Which Cruise Line Is Best for Alaska

Choosing the best cruise line for Alaska depends on your travel style, budget, and interests. Whether you crave luxury, adventure, or family-friendly fun, this guide breaks down the top options to help you pick the perfect Alaskan voyage.

Planning a trip to Alaska is exciting—majestic glaciers, towering mountains, playful whales, and charming coastal towns await. But with so many cruise lines sailing the Last Frontier, how do you choose the right one? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. The best cruise line for Alaska depends on what you value most: luxury, adventure, family fun, or intimate wildlife encounters. Some lines focus on scenic cruising through icy fjords, while others emphasize cultural immersion or high-energy onboard experiences.

Alaska cruises typically run from late May to early September, with peak season in June, July, and August. During this time, daylight stretches into 18 hours, wildlife is active, and weather is mild—though rain and cool temperatures are still common. Most itineraries depart from Seattle or Vancouver and sail north through the Inside Passage, stopping at ports like Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and Sitka. Some longer voyages venture into the Gulf of Alaska, visiting Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier, or even Anchorage and Whittier.

With so many options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why we’ve done the research for you. In this guide, we’ll compare the top cruise lines sailing Alaska, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and unique offerings. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, you’ll find the insights you need to pick the perfect Alaskan adventure.

Key Takeaways

• Holland America Line offers a classic, refined Alaska experience with expert naturalists, immersive shore excursions, and longer port stops for deeper exploration.
• Princess Cruises excels in scenic cruising with its iconic Glacier Bay itineraries and the unique “North to Alaska” program featuring local culture and cuisine.
• Royal Caribbean appeals to families and active travelers with onboard thrills like rock climbing and surf simulators, plus a wide range of Alaska-focused activities.
• Norwegian Cruise Line provides flexible, freestyle cruising with no set dining times and diverse entertainment, ideal for those who want freedom and variety.
• Smaller expedition lines like UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions offer intimate, nature-focused journeys with expert guides and wildlife encounters in remote areas.
• Consider your priorities—scenery, wildlife, culture, or onboard amenities—when selecting the best cruise line for Alaska.
• Book early and travel in peak season (June–August) for the best weather and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Holland America Line: The Classic Alaskan Experience

If you’re looking for a traditional, elegant cruise with a strong focus on Alaska’s natural beauty and culture, Holland America Line is a top contender. Known for its refined service and mid-sized ships, Holland America strikes a balance between comfort and authenticity.

Why Holland America Stands Out

Holland America has been sailing Alaska for over 70 years, and it shows. Their ships are designed with Alaska in mind—larger observation decks, wraparound promenades, and panoramic lounges let you soak in the views without fighting for space. The line also employs onboard naturalists from the National Park Service, who give lectures, lead deck watches, and help spot wildlife like humpback whales and bald eagles.

One of the biggest perks? Longer port stays. In places like Juneau and Ketchikan, you’ll often have 8–10 hours in port, giving you time to explore beyond the tourist hubs. Want to hike the Mendenhall Glacier or take a whale-watching tour? You’ll have the time to do it right.

Ships and Onboard Experience

Holland America’s fleet includes ships like the ms Nieuw Amsterdam and ms Volendam, which carry around 1,400 passengers—big enough for amenities, but not so large that you feel lost in the crowd. Dining is a highlight, with specialty restaurants like Pinnacle Grill offering locally sourced seafood. The main dining room serves Alaskan king crab and fresh salmon, often caught that very day.

Entertainment is more subdued than on some lines—think live music, cooking demos, and cultural presentations. But if you’re looking for Broadway-style shows or nightclubs, you might find it lacking. That said, the focus on enrichment and relaxation is a big draw for travelers who want to unwind and connect with nature.

Best For

Holland America is ideal for couples, mature travelers, and anyone who values a slower pace, expert insights, and a touch of elegance. It’s not the most budget-friendly option, but the value lies in the experience—thoughtful service, educational programming, and access to remote destinations.

Princess Cruises: Scenic Cruising at Its Finest

Princess Cruises is synonymous with Alaska. With a fleet of ships designed for glacier viewing and a deep commitment to the region, Princess is a favorite among first-time and repeat cruisers alike.

The “North to Alaska” Program

One of Princess’s standout features is its “North to Alaska” program, which brings local Alaskan culture onboard. Think live music from local artists, cooking classes with regional ingredients, and storytelling sessions about Tlingit heritage. You might even meet a real Alaskan fisherman or bush pilot during your voyage.

