Which Is the Best Cruise Ship to Alaska

Choosing the best cruise ship to Alaska depends on your travel style, budget, and must-see destinations. Whether you want luxury, family fun, or adventure, this guide breaks down the top ships and lines to help you pick the perfect Alaskan voyage.

Planning a cruise to Alaska is one of the most exciting travel decisions you can make. The Last Frontier offers jaw-dropping glaciers, towering mountains, abundant wildlife, and rich Indigenous culture—all best seen from the deck of a well-chosen ship. But with dozens of cruise lines and hundreds of vessels sailing Alaska each year, how do you know which is the best cruise ship to Alaska for your trip?

The truth is, there’s no single “best” ship for everyone. The ideal vessel depends on your priorities: Are you traveling with kids? Do you crave gourmet dining and spa treatments? Or are you more interested in wildlife spotting and remote wilderness access? Some travelers want luxury and comfort, while others prioritize adventure and value. The good news? Alaska has something for every kind of cruiser.

This guide will help you navigate the options by comparing top ships across different categories—luxury, family-friendly, adventure-focused, and budget-conscious. We’ll look at itineraries, onboard experiences, port access, and seasonal considerations so you can make an informed choice. Whether you’re dreaming of kayaking near a calving glacier or sipping champagne as a humpback whale breaches nearby, we’ll help you find the ship that turns those dreams into reality.

Key Takeaways

• Itinerary matters most: Look for ships that visit Glacier Bay, Hubbard Glacier, and key ports like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway for the full Alaskan experience.
• Smaller ships offer better access: Ships under 1,000 passengers can dock in more ports and navigate narrow fjords for up-close glacier views.
• Season impacts scenery and wildlife: May–June offers calmer seas and blooming landscapes; July–August is peak season with warmer weather and active wildlife.
• Onboard amenities vary widely: Luxury lines like Regent and Seabourn focus on service and dining, while family lines like Royal Caribbean and Carnival offer entertainment and kids’ programs.
• Shore excursions enhance the trip: Book glacier hikes, whale watching, and dog sledding in advance—popular tours sell out quickly.
• Consider departure ports: Seattle, Vancouver, and Seward offer different route options; round-trip cruises often provide better value.
• Pack smart for variable weather: Layers, waterproof gear, and binoculars are essential—even summer days can be cool and rainy.

Why Alaska Is a Top Cruise Destination

Alaska isn’t just another cruise destination—it’s a transformative experience. Unlike tropical cruises with endless beaches, Alaska offers raw, untamed nature that changes every day. One morning you might be watching sea lions bask on rocky shores, and the next, you’re gliding past a 300-foot wall of ice as chunks calve into the sea with a thunderous crack.

The state’s dramatic coastline, carved by ancient glaciers, creates a maze of fjords, inlets, and islands perfect for cruising. Major ports like Juneau (the capital, accessible only by air or sea), Ketchikan (known for its totem poles and rainforest), and Skagway (a Gold Rush-era town) offer rich history and culture. Meanwhile, natural wonders like Glacier Bay National Park and Hubbard Glacier provide awe-inspiring backdrops that no photo can truly capture.

What makes Alaska especially unique is its wildlife. Orcas, humpback whales, sea otters, puffins, and bald eagles are commonly spotted. On land, you might see black bears fishing for salmon or moose grazing near the shore. The combination of marine and terrestrial ecosystems makes every day on the water an adventure.

Another reason Alaska stands out is the variety of experiences available. You can take a helicopter tour onto a glacier, ride the historic White Pass & Yukon Route railway, or visit a Native cultural center to learn about Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian heritage. Many ships also offer onboard naturalists and guest speakers who enhance your understanding of the region’s ecology and history.

Top Cruise Lines for Alaska: A Breakdown

Not all cruise lines are created equal when it comes to Alaska. Some specialize in luxury, others in family fun, and a few in expedition-style adventures. Here’s a look at the best cruise lines for Alaska and what they offer.

Luxury Lines: Regent Seven Seas, Seabourn, and Crystal

If you want a high-end experience with all-inclusive pricing, luxury lines are the way to go. Regent Seven Seas, for example, includes airfare, shore excursions, gratuities, and premium drinks in its fares. Their ships, like the *Seven Seas Explorer*, are spacious and elegant, with spacious suites and gourmet dining.

Seabourn takes luxury a step further with its intimate ships and personalized service. The *Seabourn Odyssey* and *Seabourn Sojourn* carry fewer than 500 guests, allowing for more flexible itineraries and access to smaller ports. Seabourn also offers unique experiences like Zodiac landings and polar plunge events.

Crystal Cruises, now under new ownership, continues to offer refined service and enrichment programs. Their ships feature spacious cabins, multiple dining venues, and a strong focus on wellness and culture.

These lines are ideal for travelers who want comfort, privacy, and top-tier service—without worrying about extra costs.

