Who Is the Best Alaska Cruise Line

Choosing the best Alaska cruise line depends on your travel style, budget, and must-see destinations. From luxury experiences to family-friendly adventures, each major cruise line offers unique strengths—this guide breaks down the top contenders to help you pick the perfect voyage.

Key Takeaways

• Best Overall: Holland America Line offers a balanced mix of scenic routes, expert naturalists, and refined onboard experiences ideal for first-time and repeat Alaska travelers.
• Best for Luxury: Seabourn and Silversea provide ultra-luxury small-ship cruising with personalized service, gourmet dining, and exclusive access to remote fjords.
• Best for Families: Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean combine kid-friendly activities, entertainment, and Alaska’s natural wonders in a fun, engaging way.
• Best for Adventure: UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions focus on active exploration, wildlife encounters, and immersive shore excursions.
• Best Value: Norwegian Cruise Line delivers flexible dining, entertainment, and longer itineraries at competitive prices.
• Best for Scenic Routes: All major lines sail Glacier Bay, but smaller ships like those from UnCruise can navigate tighter channels for up-close glacier views.
• Best for First-Timers: Princess Cruises offers iconic “Voyage of the Glaciers” routes with expert commentary and Glacier Bay National Park access.

Introduction: Why Alaska Cruises Are a Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience

Alaska isn’t just a destination—it’s a feeling. Picture towering glaciers calving into icy waters, humpback whales breaching near your ship, and snow-capped peaks rising from misty fjords. A cruise through Alaska’s Inside Passage or Gulf Coast offers a front-row seat to some of the planet’s most dramatic natural beauty. But with so many cruise lines sailing these waters, how do you choose the best Alaska cruise line for your dream trip?

The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. The “best” cruise line depends on what you value most: luxury, adventure, family fun, or value for money. Some travelers want gourmet meals and spa treatments, while others crave zodiac rides through icy coves or hiking trails in remote wilderness. The good news? Nearly every major cruise line now offers Alaska itineraries, each with its own flavor, pace, and focus.

In this guide, we’ll compare the top Alaska cruise lines based on real traveler experiences, itinerary quality, onboard amenities, shore excursions, and overall value. Whether you’re planning your first Alaskan voyage or returning for a third time, we’ll help you find the cruise line that matches your travel personality.

What Makes a Cruise Line “Best” for Alaska?

Before diving into specific cruise lines, it’s important to understand what sets an Alaska cruise apart from other destinations. Unlike tropical cruises, Alaska is all about the destination—the scenery, wildlife, and cultural experiences ashore. The ship is your floating hotel, but the real magic happens outside the porthole.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an Alaska Cruise Line

When evaluating who is the best Alaska cruise line, consider these five factors:

• Itinerary and Ports of Call: Does the cruise visit Glacier Bay National Park? How much time is spent at sea versus in port? Look for routes that include Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and Haines—plus glacier viewing in Tracy Arm or Hubbard Glacier.
• Ship Size and Type: Larger ships offer more amenities but can’t access narrow fjords. Smaller ships provide intimacy and closer wildlife encounters but fewer onboard activities.
• Onboard Experience: Are there naturalists or marine biologists on board? What’s the dining like? Is there evening entertainment or enrichment programming about Alaska’s history and ecology?
• Shore Excursions: Quality varies widely. Top lines offer expert-guided hikes, dog sledding on glaciers, whale watching, and cultural tours with local Tlingit or Haida guides.
• Price and Value: Alaska cruises can range from $800 to $8,000+ per person. Consider what’s included—drinks, gratuities, excursions, Wi-Fi—and whether the experience justifies the cost.

The Role of National Park Access

One of the biggest differentiators is access to Glacier Bay National Park. Only a limited number of ships are allowed into the park each day, and not all cruise lines have permits. Holland America and Princess Cruises are the only major lines with guaranteed daily access, making them top choices for first-time visitors. Smaller expedition lines like UnCruise and Lindblad also enter, but with fewer passengers and more intimate experiences.

Top Alaska Cruise Lines Compared: Strengths and Weaknesses

Now let’s break down the major players in Alaska cruising. We’ll look at six leading cruise lines and what makes each one stand out.

Holland America Line: The Balanced Choice

Holland America consistently ranks as one of the best Alaska cruise lines for good reason. With a fleet of mid-sized ships (like the ms Nieuw Amsterdam and ms Koningsdam), they offer a refined yet relaxed atmosphere perfect for couples, solo travelers, and mature families.

• Itineraries: 7- to 14-night cruises from Seattle or Vancouver, with guaranteed Glacier Bay access.
• Onboard Experience: Expert naturalists from the Glacier Bay National Park Service join every voyage. Daily lectures, wildlife spotting sessions, and evening presentations keep you informed and engaged.
• Dining: Multiple venues including the specialty restaurant Pinnacle Grill and casual Lido Market. Menus often feature local Alaskan seafood like king crab and salmon.
• Shore Excursions: Well-curated options ranging from mild (scenic train rides) to adventurous (helicopter glacier landings).
• Best For: Travelers who want a mix of comfort, education, and scenic beauty without breaking the bank.

