Which Cruise Lines Go Into Glacier Bay Discover the Top Picks

Only a select few cruise lines are permitted to enter Glacier Bay National Park, making access to this pristine Alaskan wilderness both exclusive and highly regulated. Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line lead the pack with approved itineraries that include scenic cruising and expert-led narration inside the park’s icy fjords. Don’t miss your chance to witness towering glaciers and abundant wildlife with these top-tier operators.

Key Takeaways

• Holland America offers immersive Glacier Bay itineraries with expert naturalists onboard.
• Carnival provides budget-friendly options to explore Glacier Bay’s stunning landscapes.
• Princess Cruises features longer stays in Glacier Bay for optimal wildlife viewing.
• Royal Caribbean combines Glacier Bay with Alaska’s top coastal destinations.
• Small-ship lines like Lindblad enable up-close glacier and wildlife encounters.

Why Glacier Bay Should Be on Your Cruise Bucket List

Imagine cruising through a pristine wilderness where towering glaciers crack and thunder into the sea, humpback whales breach in the distance, and bald eagles soar above ancient rainforests. This is Glacier Bay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in southeastern Alaska, where nature unfolds in its rawest, most majestic form. For cruise enthusiasts, Glacier Bay offers an unparalleled blend of adventure, beauty, and tranquility—a rare opportunity to witness one of the world’s most dynamic glacial landscapes up close. But not all cruise lines have access to this protected sanctuary, and knowing which ships sail here is key to planning your dream Alaskan getaway.

Glacier Bay is more than just a scenic stop; it’s a living laboratory of climate change, wildlife migration, and geological evolution. The park spans over 3.3 million acres, with 16 active tidewater glaciers that calve icebergs daily. To preserve its ecological integrity, the National Park Service limits the number of ships allowed to enter the bay each day, making entry a privilege granted to only a select few cruise operators. This exclusivity ensures that your experience remains intimate, uncrowded, and deeply connected to the natural world. In this guide, we’ll explore which cruise lines go into Glacier Bay, the unique itineraries they offer, and how to choose the perfect ship for your adventure.

Which Cruise Lines Are Allowed in Glacier Bay?

The National Park Service Permit System

Access to Glacier Bay National Park is tightly regulated through a permit system managed by the National Park Service (NPS). Only cruise ships holding a valid permit—issued annually based on environmental impact, ship size, and itinerary—are allowed to enter the bay. As of 2024, only 15 cruise lines hold these permits, and the number of daily entries is capped at two large ships (over 10,000 gross tons) and two small ships (under 10,000 tons). This system ensures minimal disruption to wildlife and preserves the park’s fragile ecosystems.

Permits are awarded through a competitive application process, with priority given to lines that demonstrate strong sustainability practices, educational programming, and partnerships with local communities. For example, lines that employ NPS-trained naturalists, use low-emission engines, or fund conservation initiatives are more likely to secure permits. This means that when you choose a permitted cruise, you’re also supporting responsible tourism.

Top Cruise Lines with Glacier Bay Permits

Here are the cruise lines currently holding permits to enter Glacier Bay, along with their unique offerings:

• Holland America Line: A pioneer in Alaskan cruising, Holland America has operated in Glacier Bay for over 70 years. Their ms Nieuw Amsterdam and ms Westerdam offer 7-day itineraries from Seattle or Vancouver, featuring full-day park visits with expert naturalists.
• Princess Cruises: Known for their “North to Alaska” program, Princess ships like the Grand Princess and Emerald Princess provide immersive experiences, including ranger-led talks and wildlife spotting.
• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): NCL’s Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Encore sail from Seattle to Glacier Bay, combining luxury with adventure. Their “Freestyle Cruising” model allows flexible dining and excursion options.
• Celebrity Cruises: The Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Millennium offer eco-conscious voyages with advanced propulsion systems and onboard science programs.
• Royal Caribbean International: The Quantum of the Seas and Odyssey of the Seas feature high-tech amenities like skydiving simulators and robot bartenders, paired with Glacier Bay exploration.
• Small-Ship Operators: Lines like UnCruise Adventures, Lindblad Expeditions, and American Safari Cruises offer intimate, expedition-style voyages on vessels with fewer than 100 passengers. These ships often anchor overnight in the bay for unparalleled wildlife viewing.

Tip: Small-ship cruises (under 10,000 tons) are ideal for travelers seeking a more immersive experience. With fewer passengers, these vessels can access narrower channels and offer kayaking, hiking, and Zodiac tours.

Large vs. Small Ships: Which Is Right for You?

