There is no better time than the present to start planning the ultimate Alaska cruise. If you are looking to book that bucket list cruise, we have put together our list of the Best Alaska Cruises 2024.
Even if you are not planning to book your trip of a lifetime this year, our list will give you a good starting point to begin researching your vacation.
Table of Contents
- Considerations for Picking an Alaska Cruise
- Best Alaska Cruises from Seattle
- Best Alaska Cruises from Vancouver
- One-Way Alaska Cruises
- Unique Alaskan Cruises
Considerations for Best Alaska Cruises 2024
When picking your Alaska cruise, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:
- Your Alaska cruise budget
- Your preferred Alaska cruise departure point
- Your preferred Alaska cruise itinerary
- The demographics of your travel party
OUR PICKS FOR TOP ALASKA CRUISES VIDEO
Alaska Cruise Budget
Your cruise budget will be one of the primary factors in determining which of the best Alaska Cruises 2024 you pick. The list ranges from family-friendly cruise lines to more all-inclusive, luxury cruise lines. Of course, even within a cruise line, the price can vary considerably based on time of year you travel, the type of cruise cabin you pick, and other factors.
We have more information on Alaska cruise costs and the best time of year to visit Alaska based on several factors like weather, crowds, and price on our blog. These articles can help you determine the best time for your family to plan a cruise to Alaska and what you should budget for the entire trip.
Travel Party Demographics
Along the same lines, you will want to consider your travel party. The age, activity levels, and interests will be another big deciding factor in which ship you choose for your Alaska cruise. The selections for best Alaska cruises 2024 vary in terms of ship size and amenities. If you are cruising with kids or a multi-generational family, you will want to ensure the ship has activities that will interest everyone. Yes, Alaska cruises are a great vacation for the whole family!
However, if you are looking for less kids onboard, a more enriching experience, or a more all-inclusive vacation, you may want to avoid the more mainstream family cruise lines.
Cruise Departure Port and Itinerary
With that being said though, we always say that Alaska cruises are more about the destination than the ship itself. There will be long days of sightseeing and Alaskan adventures. So, you may not even have time (or be too tired) to enjoy all the amenities. If you don’t want the distractions or the FOMO, you may want a ship with less bells and whistles.
Most major cruise lines have a variety of ships sailing to Alaska, so there will be plenty of choices. Thus, you’ll want to examine the itineraries closely before booking your cruise. Some key elements are the departure point, the ports of call you’ll visit, and the glaciers you’ll get to see.
Are you looking for a roundtrip itinerary or a one-way itinerary? Most roundtrip itineraries depart from either Seattle, Washington or Vancouver, British Columbia. While one-way cruises are usually Northbound routes from Vancouver or Southbound routes from Seward or Whittier, Alaska. Of course, travel expenses related to your departure port will also impact cruise budget. Think airfare and pre-cruise hotel stays.
Finally, you should consider the ports of call and glacier viewings. Popular ports of call include the southeastern Alaska ports of Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway. Some visit Icy Strait Point, Sitka, or Victoria, BC as well. Not all port visits are created equal though, as some may provide you more time to explore than others.
Further, not all cruise ships have the privilege to cruise through Glacier Bay National Park. Is this a must on your Alaska cruise? We think it should be! Hubbard Glacier is another “must-see” on many guests’ lists. So, familiarize yourself with the differences, so you pick the right one.
Finally, are you looking for a typical 7-day Alaska cruise or do you want something a bit longer? Would you consider booking a land and sea option which combines a cruise with an additional land tour?
Now that you’re better equipped to decide which of these Alaska Cruises 2024 is right for you, let’s dive into our picks.
Best Alaska Cruises 2024 – From Seattle
Celebrity Edge
Celebrity Edge ushered in a brand new style of cruising for Celebrity Cruises when she debuted in 2018. This 130K gross ton ship, with a capacity just over 2,900 guests at double occupancy, launched with several new amenities and features, as well as some βfirsts at seaβ. Among the stand-out features is the multi-purpose Magic Carpet.
