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Cruise to Arctic Circle (Cruising), Norway

Arctic circle (cruising) shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in arctic circle (cruising).

Northern Marvel

The Northern Lights appear most frequently in late autumn, winter and early spring. You'll see wisps of green, red, yellow and violet fill the sky — it's an overwhelming experience. Electrically charged solar particles cause the lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, or dawn of the north.

Arctic Wildlife

The Arctic Circle may not have the biggest population around, but it is rich in wildlife. See the polar bears, walruses, seals and Arctic foxes that haunt the ice's edge. Observe the thousands of seabirds that breed and raise their young here, and hear their calls.

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Norwegian Fjord & Arctic Circle

From SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - onboard CELEBRITY APEX

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At Celebrity Cruises®, we believe choice matters. That’s why we’ve pre-packaged our most popular amenities—drinks, and Wi-Fi— Tips charged separately. So you can now choose the most convenient way to get the best value from your cruise.

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Cruise Itinerary

• Port of Departure
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Southampton, England

Mon, Jul 8, 2024

Departs: 5:00PM

At Sea - Cruising

Tue, Jul 9, 2024

Stavanger, Norway

Wed, Jul 10, 2024

Docked: 7:00AM to 3:00PM

Olden, Norway

Thu, Jul 11, 2024

Docked: 8:00AM to 5:00PM

Flam, Norway

Fri, Jul 12, 2024

Docked: 7:00AM to 4:30PM

Arctic Circle (Cruising), Norway - Cruising

Sat, Jul 13, 2024

Tromso, Norway

Sun, Jul 14, 2024

Docked: 12:30PM to 8:00PM

Honningsvag, Norway

Mon, Jul 15, 2024

Tendered: 11:00AM to 7:00PM

Tue, Jul 16, 2024

Wed, Jul 17, 2024

Kristiansand, Norway

Thu, Jul 18, 2024

Docked: 9:00AM to 6:00PM

Fri, Jul 19, 2024

Sat, Jul 20, 2024

Arrival: 6:00AM

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Price is per person and applies to selected sailing, lowest available fare stateroom category, based on double-occupancy, reflects any promotional savings, and is subject to change and availability until booked. Additional terms and conditions apply to offers. Full deposit must be paid by deposit payment required due date. Standard full deposit penalty is applied if booking is cancelled within final payment period; see Celebrity’s cancellation policy for details. Non-Refundable Deposit Bookings (“NRDB”): To qualify for the lowest available cruise fare, guest must choose a non-refundable deposit. All deposit payments for NRDB made after 03/02/23 are non-refundable from the time of booking. NRDB are applicable to groups at prevailing rates. Not applicable to incentive, contract, or charter groups. Nonrefundable deposit offers are applicable to sailings within final payment, however full deposit is due at time of booking. 

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Departing Jul 08, 2024

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Iceland & Norway’s Arctic Explorer

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Iceland & Norway’s Arctic Explorer Map

Call on distant northern shores

Discover life in the far north during a voyage across the Arctic Circle and along the distant shores of Norway and Iceland. Marvel at the rugged beauty of Geiranger, visit the former Hanseatic League city of Bergen and admire Honningsvåg’s remote North Cape. Enjoy an overnight stay in Longyearbyen, home to more polar bears than people, and call at Tromsø, Norway’s most northernly city.

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Pricing that covers everything guests need—and nothing they do not.

To learn more about each port of call and our included as well as optional excursions, click on the individual days below.

Itinerary and shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure.

More features, services and excursions included

One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call

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24-hour specialty coffees, teas  & bottled water

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Complimentary access to The Nordic Spa & Fitness Center.

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King-size Viking Explorer Bed with luxury linen

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The 5 best Arctic cruise itineraries, from someone who has tried them all

There is an emptiness to the Arctic that is mesmerizing.

Traveling across it by ship, you'll encounter patches of snow-covered ice that stretch for miles, an endlessly white landscape punctured only by the occassional seabird and, if you're lucky, the sight of a far-off polar bear.

In some parts of the Arctic, there are rocky islands so windswept and desolate that you'd think you're on the moon; in other areas, there are islands covered with the most spectacularly beautiful mountains and glaciers. The common theme between them all is that they are rarely visited by humans.

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Not that there aren't any humans in the Arctic. There are some, including Inuit who have lived in the region for centuries. But huge swaths of the Arctic lack a human presence, and the wildlife is equally sparse. Spotting the most famous denizens of the Arctic — the polar bear and the Arctic fox — is a rare moment to treasure.

As someone lucky enough to have traveled by ship to almost every corner of the Arctic over nearly 30 years as a cruise writer, I can say that the region is one of my favorite places to visit — maybe my very favorite. But it's not for everyone. It offers a subtle sort of beauty that reveals itself slowly.

Depending on the itinerary, an Arctic cruise might include days of bumping through icy waters covered by a fog so soupy that all you see out the window is a light greyish bubble all around. For all you know, you could be in a simulation.

But give the Arctic a chance, and it can be life-changing.

If you're unsure how to begin thinking of which Arctic itinerary might be the right choice, take a look at my picks for the five best Arctic cruise itineraries, chosen after a lifetime of trying just about every possible route in the region. As is typical for Arctic sailings, they are all itineraries that can only be done on polar-class expedition cruise ships — a specialized type of small, hardy cruise vessel built for polar travel and carrying its own landing craft for exploring.

A circumnavigation of Spitsbergen

If you only have time for one Arctic cruise, this is the one I recommend. Consider it a sort of "greatest hits of the Arctic" itinerary. You'll get a little taste of everything the Arctic has to offer on a single, relatively easy-to-do sailing as short as a week or 10 nights.

On a voyage around Spitsbergen, the biggest of a cluster of rugged islands that make up the Svalbard archipelago, you'll likely see many of the Arctic's best-known wildlife — polar bears, whales (if you're lucky), walruses, and giant colonies of Brunnich's guillemots and other Arctic birds — over the course of a few days. Compared to some places in the Arctic, this region is relatively rich with wildlife.

Related: TPG's ultimate guide to expedition cruising

Spitsbergen is also about as scenic a place as you'll find in the Arctic, covered in mountains and glaciers. It's easily accessible by air through Longyearbyen, a settlement of about 2,500 people on the island's west side.

Located 600 miles north of the northernmost tip of Norway, which administers the Svalbard archipelago, Spitsbergen is also home to a few cultural oddities. Barentsburg is a semi-abandoned mining town operated by Russia under the terms of a century-old treaty, and Ny Alesund is a small mining camp that has been turned into a scientific research station. Spitsbergen itineraries sometimes include visits to both.

Ny Alesand, notably, was the spot where legendary explorer Roald Amundsen set off on a record-setting expedition flight to the North Pole by airship in 1926. Visitors to the outpost can see the still-standing remnants of the expedition, which include a tower that held the airship before it departed and a telegraph hut that broadcast news of the flight to the world.

Who goes there: Norway-based Hurtigruten is the best-known brand for Spitsbergen circumnavigations. It offers voyages out of Longyearbyen every summer. Most other expedition cruise operators, including Lindblad Expeditions and Seabourn, offer sailings to just a portion of Spitsbergen (usually the north and west coasts) combined with stops in Iceland and/or Greenland.

The west coast of Greenland

If you want to see icebergs and glaciers on a truly epic scale, a voyage along Greenland's west coast should be your pick.

It is home to what are, without a doubt, some of the world's most spectacular glaciers and snow-topped mountains.

On a trip down the west coast of Greenland, you will sail past huge icebergs that have shorn off the massive Greenland ice sheet on your way to visit at least a few of the coast's colorful Arctic settlements.

These settlements, notably, include Ilulissat, site of an iceberg-jammed fjord that is a marvel of the northern hemisphere.

