princess cruise alaska july 8 2023

Alaska Cruises

The great land awaits – set sail with princess, the #1 alaska cruise line.

Our Alaska cruises are your ticket to adventure amidst the Great Land’s glaciers, wildlife and national parks. Voyage through the untamed beauty from the comfort of our world-class ships, exclusive rail service and Princess Wilderness Lodges near national parks. Choose from a variety of Alaska cruise and cruisetour itineraries and connect with loved ones, locals and Alaska's wilderness with Princess®.

Learn more about excursions that match your interests with this curated list!

*More guests choose Princess in Alaska than any other cruise line

Alaska Cruises & Cruisetours

Alaska Cruisetours

See denali on an alaska cruisetour.

Alaska cruisetours combine our top-rated Voyage of the Glaciers cruise with three to ten nights on land exploring Denali National Park. Travel aboard our exclusive Direct-to-the-Wilderness® train and unwind at Princess Wilderness Lodges®. Every year Princess introduces more people to Denali National Park than any other cruise line.

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Learn more about Alaska Cruisetours

Voyage of the Glaciers

Twice 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. Spend seven days traveling from Anchorage (Whittier) to Vancouver, B.C., stopping in historic port cities like Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway. Enjoy two glacier-viewing experiences on every itinerary — including Glacier Bay National Park, and Hubbard Glacier or College Fjord.

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Learn more about Voyage of the Glaciers

Inside Passage Roundtrip Seattle

7-day alaska cruises.

Sail the Inside Passage, a series of channels and waterways formed by the march of glaciers, on your 7-day roundtrip Alaska cruise from Seattle. With an abundance of landmarks and wildlife, take in the sights and sounds of the Inside Passage from the comfort of your ship or on a thrilling excursion ashore. Explore fjords, glaciers and Gold Rush-era towns on weekend voyages out of Seattle.

Learn more about cruises from Seattle

Inside Passage Roundtrip San Francisco

10 or 11-day alaska cruises.

Travel the Inside Passage on 10 or 11-day Alaska cruises from San Francisco and allow the natural landscapes to inspire your day’s adventures. Begin by sailing beneath the Golden Gate Bridge and along the Pacific Coast. As you voyage into the Inside Passage, enjoy one of the best ways to explore the fjords, small towns and natural landmarks with your favorite people.

Learn more about cruises from San Francisco

Inside Passage Roundtrip Vancouver

Alaska cruises that inspire.

Feed your hunger for adventure on a roundtrip Alaska cruise from Vancouver, B.C. Wind your way through fjords, by bright-green forests and through quaint Gold Rush-era towns on your way to the wonders of Glacier Bay National Park. Then experience age-old traditions with the locals.

Learn more about cruises from Vancouver

Voyage of the Glaciers Grand Adventure

14-day alaska cruises.

Sail 500 miles deeper into the Gulf of Alaska and Prince William Sound on our back-to-back Voyage of the Glaciers Alaska cruise. Spend 14 days roundtrip from Vancouver, B.C., stopping in historic port cities like Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway. Enjoy three glacier-viewing experiences on every itinerary — including Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier and College Fjord.

NEW Alaska Long Voyages

New for 2025, we have crafted longer adventures at sea with a 22-day roundtrip voyage sailing from San Francisco that coincides with Summer Solstice and a 17-day roundtrip cruise from Seattle, featuring three days of scenic glacier viewing as well as charming ports like Wrangell and Valdez. For those voyagers seeking to sail from Southern California all the way up the Pacific coast to Alaska, try a new 16-day roundtrip Inside Passage voyage from Los Angeles.

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2025 Alaska New Cruise & Cruisetour Itineraries. Learn more

With its roaring glaciers, rugged mountains and deep fjords, Glacier Bay National Park feels like a dream. With 3.3 million acres to explore, cruise to this world-renowned landmark — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — and let the landscapes inspire your next adventure. Princess Cruises is an authorized concessioner of Glacier Bay National Park.

Alaska Cruise Experience

Alaska Glaciers

One of the biggest reasons people visit.

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

Learn more about Alaska Glaciers

Alaska Wildlife

Untamed, just like alaska.

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

Learn more about Alaska Wildlife

Alaska Mountains & National Parks

National treasures.

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

Learn more about Alaska Mountains & National Parks

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.

Learn more about Alaska Excursions

Alaska Cruise Ports of Call

College Fjord

The Harriman Expedition discovered College Fjord in 1899 and named the towering glaciers after the great East Coast universities of the United States, like the Harvard Glacier. With the largest collection of tidewater glaciers in the world, your scenic Alaska cruise through the fjord will make a lasting memory.

View cruises with College Fjord

Endicott Arm

Endicott Arm is a jewel in Alaska’s crown. This 30-mile waterway is surrounded by cliffs, valleys and dozens of waterfalls. Icebergs and harbor seals decorate the water below while Dawes Glacier soars into the sky above. Revel in the beauty of Mother Nature’s masterpiece and listen closely as the scenery whispers secrets of times long ago during your cruise to Alaska.

