There is no better time than now to start planning the ultimate Alaska cruise experience. If you’re looking to book that bucket list voyage in 2026, we’ve meticulously researched and compiled our comprehensive guide to the Best Alaska Cruises 2026. And this year, there are more exciting options than ever — including MSC Cruises making its Alaska debut and Virgin Voyages bringing its adults-only experience to the region for the first time.
Even if you’re not planning to book your trip of a lifetime this year, our curated selection provides an excellent starting point to begin researching your dream Alaska vacation.

Key Considerations for Selecting Your Ideal Alaska Cruise
Before diving into our picks, here are a few quick factors to keep in mind as you browse.
Budget: Our recommendations span from family-friendly mainstream lines to premium and all-inclusive small ship experiences. Prices also vary significantly by travel season and cabin category. Check out our full guide to Alaska cruise costs for a deeper breakdown.
Departure Port: Seattle is the most popular homeport with the widest ship selection, but Vancouver, San Francisco, and one-way itineraries from Seward or Whittier are all solid options depending on where you’re coming from and where you want to cruise to.
Itinerary: Most 7-day roundtrip cruises sail from Seattle or Vancouver, while one-way Northbound and Southbound itineraries offer a chance to see more of the region. Several ships in 2026 also offer 9- to 12-night sailings and cruisetour add-ons combining your cruise with a Denali or Yukon land tour.
Glacier Bay vs. Hubbard Glacier: This is another important distinction to understand before booking. Not all ships are permitted to sail through Glacier Bay National Park — we’ve noted access for every ship in this guide so you won’t be caught off guard.
Travel Party: If you’re sailing with kids or a multi-generational group, look for ships with robust family amenities. If you prefer fewer children onboard or a more enriching atmosphere, the premium options in this guide will be a better fit.
Now let’s get to the good stuff — our picks for the best Alaska cruises in 2026.

Best Alaska Cruises 2026 at a Glance
| Ship | Cruise Line | Departure Port | Glacier Bay | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Star Princess | Princess | Seattle (RT) | No | Traditional cruisers wanting to sail the newest ship |
| Norwegian Encore | Norwegian | Seattle (RT) | Yes | Multi-gen families |
| Brilliant Lady | Virgin Voyages | Seattle (RT) | No | Adults only, foodies |
| Celebrity Edge | Celebrity | Seattle (RT) | No | Couples, foodies |
| Anthem of the Seas | Royal Caribbean | Seattle (RT) | No | Multi-gen families |
| MSC Poesia | MSC | Seattle (RT) | No | Budget-conscious, European style |
| Carnival Spirit/Miracle | Carnival | Seattle (RT) | No | Budget-friendly families |
| Celebrity Solstice | Celebrity | Vancouver (RT) | No | Couples, premium |
| Koningsdam | Holland America | Vancouver (RT) | No | Couples, enrichment-focused |
| Disney Wonder/Magic | Disney | Vancouver (RT) | No | Families with kids, Disney lovers |
| Ovation of the Seas | Royal Caribbean | One-way | No | Families looking for a one-way itinerary option |
| Discovery Princess | Princess | One-way | Yes | Traditonal cruisers seeking to explore more of Alaska |
| Nieuw Amsterdam | Holland America | One-way | Yes | Mid-sized Alaska exploration |
| Star Seeker | Windstar | One-way | No | More inclusive, small ship experience |
| Ruby Princess | Princess | San Francisco (RT) | No | West Coast travelers |
| Carnival Luminosa | Carnival | San Francisco (RT) | No | West Coast travelers |
Best Alaska Cruises Roundtrip from Seattle
1. Star Princess
As the newest ship in the Princess fleet and the newest megaship sailing in Alaska, Star Princess shines bright in 2026. In fact, Star Princess is just one of eight total Princess ships cruising in the region this year.
Star Princess is 175,500 GRT and carries around 4,300 passengers at double occupancy. As the second ship in the Sphere class, a highlight on Star Princess is The Dome, a glass-paneled venue that serves as both a solarium and entertainment space. The ship’s Piazza also features a large glass spherical structure, ensuring guests enjoy breathtaking views from virtually anywhere.
This next-generation Love Boat showcases other enhancements too like expanded dining venues, a new SkyDeck sports court, and non-smoking casino areas. Not to mention, Spellbound by Magic Castle returns on Star Princess with a new theme.
Star Princess features 30+ restaurants and bars, including Love by Britto, The Butcher’s Block by Dario, Makoto Ocean, Umai Teppanyaki, Crown Grill, and Sabatini’s. There’s also an elegant main dining room and a variety of casual dining options to enjoy, including some of the best pizza at sea.
When it comes to entertainment, Star Princess offers a diverse mix of new shows and returning favorites. The Princess Arena Theater features two new productions, and The Dome features an all-new Candlelight Concert Series, in addition to all of the cruise line’s North to Alaska programming.
Star Princess is sailing 7-day Inside Passage routes roundtrip form Seattle with port stops in Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and Victoria (BC). The itinerary also includes scenic cruising of Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier, NOT Glacier Bay National Park.
If you’re specifically looking to cruise Glacier Bay, you’ll want to opt for Royal Princess from Seattle, Emerald Princess roundtrip from Vancouver, or the popular 1-way Voyage of the Glaciers itinerary.