Celebrity Edge is also home to the dynamic space Eden, four unique main dining rooms, a state-of-the-art main theater, a reimagined pool deck, the tranquil Rooftop Garden, and the lively Grand Plaza with the Martini Bar. 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 mega-ships.
In 2024, Celebrity Edge is ushering in a new era of cruising for the brand once again, this time in Alaska. As the first Edge Class ship to cruise the region, Celebrity Edge is sailing roundtrip from Seattle. This 7-day itinerary features stops in Ketchikan, Skagway, and Victoria, along with cruising Endicott Arm.
And while controversial, we think the infinite verandah staterooms on this ship will be a big hit in Alaska.
Norwegian Encore (or Bliss)
Norwegian Encore is a 169K gross ton ship carrying close to 4,000 guests at double occupancy. NCL Encore includes attractions like waterslides, two pools, a Waterfront promenade, a racetrack, laser tag, and the virtual reality complex Galaxy Pavilion. We love that this class of ship has plenty to offer all types of travelers, making it a great option for multi-generational families.
Additionally, the ship boasts an indoor Observation Lounge, a wonderful thermal suite, and the up-charge Vibe Beach Club which are all perfect for glacier viewing. Norwegian Encore also features NCL favorite bars and restaurants, as well as the brand’s signature Freestyle approach to dining while cruising way up north.
Norwegian Encore is sailing the popular 7-day roundtrip itinerary from Seattle in 2024. The itinerary features stops in Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and Victoria, BC, along with scenic cruising in the spectacular Glacier Bay National Park.
Sister ship, Norwegian Bliss, is joining Encore in Seattle again this year. Norwegian Bliss will offer similar 7-day cruises to Alaska. This ship’s itinerary features stops in Sitka, Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan, and Victoria, with scenic cruising of Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier.
Ovation of the Seas (or Quantum)
As another one of the largest ships to cruise in Alaska, Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas also offers some of the most innovative features at sea. Making it easily one of our picks for best Alaska cruises 2024! Ovation 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 Ovation of the Seas as well. Not to mention, there’s the indoor Solarium, plenty of whirlpools, and an outdoor pool to enjoy while soaking in the views.
Ovation of the Seas is sailing roundtrip from Seattle in 2024. Most of the ship’s itineraries will feature stops in Sitka, Skagway, Juneau, and Victoria, with some offering scenic cruising in Endicott Arm. Sister ship Quantum of the Seas will cruise Alaska in 2024 as well with a similar itinerary.
Discovery Princess
It is tough to pick the best Alaska cruise for 2024 among the 7 Princess Cruisesβ ships sailing in the region this year. Given that we are partial to mega-ships, and really enjoy the scenic cruising through Glacier Bay National Park, our pick goes to Discovery Princess.
Discovery Princess is Princess Cruises 6th and final Royal Class ship. 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. From meeting Libby Riddles, an iditarod dog musher, to puppies in the Piazza, exclusive Alaska food and beverage offerings, and more.
Discovery Princess is sailing the Inside Passage roundtrip from Seattle in 2024. The itinerary visits all the popular stops– Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway, and Victoria as well as a cruise through Glacier Bay.
Eurodam
Much like Princess Cruises, Holland America Line has a large presence in Alaska. The cruise line has been sailing the region for over 75 years and has 6 ships here in 2024. Our pick for Holland America’s best ship sailing from Seattle is Eurodam. This Signature Class ship is the perfect mid-sized vessel at 86K gross tons and carrying just over 2,100 passengers at double occupancy.
Holland America is also well-known for its Alaska enrichment program. As part of its We Love Alaska programming, the cruise line will feature Glacier Day, Alaska Up Close presentations, new culinary and beverage experiences including its Fresh Fish program, and more.
In between all the sightseeing and enrichment opportunities, Eurodam features nightly entertainment on the World Stage, live music in the Rolling Stone Lounge and Billboard Onboard, a pickleball court, and top-notch specialty dining.