Related: 8 things you need to know about Arctic cruises

If you're lucky during a visit to Ilulissat, you'll get to do two amazing things. One is to hike to an overlook near the town that reveals a massive pile-up of giant ice blocks that are slowly flowing down the fjord from a glacier. The other is a Zodiac ride to get close to some of the biggest icebergs that are stuck in the bay just offshore.

It is a landscape of icebergs at a scale that you can't imagine until you see it.

Who goes there: Seabourn, Lindblad, Silversea Cruises , Ponant , Viking and several other expedition cruise companies offer sailings down the west coast of Greenland. These voyages often include a visit to the eastern side of Canada's Northwest Passage or Iceland.

The Northwest Passage

For cruisers who love the history of exploration, a trip across the Canadian Arctic's Northwest Passage might be the ultimate Arctic adventure. That's because it offers a chance to follow in the footsteps of some of the greatest polar explorers of the 18th and 19th centuries, for whom finding the long-hidden Arctic route between Europe and Asia was one of the biggest (and deadliest) challenges of the age.

Stretching more than 2,000 miles from the Davis Strait near Greenland to the Bering Strait off Alaska, the still-often-iced-in Northwest Passage famously swallowed up the two-ship, 128-man Franklin Expedition of 1845 (a massive and massively equipped British exploratory party that disappeared into the ice, never to be seen again), as well as other explorers. It was finally conquered in 1903 by Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen — who also was the first human to reach the South Pole.

Until just the last couple of decades, traveling through the Northwest Passage remained almost as daunting as it was during Franklin and Amundsen's time. But rapidly shrinking ice coverage across the Arctic, driven by global warming, has been making it more accessible. In recent years, half a dozen expedition ships or more have sailed into the passage annually during the warmest summer months.

Still, even now, only a handful of the hardiest expedition vessels make a full transit of the Northwest Passage in any given year, while other vessels only offer partial transits.

Related: I loved my 1st Arctic cruise — here's why

Note that the Northwest Passage is a relatively desolate part of the Arctic. A typical landing by Zodiac during a trip across the passageway might bring a visit to a forlorn, windswept island covered in boggy fields of lichen-covered rocks and low-lying grasses. That is, if the island isn't covered in drifting snow.

But such trips also include stops at iconic historic sites related to the region's early explorers. These include the ruins of the last known camp of the Franklin Expedition at snowy Beechey Island and the remnants of a short-lived Hudson's Bay Company outpost on Somerset Island.

Stops at Inuit settlements such as Arctic Bay and Gjoa Haven are also common.

Who goes there: Most major expedition cruise operators, including Ponant, Hurtigruten, Silversea, Seabourn, Lindblad and Adventure Canada (a specialist in Canadian Arctic trips), offer sailings that transit at least part of the Northwest Passage. Complete crossings are rare.

The North Pole

When it comes to bragging rights, it's hard to argue that any trip to the Arctic tops an expedition cruise to the North Pole.

The first undisputed expedition to reach the North Pole wasn't until 1926, when a team of explorers led by Roald Amundsen overflew the destination on the airship Norge. Even today, few humans have ever visited the northernmost point in the world — some put the number at just a few thousand.

Since the 1990s, working (and spartan) Russian icebreakers chartered by expedition travel companies have occasionally taken tourists in small groups to the world's northernmost spot. But since 2022, adventure-seekers have a more upscale option for a trip to 90 degrees north: A voyage on Le Commandant Charcot — the first built-for-tourists icebreaker.

Operated by Ponant, a French company known for upscale expedition cruises to far-off places, the 245-passenger ship is the first and only built-for-tourists cruise vessel capable of traveling to the most remote, ice-filled parts of the polar regions, including the North Pole.

Related: I just snowshoed at the North Pole — here's how you can, too

Named for a famed French explorer, Le Commandant Charcot is unlike any other vessel that has traveled across the polar ice cap. It has all the elements of the most elegant hotels on land: spacious suites, stylish lounges, fine dining (including a restaurant with a menu designed by Michelin-starred chef Alain Ducasse) and a spa.

In other words, you'll not just be traveling to the North Pole, you'll be traveling to the North Pole in high-end comfort.

Who goes there: The only way for an American to reach the North Pole by ship is aboard the new Le Commandant Charcot, which is operating three or four trips to the destination each summer that are bookable through Ponant. Ponant also is chartering the ship to luxury tour company A&K in 2024 for a single North Pole sailing that is being sold through A&K. A Russian icebreaker that expedition travel companies have chartered in the past for such voyages, the 50 Years of Victory, still is occasionally making the trips, but it is not bookable for now by travelers from the United States and most other Western countries.

The Northeast Passage

A voyage across the Arctic's Northeast Passage is surely the most off-the-beaten-path Arctic cruise you can do — even more off-the-beaten-path than a trip to the North Pole.

Rarely offered and typically about 30 days long, these are true explorers' journeys across the almost unvisited Arctic territory that stretches across the top of Russia from Arctic Norway to Alaska.

These sailings cross five frigid seas — the Barents, Kara, Laptev, East Siberian and Chukchi — that in some parts traditionally freeze over during much of the year and only partially thaw during the late summer. Along the way, sometimes spread apart by hundreds of miles, are glacier-topped, often mountainous archipelagos and island groups that passengers can explore during Zodiac landings.

Highlights of these trips include seeing the Arctic's iconic wildlife — polar bears, Arctic fox, walrus, seals and musk ox — and historic sites related to the region's early exploration. Among them is Cape Amundsen, where you can still see the ruins of a small stone hut built by the Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen during a failed attempt to reach the North Pole. Amundsen's ship became stuck in the ice at the Cape for more than a year.

Only true icebreakers or the toughest ice-strengthened expedition cruise ships can make a Northeast Passage journey. Historically, they have occurred only occasionally. (I was on what was only the fourth voyage by any expedition cruise ship across the Northeast Passage, and that was as recently as 2018.)

Alas, for now, such trips are on hold, due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The invasion has brought all cruising to Russia by Western companies to a halt. But, in theory, these expeditions could resume in the coming years.

Who goes there: While Northeast Passage voyages are on hold for now, the trips traditionally have been offered by Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, an upscale German cruise brand that was a pioneer of expedition cruises in the Russian Arctic, and New Zealand-based Heritage Expeditions. The latter company traditionally chartered an ice-class Russian research vessel that can hold 50 people, the Akademik Shokalskiy, for the trips.

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Get ready for an epic adventure with an Arctic cruise

The remote Arctic, the northernmost region of the Earth centred on the North Pole, is characterised by its distinctive polar features of landscape, climate, plant and animal life. It’s a region blessed with natural beauty: from majestic glaciers, icy fjords, abundant wildlife, and the Northern Lights during winter months. Our itineraries ensure visitors explore a world of picturesque towns and villages, and dramatic cliffs, providing a breathtaking backdrop for a cruise.

A Nordic cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Taking you through the most remote areas of Iceland , Norway, and Greenland , journey through Arctic waters and learn about the history, nature and culture of these regions whilst taking in dramatic landscapes around every corner.[ReadMoreDesk]

Spectacular Experiences of the Arctic Circle

Arctic cruises offer an eclectic mix of experiences: from the awe-inspiring blue icebergs of Qaqortoq to walking in the footsteps of Erik the Red from the village of Narsarsuaq, to witnessing the stunning Northern Lights. Any passion for scenery, natural beauty and wildlife is easily satiated in breathtaking landscapes witnessed when you choose one of our cruises to the Arctic. The opportunity to catch a glimpse of whales, manatees, seals or a multitude of bird life adds to the Arctic’s distinct personality.

Just when you think the region can’t impress you any further, there are two exceptional and distinctive natural phenomena in the region that you might be lucky to see. The mesmerising midnight sun shining non-stop for days on end, or a spectacular encounter with the elusive Northern Lights . These surreal and awe-inspiring events attract visitors from around the world to witness these remarkable occurrences in person. Marvel at this remarkable light show on one of our Norwegian cruises.

