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Discover Alaska by sea and experience a journey that truly stays with you — where soaring glaciers, breaching whales, and pristine wilderness unfold right outside your balcony. Each port reveals something new, from charming frontier towns and rich Native cultures to awe-inspiring national parks and fjords.
Cruise Lines
Itineraries
Ports of Call
Shore Excursions
Alaska Cruises Explained
Inside Passage, Northbound & Southbound Routes + Cruise Tours
Alaska cruises generally fall into three main categories: Inside Passage cruises, Northbound/Southbound one-way cruises, and Cruise Tours that combine sailing with inland travel. Each offers a different way to experience glaciers, wildlife, and Alaska's dramatic landscapes.
What is an Alaska Inside Passage Cruise?
An Inside Passage cruise is a round-trip itinerary that typically departs from Seattle or Vancouver and sails through protected coastal waterways. It is known for calmer seas, scenic fjords, and frequent wildlife sightings. Popular ports often include Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway.
What is a Northbound Alaska Cruise?
A Northbound Alaska cruise travels one-way from a departure port (often Vancouver) up to Alaska, usually ending in Seward or Whittier. These cruises often include more time in Alaska ports and are commonly paired with land tours.
What is a Southbound Alaska Cruise?
A Southbound Alaska cruise travels from Alaska back to Canada. These itineraries often start with inland travel or glacier regions before sailing through Alaska's coastal ports and ending in Vancouver. They are ideal for travelers combining land and sea experiences.
What is an Alaska Cruise Tour?
An Alaska Cruise Tour combines a cruise with a guided land package. Travelers typically visit interior destinations such as Denali National Park and ride scenic railways or motorcoach routes before or after the cruise portion. This option provides the most complete Alaska experience.
Alaska wilderness lodges offer a peaceful retreat surrounded by breathtaking scenery, untamed landscapes, and a closer connection to nature.
Travel through Alaska in a dome rail car and enjoy panoramic views of mountains, rivers, and wild landscapes.
With a variety of itinerary lengths to choose from (7, 10 or 14+ days), it's easy to find your travel style and schedule.
Experience the awe of Alaska's glaciers, where towering ice and dramatic scenery create truly unforgettable moments.
Alaska's national parks invite travelers to experience wild beauty, remarkable wildlife, and awe-inspiring landscapes.
From whales and bears to eagles and beyond, Alaska offers exceptional wildlife experiences in their natural habitat.
Discover Alaska's iconic totem poles, where intricate carvings reflect a rich heritage of artistry and tradition.
Adventure meets awe on an Alaska cruise. From whale watching and glacier viewing to dog sledding, kayaking, and charming port-town strolls, every day brings a new way to experience the wild beauty of the Last Frontier.
Extended Stays in Iconic Ports
While most cruise lines offer half-day visits, Azamara Cruises gives guests a full day and evening (13 hours) to explore Ketchikan. Enjoy more time in Victoria (15 hours) to stroll Butchart Gardens, sip local wines, or dine by the Inner Harbour — longer than any other brand.
Exclusive Overland Tours
On select sailings, guests can disembark for a guided land tour of Glacier Bay while the ship cruises to the next port - then rejoin the ship the next day. Flightseeing & Glacier Bay Adventure in Sitka, Wildlife & Bear Search in Spasski River Valley, Prince of Wales Whale & Marine Mammal Quest in Klawock, and more!
More Ports, More Wonder
Visit hidden gems the big ships skip: Valdez, Klawock, Wrangell, Haines, and Nanaimo. Often, Azamara is the only ship in port for these smaller ports, giving you a more intimate, authentic experience.
Azamara Cruises Alaska cruises offer an intimate, destination-focused experience on smaller ships sailing scenic routes like the Inside Passage with stops in ports such as Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan. Known for longer stays in port, Azamara allows deeper immersion into Alaska's glaciers, wildlife, and coastal culture.
Magic Carpet Deck
On those ships featuring it, witness breathtaking views from heights of 13 stories above sea level from the transformational Magic Carpet®. Guests enjoy cozy seating, a full bar, space for live music and depending on its position, a spectacular open-air dining experience.
Cruise Tour Specialist
Explore Alaska's rugged landscapes, National Parks, wildlife rehabilitation centers and learn about it's rich indigenous cultures from local and regional experts.
