Who Has the Best Prices on Cruises to Alaska

Finding the best prices on cruises to Alaska doesn’t mean sacrificing quality or experience. With smart planning, flexible travel dates, and the right booking strategies, you can enjoy stunning glaciers, wildlife, and coastal towns without overspending. This guide breaks down which cruise lines and travel partners offer the most value—so you can sail smarter.

Key Takeaways

• Book early or last-minute for the best deals: Early-bird discounts and last-minute inventory drops can save you hundreds, especially with major cruise lines.
• Compare major cruise lines: Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Princess Cruises often run aggressive promotions, while smaller lines like UnCruise offer unique experiences at competitive rates.
• Use travel agencies and online booking platforms: Sites like Expedia, Costco Travel, and Vacations To Go frequently offer exclusive perks like onboard credit or free upgrades.
• Travel during shoulder seasons: May and September offer lower prices and fewer crowds, with still-great weather and wildlife sightings.
• Watch for bundled packages: Airfare, hotels, and shore excursions included in one price can deliver better value than booking separately.
• Loyalty programs matter: Repeat cruisers can access member-only discounts and priority booking through cruise line rewards programs.
• Monitor price drops and price-match policies: Some agencies guarantee refunds if prices fall after booking—don’t overlook this money-saving feature.

Who Has the Best Prices on Cruises to Alaska?

Dreaming of sailing past towering glaciers, spotting humpback whales, and exploring charming coastal towns like Juneau and Ketchikan? An Alaska cruise offers one of the most breathtaking travel experiences on the planet. But let’s be honest—no one wants to pay full price for a vacation that should feel like a reward, not a financial burden.

The good news? You don’t have to. With the right strategy, you can find incredible deals on Alaska cruises without cutting corners on comfort or adventure. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, understanding where and how to book can make all the difference. From major cruise lines to niche operators and third-party booking sites, the options are plentiful—but not all deals are created equal.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best sources for affordable Alaska cruises, compare pricing across top providers, and share insider tips to help you lock in the lowest fare. We’ll also explore timing, cabin selection, and hidden perks that can stretch your budget even further. By the end, you’ll know exactly who has the best prices on cruises to Alaska—and how to claim them.

Top Cruise Lines with the Best Alaska Cruise Prices

When it comes to Alaska, not all cruise lines are equal in price or value. Some cater to luxury travelers, while others focus on affordability and family-friendly fun. Let’s break down the major players and see which ones consistently offer the best prices on cruises to Alaska.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

Norwegian Cruise Line is a favorite among budget-conscious travelers, and for good reason. Known for its “Freestyle Cruising” approach—no fixed dining times, casual dress codes, and flexible itineraries—NCL delivers a relaxed experience at a competitive price. Their Alaska sailings typically run from Seattle or Vancouver, with 7-night itineraries visiting popular ports like Skagway, Juneau, and Ketchikan.

One of NCL’s biggest advantages is their frequent promotions. Look for deals like “Buy One, Get One 50% Off,” free airfare from select cities, or up to $300 in onboard credit. They also offer a “Free at Sea” program, which bundles perks like free specialty dining, shore excursion credits, or even a free hotel night before your cruise.

For example, a 7-night Alaska cruise in May might start at $799 per person for an interior cabin—but with the Free at Sea package, that same fare could include $200 in shore excursion credit and free Wi-Fi. That’s real value.

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean is another top contender for affordable Alaska cruises, especially if you’re traveling with kids or want a more activity-packed voyage. Their ships feature rock climbing walls, surf simulators, and Broadway-style shows—perfect for families or multigenerational trips.

Their Alaska itineraries often depart from Seattle or Vancouver and include stops at Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier, and Icy Strait Point. While their base fares can be slightly higher than NCL’s, Royal Caribbean frequently runs sales with deep discounts, especially during early booking windows or last-minute inventory clearance.

