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7 Night Alaska Experience Cruise

Your ship ovation of the seas.

SPACE AGE SURPRISES

North Star ®

Splashaway Bay℠

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Bumper Cars

A full-on flavor fest.

Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver

Coastal Kitchen

Fish & Ships℠

An adventure onstage.

Bionic Bar ®

Live. Love. Legs.

Day 1: seattle, washington.

Seek Out the Center

Waterfront Wonders

Relive the Gold Rush

Local Cuisine

Day 2: Cruising

FlowRider ®

Adventure Ocean ®

Rock Climbing Wall

Day 3: juneau, alaska.

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Amazing experiences coming soon..

SEAFARING SAFARI

BECOME A MASTER MUSHER

GO FOR THE GOLD

LOCAL CUISINE

Day 4: Skagway, Alaska

ON THE RIGHT TRACK

TAKE A HIKE

GO FOR GOLD

Day 5: Sitka, Alaska

LINKS TO THE PAST

Bering history in mind.

FOR THE BIRDS

Day 6: Cruising

Chops Grille℠

La Patisserie

The Café @ Two70

Day 7: victoria, british columbia.

WALK TO REMEMBER

ADVENTURE EDEN

RAISE A CUPPA TO TRADITION

Day 8: Seattle, Washington

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Alaska Cruises

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Discover The Wild Beauty Of The Last Frontier

From 6-night getaways to immersive, 13-night Cruisetours that combine the wild, forested beauty of Alaska’s coast with the majesty of Denali National Park, there’s an Alaskan cruise style and length to suit you. Sail one-way between Vancouver and Seward or Vancouver and Seattle, round-trip from Vancouver or Seattle, or on a Cruisetour between Vancouver and Anchorage or Fairbanks.

Featured Alaska Cruises

Dawes glacier cruises.

Prepare for a thrill as you approach the head of the 30-mile Endicott Arm fjord to face Dawes Glacier, a 600-foot-tall wall of ice. Other Alaska cruise highlights include Juneau; remote Ketchikan, and historic Skagway.

View Sample Itinerary Map

Hubbard Glacier Cruises

Sail from Vancouver to North America’s biggest glacier, seven miles wide and the height of a 30-story building. Ports along this Alaska cruise include Ketchikan; Juneau, the perfect spot for whale-watching; and Icy Strait Point, where you can search for bears and eagles.

One-Way Alaska Cruises

Sail one-way between Vancouver and Seward or Vancouver and Seattle, and you’ll see a stretch of Alaska’s forested coastline against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains and lichen-draped forests.

Option for Land & Cruise Package: Extend your sailing with a Cruisetour, which will take you to Denali National Park, Anchorage, and Talkeetna, among other destinations.

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Icy Strait Point

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Why Cruise to Alaska with Celebrity Cruises

Live life to the fullest on a Alaska cruise with Celebrity. We have three ships in Alaska, sailing itineraries ranging from 6 or 7 nights to immersive 9- to 13-night Cruisetours that combine the excitement of sailing Alaska’s rugged coast with the awe-inspiring wilderness of Denali National Park and the towns and cities of the vast interior. Explore the best Alaska cruises available with a range of departure ports including Vancouver, Seward, and Seattle, and a choice of thrilling round-trip or one-way itineraries. 

Immerse yourself in the wildlife, scenery, and culture ashore and return to aboard our contemporary, design-led ships. After enjoying the untamed beauty, return to your Alaska cruise and rejuvenate your spirit in The Spa. Watch for whales and dolphins from the privacy of your Infinite Veranda stateroom, where the touch of a button brings the outside in. 

Elevate your Alaska cruise to the next level at The Retreat®, with sumptuous suite accommodation, access to a tranquil lounge, and dining at the exclusive Luminae at The Retreat. 

Let Celebrity take you to some of Alaska’s most exciting ports, whether your dream is to get close to breaching humpbacks on a whale-watching adventure or follow the treacherous trail of early gold prospectors over the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad. Sail the Inside Passage, watching for bears foraging on stony beaches, or gaze in wonder at the towering, blue-white wall of the mighty Hubbard Glacier.  

Personal service will be the hallmark of your Alaska cruise adventure, on board as well as ashore, where our range of carefully curated excursions includes everything from zip-lining over the forest canopy to floatplane adventures and driving a team of sled dogs across the icy expanse of a glacier. Choose the style to suit your personal taste, from Destination Highlights to Small Group Discoveries, or even custom-designed Private Journeys.

Endless Options for Exploration

You’ll be immersed in nature at every point of your Alaska cruise. Vast, creaking blue-white glaciers inch their way to the sea as jagged, snow-capped mountain peaks pierce the sky. Bears prowl rock-strewn beaches, while salmon-laden rivers rush through pristine, old-growth forest, bald eagles perched watchfully in the treetops. 

Learn about the heady days of the Gold Rush. Kayak silent fjords on your journey along the coast of the Last Frontier. Let Celebrity’s award-winning ships take you to the most dazzling locations in the 49th state, from bustling Juneau to pretty Ketchikan. Or extend your stay with one of our Alaska Cruisetours to explore Alaska’s interiors. Head deep into the wilderness of Denali, immerse yourself in the exciting contemporary culture of Anchorage, and spend time in quirky, arty Talkeetna.

On an Alaska cruise, you’ll experience everything from raw, untamed natural wonders on an extravagant scale to rich history, buzzing cities, vibrant and delicious cuisine, and a warm welcome.

Featured Articles

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Cruising in Alaska

Is an Alaska cruise good for families?

Absolutely. With spectacular wildlife and dozens of thrilling, kid-friendly activities, Alaska is perfect for families. Kids will love spotting bears and whales, and the whole family can try sea kayaking, go zip lining, join guided hikes through the forest, and learn to drive a team of husky dogs. Here’s all you need to know about cruising in Alaska as a family.

Find out More

Can I add a land tour before or after my Alaska cruise?

With one of our 9- to 13-night Alaska Cruisetours, you can combine your seven-night Alaska cruise with an exciting land tour where you’ll visit destinations like cultured Anchorage, folksy Talkeetna, and wild Denali, giving you a more diverse experience of the magnificent 49th state and more opportunities to spot the Big Five: Moose, caribou, wolf, Dall sheep, and grizzly bear. 

Will I see a glacier on my Alaska cruise?

Many of our itineraries spend a day cruising the beautiful Endicott Arm Fjord, the end of which is dominated by the mighty Dawes Glacier. Others take you to Hubbard Glacier, a vast wall of ice. 

From Juneau, you can take an excursion to Mendenhall Glacier, where you can see fantastic views of the ice on a hike or join a kayak tour. From Seward, you could join a challenging hike to Exit Glacier, which flows slowly from the enormous Harding Icefield. Wherever you go in Alaska, you’ll see glaciers in the distance, high in the mountains, sometimes hanging dramatically over a wall of rock.

What should I pack for an Alaska cruise?

When you’re packing for an Alaska cruise, you’ll want to plan for any kind of weather, from hot sun to ethereal mist and rain showers—often in the same day. Layers, light waterproof jackets, good walking shoes, and a hat and gloves are the essentials; Alaska can be cold as well as warm and sunny.

Pack binoculars for spotting all that incredible wildlife, and camera lens or smartphone. You will also need sunblock and insect repellant. Remember swimwear for the ship; even if it’s cool outside, the Solarium on board is climate controlled and covered, so you can relax on a lounger in the warmth, and swim in the pool. Pack Evening Chic outfits for our dressier nights. 

If you join activities like kayaking, all safety gear will be provided.

What are the best things to do in Alaska?

Alaska is all about exploring the Great Outdoors with family and friends, learning about US History and enjoying wildlife. There are hikes, kayaking, mountain biking, ziplining, and dog sledding for more energetic travelers. 

For a less testing but equally thrilling experience, you could join a whale-watching tour, or take a helicopter or floatplane flightseeing trip, soaring over forests and glaciers. Alaska is brimming with history and culture, too. Explore the cultures of the Native Alaskans, and learn about the Klondike Gold Rush.

Make a point of trying the local cuisine in Alaska, which is famous for its seafood. You’ll find Alaskan salmon on every menu. King crab is delicious in a chowder, or with melted butter. Black cod and halibut are delicious and often served with fries; fish and chips is a popular dish in Alaska. You’ll also find seasonal berries on every menu, locally roasted coffee, and a wide assortment of craft beers.

What kind of animals can I see in Alaska?

You’ll likely see a wide variety of animals in Alaska. If you’re lucky, you can spot brown and black bears; the Spasski River Valley near Icy Strait Point is a great place for bear-spotting, as are the rivers around Ketchikan in July, peak salmon spawning season, when bears come to feast on the fish. For guaranteed bear viewing, head to the Fortress of the Bear near Sitka, which raises orphaned bears in a natural setting. 

You’ll also see whales; the Inside Passage is a great place to spot humpbacks and orcas. Look out for bald eagles perched in the trees, steller sea lions spread out on rocks, and cute sea otters bobbing in the water. To search for the Big Five—grizzly bears, wolves, caribou, Dall sheep, and moose—extend your vacation with a Cruisetour and a visit to Denali National Park. 

When's the best time to cruise to Alaska?

Alaska’s summer season begins in early May and extends until late September. There are compelling reasons to cruise to Alaska in any month of the summer, depending on whether you’re interested in maximizing your chances of spotting whales, seeing the Northern Lights, getting closer to glaciers, or traveling when there are fewer people around. See our blog post to learn more about the best time to cruise to Alaska. 

What Celebrity ships sail to Alaska?

Celebrity Cruises has three ships operating different itineraries in Alaska. These include Celebrity Edge, Celebrity Solstice, and Celebrity Summit.

Where do Alaska cruises embark from?

Most of Celebrity’s Alaska cruises sail round-trip from either Vancouver or Seattle. You could also opt for a one-way cruise between Vancouver and Seward or Vancouver and Seattle. If you choose a Cruisetour, you could sail from Vancouver to Seward and then fly out of Anchorage after the tour. Other itineraries begin in Fairbanks and, after the land journey, sail south from Seward to Vancouver.

How long are Alaskan cruises?

Celebrity’s Alaskan cruises range from six to seven nights, but if you extend your voyage into a Cruisetour, the duration is nine to 13 nights. You could also consider extending your vacation with a night or two in either Vancouver or Seattle, depending on which itinerary you have chosen.

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10 Best Alaska Cruises to Take This Summer, According to Experts

We spoke to cruise experts to find the best Alaska itineraries to book this year.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

With its majestic wildlife, otherworldly glacial scenery, and endless outdoor adventure, a trip to Alaska is one for the books — and the best way to experience it, in our opinion, is by cruise. An Alaska sailing offers travelers the chance to get up close and personal to some of the destination’s most stunning natural wonders (think: Glacier Bay, Hubbard Glacier, the Tracy Arm Fjord, and so much more). Fortunately, when it comes to the best Alaska cruises, options abound, from small-ship luxury sailings and expedition voyages to mega-ships that feel like a floating resort and theme park all in one. Ultimately, explains Travel + Leisure A-List travel advisor Eric Goldring , “The question of which are the ‘best’ cruise lines for Alaska really depends on the guest’s desires as there is a balance between how in-depth they wish to delve into Alaska’s nature and Indigenous culture, what type of onboard experience they desire, and, of course, whether the cruise is family-focused.” To determine which Alaska cruise is best for you, Goldring recommends using a travel advisor “who has actually been to Alaska more than once and on different ships” so that you have “access to important first-hand knowledge.” 

According to T+L A-List travel advisor Ashton Palmer , the Alaska cruise season is short (typically from May to September) and availability is limited, which is why travelers should plan their sailings six to eight months ahead of time. While the travel advisor notes that “most trips average a week in length,” he also recommends cruisers allow time to “visit the northern part of the state, including Denali National Park, the Kenai Peninsula, Anchorage, and Fairbanks,” either before or after the cruise. Several cruise lines also offer land extensions (sometimes called “cruisetours”) to make the experience as seamless as possible. 

While the Alaska cruise season takes place in the warmer months, be sure to pack a few sweaters — and consider dressing in layers. When I cruised Alaska in summer 2022, the weather was (mostly) warm and sunny; however, when we sailed through Glacier Bay, it was chilly, and I was especially glad to have brought a scarf, hat, and light jacket to help brace the chill. Rob Clabbers , another T+L A-List travel advisor , agrees. What’s more, he says, “Weather can change quickly in Alaska, so one moment you may need a sweater, and the next you’re better off in shorts.” 

Meet the Expert

Eric Goldring is a T+L A-List travel advisor specializing in expedition, small-ship, and medium-ship cruises. 

Ashton Palmer is a Seattle-based T+L A-List travel advisor who specializes in expedition cruises.

Rob Clabbers is a T+L A-List travel advisor specializing in cruises, and he’s the founder of Q Cruise + Travel. 

Dawn Gabree is a travel advisor who specializes in Alaska cruises at Travels by Danielle.

Mary Curry is another T+L A-List advisor who specializes in small-ship cruises to Polar regions and the Galapagos. 

Now that we’ve covered the basics of all things Alaska cruising, keep reading to discover the best Alaska cruises for every type of traveler, featuring expert insight and award-winning picks.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruisees

Dawn Gabree, a travel advisor at Travels by Danielle who specializes in Alaska cruising, deems Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) "excellent for multigenerational families" thanks to the abundance of onboard activities. "Their larger vessels used in the Alaska market ( Encore and Bliss ) feature must-do activities like go-karting, laser tag, and water slides." On the contrary, "Their smaller vessels ( Jewel and Sun ) provide a more intimate atmosphere over the large ships." Regardless of which ship you choose, expect an array of entertainment options, including Broadway-caliber shows, which Gabree describes as "excellent." What's more, she says, "We saw their production of 'Six' on an Alaskan sailing, and it was phenomenal." The travel pro also loves the World's Best Award-winning mega-ship ocean line for its Freestyle Dining program (read: no assigned seating or fixed reservation times) and plentiful dining options to appease even the pickiest of eaters. Lastly, says Gabree, "A huge selling point for NCL is always their Free at Sea promotion, which includes perks like specialty dining, an unlimited open bar, Wi-Fi, and more. "It's a great value, in my honest opinion." 

