Which Cruise Lines Can Go Into Glacier Bay Explore Now

Only a select few cruise lines are permitted to enter Glacier Bay National Park, including major players like Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line. These operators offer exclusive, eco-conscious voyages that comply with strict park regulations, ensuring unforgettable views of glaciers, wildlife, and pristine landscapes—book early, as access is limited to protect this fragile ecosystem.

Key Takeaways

• Only 26 ships are permitted to enter Glacier Bay daily—book early.
• Princess Cruises offers the most frequent Glacier Bay itineraries.
• Holland America provides expert naturalist guides onboard all Glacier Bay sailings.
• Small-ship lines like UnCruise deliver intimate, up-close glacier experiences.
• National Park permits are mandatory—verify your cruise has approval.
• Summer months (May–Sept) are the only time Glacier Bay is accessible.

Which Cruise Lines Can Go Into Glacier Bay? Explore Now

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, located in southeastern Alaska, is one of the most awe-inspiring destinations on Earth. With its towering ice-capped peaks, thundering glaciers, abundant wildlife, and pristine waters, it offers an unparalleled experience for travelers seeking adventure and natural beauty. But getting into Glacier Bay isn’t as simple as boarding just any cruise ship. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a protected area, which means strict regulations govern which vessels are allowed to enter and how often. If you’re dreaming of sailing through this icy wonderland, the first question you need to answer is: Which cruise lines can go into Glacier Bay?

This comprehensive guide dives deep into the cruise lines permitted to operate within Glacier Bay, the regulations that shape these voyages, and the unique experiences each company offers. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler planning your next Alaskan expedition, understanding the nuances of Glacier Bay access is key to choosing the right cruise. From major players like Princess Cruises and Holland America Line to small-ship operators like Lindblad Expeditions and UnCruise Adventures, we’ll explore the options, itineraries, and insider tips to help you make an informed decision. So, if you’re ready to explore the icy majesty of Glacier Bay, read on to discover which cruise lines can take you there—and how to make the most of your journey.

Why Glacier Bay Is So Special—And Why Access Is Limited

Before we explore which cruise lines can enter Glacier Bay, it’s essential to understand why access is so tightly controlled. Located in the heart of the Alaskan Panhandle, Glacier Bay spans over 3.3 million acres and includes some of the most rapidly changing glacial landscapes on the planet. The park is home to 16 active tidewater glaciers, including the famous Margerie and Grand Pacific Glaciers, which regularly calve massive icebergs into the bay. It’s also a critical habitat for humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, seals, and a wide variety of seabirds.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site

In 1979, Glacier Bay was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its outstanding natural values. The designation recognizes the park’s role in advancing scientific understanding of glacial dynamics, climate change, and ecosystem recovery. As part of this global recognition, the National Park Service (NPS) collaborates with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) to maintain the integrity of the area. This includes strict limits on human impact, especially from tourism.

Regulations Governing Ship Access

The NPS manages Glacier Bay through a permit system that limits the number of ships allowed in the park each day and each season. Currently, only 135 cruise ship permits are issued annually, with no more than two ships per day permitted to enter the bay. These permits are allocated through a competitive process, and only vessels that meet specific criteria—such as size, environmental compliance, and interpretive programming—are eligible.

• Ship size: Vessels must be under 1,000 feet in length.
• Passenger capacity: Ships must carry fewer than 2,000 passengers.
• Environmental compliance: All ships must adhere to strict waste and emissions standards.
• Park Service naturalists: Each ship must carry at least one NPS-certified naturalist onboard during Glacier Bay visits.

These rules ensure that the park remains protected while still offering visitors the chance to witness its breathtaking beauty. The limited access also means that not all cruise lines can or do enter Glacier Bay—only those with permits and a commitment to sustainable tourism.