Large Ships: Comfort and Convenience

If you prioritize amenities and accessibility, large ships (2,000+ passengers) are a solid choice. Lines like Holland America, Princess, and Norwegian offer:

• Multiple dining options, from fine dining to casual buffets.
• Entertainment venues (theaters, casinos, nightclubs).
• Spas, pools, and fitness centers.
• Wheelchair-accessible cabins and excursions.

However, large ships spend limited time in Glacier Bay—typically 6–8 hours—due to the NPS’s daily entry caps. Most offer scenic cruising through the bay’s main channels (Margerie Glacier, Johns Hopkins Inlet) with ranger-narrated commentary. While you’ll see stunning vistas, you may miss quieter, less-visited areas.

Example: On a Princess Cruise, the ship’s captain will slow down near Margerie Glacier for “glacier calving” (when ice chunks break off), while onboard naturalists explain the science behind it. You’ll also get a free wildlife spotting booklet to identify whales, seals, and bears.

Small Ships: Adventure and Intimacy

For travelers seeking adventure and exclusivity, small ships (under 200 passengers) are unmatched. Operators like UnCruise and Lindblad Expeditions provide:

• Full-day or multi-day stays in Glacier Bay.
• Zodiac excursions to remote coves and glaciers.
• Kayaking and paddleboarding among icebergs.
• Small-group hikes with naturalists.
• All-inclusive pricing (meals, excursions, gear).

Small ships can anchor overnight in the bay, allowing for twilight wildlife viewing (e.g., brown bears foraging) and stargazing under the Milky Way. They also follow flexible itineraries, adjusting to weather or wildlife sightings. For instance, if a pod of orcas is spotted, the captain might extend time in that area.

Tip: Book early for small-ship cruises—spots fill up 12–18 months in advance due to limited capacity.

What to Expect During a Glacier Bay Cruise

Wildlife Encounters

Glacier Bay is a biodiversity hotspot, home to over 250 species of birds, 30+ mammals, and countless marine creatures. Common sightings include:

• Humpback whales: Often seen breaching or feeding near the bay’s mouth.
• Glacier bears: A rare subspecies of black bear with silver-blue fur.
• Sea otters: Float on their backs while cracking open shellfish.
• Bald eagles: Nest in the park’s towering spruce trees.
• Harbor seals: Rest on icebergs near calving glaciers.

Most cruise lines provide binoculars and wildlife guides. On large ships, rangers from the NPS board the vessel to lead talks and answer questions. Small ships often have dedicated naturalists who join excursions.

Glacier Viewing and Calving

The star attraction is the tidewater glaciers, which flow directly into the sea. The most famous is Margerie Glacier, a 21-mile-long river of ice that calves massive icebergs. When a glacier calves, the sound is like thunder, and waves ripple through the bay. To witness this:

• Choose a cabin with a balcony (large ships) or book a Zodiac tour (small ships).
• Arrive early—glacier activity peaks in mid-morning.
• Bring a zoom lens for photos (the ship stays at a safe distance).

Note: Calving is unpredictable. If you don’t see it, the rangers will explain the science behind glacial movement and ice formation.

Educational Programming

All permitted cruise lines partner with the NPS to offer onboard education. Expect:

• Lectures on glacial geology, Tlingit culture, and climate change.
• Ranger-led deck walks to identify wildlife.
• Junior Ranger programs for kids (earn a badge by completing activities).

Small ships often feature guest scientists, historians, or photographers who share specialized insights. For example, Lindblad Expeditions invites glaciologists to discuss the park’s changing ice fields.

Best Itineraries for Glacier Bay (2024–2025)

7-Day Round-Trip from Seattle or Vancouver

The most popular itinerary, offered by Holland America, Princess, and NCL, includes:

• 2–3 days at sea (scenic cruising, onboard activities).
• Stop in Juneau (Alaska’s capital) for whale watching or Mendenhall Glacier.
• Full-day in Glacier Bay.
• Visit Skagway or Ketchikan for gold rush history or totem pole tours.

Why it’s great: Balances adventure with convenience. Ideal for first-time cruisers.

10–14-Day Expedition Cruises

Small-ship operators like UnCruise and Lindblad offer longer voyages, such as:

• “Glacier Bay & Beyond” (11 days): Includes stops at Icy Strait, Sitka, and the Inian Islands.
• “Alaska’s Inside Passage” (14 days): Covers Glacier Bay, Tracy Arm Fjord, and Prince William Sound.

Why it’s great: Maximizes wildlife and landscape diversity. Perfect for nature lovers.

One-Way Cruises from Seward to Vancouver

Offered by Celebrity and Royal Caribbean, these itineraries start in Seward (near Anchorage) and end in Vancouver, with:

• Scenic transit through the Gulf of Alaska.
• Extended time in Glacier Bay (up to 12 hours).
• Opportunities to combine the cruise with a land tour (e.g., Denali National Park).