Itinerary: The 7-day Alaska: Dawes Glacier, Juneau, and Ketchikan itinerary sails from Seattle on select dates between April and October. Ports of call include Sitka, Juneau, Ice Strait, and Ketchikan in Alaska, as well as Victoria in Canada. Scenic cruising through the Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier is also included.

Holland America Line

Tim Rue/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Holland America Line (HAL) — which recently snapped up a 2023 World’s Best Award in the large-ship ocean cruise line category — has been cruising Alaska for over 75 years. HAL prides itself on having more permits for Glacier Bay National Park visits than any other cruise line. The cruise line also offers beloved live music programming, which I got to experience firsthand on a summer 2023 Alaska sailing. Most ships boast a “Music Walk,” a section home to venues like B.B. King's Blues Club, Billboard Onboard (a dueling piano bar), Lincoln Center Stage, and Rolling Stone Rock Room. After our shore excursions, we’d hop back on board the ship for drinks, dinner, and a nightcap at the dueling piano bar to jam out to hits from Billy Joel and Elton John. All of the above make HAL a popular pick among middle-aged and mature couples traveling without kids; however, onboard our summer sailing, I did notice quite a few small children traveling with their parents and grandparents. 

The onboard culinary offerings are especially noteworthy. While pulling into port one day, I remember digging into a hearty lunch of fish and chips featuring fresh-caught Alaskan halibut. (HAL is the first cruise line to serve fresh, certified-sustainable Alaskan seafood.) As of September, acclaimed chef Masaharu Morimoto is the Fresh Fish Ambassador as part of the line’s Global Fresh Fish Program . Cruisers can try his flavorful seafood dishes during their sailing. 

Itinerary: As a first-time Alaska cruiser, I thoroughly enjoyed the Alaska Explorer itinerary , which cruises round-trip from Seattle between June and September. Enjoy scenic cruising along the Puget Sound and Stephen’s Passage before calling on Juneau, followed by more scenic cruising in Glacier Bay. From there, it’s off to Icy Strait Point, Sitka, Ketchikan, Skagway, and Victoria.

Related: The Ultimate Alaska Cruise Packing List

Royal Caribbean International

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean International — or Royal Caribbean for short — offers great fun for families of all ages looking to experience Alaska. As such, it’s no wonder why the mega-ship ocean line is loved by T+L readers and travel advisors alike. What’s more, says Gabree, “Their larger ships (Quantum Class) have equally impressive amenities like skydiving simulators (RipCord by iFLY), the FlowRider surf simulator, and SeaPlex (an indoor recreation center with bumper cars),” says Gabree. The pro is also quick to highlight the North Star observation capsule, which is available on Ovation of the Seas , which cruises Alaska. The attraction whisks passengers over 300 feet above sea level, offering picture-perfect 360-degree views. Put simply, she says, “This is a one-of-a-kind experience when sailing scenic destinations like Alaska.”

The fun continues the minute cruisers disembark in each port, with excursions ranging from dogsledding to private helicopter tours. Back on board, Gabree recommends The Chef’s Table for a truly memorable meal — and I, too, can attest to this. While on board a Caribbean sailing with the cruise line, I had the chance to indulge in this chef- and sommelier-led multi-course food and wine pairing adventure. Four years later, I still find myself dreaming of the delicious circular-shaped dessert known as “The World” — the perfect combo of peanut butter ganache, chocolate mousse, and salted caramel gelato).

Itinerary: Set sail on the aforementioned Ovation of the Seas and embark on a journey through Alaska with Royal Caribbean’s 7-night Alaska Experience itinerary . Cruising round-trip from Seattle, the ship stops in Juneau, Skagway, and Sitka before heading onto Canada, where it calls on Victoria and Vancouver.

Princess Cruises

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Princess Cruises is among T+L readers’ top five favorite mega-ship ocean lines , and its Alaska sailings are not to be missed. Unlike other mega-ship lines, says Gabree, Princess is not at all flashy. That said, she recommends it for “more mature cruisers or those looking for a quieter atmosphere.” So, while you won’t find go-karts or race tracks aboard Princess ships, you can expect incredible educational programming. Don’t miss Puppies on the Piazza, which offers passengers the chance to interact with sled dogs brought on board by local mushers in Skagway. The line also partners with the Glacier Bay National Park rangers and the Discovery Channel to offer unique onboard exhibits and interactive activities like the Jr. Ranger Program. Similarly, says Gabree, “The naturalists that come aboard are extremely knowledgeable.” Last but not least, the service is top-notch. According to the pro, the staff is best described as “attentive and very pleasant.” 

Itinerary: Book the 14-day Voyage of the Glaciers Grand Adventure , which sets sail on select dates between May and September. Passengers will cruise round-trip from Vancouver and visit Juneau, Skagway, Anchorage, and Ketchikan. Bonus: Scenic cruising through Glacier Bay National Park, College Fjord, and Hubbard Glacier is also built into the itinerary.

Related: All 16 Princess Cruises Ships, From Newest to Oldest

Seabourn Cruise Line

Courtesy of Seabourn

This World’s Best Award-winning cruise line combines the best of expedition-style and luxury cruising, making it a popular pick amongst well-heeled, adventure-seeking travelers. Highlights include bespoke service, all-suite oceanfront accommodations (most with private balconies), world-class dining (the cruise line has a partnership with Michelin-starred chef Thomas Keller), and, last but not least, a swanky country club-esque atmosphere. According to Goldring, both Seabourn Quest and Seabourn Odyssey offer similar Alaska itineraries in 2024; however, it will be the latter’s final sailing since it was sold. 

Alaska sailings feature a team of academics, scientists, and naturalists, all of whom are on hand to provide expert insight and lead excursions (think: kayaking and Zodiac tours, hiking, bear viewing, and so on). Also, according to Goldring, Seabourn ships “travel no further north than Juneau” and offer a “more intensive and nature-focused experience.” On a similar note, says Clabbers, thanks to the vessels’ small size, cruisers can “spend more time sailing through places like Misty Fjords, where most ships can’t go.” Back onboard, says Clabbers, “enjoy Champagne and caviar when you like, or relax in your suite, the spa, or elsewhere.” 

Itinerary: The 7-day Alaska Fjords and Canadian Inside Passage cruise sails from Juneau to Vancouver, calling on Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm, Wrangell, Rudyerd Bay (Misty Fjords), and, finally, Prince Rupert in British Columbia. Scenic cruising through Stephens Passage, Decision Passage, Stikine Strait, and the Behm Canal are also included in the itinerary.

Celebrity Cruises

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Those who prefer a “younger atmosphere on a modern, larger ship with lots of bars and restaurants and entertainment” should consider cruising Alaska aboard the Celebrity Edge, explains Clabbers. (While Edge is the newest Celebrity ship to cruise Alaska, Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Summit also sail here . ) Per the pro, the seven-night sailings on Edge “include key destinations like Ketchikan and Skagway,” along with a quick visit to Victoria in British Columbia and scenic cruising through the beautiful Endicott Arm Fjord. Additionally, the World’s Best Award-winning line offers round-trip sailings from both Vancouver and Seattle — as well as one-way itineraries between Vancouver and Seward, the latter of which offer more time to explore (read: fewer sea days).

Regardless of the ship, passengers can expect a wide range of entertainment offerings, an abundance of bars, restaurants, and lounges, and a handful of accommodation options. Speaking of the latter, wellness-seeking duos can reserve an AquaClass stateroom, which includes perks like complimentary dining at the exclusive Blu restaurant, their very own spa concierge, and unlimited access to the adults-only Sea Thermal Suite. Alternatively, for a worth-it splurge, opt for a suite in The Retreat, which includes a dedicated team of concierges and butlers, access to a private lounge and/or sundeck (note that the latter is not available on Celebrity Solstice ), premium drinks, Wi-Fi, and access to the private Luminae at The Retreat restaurant, helmed by chef Daniel Boulud. 

Itinerary : The aforementioned 7-night Alaska Dawes Glacier itinerary on Celebrity Edge cruises round-trip from Seattle and visits Ketchikan, Endicott Arm Fjord (scenic cruising), Juneau, Skagway, the Inside Passage (scenic cruising), and Victoria.

Related: What to Know About All 16 Ships in the Celebrity Cruises Fleet

Viking Ocean Cruises

Courtesy of Viking Cruises

Viking Ocean Cruises recently nabbed a 2023 World’s Best Award in the midsize-ship ocean cruise lines category, coming in at first place for the second year in a row. The line’s identical ocean ships offer a sleek Scandinavian design, which only enhances the tranquil atmosphere on board. The luxury adults-only line is also all-inclusive, covering meals, activities, most beverages, Wi-Fi, port taxes and fees, spa access, and one complimentary excursion in every port of call. Cruisers can bask in the mountain and glacier views from the comfort of their private balcony — and, if they’re lucky, they may even spot a whale or two. Finally, in addition to classic ports like Juneau and Ketchikan, Viking Ocean Cruises’ Alaska itinerary also calls on Valdez, which is chock-full of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. 

Itinerary : The 10-night Alaska and the Inside Passage itinerary , which sails between Vancouver and Seward, “is a great choice for curious travelers who have a bit more time and want to learn more about Alaska,” says Clabbers.

Courtesy of Silversea

Those craving a luxury Alaska cruise need not look further than Silversea, says Goldring. Additionally, “While primarily for adults ranging from contemplative to active, Silversea is also a good option for families with more mature children who are more engaged with the journey than onboard child-focused activities.” Silversea guests enjoy all-suite staterooms with butler service and an all-around tony atmosphere. The line’s Door-to-Door All-Inclusive fares cover private airport transfers, economy flights, business-class upgrades or air credits, and shore excursions. 

This luxury cruise line offers classic and expedition-style cruising, the latter of which takes aboard the 274-passenger Silver Wind . (Classic cruises, on the other hand, take place on board Silver Muse , Silver Nova , Silver Shadow , Silver Whisper , or Silver Moon ). Nova and Moon offer the Sea and Land Taste program (S.A.L.T), offering culinary connoisseurs the incredible opportunity to experience the local food scene and culture both on and off the ship. Last but not least, keep in mind that Silversea sails between Vancouver and Seward (with the exception of one September 2024 itinerary, which sails from Nome to Vancouver).

Itinerary : The 7-day Vancouver to Seward sailing on board Silver Nova features Inside Passage scenic cruising and stops in Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and Sitka. Before disembarking in Seward, enjoy scenic cruising around Hubbard Glacier.

Related: This Is the Cheapest Time to Cruise to Alaska

UnCruise Adventures

Courtesy of UnCruise

“If you are looking for a more casual and laid-back experience, Seattle-based UnCruise Adventures offers down-to-earth trips with enthusiastic naturalist guides, simple accommodations, and hearty local cuisine,” says Palmer. Mary Curry , another T+L A-List travel advisor, echoes these sentiments, explaining that “small ships are the absolute best way to see Alaska if your goal is to immerse yourself in nature and wildlife.” While the cabins are no-frills, Curry stresses that the main focus of the cruise is “getting off the ship and exploring everything Alaska's Inside Passage has to offer.” With that said, when it comes to activities, options abound. Per the pro, travelers can “choose between a menu of included excursions such as kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking, zodiac cruises, whale watching, and more.” All in all, UnCruise really does offer something for everyone. 

Itinerary : For a truly unique Alaska itinerary, consider the Aleutian Islands Adventure with Kodiak, Katmai, and Kenai Wilderness . Cruisers embark in Whittier before making their way to Kenai Fjords National Park, Kodiak Island and Foul Bay, Katmai National Park, Ugashik National Wildlife Refuge, Aniakchak National Monument and Preserve, the Shumagin and Unga Islands, False Pass, and Unalaska (where they’ll dock overnight in Dutch Harbor before disembarking the next day).

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic

Courtesy of Nation Geographic

For a true expedition-style experience, Lindblad Expeditions is your best bet. The cruise line offers itineraries in partnership with National Geographic, which have come highly recommended by almost every travel advisor we spoke to. Just take it from Curry, who tells T+L, “If you want to learn about Alaska from a team of exceptional experts, there's no better choice than a Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic itinerary. “Every night before dinner,” she says, “We would hear about what we had seen on our excursions that day from the perspective of the experts — naturalists, geologists, marine mammal researchers, and even a diver who would share magical and colorful images from underwater of the area we had explored via Zodiac during the day.” According to the pro, the vessels are “some of the nicest and most modern small ships in the area,” some of which have private balconies along with “little extras” like water bottle filling stations, a mudroom to store gear, and multiple disembarkation platforms to get travelers on and off the ship quickly. Meanwhile, Goldring notes the line’s National Geographic Global Explorers family program, “which focus[es] on interactive and hands-on education with a true naturalist during outings.” As a result, cruisers can expect “a far more enriching experience [than those] offered by most other lines.” 

Itinerary : The weeklong Exploring Alaska’s Coastal Wilderness itinerary is “perfect for couples and multi-generational families interested in an engaging and authentic experience exploring the fjords, islands, and small coastal communities,” says Palmer. The itinerary sails between Juneau and Sitka throughout May and September. Along the way, cruisers will visit Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness, the tiny fishing town of Petersburg, Glacier Bay National Park, and more.

