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ALASKA CRUISES

Immense forces of nature buffer Alaska from the outside influences of modernity. Alaska is a pristine world where ravens, eagles, bears and salmon still exercise domain. Where mile-long glaciers shimmer under a timeless sky, and rustic villages dot the landscape. Venture further into the unkown by cruising Tracy Arm in a catamaran, kayaking past old-growth forests in the Misty Fjords, and basking in the majesty of Glacier Bay National Park.

NEW Sailings for 2025

Seabourn alaska experience.

Elite Expedition Team

Expand your appreciation for world by engaging with our on-board team of experts, who will hold Seabourn Conversations on topics ranging from marine biology, ornithology, geology, history, and photography.  Listen to our naturalist experts as they wax poetic on the local bears, whales, and other endemic wildlife to Alaska and British Columbia, Canada.

Ventures by Seabourn™

Want to get out and explore the might of Alaska in a more adventurous way?  Ventures by Seabourn allow guests to kayak, ride in our Zodiacs, or go on group hikes to see these iconic destinations up close and personal. You can kayak through fjords, circumnavigate the Inian Islands, and witness the Holgate Glacier via Zodiac, or take priceless pictures in our photography hikes at Wrangell.

Seabourn Difference

Curated voyages, intimate ships, personalized service - each step of your journey is about crafting that perfect Seabourn moment. With all-inclusive premium spirits and dining options, and nearly one staff member to each guest, enjoy service tailored to your needs, provided by staff members who know your name. Experience the Seabourn Difference today.

SEABOURN EXCLUSIVE: Caviar on the Ice

Welcome to alaska.

Dramatic Landscapes

The wonders of the old world exist in perpetuity here, taking the form of old growth forest, with towering evergreens and moss-covered earth.  Perhaps the frozen immensity of glaciers will capture the eye, housing secrets and nestled in the carved fjords, demonstrating the raw power of Mother Nature.

Wild Encounters

Alaska remains one of the most extreme and ecologically rich places on the planet, home to some of the largest birds, bears, and aquatic life.  The skies are filled with the calls of the marvelous Bald Eagle; the water parts for other dwellers, as whales and countless other marine species call this passage home.

Bucket-list Experiences

The waters, the lands, the skies - there's no shortage of landscapes to experience in Alaska. Kayak through misty fjords; embark upon glacial masses in a zodiac or seaplane; indulge in oysters straight from ocean to table. Then retire to your ocean-front suite and marvel in the sweeping views of "The Last Frontier."

Featured Ports

Sitka, Alaska, US

One of the western most cities in the Inside Passage, the coastal town of Sitka offers vivid history and stunning vistas truly unique, containing vaulted mountain peaks and crystal-clear waters.  Immerse yourself in the cozy comforts of Sitka.

Wrangell, Alaska, US

One of the thousands of islands of the Alexander Archipelago, Wrangell Island sits at the heart of the Tongass National Rain Forest. The city of Wrangell, a true Alaskan frontier town, sits at the northern end of the island, a short distance from the mouth of the mighty Stikine River.

Haines, Alaska, US

Tucked along the shores of North longest fjord in North America, Haines is an authentic Alaskan experience and is home to the largest concentration of bald eagles on earth. Seek out magnificent glacier views across the fjord or take a journey aboard the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad. 

WHAT TO PACK FOR AN ALASKA CRUISE

Current: a blog by seabourn.

Read the latest Alaska articles on Seabourn’s digital magazine,  Current  – the newest way to find out about some of the most unique Seabourn destinations.

The Tlingit People of Alaska

Where To Go Whale Watching

Where & When Can You See the Northern Lights in Alaska?

6 Amazing Arctic Animals You Can See on a Seabourn Expedition

In Pursuit of the Northwest Passage

A Travel Journal Through the Inian Islands of Alaska

10 Reasons to Visit Juneau, Alaska

What You Need to Know about Sitka, Alaska

The 3 types of Seabourn cruise ships, explained

Among cruise lines that focus on high-priced luxury trips, Seabourn has one of the simplest fleets.

All the line's ships fall into one of three groups: The Encore-class ocean ships, the Odyssey-class ocean ships and the expedition ships (which Seabourn has not given a class name).

Each of these groups is made up of ships constructed around the same time to the same basic design. If you know one member of the group, you know them all.

Seabourn operates seven vessels — two Encore-class ships, three Odyssey-class ships and two expedition ships. That number is set to drop by one in 2024 when one of the Odyssey-class vessels leaves the Seabourn fleet .

Here, we explain the distinctive features of Seabourn's three ship classes, so you can plan the luxury cruise that's right for you.

An introduction to Seabourn ships

Seabourn is one of about half a dozen major cruise lines that compete in the market for "ultra-luxury" cruises — voyages that promise a high level of elegance and pampering and have a high price tag to match. The company, which debuted in 1988, claims to have pioneered the niche.

Like all such brands, Seabourn operates ships that are far smaller and more intimate than the giant floating megaresorts operated by Royal Caribbean , Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line . Instead of thousands of passengers, each Seabourn vessel is designed to hold a few hundred people.

Still, while the ships are smaller than what you'll find at a mass-market line, they're not cramped. Indeed, they're among the most spacious ships at sea when measured by their space-per-passenger ratio, which is about 50% higher than what you'll find on many mass-market ships. They also operate at a nearly one-to-one ratio of staff to passengers — one of the highest levels in the cruise business.

Both space-per-passenger ratios and staff-to-passenger ratios are measurements used as shorthand for the luxury level of a vessel.

Seabourn ships also offer such luxury touches as marinas for water-based play when the vessels are anchored in calm and sunny locales.

Related: The 8 best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Every cabin is a suite, and the number of restaurants, bars and lounges is impressive for vessels of this size.

Two of the line's three types of ships — the Encore class and Odyssey class — are similar in design. The main difference between the two is that the Encore-class ships are bigger. They essentially are Odyssey-class ships with an additional deck for extra suites and public areas.

As a result, the Encore-class ships can hold 600 passengers, based on double occupancy, while the Odyssey-class ships are designed to carry up to 458 passengers.

The third and newest class of Seabourn ships, the expedition ships (Seabourn doesn't use a formal class name for these vessels) are much smaller ships specifically built for expedition cruising — a type of adventure-focused cruising that involves visiting hard-to-reach and off-the-beaten-path places such as Antarctica and the Arctic.

Expedition ships are designed to hold 264 passengers, based on double occupancy.

Seabourn ships aren't as big or opulent as the luxury vessels operated by some of its competitors, most notably Regent Seven Seas Cruises (which mostly markets vessels carrying 700 to 750 passengers). The line offers a more subdued, intimate sort of luxury. If it's soaring spaces loaded with pricey marble and crystal chandeliers you're after, Seabourn may not be for you. However, if you prize intimacy and elegance without a lot of showiness, Seabourn ships could be a good choice.

Encore Class

Ships in class: Seabourn Ovation (2018); Seabourn Encore (2016).

Seabourn's two Encore-class ships, Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Encore, are the biggest vessels in the line's fleet. If you're in the "bigger is better" camp regarding cruise ships, these are the Seabourn vessels you'll want to pick.

That said, the ships aren't all that different than the line's smaller Odyssey-class vessels (more on those below). Built on the same platform as the Odyssey-class ships, just with one more deck, they feature all the same main public spaces that exist on the earlier vessels, often in the same locations, with a handful of additions, the most notable being a sushi restaurant.

As is the case with the Odyssey-class vessels, the hub of each Encore-class vessel is its centrally located public gathering place known as Seabourn Square.

A revolutionary concept when it first debuted on Seabourn Odyssey, Seabourn Square might best be described as the ship's living room. Filled with comfortable seating, workstations with computers, a puzzle table and cases lined with books, it's a multipurpose space that is part lounge, part cafe and part library.