Major Cruise Lines with Glacier Bay Access Permits

Several major cruise lines have secured the necessary permits to operate in Glacier Bay, offering a range of itineraries that include full-day or multi-day visits to the park. These lines typically operate large ships (up to 1,000 feet) and focus on comfort, onboard entertainment, and scenic cruising. Below are the most prominent cruise lines that can take you into Glacier Bay.

Princess Cruises: The Pioneer of Alaskan Cruising

Princess Cruises is one of the most recognized names in Alaskan cruising, and for good reason. The company has been operating in Alaska since 1965 and holds a significant number of Glacier Bay permits. Their ships, including the Discovery Princess, Enchanted Princess, and Regal Princess, regularly sail 7-night round-trip itineraries from Seattle or Vancouver, with a full-day stop in Glacier Bay.

• Itinerary highlights: Full-day navigation through the bay, ranger-led commentary, whale watching, and glacier viewing from the ship’s decks.
• Onboard experience: Princess’s “Discovery at Sea” program includes naturalist talks, glacier education, and wildlife spotting guides.
• Tip: Book a balcony stateroom—many offer unobstructed views of the glaciers and wildlife.

Princess also partners with the NPS to provide Glacier Bay Explorer excursions, which include a small boat tour for closer glacier viewing (weather and park regulations permitting).

Holland America Line: Tradition and Elegance in the North

Holland America Line has been a staple of Alaskan cruising since the 1940s. Their ships, such as the Koningsdam, Noordam, and Zuiderdam, feature elegant interiors and a strong emphasis on destination immersion. Holland America’s 7- to 14-night itineraries often include a full-day Glacier Bay visit, complete with NPS rangers and expert naturalists.

• Itinerary highlights: Slow, scenic cruising through the bay’s fjords, with opportunities to see calving glaciers up close.
• Onboard experience: The “Explorations Central” program offers lectures, wildlife spotting guides, and cultural presentations.
• Tip: Attend the “Glacier Bay Talk” in the afternoon—it’s often hosted by the onboard ranger and includes real-time updates on wildlife sightings.

Holland America’s ships are known for their slower cruising speed, which allows for better wildlife viewing and a more intimate experience with the glaciers.

Celebrity Cruises: Modern Luxury Meets Nature

Celebrity Cruises, part of the Royal Caribbean Group, offers a more contemporary and upscale Alaskan experience. Their Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Edge ships sail 7-night itineraries from Vancouver or Seattle, with a full-day Glacier Bay visit.

• Itinerary highlights: The ship often navigates close to Margerie Glacier, with panoramic views from the open decks and the “Lawn Club” (a real grass lawn).
• Onboard experience: Celebrity’s “Alaska Explorer” program includes naturalist-led talks, stargazing events, and culinary experiences featuring local Alaskan ingredients.
• Tip: Try the “Glacier Viewing Brunch” on the day of the Glacier Bay visit—it’s served on the open deck with unobstructed views.

Celebrity is one of the few lines that uses hydrophone technology to allow guests to hear underwater sounds, including whale calls, during the Glacier Bay segment.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Flexibility and Variety

Norwegian Cruise Line offers a more flexible “Freestyle Cruising” model, with 7-night Alaskan itineraries on ships like the Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Bliss. These cruises include a full-day Glacier Bay visit, though availability can vary by season due to permit allocation.

• Itinerary highlights: The ship often sails deep into the bay, with stops near the Johns Hopkins Glacier.
• Onboard experience: NCL’s “Alaska Adventure” program includes ranger talks, wildlife bingo, and family-friendly activities.
• Tip: Book early—NCL’s Glacier Bay itineraries sell out quickly, especially in peak season (June–August).

Small-Ship and Expedition Cruise Lines: Intimate Glacier Bay Experiences

For travelers seeking a more intimate, immersive, and eco-conscious experience, small-ship and expedition cruise lines offer a compelling alternative to the larger vessels. These lines typically operate ships with fewer than 200 passengers and focus on adventure, education, and sustainability. While they hold fewer permits than major lines, their access is highly valued due to their low-impact operations.