Related : 21 Cruise Tips That Will Help Make Your Trip Even Better, According to Experts

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The 13 most affordable alaska cruises for 2024 & beyond.

Book your Alaska cruise during one of the best promotions of the year.

The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises

Courtesy of Holland America Line

There's no better time than now to book your dream vacation to The Great Land. Cruise vacations are more popular than ever, and affordable cruises are getting harder to find – especially for beloved destinations like Alaska.

Cruisers can nab some of the lines' best deals of the year during wave season. This period, which extends from January to March, refers to the "tidal wave" of lower pricing across the cruising industry during this time. Some cruise lines even kick off their sales in December, so it's advisable to begin your search for discounted pricing early.

Below, we've included some of the best Alaska cruise deals available right now for sailings in 2024 and 2025. All quoted prices are per person for double occupancy and were accurate at the time of writing. Keep in mind: Each itinerary may be available on multiple dates; we've listed the date with the lowest starting price to get you the best value.

Read on to explore the top options for an affordable Alaska cruise.

Find your perfect cruise

Holland America Line

Holland America's "Time of Your Life" wave season deal features up to 40% off bookings for select sailings from summer 2024 through spring 2025; the sale ends at the end of February. You can also add the premium "Have It All" bundle. This added perk features a signature drink package , specialty dining, shore excursions and Wi-Fi access. The exact pricing and benefits of the package depend on the length of the cruise. The wave season pricing also features a complimentary stateroom upgrade, reduced deposits, and free or discounted fares for kids.

7-Day Glacier Discovery Southbound

Holland America's seven-day voyage aboard Noordam includes an afternoon cruising in Hubbard Glacier and a full day of sailing through picturesque Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve. The ship also calls on the ports of Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, with one additional day of scenic cruising on the Inside Passage, before disembarking in Vancouver. Plan to stay an extra day in Vancouver to explore on your own, or opt for a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour with Holland America (complete with luggage service and an airport transfer) before taking a flight home later that evening.

This southbound itinerary is also available on May 25, 2025, aboard Nieuw Amsterdam , starting at $679 per person.

7-Day Alaska Inside Passage

This round-trip sailing on Zaandam from Vancouver highlights the Inside Passage with a day of scenic cruising, plus a limited stop in Tracy Arm Inlet for excursions, before reaching the coastal towns of Juneau and Skagway. Then, you'll enjoy another day of scenic cruising in Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, followed by a stop in Ketchikan and cruising the Inside Passage before disembarking in Vancouver .

The Tracy Arm fjord features glacier-covered mountains and the largest intact coastal temperate rainforest in the country. It is also home to abundant wildlife, including whales, harbor seals, bald eagles, bears and mountain goats. Book the Tracy Arm Fjord & Glacier Explorer excursion to see the majestic beauty of the Tracy Arm wilderness and the twin Sawyer Glaciers up close. You might even see and hear ice calving into the pristine waters. You'll cruise through Stephens Passage on your way back to meet the ship in Juneau.

Zaandam sails this itinerary in 2025, as well. The lowest fare starts at $629 per person for the voyage on May 14, 2025.

Princess Cruises

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises' wave season deals feature up to 40% off cruise prices, complimentary room upgrades, $100 deposits, and free fares for third and fourth guests in the same stateroom or suite. The advertised fares on the Princess Cruises website are for the line's MedallionClass experience, which includes dining at the complimentary onboard restaurants, entertainment on the ship, fitness facilities, and the youth and teen clubs. You can add optional upgrades, such as a beverage package, specialty dining, shore excursions and Wi-Fi access, either individually or with a Princess Plus or Princess Premier package.

7-Day Voyage of the Glaciers with Glacier Bay (Northbound)

Princess' seven-day itinerary aboard Grand Princess features the lowest available fare for the line's 2024 Alaska season. The itinerary starts with a relaxing sea day, followed by stops in three ports of call in Alaska: Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway. You'll also have two days of scenic cruising in Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve and College Fjord before disembarking in Whittier, near Anchorage .

The southbound voyage (which is the reverse itinerary) on Grand Princess departs May 15, 2024, from Anchorage and also starts at $398 per person. Or, you can sail that southbound itinerary on Sapphire Princess on May 18, 2024, for the same price.

In 2025, you can book this itinerary on Caribbean Princess for as low as $467 per person, embarking on May 10, 2025.

7-Day Inside Passage (Roundtrip Vancouver)

This shoulder season sailing in September is available on Grand Princess. The round-trip voyage from Vancouver features two days at sea; one day of scenic cruising in Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier; and stops in the coastal towns of Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan. While on the ship, spend warmer days outdoors relaxing at The Sanctuary, an adults-only venue. You can also experience one of the line's Discovery at SEA enrichment programs on board, or book one of the affiliated excursions ashore.

This Grand Princess itinerary is also available on May 27, 2025, for as low as $547 per person.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian's current "Free At Sea" promotion includes a free unlimited open bar package, free specialty dining, free shore excursions and complimentary Wi-Fi access. You'll also find additional deals like 50% off deposits, free third and fourth guests (or $99 per additional person, depending on the sailing), and free airfare for a second guest. Be sure to check the terms and conditions before booking a Norwegian sailing.

7-Day Alaska: Hubbard Glacier & Skagway

Norwegian's sailing from Seward to Vancouver on Norwegian Jewel features two days cruising through Hubbard Glacier, where you'll be able to book the Hubbard Glacier & Wilderness Explorer excursion for an up-close look at North America's largest tidewater glacier. Afterward, the ship calls on Icy Strait Point, Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan (Ward Cove).

In Ketchikan, reserve a spot for the Alaskan Cultural & Lumberjack Show Experience, which includes an entertaining show, a chance to learn about Alaska Native culture, and a tasting of local food and wines. Alaska also offers some of the best fishing conditions in North America, so anglers may want to consider booking a private excursion to go fishing for halibut or salmon. After several days in port, enjoy one more day of scenic cruising through the Inside Passage before disembarking in Vancouver.

In 2025, the seven-day Hubbard Glacier & Skagway itinerary will sail from Vancouver to Whittier. The lowest fare for this cruise starts at $529 per person aboard the Norwegian Jade on May 5, 2025.

7-Day Alaska: Glacier Bay, Skagway & Juneau

This sailing on Norwegian Jewel departs from Vancouver and includes three sea days cruising the Inside Passage, Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve and Hubbard Glacier. The itinerary also calls on the ports of Ketchikan (Ward Cove), Juneau and Skagway.

The 13-mile-long Mendenhall Glacier is one of the top attractions in Juneau, and the line offers a variety of excursions to view the impressive ice sheet. For a bucket list adventure, splurge on the helicopter and dog-sledding excursion to Mendenhall Glacier from Skagway. You can also opt for another once-in-a-lifetime trip: a flightseeing tour by floatplane. You'll fly into the wilderness, kayak across a stream and then hike the surface of the Norris Glacier, a remote glacier in the Coast Mountains that's only accessible by plane or on foot.

If you're looking forward to 2025, you can book a similar itinerary from Whittier to Vancouver on April 28, 2025, starting at $499 per person on Norwegian Jade.

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Celebrity Cruises

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity's 2024 wave season includes flash sales with offers like 75% off the second guest on nonrefundable deposit rates and a 50% discount with refundable deposit fares. Other deals may include free upgrades, depending on the sailing. Refer to the Celebrity Cruises website for the current promotions, or consult with a cruise specialist for the best deals and pricing.

7-Night Alaska Southbound Glacier

This mid-May itinerary on Celebrity Summit is currently the line's lowest-priced Alaska cruise for the 2024 season. The one-way sailing from Seward includes a day of scenic cruising around Hubbard Glacier: one of Alaska's most beautiful natural treasures at 7 miles wide, 76 miles long and an impressive 30 stories high. The ship also calls on ports in Juneau, Skagway, Icy Strait Point and Ketchikan, with an additional full day cruising the Inside Passage, before disembarking in Vancouver.

For 2025, this same itinerary currently starts at $649 per person for the May 16 sailing on Celebrity Summit.

7-Night Alaska Northbound Glacier

The reverse itinerary of the southbound voyage above, this cruise offers similar ports of call and sea days, except you'll stop in Sitka rather than Skagway. This sailing is also on Celebrity Summit. During your time in Icy Strait Point, consider a whale watching excursion; you are guaranteed to see whales (or receive your money back) on one of the tours departing from their shores. In Sitka, take a guided hike to explore the beautiful Tongass National Forest or a tour to learn about the Tlingit culture. This outing includes a visit to local totem artists and a beer meister, as well as a sampling of regional foods at a popular restaurant.

Or, consider a comparable cruise aboard Celebrity Summit on May 9 or May 23, 2025. Fares start at $649 per person.

Royal Caribbean International

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean's current deal features up to $600 in onboard credit, 60% off the second guest and kids sail free fares . The line offers sales throughout the year, so you can check back to see what promotions are available at a later date, or contact a cruise specialist for additional specials. Below, you'll find the lowest fares currently available for Royal Caribbean sailings in Alaska.

7-Night Northbound Alaska & Hubbard Glacier

Royal Caribbean's one-way sailing aboard Radiance of the Seas features scenic cruising along the Inside Passage and Hubbard Glacier, as well as stops in the ports of Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Sitka and Skagway. Consider booking a ride on the White Pass and Yukon Route while in Skagway: The historic narrow-gauge railway offers a picturesque ride through Alaska's wilderness, with views of White Pass.

The reverse itinerary, the Southbound Alaska & Hubbard Glacier voyage, is also available on Radiance of the Seas; prices start at $339 per person for the May 10, 2024, sailing. In 2025, the May 30 northbound itinerary aboard Radiance of the Seas currently begins at $680 per person.

7-Night Alaska Experience Cruise

This round-trip voyage from Seattle on Quantum of the Seas calls on Sitka, Skagway and Juneau in Alaska. It also makes a late afternoon stop in Victoria, British Columbia , where you can plan to have dinner that evening. You'll have two days at sea for relaxing or enjoying all the activities and attractions on the ship, including the RipCord by iFLY skydiving simulator, robotic bartenders and live performances with aerial entertainers. You can also take a ride on the FlowRider surf simulator, surrounded by snowcapped mountain views and calving glaciers.

In 2025, this round-trip voyage from Seattle on Quantum of the Seas starts at $840 per person for the Sept. 8 voyage.

Carnival Cruise Line

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

This cruise line advertises limited-time promotional rates and deals throughout the year. You can join Carnival 's VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) Club to unlock even more deals and additional perks. Current specials include reduced deposits, up to 35% off fares, free room upgrades, onboard credit and discounts for families traveling in the same stateroom.

7-Day Alaska from Seattle

This seven-day voyage on Carnival Spirit sails round-trip from Seattle and features one day to explore the ship while at sea, plus a scenic cruising day in Tracy Arm Fjord. Ports of call include Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, as well as a late evening stop in Victoria before you disembark the next day in Seattle. For your day in Ketchikan, consider booking the award-winning Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour on the famed Aleutian Ballad from the Discovery Channel show, "Deadliest Catch."

This itinerary is also offered on Carnival Luminosa . If you are sailing in 2025, you can book the same seven-day cruise starting at $609 per person for the April 14 voyage on Carnival Spirit.

Shorter cruises

A shorter cruise may be an attractive option if you don't have extensive vacation time or you prefer to spend a few days ashore before or after your sailing. If kids are in tow for the adventure – and it's your first time cruising with them – you might also want fewer days at sea to test the waters (literally). See our pick of competitively priced four- and five-night Alaska cruises, below.

Princess Cruises: 4-Day Alaska Sampler

This 2025 cruise aboard Discovery Princess includes one port of call, Ketchikan, and two days at sea between Vancouver and Seattle. This 4-Day Alaska Sampler itinerary is also offered on May 13, 2025, on Royal Princess , with a starting price of $327 per person. The reverse itinerary (Seattle to Vancouver) is offered on May 23, 2025, on Grand Princess; pricing starts at $347 per person.

Princess Cruises: 5-Day Alaska Sampler

If you want to sail with Princess for one extra day, consider booking the five-day sampler cruise sailing round-trip from Vancouver. This early season itinerary aboard Caribbean Princess calls on Sitka and Ketchikan, offering more time ashore to explore these two popular coastal towns along Alaska's Inside Passage. Guests will also have two sea days to enjoy activities and dining experiences on the ship.

How to find the best Alaska cruise deals

Book during wave season.

As previously mentioned, you can take advantage of some of the best deals of the year during wave season. Promotions offered during wave season include lower cruise fares, reduced deposits and onboard credits. You can also find special rates (or free fares) for the third and fourth guests in the same room, making this the perfect time to book a family cruise .

In addition, look for discounts on higher-level staterooms and suites, or even accommodations in exclusive areas of the ship, such as The Haven on Norwegian Cruise Line or The Retreat on Celebrity Cruises. These private spaces offer swanky extras like luxurious accommodations, all-inclusive pricing , butler service, a team of attendants and concierge service, as well as private restaurants, lounges and pools. With lower pricing, wave season may be the best time to splurge on a cruise vacation in one of these upscale enclaves.

Promotional pricing beyond wave season

If you miss booking your cruise during wave season, don't panic. Many lines offer special pricing and flash sales throughout the year and advertise lower fares for voyages during Alaska's shoulder seasons, which fall in May and September.

"You will always find the more affordable Alaska cruises toward the beginning and end of the season. This year, the Alaska cruise season begins in April and continues through October," says Chris Gray Faust, executive editor of Cruise Critic. She adds, "The challenge with shoulder season Alaska cruises is that the weather might not be the best – it can snow in Alaska in April and early May – and in the fall, the nights will be longer (although, there is a chance you might see northern lights )."

