Which Is the Best Cruise to Alaska

Choosing the best cruise to Alaska depends on your travel style, budget, and interests. From luxury liners to small expedition ships, this guide breaks down the top options, itineraries, and insider tips to help you pick the perfect voyage through glaciers, wildlife, and rugged coastlines.

Dreaming of towering glaciers, breaching whales, and snow-capped mountains? A cruise to Alaska is one of the most breathtaking ways to experience the Last Frontier. But with so many cruise lines, ships, and itineraries to choose from, how do you know which is the best cruise to Alaska for you?

The truth is, there’s no single “best” option—only the best fit for your travel style. Whether you’re a luxury seeker, a nature lover, a family with kids, or an adventure junkie, Alaska has a cruise that matches your vibe. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make an informed decision, from the top cruise lines and must-see ports to packing tips and hidden gems along the way.

By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of what to expect and how to choose the perfect Alaskan voyage—one that delivers unforgettable memories without breaking the bank or missing the highlights.

Key Takeaways

• Itinerary matters most: Look for cruises that include Glacier Bay, Hubbard Glacier, and ports like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway for the full Alaskan experience.
• Ship size affects experience: Large ships offer more amenities; small ships provide closer wildlife encounters and access to remote areas.
• Best time to go is May to September: Peak season (June–August) offers warmer weather and longer daylight, but shoulder months (May, September) are less crowded.
• Expedition cruises deliver adventure: Lines like UnCruise and Lindblad offer expert-led excursions, kayaking, and Zodiac tours for active travelers.
• Mainstream lines balance value and comfort: Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and Princess offer great entertainment, dining, and family-friendly activities.
• Book excursions early: Popular tours like whale watching, dog sledding, and glacier hikes sell out quickly—reserve in advance.
• Pack layers and waterproof gear: Weather changes fast—bring a rain jacket, warm layers, and sturdy shoes for shore excursions.

Why Cruise to Alaska? The Ultimate Scenic Journey

Alaska isn’t just a destination—it’s a sensory overload in the best way possible. Imagine waking up to the thunderous crack of a glacier calving into the sea, or spotting a grizzly bear fishing for salmon along a riverbank. A cruise lets you experience these wonders from the comfort of a ship, with expert guides, comfortable cabins, and gourmet meals—all while gliding through pristine fjords and icy waters.

One of the biggest advantages of cruising is access. Many of Alaska’s most stunning natural sites are only reachable by boat. Places like Glacier Bay National Park, Tracy Arm Fjord, and the Inside Passage are best explored from the water, where you can get up close to glaciers, sea lions, and bald eagles. Plus, cruising eliminates the hassle of driving or flying between remote towns—your ship becomes your floating hotel, moving you seamlessly from one adventure to the next.

The Magic of the Inside Passage

Most Alaska cruises follow the Inside Passage, a protected waterway that winds through lush rainforests, rugged coastlines, and indigenous communities. This route offers calm waters, making it ideal for first-time cruisers or those prone to seasickness. You’ll pass by misty islands, hidden coves, and wildlife-rich shores—all while enjoying panoramic views from your balcony or the ship’s observation deck.

Glaciers: Nature’s Greatest Show

No Alaska cruise is complete without witnessing a glacier. The state is home to over 100,000 glaciers, but a few stand out for their accessibility and drama. Hubbard Glacier, one of the largest in North America, often calves massive icebergs right in front of ships. Glacier Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a narrated experience led by National Park Service rangers who share insights into the region’s ecology and history.

Top Cruise Lines for Alaska: Which One Is Right for You?

With so many cruise lines sailing to Alaska, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Each offers a different experience, from all-inclusive luxury to rugged adventure. Here’s a breakdown of the top players and what makes them stand out.

Princess Cruises: The Alaska Experts

Princess is often called the “Queen of Alaska” for good reason. They’ve been sailing these waters for over 50 years and offer some of the most comprehensive itineraries. Their ships spend more time in Glacier Bay than any other line, and they feature exclusive “North to Alaska” programming, including local cuisine, cultural performances, and park ranger lectures.

Princess also offers land-and-sea packages, combining a cruise with a multi-day tour of Denali National Park. This is ideal for travelers who want to see both the coastal and inland wonders of Alaska. Ships like the Grand Princess and Discovery Princess are mid-sized, offering a balance of amenities and scenic views.