On one end of Seabourn Square is its most alluring feature — a European-style coffee bar serving carefully crafted cappuccinos and other espresso drinks, plus freshly baked pastries, homemade gelato and other nibbles. The spacious room is also home to a circular concierge area at its center where staff can help you book activities, and a guest services desk and a desk where you can book future cruises.

Other major public areas on each Encore-class ship include the Grand Salon, a theater-like space with tiered seating that is home to entertainment at night and serves as a lecture hall during the day. The Club is a cozy lounge with a bar and a tiny casino on the side. At the top of the ship, overlooking the bow is the Observation Bar, which offers stellar 270-degree views (even better views than what is available from the bridge, one deck below).

Dining options include The Restaurant, the ship's main dining room, which offers elegant sit-down meals; The Patio, a poolside venue serving lighter fare; and The Colonnade, a casual eatery with both buffet and table-service dining during the day.

The Patio converts into the table-service-only Earth & Ocean for dinner. In the latter configuration, it offers bistro-style cuisine that rotates throughout each voyage.

In addition, the ship is home to The Grill by Thomas Keller, an eatery created by the famed chef. It offers his take on the classic American restaurant of the 1950s and 1960s, with his versions of such iconic American dishes as New York strip steak and lobster thermidor. Keller also designed dishes for family-style dinners with set menus served in The Colonnade on select nights.

Related: The 5 best places you can visit on a Seabourn ship

Unique to this class of ships is Sushi, a dedicated sushi restaurant with just 30 seats. Tucked away in a corner off a central stairway, it's a hidden gem offering lovely and innovative sushi and sashimi plates at night. During the day, it serves disassembled "bento boxes" with cooked entrees such as miso salmon and teriyaki chicken — the latter arriving with miso soup and small dishes of salad, rice and oshinko.

As is often the case with luxury vessels, none of the eateries have an extra charge.

The Encore-class ships also have a small but sumptuous spa and wellness center with five treatment rooms, a thermal area, a salon and a fitness area.

Decor-wise, the Encore-class ships have a more yacht-like look than the older Odyssey-class vessels, with interiors created from top-to-bottom by well-known hospitality designer Adam Tihany. Tihany didn't work on the earlier vessels, which have a more Nordic-style sleekness.

I find the Encore-class ships more enticing in their design than the Odyssey-class ships, thanks to Tihany's rethinking of the decor. That said, I have mixed feelings about their larger size, which results in a slightly more crowded feel. This is most noticeable when at the main pool areas of the vessels, which aren't much bigger than the main pool areas on the Odyssey-class ships, despite the ships carrying about a third more passengers.

On the plus side, the Encore-class ships have several additional hideaways for outdoor lounging tucked into little nooks at their fronts and backs.

Odyssey Class

Ships in class: Seabourn Quest (2011); Seabourn Sojourn (2010); Seabourn Odyssey (2009).

As noted above, Seabourn's three Odyssey-class ships are similar to its two Encore-class ships in design, with the main difference being that they are a bit smaller. At 32,326 gross tons, the three vessels measure about 23% smaller than the Encore-class vessels. They hold about 24% fewer passengers.

The result is that the Odyssey-class ships provide a more intimate feel. The basic layout of the ships in the two classes is roughly the same, albeit with a few notable differences. On the Odyssey-class vessels, you're traveling with fewer people, which results in everything from fewer crowds around the main pool to fewer people in the casual The Colonnade eatery at lunchtime.

As with the Encore-class ships, the public areas of the Odyssey-class ships revolve around a centrally located public gathering space called Seabourn Square, featuring elements of a lounge, cafe and library.

The Odyssey-class ships also have Grand Salons with tiered seating for entertainment and lectures, a cozy The Club bar and lounge, and a ship-top Observation Bar that offers sweeping views.

The biggest difference with the Odyssey-class ships is that they have one less deck and, therefore, 24% fewer suites. In public areas, the only notable difference is that there is no sushi restaurant and a smaller The Grill by Thomas Keller. (Initially, these ships didn't have Thomas Keller restaurants, but they were carved out of space previously dedicated to the casual eatery, The Colonnade.)

The deck where the sushi restaurant and large Thomas Keller restaurant are located on the Encore-class ships is the deck that is missing on the Odyssey-class ships.

The expedition ships

Ships in class: Seabourn Pursuit (2023); Seabourn Venture (2022).

Seabourn Pursuit and Seabourn Venture are the Seabourn ships you book to get off the beaten path.

Much smaller than the other vessels in the Seabourn fleet and designed to carry just 264 passengers each, they're both expedition ships — small vessels built extra tough to travel to the most remote and hard-to-reach parts of the world, including Antarctica and the Arctic.

As is typical for ships of this type, they both have extra-thick hulls and other features that allow them to bump through ice in polar regions. They carry Zodiac boats for landings in remote areas that have no infrastructure. They also sail with expedition guides to lead you on the landings and explain the wildlife and scenery.

Related: Luxury adventure cruise ships you have to see to believe

Still, unlike many expedition ships, Seabourn Pursuit and Seabourn Venture are luxurious vessels, with many of the upscale venues and amenities found on Seabourn's bigger, more traditional luxury ships. If you know the bigger ships, you'll feel right at home on the expedition ships.

Seabourn Pursuit and Seabourn Venture both have Seabourn's signature Seabourn Square area that offers snacks, coffee and a guest services desk. Each offers a version of the main restaurant called The Restaurant and the more casual The Colonnade eatery.

Rounding out the public spaces are a smaller version of Seabourn's spa and wellness center and a bar and lounge called The Club.

Suites on these vessels are especially swanky, with bright bathrooms all featuring bathtubs. Walk-in closets provide ample storage, even for long sailings, and every room has a small drying closet for outdoor adventure clothing. The latter is a welcome touch after rainy days and wet landings (when you put on waterproof boots provided by the ship and step off the Zodiac into the water when you reach the shore).

In addition, small in-room touches, like Swarovski binoculars and a pillow menu, further enhance the ship's already thoughtful design.

The expedition ships also offer features that are unique to their class, from a "mud room" with cubbies where passengers can prep for landings in remote places such as Antarctica to a pair of submarines that are available for extra-fee underwater excursions.

In short, the ships are like smaller, more adventurous versions of the bigger Seabourn vessels.

Bottom line

The three types of Seabourn ships vary significantly in size , but they all are similar in their onboard venues and amenities. If you've been on any Seabourn ship and loved it, you'll surely love its other vessels, too.

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Seabourn Encore Veranda Suite

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The Seabourn Encore Veranda Suite is elegant and spacious. Designed by Adam D. Tihany it offers comfort and style as well as a private veranda.

In this review

• Room ratings
• Elegant living space
• The Adam D. Tihany bathroom
• The veranda
• Veranda Suite positions
• Veranda Suite inclusions

The Seabourn Encore is the first in a new class of ship for Seabourn. She is larger than her predecessors, accommodating 600 guests – 31% more than the earlier Odyssey class ships.

However the layout and dimensions of each Seabourn Encore Veranda Suite are almost identical to those on the Odyssey, Sojourn and Quest. The real difference is in the decor by Adam D. Tihany. The sharp Nordic-style lines of the Odyssey class have been replaced by gentle curves that evoke the glamorous days of the great ocean liners. Tihany’s decor is elegant and bright with a subtle palette of blues and creams, offset by dark timber highlights and gleaming chrome accents.

The attractive Seabourn Encore Veranda Suite is the most popular type of accommodation onboard. These spacious suites all feature a private veranda and are positioned forward and midship over seven passenger decks.

The layout of the Seabourn Encore Veranda Suite will be familiar to those who have sailed on other Seabourn ships. A wide entry hall runs down one side of the suite with a vanity area and makeup mirror. Off the hall is a sumptuous marble bathroom and a walk-in closet. The living space is divided into two distinct sections with a bedroom at one end and a well designed sitting area at the other. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors lead on to the private veranda.