In addition to giving up the warmer summer weather (and possibly having snow), you may also miss some optimal wildlife viewing opportunities if you cruise early or late in the season. For example, the peak time for bear-watching excursions extends from mid-June to mid-August, which falls during the height of the Alaska cruise season in July and August.

If you're looking for other ways to save money on your cruise, Gray Faust advises that older ships also provide more value when you're looking for deals.

It's important to note that a few of this year's wave deals extend just until the end of February 2024, so you'll need to refer to the individual cruise line websites to see the exact dates for the special offers. You may also be able to find lower prices on some discount and aggregator sites, like Cruise Critic, Cruises.com and Priceline.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship, including the newest megaships, traditional masted sailing ships, river ships in Europe and a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica. She has cruised to Alaska and visited The Great Land in the summer, fall and winter, and journeyed to remote areas by bush plane above the Arctic Circle. She used her knowledge of Alaska cruises and extensive research to write this article. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• How Much Does an Alaska Cruise Cost?
• Alaska Cruise Packing List: Must-Have Items
• The Top Alaska Cruise Lines
• The Top Northern Lights Alaska Cruises
• The Top Alaska Shore Excursions

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Alaska Vacations , Budget Travel

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Alaska Cruises From Seattle

Charming towns and majestic coastlines await on an Alaska cruise from Seattle. Embark on a 7-day roundtrip Alaska cruise from Seattle with a convenient weekend departure from the Emerald City’s spectacular waterfront. Experience majestic glaciers with itineraries featuring Glacier Bay National Park or Hubbard Glacier. Visit attractions in Alaska’s most-beloved ports: Ketchikan, Juneau and Sitka. Find all the resources you need to start planning your Seattle to Alaska cruise.

See the World From Your Doorstep

Featured alaska cruises from seattle.

ALASKAN EXPLORER

Explore hubbard glacier or glacier bay on 7-day roundtrip alaska cruises from seattle., cruise in comfort & style.

Things To Do In Seattle

Find top picks of things to do before or after your cruise from Seattle.

Museum Of Pop Culture (MOPOP)

Space Needle

Pike Place Market

Cruises leaving seattle: learn more, seattle at a glance.

• When was Seattle founded?  November 13, 1851 
• Where is Seattle located?  Located in the western part of Washington State, Seattle lies between Elliot Bay and Lake Washington. Approximately 100 miles south of the Canadian Border. 
• What is the population of Seattle ?  753,675 according to the 2019 U.S. Census Bureau 
• What language is primarily spoken?  English 
• Seattle, Washington is GMT/UTC - 8h during Standard Time
• Seattle, Washington is GMT/UTC - 7h during Daylight Saving Time
• What currency is used in Seattle, WA?  USD (Dollar)

Travel Tips for Seattle

How do I book a flight to Seattle?  At Holland America we offer cruise travelers low prices on their flights. Please see more information on our  flight ease program .

Where should I stay when cruising from Seattle?  We offer hotel packages to our already booked guests. For more information, visit our  hotel packages and pre- or post-travel arrangements .

What are some of the top places to see in Seattle?  Visit our  Seattle Port page  for more information on our top travel recommendations.

Port Information

What should I expect boarding to like for my cruise departing Seattle, WA?  Please visit our  cruise preparation FAQ  for information on how to access or print boarding passes, how to check in online, and to see if you need a passport.

Can I book an airport shuttle to my cruise?   Book an airport transfer from the airport to your ship after you book a cruise with Holland America Line. We make getting to and from your cruise comfortable, convenient and hassle-free. For more information on EXC City Stays & Overland Tours, please visit:  https://www.hollandamerica.com/en_US/pre-post-travel-cruise.html .

Are you an already booked guest with Holland America Line? For booked guests, please see our  travel planning  details on how to book an airport transfer.

Where do I leave from the Port of Seattle?  Pier 91 is the home port for Holland America Lines. The address of Pier 91 is 2001 W Garfield Way, Seattle, WA 98199

Curious about learning more about cruising or want more information?

Please visit our most  frequently asked questions page  on cruise preparation, transportation, safety and security, and more.

Find The Best Cruises Out Of Seattle

CRUISES TO ALASKA

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Add to your cruise.

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Holland America Line Flight Ease® offers specially negotiated low prices, a convenient and worry-free way to book air travel, late-arrival protection, and the freedom to change your flights with no change fees.

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Find exceptional City Stays & Pre/Post Overland Packages, which offer a seamless experience ashore to add to your cruise.

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Life should be celebrated! What better way than with a Holland America Line cruise? Let us create the perfect event while you relax and have the time of your life.

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About Cruises to Alaska

Alaska is one of the world’s most popular cruise destinations, famed for relentlessly beautiful scenery stretching along its icy coastline. From the boat, you may see orcas playing in the water or bald eagles flying overhead. Gaze in awe at rocky, snow-capped mountains cascading into glacial blue waters. Alaska cruises offers myriad options for ports, ships and itineraries.

Typical Alaska cruise vacations last about seven days, either heading inland to ports along the Gulf of Alaska such as Juneau , Seward , or Whittier . These shorter journeys tend to leave from Seattle or Vancouver . Longer sailings are available, with 14-day round-trip Alaska cruise from San Francisco offering spectacular views of the American and Canadian west coasts.

Alaska is immensely popular as a cruise destination, which means you can shop around for Alaska cruise deals . Peak times are the summer months of June, July and August, when you have the warmest weather and the best chance of spotting wildlife. Plan your cruise during the months on either side to get a cheap cruise to Alaska with fewer fellow travelers.

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The 9 Best Alaska Cruises For Every Traveler [2024]

Updated : June 14, 2024

AAA Travel Editors

Table of contents.

• Holland America Line
• Cunard Line
• Princess Cruises
• Hurtigruten Expeditions
• Disney Cruise Line
• Celebrity Cruises
• Oceania Cruise Line
• Viking Ocean Cruises
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Book Your Alaskan Cruise with AAA

Planning an upcoming trip to The Last Frontier? Visiting Alaska is sure to be an unforgettable experience filled with natural beauty and endless adventure. From viewing age-old glaciers to whale-watching , there’s so much to see in this great state. 

One of the best ways to explore Alaska is via a cruise . During your expedition, you'll travel around to different cities, small towns and national parks , allowing you to see all that Alaska has to offer. Not to mention, cruise ships can access certain locations that are challenging to reach by car or air, so you'll have the opportunity to explore off-the-beaten landmarks. 

With over 50 cruise ships sailing to Alaska, selecting the perfect Alaska cruise can seem overwhelming. In this article, we’ll go over the nine best Alaska cruises as well as dive into each ship’s unique features so you can make the right decision for you. 

1. Holland America Line

Cruise At-a-Glance:

• Best for: Overall experience 
• AAA member benefits: $50 onboard spending credit per person for first two guests in stateroom and $50 Denali Dollars per person for first two guests on Alaska Cruise tours Verandah staterooms and above. 
• Unique features: Regional cooking demonstrations and tastings, Global Fresh Fish Program, complimentary pickleball lessons and presentations by rangers and members of local tribes
• Recommended Itinerary: Nieuw Amsterdam, 7-Day Alaska Inside Passage

Holland America Line has stood out as a top name in the world of cruising for over 150 years. One of the best Alaskan cruise lines, they are known for their exceptional service, award-winning dining and informative programming, this cruise line ensures a remarkable travel experience. 

The line’s Alaska cruises depart out of either Vancouver or Seattle. Out of their fleet of 11 ships, six make the voyage to Alaska. The Nieuw Amsterdam was inspired by the rich history of New York City and was named “Best Cruise Ship Overall” at the Travvy Awards. Meanwhile, the elegant Koningsdam ship offers a blissful ambiance that combines modern sophistication and maritime influence.  

Holland America Line offers a wide range of Alaska shore excursions. These include a crab fishermen tour aboard a ship featured on the hit TV show Deadliest Catch, a visit to a native village, and a dog-sledding and glacier-viewing adventure via helicopter. Whether your travel goals include learning about the local culture, immersing yourself in the Alaskan wilderness, or going on thrilling adventures, there are excursion options available for every type of traveler. 

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2. Cunard Line

• Best for: Traditional luxury 
• AAA member benefits: Up to $300 per stateroom onboard spending credit based on category and length of sailing, during the following quarterly booking windows and a reduced cruise deposit of 50% off the standard deposit per stateroom.
• Unique features: Gala evenings, afternoon tea, games deck, children’s activities, guest speakers and live music.  
• Recommended Itinerary: Alaska, 10 nights

Founded over 180 years ago, Cunard is one of the oldest and most iconic cruise lines, operating a fleet of ships named after queens. The voyages to Alaska take place aboard Queen Elizabeth which holds just over 2,000 guests. The interior of the ship exudes elegance with its art deco-inspired design, and there are numerous activities to partake in onboard including afternoon tea, crochet and even attending an upscale gala evening. 

Cunard Line offers two main routes to choose from— the Inside Passage or the Gulf of Alaska—departing from Seattle or Vancouver. Cruising itineraries range from seven to 11 nights, and they also offer longer itineraries that combine Alaska and Japan. Cruise ports you can look forward to stopping at include Glacier Bay National Park, Haines, Juneau , Ketchikan, Skagway and Sitka. 

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3. Princess Cruises

• Best for: Romantic getaways 
• AAA member benefits: Reduced deposit (as low as $50 per person) along with a complimentary Princess Medallion clip (first two guests in the stateroom) during quarterly cruise sales
• Unique features: North to Alaska program, Discovery at SEA program, specialty dining, Vegas-style casino, afternoon tea, sports court, art gallery, spa and an open-air amphitheater to watch movies. 
• Recommended Itinerary: Alaska Voyage of the Glaciers Cruise

Princess Cruises offers a wide variety of Alaska itineraries and this one in particular stands out as one of the best Alaska cruise lines for couples. The Alaska Voyage of the Glaciers Cruise is a one-way, 7-day itinerary from Vancouver to Anchorage that stops in a variety of ports along the way including Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier, Juneau and Ketchikan. With this itinerary, you have the opportunity to view two glaciers, see Prince William Sound and visit three of Alaskan cities. Ships on this itinerary include Caribbean Princess , Coral Princess , Grand Princess , Royal Princess , and Sapphire Princess . 

If you’re looking for a longer adventure, new itineraries for 2025 include a 16-day Inside Passage roundtrip from Los Angeles and a 22-day cruise roundtrip from San Francisco. 

While Princess Cruises welcomes all passengers, it’s nicknamed “The Love Boat,” offering amenities and excursions geared toward couples . Popular Alaskan excursions for couples include two-person kayaking with scenic views of glaciers, dog sledding and whale watching on a yacht. On board, you can purchase honeymoon, wedding and anniversary packages to make your Alaskan adventure extra special. 

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4. Hurtigruten Expeditions 

• Best for: Small-ship experience 
• AAA member benefits: 90 Euro per person onboard credit for all sailing dates
• Unique features: Expedition Team, two-level indoor/outdoor observation deck, Science Center, three restaurants, sauna and spa, infinity pool and hot tubs 
• Recommended Itinerary: Alaska and British Columbia Wilderness, Glaciers and Culture 

See all that Alaska has to offer with Hurtigruten Expeditions Alaskan cruises ranging from 14 to 19 days. Most of these voyages take place aboard the MS Roald Amundsen , a ship named after the first expedition to reach the South Pole. Added to the fleet in 2019, the vessel is specifically designed for travel in polar regions. With a capacity of 530 passengers, its smaller size allows the ship to reach places that larger ships can’t. What’s more, smaller expedition boats will take you even closer so you’re able to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Alaska and see wildlife up close. 

During your trip, your Expedition Team will guide you as you explore ports and take you on included activities such as kayaking and hiking. These experts will also share their knowledge of the natural history and ecology of Alaska. On average, there are 11 guests per expedition guide, which grants you plenty of opportunity to learn about the 49th state and ask plenty of questions. 

Book a Hurtigruten Cruise

5. Disney Cruise Line

• Best for: Family-friendly fun 
• AAA member benefits: N/A
• Unique features: Broadway-style performances, immersive dining experiences, adult-only spaces, kids clubs, fairytale-inspired beauty salon. 
• Recommended Itinerary: 7-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver 

Looking to sail to Alaska with the whole family? Look no further than the Disney Cruise Line, one of the best Alaksa cruise lines for families. Known for their one-of-a-kind experiences and above-and-beyond service, it should come as no surprise that it’s one of the best cruise lines for kids and families . For Alaskan adventures, itineraries range from five to nine nights and all depart from Vancouver. 

The Alaskan cruises set sail on the Disney Wonder , which is known for its incredible dining and entertainment. On board, you can have dinner at Tiana’s Place—an eatery based on Disney’s Princess and the Frog followed by a performance of Frozen, A Musical Spectacular. The magic of both Disney and Alaska will make for memories that last a lifetime. 

Book a Disney Cruise

6. Celebrity Cruises

• Best for: Affordability 
• AAA member benefits: Onboard credit per stateroom based on category booked: $25 (outside), $50 (balcony), $75 (Concierge Class and above)
• Unique features: Spa, fitness center, casino, children’s program, shows, shopping 
• Recommended Itinerary: Alaska Northbound Glacier

Celebrity Cruises offers trips to Alaska ranging from six to 13 nights at various price points. You can choose from itineraries that sail to Dawes Glacier, Hubbard Glacier, Denali National Park and Preserve and other areas of Alaska. No matter which itinerary you choose, you’ll be able to experience the scenery, wildlife and culture of the 49th state. 