For instance, a 7-night cruise in September might drop to $699 per person—down from $1,200—just weeks before departure. Plus, their “Cruise Planner” tool lets you compare prices across dates and cabins in real time, helping you spot the best deals quickly.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises is often praised for its authentic Alaska experience. They’ve been sailing these waters for decades and offer some of the most scenic routes, including Glacier Bay and the Inside Passage. While they lean slightly more upscale, they still offer competitive pricing—especially if you book during their seasonal sales.

Princess frequently partners with Holland America Line (both owned by Carnival Corporation) to offer shared itineraries and bundled deals. Their “MedallionClass” technology enhances the onboard experience with wearable devices that unlock your cabin, order drinks, and even help you find family members on board.

One standout offer is their “Alaska Cruise + Tour” packages, which combine a 7-night cruise with 3–5 nights on land in Denali or Fairbanks. These can be pricier upfront, but when you factor in included meals, transfers, and guided tours, they often provide better value than booking separately.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises positions itself as a premium line, but don’t let that scare you off. They regularly offer promotions that bring their Alaska fares down to match or beat competitors. Their ships are modern and stylish, with gourmet dining and spacious staterooms—ideal for couples or travelers who want a touch of luxury without the luxury price tag.

Celebrity’s “Always Included” pricing model means your fare covers gratuities, Wi-Fi, and basic beverages—no surprise fees at the end. Their Alaska itineraries often include scenic cruising through Tracy Arm Fjord and visits to lesser-known ports like Haines.

Look for their “Last Minute Deals” or “Early Saver” fares, which can drop a 7-night cruise to under $900 per person. Plus, their loyalty program, Captain’s Club, offers discounts and perks for repeat cruisers.

Smaller and Niche Cruise Lines

If you’re open to a more intimate experience, consider smaller operators like UnCruise Adventures, Lindblad Expeditions, or American Cruise Lines. These companies offer expedition-style voyages with expert naturalists, Zodiac landings, and up-close wildlife encounters.

While their base prices may seem higher—often starting around $3,000–$5,000 per person—they include nearly everything: shore excursions, premium beverages, gratuities, and even flights between ports. For travelers seeking a deeper connection with Alaska’s wilderness, these can be the best value overall.

UnCruise, for example, offers 7-night itineraries from $3,495 per person, including all meals, drinks, and guided hikes. When you compare that to a mainstream cruise where excursions and drinks add up quickly, the niche lines can actually be more economical—and far more immersive.

Best Booking Platforms and Travel Agencies for Alaska Cruise Deals

You don’t have to book directly with the cruise line to get the best price. In fact, many of the lowest fares come from third-party travel agencies and online booking platforms that negotiate bulk rates and pass the savings on to you.

Vacations To Go

Vacations To Go is a go-to for savvy cruisers. This Texas-based agency specializes in cruise deals and has long-standing relationships with major lines. They often have access to unpublished fares and exclusive perks like free cabin upgrades or onboard credit.

Their website features a “Last Minute Cruises” section where prices can drop dramatically—sometimes by 50% or more—just weeks before departure. They also offer a “Price Drop Guarantee,” meaning if the fare drops after you book, they’ll refund the difference.

For example, a 7-night Alaska cruise with Royal Caribbean might be listed at $1,100 per person—but Vacations To Go could offer it for $899 with $150 in onboard credit. That’s a real savings.

Costco Travel

If you’re a Costco member, don’t overlook their travel portal. Costco Travel frequently offers Alaska cruise packages with added value—think free airfare, hotel nights, or $200 in onboard credit. Their deals often include airfare from major U.S. cities, making it easier to budget your entire trip in one place.

One recent offer included a 7-night Norwegian Cruise Line Alaska voyage with round-trip air from Los Angeles, a pre-cruise hotel night, and $300 in onboard credit—all for $1,299 per person. That’s hard to beat.

Plus, Costco’s customer service is top-notch, and their satisfaction guarantee means you can book with confidence.

Expedia and Priceline

Major online travel agencies like Expedia and Priceline are convenient for comparing multiple cruise lines and dates in one place. They often run their own promotions, such as “Book Now, Pay Later” or “Save $200 When You Spend $1,500.”

