Imagine standing on the deck of a ship, the crisp Alaskan air filling your lungs as you gaze upon towering glaciers calving into turquoise waters. Below, the rich marine life dances in the depths, while above, eagles soar against a backdrop of rugged mountains. This is not just a dream; it’s the reality of an Alaska cruise, where adventure and breathtaking beauty await at every turn.
With over a million travelers embarking on this journey each year, it’s clear why Alaska ranks among the top five cruise destinations in the U.S. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or contemplating your first voyage, the allure of Alaska’s stunning landscapes and vibrant wildlife is hard to resist. From the charming ports of call to the serene moments spent watching nature unfold, an Alaskan cruise offers an unparalleled experience.
In this article, we’ll answer some of the most common questions about Alaska cruises, helping you navigate everything from the best itineraries to what to pack. So, grab your winter coat and get ready to explore the last frontier—your unforgettable adventure awaits!
💡 FUN FACT: Alaska’s capital, Juneau, is the only U.S. state capital that you can’t drive to. The only way to get there is by plane or boat.
1. What’s the best Alaska cruise itinerary?
While you’re researching which Alaska cruise to choose, you’ll quickly notice that there are three main route options: the Inside Passage, the Gulf of Alaska, and the Bering Sea. With nearly 30 cruise ports to choose from, each route offers a distinct perspective on Alaska’s natural wonders and rich culture.
Inside Passage
The Inside Passage is the most popular and well-known Alaska cruise route. This sheltered waterway winds through the islands of Southeast Alaska, offering stunning views of glaciers, fjords, and lush forests. Key ports of call often include:
- Juneau: Alaska’s capital, accessible only by air or sea
- Ketchikan: Known for its totem poles and rich Native Alaskan culture
- Skagway: A gold rush town with a fascinating history
If you want to avoid getting seasick on a cruise, choose an Inside Passage itinerary. Those waters are typically the calmest due to the protection provided by the surrounding islands.
Gulf of Alaska
Gulf of Alaska cruises, also known as “Northbound” or “Southbound” cruises, typically sail between Vancouver or Seattle and Seward or Whittier (near Anchorage). These one-way itineraries allow you to explore more of Alaska’s coastline, including:
- Hubbard Glacier: North America’s largest tidewater glacier
- College Fjord: Home to numerous glaciers named after Ivy League schools
- Sitka: A charming town with Russian and Tlingit heritage
Gulf of Alaska cruises often provide opportunities to add on land tours to places like Denali National Park.
Bering Sea
Bering Sea cruises are less common but offer a truly adventurous experience for those seeking to explore Alaska’s remote western coast. These expedition-style cruises might include:
- Nome: Famous for the Iditarod sled dog race finish line
- St. Paul Island: Known for its abundant seabird colonies and fur seal rookeries
- Dutch Harbor: A key port in the Aleutian Islands with World War II history
Bering Sea cruises often focus on wildlife viewing, cultural experiences with native Alaskan communities, and exploring untouched wilderness.
If you choose different embarkation and disembarkation points, you will be able to add on a few days of land touring before flying home. Known as a cruisetour or land-and-sea package, it give you the chance to go fishing, hunting, hiking, or just relaxing off the grid, away from it all.
Land-and-sea options. Most cruise lines offer post-cruise escorted tours as an add-on. The package includes transportation, accommodations, and meals, along with a knowledgeable guide. However, extras like flightseeing and rafting would be an additional charge.
Independent travel. Traveling on your own in Alaska is doable and safe. You might consider renting a car for a scenic road trip from Anchorage to Denali, like I did. Or, you could opt to stay in one of Alaska’s charming port towns for a few days. For instance, stay in a rustic cabin outside of Homer so you can have nature at your doorstep and still be able to enjoy the town’s unique blend of nature, art, and cuisine whenever you want.
2. When is the best time to visit Alaska?
With Alaskan cruise adventures, timing is everything. The cruise season in Alaska is relatively short, running for just five months due to the state’s harsh winter climate. This limited window means cruises fill up fast, so booking early is key to securing your spot.
So, when should you set sail? Let’s break it down:
Peak Season: June to August
Alaska’s peak tourism season runs from early June to the end of August. During these months, millions of travelers flock to the state, eager to bask in the glory of the Midnight Sun.
- Long Days: Expect up to 20 hours of daylight, allowing for plenty of time to explore and enjoy the stunning scenery.
- Vibrant Atmosphere: The ports are bustling with activity, and there are numerous excursions and events to participate in.
But remember, popularity comes at a price. Peak season means peak prices, so be prepared for your wallet to feel a bit lighter.
Shoulder Season: May and September
If you’re budget-conscious or simply prefer a quieter experience, consider May or September. These shoulder months offer some great perks:
- Lower prices: Your cruise fare will likely be more wallet-friendly.
- Fewer crowds: Enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere both on and off the ship.
- Unique experiences: In September, you might catch a glimpse of the mesmerizing Northern Lights.
On the flip side, the weather can be a bit unpredictable. Temperatures may be cooler, and you might experience some rain. However, September offers a unique opportunity to witness the breathtaking Northern Lights as the days grow shorter.
3. What weather should I expect?
In Alaska, the weather can vary significantly depending on the time of year and the region you’re visiting. Regardless of when you visit, always check the weather forecast before your trip and be ready to adjust your packing list accordingly.
Summertime (June to August)
- Temperature: Warm days can reach up to 80°F (27°C).
- Day-Night Variation: Expect temperature drops of over 40°F between day and night.
- Packing Tips: Dress in layers for easy adjustments throughout the day. It can be breezy and cool on deck, and a scarf and light jacket will come in handy.
