Which Alaska Cruise Routes Are Best

Choosing the best Alaska cruise route depends on your interests—whether it’s glaciers, wildlife, or charming coastal towns. From the classic Inside Passage to the more remote Gulf of Alaska, each route offers unique experiences. This guide breaks down the top itineraries so you can pick the perfect Alaskan adventure.

Key Takeaways

• Inside Passage cruises are ideal for first-timers, offering a scenic, sheltered route with stops in Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan.
• Gulf of Alaska itineraries cover more ground, sailing round-trip from Seattle or Vancouver to ports like Seward, Whittier, and Glacier Bay.
• Round-trip cruises from Seattle or Vancouver are convenient and often more affordable, with no backtracking.
• One-way cruises (open-jaw) allow you to fly into one city and out of another, maximizing time and minimizing travel fatigue.
• Glacier Bay National Park is a must-see, but only certain routes include it—check your itinerary carefully.
• Wildlife viewing is best on longer cruises that venture into deeper waters and remote fjords.
• Smaller ships access hidden gems like Tracy Arm or Misty Fjords, offering a more intimate experience.

Which Alaska Cruise Routes Are Best? A Complete Guide to Planning Your Dream Voyage

Imagine standing on the deck of a ship, wrapped in a warm jacket, as towering glaciers calve ice into icy-blue waters. Seals bask on floating icebergs, eagles soar above snow-capped peaks, and the crisp mountain air fills your lungs. This is Alaska—raw, wild, and breathtakingly beautiful. And there’s no better way to experience it than on a cruise.

But with so many Alaska cruise routes to choose from, how do you pick the best one? Are you looking for dramatic glaciers, charming gold rush towns, or close encounters with whales and bears? Do you prefer a short week-long trip or a longer, more immersive journey? The answer depends on your travel style, budget, and what you want to see. In this guide, we’ll explore the top Alaska cruise routes, compare itineraries, and help you find the perfect voyage for your Alaskan adventure.

Understanding Alaska Cruise Routes: An Overview

Alaska cruises generally fall into two main categories: Inside Passage cruises and Gulf of Alaska cruises. Each offers a different experience, with distinct ports, scenery, and wildlife opportunities. Let’s break them down so you can understand what sets them apart.

Inside Passage Cruises: The Classic Alaskan Experience

The Inside Passage is the most popular Alaska cruise route, especially for first-time visitors. This protected waterway winds through a maze of islands, fjords, and coastal rainforests, offering calm seas and stunning scenery. Most Inside Passage cruises are round-trip from Seattle or Vancouver, making them convenient and easy to plan.

Typical stops include:

• Juneau – Alaska’s capital, accessible only by boat or plane. Known for the Mendenhall Glacier and whale-watching tours.
• Skagway – A historic gold rush town with the famous White Pass & Yukon Route Railway.
• Ketchikan – “The Salmon Capital of the World,” famous for its totem poles and rainforest hikes.
• Glacier Bay National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage Site with massive tidewater glaciers (included on select itineraries).

These cruises usually last 7 days and are perfect if you want a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty without venturing too far from civilization.

Gulf of Alaska Cruises: The Extended Adventure

If you’re looking for a more expansive journey, consider a Gulf of Alaska cruise. These itineraries go beyond the Inside Passage, sailing into the open waters of the Gulf of Alaska and visiting ports on the state’s southern coast. They often start or end in Seward or Whittier—gateway towns to Kenai Fjords National Park and Denali National Park.

Popular Gulf of Alaska routes include:

• Seattle to Seward (or vice versa) – A one-way cruise that allows you to fly into Seattle and out of Anchorage (or the reverse), saving time and offering a more varied experience.
• Vancouver to Whittier – Another open-jaw option, often combined with a land tour to Denali.
• Round-trip from Vancouver with extended stops – Some lines offer 10- to 14-day cruises that include multiple glacier days and remote ports.

Gulf of Alaska cruises are ideal for travelers who want to see more of the state, including glaciers like Hubbard and College Fjord, and enjoy longer days at sea for wildlife spotting.

Top Alaska Cruise Itineraries Compared

Now that you know the basics, let’s compare some of the most popular Alaska cruise routes in detail. We’ll look at duration, ports, scenery, and what makes each one special.