Royal Caribbean: Fun for the Whole Family

If you’re traveling with kids or love non-stop entertainment, Royal Caribbean is a top pick. Their ships, like the Ovation of the Seas and Radiance of the Seas, feature rock climbing walls, surf simulators, Broadway-style shows, and multiple dining options. While they don’t spend as much time in Glacier Bay as Princess, they offer longer stays in ports like Juneau and Ketchikan, giving you more time for shore excursions.

Royal Caribbean also partners with local tour operators to offer unique experiences, such as flightseeing over glaciers, zip-lining through forests, and visiting Native Alaskan cultural centers. Their 7-night itineraries from Seattle or Vancouver are popular with families and first-timers.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Freestyle Cruising

Norwegian is known for its “freestyle cruising” concept—no fixed dining times, casual dress codes, and flexible schedules. This makes it a great choice for travelers who want freedom and variety. Their ships, like the Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore, are large and modern, with multiple pools, water slides, and specialty restaurants.

Norwegian offers both round-trip cruises from Seattle and one-way voyages between Seattle and Vancouver. Their Alaska itineraries often include stops in Victoria, BC, and extended time in ports like Skagway, where you can ride the historic White Pass & Yukon Route railway.

Holland America Line: Classic Elegance

For a more refined, traditional cruise experience, Holland America is a standout. Their ships, such as the Nieuw Statendam and Westerdam, are known for their elegant décor, excellent service, and focus on enrichment. They offer longer port stays and more time in scenic cruising areas, perfect for photographers and nature lovers.

Holland America also partners with the Glacier Bay National Park Service, ensuring a ranger is on board during your visit. Their “Alaska Cruise Train” package combines a cruise with a scenic train ride through the Alaska wilderness, adding a unique inland adventure.

Expedition Cruises: For the Adventurous Spirit

If you’re seeking a more intimate, immersive experience, consider an expedition cruise. These smaller ships—often under 200 passengers—sail into remote areas larger vessels can’t reach. Lines like UnCruise Adventures, Lindblad Expeditions (in partnership with National Geographic), and Hurtigruten offer expert-led excursions, including kayaking among icebergs, hiking in temperate rainforests, and Zodiac tours to see sea otters and puffins.

UnCruise, in particular, is beloved by travelers for its casual, adventurous vibe. Their ships feel like floating lodges, with communal dining, naturalist guides, and a focus on outdoor activities. While these cruises are more expensive, they deliver unparalleled access to Alaska’s wild heart.

Best Itineraries: Where Should You Go?

Not all Alaska cruises are created equal. The best itineraries include a mix of scenic cruising, wildlife hotspots, and cultural ports. Here’s what to look for when comparing routes.

Classic 7-Night Round-Trip from Seattle or Vancouver

This is the most popular Alaska cruise format. Ships sail north through the Inside Passage, stopping at Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway, before returning the same way. These itineraries are great for first-timers and offer a balanced mix of nature and town exploration.

Ketchikan is known for its totem poles, rainforest trails, and salmon canneries. Juneau offers whale watching, glacier tours, and the stunning Mendenhall Glacier. Skagway is a gold rush town with historic boardwalks and the scenic White Pass railway.

One-Way Cruises: Seattle to Vancouver (or Vice Versa)

One-way cruises often include an extra port or more time in scenic areas. For example, some routes add a stop in Victoria, BC, or spend a full day cruising Hubbard Glacier. These itineraries are ideal if you’re flying into one city and out of another, saving time and offering a more varied experience.

Extended 10- to 14-Night Voyages

Longer cruises often venture further north, visiting ports like Haines, Icy Strait Point, or even Anchorage (via a land extension). These trips are perfect for travelers who want to dive deeper into Alaska’s culture and wilderness. Some even include a stop in Glacier Bay, which requires a permit and is only available on select itineraries.

Land-and-Sea Packages

Many cruise lines offer combo trips that pair a cruise with a land tour. For example, you might cruise the coast for 7 nights, then fly to Denali National Park for a 3-day adventure. These packages let you see both the coastal glaciers and the inland tundra, where you can spot moose, caribou, and even grizzly bears.

Best Time to Cruise to Alaska

Timing your trip right can make a huge difference in your experience. Alaska’s cruise season runs from May to September, but each month has its own vibe.

May and September: Shoulder Season Perks

These months offer lower prices, fewer crowds, and a more peaceful atmosphere. May is when the landscape is lush and green, and wildlife is active after winter. September brings stunning fall colors and the chance to see the northern lights in some areas. However, some tours and attractions may have limited hours or be closed.