Princess also partners with the Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, offering guaranteed visits to this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Their ships are equipped with “Glacier Bay Viewing Lounges”—indoor and outdoor spaces with heated floors, hot cocoa, and expert commentary as you glide past towering ice walls.

Ships and Itineraries

Princess operates a mix of mid-sized and larger ships, including the Grand Princess and Discovery Princess. These vessels offer a wide range of dining options, from casual buffets to fine dining at Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria. The MedallionClass technology—a wearable device that acts as your room key, payment method, and activity planner—makes the experience seamless.

Itineraries vary, but most include Glacier Bay, Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan. Some longer cruises extend to Whittier (gateway to Denali National Park) or even cross the Gulf to Seward. The 10- to 14-day options are perfect for travelers who want to see more of Alaska beyond the Inside Passage.

Best For

Princess Cruises is great for families, couples, and solo travelers who want a mix of relaxation and exploration. The balance of onboard comfort and authentic Alaskan experiences makes it a reliable choice for a memorable trip.

Royal Caribbean: Fun for the Whole Family

If you’re traveling with kids or love high-energy activities, Royal Caribbean might be the best cruise line for Alaska. Known for its innovative ships and non-stop entertainment, Royal Caribbean brings the fun—even in the remote wilderness of Alaska.

Onboard Thrills and Amenities

Imagine zip-lining over the ocean as your ship sails past a glacier. Or catching a wave on the FlowRider surf simulator while whales breach nearby. Royal Caribbean ships like the Radiance of the Seas and Serenade of the Seas are packed with features: rock climbing walls, ice skating rinks, multiple pools, and Broadway-style shows.

Dining is equally diverse, with options like Chops Grille, Izumi Japanese Cuisine, and the popular Chef’s Table experience. The main dining room offers a rotating menu with Alaskan-inspired dishes, and the Windjammer buffet is perfect for quick bites between activities.

Alaska-Specific Programming

Don’t think Royal Caribbean skimps on the Alaskan experience. They offer a range of shore excursions, from dog sledding on a glacier to flightseeing over the Juneau Icefield. Their “Adventure Ocean” kids’ program keeps young travelers engaged with nature-themed activities and games.

One unique feature is the “Royal Suite Class,” which includes priority boarding, concierge service, and access to exclusive lounges. It’s a splurge, but it adds a layer of comfort for families or those celebrating a special occasion.

Best For

Royal Caribbean is perfect for families, multi-generational groups, and active travelers who want to balance adventure with relaxation. It’s less about quiet contemplation and more about making memories—laughing on a zipline, spotting a bear from a kayak, or dancing under the midnight sun.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Freestyle Cruising in the Wild

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is all about freedom—no fixed dining times, no dress codes, and a “freestyle cruising” philosophy that lets you do your own thing. This flexibility makes it a strong contender for Alaska, especially if you prefer a more relaxed, personalized experience.

Flexibility and Variety

On NCL ships like the Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore, you can eat when you want, where you want. With over 20 dining options—including Cagney’s Steakhouse, Le Bistro French Restaurant, and the popular Food Network kitchen—you’ll never run out of choices. The main dining rooms are open for extended hours, and room service is available 24/7.

Entertainment is top-notch, with live music, comedy shows, and even a version of the hit TV show “American Idol.” The Bliss also features a go-kart track—yes, really—on the top deck, offering a unique way to enjoy the Alaskan scenery.

Alaska Itineraries and Shore Excursions

NCL offers a variety of Alaska routes, including 7-day Inside Passage cruises and 10- to 14-day Gulf itineraries. Their ships often visit less-crowded ports like Icy Strait Point, where you can zip-line through the rainforest or watch brown bears fish for salmon.

Shore excursions range from mild to wild: think whale watching, glacier hiking, and even helicopter tours. NCL also partners with local operators to offer authentic cultural experiences, like visiting a Tlingit village or learning traditional crafts.

Best For

NCL is ideal for travelers who value flexibility, variety, and a lively atmosphere. It’s great for couples, friends, and solo cruisers who want to mix relaxation with fun. Just be aware that the larger ships can feel crowded during peak times, and the focus is more on entertainment than quiet nature immersion.

Expedition Cruises: Intimate and Immersive

For travelers who want to get up close and personal with Alaska’s wilderness, expedition cruises offer a completely different experience. These smaller ships carry fewer passengers—often under 200—and focus on wildlife, nature, and adventure.