Adult-Centric
Engage with likeminded guests in onboard enrichment programming and on Alaska tours in a meaningful way. Celebrity Cruises is a preferred cruise line for mature adults and couples interested in immersing themselves in their destination.
Beautiful ships including those with the Magic Carpet soaring well above above sea level. Local Tour Directors who are Alaska residents & experts lead cruisetours. Skillfully prepared dishes and thoughtfully designed menus highlight every delicious meal on the lovely ships of Celebrity.
Robust Itineraries
Sail roundtrip from Seattle to discover the majesty of Glacier Bay National Park and Hubbard Glacier, marvel at the towering rainforests of Icy Strait Point, and admire the enigmatic totem poles dotting quaint Ketchikan.
Renowned Guest Speakers
Alaska cruises on Cunard bring you face to face with renowned explorers, mountaineers and photographers, whose personal experiences offer a fascinating insight into the region's past and present.
In-Depth Shore Excursions
With full days in several ports of call, travelers have more time to indulge in only-in-Alaska experiences, like the breathtaking waterfalls, mountains, and tunnels along the scenic White Pass Railway.
Cunard Line Alaska cruises offer a luxury, classic sailing experience through scenic routes like the Inside Passage, with stops in ports such as Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan. Guests enjoy elegant onboard service paired with Alaska's glaciers, wildlife, and dramatic coastal scenery.
Family Cruising
Disney is widely considered the gold standard for travel with children because the ships are designed for family comfort.
Onboard Naturalists
Trained experts, often local to Alaska, hold family-friendly talks in the Walt Disney Theatre onboard Disney ships.
Glacier Day Festivities
Popular options include the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show in Ketchikan or dog sledding on a glacier.
Sailing to Alaska with Disney Cruise Line offers a highly themed, family-centric experience that leans heavily into the "magic" of its characters and high-end entertainment, which often contrasts with the more nature-focused or "party" atmosphere of other lines.
Alaska Glacier Guarantee™
Experience the grandeur of Alaska's ice giants — guaranteed. Cruise with Holland America and you'll either see a glacier or get a Future Cruise Credit worth 15% of your fare.
Alaska Up Close Program
Alaska Up Close immerses you in the heritage and history of the 49th State through local crafts, storytelling, and regional flavors.
Sustainable Seafood
Dine on Alaska's freshest seafood with the only cruise line triple-certified to serve 100% fresh, certified sustainable, and traceable wild Alaska seafood on board their ships.
Alaska's most experienced cruise line — sailing since 1947. Known for mid-sized ships with wraparound decks, Glacier Bay access, and the 'We Heart Alaska' onboard program with rangers and naturalists.
Expedition Boats
HX Expedition's smaller, nimbler expedition boats are perfect for exploring the coastline, spotting seals and whales and landing in remote areas to explore on foot.
Expedition Team
Guided by the expert HX Expedition Team, you'll find yourself enraptured by the wildlife: magnificent bears, colossal moose and noble whales, as well as Alaskan seabirds, caribou, deer and wolves.
Kayaking
Alaska is the perfect place to enjoy kayaking, whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your very first time. Paddle through ocean passages and iceberg lagoons just for pleasure.
To travel with HX is to open yourself to a world of awe. From cultural encounters to wildlife wonders, what you see and learn on your trip will inspire and energise you. And when you come back home, you'll have a deeper, richer love of the planet we all share.
Sample Cruise Itinerary
Vancouver Misty Fjords Klawock Saint George Island Icy Bay Valdez College Fjord Whittier
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Expedition Cruising
Lindblad Expeditions is the premier choice for travelers who want a true wilderness immersion rather than a traditional port-to-port cruise.
Naturalist Guides
Every voyage is led by a veteran expedition team, including naturalists, marine biologists, and historians who provide deep insights into local wildlife and ecology.
Wildlife Focus
Wildlife viewing on Lindblad Expeditions is an active, immersive experience where guests can kayak past foraging bears or Zodiac alongside pods of orcas.
Lindblad Expeditions Alaska cruises offer an expedition-style, small-ship experience focused on exploration of remote wilderness areas, glaciers, and wildlife-rich waters. Sailing through destinations like the Inside Passage and Glacier Bay, guests enjoy expert naturalist guides and immersive encounters with Alaska's coastal ecosystems and dramatic landscapes.