Arctic Countries

Cruises to Arctic

Whales & Volcanic Landscapes of Iceland • T2414

• Explore the remarkable scenery, wildlife and nature in Iceland
• Enjoy Scenic Discoveries of Gásadalur and Vestmanna 
• Spot marine life from Bolette with the help of wildlife charity ORCA
• 3 offers available

Whales & Volcanic Landscapes of Iceland • S2415

• Experience spurting Geysirs & thundering waterfalls
• Immerse yourself in Icelandic culture, from trolls to hot springs
• Encounter whales, dolphins & seabirds
• 2 offers available

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Scenic Wonders & Wildlife of Canada & Greenland • T2417

• Explore the rugged landscapes of Canada, Iceland, and Greenland
• Spot Arctic wildlife like the elusive polar bear as we cruise by Nunavut
• Discover L'anse aux Meadows and it's connections to the Olsen family

The Life & Landscapes of Iceland • L2422

• Discover volcanic wonders, such as the Snæfellsjökull Glacier
• Witness thundering waterfalls and spurting geysers
• Take the chance to encounter humpbacks on a whale-watching tour

Iceland's Whales, Waterfalls & Way of Life • L2427

• Uncover remarkable landscapes, folkore and wildlife in Iceland
• Discover more about the local way of life in remote Ísafjörður 
• Spot cetaceans from the decks of Balmoral with ORCA conservationists

Whales, Waterfalls & Geysers of Iceland • T2421

• Discover Iceland's incredible scenery in just nine nights
• Marvel at Iceland's longest fjord - Eyjafjörður, from Bolette
• Learn about elf folklore as you cruise by Borgarfjörður Eystri
• 1 offer available

In Search of the Northern Lights • L2431

• Search for the Northern Lights on an extended stay in Alta
• Enjoy a scenic cruise of the Seven Sisters mountain range
• Spend time with a Sámi community to learn about local traditions

In Search of the Northern Lights • L2432

• Have the opportunity to spot the elusive Northern Lights in Alta
• Meet huskies on a tour and learn about traditional dog sledding
• Capture the views from the top of Mount Storsteinen in Tromsø

In Search of the Northern Lights • L2433

• Take the opportunity to see the magical Northern Lights in Alta
• See remote coastal scenery as Balmoral sails the Tjeldsundet Strait
• Visit a husky yard to learn about local cultures and traditions

In Search of the Northern Lights • L2434

• Have the chance to see the Northern Lights in Alta
• Connect with the Sámi people and learn of their cultures
• Sail through the Tjeldsundet Strait, accessible only to small ships

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ARCTIC CRUISES

Taking in views of rugged mountains, ice-blue glaciers, and lush greenery is one of the most sought-after activities for expedition travelers. Experience nature's seasonal extravagance in the oute British Isles, Norway, Svalbard, Iceland, Greenland, and the Canadian Arctic. Cruise in Zodiacs under teeming bird cliffs and kayak among tall, stately icebergs under the Midnight Sun. Visit Viking ruins and Inuit sites. View whales, walrus and seals up close, as reindeer and musk oxen graze on tundra meadows blankedted in wildflowers. Explore Svalbard's breathtaking fjords, immense icelandic waterfalls, the grandeur of Greenland's glaciers and polar bear-haunted beaches in remote Baffin Bay and Nunavut.

Featured Regions

The svalbard experience.

The islands of Svalbard rise dramatically from the  Arctic Ocean  halfway between Norway’s North Cape and the North Pole. They give eloquent evidence of nature’s slow but ceaseless industry, scored and corrugated by  glaciers that still cover 60 percent of their mass. Stony, sentinel peaks soar above deeply carved fjords and sparkling bays. In summer, the sparse tundra vegetation erupts under the endless encouragement of the  Midnight Sun . Migratory birds in their millions arrive from more southerly realms, to nest and breed and nurture their young on steep striated cliffs, shingle beaches and tundra meadows. Elaborately antlered  reindeer  graze the slopes.  Arctic foxes  and predatory gulls haunt the nursery edges, alert for opportunity.  Seals and walruses  haul out to join the breeding season, and patient  polar bears  patrol the rocky shorelines and floating ice, while  whales roll and breach offshore , feeding on the sea’s summer abundance.  Here and there, bleached testaments to past human endeavors endure: whalebones and weathered try pots from medieval whaling stations; the wind-sanded timbers of an expedition’s launching site; a hut where someone whiled away a long-ago, dark winter. Riding in  Zodiacs and paddling kayaks , observing from the decks and trekking on the islands themselves, we will experience and explore this  isolated, unspoiled and breathtakingly beautiful place , as it revels in the endless days of its short, exuberant summer.

THE ICELAND EXPERIENCE

Iceland is a paradox. The English words ‘fellow’ and ‘geyser’ are both of Icelandic origin. Of all the Northern lands, Iceland has in many ways the most civilized and settled population. Yet it is also a singularly  wild and unbridled piece of the earth, filled with jaw-dropping geologic marvels of monumental scale , enchanting landscapes of exceptional beauty, and is literally boiling with unbounded energy. Its cities enjoy an unbroken heritage of governance and lofty levels of modernity. But its  immense, ground-shaking waterfalls , soaring peaks and fuming, pyroclastic vents are interspersed with an untouched, green geography harboring  millions of nesting birds  alongside prosperous sheep farms, and  marine mammals  including whales of all sorts, porpoises and seals in the heart of its busily harvested summer seas. Some say the Vikings named it Iceland to hide the secret of its bounteous plenitude. But we will go ourselves, in  Zodiacs, kayaks and on foot to discover  what wonders await us in Iceland’s tall, winding fjords; broad, verdant valleys; and towering stone sea stacks.

THE GREENLAND EXPERIENCE

Greenland is the  largest island on earth , sprawling from near the North Pole southward across the Arctic Circle, where it wedges between the North Atlantic and the Arctic Ocean. Its circumference is fringed with  innumerable fjords , cut deep into the planet’s most ancient,  vividly colorful rocks .  These waterways meander between towering alpine ranges to where shining, serpentine glaciers flow from the immense  Greenland Ice Field  to calve massive amounts of ice into the sea. This fringe of fjords and mountains is where Greenland’s life is concentrated. In summer it is brilliant with wildflowers, boisterous with colonies of every sort of breeding birds, and alive with grazing bands of  caribou and musk oxen, Arctic foxes and polar bears . Seals, walrus and  many species of whales  from humpbacks to orcas, seis and porcelain-white belugas haunt the shores. Tiny, isolated human communities are scattered among the fjords, accessible only by boats or kayaks from the sea, afoot or, in winter, by dogsled. Our ship is the key to exploring this majestic place. We  discover the hidden vistas  folded between snowcapped peaks. We thread among towering icebergs in Zodiacs and kayaks, climb flower-bright tundra slopes and  meet the people  who live in this difficult, exquisitely beautiful place.

THE NUNAVUT EXPERIENCE

The  most remote and least-populated destinations  explored during Seabourn Venture’s Arctic season are the islands of the  Canadian Arctic Archipelago , now included in the huge territory of Nunavut. The islands form a curve complementing Greenland’s western coastline, enclosing Baffin Bay and the Davis Strait. We will visit the small community of Pond Inlet on northern  Baffin Island  for a look at modern  Inuit culture , still linked to age-old traditions by choice and necessity. On Devon Island we will land at the  ghost town of Dundas Harbour  and sail between flat-topped mountains to Croker Bay’s tidewater glacier. At Beechey Island, we can pay our respects at the graves of three of Sir John Franklin’s Northwest Passage expedition members who perished there during the long winter of 1845.   Lady Franklin Island and Monument Island  are named for the explorer and his wife, and their tall, weather-beaten cliffs, teeming with breeding seabirds and frequently patrolled by  polar bears in search of seals and walrus , provide a dramatic climax to our memorable season in the spectacular,  seldom-visited  realms of the Midnight Sun.

