Which Cruise Lines Go to Glacier Bay in 2024 Top Picks Revealed

Only a select few cruise lines visit Glacier Bay in 2024, with Holland America Line and Princess Cruises leading the pack as top choices for their expert-guided excursions and National Park Service partnerships. These lines offer immersive itineraries that include up-close glacier viewing, wildlife spotting, and ranger-led programs inside this UNESCO World Heritage site. Smaller expedition ships from Lindblad Expeditions and UnCruise Adventures also provide eco-focused, adventure-driven voyages perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking a more intimate experience.

Key Takeaways

• Holland America offers the most Glacier Bay sailings in 2024.
• Princess Cruises features expert-led glacier commentary onboard.
• Small-ship lines like Lindblad provide up-close glacier access.
• National Park permits limit daily ships—book early for 2024.
• Alaska-focused routes maximize scenic cruising and wildlife spotting.
• Mid-May to September is the only season for Glacier Bay visits.

Which Cruise Lines Go to Glacier Bay in 2024? Top Picks Revealed

Imagine standing on the deck of a majestic cruise ship, the crisp Alaskan air filling your lungs, as a colossal glacier calves icebergs into the turquoise waters before you. This is the magic of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders on Earth. Nestled in the heart of southeastern Alaska, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers unparalleled access to towering glaciers, dramatic fjords, and abundant wildlife—from humpback whales to brown bears. In 2024, Glacier Bay remains a crown jewel of Alaskan cruising, drawing adventurers, nature lovers, and photographers from across the globe. But not all cruise lines can take you there. Due to strict regulations and limited daily ship entries, only a select group of operators are granted permits to sail into this pristine sanctuary.

Choosing the right cruise line for your Glacier Bay adventure can make all the difference. Some prioritize luxury and comfort, while others emphasize immersive, educational experiences. Others still cater to budget-conscious travelers seeking unforgettable scenery without breaking the bank. With so many options, how do you decide? This comprehensive guide reveals the top cruise lines sailing to Glacier Bay in 2024, highlighting their unique itineraries, onboard amenities, naturalist programs, and sustainability practices. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo journey into the wild, we’ll help you find the perfect match. From small expedition vessels to large luxury liners, here’s everything you need to know about which cruise lines go to Glacier Bay in 2024—and why they stand out.

Why Glacier Bay Is a Must-Visit Destination in 2024

The Unmatched Natural Beauty of Glacier Bay

Glacier Bay National Park spans over 3.3 million acres of rugged wilderness, where glaciers advance and retreat in a dynamic dance shaped by climate and geology. The bay itself is a 65-mile-long fjord carved by ancient ice flows, now home to some of the fastest-moving glaciers on the planet, including Margerie Glacier and Johns Hopkins Glacier. These massive ice walls, some over 300 feet tall, regularly calve thunderous icebergs into the water—a spectacle few places on Earth can rival. The park also features dense rainforests, alpine meadows, and deep fjords, creating a mosaic of ecosystems that support a rich array of flora and fauna.

Visitors often describe Glacier Bay as a “living laboratory” of glacial retreat. Over the past 200 years, the glacier has retreated nearly 65 miles, exposing new landforms and allowing forests to regrow. This ongoing transformation offers scientists and tourists alike a rare glimpse into the power of nature and the impacts of climate change. In 2024, with increased awareness of environmental stewardship, cruise lines are more committed than ever to minimizing their footprint while maximizing educational opportunities.

Wildlife Encounters You Won’t Forget

Glacier Bay isn’t just about glaciers—it’s a thriving habitat for wildlife. During your cruise, keep your binoculars and cameras ready for sightings of:

• Humpback whales: Often seen breaching, tail slapping, or feeding on krill in the nutrient-rich waters.
• Steller sea lions: Basking on rocky outcrops or swimming alongside the ship.
• Harbor seals: Frequently found lounging on floating icebergs near the glaciers.
• Bald eagles: Soaring above the treetops or perched on driftwood.
• Brown bears (grizzlies): Occasionally spotted along the shoreline, especially in late summer when salmon are running.
• Porpoises and sea otters: Playful marine mammals that often approach the ship’s wake.

Many cruise lines employ onboard naturalists and marine biologists who provide real-time commentary and help guests identify wildlife. Some even use hydrophones to let you listen to whale songs underwater—an unforgettable sensory experience.

