Alaska is a breathtaking destination brimming with wildlife, rugged landscapes, and natural beauty that leaves visitors in awe. It's an adventure that should be on everyone's bucket list, and one of the best ways to experience it is by cruise ship. But with so many cruise lines and itineraries to choose from, how do you decide what’s best for you? Here are some tips to help you pick the perfect Alaska cruise.
Choosing Your Itinerary
Alaska cruises often highlight a few “must-visit” towns, which are staples on most 7-night itineraries:
Ketchikan: Known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” Ketchikan offers visitors a chance to explore its rich Native Alaskan culture with totem pole parks and the Totem Heritage Center. Don’t miss the famous lumberjack show, or keep an eye out for bald eagles soaring above.
Skagway: Step back in time to the Gold Rush era with a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad. This historic train takes you to the White Pass Summit, offering stunning views at 3,000 feet above sea level.
Juneau: Alaska’s state capital is a hub for adventure, offering incredible whale-watching tours and opportunities to see the awe-inspiring Mendenhall Glacier. One unique experience includes a salmon bake tucked into the woods, featuring a short walk along a salmon stream, a campfire with s’mores, and a relaxed, outdoor setting.
In addition to these highlights, some itineraries include unique stops such as:
Sitka: A town rich in Russian and Tlingit heritage, Sitka features historic sites like the Russian Bishop’s House and Sitka National Historical Park. It’s also one of the best places for wildlife viewing, where you might spot sea otters, puffins, and bears.
Haines: Perfect for those who love the outdoors, Haines is a quieter, less-visited gem with incredible kayaking, hiking, and eagle-watching opportunities.
Icy Strait Point: This destination offers rocky beaches, stunning views, and incredible wildlife sightings. From the shore, it’s possible to see whales breaching, and on whale-watching excursions, you might witness extraordinary events like bubble-net feeding. Bear sightings from boats are also common in this area, making it an unforgettable stop.
The Glacier Experience
One of the most memorable parts of any Alaska cruise is visiting the glaciers. Here are some of the most popular glacier experiences to consider:
Glacier Bay National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a highlight for many Alaska cruises, where you can watch massive tidewater glaciers calving into the sea. The serene beauty and scale of the glaciers make this a must-see.
Hubbard Glacier: Known for its enormous size and dramatic calving events, Hubbard Glacier is one of the most spectacular sights in Alaska.
Tracy Arm Fjord and Sawyer Glaciers: This narrow fjord offers stunning scenery with steep cliffs and waterfalls leading to the twin Sawyer Glaciers.
Dawes Glacier: Located in Endicott Arm, Dawes Glacier offers equally spectacular views with icebergs, waterfalls, and wildlife sightings like seals lounging on the ice.
College Fjord: Found in Prince William Sound, College Fjord features an array of glaciers named after Ivy League schools. It’s serene and less crowded, offering a more intimate glacier experience.
Roundtrip or One-Way?
Another critical decision is choosing between a roundtrip or one-way itinerary:
Roundtrip from Seattle: These cruises are convenient for U.S. travelers, often more affordable, and don’t require a passport if you are starting and ending at the same U.S. port. However, you will still make a stop in Canada, as required by maritime law. While these itineraries are perfect for those who prefer simpler travel logistics, they typically don’t go as far north, which means you might miss out on some of Alaska’s most remote and dramatic landscapes.
Northbound or Southbound (One-Way): These itineraries sail between Vancouver, Canada, and Anchorage, allowing you to venture further north. Staying in downtown Vancouver before your cruise is highly recommended for its walkability, safety, and easy access to the port. Public transportation from the airport makes it convenient to reach downtown hotels, many of which are just a short walk to the cruise terminal.
Tips for a Smooth Cruise Experience
Plan excursions early: Popular options like whale watching, dog sledding in Skagway, or the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway are must-dos for many visitors. Excursions like these fill up quickly, so reserving your favorites in advance is essential.
Pack for unpredictable weather: It rains frequently in some parts of Alaska, so bring waterproof jackets and shoes. For glacier viewing, gloves and winter coats are a must, even in the summer, as the temperatures near glaciers can feel much colder. On port days, layers and a heavy jacket are usually sufficient to keep you comfortable.
Book your cruise early: To get the best prices and cabin location availability, plan to book your cruise at least 12 months in advance. For even better pricing, book as soon as the cruise lines release inventory for sale, typically about 18 months ahead of departure.
Alaska offers endless opportunities for adventure and unforgettable memories. Whether it’s witnessing the thunderous roar of a calving glacier, exploring charming port towns, or spotting wildlife from your ship, an Alaska cruise is truly a bucket-list experience.
Comments