Which Cruise Lines Can Go to Glacier Bay Explore the Best Options

Only a select few cruise lines are permitted to sail into Glacier Bay National Park, with Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line leading the way thanks to federal concessions and sustainable practices. These operators offer immersive itineraries that highlight the park’s glaciers, wildlife, and protected waters—making them the top choices for an unforgettable Alaskan adventure.

Key Takeaways

• Only 26 ships are permitted to enter Glacier Bay National Park annually—book early.
• Carnival and Princess offer frequent Glacier Bay itineraries with expert naturalist guides onboard.
• Small ships like Lindblad provide immersive, up-close glacier experiences with flexible routes.
• National Park Service rangers join select cruise ships to enhance educational value and compliance.
• Choose 7-day+ Alaska cruises to maximize chances of Glacier Bay access and scenic stops.
• Holland America and Norwegian sail Glacier Bay routes, but availability varies by season.

Why Glacier Bay Is a Must-Visit Destination on Your Cruise Bucket List

Imagine waking up to a panorama of towering, ancient glaciers calving into the sea, surrounded by snow-dusted peaks and lush rainforests. This isn’t a scene from a nature documentary—it’s the breathtaking reality of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve in Southeast Alaska. As one of the most pristine and awe-inspiring wilderness areas in the world, Glacier Bay offers a rare opportunity to witness dynamic glacial activity, abundant wildlife, and untouched landscapes. For many travelers, a cruise to this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, combining adventure, education, and natural beauty.

But not all cruise lines can enter Glacier Bay. Due to strict environmental regulations and limited daily permits, only a select number of vessels are granted access each year. These regulations are in place to preserve the park’s fragile ecosystem and minimize the impact of tourism. As a result, choosing the right cruise line isn’t just about comfort or itinerary—it’s about ensuring you’re on one of the few ships legally allowed to enter this protected sanctuary. In this guide, we’ll explore which cruise lines can go to Glacier Bay, what makes each unique, and how to plan your perfect Alaskan cruise to this iconic destination.

Understanding Glacier Bay Access: Permits, Regulations, and Why It Matters

The National Park Service Permit System

Glacier Bay National Park is managed by the U.S. National Park Service (NPS), which enforces a strict permit system to control the number of cruise ships entering the bay each day. The park operates under a quota system designed to balance visitor access with environmental protection. During the peak season (May through September), only two large cruise ships are allowed to enter Glacier Bay per day. This means that out of the dozens of cruise lines offering Alaska itineraries, only a handful actually sail into the bay itself.

Each cruise line must apply for and obtain a Commercial Passenger Vessel Permit (CPVP) from the NPS. These permits are highly competitive and awarded based on a combination of factors, including the line’s environmental stewardship, onboard naturalist programs, and compliance with park regulations. The permit also includes specific routing, timing, and educational requirements—ships must follow designated navigation corridors and include at least one certified park ranger on board during the Glacier Bay segment of the voyage.

Why Only Certain Cruise Lines Qualify

Not all cruise lines meet the rigorous standards required for Glacier Bay access. The NPS prioritizes operators who demonstrate a commitment to sustainability, education, and minimal environmental impact. For example, vessels must have advanced wastewater treatment systems, use low-sulfur fuel, and participate in the park’s Naturalist Program, which includes onboard interpretive lectures and guided excursions.

Additionally, the ship size matters. While larger ships (typically 1,000+ passengers) are permitted under the daily quota, smaller expedition-style vessels often receive priority for certain days or routes due to their lower environmental footprint. This is why you’ll see a mix of large mainstream lines and smaller, more eco-conscious operators among those granted access.

Practical Tip: Book Early

Because of the limited number of permits, Glacier Bay cruises sell out months in advance, sometimes over a year ahead. If Glacier Bay is a must-see for you, book your cruise as early as possible—preferably during the cruise line’s “early bird” or “wave season” promotions (typically January–March). Also, consider booking a cruise that includes Glacier Bay as a dedicated port day rather than a scenic sailing, as this ensures you’ll spend several hours inside the park with ranger-led activities.