Seabourn’s Arctic Expeditions

Featured ports.

Tromso, Norway

Husavik, Iceland

Reykjavik, iceland, recommended for you.

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Adventure Cruises in Arctic

A special destination with abundant wildlife and a chance to gaze on the natural wonder that is the Aurora Borealis.

Arctic cruises are the perfect way to enjoy a truly untouched part of the world and experience a real adventure. Adventurous travellers have always sought out the arctic circle for the chance to encounter wildlife and dramatic landscapes unlike any others. Unlike the Antarctic, the Arctic is home to not only special wildlife but also small hardy human populations with cultures just as unique.

A cruise in the Arctic Circle offers the opportunity to explore completely new landscapes with glaciers, sea ice and frozen tundra all found here. Each of these landscapes supports different kinds of animal life with everything from polar bears to musk ox. At sea, humpback whales and orcas can be spotted, many migrating up to the Arctic to feed on herring shoals and seal colonies.

The Greenland Sea is one of the highlights of any Arctic ocean cruise, with huge expanses of ice and picture-perfect formations. This is also one of the largest hooded and harp seal breeding grounds in the world, attracting orcas. Better known as killer whales, orcas are a beautiful sight swimming through the Greenland Sea in their pods. The bowhead whale is also a common sight, especially as their numbers have been increasing in recent years; this is the only whale to live exclusively in Arctic waters.

Norway is a favorite point of interest for Arctic small-ship cruises. The north of Norway is a visually stunning part of the world. The landscape is mountainous with striking fjords and huge waterfalls. Many visitors are drawn there to witness the phenomenon of the Northern Lights, which can be seen most of the year around the North of Norway.

Many Polar cruises also take in the coastline of Northern Norway, including the island of Spitsbergen in the Svalbard archipelago . This area is of prime interest for arctic wildlife encounters with polar bears, reindeer, and arctic foxes on the land. In the ocean and on the coast, expect to see walruses, dolphins, whales, and huge numbers of seabirds. This region is also home to several fjords and glaciers, perfect for hiking and photography.

Iceland is a popular departure point for Arctic Ocean cruises and is home to various adventure activities for visitors. Hiking on glaciers and kayaking allow you to see some fascinating landscapes and finish off with a dip in a geothermal spa. Geysers are also intriguing; huge water spouts blow up from the earth and make for a spectacular show. Wildlife is also abundant in Iceland, with arctic foxes, puffins, reindeer on land, walruses, whales, and dolphins in the ocean.

On the other side of the Arctic, Northern Canada is one of the few areas inhabited in the region. Polar cruises in Northern Canada allow their guests to meet local Inuit communities and experience their unique culture. You can spot polar bears, arctic rabbits, musk oxs, and walruses on the ice-packed landscape. Photographers will also find huge icebergs and glacial formations on land, perfect for taking fantastic landscape shots.

Aside from all the adventure and wildlife, one particular sight draws many people to the Arctic Circle, the Northern Lights, or the  Aurora Borealis . This spectacular space light show can be witnessed from Northern Norway, with cruises chasing the forecast to give their guests the chance to witness what happens when electrically charged particles from the sun enter our atmosphere.

Best time to cruise the Arctic

The best time to visit the Arctic depends on what you want to see and what activities you want to do on your trip. The season for Arctic Ocean cruises is from May until September when the ice melts, and small ship cruises can pass through to explore the region without being blocked by surface ice. During this period, the region enjoys 24-hour, often sunny days, perfect for wildlife spotting and photography. In the Arctic in September the weather starts to get colder and the days shorter, however, this is the best time to see the Northern Lights.

At the start of the season until the middle of June is the best time for those who want to see the ice formations before they thaw in the warmer months. Icebergs can still be seen during this period, and this is one of the best times to spot humpback whales. June is the peak season for narwhals. Polar bears and walruses can be spotted on the ice hunting when groups explore areas from zodiac boats.

The temperatures start to increase at the end of June, melting ice and exposing the arctic tundra, which blossoms and allows more hiking activities. This is the best time to see wildlife such as the musk ox, arctic foxes, and seabirds that migrate around mid-June. Visitors can expect to see puffins, terns, and kittiwakes, which have come to nest around Iceland and the Faroe Islands at this time of year.

How to get to the Arctic

Reaching Northern Norway is possible by flight to Spitsbergen from Oslo or Tromsø airports, which connect to several international destinations. Some trips that take in the Scottish Islands and Faroes, as well as Norway, depart from Edinburgh in Scotland. Edinburgh has an international airport with links to Europe and further afield. Iceland is best accessed by flight to Reykjavik International Airport; most cruises departing from Iceland begin in Reykjavik harbor. Conversely, the Canadian Arctic is reachable by flight from Ottawa in the Ontario region of Canada to Iqaluit on Baffin Island.

Where do Arctic cruises depart from?

Arctic cruises to the Longyearbyen area of Northern Norway can depart from Spitsbergen harbor on Longyearbyen, which is accessible by flight from mainland Norway. Alternatively, cruises may take in both Iceland and Longyearbyen; these will depart from Reykjavik or Spitsbergen or begin at one of these ports and finish in the other. It is also possible to fly to Constable Pynt Airport in Iceland as an alternative to Reykjavik. Some will also depart from Edinburgh in Scotland; these trips normally include the Scottish islands and Norwegian Fjords as part of the trip.

Arctic Cruise Tips

Arctic small-ship cruises are a proper adventure experience and have a small window of opportunity when the region is accessible by boat. It is wise to plan any trip to the Arctic well in advance, not only because of limited availability but also because it is important to know all the details when undertaking an expedition such as this.

One of the great appeals of the Arctic is its remoteness and extreme weather conditions; however, these are worth considering when making travel arrangements as well. Delays are common, considering the weather conditions and the importance of safety in such a remote location. It is advisable to arrive a few days before your cruise departs to avoid any risk of missing the departure.

Be sure to check the best time of year to visit the Arctic for activities that meet your interests. Check through the itineraries as well to ensure you can participate in all of the cultural experiences and wildlife watching you are hoping for. For example, if you want to go hiking and birdwatching, check the season in the region you are visiting. Also, some regions are better for certain wildlife, with the Canadian Arctic great for muskox, arctic foxes, and arctic rabbits.

The remoteness of the Arctic means that bringing everything you need is very important. You will find that the big departure cities like Reykjavik have ample facilities, but once you depart, you will unlikely have an opportunity to pick up anything you forgot. It may sound surprising that sunscreen is one of the must-have items in the Arctic, but the 24 hours of sunshine make it a necessity. Warm clothes are a must, and although many trips offer jackets for guests, many people choose to bring their own for comfort.

Depending on your departure point, you may need a visa to travel to the Arctic. The visa requirements will depend on the agreement between the departure country and your home country. Most do not require a visa for Iceland or Norway, but you will need a valid passport or EU identity card. Non-EU citizens may also have to provide sufficient funds to sustain themselves on their trip. The most common currencies in the Arctic are the Icelandic Krona, Norwegian Krone, and Canadian Dollar. Cards are widely accepted, and it is worth noting that these countries are fairly expensive. It is wise to ensure you have sufficient money for your trip.