Eurodam’s 7-day roundtrip itinerary from Seattle features visits to Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Sitka, Ketchikan, and Victoria, along with scenic cruising in Glacier Bay.
Carnival Luminosa
Carnival Luminosa is a nearly 93K gross ton ship carrying just over 2,800 guests (double occupancy). This ship sailed as part of the Costa Cruises’ fleet since 2009. Combining elements of the Spirit Class and Vista Class ships, Luminosa transferred and began cruising Australia as part of the Carnival fleet in November 2022.
Carnival Luminosa features many FUN ship favorites, with Carnival favorite bars, restaurants, the Cloud 9 Spa, the Serenity adult-only area, and several family-friendly activities. Some of these include the Alchemy Bar, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, RedFrog Rum Bar, Piano Bar 88, and The Punchliner Comedy Club. Guests will also be treated to a few unique features on the ship, like a sliding sky dome over the pool deck allowing the area to be used in Alaska.
Carnival Luminosa is sailing roundtrip from Seattle in 2024. The itinerary features stops in Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and Victoria with scenic cruising through Tracy Arm Fjord.
Best Alaska Cruises 2024 – From Vancouver
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. This ship, along with all HAL ships sailing the region, feature a robust We Are Alaska program with plenty of unique enrichment and culinary opportunities.
When you are not exploring the Last Frontier, Koningsdam offers top-notch amenities, entertainment, and dining onboard the ship. There’s theater performances on the World Stage, BB King’s Blues Club, Billboard Onboard, and the Rolling Stone Lounge showcasing amazing musicians.
In addition to the Pacific Northwest cuisine in the main dining room, cruisers can also indulge in specialty dining at Pinnacle Grill, Tamarind, Rudi’s Sel de Mer, Canaletto, Nami Sushi, and even a Morimoto by Sea pop-up experience.
This Pinnacle Class ship is sailing 7-day roundtrip cruises from Vancouver, British Columbia in 2024. The itinerary visits Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan, as well as cruising through Glacier Bay National Park.
Celebrity Solstice
Celebrity Solstice is a 122K gross ton vessel that is part of Celebrity Cruises’ beloved Solstice Class of ships. This ship carries just over 2,850 passengers at double occupancy.
On Celebrity Solstice, you can play some bocce ball at the Lawn Club or partake in a Hot Glass Class. You can also enjoy some amazing views in the Sky Observation Lounge or sip a cocktail at the aft-located Sunset Bar if the weather permits.
After a long day exploring the Alaskan wilderness, you can relax in the Solarium or the Spa, join in on the fun at the Martini Bar, indulge in some fine dining at Murano or Tuscan Grille, or take in a show at the theater. Not to mention, there’s other favorites like Cafe al Bacio for morning coffee or afternoon snacks and the World Class Bar for one of a kind cocktails.
Cruising roundtrip from Vancouver, there are two different 7-day itineraries. One sails to Icy Strait Point, Juneau, and Ketchikan along with cruising the Hubbard Glacier, the longest tidewater glacier in North America. The other visits Icy Strait Point, Skagway, and Ketchikan, along with the Dawes Glacier.
Disney Wonder
If you are looking for an Alaska cruise in 2024 with a little bit of extra magic, look no further than Disney Wonder. That’s right, even Disney Cruise Line cruises way up north to Alaska! Disney Wonder weighs in at 83K gross tons and carries 2,400 passengers at double occupancy.
Disney Wonder features plenty of Disney touches in its dΓ©cor, dining, and entertainment. With character meet and greets, the only cruise line with fireworks at sea, and first-run Disney movies, there will be plenty to keep the whole family busy between ports of call. There’s also Disney staples like its rotational dining with three main dining rooms, including Triton’s, Animator’s Palate, and Tiana’s Place, as well as the adult-only Palo specialty restaurant.
As the only Disney cruise ship sailing the region, this is a must for all the Disney fans out there. However, Disney cruises do come with a higher price tag than some of the other contemporary cruise lines though.