The Seabourn Encore Veranda Suites are the same size as those on the Odyssey, Sojourn and Quest. Each Seabourn Encore Veranda Suite boasts an impressive 28 sq. m. / 302 sq. ft. of internal space, plus a veranda which measures 6-7 sq. m. / 68-83 sq. ft. A handful of Veranda Suites are slightly smaller, with 23 sq. m. / 246 sq. ft. of internal space.

The living space of the Seabourn Encore Veranda Suite exudes an air of sophisticated elegance. Designed by Adam D. Tihany who’s been responsible for the decor of some of the worlds finest hotels, it features a soothing cool palette of blues and creams. This is accented by dark wood fittings and a beautiful geometric patterned carpet.

As is typical for Seabourn the living space is divided into two distinct zones: a restful sleeping area and a tastefully decorated sitting space. In the sleeping area guests can choose a queen or twin bed setup. Either way the bedding is framed by a beautifully crafted, cream coloured leather bedhead bordered by dark timber inlays and ornate reading lamps. The mattress is exceptionally comfortable and guests may choose to have the bed made with either a duvet or blanket, depending on the climate. A pillow selection is also available.

There are ingenious dual compartment bedside tables on either side with special sliding upper draws for eye-glasses and small personal items.

We note that the bed is not quite high enough to fit some of the newer types of large hard-shell luggage beneath. Some guests may find this bothersome.

At the foot of the bed is a sideboard cabinet topped with dove grey marble. It provides lots of extra shelf storage space. Fresh flowers, courtesy of Seabourn, sit atop the sideboard.

Separating the sleeping and sitting areas are two unobtrusive, dark wood cabinets. These provide a visual divide between the spaces. One contains the mini bar while the other houses the entertainment unit and provides general storage space. Here too, Tihany’s design touch can be seen in the unique, gleaming chrome cupboard handles.

Thanks to Tihany’s smart decor the sitting area of the Seabourn Encore Veranda Suite feels even more spacious than that of the Odyssey class ships. This inviting space features a comfortable 3-seater sofa on one side, while on the other is a beautifully designed glass-topped dining table and hand-crafted blue and cream coloured leather chairs. The glass table has the effect of opening up the space even more.

A cleverly designed round ottoman doubles as a coffee table with a top that flips to reveal a dark wood tray. Inside, the ottoman has space for more storage.

Sadly, we note that soundproofing in the living space of the Seabourn Encore Veranda Suite is not ideal. At the time of reviewing we could hear the television and voices from the neighbouring suite.

The Adam D. Tihany designed bathroom is perhaps the highlight of the Seabourn Encore Veranda Suite. It sparkles with beautifully crafted chrome fittings and gleaming white and dove grey marble.

The bathroom boasts double vanities, a full size bath and separate shower with Grohe fittings. There is a generous amount of storage space around the vanities and on the shelving below. The bathroom setup includes Molton Brown spa products made exclusively for Seabourn.

The veranda is the ideal place to spend time with a good book or watching the sun set over the ocean. This extra deep, spacious area measures up to 7 sq. m. / 83 sq. ft. and easily accommodates a set of reclining deck chairs with ottomans and a large table.

One point worth noting is that unlike on the Odyssey, Sojourn and Quest the V1-V6 category verandas on Seabourn Encore are not teak. Rather they are the faux-timber style common to the pool decks of less luxurious ships.

There is ample storage space in the Seabourn Encore Veranda Suite. A walk-in wardrobe is accessed from the hall with plenty of wooden hangers and deep draws.

There are 267 elegant Veranda Suites on Seabourn Encore. They are spread over seven passenger decks, from deck 5 to 11. The largest number of Veranda Suites are located on decks 6 ,7 and 8 – with between 50 to 64 suites on each. For a greater sense of intimacy we recommend choosing a suite on deck 10 or 11 where there are no more than 12 Veranda Suites plus a handful of premium suites.

The Seabourn Encore Veranda Suites are grouped into 6 categories (V1 to V6) and Seabourn sell them accordingly. While the layout of the suites is identical across the categories there are two significant points of difference to be aware of:

1. Position on the ship V1 – V4 category suites are located forward or on lower decks, while V5 – V6 have preferred midship or high deck locations.

2. Veranda railings The more expensive V3 – V6 category suites feature all-glass veranda railings from floor to teak rail, while V1 – V2 category suites are part metal, part glass from floor to teak rail.

The Seabourn Encore Veranda Suite includes the following amenities:

• Welcome Champagne and canapés.
• Queen-size bed or two twin beds.
• Choice of pillows to suit your preference.
• Nightly turndown service.
• Pleasant seating area with expansive ocean view.
• Fully stocked bar and refrigerator.
• Spacious bathroom with separate tub and shower.
• A selection of designer soaps.
• Interactive flat-screen TV with music and movies.
• Walk-in closet with personal safe.
• Writing desk with personalised stationery.
• Makeup vanity.
• A world atlas.
• An umbrella.
• Laundry and dry cleaning service (at charge).
• Plush robes and slippers.
• Hair dryer.
• 110/220V AC power outlets.

About the Author: Jason Kerr

Seabourn Encore Overview

Seabourn encore dining, seabourn encore nightlife, seabourn encore wellness.

Question. Can three adults cruise in your suites? What does the third person pay? Thank you.

Seabourn Encore does have suites that can accommodate a third guests. You will need to pay an additional cruise fare for the third guest. I recommend you contact Seabourn or your travel advisor for details.

Regards Jason Kerr Managing Editor

Hi, Do you know which of the Veranda suites are smaller, as mentioned above? Many thanks, Adrienne

Dear Adrienne

The suites located next to the Wintergarden Suites are slightly smaller. The veranda is smaller and the closet is reconfigured in a different position in the hall.

These are suites 848 and 851.

I hope this helps.

Any insight into Suite 903 as it only has a shower? Is the bathroom smaller, the shower larger…? How about the suite/cabin itself?

Dear Steven

Thank you for your question. Yes, the bathroom is smaller though only by virtue of it not having a tub. The actual floor space is almost the same. On the other hand, size of the shower cubical is identical.

Also, the size of the rest of the suite is standard.

I hope this helps in your planning.

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11 night caribbean, 14 night caribbean, 21 night caribbean, find the best seabourn cruise, why should i book a seabourn cruise.

If you're looking for an unforgettable vacation, Seabourn cruises are a perfect choice. Seabourn is one of the best cruise lines in the industry, with a successful history of providing excellent service and luxurious experiences. The Seabourn cruise vacations take you to some of the world's most beautiful and fascinating destinations. They’re sure to have features to please everyone in your group.

How to find the best Seabourn cruise deals?

There are many different Seabourn cruise deals to choose from depending on your destination and the experiences you would most like to enjoy. These deals let you include additional features for a lower price to make your vacation even more comfortable. You can find the best deals by searching for your destinations, and filtering by your desired cruise lines. This way only the companies you wish to travel with will appear. You can also sort your results by price and length of time.

How to choose your cruise with Seabourn?

If you want to book aSeabourn cruise there are plenty of amazing Seabourn cruise deals available. Add your destination, cruise vacation, and number of travelers. Then you can sort your results by price, duration, and departure date. You can also filter by cruise line, cruise ship and cabin type. You’ll find different amenities to suit your vacation needs on each Seabourn cruise. For example, youth programs, fitness facilities, and spa facilities.

What do I need to look out for when booking a Seabourn cruise?

When booking your 2025 Seabourn cruise it’s important to consider a few practical tips. Check what the cost covers, and what you may need to budget for or need insurance for. Think about any amenities or onboard service you’ll require, depending on the length of the Seabourn cruise. For example, youth programs, entertainment, fitness facilities, spa facilities, and room service. Secondly, research the weather conditions for your journey and destination. In some locations, summer and winter weather can vary a lot. Another tip is to go over the ship layout to see where you’d like to pick a cabin. Don’t forget to check visa requirements and any flight logistics.

When is the best time to book a Seabourn cruise?