Celebrity boasts five ships that sail to Alaska including the Celebrity Summit , Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Solstice . Following days of exploration, you can unwind at the ship’s spa, whale watch from the deck or enjoy world-class dining. 

Book a Celebrity Cruise

7. Oceania Cruise Line

• Best for: Onboard dining
• AAA member benefits: $100 per person onboard spending credit on select voyages.
• Unique features: Talks from guest speakers, afternoon tea, library, shows, spa, running track, sports deck and a youth program
• Recommended Itinerary: Vancouver To Seward, 7 Days

Sailing on an Alaskan cruise with Oceania Cruise Line is a one-of-a-kind experience. As a “culinary- and destination-focused cruise line,” Oceania aims to provide passengers with incredible adventures paired with exceptional dining experiences.  

When voyaging to Alaska with Oceania Cruises, you will sail on the Regatta , which has an occupancy of 670 passengers. Life on board this ship features a variety of dining venues, engaging talks from guest speakers, a cozy library and plenty of entertainment. For guests cruising with children, Oceania has an Alaska Explorer Youth Program that includes activities and games inspired by The Last Frontier.  

Book an Oceania Cruise

8. Viking Ocean Cruises

• Best for: Guided shore excursions
• AAA member benefits: $100 per person shipboard credit for all cruises 8-11 days, $200 per person shipboard credit for all cruises 12 days or longer
• Unique features: Complimentary shore excursions, free Wi-Fi, enrichment lectures and performances, access to The Nordic Spa & Fitness Center
• Recommended Itinerary: 11-Day Alaska & the Inside Passage

Viking Ocean Cruises offers an 11-day itinerary that sails to Alaska and the Inside Passage. Known for its fleet of smaller ships that provide an intimate experience, voyages to Alaska set sail on the Viking Orion which holds 930 guests. While there are different staterooms to choose from, all cabins have private verandas so you can enjoy the passing views of glaciers and look for humpback whales from the comfort of your own room. 

Amenities you will find on board the ship include free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, The Nordic Spa, restaurants and more. On board, a Viking Resident Historian will also provide informative lectures on topics ranging from glaciers to the indigenous people of the Pacific Northwest. 

On Viking cruises, passengers can enjoy one complimentary shore excursion in every port of call. Examples of excursions include learning about pole carving at Potlatch Totem Park, a sightseeing tour of Sitka and a theatrical performance, a nature walk and a visit to Alaska SeaLife Center. 

Book a Viking Cruise

9. Regent Seven Seas Cruises

• Best for: All-inclusive bliss 
• AAA member benefits: Up to $400 per suite, onboard spending credit on selected promotional voyages.
• Unique features: All-inclusive luxuries, dining experiences, bocce court, culinary arts kitchen, golf net, infinity pool, paddle tennis court, putting green, casino, theater and spa
• Recommended Itinerary: Majestic Glaciers

If you’re looking to travel to Alaska in pure bliss, Regent Seven Sea Cruises are just what you’re looking for. As one of the most luxurious cruise lines , every amenity is included so you don’t have to lift a finger. This includes free shore excursions, specialty restaurants, beverages, WiFi, valet laundry service and more. 

You can choose a seven or 14 night journey to Alaska. Whether you're interested in whale-watching, seeing majestic glaciers or exploring Tongass National Park, there’s plenty of itineraries to choose from. 

Travelers embark to Alaska on board the Seven Seas Explorer , which holds 746 guests. Activities on board this ship include a bocce court, golf net, infinity pool, putting green, spa and boutiques. 

Book a Regent Seven Seas Cruise

Ready to set sail on your Alaskan adventure? Make sure to plan your cruise with AAA. Your AAA membership grants you exclusive perks when reserving your tip including onboard spending credits and other select discounts.

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Round Trip Alaska Cruise Seattle

Sail the same path gold prospectors, explorers, and adventurous pioneers once took to Alaska.

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Seattle and Alaska have shared a unique connection since gold was discovered in Alaska and the Yukon Territory in 1897. With its relative proximity and established shipping infrastructure, Seattle became the gateway through which thousands of prospectors flowed north. Today it is cruise passengers who flow north looking for a different sort of enrichment.

Norwegian Cruise Lines, Celebrity, Princess, Holland America Line, and Royal Caribbean sail seven-day roundtrip Alaska cruises out of Seattle. Norwegian Cruise Lines sails out of the Bell Street Pier Cruise Terminal at Pier 66. Pikes Place Market, the Seattle Aquarium, and the Space Needle are all within a 10- to 15-minute walk. Located on the north end of Seattle's waterfront, the Smith Cove Cruise Terminal at Pier 91 serves Celebrity, Princess, Holland America Line, and Royal Caribbean. There are several nearby walking paths and parks as well as a quaint shopping and dining district within the nearby Magnolia neighborhood.

Roundtrip Seattle cruises sail north out of Puget Sound, through the Salish Sea near Victoria, British Columbia, and into the Pacific Ocean. The first full day is spent at sea, either cruising the open ocean or winding through the protected waters of the Inside Passage. Most cruises visit Juneau and Ketchikan with a third shore day in either Skagway or Sitka. Between ports of call, cruises spend at least a day exploring some of Southcentral Alaska's most stunning tidewater glaciers. Cruise ships make a final stop in posh Victoria, British Columbia, before returning to Seattle.

A concierge service at both terminals provides luggage storage and local area information on cruise days. The Port of Seattle also offers complimentary luggage transfers to the airport through a program called Port Valet. At the end of their voyage, enrolled passengers' luggage is taken to the airport and checked to the final ticketed destination (on participating airlines). This convenient free service lets cruisers enjoy Seattle luggage-free and skip the checked bag lines at the airport.

Princess Inside Passage with Endicott Arm

Balanced between shore days and sea days, this Princess route sails roundtrip from Seattle. Enjoy three Alaskan port calls, visit to Endicott Arm, and stop in Victoria, British Columbia. Learn More >

Princess Inside Passage with Glacier Bay

A roundtrip Princess Cruises route from Seattle making the most of every one of its seven days. See the Inside Passage, Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and Victoria, plus stunning Glacier Bay. Learn More >

Celebrity Inside Passage with Tracy Arm Fjord

Cruising roundtrip from Seattle, Celebrity runs this seven-day route. It features two days at sea, a morning sail down Endicott Arm, and port calls in Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway. Learn More >

Holland Inside Passage with Endicott Arm

Cruise roundtrip from Seattle to Juneau, Endicott Arm, Sitka, Ketchikan, and Victoria, BC. Learn More >

Holland Inside Passage with Glacier Bay

Enjoy a special port call in Sitka on this seven-day roundtrip cruise from Seattle. The route, which is run by Holland America, also visits Juneau, Ketchikan, and Victoria, British Columbia. Learn More >

Holland Inside Passage with Hubbard Glacier

Running roundtrip from Seattle, this route is highlighted by a shore day in Sitka and a sea day alongside Hubbard Glacier. The route is exclusive to Holland America. Learn More >

RCCL Inside Passage with Endicott Arm

A Royal Caribbean cruise route with three full days at sea and port calls in Juneau, Skagway, and Victoria, British Columbia. The route runs roundtrip out of Seattle. Learn More >

NCL Inside Passage with Glacier Bay

Cruise roundtrip from Seattle to Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and Victoria, British Columbia. Sail the Pacific Ocean and the still waters of Glacier Bay. Norwegian operates this seven-day Alaska cruise. Learn More >

NCL Inside Passage with Hubbard Glacier

Cruise roundtrip from Seattle to Icy Straight, Hubbard Glacier, Juneau, Ketchikan, and Victoria, BC. Sail the Pacific Ocean and the still waters of Glacier Bay on some voyages. Norwegian operates this seven-day Alaska cruise. Learn More >

NCL Inside Passage with Endicott Arm

Cruise roundtrip from Seattle to Ketchikan, Endicott Arm, Juneau, Icy Straight Ketchikan, and Victoria, BC. Norwegian operates this seven-day Alaska cruise. Learn More >

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Alaska Cruise Tours:

A cruise tour is a voyage and land tour combination, with the land tour occurring before or after the voyage. Unless otherwise noted, optional services such as airfare, airport transfers, shore excursions, land tour excursions, etc. are not included and are available for an additional cost.

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Alaska cruises and cruise tours take place from late April through September. While July brings peak weather, spring and fall offer season-changing splendor. We recommend packing layers, you’ll want to be comfortable on your journey to try to find Alaska’s Big 5 – grizzly bears, caribou, Dall sheep, moose and gray wolves. Depending on when you go, you might even get a chance to see whales from the ship! Choose a cruise tour including Denali National Park for a more in-depth Alaska experience.

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The Best Alaska Cruises

Windstar Cruise ship is our pick for the best Alaskan cruise

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One of the most magical ways to explore Alaska’s expansive coastline, stunning snow-capped mountains, mystic fjords, lush rainforests, awe-inspiring glaciers, and protected wildlife is by sea. And that’s precisely why so many people who visit Alaska do so via a cruise. Plus, it’s the best way to experience the iconic Inside Passage, the most popular route for cruise ships departing from Seattle and Vancouver from May through September. The key to planning the perfect adventure is finding the right cruise for your personality, budget, and preferences. 

We’ve gathered cruises in all size categories (from a couple of hundred passengers to nearly 5,000), as ship size is often one of the biggest factors when selecting a cruise. We’ve also called attention to cruise options that do an impressive job of showcasing nature, offering local experiences , providing endless onboard entertainment, or catering to foodies or luxury travelers. 

While Alaska is certainly the star of this show, the ship you experience it on will make all the difference to your vacation. (Spoiler: Always spring for the oceanview room with a balcony on Alaska cruises, because you’ll be treated to once-in-a-lifetime sights along your entire voyage!) 

Best Alaska Cruises of 2024

• Best Overall Cruise: Windstar Cruises
• Best Ship Renovation: Celebrity Cruises
• Best Small Ship: Oceania Cruises
• Best All-Inclusive Ship: American Queen Voyages
• Best Ultra-Luxury: Seabourn Cruises
• Best Traditional Cruise: Holland America Line
• Best New Ship: Princess Cruises
• Best Large Ship Cruise: Royal Caribbean International
• Our Top Picks
• Windstar Cruises
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• American Queen Voyages
• Seabourn Cruises
• Holland America Line
• Princess Cruises
• Royal Caribbean International
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Final Verdict

Methodology, best overall cruise : windstar cruises.

Because of their small, yacht-like size, Windstar Cruises ships grant unparalleled access to Alaska’s glaciers and fjords; other ships can’t squeeze into some of these special places.

All-inclusive option includes WiFi, unlimited drinks, Signature Expeditions program offers expert guides who give lectures and take guests on intimate excursions

Only 312 passengers

Each cabin is a suite; there are no interior cabins

Ship was reimagined in 2021, with additional dining experiences, a new World Spa, and infinity pool

Fewer entertainment options than on larger ships

When it comes to experiencing the splendor of Alaska, your cruise is only as good as the direct access it offers to this region’s beauty—and Windstar Cruises delivers access like no other. Because of its dainty size, guests are treated to unique experiences, like anchoring right in Misty Fjords and Kenai Fjords, which is something you’d have to do on a shore excursion if you were on a larger ship with another cruise line. For an even closer look at Mother Nature’s impressive work, from icebergs to whales, book a kayak or Zodiac Signature Expedition with their incredibly knowledgeable guides.

In 2021, the Star Breeze went under renovation to provide guests with new features: additional dining options (such as a Spanish small plates restaurant from Anthony Sasso, one of the youngest chefs to be recognized by the Michelin Guide), a spa and fitness center, an infinity pool, and more outdoor deck areas. Chefs make a point of shopping locally in each port and bringing their bounty back to the ship to incorporate into the cuisine, such as reindeer and venison sausage, birch syrup, and, of course, King and Sockeye salmon. 

Best Ship Renovation : Celebrity Cruises

The Celebrity Millennium, launched in 2000, has recently undergone complete modernization, which includes luxury staterooms, enhanced technology, and renovated restaurants and lounges.

Immersive dining at Le Petit Chef, where augmented reality intersects with luxury cuisine, private verandas, complimentary fitness classes, plus unlimited access to the Persian Garden and complimentary dining at Blu

Autism-friendly cruising, including sensory-friendly films and toys, and dietary options

Accessible staterooms with grab bars, roll-in showers, and wider doors

2,218 passengers put this squarely in the mid-size ship category

You won’t find the over-the-top party-like activities of larger ships (which could also be a plus)

If you’re passionate about the finer things in life, Celebrity Cruises may very well speak to your soul. The Sky Suite in the Retreat, for instance, includes a long list of curated amenities (e.g., a shore excursion credit, premium drinks, wi-fi, tips, and onboard credit), endless views, a Personal Retreat Host, private dining, and exclusive spaces, like the Retreat Lounge and Sundeck. And onboard experiences range from Macallan and Jack Daniel’s tastings to Riedel crystal workshops that show how different shapes and qualities of a Riedel glass change the taste of wine. 

The Millennium offers Edge series staterooms with Infinite Veranda—at the touch of a button, your entire living space becomes the veranda, which means you can walk right out to the water’s edge. And 99% of the staterooms on Celebrity Edge have king-size beds, featuring Celebrity eXhale bedding and Cashmere mattresses. 

Best Small Ship : Oceania Cruises

Oceania cruises introduce Alaska to guests by offering local experiences in partnership with native tribes for a more meaningful connection to the area beyond sightseeing.