View cruises with Endicott Arm | View Endicott Arm shore excursions

Glacier Bay National Park

When you cruise to Alaska with Princess, sail through one of the most iconic locations in the Great Land — Glacier Bay National Park. Listen to Margerie Glacier’s signature crack and boom rumble across the waves. Bring binoculars and scan both the shore and the waves for wildlife like brown bears and migrating whales while Park Rangers teach you the history and geology of the park.

View cruises with Glacier Bay National Park | Learn more about Glacier Bay National Park

Hubbard Glacier

The largest tidewater glacier in North America, Hubbard Glacier has been moving its mass towards the ocean at a rate faster than most of its kind. Towering above the water over 30 stories, the glacier often calves 100-foot chunks of ice into the ocean. What lies beneath the waves is almost as impressive, where ice plunges 1,200 feet beneath the surface. See it for yourself on an Alaska cruise with Princess.

View cruises with Hubbard Glacier | View Hubbard Glacier shore excursions

Icy Strait Point

Icy Strait Point is home to the remote Tlingit village of Hoonah, home to fewer than 800 people and a deep Native history. The nearby Spasski River Valley holds one of the world’s largest populations of brown bears, who are often found hunting for salmon in the rivers. Zipline over the wilderness, watch a tribal dance or kayak in coastal waters to see the wildlife up close during your Alaska cruise vacation.

View cruises with Icy Strait Point | View Icy Strait Point shore excursions

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

View cruises with Juneau | View Juneau shore excursions | Watch video: Juneau port overview

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

View cruises with Ketchikan | View Ketchikan shore excursions | Watch video: Ketchikan port overview

On an Alaska cruise, take your pick of attractions in the port of Sitka. See how bald eagles and local bird populations receive first-class treatment at the Alaska Raptor Center. Encounter wildlife in their natural habitat at the Fortress of the Bear. Or experience the culture of Russian Alaska on a visit to St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Church, and relive Native history at the Sheldon Jackson Museum.

View cruises with Sitka | View Sitka shore excursions

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

View cruises with Skagway | View Skagway shore excursions | Watch video: Skagway port overview

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

View cruises with Valdez

Victoria, B.C.

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

View cruises with Victoria, B.C. | View Victoria, B.C. shore excursions

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

View cruises with Wrangell

#PrincessCruises Alaska Connection

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.

Learn more about our North to Alaska Program

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 2023-2024

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.

See all Alaska cruise articles and videos

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

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.

Learn more about transfers

Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

Stay longer and relax.

Extend your Alaska 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.

View Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

You May Also Like

Combine a cruise + train + lodge + Denali for an in-depth Alaska experience.

Enjoy two glacier-viewing experiences on our top-rated 7-day cruise.

North to Alaska

Immerse yourself in all things Alaska with our onboard program.

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Princess Cruises has announced their 2023 Alaska cruises and cruisetours program offering something for everyone to explore this destination, including the top-rated Voyage of the Glaciers itinerary, award-winning “North to Alaska” enrichment program and the ultimate experience of combining a cruise with a land tour including scenic rail travel and stays at Princess-owned wilderness lodges.

The 2023 Alaska cruises and cruisetours season, on sale Aug. 18, features six MedallionClass ships, including the cruise line’s newest Discovery Princess, returning to Alaska for a second season. With 145 departures, 14 unique itineraries, five glacier viewing experiences and departing from four convenient departure ports, cruise offerings include:

• Voyage of the Glaciers   from Vancouver, B.C. or Anchorage (Whittier):  Majestic Princess, Sapphire Princess and Grand Princess sail the top-rated, seven-day itinerary that features two glacier viewing experiences including Glacier Bay National Park.
• Inside Passage from Seattle : Discovery Princess, the newest ship in the fleet, and Crown Princess, return to the Emerald City with seven-day Inside Passage voyages.
• Inside Passage from San Francisco : Ruby Princess sails this 10-day cruise , roundtrip from the City by the Bay, with a once-in-a-lifetime experience of sailing under the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.

Combined with a Voyage of the Glaciers cruise, guests can experience Alaska’s top-two attractions – Glacier Bay National Park and Denali National Park – by choosing from 24 cruisetour itineraries, ranging from three to 10 nights on land, before or after the cruise.