Lindblad Expeditions: In Partnership with National Geographic

Lindblad Expeditions, in collaboration with National Geographic, is a leader in expedition cruising. Their 10- to 14-day itineraries aboard ships like the National Geographic Quest and National Geographic Venture offer multiple days in Glacier Bay, often including overnight stays.

• Itinerary highlights: Zodiac landings, kayaking, and hiking in designated areas; close-up glacier views; and wildlife tracking with onboard naturalists.
• Onboard experience: The ship carries a full team of scientists, photographers, and naturalists. Daily briefings and photo workshops are offered.
• Tip: Bring binoculars and a good camera—Lindblad’s itineraries maximize wildlife and glacier viewing time.

Lindblad’s ships are equipped with hydrophones, underwater cameras, and a fleet of Zodiacs, allowing for unparalleled access to remote areas of the bay.

UnCruise Adventures: Adventure-First Cruising

UnCruise Adventures operates small, agile ships (22–60 passengers) on 7- to 14-day itineraries. Their Safari Explorer and Wilderness Legacy vessels are designed for adventure, with kayaks, paddleboards, and skiffs available for guest use.

• Itinerary highlights: Multiple days in Glacier Bay, including kayaking among icebergs, hiking on glacial moraines, and whale watching from small boats.
• Onboard experience: All-inclusive pricing, gourmet meals, and an emphasis on sustainability. The crew includes expert naturalists and marine biologists.
• Tip: Choose the “Glacier Bay Explorer” itinerary—it includes 3 full days in the park and a chance to see brown bears in the park’s interior.

UnCruise’s small size allows them to navigate narrower channels and anchor closer to glaciers, offering a more personal connection with the landscape.

Crystal Cruises: Luxury Expedition Style

Crystal Cruises has reentered the Alaskan market with its Crystal Serenity and Crystal Endeavor ships. While not a traditional expedition line, Crystal offers a hybrid experience—luxury accommodations with expedition-level programming.

• Itinerary highlights: 10- to 14-day itineraries with multiple Glacier Bay days, helicopter glacier tours (optional), and expert-led excursions.
• Onboard experience: Michelin-starred dining, spa services, and a full roster of naturalists and scientists.
• Tip: Book a suite with a private veranda—Crystal’s ships offer some of the best viewing spaces in the industry.

How to Choose the Right Cruise for Your Glacier Bay Adventure

With so many options, choosing the right cruise line for your Glacier Bay visit can feel overwhelming. The best choice depends on your travel style, budget, interests, and the type of experience you’re seeking. Below are key factors to consider when making your decision.

Group Size and Crowd Level

Do you prefer a large, lively ship with pools, theaters, and nightlife, or a quiet, intimate vessel with space to breathe? Major lines like Princess and Holland America offer the former, while small-ship lines like Lindblad and UnCruise provide the latter. If you want to avoid crowds, opt for a smaller vessel—even on a large ship, Glacier Bay days are relatively quiet, but the rest of the cruise may not be.

Duration in Glacier Bay

Most major lines offer a full-day visit (6–8 hours in the bay), while expedition lines often include 2–3 days. If you’re passionate about photography, wildlife, or in-depth exploration, a multi-day visit is worth the extra cost. For a scenic overview, a single day may suffice.

Activities and Excursions

Consider what you want to do in Glacier Bay:

• Kayaking or Zodiac tours: Only available on small-ship and expedition lines.
• Helicopter glacier landings: Offered by select luxury lines (e.g., Crystal, Seabourn).
• Onboard education: All lines include naturalist talks, but expedition lines go deeper with scientific programming.
• Wildlife viewing: Smaller ships often have better access to remote areas with higher wildlife density.

Budget and Inclusions

Luxury and expedition lines tend to be more expensive but include more (e.g., gratuities, excursions, premium dining). Mainstream lines offer lower base prices but often charge extra for excursions and drinks. Consider total value, not just the initial fare.

