Thinking of hopping to Alaska? For many travelers, cruising is the smartest way to explore Alaska. The state is enormous and some of the best destinations sit along the coast. A cruise is a great way to go while also giving you a comfy bed, delicious meals and a front-row seat to all that gorgeous scenery. If you’re considering Alaska for the first time, cruising is a solid place to start. In this guide, we’ll go over why an Alaskan cruise gets our vote for one of the best vacays out there!
Hop To
FAQs
- When is the best time to cruise Alaska? The Alaska cruise season is typically April through October, with the best wildlife viewing and milder weather typically in June through August.
- What should I pack for an Alaskan cruise? Pack layers, waterproof outerwear, warm hats/gloves, sturdy shoes and binoculars for viewing glaciers and wildlife. For specifics, visit our Alaska cruise packing list.
- How much is an Alaskan cruise? It depends on several factors, including the cruise line, ship, length of the cruise, time of year and stateroom type. In general, Alaska cruises typically start around $700–$1,200 per person. You can save when you book your cruise with Undercover Tourist!
- What cruise lines go to Alaska? Several major cruise lines sail to Alaska, including Disney Cruise Line, Princess, Holland America, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Celebrity and more.
Why an Alaskan Cruise?
Alaska isn’t easy to tackle on your own, especially if your time is limited. Coastal towns are spread far apart, and travel between them often requires flights or ferries. On a cruise, that travel happens overnight. You wake up somewhere new without packing and unpacking or spending hours on the road.
Another reason cruising shines here is the sailing itself. Routes such as the Inside Passage have long stretches of scenic cruising. Mountains rise directly from the water, waterfalls appear without warning and wildlife sightings happen when you least expect them. Some of the best moments don’t require leaving the ship at all.
Cruising Alaska also strikes a rare balance. You can fill your days with active excursions, then retreat to a warm and comfortable space each evening. Not to mention all the entertainment activities aboard your cruise ship!
What time of the year are Alaskan cruises?
Alaska’s cruise season typically runs from late April to early October. Early-season sailings in April and May tend to be cooler and quieter. Snow will probably still be visible in the mountains and ports are less crowded. Wildlife begins to reappear after winter and prices are often lower, making this a good option for travelers who don’t mind the weather being a bit chilly.
June and July are peak season. These months bring the warmest temperatures, the longest daylight hours and the fullest selection of shore excursions. Wildlife activity is high and ports are fully open for the season. The tradeoff is higher pricing and busier ports, but many travelers feel the nearly endless daylight makes it worthwhile. They don't call it the Land of the Midnight Sun for nothing!
By September and October, things start to slow down. Crowds thin, temperatures cool and fall colors may begin to show in some areas. August remains strong for whale watching, while September is a quieter experience with the chance of early northern lights sightings toward the end of the season. Some excursions scale back late in the season, but many travelers prefer the calmer atmosphere.
Alaskan Cruise Itineraries
Inside Passage cruises are the most common Alaska itineraries. These sailings travel through protected waterways along southeastern Alaska, which generally means calmer seas and nearly constant scenery. Ports such as Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan appear on most Inside Passage routes and many itineraries include dedicated glacier-viewing days.
One-way Gulf of Alaska cruises are another popular itinerary and these offer a toadally different perspective. These itineraries usually sail between Vancouver or Seattle and Whittier or Seward. Because they don’t loop back to the same port, they cover more coastline and are often paired with land tours into Alaska’s interior. If Denali National Park is on your wish list, then this is the cruise for you!
Round-trip cruises from Seattle or Vancouver keep planning simple. Flying into and out of the same city eliminates extra logistics while still delivering Alaska’s highlights.
Alaskan Cruise Ports
Juneau is a favorite on most Alaskan cruises. The capital city has no road access, so arriving by ship feels fitting but also super convenient. Whale watching is excellent here and nearby glaciers make for memorable excursions. Skagway is rich in history, and visitors can learn about its Gold Rush past, with preserved buildings and the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad offering one of the most scenic rail journeys in North America.