2. Norwegian Encore
In 2026, Norwegian Cruise Line has three Breakaway Plus Class ships sailing from Seattle: Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Bliss, and Norwegian Joy. While these sister ships are nearly identical, our vote goes to Norwegian Encore.
She’s the newest of these vessels and is sailing a 7-day itinerary with stops in Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Victoria (BC), and Glacier Bay. In contrast, Norwegian Bliss only visits Glacier Bay a handful of times this season. If you’re looking for something a bit longer though, Norwegian Joy is sailing a variety of 9- and 10-day itineraries.
Norwegian Encore is 169K gross tons and carries close to 4,000 guests at double occupancy. The ship features amenities like a Waterfront promenade and a new adult-only Spice H20 perfect for glacier viewing, along with a racetrack and the Galaxy Pavilion virtual arcade for families. We love that this class of ship has plenty to offer all types of travelers, making it a great option for multi-generational groups.
Additionally, the ship boasts an indoor Observation Lounge, a wonderful thermal suite, and the up-charge Vibe Beach Club. Norwegian Encore also features NCL favorite bars and restaurants, as well as the brand’s signature Freestyle approach to dining. Guests can enjoy dinner at Cagney’s steakhouse, Onda by Scarpetta, and Le Bistro along with drinks at the Sugarcane Mojito Bar, District Brewhouse, and Maltings Whiskey Bar, to name a few.
In between ports, there’s also plenty of entertainment in the main theater, Cavern Club, and Social Comedy Club- so there’s never a dull moment on Norwegian Encore.

3. Brilliant Lady
The fourth Lady Ship from Virgin Voyages, Brilliant Lady is 110,000 gross tons and carries 2,700 guests at double occupancy (slightly less than her sisters due to modifications to fit through the Panama Canal).
Besides being slightly narrower, Brilliant Lady introduces subtle enhancements for Alaska cruising like optimized interiors. Plus, there’s exclusive new culinary and entertainment options. The central Roundabout has been reimagined with more outward facing views and more space to chill, while the Athletic Club features more shaded areas.
With all-inclusive dining, guests can enjoy enhanced menus at The Wake steakhouse, Pink Agave, Extra Virgin, Test Kitchen, and Gunbae Korean BBQ. Brilliant Lady also debuts Rojo by Razzle Dazzle with Spanish-inspired decor, sangria, and tapas.
When it comes to entertainment, Brilliant Lady shines with more comedy, live music, and new production shows. New Red Room shows include Red Hot—tracing Virgin’s 50-year history—and Out of Time. The Manor debuts five new interactive shows and experiences including Murder in the Manor, inspired by 1980’s murder mystery novels. And the iconic Scarlet Night party is reworked for inside.
Brilliant Lady offers a few different itineraries from Seattle this year ranging from 7- to 12-nights. Ports include some combination of Skagway, Ketchikan, Juneau, Sitka, Icy Strait Point, Victoria (BC), and Prince Rupert (BC) with scenic cruising of either Tracy Arm Fjord or Hubbard Glacier.

