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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

jewhyte/Getty Images

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

Alaska cruise guide: Best itineraries, planning tips and things to do

Alaska might be one of the most beautiful places in the world, but it's rugged and can be tricky to get around. Explore the Last Frontier by cruise ship, and you can travel to gold rush towns, glaciers, Alaska Native heritage sites and natural areas brimming with wildlife in comfort, even luxury.

When planning an Alaska cruise, you have many things to consider: when to go for the experience you're anticipating, which cruise line is best suited to your travel style, the best Alaska cruise ports to visit and which shoreside activities you want to prioritize. It's not the kind of trip you want to throw together at the last minute — especially since the best fare deals typically go to organized travelers who book early.

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

If you're eager to spot bald eagles in the wild, ride a dog sled atop an ice field or pan for gold after a hearty salmon feast, an Alaska cruise is calling your name. Dive into The Points Guy's Alaska cruise guide for all the planning tips you need for your dream cruise up north.

Why cruise Alaska?

Most people have similar reasons for cruising Alaska. They want to admire its rugged beauty, seek out wildlife (such as eagles, bears and whales) and learn about its Native cultures and gold rush history. It's so far from the rest of the mainland U.S. that it's become a bucket list destination, especially for travelers looking to visit each of the 50 states.

One of the key reasons to cruise Alaska versus taking a land tour is to visit destinations along the Inside Passage that you cannot reach by road. Plus, many of the state's famous glaciers are best viewed from the sea.

If you want to see landlocked areas, such as Denali National Park, you can tack a cruise line-operated tour onto the beginning or end of your sailing for a seamless land and sea vacation. It's easier than fumbling with multiple train, bus, ferry and hotel reservations to cobble together the same trip on your own.

A cruise can also make an Alaska trip more affordable. Instead of taking a long and expensive flight to Anchorage or Fairbanks, you can choose a cruise that sails round-trip from Seattle or Vancouver (note, you won't be able to tack on a post-cruise land trip to Denali if you do this). Restaurant prices in Alaska can be high, but a cruise bundles meals, accommodations and transportation into one price that, with sales, can be cheaper than you'd think.

Related: Best Alaska cruise tips to help you make the most of your time aboard and ashore

When do cruises go to Alaska?

Nearly every major cruise line has a presence in Alaska from May through mid-September, with some offering sailings as early as April or as late as October. The season is short due to weather. Cold temperatures, icy waters and a long snowy season are not conducive to early spring and late fall cruises.

Alaska cruise weather can be chilly (in the 40s to 50s) first thing in the morning and at night. However, if it's a sunny summer day, temperatures can shoot into the 70s and even low 80s. It also rains a lot in Alaska; it's drier in the spring than in the summer.

When you want to go will depend on which activities you want to do, how you feel about cool weather and rain, and the price. Cruises at the beginning (April and May) and end (September and October) of Alaska's cruise season are generally a bit cheaper than those in June, July and August.

Related: Best time to cruise to Alaska

Best Alaska itineraries

Where do Alaska cruises even go? Most sail along the Inside Passage, a maritime route along the state's southern coast (and into British Columbia and Washington state) that weaves around the area's thousand islands. Some venture farther north into the Gulf of Alaska; these are often one-way cruises that begin and end at the ports near Anchorage.

Learn more about the best Alaska cruise itineraries for your next vacation.

Inside Passage

The Inside Passage is the most popular Alaska cruise route. Weeklong itineraries generally embark in either Seattle or Vancouver, British Columbia — though some itineraries originate in Juneau. A few lines, such as Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line and Cunard Line, offer 10-night Inside Passage cruises from Seattle or Vancouver.

Glacial ice carved this passageway long ago, and today, cruise ships and fishing vessels thread their way through the islets and channels to see some of the most spectacular natural sights in the world.

You'll find magnificent mountains (often snowcapped, even in the summertime), lush forests, waterfalls, fjords and calving glaciers. If it's marine life you've come to see, you'll find it in abundance, from whales and dolphins to sea lions and harbor seals. On land, you'll likely spy bears and Dall sheep while eagles, puffins and a host of seabirds circle above.

Many people trek to Alaska to commune with nature, but there's also history here that you shouldn't overlook. Shore excursions and onboard lectures will explain the cultures of the Indigenous peoples of Alaska, as well as more recent inhabitants from the Russian community in Sitka and the fortune-seekers who moved to Skagway during the Klondike gold rush in the late 1890s.

Popular Inside Passage ports of call include Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan, Petersburg, Haines and Skagway. Most cruises will visit three or four ports of call.

Additionally, you'll have one day spent cruising the Inside Passage and one focused on "scenic cruising," where you can enjoy the landscapes but won't go ashore. This is not nearly as boring as you might think since you'll see incredible sights like Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve or Hubbard Glacier .

One nice thing about the Inside Passage is how calm the water is because you're sailing between land masses. If you worry about seasickness, an Inside Passage trip is the best Alaska cruise itinerary versus a sailing where your ship transits rougher, open waters.

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler

Gulf of Alaska

If you book a weeklong Gulf of Alaska voyage, you'll also enjoy exploring parts of the Inside Passage and its ports that could include a mix of Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, Ketchikan, Haines and Icy Strait Point.

You'll have up to two days of scenic cruising, in addition to sailing the Inside Passage. Because Gulf of Alaska cruises sail farther north, scenic destinations might include College Fjord, in addition to Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier.

Generally, these one-way sailings travel from Seward or Whittier (the cruise ports closest to Anchorage) to Vancouver (or vice versa). Most itineraries are seven nights, but you'll find a handful that are longer.

For these itineraries, you'll need to fly into or out of Anchorage and take a train or bus to/from the cruise departure ports, which can take an hour or two. You can book the transportation on your own or through your cruise line.

Gulf of Alaska sailings — especially those in late August and September — can encounter rough seas in the gulf portion of the voyage. Be prepared if you're particularly prone to seasickness.

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

Longer sailings from the West Coast

Finally, you'll find some round-trip San Francisco itineraries — usually 10 or 11 nights long — as well as longer sailings between San Francisco and Vancouver. These cruises are best suited to travelers who love days at sea.

On a 10-night cruise, you'll have four sea days (for example, two days from San Francisco to Juneau) plus a day of scenic cruising at a spot like Tracy Arm (Twin Sawyer Glaciers), Endicott Arm, Hubbard Glacier or Glacier Bay National Park. The waters before you enter the Inside Passage can be calm, rough or anything in between, depending on when you go.

Ports on these longer sailings might include Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point and Victoria, British Columbia.

You can also find one-way repositioning cruises between Southern California ports (Los Angeles and San Diego) and Vancouver at the beginning or end of a ship's Alaska cruise season.

Related: The 5 best luxury Alaska cruises you can book right now

Cruisetours

Cruise lines understand that not all of Alaska's best sights lie along the coast. Denali National Park and the city of Fairbanks are well inland. And some coastal highlights, like the Kenai Peninsula, aren't typically visited on a seven-night cruise. So the cruise lines created their own "cruisetours": vacations that combine a weeklong cruise with a two- to seven-night bus tour.

On a cruisetour, you'll sail on a one-way Gulf of Alaska cruise, so your cruise starts or ends in Alaska. Depending on the tour itinerary you choose, you might visit Seward and the Kenai Peninsula, Alyeska, Talkeetna, Anchorage and Fairbanks — as well as spend one to three nights in Denali National Park.

Some lines also offer Alaska cruisetours that venture into Canada's Yukon, including a few Holland America tours that combine half a cruise with a cruisetour that starts or ends in Skagway.

Your tour might include a ride on the scenic Alaska Railroad . Some activities are included in the cost of the cruisetour; other outings can be booked like shore excursions, depending on your interest and budget. If you're hoping to see the northern lights, booking a cruisetour in September might be your best bet to see the aurora on a cruise vacation.

Related: The best credit cards for booking cruises

Best Alaska cruise lines

Most big-ship and luxury cruise lines send at least one cruise ship to Alaska every summer. Some of the best Alaska cruise lines are Holland America and Princess Cruises because they have especially long histories in the region and offer cruises, as well as cruise and land tour combinations, on multiple ships each season.

If you want a more active trip in less touristed areas, a great choice would be a small-ship expedition line, including Alaska specialists such as Alaskan Dream Cruises and UnCruise Adventures.

Ships in all price ranges sail a variety of itineraries, so don't let budget stop you from visiting. If luxury is what you're after, you can find lines that will go overboard pampering you on your journey north.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

Best cruise lines for extended trips to Alaska

If you want to cruise Alaska but also see some of the interior and enjoy a stay in a lodge or hotel, go for a cruisetour package from either Holland America or Princess Cruises. Both have fantastic itineraries that take passengers not only to the Inside Passage, but also to Anchorage, Denali National Park, the Yukon, Kenai Peninsula, Talkeetna and Fairbanks. Princess even owns a handful of its own lodges.

Best Alaska cruises for families with kids

Carnival, Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian, Princess and Royal Caribbean all have extensive kids clubs aboard their ships that cater to all ages, from babies to teens. Little kids will adore meet-and-greets with beloved characters onboard Disney cruises, or hanging with Dr. Seuss characters when sailing with Carnival. Older kids will love the rock climbing walls, video game stations, sports courts, go-karts and laser tag on Royal Caribbean and NCL ships.

Related: 6 best Alaska cruises for families

Best cruise lines for adventure-seekers

Active travelers might prefer expedition-style voyages on smaller ships that include more time for adventurous activities, such as hiking in the Tongass National Forest, wildlife and glacier viewing from Zodiac rafts or kayaks, or even overnight camping. These ships often feature complimentary shore excursions, kayaks and bikes for guest use and onboard scientists and naturalists.

If you've got active teens who have an interest in nature and the environment, an expedition voyage could be exactly what will keep them engaged and off their devices. Just expect the majority of your shipmates to be older adults.

Look to UnCruise Adventures, Alaskan Dream Cruises, Hurtigruten and Lindblad Expeditions for the best adventure cruises.

Related: Pros and cons of small-ship cruising in Alaska

Best for multigenerational groups

Sailing with grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles and kids? Try Celebrity Cruises, Holland America and Princess Cruises. These cruise lines, especially on their newer ships, offer something for everyone — as well as a higher caliber of onboard dining than on the cheapest cruises.

Kids can hang out in the youth lounges while parents hit the spa or try a wine-tasting class. Everyone can come back together for dinner and evening entertainment or onboard activities suitable for all ages.

Best for couples and big celebrations

The luxury cruise lines are your best bet if you're a couple and enjoy spacious suites, gourmet food, pampering (many luxe lines hire butlers to cater to every passenger) and the opportunity to meet other like-minded cruisers. The personalized service and all-inclusive nature of luxury voyages might also be attractive to anyone celebrating a milestone, such as an anniversary, big birthday or retirement.

Look at Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea Cruises and Viking.

Related: The best Alaska cruises for couples

Things to do in Alaska

Alaska cruises offer a wide range of activities in port, with options for active travelers, wildlife lovers, history buffs and shoppers. Whether you're traveling with young kids or require more sedentary recreation, the Alaska cruise ports won't disappoint.

Related: Best shore excursions on an Alaska cruise

Wildlife tours are available in every port. Hop a bus, kayak, boat or plane to look for bears, eagles, whales, sea otters and other wildlife. Note that moose don't regularly show up in the Inside Passage; you'll need to head farther north to find them.

Book a fishing trip to try your hand at catching salmon or halibut, or go out crab fishing for a glimpse into that type of work.

Active travelers can explore Alaska by sea kayak or canoe, hike on glaciers and through rainforests, zip line, bike, ride an ATV and even snorkel (you'll need a dry suit). You can even opt for a round of golf at the course in Haines.

In Alaska, sightseeing doesn't only take place on the ground. Floatplane and helicopter tours take you around scenic areas like Misty Fjords or land you on a glacier, perhaps for a dog-sledding or hiking adventure on the ice. If you prefer to stay grounded, you can find informative trolley tours of ports like Skagway.

Alaska cruises provide plentiful opportunities to learn about Native Alaskan culture. You can get a taste of the gold rush life by trying your hand at panning for gold, attending a salmon bake or visiting a dog-sled camp. A hike on the Chilkoot Trail or ride on the White Pass Railway lets you follow in the footsteps of the miners who came to seek their fortunes. Cap your day by trying out locally brewed craft beers.

Shopping abounds, and you can buy everything from diamond jewelry to T-shirts and other souvenirs. You'll need to look carefully for Alaskan-owned stores selling local handicrafts, but they're worth seeking out.

Related: 15 Alaska cruise mistakes you never want to make

Best Alaska cruise ports

The best Alaska cruise ports are also the most crowded because no matter which type of itinerary and cruise line you select, you'll likely visit a mix of the same ports. The immediate port area will be filled with tourist shops and eateries. If you want to see nature at its finest, you must book a tour or venture farther afield.

If you want to see some of Alaska's most rustic and charming villages or stick to wild places, book a voyage with a line like Alaskan Dream Cruises or UnCruise to visit destinations like Baranof Island, Chichagof Island, Petersburg and Wrangell.

Ketchikan is known for three things: Native Alaskan (Tlingit) totem poles, Misty Fjords National Monument and the city's distinction as the Salmon Capital of the World. The town has more standing totem poles than anywhere else in the state; see them at the Saxman Native Village and the Totem Heritage Center. Access the Misty Fjords by kayak, floatplane or scenic cruise. Fishing excursions are plentiful here, too.

Ketchikan is where folks go to see the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, with athletes wielding axes and saws in traditional lumbering activities. It is also the jumping-off point for a Bering Sea crab fishing tour.

Alaska's capital city is interesting because no road leads from here to the rest of the state. It's located at the base of Mount Juneau, and you can only get there via boat or small plane — even residents have to bring their cars to Juneau via ferry. Home to Mendenhall Glacier, this is a popular port for hikes by, kayak tours to and helicopter landings on the glacier.

For a view of the city and cruise port, take a ride in the sky on the Mount Roberts Tramway. Various wildlife-viewing trips (whale, bears and more) and visits to dog-sled camps and salmon bakes leave from Juneau.

If you're interested in Alaska's gold rush history, Skagway — 90 miles northwest of Juneau — is a port you shouldn't miss. In fact, it's the gateway to the Klondike and Dawson mining district in Canada's Yukon territory, where prospectors searched for gold in the late 1890s. The historic district still has a Wild West feel, though that's been a bit commercialized for the modern era. This port can get crowded in summer when several ships can call on the same day.

Skagway is an easy port for independent travelers who want to explore the town or go for a hike on their own. It's most famous as the terminus for the White Pass Railway into the Yukon.

Sitka is as much a working fishing town as it is a tourist destination. Sitka's Russian heritage also sets it apart from other Alaskan ports on your cruise itinerary. See St. Michael's Orthodox Cathedral with its onion dome and the Russian Bishop's House.