Tip: One-way cruises are ideal for travelers with flexible schedules or those planning a multi-destination trip.

How to Choose the Right Cruise Line for Glacier Bay

Budget Considerations

Cruise prices vary widely:

• Large ships: $1,200–$2,500 per person (7-day itinerary).
• Small ships: $4,000–$8,000 per person (10–14 days, all-inclusive).

Large ships often have early-booking discounts or “kids sail free” deals. Small ships include excursions and alcohol in their pricing, which can offset costs.

Traveler Profiles

Match your cruise to your preferences:

• Families: Choose large ships with kids’ clubs and flexible dining (e.g., NCL).
• Couples: Opt for small ships with romantic ambiance (e.g., Lindblad’s luxury yachts).
• Photographers: Book small ships with Zodiac access for close-up shots.
• Adventure seekers: Pick small ships with kayaking and hiking.

Sustainability and Ethics

Support cruise lines with strong environmental commitments. Look for:

• Partnerships with the NPS or conservation groups.
• Use of low-sulfur fuel or hybrid engines.
• Programs to offset carbon emissions.

For example, Lindblad Expeditions funds the National Geographic Society and offsets 100% of its carbon emissions.

Cruise Line	Ship Example	Passenger Capacity	Best For	Price Range (7-Day)
Holland America	ms Nieuw Amsterdam	2,100	Families, seniors	$1,300–$2,200
Princess Cruises	Emerald Princess	3,080	First-time cruisers	$1,200–$2,000
UnCruise Adventures	Wilderness Discoverer	74	Adventure seekers	$5,500–$7,000
Lindblad Expeditions	National Geographic Quest	100	Nature photographers	$6,000–$8,500

Final Tips for a Memorable Glacier Bay Experience

Glacier Bay is a once-in-a-lifetime destination, and choosing the right cruise line is just the first step. To make the most of your journey:

• Book early: Permits are limited, and popular itineraries sell out fast. Aim for 12–18 months in advance.
• Pack wisely: Bring layers, waterproof gear, and a camera with a zoom lens. The weather changes quickly.
• Stay flexible: Small ships may adjust itineraries for wildlife sightings—embrace spontaneity.
• Engage with experts: Attend ranger talks and ask questions. The more you learn, the deeper your connection to the park.

Whether you’re drawn to the grandeur of large ships or the intimacy of small vessels, Glacier Bay promises awe-inspiring moments that will stay with you forever. From the thunder of calving glaciers to the quiet beauty of a sea otter floating on its back, this is Alaska at its most wild and wonderful. So start planning your voyage—adventure awaits!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines go into Glacier Bay National Park?

Major cruise lines like Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line offer itineraries that enter Glacier Bay National Park. These Alaska-focused lines provide expert-led excursions and ranger-guided tours inside the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Smaller expedition ships from UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions also visit with specialized naturalist guides.

Do any luxury cruise lines visit Glacier Bay?

Yes, luxury options include Seabourn and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, which feature all-inclusive Glacier Bay itineraries. Their smaller ships provide intimate access to glaciers and wildlife, often with private balcony views and premium excursion packages. These lines typically partner with park rangers to enhance onboard education programs.

What’s the best cruise line for families exploring Glacier Bay?

Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean are top picks for families, offering kid-friendly activities and educational programs about Glacier Bay’s ecosystems. Both lines include ranger meet-and-greets and glacier-viewing events tailored to children. Their larger ships also provide diverse dining and entertainment options for all ages.

Which cruise lines go into Glacier Bay with small ships?

Small-ship specialists like UnCruise Adventures, Lindblad Expeditions (partnered with National Geographic), and Alaskan Dream Cruises focus on immersive Glacier Bay experiences. Their vessels carry 20-100 passengers, allowing access to narrower fjords and more flexible wildlife-viewing opportunities. These lines emphasize adventure and up-close glacier exploration.

Can you see Glacier Bay on a Carnival cruise?

While Carnival Cruise Line sails in Alaska, their ships do not enter Glacier Bay National Park due to size restrictions. Instead, they offer similar scenery in Tracy Arm Fjord or Hubbard Glacier. For Glacier Bay access, consider Carnival’s sister line Princess Cruises, which specializes in park itineraries.

How do cruise lines coordinate Glacier Bay park permits?

Only a limited number of ships are allowed in Glacier Bay daily, so lines like Holland America and Princess secure permits years in advance. These permits ensure sustainable tourism, with each vessel assigned specific entry times and guided ranger accompaniment. Check your cruise itinerary early, as permits are non-transferable.