4. Celebrity Edge
Celebrity Edge has a special place in Celebrity Cruises‘ history — she’s the ship that started it all when it comes to the line’s modern reinvention. When she debuted in 2018, Celebrity Edge redefined what a Celebrity cruise could look like, introducing bold new concepts like the Magic Carpet and four distinct main dining rooms.
Now she brings that same pioneering spirit to Alaska. As the first Edge-class ship to cruise the region, Celebrity Edge returns to sail roundtrip from Seattle in 2026. This 7-day itinerary features stops in Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and Victoria (BC), along with cruising Endicott Arm and the Dawes Glacier.
Celebrity Edge is also home to the dynamic space Eden, a state-of-the-art main theater, a reimagined pool deck, the tranquil Rooftop Garden, and the lively Grand Plaza. This premium cruise ship offers the elegance, style, and service that you would expect to find on a luxury cruise line along with a variety of activities and events found on mainstream cruise ships.
Between ports of call, guests can enjoy a number of specialty restaurants, a variety of entertainment in both the theater and The Club, and Alaska enrichment. Guests can also grab drinks at the aft-located Sunset Bar, fan-favorite Martini Bar, or some coffee and pastry at Café al Bacio after a long day ashore. For those looking for a bit of relaxation, Eden offers fantastic aft views, there’s an indoor pool at the Solarium, and the Sea Thermal Suite is even more welcoming in Alaska.

5. Anthem of the Seas
As another one of the largest ships to cruise in Alaska in 2026, Royal Caribbean‘s Anthem of the Seas sails roundtrip from Seattle offering a couple different itineraries. Voyager of the Seas is another roundtrip option from Seattle this year.
Anthem’s port stops include some combination of Sitka, Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, ISP, and Victoria (BC), with scenic cruising through Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier. Notably, Royal Caribbean ships do NOT sail in Glacier Bay National Park.
Royal Caribbean ships are known for featuring some of the most innovative amenities and best entertainment at sea. Anthem of the Seas is nearly 169K gross tons and features several thrills for all ages, along with a variety of dining and entertainment options. This ship carries over 4,100 passengers at double occupancy.
Built for cold water cruising, the ship’s SeaPlex is a massive indoor complex featuring bumper cars and roller skating. There is also the innovative North Star. This aerial gondola extends 300 feet above sea level for one-of-a-kind views of the Alaskan landscape. The ship also has a sky diving simulator and distinct entertainment in several venues including Two70 and the Music Hall.
Loyal to Royal cruisers will find signature bars and restaurants on Anthem of the Seas like Chops Grille, Izumi, Sorrento’s pizza, and Schooner Bar. Not to mention, there’s the indoor Solarium, plenty of whirlpools, and an outdoor pool to enjoy while soaking in the views.

6. MSC Poesia
For guests seeking a little European flair on their holiday, MSC Cruises is making its debut in Alaska for the 2026 cruise season. Attempting to grow its presence in the North American market, the cruise line is deploying MSC Poesia to Seattle to offer roundtrip Alaska cruises. The itineraries feature stops in Ketchikan, Juneau, ISP, and Victoria (BC) as well as cruising Tracy Arm Fjord. They’re also some of the most economically priced.
Debuting in 2008, MSC Poesia is the third vessel in MSC’s Musica class. The ship is 93K gross tons and carries just over 2,500 passengers at double occupancy. Ahead of its first Alaska season, MSC Poesia has undergone extensive updates including the addition of a brand-new MSC Yacht Club and two specialty restaurants, The Butcher’s Cut and Kaito Sushi. The Aurea Spa has also been enhanced for the perfect retreat after your Alaskan adventures.
Dirty Dancing: In Concert, which debuted on MSC World America, is making its way to MSC Poesia as well. When it comes to entertainment, the ship will also feature live music, themed parties, main theater shows, and enrichment specialists offering expert talks, narrated events, and hands-on workshops.

