Choosing the best Alaskan cruise depends on your travel style, budget, and interests. Whether you crave luxury, adventure, or family-friendly fun, Alaska offers unforgettable voyages through glaciers, fjords, and wildlife-rich waters. This guide breaks down the top options to help you pick the perfect cruise.
Dreaming of towering glaciers, breaching whales, and snow-capped peaks? An Alaskan cruise delivers all that and more. But with so many cruise lines, ships, and itineraries to choose from, figuring out which is the best Alaskan cruise to take can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry—you’re not alone. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, this guide will help you navigate the icy waters of choice and find the voyage that fits your style, budget, and sense of adventure.
Alaska isn’t just a destination—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. From the misty fjords of the Inside Passage to the thunderous calving of glaciers, every moment feels cinematic. But the “best” cruise isn’t one-size-fits-all. A luxury traveler might fall in love with a small, all-inclusive yacht, while a family of five could have the time of their lives on a mega-ship with kids’ clubs and Broadway-style shows. The key is knowing what you want—and matching it to the right cruise line and itinerary.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top cruise options, compare itineraries, and share insider tips to help you choose the best Alaskan cruise for your dream vacation. Whether you’re after wildlife, culture, relaxation, or adrenaline-pumping adventures, we’ve got you covered.
Key Takeaways
- Itinerary matters most: Look for routes that include Glacier Bay, Hubbard Glacier, and scenic Inside Passage stops for the full Alaskan experience.
- Smaller ships offer better access: Ships under 200 passengers can dock in remote ports like Haines or Sitka and offer more intimate wildlife viewing.
- Peak season is June to August: This is when weather is mildest, wildlife is most active, and all excursions are available—but book early.
- Luxury vs. value: Premium lines like Seabourn and Silversea offer all-inclusive luxury, while mainstream lines like Norwegian and Royal Caribbean provide great value and family amenities.
- Shore excursions enhance the trip: Book whale watching, dog sledding, or glacier hikes in advance—they sell out fast.
- Consider departure ports: Seattle, Vancouver, and Seward offer different route options; round-trip cruises reduce travel fatigue.
- Pack layers and rain gear: Alaska’s weather is unpredictable—even in summer—so be prepared for cool temps and sudden showers.
📑 Table of Contents
Understanding Alaskan Cruise Itineraries
One of the first decisions you’ll make is choosing your route. Alaskan cruises typically fall into three main categories: Inside Passage, Gulf of Alaska, and one-way (or “open-jaw”) cruises. Each offers a unique perspective on the state’s rugged beauty.
Inside Passage Cruises
These are the most popular Alaskan cruises, typically sailing round-trip from Seattle or Vancouver. The route winds through a network of narrow waterways, lush forests, and coastal towns. Highlights include Ketchikan (known for its totem poles and rainforests), Juneau (the capital, accessible only by boat or plane), and Skagway (a gold rush-era town with historic charm).
Inside Passage cruises often include a stop at Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm to see fjords and waterfalls, plus a visit to Glacier Bay National Park. These trips are ideal for first-time cruisers because they’re shorter (7 days), predictable in weather, and packed with scenic beauty.
Gulf of Alaska Cruises
These longer voyages (usually 7–10 days) sail between Vancouver or Seattle and Seward or Whittier (near Anchorage). They cover more ground, including the dramatic Hubbard Glacier—one of the few advancing glaciers in the world—and the wildlife-rich Kenai Fjords.
Gulf cruises often include port stops in Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and Icy Strait Point, plus a full day cruising Glacier Bay. Because they cross open water, these trips can be rougher, but the payoff is bigger glaciers, more wildlife, and fewer crowds.
One-Way (Open-Jaw) Cruises
These cruises start in one city and end in another—like Seattle to Seward or Vancouver to Whittier. They’re perfect if you want to combine your cruise with a land tour of Alaska’s interior (Denali National Park, Fairbanks, etc.).
One-way cruises often include more glacier viewing and remote ports, but require extra planning for flights and transfers. They’re ideal for travelers who want a longer, more immersive Alaskan experience.
Top Cruise Lines for Alaska: Pros and Cons
Visual guide about Which Is the Best Alaskan Cruise to Take
Image source: i.pinimg.com
Not all cruise lines are created equal—especially in Alaska. Some specialize in luxury, others in family fun, and a few in adventure. Here’s a breakdown of the best options.
