Our top tips and advice for an unforgettable adventure around Alaska’s epic coastlines

Alaska has long enchanted travellers with its towering glaciers, snow-capped mountains, and fascinating wildlife that flourishes in one of the world’s last true frontiers. There is something deeply stirring about witnessing humpback whales breaking the surface off a rugged coastline, or the hush that descends as you sail past a majestic glacier calving into icy waters. It is a land that begs to be explored slowly and thoughtfully, and there is perhaps no more convenient nor dramatic way to see it than on a cruise. From the deck of a ship, you can watch the landscape unfold like a moving painting, letting the wonders of Alaska reveal themselves at a leisurely pace.

Yet preparing for an Alaskan cruise is more than simply purchasing a ticket and hoping for clear skies. The region’s vastness, the timing of wildlife spotting, the variability of the weather, and even the style of your chosen cruise line all deserve careful consideration. Below, you will find everything you need to know about sailing these northern waters, from the routes that promise the most breathtaking scenery, to the smallest details about what to pack for a journey into the Great Land.

Setting the Scene: A World of Mountains and Marine Life

The first step to a successful Alaskan cruise is understanding the uniqueness of the place you are about to explore. Alaska, the largest state in the United States by area, stretches so far north that during peak summer, some regions bask in nearly 20 hours of daylight. This extended sunshine encourages bursts of activity in wildlife; whales, seals, and sea lions make themselves at home near the inland straits, while ashore, you can find brown bears roaming the forests and bald eagles soaring overhead. The coastline is rugged and dramatic, carved over millennia by colossal glaciers, many of which remain active today.

Alaska’s capital, Juneau, is accessible only by air or sea, which is itself a testament to just how intricately shaped the shoreline truly is. In such a setting, cruising is not merely an exercise in transportation. It is the chance to sail amidst the spectacular fjords and inlets that define the Inside Passage, or pass near massive ice sheets along the routes of the Gulf of Alaska. You will not only witness, but feel the raw power of nature on all sides.

Deciding on Your Route: Inside Passage or Gulf of Alaska

Although some itineraries venture as far north as the Bering Sea and even include land tours into Denali National Park, the majority of Alaska cruises fall into two main categories: those that explore the Inside Passage and those that travel the Gulf of Alaska. The Inside Passage describes the route stretching through a network of islands and waterways between Washington State and Southeast Alaska. It is famed for its calm seas and sheltered waterways, making it a strong choice if you prefer to avoid rough ocean swells. You might sail from Vancouver and hug the coastline up to Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway, seeing ancient rainforests lining the water’s edge and enormous glaciers sliding down from the peaks above.

In contrast, Gulf of Alaska itineraries often run from Vancouver (or Seattle in some instances) all the way to Seward or Whittier, near Anchorage. These sailings involve crossing the open gulf and usually incorporate stops in prized locations such as Hubbard Glacier or College Fjord, where you can watch thunderous chunks of ice crash into the ocean. Given the open ocean crossing, the seas can be less predictable, but the reward is typically the opportunity to witness vast glacial landscapes that you may not encounter on many Inside Passage routes. Holland America’s seven-day Gulf of Alaska cruises, for instance, might include scenic cruising in Glacier Bay National Park combined with a port call in the small city of Valdez, gateway to Prince William Sound, which is dotted with hundreds of tidewater glaciers.

When to Go: Timing Your Cruise for Weather and Wildlife

The Alaskan cruise season begins in late April and extends into early October, with the peak months running from June through August. May promises fewer crowds and often drier weather, whereas June and July offer the best chance of spotting orcas and humpback whales, drawn to the nutrient-rich waters of Southeast Alaska at that time of year. July tends to be the warmest month, averaging highs of around 15°C in coastal regions. August remains popular, though it can see more rainfall, while September is much quieter and can yield the first glimpses of autumn colours in the forests.

