Embarking on a voyage along Alaska’s coast is more than just a getaway; it’s an exploration of one of the country’s wildest regions. Picture yourself gliding by immense walls of ice, glimpsing whales in chilly waters, and wandering through unique coastal communities steeped in local lore. This is an experience every traveler should have at least once. We've created an engaging resource to help you compare different options and organize an amazing visit to the 49th state. Discover the main sailing routes, uncover must-visit stops, and find helpful advice for selecting the best line for your preferred style. Prepare for spectacular scenery and unmatched wildlife encounters, all from the comfort of your ship!

Understanding Alaskan Cruise Routes

Your first major choice is selecting an itinerary. Most voyages in this region fall into two main categories, each showcasing a different side of the dramatic northern coast.

Inside Passage Cruises

This itinerary remains the top pick for newcomers. These trips usually depart from Seattle, Washington, or Vancouver, British Columbia, making it easy to start and finish in the same city.

  • Duration: 7 days
  • What You’ll See: These cruises sail through the Inside Passage, a network of sheltered waterways that weave between the islands of Southeast Alaska. This route offers calm waters and constant views of forested shorelines, mountains, and glaciers. You’ll stop at classic port towns like Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan.
  • Best For: Travelers who want a convenient, round-trip journey with a great mix of scenery and port-of-call activities.

Cross-Gulf of Alaska Cruises

These ships travel one-way between Vancouver (or Seattle) and Seward (or Whittier), which connect you to Anchorage.

  • Duration: 7 days
  • What You’ll See: In addition to the ports of the Inside Passage, these itineraries cross the open waters of the Gulf of Alaska. This allows them to visit destinations further north, like Hubbard Glacier or College Fjord.
  • Best For: Adventurous travelers who want to see more of Alaska and plan to extend their trip with a land tour into the interior to visit places like Denali National Park.

Must-See Destinations and Ports of Call

No matter which itinerary you select, your journey promises countless memorable moments. Here are some of the experiences and sights you’ll treasure along the way.

Glacier Bay National Park

A trip through Glacier Bay stands out as a highlight on many sailings in this region. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s a protected marine reserve and boasts some of the planet’s most breathtaking tidewater glaciers. Your ship will dedicate an entire day to exploring these waters, where you can witness the dramatic “calving” process, as huge chunks of ice tumble into the sea below. Park rangers join the voyage to share fascinating insights, pointing out wildlife and describing the area’s geological wonders.

Juneau

As the capital, Juneau stands out for its unique inaccessibility; you can only arrive by plane or ship, as no roads connect it to the rest of the state. Tucked between Mount Juneau and the Gastineau Channel, this city boasts the spectacular Mendenhall Glacier, an awe-inspiring natural wonder just a short ride from the harbor. A shuttle can take you straight to the visitor center for breathtaking vistas, or you can opt for a thrilling helicopter ride that touches down on the ice itself. Whale watching is a highlight here, with many tours departing from the local docks.

Skagway

Travel back to the days of the Klondike Gold Rush in Skagway, a charming town that still feels like a slice of the 1890s. Its historic center belongs to the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park and features boardwalks and carefully restored buildings. One of the top things to do here is to take a trip on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad. This scenic train climbs almost 3,000 feet over 20 miles, winding through incredible scenery of rugged peaks, deep valleys, and rushing waterfalls.

Ketchikan

Known as the "Salmon Capital of the World," Ketchikan is a lively town nestled against forested hillsides. Wander along Creek Street, a historic wooden boardwalk on pilings, once famous for its colorful past. Ketchikan also offers wonderful opportunities to explore the traditions of local Native peoples. Stop by the Totem Heritage Center or Saxman Native Village, where you’ll find one of the largest collections of original 19th-century totem poles in existence.

Choosing the Right Cruise Line for You

With so many options available, how do you select a cruise that fits your needs? The ideal choice will come down to your budget, how you like to travel, and the experiences you hope to enjoy along the way.

Major Cruise Lines (The Big Ships)

Companies such as Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Royal Caribbean deliver a traditional onboard experience on spacious, resort-like ships.

  • Onboard Experience: These ships are packed with amenities, including multiple restaurants, swimming pools, spas, casinos, and Broadway-style shows. They are fantastic for families and multigenerational groups.
  • Excursions: They offer a huge variety of shore excursions, from bus tours to helicopter flights.
  • Who It's For: Travelers who want a feature-packed vacation with lots of entertainment options. Princess and Holland America are particularly known for their strong Alaska programs and land-tour extensions.

Smaller, Expedition-Style Lines

Companies such as Lindblad Expeditions (in partnership with National Geographic), UnCruise Adventures, and Hurtigruten emphasize discovery and hands-on experiences.

  • Onboard Experience: The ships are much smaller, carrying fewer than 200 passengers. The focus is on education and exploration, with expert naturalists, geologists, and photographers onboard. Entertainment is more low-key, consisting of lectures and wildlife spotting from the deck.
  • Excursions: These cruises are all about getting off the ship. Activities like kayaking, hiking, and Zodiac boat tours are often included in the cruise fare.
  • Who It's For: Active, curious travelers who want an in-depth, immersive experience and prioritize wildlife and nature over onboard amenities.

When Is the Best Time to Go?

Travelers can visit this region by ship between late April and September, when vessels are operating at full schedule. Each part of the season reveals its own highlights and unique charms.

  • May and September (Shoulder Season): These months offer the best value, with lower prices and fewer crowds. In May, you’ll see more snow on the mountains, creating dramatic scenery. September brings the start of autumn colors and a chance to see the Northern Lights in the far north.
  • June, July, and August (Peak Season): These are the warmest and sunniest months, with long daylight hours. Wildlife is most active, and the salmon are running, which attracts bears and eagles to the rivers. This is the most popular time to go, so expect higher prices and more people.

Exploring Alaska by sea offers a wonderful blend of convenience and adventure. You can enjoy all the benefits of shipboard life while discovering untouched wilderness and remarkable scenery. Whether you travel on a large vessel full of amenities or opt for a smaller ship that provides intimate exploration, you’re sure to have an amazing time. Take the first step to organize your journey, look forward to breathtaking views, observe fascinating animals, and create lasting experiences along the way.