7. Carnival Spirit or Miracle
Carnival Cruise Line has less presence in Alaska than many of the other mainstream cruise lines. However, loyal Carnival cruisers looking to explore the Last Frontier do have a couple options. Carnival Spirit and Carnival Miracle are both sailing roundtrip from Seattle in 2026.
Both Carnival Spirit and Miracle are sailing 7-day itineraries to Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, and Victoria (BC), along with cruising Tracy Arm Fjord for most of the season. These two sister ships are pretty similar in terms of features and layout as well. Though, some cruisers comment that Miracle has much bolder décor. Both ships are part of the Spirit-class, which are 88.5K GT and carry just over 2,100 guests at double occupancy. Debuting in 2004, Carnival Miracle is slightly newer than Spirit (2001).
Between scenic cruising and time ashore in Alaska, guests can grab favorites from Guy’s Burger Joint or BlueIguana Cantina, along with some drinks at the RedFrog Rum Bar, Alchemy Bar, or Heroes Tribute Bar. There’s plenty of time for entertainment, relaxation, and upscale dining too. Past guests will find familiar favorites like comedy shows in Punchliner, Playlist Productions in the theater, a Cloud9 Spa, the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, and Camp Ocean for the little ones.

Top Alaska Cruises Roundtrip From Vancouver
8. Celebrity Solstice
Celebrity Solstice is a 122K gross ton vessel that is part of Celebrity Cruises’ beloved Solstice Class of ships and carries just over 2,850 passengers at double occupancy.
And the best part is she just got a glow up as part of a $250 million investment to modernize this series of ships. Emerging from dry dock just in time for the 2026 Alaska cruise season, Celebrity Solstice debuts eight new spaces and many reimagined favorites.
Among the new offerings are plenty of restaurants and bars. Celebrity Solstice is debuting a brand-new Italian restaurant, Trattoria Rossa. This venue will feature modern design, fresh pasta made daily, and tableside preparations. If this isn’t great enough, Fine Cut Steakhouse and Craft Social are joining the ship’s lineup too. Also new to the fleet is the Boulevard Lounge and Bar. This cabaret-inspired lounge will feature candlelight concert series, dueling pianos, game shows, and more, alongside handcrafted cocktails.
Other updates include the transformation of the Lawn Club to Sunset Park, an expanded Sunset Bar, an all-new Retreat Sundeck, refreshed staterooms, and four new stateroom categories to offer more panoramic views of Alaska.
Cruising roundtrip from Vancouver, there are two different 7-day itineraries. One sails to ISP, Juneau, and Ketchikan along with cruising the Hubbard Glacier, the longest tidewater glacier in North America. The other visits Icy Strait Point, Skagway, Juneau, and Ketchikan, along with the Dawes Glacier.

9. Koningsdam
Holland America‘s Koningsdam debuted in 2016 and weighs in at slightly under 100K gross tons. With 2,650 passengers, Koningsdam is the perfect mid-sized ship for your Alaska cruise from Vancouver. Koningsdam, along with all HAL ships sailing the region, feature a robust Alaska program with plenty of unique enrichment and culinary opportunities. There’s also the Crow’s Nest observation lounge perfect for scenic cruising and a pool with a retractable roof for relaxation.
Additionally, Holland America offers the popular Have It All package to make your cruise more inclusive. For a 7-day cruise, this bundle provides a drink package, WiFi, one specialty dining credit, and $100 in shore excursion credit.
When you are not exploring the Last Frontier, Koningsdam features top-notch amenities, entertainment, and dining. There’s theater performances on the World Stage, as well as BB King’s Blues Club, Billboard Onboard, and the Rolling Stone Lounge showcasing amazing musicians.
In addition to Pacific Northwest cuisine in the main dining room, cruisers can indulge in specialty dining at Pinnacle Grill, Tamarind, Rudi’s Sel de Mer, Canaletto, and even a Morimoto by Sea pop-up experience.
This Pinnacle Class ship sails a 7-day Inside Passage itinerary visiting Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan with scenic sailing in Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier, along with additional cruisetour options. For additional choice, the smaller Zaandam also sails roundtrip from Vancouver with the added benefit of scenic sailing in Glacier Bay.