7-Day Inside Passage: Seattle Round-Trip

This is one of the most convenient and family-friendly options. Departing from Seattle, you’ll sail north through the Inside Passage, visiting Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan before returning to Seattle. Some itineraries include a stop in Victoria, British Columbia, on the way back.

Why it’s great:

• No need to fly into Alaska—just drive or fly to Seattle.
• Shorter duration fits most vacation schedules.
• Perfect for first-timers who want a taste of Alaska.

What to expect: Calm waters, charming towns, and plenty of shore excursions like dog sledding on glaciers, ziplining, and salmon fishing. Wildlife sightings include whales, sea lions, and bald eagles.

Best for: Families, couples, and travelers with limited time.

7-Day Inside Passage: Vancouver Round-Trip

Similar to the Seattle route, but departing from Vancouver, Canada. This itinerary often includes a stop in Victoria and may spend more time in Glacier Bay or Tracy Arm Fjord.

Why it’s great:

• Vancouver is a beautiful city to explore before or after your cruise.
• Some lines offer longer days in port, giving you more time to explore.
• Often slightly less crowded than Seattle departures.

What to expect: Stunning coastal scenery, cultural experiences in First Nations communities, and opportunities for kayaking and hiking. The ship may navigate narrow channels like the Wrangell Narrows, adding to the adventure.

Best for: International travelers, nature lovers, and those who enjoy a mix of city and wilderness.

7-Day Gulf of Alaska: Seattle to Seward

This one-way cruise is a favorite among experienced travelers. You’ll sail from Seattle up the Inside Passage, then cross the Gulf of Alaska to Seward, where you can connect to Anchorage via train or flight.

Why it’s great:

• No backtracking—maximizes your time in Alaska.
• Visits both Inside Passage ports and remote coastal towns.
• Often includes Hubbard Glacier, one of the most active glaciers in Alaska.

What to expect: A mix of cultural stops and wild landscapes. In Seward, you can take a boat tour into Kenai Fjords to see glaciers and marine wildlife. The train ride from Seward to Anchorage is a scenic highlight.

Best for: Adventure seekers, photographers, and travelers planning a land-and-sea combo trip.

10- to 14-Day Extended Cruises

For those who want to go deeper, extended cruises offer a more immersive experience. These voyages often depart from Vancouver or Seattle and include multiple glacier days, remote ports like Haines or Sitka, and longer stays in key destinations.

Why it’s great:

• More time to explore each port.
• Greater chance of wildlife sightings, including bears in Katmai or Kodiak.
• Access to lesser-known fjords and national parks.

What to expect: A slower pace, with more opportunities for hiking, wildlife photography, and cultural immersion. Some cruises include a visit to College Fjord, where you can see glaciers named after Ivy League schools.

Best for: Retirees, nature enthusiasts, and travelers who want a comprehensive Alaska experience.

Choosing the Right Route for Your Travel Style

With so many options, how do you decide which Alaska cruise route is best for you? Here are some key factors to consider.

How Much Time Do You Have?

If you only have a week, a 7-day Inside Passage cruise is your best bet. These trips are efficient, scenic, and packed with highlights. But if you have 10 days or more, consider an extended or one-way Gulf of Alaska cruise for a more relaxed pace and greater variety.

Are You Traveling with Kids?

Families often prefer round-trip cruises from Seattle or Vancouver. These routes are easy to plan, with plenty of kid-friendly activities and shorter travel days. Look for ships with supervised kids’ clubs, family cabins, and shore excursions like wildlife cruises or gold panning.

Do You Want to See Glaciers?

Not all Alaska cruise routes include glacier viewing. If seeing glaciers is a priority, make sure your itinerary includes:

• Glacier Bay National Park – Best viewed on Inside Passage cruises with National Park Service rangers on board.
• Hubbard Glacier – One of the largest and most active, often seen on Gulf of Alaska routes.
• Tracy Arm or Misty Fjords – Best accessed by smaller ships or expedition cruises.

Ask your cruise line which glaciers are included and how much time you’ll spend near them. Some ships offer “glacier days” where you sail slowly through icy waters for hours.