Arctic Reviews

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Cruising Arctic in July on the Hondius

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Arctic Small Ship Cruises

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Svalbard Encounter Expedition Micro Cruise

• Visit the stunning Longyearbyen
• Discover Prins Karls Foreland
• Explore north west of Spitsbergen
• See Lilliehöök Glacier on Svalbard

Norway's Fjords and Arctic Svalbard (Northbound)

• Explore the rare northern fjords
• Paddle in a deep fjord
• Explore Lofoten Islands
• Visit the famous building in Tromso

Svalbard Odyssey

• Explore Longyearbyen
• Experience Camp Barentz
• Visit Svalbard Museum
• Look out for birdlife

North Spitsbergen Explorer – Polar Bears , Bowhead Whales & more

• Explore North Spitsbergen
• Visit the Monaco Glacier
• See polar bears at Hinlopen Strait
• Visit St. Johns Fjord
• Out of the Northwest Passage
• Travel the NW Passage Route
• Enjoy Inuit hospitality
• Visit Franklin Expedition graves
• View Arctic wildlife

High Arctic Explorer

• Visit Beechey Island
• Hike on Devon Island
• Enjoy a cultural welcome at Pond
• Watch Greenland’s glaciers
• Marvel at the tundra

Spitsbergen Highlights: Expedition in Brief

• Enjoy all the adventures
• Kayak surrounded by icebergs
• Hike the arctic tundra
• Look for arctic wildlife

Into the Northwest Passage

• Visit ancient sites and villages
• Meet the stunning Arctic wildlife
• Experience Inuit culture first hand
• Explore the Ilulissat Icefjord

A Circumnavigation of Iceland

• Meet Iceland’s people & culture
• Actively explore Iceland's coasts
• Experience Iceland’s unique geology
• Travel with an expert team

Spitsbergen Explorer: Wildlife Capital of the Arctic

• View iconic arctic wildlife
• Immerse in the icy realm of Arctic
• Cruise in Zodiac to explore Arctic
• Hike the tundra and polar desert

Greenland & Wild Labrador

• Cross the Arctic Circle by sea
• Visit the capital Nuuk
• Hike Torngat Mtns National Park
• Search for polar bears & eagles

Wild Iceland Escape

• Explore Iceland's pristine fjords
• Soak in geothermal hot springs,
• Discover Westfjords' biodiversity
• Watch out for humpback whales

Svalbard and the Northern Fjords

• Make for the wilder wilds
• Discover the islands and fjords
• Actively explore the scenery
• Explore the coves and inlets

Introduction to Spitsbergen: Fjords, Glaciers, and Wildlife of Svalbard

• Cruise in a Zodiac
• Encounter arctic wildlife
• Immerse in the Arctic realm
• Hike the polar desert

Four Arctic Islands: Spitsbergen, Jan Mayen, Greenland and Iceland

• Explore the four Arctic Islands
• Immerse in icy realm of the Arctic
• Search for iconic arctic wildlife
• Visit a remote Inuit community

Norway's Fjords and Arctic Svalbard

Icelandic mosaic.

• Discover Reykjavík's Blue Lagoon
• Explore the beautiful Grimsey
• Experience Isafjordur fjord
• Visit Eldheimar

Jewels of the Arctic

• Discover Longyearbyen
• See the spectacular Scoresbysund
• Explore East Greenland
• Visit Ittoqqortoormiit

Arctic Travel Guide

• All Arctic Trips
• All Arctic Videos
• All Arctic Travel Stories
• Arctic Overview
• Wildlife Guide to Polar Regions
• When to Go on an Arctic Cruise?
• Comparing the Two Polar Regions: Antarctica and Arctic Cruising
• Cruise the Arctic Svalbard Islands
• Baffin Island
• Northwest Passage

Favorite Arctic All Trips

• Arctic Watch Discovery Experience
• Beluga Whale Photography
• Arctic Char Fly Fishing
• High Arctic Muskoxen & Polar Bear Photography

Top Arctic Travel Destinations

• Flatey Island
• Kangerlussuaq
• Krossfjorden
• L'Anse aux Meadows
• Longyearbyen
• Newfoundland
• Newfoundland & Labrador
• North America
• Prince Christian Sound
• Russian Arctic
• Scoresby Sund

Arctic Trips by Departure Date

• 2024 Arctic trips (183)
• 2025 Arctic trips (146)
• 2026 Arctic trips (7)
• June 2024 (67)
• July 2024 (73)
• August 2024 (73)
• September 2024 (42)
• October 2024 (23)
• May 2025 (23)
• June 2025 (31)
• July 2025 (35)
• August 2025 (45)

Top Experiences in Arctic

• Arctic Cruises (235)
• Arctic Wildlife & Safari Exploration (120)
• Arctic Luxury (46)
• Arctic Cultural (35)
• Arctic Land Tours (25)
• Arctic Scheduled Group Tour (9)
• Arctic Trekking (9)
• Arctic Active (7)
• Arctic Most Popular (4)
• Arctic Beaches (4)
• Arctic Family (4)
• Arctic Solo Travel (3)

Arctic Trips by Duration

• 5 day trips (5)
• 6 day trips (3)
• 7 day trips (9)
• 8 day trips (31)
• 9 day trips (15)
• 10 day trips (39)
• 11 day trips (14)
• 12 day trips (35)
• 13 day trips (17)
• 14 day trips (20)
• 15 day trips (19)
• 16 day trips (14)
• 17 day trips (13)
• 18 day trips (5)
• 19 day trips (4)
• 23 day trips (3)

Arctic Trips by Activity

• Arctic wildlife viewing (224)
• Arctic small ship cruises (180)
• Arctic whale watching (135)
• Arctic hiking (116)
• Arctic kayaking (78)
• Arctic village visits (67)
• Arctic adventure options (30)
• Arctic photography seminars (18)
• Arctic archaeological site visits (16)
• Arctic northern lights (14)
• Arctic wilderness lodge exploration (12)
• Arctic land & sea exploration (11)
• Arctic helicopter tours (9)
• Arctic fly cruises (4)
• Arctic snorkeling (3)
• Arctic urban exploration (3)
• Arctic small ship sailing (3)
• Arctic skiing (3)

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7 amazing cruise itineraries to book in 2024

I don't know about you, but each year, as the weather turns cold, I start daydreaming about getting out of Dodge — or, in my case, Pennsylvania. My mind wanders to cruises that will take me to places where the temperature is warmer, but I also take a hard look at the (exceptionally lengthy) list of places I'm longing to visit.

After digging through what's new for 2024, I've come up with a shortlist of sailings that I think are noteworthy. They range from a standard Bahamas voyage with a new twist and an extended Alaska sailing that includes a foray across the Arctic Circle to more far-flung destinations in the Asia-Pacific region.

Dream on, dear reader, and add these to your list of 2024 cruise itineraries.

Note: All prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, unless otherwise noted. Fares do not include taxes and fees.

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

Seabourn's 'Kimberley Expedition: Waterfalls and Wandjinas' itinerary

Last year, the Australia and New Zealand cruise region gained momentum following the pandemic shutdown. In 2024, the hardly populated Australia region of The Kimberley is gaining popularity. Luxury cruise brand Seabourn will be offering a series of six 10-night voyages between Broome and Darwin on expedition vessel Seabourn Pursuit during what will be early winter in the southern hemisphere.

The line's " Kimberley Expedition: Waterfalls and Wandjinas " will take passengers to places along the coast few passengers are able to visit to see the stunning teal waters and horizontal waterfalls of Talbot Bay, sample wines in the Hunter River Region and check out nature preserves in Wyndham.

Details: The first sailing, from Darwin to Broome, embarks on June 12. The final voyage, from Broome to Darwin, departs on Aug. 1. Prices start from $6,134 per person ($613 per person, per night), double occupancy, for the July 2 cruise. All accommodations are suites with balconies.

Celebrity's 'Best of Japan' and 'Vietnam and Thailand' cruises

The number of voyages in Asia was trending upward notably prior to 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic brought cruising in the region to an extended halt. And it's once again on the rise. Following that curve, Celebrity Cruises will be running new 11- to 13-night Asia sailings in 2024 on two ships — Celebrity Millennium and Celebrity Solstice — that bring stops in Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Vietnam and Thailand.

What's notable about the offerings is that they will aim to immerse passengers further into the destinations by including overnights in a total of 11 ports across all itineraries. That means more time to explore Hanoi's Old Quarter as the sun sets, indulge in nighttime gastronomy in Hong Kong, visit one of Bangkok's many markets, or learn why Osaka is known for street food.