10. Disney Wonder or Disney Magic
If you’re looking for an Alaska cruise from Vancouver in 2026 with a little bit of extra magic, Disney Cruise Line has not one but two ships cruising the region this year—Disney Wonder AND Disney Magic. While Disney Wonder has been a staple in Alaska, Disney Magic is cruising the region for the first time. These sister ships are very similar in terms of size and amenities with slight differences when it comes to dining and entertainment.
Both ships weigh in at 84K gross tons and carry 1,750 passengers at double occupancy. Disney Wonder and Disney Magic feature plenty of Disney touches in their décor, dining, and entertainment. With characters in Alaska-themed outfits and Broadway style productions like Frozen- A Musical Spectacular on Wonder or Tangled: The Musical on Magic, there’s plenty to keep the whole family busy between ports of call. Though, there is no indoor pool on either ship.
There’s also other Disney staples like Mickey waffles in the buffet and its rotational approach to dining with three main dining rooms, including Triton’s on Wonder (Lumiere’s on Magic), Animator’s Palate, and Tiana’s Place on Wonder (Rapunzel’s Royal Table on Magic), as well as the adult-only Palo specialty restaurant.
Both Disney Wonder and Disney Magic sail 7-day itineraries visiting popular ports in southeast Alaska. Disney Wonder’s itinerary includes Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan, as well as cruising Stikine Icefield for glacier viewing. Disney Magic’s itinerary swaps out Juneau for Icy Strait Point.

Best One-Way Itineraries
11. Ovation of the Seas
Families looking to discover more of Alaska should look no further than Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas. A sister ship to Anthem of the Seas, this is the ship with the most family-friendly amenities sailing one-way itineraries in 2026.
The Northbound route departs from Vancouver, while the Southbound route departs from Seward. Featured stops include some combination of Ketchikan, Juneau, ISP, Sitka, Skagway, and scenic cruising of Hubbard Glacier. There’s also the option for multi-night cruisetour adventures, a first for any Quantum-class ship.
Ovation of the Seas features most of the same bells and whistles as Anthem of the Seas. However, following a dry dock before the Alaska season, guests will notice a few differences.
During the ship’s amplification, the Bionic Bar is being replaced with the Pesky Parrot Bar, a favorite of ours that debuted on Utopia of the Seas. In terms of dining, Izumi Teppanyaki replaces Wonderland and Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen replaces Jamie’s. The amplified Ovation of the Seas will also feature a revamped pool deck, an expanded Casino Royale, the brand-new Sound Cellar, and new accommodations like the Ultimate Family Suite and Panoramic Suite.
With other signature Royal Caribbean restaurants and bars, plenty of indoor family-friendly activities, an indoor pool, and Two70 with panoramic aft views, Royal cruisers shouldn’t overlook this Alaska option in 2026.

12. Discovery Princess
Princess Cruises has four ships sailing the very popular Voyage of the Glaciers itinerary in 2026—Discovery Princess, Island Princess, Grand Princess, and Coral Princess—but our vote goes to Discovery Princess.
Discovery Princess is the sixth and final Royal Class ship and the newest of these four offerings. This 145K gross ton ship carries 3,660 guests and shares all of the style and luxury of her predecessors. This ship features a large inviting Piazza, a variety of dining options, and signature entertainment. There are also plenty of places to enjoy the scenery like the enhanced Sanctuary or maybe even the Wake View infinity pool.
And we have to say the cruise line offers some of the best enrichment in the region with its North to Alaska programming. Activities include meeting Libby Riddles, an iditarod dog musher; puppies in the Piazza; exclusive Alaska food and beverage offerings; and more.
Plus, with the Princess Plus and Princess Premier packages, cruisers can enjoy a more all-inclusive experience with drinks, upcharge dining, WiFi, and crew appreciation included.
The Voyage of the Glaciers itinerary is a one-way cruise from either Vancouver to Whittier (Northbound) or Whittier to Vancouver (Southbound). The Northbound route includes Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay, and scenic cruising in College Fjord. The Southbound route swaps out College Fjord and Skagway for Hubbard Glacier and Icy Strait Point.