Regulations and Sustainability: Why Not All Ships Can Visit

Glacier Bay National Park is protected by strict federal regulations designed to preserve its ecological integrity. The National Park Service limits daily ship traffic to just **two large cruise ships per day**, plus a handful of smaller expedition vessels. This cap ensures minimal disruption to wildlife and prevents overcrowding. As a result, only a fraction of Alaska-bound cruises are permitted to enter Glacier Bay—making it a premium experience.

Additionally, all ships must follow the Glacier Bay Ship Schedule, which is managed by the National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service. Cruise lines must apply for permits years in advance, and itineraries are often subject to change due to weather, ice conditions, or conservation priorities. This exclusivity is one reason why Glacier Bay cruises tend to be more expensive—but also more rewarding.

Top Cruise Lines Sailing to Glacier Bay in 2024

Holland America Line: The Classic Alaskan Experience

With over 70 years of experience in Alaska, Holland America Line is a pioneer of Glacier Bay cruising. In 2024, their ms Westerdam and ms Noordam offer 7-night round-trips from Seattle, with full-day excursions into Glacier Bay. These mid-sized ships (around 1,900 passengers) strike a balance between comfort and intimacy, making them ideal for families and first-time cruisers.

What sets Holland America apart is their **”Explorations Central” program**, which includes:

• Daily lectures by park rangers and naturalists
• Interactive workshops on Alaskan culture, geology, and conservation
• Onboard exhibits featuring Tlingit art and artifacts
• Guided shore excursions in Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan

During the Glacier Bay day, the ship slows to a crawl, allowing guests to view Margerie Glacier up close. The captain often maneuvers the vessel so both sides of the ship get equal viewing time. Holland America also partners with the National Park Service to fund habitat restoration projects, reinforcing their commitment to sustainability.

Princess Cruises: Innovation and Immersion

Princess Cruises is another heavyweight in the Alaska market, offering multiple ships with Glacier Bay access in 2024. Their Grand Princess and Emerald Princess operate 7- to 14-night itineraries from Vancouver or Seattle. What makes Princess unique is their **”Discovery at SEA”** program, inspired by the Discovery Channel.

• Live animal feedings and touch tanks in the onboard Discovery Lounge
• Whale-tracking maps updated in real time
• Interactive glacier simulations using VR headsets
• Evening shows featuring Alaskan storytellers and musicians

Princess also pioneered the use of **”glacier viewing decks”**—dedicated outdoor spaces with heated seating and panoramic windows. Their ships are equipped with advanced stabilization systems, reducing motion sickness and enhancing comfort in rough waters. For 2024, Princess has increased the number of park rangers on board, ensuring every guest receives expert commentary during the Glacier Bay passage.

Celebrity Cruises: Luxury Meets Adventure

For travelers seeking a more upscale experience, Celebrity Cruises delivers with their Celebrity Edge-class ships, including the Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Millennium. These vessels feature sleek, modern design, gourmet dining options, and a strong focus on wellness and enrichment.

Key highlights of Celebrity’s Glacier Bay cruises include:

• The Lawn Club: A real grass lawn on the top deck, perfect for sunbathing or picnics with a glacier view
• Eden Restaurant: A multi-sensory dining experience with live performances
• Naturalist-led Zodiac tours (on select sailings)
• Onboard sustainability initiatives: Including advanced wastewater treatment and shore power connectivity

Celebrity also offers a **”Glacier Bay Immersion”** add-on package, which includes a private ranger-led hike, a glacier kayaking tour, and a behind-the-scenes tour of the ship’s navigation bridge. This premium option is limited to 20 guests per sailing, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

UnCruise Adventures: Small-Ship, Big Impact

If you’re looking for a truly off-the-beaten-path adventure, UnCruise Adventures is a top contender. Their fleet of 22- to 86-passenger vessels specializes in small-group, active expeditions. In 2024, their Safari Endeavour and Wilderness Discoverer offer 7- to 14-night itineraries that include multiple days in Glacier Bay.

