Choosing the right Celebrity Cruise ship for Alaska can make or break your trip. With multiple vessels sailing the Inside Passage, each offers unique features—from panoramic views to luxury dining and wildlife-focused excursions. This guide breaks down the top Celebrity ships for Alaska, helping you pick the perfect match for your ideal cruise experience.
This is a comprehensive guide about which celebrity cruise ship is best for alaska.
Key Takeaways
- Celebrity Solstice and Eclipse offer the best Alaska itineraries: These ships feature longer sailings, Glacier Bay access, and immersive shore excursions.
- Panoramic views are a priority: Look for ships with expansive glass atriums, outdoor observation decks, and floor-to-ceiling windows in staterooms.
- Dining and onboard experiences vary by ship: Larger ships like the Solstice-class offer more specialty restaurants and entertainment options.
- Smaller ships provide a more intimate experience: The Celebrity Xpedition is ideal for nature lovers seeking close-up wildlife encounters.
- Season and itinerary matter: May and September offer fewer crowds, while July and August provide the warmest weather and longest daylight.
- Shore excursions are a highlight: Choose a ship that partners with top local guides for whale watching, dog sledding, and glacier hikes.
- Family-friendly vs. adult-focused: Some ships cater to families with kids’ clubs, while others emphasize quiet luxury and enrichment programs.
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Why Choose a Celebrity Cruise for Alaska?
Alaska is one of the most breathtaking cruise destinations on Earth—towering glaciers, snow-capped peaks, abundant wildlife, and charming coastal towns like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway. But not all cruise lines are created equal when it comes to exploring this rugged, remote paradise. Celebrity Cruises stands out for its blend of modern luxury, thoughtful design, and immersive Alaskan experiences.
Celebrity doesn’t just take you to Alaska—it helps you truly experience it. From onboard naturalists who explain the ecosystem to shore excursions that get you up close with glaciers and whales, Celebrity focuses on education and adventure. Their ships are designed with Alaska in mind: expansive windows, outdoor lounging areas, and dining venues that showcase local seafood like fresh salmon and Dungeness crab.
But with several Celebrity ships sailing Alaska each season, how do you know which one is right for you? The answer depends on your travel style, budget, and what you want to get out of your trip. Are you looking for a family-friendly adventure with kids’ activities? A romantic getaway with gourmet dining? Or a nature-focused journey with expert guides? Let’s dive into the details of each Celebrity ship currently sailing Alaska to help you make the best choice.
Celebrity Solstice: The Gold Standard for Alaska Cruises
If you’re looking for the quintessential Alaska cruise experience with a touch of luxury, the Celebrity Solstice is hard to beat. As the first of the Solstice-class ships, it set the standard for modern cruising—and it’s still one of the most popular vessels for Alaska itineraries.
Ship Overview and Design
Launched in 2008, the Solstice spans 1,031 feet and carries around 2,850 passengers. What makes it special for Alaska is its innovative design focused on bringing the outdoors in. The ship features a stunning three-deck-high atrium with a massive glass wall that offers panoramic views of the passing coastline. Whether you’re sipping coffee in the morning or enjoying a cocktail at sunset, you’ll never miss a moment of the Alaskan scenery.
The Solstice also boasts the Lawn Club—a real grass lawn on the top deck where guests can play bocce, have a picnic, or simply relax on the grass under the open sky. It’s a unique feature that adds a sense of openness and connection to nature, perfect for a destination like Alaska.
Alaska Itineraries and Ports
The Solstice typically sails 7-night roundtrip cruises from Seattle or Vancouver, visiting key ports like Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and Victoria (BC). Many itineraries also include a full day cruising Glacier Bay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most spectacular glacier experiences in the world.
One of the biggest advantages of the Solstice is its access to Glacier Bay. Not all ships are permitted to enter this protected area due to environmental regulations, but the Solstice’s smaller size and advanced environmental systems make it eligible. That means you’ll get up close to massive tidewater glaciers, possibly witnessing calving events where chunks of ice crash into the water.
Onboard Amenities and Dining
The Solstice offers a wide range of dining options, from casual buffets to upscale specialty restaurants. Highlights include:
- Murano: A fine-dining steakhouse with Alaskan king crab and premium cuts.
- Tuscan Grille: Italian cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
- Qsine: A playful, interactive dining experience with creative presentations.
For entertainment, the Solstice features live music, Broadway-style shows, and a full casino. There’s also a spa, fitness center, multiple pools, and a dedicated kids’ club, making it a great choice for families.
Why Choose the Solstice?
