Which Cruise Lines Go to Glacier Bay in 2025 Top Picks Revealed

Only a select few cruise lines visit Glacier Bay in 2025, with Holland America Line and Princess Cruises leading the pack as top picks for their immersive Alaskan itineraries and park permit access. These premium lines offer expert-led excursions, wildlife viewing, and sustainable cruising practices in one of Alaska’s most breathtaking national treasures. Smaller luxury and expedition brands like Lindblad Expeditions and UnCruise Adventures also provide exclusive, eco-conscious voyages perfect for adventure seekers.

Key Takeaways

• Holland America Line offers the most Glacier Bay itineraries in 2025, ideal for wildlife and glacier viewing.
• Carnival Cruise Line provides budget-friendly options with scenic Glacier Bay routes and family-friendly amenities.
• Princess Cruises features expert naturalists onboard, enhancing your Glacier Bay experience with educational insights.
• Norwegian Cruise Line includes Glacier Bay in select Alaska sailings, perfect for flexible, freestyle cruising.
• Small-ship lines like UnCruise deliver intimate, immersive Glacier Bay adventures with fewer crowds.
• Book early for 2025—Glacier Bay permits are limited, and popular sailings sell out fast.

Why Glacier Bay Should Be on Your 2025 Cruise Bucket List

Imagine waking up to the thunderous crack of a calving glacier, the crisp Alaskan air filling your lungs as a humpback whale breaches just beyond your balcony. This isn’t a scene from a nature documentary—it’s the reality of a cruise to Glacier Bay National Park, one of the most awe-inspiring destinations on Earth. In 2025, this UNESCO World Heritage Site will welcome thousands of cruisers seeking to witness its towering ice walls, pristine fjords, and abundant wildlife. With only a limited number of ships allowed to enter the park each day, choosing the right cruise line is crucial to securing your spot in this icy wonderland.

Glacier Bay is more than just a scenic detour; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with nature’s raw power. Spanning over 3.3 million acres, the park is home to 10,000-foot peaks, 16 active tidewater glaciers, and a rich ecosystem of whales, bears, and seabirds. But not all cruise lines are created equal when it comes to Glacier Bay itineraries. Some offer unparalleled access to the park’s hidden coves, while others provide expert naturalists to guide you through its history and ecology. In this guide, we’ll reveal the top cruise lines visiting Glacier Bay in 2025, helping you choose the perfect voyage for your Alaskan adventure.

How Glacier Bay Works: The Rules and Regulations

Why Access to Glacier Bay Is Limited

Glacier Bay National Park operates under strict environmental regulations to preserve its fragile ecosystem. The National Park Service limits daily vessel entries to two large cruise ships and a handful of smaller vessels (e.g., expedition ships, private yachts). This ensures minimal disruption to wildlife and maintains the park’s serene beauty. As a result, only a select few cruise lines can guarantee Glacier Bay stops—making advance planning essential for 2025.

Permits and Itinerary Timing

• Permit allocation: Cruise lines bid annually for Glacier Bay entry slots. Larger lines with established Alaskan routes (e.g., Holland America, Princess) typically secure priority.
• Timing matters: Ships spend 6–8 hours in the park, often arriving at dawn to maximize daylight viewing. Look for itineraries that include early-morning or midday park visits.
• Expert-led narration: Park rangers board every ship to provide live commentary and enforce wildlife-viewing guidelines (e.g., maintaining distance from marine mammals).

Pro Tip: Book early (6–12 months ahead) to avoid sold-out Glacier Bay slots. Smaller ships (under 200 passengers) may have more flexibility but fill up fast due to high demand.

Top 5 Cruise Lines Visiting Glacier Bay in 2025

1. Princess Cruises: The Glacier Bay Pioneer

Princess Cruises has been sailing to Glacier Bay since 1969 and holds the most permits for 2025. Their “Voyage of the Glaciers” itineraries (7-day roundtrip from Vancouver or Whittier) are the gold standard, featuring:

• Guaranteed park entry on all 7-day itineraries (May–September).

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• Expert ranger program: Park Service naturalists and Princess’s own “Discovery at SEA” team lead lectures and wildlife spotting.
• Premium viewing: Open-deck areas with heated loungers and binocular rentals.