Priceline’s “Name Your Own Price” feature can also yield deep discounts—though you won’t know the cruise line until after booking. This works best for flexible travelers who don’t mind surprises.

Expedia’s loyalty program, Expedia Rewards, lets you earn points on cruise bookings that can be used for future travel. They also offer price matching, so if you find a lower fare elsewhere, they’ll honor it.

Direct Booking vs. Agencies: Which Is Cheaper?

It’s a common question: Should you book directly with the cruise line or go through a third party? The answer depends on the deal.

Cruise lines often promote their own sales with flashy ads and email blasts. But agencies like Vacations To Go or Costco Travel may have access to even lower rates or better perks. Plus, many agencies offer personalized service—something you won’t get from a website.

That said, booking direct gives you more control over your reservation and easier access to the cruise line’s customer service. If you’re a first-time cruiser or have complex needs (like dietary restrictions or accessibility requirements), direct booking might be safer.

The smart move? Compare prices across both channels. Start with the cruise line’s website, then check agencies like Vacations To Go or Costco Travel. You might be surprised by the difference.

When to Book for the Best Alaska Cruise Prices

Timing is everything when it comes to scoring the best prices on cruises to Alaska. The key is knowing when prices drop—and when they rise.

Early Booking Discounts

Most cruise lines release their Alaska itineraries 12–18 months in advance. Booking during this “wave season” (typically January through March) can unlock significant savings. Early-bird fares often come with perks like free upgrades, reduced deposits, or onboard credit.

For example, Norwegian Cruise Line might offer $200 in onboard credit for bookings made before March 31. Royal Caribbean could waive gratuities for early reservations. These incentives add up fast.

But be cautious: early booking doesn’t always mean the lowest price. Sometimes, cruise lines raise fares after initial demand, so monitor prices even after you book.

Last-Minute Deals

If you’re flexible with dates, last-minute bookings can be a goldmine. Cruise lines hate empty cabins, so they often slash prices in the final 60–90 days before departure.

Look for “7-Day Flash Sales” or “Final Sail” promotions. A 7-night Alaska cruise that was $1,200 per person in April might drop to $799 in June—just weeks before sailing.

The trade-off? Limited cabin selection and fewer flight options. But if you’re okay with an interior room or a less popular departure city, the savings can be substantial.

Shoulder Season Savings

Alaska’s cruise season runs from May to September, with peak demand in July and August. But the shoulder months—May and September—offer the best balance of price, weather, and wildlife.

In May, you’ll find lower fares and fewer crowds. The weather is mild, and you might even catch the tail end of the spring whale migration. In September, the summer rush has passed, but the fall colors are stunning, and wildlife is active before winter.

A 7-night cruise in May might cost $200–$300 less per person than the same itinerary in July. Plus, you’ll enjoy more personalized service and easier access to shore excursions.

Holiday and Special Event Pricing

Avoid booking around major holidays like Memorial Day, Independence Day, or Labor Day. Prices spike during these periods due to high demand.

Similarly, special events like the Alaska State Fair in August can drive up costs in certain ports. If you’re set on a specific date, book early—but expect to pay a premium.

How to Maximize Value Beyond the Base Fare

The sticker price of a cruise is just the beginning. To truly get the best value, you need to consider what’s included—and what’s not.

What’s Typically Included

Most Alaska cruises include:
– Accommodations
– Main dining room meals
– Basic beverages (water, coffee, tea)
– Entertainment and activities
– Access to public areas and pools

But extras like specialty dining, alcohol, Wi-Fi, shore excursions, and gratuities are usually extra—and they add up fast.

Look for All-Inclusive or “Always Included” Fares

Some cruise lines now offer simplified pricing that bundles more into the base fare. Celebrity Cruises’ “Always Included” model covers gratuities, Wi-Fi, and basic drinks. Norwegian’s “Free at Sea” program adds perks based on your fare level.

These packages can save you $200–$500 per person compared to paying à la carte.

Book Shore Excursions Through the Cruise Line (or Not?)