Sample Cruise Itinerary
Juneau Tracy Arm Fords St. Petersburg Frederick Sound Icy Strait Glacier Bay
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Eco-Friendly Cruising
MSC features a fully Polar Code-certified hull and advanced environmental systems designed specifically to protect vulnerable ecosystems.
Glacier Excursions
When docked in Juneau, MSC offers several adventure-based excursions that allow for a much closer look.
Northern Lights Tracking
Dedicated wildlife specialists provide active bridge narration, alerting guests over the public intercom when whales or marine life are spotted alongside the ship.
MSC Cruises Alaska cruises feature select itineraries showcasing scenic routes, glacier views, and popular ports like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway. Known for modern ships and family-friendly experiences, MSC offers a comfortable way to explore Alaska's wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and coastal culture.
Onboard Enrichment
Delve into the wonders of Alaska with National Park Rangers who often join sailings to provide narration and lectures as the ship sails along past the most beautiful scenery.
Speedway Go-Karts
Imagine the thrill of racing onboard among Alaska's glaciers on the ship's go-kart track.
Glacier Access
Visit Glacier Bay with one of the few cruise lines to carry the required permits. This Unesco World Heritage Site is renowned for its spectacular calving glaciers.
Norwegian Cruise Line provides flexible Alaska itineraries with Free at Sea perks. Norwegian's family-friendly ships offer Alaska cruises and cruisetours with activities, signature entertainment, shore excursions and more for all ages and interests.
Adult - Only
Alaska shoreside activities and tours are curated for adults. From kayaking in the wilderness or embarking on an ATV adventure to ziplining over the forest in Icy Strait Point or gain hands on skills needed to copy the preparation of Alaska-style seafood at hiome.
Culinary Excursions
Oceania's dedication to culinary excellence is continued shoreside in Alaska. Indulge in delicious excursions including Chef-Led Oyster Farm and Cooking Classes in Ketchikan.
Destination Immersion
Learn about Alaska's rich heritage on tours lead by locals. These may include visiting the place in Sitka where the Russians officially transferred Alaska to America after selling it in 1867. Tour the Gold Rush Cemetery in Skagway and learn about those buried there.
Oceania Cruises Alaska cruises offer a premium, small-ship experience through scenic routes like the Inside Passage, with stops in ports such as Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan. Known for destination-focused travel, Oceania combines refined dining and service with Alaska's glaciers, wildlife, and breathtaking coastal landscapes.
Historic Frontier Towns
From the capital Juneau to historical Skagway, there's time to get acquainted with the local flavor and connect with the past.
Enrichment Programs
The "North to Alaska" Enrichment Program - Cook My Catch is an exclusive dining option where you can catch your own fish on a shore excursion and have Princess chefs prepare it for your dinner.
Glacier Bay
Princess is among the few cruise lines able to show guests the wonders of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Park rangers come aboard to provide commentary and answer questions.
50+ years in Alaska. Exclusive 'Direct to the Wilderness' rail, five wilderness lodges, and the North to Alaska cultural immersion program. Best for cruisetours.
Complimentary Shore Excursions
Exciting complimentary Alaska excursions include Sled Dogs & Gold Panning in Skagway, a Native Canoe Adventure in Mendenhall Glacier, an Alaskan Lumberjack Show, a Lighthouse, Totems & Eagles Excursion in Ketchikan, a behind-the-scenes tour of Fort Stevens in Astoria and much more.
Alaskan Beers
Savor the unique flavors of Alaska with locally brewed beers infused with locally sourced spruce tips, wild berries and crisp glacier water.
All-Inclusive
Regent's, truly all-inclusive, Alaska cruises not only feature unlimited shore excursions in every port but fares also provide specialty dining, premium beverages, gratuities, laundry, and Wi-Fi.
Regent Seven Seas Alaska cruises are an ultra-luxury, all-inclusive experience. Guests sail iconic routes like the Inside Passage with stops in ports such as Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan. Guests enjoy sumptuous suites, personalized service, and immersive access to Alaska's glaciers, wildlife, and dramatic coastal scenery.