You can book a Seabourn cruise as early as you like depending on availability. There’s a higher chance of finding cheaper Seabourn cruise prices by booking between 6 months to 12 months in advance. But there are also lots of last-minute cruise deals closer to your preferred departure date, but this will depend on your flexibility.

Are last minute deals available with Seabourn?

Yes, you can find last-minute Seabourn cruises on Expedia. Add your travel dates to the cruise finder and sort your results to find the best price available. Cruise deal discounts are indicated by a green box above the Seabourn cruise price.

How do I book a cruise with Seabourn?

To book a Seabourn cruise on Expedia select your Seabourn destination and filter by cruise line. You can also browse our extensive selection of pre-selected cruise deals and find the perfect cruise for you. Once you have found the one you want, choose your dates and the port of departure. You can also refine your search by cabin experiences, or cruise ship. Each ship will have amenities to suit your needs including room service, spa facilities, and fitness facilities.

Is Seabourn great value for money?

Seabourn cruises are excellent value for money if you're looking for an enjoyable and relaxing cruise vacations. A Seabourn cruise offers a high standard of service, a great selection of dining, modern amenities, friendly staff, and exciting activities. The exceptional quality of the experience is worth the price.

Can I cancel a Seabourn cruise booking?

Yes, you can cancel your Seabourn cruise. We all have unfortunate circumstances where we need to cancel a booking, so Expedia makes it easy to do so. All you have to do is head to your My Trips page on Expedia and click on the cancellation button. Another option is to contact customer service, where you’ll receive help with cancelling. Do make sure that you’re aware of the refund policy that applied to your booking, to see if you’re entitled to a full refund.

Seabourn Cruise Guide

Seabourn provides the ultimate all-inclusive cruise vacation, with its fleet of small ultra-luxury ships. With nearly one staff member per guest, each suite includes a personal suite stewardess, so you’ll be treated to some of the most personalized service at sea, where staff remember you by name. Indulge yourself with Seabourn's Signature Delights such as Caviar in the Surf, and complimentary beverages including soft drinks, mineral water, wine, spirits, and fine French champagne. Embark on a journey to some of the world’s most beautiful destinations, while participating in on-deck yoga stretches, Movies Under the Stars, trying the nine-hole putting course, taking a dip in the pool, or treating yourself to a spa day. Seabourn delivers a world of experiences for a vacation that is truly out of this world.

Seabourn Ships

• Seabourn Odyssey
• Seabourn Quest
• Seabourn Sojourn
• Seabourn Ovation
• Seabourn Encore
• Seabourn Venture

More Cruise Lines to Explore

• AmaWaterways
• Avalon Waterways
• Azamara Club Cruises
• Celebrity Cruises
• Costa Cruise Lines
• Crystal Cruises
• Cunard Cruises
• Carnival Cruise Lines
• Disney Cruise Line
• Holland America Line
• MSC Cruises
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Oceania Cruises
• Princess Cruises
• Royal Caribbean
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
• Uniworld River Cruises
• Viking Ocean Cruises
• Viking River Cruises

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Fuel supplement may apply. Savings advertised are based on specific cabin types and sailing dates, and may not be available for all cabin types/sailings.

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15 Best Cruise Lines in the US

This article looks at the 15 best cruise lines in the US. If you wish to skip our detailed analysis of the cruise lines industry, you may skip ahead to 5 Best Cruise Lines in the US .

Prior to the pandemic, cruise ships were one of the most desirable avenues for entertainment, leisure, and luxury. Each year, cruise lines would dispatch hundreds of ships, each packed with hundreds or thousands of travelers, sailing into the seven seas for weeks at a time. However, come 2020, the allure of clinking glasses and poolside sunbathing dissipated into thin air as these luxury watercrafts became hotspots for COVID-19 infestation.

Cruise lines were some of the first companies to experience a financial fallout in the wake of the pandemic. During the first quarter of 2020, Carnival Corporation & PLC’s (NYSE: CCL ) stock dropped by a staggering 75%. Furthermore, in addition to Carnival Corporation, major cruise companies such as the Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE: RCL ) and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NYSE: NCLH ) were left high and dry when the US Government’s $2 trillion package failed to provide relief to companies “organized outside the US”. Consequently, during the first 9 months of the pandemic, Carnival Corporation & PLC (NYSE: CCL), Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE: RCL) and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NYSE: NCLH) suffered losses of 65-75%.

Post Pandemic Triumph

However, the cruise industry displayed tremendous perseverance, enduring the financial challenges of 2020 and 2021, before gradually setting on the path to recovery. In 2023, Carnival Corporation (NYSE: CCL) posted a revenue of $21.6 Billion and is expected to enhance these numbers in 2024 with encouraging booking volumes.

Josh Weinstein, CEO of Carnival Corporation revealed that,

"[The company] ended the year in the best-booked position we have ever seen, both on price and occupancy, setting 2024 off to an amazing start."

Similarly encouraging outlook has been shared by executives of both Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NYSE: NCLH) and the Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) for 2024. The latter launched its latest cruise, Icon of The Seas, this January. The cruise has a capacity of over 7000 passengers, making it the largest cruise ship in existence, and exemplifies how optimistic major cruise liners are regarding the industry’s outlook going forward. It is expected that the industry will surpass pre-pandemic occupancy and revenue in 2024.

Cruise Line Industry in the US

According to Reuters , over 35 million tourists around the world are looking to cruise in 2024. The US contributes more tourists to the cruise industry than any other country in the world. Understandably, US-based ports are a key feature in all cruise itineraries. Florida, California, and New York are home to some of the busiest cruise ports in the world.

Although the most popular cruise destinations for American tourists are in the Caribbean, River and Expedition cruises are also becoming increasingly popular. Expedition cruises provide tourists a chance to sail to remote destinations alongside a team of seasoned guides (and in some cases intellectuals) and take part in adventure activities. Alaska has become a very popular destination for expedition cruises, with companies such as Silversea Cruises and Holland America Cruise Line offering regular trips to America's final frontier.

It certainly begs the question “ What is the number 1 cruise line in America? ”. Well, as always, we are here to partake in this debate with our list of best cruise lines in the US .

Methodology

To develop our list of best cruise lines in the US , we began by combing the internet for research in this area. While most of the material online pertained to reviews on specific ships, our interest was intended towards comparing Cruise Lines rather than individual voyagers. Thus, we accumulated more than 10 different sources, including credible new outlets such as The Times, CN Traveller, and CNBC, along with popular websites like Cruise Fever and Reader’s Digest to come up with a preliminary list of the best cruise lines. Using a consensus approach, we shortlisted the cruise lines which had been recommended most frequently. Further research was narrowed to these cruise lines only.

Once this list was obtained, we used several different metrics to score each cruise line against. The first was the number of times each cruise had been recommended in our previous search. Ratings on platforms such as Cruise Critics and Cruiseline became 2 other metrics for our research. Finally, we incorporated passenger feedback using online forums and user reviews (excluding influencer generated feedback for bias) into our metrics and developed a scorecard, rating each cruise line out of 20 to come up with a list of best cruise lines in the US .

By the way, Insider Monkey is an investing website that tracks the movements of corporate insiders and hedge funds. By using a similar consensus approach, we identify the best stock picks of more than 900 hedge funds investing in US stocks. The top 10 consensus stock picks of hedge funds outperformed the S&P 500 Index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years ( see the details here ). Whether you are a beginner investor or a professional one looking for the best stocks to buy, you can benefit from the wisdom of hedge funds and corporate insiders.