Before the Russians came, the Tlingit people settled here. You can learn about their history and culture at the Sitka National Historical Park and Sheldon Jackson Museum of Native Alaskan art. Wildlife enthusiasts might want to visit the Alaska Raptor Center, or go bird- and bear-watching.

The population of Haines remains less than 2,000, according to the United States Census Bureau, and it isn't yet as touristy as some of the other Alaskan ports, such as nearby Skagway. It's known for great fishing (salmon, halibut and trout) and an eagle preserve — because eagles know where the best fish can be found.

Animal lovers and kids tend to enjoy a visit to the Kroschel Center for Orphaned Animals here. For a special tour, go bear-watching at twilight.

Icy Strait Point

Icy Strait Point is notable among Alaska cruise ports because the area and its attractions are all Native Alaskan-owned. Most port and tour staff hail from Hoonah, Alaska's largest Tlingit village. The port is set on Chichagof Island, which is known for its large bear population. Wildlife lovers have plenty of opportunities to search for whales and eagles here; adventure-seekers won't want to miss the ZipRider, with its course of six zip lines.

Scenic cruising

Most Alaska itineraries include some "scenic cruising," where your ship sails past incredible natural sights. You'll rarely leave the ship during these sail-bys (unless you happen to be aboard certain expedition, luxury or small ships that offer the chance to get on board a skiff to get closer ... but, even then, you're still viewing these sites from the water).

Onboard naturalists generally narrate what you're seeing, so head to the observation lounge (or tune to a broadcast on your in-room television) to learn about some of the top sights featured on scenic cruising days.

Top scenic cruising destinations in Alaska include Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve , Hubbard Glacier, Tracy Arm (Twin Sawyer Glaciers), Dawes Glacier at Endicott Arm and College Fjord.

Related: Hubbard Glacier vs. Glacier Bay: Which is the better scenic cruising spot in Alaska?

When to book an Alaska cruise

The best time to book an Alaska cruise is when a cruise line first opens bookings on that sailing, often more than a year in advance. You'll have your pick of itineraries and cabins — balcony cabins are popular in this scenic destination — and often the best fares.

Because Alaska has such a short season with a limited number of ships and is a dream trip for many, cruises are in high demand and people plan early.

If you wait to book, you're not entirely out of luck. Cruise lines often run sales in the fall or in the early months of the year (a period known in the cruise industry as " wave season "). You can take advantage of discounted fares, free upgrades or complimentary add-ons, such as Wi-Fi, gratuities, restaurant meals, beverage packages and tours. Some of the most desirable cabins might be sold out; being flexible about your sail date or itinerary can help.

In general, waiting until the last minute is not the best idea, unless you live in Seattle or Vancouver and don't need to book flights. While some less preferred sail dates or cabin categories might be available a few months out, spurring cruise lines to drop rates, you might have trouble finding affordable airfare and pre- or post-cruise hotel accommodations that do not consume your cruise savings.

Related: When is the best time to book a cruise?

What to bring on an Alaska cruise

When it comes to packing for an Alaska cruise, your mantra should always be: dress in layers. On the same day, you might be warm in town but chilly on your tour to a glacier. If you plan on hiking, kayaking or riding on a dog sled, you'll need the appropriate activewear.

Definitely pack for rain; consider skipping the umbrella and instead bringing a wide-brimmed waterproof hat, rain jacket, rain pants and waterproof shoes or boots.

This is also the trip for a camera with good telephoto lenses and binoculars. For more on what to bring on an Alaska cruise, check out our Alaska cruise packing list .

Bottom line

An Alaska cruise is a memorable experience. The beauty of the land and its immense history; the thrill of seeing bears, moose and bald eagles; and the mysteries of the surrounding marine life will astound you. It's a trip worth taking the time to plan and doing right — because who knows if or when you'll make it back to the Last Frontier.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

The Best Alaska Cruises

Windstar Cruise ship is our pick for the best Alaskan cruise

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

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
• Celebrity Cruises
• Oceania Cruises
• American Queen Voyages
• Seabourn Cruises
• Holland America Line
• Princess Cruises
• Royal Caribbean International
• See More (5)

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.

Getty Images / Ziss

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How to find the best Alaska cruise for you

Alaska cruise insiders share their intel..

With 46,600 miles of shoreline—more than all 48 lower states’ coasts combined— Alaska is often best explored aboard a cruise ship. It gives you a chance to see the state’s remarkably diverse wildlife with minimal effort and see Alaska’s natural landscape from a new perspective.

But there’s a lot to consider when booking an Alaskan cruise—from excursions to costs to routes—so much so that it can be overwhelming for longtime cruise aficionados and first-timers alike. For help making the most of your vacation in No. 49, we consulted with Alaska cruise experts—here’s what they recommend to keep in mind as you start planning your trip.

The Alaska cruise season runs from late April to September, so you’ve got a fairly small window—about five months—to take this trip. You’ll have the warmest weather in June, July, and August, when temps peak in the low to mid-60s, but you’ll also encounter the biggest crowds. Alternatively, May and September—Alaskan cruise shoulder season—you’ll find fewer crowds and only slightly cooler temps.

Money, money, money

Cost is a primary factor when planning an Alaska cruise and you can find one at just about every price point. You’ll find fares as low as $230 per person for a short trip in a large ship’s interior room, and as high as $20,000 per person for a suite on a smaller ship’s multi-week itinerary. To get a deal—and the best cabin selection—regardless of budget, you’ll need to book early, around a year in advance, said Aaron Saunders, senior editor at Cruise Critic .

“Last-minute deals are available, but these tend to appeal more to locals that live within driving distance of Vancouver and Seattle,” he said. Also keep in mind that not everything is included in the cruise fare and costs can add up quickly with add-ons like Wi-Fi, tips, shore excursions and more on certain lines.

One more thing to note: More expensive does not necessarily mean more luxurious—it could just mean the ship is smaller or offers a unique itinerary. For example, UnCruise Adventures’ ships are a little older (many were built in the mid-1980s), but cruisers will often pay higher fares because of the line’s low number of passengers, flexible itineraries, and adventurous offerings like kayaking, biking, hiking, and paddleboarding.

Yes, balcony rooms are worth it

If you’re on a budget, you might be tempted to book an interior cabin with no windows. But Alaska super-cruisers say booking an exterior room is actually worth the splurge. In particular, spring for one that has a balcony for the best scenic views, said Jason Leppert, who runs Popular Cruising .

And no matter where you are on the ship, be sure to have your camera or a pair of binoculars at the ready at all times.

“Keep your eyes peeled for whales, eagles, bears, and other wildlife that call Alaska home,” said Windy Dockum , a travel advisor who specializes in Alaska vacations. “Many cruise ships also offer onboard naturalists who can help you spot and identify these animals.”

Size matters

Yes, ship size is often a matter of personal preference—do you like rubbing elbows with 4,000 other cruisers every day, or does a few hundred sound more relaxing? But there are other pros and cons that go beyond the number of passengers.

Generally speaking, larger ships run by companies like Princess , Celebrity , Norwegian and Holland America offer more onboard amenities—multiple restaurants and bars, glitzy casinos, luxe pools and spas, and Broadway-style shows—than smaller ships from groups like Seabourn , Silversea , and Viking . However, travelers on bigger ships may also spend more time waiting in line while getting on and off the ship—and these vessels may be limited to ports that can accommodate their size.

If you’re hoping to get farther off the beaten path, smaller ships have the advantage: They can get up close with glaciers, pause to watch wildlife, and visit less-visited port towns such as Pelican , Haines , and Wrangell . Since they have fewer passengers and crew members, they also tend to offer a more intimate experience, Dockum said. However, they usually come with a higher price tag and typically have more bare-bones onboard offerings—maybe just one dining room and a lone pianist, instead of multiple restaurants and full-blown musicals. Also, if you’re the type of cruiser who loves making friends on vacation, you’ll have fewer travelers to hob-knob with.

Picking the right route

Alaska cruise ships generally take one of two routes: the Inside Passage or the Gulf of Alaska. The Inside Passage is the more popular of the two, weaving among southeastern Alaska’s islands and fjords. Ships typically sail roundtrip from either Seattle or Vancouver , with most itineraries lasting about a week and stopping in ports like Ketchikan , Skagway , and Juneau . This route is best for those who tend to get seasick, as the waters tend to be calmer. Roundtrip journeys also are often more affordable, since travelers can book flights to and from Seattle or Vancouver, which have large airports and lots of flight options.

On the flip-side, cruises that continue north into the Gulf of Alaska, the swath of the Pacific Ocean that hugs the state’s southern coast, generally run one way between Seattle or Vancouver and the Alaskan port towns of Whittier or Seward . Though it varies greatly, gulf cruises are often a bit longer, ranging from 7 to 14 days. These one-way sailings can also be more expensive, since they require a flight into or out of Alaska; they also require traveling across the at-times bumpy ocean so seasick-prone travelers may have a trickier time.

Alaska’s pristine wilderness is the big draw for many cruisers and, as a result, many shore excursions involve exploring the state’s natural landscapes. Depending on your cruise, you can go dog-sledding or rock climbing, paddle around in a kayak, or soar in a helicopter. But you don’t have to be an extreme athlete to enjoy Alaska—many cruise lines also offer mellower excursions, like scenic train rides and jet boat tours. You’ll also find more urban excursions like historical walking tours, lumberjack shows, and scenic drives in larger ports like Skagway and Ketchikan .

Whatever you opt to do while visiting Alaska, be sure to secure your shore excursions as soon as possible after booking, especially if you have your heart set on in-demand outings like helicopter tours, bear-watching treks, and glacier walks, said Heidi Bucolo, who runs Eat Sleep Cruise with her husband, Dan.

“Unfortunately, there are only so many slots for these sought-after tours,” she said. “If travelers don't book early, they may miss out. The earlier travelers book, the greater likelihood they will get the tours they want at the desired times.”

Also, be forewarned: Alaska excursions tend to be pretty pricey—typically $100 and up. Prioritize the must-sees for you and your travel crew and give yourself permission to skip excursions at a few ports of call, Saunders said.

“Instead, wander the towns and experience the history that’s right there,” he said. “Have some local seafood for lunch. Wash it down with a local beer or a coffee at a local shop. Alaskans are super friendly, and there’s always something to learn about the history and culture of each town, no matter how small.”

Packing primer

No matter when you visit or what excursions you signed up for, be prepared for the weather to change at a moment’s notice. It may be warm and sunny when you leave the ship in the morning (don’t forget to apply sunscreen!), then turn chilly and cloudy in the afternoon. Wear layers and definitely pack waterproof gear like a rain jacket.

“Being out in the rain is only a problem if you aren’t dressed for it,” said Saunders. “Alaskans and experienced Alaskan cruisers know this, and often pack extra layers in waterproof backpacks to bring ashore, just in case.”

Best Cruises to Alaska

Read Best Cruises Methodology

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with a cruise advisor

Celebrity Edge

Debuted in December 2018, the 2,918-passenger Celebrity Edge stands out for its modernity. The Edge is dressed to the nines in contemporary designs and features a diverse array of technologies, amenities, activities and dining venues on board. Passengers can delight in the ship's rooftop garden, take a dip in one of many ocean-facing pools, work up a sweat on the jogging track or relax at the on-site spa.

You'll find plenty of evening entertainment options, too, including themed bars and lounges, a club and a theater showcasing a variety of productions. The Edge was the first Celebrity ship fitted with the Magic Carpet – the line's cantilevered venue at sea that travels 13 stories. The open-air venue can be repositioned alongside several decks, allowing it to transform from a live music venue to a bar to an exclusive specialty restaurant, depending on its location.

For dining, passengers have 29 options to choose from. These include four main restaurants and specialty options serving a range of cuisines, from sashimi to French bistro classics. After a bite to eat, take a break and relax in your modern stateroom or suite. Every room offers technology that allows guests to control temperature, service and lighting with a touch screen. What's more, with a roughly 2-to-1 passenger-to-crew ratio, service across the ship will be spot on.

Celebrity Edge makes sailings across Europe, Asia, Australia and more. 

U.S. News Insider Tip: On Edge Series ships, park yourself at the Sunset Bar with a spicy margarita every evening – it’s the best spot on the ship to watch for the fabled green flash. – Skye Sherman, Contributor

Seven Seas Explorer

Regent Seven Seas Explorer debuted in 2016. It's one of the largest vessels in the fleet, welcoming up to 746 passengers. The ship makes service a top priority, with 548 crew members on board. According to past cruisers, the staff was friendly and attentive.

Travelers were even more impressed by the all-suite accommodations, which are some of the largest offered among ocean liners. All 373 suites include spacious balconies, marble bathrooms, walk-in closets, interactive flat-screen TVs and unlimited Wi-Fi.

Another high point: the cuisine. Explorer offers eight dining areas that range from the casual Pool Grill to Asian creations at Pacific Rim. As part of the 'Regent Experience,' all specialty dining is included in the cruise fare.

Outside the cabins, guests can spend their days participating in cooking demonstrations, lounging by the pool or relaxing in the library. At night, entertainment options include casino games, cocktail lounges and shows in the Constellation Theater. Complaints about this ship are few and far between, though some reviewers felt the entertainment could be more impressive. 

The best perk, according to recent passengers? All shore excursions are included. Seven Seas Explorer sails to destinations in Alaska, Asia, Australia and more.

U.S. News Insider Tip: Pacific Rim is a favorite dining venue among cruisers, with its Asian-inspired cocktails and cuisine offering a selection of dishes from Thailand, Korea, China, Vietnam and Japan. Spin the bronze Tibetan Buddhist prayer wheel as you enter the restaurant and be sure to sample the miso black cod. – Gwen Pratesi, Contributor

Viking Orion

The 930-passenger Viking Orion set sail in 2018. All staterooms on the Viking Orion are equipped with balconies, flat-screen LCD TVs and minibars. Cabins also feature bathrooms with glass-enclosed showers and heated floors.

When it's time to relax, cruisers can head to the spa for a treatment or – for a unique experience – cool their body temperatures down in the snow grotto (where snowflakes fall) before jumping into the sauna or hot tub to warm up. Recent travelers said this spa experience is not to be missed. 

The ship is also home to a fitness center, a living room that hosts live entertainment, a library, shops, a salon and two movie theaters. The main pool area is expansive, featuring ample lounge seating, a retractable roof and a poolside bar. At night, the ship screens poolside movies under the stars. 

Viking Orion's guests can enjoy meals at several onboard restaurants, including the main restaurant where menus rotate daily. Or, guests can book a private dining room for intimate gatherings. Recent cruisers raved about the service and food quality across the ship. Come nighttime, the ship's theater offers live performances ranging from themed shows to history and art lectures.

Viking Orion sails to Australia and New Zealand, Asia and Alaska.