Here are the top-10 reasons to see the very best of Alaska with Princess:

• Princess is #1 in Alaska!
• Every cruise features at least one  glacier-viewing experience  – Glacier Bay National Park, College Fjord, Hubbard Glacier, Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier or Tracy Arm Fjord.
• Princess takes more guests to  Glacier Bay National Park  than any other cruise line. With 84 calls to Glacier Bay in 2023, 74 percent of the cruise line’s itineraries to Alaska feature this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Cruises feature the marquee ports of  Juneau ,  Ketchikan  and  Skagway  with a “More Ashore” late-night call in Juneau on all northbound Voyage of the Glaciers and seven-day Inside Passage voyages.
• Onboard and ashore, the award-winning “ North to Alaska   enrichment program  brings together local personalities, culture and Alaska seafood to immerse guests in the history and traditions of The Last Frontier. From savoring fresh Alaska seafood to meeting locals, the program allows guests to see, feel and taste the best of the Great Land.
• A significant part of the guest services experience includes the cruise line’s effortless and personalized  Princess MedallionClass  vacation. All six cruise ships sailing to Alaska in 2023 offers personalization that simplifies the guest experience and delivers next-level service.
• Shore excursions  abound. From a lumberjack show, dog sledding on a glacier, the historic White Pass Scenic Railway, flightseeing adventures and plenty of tours with wildlife viewing – whales, bears and more – guests can choose from more than 150 tours. Exclusive to Princess, Cook My Catch offers a true sea-to-seat experience. Guests have the chance to reel in a fish during a fishing excursion and have chefs cook it for their dinner that night.
• Only Princess offers custom-built,  exclusive wilderness lodges  on the doorsteps of legendary national parks. Back by popular demand, the 17-night Princess Connoisseur Cruisetour features 10 nights on land that includes two nights at each of the five Princess Wilderness Lodges and visits five national parks.
• Princess offers exclusive  Direct-to-the Wilderness rail service  that takes guests from the ship through the heart of Alaska with breathtaking scenery to the Denali-based wilderness lodges for more time to explore the interior of this vast state.
• Every cruisetour itinerary includes  Denali National Park , a picturesque six million acres, home to North America’s tallest peak.

For more information about the multitude of offerings to explore Alaska with Princess in 2023, visit  www.princess.com/alaska .

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237), or by visiting the company’s website at  http://www.princess.com/  .

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• Princess Cruises deployes 7 ships in Alaska in 2023 (14...

Princess Cruises deployes 7 ships in Alaska in 2023 (14 itineraries & 25 cruisetours)

Princess Cruises announced updates for the upcoming 2023 cruise and cruisetour season in Alaska. As the leading cruise line in Alaska, Princess is renowned for its commitment to sustainability, immersive programming, and unparalleled guest experiences.

The company sails 7 ships throughout The Great Land across 14 itineraries and 25 land-sea vacations, including the newest ship Discovery Princess along with Royal , Ruby , Majestic , Grand , Crown , and Sapphire Princess .

One of the highlights of the 2023 season is the expanded Wild for Alaska Seafood menu, available to all guests sailing with Princess in Alaska. This industry-first initiative, introduced in 2022, features a rotation of fresh Alaska seafood dishes, along with destination-inspired cocktails made from local spirits. Princess Cruises has partnered with Pacific Seafood, Alaska Seafood, and Alaska Leader Seafood, all known for their environmentally responsible practices and sustainable fishing methods, to develop this unique dining experience. Guests can indulge in a variety of Alaska seafood, including multiple varieties of salmon, wild Alaska cod, halibut, rockfish, Dungeness crabs, spot prawns, and razor clams, highlighting the freshest ingredients from the region.

In addition to the Wild for Alaska Seafood menu, Princess Cruises is also introducing a new Garden-to-Table menu for cruisetour guests staying at the Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge. Guests can stroll through the lodge's large garden, filled with Alaska-grown vegetables and flowers thriving in the summer sunshine, and enjoy the chefs' menu creations using the fresh produce harvested throughout the season.

The beverage program for the 2023 season is also getting a makeover, with decadent coffee and hot chocolate-based creations, themed frozen drinks, Alaska wines, and flights of Alaska beer and cocktails being introduced. Guests can warm up with delicious drinks like Spiced Rum Hot Chocolate and Gingerbread Breakfast, sample Alaska beers through tastings or order beer flights, indulge in themed frozen drinks like Ketchikan Strawberry Shortcake and Alaskan Polar Bear, enjoy Alaska cocktails made from local spirits, and even participate in the Alaska Wine Experience with wine pairings featuring Alaska salmon.

The brand's commitment to showcasing the beauty of Alaska goes beyond dining and beverages. Every cruise itinerary includes at least one glacier-viewing experience, with Princess taking more guests to Glacier Bay National Park than any other cruise line. Cruises also visit marquee ports like Juneau , Ketchikan , and Skagway , with late-night calls in Juneau on select itineraries. Guests can choose from over 150 shore excursions, including unique experiences like lumberjack shows, dog sledding on glaciers, flightseeing adventures, and wildlife viewing tours to spot whales, bears, and more. Exclusive to Princess Cruises, Cook My Catch allows guests to reel in a fish during a fishing excursion and have it cooked for their dinner that night, creating unforgettable culinary memories.

For those looking to explore more of Alaska's interior, Princess Cruises offers cruisetours that seamlessly combine a cruise with land tour options, including visits to Denali National Park and Princess' five signature Wilderness Lodges. The 17-night Princess Connoisseur Cruisetour is back by popular demand, featuring 10 nights on land with stays at each of the five Princess Wilderness Lodges and visits to five national parks.