Family-Friendly Lines: Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian

For families, Royal Caribbean is a standout. Ships like the *Radiance of the Seas* and *Serenade of the Seas* offer rock climbing walls, ice skating rinks, Broadway-style shows, and kids’ clubs. Their Alaska itineraries often include fun shore excursions like zip-lining in Ketchikan or panning for gold in Skagway.

Carnival Cruise Line provides a more budget-friendly option with a lively, party-oriented atmosphere. The *Carnival Miracle* sails from Seattle and offers comedy shows, water slides, and family-friendly dining. While not as refined as luxury lines, Carnival delivers great value and entertainment.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) promotes “freestyle cruising,” meaning no fixed dining times or dress codes. The *Norwegian Jewel* and *Norwegian Sun* offer flexible schedules, multiple dining options, and a relaxed vibe. NCL also includes some shore excursions in their fares, which can save money.

These lines are perfect for families, multigenerational trips, or travelers who want a mix of relaxation and fun.

Adventure and Expedition Lines: Hurtigruten, Lindblad Expeditions, and UnCruise

For travelers seeking a more immersive, nature-focused experience, expedition cruises are the answer. Hurtigruten (now Hurtigruten Expeditions) operates ships like the *MS Roald Amundsen*, which are designed for polar exploration. These vessels have reinforced hulls, science labs, and expert guides who lead Zodiac tours and wildlife spotting sessions.

Lindblad Expeditions, in partnership with National Geographic, offers educational voyages with photographers, naturalists, and scientists on board. Their ships, such as the *National Geographic Sea Lion*, are small and nimble, allowing access to remote areas like the Inside Passage and Tracy Arm Fjord.

UnCruise Adventures takes a more rugged, intimate approach. With ships carrying fewer than 100 guests, UnCruise focuses on active adventures like kayaking, hiking, and snorkeling. Their itineraries often include visits to lesser-known ports and wildlife hotspots.

These lines are best for travelers who want to learn, explore, and get up close to Alaska’s wild side.

Best Cruise Ships to Alaska: Ship-by-Ship Comparison

Now let’s look at specific ships that consistently rank as the best cruise ships to Alaska, based on itineraries, amenities, and guest reviews.

1. Seven Seas Explorer (Regent Seven Seas)

Often called the “most luxurious ship at sea,” the *Seven Seas Explorer* offers all-suite, all-balcony accommodations and a staff-to-guest ratio of nearly 1:1. Every fare includes airfare, unlimited shore excursions, premium beverages, and gratuities. The ship visits key ports like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway, with multiple glacier-viewing days. Its elegant lounges, multiple dining venues, and spa make it ideal for travelers who want comfort and convenience.

2. Seabourn Odyssey (Seabourn)

With just 450 guests, the *Seabourn Odyssey* provides an intimate, service-rich experience. The ship features spacious suites, open-seating dining, and a relaxed dress code. It sails itineraries that include Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier, with opportunities for Zodiac excursions and polar plunges. Seabourn’s “Seabourn Ventures” program offers guided hikes and wildlife tours, making it a top choice for active luxury travelers.

3. Radiance of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)

This mid-sized ship strikes a great balance between amenities and access. With a capacity of around 2,100 guests, it’s large enough to offer rock climbing, a surf simulator, and multiple dining options, but small enough to navigate narrow fjords. It sails from Vancouver and Seattle, visiting Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan. The ship’s large windows and outdoor promenade deck make it perfect for glacier viewing.

4. National Geographic Sea Lion (Lindblad Expeditions)

Carrying only 62 guests, this expedition ship is built for adventure. It features a fleet of Zodiacs, kayaks, and a hydrophone to listen for whale songs. Naturalists and photographers lead daily excursions, and the ship often anchors in remote bays for wildlife watching. It’s ideal for travelers who want to learn about Alaska’s ecosystems and see places most cruise ships can’t reach.

5. UnCruise Adventures’ Safari Explorer

This 86-guest ship focuses on active, small-group experiences. It offers daily kayaking, hiking, and snorkeling, with a focus on wildlife and local culture. The ship visits lesser-known ports like Wrangell and Petersburg, and includes visits to Native villages. With a casual, adventurous vibe, it’s perfect for travelers who want to get off the beaten path.

Choosing the Right Itinerary and Departure Port

The best cruise ship to Alaska is only part of the equation—your itinerary and departure port matter just as much.

Inside Passage vs. Gulf of Alaska Routes

Most Alaska cruises fall into two categories: Inside Passage and Gulf of Alaska.

Inside Passage itineraries typically depart from Seattle or Vancouver and travel north through the protected waters of the Pacific Northwest. These routes visit Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway, with glacier stops at Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm. They’re ideal for first-time cruisers and families, offering calm seas and frequent port calls.

Gulf of Alaska itineraries often start or end in Seward or Whittier (near Anchorage) and cross the open water of the Gulf. These cruises include visits to Hubbard Glacier and Glacier Bay National Park, which are among the most spectacular glacier experiences in Alaska. One-way cruises (e.g., Seattle to Seward) allow you to see more of the state but require air travel at one end.