Here are 15 Best Cruise Lines in the US :

15. Silversea Cruises

IM Score: 9

Cruise Critic Rating (1,600 reviews): 3.8

Cruise line Rating: 3.8

Silversea Cruises is renowned for its luxury cruise experiences with all-inclusive packages. It prides on providing an individualistic yet immersive experience to cruisers, which is why its fleet comprises of smaller sized cruises in comparison to others. Its pristine dining facilities allow passengers to feast on delicious cuisines, complementary caviar, and the finest alcoholic beverages. On its most elegant cruises, Silversea offers its S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) program, which allows cruisers to dive deep into the flavors of the regions they voyage to. Outside of dining, Silversea offers the chance to journey around the seven seas. It is especially lauded for its land expeditions, including some which explore the farthest regions of Alaska. Passengers are allowed to venture ashore the ice cloaked terrain with trained teams of guides and geologists, interact with the area’s wildlife, and drink in the sight of colossal glaciers, icy waterfalls, and radiating hot springs. Silversea has a long list of accolades from various outlets including being the “Ultra-luxury Cruise Line of The Year” and the “Expedition/Adventure Cruise Line of the Year” in 2024.

14. Oceania Cruises

Cruise Critic Rating (3033 reviews): 3.8

Cruise line Rating: 4

Oceania cruises offer luxury experience at a better value for money than other cruise liners. Its ships conform to the medium size category and travel to destinations all around the world. It is extremely popular among seniors and retirees, partly because it offers extended travel duration which can last up to 195 days! Another standout feature is its culinary excellence. It offers one of the most diverse culinary experiences in the industry, with options ranging from southern Porterhouses, to steamy Callaloo, to delicious Bouillabaisse. Travelers can engage in amenities such as culinary classes, luxury spas, and destination focused cultural activities. It is among the best cruise lines in the US.

13. Seabourn Cruise Line

IM Score: 10

Cruise Critic Rating (774 reviews): 4.1

Cruise line Rating: 4.2

Another cruise line prominent for its luxurious experiences, Seabourn Cruise Line offers a self-proclaimed “crème de la crème” cruise experience. It has one of the best passenger-to-space ratios in the industry and offers an all-suite accommodation with each room complemented with magnificent ocean views. Seabourn Venture, one of the line’s small sized expedition ships, is equipped with 2 submarines that allow passengers to dive into deep sea waters for an unparalleled viewing adventure. In addition, the cruise line is the official cruise partner of UNESCO, which allows it access to 170 different UNESCO sites. Seabourn recently unveiled its itinerary for 2024-25 expeditions, including its maiden expedition to the southern pacific shores of Kimberly, Australia.

12. Azamara

Cruise Critic Rating (1792 reviews): 4.2

Cruise line Rating: 4.1

Azamara’s cruises are highly cherished by couples, courtesy of its small sized ships that allow for a more intimate and personalized experience. The cruises are known to have a diverse combination of on-ship and off-ship excursions, thus appealing to those who want a well-rounded vacation experience. Wine tasting, dance classes, and musical performances are some of the many activities that help on boarders entertain and unwind. Moreover, it offers unique excursions on the shore, as its smaller ships are able to dock into ports around the world that aren’t equipped to handle large or medium-sized liners. Each cruise also hosts a signature White Nights party, a memorable gathering atop the pool deck where attendees get to revel under the stars.

IM Score: 11

Cruise Critic Rating (2563 reviews): 3.8

Cunard is one of the oldest and most iconic names in the cruise industry, with a storied past that stretches back to 1839. Its roots are seeped in tradition, heritage, and timeless elegance, all of which come forth during its cruises. From being one of the first shipping lines to make a transatlantic voyage, to rescuing survivors from the Titanic, and then going on to help transport allied troops during the second world war, Cunard has held firm against the test of time and maintained its status as one of the best cruise lines in the US . Travelers on Cunard’s cruises get to immerse themselves in a traditional mise en scene, with activities such as ballroom dancing, symphonies, and attending lectures with veterans from WWII. Although Cunard is a British cruise line, like most other foreign cruise lines it offers several different tours to accommodate American passengers. Cunard is set to launch its new ship, Queen Anne, this May which will be the first time this century that the company will operate with a fleet of 4 ships.

10. Virgin Voyages

Cruise Critic Rating (1754 reviews): 4.1

Virgin Voyages is an adult only cruise line, with a minimum traveler age of 18. It offers all-inclusive trips at a price point more economical than most of its competitors. If you’re a solo traveler or a libidinous couple interested in a salacious holiday, you might wonder which is the best cruise line to travel with in such circumstances. Being an adult only cruise, it offers a very party-centric experience in the form of raves, musicals, nightclubs, and casinos. Moreover, Virgin cruises has its very own private beach club in the Bahamas where its cruises make port, allowing travelers to spend an entire day at the resort. Other amenities include complementary spas, saunas, gyms, and yoga classes.

9. Holland America Line

IM Score: 12

Cruise Critic Rating (8728 reviews): 3.9

Holland America Cruise Line is another historic cruise company that began its operations back in 1873. It makes great efforts to acquaint its passengers with its achievements in shaping the cruise industry over the last 150 years. However, in the modern era, it has gained a lot of praise for its voyages into the waters of Alaska for which it has been honored with several accolades over the years. The cruise line also has a partnership with BBC Earth, under which it hosts seminars and musical performances themed towards exploring nature and wildlife. Moreover, it also hosts other intellectual seminars to familiarize travelers with the culture and festivities of the region it visits.

8. MSC Cruises

Cruise Critic Rating (10064 reviews): 3.3

Cruise line Rating: 3.9

MSC Cruises is perhaps the most affordable and family-friendly cruise on our list. It would be ranked even higher, if not for the fact that it is an Italian cruise company which has only a select few voyages from US ports. Despite this, it has amassed a massive customer base in the US, some of whom even travel across the Atlantic to sail aboard its ships. The foremost reason behind such a devoted clientele is that MSC allows children to sail free of cost on most of its voyages, making it very affordable for a family vacation. Further, the cruises aren’t just designed to welcome children, but also go a long way in ensuring they have the most amazing and memorable vacation of their lives. Several of the cruises have in-built LEGO play areas, small water parks, and virtual reality movie theaters.

7. Disney Cruise Line

IM Score: 13

Cruise Critic Rating (2407 reviews): 4.2

Cruise line Rating: 4.6

If you’re looking for a family vacation and willing to spend generously, there is perhaps no better way to entertain your children than aboard one of the Disney cruise ships. These tours are essentially Disney’s way of transforming a day in one of their theme parks into a week-long voyage aboard a luxury sea vessel. If your idea of a vacation is one in which you can immerse yourself in a mythical universe, Disney is perhaps the best cruise line in the US . Live productions of Aladdin, Marvel themed dining centers, and Star Wars themed recreations allow your children to be immersed in some of their favorite pop culture fandoms. Most of the cruise’s interior is themed to Disney movies while mascots in costumes of your children’s favorite characters roam around the decks. However, the cruises also have adult-oriented activities to ensure caretakers can unwind in their exclusive poolside bars and adult only dining facilities.

6. Princess Cruises

IM Score: 14

Cruise Critic Rating (19542 reviews): 3.8

Princess Cruises offers voyages to over 330 destinations over the world, more than almost any other cruise line. Its vast fleet of cruise ships is tailored to have destination specific itineraries, enabling cruisers to fully explore some of the most breathtaking sights nature has to offer. While most onboard activities are included in the ticket, offshore excursions often come at a premium. The Discovery Princess, one of its most appealing tours, is relished amongst wildlife enthusiasts. It offers the chance to sail up into the most spectacular sights in Alaska and interact with native huskies, goats, and even bears. The Discovery Princess has advantage over other cruise ships as the vessel is designed to sail deeper into the crevices surrounding Alaska than normal cruise ships.

Click to continue reading and see the 5 Best Cruise Lines in the US .

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Disclosure: none.  15 Best Cruise Lines in the US is originally published on Insider Monkey.

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• Seabourn’s Latest Expedition Ship Brings a Safari Sensibility to Antarctica. We Hopped on Board.

As the race to bring luxury to Antarctica heats up, "Pursuit" is the latest vessel to take to the South Pole's icy waters in search of innovation.

Katie lockhart, katie lockhart's most recent stories, how this remote norwegian archipelago became a new travel hot spot.

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An aquatic epidemiologist, a marine mammal scientist, and a behavioral ecologist walk into a bar. That’s not the setup for a punchline; that’s daily life on Seabourn’s new expedition ship, Pursuit .