U.S. News Insider Tip: One of the most relaxing spaces on Viking Orion (and all of Viking’s ocean ships) is the glass-enclosed Wintergarden, which is located next to the pool area. Afternoon tea is served every day, and it’s not to be missed at least one time during your cruise. – Gwen Pratesi, Contributor

Silver Muse

Debuted in April 2017, Silver Muse offers a nearly 1-to-1 crew-to-guest ratio, with 411 crew members and space for 596 passengers.

Among the ship's standout features are its spacious all-suite accommodations, which range from 334 square feet to 1,970 square feet. All cabins are serviced by a butler and include luxury bed linens, a marble bath with luxury toiletries and a picture window or balcony. While all passengers are treated to a complimentary hour of internet per day, those staying in upgraded suites get extras like balconies, multiple flat-screen TVs and interactive media libraries.

When it comes to dining, Silver Muse boasts eight venues that showcase a variety of cuisines, including Italian and Asian, as well as French fare at the upscale La Dame.

Similar to other ships in the fleet, Silver Muse offers a variety of onboard activities and facilities, including a spa, a pool deck and gym, a casino and several lounges.

Silver Muse sails to a number of areas in Asia, Alaska, Australia and New Zealand.

Seabourn Odyssey

The 458-passenger Seabourn Odyssey began sailing in June 2009 and – like its sister ships – is an all-suite vessel. It received an extensive renovation in summer 2019 to update its interior design, entertainment venues and technology. Travelers can enjoy complimentary Champagne upon arrival, fresh fruit daily and 24-hour room service, plus everyone has access to a personal suite stewardess for additional requests. Each cabin is equipped with a separate living area and bedroom, a stocked bar, a flat-screen television, a walk-in closet and a bathroom with a tub, shower and dual sinks.

The four dining options aboard the Seabourn Odyssey range from casual poolside fare, such as pizzas and salads, to The Grill by Thomas Keller, which serves upscale meals and tasty libations. Post-dinner, travelers can relax with a cocktail at one of the bars or test their luck at the casino. The Seabourn Odyssey also offers nightly entertainment like movies under the stars and dance parties on the boat's deck.

Onboard amenities on this ship include two pools, five outdoor hot tubs, a fitness center, a nine-hole putting green and a spa. The ship also allows cruisers to enjoy water sports equipment like kayaks, paddle boats and Hobie Cat sailboats in select destinations.

Odyssey sails to a number of ports across Australia, Alaska, the Pacific Coast and more.

U.S. News Insider Tip: There is no need to bring extra books. Seabourn's ships have large lending libraries. – Dana Freeman, Contributor

As part of Oceania's fleetwide revamp, Regatta was completely redesigned in September 2019. Passengers in Veranda Staterooms and Suites will enjoy verandas and spaces ranging from 216 to 1,000 square feet, while Inside and Ocean View cabins are smaller. The ship now offers solo staterooms for those who are traveling alone. No matter which you choose, all staterooms are equipped with minibars, flat-screen TVs and 24-hour room service, plus all-new furnishings and marble bathrooms.

The 670 passengers will receive Oceania's signature service, with 400 crew members catering to guests' needs. Recent cruisers noted they rarely encountered crowds in the ship's public areas. The atmosphere aboard Regatta is decidedly adult, as the ship caters to older, affluent cruisers.

Entertainment varies from nightly musical performances to table games at the casino. Dining is also diverse: Regatta offers five venues ranging from the formal dining room to a casual grill. All-new plant-based menu items are also available. 

Regatta sails to destinations in Mexico, Asia, Australia and more.

Celebrity Solstice

Last refreshed in early 2023 (and first launched in 2008), the 2,852-passenger Celebrity Solstice offers a sushi restaurant and the Retreat Lounge. Daytime activities range from spa treatments to golf putting to art classes. Young passengers ages 3 to 17 can also participate in Camp at Sea activities. 

As far as dining goes, Celebrity Solstice boasts 10 restaurants, close to half of which are specialty spots that require an extra fee. Guests were pleased with the cuisine variety, and with a nearly 1-to-2 crew-to-passenger ration, the ship makes service a priority.

When it comes to lodging, 85% of Solstice's cabins feature verandas. Guests can choose from Inside, Ocean View, Veranda and Suite category cabins, all with amenities like flat-screen TVs, minibars and 24-hour room service. Those who spring for an AquaClass cabin receive additional amenities, like an upgraded room service menu. Travelers will also have access to Starlink high-speed satellite internet. 

Celebrity Solstice sails to Hawaii , the Pacific, Asia and Alaska.

Launched in 2016, the 2,650-passenger Koningsdam is one of Holland America's newer ships and the first in the more contemporary Pinnacle Class. Passengers can participate in everything from cooking classes to duty-free shopping, or simply relax by the pool or at the spa.

Holland America now features an exclusive amenities program, Club Orange. Members can receive benefits such as a complimentary stateroom upgrade, a dedicated concierge hotline and skip-the-line priority access.

Members of Club Orange will also receive additional benefits when onboard Koningsdam including a premium in-room breakfast menu and a private dining venue with an expanded menu.

Guests can spend their evenings playing casino games or watching stage shows and musical acts through a partnership with "Rolling Stone" magazine. While the ship does offer youth clubs for children ages 3 to 17, most of the entertainment and activities are geared toward adults.

When hunger strikes, passengers can choose between 11 dining venues, ranging from the casual New York Pizza & Deli to the more formal Pinnacle Grill steakhouse.

The ship's cabin categories are also diverse. Staterooms range from Interior and Ocean View cabins to Verandah rooms and three Suite categories.

Koningsdam departs from ports like San Diego , Seattle ,  Vancouver  and Anchorage , Alaska, for sailings through Mexico, Hawaii , Alaska and California. 

U.S. News Insider Tip: The three Pinnacle Class ships (Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam) have Single and Family Staterooms. Family Staterooms accommodate up to five guests and have two bathrooms, plus extra closet space. – Jill Schildhouse, Contributor

Disney Wonder

The 2,713-passenger Disney Wonder debuted in 1999. It was most recently updated in 2019; the refurbishment rolled out new family-oriented amenities and entertainment offerings, like Tiana's Place with live music and southern cuisine inspired by the Disney movie, "The Princess and the Frog." 

The ship offers plenty of onboard activities, with 10 designated family areas, five youth clubs and seven adults-only spaces. While younger passengers play at age-appropriate clubs, grown-ups can relax at the adults-only Quiet Cove Pool. When hunger strikes, Wonder offers six dining options, including one adults-only specialty restaurant.

Like the majority of the ship, staterooms are designed with families in mind. Interior cabins can accommodate up to four passengers, while larger suites can sleep up to seven. All cabins come equipped with flat-screen TVs, seating areas and classic Disney designs. Recent cruisers noted the expensive cost of a trip on the Disney Wonder, but most felt the quality of service was top-notch. 

Disney Wonder departs from a range of ports throughout Australia and New Zealand, as well as  Vancouver , for sailings around the South Pacific, Mexico and Alaska. 

U.S. News Insider Tip : The Disney Wonder features Disney Cruise Line's only Princess and the Frog-inspired rotational dining room. Tiana's Place is themed after a jazz supper club, with a live band, Creole dishes and dancing. – Megan duBois, Contributor

Celebrity Summit

First introduced in 2001, the 2,218-passenger Celebrity Summit was most recently renovated in March 2019 and offers unique activities like a rooftop terrace with an outdoor movie screen. The renovation added new staterooms, lounge areas and more. Cruisers looking for some R&R can retreat to the spa, the outdoor pool or the adults-only indoor solarium. Meanwhile, children ages 3 to 17 can participate in pool games and Xbox tournaments at Camp at Sea.

When it comes to dining, there are nine venues on board, including a handful of specialty spots (for an added fee) serving up creative cuisine ranging from French to Italian fare. While some recent cruisers noted long lines and average food at the buffet, most travelers were in agreement when it came to the wait staff and room stewards: service was prompt and friendly.

Speaking of rooms, Summit offers the same four cabin categories found on other Celebrity ships (Inside, Ocean View, Veranda and Suite). About half of the cabins on board feature balconies. Cruisers will find flat-screen TVs, bathrobes and 24-hour room service in all staterooms.

Celebrity Summit sails in the Caribbean, Alaska and more. 

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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An Expert's Guide to Booking the Perfect Alaska Cruise in 2023

By Scott Laird

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Alaska has been a popular cruise destination for decades, and the industry has continued a trajectory of growth. Each summer season there seems to be another cruise line sailing Alaskan waters, while the longtime incumbents are relentless in their addition of new itineraries, amenities, and excursions. 

What looks like an endless buffet of choice can lead to analysis paralysis for many first-time Alaska visitors—even if they’re veteran cruisers who have already figured out big questions like their preferred cruise line or favorite ship class. 

Here are five questions to consider in order to find the best Alaska cruise for you.

When is The Best Time to Book?

Alaska is a popular destination for multi-generational groups . Any large group booking multiple cabins or needing more than a pair of spots on shore excursions should start thinking about booking Alaska cruises about a year in advance to secure the best availability for their group size. So too should travelers who have specific non-negotiables on things like stateroom category, ship, or itinerary. 

However, that doesn’t mean that last-minute bookers are out of luck. While popular itineraries and cabin categories have a tendency to sell out early (balcony accommodations are particularly sought after for scenic Inside Passage cruising), there’s still often enough inventory left for cruise lines to offer enticing deals for the summer during the “wave” booking season from January through March. They’ll even offer last-minute specials right up until the time of sailing, but selection will be limited and the most popular shore excursions will have long wait lists. 

Cruise lines offer enticing deals for the summer during “wave" season from January through March. 

Is it better to cruise one-way or roundtrip? 

Like almost any choice one makes when booking a cruise, it all comes down to personal taste. Roundtrip cruises offer the convenience of embarking and disembarking at the same port (typically Seattle, Vancouver, or San Francisco), but itineraries are generally limited to Southeast Alaska and the Inside Passage. 

Visitors wanting to see Alaska’s Interior, Fairbanks, and Denali National Park , should book a one-way cruise to or from Anchorage (which is served by the cruise ports at Whittier and Seward) for land-based touring either before or after their Inside Passage cruise. Many cruise lines, including Holland America Line , Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Celebrity offer fully packaged “Cruisetours” that combine a one-way Inside Passage cruise with a rail or motor coach itinerary mainly focused on Denali, but also offering journeys to other parts of Southcentral Alaska.

Is Seward or Whittier a better port for Anchorage? 

Each cruise line has their preferred port—Holland America Line and Princess Cruises berth at Whittier. Norwegian, Oceania, and Regent Seven Seas—currently berthing at Seward—will move operations to Whittier upon completion of berths currently under construction. Most other one-way cruises berth in Seward.

Whittier is closer to Anchorage, and some itineraries even take disembarking passengers directly to Denali or Talkeetna the same day. Whittier is also a convenient port for cruising College Fjord, which most northbound sailings do on the final day before arriving in Whittier. Whittier is, however, a tiny community that is little more than a deep-water port, while Seward is a larger community and regional base for a more diverse collection of tours and activities.

Seward is farther from Anchorage, but the train or coach ride is roughly an extra hour of travel through a spectacular mountain pass on the Kenai Peninsula, then the lines merge near Whittier and the last hour of the journey is the same, hugging the Chugach Mountains alongside Turnagain Arm south of Anchorage. 

It’s worth noting that shoreside transportation outside of cruise line-operated transfers can be more limited in Whittier, so passengers embarking there may wish to ensure they include transfers from Anchorage in their cruise package. From Seward, travelers wanting to spend a few days exploring Kenai Fjords National Park or one of the wilderness lodges can book Alaska Railroad transfers on their regular scheduled service.

I've been to Alaska before—how can I cruise differently? 

Cruisers who are veterans at Inside Passage itineraries on the big ships have really only seen a preview of the nooks and crannies of the region. Indigenous-owned Alaskan Dream Cruises operates small-ship sailings from Sitka, getting into the straits and narrows that the big ships won’t fit, and oftentimes determining itineraries by reports of sea life migrations and weather conditions.

Return visitors who still want that big ship experience might try a different category of cruise line. The major operators—Princess, Holland America, Celebrity, are all premium-tier cruise lines, but the luxury cruise lines have also deployed ships to Alaskan waters. 

Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth is operating roundtrip Vancouver sailings, bringing onboard topflight lecturers ranging from adventure traveler Bear Grylls to undersea archaeologist Mensun Bound on select voyages. On every voyage, guests will find guides from Alaska Native Voices, sharing the cultural history and lore of the local Huna people to  Sit’ Eeti Gheeyi  (Glacier Bay National Park), and guest speakers from the Royal Canadian Geographical Society.

Laura Walsh

Ryan M. Moser

Anastasia Miari

Meaghan Kenny

Silversea has “Door-to-Door” pricing on many of its Alaska cruises , meaning the cruise fare includes airfare, hotels, and all transfers—including transfers from home to the departure airport. Onboard the all-suite ships, there’s butler service in every suite, fine dining, and select shore excursions included. The largest Silversea ship sailing to Alaska also carries just under 600 guests, allowing for port calls at lesser-visited stops like Wrangell, Haines, and Valdez.

Are there less-crowded alternatives?

Hurtigruten, the Norwegian expedition cruise line, offers sailings between Vancouver and Nome , hitting not only the lesser-visited spots on the Inside Passage, but also the virtually untouristed and volcano-dotted Alaska Peninsula, where guests can spot Brown Bears in Katmai National Park, go bird-watching in St. Paul Island and uninhabited St. Matthew Island in the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, and explore the eerie ghost town of Unga.

Closer afield, but no less secluded is the Prince William Sound Explorer from Uncruise, where guests will depart Whittier and wake up among the glaciers of little-visited Icy Bay on the Kenai Peninsula. Much of the itinerary is “Captain’s choice” based on conditions and sealife movements, but the massive Columbia and Meares glaciers and the Sound communities of Cordova and Valdez—also off the big ship routes—hold prized spots on the itinerary. 

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7 Things I Loved, Plus 4 Things I Didn’t During Princess’s Alaska Cruisetour

• Cruises and Sailing
• Types of Travel

On my first morning after embarking on the Royal Princess Hamilton Cruise ship on a sea and land cruise from Vancouver through the Inside Passage of Alaska and up to Fairbanks, I sat on my portside balcony and watched the gray seas as the pale morning sun rose.

A sudden movement caught my eye, and the head of a humpback whale rose directly out of the water, suspended for a brief moment before it disappeared under the sea.

“Did I just see that?” I muttered sleepily to myself. As if to answer me, the telltale poof of water shot out of the sea, followed by the dark, subtle hump of the whale as he followed alongside our massive 1,083-foot long ship .