Sample Cruise Itinerary
Seattle Klawock Sitka Icy Strait Skagway Juneau Ketchikan Prince Rupert Victoria, B.C. Seattle
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North Star® Capsule & FlowRider®
Indulge in 360-degree views of the Last Frontier from high atop the ship. The North Star® capsule is a Guinness World Record holder for the highest cruise ship viewing platform. While it can accommodate large groups, private experiences are available. Join the priviledged guests choosing to hang-10 among the glaciers on the line's FlowRider® surf simulator.
Multi-Generational Shore Excursions
The kids and young at heart will love dog-sledding followed by puppy cuddles on an Alaska cruise. Scenic train rides, salmon bakes and panning for gold are among some of the many exciting choices awaiting your family.
Wildlife Wonders
While wildlife operate on their own schedules, guests may experience various sightings including graceful Humpback Whales, beautiful Grizzly and Black Bears, majestic Bald Eagles or perhaps visit one of Alaska's wildlife rehabilitation centers.
Multiple ships bring the North Star® observation capsule and FlowRider to Alaska among many other amenities exclusive to the brand. Guests will discover an extensive list of excursion options at every port.
Ventures by Seabourn
Expedition programs in Alaska are led by field experts and may include optional Zodiac and kayak tours directly from the ship. These bespoke adventures enable guests to embrace water-level perspectives of calving glaciers and wildlife from an unrivaled vantage point.
Culinary Journeys
On Seabourn's Alaska cruises, the impeccable all-inclusive culinary journey includes locally sourced ingredients including Alaskan King Crab and salmon. Participate in specialized local experiences and exclusive events such as "Caviar on the Ice" or shore excursions that include wilderness fishing and outdoor seafood feasts.
Remote Exploration
The line's Expedition Team, comprised of experts in various fields, enables close-up encounters with Alaska's wonders, guiding you from secluded shores to untouched fjords found off the beaten path. Witness glistening glaciers on every voyage, illuminated by long summer light extending well into the night.
Seabourn Cruise Line's Alaska cruises boast an ultra-luxury, small-ship experience sailing scenic routes and accessing narrow fjords and stops in secluded ports. indulge your inner-explorer with an immersive way to celebrate Alaska's glaciers, wildlife, and remote coastal beauty.
Sample Cruise Itinerary
Vancouver Seymour Narrows Queen Charlotte Sound Ketchikan Decision Passage Sitka Yukutat Bay Hubbard Glacier Icy Strait Haines Juneau
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Distinctive Ports
Silversea can provide distinctive selections not found on bigger cruise vessels. Silversea also visits smaller ports such as Haines.
Small Ships
Silversea's fleet of small ships offers extreme comfort for the adventurous traveler. With one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios in the industry, multiple dining options, expert guides and authentic experiences guaranteed, there is nothing more rewarding than a cruise to Alaska with Silversea.
Zodiac Excursions
Their zodiacs can zigzag between icebergs and enter narrow fjords like Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm.
Silversea Cruises Alaska cruises offer an ultra-luxury, all-inclusive small-ship experience sailing scenic routes like the Inside Passage with stops in ports such as Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan. Guests enjoy personalized service and immersive access to Alaska's glaciers, wildlife, and remote coastal landscapes.
Adults-only Experience
Adults-only Alaska Experience both onboard and ashore. Indulge in activities including hands-on, intimate, hot cocktail crafting classes. built for cold horizons — Glacial Toddies, Cedar Smoke Old Fashioneds, Fjord Negronis. Cruises and tours for guests 18 mand over only.
Small Group Tours
Smaller groups enhance the guest experience on Alaska excursions and foster camaraderie. In addition, these activities enable a larger variety of tour opportunities such as a behind-the-scenes tour of Skagway Spirits Distillery, learning about their handcrafted spirits, including signature Bone-Dry Gin and Glacial Vodka.
Local & Immersive Tours
Alaska Shore Things are unique to Virgin Voyages, designed specifically for destination immersion, developed with local operators, and impossible to book anywhere else. Take in the beautiful network of rainforest islands and diverse wildlife of Sitka. At exclusive Fin Island Lodge, enjoy a delicious feast of Alaska crab, wild salmon cooked over an alder wood-fired grill.
Virgin Voyages Alaska cruises are more than adult-only. They are immersive experiences both onboard and ashore. Learn the art of crafting hot cocktails. Expert-led shore excursions which may include a comprehensive dive into Klondike Gold rush history with hands-on panning, then hook - up to an authentic sled & team for a thrilling sprint before cuddling some puppies.