13. Nieuw Amsterdam
If you are looking for another option to cruise Alaska with Holland America in 2026, Nieuw Amsterdam is sailing a one-way itinerary from Vancouver to Whittier (and reverse) as well. Nieuw Amsterdam is a nearly 87K gross ton vessel with just over 2,100 passengers at double occupancy.
Nieuw Amsterdam boasts several complimentary dining venues. Among them are the poolside Dive-In Burger, a pizza window, the Lido Market buffet, and the main dining room. Not to mention, Holland America Line offers 24-hour room service and some of the best specialty restaurants at sea.
When it comes to onboard amusements, the cruise line offers a traditional series of cruise activities and enrichment, nighttime entertainment, live music, and more. The ship also features the same Alaska programming as the other HAL ships in the region. With personal service and well-executed dining, Nieuw Amsterdam is an ideal backdrop to the amazing vistas of the Alaskan wilderness.
During the Northbound and Southbound Glacier Discovery itineraries, cruisers will enjoy stops at the usual ports of Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway. The ship will also cruise Glacier Bay National Park and College Fjord or Hubbard Glacier for some amazing scenic vistas.
For an additional option, Holland America’s Westerdam also sails 7-day Northbound and Southbound Glacier Discovery itineraries.

14. Windstar’s Star Seeker
For guests looking for a small ship experience in Alaska this year, Windstar Cruises’ Star Seeker is an excellent choice. With just 225 guests, Star Seeker ensures an intimate atmosphere with highly personalized service. The vessel debuts innovative Infinity Suites as well—a first for Windstar that seamlessly connects indoor and outdoor spaces—that are perfect in Alaska.
As the official cruise line of the James Beard Foundation, Star Seeker continues Windstar’s culinary excellence, from multi-course meals in the main dining room to a new specialty restaurant. Star Seeker offers five dining venues, all included in the cruise fare. Amphora Restaurant serves as the main dining venue, transforming from a casual buffet by day to an upscale multi-course dinner experience in the evenings. The new Basil + Bamboo specialty restaurant blends Mediterranean and Asian flavors in creative fusion dishes.
Entertainment centers around the Yacht Club and Main Lounge—elegant gathering spaces offering cocktails, live music performances, and enrichment programming. A highlight for many guests is the popular crew talent show, showcasing the personalities behind the exceptional service. And the Watersports Platform allows direct ocean access for kayaking and more, bringing guests closer to the water in a way that larger ships can’t.
Star Seeker is sailing a variety of 7 to 12-day cruises, some with the add-on option for a Denali Cruisetour. These itineraries are one-way from Vancouver to Juneau or Seward and vice versa.

If you’re looking for alterntive small-ship or luxury options, there’s plenty of choice in 2026. Other cruise lines sailing in Alaska include Ritz Carlton, Crystal Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea, American Cruise Lines, Cunard, Regent, Viking, Azamara, and Oceania, among others.
15. Alaska Cruises from San Francisco
Guests wanting a unique departure port or those who live in California may want to consider sailing to Alaska from San Francisco. There are two primary options available for the 2026 cruise season, Ruby Princess and Carnival Luminosa.
Ruby Princess is 113.5K gross tons and carries just over 3,000 guests at double occupancy. This ship sails mostly 10-day Inside Passage itineraries roundtrip from San Francisco with stops in Skagway, Sitka, Ketchikan, and Prince Rupert (BC). The itinerary also includes scenic cruising of Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier.
Carnival Luminosa is a nearly 93K gross ton ship carrying just over 2,800 guests at double occupancy. Combining elements of the Spirit-class and Vista-class ships, Luminosa transferred from Costa Cruises to the Carnival fleet in November 2022. Carnival Luminosa also sails 10-day Inside Passage routes with stops in Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Prince Rupert and scenic cruising of Tracy Arm Fjord and Sawyer Glacier.