One traveler noted: “Having a park ranger on board made all the difference. We learned so much about the glaciers and wildlife—it felt like a floating classroom with the best views in the world.”

Princess Cruises: The Classic Alaska Experience

Princess is a household name in Alaska cruising, and for many, it’s the gold standard. Their “Voyage of the Glaciers” route—sailing between Whittier (near Anchorage) and Vancouver—is legendary.

• Itineraries: 7-night round-trips from Vancouver or one-way cruises between Whittier and Vancouver. Includes Glacier Bay, Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan.
• Onboard Experience: Themed “Alaska Inside” programming with local experts, cooking demos, and cultural performances. The “North to Alaska” show is a crowd favorite.
• Scenic Highlights: Full-day glacier viewing in Glacier Bay and Tracy Arm. Ships often slow to a crawl for optimal wildlife spotting.
• Shore Excursions: Extensive options including the White Pass & Yukon Route railway, whale watching, and flightseeing over Denali.
• Best For: First-time cruisers and those who want a traditional, well-organized Alaska experience.

Princess also offers land tours that combine cruise and rail or motorcoach travel into Denali National Park—ideal for seeing more of Alaska beyond the coast.

Royal Caribbean: Family Fun Meets Wild Beauty

Royal Caribbean brings its signature energy to Alaska with larger ships like the Ovation of the Seas and Radiance of the Seas. If you love entertainment, activities, and a lively atmosphere, this could be your best Alaska cruise line.

• Itineraries: 7-night cruises from Seattle or Vancouver, visiting Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and glacier viewing in Endicott Arm.
• Onboard Experience: Rock climbing walls, surf simulators, Broadway-style shows, and multiple dining options. Great for families with teens.
• Shore Excursions: Action-packed options like zip-lining, glacier trekking, and ATV tours. Also offers cultural experiences like native storytelling.
• Scenic Viewing: Ships have large viewing areas and telescopes, but don’t enter Glacier Bay (they view glaciers from outside the park).
• Best For: Families with kids and active travelers who want non-stop fun alongside Alaska’s natural wonders.

One parent shared: “Our kids were never bored. Between the ice show and the climbing wall, they barely noticed we were in one of the most beautiful places on Earth—until we saw a glacier calve right beside the ship!”

Norwegian Cruise Line: Freestyle Cruising in the Far North

Norwegian is known for its “Freestyle Cruising” concept—no fixed dining times, casual dress codes, and flexible schedules. On Alaska routes, this translates to a relaxed, customizable experience.

• Itineraries: 7- to 10-night cruises from Seattle, Vancouver, or Seward. Includes Glacier Bay (on select ships), Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan.
• Onboard Experience: Multiple dining packages, live music, comedy shows, and a focus on guest freedom. Great for those who dislike rigid schedules.
• Shore Excursions: Wide range from mild to wild, including dog sledding, kayaking, and scenic flights.
• Value: Often more affordable than luxury lines, with frequent promotions and drink packages.
• Best For: Budget-conscious travelers and those who prefer a laid-back, flexible cruise style.

Norwegian’s larger ships mean more amenities, but also more crowds. If you prefer intimacy, consider a smaller line.

Disney Cruise Line: Magic in the Wilderness

Disney brings its signature charm to Alaska with the Disney Wonder, offering a uniquely family-friendly experience.

• Itineraries: 7-night cruises from Vancouver, visiting Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and glacier viewing in Tracy Arm.
• Onboard Experience: Character meet-and-greets, themed kids’ clubs, Broadway-quality shows, and Disney-level service.
• Shore Excursions: Family-friendly options like gold panning, wildlife cruises, and cultural village visits. Many excursions include Disney storytelling elements.
• Scenic Viewing: Ships slow for glacier viewing, with Disney characters often appearing on deck for photo ops.
• Best For: Families with young children who want a magical, stress-free Alaska adventure.

One mom said: “Our daughter was so excited to see Mickey in a parka! The crew made every moment feel special, even when we were just watching whales.”

Seabourn and Silversea: Ultra-Luxury Small-Ship Experiences

For travelers seeking the pinnacle of luxury, Seabourn and Silversea offer intimate, all-inclusive voyages on small ships (under 300 passengers).

• Itineraries: 7- to 14-night cruises with access to remote fjords and wildlife hotspots. Often include Glacier Bay and lesser-known ports like Wrangell or Petersburg.
• Onboard Experience: All-suite accommodations, gourmet dining by celebrity chefs, complimentary fine wines and spirits, and personalized service.
• Shore Excursions: Included Zodiac landings, guided hikes, and exclusive cultural experiences. Some voyages feature guest lecturers like marine biologists or historians.
• Scenic Viewing: Small ships can navigate closer to glaciers and wildlife, offering unparalleled photo opportunities.
• Best For: Affluent travelers who want privacy, luxury, and immersive natural experiences.

These lines are ideal for repeat Alaska visitors or those celebrating a milestone. One guest noted: “We felt like we had Alaska to ourselves. The crew anticipated our every need, and the views were so close we could hear the glaciers crack.”

UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions: The Ultimate Adventure

If you’re seeking raw, unfiltered Alaska, expedition lines like UnCruise and Lindblad (in partnership with National Geographic) deliver.

• Itineraries: 7- to 10-night small-ship voyages focusing on wildlife, glaciers, and indigenous culture. Often include Glacier Bay, Tracy Arm, and remote Inian Islands.
• Onboard Experience: Casual, adventure-focused atmosphere. Naturalists, photographers, and local guides lead daily excursions.
• Shore Excursions: Kayaking, hiking, paddleboarding, and Zodiac tours. Emphasis on active exploration and environmental education.
• Scenic Viewing: Ships get incredibly close to glaciers and wildlife—often within 100 yards of a calving glacier.
• Best For: Active travelers, nature lovers, and photographers who want an immersive, educational experience.

These cruises are smaller (50–100 passengers), so book early. One adventurer said: “We kayaked past sea lions, hiked through old-growth forests, and watched a glacier calve from a Zodiac. This wasn’t a cruise—it was an expedition.”

How to Choose the Best Alaska Cruise Line for You

With so many excellent options, how do you decide? Start by asking yourself a few key questions.

What’s Your Travel Style?

• Relaxed and Refined? Choose Holland America or Princess.
• Luxury and Privacy? Go with Seabourn or Silversea.
• Family Fun? Disney or Royal Caribbean.
• Adventure and Activity? UnCruise or Lindblad.
• Value and Flexibility? Norwegian Cruise Line.

What’s Your Budget?

Alaska cruises vary widely in price. Here’s a rough guide:

• Budget ($800–$1,500 per person): Norwegian, Carnival (limited Alaska routes), or off-peak Holland America.
• Mid-Range ($1,500–$3,500): Princess, Royal Caribbean, Disney.
• Luxury ($3,500–$8,000+): Seabourn, Silversea, UnCruise.

Remember: cheaper isn’t always better. A more expensive cruise may include drinks, excursions, and gratuities—adding up to better value.

When Are You Traveling?

Peak season is June to August, with the best weather and wildlife activity. Shoulder seasons (May and September) offer lower prices and fewer crowds, but cooler temps and shorter daylight hours.

Do You Want a Round-Trip or One-Way Cruise?

Round-trips from Seattle or Vancouver are convenient. One-way cruises (e.g., Seattle to Seward) allow you to combine cruise and land travel—ideal for visiting Denali.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Alaska Cruise

No matter which cruise line you choose, these tips will enhance your experience:

• Book Early: Alaska cruises sell out fast, especially for Glacier Bay access. Aim to book 12–18 months in advance.
• Pack Layers: Weather changes quickly. Bring waterproof jackets, warm layers, and binoculars.
• Bring a Camera with Zoom: Wildlife and glaciers are often far away. A telephoto lens is worth it.
• Attend Onboard Lectures: Naturalists share insights that make sightings more meaningful.
• Book Shore Excursions in Advance: Popular tours (like helicopter rides) fill up quickly.
• Try Local Food: Sample Alaskan king crab, salmon, and sourdough bread—many ships feature regional dishes.

Conclusion: There’s No Single “Best”—Only the Best for You

So, who is the best Alaska cruise line? The honest answer is: it depends. Holland America offers the best overall balance. Seabourn and Silversea deliver unmatched luxury. Disney and Royal Caribbean win for family fun. UnCruise and Lindblad lead in adventure. And Norwegian provides great value with flexibility.

The real magic of an Alaska cruise isn’t just the ship—it’s the glaciers, the whales, the mountains, and the sense of wonder that washes over you as you sail through one of Earth’s last great wildernesses. Choose the cruise line that aligns with your travel style, and you’ll return home with memories that last a lifetime.

Whether you’re sipping champagne as a glacier calves or watching your child’s face light up at their first whale sighting, the best Alaska cruise line is the one that makes your dream voyage a reality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise line goes to Glacier Bay National Park?

Holland America Line and Princess Cruises are the only major cruise lines with guaranteed daily access to Glacier Bay National Park. Smaller expedition lines like UnCruise and Lindblad also enter, but with limited permits.

Is an Alaska cruise worth it?

Absolutely. An Alaska cruise offers unparalleled access to glaciers, wildlife, and scenic fjords—often in comfort and style. It’s one of the best ways to experience the state’s natural beauty without extensive planning.

What’s the best time to cruise Alaska?

June to August offers the best weather, longest days, and peak wildlife activity. May and September are quieter and cheaper, but cooler and with fewer daylight hours.

Do I need to book shore excursions in advance?

Yes, especially for popular tours like helicopter glacier landings, dog sledding, or whale watching. Many sell out months in advance.

Are drinks included on Alaska cruises?

It varies. Luxury lines like Seabourn and Silversea include drinks. Others charge extra, though drink packages are often available for purchase.

Can I see the Northern Lights on an Alaska cruise?

It’s rare. The Northern Lights are best seen in winter, but Alaska cruises run May through September—when it’s too light at night. For aurora viewing, consider a winter land tour instead.