Instantly, I ran inside to wake my travel buddy, but by the time he got to the balcony, the whale was long gone. However, that whale sighting was a premonition of extraordinary adventures to come on the Princess Cruises’ 12-17 day Connoisseur Alaska Cruisetour .

From luscious food choices and all-day entertainment to excursions and off-shore adventures through Alaska’s small coastal communities, the Alaska Cruisetour was probably one of the most fun trips I had taken all year. While I had my first cruise in January on a small excursion ship, I was invited and hosted by Princess Cruises to experience my first “big” cruise ship. For some reason, I had poo-pooed the idea of the big “floating city” cruise ships in the past, but the 12 days of sailing and traveling with Princess changed my mind.

I get it now. I get why people dream of cruises and just how easy it is to relax and just enjoy when you are being pampered, cared for, and catered to by a cruise ship company. Coming from the eyes of a brand-new cruiser (this won’t be my last cruise, I guarantee you), here are the seven things I loved — plus the four things I didn’t — during the Princess Alaska Cruisetour.

7 Things I Loved

1. medallion magnificant and the staff.

The Royal Princess is a Princess MedallionClass™ ship with a capacity of 3,560 guests. The MedallionClass ships use touchless technologies in the form of a small, quarter-sized customizable Medallion and an app to enhance and personalize individual experiences and health protocols. 

This thing is so cool. I had my Medallion customized with an astrological symbol and ordered the rubber wristband. While wearing it, the Medallion automatically unlocks and locks my stateroom door as I enter it, allows staff to find me anywhere on the ship to deliver my daily Bloody Mary, allows for touch-free boarding and purchases, let me find my travel companion on the ship, and more. 

“So let’s say you’re out tanning by the pool and you want to get some extra sunscreen, you can go on the app on your phone and order sunscreen which will be purchased through the app and delivered to you where you are anywhere on the ship,” said Briana Latner, public relations and marketing for Princess Cruises. “We’ve also introduced ‘Dine My Way,’ which helps you make reservations in the main dining rooms and the specialty dining, helps get rid of wait times and helps you with your special preferences.”

Another feature of the Princess Medallion is the Ocean Compass, which allows you to locate and message your travel companions. Whomever you are traveling with is automatically named as travel companions in the app, but you can remove each other if you choose to.

“Sometimes there are kids who are teenagers. They can go off on their own, but you want to make sure you know where they are and they’re safe,” Latner said. “Many people who are traveling with parents or the elderly who may get disoriented find it’s been really helpful  to be able to find each other too.”

Travel blogger Erin Cohen said the Medallion created a level of ease on her trip that shocked her.

“It makes you eat too much,” she laughed. “Everything comes to you at the snap of a finger or the touch of a button. The Medallion makes life almost too easy, but it’s great.”

Combined with the Princess Medallion, the staff on the boat is top-notch. Our stateroom was cleaned twice a day at least (the Medallion lets staff know when you are out of your room so they don’t disturb you), the bartenders all know your name and preferred drink, and every crewmember greets you with a cheerful hello.

Using the app and the Medallion was super convenient when it came to purchases, ordering, getting around, and more.

Pro Tip: Download the app before you embark on the cruise to upload safety and health documents, pre-book activities and dining, and get used to all the features. It’s a lot to learn. You can order the Medallion ahead of time and either have it sent to you prior to the cruise or you can pick it up upon embarkation.

Fun Fact: The Pacific Princess was the star ship in the 1977 television series called The Love Boat . That series also made the concept of a sea-going vacation popular with millions of people and has been widely credited with fueling the dramatic expansion of the cruise industry.

2. By Land And By Sea

The Royal Princess Alaska Cruisetours are a combo land and sea experience. In addition to a 7-day Voyage of the Glaciers Alaska cruise that includes two glacier-viewing experiences and stops in the small Alaskan communities of Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway, and Whittier (Anchorage), you’ll also explore Alaska’s interior with a guided land exploration tour.

Once you’ve disembarked from the ship, you can spend 3 or more nights on land at the various Princess Wilderness Lodges , including the Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge, the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge, the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge, and the Fairbanks Princess Wilderness Lodge.

These lodges are situated riverside near the legendary Denali National Park and Preserve, on the stunningly beautiful Kenai Peninsula, and in Fairbanks. Each lodge offers its own unique personality.

You will also travel by rail in a private Princess Cruises scenic railroad car and by tour bus to the various locations.

We were on the Connoisseur Alaska Cruisetour , which offers the highest level of service with a dedicated tour director, the 7-day Voyages of the Glaciers cruise, 5-10 nights on land, travel on the Princess Alaska rail service, stays at Kenai Fjords National Park and Denali National Park , a Tundra Wilderness Tour into Denali National Park (We saw three grizzly bears!), sightseeing opportunities, and most meals included.

What I loved about this option was the ability to see not only the glaciers and wonders of coastal Alaska along the Inside Passage, but a chance to explore the famed national parks of Alaska’s rugged and beautiful interior. It truly was the best of both worlds.

“You see pictures but to see it in person is just like, it’s hard to believe this is even real. The whole time I was in Alaska, I just kept saying it was like a movie set,” said Cohen.

3. All The Choices (And Unlimited Drinks)

So maybe you are craving a pepperoni pizza while you lounge in one of the many hot tubs on the 16th-floor deck. Maybe one night, all you dream of is a big juicy steak with a Maine lobster tail. Maybe you want a lot of choices from the all-day buffet.

On the Royal Princess, the more than a dozen dining choices come in many different flavors, ranging from high-end steakhouse to Italian cuisine to sushi. Like many cruise ships, the Royal Princess has a buffet that features Asian, Indian, American, and Latino cuisine, as well as breakfast items, fresh fruit, a pastry bar, and more. On the fifth floor in the central Vista, a small deli is open 24/7 for the late night/early morning crowd.

The ship also has numerous bars, and because we were given the unlimited drinks option, we put those to good use. From the poolside bars to the cozy Wheelhouse Bar with its live music, you’ll not have to worry about finding the perfect cocktail or Alaska beer to sip on. 

Although I dined at the fancy Crown Grill and Sabatini’s, the buffet was our go-to option most days due to the sheer variety of foods to choose from. Be warned, though: It’s easy to let your eyes be bigger than your stomach, and you can end up eating more than you planned because the food is just so tasty.

4. Lots Of Viewing Areas

The Alaska Cruisetour I was on started from Vancouver and sailed through Alaska’s Inside Passage through some of the most beautiful scenery I’d ever seen. With glaciers, waterfalls, misty mountains, and otters and whales frolicking in the waves, it would be a crime not to take it all in.

I loved all the decks and viewing areas on the Royal Princess. From our own private balcony to picture windows throughout the ship to expansive decks, the views just kept coming.

Pro Tip: Bring binoculars! I really regretted not bringing the pair I own. Trust me, you won’t regret taking them when the whales and otters make their appearance.

5. Performances And Special Programs

You’ll never get bored on this Cruisetour. Starting as early as 6 a.m. every day, the Royal Princess has events, special programs, classes, naturalist talks, and fun activities. From morning stretching on the deck to art auctions and contests to game shows and line dancing classes, this ship doesn’t stop!

In addition to the hourly activities, excursions, and options during the day, The Royal Princess presents big musical shows, comedians, naturalist talks, and more in its expansive Princess Theatre. The smaller bars and venues feature live musicians and fun, silly game shows while the main Vista area of the fifth floor holds concerts and dance parties. The ship even has a disco, a hopping casino with slots and table games, a very large fitness area on the 17th deck, poolside movies, a pickleball court, a Discovery Camp for kids, and more.

Every day, a daily newsletter listing all the activities on the ship is delivered to your room, so it’s easy to find and choose what performances or classes you’d like to take part in. If you are bored at all on this ship, that’s on you! Seriously, you’ll have a hard time picking which fun activity to do.

6. Being Pampered

After days of hiking, exploring Alaska’s small communities, whale watching, dancing all night, and maybe having one too many cocktails, it’s nice to be pampered. The Royal Princess’ onboard Lotus Spa brings you to a place of peace and Zen with services like traditional massage, acupuncture, facials like the La Therapie HydraLift facial, couples massage, and Aroma Stone Therapy Massage.

After relaxing, cruisers can head to The Enclave , a getaway of thermal suites and a hydro-therapy pool with a cascading rain shower and therapeutic air jets. Sweat out your worries at a Turkish-style steam bath, steam rooms, and dry saunas for purification and detoxification, then doze off on the heated stone beds or relaxing water beds.

Another pampering experience is Royal Princess’ The Sanctuary , an adult-only retreat on the top deck with private cabanas, food and drink, and al fresco massages. The “Serenity Stewards” are quietly efficient in delivering everything you need, from fresh mimosas to towels.

7. All The Excursions

With 12 days of adventure, it would be impossible for me to list all the land and sea excursions available through the Royal Princess Cruisetour. Thankfully, you’ll be able to find all the options through the Medallion app and with the onboard concierges.

For my excursions, I went out on a crab boat in Ketchikan to learn about crab harvesting and to stuff myself silly on Dungeness crab, roared up winding mountain trails on a UTV, spotted whales, climbed glaciers, kayaked pristine mountain glacial lakes, toured and spotted wildlife on a Tundra Wilderness Tour in Denali National Park and so much more.

The excursions range from the sedate and relaxing to the wild and extreme, so there’s a little bit of everything for anyone. You can see the list of available excursions here .

4 Things I Didn’t Love

1. prices of excursions.

Alaska is expensive. There’s no getting around that fact. Being able to enjoy the Alaska landscape on a guided excursion is going to cost you. Some of the most expensive excursions include flights on small planes and helicopters, but they tend to be the most popular as well, like the Denali Flightseeing tours and helicopter tours of surrounding glaciers.

You aren’t required to purchase excursions, however. If you’d rather explore the different ports on your own, you can do that too.

2. Not Enough Time In Each Port Or Land Lodge

When you are cruising, you have a schedule to keep. You might fall in love with tiny little Skagway, but you only have a day in port. You may want to spend more time at the Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge with its cozy rooms and fireplaces, but you only have one night.

The fact that you do not have control over how long you can stay in any one place is certainly not Princess’ fault, but it is a bummer and a fact of life when cruising.

3. No Coffee In The Room

One of my biggest pet peeves in life is not having coffee available in my room when traveling. Yes, ordering coffee to the room was easy and the staff at Princess were on top of my caffeine addiction, but it would have been nice to have one of those little coffee makers tucked away so I could make my own coffee.

One great thing about the Royal Princess is the ability to order coffee and breakfast the night before. Each day, you can fill out a form listing what items you’d like to order and what time they should be delivered, so that’s convenient.

4. Staffing Problems At The Lodges

Like so many other destinations, Alaska has a worker shortage. That desperate need for seasonal and long-term employees has led to some staffing issues at some of the lodges. While the Royal Princess ship boasts 1,346 crew members from more than 30 different countries, some of the lodges had problems filling spots, which led to slowdowns, some maintenance issues, and longer wait times.

My best advice is to stay patient with the destinations and with the staff that is working. Everyone is doing the best they can with less.

All in all, my first “big cruise” experience was stellar and has made me a believer! Hopefully, this won’t be my last cruise, and if you yearn for an easy, well-organized way to experience Alaska, the Royal Princess Alaska Cruisetour is the way to go.

For more on cruises and sailing , explore these articles:

• My 7 Favorite Meals On Viking’s New Expedition Ship
• 6 Fabulous Perks Of Cruising Alaska In The Fall
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Heide Brandes is an award-winning journalist and travel writer based in Oklahoma. She loves outdoor adventures, exploring different cultures, and finding off-the-wall, bizarre, and wondrous experiences to enjoy. Heide writes for numerous national and international publications and is an award-winning member of the Society for Professional Journalists, North American Travel Journalists Association, and Society of American Travel Writers. Besides traveling and writing, Heide is also a professional Bellydancer, a medieval re-enactor, and a quirky chick who lives in Oklahoma City.

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Holland America Westerdam Alaska Cruise Review

As another hot summer dragged on, husband Rob and I decided the best place to cool off was America’s last frontier. So we booked a balcony cabin on a Holland America Alaska cruise. 

We chose an Inside Passage cruise aboard the Westerdam . The 7-day journey embarked and ended in Seattle.

America’s coolest state offers the warmest welcome.

Cruises are known for decadent dining, and Holland America did not disappoint. Because we enjoy meeting new people and trying different food, we opted for open dining. Dinner and lunch in the bi-level Vista Dining Room provided multiple courses. At the popular Lido Buffet, guests chose from a plethora of tasty American and ethnic soups, salads, sandwiches, entrees and desserts.

In addition, Westerdam offers two alternate dining venues which require reservations. For dinner only, Canaletto ($15) creates the Italian authentic experience with a variety of dishes to enjoy and share. All five dishes Rob and I shared were melt-in-mouth delicious and perfectly seasoned with heavenly sauces.

The Pinnacle Grill ($15 lunch, $35 dinner) provides elegant china, stemware and linens for a romantic dinner or to celebrate a special occasion. Known for its Pacific Northwest steaks and fresh seafood, the Pinnacle is popular with repeat cruisers.

Once each cruise the Pinnacle transforms into the legendary Le Cirque of New York City ranked among the world’s best restaurants. We had jumbo shrimp cocktails, lobster bisque and delectable chateaubriand for two followed by a signature pineapple dessert at our Le Cirque dinner. ($49).

Alaska cruises provide numerous opportunities for close-up glacier views. Three national park rangers boarded Westerdam to narrate the ship’s onboard visit to Glacier Bay National Park that can only be reached by water or air.

Captain Bart Vaartjes maneuvered our ship remarkably close to Margerie Glacier. Our port-side balcony cabin provided a spectacular spot to admire nature’s incredible beauty. Then he turned the 935-foot ship 180 degrees to share the great views with starboard guests.

Small friendly ports Friendly Alaska port towns exude a warm welcome for cruise guests. All are walkable, safe and offer a plethora of activities and shopping. You won’t need a pricey wardrobe here. Simply dress in removable layers, wear sturdy walking shoes and bring rain gear.

An all-day rain did not stop us from exploring Alaska’s capital city of 30,000. Our ship docked within steps of Mount Roberts Tramway, where cable cars ascend 1,800 feet up the steep mountain. At the top we watched a movie, shot pics of ships below, visited a nature center and browsed a gift shop purveying quality merchandise.

In late afternoon a shuttle bus took us to a Dog Musher’s Camp on nearby Douglas Island, where we were greeted by 150 barking and howling Alaska sled dogs. Sixteen-dog teams were hitched to 6-passenger wheeled vehicles that enable dogs to train year-round for winter dog mushing, Alaska’s favorite sport.

The dogs’ excitement made us forget the rain and enjoy the one-mile ride. After the ride, mushers demonstrated equipment and talked about their dog racing experience. Finally it was much anticipated puppy petting time which helps pups become socialized with humans. 