If witnessing the northern lights is a priority, you may have luck on late-season cruises in September. The further north you travel, the better your chances, although sightings can never be guaranteed due to the fickle dance of solar wind and local weather. Princess Cruises, for example, offers some mid- to late-September sailings that include overnight stays in Anchorage or Fairbanks on land tours, both of which lie far enough north to provide occasional views of the aurora borealis if conditions are right.

Choosing Your Cruise Line: From Family-Friendly to Ultra-Luxury

Not all Alaskan cruises are alike, and choosing the right line can greatly influence the style and pace of your holiday. Princess Cruises is often considered the pioneer of Alaskan cruising, with many years of experience in the region, offering routes that include “Voyage of the Glaciers” sailings. Their ships typically offer dedicated observation lounges and commentary by naturalists, allowing you to learn about the region’s geography and wildlife as you cruise. Holland America Line also has a well-established presence in Alaska, providing mid-sized ships that can navigate narrower passages and offering extensive land-and-sea packages that pair sailings with rail travel to Denali National Park.

If you seek a more upscale experience, consider Celebrity Cruises, whose Solstice-class ships bring a modern, luxurious twist to the journey, complete with fine dining and top-tier spa facilities. Ultra-luxury lines like Seabourn offer expedition-style voyages with fewer passengers on board, heightened service levels, and on-board experts who can further enhance your understanding of Alaskan geology and ecology. Disney Cruise Line, meanwhile, is a favourite with families, as their West Coast-based ship, the Disney Wonder, often operates seasonal cruises to Alaska that combine the Disney magic with child-friendly excursions to places like Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau.

Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) tend to provide a more resort-style experience, featuring large ships with a variety of activities, from waterslides and rock-climbing walls to Broadway-style entertainment. If you prefer an expansive ship with myriad dining options and lively nightlife, NCL’s Norwegian Bliss and Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas can be appealing choices, as both incorporate innovative amenities while still offering the essential Alaskan experiences like glacier viewing, wildlife spotting, and stops in iconic ports.

Where You’ll Dock: The Ports of Call You Can’t Miss

Your itinerary might vary, but certain Alaskan ports appear frequently due to their distinctive character and proximity to natural wonders. Ketchikan, known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” features colourful wooden buildings perched above Tongass Narrows and is a gateway to the Misty Fjords National Monument, a place of precipitous granite cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Many cruise lines, including Princess and Holland America, schedule excursions that journey via floatplane over these dramatic landscapes or take you on guided canoe tours across the pristine waters.

Juneau, Alaska’s capital, is renowned for the stunning Mendenhall Glacier, located just a short trip from the main port area. Visitors often opt for a guided trek onto the glacier itself, or for something completely different, you can hop on a helicopter flightseeing tour to land right on the ice. Another highlight is the Mount Roberts Tramway, which lifts you high above the city for panoramic views of Gastineau Channel and beyond. Juneau also offers plenty of wildlife excursions that venture out into the Inside Passage to search for humpback whales and orcas.

Up in Skagway, you will find a gold rush-era town that retains much of its historical charm, with wooden boardwalks and buildings dating back to the late 19th century. The White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad is a popular excursion here, taking passengers on a scenic climb through steep mountainsides, across trestle bridges, and even into Canadian territory. The views of Alaskan and Canadian wilderness are spectacular, and the train ride offers a glimpse into the challenges faced by prospectors during the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1800s.

Glacier Bay National Park is an essential inclusion on many itineraries, though not every cruise line has a permit to sail into its protected waters. Princess and Holland America are among the lines with approval, offering a day dedicated to scenic cruising amid soaring glaciers, with park rangers on board to narrate the experience. If Glacier Bay is a high priority, be sure to check that your cruise includes it, as seeing these tidewater glaciers up close—often with calving ice accompanied by thunderous cracks and splashes—is a highlight for many travellers.

