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Alaska Cruise Port Guide: Everything You Need To Know

Alaska offers some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, making it an ideal location for a cruise. With 26 active cruise ports, including popular ones like Ketchikan, Sitka,  Juneau , and Skagway, there’s no shortage of stunning destinations to explore. Whether you’re interested in wildlife encounters, glacier exploration, or immersing yourself in Native American art and culture,  Alaska ‘s cruise ports have something for everyone.

The  cruise season  in Alaska typically runs from late April to early October, with the high season falling between June and August. It’s during this time that you’ll have the best chances of experiencing the warmest weather and spotting incredible wildlife like humpback whales and orcas. However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider  booking  during the shoulder season months of April, May, or September.

When it comes to choosing a departure  port for your Alaska cruise , you have the options of Seward, Juneau, Vancouver, or Seattle. Each port offers its own unique advantages and attractions to enhance your  cruise  experience. Whether you’re starting your journey in the heart of Alaska or setting sail from a bustling city, you’re sure to be captivated by the beauty that awaits.

Alaska Ports, Key Takeaways:

• Alaska’s cruise ports offer stunning scenery and a variety of experiences
• Popular cruise ports include Ketchikan, Sitka, Juneau, and Skagway
• The  cruise  season in Alaska runs from late April to early October
• High season falls between June and August, offering the warmest weather
• Shoulder season months of April, May, and September provide better deals
• Departure ports include Seward, Juneau, Vancouver, and Seattle

Best Alaska Cruise Ports: Top 5 Ports of Call

When planning an  Alaska cruise , it’s important to consider the top ports of call that offer the best experiences and attractions. Here are the top 5 Alaska cruise ports that you shouldn’t miss:

• Ketchikan:  Known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” Ketchikan offers a unique blend of Native American culture and breathtaking natural beauty. Explore the town’s famous totem poles, take a seaplane tour to admire the stunning landscapes from above, and indulge in fresh local seafood.
• Sitka:  Sitka is a hidden gem that showcases Alaska’s rich history. Visit the National Historic Park, where you can immerse yourself in Native American art and explore preserved tribal houses. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy the opportunity to spot humpback whales, sea otters, and bald eagles.
• Juneau:  As the capital of Alaska, Juneau offers a plethora of activities for every traveler. Get up close to majestic glaciers, try your hand at gold panning, and take a  scenic  tram ride for panoramic views of the city and surrounding wilderness. Don’t forget to sample some fresh Alaskan seafood!
• Skagway:  Step back in time in Skagway, a historic gold rush town. Explore the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, visit restored buildings from the gold rush era, and embark on scenic hikes to soak in the stunning mountain views.
• Icy Strait Point (Hoonah):  Located on Chichagof Island, Icy Strait Point is a small community that offers a unique Alaskan experience. Soar through the treetops on a thrilling zip-lining adventure, immerse yourself in the local culture, and savor delicious seafood caught fresh from the surrounding waters.

These  top cruise  ports of call in Alaska provide an array of unforgettable experiences, from cultural immersion to stunning natural beauty. Dive into the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of Alaska as you explore these top destinations during your cruise.

How to Visit Alaska Cruise Ports: Excursion Tips and Activities

When visiting the stunning Alaska cruise ports, you’ll find a plethora of excursion options and activities to make your  trip  truly memorable. Each port offers unique experiences that showcase the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region. Here are some tips and ideas to help you plan your visit:

Ketchikan – The Totem Pole Capital

Ketchikan is known as the Totem Pole Capital of the World, so a visit here wouldn’t be complete without exploring its famous collection of totem poles. You can take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of these magnificent sculptures. For an exhilarating experience, consider taking a seaplane tour to enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the surrounding landscapes. And of course, don’t forget to savor the delicious fresh seafood that Ketchikan is renowned for.

Sitka – Wildlife Encounters and Native American Art

Sitka offers a blend of wildlife encounters, stunning scenery, and rich Native American  art and culture . Explore the Alaska Raptor Center, where you can see and learn about rehabilitating birds of prey up close. Take a wildlife tour to spot humpback whales, sea otters, and other marine life in their natural habitat. Immerse yourself in Sitka’s history by visiting the National Historic Park, home to one of the largest collections of totem poles in Alaska.

Juneau – Gateway to Glaciers and Gold Rush History

Juneau, the capital of Alaska, is a paradise for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. Take a glacier tour to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Mendenhall Glacier and explore its ice caves. Experience the thrill of gold panning and learn about the city’s rich gold rush history at the Juneau-Douglas City Museum. For panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscapes, hop on a scenic tram ride to the top of Mount Roberts.

Skagway – Gold Rush Town and Scenic Hikes

Step back in time in Skagway, a charming gold rush town with well-preserved historic buildings. Take a guided tour of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park to learn about the fascinating stories and hardships of the gold rush era. If you’re up for an adventure, embark on a scenic hike along the picturesque trails, such as the Chilkoot Trail or the Lower Dewey Lake Trail. Don’t forget to capture the breathtaking views along the way!

Icy Strait Point – Thrilling Adventures and Cultural Experiences

Icy Strait Point, located on Hoonah, offers a unique blend of thrilling activities and immersive cultural experiences. Get your adrenaline pumping with a zip-lining adventure through the lush rainforest, enjoying panoramic views of the coastline. Immerse yourself in the local Tlingit culture by visiting the Huna Heritage Center, where you can learn about traditional arts, crafts, and history. Indulge in the delicious local seafood, including the famous Alaskan king crab.

These are just a few examples of the incredible excursion options and activities available in Alaska cruise ports. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or adventure seeker, each port has something to offer that will make your Alaskan cruise experience unforgettable.

Best Time to Cruise Alaska: Weather and Wildlife

When planning an  Alaska cruise , it’s important to consider the best time to visit in terms of weather and wildlife. The  summer  months of June, July, and August offer the warmest weather, making it an ideal time to explore the stunning landscapes of Alaska. However, it’s worth noting that July and August can also be quite rainy, so be prepared with appropriate clothing and gear.

One of the major highlights of an Alaskan  cruise  is the opportunity to see incredible wildlife in their natural habitat. The best chances of spotting humpback whales, orcas, and gray whales are during the summer months, particularly in June and July. These months coincide with the salmon runs, which attract these majestic creatures to the Alaska coast. Keep your camera ready for amazing wildlife encounters!

“THE SUMMER MONTHS OF JUNE, JULY, AND AUGUST OFFER THE WARMEST WEATHER AND THE BEST CHANCES OF SEEING WILDLIFE, INCLUDING HUMPBACK WHALES, ORCAS, AND GRAY WHALES.”

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider cruising in the shoulder seasons of April, May, and September. Although the weather may be cooler and there is a higher chance of excursions being canceled due to unpredictable conditions, these months offer lower prices and fewer crowds. May, in particular, is known for being one of the driest months in the Inside Passage, while September presents the opportunity to catch the mesmerizing Northern Lights.

Alaska Cruise Weather by Month

Overall, the  best time to cruise Alaska  depends on your preferences and priorities. If you’re seeking warmer weather and optimal wildlife viewing opportunities, June, July, and August are the months to consider. If budget is a concern and you don’t mind cooler temperatures, April, May, and September offer more affordable options. Regardless of when you decide to cruise, Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife will surely leave you in awe.

Alaska Cruise Costs: Budgeting and Shore Excursions

Planning a cruise to Alaska involves careful budgeting to ensure you have an unforgettable experience without breaking the bank. The cost of an Alaska cruise can vary greatly depending on factors such as the  cruise line , itinerary, and cabin type. On average, prices range from $500 to $8,000 or more per person.

For those looking to save money, booking during shoulder season months of April, May, and September can offer more affordable fares. However, keep in mind that weather conditions during these months can be less predictable, and some excursions may be canceled due to unfavorable conditions. May, in particular, is known for being one of the driest months in the Inside Passage, while September offers the possibility of witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights.

When budgeting for your Alaska cruise, it’s important to consider the cost of shore excursions. Alaska offers a wide range of activities, from historic tours and guided hikes to helicopter rides and flightseeing tours. The prices of these excursions can vary significantly, so it’s essential to plan and allocate your budget accordingly. A general guideline is to budget at least $500 per person for shore excursions, but keep in mind that more extravagant experiences can  cost  even more.

Average Alaska Cruise Costs

“I WAS AMAZED BY THE RANGE OF SHORE EXCURSION OPTIONS IN ALASKA. FROM EXPLORING ANCIENT GLACIERS TO WATCHING HUMPBACK WHALES, THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND BUDGETING FOR AT LEAST A FEW EXCURSIONS TO TRULY MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR ALASKA CRUISE EXPERIENCE.” – MARY, ALASKA CRUISE ENTHUSIAST

Remember to factor in additional costs such as gratuities, onboard amenities, and any pre- or post-cruise accommodations. By carefully budgeting and planning your shore excursions, you can make the most of your Alaska cruise while staying within your desired price range.

Alaska Cruise Lines: Mainstream and Luxury Options

When planning an Alaska cruise, you have a range of options when it comes to  cruise lines . Whether you prefer a mainstream experience or want to indulge in luxury, there are several cruise lines to choose from.

Mainstream Alaska Cruise Lines

For those looking for a more affordable and traditional cruise experience, mainstream cruise lines like Carnival, Celebrity, NCL, and Royal Caribbean offer Alaska itineraries. Holland America and Princess are the largest mainstream cruise lines for Alaska cruises. These cruise lines provide a variety of onboard amenities, entertainment options, and activities for guests of all ages.

Luxury Alaska Cruise Lines

If you’re seeking a more upscale and personalized experience, luxury cruise lines like Oceania, Regent Seven Seas, Seabourn, Silversea, and Windstar offer Alaska itineraries. These cruise lines provide a higher level of service, elegant accommodations, gourmet dining options, and exclusive shore excursions. If you value comfort and indulgence, luxury cruise lines are a great choice for exploring the beauty of Alaska.

When choosing the right  Alaska cruise line  for you, consider your budget, preferences, and desired level of luxury. Whether you opt for a mainstream or luxury experience, you’re sure to have a memorable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Alaska’s cruise ports.

Alaska Cruise Itineraries: Inside Passage and Gulf of Alaska

Alaska offers two popular  cruise itineraries  that showcase the stunning natural beauty of the region – Inside Passage cruises and Gulf of Alaska cruises. Each itinerary offers unique experiences and highlights, allowing travelers to explore different parts of this breathtaking destination.

Inside Passage Cruise

An  Inside Passage cruise  is a seven-night journey that typically departs from Seattle, Vancouver, or Juneau. This itinerary takes you through the scenic passages and fjords of the Inside Passage, offering picturesque ports of call along the way.

• Ketchikan: Known for its authentic totem poles and seaplane tours.
• Sitka: Offers a mix of Native American art, wildlife encounters, and historical landmarks.
• Juneau: The capital of Alaska, with activities like glacier exploration, gold panning, and wildlife viewing.
• Skagway: A gold rush town with restored historic buildings and scenic hikes.

Gulf of Alaska Cruise

Gulf of Alaska cruises are one-way itineraries between Vancouver or Whittier/Seward, and they offer a different perspective of Alaska’s beauty. These cruises often include scenic cruising in areas like Glacier Bay and College Fjord.

• Sitka: A port known for wildlife viewing, exploring Native American art, and visiting the Alaska Raptor Center.
• Juneau: Gateway to glacier adventures, gold panning, and scenic tram rides.
• Skagway: Showcasing its gold rush history through restored buildings and offering hikes with stunning views.

Both itineraries provide opportunities to witness the majestic glaciers, spot wildlife like whales and eagles, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Alaska. Whether you choose an  Inside Passage cruise  or a  Gulf of Alaska cruise , you will be treated to unforgettable experiences in this awe-inspiring destination.

Must-See Attractions in Alaska Cruise Ports

Alaska’s cruise ports offer a plethora of must-see attractions that showcase the unique beauty and culture of this destination. Whether you’re exploring the popular ports or venturing off the beaten path to discover hidden gems, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some top attractions you shouldn’t miss:

Home to the largest collection of totem poles in the world, Ketchikan offers a fascinating glimpse into Native American heritage and art. Take a stroll through Totem Bight State Historical Park or visit Saxman Native Village to admire these impressive cultural landmarks. Don’t forget to indulge in delicious fresh seafood at one of the local  restaurants .

Immerse yourself in the rich history of Sitka by visiting the Sitka National Historical Park. Explore the preserved tribal houses and totem poles while learning about the area’s indigenous culture. For wildlife enthusiasts, a visit to the Alaska Raptor Center is a must, where you can observe and learn about various bird species, including majestic bald eagles.

As the capital of Alaska, Juneau offers a wide range of attractions. Get up close and personal with glaciers by taking a helicopter tour or boarding a boat excursion to the magnificent Mendenhall Glacier. Pan for gold and learn about the gold rush era at the Last Chance Mining Museum, and take a scenic tram ride up Mount Roberts for panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.

Step back in time in Skagway, a town known for its well-preserved gold rush history. Take a stroll along Broadway Street to admire the charming historic buildings and explore the exhibits at the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Chilkoot Trail offers scenic hikes surrounded by stunning landscapes.

These are just a few of the  must-see attractions in Alaska cruise ports . Each port has its own unique offerings, so make sure to plan your itinerary accordingly to make the most of your Alaskan adventure.

Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Alaska Cruise Ports

While many travelers flock to popular Alaska cruise ports like Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway, there are hidden gems waiting to be discovered for those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience. These lesser-known ports offer unique charm and breathtaking landscapes that are often reserved for smaller ships and luxury cruise lines.

Haines: A Quiet Retreat Amidst Stunning Scenery

Nestled amidst the towering mountains of Southeast Alaska, Haines offers a quieter and more intimate experience. This picturesque town is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, from lush forests to snow-capped peaks. Visitors can immerse themselves in the great outdoors through activities like hiking, wildlife spotting, and kayaking. Haines is also home to the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, where visitors can witness the annual gathering of thousands of bald eagles, making it a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

Wrangell: Preserved Heritage and Rich History

For those interested in Alaska’s rich cultural heritage, a visit to Wrangell is a must. This hidden gem showcases its history through preserved tribal houses and a fascinating gold rush museum. Visitors can explore the rich traditions of the Tlingit Native Americans and learn about the town’s gold rush era. Wrangell is also a gateway to the Stikine River, where adventurous travelers can embark on thrilling jet boat tours or scenic  river cruises .

Petersburg: Authentic Alaskan Fishing Community

If you’re seeking an authentic Alaskan experience, look no further than Petersburg. This charming fishing community offers a glimpse into the rugged and vibrant lifestyle of Alaskan fishermen. Visitors can wander through the town’s colorful streets, browse local art galleries, and sample fresh seafood. Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the nearby LeConte Glacier, known as the southernmost tidewater glacier in North America. With its small-town charm and rich maritime history, Petersburg is a hidden gem worth exploring.

Alaska Cruise Port FAQ

Q: what is an alaska cruise port.

A: An Alaska Cruise Port refers to a specific location in Alaska where cruise ships dock to allow passengers to explore the surrounding area.

Q: What are some popular Alaska Cruise Ports of Call?

A: Some popular Alaska Cruise Ports of Call include Vancouver, Seward, Whittier, Hoonah, and Anchorage.

Q: Can you provide information about Vancouver, a popular Cruise Port in Alaska?

A: Vancouver is a major cruise port in Alaska that serves as the starting point for many Alaska cruises. It offers stunning views of the Inside Passage and is known for its vibrant city life.

Q: What is Glacier Bay National Park?

A: Glacier Bay National Park is a must-visit destination in Alaska known for its majestic glaciers and abundant wildlife. It is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and provides a breathtaking backdrop for cruise ship passengers.

Q: What is the Inside Passage?

A: The Inside Passage is a scenic route along the western coast of Canada and Alaska. It is a popular route for cruise ships, offering breathtaking views of fjords, glaciers, and coastal towns.

Q: Can you provide some planning tips for an Alaska cruise vacation?

A: Absolutely! When planning an Alaska cruise vacation, consider booking a cruise that includes a land tour to explore destinations such as Denali National Park, Kenai Peninsula, and Prince William Sound. Additionally, pack layers of clothing, bring binoculars for wildlife viewing, and don’t forget your camera!

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Alaska?

A: Alaska offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including kayaking, hiking, whale watching, fishing, and glacier tours. Each port of call provides unique opportunities to explore the last frontier.