Cruise lines offer convenient, guided shore excursions—but they’re often overpriced. A whale-watching tour might cost $150 through the cruise line, but only $80 with a local operator.

That said, cruise-line excursions come with guarantees: if the ship leaves early, they’ll cover your return. Independent tours don’t.

The smart move? Research excursions in advance. Book through the cruise line for high-risk ports (like Juneau, where tendering is required), but go local in more accessible towns like Ketchikan or Skagway.

Use Onboard Credit Wisely

Many deals include onboard credit (OBC)—a set amount you can spend on drinks, spa treatments, or souvenirs. Use it early in the cruise, before you’re tempted to overspend.

Some travelers even use OBC to cover gratuities, which can run $14–$18 per person per day.

Tips for Finding Hidden Deals and Avoiding Scams

With so many options, it’s easy to get overwhelmed—or worse, fall for a scam. Here’s how to stay safe and find real deals.

Watch for Fake “Too Good to Be True” Offers

If a deal seems unbelievable—like a 7-night Alaska cruise for $299—it probably is. Scammers often lure victims with low prices, then disappear after payment.

Stick to reputable sites: cruise line websites, Vacations To Go, Costco Travel, or well-known OTAs like Expedia.

Read the Fine Print

Always check cancellation policies, port fees, and what’s included. Some “deals” exclude taxes and fees, which can add $200–$300 per person.

Also, confirm departure cities. A cheap fare from Seattle might sound great—until you realize flights from the Midwest cost $500 extra.

Use Price Alerts and Trackers

Set up price alerts on sites like Cruise Critic or Kayak. They’ll notify you when fares drop for your desired itinerary.

Some agencies, like Vacations To Go, offer price-drop guarantees—so you can book early and still benefit from later discounts.

Join Loyalty Programs

Even if you’ve never cruised before, sign up for cruise line loyalty programs. They often offer member-only discounts, early access to sales, and points toward future cruises.

Norwegian’s Latitudes, Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor, and Princess’s Captain’s Circle all provide valuable perks.

Conclusion: Who Really Has the Best Prices on Cruises to Alaska?

So, who has the best prices on cruises to Alaska? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. It depends on your travel style, budget, and priorities.

For the lowest base fares and frequent promotions, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean are strong contenders. For bundled value and perks, look to Celebrity Cruises or Costco Travel. For immersive, all-inclusive experiences, niche operators like UnCruise deliver unmatched value.

But the real secret to saving money isn’t just picking the right cruise line—it’s knowing when and how to book. Early-bird discounts, last-minute deals, and shoulder-season travel can slash your costs by hundreds. And using trusted agencies like Vacations To Go or Costco Travel often unlocks perks you won’t find elsewhere.

Ultimately, the best price is the one that gives you the experience you want—without breaking the bank. With the tips in this guide, you’re ready to sail Alaska in style, comfort, and confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the cheapest time to book an Alaska cruise?

The cheapest time to book is typically during early booking windows (12–18 months in advance) or in the last 60–90 days before departure. Shoulder months like May and September also offer lower prices and fewer crowds.

Are Alaska cruises all-inclusive?

Most Alaska cruises are not fully all-inclusive. While accommodations and main meals are included, extras like alcohol, Wi-Fi, shore excursions, and gratuities usually cost extra. Some lines, like Celebrity, offer “Always Included” fares that bundle more services.

Can I find last-minute deals on Alaska cruises?

Yes, last-minute deals are common as cruise lines try to fill empty cabins. Check agencies like Vacations To Go or cruise line websites for flash sales in the weeks leading up to departure.

Is it cheaper to book through a travel agency?

Often, yes. Agencies like Costco Travel and Vacations To Go have access to exclusive rates and perks like onboard credit or free upgrades that aren’t available when booking directly.

Do Alaska cruise prices include airfare?

Not usually. Most base fares cover only the cruise. However, some packages—especially through Costco Travel or cruise line promotions—include airfare from select cities.

What’s the best cruise line for families to Alaska?

Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line are top choices for families, offering kid-friendly activities, flexible dining, and engaging entertainment. Both frequently run family-focused promotions.