Disney Wonder is sailing 7-day roundtrip cruises from Vancouver this year. The ship will visit popular ports in southeast Alaska including Juneau, Skagway (or Icy Strait Point), and Ketchikan, as well as cruising Stikine Icefield for glacier viewing.
Brilliance of the Seas
Brilliance of the Seas is part of Royal Caribbean’s Radiance Class of ships. At 90K gross tons, the Radiance Class ships do not feature the large indoor Royal Promenade found on newer megaships in the fleet but rather a more intimate Centrum. Brilliance of the Seas also only holds just over 2,100 guests at double occupancy.
Still, multi-generational families will find plenty to keep themselves busy between ports of call. Brilliance has Royal Caribbean staples like a rock-climbing wall, mini-golf, a sports court, casino, spa, a Solarium, and more. There’s also favorites like the Windjammer buffet, Chops Grille and Izumi specialty restaurants, the Schooner Bar, and nightly productions in the main theater.
In 2024, Brilliance of the Seas is sailing 7-day roundtrip cruises from Vancouver. There are a few different itineraries but most feature a combination of 3 stops in either Sitka, Icy Strait Point, Haines, Skagway, Ketchikan, or Juneau. While most include scenic cruising in the Tracy Arm Fjord, a few cruises do feature Hubbard Glacier instead.
Ruby Princess
Another Alaska staple sailing the region from Vancouver for the 2024 season is Ruby Princess. Ruby Princess is a 113K gross ton ship and carries just over 3,000 guests.
Onboard Ruby Princess, guests will find familiar favorites for the cruise line. Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria and the Crown Grill specialty restaurants will tempt your palette. While Movies Under the Stars, live music, and nightly theater productions will keep you entertained. There’s also the popular Good Spirits Bar showcasing local ingredients and one of a kind cocktails.
Further, you can relax in the adults only Sanctuary and rejuvenate on the Princess Luxury Bed before another full day exploring all that Alaska has to offer. Not to mention, Ruby Princess also offers the latest MedallionClass technology to help make your vacation more personalized and effortless.
Ruby Princess is sailing two different 7-day itineraries this year. One features stops in Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan, with cruising Endicott Arm and the Dawes Glacier. The other includes the same ports of call but visits Glacier Bay National Park instead.
Best Alaska Cruises 2024 – One-Way Routes
Royal Princess
Royal Princess is a sister ship to Discovery Princess. As the first member in the Royal Class of ships for Princess Cruises, this 142K gross ton ship carries just over 3,500 guests at double occupancy.
Those loyal to the Princess brand will find all the staples on Royal Princess. From the inviting Piazza, to the innovative MedallionClass technology, to the “best pizza at sea”, guests sailing to Alaska on Royal Princess will feel right at home. There’s also the Crown Grill, the line’s signature steakhouse, nightly entertainment in the main theater and Princess Live, as well as the popular Good Spirits at Sea and Crooners bars.
You also won’t want to miss the views from the SeaWalk, the signature glass walkway extending off the side of the ship, or Movies Under the Stars. Of course, Royal Princess features all the same North to Alaska enrichment programming as well.
In 2024, Royal Princess is sailing the popular 7-day Voyages of the Glaciers itinerary on Northbound and Southbound routes. Departing from either Vancouver or Anchorage (Whittier), the itinerary visits Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway (or Icy Strait Point), Glacier Bay National Park, and scenic cruising of either College Fjord or Hubbard Glacier.
Nieuw Amsterdam
If you are looking for other options to cruise Alaska with Holland America in 2024, Nieuw Amsterdam is another great pick that is featuring a one-way itinerary. 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 activities, the cruise line offers a traditional series of cruise activities and enrichment, nighttime entertainment, live music, and more. The ship will also feature the same We Are Alaska programming as the other HAL ships in the region. With personal service and well-executed dining, Holland America Lineβs Nieuw Amsterdam is an ideal backdrop to the amazing vistas of the Alaskan wilderness.
This ship will sail one-way itineraries in 2024 to/from Vancouver and Whittier, AK. During these Northbound and Southbound journeys, 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.