Top Cruise Lines That Sail to Glacier Bay: A Detailed Comparison

1. Princess Cruises – The Market Leader in Glacier Bay Access

Princess Cruises holds the largest number of Glacier Bay permits annually and is widely recognized as the most experienced operator in the region. With a fleet of over 15 ships, Princess operates several vessels that regularly sail into Glacier Bay, including the Ruby Princess, Emerald Princess, and Discovery Princess. Their “North to Alaska” program is a hallmark of the experience, featuring onboard naturalists, cultural performances, and themed activities.

Princess offers both 7-day and 14-day itineraries, with Glacier Bay typically included as a full-day stop on round-trip voyages from Seattle or Vancouver. A standout feature is their Glacier Bay Overnight option, where the ship remains anchored in the bay overnight, allowing for sunrise and evening wildlife viewing. The onboard Park Rangers provide daily lectures and guided kayak excursions (weather permitting), enhancing the educational value of the visit.

2. Holland America Line – Heritage and Expertise in Alaskan Waters

With over 150 years of experience in Alaskan cruising, Holland America Line is another top contender for Glacier Bay access. Their ships, such as the Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, and Noordam, are frequent visitors to the park. Holland America emphasizes a more refined, educational approach, with a strong focus on cultural immersion and sustainability.

One unique offering is their “Alaska Up Close” program, which includes onboard lectures by park rangers, indigenous cultural presentations, and shore excursions like guided hikes and whale-watching tours. Holland America also partners with the NPS to support conservation efforts, such as beach cleanups and wildlife monitoring. Their Glacier Bay itineraries often include a scenic cruise past the Margerie and Grand Pacific Glaciers, with narration from the onboard naturalist.

3. Celebrity Cruises – Modern Luxury Meets Wilderness Adventure

Celebrity Cruises brings a contemporary, upscale twist to the Glacier Bay experience. Ships like the Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Eclipse feature modern design, gourmet dining, and high-tech amenities, all while maintaining the necessary environmental certifications for park access. Celebrity is part of the Royal Caribbean Group, which has invested heavily in sustainability initiatives, including LNG-powered ships and advanced water treatment systems.

Celebrity’s Glacier Bay itineraries are typically 7- to 10-day round-trips from Vancouver, with a full day dedicated to the park. Their “Behind the Scenes” tour allows guests to meet the onboard park ranger, learn about the permit process, and even participate in a citizen science project like bird counting. The line also offers premium excursions, such as private kayaking with a guide or helicopter glacier landings.

4. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) – Flexible Itineraries with Glacier Bay Access

While Norwegian Cruise Line is known for its “Freestyle Cruising” concept—flexible dining, no formal nights, and a wide range of activities—it also holds Glacier Bay permits for select ships. The Norwegian Jewel and Norwegian Bliss are the primary vessels that sail into the park, usually on 7-day itineraries from Seattle or Vancouver.

NCL’s strength lies in its variety of onboard entertainment, from Broadway-style shows to outdoor movie screenings. For Glacier Bay, they offer a “Glacier Bay Experience” package that includes a ranger-led lecture, a scenic cruise, and a complimentary wildlife guidebook. While NCL’s focus is less on education and more on recreation, their Glacier Bay days are still packed with opportunities to see glaciers, whales, and bears—especially during the afternoon wildlife cruise.

5. Small-Ship Operators: UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions

For travelers seeking a more intimate, immersive experience, small-ship operators like UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions offer a different kind of Glacier Bay adventure. These companies operate vessels with 20–84 passengers, allowing for greater flexibility and access to areas larger ships can’t reach.

UnCruise Adventures uses eco-friendly, expedition-style yachts that spend multiple days in Glacier Bay. Their itineraries include guided kayaking, paddleboarding, and hiking excursions, all led by naturalists and Alaskan guides. Because of their small size, UnCruise ships often receive priority permits and can anchor in secluded coves for wildlife viewing.

Lindblad Expeditions, in partnership with National Geographic, offers a science-focused experience. Their ships, such as the National Geographic Quest, carry a team of experts—marine biologists, glaciologists, and photographers—who lead daily excursions and workshops. Lindblad also uses hydrophones to listen to whale calls and deploys remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) to explore underwater glacial formations.