Q: Which major cruise lines offer cruises to Alaska?

A: Most major cruise lines, including Celebrity Cruises, offer cruises to Alaska. They provide various itineraries and onboard amenities to cater to different preferences and budgets.

Q: What can I expect to see on an Alaska cruise?

A: On an Alaska cruise, you can expect to see breathtaking scenery, including glaciers, waterfalls, fjords, and wildlife such as whales, bears, and eagles. You will also have the chance to visit quaint coastal towns and experience the rich culture of the indigenous people.

Q: Is it possible to book a cruise to Alaska without a land tour?

A: Yes, it is possible to book a cruise-only package to Alaska. However, adding a land tour allows you to explore more of Alaska’s inland destinations and get a more comprehensive experience of the state.

Q: What are some popular Alaska Native attractions?

A: Alaska is known for its rich Native Alaskan culture. Some popular attractions include visiting Tlingit villages, exploring Native Alaskan art galleries, and experiencing traditional Native Alaskan dances and performances.

Final Thoughts

After exploring the diverse and captivating Alaska cruise ports, it is clear that this destination offers something for every traveler. Whether you are drawn to the rich cultural heritage of Ketchikan and Sitka, the awe-inspiring glaciers of Juneau, or the historical charm of Skagway, there is no shortage of unforgettable experiences awaiting you.

From soaring seaplane tours to thrilling zip-lining adventures, Alaska’s cruise ports provide endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. Whether you choose to visit the popular ports or venture off the beaten path to discover hidden gems, you will be rewarded with breathtaking natural beauty and unique cultural encounters.

Remember to carefully plan your itinerary and consider the  best time to cruise Alaska based on your interests and preferences. Whether you opt for a mainstream cruise line or a luxury expedition, the beauty and splendor of Alaska’s cruise ports will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

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Alaska schedules, terminals, wiki, news, live port maps,  hubbard glacier , alaska.

Hubbard Glacier is located in eastern Alaska (USA) and partially of Yukon (Canada). It has a length of 122 km (76 ml). Icebergs sized as a 10-story building routinely break off. The glacier enters...

 Vancouver , BC Canada

Port Vancouver is Canada's "Alaskan" cruise port and homeport for Alaska-based liners during summer. The port handles annually between 240-270 cruise ship calls and over 1 million passengers through...

 Seattle , Washington

Port Seattle's cruise passenger shipping business started in 1999 and is currently ranked first among all West Coast USA homeports (departure seaports). Each homeported ship's visit generates USD 4...

 Whittier , Alaska

Port Whittier (locode USWQF) was established during the WW2 (1939-45) as a military supply seaport. As cruise port, Whittier is the gateway to Prince William Sound and Chugach National Forest (south...

 Icy Strait Point , Hoonah, Alaska

Icy Strait Point is a cruise ship destination on Chichagof Island, located just outside Hoonah Alaska (to the south). Port Hoonah is privately owned and named after nearby Icy Strait (Alexander...

 Tracy Arm Fjord , Alaska

Tracy Arm Fjord is part of Alaska's Fords Terror Wilderness park with total area approx 2643 km2 (1020 mi2). The park consists of two deepwater narrow fjords - Tracy Arm (north) and Endicott Arm...

 Sitka , Baranof Island Alaska

Sitka is a major cruise port and city located on the western shore of Baranof Island in the Alexander Archipelago (Southeast Alaska). During Alaskan season 2023, Sitka reported a record year with...

 Skagway , Alaska

Skagway is an Alaskan cruise port located on the northernmost point of Inside Passage. The town has population around 1,000 and lies in the narrow plain of Skagway River (at the head of Lynn Canal...

 Juneau , Alaska

Alaska's capital Juneau is located in the state's southeastern part, sheltered from the Pacific Ocean by a belt of islands 120 km (75 mi) wide. The town is built on a small land strip between...

 Ketchikan , Revillagigedo Island Alaska

Ketchikan is a port city on Revillagigedo Island (part of Alexander Archipelago, Southeast Alaska) with population around 8,000. The cruise port is near Canada's southern border. All cruise ships...

 Klawock AK , Alaska, Prince of Wales Island

Klawock (aka Lawaak) is a port town on the central-western coast of Prince of Wales Island (Alaska USA), with population under 1000. Klawock is approx 7 mi (11 km) from Craig (Prince of Wales Island...

 Seward , Alaska

Seward is a port city located in Kenai Peninsula Borough in the United States' state of Alaska. The city has total area approx 56 km2 (22 mi2) and population around 3,000. The city was named after...

 Dutch Harbor Unalaska , Alaska

Dutch Harbor is a famous port town located on Amaknak Island (aka Umaknak) facing Unalaska City (to the south) on Unalaska Island (part of Alaska's Aleutian Archipelago). Port Dutch Harbor (locode...

 Glacier Bay , Alaska

Glacier Bay is located on the coast of southeastern Alaska, approx 160 km (100 mi) northwest of Juneau. Glacier Bay has length of nearly 80 km (50 mi) and is noted for the unique display of 16 active...

 Wrangell AK , Alaska, Wrangell Island

Wrangell is an Alaskan cruise port and town with population around 2,500. The town is located on Wrangell Island (Alexander Archipelago, southeastern Alaska, USA). Wrangel Island has land area...

Alaska cruise guide: Best itineraries, planning tips and things to do

Alaska might be one of the most beautiful places in the world, but it's rugged and can be tricky to get around. Explore the Last Frontier by cruise ship, and you can travel to gold rush towns, glaciers, Alaska Native heritage sites and natural areas brimming with wildlife in comfort, even luxury.

When planning an Alaska cruise, you have many things to consider: when to go for the experience you're anticipating, which cruise line is best suited to your travel style, the best Alaska cruise ports to visit and which shoreside activities you want to prioritize. It's not the kind of trip you want to throw together at the last minute — especially since the best fare deals typically go to organized travelers who book early.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

If you're eager to spot bald eagles in the wild, ride a dog sled atop an ice field or pan for gold after a hearty salmon feast, an Alaska cruise is calling your name. Dive into The Points Guy's Alaska cruise guide for all the planning tips you need for your dream cruise up north.

Why cruise Alaska?

Most people have similar reasons for cruising Alaska. They want to admire its rugged beauty, seek out wildlife (such as eagles, bears and whales) and learn about its Native cultures and gold rush history. It's so far from the rest of the mainland U.S. that it's become a bucket list destination, especially for travelers looking to visit each of the 50 states.

One of the key reasons to cruise Alaska versus taking a land tour is to visit destinations along the Inside Passage that you cannot reach by road. Plus, many of the state's famous glaciers are best viewed from the sea.

If you want to see landlocked areas, such as Denali National Park, you can tack a cruise line-operated tour onto the beginning or end of your sailing for a seamless land and sea vacation. It's easier than fumbling with multiple train, bus, ferry and hotel reservations to cobble together the same trip on your own.

A cruise can also make an Alaska trip more affordable. Instead of taking a long and expensive flight to Anchorage or Fairbanks, you can choose a cruise that sails round-trip from Seattle or Vancouver (note, you won't be able to tack on a post-cruise land trip to Denali if you do this). Restaurant prices in Alaska can be high, but a cruise bundles meals, accommodations and transportation into one price that, with sales, can be cheaper than you'd think.

Related: Best Alaska cruise tips to help you make the most of your time aboard and ashore

When do cruises go to Alaska?

Nearly every major cruise line has a presence in Alaska from May through mid-September, with some offering sailings as early as April or as late as October. The season is short due to weather. Cold temperatures, icy waters and a long snowy season are not conducive to early spring and late fall cruises.

Alaska cruise weather can be chilly (in the 40s to 50s) first thing in the morning and at night. However, if it's a sunny summer day, temperatures can shoot into the 70s and even low 80s. It also rains a lot in Alaska; it's drier in the spring than in the summer.

When you want to go will depend on which activities you want to do, how you feel about cool weather and rain, and the price. Cruises at the beginning (April and May) and end (September and October) of Alaska's cruise season are generally a bit cheaper than those in June, July and August.

Related: Best time to cruise to Alaska

Best Alaska itineraries

Where do Alaska cruises even go? Most sail along the Inside Passage, a maritime route along the state's southern coast (and into British Columbia and Washington state) that weaves around the area's thousand islands. Some venture farther north into the Gulf of Alaska; these are often one-way cruises that begin and end at the ports near Anchorage.

Learn more about the best Alaska cruise itineraries for your next vacation.

Inside Passage

The Inside Passage is the most popular Alaska cruise route. Weeklong itineraries generally embark in either Seattle or Vancouver, British Columbia — though some itineraries originate in Juneau. A few lines, such as Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line and Cunard Line, offer 10-night Inside Passage cruises from Seattle or Vancouver.

Glacial ice carved this passageway long ago, and today, cruise ships and fishing vessels thread their way through the islets and channels to see some of the most spectacular natural sights in the world.

You'll find magnificent mountains (often snowcapped, even in the summertime), lush forests, waterfalls, fjords and calving glaciers. If it's marine life you've come to see, you'll find it in abundance, from whales and dolphins to sea lions and harbor seals. On land, you'll likely spy bears and Dall sheep while eagles, puffins and a host of seabirds circle above.

Many people trek to Alaska to commune with nature, but there's also history here that you shouldn't overlook. Shore excursions and onboard lectures will explain the cultures of the Indigenous peoples of Alaska, as well as more recent inhabitants from the Russian community in Sitka and the fortune-seekers who moved to Skagway during the Klondike gold rush in the late 1890s.

Popular Inside Passage ports of call include Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan, Petersburg, Haines and Skagway. Most cruises will visit three or four ports of call.

Additionally, you'll have one day spent cruising the Inside Passage and one focused on "scenic cruising," where you can enjoy the landscapes but won't go ashore. This is not nearly as boring as you might think since you'll see incredible sights like Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve or Hubbard Glacier .

One nice thing about the Inside Passage is how calm the water is because you're sailing between land masses. If you worry about seasickness, an Inside Passage trip is the best Alaska cruise itinerary versus a sailing where your ship transits rougher, open waters.

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler

Gulf of Alaska

If you book a weeklong Gulf of Alaska voyage, you'll also enjoy exploring parts of the Inside Passage and its ports that could include a mix of Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, Ketchikan, Haines and Icy Strait Point.

You'll have up to two days of scenic cruising, in addition to sailing the Inside Passage. Because Gulf of Alaska cruises sail farther north, scenic destinations might include College Fjord, in addition to Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier.

Generally, these one-way sailings travel from Seward or Whittier (the cruise ports closest to Anchorage) to Vancouver (or vice versa). Most itineraries are seven nights, but you'll find a handful that are longer.

For these itineraries, you'll need to fly into or out of Anchorage and take a train or bus to/from the cruise departure ports, which can take an hour or two. You can book the transportation on your own or through your cruise line.

Gulf of Alaska sailings — especially those in late August and September — can encounter rough seas in the gulf portion of the voyage. Be prepared if you're particularly prone to seasickness.

Related: One-way Alaska cruises vs. round-trip: Which is best?

Longer sailings from the West Coast

Finally, you'll find some round-trip San Francisco itineraries — usually 10 or 11 nights long — as well as longer sailings between San Francisco and Vancouver. These cruises are best suited to travelers who love days at sea.

On a 10-night cruise, you'll have four sea days (for example, two days from San Francisco to Juneau) plus a day of scenic cruising at a spot like Tracy Arm (Twin Sawyer Glaciers), Endicott Arm, Hubbard Glacier or Glacier Bay National Park. The waters before you enter the Inside Passage can be calm, rough or anything in between, depending on when you go.

Ports on these longer sailings might include Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point and Victoria, British Columbia.

You can also find one-way repositioning cruises between Southern California ports (Los Angeles and San Diego) and Vancouver at the beginning or end of a ship's Alaska cruise season.

Related: The 5 best luxury Alaska cruises you can book right now

Cruisetours

Cruise lines understand that not all of Alaska's best sights lie along the coast. Denali National Park and the city of Fairbanks are well inland. And some coastal highlights, like the Kenai Peninsula, aren't typically visited on a seven-night cruise. So the cruise lines created their own "cruisetours": vacations that combine a weeklong cruise with a two- to seven-night bus tour.

On a cruisetour, you'll sail on a one-way Gulf of Alaska cruise, so your cruise starts or ends in Alaska. Depending on the tour itinerary you choose, you might visit Seward and the Kenai Peninsula, Alyeska, Talkeetna, Anchorage and Fairbanks — as well as spend one to three nights in Denali National Park.

Some lines also offer Alaska cruisetours that venture into Canada's Yukon, including a few Holland America tours that combine half a cruise with a cruisetour that starts or ends in Skagway.

Your tour might include a ride on the scenic Alaska Railroad . Some activities are included in the cost of the cruisetour; other outings can be booked like shore excursions, depending on your interest and budget. If you're hoping to see the northern lights, booking a cruisetour in September might be your best bet to see the aurora on a cruise vacation.

Related: The best credit cards for booking cruises

Best Alaska cruise lines

Most big-ship and luxury cruise lines send at least one cruise ship to Alaska every summer. Some of the best Alaska cruise lines are Holland America and Princess Cruises because they have especially long histories in the region and offer cruises, as well as cruise and land tour combinations, on multiple ships each season.

If you want a more active trip in less touristed areas, a great choice would be a small-ship expedition line, including Alaska specialists such as Alaskan Dream Cruises and UnCruise Adventures.

Ships in all price ranges sail a variety of itineraries, so don't let budget stop you from visiting. If luxury is what you're after, you can find lines that will go overboard pampering you on your journey north.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

Best cruise lines for extended trips to Alaska

If you want to cruise Alaska but also see some of the interior and enjoy a stay in a lodge or hotel, go for a cruisetour package from either Holland America or Princess Cruises. Both have fantastic itineraries that take passengers not only to the Inside Passage, but also to Anchorage, Denali National Park, the Yukon, Kenai Peninsula, Talkeetna and Fairbanks. Princess even owns a handful of its own lodges.

Best Alaska cruises for families with kids

Carnival, Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian, Princess and Royal Caribbean all have extensive kids clubs aboard their ships that cater to all ages, from babies to teens. Little kids will adore meet-and-greets with beloved characters onboard Disney cruises, or hanging with Dr. Seuss characters when sailing with Carnival. Older kids will love the rock climbing walls, video game stations, sports courts, go-karts and laser tag on Royal Caribbean and NCL ships.

Related: 6 best Alaska cruises for families

Best cruise lines for adventure-seekers

Active travelers might prefer expedition-style voyages on smaller ships that include more time for adventurous activities, such as hiking in the Tongass National Forest, wildlife and glacier viewing from Zodiac rafts or kayaks, or even overnight camping. These ships often feature complimentary shore excursions, kayaks and bikes for guest use and onboard scientists and naturalists.

If you've got active teens who have an interest in nature and the environment, an expedition voyage could be exactly what will keep them engaged and off their devices. Just expect the majority of your shipmates to be older adults.

Look to UnCruise Adventures, Alaskan Dream Cruises, Hurtigruten and Lindblad Expeditions for the best adventure cruises.

Related: Pros and cons of small-ship cruising in Alaska

Best for multigenerational groups

Sailing with grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles and kids? Try Celebrity Cruises, Holland America and Princess Cruises. These cruise lines, especially on their newer ships, offer something for everyone — as well as a higher caliber of onboard dining than on the cheapest cruises.

Kids can hang out in the youth lounges while parents hit the spa or try a wine-tasting class. Everyone can come back together for dinner and evening entertainment or onboard activities suitable for all ages.

Best for couples and big celebrations

The luxury cruise lines are your best bet if you're a couple and enjoy spacious suites, gourmet food, pampering (many luxe lines hire butlers to cater to every passenger) and the opportunity to meet other like-minded cruisers. The personalized service and all-inclusive nature of luxury voyages might also be attractive to anyone celebrating a milestone, such as an anniversary, big birthday or retirement.

Look at Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea Cruises and Viking.

Related: The best Alaska cruises for couples

Things to do in Alaska

Alaska cruises offer a wide range of activities in port, with options for active travelers, wildlife lovers, history buffs and shoppers. Whether you're traveling with young kids or require more sedentary recreation, the Alaska cruise ports won't disappoint.

Related: Best shore excursions on an Alaska cruise

Wildlife tours are available in every port. Hop a bus, kayak, boat or plane to look for bears, eagles, whales, sea otters and other wildlife. Note that moose don't regularly show up in the Inside Passage; you'll need to head farther north to find them.