Round-Trip vs. One-Way Cruises

Round-trip cruises from Seattle or Vancouver are convenient and often more affordable, as you don’t need to book additional flights. They’re great for travelers who want a traditional cruise experience with multiple port stops.

One-way cruises (also called “open-jaw”) offer a more immersive journey, allowing you to explore both the coastal towns and the interior. For example, you might cruise from Seattle to Seward, then take a train or bus to Denali National Park before flying home from Anchorage. These trips require more planning but offer a fuller Alaskan adventure.

Best Departure Ports

– **Seattle:** Offers round-trip itineraries with easy airport access. Popular with families and first-time cruisers.
– **Vancouver:** A scenic departure point with international flights. Many ships offer pre-cruise hotel packages.
– **Seward/Whittier:** Gateway to Denali and the interior. Ideal for one-way cruises and adventure travelers.
– **San Francisco:** Some lines offer longer repositioning cruises from California, combining Alaska with Pacific coast stops.

When to Go: Seasonal Considerations

Alaska’s cruise season runs from May to September, but each month offers a different experience.

May–Early June: Shoulder Season

Pros: Fewer crowds, lower prices, calmer seas, and blooming wildflowers. Wildlife is active as animals emerge from winter.

Cons: Cooler temperatures (40s–50s°F), some shore excursions may not be fully operational, and daylight is long but not yet at peak.

Best for: Budget-conscious travelers and those who prefer quieter ships.

Mid-June to August: Peak Season

Pros: Warmest weather (50s–60s°F), longest daylight hours (up to 18 hours), full range of excursions, and peak wildlife activity.

Cons: Higher prices, larger crowds, and more competition for shore tours.

Best for: Families, first-time visitors, and those who want the full Alaska experience.

September: Fall Foliage and Farewell

Pros: Stunning fall colors, fewer tourists, lower fares, and active wildlife preparing for winter.

Cons: Cooler temperatures, shorter days, and some excursions may end by mid-September.

Best for: Photographers, nature lovers, and travelers seeking a quieter, more reflective journey.

Packing Tips and What to Expect Onboard

Packing for an Alaska cruise requires preparation for variable weather and outdoor activities.

Essential Packing List

– **Layered clothing:** Base layers, fleece, waterproof jacket, and warm hat.
– **Waterproof gear:** Raincoat, rain pants, and waterproof shoes or boots.
– **Binoculars:** Essential for wildlife and glacier viewing.
– **Camera with zoom lens:** Capture distant whales and eagles.
– **Daypack:** For shore excursions and carrying essentials.
– **Motion sickness remedies:** Even calm waters can be choppy near glaciers.

Onboard Experience

Most ships offer enrichment programs, including lectures on Alaska’s geology, wildlife, and Indigenous cultures. Dining options vary by line—luxury ships feature gourmet cuisine, while family lines offer casual buffets and specialty restaurants.

Wi-Fi can be slow and expensive, so consider disconnecting or purchasing a premium package. Cell service is limited at sea, so plan accordingly.

Shore excursions are a highlight. Book popular tours like Mendenhall Glacier hike, whale watching in Juneau, or the White Pass Railway in advance—they often sell out.

Final Tips for Choosing the Best Cruise Ship to Alaska

To sum it up, the best cruise ship to Alaska is the one that matches your travel style, budget, and interests. Here are a few final tips:

– **Prioritize itinerary over ship size:** A smaller ship with a great route beats a large ship with a weak itinerary.
– **Book early:** Top ships and cabins fill up fast, especially for peak season.
– **Read reviews:** Look for recent guest feedback on sites like Cruise Critic or TripAdvisor.
– **Consider travel insurance:** Weather delays and cancellations can happen, especially in remote areas.
– **Talk to a travel agent:** Alaska specialists can help you navigate options and find deals.

Whether you choose a luxury suite on the *Seven Seas Explorer* or a kayak tour from the *Safari Explorer*, Alaska will leave you in awe. The glaciers, the wildlife, the culture—it’s a destination that stays with you long after you’ve sailed away.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to cruise to Alaska?

The best time depends on your preferences. June to August offers the warmest weather and full excursion availability, while May and September provide fewer crowds and lower prices. Wildlife is active throughout the season.

Do I need a passport for an Alaska 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 cruises departing from Canada, a passport is mandatory.

Can I see glaciers on an Alaska cruise?

Yes! Most itineraries include glacier viewing at Hubbard Glacier, Glacier Bay, or Tracy Arm. These are highlights of any Alaska cruise and often feature calving ice and stunning blue ice formations.

Are Alaska cruises family-friendly?

Absolutely. Lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian offer kids’ clubs, entertainment, and family-friendly excursions. Many ships also have connecting cabins and teen programs.

How much should I budget for shore excursions?

Shore excursions range from $50 to $300+ per person. Popular tours like helicopter glacier landings or dog sledding can be pricey, so budget accordingly or look for included options on luxury lines.

What wildlife can I expect to see on an Alaska cruise?

Common sightings include humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, puffins, bald eagles, and sea lions. On shore excursions, you might see black bears, moose, and mountain goats.