Details: Celebrity Millennium's " Best of Japan " cruises run from early mid-March to early October. At press time, the least expensive fares — for a 12-night sailing — start from $1,330 per person ($111 per person, per night) for an inside cabin. It travels round-trip from Yokohama and visits Hiroshima, Pusan and other ports, including Osaka, where the ship will overnight.

Celerbrity Solstice's Vietnam and Thailand cruises kick off in mid-January and run through March. The ship will resume them again in the fall of 2024 and run through the winter season. Prices start from $1,255 per person ($105 per person, per night) for an inside cabin. The voyage sails from Hong Kong to Singapore with stops in Da Nang and Koh Samui, plus overnights in Hanoi and Bangkok.

SeaDream's 'Yachting the Adriatic & Greek Isles' sailing

Here's one to put on your radar if you're looking to book — but not necessarily sail — in 2024. It's a new Mediterranean itinerary that doesn't start up for nearly three more years, in 2026. The SeaDream routing brings stops at seven ports that are rarely visited by cruise passengers. During the seven-night voyages, there will be calls at Primosten, Croatia; Cesme, Turkey; Cetubal, Portugal; and Kythira, Kythnos, Syvota and Tinos, Greece — making these sailings unique and well-suited to anyone who loves the region but who's looking for new places to experience.

SeaDream's small ships, each of which carries just 112 people, are able to reach locales about which passengers on megaships can only fantasize. Couple that with excellent service, and you'll be visiting the Our Lady of Loretto statue in Primosten, touring the Cesme Castle and lounging on stunning Greek beaches from a home base that puts you squarely in the lap of luxury.

Details: An itinerary that includes three of the seven new ports is the 11-night " Yachting the Adriatic & Greek Isles " itinerary from Venice, Italy, to Athens, Greece, departing on Aug. 8, 2026, on SeaDream I. Prices start from $10,399 per person ($946 per person, per night) for a room with a porthole view.

Holland America's 'Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice' Legendary Voyage

Alaska is an absolute must for anyone who enjoys the vastness of untouched wilderness, the wildlife it houses and adventurous pursuits it provides. (Think whale-watching, hiking on glaciers and salmon fishing.) However, Holland America 's Westerdam is hosting a 28-day sailing that's anything but your standard cruise to the Last Frontier .

Passengers will visit the usual Alaska ports, such as Ketchikan, Sitka and Juneau, with scenic sailing through the Inside Passage, past Hubbard Glacier and to Glacier Bay. But they can also expect less-common stops at places like Nome, Kodiak, Anchorage (with an overnight) and Homer. Plus, about halfway through, this cruise crosses the Arctic Circle — a rite of passage for many travelers.

Details: Holland America's 28-day " Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice " cruise — one of the line's Legendary Voyages, known for longer durations and a unique mix of port calls — sails June 9-July 7, round-trip from Seattle. Inside cabins start from $5,299 per person (about $189 per person, per night).

Silversea's summertime French Polynesia cruises

Another consideration for future travel is Silversea Cruises , which is featuring its first full-summer season in French Polynesia in 2026. Silver Whisper will offer two immersive itineraries, including overnights, across 17 voyages between April and September.

Passengers can choose seven-night sailings that visit idyllic favorites like Tahiti, Moorea and Huahine and which also include overnights in Bora Bora. Or, they can cruise for twice as long by selecting a 14-night voyage that calls on the same ports as the seven-night option but with Fakarava, Nuku Hiva, Fatu Hiva, Atuona and Tahuata added.

Details: Silversea's seven-night voyages begin April 6, 2026, and start from $5,650 per person ($808 per person, per night) for an ocean-view cabin.

The line's 14-night sailings start on April 20, 2026. Fares start from $10,450 per person ($747 per person, per night) for ocean-view accommodations.

New Bermuda voyages on Carnival Venezia

Beginning in May of 2025, Carnival Cruise Line 's Carnival Venezia will sail a series of eight four- and five-night cruises to Bermuda from New York. These itineraries are notable because the line is aiming to increase its presence there but also because the style of the ship is new to even most of the brand's most dedicated passengers.

In 2022, Carnival announced its Costa by Carnival concept after revealing it would be transferring ships from its Costa sister brand to the Carnival fleet. Now, when travelers visit the Gibb's Hill Lighthouse or check out the island's renowned pink-sand beaches during a sailing on Carnival Venezia, they can enjoy both the Italian style of the ship and Carnival's fun atmosphere and high service standards.

Details: Voyages kick off on May 22, 2025. Prices start from $429 per person ($108 per person, per night) for an inside cabin on a four-night cruise departing Sept. 18, 2025.

Disney Cruise Line's Lighthouse Point itineraries

Disney Cruise Line 's new Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point , a private destination on the Bahamian island of Eleuthera, is set to open in June with a three-night preview sailing on June 6 aboard Disney Magic. Following the initial voyage, the line will run regular three- to seven-night voyages to Lighthouse Point on Disney Magic, Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream.

The island will feature a dedicated family beach and water play area, an arts and culture pavilion focused on Bahamian culture, 20 family cabanas, an adults-only beach and a selection of shore excursion options.

Details: Prices for itineraries that include Lighthouse Point start from $624 per person ($208 per person, per night) for a three-night cruise on Disney Magic. The cruise departs Nov. 5 and sails from Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades to San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Have cruise questions? TPG has answers:

• Banned items: What not to pack for a cruise
• Man overboard: Why do people fall off cruise ships?
• What is baked Alaska, and why is it paraded around cruise ships?
• What are the largest cruise ships in the world?
• What is a gentleman host on a cruise?
• What is the Jones Act and how does it affect cruise ships?
• What is a lido deck on a cruise ship?
• What's a cruise cabin guarantee and will it save you money?
• What's the difference between a cruise concierge and a butler?

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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Choose Your Stateroom

Please select your stateroom or suite type and room category from the available options.

• Daily housekeeping
• Complimentary 24-hour room service
• Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
• Luxurious bathrobes
• Generous storage
• Fresh fruit upon request
• Ice service
• TV with On Demand movies, programming

Two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads and a host of amenities are featured in these comfortable staterooms.

• Hair dryers, makeup mirrors

These expansive staterooms include two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our Signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads, a host of amenities and an ocean view.

Filled with light from floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these staterooms include a sitting area, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and shower with premium massage showerheads.

Vista Suite

With a verandah, floor-to-ceiling windows and comfortable sitting area, these comfortable suites are filled with light. They include two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, plus a shower, mini-bar and refrigerator.

Signature Suite

These large, comfortable suites feature a spacious sitting area with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and one murphy bed for one person. The bathroom includes a dual-sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath and shower, and an additional shower stall.

Neptune Suite

• Premium bathrobes, slippers
• Fresh flowers
• One-Touch concierge service
• Whirlpool bath (suite dependent)
• In-suite coffee, espresso
• Complimentary laundry
• Pre-dinner hors d'oeuvres served in suite
• Welcome glass of sparkling wine
• Priority boarding for tender ports, priority dining/seating requests, special disembarkation service
• High tea in suite on request
• Exclusive tote bag

With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these spacious suites are flooded with light. They feature a large sitting area and two lower beds convertible to one king-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses. The bathroom comes with a dual-sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath and shower, plus additional shower stall. Amenities include use of the exclusive Neptune Lounge, a private concierge and an array of complimentary services.

Your Ship: Nieuw Statendam

Fluid lines and dramatic spaces make the Holland America Nieuw Statendam a modern beauty. The second in the line of our Pinnacle Class ships, her design draws inspiration from the elegant curves of musical instruments. When not relaxing in well-appointed suites or staterooms, guests will have many innovative dining and entertainment options—from Rudi’s Sel de Mer to Nami Sushi to the Rolling Stone Lounge, B.B. King’s Blues Club, and the visually stunning two-level World Stage. 