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Wildlife rules the operations in Antarctica, where penguins, seals, and whales are at the top of travelers’ checklists. Therefore, the ship is run more like an adventure safari in Africa than a cruise. The ship’s expedition team consists of 26 Antarctic experts, each specializing in a different fauna. Like Masai trackers, they are on constant lookout.

“When you do a zodiac cruise, it’s the equivalent of sitting in a safari jeep,” says Patrick Demus, the behavioral ecologist onboard Pursuit. “You never know what you’re going to see when you come around the corner.”

“It’s an ancient, alien world where it’s possible we’re seeing species new to science,” says Merel Dalebout, the vessel’s submersible pilot. “Essentially, this is a time machine, seeing the ocean as it was 500 million years ago.”

Although guests won’t see penguins or whales from the submersible, they’ll see cases of polar gigantism, where starfish, sea spiders, and ancient seaweed are larger than creatures in other warmer oceans.

For guests more interested in the feather-filled, squawking variety of animals, there’ll be dozens of opportunities for sightings. Each morning, the expedition takes zodiacs out to scout for a safe landing where guests may witness a giant elephant seal yawn or a skua attacking a penguin rookery. In the afternoon, another zodiac takes you for an hour-long cruise around glaciers and alongside porpoising chinstrap penguins. You might as well call them what they are: game drives.

“You can see the brutality of animal life a lot clearer here; it’s right in your face,” says Demus. “If you watch a wildlife documentary about certain animals, it takes the filmmakers months to get the footage. It feels like what you see in a documentary about Antarctica, you can actually see that when you spend two hours at a colony.”

When you’re back onboard, there’s still plenty of opportunity for animal sightings. Weddell seals, humpback whales, Adélie penguins, and storm petrels are known to make an appearance whether you’re soaking in the ship’s hot tub or sipping TWG Earl Grey during afternoon tea in the Constellation Lounge.

“There’s nothing like the feeling of looking out from the back of a ship and seeing one whale, two whales, three or four,” says marine mammal scientist Rachel Cartwright. “It reassures us that there is a place where all is well, and eco-systems are intact, and whales still swim leisurely by without fear of nets or fishing.”

From expedition leaders who have climbed all seven of the world’s highest peaks to kayak guides who have recreated Ernest Shackleton’s historic journey to Antarctica, Seabourn’s crew are arguably some of the world’s most interesting.

Apart from the cozier aspects of the ship, including fur-backed lounge chairs near a bar where glacier ice is chipped for Old Fashioneds, these safari guides at sea shine like an iceberg on a sunny day.

“Our team is there sharing the experiences with you on the mobile classrooms onshore, then back on board in the Discovery Center and in the Expedition Lounge,” says Shaun Powell, director of expedition operations. “Over those shared experiences and the knowledge, it allows guests to continue learning about the wildlife, and it fosters friendships that often continue beyond the voyages.”

Seabourn Pursuit’s all-inclusive 11-day expeditions to Antarctica start at $8,624 per person for a Veranda Suite based on double occupancy.

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Reader's Digest

Best Alaska Cruise for Every Type of Vacationer

Posted: May 5, 2023 | Last updated: July 10, 2023

Best time to cruise to Alaska

An Alaska cruise is such a popular bucket-list item because it's one of the best ways to immerse yourself in some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. Not only will you get to see breathtaking glaciers closer than you ever dreamed, but you're also likely to see eagles soaring and whales spouting—often from the deck of your ship. The best Alaska cruises give you an opportunity to explore the Far North from both land and sea, and we've got cruise tips to help you optimize your time and your budget.

The state's long, cold winters are not conducive to cruising, so the Alaska cruise season is relatively short. The best time to travel to Alaska is from late spring to early fall, with peak cruising happening during July and August. Those are also the most crowded and expensive months, so don't rule out September, which is actually the best time to see the Northern Lights on an Alaska cruise. But with dozens of ships sailing to Alaska, how do you decide which are the best cruise lines for you?

Luckily, when it comes to Alaska cruises, there is truly something for everyone. Whether you're traveling solo or with kids, whether you're looking for total luxury or a bargain and whether you love giant ships or something more intimate, we've found the best Alaska cruises to fit your needs. See which one sounds right for you, and once you're booked, get a head start by checking out these hidden cruise features, cruise ship code words and things you can't do on cruises .

How we chose the best Alaska cruises

To find the best Alaska cruises, we followed expert recommendations and read hundreds of user reviews and ratings. Because I've been on several Alaska cruises alone, with my family and with my husband, I also based my choices on my own personal experiences. After combining all that information, we came up with this guide to the best Alaska cruises.

Best overall

Princess cruises.

Princess has been cruising to Alaska for more than half a century, and they continue to lead the industry by bringing more guests to the state than any other cruise line. In fact, they introduced a generation to the idea of cruising via the hit TV show The Love Boat , which was set on a Princess ship and featured many episodes in Alaska! Because of their deep ties to the state, the cruise line is able to offer a variety of itineraries and shore excursions, and they even own a number of Princess Wilderness Lodges near national parks , so you can add a land extension to your trip.

Onboard, there are plenty of activities for both adults and kids, including the North to Alaska enrichment program, which brings the state's culture to you so you can sample fresh Alaska seafood and hear from local celebs like Libby Riddles, the first woman to win the 1,100-mile Iditarod sled dog race.

• Guests can meet Alaskan Huskies on the ship through Puppies in the Piazza!
• So many options for cruise length, extensions and land and sea packages
• Price is not all-inclusive

Best for families

Disney cruise line.

With lots of outdoor activities and great wildlife sightings, an Alaska cruise is ideal for kids, and not surprisingly, no one does it better for them than Disney . Kids will love whale watching, panning for gold, searching for black bears and going dog sledding—and they'll equally love everything Disney has planned for them on the Disney Wonder, from live shows ("Frozen" takes on a whole new meaning in Alaska) and character greetings to kids clubs they won't want to leave to themed pools and restaurants. Little ones will be just as happy to see Goofy as they are to see a glacier, making this the best cruise for kids . Before you go, check out these Disney cruise tips .

• Disney is beloved by kids of all ages
• The focus is on families
• On the pricier side

Best adults-only

If you want to immerse yourself in the beauty of Alaska without the distraction of little kids, you'll be in good company on Viking . Their gorgeous ocean ships sail with a maximum of 930 passengers, all over the age of 18, so you can indulge in adult conversation over a bottle of wine or a cocktail or two. One of the many features that makes Viking the best adult-only cruise is that every single room comes with a private veranda, so you can take in the views and feel that fresh Alaska air with no one else around—and without paying extra. You can also get away without paying additional fees for shore excursions, because one is included in every port, giving you an opportunity to see the highlights of destinations including Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Sitka and Valdez.

• Every stateroom has a veranda
• A shore excursion is included in every port
• Optional cruise extensions let you explore Talkeetna, Denali, Fairbanks and Anchorage on land
• The shortest Alaska cruise is 11 days

Best for solo travelers

Norwegian cruise line.

Cruising has traditionally been a bit of a challenge for solo travelers because of the single supplement that basically makes them pay the same price for a room as two people sharing a room would pay in total. Not with Norwegian , the best singles cruise ! The first cruise line to build staterooms and common areas specifically for solo travelers, they've made it easy for singles to cruise to Alaska comfortably and affordably. The Studio Lounge is a welcoming spot to meet other solo travelers so you can join up for meals or shore excursions to places like Dawes Glacier and Icy Strait Point.

• No single supplement
• A dedicated lounge just for solo travelers
• Lots of families and kids, which may not appeal to solo travelers

Best for couples

Celebrity cruises.

