Your Essential Guide to Planning an Unforgettable Alaska Cruise

An Alaska cruise is a journey unlike any other, offering breathtaking views of massive glaciers, lush forests, and incredible wildlife. If you are considering this trip of a lifetime, you have come to the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan the perfect Alaskan adventure.

When is the Best Time for an Alaska Cruise?

The Alaska cruise season is relatively short, running from late April through September. Each part of the season offers a unique experience, so the “best” time depends on your priorities.

  • May and September (Shoulder Season): These months often have the lowest prices and fewest crowds. In May, you will experience late spring, with lingering snow on the mountains creating dramatic landscapes. September brings the start of autumn colors and a slightly higher chance of seeing the Northern Lights, though it is still rare. The weather can be cooler and less predictable during these months.
  • June and July (Peak Season): This is the most popular time to visit. You will enjoy the warmest weather and the longest daylight hours, with up to 18 hours of sun in some regions. This is the prime time for wildlife viewing, as animals are most active. However, this is also when you will find the highest prices and the largest crowds in port towns.
  • August (Late Season): August still offers warm weather and plenty of daylight. It is an excellent month for spotting whales and bears, who are busy feeding before winter. It is also a great time for salmon viewing as they make their way upstream. The trade-off is that August can be one of the rainiest months of the season.

Choosing Your Itinerary: Where Do Alaska Cruises Go?

Most Alaska cruises follow one of two main routes. Understanding the difference is key to picking the right trip for you.

Inside Passage Cruises

This is the most popular itinerary, typically a round-trip journey from Seattle, Washington, or Vancouver, British Columbia. These 7-day cruises navigate the calm, protected waterways between the mainland and a chain of islands.

  • Key Ports: Common stops include the charming towns of Ketchikan (famous for its totem poles), the state capital Juneau (accessible only by air or sea), and historic Skagway (the gateway to the Klondike Gold Rush). Many itineraries also include a stop in Victoria, B.C.
  • Scenic Cruising: The highlight is sailing through stunning fjords and past glaciers. You will likely spend a day scenic cruising in either Glacier Bay National Park or Tracy Arm Fjord to see the Sawyer Glaciers.

Gulf of Alaska Cruises

Also known as “cross-gulf” or “one-way” cruises, these itineraries travel between Vancouver (or Seattle) and Seward (or Whittier), which are the port cities for Anchorage. These are also typically 7 days long but cover more territory.

  • Key Ports: In addition to the Inside Passage ports, these cruises often visit ports further north, such as Hubbard Glacier or College Fjord.
  • Best For: This route is ideal if you want to combine your cruise with a land tour to explore more of Alaska’s interior, including destinations like Denali National Park.

Top Cruise Lines Sailing to Alaska

Dozens of ships sail to Alaska, each offering a different style and price point. Choosing the right one depends on your budget and travel style.

  • Major Cruise Lines: These are great for families and those looking for a wide range of onboard activities and entertainment. They offer a fantastic value. Look into lines like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), and Carnival Cruise Line.
  • Premium Cruise Lines: These lines offer a more refined experience with elevated dining, spacious accommodations, and more destination-focused programming. Princess Cruises and Holland America Line are considered leaders in Alaska, having operated in the region for decades.
  • Luxury & Expedition Lines: For a more intimate and immersive experience, consider a smaller ship. Luxury lines like Viking Ocean Cruises and Silversea offer all-inclusive pricing and high-end service. Expedition lines like Lindblad Expeditions (in partnership with National Geographic) and Hurtigruten focus on nature and learning, with expert guides and Zodiac boat excursions.

Must-Do Shore Excursions

The real adventure in Alaska happens off the ship. Shore excursions allow you to experience the culture and wilderness up close. While you can book through the cruise line for convenience, you can often find great deals by booking with independent local operators.

  • Whale Watching in Juneau: The waters around Juneau are rich feeding grounds for humpback whales. A boat tour is almost guaranteed to provide incredible sightings.
  • White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad in Skagway: This historic narrow-gauge railway climbs nearly 3,000 feet in just 20 miles, offering stunning views of mountains, gorges, and glaciers.
  • Misty Fjords National Monument Flightseeing from Ketchikan: The best way to appreciate the vastness of this protected wilderness is from the air. A floatplane tour provides a perspective you cannot get from the ship.
  • Helicopter Tour and Glacier Landing: For a true bucket-list experience, take a helicopter tour that lands directly on a massive glacier, allowing you to walk on ancient ice.
  • Dog Sledding: Many ports offer the chance to meet Iditarod sled dogs. Some tours even take you to a summer training camp on a glacier where you can experience the thrill of dog sledding on snow, even in July.

What to Pack for Your Alaskan Adventure

Packing for Alaska is all about one word: layers. The weather can change quickly, from sunny and warm to cold and rainy in a matter of minutes.

  • Clothing:
    • Base Layer: Lightweight shirts (long and short-sleeved).
    • Mid Layer: A warm fleece jacket or a cozy sweater.
    • Outer Layer: A waterproof and windproof jacket is essential. Rain pants are also a great idea.
    • Pants: Comfortable jeans or hiking pants.
    • Formal Wear: Most ships have one or two “dress-up” nights, so pack a nice outfit if you wish to participate.
  • Footwear:
    • Comfortable Walking Shoes: You will do a lot of walking in port. Waterproof shoes are a bonus.
    • Hiking Boots: If you plan on doing any serious hiking.
  • Essential Accessories:
    • Binoculars: A must-have for spotting wildlife from the ship’s deck.
    • Camera: With extra batteries and memory cards.
    • Sunscreen and Sunglasses: The sun can be surprisingly strong, especially reflecting off water and ice.
    • Insect Repellent: Especially for any excursions that go inland.
    • A Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated and be environmentally friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a passport for an Alaska cruise? Yes, in most cases. If your cruise starts or stops in a Canadian port like Vancouver or Victoria, which almost all do, you will need a valid passport.

Will I get seasick? Most Alaska cruises sail through the protected waters of the Inside Passage, which are generally very calm. However, if your itinerary crosses the Gulf of Alaska, you may experience some open-sea conditions. If you are prone to motion sickness, it is wise to bring medication just in case.

Can I see the Northern Lights on an Alaska cruise? It is very unlikely. The Northern Lights are best seen in darkness, but the summer cruise season coincides with the “midnight sun,” meaning there are very few hours of true darkness. Your best chance is on a cruise at the very end of September.