Juneau’s attractions include Mendenhall Glacier, Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure, sport fishing, whale watching and helicopter flightseeing.

Sitka Like other towns in the Inside Passage, Sitka is an island that cannot be reached by roads or highways. Once a part of Russia, Sitka celebrates both its Russian and Native American heritage with dance troops.

Known for clean air and safety, this quiet town of 8,900 (far fewer in winter) offers a variety of hiking trails, museums, the Alaska Raptor Center and St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Cathedral. The local pharmacy features a 1950s-era soda fountain.

Ketchikan pulls out all to stops for cruisers with a flat attractive waterfront, large visitor center, free shuttle buses, plus friendly greeters, local tour operators, helpful shopkeepers and residents.

Although Ketchikan gets 152 inches of rain a year, it was sunny and in the 60s. We strolled Creek Street boardwalk and visited the Tongass Historical Museum.

Ketchikan honors its native heritage with the world’s largest totem pole collection preserved at the Totem Heritage Center. The town of 13,000 has a thriving arts community and is a sport fishing haven with five salmon species.

Victoria, B.C.

A festive ambiance greeted us during our Friday evening port call. After sunset, 3,300 lights lit up Parliament buildings, sidewalk musicians played lively tunes and attractions stayed open late. We toured the Royal BC Museum and strolled flower bedecked Inner Harbor walkways. On a previous port call, we toured Butchart Gardens, rode one of the cute ferries and did a CVS hop on/hop off tour.

Onboard experience Although Westerdam carried 1,923 guests and 800 crew, there were no long lines—and we never felt crowded. That’s because management strategically schedules meals and activities to avoid congestion.

Besides traditional Bingo, casino, dance lessons and swimming pools, Westerdam offered Windows technology and group cooking classes which Rob and I attended. Along with customary evening stage shows, musicians and comedians, the B. B. King’s Blues Club played music that made Beale Street famous.

When is the best time to cruise Alaska? Mark Pells, Westerda m Hotel Director, says May and September are good for empty nesters who like a quiet environment with fewer kids. Late July is best for King Salmon anglers.

“Reserve a balcony cabin, throw open your drapes in morning and walk around the top deck at sunset,” Pells said. “The sunset colors are amazing!”

To get maximum enjoyment from your Alaska experience Pells advised doing your pre-cruise homework. “Study the different ports, read the literature, check out the Web sites, then be ready to learn and explore. Listen to onboard lectures, watch the movies, and talk with other guests.”

If you go…

Seven Holland America ships ply Alaska waters between May and September.

All Photos: Pat Woods unless otherwise noted.

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Enjoyed reading your post. Of all the Holland ships that cruise from Vancouver, which is the best in your opinion?

Hi Robert, I’m happy to learn that your Alaska cruise, until the end, was a success. I’m glad you made it to the airport on time…but disappointed to learn about the miscommunication. Keep writing to Holland America or even send a “real” letter with a stamp on it. They do get back to their passengers and try to correct any issues. It takes a couple of months sometimes. Just about every cruise lines’ Customer Service department has been overwhelmed with problems that happened to their customers. Don’t give up! Thank you for taking the time to send me your comment. It’s always good to know what’s happening with readers’ cruises and dealings with the cruise lines.

Had a great cruise overall. Our captain was able to get back to a glacier when 3 other cruise lines didn’t due to fog. Fog cleared and had a great time. Food was amazing! Wish buffet opened earlier and stayed open later, but when it was open it was great. Staff was super awesome, very personal and interactive making it even more fun and relaxing. Only downside to this entire experience was that we signed up for the shuttle and the shuttle wasn’t running and we weren’t told until last minute, barely made it to airport. Never got the money I won in the casino, supposed to applied to my “account” but never happened. Tried to inquire about that and refund on the shuttle but sat on hold for 2 hours at a time and still unable to talk with a human being. Email has not worked either, still out that money. Wish their customer service was as good as the cruise itself.

Thanks, Linda. You are correct. It seems that I’m not the only site with the wrong prices for Pinnacle Grill. Those last two years without cruising really bumped up the dining fees. I have homework to do. Thanks again.

Your prices for the specialty restaurants are several years old. The actual price for the Pinnacle Grill is $46.00 PLUS mandatory gratuity of 18% means dinner for one is over $54.00. All the other prices you quoted are also more than what you stated.

Hi, I’m sorry you didn’t were not able to get closer to Marjerie Glacier. On my first cruise on a very small ship (Alaskan Dream Cruises) we were not allowed to approach Marjerie. The National Park Service limits the amount of ships (two per day) as well as how much time they spend up close. It was on my second cruise a month later aboard Eurodam that our captain had clearance to approach Marjerie Glacier. It was strange that my first small ship wasn’t allowed but Holland America was able to go. You really just never know. Holland’s captains are very experienced. And anyone who “drives” a boat in the Inside Passage absolutely is extremely experienced as well as totally in love with cruising Alaska. I hope that you were able to view other glaciers in Glacier Bay, Tracy Arm or Hubbard Glacier. Sherry

We and a lot of passengers were disappointed that the Neiw Amsterdam did not take us near enough to the Marjorie Glacier. We could see the Ruby Princess cruise ship was in front of us and it went right near to the Glacier and stayed there for sometime. We thought that our ship would do the same when the Princess moved but the Neiw Amsterdam turned round at a far away position , not allowing us the life time experience to see the glacier close enough. Probably, the Holland-America line Captains are not experienced enough.

These are such lovely pictures! I did the Inside Passage cruise along the coast of Alaska and found myself awestruck by the incredible beauty. The misty fjords of Ketchikan were simply spectacular. It was a town so full of rich history and I think you captured that aspect nicely here.

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Alaska Cruisetours

Explore denali national park on an alaska land and sea package, what's an alaska cruisetour.

Cruise:  Enjoy our top-rated 7-day Voyage of the Glaciers Alaska cruise vacation with two glacier-viewing experiences during your time on board.

Train:  Enjoy scenic rail travel from the ship to the lodge via our exclusive Direct-to-the-Wilderness® rail service for an all-encompassing Alaska cruisetour.

Lodge:  As a part of your Alaska cruisetour, spend three or more nights on land at Princess Wilderness Lodges located riverside near legendary national parks.

Explore Your Cruisetour Options

Need help choosing.

10 - 13 Nights

Denali Explorer

• Most popular
• 7-day Voyage of the Glaciers cruise
• 3-6 nights on land
• Exclusive Direct-to-the-Wilderness® Alaska rail service
• Stay in the Denali-area
• Natural History Tour into Denali National Park
• Fairbanks or Anchorage
• Select sightseeing included

13 - 15 Nights

Off the Beaten Path

• Go deeper into Alaska
• Kenai and/or Wrangell-St. Elias National Park
• Unique National Parks and Canadian Rockies Cruisetour options
• 6-8 nights on land
• Princess Alaska rail service
• Fairbanks and/or Anchorage

12 - 17 Nights

Connoisseur

• Highest level of service
• Escorted by a Tour Director
• 5-10 nights on land
• Tundra Wilderness Tour into Denali National Park
• Most meals included

10 - 11 Nights

On Your Own

• Most affordable option
• For independent travelers
• 3-4 nights on land
• No pre-scheduled activities

Katmai National Park cruisetour

New and exclusive to Princess! Offering a deeper connection with Alaska wildlife, this brand new itinerary combines a 7-day Voyage of the Glaciers cruise and two nights in Anchorage. Spend a day viewing brown bears at Katmai National Park and visit Alaska’s premier Wildlife Conservation Center

Ultimate Wildlife Adventure cruisetour

A Princess exclusive, this new cruisetour is curated to provide whales breaching in Glacier Bay National Park, bear viewing in Katmai National Park and observing Denali’s “Big 5” such as moose and caribou in Denali National Park. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled with the opportunities to observe these incredible creatures in their natural habitats. This 13-night cruisetour also features a visit to Alaska’s premier Wildlife Conservation Center.

National parks cruisetours

Explore five of Alaska’s National Parks with our National Park Cruisetour. Cruise Glacier Bay’s pristine waters, be awe-struck by Kenai Fjords icefields and feed your wanderlust by adventuring into Denali National Park. Accompanied by two more National Parks, the 15-night cruisetour is designed for explorers and wanderers.

Canadian Rockies cruisetours

Experience the breathtaking scenery of Banff National Park in the heart of the Rockies on our 14-night cruisetour with a 7-day Alaska cruise and luxury Rocky Mountaineer rail travel.

Alaska Cruisetour Experience

A closer look at Alaska’s interior.

Princess wilderness lodges

With Princess, you won’t just explore Alaska’s landscapes, you’ll live amidst them in our custom-built wilderness lodges. Located riverside next to some of the most renowned national parks, these warm and welcoming lodges are the perfect spot to bask in Alaska’s best attractions. As a part of your Alaska cruisetour, explore and unwind with comforting amenities and breathtaking scenery.

Voyage of the glaciers

Sail 500 miles deeper into the Gulf of Alaska and Prince William Sound on our top-rated Voyage of the Glaciers Alaska cruise vacation. Spend seven days traveling from Anchorage (Whittier) to Vancouver, B.C., stopping in historic port cities like Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway. Along the way, enjoy two glacier-viewing experiences on every itinerary – including Glacier Bay National Park, and Hubbard Glacier or College Fjord.

Direct-to-the-Wilderness® Alaska Rail Service

With glass-domed railcars, our exclusive Direct-to-the-Wilderness® rail service takes you into the heart of Alaska without juggling multiple tickets or confusing transfers. Enjoy convenience and comfort from ship to train and then directly to your Princess Wilderness Lodge in the Denali-area. We’ve taken care of everything on your Alaska cruisetour, so you can spend less time worrying and more time exploring.

Visit Denali National Park on every Alaska cruisetour

Every Princess Alaska cruisetour takes you to Denali National Park so you can enjoy a land beloved by millions but only seen by the adventurous. This national park is a dream destination for any serious Alaska traveler. With some of the most stunning wilderness in existence and famous wildlife, it’s part of the definitive experience of traveling to the Great Land’s wild interior.

Princess Lodges & Alaska Cities

Comfortable riverside lodges surrounded by natural beauty.

• Copper River Princess Wilderness Lodge®
• Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge®
• Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge®
• Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge®
• Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge®
• Anchorage (Whittier)

Embark on an unforgettable Alaska cruisetour to the Copper River Princess Wilderness Lodge®, where you can take in the beauty of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, the largest national park in the United States. Snow-covered mountains dominate the skyline while rivers feed the earth below. Explore your surroundings on a Copper River rafting trip, or fish for Alaska salmon in the mesmerizing waters.

All of our Alaska cruisetours include a stay at our premier Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge®, just one mile from the entrance of Denali National Park overlooking the Nenana River. Access some of the most stunning sights on earth — wilderness, wildlife and untamed land. Go flightseeing by Denali’s snow-covered peak, fly-fish for Arctic grayling, raft the Nenana River or venture into Denali on a park tour.

On the banks of the Chena River lies the Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge®. With riverside dining and frontier décor, the Fairbanks Lodge is the perfect excuse to extend your Alaska cruise vacation and dive deeper into your surroundings. Cruise down the Chena River on a sternwheeler riverboat, pan for gold at Gold Dredge 8 or ride ATVs through surrounding forests underneath the midnight sun.

Situated on the Kenai Peninsula overlooking the Kenai River, the Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge® is surrounded by mountains, rivers and wilderness inviting you to explore. Adventure through Chugach National Forest, cruise past Kenai Fjords National Parks’ glaciers or fish along the Kenai River. Take in the sights of this natural masterpiece at a leisurely pace only on an Alaska cruisetour.

Situated within Denali State Park near the Chulitna River, the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge® offers unparalleled views of Denali from the treehouse as well as the Great Room and expansive deck in the main lodge. Tour a working Alaska homestead and learn how the Great Land’s residents have become so self-sufficient. Or land in a helicopter on a glacier beneath the tallest peak in North America on your Alaska cruisetour.

Only an hour and a half from the cruise port of Whittier lies the largest city in Alaska – Anchorage. Visit the Chugach National Forest, the second largest national forest in the United States. Spend the day absorbing history at the Anchorage Museum. Or visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and see brown bears, moose and bison living in a protected habitat that perfectly emulates the wild.

Explore the Great Land

Voyage closer to the sights, sounds, wildlife and traditions that make Alaska unique.

Between the natural masterpieces and the animate personalities, every part of Alaska tells an extraordinary story. On an Alaska cruisetour with Princess, discover what makes the Great Land so special, and craft your own tales of your time on land and sea.

A sensory experience

Don’t just see the Great Land’s glaciers, feel them come alive on an Alaska cruisetour. Get up close to Mother Nature’s masterpieces and listen for the crash of “white thunder”. Visit wilderness playgrounds like Glacier Bay National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – along with even more natural wonderlands like Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier, College Fjord and Hubbard Glacier.

A nature lover's dream

From bald eagles to humpback whales, many animals call Alaska home. The waters are teeming with marine life, like king salmon, while the land is decorated by the colorful coats of Denali National Park’s “big five” – including grizzly bears, wolves, moose, Dall sheep and caribou. On an Alaska cruisetour, encounter wildlife in their natural habitats and experience their unique personalities for yourself.

Mountains & National Parks

National treasures

Alaska’s national parks are nothing short of impressive. Denali National Park boasts the continent’s highest peak, and Glacier Bay National Park is one of the world’s largest protected areas. You can discover even more magnificence during your Alaska cruisetour at Wrangell-St. Elias and Kenai Fjords National Parks, where one of the four largest ice caps in the world invites guests to explore its terrain.

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. Snuggle sled dog puppies in the ship's Piazza, 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 services of the representative.

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. And the best part is, they are absolutely 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 could win prizes!

#PrincessCruises Alaska Connection

See Alaska through our guests' eyes.

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See the Great Land’s glaciers, wildlife, and national parks.

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Home to North America’s tallest peak.

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7 Nights - 8 Days Anchorage to Fairbanks

plus a 7 day Voyage of the Glaciers Cruise

by Raye & Marty Trencher

It's September  at Trapper Creek, Alaska -  Since 1999 we have returned to Alaska a number of times. And each and every time this Great Land continues to amaze. We've cruised the Inside Passage and the Gulf of Alaska before. This time we chose to visit the interior of Alaska, at the end of the Summer season, in September. This is the time of the year, when the kids are back in school, the weather is mild and many cruise travelers take advantage of reduced rates just before every hotel, lodge, restaurant and gift shop shuts down for the winter. ( on or about September 17th )

On this trip we chose visits to Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Denali National Park. We also chose both Princess Rail and the Alaska Railroad's 'Goldstar" service as well as motorcoach transportation to get us from place to place.