The best cruise for couples , both straight and gay, Celebrity offers lots of opportunities for romantic experiences in Alaska, from hiking through a rainforest in Juneau to cuddling up during a ride back in time on the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway. On the ship itself, there are lots of spots where you can take some Instagrammable selfies with the majestic Alaska scenery behind you. What a backdrop for a wedding, honeymoon or vow renewal! Consider upgrading to The Retreat, Celebrity's exclusive ship within a ship, for a more private and intimate cruise.

• Many options for cruise length
• Offers land tour extensions
• Families with kids may disrupt the romantic atmosphere

Best budget

Carnival cruise line.

Yes, you can visit Alaska without spending a fortune, thanks to Carnival . You may not get all the bells and whistles that you would on more expensive cruises, but the views don't cost anything, and they're all around you as you chill by the pool or take advantage of one of the many activities and dining venues included in your fare. Save money to use for shore excursions by opting for an interior room, since you won't be spending much time in your cabin anyway.

• Affordable way to see Alaska
• Lots of cruise length options
• The party atmosphere may not be for everyone

Best luxury

Regent seven seas.

Regent's Seven Seas Explorer is all about luxury, from its all-suite design to its all-inclusive fares , which cover airfare, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, restaurants, gratuities, Wi-Fi, laundry and unlimited shore excursions. With only 750 passengers, service is exceptional and personal. Itineraries can be customized to fit your specific interests, whether you want to take a glacier hike, immerse yourself in Alaska's history or eat your way through the state.

• Truly an all-inclusive cruise
• All-suite accommodations are roomy and plush
• Only one Regent Seven Seas ship sails to Alaska

Best small ship

Seabourn cruise line.

A great choice for fans of smaller, more intimate ships, Seabourn's Odyssey holds 450 passengers and treats them to a personal, all-inclusive luxury experience. Smaller ships can take you to spots where the bigger ones just can't fit, and the Ventures by Seabourn program offers optional excursions where you can get up close and personal with some of Alaska's most awe-inspiring sights via kayak and Zodiac. You'll be sailing with a world-class expedition team, including a marine biologist, ornithologist, geologist, historian, photographer and natural experts who share their knowledge through lectures and casual conversations during scenic cruisings.

• All-inclusive
• Offers 7- to 14-day cruises
• Gets you closer to Alaska's natural beauty

Best large ship

Royal caribbean cruises.

Built for cruisers who believe the bigger, the better, Royal Caribbean's megaship, Quantum of the Sea, is the biggest ship in the region, with the capacity to hold 4,905 passengers. It also boasts the tallest viewing deck on any cruise ship—perfect for enjoying the stunning Alaska scenery. Three other Royal Caribbean ships sail to the state, as well—all big and beautiful and filled with enough activities to keep travelers of every age busy, including their signature Rock Climbing Wall, simulated skydiving and surf sessions on the Flowrider. Yes, you can "surf" in Alaska!

• There's literally something for everyone
• Studio staterooms are designed for solo travelers
• It can get crowded

Best for land and sea

Holland america line.

With more than 75 years of experience in Alaska—the longest of any cruise line— Holland America knows the state inside and out and presents you with lots of ways to enjoy it, from both the sea and land. Not only do they feature the most Glacier Bay itineraries, but they're also the only way to see the Yukon in combination with a cruise. You'll get to stay at Holland America's Westmark Hotels and their beautiful McKinley Chalet Resort at the entrance to Denali National Park, enabling you to get closer to wildlife and explore more of Alaska on land.

The cruise line has also expanded its onboard programming, so guests can engage with an Alaska naturalist, dig deeper into topics like Alaska's bush pilots and learn from a National Park Ranger and local Huna Tlingit guides.

• Every cruise includes a visit to one or more of Alaska's iconic glacier destinations
• Only cruise line to offer an Alaska cruise combined with an overland tour to Denali and the Yukon
• Land and sea Cruisetours range from 9 to 18 days
• Caters to an older crowd

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The best time to cruise to alaska in 2024.

Plan your bucket list adventure to explore the extraordinary beauty of the 49th state.

The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska

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Alaska's astounding beauty and vast wilderness are unlike any other destination in the U.S. – and even in the world. While you can plan land-based trips to the state, many of Alaska's majestic snowcapped mountains, pristine forests, glacial waterways and abundant wildlife are in remote locations, only reachable by plane or by boat. That's just one of the many reasons why Alaska is one of the most popular cruise destinations in the world.

If you're ready to stop dreaming and start planning a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to The Great Land, here are tips on the best times to cruise Alaska.

Best Overall Time: Shoulder Seasons

Best time for warmer weather, best time for wildlife viewing, best time for salmon fishing, best time for the northern lights, best time for shore excursions.

If you want to score a deal and have fewer crowds, travel during the shoulder seasons: May and September. In these months, cruise fares are typically lower and ships are not as full, offering more cabin availability. However, with changes in the global climate bringing more moderate temperatures to Alaska, and the cruise season now extending into April and October, cruisers can also expect to find deals in April and October. There will be fewer sailings to choose from, but you may find lower pricing and avoid the peak-season crowds on the ship and in the ports.

In addition, select shore excursions may be available at a discount in the spring and fall. If you're planning on exploring Alaska on your own before or after your cruise, you'll also find cheaper hotel rates at the beginning or end of the cruise season.

Alaska's weather can change dramatically, especially the further north you go, no matter the month or season. While the weather may not be as predictable in April as in the middle of summer, Alaska can be beautiful in springtime with temperatures in the mid-40s, according to Tyler Hickman, senior vice president of Icy Strait Point, an Alaska Native-owned port in Hoonah and a port of call in Southeast Alaska. Hickman says there are long stretches of sunny days and crisp, clear evenings, offering the opportunity for late-season viewing of the northern lights . He also adds that April is one of the favorite times of year for local Alaskans.

If you're interested in cruising to Alaska in April, Norwegian Cruise Line has a few options, including weekly sailings on Norwegian Bliss beginning April 6. The line also offers Alaska itineraries through the end of October. Other lines sailing the extended season in Alaska in late April include Princess Cruises , Holland America Line , Royal Caribbean International , Carnival Cruise Line , UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions.

If you prefer to travel in the fall, early October temperatures are usually in the 50s, while the end of the month brings snow in the higher elevations. The days are longer and there are no crowds, so it may be an ideal time to visit if you're not interested in the summer outdoor experiences. Norwegian, Holland America and Seabourn Cruise Line offer sailings in October.

Read: The Best Alaska Cruise Deals

If you'd prefer warmer weather for your cruise, the summer season in Alaska runs from mid-May to mid-September. During that period, daytime temperatures typically range from 60 to 80 degrees, though they can drop into the 40s overnight. You can expect to have between 16 to 24 hours of daylight in the warmer season. May is considered the driest month, with around a 25% chance of precipitation, but the rain becomes more frequent throughout the summer.

Alaska.org, a website run by local Alaskans that provides travel information and recommendations, advises that the best time to visit in summer is from June 15 to July 15. This 30-day period is regarded as the peak season for warm, dry weather – and it's the perfect time for outdoor activities such as wildlife viewing, fishing and hiking. If you want to experience the most "midnight sun," plan to cruise a few weeks before or after the summer solstice – the longest day of the year – which falls on June 20 in 2024.

Come September, the days are generally shorter, rainier and cooler – but not always. You might get lucky with some unseasonably warm days amid the beautiful fall foliage ; as a bonus, September also means no bugs and fewer crowds.

If you have school-age children, you'll probably need to travel midsummer, during peak season. However, if you're flexible on dates, there's really no bad time to visit this magical destination. Mountain peaks shrouded in clouds or misty days cruising Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve in late April are as beautiful as sunny days hiking through Tongass National Forest or whale watching on an excursion out of Icy Strait Point in July.

Read: The Best Places to Visit in Alaska

According to Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, one of the top destinations on the Inside Passage itinerary, wildlife viewing is possible year-round, especially if you have your binoculars at hand. When you're not watching for turquoise ice calving in the bay from the glaciers, you might see humpback whales as long as 65 feet or black and brown bears up to 10 feet tall – as well as orcas, harbor and Dall's porpoises, sea otters, harbor seals, mountain goats, sea lions, seabirds, and bald eagles soaring overhead. And that's just what you can view from the ship.