Two specialty restaurants (no extra charge),  WiFi, and free and unlimited soft drinks replenished daily in refrigerated mini bar

Onboard menus feature local Alaskan delicacies, such as Halibut, King Crab, and Alaskan blueberry pancakes

Impressive guest-to-staff ratio: maximum of 656 guests served by 400+ officers and crew

4 open-seating restaurants, 8 lounges and bars, and a casino

Not all staterooms feature private verandas

Built in 1998 but fully refurbished in 2019, Oceania Cruises’ Regatta dazzles guests with bejeweled chandeliers in the Grand Dining Room, fresh color palettes, and new furnishings in the public spaces, plus new everything in the suites and staterooms. Between the gentle rocking of the ship and the Ultra Tranquility Bed, you’re sure to sleep like a baby. 

When you’re not off exploring Alaska’s many wonders, keep busy at the casino, take in an after-dinner production of Tuxedo (a fresh take on the Rat Pack) or Gatsby’s (a 1920s-era musical romp) or chill out and choose a book from the English-style library with 2,000 options.  Book a spa treatment or work out in the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center, play nine holes of golf on the putting greens, shop the three boutiques, and unwind, help yourself to afternoon tea with all the accouterments at 4 p.m. daily. 

Best All-Inclusive Ship : American Queen Voyages

You’ll never feel nickeled and dimed on American Queen Voyages because everything you want—from guided tours to drinks—is already included in the price.

All-inclusive sailing with no extra charge, infinity pool and multiple hot tubs

Menus crafted from local ingredients

Each room comes with binoculars for wildlife spotting

Ship just debuted in November 2021 and its first sailing with American Queen Voyages was May 2022

Hefty price tag

No musical or stage productions onboard

Say hello to our little friend, the 186-passenger Ocean Victory, from American Queen Voyages. While this vessel may be small in stature, she’s big on value. The all-inclusive sailing includes one pre-cruise hotel night, ground transfers, unlimited guided tours, and beverages, open bars and lounges, unlimited food, in-room dining, WiFi, bicycles, walking sticks, and daily live entertainment and enrichment. And speaking of unlimited food, you’ll be treated to five-course dinners along with 180-degree panoramic views. All 98 cabins face out (no inside cabins), and 68 of those feature step-out balconies. 

As part of the American Queen Voyages expedition experience, the line has partnered with Dr. Michelle Fournet, an acclaimed acoustic ecologist and leading expert in the communication of North Pacific humpback whales. As such, hydrophones are used onboard Zodiacs to listen to the voices of Alaska’s whales in real-time. Guests will also learn about and participate in whale tracking through fluke identification by uploading their own photos from the vessel to a scientific database following their seasonal movements.

Best Ultra-Luxury : Seabourn Cruises

With its intimate size and maneuverability, world-class dining, social atmosphere, and high-end amenities, Seabourn Cruises is a luxurious way to explore America’s Last Frontier.

Complimentary WiFi for all bookings, The Grill restaurant features a menu curated by famed chef Thomas Keller, complimentary fitness classes

Max guest capacity: 450

229 luxury suites, 90% have verandas and all are ocean front

In-suite amenities include a fruit basket replenished daily, a bar with complimentary wines or spirits, nightly turndown service, and Molton Brown bath products

Tipping is neither required nor expected

Ship was built in 2009 and has had no renovations 

Eleven days exploring the Inside Passage and Alaskan fjords with only 400-ish other passengers aboard a luxurious ship with plenty of onboard activities? That’s exactly what you’ll get on the Seabourn Odyssey. Enjoy the magical moments spent exploring the far end of the Misty Fjords on Zodiac, learn more about the local wildlife and geology during lectures with the Expedition Team, and kayak along Hubbard Glacier. 

There’s plenty to do on board, too, including making use of the two swimming pools, five whirlpools, and Dr. Andrew Weil's spa and wellness program. Not to mention a card room, casino, library, observation bar, and beauty salon. There are several options for onboard dining (aside from complimentary in-suite dining), including a fine dining option, The Grill by world-renowned chef Thomas Keller, and an open-kitchen style option for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Best Traditional Cruise : Holland America Line

Holland America Line’s Koningsdam offers everything long-time cruisers appreciate, from a comfortable size and price point to onboard activities and numerous dining options.

Live cooking demonstrations and fine dining events, Rolling Stone Rock Room live music venue and B.B. King’s Blues Club

Recently refurbished in 2018

2,650 guests, which makes it a mid-size ship that’s easier to navigate

Club HAL for kids ages 3 to 17 included

No live daytime music

Don’t have a lot of time for your Alaskan vacation? This “best of” 7-night itinerary is focused on the region’s iconic Inside Passage, which gives passengers an efficient taste of all the area’s most photographed and talked about sights. Plus, Holland America offers more access to Glacier Bay National Park and has more departures featuring Glacier Bay National Park than any other cruise line. 

The Koningsdam boasts 912 balconied accommodations, which means 69% of the ship has rooms with a private veranda view. You’ll also find massage showerheads, magnifying mirrors, terry bathrobes, Egyptian cotton towels, Elemis luxury bath products, and fresh fruit (upon request) in your stateroom. Anglers will enjoy the cruise line’s Savor My Catch program, which brings ocean-to-table dining to a whole new level. Plus, guests can catch their own fish during shore excursions and have it prepared and served on board.

Best New Ship : Princess Cruises

Princess has been sailing Alaska for over 50 years, and with six ships, five wilderness lodges, and its own domed rail car, this cruise line knows the region well. 

Cook My Catch dining program for guests on select fishing excursions, puppies in the Piazza brings sled dog puppies onboard for guests to cuddle, adults-only wellness and relaxation deck

Ship just launched in March 2022

Princess ships feature Ocean Medallion wearable technology for a seamless, contact-free cruise experience

One of the most affordable Alaskan cruise options

Gratuities and specialty restaurants not included

The Discovery Princess had her naming ceremony in April of 2022, so she’s a brand-new addition to the line’s fleet. As such, technology is a big part of the experience. Cruise guests will receive a free Medallion device with a complimentary lanyard, which allows you to do things like open your cabin door, track onboard purchases, find family and friends, locate venues, and check daily activities. 

You’ll find three main dining rooms, plus a pizzeria, gastropub, Italian restaurant, chop house, and Mediterranean bistro. Or, kick things up a notch with a Chef’s Table Lumiere experience of multiple courses with wine pairings. Spend your time listening to live music in the Crooners Bar, exploring cocktails from around the world at Good Spirits, and relaxing at the jazz club. Be sure to check out SeaWalk, a walkway that cantilevers off the side of the ship and has a glass bottom so guests can see below and above.

Best Large Ship Cruise : Royal Caribbean International

Dry docked in 2021 for a routine refurbishment, this Quantum Class ship holds 4,905 passengers and truly offers something for everyone.

Recreational activities like a flowrider surf simulator, iFly skydiving simulator, and rock climbing wall, high-tech virtual balcony views, and North Star, a glass observation capsule that rises 300 feet above sea level for bird’s eye views (additional cost)

Luxury shopping options, such as Cartier, Kate Spade, and Michael Kors

Adventure Ocean Kids Programs

A robot will code your favorite cocktails at the Bionic Bar

Formal nights with dress code (or you can choose to dine at a more casual venue those evenings)

The best part about a mega-ship, like the Ovation of the Seas? It’s literally impossible to be bored given the number of things there are to do, eat, and explore. For instance, there are 16 dining options (including Jamie’s Italian by chef Jamie Oliver), 10 bars and lounges, myriad activities and shows, a spa and fitness center, pool tables, and table tennis. Add to that guest lectures, outdoor movie nights, live music, an arcade and casino, theme nights, bumper cars, archery, and dance and sushi-making classes. Heck, you might just need a vacation after this vacation! 

Interior staterooms are budget-friendly options with plenty of space and thoughtful touches, or you can upgrade to ocean view, balcony, or suite categories for some extra perks (like marble bathrooms with a tub and two sinks). And there’s no better spot for taking in Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier than the North Star observation deck.

Your Alaskan cruise is ready to set sail, so which ship will you choose for your adventure through the Last Frontier? For a small ship experience with an all-inclusive mentality, we love Windstar Cruises—it’s your best bet for getting up-close and personal with nature and having access to expert guides. For sailing through Alaska in the lap of luxury, choose Seabourn Cruises, and surround yourself with naturalist experts and fine dining restaurants. And if mega-ships are intriguing, Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas has literally everything you could ever want in a floating hotel. (The only risk here is that you might enjoy the ship’s myriad amenities so much that you’ll forget to check out Alaska.)

We evaluated over a dozen Alaskan cruises before selecting the best in each category. We considered various elements like the cruise line’s reputation and quality of service, ship design and architecture, and notable ship amenities (e.g., swimming pools, entertainment, technology, access to nature experts, etc.). We also reviewed each ship’s cruise itinerary , dining and wellness options, and the types of experiences and excursions available to guests. In determining this list, we evaluated numerous customer reviews and considered whether the cruise line has collected any accolades in recent years.

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One-way Alaska cruises vs. round-trip: Which is best?

When it comes to aspirational destinations, Alaska tops the list for many travelers. Because points of interest within the 49th state can be difficult to reach, Alaska cruises offer one of the best ways to see several places in one trip. Still, it can be confusing to choose the right itinerary, particularly if you're unfamiliar with the region or haven't cruised before.

The first thing you'll notice when comparing Alaska cruise itineraries is that some are one-way and others round-trip. You can choose a sailing that begins or ends in Alaska itself or one that departs and returns to another location, such as Seattle or Vancouver, British Columbia.

Here, I'll lay out some of the draws and drawbacks of each type of itinerary, so you can be better prepared to book your Alaska cruise vacation.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

One-way Alaska cruises

The main perk of one-way Alaska cruises is that they allow you to spend time on land in Alaska before or after you sail.

That could mean exploring on your own or signing up for a cruisetour — a cruise plus pre- or post-cruise travel on land, organized by your cruise line for a fee. Holland America Line and Princess Cruises are known for their cruisetours, which generally involve stays in cruise line-owned hotels or resorts and visits to places like Denali National Park and Fairbanks in Alaska, as well as Dawson City and Whitehorse in Canada's Yukon territory.

One-way voyages to the Last Frontier also usually have more than just one day of scenic cruising, allowing you to explore the local scenery — including calving glaciers — in more detail.

As for ports, the locations your vessel visits will depend on its size, with smaller ports like Petersburg and Wrangell unable to accommodate most megaships. That's why so many large vessels tend to visit popular ports like Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan, which are equipped to handle large ships and lots of passengers.

Additionally, if you're hoping to visit Victoria, British Columbia, a popular port of call on Alaska cruises that's definitely worth a visit, you typically won't find it on a one-way itinerary. Because one-way sailings often start or end in Vancouver, they aren't required to include Victoria to satisfy the Passenger Vessel Services Act .

The biggest downside of one-way sailings — and this applies to cruises in any destination — is that they're more expensive because you won't be booking round-trip flights. In this case, you'll need a one-way flight to or home from Alaska, which has more limited service than Seattle or Vancouver. Routing often isn't the best, making nonstop options scarce.

Round-trip Alaska cruises

Round-trip Alaska cruises tend to be more affordable than one-way sailings on a total trip cost basis. The voyages leave from and return to the same port, making it easier for passengers to drive to the ship or to save money with round-trip flights.

Most round-trip itineraries leave from and return to either Vancouver or Seattle, with a few scattered sailings departing from California ports. You rarely find round-trip Alaska cruises departing from ports in Alaska (with the exception of small-ship expedition cruises.)

Alaska cruises that sail round-trip from Seattle are required to call on at least one foreign port somewhere along the itinerary, which almost always means a stop in Victoria — a lovely city that offers plenty of rich history, as well as seafood restaurants and a harbor promenade that's great for an afternoon or evening walk.

Many round-trip voyages visit the popular ports of Ketchikan, Skagway and Juneau. They also feature a day of scenic cruising in places like Glacier Bay National Park or Tracy Arm, but typically can't offer a second day of glacier viewing or visit the more northern ice fields.

However, because round-trip sailings don't leave room for additional land-based Alaska exploration pre- or post-cruise, they can't offer as many options to dive deeper into Alaska's wilderness, wildlife and native culture.

Bottom line

Book a one-way sailing if you have a large vacation budget and don't mind taking at least one potentially cumbersome flight so you can explore more of Alaska by land.

If you are limited on funds or time but want to experience some of Alaska's nature-based and cultural highlights, a round-trip cruise is for you.

Have more cruise questions? TPG has answers:

• Banned items: What not to pack for a cruise
• Man overboard: Why do people fall off cruise ships?
• What is baked Alaska, and why is it paraded around cruise ships?
• What are the largest cruise ships in the world?
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• What is the Jones Act, and how does it affect cruise ships?
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Alaska: dawes glacier, sitka & juneau, from   seattle, washington.

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Seattle sits on the slip of land between Puget Sound and Lake Washington, with the Olympic and Cascade Mountains serving as a dramatic backdrop for this oh-so cosmopolitan city. Soar up the futuristic Space Needle and experience the views atop this stunning landmark created for the 1962 World's Fair.

Sitka is a charming island community surrounded with stunning mountain and seaside panoramic views. The vast and rich wildlife boasts sightings of whales, brown bears, deers, sea otters, and various birds flock here. This destination offers superb fishing, and plentiful historical attractions.

Juneau has been called “ Alaska's peak experience,” certainly due in part to its unparalleled glacier viewing from such places as Tracy Arm Fjord, the Juneau Icefields and Glacier Bay National Park. Kayak up one of the area's many protected waterways, go flightseeing, tour historic downtown or try your hand at panning for gold. The majestic Mendenhall Glacier lies nearly 12 miles outside Juneau, a treck worthwhile.