Princess Cruises also takes care of guests' transportation with their Direct-to-the-Wilderness rail service, which takes guests from the ship through the heart of Alaska with breathtaking scenery to the Denali-based wilderness lodges, providing more time to explore the vast interior of this stunning state.

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Princess Cruises Alaska Cruises

The Last Frontier has exactly what you need for that unique and captivating vacation you’ve been dreaming of—cruise to Alaska with Princess Cruises. These special trips are a great way to see the rugged, snowy, and yet incredibly beautiful landscape of America’s 49 th state. It can be as relaxing or active as you make it—gaze upon the marvelous whales breeching and find your peace, or experience the mountains in person with a scale and rappelling excursion on the slopes. It’s a tale of two experiences when you choose a Princess Cruises Alaska cruise—though both are memorable and exciting.

Experience more of Alaska with an in-depth Alaska Cruisetour from Princess Cruises, featuring premium Inside Passage cruises paired with an extended land tour into Denali and the Alaskan wilderness.

Alaska Cruising Webinar for Princess Cruises

Things to Do on an Alaska Cruise with Princess Cruises

The cruise excursions of Princess Cruises’ Alaska cruises are one-of-a-kind. You can view the incredible grandeur of the snow-capped mountains and vast glaciers of the region, a breathtaking image you’ll never forget. Hop aboard a sled with a crew of loyal huskies that will carry you speedily through the frozen tundra for a thrill. Or, spend some time in the hot springs which provide therapeutic and incredibly calming warmth among the chills of Alaska. View some of Princess Cruises’ Alaska cruise excursions below, or call one of our cruise consultants to get the full list.

• Kenai Fjords National Park (Seward, AK) Located in Seward, Alaska, wildlife and nearly 40 glaciers take over this 690,000-acre park. Experience how the glaciers are constantly changing, and watch the whales and sea lions surround the vessel as you cruise.  

• Whale Watching - Inside Passage (Juneau, AK) From April to November, hundreds of humpback and killer whales surround the Inside Passage in Juneau, Alaska. You are guaranteed viewings of these incredible whales, as well as harbor seals and sea lions.  

• Mendenhall Glacier (Juneau, AK) Fly over the scenic views of the massive 12 mile long Mendenhall Glacier that surrounds the Juneau Icefield. Its visitor’s center is open year round, with great educational and interactive exhibits for children and adults.  

• Misty Fjords National Monument in Ketchikan (Ketchikan, AK) Alaska’s finest and most beautiful peaks, valleys, lakes and remarkable waterfalls are highlighted in this spectacular natural creation called Misty Fjords. Located just outside of Ketchikan, you can tour this amazing monument by sea or by airplane.  

• Space Needle (Seattle, WA) The famous Seattle Space Needle was built for the World’s Fair in 1962 and is one of Seattle’s top attractions today. Enjoy tours and sights within this magnificent skyscraper.  

• White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad (Skagway, AK) Famous for its Gold Rush era, Skagway, Alaska is where many journeymen sought out to find the gold that was discovered in the 1800s. Hike one of the most scenic railways in the world and experience the Gold Rush for yourself.  

Top 10 Princess Cruises Alaska Cruises

• Ruby Princess 7 NIGHT Alaska CRUISE Departing From Vancouver, British Columbia (Apr 2024 - Sep 2024)
• Grand Princess 8 NIGHT Alaska CRUISE Departing From Vancouver, British Columbia (Apr 2024)
• Discovery Princess 7 NIGHT Alaska CRUISE Departing From Vancouver, British Columbia (May 2024)
• Crown Princess 11 NIGHT Alaska CRUISE Departing From San Francisco, California (May 2024 - Sep 2024)
• Grand Princess 7 NIGHT Alaska CRUISE Departing From Vancouver, British Columbia (May 2024 - Aug 2025)
• Grand Princess 14 NIGHT Alaska CRUISE Departing From Vancouver, British Columbia (May 2024 - Aug 2024)
• Sapphire Princess 14 NIGHT Alaska CRUISE Departing From Vancouver, British Columbia (May 2024 - Sep 2025)
• Discovery Princess 7 NIGHT Alaska CRUISE Departing From Seattle, Washington (May 2024 - Sep 2025)
• Sapphire Princess 7 NIGHT Alaska CRUISE Departing From Vancouver, British Columbia (May 2024 - Sep 2025)
• Royal Princess 7 NIGHT Alaska CRUISE Departing From Whittier, Alaska (May 2024 - Sep 2024)

Princess Cruises Alaska Departure Ports

Learn more about your potential departure ports for an Alaska cruise with Princess Cruises. Your Princess Cruises Alaska cruise could leave from any of the following cities:

The possibilities are endless when cruising to or from the City of Angels. Let your inner rock star shine as you explore the many wonders of Los Angeles, California.

On a cruise from San Francisco you can experience all that the ‘City by the Bay’ has to offer, from its artistic, forward-looking culture to the beautiful coastline.