Onboard and Onshore: Activities to Make the Most of Your Journey

While gazing at glaciers and scanning the horizon for whales from the comfort of the deck is a splendid use of your time, do not overlook the excursions and experiences that can add layers of adventure to your holiday. In ports like Juneau, you can try your hand at dog sledding on a glacier, reached by helicopter, an iconic Alaskan pursuit if ever there was one. Elsewhere, you might find yourself kayaking through quiet coves, with bald eagles perched in the tall evergreens, or setting out on guided hikes that reveal moss-laden rainforests and trickling streams teeming with salmon.

Onboard the ships, many lines offer lectures by naturalists, geologists, or historians who provide fascinating insight into the Alaskan wilderness. Holland America, for example, partners with BBC Earth to present documentary screenings and live presentations, while Princess Cruises has a “North to Alaska” programme that brings local experts and regional cuisine onto their ships, ensuring you get a real taste of local culture along with the scenic beauty. Musical performances featuring Native Alaskan storytellers also appear on some itineraries, enriching your days at sea with tales of ancient traditions.

If you opt for an extended land tour in conjunction with your cruise, the famed Alaska Railroad can carry you further into the state’s interior. Many travellers make the trek to Denali National Park, where Denali, the highest peak in North America, presides over a vast expanse of wilderness. Here, you can embark on wildlife-spotting tours to see caribou, wolves, and the state’s iconic grizzly bears. These land segments can last anywhere from a few days to a week, adding even more depth to your Alaskan adventure.

Preparing for Variable Conditions: What to Pack and Wear

No matter how you slice it, Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable. Even in the height of summer, mornings can be crisp, days may bring rain, and evenings might warrant a warm coat. Dressing in layers is vital. A typical day could begin with a sweatshirt and waterproof jacket, and end in t-shirts if the sun makes a determined appearance. Bringing a sturdy pair of waterproof hiking shoes is a wise idea if you plan to venture ashore for hikes or wilderness excursions. Polarised sunglasses can be helpful for reducing the glare from ice and water, and you may want gloves and a warm hat if you plan to spend extended time on deck watching for wildlife or photographing glaciers. Keep in mind that ships generally feature comfortable heating systems, so you may wish to layer your outfits in a way that allows you to shed or add clothing as needed.

In addition to clothing, a camera with a decent zoom lens is practically a must for capturing close-ups of eagles perched high in tall spruce trees, or orcas swimming beside your ship. Binoculars can also be a great companion, as they allow you to spot wildlife further afield. If you are on a mid- to large-sized vessel, you will often find multiple vantage points, including spacious outer decks and observation lounges, which can sometimes be quite popular during scenic cruising. Having a personal pair of binoculars ensures you are not jockeying for space at the ship’s communal scopes.

Environmental Considerations: How Cruising Impacts Alaska

Alaska’s delicate ecosystems demand responsible tourism, and reputable cruise lines have been making strides to reduce their environmental footprint. Ships operating in Glacier Bay National Park must adhere to strict regulations set by the U.S. National Park Service, limiting the number of vessels allowed each day and enforcing waste management protocols. Many modern ships rely on cleaner fuel options and have adopted advanced waste treatment systems, a move encouraged by local organisations keen to preserve Alaska’s pristine waters. If minimising your impact is a priority, consider lines that have demonstrated commitment to sustainability, such as Norwegian Cruise Line, which has invested in reducing single-use plastics on board, or Lindblad Expeditions, a smaller-scale operator emphasising responsible exploration.

No matter which line you choose, you can also do your part by respecting local wildlife, following Leave No Trace principles on excursions, and abiding by any safety precautions provided by park rangers and guides. Alaska’s wilderness is a shared treasure, and individual actions help ensure it remains spectacular for generations to come.

Budget: Balancing Quality and Cost

Alaskan cruises can be more expensive than voyages to warmer destinations, largely due to the short season and added operational costs. Prices vary significantly depending on the cruise line, the type of stateroom, and whether you add land tours. However, booking well in advance can sometimes lead to promotions like complimentary onboard credits or reduced fares for additional travellers, particularly with lines such as Royal Caribbean or Norwegian. Some travellers prefer shoulder-season cruises in May or September, which can be marginally cheaper and less crowded. Keep in mind that onshore excursions often come at an extra cost; a helicopter tour to Mendenhall Glacier or a dog-sledding adventure on a glacier can be pricey, but they are unforgettable experiences that truly define what it means to explore Alaska.