UnCruise stands out for:

• Daily guided hikes, kayaking, and paddleboarding in secluded coves
• Onboard naturalists and historians with deep local knowledge
• Flexible itineraries that adapt to wildlife sightings and weather
• Zero-waste policies and partnerships with local indigenous communities

Unlike large ships, UnCruise vessels can anchor in narrow inlets and send guests ashore via Zodiacs. This allows for up-close encounters with glaciers, bears, and nesting seabirds. Their “no single-use plastics” policy and carbon-offset program make them a leader in sustainable cruising.

Silversea Expeditions: All-Inclusive Luxury

For the ultimate in luxury and exclusivity, Silversea Expeditions offers all-inclusive, small-ship voyages to Glacier Bay. Their Silver Endeavour and Silver Cloud carry just 200–270 guests, with butler service, fine dining, and private balconies standard.

Silversea’s 2024 Glacier Bay itineraries include:

• Free shore excursions with expert guides
• Onboard enrichment: Lectures by glaciologists, historians, and marine biologists
• Zodiac and kayak tours included in the fare
• All beverages and gratuities covered

Silversea’s partnership with the National Park Service ensures priority access and extended time in Glacier Bay. Their ships are equipped with hybrid propulsion systems, reducing emissions and noise pollution. For travelers who want to explore Alaska in style, Silversea is unmatched.

Choosing the Right Cruise for Your Travel Style

Budget vs. Luxury: Finding Your Fit

Glacier Bay cruises range from under $1,500 to over $10,000 per person, depending on the line, cabin type, and itinerary length. Budget-conscious travelers should consider:

• Holland America and Princess: Offer reliable, mid-range pricing with strong educational programs
• Inside cabins: Can save hundreds of dollars compared to ocean-view or balcony staterooms
• Early booking discounts: Available for sailings in May and September

For luxury seekers, Silversea, Celebrity, and Regent Seven Seas provide all-inclusive experiences with premium amenities. These lines often include airfare, excursions, and even private transfers in their fares.

Active vs. Relaxed: Activity Levels Matter

Not all cruises are created equal when it comes to activity. If you’re an adventure enthusiast, look for:

• UnCruise Adventures: Daily hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting
• Lindblad Expeditions (partnered with National Geographic): Zodiac cruises and expert-led field activities

If you prefer a relaxed pace, larger ships like those from Holland America and Princess offer more onboard entertainment, spa services, and dining options. You can enjoy Glacier Bay from the comfort of the deck without ever leaving the ship.

Family-Friendly vs. Adults-Only

Families should consider lines with robust kids’ programs, such as:

• Princess Cruises: Discovery at SEA activities for children
• Holland America: Explorers’ Club for kids and teens

For couples or solo travelers, adults-focused lines like Silversea, Seabourn, or Windstar offer a quieter, more romantic atmosphere. These ships often have smaller guest-to-crew ratios and fewer children.

What to Expect During Your Glacier Bay Day

The Itinerary: A Day in the Bay

A typical Glacier Bay day starts early, often between 6:00 and 7:00 AM, when the ship enters the bay. The captain announces the day’s route, and naturalists begin their commentary. The ship usually follows this path:

• 7:00–9:00 AM: Arrival and wildlife viewing near the bay entrance
• 9:00–11:00 AM: Approach Margerie Glacier; calving demonstrations
• 11:00 AM–1:00 PM: Drift past Johns Hopkins Glacier (if accessible)
• 1:00–3:00 PM: Lunch and ranger-led presentations
• 3:00–5:00 PM: Exit the bay; optional shore excursions or onboard activities

Note: The exact route depends on ice conditions and wildlife activity. Park rangers board the ship to enforce regulations and provide educational content.

Onboard Experience: Enrichment and Comfort

While in Glacier Bay, cruise lines enhance the experience with:

• Live commentary from naturalists and rangers
• Glacier viewing lounges with floor-to-ceiling windows
• Photography workshops to capture the perfect shot
• Whale-watching decks with binoculars and spotting scopes

Many ships also offer heated outdoor seating, blankets, and hot beverages to keep guests comfortable in the cool, damp climate.

Shore Excursions: Getting Closer to Nature

While most Glacier Bay time is spent onboard, some lines offer optional excursions:

• Zodiac tours: For close-up glacier viewing and wildlife encounters
• Kayaking: Paddle through icebergs and quiet coves
• Flightseeing tours: Scenic flights over the bay and surrounding mountains
• Hiking: Guided walks in the lower bay (weather permitting)

These excursions often sell out months in advance, so book early if you’re interested.

