Which Cruise Line Is the Best to Alaska

Choosing the best cruise line to Alaska depends on your travel style, budget, and must-see experiences. Whether you crave luxury, family fun, or rugged adventure, this guide breaks down the top cruise lines—from Holland America’s scenic focus to Royal Caribbean’s action-packed itineraries—so you can pick the perfect voyage for your Alaskan dream trip.

Dreaming of towering glaciers, breaching whales, and snow-capped peaks? An Alaska cruise is one of the most unforgettable ways to experience the Last Frontier. But with so many cruise lines sailing to Alaska—each offering different itineraries, ships, and onboard experiences—how do you choose the best one?

The truth is, there’s no single “best” cruise line to Alaska. The right choice depends on what you value most: Are you looking for luxury and fine dining? Family-friendly activities and entertainment? Or perhaps a rugged, nature-focused adventure with expert guides? From massive floating resorts to intimate expedition vessels, Alaska’s cruise offerings are as diverse as its landscapes.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top cruise lines sailing to Alaska in 2024, comparing their strengths, itineraries, onboard experiences, and value. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, you’ll find practical tips and insider insights to help you pick the perfect voyage. So grab your parka, pack your camera, and let’s dive into which cruise line is the best to Alaska—for you.

Key Takeaways

• Holland America Line excels in scenic cruising and port-rich itineraries, ideal for travelers who want to see more of Alaska’s coastline and wildlife.
• Princess Cruises offers a balanced mix of comfort, education, and access to iconic destinations like Glacier Bay National Park.
• Royal Caribbean is best for families and active travelers, with onboard thrills and longer stays in ports like Juneau and Ketchikan.
• Celebrity Cruises provides a modern, upscale experience with gourmet dining and stylish staterooms, perfect for couples or luxury seekers.
• Smaller expedition lines like UnCruise Adventures deliver intimate, immersive experiences with Zodiac landings and expert naturalists—ideal for nature lovers.
• Budget-conscious travelers should consider Norwegian Cruise Line for flexible dining and entertainment at a lower price point.
• Timing matters: May through September offers the best weather, wildlife sightings, and glacier views—book early for peak season.

Why Alaska? The Case for a Cruise Adventure

Alaska isn’t just a destination—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. With over 6,600 miles of coastline, pristine wilderness, and abundant wildlife, the state offers a level of natural beauty that’s hard to match. A cruise is one of the most efficient and scenic ways to explore it. You’ll glide past icy fjords, witness calving glaciers, and dock in charming coastal towns—all while enjoying the comfort of a floating hotel.

One of the biggest advantages of an Alaska cruise is access. Many of the most stunning sights—like Glacier Bay, Tracy Arm Fjord, and Hubbard Glacier—are only reachable by boat. Cruises also allow you to visit multiple ports in a single trip, from the bustling streets of Juneau to the quiet charm of Sitka. Plus, you only unpack once, making it a stress-free way to see a lot in a short time.

But not all cruises are created equal. The ship you choose will shape your entire experience. Some lines prioritize scenic cruising with large windows and open decks. Others focus on onboard entertainment, dining, or family activities. And a few specialize in small-group, expedition-style adventures with expert naturalists and Zodiac landings. Understanding these differences is key to finding the best cruise line to Alaska for your travel style.

Top Cruise Lines to Alaska: A Head-to-Head Comparison

With so many options, it helps to break down the top contenders. Below, we’ll compare the most popular cruise lines sailing to Alaska, highlighting what makes each one unique.

Holland America Line: The Scenic Specialist

If you’re all about the views, Holland America Line (HAL) is a top pick. Known for its elegant, mid-sized ships and port-rich itineraries, HAL spends more time in scenic cruising areas than many competitors. Their ships often sail through narrow channels like the Inside Passage, offering unobstructed views of snow-capped mountains, waterfalls, and wildlife.

HAL’s Alaska cruises typically include Glacier Bay National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and multiple stops in ports like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway. They also offer extended stays in some ports, giving you more time to explore. Onboard, you’ll find a refined atmosphere with live music, cooking demonstrations, and enrichment programs led by Alaskan naturalists.

One standout feature is the “Alaska Cruise Tour” option, which combines a cruise with a land tour to Denali National Park or Fairbanks. This is perfect for travelers who want to see both coastal and inland Alaska. HAL’s ships, like the ms Nieuw Amsterdam and ms Volendam, are well-maintained and offer spacious staterooms, though they’re not as flashy as some newer vessels.

Best for: Travelers who prioritize scenery, port time, and a relaxed, classic cruising experience.

Princess Cruises: The Balanced Choice

Princess Cruises strikes a great balance between comfort, education, and access to Alaska’s highlights. Their ships, like the Grand Princess and Ruby Princess, are large enough to offer plenty of amenities—multiple dining venues, theaters, and pools—but still designed to maximize scenic views.

