to look for when deciding which Alaska cruise is the best for your goals.

Must-Visit Ports in Alaska

Most Alaska cruises follow a similar route, but the time spent in each port varies. Here are the key stops and what makes them special:

– **Juneau:** Alaska’s capital, accessible only by boat or plane. Highlights include Mendenhall Glacier, whale-watching tours, and the Alaska State Museum. Many ships offer helicopter glacier landings here.
– **Skagway:** A preserved gold rush town with wooden boardwalks and historic saloons. Don’t miss the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway, a scenic train ride through the mountains.
– **Ketchikan:** Known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” this port offers rainforest hikes, totem pole parks, and cultural performances by the local Tlingit people.
– **Glacier Bay National Park:** A highlight for most travelers. Spend the day cruising past glaciers and wildlife with expert commentary.
– **Victoria, BC:** A charming Canadian city with British flair. Visit Butchart Gardens or take a harbor tour before returning to the U.S.

Some cruises also stop in **Icy Strait Point**, a private destination with a world-class zip line and bear viewing opportunities, or **Hubbard Glacier**, one of the largest tidewater glaciers in North America.

Cruise Duration: 7 Nights vs. Longer Voyages

The standard Alaska cruise is 7 nights, typically sailing round-trip from Seattle or Vancouver, or one-way between Seattle/Vancouver and Seward/Whittier (near Anchorage). These itineraries cover the core ports and offer a great introduction to Alaska.

If you have more time, consider a 10- to 14-night cruise. These often include additional stops in Alaska’s interior, such as Denali National Park or Fairbanks, via land tours. Princess and Holland America offer popular “cruise + land” packages that let you see both the coast and the heart of Alaska.

Longer cruises are ideal for travelers who want a deeper experience, but they require more time and budget. They’re also great for avoiding back-to-back travel days.

Best Time to Cruise Alaska

Alaska’s cruise season runs from **mid-May to mid-September**. Each month offers something different:

– **May and early June:** Fewer crowds, lower prices, and blooming wildflowers. Wildlife is active, and daylight is long. Some ports may still have snow.
– **July and August:** Peak season. Warmest weather, full access to all ports, and the best chance to see bears fishing for salmon. Expect higher prices and more tourists.
– **September:** Cooler temperatures, fall colors, and fewer crowds. Wildlife is still visible, and you might catch the Northern Lights in the northern regions.

If you’re flexible, consider a **shoulder season** cruise. You’ll save money, enjoy more personalized service, and still have great weather and wildlife sightings.

What to Expect Onboard: Dining, Activities, and Service

Your cruise ship is your floating hotel, so it’s important to know what life onboard will be like. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect across different cruise lines.

Dining Options and Alaskan Cuisine

Most cruise lines offer a mix of casual and formal dining. Main dining rooms serve multi-course meals, while buffets and cafes provide quicker options. Specialty restaurants often feature local Alaskan ingredients like king crab, salmon, and halibut.

Holland America and Princess are known for their high-quality dining, with menus that highlight regional flavors. You might enjoy a seafood feast with fresh Dungeness crab or a reindeer sausage breakfast.

Royal Caribbean and Norwegian offer more variety, with international cuisine and themed nights. Don’t miss the “Alaska Night” on many ships, where the menu features local dishes and cultural performances.

Onboard Activities and Entertainment

Larger ships offer a full lineup of activities: live music, comedy shows, cooking demos, and fitness classes. Royal Caribbean’s ice shows and Broadway-style productions are a hit with families.

Smaller ships focus more on destination immersion. You’ll find lectures on Alaskan history, wildlife spotting sessions, and stargazing on deck. Some ships even host local musicians or artists for cultural exchanges.

Wi-Fi can be spotty in remote areas, so plan for limited connectivity. Bring books, download movies, or enjoy the views instead.

Service and Crew

Service quality varies by cruise line. Holland America and Princess are praised for their attentive, professional staff. Royal Caribbean and Norwegian offer friendly, energetic service with a more casual vibe.

Expedition ships often have smaller crews who are deeply knowledgeable about Alaska. They’re passionate about sharing their love of the region and go the extra mile to enhance your experience.

Tips for Booking the Best Alaska Cruise

Now that you know the options, here’s how to secure the perfect trip.

Book Early for the Best Cabins and Prices

Alaska cruises sell out quickly, especially for balcony staterooms and suites. Booking 9 to 12 months in advance gives you the best selection and often lower rates. Early-bird promotions may include free drinks, onboard credit, or discounted airfare.

Consider a Travel Agent

A knowledgeable travel agent who specializes in Alaska can help you navigate the options, compare prices, and find hidden deals. They often have access to exclusive perks like cabin upgrades or private excursions.

Pack Smart

Alaska’s weather is unpredictable. Layers are key—bring a waterproof jacket, warm sweater, gloves, and sturdy shoes. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and binoculars. Many ships have dress codes for formal nights, so pack at least one nice outfit.

Plan Your Shore Excursions

Shore excursions fill up fast, especially popular ones like dog sledding or whale watching. Book them early through your cruise line or a trusted third-party provider. Consider a mix of active adventures and cultural experiences to get the full Alaska vibe.

Travel Insurance Is a Must

Alaska’s remote location means weather delays and medical emergencies can be challenging. Comprehensive travel insurance covers trip cancellations, medical expenses, and evacuation if needed.

Conclusion: Which Alaska Cruise Is the Best?

So, which Alaska cruise is the best? The answer depends on you.

If you value scenic cruising, expert commentary, and access to Glacier Bay, **Holland America** and **Princess Cruises** are top choices. For families and fun-seekers, **Royal Caribbean** and **Norwegian Cruise Line** deliver excitement and flexibility. And for adventurers who want to get up close with nature, **small expedition ships** offer unparalleled access and intimacy.

No matter which cruise you choose, you’re in for an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most stunning landscapes. From the roar of calving glaciers to the quiet beauty of a misty fjord, Alaska will leave you in awe. Start planning your trip today—your perfect cruise is waiting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise line goes to Glacier Bay?

Holland America Line and Princess Cruises are the most consistent in visiting Glacier Bay National Park. Both hold permits that allow daily access during peak season, making them top choices for first-time Alaska cruisers.

What is the best time of year to cruise Alaska?

The best time is typically July and August for warm weather and full port access. However, May and September offer fewer crowds, lower prices, and still-great wildlife viewing—ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

Are Alaska cruises family-friendly?

Yes! Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line are especially family-friendly, with kids’ clubs, entertainment, and flexible dining. Many ships also offer family shore excursions like zip-lining and wildlife tours.

Do I need to book shore excursions in advance?

Yes, popular excursions like whale watching, dog sledding, and helicopter tours sell out quickly. Book early through your cruise line or a trusted provider to secure your spot.

Can I see the Northern Lights on an Alaska cruise?

It’s rare but possible, especially on late-season cruises in September. The Northern Lights are more commonly seen in interior Alaska, so a land tour extension increases your chances.

What should I pack for an Alaska cruise?

Pack layers, including a waterproof jacket, warm sweater, gloves, and sturdy shoes. Don’t forget binoculars, sunscreen, and a camera. Formal attire is needed for some dining nights.