Known as The Emerald City, Seattle is a beautiful, luscious city with incredible views of the Cascade Mountains and Elliott Bay. The city is full of activities for both water lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Whether it’s your cruise destination or a launching point, Vancouver is a beautiful destination in itself with a sophisticated downtown and lots of natural elements to explore.

Whittier, Alaska

Experience the best of the Last Frontier in quaint Whittier, Alaska. Enjoy the clear water filled with salmon, red snapper and trout along with the freely roaming wildlife, all combining to make Whittier a treat to visit.

Photo Gallery for Princess Cruises Alaska Cruises

View our photo gallery of Alaska cruising photos from Princess Cruises. Best of all, this is merely a sample of the sights waiting for you on a Princess Cruises Alaska cruise vacation.

Mendenhall Glacier in Alaska

Humpaback Whale

Sea lions in Kenai Fjords National Park

Misty Fjords National Monument, Alaska

Seattle's Space Needle

White Pass Yukon Railroad

Porcupine Bay in Kenai Fjords National Park

Princess cruises past some Alaskan glaciers

View of the Alaskan glaciers from a Princess ship

Guests walking as the ship sails past the glaciers

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Alaska cruise in July? Good time to go?! + bears, whales, weather 🏔 + Cost of “cheap” Princess drop and go Alaska cruises?

There are a lot of Alaska cruises in July.

The longer you wait to book an Alaska cruise for July, the more limited your options become.

July is one of the most popular times to do an Alaska cruise, probably mostly because summer in general is a popular time for travel.

The major cruise lines that have Alaska cruises in July are Princess, Holland America, NCL, Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Celebrity, and Disney.

In short, Alaska cruises in July will be crowded, but it can be one of the best times to go for wildlife watching.

July can be one of the best times for a good chance to see whales and bears in Alaska.

In terms of weather during an Alaska cruise, July is one of the warmest times of the year to do an Alaska cruise, but you will want to be prepared for rain. (And you still want to be prepared for the cold, just in case!)

Because July is a popular time for an Alaska cruise, the longer you wait to book your cruise, not only do you potentially face sold out cabins, but it’s very possible that a lot of the best Alaska cruise excursions will be sold out too.

So if you are interested in doing Alaska excursions and you are booking your Alaska cruise in July rather last minute (which includes the month before), then it could be best to first check to see if the excursions you would want to do are available.

You don’t NEED to do excursions in order for your Alaska cruise to be worth it, especially if you are on a cruise that goes to Glacier Bay National Park !

But for many people, the highlight of their Alaska cruise is the excursion that they did, even if it is just one! But you need to pick your excursion wisely! aka know it’s one that you think will be an epic Alaska experience!

Alaska excursions are expensive, but most people tend to think they are worth it. I say this after reading lots and lots of reviews of some of the most expensive popular excursions! See more about the best Alaska excursions from a cruise ship .

If you are booking your July cruise well in advance… it’s really better to book excursions early rather than wait! Especially if your cruise is going to Hubbard Glacier! You can actually get off the ship on this glacier sea day to do a Hubbard Glacier excursion !

Is July a good month to do an Alaska cruise?

Well… it depends…

Lame… 🤪

I will be even more lame and say there is no bad time to go on your first Alaska cruise, as long as it is between the months of May to September! 🤣

See more about an Alaska cruise in May .

There are Alaska cruises in April and October too, and it’s quite possible you will love it, but the biggest “problem” with those months is that it is not the time of year for the vast majority of the Alaska excursions that Alaska cruises are famous for .

You will find at least one major cruise line that has an Alaska cruise from April to October.

And all major cruise lines that go to Alaska go to Alaska in July.

There are many highlights of an Alaska cruise no matter the time of year you go.

But the highlights will be different depending on the time of year you go, and you will want to manage your expectations for certain things depending on the time of year you go.

The types of things that can drastically impact your Alaska cruise include weather (cold and rain), wildlife (more or less), and ice (how far you can sail into bays to see glaciers for example).

The weather in Alaska can vary drastically.

It seems like any time you see sun a few days in a row, people will say to you, “you’re so lucky, it’s never like this!”

To the point where I wonder if people just say that to make all visitors feel good. 🤣

While the weather in July in Alaska is known to be the warmest out of any time of the year, July is also one of the months in the year that you may experience a lot of rain.

That said, as it is Alaska, there is also a chance that you can get good weather!

When you are doing your further research, you want to look specifically at the July weather of Alaska cities your cruise will be going to.

Alaska is big.

Most of your Alaska cruise will stay in Southeast Alaska, if not only in Southeast Alaska.

The cruise ports of Ketchikan, Skagway or Haines, and Juneau are all in Southeast Alaska, and these are where most cruise ships go to.

You may also be on a cruise that goes to Sitka or Icy Strait Point, and these are also Southeast Alaska.

Your Alaska cruise may also go to Whittier (Anchorage) or Seward, and these are a bit further north, leaving Southeast Alaska.

Earlier this year, I went on 2 Alaska cruises with Princess, and I have one more Princess cruise booked for September.

So my searches for Alaska cruises in July are the cost of Alaska cruises on a Princess cruise ship… on the Princess website .