Ready to Book Your Alaska Cruise in 2026?
Alaska remains one of the most breathtaking cruise destinations in the world, and 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting seasons yet. Whether you’re drawn to the megaship experience of Star Princess, the adults-only all-inclusive vibe of Brilliant Lady, the family magic of Disney Cruise Line, or the intimate luxury of Windstar’s Star Seeker, there truly is an Alaska cruise for every type of traveler this year.
As you narrow down your choices, keep those key considerations in mind — particularly scenic cruising and glacier options, departure port, and itinerary length — as these will have the biggest impact on your overall experience and your budget. You may also want to consider extending your trip with a cruisetour to explore Denali.
When you’re ready to book, we highly recommend working with our trusted travel partner MEI-Travel. Their team of expert travel advisors specializes in cruise vacations and can help you find the best cabin, pricing, and itinerary for your specific needs — at no extra cost to you.
And if you’re still in research mode, be sure to check out some of our other Alaska cruise guides including our breakdown of Alaska cruise costs, the best time to visit Alaska, and our tips for first-time Alaska cruisers to help you plan the ultimate trip “way up north”.
Comments
Have we convinced you to book a cruise to Alaska? Have you sailed on any of these great ships? Drop us an anchor below to share your picks for the best Alaska cruises 2026.













37 comments
J
Have you been on all these cruise ships?
Don Bucolo
We have been on many of them, or their sister ships.
EfrainSmith
I just came through your blog here. You have done a very good job so far. Carry on!
Don Bucolo
Thanks! Are you planning an Alaska cruise?
Hoang Brian
I really hope that in the future there will be many better ships than it.
vietkhi
This is very exciting news and I will make good use of this opportunity to visit Alaska in 2023. You have shared and provided very interesting information for me,Octordle, many thanks.
Yuliaman
The insights provided are fascinating, and I regularly watch them before playing run 3 for entertainment. Playing this endless runner game is a blast.
Cliveher
I am planning to travel in Alaska. Explore geometry dash lite and enjoy the fun.
Darine
Aren’t you looking for a travel buddy? I am also planning to visit Alaska and go on a cruise, but I am alone. I read on this blog that it is safe to travel there alone as a female, but still..it takes two to tango 🙂
Mary
Viking Alaska Cruise vs Holland America?
One has Denali land tour, the other top notch services and food.
Raymond McFarland
Looking for G pa, Daughter, and two grand kids cruse. Like one way to alaska. No Black tie, and free kids would be great. Timing open and {other than Alaska} if its better for the G kids.
Don
Sounds like one of the Norwegian Cruise Line. They are one of our favorite Alaskan cruise lines. Happy cruising!
Debra
So many questions with no answers. Is this website monitoring anything?
DB
Hi Debra,
Thanks for the comment. Happy to answer any questions you have about this post.
Lai
What is your view on coral princess which is the only one with the return trip by Vancouver BC?
DB
We have never sailed on Coral Princess, but it does receive strong reviews from cruisers.
Lisa giancola
My husband and I want to take an Alaskan cruise with a change to take a train ride in or to Denali and would love to see the glaciers. What do you recommend and what time of year is the best time to go? We are fancy . We are simply down to earth enjoying life .
Sandeep Ullal
Pls send updates regularly
John Mason
My wife and i have not been on an Alaska cruise before but have been on several other. One thing we would really like to do is an Alaska cruise within the next year or two.
Not sure what would be the best ship for us. We will both be retired.
Janet
Grandmother & 20 year old Grandson, would like to take an Alaskan Cruise in early September-2019. What do you suggest. We are not the black tie style of people. We just want to explore & see Alaska.
DB
Our suggestions tend to lean toward Royal Caribbean or Norwegian Cruise Lines, which appeals to cruisers of all ages.
Debbie
Trying to decide between Holland America vs Princess?!?! Doing Denali and cruise of inside passage…
DB
Tough choices! We have not sailed on either line in Alaska, so difficult for us to provide suggestions. Both cruise lines receive strong ratings, and it depends on a number of factors such as price and time of year you plan on cruise.
Amit Patel
We are 4 families, plus two sets of parents, and young children under 11 years. Which cruise ship would you recommend for July 2019 from Seattle?
DB
Hi Amit,
Depends on what your preferences are for travel. We would suggest you investigate Norwegian Bliss. That ship offers plenty of diverse activities for cruisers of all ages. Other options out of Seattle also include Royal Caribbean, which tends to be family friendly as well.
Sue
Looks like the Royal Carib. is your pick if wanting to dock in Vancouver?
DB
Hi Sue, Royal Caribbean does offer some great cruise options if you want to depart from Vancouver, British Colombia. We haven’t sailed with the cruise line in Alaska, but the ships get great reviews. Let us know if you have any other questions. Happy Cruising.