The Solstice strikes the perfect balance between luxury and adventure. It’s large enough to offer plenty of activities and dining choices, but not so big that you feel lost in the crowd. Its design maximizes views of Alaska’s stunning landscapes, and its itineraries include must-see destinations and Glacier Bay access. If you want a well-rounded, comfortable, and scenic Alaska cruise, the Solstice is a top contender.
Celebrity Eclipse: Luxury and Innovation on the Inside Passage
The Celebrity Eclipse is the sister ship to the Solstice, but with several upgrades that make it a favorite among repeat cruisers. Launched in 2010, the Eclipse retains the beloved features of the Solstice-class while adding enhanced technology, more spacious staterooms, and improved sustainability features.
Enhanced Design and Guest Experience
Like the Solstice, the Eclipse features the iconic Lawn Club and three-deck atrium. But it also includes larger staterooms and suites, many with private verandas that are perfect for watching glaciers drift by. The ship’s public spaces feel more open and airy, with improved lighting and décor that complements the natural beauty outside.
One standout feature is the “The Retreat”—an exclusive lounge and sun deck for suite guests. It includes a private restaurant, concierge service, and a quiet area to relax away from the crowds. If you’re looking for a more premium experience, booking a suite on the Eclipse gives you access to this luxurious oasis.
Alaska Itineraries and Glacier Access
The Eclipse sails similar 7-night Alaska itineraries as the Solstice, often departing from Seattle or Vancouver. It also visits Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and Victoria, with a full day in Glacier Bay. Some sailings even include a stop in Seward or Whittier, allowing for overland tours to Denali National Park—a huge bonus for travelers who want to combine a cruise with a land adventure.
The Eclipse’s advanced environmental systems and quiet propulsion make it ideal for navigating sensitive marine environments. You’ll glide silently past glaciers and wildlife habitats, minimizing disturbance while maximizing your viewing opportunities.
Dining and Entertainment Upgrades
The Eclipse offers all the same dining venues as the Solstice, but with enhanced menus and seasonal Alaskan specials. Look for dishes featuring fresh halibut, spot prawns, and reindeer sausage, often sourced from local fishermen and farmers.
Entertainment includes live jazz in the Martini Bar, comedy shows, and enrichment lectures by naturalists and historians. The ship also hosts “Alaska Immersion” programs, where guests can learn about Tlingit culture, participate in totem pole carving demos, or attend a traditional Native American storytelling session.
Why Choose the Eclipse?
The Eclipse is ideal for travelers who want a slightly more refined experience than the Solstice. With larger rooms, better suite amenities, and enhanced programming, it’s perfect for couples, solo travelers, or anyone seeking a quieter, more luxurious vibe. If you’re willing to pay a bit more for extra comfort and exclusivity, the Eclipse is worth the upgrade.
Celebrity Xpedition: Intimate Adventures for Nature Lovers
For travelers who want to get up close and personal with Alaska’s wilderness, the Celebrity Xpedition offers a completely different kind of cruise experience. This small, 100-passenger ship is designed for adventure, education, and immersive exploration—perfect for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and eco-tourists.
Ship Overview and Unique Features
The Xpedition is a far cry from the mega-ships of the Solstice class. At just 300 feet long, it’s small enough to navigate narrow fjords and remote inlets that larger vessels can’t reach. The ship features an open bow, Zodiac landing craft, and a team of naturalists and expedition guides who lead daily excursions.
Staterooms are cozy but comfortable, with large windows and simple, functional design. The focus here isn’t on luxury amenities—it’s on getting you off the ship and into the wild. Think kayaking among icebergs, hiking through temperate rainforests, or watching sea lions bask on rocky shores.
Alaska Itineraries and Expedition Focus
The Xpedition sails 7- to 10-night itineraries that emphasize wildlife and remote destinations. Instead of the usual port stops, you might visit places like Baranof Island, Tracy Arm Fjord, or the rarely seen Stikine River. These itineraries are less about shopping and more about exploration.
Each day includes multiple guided excursions, often led by marine biologists or local experts. You might go whale watching in Stephens Passage, visit a bald eagle sanctuary, or take a Zodiac ride to a glacier’s edge. The ship also offers photography workshops and birdwatching tours.
Onboard Experience and Dining
Dining on the Xpedition is casual but delicious, with a focus on fresh, local seafood and Alaskan specialties. Meals are served in a single dining room, encouraging conversation and camaraderie among guests. There’s no formal entertainment—instead, the evening might feature a naturalist lecture or a stargazing session on deck.
The ship has a small library, a lounge with panoramic views, and a sun deck with comfortable seating. It’s the kind of place where you’ll get to know your fellow passengers and crew by name.
Why Choose the Xpedition?