Luxury Cruises: Seabourn, Silversea, and Regent Seven Seas
If you want five-star service, gourmet dining, and all-inclusive perks, luxury lines are the way to go. Seabourn and Silversea operate small ships (under 300 passengers) that can access remote bays and offer personalized service. Regent Seven Seas includes airfare, shore excursions, and unlimited drinks—making it a true “no worries” experience.
Pros:
– Intimate, uncrowded ships
– All-inclusive pricing (drinks, tips, excursions)
– Expert naturalists and guest lecturers
– Access to smaller ports
Cons:
– High price tag ($8,000–$15,000 per person)
– Fewer onboard activities and entertainment
– Limited family amenities
Best for: Couples, retirees, and travelers seeking a refined, stress-free experience.
Mainstream Cruises: Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, and Carnival
These lines offer the best value and the most onboard fun. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is known for its “Freestyle Cruising”—no fixed dining times, casual dress codes, and flexible schedules. Royal Caribbean boasts rock climbing walls, ice skating rinks, and Broadway-style shows. Carnival is the most budget-friendly, with lively entertainment and family perks.
Pros:
– Affordable fares (starting around $700 per person)
– Tons of onboard activities and dining options
– Great for families and multigenerational trips
– Frequent sales and promotions
Cons:
– Larger ships (3,000+ passengers) can feel crowded
– Less access to remote ports
– Shore excursions cost extra
Best for: Families, first-time cruisers, and travelers who want entertainment and variety.
Adventure & Small Ship Cruises: UnCruise, Lindblad Expeditions, and American Cruise Lines
For travelers who want to get up close with nature, small ship cruises are unbeatable. UnCruise Adventures operates yachts with 22–88 passengers, offering kayaking, hiking, and Zodiac excursions. Lindblad Expeditions partners with National Geographic for expert-led wildlife tours. American Cruise Lines focuses on U.S.-flagged ships with all-American crews and coastal itineraries.
Pros:
– Intimate, immersive experiences
– Access to remote wilderness areas
– Expert naturalists and photographers on board
– Active excursions (kayaking, hiking, wildlife spotting)
Cons:
– Higher cost than mainstream lines ($5,000–$10,000)
– Limited onboard entertainment
– Fewer dining and cabin options
Best for: Nature lovers, photographers, and active travelers.
Family-Friendly Cruises: Disney, Holland America, and Princess
Disney Cruise Line brings its magic to Alaska with character meet-and-greets, kids’ clubs, and themed dining. Holland America offers a balance of elegance and family fun, with cooking demos, wine tastings, and teen programs. Princess Cruises is known for its “Discovery at SEA” program, featuring wildlife experts and hands-on activities.
Pros:
– Excellent kids’ and teen programs
– Themed entertainment and activities
– Educational and engaging for all ages
– Reliable service and comfort
Cons:
– Can be pricey during peak season
– Fewer extreme adventure options
– Larger ships may limit port access
Best for: Families with children, multigenerational groups, and Disney fans.
Best Time to Take an Alaskan Cruise
Timing is everything in Alaska. The cruise season runs from May to September, but each month offers a different experience.
May and Early June: Shoulder Season
Pros:
– Lower prices and fewer crowds
– Long daylight hours (up to 18 hours)
– Wildlife is active—bears fishing for salmon, whales migrating
Cons:
– Some excursions may not be available
– Weather can be chilly and unpredictable
– Limited flight availability to remote ports
Best for: Budget travelers and those who don’t mind cooler temps.
Mid-June to August: Peak Season
Pros:
– Warmest weather (50s–70s°F)
– All excursions and tours are running
– Peak wildlife activity—whales, bears, puffins
– Festivals and events in port towns
Cons:
– Highest prices and biggest crowds
– Shore excursions sell out fast
– Limited cabin availability
Best for: Families, first-timers, and travelers who want the full Alaskan experience.
September: Late Season
Pros:
– Stunning fall colors in the forests
– Fewer tourists and lower prices
– Calm seas and stable weather
– Great for photography and solitude
Cons:
– Some ports may close early
– Shorter daylight hours
– Fewer flight options
Best for: Couples, photographers, and travelers seeking a quieter trip.
Must-See Ports and Excursions
The real magic of an Alaskan cruise happens on land. Here are the top ports and excursions you won’t want to miss.