Book a fishing trip to try your hand at catching salmon or halibut, or go out crab fishing for a glimpse into that type of work.

Active travelers can explore Alaska by sea kayak or canoe, hike on glaciers and through rainforests, zip line, bike, ride an ATV and even snorkel (you'll need a dry suit). You can even opt for a round of golf at the course in Haines.

In Alaska, sightseeing doesn't only take place on the ground. Floatplane and helicopter tours take you around scenic areas like Misty Fjords or land you on a glacier, perhaps for a dog-sledding or hiking adventure on the ice. If you prefer to stay grounded, you can find informative trolley tours of ports like Skagway.

Alaska cruises provide plentiful opportunities to learn about Native Alaskan culture. You can get a taste of the gold rush life by trying your hand at panning for gold, attending a salmon bake or visiting a dog-sled camp. A hike on the Chilkoot Trail or ride on the White Pass Railway lets you follow in the footsteps of the miners who came to seek their fortunes. Cap your day by trying out locally brewed craft beers.

Shopping abounds, and you can buy everything from diamond jewelry to T-shirts and other souvenirs. You'll need to look carefully for Alaskan-owned stores selling local handicrafts, but they're worth seeking out.

Related: 15 Alaska cruise mistakes you never want to make

Best Alaska cruise ports

The best Alaska cruise ports are also the most crowded because no matter which type of itinerary and cruise line you select, you'll likely visit a mix of the same ports. The immediate port area will be filled with tourist shops and eateries. If you want to see nature at its finest, you must book a tour or venture farther afield.

If you want to see some of Alaska's most rustic and charming villages or stick to wild places, book a voyage with a line like Alaskan Dream Cruises or UnCruise to visit destinations like Baranof Island, Chichagof Island, Petersburg and Wrangell.

Ketchikan is known for three things: Native Alaskan (Tlingit) totem poles, Misty Fjords National Monument and the city's distinction as the Salmon Capital of the World. The town has more standing totem poles than anywhere else in the state; see them at the Saxman Native Village and the Totem Heritage Center. Access the Misty Fjords by kayak, floatplane or scenic cruise. Fishing excursions are plentiful here, too.

Ketchikan is where folks go to see the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, with athletes wielding axes and saws in traditional lumbering activities. It is also the jumping-off point for a Bering Sea crab fishing tour.

Alaska's capital city is interesting because no road leads from here to the rest of the state. It's located at the base of Mount Juneau, and you can only get there via boat or small plane — even residents have to bring their cars to Juneau via ferry. Home to Mendenhall Glacier, this is a popular port for hikes by, kayak tours to and helicopter landings on the glacier.

For a view of the city and cruise port, take a ride in the sky on the Mount Roberts Tramway. Various wildlife-viewing trips (whale, bears and more) and visits to dog-sled camps and salmon bakes leave from Juneau.

If you're interested in Alaska's gold rush history, Skagway — 90 miles northwest of Juneau — is a port you shouldn't miss. In fact, it's the gateway to the Klondike and Dawson mining district in Canada's Yukon territory, where prospectors searched for gold in the late 1890s. The historic district still has a Wild West feel, though that's been a bit commercialized for the modern era. This port can get crowded in summer when several ships can call on the same day.

Skagway is an easy port for independent travelers who want to explore the town or go for a hike on their own. It's most famous as the terminus for the White Pass Railway into the Yukon.

Sitka is as much a working fishing town as it is a tourist destination. Sitka's Russian heritage also sets it apart from other Alaskan ports on your cruise itinerary. See St. Michael's Orthodox Cathedral with its onion dome and the Russian Bishop's House.

Before the Russians came, the Tlingit people settled here. You can learn about their history and culture at the Sitka National Historical Park and Sheldon Jackson Museum of Native Alaskan art. Wildlife enthusiasts might want to visit the Alaska Raptor Center, or go bird- and bear-watching.

The population of Haines remains less than 2,000, according to the United States Census Bureau, and it isn't yet as touristy as some of the other Alaskan ports, such as nearby Skagway. It's known for great fishing (salmon, halibut and trout) and an eagle preserve — because eagles know where the best fish can be found.

Animal lovers and kids tend to enjoy a visit to the Kroschel Center for Orphaned Animals here. For a special tour, go bear-watching at twilight.

Icy Strait Point

Icy Strait Point is notable among Alaska cruise ports because the area and its attractions are all Native Alaskan-owned. Most port and tour staff hail from Hoonah, Alaska's largest Tlingit village. The port is set on Chichagof Island, which is known for its large bear population. Wildlife lovers have plenty of opportunities to search for whales and eagles here; adventure-seekers won't want to miss the ZipRider, with its course of six zip lines.

Scenic cruising

Most Alaska itineraries include some "scenic cruising," where your ship sails past incredible natural sights. You'll rarely leave the ship during these sail-bys (unless you happen to be aboard certain expedition, luxury or small ships that offer the chance to get on board a skiff to get closer ... but, even then, you're still viewing these sites from the water).

Onboard naturalists generally narrate what you're seeing, so head to the observation lounge (or tune to a broadcast on your in-room television) to learn about some of the top sights featured on scenic cruising days.

Top scenic cruising destinations in Alaska include Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve , Hubbard Glacier, Tracy Arm (Twin Sawyer Glaciers), Dawes Glacier at Endicott Arm and College Fjord.

Related: Hubbard Glacier vs. Glacier Bay: Which is the better scenic cruising spot in Alaska?

When to book an Alaska cruise

The best time to book an Alaska cruise is when a cruise line first opens bookings on that sailing, often more than a year in advance. You'll have your pick of itineraries and cabins — balcony cabins are popular in this scenic destination — and often the best fares.

Because Alaska has such a short season with a limited number of ships and is a dream trip for many, cruises are in high demand and people plan early.

If you wait to book, you're not entirely out of luck. Cruise lines often run sales in the fall or in the early months of the year (a period known in the cruise industry as " wave season "). You can take advantage of discounted fares, free upgrades or complimentary add-ons, such as Wi-Fi, gratuities, restaurant meals, beverage packages and tours. Some of the most desirable cabins might be sold out; being flexible about your sail date or itinerary can help.

In general, waiting until the last minute is not the best idea, unless you live in Seattle or Vancouver and don't need to book flights. While some less preferred sail dates or cabin categories might be available a few months out, spurring cruise lines to drop rates, you might have trouble finding affordable airfare and pre- or post-cruise hotel accommodations that do not consume your cruise savings.

Related: When is the best time to book a cruise?

What to bring on an Alaska cruise

When it comes to packing for an Alaska cruise, your mantra should always be: dress in layers. On the same day, you might be warm in town but chilly on your tour to a glacier. If you plan on hiking, kayaking or riding on a dog sled, you'll need the appropriate activewear.

Definitely pack for rain; consider skipping the umbrella and instead bringing a wide-brimmed waterproof hat, rain jacket, rain pants and waterproof shoes or boots.

This is also the trip for a camera with good telephoto lenses and binoculars. For more on what to bring on an Alaska cruise, check out our Alaska cruise packing list .

Bottom line

An Alaska cruise is a memorable experience. The beauty of the land and its immense history; the thrill of seeing bears, moose and bald eagles; and the mysteries of the surrounding marine life will astound you. It's a trip worth taking the time to plan and doing right — because who knows if or when you'll make it back to the Last Frontier.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
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• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

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Alaska Ports of Call

Alaska Cruise Ports

When you set sail with Princess on an Alaska cruise , ports of call invite you to explore the great outdoors, taste the fresh treasures of the sea and discover the unique history of the 49th state. Here are our top ports of call in Alaska.

Small white boats, with slender fishing reels suspended over the stern, float together in uniform lines off the coast of Ketchikan . As the “Salmon Capital of the World”, this port of call harvests a collection of personalities, all yearning for the refreshing taste of salmon varieties. Fisherman donning nylon jumpsuits and rubber boots readily trot down the wooden pier to their aquatic abodes. Meanwhile, grizzly bears enrobed in chestnut-colored fleeces meander through the shallow waters in search of their next meal. Past the multi-colored homes lining the tranquil shores lies an emblem of Ketchikan’s antiquities — Totem Bight State Historical Park. Embellished in vibrant colors and chiseled faces, hand-carved totem poles stand tall around the replica Native clan house, inviting visitors to experience Alaska’s past and present. Down on Creek Street, dollhouse-style homes line the wooden boardwalk inviting visitors to explore what’s left of the city’s red-light district days. With all that remains in this lively port of call, it’s no wonder why Ketchikan is one of the most sought-after destinations in Alaska.

With less than 1,000 residents, Skagway boasts small-town charm with big-city riches. Offering the shortest route to the Klondike, this port of call was a popular choice among gold-rushers. But, many travelers overlooked the real treasures of Skagway — the rustic Victorian architecture, the winding wooden railways and violet-spotted fields beneath the snow-capped mountains. Journey to these awe-inspiring landmarks — like the Klondike Summit — by seaplane or the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway. Or, retrace the steps of early settlers atop a majestic horse companion. Travel through vivid rainforests, emerald fields and the iconic Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. Experience the state’s most prized possessions when you sail into this Alaska port of call.

Rolling mountains — standing over 3,000 feet tall — overlook the still waters below, waiting for the majestic 20-foot Orcas to break the tranquil surface and make their grand debut. Meanwhile, the sweeping, 12-mile long Mendenhall Glacier rests nearby, slowly retreating under the steadfast sun. Nothing about Juneau is small. From the gaping landscapes to the dignified wildlife, there’s more than meets the eye in this unique port of call. Home to some of the largest gold mines in the world, Juneau has experienced its fair share of movement and continues to do so as the emblematic capital of Alaska. Relish in panoramic views of these precious lands atop Mount Roberts or immerse yourself in it all as you zipline through breathtaking elevations, dogsled along a trail and hike across serene meadows.

At the head of the Passage Canal lies Whittier — a seemingly quiet town that only a handful of people call home. Suspended waterfalls paint unique strokes on the surface of the emerald mountains while gentle winds create a collage of ripples in the teal-blue waters. While this small town appears bare on the surface, there's more than meets the eye. As the gateway to Anchorage and Seward, Whittier holds the key to exploration. Travel down the Seward Highway — an "All-American Road" — and relish in dramatic views of Alaska's untouched landscapes. Or, soar 2,300 feet aboard the Mt. Alyeska Tram to marvel in aerial views of the naturally sculpted glaciers within Prince William Sound. Voyage through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel and discover the many worlds waiting for you.

Sitka radiates Alaskan history. The New Archangel Dancers — dressed in crimson skirts and patterned aprons — gallop and twirl across the wooden stage to the sounds of 18th-century folk music. Outside, festive fishermen cast their frayed nets into the open sea, eager to reel in delectable treasures amidst this sportfishing paradise. With artifacts aplenty, travel in the path of Alaskan ancestors through these enchanting grounds. At Sitka National Historical Park – Alaska’s oldest national preserve – observe seasoned artists as they carve, weave, bead and metal work together new masterpieces reflecting ancient Tlingit and Haida cultures. Visit St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Cathedral and marvel at the grand stained-glass windows, hand-painted biblical scenes and lustrous gold crosses that embellish the interior. Or, admire orphaned cubs as they meander through enclosed habitats at the Fortress of the Bear sanctuary.

Vancouver, B.C.

Between the colorful architecture of Chinatown and the Native American influences rooted in Totem Pole Park, Vancouver boasts a cosmopolitan of ethnicities. Hop on board a comfortable motorcoach to the ever-bustling Chinatown where you can sip freshly-steeped green tea or taste the rousing flavors of pork belly alongside refreshing sesame noodles. Or, settle down and unwind on the sandy shores of Stanley Park — Vancouver’s very own oasis in the heart of the city — and revel in visions of expansive forestry and mesmerizing horizons. In Gastown, walk in the footsteps of bygone settlers as you wander down groomed streets and listen for the regal chimes from the steam clock each hour. With Vancouver at your fingertips, experience authentic European flair without ever leaving the Western hemisphere.

Victoria, B.C.

Soft pinks, ruby reds and violet purples paint the regal city of Victoria into a kaleidoscope of colors.

With pristine gardens sprinkled throughout the city, this vibrant port of call is every bit inviting and inspiring. Butchart Gardens — a 55-acre floral wonderland — boasts alluring walkways, enchanting stairways, glowing waterfalls and floral canopies dotted into vibrant blossoms. It’s no wonder why this fairytale haven is the most popular attraction in this charming port of call. Horse-drawn carriages carry visitors past charming houses and stately buildings that overlook the reflective waters. Meanwhile, patterned butterflies flutter throughout their very own 12,000 square-foot tropical paradise — home to symphonic birds and serene koi ponds. To experience true royalty, visit Craigdarroch Castle where wooden antiques and furnishings line the Victorian-style halls. No matter what you choose to do, your time in this Alaska cruise port will be nothing short of colorful.

Icy Strait Point

Icy Strait Point's waters house endless treasures. Located in Alaska’s largest Native Tlingit Village of Hoonah, Icy Strait Point is home to only 750 residents and proudly preserves the ancestral importance of simplicity throughout the community. In these tranquil lands, you won’t find a streetlight or paved road in sight. As the entryway to Glacier Bay National Park , this extraordinary port of call offers unparalleled views of the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site. With record-breaking catches, Icy Strait Point is also a fish-tasting mecca. Nibble on the delicate meat of Dungeness crab or savor in the flakiness of fresh-caught salmon. Home to one of the largest concentrations of brown bears in the world, this unique destination hosts an abundance of wildlife in its forest-lined terrains. After satisfying your palette, tap into your newfound fuel to help you journey 1,300 feet above sea level where you’ll embark on a 5,459-foot-long plunge with ZipRider — the highest cable ride in the world. Feel your heart flutter on any adventure in Icy Strait Point.

Visions of open roads and staggered mountains surround the tranquil town of Haines. This seemingly quiet port of call holds some of the most memorable and photo-worthy opportunities in the Great Land.

Feel the soft tickle of cloud-colored fur as you get an up-close experience with Alaska’s wolves. At Kroschel Wildlife Center, experience encounters with some of Alaska’s furry residents — including bears, moose, foxes, and reindeer — like never before. Or, head to the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve to see over 200 of these classic creatures soaring through the crisp air and resting amidst undressed trees. However you choose to spend your time on land, walk away with unforgettable adventures and ever-lasting memories.

Alaska’s ports of call offer unique adventures at every stop along your remarkable journey. From reeling in pink-bellied salmon to touring underground gold mines, there are endless opportunities to experience true Alaskan culture. Delight in the riches of the Great Land when you set sail with Princess.  View Alaska cruises .

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The thrill of exploration greets passengers every time their cruise comes to port. There's new history to explore, new sites to see, and new excursions to take. It's particularly true in Alaska, where an array of ports of call welcome Inside Passage cruises throughout the summer season.

Seward, Whittier, and Vancouver are the beginning and ending ports for most Glacier Route Alaska cruises . The town of Seward sits on the southern side of the Kenai Peninsula near beautiful Kenai Fjords National Park . It's nestled between bay waters and mountainsides, an environment that's rich in wildlife and best enjoyed by day cruise or kayak .

Whittier is the other main embarkation and disembarkation port in Alaska. It is even smaller than Seward, a little enclave within the big, marine landscape of Prince William Sound. Most seven-day cruises that list Anchorage on their itinerary actually call on Whittier, which is about an hour away by motorcoach or 2.5 hours by train . See our cruise transfers page for more details.

On the other end of an Inside Passage cruise is Vancouver . The vibrant British Columbian city adds a touch of the cosmopolitan to a lineup of quainter ports of call.

The fishing town of Ketchikan is often the first port of call on a northbound Alaska cruise from Vancouver to Seward. It's a colorful little town known for its historic waterfront and beautifully crafted Tlingit totem poles. About 250 miles north is Juneau , the largest town in the Inside Passage and Alaska's state capital. Nearby Mendenhall Glacier is one of Juneau's most popular attractions.

The historic gold rush village of Skagway hosts several ships daily. Much of the town is part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. The town is also famous for its White Pass & Yukon Route Railway.

Less often visited by cruise lines , Sitka and Haines are two of Alaska's most unique ports of call. Sitka showcases Alaska's past as a Russian colony, while Haines is a quiet community full of art galleries, abundant outdoor adventures, and the world's largest seasonal concentration of bald eagles.