Ship Example: Grand Princess (2,600 passengers) offers a dedicated Glacier Bay viewing deck with floor-to-ceiling windows.

2. Holland America Line: Intimate and Immersive

Holland America’s mid-sized ships (1,400–1,900 passengers) provide a more personal Glacier Bay experience. Their “Alaska Inside Passage” cruises (7–14 days) stand out for:

• Extended park stays: Some itineraries spend up to 10 hours in Glacier Bay, including sunset views.
• Culinary focus: Alaskan seafood tastings and glacier-themed menus.
• Small-group excursions: Kayaking and Zodiac tours in nearby Bartlett Cove (park-approved).

Ship Example: Koningsdam features a “World Stage” theater with daily glacier documentaries and ranger Q&A sessions.

3. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Flexible and Family-Friendly

NCL’s larger ships (4,000+ passengers) offer budget-friendly Glacier Bay options. Their “Alaska Cruise” itineraries (7–10 days) include:

• Free park entry on select 2025 sailings (book early to confirm).
• Family perks: Kids’ programs focused on glacier science and wildlife.
• Late departures: Some ships stay in the park until dusk for golden-hour photography.

Ship Example: Norwegian Encore has a “Glacier Bay Lounge” with interactive ice-core exhibits and a 24-hour coffee bar.

4. Silversea Cruises: Luxury and Expedition-Style

For travelers seeking a high-end, small-ship experience, Silversea’s “Expedition Alaska” voyages (10–14 days) deliver:

• All-inclusive pricing: Park fees, excursions, and premium drinks covered.
• Expedition team: Geologists, marine biologists, and photographers onboard.
• Zodiac landings: Park-approved shore visits to remote areas (weather permitting).

Ship Example: Silver Whisper (388 passengers) has a “Science Lounge” with live glacier-monitoring feeds.

5. UnCruise Adventures: Adventure-Focused Small Ships

UnCruise’s 60–80 passenger vessels are ideal for active travelers. Their “Glacier Bay Adventure” itineraries (7–10 days) feature:

• Daily kayaking: Paddle near Margerie Glacier under guide supervision.
• Hiking options: Short trails in the park’s lower bay.
• No crowds: Small groups mean unobstructed views.

Ship Example: Safari Explorer includes a hot tub and a “Glacier Bay Naturalist” certification course.

What to Expect During a Glacier Bay Day

The Itinerary: A Typical Day in the Park

Most Glacier Bay visits follow a similar schedule, though timing varies by cruise line:

1. 6:00–8:00 AM: Ship enters the bay; park rangers board for orientation.
2. 8:00–10:00 AM: Cruise past Reid Glacier, with narration on glacial dynamics.
3. 10:00–12:00 PM: Stop near Margerie Glacier for calving demonstrations (bring binoculars!).
4. 12:00–2:00 PM: Lunch on deck while observing wildlife (whales, seals, sea lions).
5. 2:00–4:00 PM: Slow cruise through Johns Hopkins Inlet (best for photography).
6. 4:00–6:00 PM: Depart the park; optional lectures on climate change and conservation.

Pro Tip: Pack layers! Glacier Bay temperatures rarely exceed 50°F (10°C), even in summer.

Wildlife and Photo Opportunities

• Whales: Humpbacks and orcas feed in the bay from June–August.
• Bears: Brown bears frequent the shoreline (view from a safe distance).
• Birds: Puffins, bald eagles, and Arctic terns nest along the cliffs.
• Glacier calving: The “white thunder” of ice breaking off is best captured with a zoom lens.

Photography Tip: Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the water and enhance ice colors.

Dining and Onboard Activities

While in Glacier Bay, cruise lines offer themed experiences:

• Alaskan cuisine: Fresh salmon, king crab, and sourdough bread.
• Glacier-themed cocktails: Try the “Blue Ice Margarita” (available on NCL and Princess).
• Documentary screenings: Films like Chasing Ice are often shown on deck.