Sample Cruise Itinerary
Seattle Cruise Inside Passage Ketchikan Sitka Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier Prince Rupert, BC Seattle
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Yacht Style Ships
On Windstar's intimate yacht-type ships, nearly all accommodations feature a full private veranda or a floor-to-ceiling infinity window for exceptional views of Alaska and your surroundings.
Signature Expeditions
Windstar launches Zodiacs right from your yacht into Alaskan pristine wilderness on Windstar Signature Expeditions where you'll enjoy spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities. Perhaps you prefer a more active or hands-on approach - paddle along with guides on a kayak tour or join an expedition guide for a hike through unspoiled Alaskan wilderness.
Curated Culinary Experiences
Windstar has partnered with the James Beard Foundation to bring you exceptional culinary experiences crafted by all-star chefs. Menus feature an array of fresh, seasonal ingredients including fresh-caught Alaskan seafood highlighting the delicious flavors of cuisine along with wine pairings.
Windstar Cruises' Alaska sailings offer an intimate small-ship sailing experience through scenic routes such as the breathtaking Inside Passage, cruise itineraries include ports such as Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway. Known for relaxed luxury and closer-to-nature travel, Windstar provides immersive views of glaciers, wildlife, and Alaska's rugged coastal landscapes.
Sample Cruise Itinerary
Vancouver Ketchikan Misty Fjords Wrangell Sitka Tracy Arm Haines Juneau
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Canadian Rockies Exploration
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies, from Banff, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the turquoise waters of Lake Louise.
Rocky Mountaineer Luxury Train
Travel through the Canadian Rockies aboard the world-renowned Rocky Mountaineer, enjoying luxury rail travel and spectacular scenery
Denali National Park
Explore Alaska's pristine interior, from Denali National Park to the charming outpost of Talkeetna. Experience vast tundra, towering peaks, and remarkable wildlife.
An Azamara Cruises Alaska Cruise Tour combines a scenic cruise through the Inside Passage with an immersive land journey into Alaska's interior. Guests enjoy longer stays in port, Denali National Park and Preserve, and deeper cultural and wildlife experiences for a more destination-focused Alaska adventure.
Sample Cruise Tour Itinerary
Whittier Valdez Hubbard Glacier Icy Strait Haines Juneau Endicott Arm Ketchikan Klawock Vancouver
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Wilderness Express Railway
A highlight of every Cruisetour is a scenic ride on the Wilderness Express rail cars that travel on the Alaska railroad that extends from Anchorage to Fairbanks. Enjoy 360-degree views from dome windows, reclining leather seats, spacious interiors, fine cuisine prepared by the onboard chef in the dining section, along with full bar service at your seat.
Talkeetna
In sight of the great mountain, Talkeetna offers breathtaking views, a folksy frontier spirit, endless outdoor activities, and the unique ambience of its eclectic Main Street. Among climbers, Talkeetna is the ideal staging ground for preparations to the tallest peak in North America.
Mountains
With thirty different mountain ranges and the top ten tallest peaks in North America, Alaska is a land of spectacular peaks and valleys. The Alaska Range reaches from the coastline to the interior regions. Journeying to the interior of Alaska on a Cruisetour affords the opportunity to view the tallest peak in North America, it towers over the surrounding Alaska Range rising to 20,320 feet, the view on a clear day is an intensely impressive sight.
A Celebrity Cruises Alaska Cruise Tour combines a scenic cruise through the Inside Passage with a guided land journey into Alaska's interior. Guests enjoy highlights like Denali National Park and Preserve, glaciers, and wildlife for a modern, elevated Alaska experience.
Sample Cruise Tour Itinerary
Vancouver Ketchikan Sitka Juneau Icy Strait Hubbard Glacier Seward Anchorage Denali National Park Fairbanks
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McKinley Explorer® Train
Every Alaska cruisetour includes a journey through the unspoiled Alaska interior on board our privately owned, two-level, glass-domed railcars.
Denali Lodge
All Alaska cruisetours include 1–3 nights at Holland America Denali Lodge — a private riverfront wilderness property in the hills of Denali National Park & Preserve.
Yukon Overnight Stays
Trace the footsteps of Klondike Gold Rush prospectors with the only cruise line offering overnights in Dawson City and a Tour Director throughout the land portion of your journey.