Anchorage Alaska

For many travelers Alaska begins in Anchorage. Take at least a day to make the most of this small city's history, cultural offerings, and array of outdoor activities. Learn More >

Juneau Alaska

A bustling capital city along Alaska's tranquil Inside Passage, Juneau offers travelers everything from road-accessible glacier and gold mine tours to craft breweries and fine dining. Learn More >

Ketchikan Alaska

Renowned for its impressive annual rainfall, Ketchikan makes up for the misty weather with a colorful backstory, gracious locals, rich native culture, and premier fishing opportunities. Learn More >

Seward Alaska

Since its establishment in 1903, Seward has been one of Alaska's most important gateways. Plan two days or more to explore this coastal town on the tip of Resurrection Bay. Learn More >

Skagway Alaska

Modern day Skagway is as big a draw for its history and outdoor pursuits as it once was for its "easy" access to rumored riches up north. Learn More >

Vancouver, B.C.

Begin or end an Alaska cruise in this British Columbian city known for its historic neighborhoods, urban architecture, and beautiful natural surroundings. Learn More >

Whittier Alaska

Surrounded by waterfall-draped mountains and deep blue water, Whittier's nearness to Anchorage and access to Prince William Sound draws thousands of Alaska cruisers every year. Learn More >

Sitka Alaska

First a Tlingit fort and then a Russian outpost, Sitka best represents southeast Alaska's dynamic cultural heritage. Explore its history, wildlife, trails, and fish-rich waterways. Learn More >

Haines Alaska

Although less visited than Skagway or Juneau, Haines is a charming bayside town rich in Alaska Native culture, military history, arts, culture, and outdoor recreation. Learn More >

Seattle Washington

A hub for roundtrip cruises to Alaska's Inside Passage, Seattle serves Celebrity, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Holland America Line, Princess, and Royal Caribbean. Learn More >

Alaska Cruise Guide: Best Itineraries, Ports, Tips, & More

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When you think of a cruise vacation, Alaska might not be the first destination that comes to mind.

Alaska is one of the most scenic destinations in the world, offering an escape into America’s Last Frontier. The lush rainforest, snow-capped mountains, abundant wildlife, and blue glaciers provide an experience unlike any other.

But the rough terrain makes it challenging to navigate by land, so it’s best to explore Alaska by cruise ship.

This Alaska cruise guide covers everything you need to know before you sail to Alaska. We’ll cover what to pack, the best time to sail, cruise ports, things to do, weather, wildlife, and more.

Let’s dive in.

Table of Contents

Why Cruise to Alaska?

There are several reasons why people cruise Alaska, but one way or another, people are drawn to the state for its incredible scenic beauty.

Alaska is home to a beautiful snow-capped mountain landscape, abundant wildlife, vibrant Alaskan native cultures, Gold Rush history, art, culture, and the largest temperate rainforest in the world.

Alaska is one of the most beautiful destinations on the planet. And an Alaska cruise is unlike any other. Alaska cruises are less of a party and more of a laid-back scenic cruise.

Exploring Alaska by land is both tricky and expensive. Many cities are inaccessible by land. A land tour is expensive between cars, trains, ferries, and hotels.

The best way to explore Alaska is by cruise ship.

An Alaska cruise allows guests to explore multiple ports of call and experience the state through hands-on shore excursions.

Unlike other cruise destinations, Alaskan ports aren’t separated by large bodies of the ocean. The land is visible throughout most of the sailing, and you can often spot whales, eagles, and other wildlife from the ship.

Not sure if Alaskan cruises are for you, here’s what to expect on an Alaskan cruise .

Best Time to Crusie Alaska

The Alaska cruise season runs from May to late September, with some sailings in April and October.

The short cruise season owes itself to the weather. Aside from the winter cold providing an uncomfortable experience, many regions of Alaska become inaccessible as the water turns to ice.

The best time to cruise Alaska depends on what you want to see and do. For smaller crowds and lower cruise fares, you’ll want to sail at the beginning or end of the cruise season (May, June, or September).

May, June, and September are known as the shoulder season. With kids still in school, there’s less demand for cruise vacations. Sailing during the shoulder season is the best time to find cheaper cruise fares.

The peak season for Alaska cruises is July and August. If you sail during these months, you’ll find higher prices and larger crowds.

But if you want to see wildlife, you should take an Alaska cruise during July or August. Summer also provides the best weather, with warmer temperatures, lower rainfall, and more hours of sunlight.

Best Alaska Cruise Itineraries

Alaska cruises come in two forms; one-way cruises and round-trip sailings .

Round-trip cruises are the most popular, typically beginning and ending in Seattle, Washington, or Vancouver, Canada .

Most round-trip sailings travel along Alaska’s Inside Passage, visiting ports like Juneau and Skagway and scenic destinations like Tracy Arm Fjord or Mendenhall Glacier.

You’ll likely have to choose a one-way cruise if you want to travel further north on your Alaska cruise. One-way cruises begin and end in different ports, typically embarking or debarking in Seward, Alaska.

A one-way cruise is the best way to visit the Gulf of Alaska, with calls in northern ports like Whittier or Hubbard Glacier .

Inside Passage

Inside Passage, cruises are the most popular Alaska cruise route. These week-long sailings embark in either Seattle, Washington, or Vancouver, British Columbia .

The Inside Passage consists of a series of passages along the West Coast. Glacial ice formed the passages over 250 million years ago. The glaciers carved the unique rivers, islands, and ocean passages that make up the Inside Passage.

As you pass through the passage, you’ll notice the unique footprint of the glaciers that carved the mountains and waterways.

Some of the tallest mountains have sharp edges towards the peaks. Mountains with rounded peaks were once submerged beneath the glacier, eroding their sharp edges. The mountains with sharp peaks stood above the glaciers. By carefully looking at the structure of the mountains, you can see just how massive the past glaciers were.

Inside Passage cruises are popular for the incredible scenery, snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and whale species.

Even on sea days, there’s always something to look at.

Inside Passage cruises typically have a”scenic cruising” day at a Fjord or glacier. You won’t leave the ship on scenic days, but it’s a chance to witness some truly incredible scenery.

Inside Passage, itineraries are best for nature lovers, outdoorsy, and active-minded people .

From the ship, it’s fun keeping an eye on the water for local whale pods or searching the shoreline for bears, moose, or sea lions.

If you’re in luck, you can spot plenty of wildlife from the deck of the cruise ship. On our last 7-day cruise, we could spot pods of orcas, humpback whales, seals, and bald eagles without leaving the vessel.

Popular ports of call along the Inside Passage include Juneau, Ketchican, Sitka, Skagway, Haines, Icy Strait, and Tracy Arm Fjord.

Shore excursions provide the best chance to explore the beauty of Alaska or enrich yourself with the area’s deep history and culture. Through the shore excursions, you can learn more about the Indigenous peoples of Alaska or the fortune-seekers who traveled to the region during the Klondike Gold Rush.

While cruising through the Inside Passage, the islands create a natural break from the open ocean, calming the water. If you’re worried about getting seasick on a cruise ship , Alaska is one destination where you won’t spend much time in the open ocean.

Gulf of Alaska

If you book a Gulf of Alaska cruise, you’ll experience other less-visited cruise ports further north.

Most Gulf of Alaska cruises is one-way cruises traveling from Vancouver or Seattle to Seward or Whittier . If you embark in Seward or Whittier, you’ll have to fly into Anchorage, Alaska, and take the train or bus to and from the cruise port.

It’s a drive that can take an hour or two. You’ll have to book your transportation, but you can often book through the cruise line.

And it’s essential to keep in mind that you won’t be able to book round-trip airfare, which means you’ll have to pay more for flights.

Gulf of Alaska cruises tend to be 7-nights in duration , though you’ll find a few 8 and 9-day itineraries.

Some cruise lines offer round-trip sailings from Seattle and Vancouver. The round-trip Gulf of Alaska cruises tend to be 12 to 14-day itineraries , and you’ll likely spend at least two days at sea (not including scenic cruising days).

In addition to visiting some of the ports along Alaska’s Inside Passage, itineraries also include up to two scenic cruising days . The scenic destinations may include College Fjord, Glacier Bay, or Hubbard Glacier.

The seas in the Gulf of Alaska can be particularly rough. If you’re prone to seasickness, you may want to think twice before booking a Gulf of Alaska cruise.

Longer West-Coast Sailings

Some cruise lines offer longer west-coast sailings that begin in San Francisco. The round-trip sailings have four or more sea days, a scenic day, port visits along the inside passage, and a call at either Vancouver or Victoria, British Columbia.

With for or more sea days, West-coast sailings are best for people who like to spend multiple days at sea .

You may find rougher seas at the beginning and end of the cruise until your cruise ship reaches the Inside Passage, where the waters are calmer.

Cruise Tours

A cruise ship is one of the best ways to visit Alaska. But there are many destinations that you can’t visit by sea.

Many cruise lines offer tours combining a traditional Alaska cruise with a bus tour. Cruise tours allow you to extend your vacation and explore further inland.

The three to seven-night land tour allows passengers to explore destinations not accessible to cruise ships.

The cruise tours visit places like Denali National Park, Kenai Fjords National Park, the city of Fairbanks, and the Kenai Peninsula.

Most cruise tours begin as one-way Alaska Gulf cruises before passengers embark on a bus tour through northern Alaska. Some cruise tours bring travelers into Canada’s Yukon territory, and there are even some round-trip cruise tours.

Locals lead the tours, so you will get to know the land and culture firsthand.

Because the tours venture farther north than most cruise itineraries, they provide the best opportunity to see the northern lights. If you want to increase your chances, you should book towards the end of the Alaska cruise season, in late October.

Cruise tours are ideal because they provide fully booked itineraries. Guests don’t need to worry about booking transportation, hotels, or activities both on and off the ship.

The activities are often included in the tour price, though you may need to pay extra for some excursions.

Best Alaska Cruise Lines

Almost every mainstream cruise line provides Alaskan cruises.

Holland America and Princess Cruises are two of the most popular cruise lines for Alaska sailings. They have a long history of offering trips around Alaska and provide the largest selection of itineraries and cruise tours.

There are cruise lines of all price ranges sailing in Alaska, with budget-friendly lines like Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean and luxury cruise lines like Seabourn and Silversea Cruises.

For unique experiences, you may want to try smaller expedition cruise ships like Alaskan Dream Cruises and Uncruise Adventure.

In the past, cruise lines sent their older and smaller cruise ships for Alaskan itineraries. But with younger crowds and growing demand for cruises to Alaska, cruise lines have started to offer some of their latest ships.

Royal Caribbean has positioned Ovation of the Seas , one of the newest cruise ships, in Alaska. The ship’s North Star provides an incredible once-in-a-lifetime opportunity you simply can’t pass up.

No matter your preferences, you can find a cruise ship to fit your dream vacation.

Best Cruise Lines for Long Alaskan Sailings

If you’re looking for longer Alaska sailings of 12 or more nights, you’ll want to stick with Holland America or Princess Cruises .

Both cruise lines offer plenty of longer sailings and a large selection of cruise tours.

Best Alaska Cruises for Families with Kids

Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Carnival Cruise Line are perfect for families sailing with kids .

The cruise lines offer kids’ clubs, from babies to teens, catering to all ages.

Some people wouldn’t consider Alaska a family-friendly cruise destination.

But that couldn’t be further from the truth.

Alaska is an excellent destination for families with kids. From mountains to whales, there’s so much for kids to see. If you choose the right shore excursion, you can create an adventure that’s both fun and educational.

And with cruise lines sending their latest and greatest ships to the region, you’ll find enough entertainment for the whole family.

Still not convinced. I can tell you from experience that my favorite cruise as a kid was our trip to Alaska.

Best Cruise Lines for Adventure-Seekers

If your dream vacation includes hiking in Tongass National Park, Kayaking on Lake Chiliak, or overnight camping, you’ll want to look at expedition cruises.

Expedition voyages feature smaller ships with a greater focus on adventurous activities. Smaller vessels can better access less habited areas of Alaska and provide a closer look at the Last Frontier.

Expedition cruise lines often include complimentary shore excursions and provide zodiacs, kayaks, and bikes for you to use.

The cruises are very different than a traditional cruise to Alaska, with a greater focus on education, enrichment, nature, and the environment. Expedition-style cruises often bring scientists and naturalists to provide lectures and act as tour guides.

If you’re an adventure-seeker looking for the vacation of a lifetime, you’ll want to look at UnCruise Adventures, Alaskan Dream Cruises, or Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic .

Best Luxury Cruise Lines Sailing Alaska

Several luxury cruise lines are sailing in Alaska, including Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Cunard Line, and Seabourn Cruises .

There’s a significant benefit to sailing on a luxury cruise to Alaska. With fewer passengers on the ship, you won’t need to fight through the crowd for a prime sightseeing spot.

You’ll also find a more intimate experience with personalized shore excursions and better service.

Luxury cruise lines often visit less-traveled cruise ports, including Wrangell, Alaska, and Klemtu, British Columbia.

But there’s one significant benefit to sailing on a luxury cruise line.

Small-ship, luxury cruise lines like Seabourn, Silversea, and Regent can navigate more waterways than larger mainstream cruise lines. They can get close to glaciers and travel to the twin-Sawyer Glaciers at the end of Tracy Arm Fjord.

Best Cruise Lines for Couples

Couples looking for a romantic getaway should choose Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, or Holland America .

The cruise lines provide a slightly upscale atmosphere with fewer kids and affordable cruise fares.

Things to Do on an Alaska Cruise

There are lots of things to do in Alaska . There’s more to do than you’ll have time for when it comes to Alaskan cruises.

Unlike a Caribbean cruise, where most days are spent lounging on a beach, most Alaska tours and activities are outdoor adventures.

Alaska offers opportunities for active travelers, history buffs, shopping, wildlife encounters, and sightseeing.

It’s always a good idea to research your port of call to get information about the shore excursions before you embark on your cruise.

Some of our favorite things to do on an Alaska cruise include:

• White Pass and Yukon Route Railway (Skagway)
• Mount Roberts Tramway (Juneau)
• Kayaking on Chilkoot Lake (Haines)
• Exploring Gold Rush history
• Panning for gold
• Helicopter tours
• Glacier tours in Glacier Bay National Park
• Whale watching

Best Alaska Cruise Ports

You’ll have a different experience at Alaska cruise ports compared to Caribbean cities. The ports of call in Alaska have different atmospheres and personalities.

Where Skagway is a historic small town full of history and adventure, Juneau is a large city with great eateries and shopping.

As you might expect, the best Alaskan cruise ports are also the busiest. You can expect long lineups and higher prices at popular attractions if you’re sailing during peak season.

Book a shore excursion or cruise tour if you want to explore Alaska’s wilderness or venture beyond the town center.

Juneau is Alaska’s capital city, located at the base of Mount Juneau. The city is notable for its lack of roads leading in our out. You can only reach Juneau by plane or boat.

If you’re not afraid of heights, the Mount Roberts Tramway is a must-see activity. The 15-minute tram ride takes you to the top of Mount Roberts, where there’s a lookout point, bald eagles, a gift shop, and a restaurant.

Juneau is home to the Mendenhall Glacier. The glacier is a popular destination for hiking and kayaking tours. If you want an up-close glacier experience, you can book a helicopter tour and glacier walk.

More : Things to do in Juneau Alaska

If you’re interested in Gold Rush history, you’ll want to visit Skagway, Alaska. The town of Skagway was once the gateway to the Klondike in Canada’s Yukon territory (the site of the famous gold fields).

Thousands of prospectors visited Skagway in the late 1890s with dreams of finding gold.

Much of the gold rush history is preserved. Many of the original buildings remain, as are the town’s wooden boardwalks.

Skagway’s most popular attraction is the White Pass railway . The train ride takes passengers along the original route used by prospectors during the height of the gold rush.

More : Things to do in Skagway Alaska

Ketchikan, Alaska, is best known as the “Salmon capital of the world.” But the town is also popular for its Misty Fjords National Monument and numerous totem poles carved by Alaska’s Indigenous peoples, the Tlingit.

The city is home to the Great Alaskan Lumberjack show. Tourists worldwide come to see athletes wield axes and saws while competing in lumbering activities. The show is within walking distance of the cruise port and a must-see if you’re in town during the event.

Sitka is a little fishing town located on Baranof Island.