We chose Princess Wilderness lodge accommodations as Princess has exclusive offers on over 26 land tours designed around its own custom-built lodges. We included the most popular sightseeing tours, including the more in-depth Tundra Wilderness Tour of the six million acre, Denali National Park and the Gold Dredge 8 and Discovery River Boat cruise in Fairbanks. Thus, giving our readers a well-rounded look at what they can expect when they visit Alaska.

This is a review of the land portion of a cruise tour that would involve a 7 day Northbound or Southbound Alaska Cruise from Vancouver to Anchorage or from Anchorage ( Whittler port ) to Vancouver, plus a 7 day land tour. Princess Cruise Ships that tie into this type of land tour are Island Princess, Coral Princess or Star Princess.

For more information on Alaska Cruses and Alaskan Cruisetours go here.

If you are planning to cruise Alaska, adding a land tour offers you the ultimate experience and greater insight into the wonders of Alaska. The opportunity to take advantage of a range of enriching options to see the Great Land's glaciers, frontier towns, wildlife and national parks from the perspective of spectacular ships, exclusive rail service and wilderness lodges.

The cost to add a 3 day land tour can be as little as $399 per person above the cruise fare, so it can be most affordable. More costly and longer land tours range from 4 to 8 days, and you can choose from hosted or fully-escorted, meal included Alaskan adventures.

So let's get started with our review.

To our surprise the hotel had a very special guest staying at the hotel at the same time we were in residence; The President of the United States. President Obama was in Alaska for a series of visits centered around the environment. So, there was a huge security presence and some adjustments guests had to make like going through security similar to what you find at the airport. The inconveniences were minimal and we were able to get around the hotel and surrounding streets with ease.

Before dinner we paid a visit to the "Log Cabin", Anchorage's Visitor Information Center downtown.  Friendly and helpful guides can assist you in finding just the right things to see and do during your visit in Anchorage and it's surroundings.  We learned that Anchorage is a place where floatplanes are almost as common as cars. And, if you travel at the peak of summer, total daylight lasts as long as 18 hours a day!

Our three favorite things to do in and around Anchorage;

The following morning, we had breakfast at Anchorage's well-known Snow City Cafe. The restaurant is famous for serving the freshest ingredients available and they buy from local vendors whenever they can. Most everything they serve is made from scratch. They also offer a range of healthy choices, such as egg whites, fat-free cooking spray, or a side of fruit instead of hash browns. Try the reindeer sausage. This Cafe is a must see-and-do visit when you are in Anchorage. After breakfast, we boarded our transfer coach headed for the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge. On our three-hour motorcoach trip from Anchorage to the lodge, the landscape is dotted with long stretches of valley and wetlands populated with daisies, black and white spruce, cottonwoods, aspens and red fireweed, the state flower.

The ride up to the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge ** took a little over 3 hours. Along the way, we were treated to an entertaining and informative commentary from our Drive/Guide Penny. In her 70's, Penny was a treasure trove of facts and stories about Alaska. The weather along the way was as near perfect for Alaska as you can get. Bright blue skies, and nary a cloud to block the spectacular scenery. As we approached our destination, we were treated to numerous sightings of the 20,320-ft.-high Denali, North America's tallest peak.

Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge is just 40 miles from the peak of the mountain. On the day we arrived the mountain was in full view. That's a rare occurrence, due to the mountains changing weather patterns, and it only happens about 30% of the time. It's a spectacular view -- when you can get it. The lodges' back deck faces the mountain, and offers one of the most inspirational views of the mountain found anywhere.  The "Great Room"  features floor-to-ceiling windows that look out on Denali and the Alaska Range.

A variety of exciting Denali tours and outdoor adventures await you with over 25 options including fishing tours, a glacier walk, and a backcountry wilderness adventure, river rafting, a jet boat safari, and even a thrilling flight that takes you to the base of Denali. WiFi is free in the main lodge. A shuttle service makes daily hourly trips to and from Talkeetna ($10 r/t charge). There is a regular free shuttle that will take you anywhere you want to go on the property.  Local Denali State Park volunteers are on hand and provide nature briefings.

At the Grizzly Bar you'll find an extensive wine list and a selection of fine Alaskan-brewed beers.

Across the street from the shuttle bus drop off, you'll find Shirley's Burger Barn.  Plan to visit Talkeetna around the lunch hour and you will not be disappointed. Our friend Shirley runs this small lunch stand which features seriously good hamburgers and hotdogs.  Shirley is famous. She has been featured with a cover story in Rachael Ray's cooking magazine.   Shirley's friendly, chatty and a great story teller. But what she does best is make great burgers that are thick, juicy, and in our opinion some of the best in the world! She makes her own fries and serves up large portions. She'll cook your burger perfectly from medium rare to well-done... anyway you want it. For desert try the Fireweed Ice Cream.  Naturally, we make it a must stop place to eat whenever we are in Talkeetna. The next morning, we boarded our glass-domed rail car at the Talkeetna Train Depot bound for Denali National Park.

You should give some thought as to what you should pack in your separate suitcase destined for the cruise ship. That suitcase will not travel with you on land, but will be sent directly to the departure port and will appear in your cabin when you board the ship.  We recommend for the land tour you pack as light as possible.

Early afternoon, we arrived at the Denali Rail Depot and were transferred to the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge, located about a mile from the entrance to Denali National Park on Highway 3, a major roadway.

Be sure to experience the Music of Denali { next door at the McKinley Lodge ]- a dinner theater featuring a hearty Alaska meal and a rollicking musical comedy that recounts the first ascent of Denali.

The highlight of our visit was the longer Tundra Wilderness Tour of Denali National Park. This comprehensive full-day tour travels deep into Denali National Park for the best possible wildlife viewing, Denali viewpoints and a host of magnificent vistas. Travel 53 miles into the park to the Toklat River rest area as it offers a wonderful diversity for visitors. Incredible scenery, a narrated history of the park road, by tour buses featuring a trained naturalist who both drives the bus and narrates during the trip.

Visiting Denali National Park is all about spotting wildlife. Denali is six million acres of wild land, bisected by one ribbon of road. Travelers along it see the relatively low-elevation taiga forest give way to high alpine tundra and snowy mountains, culminating in North America's tallest peak, 20,320' Denali. Wild animals large and small roam un-fenced lands, living as they have for ages. Solitude, tranquility and wilderness await.

Some of the best opportunities to view the park's wildlife inhabitants await you on this tour. When your tour driver is able, they will take video footage of animals along the road and project the image onto the screen so you can get a close-up look at the action. Dress in warm layers.  You will need a good digital camera with a significantly large zoom lense and powerful binoculars.

On our trip within Denali National Park, we had a Moose cross the road just in front of our bus. Spotted Dall sheep high up on sheer cliffs, and got up close to a brown bear!  We got a glimpse of a caribou, gray-wolf, red-tailed fox and a lynx.  Park tour is approximately 8 hours. Due to Park Service regulations, school buses are used.

Learn more about the Wildlife of Denali from the National Park Service:

The buses do not have restrooms; however, rest stops are made approximately every 90 minutes.  Be sure to check your welcome packet upon arrival to confirm the exact tour departure time. Wheelchair accessible buses are available.

If you want to maximize your chances to see wildlife, take the Tundra Wilderness Tour.  Or consider the shorter Natural History Tour ( about 4.5 hours ). While wildlife viewing may occur, the chances are much slimmer than with other trips. You can learn more about Denali National Park. Visit http://www.nps.gov/dena/index.htm  

Later that day, we headed back to the Denali Train Depot for our train ride to Fairbanks. This time we traveled on the Alaska Railroad's " Goldstar" Service. Like the Princess Rail cars, we had seats in the glass-domed car and had dinner in the dining room on the lower deck. Good service and good food. Travel time to Fairbanks around 4 hours. We arrived around 8:00pm.

Fairbanks was founded by miners consumed with the gold fever that swept Alaska at the turn of the century. As gateway to Alaska's rugged interior, Fairbanks is where the real Alaska begins - the Alaska of the Northern Lights and the Midnight Sun.

Here, at the edge of Alaska's vast wilderness frontier, we stayed at the Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge . The lodge's location is best situated, ideally located just minutes from the Fairbanks International Airport and Alaska Railroad depot.. The property is also convenient to the downtown area and the University of Alaska Fairbanks as well as popular attractions such as the Gold Dredge 8, the Riverboat Discovery, and Pioneer Park.

We enjoyed the serene views of the Chena River while dining in the Edgewater Restaurant. The hotel also features the Trackers Bar & Grill for spirits, appetizers and light fare or stroll out to the Riverview deck to sip your favorite beverage and select from a menu of tantalizing treats while relaxing at river's edge. We found the accommodations comfortable, and spacious.

The following morning we booked a combination tour : Gold Dredge 8 and the Riverboat Discovery . The tour bus departed directly from the Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge.

When we arrived, we took a seat aboard a replica of the narrow-gauge Tanana Valley Railroad and heard the conductor and prospector, tell tales of those who arrived by the thousands during the gold rush.  The train ride took us to Gold Dredge 8 where we saw first-hand how the dredge worked the gold fields, then we received a brief but informative course on gold panning. 

There is complimentary coffee and freshly baked cookies in the gift shop as your gold is weighed, then we hopped aboard the train and returned to the station. We then enjoyed a close up view of the Trans Alaska Pipeline and a presentation about it's construction and operation. 

We boarded our motorcoach for our trip over to the Riverboat Discovery, the only remaining authentic Alaskan sternwheeler for a cruise along the Chena and Tanana rivers in the Chena River State Recreation Area. With the feel of an old-time steamboat that frequented the river during the gold rush days, this modern-day riverboat features an open sun deck, heated glass enclosed decks and is equipped with video equipment so you won't miss any of the beautiful scenery. During this narrated cruise, you will witness the "wedding of the rivers." The marriage of these two mighty rivers creates quite a unique line when the clear waters of the Chena meet the Tanana, the world's greatest glacier river carrying tons of glacial silt from the Alaska Range.

And we were immersed into the ancient Athabascan Indian culture when our Alaskan Native Guides took us on a personalized tour of the Old Chena Indian Village. At the home of Dave Monson and Susan Butcher, the late four-time Iditarod champion, we met their winning sled dogs and witnessed a dog sleg demonstration. From there, we continued on to the Old Chena Indian Village and disembarked for a glimpse into Alaskan Native life and history. We toured an Athabascan Indian village with cabins made of spruce logs, a cache used for storing supplies, a primitive spruce bark hut and fur pelts. Our guides explained how the wolf, fox, martin and beaver were used to provide food and protection in the harsh Arctic climate. They also shared how the Athabascans skillfully survived for over 10,000 years and how they adapted to village life and Western culture in the past century.

If you have the time ( and the budget ) some of our favorite things to do in and around Fairbanks are;

Arctic Circle Air Adventure Don't miss this opportunity to cross the Arctic Circle! Experience the rugged and magnificent Brooks Mountain Range. You'll receive an official Arctic Circle Adventure Certificate.

Chena Hot Springs & Ice Museum Experience the "hottest" and "coolest" attractions in Alaska - a natural hot springs, ice museum and great dinner!

You can take this Alaska land tour, northbound ( after your 7 day cruise ) or Southbound ( Before your 7 day cruise). Given the pace and activity level, we highly recommend you do the land tour first, then your cruise.

At the Princess Denali Wilderness Lodge and the Fairbanks Princess Lodge, you can ask the front desk to arrange a Northern Lights wakeup call.  They will alert you, anytime during the night should the aurora borealis be in view. On our final night of the trip, our hotel phone rang at 12:30am, to view the aurora borealis shimmering across the sky. Unfortunately, the viewing was brief as cloud cover moved in.

And, if you really want to immerse yourself in the splendor and beauty of Alaska book a flightseeing trip by helicopter or plane, to land on glaciers and see up close Alaska's majestic mountains.

 In a week, we covered an amazing amount of territory, some 450 miles,  with visits to Anchorage, Fairbanks  and the wilderness destinations of Talkeetna, and Denali. We got to see Denali in full view,  thus, joining the 30% club! We rode the rails and learned about native cultures. We got up close with wildlife, experienced stunning imagery, including snow-capped mountain peaks, lakes and rivers. We savored traditional local foods ( Like reindeer sausage and Alaskan salmon ).  And we enjoyed sharing our experiences with our new found friends along the way.

To Learn More About Alaska, Alaska Cruises & Cruisetours visit Alaska Cruises Direct  

The friendly face of the frontier

saloons, and the vibrant influence

of Native cultures. These are places that exemplify the friendly and unique character that has always defined the Alaskan people.

� In Juneau, the charming state capital, you'll find shops, caf�s and the storied Red Dog Saloon. Just outside town is the famous urban Mendenhall Glacier.

� Ketchikan, the self-proclaimed "Salmon Capital of the World,� is situated around a vibrant harbor and famous Creek Street, where shops and caf�s abound.

� Rustic Skagway retains its authenticity as the "Gateway to the Yukon,� offering attractions such as a ride on a Gold Rush-era railroad and lovingly restored storefronts, wooden sidewalks and local characters.

� The "Golden Heart City� of Fairbanks, established with the discovery of gold on the Chena and Tenana Rivers, is a feature of the land portion of certain cruise tours and pairs frontier charm with unique experiences like a sternwheeler riverboat cruise.

� Anchorage, Alaska's largest city, is beautifully situated on the Cook Inlet, and offers a scenic setting with shopping, restaurants and cultural institutions such as the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center.

** In addition to the McKinley and Denali Lodges, Princess' two other lodges are located on the Kenai Peninsula and at the edge of Wrangell-St. Elias, the nation's largest national park, which boasts nine of North America's tallest mountains. These lodges as well as the Fairbanks Riverside Lodge operate between May and September

No One Knows Alaska Like We Do.

At Alaska Cruises Direct we not only have the largest selection of Alaska Cruises, Land & Sea Vacations and Cruise tours available, we've been there. We know how to show you the great wonders of this land. Our staff is ready to share their expertise with you. You can shop online and compare itineraries, ships and sailing dates from four major-brand cruise lines that have 96% of all Alaska Cruise and Tours. So, if you want to see more, learn more and experience a more memorable side of Alaska, call us, speak to a knowledgeable Certified Alaska Cruise Expert and ask all the questions, find out all the details. Call us at 800.365.1445. The call is free, as so is the advice.

Chances are you've spent countless hours, days, or perhaps weeks trying to plan a vacation on your own, that's at a price you can afford? We've been there and done that! And, when you finally have your vacation plans in hand, your not quite done. Now, you may need to choose form a myriad of onboard activities, shore excursions land tours and more. The entire process for some can be frustrating and seem overwhelming.

Here's why talking with a real person, a Certified Alaska Vacation Planner, will take the stress out of your vacation planning process. Are the services of a Certified Alaska Vacation Planner worth it? You bet it is! You see, we don't charge any agency fees to book, change, or cancel your cruise or tour. Meaning we help you create a cruise vacation curated just to you for free! Of course, cruise line imposed fees, for booking, cancellations, and changes may occur.