• 2,666 Guests
• 975 ft. Length
• 114.8 ft. Width

Dining & Onboard Activities

Each day on board offers delicious dining options, world-class entertainment and enriching activities.

Pinnacle Grill

The ultimate steakhouse at sea, with an exceptional menu of Prime steaks, seafood and wine.

Pinnacle Grill is the ultimate steakhouse at sea, where an exceptional menu and impeccable service make for one of finest meals you’ll ever have. The refined menu features a selection of 28-day wet-aged USDA Prime steaks — meticulously chosen to guarantee the finest quality — as well as classic steakhouse dishes and innovative recipes from James Beard Award-winning chef and Culinary Council® member, David Burke. Every dish is exquisitely prepared, beautifully plated and complemented by a vast collection of award-winning wines. Here, your meal is an event unto itself, a celebration of fine dining and a triumph of flavor.

*Meals at Pinnacle Grill are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Canaletto is a relaxed setting with authentic Italian cuisine that is best enjoyed when shared.

In Italy, there’s nothing more important than coming together to celebrate the joy of great food. This is the inspiration for our onboard Italian restaurant, Canaletto. Enjoy amazing Italian classics like braised chicken cacciatore al forno, branzino ai ferri or garlic shrimp ravioli. And for dessert: tiramisù, cannoli alla Siciliana, gelato, and more. Including pasta made fresh daily. Buon Appetito!

Meals at Canaletto are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Explore traditions of Southeast Asia, China and Japan with cuisine praised by Condé Nast Traveler as rivaling the top restaurants on land.

Praised by  Condé Nast Traveler  for cuisine “that rivals the top restaurants on land,” Tamarind is the perfect place to explore the culinary traditions of Southeast Asia, China and Japan. The menu, which honors the elements of water, wood, fire and earth, features such exotic fare as wok-seared lobster, barramundi (Asian sea bass) in banana leaf and sushi, accompanied by chilled or heated sake. 

Meals at Tamarind are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Rudi's Sel De Mer

Rudi's Sel De Mer offers a modern twist on classic French dishes and seafood.

Rudi’s Sel de Mer is an intimate brasserie featuring classic French dishes reimagined with contemporary flair. Menu selections include whole Dover sole meunière with shaved pink Himalayan sea salt, oysters on the half shell, fruits de mer, and salt-crust baked branzino, as well as favorites such as steak frites, duck cassoulet and coq au vin. Conclude your dinner with a classic dessert and fine French cheeses.  

Meals at Sel de Mer are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Rudi’s Sel de Mer restaurant is available on  Rotterdam ,  Koningsdam  and  Nieuw Statendam , but on other ships, the Rudi’s Sel de Mer menu is available on select evenings in Pinnacle Grill.

Grand Dutch Cafe

Enjoy a savory snack, a pint of lager or a traditional Dutch coffee in a space that exudes Dutch heritage from the moment you walk in.

Looking for a refreshing pick-me-up on an adventure-filled day? The Grand Dutch Cafe is for you. Located just off the atrium area, it’s the perfect spot to connect with friends over a cold beer, coffee or other Dutch specialty beverages, such as Genever and Advoccaat, and a snack. Choose from among 16 Belgian and Dutch beers (four on tap) and a variety of spirits or enjoy your favorite coffee beverage with complimentary Dutch snacks. For heartier appetites, there are made-to-order Dutch specialties from open-faced herring sandwiches to apple and bacon pancakes. Just place your order at the counter; anything we prepare will be brought to your table.

Lido Market

A casual, modern marketplace, Lido Market offers the widest range of food options on board for breakfast, lunch, dinner and a late-night snack.

Explore a world of intriguing culinary possibilities in the Lido Market. Steps from the Lido pool, this modern marketplace includes a curated selection of delicious options that you can grab on the go or have made to order: Breadboard, with freshly baked breads and pastries; Wild Harvest, offering a bountiful selection of hearty salads; Homestead, serving up comfort classics; Distant Lands, featuring global cuisine; Sweet Spot, for ice cream creations and desserts; Roasting Pan, hand-carved meats, fish and other hearty entrees; Perk, freshly brewed beverages and chilled juices; Quench, premium coffee, beer, wine, and soda available for purchase; Rise, savory quiches, croissants and sandwiches, and more.

This casual poolside grill serves up the best burgers at sea, Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dogs, golden French fries and more.

Dive-In offers a variety of casual culinary classics, using the highest quality ingredients. Enjoy a burger, grilled to perfection and served on a toasted brioche with our own trade-marked secret sauce. Savor a succulent Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dog with golden French fries. Or choose a grilled chicken breast sandwich or juicy portabella mushroom stack. Dive-In is the perfect spot to dine poolside on the best burgers at sea.

New York Pizza

Our poolside pizzeria has fresh Italian salads and authentic thin-crust personal pizzas with savory toppings.

At New York Pizza, choose from a variety of scrumptious, 9-inch, thin-crust pies. Named for New York’s famed five boroughs, our signature pizzas are made to order and topped with only the finest ingredients. Enjoy your pizza by day while overlooking the Lido pool, and into the night. This venue is New York Deli & Pizza on  Koningsdam ,  Rotterdam  and  Nieuw Statendam , offering made-to-order deli sandwiches in addition to pizza.

24-Hour Room Service

Enjoy breakfast in bed or an early dinner on your verandah — entrées and more are available whenever you wish.

Sleep in and have breakfast delivered. Enjoy an early dinner on your verandah before an evening excursion. Order a salad, sandwich or entrée any time. Room Service is only a phone call away. All selections are included in your cruise fare unless otherwise noted on the in-room menu.

Dine on delectable sushi and sip Asian-inspired spirits at Nami Sushi, a sushi bar within Tamarind offering stunning ocean views.

Nami Sushi offers a tempting array of the sushi rolls he’s created. Choose from such delectable selections as Tempura Lobster Roll with soft shell crab tempura; Dragon Roll with tempura shrimp, unagi sauce and avocado; Tsutsumi Roll with snapper, green olive, caper and avocado; Futomoki Roll with crab, yamagobo, avocado and cucumber; Volcano Roll with sesame-marinated salmon and Thai chilis; Nigiri sushi with tuna, salmon and ebi shrimp; and more. The word “nami,” Japanese in origin, means “wave” and is an homage to the ocean views you’ll enjoy as you dine on the freshest, tastiest and most inventive sushi at sea.

With many flavors to choose from and ingredients like Sicilian pistachios and amarena cherries, each frozen spoonful transports you to Italy.

At “G” Gelato, you can indulge your sweet tooth with a classic European gelato (ice cream), made fresh on board each day by chefs trained at the Carpigiani Gelato University. Choose from among 12 delightful flavors, two of which are rotated daily. Smooth, creamy and refreshing, this tasty treat is served in a variety of ways, including gelato popsicles and the flavors of G, composed shots with layers of caramel, nuts and gelato. Love pistachio?  Select ingredients like Sicilian pistachios make our pistachio gelato out of this world!

Club Orange Program Benefits

Club Orange offers an added level of luxury on Holland America with expanded dining menus, special events and priority access. Learn more about Club Orange.

See the  full Club Orange benefits  (PDF)

Join Club Orange to experience a new level of luxury, from priority check-in and disembarkation to premium dining amenities. Club Orange benefits include a complimentary stateroom upgrade, a special event chosen by the captain and priority check-in and disembarkation. Read on for a full list of Club Orange benefits.

Please  contact us  for Club Orange pricing and availability or to enroll.

The Dining Room

Our flagship dining experience is a welcoming and sophisticated setting for an exquisite breakfast, lunch or superb multicourse dinner.