What is a “cheap” Alaska cruise in July?!

It’s June 17, 2023, right now.

Let’s take a look at how low Alaska cruises go in price if you book just a few weeks in advance!

Well… does it even go that low?!

The summary is:

There are many Alaska cruises in July that sell out. These tend to be round trip cruises from US cruise ports.

For example, Alaska cruises from San Francisco seem to be sold out for July.

Most of the Alaska cruises from Seattle have sold out of inside cabins.

On the other hand, there are Alaska cruises from Vancouver that have sold out of balcony cabins.

The cheapest Alaska cruises in July right now are the one-way 7-day Alaska cruises between Vancouver and Anchorage.

You can go on a 7-day cruise one-way from Vancouver to Anchorage , or you can go on a 7-day cruise from Anchorage to Vancouver… or BOTH!

You can combine these 2 7-day cruises and go on a 14-day cruise round trip from Vancouver.

Where can you start an Alaska cruise in July 2023?

You can start an Alaska cruise with Princess from Vancouver (Canada), Seattle (Washington), or Anchorage (Alaska).

If you’re sailing out of Vancouver, the typical Alaska cruise itinerary is such that you will only be going to Alaska cruise ports.

If you’re sailing out of Seattle, your Alaska cruise itinerary will include one cruise port in Canada.

If you’re sailing out of Anchorage, you will end your cruise in Vancouver. (Unless you book another one to stay on the cruise ship to go back to Anchorage!)

If you’re looking at cruises for July 2024, there are cruises from San Francisco too. But in my search in summer 2023, all Alaska cruises from San Francisco are showing “currently unavailable” so presumably it’s sold out.

Passports for Alaska cruise

If you’re American, you’ll need a passport if you’re sailing out of Vancouver.

If you’re American, I understand that you don’t need a passport if you’re doing a round-trip cruise out of Seattle or San Francisco, but verify this before you book if it’s an issue.

I believe you will need a passport if you are sailing out of Anchorage as well.

I’m not sure how it would work if you book 2 cruises back-to-back to make it so you are doing a round-trip Anchorage cruise. This is not a common way to do Alaska cruises, but if you are interested, it’s something to look into.

Drawbacks of booking a last minute Alaska cruise in July

• Your choice of cabin selection will be limited
• Excursions may be booked up
• Flights to get to your embarkation port may be expensive

So, booking a last minute cruise in July can mean that the best (aka most popular) so-very-Alaska excursions (tours) may be sold out.

So this makes it even more important to think about how you can have the best Alaska cruise without excursions.

While there are tons of very worthy Alaska excursions, there are things to do in Alaska cruise ports on your own .

So you’ll want to think about whether these types of things are “enough” to make your last-minute Alaska cruise worth it.

Alaska is about glaciers.

You actually don’t need to even step foot off the cruise ship in order to see glaciers.

That’s because every Alaska cruise itinerary will have at least one glacier sea day.

And, it’s possible that this one glacier sea day will be enough to make the entire Alaska cruise worth it for you!

Glacier Bay National Park is the best glacier sea day you can choose.

But even if you can’t choose an Alaska cruise with Glacier Bay National Park, other glacier sea days can be the highlight of your cruise too.

But you should really try to do a cruise with Glacier Bay National Park!

Otherwise, the main Alaska cruise ports are Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan.

Most Princess cruises to Alaska include all 3 of these cruise ports, although a very few go to Icy Strait Point instead of Skagway.

So look at things to do in Skagway to see if you want to be sure to choose a cruise that goes to Skagway.

For example, I noticed one big cruise ship itinerary going one-way southbound from Anchorage to Vancouver did not have a stop in Skagway.

More below about how long the cost of an Alaska cruise in July might go!

• cruise luggage tags
• no-surge power strip
• basic binoculars for wildlife watching on glacier sea days
• cocktail dress for formal night
• Read the reviews and check availability for Pan Pacific Vancouver
• How to find your boarding time for a Princess cruise
• What is embarkation day like? Sample: Vancouver embarkation day
• Dinner food menu on my Alaska cruise

Cheapest Alaska cruises in July 2023

Price check on June 17, 2023. Prices can change! Check prices on both desktop and mobile! While most of the time the price will be the same, I have seen small and BIG differences in searching on desktop and mobile!