Ketchikan is often the first or last stop and is known for its colorful waterfront, totem poles and rainforest setting. Sitka is quieter and more spread out. It blends natural beauty with Russian-influenced history. Icy Strait Point, located near the town of Hoonah, focuses heavily on wildlife and adventure excursions and consistently ranks as one of the best places in Alaska for whale sightings.
Cruise Lines That Sail to Alaska
Alaskan cruising attracts a wide range of cruise lines, and the onboard experience can vary significantly depending on which one you choose. Princess Cruises and Holland America Line have long histories in the region and are often considered the Alaska veterans. Both emphasize destination-focused cruising, with strong shore excursion programs, onboard enrichment and optional land tour extensions. Princess is especially well-known for its cruise tours, while Holland America is famous for scenic cruising and regional food.
Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line bring a more contemporary feel. Royal Caribbean’s larger ships appeal to families and travelers who enjoy onboard activities and entertainment. Norwegian Cruise Line offers a more flexible approach, with freestyle dining and longer port stays on many itineraries.
Celebrity Cruises caters to travelers looking for a more upscale experience without feeling overly formal. Carnival Cruise Line offers approachable pricing and a lively onboard atmosphere, making Alaska cruising accessible for first-time cruisers. MSC Cruises has also entered the Alaska market with select sailings, offering modern ships and European-style flair. Disney Cruise Line rounds out the options with family-focused sailings that combine Alaska scenery with structured onboard programming.
Things To Do on an Alaskan Cruise
Alaskan cruises deliver on scenery. Glaciers are often the centerpiece, whether you’re sailing past Hubbard Glacier or spending a full day cruising within Glacier Bay National Park. Watching a glacier calve into the water is one of those moments that tends to quiet an entire deck.
In places like Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan, many of the best things to do are close to the dock. Popular excursions include whale watching, scenic train rides, glacier visits and dog sledding, which is often done on a glacier by helicopter or on land, depending on the season. You’ll also see people hiking, kayaking and keeping an eye out for bears and bald eagles. Back in town, there are walkable streets filled with local shops, seafood restaurants and bars or breweries. In Ketchikan, the lumberjack shows are a favorite. They’re really entertaining and easy to fit into a port day before heading back to the ship.
Should you add a land tour?
If you have extra time, a land tour can add a lot to your Alaskan cruise experience. Cruise tour packages offered by lines like Princess Cruises and Holland America Line often include Denali National Park and other interior destinations. These areas feel completely different from the coast, offering wide-open landscapes and additional wildlife viewing opportunities.
Land tours do require more time and budget, but they allow you to see parts of Alaska that cruise ships can’t reach. For travelers who want a broader look at the state, they’re worth considering.
Tips for Your Alaskan Cruise
Here are a few more tips to keep in mind as you're planning your Alaskan cruise.
- A balcony stateroom is a MUST for an Alaskan cruise. Beautiful outdoor scenery is all around, and having private outdoor space makes it easier to take it all in. If a balcony isn’t an option, look for ships with large observation lounges or outdoor decks designed for viewing.
- When packing for an Alaskan cruise, remember that layers are your best bet. The weather can change quickly, and temperatures vary throughout the day. Waterproof jackets, warm mid-layers and sturdy walking shoes are essential. Binoculars are also helpful for spotting wildlife from the ship.
- Book popular excursions early, especially whale watching and glacier tours during peak season. At the same time, don’t feel obligated to book something in every port. Many Alaska towns are compact and enjoyable to explore on foot.
- Don't froget to try local seafood in the ports. The salmon and crab are as fresh as it gets!
Final Thoughts
An Alaskan cruise is a true bucket-list trip. If you’re considering one, we don’t blame you. The scenery, wildlife and once-in-a-lifetime experiences are hard to beat. Let this post be the starting point for your planning as you begin comparing itineraries and ships. No matter which cruise line you choose, Undercover Tourist can help you save on your next cruise vacation.
Still have questions about an Alaskan cruise? Leave them in the comments below!
Related: Which Cruise Line is Right for You? How to Choose Your Cruise
Related: How to Save Money on a Disney Cruise
Keep hopping!