A Holland America Line Alaska Cruise Tour combines a scenic cruise through the Inside Passage with an in-depth journey into Alaska's interior. Guests experience highlights like Denali National Park and Preserve, glaciers, wildlife, and historic towns for a classic, immersive Alaska adventure.
Sample Cruise Tour Itinerary
Vancouver Inside Passage Ketchikan Juneau Skagway Glacier Bay College Fjord Whittier Denali National Park Fairbanks
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Magnificient Glaciers
Alaska's glaciers are among the most spectacular in the world, shaping vast landscapes of ice, mountains, and fjords. Many can be seen up close by cruise or flightseeing, where towering ice walls and floating icebergs create dramatic scenery. Highlights include tidewater glaciers that calve into the sea and expansive ice fields that stretch for miles, offering an unforgettable look at a powerful and constantly changing natural wonder.
Denali National Park
Denali National Park and Preserve is Alaska's most famous national park, spanning over six million acres of wild tundra, forests, and mountains and home to Denali, North America's tallest peak. Visitors come for its dramatic scenery and wildlife, including bears, moose, and caribou, often exploring via guided tours or shuttle buses along the park road.
Fairbanks Northern Lights
The Aurora Borealis is visible in only a few places worldwide, and Fairbanks, Alaska is one of the best—often ranked among the top destinations to see it. Some travelers even visit Manley Hot Springs for a unique viewing experience from a natural hot spring. While the viewing season runs from March to September, September offers the best chance due to darker skies and lower cruise-season prices after summer travel peaks.
A Norwegian Cruise Line Alaska Cruise Tour combines a scenic cruise through the Inside Passage with a flexible land journey into Alaska's interior. Guests experience highlights like Denali National Park and Preserve, glaciers, and wildlife, with Freestyle Cruising offering a relaxed, customizable Alaska adventure.
Sample Cruise Tour Itinerary
Vancouver Inside Passage Ketchikan Juneau Skagway Icy Strait Hubbard Glacier Whittier Denali National Park Anchorage
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5 Epic National Parks
Explore up to five iconic national parks including Glacier Bay, Denali, Wrangell-St. Elias , Kenai Fjords and Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park.
5 Exclusive Lodges
Princess Alaska Lodges have comfortable and inviting accommodations, in riverside and wilderness settings.
Iconic Wildlife
In Denali National Park, look for the Big Five — grizzly bears, wolves, moose, caribou and Dall sheep.
A Princess Cruises Alaska Cruise Tour combines a scenic cruise through the Inside Passage with an immersive land journey into Alaska's interior. Guests experience top highlights like Denali National Park and Preserve, glaciers, and wildlife for a complete sea-and-land Alaska adventure.
Sample Cruise Tour Itinerary
Vancouver Ketchikan Glacier Bay Icy Strait College Fjord Whittier Mount McKinley Princess Lodge Denali Princess Lodge Fairbanks
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Adventure Specialists
Your Adventure Specialist is a local expert — many born and raised in Alaska — who shares a deep passion for the state's nature, culture, and history. They handle the details and offer insider tips, helping you explore everything from wildlife and trails to local food and cultural experiences for a seamless Alaskan adventure.
Luxury Transportation
A highlight of a Royal Caribbean Alaska Cruisetour is riding the Wilderness Express® glass-domed railcars, offering panoramic views, comfortable seating, and onboard dining with access to open-air viewing platforms. Throughout your journey, deluxe motor coaches and coordinated luggage service ensure smooth, comfortable, door-to-door travel between destinations.
Alaska Lodges
Royal Caribbean partners with top Alaskan lodges in scenic locations, offering comfortable stays close to nature and local communities. Properties like the Talkeetna Alaska Lodge and Alyeska Resort provide stunning views, modern comforts, and easy access to outdoor adventures—serving as ideal base camps for exploring Alaska.
A Royal Caribbean Alaska Cruise Tour combines a scenic cruise through the Inside Passage with a guided land journey into Alaska's interior. Guests experience highlights like Denali National Park and Preserve, glaciers, and wildlife alongside modern ships and onboard entertainment for an active, family-friendly Alaska adventure.