If you are budget-conscious, look for smaller-group tours arranged through local operators in port towns, rather than booking exclusively with the cruise line. These can sometimes be more affordable, and they often provide a more personalised experience. However, always ensure that the tour operator is reputable and that you can make it back to your ship on time. Cruises run on strict schedules, and being left behind in remote Alaska is nobody’s idea of a holiday highlight.

Dining On Board

Cruise ships that emphasise local cuisine give you the chance to sample fresh Alaskan salmon, king crab legs, and halibut dishes. Princess Cruises’ “North to Alaska” programme, for instance, occasionally hosts a fish barbecue on deck with salmon caught locally. In port, you may find restaurants that offer hearty fish chowder, wild berry cobblers, or reindeer sausages for a more adventurous palate.

In addition, beer enthusiasts can try Alaskan Brewing Company’s range of craft beers, such as the Alaskan Amber, which is widely celebrated. Visit a local bar in Juneau or Ketchikan to taste some of these brews, or even take part in brewery tours that delve into the craft beer scene flourishing in this northern locale. Sampling these flavours not only tantalises your taste buds but also provides deeper insight into the region’s culture and economy, both of which have historically revolved around fishing and local resources.

Final Thoughts and Takeaways

Cruising in Alaska offers a window into an unspoiled world of glaciers, forests, and wildlife encounters that are increasingly rare in our modern age. While the scenery on its own would be enough to leave a lasting impression, your experience will be amplified by choosing the right route—be it the sheltered waters of the Inside Passage or the expansive glaciers of the Gulf of Alaska—and sailing with a cruise line that aligns with your interests and style. If you relish fine dining and personalised service, consider lines like Seabourn, Celebrity, or a higher-tier suite on a mainstream line. If you want to entertain the whole family, or prefer an action-packed onboard atmosphere, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, or Disney might be your best bet.

Timing matters as well, both for the weather you prefer and the wildlife you hope to spot. Early-season cruises in May can offer drier conditions and fewer crowds, whereas June and July might delight whale-watchers in search of humpbacks. For those dreaming of an aurora sighting, late August and September might provide a chance, particularly on itineraries that venture further north or combine with a land package to Fairbanks or Denali. Pack wisely, dress in layers, and always include waterproof, warm, and comfortable clothing suitable for shifting temperatures. A good pair of binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens will help you make the most of those iconic moments when whales breach or glaciers calve in the distance.

When you are ashore, savour the local culture—whether it is by visiting historic gold rush towns like Skagway, marvelling at totem poles in Ketchikan, or indulging in fresh Alaskan seafood. Trek out onto a glacier, ride a scenic railway into the mountains, or glide through fjords on a small boat tour in search of seals and eagles. Each port holds a distinct personality, and exploring them authentically can make your cruise feel both intimate and adventurous.

Above all, remember that Alaska’s serene beauty is best appreciated with a spirit of open-hearted curiosity. Give yourself permission to stand on the deck at sunrise, feeling the cool breeze on your face while the great northern wilderness stretches out before you. Let the moment wash over you as you watch eagles soaring overhead and grey whales spouting in the distance. It is these unscripted encounters, backed by the ever-shifting mosaic of Alaska’s land and sea, that will remain vivid in your memories long after the journey ends.

No matter how many miles you have travelled to reach this world apart, an Alaskan cruise offers both an extraordinary introduction to a place unlike any other and the promise of fresh wonders every time you return. Embark with a sense of wonder, prepare for the weather and the wildlife, and you will find that an Alaskan cruise is not simply a holiday—it is an invitation to experience nature’s grandeur in one of the most captivating corners of the globe.