What are some benefits of working with a Certified Alaska Vacation Planner?

Planning your cruise vacation with a Certified Alaska Vacation Planner will ensure that you get the best service at an affordable price. Why spend hours searching the web for the best deal when your Certified Alaska Vacation Planner already knows all about them. Our job is to provide you with options that offer the most affordable and budget-fitting vacation possible. Our Certified Alaska Vacation Planners even have exclusive cruise vacation deals and prices that you can't find anywhere else!  Check out some of the amazing deals for Alaska cruising here.

Experience, education and expertise Our Certified Alaska Vacation Planners go above and beyond, providing that "been there, done that" experience, education and expertise, cruise line call centers and others don't. Our staff handles and/or gives advice for every aspect of your trip from ground transportation to shore excursions, and more! Working with a Certified Alaska Vacation Planner makes your trip experience that much better.

More that just basic destination knowledge. A whole lot more! When it's time to start thinking about an Alaska vacation, we can help you decide on the best destinations, ports of call and share ideas based on your interests, and what is affordable. Our Certified Alaska Vacation Planners are real " Insiders", and will review the cruises, land tours, wilderness lodges, rail, and more. They can help you pick the cruise line, land tours and itinerary that best suits your interests.  Our Certified Alaska Vacation Planners have traveled the Inside Passage, cruised the Gulf of Alaska and explored interior Alaska, including Denali National Park many times - so you will be working with a Certified Alaska Vacation Planner who has experienced Alaska firsthand!

Comments & Testimonials

" Raye, We had a wonderful time on our vacation. The cruise was fantastic. The service, the food and the entertainment was great. We had great weather at all of our stops. We did the Lumberjack show in Ketchikan which was very entertaining and enjoyed by all of us. In Juneau we did the Mt. Robert's Tram, a whale watch and the Mendenhall Glacier. All three excursions were great. In Skagway we did the White Pass Railroad which was fantastic. My nine year old granddaughter stood on the platform of the train, with her father, and just kept saying how beautiful Alaska is...The land tour was very nice. The lodges were all beautiful... The Kenai lodge was really nice but very spread out. They did have a shuttle service that would take you any where on the property. The rooms at the Kenai lodge were our favorite. The rooms were very large and they all had a wood stove and a deck... We enjoyed our trip to Seward. The Sea Life Center was great. Seward was very busy because of the holiday weekend and the Mt. Marathon race that took place on the 4th. Mt. McKinley lodge was my favorite. We took your advice and went to the fire pits. The restaurant we ate at was good. The trails around the property were closed because of bear sightings. We took the first shuttle to Talkeetna the next day. That was an interesting little town. I had to try the Fireweed ice cream that was very good. We enjoyed the train ride to Denali. We did see a moose. The Denali lodge was very nice. We took your advice again and went to the Husky Homestead. My granddaughters loved that excursion. Jeff King is such a great speaker. I am sure we will all follow the Iditarod next year. The Natural History Tour of Denali was good. We had a great driver. Our tour had to be modified because of a young bear in the area that had attacked two people. We did get out of the bus one time but we all had to stay together. Park rangers were at the stop making sure no one went on the trails. We saw a moose eating on the side of the road and one caribou. We did like the dining shuttle at the Denali lodge. We found that all of the Princess lodges seem to have pretty much the same menu so it was time for a change. The Fairbanks Lodge was really nice. We took the shuttle into town and spent some time exploring. The Riverboat Discovery and Gold Dredge 8 were great. On Saturday we took a shuttle to North Pole and then spent a few hours at Pioneer Park before getting our flight home. The best part of the land tour was not having to handle our luggage. We even checked our luggage, for our flight home, at the lodge in Fairbanks and got our boarding passes. We had reserved rental cars in Fairbanks for our last day but ended up canceling them when we found out we didn't need to take our luggage to the airport. It was cheaper to take a shuttle where we wanted to go. It was a wonderful trip and we all enjoyed every minute of it. The two weeks went by so quickly. Thank you for all your help and making it so easy to book this vacation."

"Late last night, Pat and I returned from an 11 day trip to Alaska. Truly The Last Frontier. We had the pleasure of traveling with 6 of our very dear and close friends, Mike & Susie, Ron & Rachel and Craig & Diane. We saw incredible scenery, moose, mountain sheep and goats, humpback whales, dolphins, and a wolf. We examined Mt. McKinley up close and personal in a small airplane. We watched in awe the calving of the immense glaciers in Glacier Bay. The weather was absolutely beautiful. As can be seen in the picture, we are now a part of the 30% of visitors who actually get to see "The Mountain--Denali--Mt. McKinley". Raye, your planning was perfect--we had no problems whatsoever. We thanked you several times throughout our trip for suggesting we do the land portion first, followed by a restful 7 days on the ship. I've attached a picture of the 8 of us standing in front of "The Mountain", [Mt. McKinley] which on that day looked like a movie backdrop--drawn to perfection and beautiful beyond words! Again Raye, thank you so much for helping to make our trip unforgettable!"

- Walt Stout

"Our trip was excellent. The room, with the upgrades, was amazing! We saw many eagles (bald and golden), one bear, many whales, including one breach, seals, one bear, one wolf, moose and carribou, and many smaller animals.. If we travelled during salmon run, we probably would have seen more bear and eagles. The scenery is to die for, the vistas spectacular. The ship was great; service, food, etc were all great. Thanks for everything. "

- Larry Seidler

Learn About Denali National Park

Our group wanted to thank you for all your attention and follow-up provided to us on our Princess Cruisetour of Alaska. Everything from the ship cabins, to the hotel accommodations, logistics, land tours and shore excursions were all very well prepared. Our group of 10 all expressed gratitude for your assistance in helping us select the best Alaska excursions and keeping us all informed. I learned you contacted each couple individually and provided continuance help and guidance. Everyone was very pleased with your periodic updates. You and your company have earned the highest recommendation and we look forward to calling you for our future vacation plans - Don Elbert  

Today's Best Alaska Cruise Deals Compare top-rated Alaska Cruises & Alaskan Cruisetours [ land + sea vacations ]. Sort by departure port, month and rating to find the right sailing & land tour for you. Reserve for Free: No obligation courtesy hold available on eligible voyages*

► Click Here. Request a FREE no-obligation Cruise or Cruisetour Price Quote from your choice of 9 cruise lines.

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About Us Connect with like-minded Alaska cruise travelers that are actually experienced, having been there, and done that! They are eager to share their own stories about visiting Alaska, both from the sea and on the land. If you need help, have questions or want more information, talk to them. They are advocates who love Alaska,, it's people, wildlife, wonders and wilderness. Our efforts focus on working hard to build great lasting relationships by invested in getting to know our client's personal passions and finding experiences that are tailored to what they wish to discover. By developing our knowledge of your interests, preferences, and style, we are better able to anticipate your desires and needs. Our Certified Alaska Cruise Experts take that extra step that shows commitment and dedication to creating memorable experiences on an individual personal basis. They also stand by you, every step of the way.

The person you speak to on your first contact with us, is the same person you deal with throughout the planning, pre-and post cruise experience. There's no call center here. Our Certified Alaska Cruise Experts want to get to know not just your travel preferences, but also your personal passions. That way, we will be able to suggest to you the right itinerary that connects to an emotional response, which is critical to creating a defining experience and lasting memory for you. Now, building those successful, genuine, long-term relationships with our clients, as well as the cruise lines we work with, is something that occurs over time. So, since 1999 we have been hard at work, getting better at it everyday. Experience, Education and Expertise Our Certified Alaska Vacation Planners go above and beyond, providing that "been there, done that" experience, education and expertise, cruise line call centers and others don't. Our staff handles and/or gives advice for every aspect of your trip from ground transportation to shore excursions, and more! Working with a Certified Alaska Vacation Planner makes your trip experience that much better. When it's  time to start thinking about an Alaska vacation, we can help you decide on the best destinations, ports of call and share ideas based on your interests, and what is affordable. Our Certified Alaska Vacation Planners are real " Insiders", and will review the cruises, land tours, wilderness lodges, rail, and more. They can help you pick the cruise line, land tours and itinerary that best suits your interests. Our Certified Alaska Vacation Planners have traveled the Inside Passage, cruised the Gulf of Alaska and explored interior Alaska, including Denali National Park many times - so you will be working with a Certified Alaska Vacation Planner who has experienced Alaska first hand! The Value of Knowledge And Know-How, from Alaska Certified Experts. We have Certified Alaskan Cruise Experts who are eager to help you sort through all your options, answer all questions, give you their best advice and book your cruise or cruise tour. Certified Alaskan Cruise Experts have years of hands-on destination experience and expertise in travel to Alaska. And, we're a Top Selling Agent in North America...so our buying power and connections go a long way to getting you a great deal! Plus, we offer some amazing shore excursions. Choose salmon fishing, taking a helicopter and flight see over and land on glaciers, kayaking, trekking, panning for god or feel the exhilaration of riding a dogsled, Alaska shore excursions are all adventure! Need Help? Have Questions? Want More Information. Sometimes it pays to put yourself in the hands of the experts. Discover extraordinary fun, must-do experiences and savings with a well-planned Alaska cruise vacation. Planning a trip can become like a second job. So many decisions. So many websites. Enough information to fill a book, actually, hundreds of them. That's where we can help. We've organized all the must-see, destinations, sights and must-do adventures into a single Alaska cruise vacation site, Alaska Cruises Direct. You'll get expert guides, find great advice and service, and learn how to maximum the amount of time in each port to enjoy your vacation. We save you the precious time it takes to organize your Alaska cruise vacation and preview the ultimate shore side experiences during your cruise vacation. And, on top of that, show you where to find value priced cruises to save you money. All you have to do now, is relax and enjoy your Alaska cruise vacation.  You can make a checklist of what to pack. You may even consult those friends that made a similar journey. If you are meticulous, you will read that robust guide book from cover to cover. Yet no amount of research and extensive travel planning will prepare you for the sheer wonder of Alaska. So, now is a great time to get started. Let us introduce our dedicated Team of Certified Alaska Travel Experts that with just one phone call, [ 800.365.1445 ] review local culture and history with customized guidance for each Alaska destination. No Initial Deposit Required - Book Now, Take Your Time To Decide. Pay Later Call us at 800.365.1445 to reserve your cruise with no initial deposit necessary! Right now, when you book an Alaska sailing or Alaskan Cruisetour at least 120 days prior to cruise departure, we will waive your initial booking deposit and place your reservation on a "Courtesy Hold". Giving you up to 3-7 days to decide if the sailing date, rate and accommodations meet your wants and needs. If you choose not to book it, the courtesy hold automatically expires with no effort, nor obligation on your part. Others may charge you up to 10% of your total costs just to hold your reservation. Your original deposit must be paid before the courtesy hold expires and final payment ( your balance due after placing a deposit) will be due around 75 days prior to sailing. Not valid on bookings requiring non-refundable deposits. Real Helpful People, Not Call Center Operators! When you work with a Certified Alaska Vacation Planner, you're speaking with an experienced professional, who is assigned to you through out the process. Unlike the cruise line call center, when you never get the same person twice. And, the cruise line operator only has the cruise line interests in mind, not yours. Working with a Certified Alaska Vacation Planner can help make your travel plans better. Better than you ever could on your own. Ask all your questions, take all the time you need . If you do decide to travel with us, that's great. But, if not, it's still ok. We enjoy sharing our life's travel experiences with you and like-minded travelers, none the less. Your Personal Cruise Concierge Booking a cruise should be a simple and straight forward experience, and for the most part it is. However, we all know about the many details to take care of. Details, that at times can seem overwhelming. Imagine having someone available to assist you with all of your destination, onboard and ashore needs. Our Certified Cruise Travel Experts act as your personal cruise concierge. Creating a curated trip designed to meet your budget, wants and needs. Their advice is free and so is the phone call to reach them. So, call 800.365.1445 to get started.

"Awaken your love of the great outdoors when you experience the boundless splendor of the Alaska wilderness on board a cruise ship. Alaska: Mother Nature's piece de resistance. It is, quite simply, the world in its purest form. Imagine vast glacial fields juxtaposed against immense evergreen forests, infinite fields of wildflowers, and heady rushing waterfalls. Nowhere on earth is as diverse as The Last Frontier as seen in the summertime. Oh, and do not forget to pack your sun block. Summer temperatures in Alaska are mild and the days last well into the night."

Alaska Sightseeing, Shore Excursions, Activities & Adventures We invite you to expand the horizons of your favorite activities with new experiences. Explore the culture, sights, and adventures waiting beyond the shore in the most active, engaged, and fun ways imaginable.. Every port gives you a world of possibilities as you interact with the locals and choose the dynamic, interactive activities that appeal to you most. It's Alaska in a whole new way!

Energetic Exploration : For the Alaskan traveler who thrives on motion and action, explore a broad range of energetic excursions. You might find yourself on a jogging tour through mountain trails, or on a 4-wheeler back country tour around Denali or even on a canoe trip right up close to a glacier. From a heli-landing trek on a glacier to explore crevasses to hiking in the forest, these included excursions pack real get-up-and-go for those who like to do the same . Discover More

Nature & Wildlife Anchorage: Kayaking in Prince William Sound Glide through pristine waters on this approximately 3 hour kayaking excursion in Prince William Sound. Copper River: Worthington Glacier Hike Take a snow day and hike on the ice blue Worthington Glacier. After reaching the glacier, strap on a pair of crampons, then take a hike. Denali: Denali Glacier Landing by Helicopter Soar over the Alaska Range for a glacier landing to view icefalls, moraines, ice bridges and glacial pools as well as wildlife. Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier Native Canoe Adventure Be among the select few, under a limited U.S. Forest Service permit, to travel as Native Alaskans once did by canoe and venture within yards of the majestic Mendenhall Glacier. Ketchikan: Alaska Wilderness Survival This epic journey takes you to a wild and secluded island where you'll learn to build a shelter, collect food, and start a fire. Back on the boat, explore the Inside Passage coast with opportunities to discover a variety of wildlife species. Mt. McKinley: Three Rivers Tour Board the fully-enclosed McKinley Queen jet boat and cruise along three rivers that offer panoramic views of Mt. McKinley and breathtaking flora and fauna. Skagway: Horseback Riding Adventure Escape the hustle and bustle of port and come discover the awe-inspiring Alaska beauty just as the pioneers did on horseback! Anchorage: Prince William Sound 26 Glacier Tour Hop aboard a high-speed catamaran and travel 140 miles into Prince William Sound to see 26 named glaciers, as well as an abundance of wildlife. Copper River: Copper Country Discovery Tour Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Copper River Country. Enjoy a scenic van ride and interpretive discussion with a professional naturalist guide. RECOMMENDED Juneau: Whale Watching & Wildlife Quest Experience southeast Alaska's incredible scenery and amazing natural history on this exceptional wildlife excursion that offers a whale-sighting guarantee. Ketchikan: Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour Join a 3-hour cruise aboard the Aleutian Ballad from season two of the TV series Deadliest Catch to learn about the world of commercial fisherman. Ketchikan: Neets Bay Bear Watch & Flight RECOMMENDED After an exhilarating 25-minute flight, embark on a nature walk to Neets Bay in Tongass National Forest, and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get an up-close view of black bears. Skagway: Haines Wilderness River Adventure A jet boat tour deep into the heart of the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve offers a true wilderness experience where you may see eagles, moose and bears.