👇 Double occupancy cost / Solo occupancy cost

Crown Princess in July 2023 (Alaska cruise from Vancouver)

• $599 for inside (x2)
• $1,198 for solo inside
• $1,410 for balcony (x2)
• $2,821 for solo inside
• There is an additional cost of $243 for taxes, fees, and port expenses.
• Juneau (1pm to 9:15pm)
• Skagway (6am to 5pm)
• Sitka (8am to 5pm)
• Icy Strait Point (8am to 5pm)
• Ketchikan (7am to 5:15pm)
• There is a scenic cruising glacier day at Hubbard Glacier.
• $649 for inside (x2)
• $1,298 for solo inside
• Balcony cabin is sold out
• There is an additional cost of $265 for taxes, fees, and port expenses.
• Juneau (1-9pm)
• Skagway (6am to 5:30pm)
• Icy Strait Point (7am to 5pm)
• Ketchikan (7am to 5pm).
• There is a scenic cruising glacier day in Glacier Bay National Park.
• There is an additional cost of $280 for taxes, fees, and port expenses.
• Sitka (10am to 6pm)
• Skagway (5:30am to 8:30pm)
• Juneau (8am to 8:30pm)
• Ketchikan (7am to 5pm)
• There is a stop at the Canada cruise port of Victoria (9am to 10pm)

Discovery Princess in July 2023 (Alaska cruise from Seattle)

You can do a 7-day Alaska cruise round trip from Seattle on the Discovery Princess.

Alaska cruise ports on the Discovery Princess are Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway.

• Ketchikan (6am to 3pm)
• Juneau (12:30pm to 9pm)
• Skagway (6am to 5pm~ish, depending on your cruise)

There is a scenic cruising glacier day at Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier.

There is a Canada cruise port of Victoria (6:30pm to 11:30pm).

There is an additional cost of $269 in taxes and port fees.

• $899 for inside (x2)
• $1,798 for solo inside
• $1,394 for balcony (x2)
• $2,788 for solo balcony
• $1,549 for balcony (x2)
• $3,098 for solo balcony
• Inside cabin is sold out
• $1,715 for balcony (x2 people)
• $3,430 for solo balcony
• Inside cabin sold out
• $1,959 for balcony (x2)
• $3,918 for solo balcony
• July 2 cruise is sold out

See more about the Alaska cruise from Seattle: 7-day Alaska cruise from Seattle on the Discovery Princess

7-day one-way cruises OR 14-day round trip cruises (Alaska cruises from Vancouver or from Anchorage)

There are several Princess cruise ships doing 14-day Alaska cruises from Vancouver round trip.

These 14-day cruises are actually 2x 7-day one-way cruises, so they can also be booked as individual 7-day Alaska cruises one-way between Vancouver and Anchorage.

You can make it a 7-day Alaska cruise going northbound from Vancouver to Anchorage one-way.

Or you can make it a 7-day Alaska cruise going southbound from Anchorage to Vancouver one-way.

Or you can make it a 14-day Alaska cruise roundtrip from Vancouver.

There are also “ cruisetours ” that you can add through Princess on the one-way cruises, which are combination tours of both cruise and land, with extra days being spent on land in Alaska.

The Princess cruise ships that are doing these kinds of Alaska cruises in July 2023 are the Grand Princess, Majestic Princess, Royal Princess, and Sapphire Princess.

Cheapest 7-day one-way cruise from Vancouver to Anchorage, northbound, in July 2023

• Ketchikan (6:30am to 3pm)
• Juneau (8am to 9:30pm)
• Skagway (6am to 8:30pm)
• There are scenic cruising glacier days of Glacier Bay National Park and College Fjord
• $349 for inside (x2)
• $419 for solo inside
• $1,626 for balcony (x2)
• $3,252 for solo balcony
• There is an additional cost of $254 for taxes, fees, and port expenses

The cheapest one-way northbound Alaska cruise in July 2023 is the July 1 sailing on the Grand Princess. There are more 7-day one-way northbound cruises . The cruise ports and time in port may vary based on cruise ship.

Cheapest 7-day one-way cruise from Anchorage to Vancouver, southbound, in July 2023

• Skagway (5:30pm to 8:45pm)
• Juneau (6:30am to 4pm)
• Ketchikan (10am to 6pm)
• There are scenic cruising sea days of Hubbard Glacier and Glacier Bay National Park
• $329 for inside (x2)
• $395 for solo inside
• There is an additional cost of $255 for taxes, fees, and port expenses

The cheapest one-way southbound Alaska cruise on the Grand Princess in July 2023 is the July 8 sailing. There is also a sailing date of July 22.

The cheapest one-way southbound Alaska cruise in July 2023 is the July 8 sailing on the Grand Princess. There are more 7-day one-way southbound cruises .

Cheapest 14-day round trip Alaska cruise from Vancouver in July 2023

• Ketchikan #1 (6:30am to 3pm)
• Juneau #1 (8am to 9:30pm)
• Skagway #1 (6am to 8:30pm)
• Whittier (12:30am to 8:30pm)
• Skagway #2 (5:30am to 8:45pm)
• Juneau #2 (6:30am to 4pm)
• Ketchikan #2 (10am to 6pm)
• There are scenic crusing days of Glacier Bay National Park (x2), College Fjord, and Hubbard Glacier
• $779 for solo inside
• There is an additional cost of $464 for taxes, fees, and port expenses

HAPPY CRUISING TO ALASKA IN JULY!