The town is the former capital of Russian America and offers a glimpse into the past with Russian landmarks and museums. Landmarks like the Russian Bishop’s House and St. Michaels Orthodox Cathedral are some of the famous historical sites.

The town is full of museums, shops, and small restaurants. Wildlife lovers should take a whale-watching tour in Sitka Sound or visit the Alaska Raptor Center and Fortress of the Bear rescue centers.

Sitka is the best town to visit if you’re hoping to spot bald eagles. There are so many bald eagles in Sitka that you’d have to try not to see one.

Sitka National Historical Park is the oldest national park in Alaska. The park is home to over 20 hand-carved totem poles scattered along the nature trails. It’s also the site of the final battle between indigenous Tlingit people and the Russians

More : Things to do in Sitka

Haines is a newer cruise port of call. The town has less than 2,000 residents and isn’t as touristy as other Alaska cruise ports.

Haines is best known for its fishing, golf, wildlife, and Chilkoot Lake. The lake is a popular destination for its immense beauty and the site of the salmon rush.

The town is also home to a hammer museum with the world’s second-largest hammer located out front.

More : https://highseascruising.com/things-to-do-in-haines-alaska/

Seward is located along the Gulf of Alaska and is an excellent port for exploring the outdoors. There are mountain biking tours, fishing excursions, and kayaking adventures.

The city is home to Fort William H. Seward and the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park.

Scenic Cruising Destinations

Most Alaskan cruises include at least one “scenic cruising” day. You won’t leave the ship on a scenic day, but you’ll have an incredible view of Alaska’s scenery.

The most popular scenic cruising destinations include Glacier Bay National Park, Tracy Arm Fjord, Hubbard Glacier, Endicott Arm, and College Fjord.

It’s important to note that the cruise line may cancel scenic cruising days due to weather. The fjords and narrow passages are difficult for large cruise ships to navigate. If the weather conditions aren’t perfect, the captain may cancel the scenic sailing or sail to an alternative destination.

Glacier Bay National Park : The expansive bay provides a window to 250 million years ago when the land was covered by ice. Most cruise lines stop at Marjorie Glacier, located 55 miles into the park. While sailing along the bay, keep your eye out for bears, mountain goats, eagles, and grizzly bears.

Hubbard Glacier : The largest glacier visited by cruise ships. Hubbard Glacier is an impressive 6 miles wide with a 400-foot tall face. We were fortunate enough to sail beside the glacier and were awestruck by the blue ice wall that stood before us. (We were also entertained by an otter playing on an iceberg.)

Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier : The 32-mile-long fjord is home to the beautiful Dawes Glacier. The glacier is home to many wildlife species and was founded by John Muir in the 1880s.

Tracy Arm Fjord: One of the most popular scenic destinations for Alaska cruises, located only 50 miles south of Juneau. At the end of the 30-mile-long fjord sits the South Sawyer Glacier and the North Sawyer Glacier. Tracy Arm Fjord is famous for its narrow passageway and towering mountain landscape.

Northern Lights Cruises

Millions of passengers travel to Alaska every year, hoping to see the Northern Lights. The Northern Lights are most visible further north during darker nights.

You best to see the Northern Lights on a cruise ship by booking a Gulf of Alaska itinerary during September .

The Gulf of Alaska itinerary brings you the furthest north, and sailing in September provides more hours of darkness.

You can increase your chances by visiting Denali National Park, where there’s less population and light pollution. Still, it’s never a guarantee that you’ll see the Northern Lights.

When to Book an Alaskan Cruise

The best time to book an Alaskan cruise is as early as possible . Cruise fares are often the cheapest when first released to the public.

If you purchase your cruise fare early and later find a lower price, you can take advantage of price protection and ask the cruise line to honor the lower price.

Because of the popularity of Alaska cruises and the short sailing season, cruise fares tend to be more expensive than traditional Caribbean sailings.

An Alaska cruise can cost between $500 to $10,000 per person depending on the cruise line, cabin category, flights, hotel, shore excursions, and drink purchases.

In general, you don’t want to wait for last-minute discounts on unsold cabins  unless you live near Seattle or Vancouver.

Alaska is one of the cruise destinations where we recommend booking a balcony accommodation. There’s nothing we love more than sipping a coffee on our balcony while admiring the picturesque views.

Due to their popularity, balcony cabins on Alaskan cruises are more expensive than traditional Caribbean sailings. You can expect to pay a higher price if you book a balcony.

What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise

When you visit Alaska, you’ll want to pack very differently than you would for a Caribbean cruise.

You’ll want to pack clothing for all types of weather and temperatures.

It’s essential to dress in layers. Because of the fast-changing weather in Alaska, it’s not possible to dress for the weather.

It might be warm in the morning, then cold and rainy in the afternoon.

Dressing in multiple layers prepares you for any weather. It helps to take a backpack or waterproof bag to put extra layers if you don’t need them.

Most importantly you should bring a lightweight rain jacket and waterproof shoes. If there’s one thing you can count on in Alaska, it’s rain. It also helps to pack an umbrella or a rain poncho.

If you’re unsure what to pack for your Alaska cruise, check out our printable Alaska cruise packing list .

Common items to pack for an Alaska cruise include:

• Lightweight raincoat
• Warm clothing, hats, gloves, sweaters
• Camera and tripod
• Bug spray and sunscreen
• Bathing suit
• Waterproof bag for kayaking or rafting excursions

Alaska Cruise Weather

The Alaska cruise weather changes rapidly throughout the day. One minute it’s warm, and the next, it’s cold and rainy. Only for it to change again ten minutes later.

The weather can drop into the 40s or 50s in the morning during the cruise season. But on sunny days, the temperature can rise into the mid-70s.

It’s important to remember that Alaska is home to the world’s largest temperate rainforest, and you can almost guarantee that it will rain during your cruise.

The weather in Alaska changes rapidly throughout the day. One minute it’s warm, and the next, it’s cold and rainy. Only for it to change again ten minutes later.

Even if it’s sunny when you’re on the ship, you can expect the weather to change at a moment’s notice.

Marcello De Lio

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How to Choose the Best Alaska Cruise Itinerary for You

Last Updated on April 9, 2024

Thinking about setting sail for Alaska? Not sure which itinerary to choose? This article is all about the highlights and best Alaska cruise ports to help you decide which Alaska Cruise itinerary is best for you. It also covers the best shore excursions as well as the best things to do on your own in each port.

Great news to get started – you really can’t go wrong here as all the Alaska ports of call are interesting and unique and all are surrounded by incredible scenery .

I’ve worked in the Alaska cruise industry since the late 90s and visit all of these ports frequently. I’ve even lived in two of them. I’m also the host of the Alaska Uncovered Podcast and a travel advisor who helps people plan their Alaska cruises . I’m excited to share my insider knowledge with you!

This article will covers a lot of ground, feel free to use these links to jump around and find what you need quickly.

Which cruise line is best for Alaska?

• Should I do a round trip inside passage or one way cruise to Alaska?
• Is it better to do an Alaska cruise from Seattle or Vancouver?

Is it better to do Denali on my own or through the cruise line?

• When is the best month to take an Alaskan cruise?
• Scenic Cruising – is Glacier Bay better?
• Icy Strait Point/Hoonah
• Other ports (Wrangell, Petersburg, Victoria, Anchorage/Whittier/Seward)

Alaska Cruise Planner and Workbook

• What to pack for an Alaskan Cruise

What about the ferry?

Related : The best hike in every Alaska cruise port

Listen to cruise expert Ilana from Life Well Cruised share about her first Alaska cruise experience on the podcast:

I recommend choosing the cruise line that has the itinerary you like best or the type of experience you’re looking for. Nearly all big ships in Alaska offer the same shore excursions , so no need to have that be the reason to make a decision.

If you already have experience with a cruise line that you love, I recommend sticking with that. However, if you’re a first time cruiser, here are some things to consider when choosing your cruise line for Alaska:

• Small ships often have round trip cruises that depart from ports in Southeast Alaska. Small ships can go to places big ships can’t and are usually all inclusive. If you’re looking for an experience that will take you to places outside of port towns and away from crowds, look at UnCruise, Lindblad (National Geographic) and Alaska Dream.
• Princess and Holland America have a long history in Alaska and bring some local touches on board such as local food and local Alaskans to do programs on the ship. They also have more permits for Glacier Bay than some of the other big ships. There will be less children on both of these cruise lines, though they still have programs for children and teens on board.
• Royal Caribbean and Norwegian have more families on board, and more features on board the ship like climbing walls, go kart racing and waterslides and family friendly amenities.
• If you’re looking for a luxury experience, look at Seabourn or Silver Sea

Should I take a round trip Inside Passage cruise or a one way cruise to Alaska?

The next step need to decide if you’re going to do a one way cross gulf cruise (named because it crosses the Gulf of Alaska) or round trip from Seattle or Vancouver BC , which goes through the Inside Passage and returns to Seattle or Vancouver. Small ships generally run between towns in Southeast Alaska, usually Juneau, Sitka or Ketchikan.

If you are doing a cruise only (no land tour), I recommend doing the Inside Passage only on a round trip cruise. It’s more straightforward and usually less expensive to fly if you do a round trip from the same port. It also means you travel in mostly protected and calmer water.

I recommend the cross gulf (one way) trip if you are also adding a land portion of your trip to other parts of Alaska , such as Denali National Park, Anchorage or Fairbanks. If you’re not planning a land trip, or just want to keep it simple, then a round trip cruise will be best for you.

Is it better to take an Alaska Cruise from Seattle or Vancouver?

This is one of the questions I get frequently from my readers and clients. Both Seattle and Vancouver are wonderful cities to sail from and spend an extra couple days if you have it. Usually the answer to this question comes down to logistics.

One way cruises to Alaska will always either start or end in Vancouver. Why? Because of the Passenger Vessel Services Act, foreign flagged ships (all the big ships) cannot take people from one American port to another. So, if you are doing a one way cruise, you will start in Vancouver and end near Anchorage (either Whittier or Seward) or the other way around.

Round trip cruises may go from either Seattle or Vancouver. I would recommend making the decision based on logistics such as which city is easier to get to (for most Americans that is Seattle, for most Canadians, Britons and Australians that’s Vancouver) or which itinerary works best for your schedule.

This is another question I am frequently asked and as a person who has been to Denali many times on my own as well as works as a tour director bringing people to Denali as part of their cruisetour, I know a lot about doing in both ways.

The cost is going to be similar whether you do Denali on your own or through the cruise line . Often people are under the impression that it’s more expensive through the cruise line but that is not usually the case for an equivalent experience (tent camping on your own is cheaper for sure and cruiselines do not offer tent camping cruisetours!).

The bottom line is that cost is not the primary factor to consider here. Instead I recommend deciding this based on how many days you have and if you just want to see Denali as opposed to seeing other places in Alaska off the cruise ship.

If you have less than five days for land and primarily want to see Denali, then I recommend booking through the cruise line. If you have more time and want to see some other places, then you could book it on your own. Booking it on your own is more logistically complicated, but you can go places that might not be offered on cruisetour itineraries.

When is the best month to take an Alaskan Cruise?

The Alaska cruise season runs from early May through late September . Some companies offer cruises slightly earlier or later than this, but this is the heart of the season. I do not recommend doing an Alaska cruise in April or October.

The best month to take an Alaskan cruise is May or June. Early season is the least rainy time of year in Southeast Alaska and the Inside Passage (it’s still quite rainy so be prepared for that !). It is also a bit less busy and crowded in ports.

July is the most popular time for cruising in Alaska and it is still the height of summer with long days. Whale watching and fishing are both excellent in July and August.

August and September are much rainier, but you can get some good deals at this time of year. If you don’t mind bundling up with some hot drinks while watching the rain and getting the full Inside Passage experience then September is the time for you! September is a good time to plan a last minute cruise as there is often space available on ships.

Related : What is the best month to visit Alaska?

Scenic Cruising – Is Glacier Bay better than other scenic glacier cruising?

There’s no question that Glacier Bay National Park is absolutely stunning. However, there are plenty of other glacier cruising areas that are also stunning. Most Alaska cruises have a day of cruising near a glacier but it’s not always Glacier Bay.

If you’re looking at a cruise itinerary that does not include Glacier Bay, you can be confident that you will have an amazing experience. Don’t let that on it’s own stop you from booking. Small ships sometimes dock at Bartlett Cove in Glacier Bay (see more on this at the bottom of this article), but big ships do not go ashore in the park. Park rangers come aboard to share about what you’re seeing and experiencing. Other possible glacier cruising areas include:

• College Fjord – Cross gulf cruises (one way from Whittier or Seward to Seattle or Vancouver BC) sometimes call at College Fjord, a spectacular collection of tidewater glaciers, narrow fjords and towering mountains.
• Hubbard Glacier – located near Yakutat, this glacier is huge! In fact, this is the largest glacier that big cruise ships visit. It is not in a narrow fjord, but the glacier itself, the icebergs and massive mountains behind more than make up for this
• Endicott Arm/Dawes Glacier – another stunning iceberg filled bay in view of the Dawes Glacier
• Tracy Arm – located near Juneau, Tracy Arm is a local favorite and an impossibly long and gorgeous fjord. The glacier is not huge but the setting is stunning. Locals will tell you Tracy Arm is more beautiful than Glacier Bay!

No matter where your ship sails for glacier viewing, it is sure to be absolutely stunning.

Juneau – Best Alaska cruise port overall

In my opinion, Juneau is the best Alaska cruise port overall . This is not because the others are not fantastic, because they are! Juneau has the most options for literally every traveler and this is why I put it right at the top of the list.

In addition to the stunning natural beauty that every Alaska cruise port has on offer, Juneau has options for exploring around town on your own, many wonderful shore excursions including whale watching and fishing , a fascinating excursion to Mendenhall Glacier and fantastic hiking and other outdoor activities . In addition to shore excursions organized by your ship, you can also easily explore Juneau on your own by going for a hike, shopping around town or taking the wonderful Juneau food tour to get an insider and local perspective on Juneau’s delicious food scene. Juneau has a bus system that you can use to get around. Ketchikan (below) is a very, very close second, but Juneau’s many hiking trails that you can get to easily from the cruise ship dock edge it into the number one spot for me.

Nearly every cruise calls at Juneau, so look for a cruise that gives you the maximum amount of time there to see as much of this wonderful town as possible.

Juneau Highlights

• Mt Roberts – you can take the tram from downtown or hike the trail to the viewpoint. I recommend taking the tram and then expanding your hike from there to higher and better views of the mountains and water around Juneau
• Mendenhall Glacier – you are likely to see other glaciers on your trip, but the Mendenhall is a stunning glacier feeding into a lake, with plenty of hiking trails, a gorgeous waterfall and an opportunity to learn about how climate change is impacting Alaska’s Glaciers at the excellent visitor center
• Whale sculpture – easily walkable, the gorgeous and completely lifelike whale sculpture is not to be missed!
• Downtown local establishments like the Alaska Hotel and Bar, Heritage Coffee and Amalga Distillery
• Hiking – there are several trails you can get to from downtown, such as Mt Roberts, Perseverance Trail and Mt Juneau and others a short bus ride away, or at the glacier
• Whale watching – Juneau (along with Ketchikan and Sitka) are good options for a whale watching trip
• Kayaking – along with Haines, Juneau is a great place to take in a kayak trip

Learn more : Best things to do in Juneau

Ketchikan – Overall Runner Up and Best for Unique Experiences

Ketchikan is a very close second for me for the top spot as the best Alaska cruise port! Juneau gets a slight edge from me as I mentioned above for the number of hiking trails that are easy to get to from the cruise ship dock. Like Juneau, Ketchikan is relatively easy to get around on your own and has a bus system that takes you to most places.

Ketchikan also has excellent shore excursions, particularly to Misty Fjords National Monument , and it’s a great place for fishing trips. Ketchikan also has lots of opportunity to learn about and experience Alaska Native Culture, including the many totem poles around town and nearby.

Ketchikan is also home to some quirky and really fun experiences like the Deadliest Catch Tour and the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show.

This is an excellent Alaska cruise port for shopping , with delightful Creek Street and the streets surrounding it offering up more local art and gifts than many other ports (Juneau is also good for this, ask a local where to go!). Make sure to visit Crazy Wolf Studio , which is Alaska Native owned and features Native art from across the northwest coast. In addition, I highly recommend the Captain’s Lady , with lots of locally made items as well as Ray Troll ‘s studio.