Are You Interested in Wildlife?

Alaska is a wildlife paradise, but your chances of spotting animals depend on your route and timing. Longer cruises that venture into deeper waters or remote fjords offer the best opportunities. Look for itineraries that include:

• Whale-watching in Icy Strait Point or Juneau
• Bear viewing in Ketchikan or Hyder
• Sea otters and puffins in Glacier Bay

Summer months (June to August) are peak season for wildlife, but May and September offer fewer crowds and lower prices.

Do You Prefer Big Ships or Small Ships?

Large cruise ships (like those from Royal Caribbean or Norwegian) offer more amenities, entertainment, and dining options. They’re great for families and first-timers. But they can’t access narrow channels or remote areas.

Smaller ships (like those from UnCruise or Lindblad Expeditions) carry fewer passengers and can navigate into hidden fjords, offering a more intimate and adventurous experience. They’re ideal for nature lovers and photographers.

Tips for Booking the Best Alaska Cruise Route

Now that you know the options, here are some practical tips to help you book the perfect Alaska cruise.

Book Early for the Best Deals and Cabins

Alaska cruises sell out quickly, especially the popular 7-day Inside Passage routes. Booking 6 to 12 months in advance gives you the best selection of cabins and often lower prices. Look for early-bird discounts or package deals that include airfare and hotels.

Check the Itinerary Details

Not all “7-day Alaska cruises” are the same. Some spend more time at sea, while others have longer port days. Compare the number of sea days, glacier stops, and shore excursion options. A good itinerary balances relaxation with exploration.

Consider a Land-and-Sea Package

Many travelers combine their cruise with a land tour to Denali National Park or Fairbanks. These packages often include train travel, hotel stays, and guided tours. They’re a great way to see more of Alaska without extra planning.

Pack Smart for Variable Weather

Alaska’s weather can change quickly, even in summer. Pack layers, a waterproof jacket, sturdy shoes, and binoculars for wildlife viewing. Don’t forget sunscreen and insect repellent—mosquitoes can be fierce in some areas.

Choose the Right Time to Go

Peak season is June through August, with the warmest weather and longest days. May and September offer fewer crowds, lower prices, and beautiful fall colors. Just be prepared for cooler temperatures and possible rain.

Final Thoughts: Finding Your Perfect Alaska Cruise

There’s no single “best” Alaska cruise route—only the one that’s right for you. Whether you’re drawn to the historic charm of Skagway, the icy wonders of Glacier Bay, or the remote beauty of the Gulf of Alaska, there’s a voyage that will leave you in awe.

Start by thinking about your travel style, budget, and must-see sights. Do you want a quick getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure? Are you traveling solo, as a couple, or with family? Once you have a clear idea, compare itineraries, read reviews, and talk to a travel agent if needed.

And remember: no matter which route you choose, Alaska will exceed your expectations. The glaciers will take your breath away, the wildlife will surprise you, and the sheer scale of the landscape will stay with you long after you return home. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for the cruise of a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best Alaska cruise route for first-time visitors?

The 7-day Inside Passage cruise from Seattle or Vancouver is ideal for first-timers. It offers a mix of scenic beauty, historic towns, and wildlife, with convenient round-trip departures.

Do all Alaska cruises visit Glacier Bay?

No, only select itineraries include Glacier Bay National Park. Check your cruise details carefully, as access is limited and requires a permit.

Are one-way Alaska cruises worth it?

Yes, one-way (open-jaw) cruises save time and offer a more varied experience. You can fly into one city and out of another, often combining the cruise with a land tour.

What’s the difference between Inside Passage and Gulf of Alaska cruises?

Inside Passage cruises stay in protected waters and visit coastal towns, while Gulf of Alaska cruises venture into open waters and include ports like Seward and Whittier.

Can I see whales on an Alaska cruise?

Yes, whale-watching is common on most Alaska cruises, especially in areas like Icy Strait Point, Juneau, and near Glacier Bay. Summer months offer the best sightings.

Are small ships better for Alaska cruises?

Small ships offer a more intimate experience and access to remote areas, but large ships provide more amenities. Choose based on your priorities—adventure or comfort.