This is why visitors come to Alaska-to see glaciers as magnificent as Dawes-and getting there is half the excitement. From Stephens Passage, your ship will turn into the glacially carved fjord of Endicott Arm, the southern sister fjord to Tracy. However, Endicott is special. It's the fjord less travelled, and at its head, Dawes Glacier. But first, the 31-mile fjord. Sheer granite walls. Plunging waterfalls. Spruce and hemlock trees clinging to the steep sides. It is the definition of pristine. Look for "bergy bits," floating chunks of glacial ice, some looking more like sculptures, some with resting seals on top. Keep an eye open for bears, mountain goats and whales, too. As we approach the glacier, listen for thunderous cracks and have your camera ready. Dawes is an active tidewater glacier that recedes daily causing calving, where huge hunks of ice plunge into the sea. At 600 feet tall and a half-mile wide, this blue-hued, powerful glacier may be the highlight of your Alaska cruise.

Venture “where the north wind doesn’t blow.” Known for this famous saying, Icy Strait Point is the ideal landing spot for adventurers seeking a new experience. Breathtaking and exciting, Icy Strait Point truly takes you where the wild things are. It’s one of the few places in the world where wildlife outnumbers the human population. A trip here certainly satisfies your taste for adventure. Take a cruise from Icy Strait Point and enjoy Alaska's awe-inspiring scenery and the many excursion options that Norwegian Cruise Line has to offer.

Thanks to its abundant rainfall, Ketchikan is surrounded by some of the world's most lush wilderness. Its Tlingit Indian name, Kach Khanna, means "spread wings of the eagle." Chances are you'll see one of these magnificent birds perched atop a Sitka tree during your Alaska cruise to Ketchikan (Ward Cove).

Roam the spacious lawns of stunning Butchart Gardens with its exotic flora, unusual topiary and exquisite fountains. Explore historic Bastion Square, the treasures of Chinatown and the many sights and sounds to be found along the boardwalk of the Inner Harbour.

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• Disembarkation usually begins 2 hours after docking on final day of cruise.

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The dos and don’ts of cruising to Alaska for a guaranteed good time

A cruise to Alaska is a bucket list opportunity for many, but doing it right takes a bit of planning.

The first thing that strikes you on a trip to Alaska is how wide open it feels, with plenty of breathtaking natural wonders and incredible wildlife to satisfy even the most discerning traveler. I should know, I’ve sailed there twice. There are also many mistakes you can make on this epic trip. Luckily, travelers can do a few things to ensure their cruise goes off without a hitch.

First, it’s important to note that every part of the 49th state is unique, from its vast interior full of bears, moose, and mountains to the adorable port cities with boutique shopping, whale watching and boating adventures. Some destinations—like the capital of Juneau—are only accessible by ship or air, and others—like Glacier Bay National Park—are great to see from the ship itself. Of course, traveling on a cruise allows you to hop from destination to destination, but it also means planning for changes in weather, various activities and, of course, the unexpected.

When planning a trip to Alaska, choices matter. Several important decisions could make or break a trip, from excursions and deciding if a land tour is the right add-on to ensuring you’re picking the right ship for your group. No Alaska cruise will look exactly the same, but here are 12 important dos and don’ts to take some of the guesswork out of planning the perfect trip to The Last Frontier.

Do : Splurge on a window or balcony stateroom

One of the best parts of a cruise to Alaska is the views, and between the nearly 24 hours of daylight and ever-changing scenery, you don’t want to miss them with an inside room. Your best bet is a balcony so you can sit outside and watch the world go by, keeping an eye out for birds, sea life—think playful otters frolicking in the icy waters—and even glaciers passing by. While it’s always possible to head to an upper deck for scenery, it’s more relaxing to watch from your own private deck, enjoying a room service breakfast or an evening Champagne toast (just note: some cruise lines charge a small room service fee).

One of the highlights of my Princess Cruises trip last summer was enjoying a lazy morning on our balcony as we sailed into Glacier Bay National Park, nibbling on croissants and watching the deep blue ice formations come into view as we listened to a park ranger from our stateroom TV.

Don’t : Wait until the last minute to book excursions

Popular excursions can sell out on any cruise, but that’s especially true in Alaska, thanks to the mostly small-group tour options on helicopters and boats. When booking your excursion, always have a plan b (and even plan c) in case your first choice is unavailable.

This has happened to me on more than one occasion, and on my most recent trip, even booking two months in advance wasn’t early enough. If you’re set on a specific excursion with limited space—think a helicopter landing on the Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau or a remote search for bears in Icy Strait Point—then it’s important to book several months in advance.

Do : Try something new

You may not get your first choice of excursions, but that can also be a blessing in disguise: Alaska is full of adventures for travelers who are open to it. From a vertigo-inducing zip line that starts above the clouds in Icy Strait Point to piloting a zodiac boat across rough water in search of seals and bald eagles near Ketchikan, there’s no shortage of available thrills. And while I may have picked the zip line because all my other choices were booked, it became one of the trip's most memorable moments and a great way to face my fear of heights.

Don’t : Skip the land tour

Alaska is huge—as a whole, it’s two and a half times larger than Texas and boasts more than 6,600 miles of coastline. Each part of the state is different. A cruise is the best way to see certain wildlife, such as whales, and reach cities like Juneau, which is surrounded by water. But if you want to see Alaska’s moose, try to glimpse the elusive Denali (North America's tallest peak), or even appreciate the stunning turquoise water along the Kenai Peninsula, you’re going to need to plan to spend time on a land tour.

On my trip with Princess, I spent a week on land and a week on the cruise, flying into Fairbanks and leaving from Vancouver. It was during that time I suited up for a hair-raising (and muddy) four-wheel adventure, slashing through streams and coming face-to-face with a moose, watched a larger-than-life grizzly bear saunter down a snow-covered road in Denali National Park & Preserve, and watched the world go by from beneath a glass-domed train. Without the land tour, I would have missed all that and my trip would not have felt complete.

Do : Bring a back-up charger

Typically, cruises dock at the port early in the morning and leave in the evening, allowing you to spend what could be eight hours or longer at the destination. Excursions can range from as little as an hour and a half to half a day, with the possibility of exploring the port longer after you get back. All that equates to plenty of time on your phone. And you don’t want it to die while you’re taking photos, using it for tap payments when shopping, or sending videos home to your friends and family. For long days out, it’s always a good idea to bring a portable charger so the only fuel you’re worried about is your next cup of coffee.

Don’t : Underpack

Alaska can be cold, hot, rainy and sunny—all in one day. A trip to Alaska is not the time to try to pack light. It’s important to pack layers, bringing heavier items for early mornings and late evenings and light options for the middle of the day. That’s especially true if you’re on a land and cruise trip since the weather can vary widely from city to city. In Fairbanks, for example, temperatures can vary from lows around 50 or 60 degrees Fahrenheit to highs in the 80s in a single day. And in Juneau, what started out as a chilly day when I was there quickly turned sweltering in the afternoon.

Do : Remember your passport

Alaska is, of course, a U.S. state, and American travelers don’t need a passport to fly there, but most Alaskan cruises start or end in Vancouver or stop in Victoria, British Columbia. That’s because of the Passenger Vessel Services Act , which requires foreign-flagged ships embarking and departing from U.S. ports to also stop in a foreign port. So, while you’re spending most of your time in the U.S., it’s important to remember to bring a passport if you’re headed on an Alaska cruise.

Don’t : Eat every meal on board

One of the benefits of cruising is not having to think about where to eat. However, if you only ever plan to dine on board, you will miss out on some delicious local flavors. Instead, build in some time before or after excursions to walk around and check out some local restaurants. Enjoy an IPA and a bowl of addictively seasoned popcorn at Devil's Club Brewing Company in Juneau, or sit at a picnic table and snack on house-smoked tacos at El Green-Go’s in Anchorage. And in Icy Strait Point, venture into nearby Hoonah to try some salmon tacos or beer-battered halibut perched at a table steps from the harbor at The Fisherman’s Daughter .

Do : Bring an eye mask

One of the benefits—and one of the hardest things—about being in Alaska in the summer is the sun almost never sets (especially the farther north you are). Nearly 24-hour daylight is great for exploring, but it sometimes makes sleeping hard. Since you can’t always control how good the curtains are at blocking out the sun, an eye mask will help ensure you get some shut eye so you’re well-rested for a busy day exploring The Last Frontier.

Don’t : Be afraid to go big—or small

Not every ship is right for every traveler, but there is a cruise for everyone. Larger ships offer wonderful amenities for travelers of all ages, from multiple restaurants (pro tip: specialty restaurants really are worth the splurge) and elaborate after-dinner shows to kids’ clubs, casinos, and special programming like beer tasting with local brews. These big ships, like Princess Cruises or Royal Caribbean, bring travelers to some of the most popular ports in Alaska and offer a wide choice of excursions to fit every taste.

On the other hand, small ships, like UnCruise Adventures (which fits just a few dozen guests on its ships to Alaska), offer a more intimate and immersive experience. This allows travelers to venture into lesser-explored areas the big ships can’t go, like deeper into Glacier Bay National Park. These ships, however, don’t offer the extensive onboard entertainment of the giant cruise ships.

Ultimately, there’s no right or wrong answer, just different styles of travel.

Do : Add an extra day in your departure or arrival city

Most cruises to Alaska start or end in major cities like Seattle or Vancouver. And while the point of going on a cruise to Alaska is to see Alaska, there are plenty of great things to see in those cities, too. It’s well worth adding a day to explore the independent shops and artist studios of Vancouver’s Granville Island or to eat your way through Seattle’s Pike Place Market.

It’s also always a good idea to arrive at the embarkation city a day before the cruise starts just in case there are any flight delays or issues with luggage.

Don’t : Compare your trip to others

In a world dominated by social media, it’s easy to compare everything we do to others. However, Alaska is an ever-changing destination, and every trip there will be different. On my most recent trip, I had the fortune of seeing humpback whales, while others on the cruise got to see orcas. And on my first-ever cruise to Alaska I was lucky enough to experience the thunderous boom of a glacier calving, but had no such luck the second time around. The beauty of Alaska is how wild it is, and a trip there might surprise you.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

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Japan's next big tourist craze: Disney cruises

• Tokyo Disneyland's owner, Oriental Land, will invest $2 billion to bring Disney cruises to Japan.
• The cruise will operate year-round from Japan starting in early 2029, serving 4,000 guests per sail.
• Disney's cruise business, including parks, contributed 37% to its revenue last year.

Tokyo Disneyland's owner is doubling down on the Disney magic with a new investment in cruises.

Oriental Land, which owns and operates Disney Resorts in Tokyo, said on Tuesday it will invest $2 billion to launch Disney cruises in Japan.

The Tokyo theme park, which opened in 1983, operates like a franchise. It's the only park not fully or partly owned by the Walt Disney Company.

Related stories

The new agreement with the Mickey Mouse and Toy Story producer will bring year-round cruises to Japan, the company said in a release on Tuesday. The cruise will sail from Tokyo by early 2029.

The 1,250-room cruise will be designed similarly to the Disney Wish, the largest cruise in the Disney fleet. It is expected to carry 4,000 guests.

The new cruise comes as international tourism to Japan skyrockets. In the first three months of the year, 8.6 million tourists visited the country and spent over $11 billion, with more foreigners booking longer trips and spending more because of a weak yen.

The ship marks Disney's second cruise in Asia, after the company announced cruises sailing from Singapore in 2025 last month.

Experiences, which include cruises and parks, made up 37% of Disney's revenue last year — $32.5 billion.

"The cruise business, frankly, is one that has an enormous number of opportunities for us over time, and that is why we're leaning more heavily into that business," said Hugh Johnston, Disney's chief financial officer, on a May earnings call.

Johnston also highlighted "global moderation from peak post-COVID travel" and higher wages as challenges for the company this year.

Disney has five ships in its fleet, which travel to destinations like the Caribbean, Europe, Alaska, Mexico, Canada, Hawaii, the South Pacific, Australia, and New Zealand. A four-night cruise from Florida to the Bahamas starts at about $900 per guest.

Watch: While Delta's business is 'extremely robust,' the airline's marketing chief stays focused on the data

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Alaska Cruises from San Francisco

Convenient access to famous treasures on a roundtrip 11-day alaska cruise from san francisco.

Sail under the Golden Gate Bridge and into a world of adventure as you head north on an Alaska cruise from San Francisco. Journey through beautiful waterways and get a front row seat to the world’s most breathtaking glaciers. Visit charming ports that invite you to learn about the region’s rich history and culture. Or relax at sea aboard your Inside Passage cruise from San Francisco.

Itinerary Ports

When you cruise to Alaska from San Francisco, encounter unique ports of call that are rich in history, culture and natural beauty.

• Glacier Viewing
• Prince Rupert
• San Francisco
• Victoria, B.C.

Enjoy one glacier viewing day when you cruise to Alaska from San Francisco. In Glacier Bay National Park, visit Margerie Glacier and admire wildlife like humpback whales and sea lions. While cruising through the 30-mile waterway of Endicott Arm Fjord, get up close to Dawes Glacier and hear it roar with white thunder. Sail past waterfalls and granite canyon walls that disappear into the fjords.

Located between the Chilkat River and the Lynn Canal, Haines is the home of the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, where as many as 4,000 bald eagles gather each fall to feast on spawning salmon along the river. As many as 80 have been seen perched in a single tree and more than a hundred may be captured within the frame of a single photograph.

Juneau is unlike any other city in the United States. With no roads connecting it to the rest of Alaska or North America, it is truly a protected destination. Founded as a gold mining town and now the state’s capital, Juneau has one foot in history and one in the future. Embark on a whale watching tour, or sail past Mendenhall Glacier on an Alaska cruise.