Ketchikan Highlights

• Walking around and exploring the shops of Creek Street
• Totem Poles – take in the impressive art of these elaborate and beautiful poles of the northwest coast around town or at Saxman or Totem Bight
• Take a boat tour to Misty Fjords National Monument
• Check out the Deadliest Catch tour and learn about Alaska’s crab fishing industry
• Take in the fun and impressive Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show
• Go fishing – salmon and halibut fishing are both excellent out of Ketchikan
• Hiking – if it’s a rainy day, try the Rainbird Trail to explore the rainforest, and if the sun is out and you’re up for a challenging hike, head up Deer Mountain

Learn more : Best things to do in Ketchikan

Skagway – Best Hiking

Skagway is a tiny town with a very busy cruise port! This is as far north as cruise ships go in the Inside Passage (some continue north from here across the Gulf of Alaska to Seward or Whittier while others turn south here to return to Seattle or Vancouver). Skagway was put on the map by the Klondike Gold Rush in 1898 and has a colorful history. In fact, the entire downtown is a national park !

The White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad was built during the Gold Rush and remains today as a tour for visitors and I will tell you that in my opinion (many agree with me!) this is the best shore excursion available in Southeast Alaska ! There are several options for the train: you can take a round trip summit excursion right from the cruise ship dock, or you can go one way by train and one by bus giving you additional views of this stunning location. You can also do a hike from the train getting dropped off at Denver or Laughton Glacier as part of a tour.

The White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad gives you the unique opportunity in Southeast Alaska to get up into the mountains and inland and see a completely different climate . There are good chances to see bears and goats on this trip too! Overall I highly recommend this if you only do one shore excursion…make it this one!

Skagway also has lots of great history to explore and several excellent hikes that leave from downtown and you can easily walk to.

Skagway Highlights

• Ride the White Pass and Yukon Route historic railroad – do NOT miss this!
• Walk around downtown , also known as Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, and learn about Gold Rush history
• Take a hike to Lower Dewey Lake, Smuggler’s Cove, or Lower Reid Falls

Learn more : Best things to do in Skagway

Haines – Best Weather and Kayaking

Haines doesn’t have a lot of cruise ships that call in its port, but it does have some. You can also visit Haines by taking a shore excursion when your ship calls in nearby Skagway. However you get there, Haines is worth a visit for plenty of reasons.

In addition to the scenery that every Alaska town has on offer, Haines is positioned to have the best weather in Southeast Alaska, making it ideal for outdoor activities like kayaking! When I say best weather I mean less rain than most other ports (except Skagway) but it doesn’t have the wind that Skagway has. In any part of Southeast Alaska you need to be ready for rain, any day, all year, but Haines gives you a better chance of a dry day than most.

Kayaking is unique in Haines because you can take a tour for sea kayaking or you can kayak in Chilkoot Lake, giving options for every preference and every skill level in a kayak. This is a wonderful place to try kayaking for the first time!

Haines Highlights

• Kayaking – either sea kayaking of lake kayaking, both are available
• Jet Boat tour of the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve – the beautiful Chilkat River is home to a large concentration of bald eagles and a jet boat tour is the perfect way to experience the beauty of the river and see eagles diving for fish
• Walk around Fort Seward – historic Fort Seward is today a large greenspace surrounded by lodging options and home to the delicious Port Chilkoot Distillery
• Check out the quirky Hammer Museum – just exactly what it sounds like!
• Walk around the harbor – all Southeast Alaska towns have a bustling harbor filled with fishing charters, commercial fishing, locals, tour boats and more. Haines has a particularly scenic harbor against the mountain backdrop

Learn more : Best things to do in Haines

Sitka – Best Alaska cruise port to explore on your own

If you like to explore on your own, Sitka is the port for you! Sitka has far fewer ships than many other ports so it’s fun for an independent minded traveler to explore. Most likely your ship will dock a few miles outside of town, but there’s a free shuttle downtown that goes every 15 minutes while a ship is important and it’s easy to zip around. You can also link up with Sitka’s bus system (called The Ride) to get to trailheads and other areas.

Sitka’s beautiful setting on Baranof Island combined with an intriguing history of Tlingit history and modern culture with Russian and American rule make it an interesting place to visit.

Sitka Highlights

• St Michael’s Russian Orthodox Cathedral – the best remnant of life in Sitka when it was the capital of Russian America is this gorgeous cathedral downtown
• Sheet’ka Kwaan Naa Kahidi Tribal Community House – don’t miss this stunning House Screen on a clan house downtown
• Castle Hill – great views of Sitka are found from the place where Alaska was formally transferred from Russian to American rule in 1867.
• Sitka National Historical Park – commemorating a battle in 1804 between Tlingit people and the Russians, you can learn this history as well as see another impressive collection of totem poles
• Whale watching – this is another fantastic place for a wildlife cruise. I once saw a brown bear swimming between two islands from a wildlife cruise here, it was incredible!
• Fortress of the Bear – another way to see bears is to visit this bear sanctuary where you can (safely!) get close to brown bears and learn about their lives in Alaska
• Hike the Harbor Mountain Trail – hikers will love this gorgeous rainforest trail with incredible views

Learn more : Best things to do in Sitka

Icy Strait Point/Hoonah – Most unique Alaska cruise port

Icy Strait Point near the town of Hoonah is a unique port in Southeast Alaska. Icy Strait Point was converted from a cannery for cruise ships by the Huna Totem Corporation and is Huna Tlingit owned and operated. The vast majority of employees are Huna Tlingit who live in the town of Hoonah.

At Icy Strait Point you can explore the museum in a historic cannery, walk the nature trails, eat delicious seafood and book one of the many tours offered. Tours include whale watching, trips to look for bears around Chichagof Island, ziplining and off road adventures. If you have the chance to go, don’t miss out on this truly unique Alaska cruise port, there’s nothing like it anywhere else!

Other Alaska cruise ports

If you’re traveling on a small ship, your ship may call at Wrangell, Petersburg or go ashore at Bartlett Cove in Glacier Bay National Park. These are all wonderful and intimate ports with lots to see and do. Learn more here about Wrangell , here about Petersburg and here about Glacier Bay .

Even though it isn’t in Alaska, many cruises which start or end in Seattle stop in Victoria. If your ship calls at Victoria, read all about my suggestions for making the most of a short port call there.

If you’re embarking or disembarking in Whittier or Seward, you’ll be flying in or out of Anchorage. If you’re looking to spend a few extra days exploring, read more about all the wonderful things to do in Anchorage here .

If you’re looking for something to keep everything organized and in one place while helping you make decisions, my Alaska Cruise Planner and Workbook is for you!

My Alaska Cruise Planner and Workbook is designed to be used online in Google Sheets (though you can download it to Excel or print if you prefer to use it that way) and will walk you step by step through the entire process of planning your cruise including:

• What order to do things in
• How to plan for all the costs (even the sneaky ones)
• Whether or not to add a land trip
• How to book the land trip (on your own or through the cruise line)
• Choosing a cruise line and itinerary
• Choosing and booking shore excursions
• Choosing and booking flights
• Packing list for your Alaska Cruise

What to pack for an Alaskan Cruise?

I have a whole post about what to pack for Alaska , including if you’re taking a cruise! Head over there for all the details, but the MOST important things to have and bring from home are an excellent rain jacket and waterproof comfortable walking shoes or boots !

If you are coming from a hot climate, make sure to bring plenty of warm clothes. Temperatures in Southeast Alaska and along the Inside Passage are generally in the 50s and 60s in the summer. It is possible to have much hotter days but definitely be ready for some chilly and damp days, even in the middle of summer!

You’ll also want to make sure you have sunscreen because when the sun does come out it’s INTENSE during Alaska’s long summer days. You can find sunscreen everywhere, but if you like a particular brand definitely bring it with you.

You might have heard someone refer to the Alaska ferry (Alaska Marine Highway) as a local’s cruise or a cheaper cruise and I want you to know that is not accurate. I cringe whenever I read or hear this. The Alaska ferry is absolutely wonderful, but it’s public transportation and that is how it’s used by Alaskans. It’s also more expensive than people expect (often more than a cruise) and there are lots of hidden costs, such as getting a small cabin and eating in the cafeteria. If you’re interested in taking the ferry to or within Alaska, it’s an amazing experience, but it’s very different from a cruise! Learn more in my complete guide to riding the Alaska ferry here and my DIY traveler’s guide to having a blast on a cruise here .

Final Thoughts

Cruising is a fantastic way to see the coastal towns, glaciers and wildlife of Alaska, since distances are large and many communities and places are not accessible by road. And you get to wake up in a new stunningly beautiful place every day without having to repack. Go with whatever itinerary and ship makes sense for your family and you’ll have an amazing time.

Related : Guide to Planning a trip to Alaska , Alaska on a Budget

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A GUIDE TO ALASKA'S MOST POPULAR PORTS

By david swanson i july 07, 2022 | 5 min read.

Much of America’s most rugged, untamed scenery is found in Alaska. The 49th state brims with wildlife and active adventures, with fascinating culture and the legacy of explorers.

But the sheer immensity of Alaska—it’s twice the size of Texas—along with its wildness can intimidate first-time visitors.   That’s one reason cruises are so popular; an Alaskan cruise showcases the epic vistas and quiet coastal corridors of the Inside Passage and typically features three or four destinations on a weeklong journey.

Here are some highlights at the major ports.

JUNEAU Reachable only by air or sea, Alaska’s lively capital is also the state’s busiest port. Though just 32,000 people live here, virtually every Alaskan cruise calls on Juneau, the main reason it holds the greatest variety of shore excursions.

With Juneau’s mountain backdrop rising abruptly from the edge of town to a 1,500-square-mile ice field that hides the US–Canada border, pricey helicopter sightseeing trips are a major attraction. Another popular excursion is taking the scenic floatplane to Taku Glacier Lodge for a salmon bake; as you dine indoors, the bears reliably show up outdoors to lick the grill clean.

• Don’t miss: Venture beyond the T-shirt shops to explore the city’s frontier flavor, revealed in depth at the Alaska State Museum with its displays on native tribes, the Gold Rush, the Russian colonial era and ephemera from WWII battles in the Aleutian Islands.
• Unique excursion: Juneau Food Tours explores the city’s burgeoning dining scene, with stops along the way to sample Alaskan king crab, salmon, halibut, locally brewed beer and craft cocktails.
• Wallet-watcher’s option: The Mendenhall Glacier dominates the landscape just north of downtown.

A public bus stops one-and-a-half miles from the glacier’s visitor center, which offers excellent views of the receding ice. Toward the end of the summer, watch for bears below the visitor center along Steep Creek.

SITKA With a newly extended cruise pier to showcase, Sitka is seeing a burst of attention this year. Located on the coast just outside the Inside Passage, Sitka is the former capital of Russian America, which at one time extended almost to San Francisco. Discover this unusual history in the beautiful onion-domed St. Michael’s Cathedral and the Russian Bishop’s House.

While jewelry shops have multiplied with the recent rise in cruise visitors, Sitka is also a great port to find handcrafted herbal soaps, berry jams and jellies as well as indigenous Tlingit carvings and masks.

• Don’t miss: Wildlife shore excursions are available at every Alaskan port, but one of the most reliable is the Sea Otter and Whale Quest offered by Allen Marine Tours.
• Unique excursion: For an insider’s glimpse of Sitka, sign up for a private driving tour of the town given by local Jeff Budd in his vintage 1973 white Checker Marathon.
• Wallet-watcher’s option: It’s a short walk from downtown to the Sitka Sound Science Center, where you can tour the research lab, touch tanks and a salmon hatchery that produces more than six million salmon a year.

SKAGWAY This tiny town (year-round population 900) is where Klondike prospectors began their 500-mile journey to the gold fields of Canada’s Yukon Territory. A lawless outpost in the 1890s, modern-day Skagway boasts restored historic buildings protected by the six-block Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park.  

If the frontier spirit doesn’t intrigue, walk to Jewell Gardens, where glass-blowing lessons are offered and a lovely café serves delicious salmon BLTs in a garden setting.

• Don’t miss: Skagway’s top ticket is the White Pass and Yukon Railroad, built in 1898 at the height of the Gold Rush. The route offers spectacular views and a perspective on the prospectors’ arduous journey as the track climbs to 3,300 feet, crossing into Canada (bring your passport).
• Unique excursion: Sockeye Cycle Co. offers bicycling tours out of Skagway that range from gentle coastal explorations visiting the former Gold Rush town of Dyea to a thrilling ride down from White Pass.
• Wallet-watcher’s option : A steep but rewarding hiking trail leads up to Lower Dewey Lake, high above the cruise ship docks. Allow at least 90 minutes for the three-mile roundtrip.

Is a cruise to Alaska on your must-do list? Your AAA travel agent can make that dream happen. Find Your Travel Agent

ICY STRAIT POINT Originally a salmon-canning plant dating to 1912 and located outside the town of Hoonah, Icy Strait was developed as a port just over a decade ago and has quickly grown in popularity. Retaining its sense of outback character, the port offers one of the state’s most authentic experiences available for cruisers: wandering the forest and exploring the area’s canning history.

• Don’t miss: The Wildlife and Bear Search travels to wild Chichagof Island, where the Spasski River Valley is renowned for having one of the highest densities of coastal brown bears in the world, along with bald eagles and Sitka black-tailed deer.
• Unique excursion: The mile-long ZipRider is one of the world’s longest zip lines, descending at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour from 1,550-foot Hoonah Mountain.
• Wallet-watcher’s option: It’s an easy one-and-a-half-mile stroll into quiet Hoonah, which provides a representative slice of life in a rural Tlingit community.

KETCHIKAN Alaska’s southernmost port is the first or last stop on many cruises, and it’s also the rainiest. A “Liquid Sunshine Gauge” touts the city’s average rainfall: 13.5 feet! Ketchikan also is the salmon capital of the world, and in late summer, thousands of the silver leapers can be spotted in Ketchikan Creek with a walk along pedestrian-only Creek Street. In the forests upstream, you might see bald eagles diving for their dinner.

Naturally, canned salmon is a popular souvenir, but also check out the artisans along Creek Street selling their paintings, carvings, weavings and more.

• Don’t miss: Ketchikan is the gateway to 2.3-million-acre Misty Fiords National Monument. The park’s glacier-gouged U-shaped valleys can be reached by small plane; landing at a dock on a remote lake is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
• Unique excursion: Ketchikan’s water temperatures can reach as high as 65 degrees in mid-summer. Snorkel Alaska takes wetsuit-clad tourists snorkeling in the intertidal zone, where a world of giant sunflower stars, red rock crabs and kelp forests is revealed.
• Wallet-watcher’s option: For just $1 a ride, Ketchikan’s bus system takes passengers to Saxman Totem Park, where Native dancers perform indoors and optional guided tours of the park reveal the stories behind the more than two dozen totems.

Whether your Alaskan bucket list includes breaching whales, calving glaciers or salmon-catching bears, each of these ports is primed to deliver the experiences you desire.

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Alaska evokes adventure. Big adventure. And our Alaska cruise stops will bring you up close and personal with the wildest state of them all. During your cruise, you’ll explore The Last Frontier like never before. Adventure seekers and wildlife lovers will get their fill in Talkeetna, the artsy and free-spirited town with a unique personality. In Juneau, the quirky Alaskan capital, world-class hiking and whale-watching are only minutes away. And if you happen to go on a Celebrity Cruisetour you’ll explore Denali National Park, the jewel of The Last Frontier, six million acres of wildlife calling your name. No matter what type of vacation you choose, you’re sure to see plenty of wildlife as you sail through the Inside Passage and come face-to-face with arctic terns and seals in Tracy Arm Fjord. All this adventure can work up an appetite, and you’ll have plenty of delicious choices in Alaska. Anchorage is a seafood aficionado’s dream, with wonderful restaurants offering the freshest catches of the day. If you’re a history enthusiast, Sitka, the former capital of Russian Alaska, will take you to a bygone era with its impressively preserved history. Alaska offers a quieter side to wild life as well. To wind down, look no further than Seward, with its picturesque views and quaint downtown. Enjoy Skagway as well, the perfect setting for relaxing walks through sunlit boulevards flanked by colorful buildings. In Ketchikan, you’ll be immersed in the millenary Haida and Tlingit heritage, and you’ll admire the largest collection of Native American totem poles and stock up on souvenirs. In every Alaska cruise port you visit, from Alyeska to Fairbanks, you’ll find warm and inviting locals welcoming you to their homeland.