During cruises through the park, rangers board the ships to offer commentary and information about the marine and terrestrial wildlife. They also help spot whales or other animals along the way. One of the highlights while cruising slowly through the park is to go outside on the bow of the ship – or even out onto your veranda – to listen to the incredible silence of this otherworldly place. You may hear nothing at all, or perhaps you'll be treated to the sounds of birds in the distance or the swoosh from a whale's blowhole before it dives down below the water's surface.

It's possible to view certain animals and marine life throughout the year, according to Hickman. "Whale sightings are consistent from May through September, with fewer occurring in April and October as they migrate from or to Hawaii for the winter," he says, adding: "Even on a foggy day when you can't see the whales, you can still hear them and feel their presence – and that's almost as incredible as seeing them from a ship or along the coastline."

If you're interested in spotting brown bears, here is Hickman's advice: "Bear sightings in the spring will depend on the snowpack and when they are leaving hibernation. This year we had very good bear viewing along the Spasski River starting in May when the coastal brown bears emerged from hibernation."

He adds, "They feed on the grass of the valley and eat skunk cabbage roots in May and early June. As the berries start to emerge in June, it holds many of the same bears, and as we get into mid-July, the salmon start heading upstream. There is a constant food source from May through September at Spasski. Many of the other bear viewing areas do not have the same features we have, and it leads to people thinking that bears are only around when fish are in the rivers."

Chichagof Island – the location of Hoonah and Icy Strait Point – was given the nickname "Bear Island" by National Geographic. The island boasts one to two brown bears per square mile, making it one of the largest brown bear populations in the world. Hickman says you're nearly guaranteed to see bears on one of Icy Strait Point's bear-watching tours. Icy Point Strait also offers whale watching adventures and other treks into the wilderness.

Alaska.org points to May through September as the best time for wildlife viewing, though you can spot some animals year-round, like moose or orcas. The website also advises that fly-in bear viewing starts in May but is at its best in July.

Looking to book a cruise to see Alaska's wildlife? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

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If you are an avid angler – or just want to watch the bears fish for their supper – then visit Alaska during the peak salmon runs, from May to September. King salmon season begins in May and goes through the end of July. The silver salmon run lasts from July up until the end of November. Red salmon are available between mid-June and mid-August, while you can catch pink and chum salmon in the brief window from mid-July to mid-August.

If you prefer halibut or just want to get out on the ocean, the best time for this wild Pacific species is from May to September. You can also seek out many other river and ocean species, such as rainbow trout, arctic char and northern pike. Cruise lines offer fishing excursions, or you can arrange for a private or group charter in an Alaskan town like Ketchikan.

If you want to see brown bears during the salmon run, book a bear-viewing excursion in one of the ports, such as Icy Strait Point. Or, extend your trip by combining a visit to Katmai National Park and Preserve and the renowned Brooks River with a stay at Brooks Lodge. Brooks Falls is the site for iconic photos of bears catching salmon that are jumping over the falls, and you may be able to view the bears feasting in salmon season when the property is open, from June through mid-September. The lodge is accessible by floatplane from King Salmon. You can also add a flyover tour during your stay to see the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, an area in southern Alaska transformed by ash from the 1912 Novarupta-Katmai volcanic eruption.

Aurora season – the best time to see the northern lights in Alaska – runs from mid-August to mid-April. While some passengers cruising the Inside Passage may catch a glimpse of the phenomenon in late summer and early fall, it's not guaranteed. As southeast Alaska typically has more precipitation and clouds since it's a temperate rainforest, you likely won't find optimal conditions for aurora viewing here.

Your chances to see the lights are better the further north you go, so you may want to look at booking a cruisetour: a land and sea package that's usually offered by some of the major cruise lines from May through September. These combined trips generally include the cruise, overnight accommodations in lodges, railway journeys and motorcoach travel between destinations.

With these tours, you'll be able to visit the vast landscape of Alaska, where you can explore cities like Anchorage and Fairbanks or spend time in Denali National Park and Preserve – and you'll have a better chance to view the northern lights. Lines that offer cruisetours include Norwegian, Celebrity Cruises , Holland America, Princess and Royal Caribbean.

Since 2024 is projected to be one of the best years to view the aurora borealis in Alaska, you might want to extend your trip to venture above the Arctic Circle or into Alaska's interior for a prime viewing opportunity. Fairbanks and the Arctic region are under the auroral oval, which is where the northern lights activity is concentrated. You can watch the forecast for the aurora borealis online at Explore Fairbanks' Aurora Tracker and the Geophysical Institute's Aurora Forecast .

Read: The Top Places to See the Northern Lights

Some of the excursions offered on an Alaskan cruise may be the most expensive tours you've seen on a ship, but they're also probably some of the coolest things you've ever thought about doing while on vacation.

Note that the probability of a tour being canceled for weather is almost the same for all tours offered between April and October, as the weather in Alaska can be unpredictable. Some of the more extreme tours, however, may not be available early or late in the season. If you want the best chance for optimal weather, consider the advice from Alaska.org and book your cruise between mid-June and mid-July.

If you're looking at splurging on a bucket list adventure while in Skagway – like Alaska Shore Tours' flightseeing helicopter adventure, which includes a dog-sledding experience on a glacier – you should check to make sure it's available the month you'll be cruising. This particular tour may not be open for booking before May or after September due to the conditions for the sled dogs.

Another over-the-top excursion dependent on optimal weather conditions is the Heli-Hike and Rail Adventure that begins in Skagway. This tour includes a helicopter ride from town that flies over glaciers and mountains, then drops you off for a roughly 5-mile guided hike to view Laughton Glacier and learn about the natural history of the area. After the hike, you'll board the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad at Glacier Station for the scenic journey through the mountains back to Skagway.

If you're interested in the Misty Fjords Flightseeing tour in Ketchikan, this thrilling ride is also best on a clear day. This Alaskan bush plane tour soars over the Misty Fjords National Monument, which has more than 2 million acres of pristine lakes, waterfalls, ancient forests and snowcapped mountains.

Tours that include activities like mountain climbing or navigating suspension bridges might also be best when done on a sunny day. The prime time for wildlife viewing and fishing, as mentioned above, will depend on what animals you're interested in seeing and which species of fish you want to catch.

The ship's excursion desk, local guides or tour providers can offer the best advice on how to plan your activities. No matter which tours you opt to take, be prepared for the ever-changing weather patterns by wearing layers – and make sure to bring a waterproof rain jacket. Before booking, you should check the individual tour operator's cancellation and refund policy.

Read: The Best Alaska Tours

The Bottom Line

If you're flexible as to when you can travel to Alaska, you may be able to take advantage of lower pricing, travel incentives and added perks in the shoulder seasons – and you'll have fewer crowds than in the busy summer months.

If your goal is to view wildlife, then most of the cruise season, especially from May to September, will offer ample opportunities to see bears, humpbacks whales, bald eagles and other amazing animals – depending on the itinerary and excursions you choose. You'll also be able to catch Alaska's prized salmon throughout much of the cruise season.

And if extreme adventures are going to be the highlight of your vacation, then be sure to check with the tour providers to make sure your top picks are offered when you're planning to travel. Not all tour providers operate the full seven months of the season.

No matter when you decide to visit, a cruise to The Great Land will be one of the most memorable vacations of your lifetime.

Planning a cruise to see Alaska? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is a U.S. News contributor and an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times on land trips and by ship to seek year-round outdoor adventure, view wildlife and chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. She's even considered moving to The Great Land as a full-time resident. Pratesi used her deep knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• Alaska Cruise Packing List
• The Top Alaska Cruise Lines
• The Top Luxury Alaska Cruises
• The Top Things to Do in Alaska
• Do You Need a Passport to Go on a Cruise?

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Tags: Travel , Cruises , Alaska Vacations

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