What to Expect During Your Glacier Bay Cruise Day

Scenic Navigation and Glacier Viewing

Most Glacier Bay cruises begin early in the morning, with the ship entering the park around 6:00–7:00 AM. The journey starts at the Glacier Bay entrance, where the captain announces the first sightings of icebergs and seals. As the ship navigates deeper into the bay, guests gather on deck to watch the Margerie Glacier, one of the park’s most active tidewater glaciers.

The ship will typically stop within 1,000 feet of the glacier face, allowing for close-up views of calving events—when massive chunks of ice break off and crash into the water. This is one of the most dramatic moments of the day and is often accompanied by narration from the onboard park ranger. The Grand Pacific Glacier, located nearby, is also a highlight, especially for its dark, debris-covered surface.

Wildlife Encounters: Whales, Bears, and More

Glacier Bay is home to a diverse array of wildlife, and your cruise day offers excellent chances to spot animals in their natural habitat. Humpback whales are frequently seen breaching or feeding in the nutrient-rich waters, especially in the lower bay. Steller sea lions and harbor seals often bask on ice floes, while bald eagles soar overhead.

For land-based wildlife, the park rangers may point out brown bears foraging on the shoreline or mountain goats perched on rocky cliffs. Binoculars and a good camera are essential—many cruise lines offer loaner gear or host photography workshops. Some ships even have spotting scopes on deck for long-distance viewing.

Onboard Ranger Program and Educational Activities

During your Glacier Bay day, the onboard National Park Ranger will host several activities to enhance your understanding of the park. These may include:

• Morning lecture: Overview of Glacier Bay’s geology, climate, and conservation efforts.
• Glacier talk: In-depth discussion of glacial movement, calving, and climate change impacts.
• Wildlife bingo: A fun game to identify species seen during the day.
• Junior Ranger program: For kids, with activities, badges, and a certificate.

Many cruise lines also offer documentary screenings in the theater, such as National Geographic’s “Glacier Bay” or BBC’s “Planet Earth” Alaskan episodes. These provide context and deepen the experience for guests.

Optional Excursions and Active Adventures

While most of the day is spent on the ship, some cruise lines offer shore excursions or small-boat tours for a more immersive experience. Examples include:

• Kayaking: Paddle among icebergs with a guide (available on UnCruise, Lindblad, and select Princess itineraries).
• Whale-watching zodiac tour: Get closer to humpbacks in a rigid-hull inflatable boat.
• Helicopter glacier landing: Fly over the park and walk on a glacier (offered by Celebrity and NCL as a premium add-on).
• Beach walk: Explore a remote shoreline with a ranger (available on small-ship cruises).

Choosing the Right Cruise Line for Your Glacier Bay Adventure

Family-Friendly Options: Princess and NCL

If you’re traveling with kids or multi-generational groups, Princess Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line are excellent choices. Both offer extensive youth programs, family cabins, and a variety of onboard activities that keep everyone entertained. Princess’s “Discovery at SEA” program includes hands-on science experiments, while NCL’s “Splash Academy” provides supervised kids’ activities.

Princess also has a Junior Ranger program in Glacier Bay, complete with a workbook, badge, and certificate. NCL’s flexible dining means you can eat when it’s convenient, even after a long day of glacier viewing.

Luxury and Education: Holland America and Celebrity

For travelers who value comfort, fine dining, and intellectual enrichment, Holland America and Celebrity stand out. Holland America’s mid-sized ships offer a more intimate atmosphere, with spacious staterooms and elegant public areas. Their onboard enrichment programs include guest speakers, cooking demos, and wine tastings with Alaskan themes.

Celebrity’s Oceanview staterooms and infinity verandas provide stunning views of the bay, while their Eden venue offers immersive dining experiences. Both lines emphasize sustainability, with Holland America using 100% renewable energy for onboard operations and Celebrity investing in carbon offset programs.

Adventure and Immersion: UnCruise and Lindblad

If your priority is authentic, active exploration, consider a small-ship cruise. UnCruise Adventures is ideal for active travelers who want to kayak, hike, and paddleboard in Glacier Bay. Their all-inclusive packages cover meals, excursions, and gear, making it easy to focus on the experience.

Lindblad Expeditions is perfect for science-minded travelers. With National Geographic photographers and scientists on board, you’ll gain deep insights into the park’s ecosystems. Their itineraries often include citizen science projects, such as monitoring plankton or recording bird calls.