Sample Cruise Tour Itinerary
Vancouver Ketchikan Icy Strait Sitka Skagway Hubbard Glacier Seward Anchorage Denali National Park Talkeetna Anchorage
See DealsCreate unforgettable family memories on an Alaska cruise. Bring the whole family for glacier views, wildlife encounters, and unforgettable adventures together. Discover Alaska as a family, with scenic cruising, exciting excursions, and moments everyone will remember.
Book a family cruise to Alaska and take advantage of exceptional savings.
Glacier Adventures
See towering glaciers from the ship and experience Alaska's snowy landscapes through unforgettable excursions like glacier walks and dog sledding. It's a bucket-list adventure kids and parents will talk about for years.
Wildlife Encounters
Spot humpback whales, bald eagles, seals, and even bears during Alaska wildlife excursions. These up-close encounters turn the cruise into a real-life nature adventure for the whole family.
Gold Rush Fun
Ride historic trains through mountain passes and try panning for real gold in former Gold Rush towns like Skagway. These interactive experiences bring Alaska’s frontier history to life for kids and adults alike.
See ancient ice calve into the sea at Glacier Bay, Hubbard Glacier, and College Fjord — up close from the deck.
Humpback whales, orcas, brown bears, bald eagles, and sea otters — all viewable on a single 7-day sailing.
Dome railcars, wilderness lodges, and Denali National Park on a land + sea cruisetour — or fully land-based escorted tour.
The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway offers a scenic journey through Alaska's mountains, historic landscapes, and breathtaking views.
Cruise Port Information
Explore Alaska's unforgettable cruise ports, where charming coastal towns, breathtaking scenery, and unique local experiences come together to create memorable moments at every stop.
Select from the list of ports to learn more about each destination.
Capital • Mendenhall Glacier
Juneau is a top Alaska cruise port, offering easy access to glaciers, wildlife, and outdoor adventures. Ships dock downtown, close to shops and attractions. Highlights include Mendenhall Glacier, whale watching, and scenic views. With its natural beauty and convenience, Juneau is a must-visit stop on any Alaska cruise itinerary.
Totem Poles • Rainforest
Ketchikan is a vibrant Alaska cruise port known for its rich Native culture, colorful waterfront, and lush rainforest setting. Ships dock near downtown, making it easy to explore on foot. Highlights include Creek Street, totem pole parks, and world-class salmon fishing, making Ketchikan a memorable Alaska cruise stop.
Gold Rush • White Pass Rail
Skagway is a historic Alaska cruise port known for its Gold Rush heritage and scenic mountain setting. Ships dock near its walkable downtown, lined with preserved 1890s buildings. Highlights include the White Pass & Yukon Route, hiking trails, and breathtaking landscapes, making Skagway a favorite stop on Alaska cruise itineraries.
National Park • Glaciers
Glacier Bay is a breathtaking highlight of many Alaska cruise port itineraries, known for towering glaciers, dramatic fjords, and abundant wildlife. Located within Glacier Bay National Park, it offers close-up views of calving ice, whales, seals, and eagles. Most visits are made by cruise ship, making it one of Alaska's most unforgettable natural experiences.
Wildlife • Zipline
Icy Strait Point is a unique and scenic Alaska cruise port known for authentic Alaska Native culture and abundant wildlife. Located near Hoonah, it offers whale watching, ziplining, and access to pristine wilderness. With no crowds and immersive experiences, it's one of Alaska's most natural and adventure-focused cruise stops.
Embarkation • Kenai Fjords
Seward and Whittier are key Alaska cruise port gateways to Alaska's interior and glacier regions. Seward is known for access to Kenai Fjords National Park, while Whittier offers direct entry to Prince William Sound. Both ports serve as embarkation or disembarkation points for one-way Alaska cruise itineraries and land tours.
Whales • Tongass National Forest
Sitka is a historic and scenic Alaska cruise port located on Baranof Island, known for its rich Russian heritage, coastal beauty, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can explore Sitka National Historical Park, watch for sea otters and bald eagles, and enjoy a walkable waterfront that blends culture, history, and natural Alaska scenery.
Wildlife • Indigenous Culture
Prince Rupert is a coastal Alaska cruise port on select itineraries, known for its rugged scenery, rich Indigenous culture, and gateway location along the Inside Passage. Visitors can explore local wildlife, coastal rainforests, and the Museum of Northern British Columbia, making it a quieter but culturally rich stop on Alaska cruise routes.