Sightseeing & City Tours Special Interests Fairbanks: Fairbanks Highlights Adventure Visit Fairbanks' top attractions - The Morris Thompson Cultural Center, Museum of the North and Santa Claus House in North Pole where it's Christmas year-round! Juneau: Juneau's Exclusive Highlights Experience Juneau's most scenic, unique and historic sites from the comfort of a deluxe minibus on this small group adventure. Kenai: Explore Historic Seward Take a guided tour along Alaska's only National Scenic Byway to the historic town of Seward, where attractions include the Seward Museum, Alaska Sealife Center, Exit Glacier and more. Ketchikan: Saxman Native Village & Totem Pole Park Visit fascinating Saxman Native Village, witness Native dancing and see the craft of totem carving before taking a motorcoach tour of historic Ketchikan. Seattle: Space Needle, Pike Place Market & City Tour See Seattle's premier attractions, from the soaring Space Needle to vibrant Pike Place Market. Skagway: White Pass Scenic Railway Take a thrilling ride aboard the historic Gold Rush-era White Pass & Yukon Railroad. Victoria, B.C., Canada: Victoria by Horse-Drawn Trolley Experience the beauty of Victoria by horse-drawn trolley, a timeless tradition and wonderful way to view this historic city. Denali: Music of Denali Dinner Theatre Delight in a wonderful, feel-good musical comedy paired with an all-you-can-eat Alaskan dinner buffet. Fairbanks: Chena Hot Springs Experience the "hottest" and "coolest" attractions in Alaska - a natural hot springs, ice museum and great dinner! Juneau: Salmon Sportfishing Adventure Fish for salmon in one of the most productive fishing grounds in southeast Alaska. Kenai: Gold Panning with "Prospector John" Enjoy a true gold panning experience with Prospector John as he takes you back to the days of the Gold Rush, then through the steps of modern and old-time techniques. Skagway: Gold Panning, Sled Dogs & Exclusive Scenic Railway Relive life as a prospector on this tour that takes you back in time to the Gold Rush. Ride the vintage railcars on the historic White Pass Railway with a costumed guide and celebrate your adventure at the summit with a one-of-a-kind Klondike toast. Victoria, B.C., Canada: Enchanting Butchart Gardens This 55-acre floral wonderland, featuring themed gardens and meandering paths, is illuminated with colored lights and magical effects.

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"The rugged grandeur of the last frontier greets you with its jagged peaks, verdant valleys and icy blue glacial waters.

It welcomes you with curious wildlife that frolics in its seas, roams in its valleys and soars in its cobalt blue sky.

It shares with you its genuine people and fresh Alaska seafood.

Say hello to Alaska and find out the many ways it can inspire you ."

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About The Prices   Save as much as 10-70% off brochure rates for off peak departures ( select May and September dates ). Other savings available for peak season departures ( June, July August ) Not every ship, not every sailing is discounted. Call us to find out about your cruise selection. 800.365.1445. The prices and descriptions of cruises and tours shown, are suggestions to give you an idea of how much you can do on land and on the sea in Alaska within your budget. The prices shown are just a guide, as there are over 90 combinations of land and/or sea tours to choose from and the cost varies depending upon what cruise line, cruise ship, destination, sailing or departure date you choose. They are meant to serve as a starting point for trip planning, with a variety of options to fit your needs. For example, you can easily combine Gulf of Alaska/Inside Passage 7-day cruise itineraries with a 3 to 7 day land tour to make a 14-day itinerary, from Vancouver to Fairbanks, or reverse the route for most trips.

*Princess Cruises Captain's Circle Launch Savings of up to $200 per person discount is applicable in all categories and combinable only with Launch Fares and Group Fares. Specific discount amounts vary by itinerary and cruise length. Regional and other past guest promotions or "new booking only" promotions are not combinable with the discount. Princess Cruises Captain's Circle Launch Savings is not applicable to third and fourth berth guests.

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• Norwegian Cruise Line

14-Day Alaska Cruisetour Live Review

By jwatford , July 20, 2018 in Norwegian Cruise Line

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So I booked the 14-Day Southbound Alaska Cruisetour over a year ago and the time has finally come! I leave on Tuesday, July 24th!

This is my first land/sea tour ( I have done around 20 cruises - 7 of them to Alaska). As you can imagine I had dozens of questions and really could not find answers to all of them. So I thought I would write this “live” review for anyone out there like me who had dozens of questions.

So it begins....

My itinerary is as follows:

July 24 - fly into Fairbanks and stay overnight at the Bear Lodge

July 25-27- Denali, stay at the Denali Park Village

July 27 - Anchorage

July 28-29 - Homer

July 30 - Seward (board the Jewel)

July 31 - Cruise Hubbard Glacier

Aug 1 - Icy Strait Point

Aug 2 - Juneau/Cruise Sawyer Glacier

Aug 3 - Skagway

Aug 4 - Ketchikan

Aug 5 - Cruise Inside Passage

Aug 6 - Disembark in Vancouver

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We will start this live review off with the basics. Please bare with me as this is my first live review. Please feel free to ask any questions and I will try to get you answers!!

I received my docs from NCL with hotel assignments about 25 days prior to departure. In the docs they details out where you will stay and and what excursions are included in the land part of the cruisetour.

I was really happy to find out that they do give you the option of storing your suitcases that you do not need until you get on the ship during the land portion. I was worried that I would have to lug two suitcases with me in and out of every hotel!

Stay tuned, more to come!!

I am taking this trip with my 66 year old mother. This is on her bucket list. I am 41 and leaving the hubby home to take care of the dog!

We are only 3 days out from leaving and I have been completely packed for a week now! As you can tell, I am super excited.

You will not have to "lug" any suitcases around. Or you shouldn't. Our land/cruise trip was on RCCL but I assume it's similar. The suitcases you need will be delivered to your hotel room (usually even before you get to your room!) and picked up outside your hotel room when you are heading to a new city. There will be a designated time to set them outside your hotel room. Usually quite early in the morning. If you forget something you need in the bags you have stowed until the cruise, they will get it out for you at your request. I had to do that a couple of times. :o

As I said, this was on RCCL and it was 13 years ago. I would guess it's very similar in NCL. We had an awesome time and saw tons of wildlife at Denali Park.

Have a great time (you will!) and I'll be following along on your review. :)

Looking forward to you review. We are looking at doing an Alaskan cruise tour but are not sure if we want Northbound or Southbound or how many days we want to spend on the land portion yet. I am researching and your review will help with our decision.

My suggestion would be to do southbound doing the land portion first. You will be exhausted after the land portion changing hotels nearly every night. LOL! It makes it such a relief to get on the ship after, unpack and be done with that for 7 nights.

Do as many nights as you possibly can for the land portion. We did 5 nights and wish we had done 6. (6 was the max on RCCL when we did it. Not sure what NCL offers.) There is so much to see and who knows if you'll ever get back.

AshleyDillo

My suggestion would be to do southbound doing the land portion first. You will be exhausted after the land portion changing hotels nearly every night. LOL! It makes it such a relief to get on the ship after, unpack and be done with that for 7 nights.   Do as many nights as you possibly can for the land portion. We did 5 nights and wish we had done 6. (6 was the max on RCCL when we did it. Not sure what NCL offers.) There is so much to see and who knows if you'll ever get back.

I agree with this 100%. We did the land tour from Fairbanks to Anchorage before the cruise and then the cruise went Seward to Vancouver. It was great to be in one place after all of the hotel changing. My experience was with Royal about 4 years ago and by far has been my favorite cruise! The land portion was amazing and I'm so glad we decided to do that. If you don't think you will ever get back to Alaska, I would definitely make the land portion happen. You can DIY it with the Alaskan railroad and/or driving and other tour companies, but doing it through the cruiseline was very convenient and most of the details were taken care of for you.

Thank you Aprille and Ashley dillo for your suggestions. That is really the way we are leaning. My DH wants to do the Denali Express ( I think that is what it is called) through NCL. We also plan on spending a few days post cruise in Vancouver.

Well, today is the day. My Southbound Cruisetour with NCL begins! I am currently at the airport waiting for my flight.

We are expecting to get into Fairbanks tonight around 8:30. Once we get our baggage we were instructed to look for the Cruisetour personal for our transport to the Bear Lodge in Fairbanks. Hopefully everything goes smoothly and we start this vacation out with a bang! ✈️ ✈️ [emoji902][emoji902]

Well, today is the day. My Southbound Cruisetour with NCL begins! I am currently at the airport waiting for my flight.   We are expecting to get into Fairbanks tonight around 8:30. Once we get our baggage we were instructed to look for the Cruisetour personal for our transport to the Bear Lodge in Fairbanks. Hopefully everything goes smoothly and we start this vacation out with a bang! ✈️ ✈️ [emoji902][emoji902]     Sent from my iPhone using Forums

Looking forward to following along - safe travels.

Mutumbojimbo

Safe travels! Thank you for doing this review.

Well, today is the day. My Southbound Cruisetour with NCL begins! I am currently at the airport waiting for my flight.   We are expecting to get into Fairbanks tonight around 8:30. Once we get our baggage we were instructed to look for the Cruisetour personal for our transport to the Bear Lodge in Fairbanks. Hopefully everything goes smoothly and we start this vacation out with a bang! ✈️ ✈️ [emoji902][emoji902]   Sent from my iPhone using Forums

I can't wait to see what you think of this tour, we leave for ours August 22nd and our tour starts the 23rd. Have fun!!!

Looking forward to your review....

Okay, just landed in Fairbanks. Their are people from all the Cruise lines waiting to greet you as you get to the baggage area. Once you get your bags, NCL loads them onto a cart immediately and then takes them to the bus. Everything is very organized so far. On the way to the hotel now.

Doitforlove

Enjoy your adventure! Can’t wait to read all about it as this experience nears the top of my vacation wish list.

First Day of Land tour - We stayed at the Bear Lodge in Fairbanks the first night. The hotel room is okay. Nothing special. You do have a fridge in your room along with free WiFi. When you check in, you get two packets of information. The first one is from Bear Lodge (nothing of interest here, just your room key and information regarding the free shuttle), the second packet is a folder containing all your information regarding the land tour.

In the land tour folder you get your name tags, a sheet showing the additional excursions you can book on the land tour, luggage tags and you get a daily schedule sheet ( you get this sheet everyday and it shows you the itinerary for that day). I have included some pictures of the land tour folder below.

We woke up around 5:00 this morning to get ready. Breakfast starts at 6:00 and you have to have your luggage outside your room door by 7:00. We had to be on the bus and ready to go by 8:00.

The only option for breakfast at the Bear Lodge is the restaurant in the hotel. It is a buffet, you get to choose from a hot buffet ($16.95) or a cold buffet ($10.95). The hot buffet gives you all of the cold options as well as bacon, sausage, breakfast potatoes, blueberry pancakes, eggs and biscuits. The cold option includes cereal, fruit, bagels, toast, yogurt, muffins and assorted breads.

Following and totally enjoying!!! Looking forward to more....Thank you!

So today we did the Riverboat Discovery tour. This is included with your land tour. You get on a quadruple deck river boat cruise. This three-hour cruise takes down the river and it stops along the way. They introduce you to a family who has made the rivers of Alaska a way of life for five generations. You will see a bush floatplane takeoff alongside the boat, visit the home and kennels of the late four-time Iditarod winner Susan Butcher and see her champion sled dogs in action. You then get taken to an ancient Athabascan Indian village. This tour is okay in my opinion. It is mostly a tourist setup and you really do not get to see anything authentic.

Once we got off the Riverboat cruise, we were taken to see the pipeline in Fairbanks. Nothing big to see on this. It was only a 15 minute stop. We then were taken downtown Fairbanks for lunch on our own. It is near impossible to find anywhere to eat for less than $20-25 per person.

After a short stop at Fred Meyer for a quick shopping trip, we were off to Denali! The bus ride is about 2 1/2 hour ride. The coach bus for the tour is completely full. The tour director narrates almost the entire time. Some good information here and there.

We finally arrived in Denali at about 6:30 tonight. We are staying at the Denali Park Village. Some pictures of the room are below. The entire complex has no air conditioning. Usually, this may not be a problem, however it was 86 degrees in Denali today and the room felt like an oven. WiFi is super spotty and goes in and out.

Tomorrow is the Tundra Wilderness Tour! I am ready to see some Bear and moose!!

Denali is what we will most be looking forward to. Hope you had a wonderful time and spotted wildlife!

Well, I woke up this morning without any water! The entire complex had zero running water. I tried calling the front desk several times but they never answered. The water finally came back on a couple hours later! Off to view some bear and moose now. Wish me luck!!!

Sent from my iPad using Forums

If you can, please post the dailies for the cruise portion.

Will do! Let me know if you would like anything else??

Our biggest thrill on our tour of Denali Park was a mama bear with 2 yearling cubs walking within 50' of our bus! I thought the bus would tip over with everyone running to one side for pictures. LOL! They even walked across the road in front of us. It was awesome!

We also saw a huge bull moose. It was way off in the distance and we needed binoculars to really see it. I don't know how our guide spotted it. I'm sure through her many years of experience. She said it was a rare sighting. Could have been because of the time of year. It was late September.

Our tour was also suppose to be 8 hours but turned into about 10 because we saw so much wildlife leading to lots of stops for pictures. I hope your trip is as successful!

Ditto on this - as I am doing the same sailing in a month from now

Today was the Denali Tundra Wilderness Tour. This is an 8 hour tour that goes 60 miles into the park. We started at 12:30. We were about 15 minutes into the tour and saw a Caribou ( I aptly named him Casper the Caribou)!

The scenery was just beautiful and we saw a couple of mama moose with a calf. We also saw two sets of Grizzlies. The first was a Sow with to little cubs. The second was a Sow with a couple of two year olds. We even got a picture of the mom nursing the cubs. The pictures are not the best as they were really far away.

The bus you take is an old school bus that has been refurbished with coach seats. Make sure if you go on this to bring a sandwich or snacks. You get hungry and the little snack box they give you does not do the job.

We returned back to the hotel at around 8:00 at night. Tomorrow is the train and the sled dog camp.

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