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9 Major Ports of Alaska

Alaska is one of the westernmost states of the US, positioned in the northwestern part of North America. It has a strong economy and one of the highest per capita incomes in the US, owing to the abundance of crude oil and natural gas reserves. It also has large deposits of coal, minerals and precious metals like gold. Mining and seafood processing are major industries apart from tourism.

Alaska has expansive forests, biosphere reserves and sanctuaries. Home to many indigenous tribes, the region has preserved its cultural traditions and way of life. Often depicted as a pristine place, Alaska imports its food requirements as the harsh cold climate makes agriculture impossible, though a few crops like seasonal vegetables are grown for sustenance.

Fish such as salmon, cod, crabs and shrimp constitute two-thirds of the export products. A profitable fisheries sector is attributed to an expansive maritime border opening to the Gulf of Alaska and subsequently the Pacific Ocean.

More than 40 harbours are found in the largest US State. Mentioned below are the 9 principal ports of Alaska.

1. Port of Anchorage

Positioned at the foot of Chugach mountain range at the mouth of Cook Inlet, leading to the Pacific Ocean, Anchorage port was opened in 1961 to support the regional economy. It was renamed the Port of Alaska in 2017 to highlight its national importance as the busiest port in the State and a large revenue generator, capable of supporting its operations.

Alaska port is a commercial centre, possessing a diverse economy based on the exploitation of natural resources, tourism and defence. A multi-purpose port, it handled approximately 4.7 million tonnes of cargo including containers, liquid bulk, general cargo and cruise ships in 2020.

The port is open all year round and contains three wharves for receiving bulk carriers, two oil jetties, a RORO berth, two general cargo terminals, and a small wharf for accommodating barges. Covering 125 acres of land area, it can store 3.4 million barrels of oil and petroleum, 60,000 tonnes of cement and 9000 TEUs easily.

About five ships are docked at the port weekly, carrying aviation fuel from Washington. Consignments of construction material frequently arrive from Japan and Korea. The wharves are 11 to 14 metres deep and connected with the Alaska railway network and major highways.

Alaska port is endowed with modern infrastructure and equipment. It employs a skilled local workforce and houses prominent shipping companies. Adjacent to the facility is a 129-acre industrial park, established in 2003 for attracting businesses and investments. About 31 acres are dedicated to storing transit cargo while other areas are leased to numerous port users.

2. Port of Cordova

Lying on the southern coast of Alaska, on Prince William Sound near the Orca Inlet, Cordova is one of the biggest single-basin ports in the state. It has three docks covering 345 metres with average depths of 13 m for handling general cargo, RORO, petroleum goods and containers. About 30,000 tonnes of cargo and over 1000 vessels are loaded and unloaded at the port each year.

Commercial port operations are concentrated in the Municipal wharf. It is 125 metres long with a 10 m water depth for receiving small cargo ships. Fishing equipment and light cargo are dealt with at the 100 m long City wharf. The T-dock receives petroleum and oil tankers. It has four storage tanks connected to the main port area via pipelines for supplying fuel.

Around 700 boats can be moored in the harbour simultaneously. It can accommodate ships with a maximum overall length of 122 metres and an 8 m draught. Cordova harbour opens to the Pacific Ocean via the Gulf of Alaska. The local economy hinges on fishing and the canning industry that processes salmon.

It has three tidal grids and two warehouses, each covering 1000 m2 for keeping manufactured items, forest goods, cement and frozen fish. There are two administrative offices in the port vicinity and a parking area. Cordova port has a sewage treatment plant, a bilge water collection system and freshwater provisions too.

3. Port of Valdez

Valdez is the northernmost port on the North American Continent that remains ice-free throughout the year. Close to the Gulf of Alaska and the Columbia Glacier, it is popularly referred to as the Switzerland of Alaska. Tourists flock to the region for enjoying the snow-clad mountains, ice-fishing, whale watching and heli-skiing.

It serves a vast hinterland comprising interior regions of Alaska, the US Pacific region, parts of Canada and has shipping lanes winding near the Pacific rim. Valdez oil terminal is connected to the Trans-Alaska oil pipeline. Oil tankers carrying more than 6000 m3 of crude oil pass through Prince William Sound each day. Valdez port is accessible via the Richardson highway and railways.

Valdez container terminal consists of a concrete floating wharf measuring 700ft with two dolphins. It is connected to a 21-acre marshalling yard by two ramps. Designed as a multipurpose berth, it handles container goods, RORO and breakbulk. The container freight station has 368 reefer connections and five warehouses.

Grain Terminal has 112 ft high and 33 ft wide steel silos for storing wheat, barley and maize. With a total capacity of 520,000 bushels, the terminal is fully-automated.

Lastly, the John Thomas Kelsey or the city dock covers 183 metres with an alongside depth of 11 m. It receives commercial fishing vessels and barges. It offers bunkering, garbage treatment and wastewater disposal services.

4. Port of Whittier

A major cruise port, Whittier is situated on the northeastern coast of Kenai Peninsula, around 100 kilometres from Anchorage port. Since it lies on the Alaska Marine Highway, it covers 4000 hectares of area.

Apart from pleasure crafts, it also receives small cargo ships on the adjacent 120 metres long cargo pier. It is equipped with a launch ramp, loading equipment and other amenities such as a repair workshop, fuelling station and a storage warehouse .

Managed by the Port and Harbour Commission, it is one of the most picturesque waterfronts in the world, overlooking mountains and gorgeous valleys. Operational throughout the year, it has 340 slips for 17 metre long vessels entering through the Prince William Sound.

Whittier port is a regular participant in an annual awareness program organised by the US Coast Guard. The harbour has facilities for water-skiing, boating and kayaking. Tourists can go shopping at the nearby local market or enjoy the beautiful waterfront view while grabbing a snack from the marina’s cafeteria.

5. Port of Juneau

Capital of Alaska, the city and port of Juneau lies on the Gastineau Channel near the border of British Columbia. A principal cargo port, it handles container ships , fish, oil and petroleum. Approximately 400,000 tonnes of cargo is handled at Juneau annually. It has a passenger terminal with two wharves for accommodating cruise ships carrying more than 50,000 tourists.

Juneau Port is sheltered by a 110-kilometre long chain of Pacific islands. It has two cargo terminals, three boat yards, numerous harbours and launch ramps. Many private marinas are also part of the harbour offering services for sailors. The Unocal wharf provides gas, fuel and lubrication oil. Adjacent to it is the Tesoro dock and another fuel facility called the Aurora harbour.

The Seadrome Marina offers 160 metres of moorage area along with fresh water, electricity, diesel etc. However, it is mostly filled and boaters are advised to make a reservation before arrival.

Lying across the Juneau channel is the Petro Marine dock. It consists of a DeHart’s boat repair yard equipped with a 12-ton travelift. Minor repairs, painting, and cleaning services are provided at the facility.

Juneau is important for the national economy, hence the port and harbour management is modernising the infrastructure for meeting global standards and the expectations of customers. The main Douglas harbour is being refurbished and the Auke bay is being expanded. Plans are underway for renovating the cruise terminal and constructing additional mooring areas.

6. Port of Ketchikan

Ketchikan lies on the southeastern coast of Alaska, on the Revillagigedo island close to the border of Canada. Forming a part of the Alexander Archipelago, it is also known as the world’s Salomon Capital. It has seven wharves for accommodating general cargo carriers, oil tankers, cruise ships and commercial fishing vessels. It has a total capacity of 600,000 tonnes of cargo.

The famous Misty Fjords National Monument lies east of the main harbour. The port has three operational areas and two launch ramps. It also contains three fueling stations, parking spaces and restrooms.

The port can accommodate vessels measuring up to 213 metres. Major commodities handled include timber, wood logs, fish, cement etc. Ketchikan port has three storage yards and five warehouses. The container berths are equipped with the latest scanning systems for reducing processing time and 19 reefer plugs.

7. Port of Dutch Harbour

Located in the city of Unalaska, Dutch harbour is known as a major fisheries centre in the United States. It has many fish oil processing factories producing over 4 million tonnes of the product annually. It has six wharves along with an emergency mooring buoy for receiving distressed ships. The port handles over 40,000 tonnes of cargo and 800 vessels each year.

The Unalaska Marine Centre and the Coast Guard Dock cover 600 metres with an alongside depth of 12 m. They offer mooring services, sheltered storage, container stuffing and packaging etc. It has fuelling stations managed by North Pacific Fuel Company and a rail system for transporting cargo to far-flung areas.

Measuring 2400 ft, Spit Wharf contains multiple berths for mooring 200 feet vessels. Robert Storrs International Boat Harbour has 70 slips assigned by a harbour master. It has mooring spaces for 60 ft vessels. Constructed in 2000, the light cargo dock contains two sheet-pile wharves and dolphins on both sides. Covering 340 metres, they deal with fishing vessels and passenger boats.

8. Port of Bethel

Situated in the largest wildlife refuge of the US, on the western bank of the Kuskokwim River, Bethel is a vital port that functions as a distribution centre for upstream regions. It remains open during summer and freezes completely during winter. Bethel harbour consists of a small cargo pier, a boat mooring harbour and petroleum wharves.

It can accommodate two ocean-going vessels simultaneously. Raw material, machinery and timber are major commodities handled at the harbour. Around 95,000 tonnes of cargo and over 900 vessels frequent the port each year.

Petroleum and consumer products are transhipped to the Yukon-Kuskokwim delta region. Containing three fishing piers, the port supports the salmon industry. It has a 9-acre storage facility which receives trucks for transporting goods to northern and western parts of the State.

9. Port of Dillingham

A regional port serving numerous southwestern villages, Dillingham is situated on the northern tip of Nushagak Bay. It handles conventional cargo, construction material, essential provisions, container goods and processed fish. Around 45,000 tonnes of cargo and over 500 vessels visit the harbour each year.

Lighters and barges carry cargo to the inner harbour while the outer port is accessible to large ships. A busy port, it is open only in summer and comprises four multipurpose berths. Around 400 vessels can be moored at the boat harbour. It has an open storage yard and a container freight station with 15 reefer connections. Additional boat ramp facilities are situated on Kanakanak beach and near Wood River.

You might also like to read:

• 6 Major Ports in the Bahamas
• 6 Major Ports in South America
• 10 Major Ports in Europe

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In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.

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Celebrity Cruises’ first-ever Edge series Alaska itineraries set sail

Post date: May 22 2024

Date: May 22 2024

By: Travelweek

MIAMI — For the first time ever, Celebrity Edge, the ship that introduced the revolutionary outward-facing design, is calling Alaska home for the summer.

Celebrity Edge recently embarked on its maiden sailing roundtrip from Seattle on a seven-night Dawes Glacier itinerary with stops in Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway.

Through its unique outward facing design, Celebrity Edge offers guests an unmatched immersive experience as they take in the Alaskan glaciers.

“There’s no better way to see the pristine Alaskan wilderness than onboard Celebrity Edge, which was specifically designed to create a closer connection between guests and destinations,” said Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises. “Our elevated vacation options are redefining travel, especially in this region.”

From May through September 2024, guests can indulge in Alaska’s unforgettable views from the comfort of an Edge Series ship. The iconic Magic Carpet – the world’s first cantilevered, floating platform, at sea – sits on the edge of the ship, creating a new way to dine, drink and connect with the destination, or watch for whales and eagles as you wake up in one of the Infinite Veranda staterooms as the boundaries between inside and outside are erased.

Celebrity Edge will sail roundtrip from Seattle and one-way between Vancouver to Seattle on six-and seven-night journeys. Itineraries include visits to the region’s top spots, with experiences in Ketchikan also known as the ‘Salmon Capital of the World,’ the Endicott Arm to spot the local wildlife including brown bears, bald eagles, sea ducks, deer, moose and wolves, Alaska’s capital Juneau and Skagway before heading to Victoria through the Inside Passage and then returning to Seattle.

Some of the features guests of Celebrity Edge can indulge in include …

• Transformational accommodations, from modern two-story Edge Villas with plunge pools to staterooms with Infinite Verandas. Blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living, the Infinite Veranda takes you right to the water’s edge, giving guests open air access to the sea with the touch of a button.
• The Retreat, exclusive to all suite guests, with its private restaurant, and exclusive lounge and sundeck. In addition, a dedicated team of butlers, attendants, and concierges on-hand 24/7, ensures everything is taken care of while on vacation.
• A culinary repertoire of 29 distinct restaurants, bars, and lounges connecting guests to the destinations they will visit like never before. Globally inspired menus crafted by a Michelin-star chef bring the flavours of the world straight to the plate.
• Unique spaces unlike anything else at sea, including The Magic Carpet and Eden, offering three levels of sensory experiences wrapped in glass. Both offer a mix of culinary and entertainment options with panoramic views
• Multi-use, transformative spaces to gather, such as The Grand Plaza offering a majestic, open, three-storey venue inspired by the piazzas of Italy and housing incredible specialty restaurants, the popular Martini Bar, Cafe al Bacio, and the new Grand Plaza Cafe.

Celebrity’s ships, Celebrity Edge, Celebrity Summit and Celebrity Solstice, will offer 57 sailings and an array of six-to seven-night itineraries from May to September 2024.

COMMUNITY IMPACT

Celebrity Cruises, as part of Royal Caribbean Group, engages port communities across Alaska through its Sea the Future commitment to sustain the planet, energize communities and accelerate innovation while delivering the best vacations responsibly.

Key initiatives include …

• Grand Opening – Ketchikan Salmon Walk: In partnership with the Tongass Historical Museum, the Ketchikan Salmon Walk recently opened this summer, offering vacationers a unique opportunity to delve into the tale of the salmon migration and life cycle in Ketchikan Creek. The nearly two-mile walk is equipped with upgraded lighting and pavement, as well as engaging placards with art by renowned artists like Ray Troll, Nathan Jackson and Marvin Oliver.
• A taste of Alaska through local sourcing: Committed to fostering relationships with Alaska businesses, guests are offered access to a variety of Alaska-owned products, retailers, excursions, and experiences. Established partnerships with Skagway Spirits, Seafood Producers Cooperative and Alaska Specialty Seafood, sourcing fresh seafood and other local items across its brands. These local partnerships highlight the group’s dedication to connecting with local cultures and supporting economic vibrancy while creating an authentic Alaska experience for guests.
• Renewed Commitment – Sitka Sound Science Center: The Sitka Sound Science Center’s Scientists in the Schools (SIS) program enables local scientists to partner with students in K-12 classrooms to explore science and ecosystems. This initiative aims to foster a passion and appreciation for science and nature among Sitka’s youth while creating a meaningful educational experience. The program incorporates classroom visits from scientists into the curriculum at each grade level in Sitka schools, creating a pipeline of scientific experiences during the entire academic career of Sitka’s K-12 students. The program benefited 960 students from nine schools last year with the support of the cruise company.
• ‘Locals Onboard’ – Voyij.com Partnership: Over the past three cruising seasons, the partnership with Skagway-based Voyij.com has driven more than $1 million in sales to local businesses in Alaska. The two teamed up in 2021 to help connect ship guests to the online marketplace where Alaska businesses, retailers and artists sell their crafts. More than 250 small businesses and artists across more than 45 communities from all regions of the state are listed on Voyij.com.

For more information see Celebrity.com.

Tags: Celebrity Cruises, Celebrity HDS 2024, Lead Story

The 6 best Alaska cruise shore excursions — from heli-hiking to whale watching

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There are some cruise destinations — Barcelona, for instance, or Venice — where you really don’t need to sign up for shore excursions . You can just walk off the ship and head to the major attractions on your own.

For the most part, the ports of Alaska aren’t like that.

To get the most out of an Alaska cruise , you’ll want to sign up for a tour in most if not all of the ports you visit. And not just any old tour. You’ll be looking for the best Alaska shore excursions that get you out into the Alaska backcountry.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG’s cruise newsletter.

In Alaska, many of the biggest “attractions” — breathtaking mountain landscapes, glaciers, fjords, breaching whales and feeding bears, for instance — are related to the Great Outdoors. As a result, many of the best Alaska shore excursions for cruisers are found outside of the towns where ships stop. If you just stay in the towns and explore on your own, you’ll miss a big part of what Alaska is all about.