June, July, and August: Peak Season

These are the most popular months, with the warmest weather (average highs of 60–70°F), longest daylight hours, and full access to tours and parks. July is especially busy, with families on summer break. If you go during peak season, book your cruise and excursions early—popular activities like dog sledding on a glacier or flying over Denali sell out months in advance.

Weather and Packing Tips

Alaska’s weather is famously unpredictable. Even in summer, temperatures can drop, and rain is common. Pack in layers: a base layer, fleece or sweater, waterproof jacket, and warm hat. Don’t forget binoculars for wildlife spotting, sunscreen (yes, even in Alaska!), and sturdy walking shoes for shore excursions.

Shore Excursions: Must-Do Experiences

One of the best parts of an Alaska cruise is the chance to get off the ship and explore. Here are some top-rated excursions you won’t want to miss.

Whale Watching in Juneau

Juneau is one of the best places in the world to see humpback whales. Many tours take you into Stephens Passage, where whales feed on herring. Some even offer hydrophones so you can hear their songs.

Dog Sledding on a Glacier

Fly by helicopter to a glacier near Juneau or Skagway and meet real Iditarod sled dogs. You’ll get to ride in a sled and learn about the history of dog mushing from experienced mushers.

Mendenhall Glacier Hike

Just outside Juneau, this 13-mile-long glacier offers easy walking trails and stunning views. Some tours include a visit to Nugget Falls, which cascades right next to the ice.

White Pass & Yukon Route Railway

This historic narrow-gauge railway climbs 2,800 feet through the mountains from Skagway. It’s a thrilling ride with panoramic views of waterfalls, gorges, and old mining towns.

Native Cultural Experiences

In Ketchikan, visit the Totem Heritage Center or attend a traditional Tlingit dance performance. Many tours include storytelling, craft demonstrations, and local cuisine.

Tips for Choosing the Best Cruise to Alaska

Now that you know the options, here’s how to pick the right one for you.

Consider Your Travel Style

Are you looking for luxury, adventure, family fun, or a quiet retreat? Match your personality to the cruise line. Love hiking and wildlife? Go for an expedition cruise. Traveling with teens? Choose a ship with activities and entertainment.

Check the Itinerary Details

Look beyond the ports. How many days are spent at sea? How much time is allocated to scenic cruising? Does the ship enter Glacier Bay? These details can make or break your experience.

Compare Prices and Inclusions

Some cruises include drinks, Wi-Fi, and excursions in the fare. Others charge extra. Factor in these costs when comparing options. Also, consider booking a balcony cabin—Alaska’s views are worth it.

Read Reviews and Ask Questions

Check sites like Cruise Critic or talk to a travel agent who specializes in Alaska. Ask about ship size, crowd levels, and the quality of onboard programming.

Book Early for the Best Deals

Alaska cruises sell out fast, especially for peak season. Booking 9–12 months in advance can save you money and secure your preferred cabin category.

Final Thoughts: Making Your Alaska Dream a Reality

Choosing the best cruise to Alaska doesn’t have to be stressful. With so many incredible options, the key is knowing what you want out of your trip. Whether you’re marveling at a calving glacier, spotting a bear in the wild, or sipping coffee on your balcony as the sun rises over the fjords, Alaska delivers moments you’ll never forget.

Take the time to compare cruise lines, read itineraries carefully, and plan your excursions in advance. And don’t forget to pack your sense of wonder—Alaska has a way of surprising even the most seasoned travelers.

No matter which cruise you choose, one thing is certain: you’re in for the adventure of a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best month to cruise to Alaska?

The best time to cruise to Alaska is June through August, when the weather is warmest and most tours are available. However, May and September offer fewer crowds and lower prices, with still-great wildlife viewing.

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 stopping in Canada, a passport is mandatory.

Are Alaska cruises family-friendly?

Yes! Lines like Royal Caribbean and Norwegian offer kids’ clubs, water slides, and family-friendly shows. Many excursions, like whale watching and train rides, are fun for all ages.

Can you see the northern lights on an Alaska cruise?

It’s rare, but possible—especially on late-season cruises in September. The northern lights are more commonly seen in inland areas like Fairbanks, not typically from cruise ships.

How much do shore excursions cost?

Excursions range from $50 for a city tour to $300+ for helicopter rides or dog sledding. Booking through the cruise line is convenient, but third-party operators often offer lower prices.

Is it cold on an Alaska cruise?

Temperatures vary, but summer averages 50–70°F. It can feel cooler on the water or near glaciers, so layers and a waterproof jacket are essential.