Budget vs. Premium: Balancing Cost and Experience

Glacier Bay cruises range from $1,500 to $5,000+ per person for a 7-day itinerary. Mainstream lines like NCL and Princess offer the best value, with frequent sales and inclusive perks. For a premium experience, Celebrity and Holland America provide more personalized service and higher-end amenities.

Small-ship cruises are the most expensive (often $6,000+ per person) but offer unparalleled access and exclusivity. Consider booking during shoulder seasons (May or September) for lower prices and fewer crowds.

Data Table: Comparison of Cruise Lines with Glacier Bay Access

Cruise Line	Ship Examples	Ship Size (Passengers)	Glacier Bay Permits	Key Features	Best For
Princess Cruises	Ruby Princess, Discovery Princess	2,600–3,600	High (largest allocation)	Junior Ranger program, overnight stays, themed activities	Families, first-time cruisers
Holland America Line	Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam	2,000–2,600	High	Alaska Up Close program, cultural immersion, sustainability	Educated travelers, couples
Celebrity Cruises	Celebrity Solstice, Eclipse	2,800–3,200	Medium	Luxury amenities, science partnerships, helicopter tours	Upscale travelers, foodies
Norwegian Cruise Line	Norwegian Bliss, Jewel	2,400–4,000	Medium	Freestyle dining, entertainment, flexible itineraries	Young travelers, groups
UnCruise Adventures	Wilderness Explorer, Safari Endeavour	20–84	High (priority for small ships)	Kayaking, hiking, all-inclusive excursions	Adventure seekers, nature lovers
Lindblad Expeditions	National Geographic Quest, Venture	60–100	High	Science experts, ROVs, National Geographic partnership	Scientists, photographers, eco-tourists

Final Tips for Planning Your Glacier Bay Cruise

Choosing a cruise to Glacier Bay is about more than just the destination—it’s about finding the right fit for your travel style, budget, and interests. Whether you’re drawn to the educational rigor of Lindblad, the family fun of Princess, or the adventure of UnCruise, each line offers a unique lens through which to experience this majestic wilderness.

Remember to book early, pack layers (it’s cold and rainy, even in summer), and bring a good camera with a zoom lens. Take advantage of the onboard ranger programs—they’re included in your fare and provide invaluable context. And most importantly, be present. The sounds of calving glaciers, the sight of a whale breaching, and the silence of the bay at dawn are experiences that stay with you long after the cruise ends.

Glacier Bay isn’t just a stop on an itinerary—it’s a living, breathing ecosystem shaped by ice and time. By choosing one of the cruise lines that can go to Glacier Bay, you’re not just witnessing a natural wonder; you’re supporting its preservation for generations to come. So set your course for the bay, and prepare for the journey of a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines can go to Glacier Bay National Park?

Major cruise lines like Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Celebrity Cruises offer itineraries that include Glacier Bay. These lines operate ships permitted by the National Park Service to navigate this protected area, ensuring an eco-friendly visit.

Do all Alaska cruise lines visit Glacier Bay?

Not all Alaska cruises include Glacier Bay—only ships with National Park Service permits can enter. Lines like Royal Caribbean and Disney Cruise Line typically visit Tracy Arm or Hubbard Glacier instead, so check your itinerary carefully.

Which cruise lines offer the best Glacier Bay experiences?

Holland America and Princess Cruises are top choices for Glacier Bay, thanks to their smaller ships, expert naturalists, and extended park stops. Both lines emphasize educational programming about the glaciers and wildlife you’ll encounter.

Can luxury cruise lines access Glacier Bay?

Yes, luxury lines like Seabourn, Silversea, and Regent Seven Seas include Glacier Bay in their Alaska itineraries. Their smaller, high-end ships provide exclusive access with fewer crowds and premium onboard commentary.

Are there budget-friendly cruise lines that visit Glacier Bay?

Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line offer more affordable options with Glacier Bay stops, though their larger ships may spend less time in the park. Look for 7-day itineraries from Seattle or Vancouver for the best value.

How do I choose a cruise line for Glacier Bay exploration?

Prioritize lines with National Park Service permits, longer park visits, and onboard naturalists. Glacier Bay-focused itineraries (e.g., 7+ days) with Holland America or Princess often provide the most immersive experience.