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler  

Picking the best Alaska shore excursions

People who know me know that I love talking about Alaska port towns. This isn’t just because I spent more than two decades writing about Alaska and other cruise destinations for major newspapers. For many years, I was the co-author of Frommer’s “Alaska Cruises & Ports of Call” guide. In researching nearly half a dozen editions of that book, I spent many days exploring each of the major cruise ports in the state. I’ve tried a large number of the shore excursions in places such as Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan. I’ve also poked around these towns a lot on my own.

As noted above, my biggest message to anyone planning an Alaska cruise is to get out of the towns . Sign up for something — a hike, a rafting trip, a train ride, a fishing outing — that gets you out into Alaska’s spectacular outdoor settings.

But I also have a few specific, top-line pro tips when you’re thinking about the best Alaska shore excursions:

• Get up in the air . It’ll be expensive. We’re talking $250 or more per person. But there’s nothing like seeing the grandeur of Alaska from a helicopter or floatplane. The Juneau Icefield, in particular, is a sight to behold. It covers around 1,500 square miles. You can see it on a flightseeing tour from Juneau, with some tours including landings on the ice.
• Don’t miss the whales. Even if you’re not a big wildlife person, you’ll be mesmerized by the humpback whales of Alaska. They are huge (at up to 52 feet, longer than a Greyhound bus), and there are boat tours that will get you up close to them. The best places to do this are out of Juneau and also Icy Strait Point if your ship stops there.
• Splurge for a trip to Misty Fjords National Monument . This glacier-carved wilderness area, not far from Ketchikan, is another don’t-miss sight. It’s everything you think of when you think of Alaska: icy blue lakes, waterfalls, snow-capped peaks and glacial valleys. The only way to get there is on a boat or floatplane tour, and they typically start at over $200 a person.

Unfortunately, as you can see from the above, many of the most spectacular excursions in Alaskan ports are expensive. But Alaska is not a place to skimp. Alaska is a place where you may want to budget almost as much per person for your shore excursions as you do for your cabin.

That said, you don’t have to splurge for a big outing at every call. In Juneau, for instance, you can get an outdoor experience with a relatively inexpensive trip to the nearby Mendenhall Glacier. It’s just 12 miles from the cruise ship docks and reachable by bus or taxi. The bus will set you back an astounding $45 per person, round-trip, which I find an intolerable gouge (but … it is what it is). If you have a few people, you’re probably better off with a taxi, which runs around $35 each way. For two or three people traveling together, it’s not all that pricey a trip.

Either way you do it, you’ll find some nice hiking trails around Mendenhall Glacier and a visitor center. There’s a creek there, too, where I’ve sometimes seen salmon running. One time, I even saw a bear. Speaking of which: A bear is something you think you want to see in Alaska until you actually see one. Then you’re just hoping you don’t get eaten.

Related: The best Alaska cruises for couples

I should also be clear that the towns themselves aren’t devoid of attractions. While I highly encourage Alaska-bound cruisers to get out into the wilderness, there are plenty of worthwhile things to do in each of the main port towns.

In Juneau, food tours have become popular; think King crab bisque and Alaska salmon. The Alaska State Museum is beautiful and worth a visit. Skagway is like a Gold Rush-themed movie set. You should at least walk its main street (Broadway), with its wooden-board sidewalks. If you’re a craft beer fan, like me , you also might want to sample a Spruce Tip Blonde Ale at the Skagway Brewing Company. It’s made with Sitka spruce tips picked locally in the spring.

In Ketchikan, you should save a few minutes to stroll up Creek Street, along Ketchikan Creek, where you might spot salmon running. It’s the ultimate Alaska selfie spot.

Related: The best cruises to Alaska from Seattle  

How to book the best Alaska shore excursions

The simplest way to book an Alaska shore excursion is through your cruise line. You check a box on an online form before sailing or while on board, and — poof! — it’s all arranged. They send a ticket to your room, and when you walk off the ship, a tour guide will be waiting for you.

Another way to go is to book directly with a tour operator in one of the ports. Many of the tour operators you’ll find in Alaskan ports are the same tour operators that operate the ship-sponsored excursions. Often, the tours that the local tour operators will sell you are the same tours that the cruise lines are selling you, at the same price . Shopping around isn’t necessarily going to get you anywhere.

Indeed, in some cases, the cruise lines own the tour operators in Alaska ports, or at least a piece of them. For instance, the parent company of Princess Cruises and Holland America  is a part-owner of Skagway’s big attraction, the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway.

That said, you can sometimes get discounts by calling a tour operator directly. I’ve had some luck with that over the years. It’s hit or miss.

Related: 8 tips for booking the best cruise shore excursion for your money

The 6 best Alaska shore excursions

Below, I’ve listed six of my all-time favorite Alaska shore excursions. These all are tours that you’ll find in the tour lineups at every major cruise line that operates in Alaska. That said, different lines sometimes have different names for these tours — and sometimes different pricing.

For the listings below, I’ve used the tour names and pricing listed in the current tour sheets at Princess, which along with sister line Holland America, is the biggest cruise operator in Alaska.

Related: The ultimate guide to picking a cruise line  

Dog-sledding and glacier adventure by helicopter

Cost: $669.95 per person

Port where available: Juneau

For those with a hefty bankroll, this might be the ultimate Alaska shore excursion. Combining helicopter flightseeing over the seemingly endless Juneau Icefield with a landing on a glacier for dog sledding, it hits two of Alaska’s most iconic experiences.

It’s also insanely expensive, as I know from firsthand experience. I once took my entire family of five on this excursion, dropping more than $2,000 in the process. That’s a huge chunk of change for an outing that lasts three hours.

But I’ll tell you this: I don’t regret doing it. Not one bit. For starters, the views of the Juneau Icefield as you fly to and from the dog-sledding camp are incredible (assuming the weather cooperates). But the real joy was seeing my three young girls interacting with the teams of Alaskan huskies that live at the camp.

Once you arrive at the camp, you’ll meet the dogs and their mushers, see where they live, get a quick tutorial in mushing, and then head out for a spin around the camp on a dog-pulled sled.

Related: These are the best times to visit Alaska

Whale watching and wildlife quest

Cost: $189.95

If it’s Alaska’s famous humpback whales that you want to see, you’ll want to book a whale-watching tour. The waters around Juneau are particularly known for humpback whales — so much so that the operator of this excursion offers a whale-sighting guarantee.

Setting off from the Juneau harbor in a whale-watching boat, you’ll cruise to nearby areas to see not just humpback whales but harbor seals and sea lions, too. You might even spot a killer whale or porpoise.

The boat used for this excursion has both inside and outdoor viewing areas. The trips last about four hours, including transfer time from your cruise ship to the whale-watching boat.

Related: The ultimate list of Alaska cruise tips  

Note that if you have a big enough group, it sometimes pays to arrange a private boat out of Juneau to take you to see humpback whales. Many lines offer a private boat charter for whale watching as a tour option, or you can arrange one through a local company.

Klondike rock climbing and rappelling

Cost: $119.95

Port where available: Skagway

If you’re like me, you may be a little terrified at the idea of climbing the sheer face of a rock cliff. But don’t let that scare you away from this 3 1/4-hour tour. It’s a hoot.

Experienced climbing guides will meet you at your ship and drive you up the Klondike Highway to an area of granite cliffs that’s the perfect playground for beginner and more seasoned climbers alike. Upon arrival, the guides provide you with all the gear you need — climbing shoes, helmets and harnesses — for a safe scramble up a 70-foot-high wall. They’ll also offer plenty of instruction (and encouragement) plus a snack of trail mix and hot chocolate.

If it all sounds a bit daunting, know that you don’t need any experience at climbing to do it; I sure didn’t have any when I tried it, nor did my young daughters, who absolutely loved it. There are multiple routes up the cliffs, some perfect for beginners. After making it to the top, you’ll rappel back down — an entirely different kind of thrill.

Related: How to plan a cruise with points and miles

White Pass & Yukon Route Railway ride

Cost: $149.95

Call it the iconic attraction of Skagway, Alaska. A ride into the mountains on this narrow-gauge railroad is the tour everybody takes when visiting the Gold Rush town-turned-tourist hub. And for good reason. It offers an easy way to get deep into the Great Alaskan Outdoors.

Truth be told, I’m a fan of more active excursions. But for someone who isn’t going to hike, bike, horseback ride or raft their way through the wilderness around Skagway (there are tours for all of those things, too), a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Railway is one of the best ways to get a glimpse of the area’s classic Alaskan scenery.

Related: 13 things you should do before every cruise  

From the comfort of a vintage rail car, you’ll get stunning views of mountains, gorges, glacial rivers and waterfalls as you climb nearly 3,000 feet to the summit of White Pass — the headwaters to the mighty Yukon River. Designated an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark, the 20-mile route is a marvel in its own right, with improbably steep grades at times and segments that pass over soaring wooden trestles and around tight, cliff-hanging curves.

Heli-hike and rail adventure

Cost: $399.95

This is another tour with a sky-high cost. But, in my opinion, it’s well worth the money. Indeed, it’s one of my all-time favorite Alaska shore excursions.

The five-hour, Skagway-based outing begins with a transfer from your ship to a nearby helicopter pad, where you’ll find a helicopter waiting to whisk you high into the surrounding Sawtooth Mountain Range.

On a quick flight to your destination — a mountain trail in the Tongass National Forest — you’ll get spectacular views of the mountains and Goat Lake. You’ll land at Glacier Station, a remote mountain helicopter pad alongside the White Pass & Yukon Railway tracks. From there, you’ll set off on a two- to six-mile guided wilderness hike on a trail along the Skagway River. The highlight of the hike: a magnificent view of Laughton Glacier.

Returning to Glacier Station, you’ll end the day with a ride back to Skagway on the White Pass & Yukon Railway, which makes a special stop to pick you up.

Misty Fjords National Monument by seaplane

Cost: $299.95

Port where available: Ketchikan

There’s nothing that says Alaska quite like a trip in a floatplane. And, if you’re going to do a floatplane ride, there’s nowhere better than in Ketchikan. You’ll find a small armada of floatplanes waiting to take you to nearby Misty Fjords National Monument.

Misty Fjords is one of those quintessential Alaska destinations that’s so beautiful you just want to cry. That is, if it’s not too “misty” to see it. It got its name for a reason. The area is often shrouded in clouds and drizzly rain. Ketchikan is known as one of the rainiest places in North America, with over 13 feet of rain each year. So, yeah, bring a rain jacket.

But, also get ready for lovely views of glacier-carved fjords, cliffs and rock walls jutting thousands of feet out of the ocean. The whole thing is covered with temperate rainforests and features huge waterfalls (thanks to all that rain). It’s definitely a sight to see.

Note that there often are two versions of this tour available: One that is about two hours in length and only includes flightseeing and a slightly longer version that includes a water landing within Misty Fjord National Monument.

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More From Forbes

A guide to norway’s ålesund for cruise ship visitors.

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Ålesund's picturesque central waterway is just a few minutes' walk from the main cruise terminal.

Ålesund is a picturesque Norwegian city renowned for its striking art nouveau architecture—unique in Norway—and its stunning natural setting. Situated on Norway's west coast, the city serves as a prime port, one that welcomes ever-increasing numbers of people on cruise ships touring the fjords and the Norwegian coastline.

In 2023, Ålesund welcomed more than 650,000 visits from cruise ship passengers, topping the list ahead of other popular ports like Bergen, Stavanger and Geiranger.

The city's harbor facilities are well-equipped to accommodate some of the largest cruise ships in the world from the likes of Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises. On some summer days, more than one large cruise ship can be accommodated.

Cruise visitors to Ålesund will be offered excursions to the surrounding region. Most cruise ships calling at Ålesund are on a Norwegian fjords itinerary , but if your itinerary doesn't include the fjords, take advantage of the sightseeing boat tour to the stunning Hjørundfjord, a favorite of European royalty through the ages.

That being said, you don't need to take a pricey excursion to enjoy the best of Ålesund itself. The compact city is an excellent place to explore the beauty of Norway independently, without straying too far from the cruise port, which is in the heart of the city.

The 10 Best Body Oils To Nourish And Soften Skin According To Experts

Top ceo bets on a shock biden crypto flip as congress hurtles toward a crucial vote that could blow up the price of bitcoin ethereum and xrp, iphone 16 pro max all-new design upgrade promised, insider claims, discover the architecture of ålesund.

A simple walk around both sides of the central waterway is the best way to experience the city’s distinctive architecture .

A simple walk around the downtown area is the best way to appreciate the architecture of Ålesund.

This style flourished after the great fire of 1904, which led to the reconstruction of the city influenced by young local and European architects who preferred the ornate stone buildings, turrets, and whimsical facades inspired by natural motifs that were popular across Europe at the time.

Many of Ålesund’s central streets are lined with pastel-colored buildings adorned with intricate floral patterns, curved lines, and detailed reliefs that make it a visual feast regardless of your knowledge of architecture.

From the cruise terminal, walk along both sides of the central waterway towards the lighthouse Molja fyr and then to the Quality Hotel. This route showcases the finest examples of Ålesund’s distinctive architecture.

If you want to understand the story behind the architecture, visit the Art Nouveau Museum ( Jugendstilsenteret ) to learn more about the devastating fire and take a deeper dive into the artistic movements that influenced the city's renaissance.

The museum is housed in a former pharmacy, itself a prime example of art nouveau design. Visitors can join guided walking tours offered by local experts that focus on notable buildings, but these are quickly snapped up on cruise days, so arrive early for these, or seek independent options using websites such as Viator or GetYourGuide.

Your ticket also grants you access to KUBE, the art museum located in the former bank building next door.

Enjoy The View

For photography enthusiasts, nature lovers, or those simply seeking a spectacular cityscape, a visit to the city park is a must.

This well-known view of Ålesund in its spectacular natural surroundings is the reward for climbing ... [+] the Aksla steps.

Here, you'll find the base of the 400+ steps leading up to the Aksla viewpoint—a favored spot for capturing Ålesund’s most iconic images.

The breathtaking panoramic views of the city, Sunnmøre Alps and maze of waterways are hard to beat.

When you reach the summit, treat yourself to a well-earned reward at the café, where you can enjoy ice cream and snacks while soaking in the stunning surroundings.

Just bear in mind that the steps are steep, and there is quite an uphill walk before you even get to the first step. Benches and smaller viewpoints are dotted along the stairway, offering enjoyable views even if you don’t make it all the way to the top.

There is no actual railroad service in Ålesund, but a sightseeing road train operates on cruise days.

Starting from the cruise port, the tour includes parts of the downtown area and a 15-minute stop at the Aksla viewpoint, for those who don’t want to or can't make the walk.

The 'city train' is a sightseeing road train in Ålesund.

Tickets ($30) can be bought from the sales booth at the cruise port departure point.

Atlantic Sea Park

There’s lots to see in northern Europe’s largest saltwater aquarium, both inside and out. A small penguin colony gifted from Chile is the star attraction.

At more than $20, entrance isn’t cheap but it’s a worthy use of time if you have children. To make the most of your visit, check the website in advance of your visit for feeding times in the various sections.

From the cruise port, take the short walk to the bus stop Dronning Sonjas Plass to pick up bus line 1. From the stop Tuenesvegen , it’s a further 10-15 minute walk to the aquarium. Alternatively, a combined ticket including a shuttle bus is available from the sales booth at the cruise port.

Ålesund By Kayak

Explore Ålesund by kayak to see the city's striking architecture from the peaceful waters that surround it.

This vantage point provides views of quaint islands and active harbors, combining urban discovery with the calm of sea kayaking for a unique experience.

Kayak More Tomorrow provides comprehensive kayak and hiking tours throughout Norway, including a shorter 2-3 hour kayak tour around Ålesund’s waterways.

Kayak tours are a wonderful option to appreciate Ålesund's architecture from a different ... [+] perspective.

This tour offers numerous opportunities for photography and is led by a guide with extensive local expertise.

Sightseeing Bus

Regular cruisers will be familiar with the concept of a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus. Passengers can use the bus as a 70-minute sightseeing tour of the city, or as transport between the major sites. The $40 day ticket is valid whichever method you choose.

The route calls at the Aksla viewpoint but also takes in many more of the city’s sights than the road train, including the Atlantic Sea Park and the Sunnmøre open-air museum.

However, departures run only every 45 minutes, so you will need to plan carefully to avoid lengthy waits. Tickets can be bought from the sales booth at the cruise port departure point.

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