• Best whale watching in Alaska
• Best dog sledding in Alaska (on a glacier, on snow, in summer!)
• Snorkeling in Alaska 😂
• Deadliest Catch tour (as seen on TV!)
• Juneau icefield seaplane + Taku Glacier Lodge salmon bake
• Nugget Falls in Tongass National Forest (Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area)
• Helicopter + glacier walk to see blue ice
• Klondike Highway to Fraser BC + White Pass summit train
• What I did on another Skagway cruise ship arrival: Dog sledding and Yakutania Point
• Totem Bight State Historical Park
• Misty Fjords National Monument Wilderness seaplane + wilderness landing
• Creek Street
• Icy Strait Point to Hoonah
• Sitka National Historical Park totem poles
• Things to do in Sitka
• What is it like: Glacier Bay National Park from a cruise ship
• This was not available on my early season cruise: Hubbard Glacier excursion (yes, you can get off the ship on a sea day! available until early September... if it's not already sold out!)
• Tips for first Princess cruise (getting familiar with Princess food + more!)
• Ideas for your first Alaska cruise

Crown Princess - July 4, 2023

Click For Interactive Map

July 4, 2023

July 4 - 14, 2023

Crown Princess

Princess Cruises

10 Night Alaska Inside Passage

from Vancouver, British Columbia

The July 4, 2023 cruise on the Crown Princess departs from Vancouver, British Columbia. On this 10 Night Alaska Inside Passage sailing, the ship will visit a total of 7 different cruise port destinations, including its departure port. The Crown Princess sets sail on a Tuesday (July 4, 2023) and returns on a Friday (July 14, 2023).

The Crown Princess was built in 2006 and is amoung Princess's 17 ships in it's fleet. The Crown Princess is included in the cruise line's Grand Class. In the cruise ship stats below you'll find the Crown Princess vs all other Princess ships.

All Itineraries

This metropolis is Canada's fastest growing city. Visit Gastown, a restored turn-of-the-century district where Vancouver's first saloon still stands. See trumpeter swans at Lost Lake, contemplate the ducks at Beaver Lagoon, or watch exotic aquatic creatures at the Stanley Park Aquarium. Climb the Lookout for a 360-degree view of the city.

This metropolis is Canada's fastest growing city. Visit Gastown, a restored turn-of-the-century district where Vancouver's first saloon still stands. See trumpeter swans at Lost Lake, contemplate the...

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Alaska's capital city, Juneau, is located in Southeast Alaska. The Tongass Rain Forest climate provides Juneau with lush terrain and wildflowers. Visitors can find unparalleled glacier viewing from Tracy Arm Fjord, Mendenhall Glacier, the Juneau Icefield and Glacier Bay National Park, and outdoor enthusiasts will love Juneau's kayaking, dogsledding, rafting, biking, hiking and glacier hiking.

Alaska's capital city, Juneau, is located in Southeast Alaska. The Tongass Rain Forest climate provides Juneau with lush terrain and wildflowers. Visitors can find unparalleled glacier viewing from...

The picturesque town of Skagway is famous for it's hospitality, sightseeing and recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of Laughton glacier and Parsons Peak, or take an evening walk across the swinging foot bridge to Yakatania point, where bald eagles and harbor seals fish for supper. No matter what you decide to do, you will be amazed with the sights and activities in and around Skagway.

The picturesque town of Skagway is famous for it's hospitality, sightseeing and recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of Laughton glacier and Parsons Peak, or take an evening...

Sitka is considered Alaska's most beautiful seaside town, with views of island-studded waters and stately spruce forests reaching to the water's edge. Sitka offers a combination of Native culture, Russian history, and Alaskan wilderness which provides a diverse and unequaled Alaskan experience. The mild climate and dense forests make Sitka one of the best places to view wildlife in Alaska.

Sitka is considered Alaska's most beautiful seaside town, with views of island-studded waters and stately spruce forests reaching to the water's edge. Sitka offers a combination of Native culture...

Cruise Glacier Bay

Icy Strait Point

The first cruise ship appeared in Ketchikan 114 years ago, and it has been a favorite port ever since. You can tour the area by boat, bus, horse-drawn trolley, or even a restored 1955 Chevy. The most famous part of town is Creek Street. The homes once comprising the red light district are now filled with arts, crafts and gift shops. Totem poles are everywhere, with 24 at Saxman Native Totem Park.

The first cruise ship appeared in Ketchikan 114 years ago, and it has been a favorite port ever since. You can tour the area by boat, bus, horse-drawn trolley, or even a restored 1955 Chevy. The most...

Reader's Digest

Best Alaska Cruise for Every Type of Vacationer

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

Best time to cruise to Alaska

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

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

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

How we chose the best Alaska cruises

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

Best overall

Princess cruises.

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

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

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

Best for families

Disney cruise line.

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

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

Best adults-only

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

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

Best for solo travelers

Norwegian cruise line.

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

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

Best for couples

Celebrity cruises.

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

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

Best budget

Carnival cruise line.

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

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

Best luxury

Regent seven seas.

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

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

Best small ship

Seabourn cruise line.

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

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

Best large ship

Royal caribbean cruises.

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

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

Best for land and sea

Holland america line.

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

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

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

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