Known for its timber, Ketchikan hosts the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, where athletes throw, race and chop their way to victory. Explore one of the world’s oldest collection of totem poles at the Totem Pole Heritage Center, or stroll along Creek Street. As the salmon capital of the world, Ketchikan’s waters make for incredible fishing. Cast your rod into a sea of opportunity on a cruise to Alaska.

Tucked in a temperate rainforest, Prince Rupert, B.C. is nicknamed "The City of Rainbows." Once a commerce hub for First Nations people, it developed as a town when it was selected as the western end point for the Grand Turk Pacific Railway. On a cruise to Alaska, take in its history strolling through museums and shops, enjoy a hike in the Butze Rainforest, or see eagles and humpbacks on a wildlife cruise.

It’s not hard to see why San Francisco has captured so many hearts and minds. World-class cuisine, iconic architecture, diverse neighborhoods and history all wait at your fingertips. Ride the ferry to Alcatraz, or tour Sonoma wine country and taste some of the world's best wines on a cruise to Alaska from San Francisco.

Once the gateway to Alaska's Gold Rush, Skagway strikes a dramatic image nestled between the water's edge and mountains. Follow in the footsteps of miners with a ride on a scenic train along the famous White Pass route through coastal mountains. During your Alaska cruise, explore the Yukon's pristine wilderness, pan for gold with professionals or meet sled dog puppies in training.

Valdez is situated in Prince William Sound and serves as the gateway to the interior of Alaska. Often referred to as the "Little Switzerland", Valdez is known for its breathtaking panorama of snow-capped mountains and glaciers. It is also well-known for its role in the transportation of crude oil from the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System, which ends in Valdez. Explore the charming waterfront area and take in the flavors of Valdez through culinary experiences at restaurants such as the Valdez Brewery and the Fat Mermaid.

At first glance many mistake Victoria for an English coastal city or northern European town. Full of greenery, pubs and Victorian architecture, it's difficult to believe that this was a tent city full of rough and tumble miners just 150 years ago. On a cruise to Alaska, explore the Butchart Gardens, tour the pub scene and taste some of the local brews or sail the bay for a whale-watching adventure.

Wrangell is a charming and scenic harbor known for its local fishing industry. It is not as bustling as larger ports in Alaska and maintains its historic charm and offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Explore its historic downtown and learn about the local culture and Native heritage while in Wrangell.

Why Choose This Itinerary?

Discover the top reasons to cruise to Alaska from San Francisco.

• Premium Glacier-Viewing Experience  — Cruise to Alaska from San Francisco and visit natural landmarks that are only accessible by sea–like Glacier Bay National Park or Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier.
• Alaska’s Most Famous Ports of Call  — On an Inside Passage cruise, relive history, discover new cultures and see wildlife up close. Visit Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway and Victoria, B.C. on a 11-day Alaska cruise.
• Convenient Roundtrip Airfare  — On a roundtrip cruise to Alaska from San Francisco, save on the flight costs so you can splurge on an excursion ashore or a romantic dinner on board.
• Additional Time in the Golden Gate City  — Add an extra day to your trip and sail under the Golden Gate Bridge, tour Alcatraz or make a trip to Napa Valley Wine Country on an Alaska cruise from San Francisco.

Ships on this itinerary

Our Princess fleet includes ships that range from our smaller vessels to large ships. From a balcony stateroom, marvel at the glaciers passing by before enjoying local seafood in one of our many eateries during your 11-day Alaska cruise.

Alaska Cruise Experience

We have a 50-year legacy of sharing the best places and experiences with our guests. On an Alaska cruise, unpack once and explore glaciers, wildlife and national parks.

Alaska Glaciers

One of the biggest reasons people visit

Glaciers feel alive. They groan, creak and shudder on their march to the sea, punctuated by the booms and crashes of "white thunder" — a sound that echoes across the water when ice calves into the ocean below. On an Alaska cruise, let us show you Glacier Bay National Park — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier, College Fjord or Hubbard Glacier.

Alaska Wildlife

Untamed, just like Alaska

Alaska is home to a rich array of wildlife, from the famous Big Five animals that live in Denali National Park — grizzly bears, wolves, moose, Dall sheep and caribou — to bald eagles and humpback whales that migrate through the Inside Passage. On a cruise to Alaska, live a nature lover's dream in the land where guests can catch postcard-worthy sights.

Alaska Mountains & National Parks

National treasures

With national parks and four of North America’s tallest mountains, Alaska’s wilderness has been preserved for generations. Denali National Park is larger than Vermont and home to the highest peak on the continent. Meanwhile, Glacier Bay National Park has over 2,000 square miles of glacial coverage. Along with Wrangell-St. Elias and Kenai Fjords, a world of natural wonders awaits on an Alaska cruise or cruisetour.

Alaska excursions

Don't just visit this famous land, live it on Alaska excursions. Rush across the snow on a dog sled with a professional musher, fly fish for salmon in fresh rivers and soar over miles of glacial tundra in a helicopter. Watch migrating humpback whales from the deck of a catamaran or Native craftsman carve a traditional totem pole, and expand your Alaska cruise experience.

Alaska Cruise Onboard Experience

Our award-winning North to Alaska program brings local personalities, culture and cuisine on board and ashore to immerse you in all things Alaska during your cruise to the Great Land.

Alaska Seafood

Fresh and bountiful, like Alaska itself

Alaska's seafood is famous, and we bring the best to you with locally inspired dishes from the state’s best eateries. With Cook My Catch excursions, catch your own salmon or halibut with the help of a local expert, and in the evening our talented chefs will prepare your haul for your dinner — a Princess exclusive. From ship to shore, the best is at your fingertips on our Alaska cruises.

Meet Local Alaskans

Real Alaska from local Alaskans

Alaskans are inviting people who love to share what makes their state unique. Watch lumberjacks in action, learn from Glacier Bay National Park rangers and craft with a Native totem pole carver. Or listen to harrowing Tales from the Deadliest Catch fishermen and climbers who have summited Denali during your Alaska cruise.

Unique Alaska Cruise Experiences

Great experiences from the great land

Travel back in time and pan for gold like a prospector during the Gold Rush or see the Northern Lights in the planetarium. At the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge, explore our treehouse and enjoy unmatched views of Denali. Or savor tree-inspired bites at our very own Sappy Hour. Dive deeper into what makes the Great Land special on your cruise to Alaska.

Alaska Cruise Articles and Videos

Read about Alaska’s must-see attractions, signature cuisine, and how to prepare for a wild adventure into the heart of The Great Land.

Discover Alaska with Princess in 2024-2025

The best cruise line in Alaska just keeps getting better! From top-rated cruises that visit Glacier Bay National Park to scenic rail travel and exclusive Princess lodges, you will find a seamless Alaska experience with Princess.

Best Dishes to Try on Your Alaska Cruise

No one does seafood quite like Alaska—which is why we brought the best of the Great Land on board, so you can experience it all with Princess.

Top Alaska Cruise Destinations

From exploring Denali National Park to fishing for salmon in Anchorage, discover the top Alaska destinations on a Princess cruise.

Inside Passage Alaska Cruise

From exploring historic gold mines to venturing in the footsteps of early explorers, learn about Alaska’s Inside Passage and discover the wonders awaiting you.

Alaska Ports of Call

From the sweeping mountains of Juneau to the fish-bearing seas of Ketchikan, discover our Alaska cruise ports and set sail into the adventures that await you.

What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise

Check out our helpful checklist so that you know exactly what to pack for an Alaska cruise with Princess.

Travel, Airfare, & Hotels: Let Princess Get You There

Princess EZair® Flights

Stress-free airfare

Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time, and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airlines, allow you to modify your flight up to 45 days prior with no penalty, and protect you if your flight is late or canceled.

EZair flight quotes are available on our cruise search result details pages.

Airplane to Ship Transfer

We get you where you need to go

Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

Stay longer and relax

Extend your cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling, and the representative’s services.

Need help planning?

Princess Cruise Vacation Planners are a dedicated resource to help you every step of the way through the planning process of your cruise vacation. The best part is, their services are completely FREE!

Cruise deals & promotions

Find our top sales, deals, partnerships and promotions for our destinations all in one place. We run promotions throughout the year and sometimes run sweepstakes where you can win prizes!

#PrincessCruises Alaska Connection

See Alaska through our guests' eyes.

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Alaska Cruisetours

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Shore Excursions

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An Alaska tourist spot will vote whether to ban cruise ships on Saturdays to give locals a break

Each year, a crush of tourists arrives in Alaska’s capital city on cruise ships to see wonders like the fast-diminishing Mendenhall Glacier

JUNEAU, Alaska -- Each year, a crush of tourists arrives in Alaska’s capital city on cruise ships to see wonders like the fast-diminishing Mendenhall Glacier . Now, long-simmering tensions over Juneau’s tourism boom are coming to a head over a new voter initiative aimed at giving residents a respite from the influx.

A measure that would ban cruise ships with 250 or more passengers from docking in Juneau on Saturdays qualified for the Oct. 1 municipal ballot, setting the stage for a debate about how much tourism is too much in a city that is experiencing first-hand the impacts of climate change. The measure would also ban ships on July 4, a day when locals flock to a downtown parade.

The “ship-free Saturdays” initiative that qualified this week will go to voters unless the local Assembly enacts a similar measure by Aug. 15, which is seen as unlikely.

Juneau, accessible only by water or air, is home to the Mendenhall Glacier, a major draw for the cruise passengers who arrive on multi-story ships towering over parts of the modest downtown skyline. Many residents of this city of about 32,000 have concerns about increased traffic, congested trails and the frequent buzz of sight-seeing helicopters transporting visitors to the Mendenhall and other glaciers.

Deborah Craig, who has lived in Juneau for decades, supports ship-free Saturdays. Craig, who lives across the channel from where the ships dock, often hears their early-morning fog horns and broadcast announcements made to passengers that are audible across the water.

The current “overwhelming" number of visitors diminishes what residents love so much about Juneau, she said.

“It’s about preserving the lifestyle that keeps us in Juneau, which is about clean air, clean water, pristine environment and easy access to trails, easy access to water sports and nature," she said of the initiative.

“There’s this perception that some people are not welcoming of tourists, and that’s not the case at all," Craig said. “It’s about volume. It’s about too much — too many in a short period of time overwhelming a small community.”

The current cruise season runs from early April to late October.

Opponents of the initiative say limiting dockings will hurt local businesses that rely heavily on tourism and could invite lawsuits. A voter-approved limit on cruise passenger numbers in Bar Harbor, Maine, another community with a significant tourism economy, was challenged in federal court.

Laura McDonnell, a business leader who owns Caribou Crossings, a gift shop in Juneau’s downtown tourist core, said she makes 98% of her annual revenue during the summer season.

Tourism is about all the "local businesses that rely on cruise passengers and our place in the community,” said McDonnell, who is involved in Protect Juneau’s Future, which opposes the initiative.

Some schools recently closed due to factors including declining enrollment, while the regional economy faces challenges, she said.

“I think that as a community, we really need to look at what’s at stake for our economy," she said. “We are not in a position to be shrinking our economy.”

The cruise industry accounted for $375 million in direct spending in Juneau in 2023, most of that attributable to spending by passengers, according to a report prepared for the city by McKinley Research Group LLC.

After a two-year pandemic lull, cruise passenger numbers rose sharply in Juneau, hitting a record of more than 1.6 million in 2023. Under this year's schedule, Sept. 21 will be the first day since early May with no large ships in town.

The tourism debate is polarizing, and the city has been trying to find a middle ground, said Alexandra Pierce, Juneau's visitor industry director. But she noted there also needs to be a regional solution.

If the Juneau initiative passes, it will impact other, smaller communities in southeast Alaska because the ships, generally on trips originating in Seattle or Vancouver, Canada, will have to go somewhere if they can’t dock in Juneau on Saturdays, she said.

Some residents in Sitka, south of Juneau, are in the early stages of trying to limit cruise visitation to that small, island community, which is near a volcano.

Juneau and major cruise lines, including Carnival Corp., Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean Group, agreed to a limit of five large ships a day, which took effect this year. They more recently signed a pact , set to take effect in 2026, seeking a daily limit of 16,000 cruise passengers Sundays through Fridays and 12,000 on Saturdays.

Pierce said the overall goal is to keep total cruise passenger visitation around 1.6 million, and to even out daily numbers of visitors that can spike to about 18,000 on the busiest days. Peak days in the past have felt “a bit suffocating," she said. Juneau traditionally has been the most popular cruise port in the state.

A number of projects around Juneau are expected to help make existing cruise numbers feel less impactful. Those include plans for a gondola at the city-owned ski area and increased visitor capacity at the Mendenhall Glacier recreation area, she said.

Renée Limoge Reeve, vice president of government and community relations for the trade group Cruise Lines International Association Alaska, said the agreements signed with the city were the first of their kind in Alaska.

The best strategy is “ongoing, direct dialogue with local communities" and working together in a way that also provides a predictable source of income for local businesses, she said.

Protect Juneau's Future, led by local business leaders, said the success of the ballot measure would mean a loss of sales tax revenue and millions of dollars in direct spending by cruise passengers. The group was confident voters would reject the measure, its steering committee said in a statement.

Karla Hart, a sponsor of the initiative and frequent critic of the cruise industry, said the threat of litigation has kept communities from taking steps to limit cruise numbers in the past. She was heartened by legal wins this year in the ongoing fight over the measure passed in Bar Harbor, a popular destination near Maine's Acadia National Park.

She believes the Juneau initiative will pass.

“Every single person who is going to vote has a lived experience and knowledge of how the cruise industry impacts their lives,” she said.

This story corrects a quote from Pierce about peak days.

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