Shoulder Season (May and September)
- Weather Variability: Prepare for unpredictable weather; blizzard conditions can occur.
- Temperature: Generally cooler than summer, with shorter days.
- Packing Tips: Prepare for any kind of weather. Bring a winter wardrobe, including insulated jackets, hats, and gloves.
The key to enjoying your Alaska cruise is to dress in layers that can be easily added or removed, allowing you to adapt to the changing temperatures and conditions throughout your journey. This way, you can focus on soaking up the stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife without worrying about the weather!
ⓘ TIP: Most of the items from our Europe in Winter packing list will be useful on an Alaskan cruise.
4. Is cruising to Alaska more expensive than other cruise itineraries?
Cruising to Alaska is generally more expensive than cruising in the “lower 48” states. Here’s why:
Higher Base Fares
Alaska cruises typically have higher starting prices than comparable cruises to destinations in the contiguous United States. For a 7-day Alaskan cruise, you can expect to pay between $1,300 to $3,500 per person, depending on factors like cabin type and cruise line. This is often pricier than similar-length cruises to destinations like the Caribbean or Mexican Riviera.
Costlier Shore Excursions
Shore excursions in Alaska tend to be more expensive than those in other U.S. destinations. This is because many Alaskan excursions involve longer trips, specialized equipment, or unique experiences like glacier tours or wildlife watching. Gas prices are higher, as well. It’s worth budgeting extra for these memorable activities.
Pricier Incidentals
When you’re off the ship, be prepared for higher prices on everyday items. Alaska imports most of its goods, which leads to inflated costs for souvenirs, snacks, and other incidentals. These expenses can add up quickly during your port visits.
Travel Costs
Getting to your departure port in Alaska often costs more than reaching cruise ports in the lower 48. Flights to Alaska are typically more expensive due to the distance and limited competition on these routes. Though this can vary by time of year. I was surprised to find that my September flight to Anchorage wasn’t much more than a similar flight to Seattle.
ⓘ TIP: Most Alaska cruises depart from Seattle, Vancouver, Seward and Whittier. Some also depart from San Francisco, Los Angeles and Juneau. You can save money by comparing airfares before selecting your itinerary
5. What can I expect on an Alaska cruise?
Cruising in Alaska is full of quiet grandeur, filled with many hours of sightseeing along the decks of the ship. Once you’re aboard ship, you will notice that most people spend a large part of their day on deck, watching the passing scenery. Alaska’s magnificent views are the main reason most cruisers choose to cruise here in the first place.
Each Alaska cruise line has its own vibe. Depending on which cruise line you choose, you could get anything from a subdued, laid-back atmosphere to a Caribbean-style party around the pool every day.
The daily itinerary is quite varied, and could include anything from social events to bingo to photography lessons. There are also conservation seminars and educational tours presented by a resident naturalist. (A cruiser favorite!)
ⓘ PRO TIP: Whenever you’re sailing to a scenic destination, get a room with a balcony. With a spectacular view 24/7, most passengers agree that it’s worth the extra money.
6. What Alaska shore excursions can I take?
Alaska is unlike any other place on Earth, and every cruise port has something special to offer.
Search online for “excursions in ____” and you’ll quickly discover that there are far more things to do in port than what your cruise line can possibly offer.
Alaska cruise excursions can be as varied as whale watching, walking on top of a glacier, and hiking the base of an ancient volcano. However, they are usually group activities, because those are easier to organize, not to mention more profitable.
There’s no rule against booking your own tour, though. Not only will you avoid crowds, but they are used to working with cruise schedules, cancellations are easier, and prices are usually lower. If it helps, we book through Viator and Get Your Guide because they offer a great selection of experiences from reputable tour companies.
Always remember: Your time ashore is yours to do with as you please. So if you’ve always dreamed of taking a helicopter tour in Anchorage, book the tour and go!
ⓘ TIP: Cruise lines offer all kinds of reasons why you should book your Alaska shore excursions with them. Take it with a grain of salt. After all, they have a vested interest in steering you toward their options: They don’t make money when people book their own trips.
7. Is it hard to sleep while you’re cruising in Alaska?
Days are super long during Alaska’s summer season. In fact, you’ll be able to enjoy up to 20 hours of daylight each day, with the night only slightly dimming to a dusky level. This unusual schedule is fascinating to most people and makes it easy to take in your fill of sights.
For some though, a light sky can wreak havoc on their sleep schedules. Most cruise lines offer rooms that have blackout curtains or complimentary sleep masks to help guests sleep better during the lightest hours.
It can be disorienting to realize that it is hours past your normal bedtime and it still appears to be daylight. You may be tempted to stay up late to enjoy the extended day, but it’s a good idea to keep a close watch on time. This is the cruise of a lifetime, so it’s essential to avoid exhaustion or jet lag.
ⓘ TIP: Use your phone’s alarm to remind you when it’s bedtime. It helps to keep your body on a regular schedule.
8. What do they serve on an Alaska cruise?
One of the most delicious perks of cruise travel is being able to enjoy local foods and gourmet cuisines. On your Alaskan cruise, you will get a taste of some of the freshest seafood on the planet.But don’t if seafood isn’t your “thing” for whatever reason. They offer a number of options for people on a special diet.
Specialties like fresh Alaskan salmon that are exported to the best restaurants in the world can be enjoyed in the ship’s dining room and restaurant. For salmon lovers, you couldn’t ask for a more delicious opportunity.
If you get the chance to tour and explore the beautiful state of Alaska, expect to have a life-changing experience. Enjoy the grandeur of the landscape and the pristine wilderness along the shores of the Alaskan coast on your next cruise. It is truly a once in a lifetime experience.