Best Time to Cruise

The Glacier Bay cruise season runs from late May to mid-September. June and July offer the longest daylight hours and the highest chance of wildlife sightings. August has more stable weather, while September offers fewer crowds and fall foliage. Avoid late September, as some lines begin to reduce Glacier Bay visits due to weather and permit availability.

Data Table: Comparison of Cruise Lines with Glacier Bay Access

Cruise Line	Ship Size (Passengers)	Glacier Bay Visit (Days)	Key Activities	Best For	Price Range (7-Night)
Princess Cruises	2,200–3,600	1	Scenic cruising, ranger talks, small boat tours	Families, first-time cruisers	$1,200–$2,500
Holland America Line	1,900–2,600	1	Slow cruising, wildlife viewing, cultural talks	Seniors, couples, traditional cruisers	$1,400–$2,800
Celebrity Cruises	2,800–3,000	1	Panoramic views, hydrophone listening, brunch on deck	Modern luxury seekers	$1,600–$3,200
Lindblad Expeditions	60–100	2–3	Kayaking, Zodiac tours, science programs	Adventurers, nature lovers, photographers	$6,000–$10,000
UnCruise Adventures	22–60	2–3	Kayaking, hiking, wildlife tracking	Eco-travelers, solo adventurers	$5,000–$8,000
Crystal Cruises	700–1,000	1–2	Helicopter tours, luxury dining, expert lectures	Luxury expedition seekers	$7,000–$12,000

Final Thoughts: Making Your Glacier Bay Dream a Reality

Glacier Bay is not just another stop on an Alaskan cruise—it’s a transformative experience. The thunder of a glacier calving, the sight of a humpback whale breaching, the silence of a fjord surrounded by ice—these moments stay with you long after the voyage ends. But to witness this natural wonder, you need to choose a cruise line that not only holds a permit but also shares your values and interests.

Whether you opt for the comfort and convenience of a major line like Princess Cruises or Holland America Line, or the adventure and intimacy of an expedition line like Lindblad or UnCruise, the key is to plan ahead. Permits are limited, and popular itineraries sell out months in advance. Book early, research your options, and consider what kind of traveler you are.

Remember: the best cruise for Glacier Bay is the one that aligns with your expectations, budget, and sense of adventure. With the right choice, you’ll sail into one of the world’s most pristine wildernesses, guided by experts, surrounded by nature, and forever changed by the experience. So, which cruise line will take you into Glacier Bay? The answer is waiting—just beyond the ice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines can go into Glacier Bay National Park?

Major cruise lines like Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line offer itineraries that include Glacier Bay. These companies hold permits to navigate the park’s protected waters, allowing passengers to witness glaciers, wildlife, and stunning fjords.

Do small-ship cruise lines visit Glacier Bay?

Yes, small-ship operators like UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions (with National Geographic) specialize in eco-friendly Glacier Bay voyages. Their smaller vessels can access narrower channels, offering a more intimate experience with the park’s natural wonders.

Can I book a day cruise to Glacier Bay?

Day cruises to Glacier Bay are limited, as most visits require overnight permits. However, some Alaskan tour operators, like Allen Marine, offer day-long excursions from nearby ports like Juneau, focusing on key glacier areas.

Which cruise lines have the best access to Glacier Bay’s glaciers?

Princess Cruises and Holland America Line are known for their prime Glacier Bay itineraries, often spending full days in the park. Their ships follow routes that maximize views of active tidewater glaciers, including Margerie and Johns Hopkins.

Are there luxury cruise lines that visit Glacier Bay?

Luxury options include Seabourn and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, which feature Glacier Bay on select Alaska sailings. These lines emphasize premium amenities, expert naturalist guides, and extended park exploration time.

What’s the best time of year for a Glacier Bay cruise?

Most cruise lines operate in Glacier Bay from May to September, when weather and wildlife viewing are optimal. Peak season (June-August) offers longer daylight hours and higher chances to see calving glaciers and marine animals.