UnCruise Adventures: Adventure Meets Comfort

UnCruise Adventures specializes in small-ship, activity-based cruising. Their vessels, like the Wilderness Adventurer and Safari Quest, are designed for exploration, with kayaks, paddleboards, and Zodiac boats for shore landings. Naturalists and marine biologists lead excursions, helping you spot sea otters, sea lions, and even orcas.

Onboard, the vibe is casual and cozy. Meals feature local seafood and Alaskan ingredients, and the focus is on storytelling and connection. It’s not about luxury suites or Broadway shows—it’s about experiencing Alaska in a meaningful way.

Lindblad Expeditions: National Geographic Partnership

Lindblad Expeditions, in partnership with National Geographic, offers some of the most educational and immersive Alaska cruises available. Their ships, like the National Geographic Quest, carry expert photographers, scientists, and historians who enrich every moment.

Guests can participate in citizen science projects, photograph wildlife with pro tips, and explore remote areas like the Tongass National Forest and Glacier Bay. The experience is deeply personal, with small groups and flexible itineraries that adapt to weather and wildlife sightings.

Best For

Expedition cruises are perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and adventurous travelers who want a deeper connection to Alaska. They’re typically more expensive and require a higher tolerance for unpredictability—but the rewards are unmatched.

How to Choose the Best Cruise Line for Alaska

With so many great options, how do you decide? Start by asking yourself a few key questions:

• What’s your budget? Expedition cruises and luxury lines cost more, while mainstream lines like Royal Caribbean and NCL offer more affordable options.
• Who are you traveling with? Families may prefer Royal Caribbean’s activities, while couples might lean toward Holland America or Princess.
• What do you want to see and do? If glaciers and wildlife are your priority, look for lines with strong naturalist programs and longer port stays.
• How important is onboard entertainment? If you love shows and nightlife, NCL or Royal Caribbean might be best. If you prefer quiet relaxation, Holland America or an expedition cruise could be better.
• Do you value flexibility? NCL’s freestyle cruising lets you dine and explore on your own schedule, while other lines have more structured routines.

Also consider the time of year. June through August offers the best weather and longest days, but it’s also the busiest and most expensive. May and September are quieter and cheaper, with cooler temps and fewer crowds—but some excursions may be limited.

Final Tips for Your Alaskan Cruise

No matter which cruise line you choose, a few tips can make your trip even better:

• Pack layers. Weather in Alaska is unpredictable. Bring a waterproof jacket, warm layers, gloves, and sturdy shoes for shore excursions.
• Book excursions early. Popular tours like dog sledding and flightseeing sell out fast, especially on peak-season cruises.
• Bring binoculars. You’ll want them for spotting whales, bears, and eagles from the deck.
• Try the local food. Don’t miss out on fresh salmon, king crab, and reindeer sausage—many lines serve these onboard.
• Respect the environment. Alaska’s ecosystems are fragile. Follow guidelines, stay on marked trails, and never feed wildlife.

Choosing the best cruise line for Alaska is about matching your travel style with the right experience. Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of Holland America, the scenic beauty of Princess, the family fun of Royal Caribbean, the flexibility of NCL, or the adventure of an expedition cruise, Alaska will leave you in awe. With its glaciers, wildlife, and wild landscapes, it’s a destination that deserves to be explored—and a cruise is one of the best ways to do it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to cruise to Alaska?

The best time to cruise to Alaska is from June to August, when the weather is warmest, daylight is longest, and wildlife is most active. May and September offer fewer crowds and lower prices, but some excursions may be limited.

Which cruise line visits Glacier Bay National Park?

Princess Cruises and Holland America Line both offer guaranteed visits to Glacier Bay National Park, with expert naturalists providing commentary during the scenic cruise.

Are Alaska cruises family-friendly?

Yes, many cruise lines like Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line offer family-friendly amenities, kids’ clubs, and exciting shore excursions that appeal to all ages.

Do I need a passport for an Alaska cruise?

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

Can I see whales on an Alaska cruise?

Yes, whale watching is one of the top experiences on an Alaska cruise. Humpback, orca, and gray whales are commonly spotted, especially near Juneau and Icy Strait Point.

What should I pack for an Alaska cruise?

Pack layers, including a waterproof jacket, warm sweaters, gloves, and comfortable walking shoes. Don’t forget binoculars, sunscreen, and a camera for wildlife and scenery.