Choosing the Right Cruise Line for You

Budget-Friendly vs. Luxury Options

Cruise Line	Price Range (7-Day)	Best For	Glacier Bay Guarantee
Princess Cruises	$1,200–$2,500	First-time cruisers, families	Yes (all itineraries)
Holland America	$1,400–$3,000	Mid-range travelers, couples	Yes (select dates)
NCL	$900–$2,000	Families, budget travelers	Partial (book early)
Silversea	$8,000–$15,000	Luxury seekers, photographers	Yes (all voyages)
UnCruise	$4,000–$7,000	Adventure travelers, solo cruisers	Yes (all departures)

Family-Friendly Features

• Princess/NCL: Kids’ clubs, family cabins, and free childcare.
• Holland America: “Junior Ranger” programs with park rangers.
• Silversea/UnCruise: Limited childcare but offer teen-focused excursions.

Special Interests

• Photographers: Choose Silversea (expedition photographers onboard) or UnCruise (no crowds).
• Adventure seekers: UnCruise’s kayaking and hiking options are unparalleled.
• History buffs: Holland America’s Tlingit cultural programs and ranger-led talks.

Pro Tips for Booking Your 2025 Glacier Bay Cruise

When to Book

• Best deals: Book 10–12 months ahead for early-bird discounts (e.g., Princess’s “Alaska Sale” in September 2024).
• Last-minute options: Check for cancellations in January–April 2025, but expect higher prices.
• Peak season: July–August (best weather) sells out fastest.

What to Pack

• Essentials: Waterproof jacket, gloves, binoculars, camera with telephoto lens.
• Extras: Reusable water bottle (ships have refill stations), motion sickness patches.
• Pro Tip: Bring a thermos for hot drinks during glacier viewing.

Post-Cruise Extensions

Many cruise lines offer add-on tours to enhance your Alaskan experience:

• Denali National Park: 2–3 day excursions via Princess or Holland America.
• Juneau: Whale-watching tours, Mendenhall Glacier hikes.
• Skagway: White Pass Railway and gold rush history tours.

Conclusion: Your Glacier Bay Adventure Awaits

Glacier Bay isn’t just a destination—it’s a transformative journey through one of Earth’s last great wildernesses. Whether you choose the family-friendly amenities of Princess Cruises, the immersive storytelling of Holland America, or the adrenaline-pumping adventures of UnCruise, 2025 is the year to turn your Alaskan dreams into reality. With limited park permits and high demand, early planning is your key to securing the perfect voyage.

As you stand on deck, watching a 1,000-foot glacier collapse into the sea, you’ll understand why this place is worth the effort. From the thunderous calving of Margerie Glacier to the silent beauty of Johns Hopkins Inlet, Glacier Bay delivers moments you’ll cherish forever. So pack your bags, charge your camera, and get ready to experience the raw, untamed beauty of Alaska—one iceberg at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines go to Glacier Bay in 2025?

Major cruise lines like Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line offer itineraries to Glacier Bay National Park in 2025. Smaller expedition lines, including UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions, also provide immersive experiences in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What are the best cruise lines for Glacier Bay in Alaska?

Princess Cruises and Holland America Line are top choices for Glacier Bay in 2025, thanks to their expert naturalist guides and dedicated park ranger programs. Expedition-focused lines like Lindblad Expeditions offer smaller ships with more intimate glacier viewing opportunities.

Do I need a special permit to visit Glacier Bay on a cruise?

No, passengers don’t need individual permits—cruise lines secure permits through the National Park Service for Glacier Bay visits. Only a limited number of ships are allowed daily, so book early to ensure access on your 2025 Alaska cruise.

Which cruise lines go to Glacier Bay and also visit other Alaskan highlights?

Princess and Holland America combine Glacier Bay with stops in Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan on their 7-day roundtrip itineraries. Norwegian Cruise Line’s Alaska routes often pair Glacier Bay with Tracy Arm Fjord and Hubbard Glacier for a comprehensive experience.

Are luxury cruise lines available for Glacier Bay in 2025?

Yes, luxury lines like Seabourn and Regent Seven Seas Cruises offer 2025 itineraries to Glacier Bay with premium amenities and all-inclusive pricing. These ships feature smaller capacities, allowing for more personalized wildlife and glacier viewing.

What’s the best time to cruise to Glacier Bay in 2025?

The peak season runs May through September 2025, with July and August offering the warmest weather and longest daylight hours for glacier viewing. Shoulder months (May/September) provide fewer crowds and better wildlife-spotting opportunities.