Celebrity Summit
If you are looking to cruise to Alaska with Celebrity Cruises, Celebrity Summit is another great option for best Alaska cruises in 2024. This 91K gross ton ship, carrying just over 2,200 guests at double occupancy, received a complete revitalization in 2019 with more than $500 million of upgrades.
Celebrity Summit features over 50% verandah staterooms for enjoying the Alaska scenery, along with the exclusive Retreat for those in the most luxurious accommodations. The ship is also home to the popular Martini Bar and Sunset Bar, Cafe al Bacio for some coffee and sweet treats, and the popular specialty dining experience Le Petit Chef.
Of course, guests can also enjoy nightly entertainment, a spa, casino, two pools, and pickleball at sea. The Sky Lounge perched at the top of the ship provides great forward-facing views of the scenery, and there’s also the outdoor Rooftop Terrace at the aft of the ship for admiring the glaciers. Celebrity also offers its Beyond the Podium series which provides plenty of enrichment during an Alaskan cruise.
Celebrity Summit is sailing one-way routes from either Vancouver or Seward, Alaska. These itineraries visit Ketchikan, Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Sitka (or Skagway), and the Hubbard Glacier.
Radiance of the Seas
As one of the top Alaska cruises year after year, Royal Caribbeanβs Radiance of the Seas will sail the region once again in 2024. Radiance of the Seas is a sister ship to Brilliance of the Seas and features a very similar layout and list of amenities. At 90K gross tons, this small ship (by Royal Caribbean standards) carries just under 2,150 passengers at double occupancy.
On Radiance of the Seas, you might not even need a balcony. This ship offers some of the greatest views of Alaska from the nine-story central atrium and outward facing elevators. While you cruise Alaska on this ship, you can also enjoy favorites like the Schooner Bar and Chops Grille, along with the nostalgic Viking Crown Lounge perched at the top of the ship. There’s also a Solarium and an indoor movie theater.
Radiance of the Seas is sailing 7-day, one-way routes from either Vancouver or Seward. These itineraries are more port intensive than some of the other Royal Caribbean offerings. They feature stops in Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Sitka (or Ketchikan), Skagway, and cruising the Hubbard Glacier.
Norwegian Jewel
NCLβs Norwegian Jewel is also heading to Alaska for the 2024 season. Norwegian Jewel is 93.5K GT and carries just over 2,300 guests at double occupancy.
If you donβt need all the bells and whistles of the larger mega-ships, Norwegian Jewel might be perfect for you. The ship still offers a classic Freestyle NCL experience but with less crowds and less up-charges.
There are still plenty of nightly entertainment and dining options onboard to help you unwind after a long day ashore. You will find the specialty restaurants Cagneyβs Steakhouse, Le Bistro, La Cucina, and the hibachi style Teppanyaki. There is also the complimentary OβSheehanβs Pub, plenty of bars like the popular Sugarcane Mojito Bar, the Bliss Ultra Lounge, and unique production shows in the main theater.
Norwegian Jewel is sailing one-way itineraries from either Vancouver, B.C. or Seward, Alaska. Again, these itineraries include classic Alaskan ports of call like Juneau, Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, and Skagway. They also feature scenic cruising at the Hubbard Glacier.
Viking Orion
Offering a small ship, more all-inclusive experience in Alaska, Viking also features an ocean ship sailing in the region this season. Viking Orion is a 930-passenger, 47.8K vessel that boasts all veranda staterooms and an elegant yet simplistic Scandinavian design.
On a Viking Ocean cruise, you receive a free tour in each port of call, WiFi, no up-charges for specialty dining, and complimentary room service. Guests can also enjoy beer, wine, and soft drinks at meals, specialty coffees and bottled water, access to the thermal suite, and more without any nickel and diming.
Of course, the ship also offers upscale dining that is all included in the cruise fare, bars and lounges with live music in the evenings, and enrichment opportunities to fill your time between ports of call. You can even warm up with afternoon tea in the Wintergarden after a long day ashore.