The Xpedition is perfect if you’re less interested in onboard luxuries and more focused on the destination itself. It’s ideal for active travelers, families with older kids, or anyone who wants a truly immersive Alaskan experience. If you’ve done a traditional cruise before and are looking for something more adventurous, the Xpedition is a game-changer.
Other Celebrity Ships Sailing Alaska: What to Know
While the Solstice, Eclipse, and Xpedition are the most popular, Celebrity occasionally deploys other ships to Alaska, especially during peak season. Here’s a quick look at what to expect.
Celebrity Infinity
The Celebrity Infinity is a Millennium-class ship that offers a more classic cruise experience. It’s smaller than the Solstice-class vessels, carrying around 2,170 passengers, and features a more traditional layout. It’s a good option if you’re looking for a lower price point or prefer a quieter ship.
Itineraries often include Glacier Bay and the standard port stops, but the onboard experience is more subdued. Dining options are solid but not as extensive, and there’s no Lawn Club. Still, it’s a reliable choice for a scenic Alaska cruise.
Celebrity Edge-Class Ships (Seasonal)
Celebrity’s newest class, the Edge series (like the Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Ascension), occasionally sails Alaska during the summer months. These ships feature cutting-edge design, including the Magic Carpet—a moving platform that serves as a restaurant, lounge, and embarkation station.
They offer the most modern amenities, including infinite verandas, enhanced dining concepts, and immersive entertainment. However, their larger size (over 2,900 passengers) means they may not access Glacier Bay and often follow more commercial itineraries. Still, they’re a great choice if you want the latest in cruise innovation.
How to Choose the Best Celebrity Ship for Your Alaska Cruise
With so many options, how do you decide? Here are some key factors to consider:
Travel Style and Priorities
- Families with kids: Choose the Solstice or Eclipse for their kids’ clubs, multiple pools, and family-friendly activities.
- Couples or solo travelers: The Eclipse or Xpedition offer quieter, more intimate experiences.
- Adventure seekers: The Xpedition is unmatched for hands-on exploration.
- Luxury lovers: The Eclipse or Edge-class ships provide the most premium amenities.
Budget and Value
Larger ships like the Solstice and Eclipse often have more cabin categories and promotional deals, making them more budget-friendly. The Xpedition is typically more expensive per night due to its small size and expedition focus. Edge-class ships fall in the mid-to-high range.
Itinerary and Season
Check which ports and glaciers are included. Glacier Bay is a must for many, so prioritize ships that visit it. Also, consider the time of year: May and September offer fewer crowds and lower prices, while July and August have the best weather and longest days.
Onboard Experience
Do you want lots of dining and entertainment options? Go for the Solstice or Eclipse. Prefer a quieter, more educational vibe? The Xpedition is your best bet.
Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice
There’s no single “best” Celebrity Cruise ship for Alaska—only the best one for you. The Solstice and Eclipse offer the perfect blend of comfort, views, and itinerary depth for most travelers. The Xpedition delivers an unparalleled adventure for those who want to dive deep into nature. And the Edge-class ships bring modern luxury to the Last Frontier.
No matter which ship you choose, a Celebrity Cruise to Alaska promises stunning scenery, expert-led excursions, and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re watching a glacier calve, spotting a humpback whale, or sipping coffee on a veranda as mountains rise from the sea, you’ll be glad you chose to explore Alaska by cruise.
FAQs
Which Celebrity Cruise ship visits Glacier Bay?
The Celebrity Solstice, Eclipse, and Infinity are permitted to enter Glacier Bay National Park. The Xpedition and Edge-class ships typically do not, due to size or itinerary restrictions.
Is the Celebrity Xpedition worth the higher price?
Yes, if you’re passionate about wildlife, photography, and immersive experiences. The small size, expert guides, and remote itineraries offer a unique Alaska adventure you won’t get on larger ships.
Do all Celebrity Alaska cruises depart from Seattle?
Most do, but some depart from Vancouver, Seward, or Whittier. Check your specific itinerary, as departure port affects flight arrangements and pre-cruise stays.
Are there family-friendly activities on Celebrity Alaska cruises?
Yes, ships like the Solstice and Eclipse offer kids’ clubs, teen lounges, family shore excursions, and interactive programs. The Xpedition is better suited for older children and adults.
What’s the best time to cruise Alaska with Celebrity?
Late May to early September offers the best weather and wildlife sightings. July and August are peak season, while May and September are quieter and more affordable.
Can I see the Northern Lights on a Celebrity Alaska cruise?
It’s rare, as most Alaska cruises operate in summer when nights are short. However, late September sailings have a slight chance, especially in northern regions like Skagway or Haines.
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