One of Princess’s biggest strengths is their partnership with the National Park Service. They’re one of the few lines with a permit to enter Glacier Bay, and their onboard naturalists provide insightful commentary during scenic cruising. They also offer “North to Alaska” programming, including cooking classes, wildlife talks, and local music performances.

Princess itineraries often include a mix of popular ports and lesser-known gems. For example, you might visit Juneau for whale watching, Skagway for a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route railway, and Ketchikan for a cultural tour of Totem Bight. They also offer land-and-sea packages, allowing you to extend your trip with a visit to Denali or Anchorage.

Best for: First-time cruisers and families who want a mix of comfort, education, and adventure.

Royal Caribbean: Fun for the Whole Family

If you’re traveling with kids or love high-energy activities, Royal Caribbean is hard to beat. Their ships—like the Ovation of the Seas and Radiance of the Seas—are floating resorts with rock climbing walls, surf simulators, ice skating rinks, and Broadway-style shows.

While Royal Caribbean’s Alaska itineraries are similar to other lines in terms of ports, they often include longer stays in key destinations. For example, you might spend a full day in Juneau, giving you time for a whale-watching tour, a visit to Mendenhall Glacier, or even a helicopter ride over the ice fields.

Onboard, the focus is on fun and flexibility. There are multiple dining options, including specialty restaurants, and a wide range of activities for all ages. The ships are also equipped with large windows and open decks, so you won’t miss the scenery. However, because the ships are larger, they may not enter some of the narrower fjords that smaller vessels can access.

Best for: Families, multigenerational groups, and travelers who want nonstop entertainment.

Celebrity Cruises: Upscale and Modern

For a more refined experience, Celebrity Cruises offers a sleek, contemporary vibe with a focus on design, cuisine, and service. Their Edge-class ships, like the Celebrity Edge, feature innovative features like the Magic Carpet—a moving platform that serves as a restaurant, bar, and embarkation station.

Celebrity’s Alaska cruises emphasize comfort and style. Staterooms are spacious and modern, with floor-to-ceiling windows in many cabins. Dining is a highlight, with menus crafted by award-winning chefs and a strong focus on fresh, local Alaskan seafood.

While Celebrity ships are large, they’re designed to enhance the scenic experience. The Retreat Sundeck on Edge-class ships offers a private outdoor space for suite guests, and the ships spend ample time in scenic cruising areas. Itineraries include Glacier Bay, Hubbard Glacier, and ports like Juneau and Ketchikan.

Best for: Couples, luxury seekers, and travelers who appreciate fine dining and modern design.

UnCruise Adventures: The Intimate Expedition

If you’re looking for a truly immersive Alaska experience, consider UnCruise Adventures. These small ships—some as intimate as 22 passengers—focus on adventure, wildlife, and hands-on exploration.

UnCruise itineraries often include Zodiac landings, kayaking, hiking, and guided wildlife tours. You might paddle alongside sea lions, hike through temperate rainforests, or watch brown bears fishing for salmon. Naturalists and expedition leaders are on board to provide expert insights, and the small group size allows for personalized attention.

Because the ships are small, they can access remote areas that larger vessels can’t reach. For example, you might cruise through the pristine waters of the Tongass National Forest or explore the quiet inlets of the Inside Passage. Accommodations are cozy and functional, with an emphasis on comfort over luxury.

Best for: Nature lovers, adventure seekers, and travelers who prefer small-group experiences.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Flexibility and Value

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is known for its “Freestyle Cruising” concept—no fixed dining times, no formal dress codes, and a wide range of activities. This makes it a great choice for travelers who want flexibility and value.

NCL’s Alaska ships, like the Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore, are large and packed with amenities. You’ll find multiple dining venues, comedy clubs, water slides, and even go-kart tracks. The ships also feature large windows and open decks for scenic cruising.

Itineraries typically include Glacier Bay, Hubbard Glacier, and ports like Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan. NCL often offers longer stays in ports, giving you more time to explore. They also have a strong focus on local experiences, with shore excursions that range from dog sledding on a glacier to gold panning in Skagway.

Best for: Budget-conscious travelers, solo cruisers, and those who want a relaxed, no-rules atmosphere.

Choosing the Right Itinerary: Inside Passage vs. Gulf of Alaska

When comparing cruise lines, it’s also important to consider the type of itinerary. Most Alaska cruises fall into one of two categories: Inside Passage or Gulf of Alaska.

Inside Passage Cruises

These are the most popular Alaska cruises, typically departing from Seattle or Vancouver and sailing along the protected waterways of the Inside Passage. You’ll visit ports like Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway, with scenic cruising through narrow channels and fjords.