Butchart Gardens • British Charm
Victoria is a popular late-stop Alaska cruise port known for its British charm, coastal scenery, and walkable Inner Harbour. Often visited at the end of Alaska itineraries, highlights include the Butchart Gardens, historic architecture, and waterfront dining, making it a scenic and culturally rich final port of call.
Glaciers • Seals
Hubbard Glacier is a breathtaking highlight of many Alaska cruise port itineraries, known for its massive size, deep blue ice, and frequent calving events. Located in Disenchantment Bay, it offers dramatic close-up views of active glacial movement, seals, and rugged wilderness, making it one of the most awe-inspiring natural sights on an Alaska cruise.
Pre & Post Cruise Exploration
Enhance your cruise vacation with pre- and post-cruise options designed to make every part of your journey more seamless and memorable. From extra time to explore before you sail to a relaxing stay after your return, these added experiences help you make the most of every moment.
Select from the list of pre & post destinations ports to learn more.
Arctic Exploration • Alaskan Culture
Fairbanks is a key inland destination on many Alaska cruise tours, known for its northern location, riverfront setting, and access to authentic Alaskan culture. Visitors often use it as a base for exploring the Arctic region, wildlife, and the midnight sun in summer, or the Northern Lights in early fall, making it a unique end point for cruise land extensions.
Mountains • Alaskan Culture
Denali National Park and Preserve is a premier highlight of Alaska cruise tours, known for North America's tallest peak, Denali, and vast untouched wilderness. Visitors experience sweeping tundra, glaciers, and wildlife like grizzly bears and moose. Often visited via land extensions from cruise itineraries, it offers one of the most iconic and immersive Alaska adventure experiences.
Wildlife • Cultural Attractions
Anchorage is a major hub for Alaska cruise tours, serving as a gateway between coastal cruise ports and Alaska's interior. Surrounded by mountains and wilderness, it offers access to wildlife viewing, cultural attractions, and rail connections to Denali. Many travelers begin or end their cruise land extensions here, making it a key Alaska travel destination.
Scenic Excursions • Small Town Character
Talkeetna is a charming stop on many Alaska cruise tours, known for its small-town character, mountain views, and role as a gateway to Denali National Park and Preserve. Visitors enjoy scenic flightseeing, river tours, and views of Denali on clear days, making it a popular and memorable inland Alaska excursion destination.
Alaska season runs May through September. May–June is best for whale watching and uncrowded ports; July–August is peak with the warmest temps; September offers fall foliage and fewer crowds.
A cruise is a 7-night sailing visiting coastal ports. A cruisetour adds 2–8 nights on land via dome railcar and wilderness lodges. A land tour is fully land-based with no ship involved.
Most escorted tours include accommodations, many meals, entrance fees, transportation, local guides and naturalists, and exclusive activities. Operators like Tauck and Globus also include the Alaska Railroad dome car.
Roundtrip cruises from Seattle require only a birth certificate + photo ID for US citizens, but a passport is always recommended — especially for one-way itineraries via Canada.
For cruises, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian and Disney offer the most activities for families. For land tours, Adventures by Disney Alaska is purpose-built for families. Princess cruisetours are excellent for multi-generational groups.
Alaska cruises typically range from:
Not all Alaska cruises include Glacier Bay National Park. Cruise lines like Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Viking Cruises, Seabourn and Cunard have permits for Glacier Bay itineraries, however not all itineraries include Glacier Bay.
Pack in layers:
Weather can change quickly, even in summer.
Yes, Alaska cruises are great for families. Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line and Disney Cruise Line offer:
Kids, young and old will love the epic wildlife and nature found in Alaska and the active excursions while ashore. Once back on board, families will enjoy all of the activities offered for kids of all ages.
You may see:
* Wildlife viewing is best from June through August.
Most Alaska cruises are:
Inside Passage: Smoother waters, round-trip itineraries
Gulf of Alaska: One-way routes, more glaciers, includes land tours
Most Alaska cruises, especially in the Inside Passage, are relatively calm compared to open ocean cruising.
It's possible but rare. Best chances are in late September on cruises with clear skies and minimal light pollution.
Alaska cruises are generally casual.
Book 6–12 months in advance for the best cabins and pricing — especially for peak summer months.
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