Planning Tips for Your 2024 Glacier Bay Cruise

When to Book: Timing Is Everything

Glacier Bay cruises are in high demand, and permits are limited. Best booking window:

• 12–18 months in advance for peak season (June–August)
• 6–9 months in advance for shoulder season (May, September)
• Early booking bonuses: Many lines offer free airfare, cabin upgrades, or onboard credit

Packing Smart: What to Bring

Alaskan weather is unpredictable. Pack:

• Layered clothing: Fleece, waterproof jacket, gloves, and hat
• Binoculars and camera with zoom lens
• Motion sickness remedies: Especially for the Inside Passage
• Waterproof backpack for excursions
• Reusable water bottle: Most ships have refill stations

Sustainability: Traveling Responsibly

Help protect Glacier Bay by:

• Choosing cruise lines with strong environmental policies
• Participating in onboard recycling and conservation programs
• Supporting local indigenous-owned businesses in port towns
• Respecting wildlife by keeping a safe distance

Many lines, like UnCruise and Silversea, offer carbon-offset options at checkout.

Comparison Table: Glacier Bay Cruise Lines in 2024

Cruise Line	Ship Size (Passengers)	Itinerary Length	Key Features	Price Range (PP)
Holland America	1,900	7 nights	Park rangers, educational programs, mid-sized comfort	$1,500–$3,500
Princess Cruises	2,600	7–14 nights	Discovery at SEA, glacier decks, family-friendly	$1,700–$4,000
Celebrity Cruises	2,800	7–14 nights	Luxury amenities, Eden Restaurant, Zodiac tours	$2,500–$6,000
UnCruise Adventures	22–86	7–14 nights	Active excursions, small group, eco-friendly	$3,000–$7,000
Silversea Expeditions	200–270	7–14 nights	All-inclusive, butler service, expert guides	$6,000–$12,000+

Choosing the right cruise line for your Glacier Bay journey in 2024 is about matching your travel style, budget, and expectations with the perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and education. From the family-friendly decks of Princess Cruises to the intimate, immersive expeditions of UnCruise, each operator offers a unique way to experience this natural wonder. What unites them all is a deep respect for the environment and a commitment to sharing Glacier Bay’s magic with the world. Whether you’re watching a glacier calve from a luxury balcony, paddling a kayak beside an iceberg, or listening to a park ranger explain the science of ice retreat, one thing is certain: a Glacier Bay cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Start planning now—your Alaskan adventure awaits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines go to Glacier Bay in 2024?

Top cruise lines visiting Glacier Bay in 2024 include Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean. These operators offer dedicated Alaska itineraries with stops in Glacier Bay National Park, a highlight for many travelers.

Are there any luxury cruise lines that visit Glacier Bay in 2024?

Yes, luxury options like Seabourn and Regent Seven Seas Cruises include Glacier Bay in their 2024 Alaska sailings. These lines provide premium amenities, smaller ships, and expert naturalist guides for a more intimate experience.

Do all Alaska cruise lines stop at Glacier Bay?

No, not all Alaska-bound ships enter Glacier Bay due to strict National Park regulations limiting daily vessel numbers. Major lines like Carnival and Celebrity Cruises often visit nearby areas like Hubbard Glacier instead, so check itineraries carefully if Glacier Bay is a priority.

Which cruise lines go to Glacier Bay with the best wildlife viewing opportunities?

Holland America and Princess Cruises stand out for their Glacier Bay sailings, featuring onboard naturalists and ranger programs. Their ships also navigate deep into the bay, maximizing chances to see whales, bears, and mountain goats.

Can I take a small-ship cruise to Glacier Bay in 2024?

Absolutely! Small-ship specialists like Lindblad Expeditions (in partnership with National Geographic) and UnCruise Adventures offer immersive Glacier Bay itineraries. These vessels access narrower fjords and provide kayaking and Zodiac excursions.

What’s the best time to book a 2024 cruise to Glacier Bay?

For optimal weather and wildlife, book a late May to September 2024 sailing. Early-bird discounts are often available if booked by winter 2023, but last-minute deals can pop up for shoulder-season departures.