Inside Passage itineraries are great for first-time cruisers because they’re relatively calm and offer a mix of wildlife, culture, and scenery. However, they may not include Glacier Bay or Hubbard Glacier, which are located further north.

Gulf of Alaska Cruises

These longer itineraries often start or end in Seward or Whittier (near Anchorage) and include a transit through the Gulf of Alaska. You’ll visit ports like Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway, but also spend time in scenic areas like Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier.

Gulf of Alaska cruises offer a more comprehensive Alaska experience, with greater exposure to glaciers and wildlife. However, they’re typically longer (7–14 days) and may require a flight to or from Alaska.

Onboard Experience: What to Expect

Beyond the itinerary, the onboard experience can make or break your cruise. Here’s what to consider:

Dining

Most cruise lines offer a mix of complimentary and specialty dining. Holland America and Celebrity are known for their high-quality cuisine, while Royal Caribbean and NCL offer more variety and casual options. UnCruise focuses on locally sourced, simple meals that complement the adventure vibe.

Entertainment

Large ships like those from Royal Caribbean and NCL have Broadway-style shows, live music, and comedy clubs. Smaller lines like UnCruise and HAL focus on enrichment programs, wildlife talks, and local performances.

Cabin Comfort

If you plan to spend a lot of time in your room, look for ships with large windows or balconies. Celebrity and Princess offer some of the best staterooms, while UnCruise cabins are more basic but functional.

Family-Friendly Features

Royal Caribbean and NCL are best for families, with kids’ clubs, water parks, and teen lounges. HAL and Celebrity are more adult-oriented, though they do offer some family activities.

Shore Excursions: Making the Most of Port Time

Shore excursions are a big part of the Alaska experience. Most cruise lines offer a wide range of options, from wildlife tours to cultural experiences. Here are a few popular ones:

• Whale Watching in Juneau: Spot humpback whales, orcas, and sea lions on a boat tour.
• Mendenhall Glacier Hike: Walk on ancient ice or take a guided tour of the visitor center.
• White Pass & Yukon Route Railway: Ride a historic steam train through the mountains near Skagway.
• Dog Sledding on a Glacier: Experience mushing on a glacier near Juneau or Skagway.
• Totem Bight State Historical Park: Learn about Native Alaskan culture in Ketchikan.

Booking excursions through your cruise line is convenient, but they can be pricey. Consider researching third-party operators for potentially lower prices and more flexibility.

When to Go: Timing Your Alaska Cruise

The Alaska cruise season runs from May to September, with peak months in June, July, and August. Here’s what to expect:

• May: Fewer crowds, lower prices, and early-season wildlife. Some ports may still be closed.
• June–August: Best weather, longest days, and peak wildlife activity. Book early—these months sell out fast.
• September: Cooler temperatures, fall colors, and fewer tourists. Some excursions may be limited.

No matter when you go, pack layers—Alaska weather can change quickly, even in summer.

Final Tips for Choosing the Best Cruise Line to Alaska

To sum it up, here’s how to pick the right cruise line:

• Prioritize scenery? Choose Holland America or UnCruise.
• Want family fun? Go with Royal Caribbean or NCL.
• Seeking luxury? Try Celebrity or Princess.
• Love adventure? Book with UnCruise or a small expedition line.
• On a budget? Consider NCL or look for last-minute deals.

Remember, the best cruise line to Alaska is the one that matches your travel style, budget, and must-see experiences. Do your research, read reviews, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. With the right choice, your Alaskan cruise will be an adventure you’ll never forget.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

Do all Alaska cruises visit Glacier Bay?

No, not all cruises visit Glacier Bay National Park. Only a limited number of ships are permitted each day, and lines like Holland America, Princess, and Celebrity typically include it. Check your itinerary before booking.

Are Alaska cruises family-friendly?

Yes, many Alaska cruises are family-friendly, especially those offered by Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line, which feature kids’ clubs, water parks, and family activities. Smaller lines like UnCruise are better suited for older children and adults.

How much do shore excursions cost?

Shore excursions in Alaska typically range from $50 to $300 per person, depending on the activity. Popular options like dog sledding or helicopter tours can cost $200 or more. Booking in advance or through third-party operators may save money.

Can I see wildlife on an Alaska cruise?

Yes, wildlife sightings are common on Alaska cruises. You may see whales, sea lions, bears, eagles, and more—especially during scenic cruising or on guided excursions. Bring binoculars and a camera for the best experience.

What should I pack for an Alaska cruise?

Pack layers, including a waterproof jacket, warm sweater, gloves, and comfortable walking shoes. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat—even in summer, the sun can be strong. A camera and binoculars are also essential.