Juneau: Whale Watching and Glacier Hikes
Juneau is the only state capital you can’t drive to—making it a true adventure. Don’t miss a whale-watching tour in Auke Bay, where humpbacks and orcas are common. For a thrill, take a helicopter tour to the Mendenhall Glacier and hike on the ice.
Skagway: Gold Rush History and the White Pass Railway
Step back in time in this preserved gold rush town. Ride the historic White Pass & Yukon Route Railway through steep cliffs and tunnels. Or take a dog sledding tour on a glacier—yes, really!
Ketchikan: Totem Poles and Rainforests
Known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” Ketchikan offers cultural tours of Native Alaskan villages, rainforest hikes, and fishing charters. Visit Totem Bight State Park to see restored totem poles.
Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier: Ice and Wonder
These are the crown jewels of any Alaskan cruise. Glacier Bay National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over a dozen active glaciers. Hubbard Glacier is even bigger—over 7 miles wide and 600 feet tall. Watch in awe as chunks of ice calve into the sea with a thunderous splash.
Icy Strait Point: Zip Lining and Bear Viewing
This private resort offers the highest zip line in North America—over 1,300 feet long! You can also take a bear-watching tour in nearby Pack Creek, where brown bears fish for salmon.
Tips for Choosing the Best Alaskan Cruise
Now that you know the options, here’s how to pick the right one.
Match the Cruise to Your Travel Style
Ask yourself:
– Do I want luxury or value?
– Am I traveling with kids or as a couple?
– Do I prefer relaxation or adventure?
– How much time do I have?
Your answers will narrow down the choices.
Read Reviews and Compare Itineraries
Use sites like Cruise Critic, TripAdvisor, and YouTube to watch ship tours and read passenger reviews. Pay attention to how much time is spent at sea versus in port.
Book Early—Especially for Peak Season
Alaskan cruises fill up fast. Book 9–12 months in advance for the best cabins and prices. Consider booking a guarantee cabin (where the cruise line assigns your room) for extra savings.
Don’t Skip Travel Insurance
Alaska’s weather can cause delays or cancellations. Travel insurance protects your investment and covers medical emergencies—especially important in remote areas.
Pack Smart
Bring:
– Waterproof jacket and pants
– Layered clothing (fleece, sweaters, thermal underwear)
– Sturdy walking shoes
– Binoculars and camera
– Motion sickness medication
Leave behind:
– Formal wear (most cruises are casual)
– Heavy luggage (cabin space is limited)
Final Thoughts: Which Is the Best Alaskan Cruise to Take?
So, which is the best Alaskan cruise to take? The answer depends on you.
If you want luxury and intimacy, go with Seabourn or Silversea. For family fun and value, choose Norwegian or Disney. If you’re an adventurer at heart, book a small ship with UnCruise or Lindblad.
No matter which cruise you pick, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking scenery, unforgettable wildlife, and memories that last a lifetime. Alaska isn’t just a place—it’s a feeling. The crisp air, the silence of the glaciers, the call of a bald eagle—it’s magic.
Start planning today. The best Alaskan cruise is the one that takes you there.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best month to take an Alaskan cruise?
The best time is mid-June to August, when weather is warmest, wildlife is most active, and all excursions are available. However, September offers fewer crowds and stunning fall colors.
Do I need a passport for an Alaskan cruise?
If your cruise departs and returns to the same U.S. port (like Seattle), a passport is not required—but it’s highly recommended in case of emergencies. For Canadian ports, a passport is mandatory.
Are Alaskan cruises expensive?
Prices vary widely. Mainstream lines start around $700 per person, while luxury and small ship cruises can cost $5,000 or more. Shore excursions, drinks, and gratuities add to the total.
Can I see the Northern Lights on an Alaskan cruise?
No—Alaskan cruises run in summer when the nights are too bright for aurora viewing. For the Northern Lights, visit Alaska in winter (December to March).
What wildlife can I see on an Alaskan cruise?
You may spot humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, puffins, bald eagles, brown bears, and mountain goats—especially during whale-watching tours and glacier excursions.
Are Alaskan cruels suitable for kids?
Yes! Lines like Disney, Royal Caribbean, and Princess offer excellent kids’ programs, family cabins, and age-appropriate activities. Just choose a ship with family amenities.