Viking Orion is sailing an 11-day Alaska and Inside Passage Cruise in 2024. This itinerary will sail from either Vancouver, British Columbia or Seward, Alaska. This itinerary visits Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, Icy Strait Point, and Valdez. It also includes scenic cruising of the Inside Passage and Yakutat Bay.
Best Alaska Cruises 2024 – Other
Crown Princess
Crown Princess is another one of Princess Cruises’ ships sailing Alaska in 2024. However, this ship offers a unique itinerary. This 113.5K gross ton ship, carrying just over 3,000 guests at double occupancy, is sailing an 11-day route roundtrip from San Francisco.
The itinerary features stops in Juneau, Skagway, Sitka (or Ketchikan), and Prince Rupert, BC along with scenic cruising in either Glacier Bay or Tracy Arm Fjord. There are also 5 sea days to enjoy all the ship has to offer.
As part of the Grand Class, Crown Princess features a similar layout and amenities to Ruby Princess to keep you entertained during your time on the ship.
Carnival Miracle
Carnival Miracle is another ship sailing to Alaska from San Francisco in 2024. As part of Carnival’s Spirit Class, this ship is 88.5K GT and carries just over 2,100 guests at double occupancy.
In June, July, and September of 2024, Carnival Miracle will sail a series of mostly 10-day cruises roundtrip from CA. Ports of call include Ketchikan, Haines, Juneau, Prince Rupert, and scenic cruising in Tracy Arm Fjord. On select itineraries, Ketchikan and/or Haines are swapped out for Skagway and/or Sitka.
There are also four sea days to enjoy the ship’s amenities. Guests can grab some casual eats at Guy’s Burger Joint or BlueIguana Cantina, along with some drinks at the RedFrog Rum Bar or the Alchemy Bar. There’s plenty of time for entertainment and relaxation onboard 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 if the weather allows, and Camp Ocean for the little ones.
Oceania Regatta
For another unique Alaska cruise in 2024, Oceania Regatta is sailing from Los Angeles, Seward, Vancouver, and Seattle on a variety of itineraries throughout the season. This upscale, small cruise ship is just over 30K gross tons. And it has a capacity of only 670 guests at double occupancy.
Despite its size, Oceania Cruises’ Regatta still features four open-seating restaurants, a spa, eight lounges and bars, and a casino. And nearly 70% of the staterooms feature private verandas β perfect for viewing Alaskaβs stunning landscapes. The shipβs intimate size allows for visits to ports where larger ships can’t dock. It also allows for more immersive experiences in port, connecting to the local people, culture, and cuisine.
While each itinerary varies, popular port stops in Alaska include Icy Strait Point, Sitka, Juneau, Ketchikan, Haines, Skagway, Klawock, Wrangell, and the Hubbard Glacier. Additional ports of call may include San Francisco; Astoria, Oregon; Prince Rupert, BC; or Victoria, BC. Most range in length from 7 to 12 days, with one 19-day itinerary.
Additional Alaska Experiences
Of course, these are just our picks for the best Alaska cruises for 2024. There are plenty of other sailings in the region that may appeal to different types of travelers. While we have never sailed with any of these brands, Regent, Silversea, and Seabourn do offer luxury and ultra-luxury experiences in the region.
If you aren’t really “a cruiser”, a cruise is still one of the best ways to visit Alaska. So, there are sailings out there for you too. Lindblad Expeditions, UnCruise Adventures, Alaskan Dream Cruises, and HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions), to name a few, provide a more off-the-beaten-path experience.
These expedition ships carry much fewer passengers and are a more active way of exploring. The accommodations will likely be less luxurious, and there will be far fewer amenities onboard. But, you will venture to more remote locales for a very different Alaska cruise experience than the mainstream cruise lines.
Whatever you choose, you won’t be disappointed. There is so much natural beauty, rugged landscapes, and wildlife waiting for you in Alaska.
You might also want to review some of our top Alaska Tips and our Complete Alaska Cruise Packing Guide to ensure you are fully prepared for your bucket list trip to this magnificent destination.
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 2024.
27 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 π
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.