For an elegant breakfast, leisurely lunch or unforgettable multi-course dinner, The Dining Room is your destination. For dinner, choose from classics such as Boneless Lamb Loin en Croute, Rosemary Roasted Chicken, as well as regionally inspired cuisine and artfully prepared vegetarian dishes. 

Crow's Nest

BARS AND LOUNGES

Enjoy cocktails and sunsets in this lounge, featuring panoramic views.

Holland America Line offers you a wide selection of lounges onboard. The panoramic view takes center stage in The Crow's Nest at the top of the ship, where you can relax just about any time of day and enjoy your favorite drink.

Enjoy cocktails and ocean views while listening to live music.

Holland America Line offers you a wide selection of lounges. This popular bar is at the top of the atrium and is the perfect locale for cocktails and dancing.

Tamarind Bar

Partake in exotic cocktails and sakétinis amid wraparound ocean views.

Which is more delightful: the apple-pear saketini in your chilled glass or views of the sun going down in a crimson blaze? Enjoy both in this stylish hideaway – your destination for panoramic views and exotic cocktails, and just one of the wide selection of lounges and gathering places on board.

Sea View Bar

Enjoy your favorite poolside drink while soaking up the sun and taking in panoramic views from the comfort of our deck lounge chairs. 

Panorama Bar

Overlooking the Lido Pool, the Panorama Bar is the perfect place to grab a drink to go with your pizza, sandwich or poolside movie.

Billboard Onboard

ENTERTAINMENT

Sing along, test your music trivia knowledge, or sit back and enjoy as chart-topping hits fill the room each night.

2 pianos - 60 Years of Chart Toppers - 100s Of Songs.  Sing along, test your music trivia skills or just sit back and enjoy as the hits fill the room each night.

World Stage

World Stage features innovative cruise ship shows and a two-story LED screen that creates a vivid wraparound display.

World Stage, the largest theater on board is home to a variety of performances day and night. Our exclusive EXC® Talk lecture series features captivating regional stories told by local experts and narrated by your Cruise & Travel Director. In the evenings, Step One Dance Company, vocal sensation Cantaré, BBC Earth in Concert and more take the stage.  Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam  and  Rotterdam  bring the World Stage experience to the next level by surrounding you in spectacular sight and sound with a two-story, panoramic LED screen.

Onboard Shopping

Enjoy a wide variety of duty-free shopping onboard.

Enjoy a wide variety of duty-free shopping in such signature shops as The Vault, Diamonds and Gemstones by Merabella, which offers the best diamonds at sea, brought to you by Effy.

Fitness Center

Take a class in our professionally staffed Fitness Center.

Stop by the professionally staffed Fitness Center equipped with the latest cardio and weight machines. Try one of our classes on indoor cycling, Pilates and more or work out at your own pace. You can also head out for fresh air and exercise on deck, where you'll find basketball and volleyball courts, and two refreshing pools (available on select ships). Some classes may have a nominal fee.

Holland America Line Navigator

Personalize your cruise experience with our free mobile-friendly tool.

Personalize your cruise experience once you’re on the ship with our free mobile-friendly tool. Plan your daily activities, browse and purchase shore excursions, view restaurant menus, make dining reservations, check your account balance and more. 

Casino Action

The Casino offers games for all levels.

Your Holland America Line ship’s Casino offers a wide array of gaming options. Whether you prefer slot machines or want to try your hand at blackjack or poker, our dealers and staff are available to provide complimentary instruction — and we offer many engaging tournament options. The Casino is only open at sea.

Movies On Board

Enjoy recent-release films in the movie theater on select ships or in the comfort of your stateroom.

Screening nightly in the movie theatre (on select ships) are recent-release films and perennially popular classics. You can also watch movies any time in your stateroom or suite. And aboard  Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam  and  Rotterdam , watch your favorite stars light up the night on a giant outdoor LED movie screen by the Lido Pool.

Pickleball at Sea

Enjoy complimentary lessons, tournaments, and courts with amazing top-deck views.

Play the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. with Holland America Line, the exclusive cruise line partner of the Professional Pickleball Association. All our cruise ships feature pickleball courts with amazing top-deck views. The equipment and courts are available for a match anytime, so long as the weather allows. Frequent pickler? Join a pickleball tournament at sea and put your dink shot to the test. Hesitant amateur? Learn the basics at complimentary beginner’s lessons, starting in spring 2023. Commemorative starter kits will soon be available in our retail shops — purchase as gifts for avid players or as souvenirs, so that you can always look back on your pickleball cruise memories.

Kids ages 3 to 17 can enjoy an array of activities. Registration required for children under 13.

Holland America Line's youth activities program, Kids Club, offers an array of entertaining events for kids and teens ages 3-17, supervised by a full-time, professionally trained staff. They'll have an opportunity to join other kids their age for arts and crafts, sports, video game competitions, scavenger hunts, challenging team games and themed parties. Note: Kids Club is not offered on cruises of 25-days or longer, including all Legendary and Grand Voyages. We will offer a selection of children’s activities throughout these longer voyages for any children who may be onboard.

28-DAY ARCTIC CIRCLE CROSSING: GREENLAND AND ICELAND

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So, if you want to beat the heat while experiencing some of our planet’s wildest wonders, here’s where to go.

A hat trick of Arctic escapes

Given the Arctic is a frozen body of water surrounded by land, much of the excitement in visiting the region lies at sea. Taking a cruise between key areas offers a chance to observe resident species and meet some of the communities who have survived in the far north for several generations.

Boarding the Ocean Explorer in Reykjavik , sail north through the Denmark Strait to Greenland’s remote and less visited east coast, where 40 per cent of the world’s musk ox population reside and communities live in towns with tongue-twisting names like Ittoqqortoormiit. Continue to Svalbard , home of the polar bear and thousands of seabirds nesting in steep cliffs. If conditions are good enough, the ship may even sail within 10 degrees of the North Pole.

How: A 15-day Three Arctic Islands cruise with Quark costs from £5,000, excluding flights. Departs August 25. exodus.co.uk

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A wilderness within remarkably easy reach, this Norwegian-ruled archipelago is one of the best places to observe polar bears in their natural habitat. As ice melts during summer months, when the sun shines for 24 hours a day, it’s possible to access many of the islands. Along with searching for bears on ice floes, there are chances to see walruses, Arctic foxes, and a sub-species of stocky reindeer endemic to the region. But the beauty of this place also lies in its dramatic landscapes: spikey mountains, deep curving valleys, and mighty glaciers twisting inland.

How: A 10-day Circumnavigating Spitsbergen cruise costs £6,590pp, including flights. Departures in June and July 2024. hurtigruten.com

West Greenland

Where do icebergs go to die? Disko Bay on the west coast of Greenland would be a good bet. Dozens of icy sculptures from the Jakobshavn glacier – one of the most productive in the northern hemisphere – collect in a pool of water outside the town of Ilulissat. Explore via a scenic boardwalk winding through an ancient Innuit settlement. Visit the site as part of a cruise along the coastline, the easiest way to access a country largely covered in ice.

How: An 8-day Greenland Disko Bay cruise with Albatross Expeditions costs from £7,190pp, excluding flights. Various departures in August. polarroutes.co.uk

Northwest Passage, Canada

Antarctica may frequently steal the limelight when it comes to tales of heroic expeditions, but the Canadian Arctic has a far more complex and intriguing human history. For almost 250 years, explorers ventured into these challenging waters in search of the fabled Northwest Passage – a trade route between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. One of the biggest mysteries of that era surrounds the story of Sir John Franklin, who went missing in the ice in 1847. The graves of several sailors from his voyage can be seen on Beechey Island and his two lost ships were only uncovered in recent years. Climate change has opened up much of the icescape, making more of the Northwest Passage accessible on a tourist cruise.

How: A nine-day Arctic Express Canada cruise costs from £4,500pp, excluding flights. quarkexpeditions.com

Lofoten Islands, Norway

There’s no need to travel to the far reaches of our planet to experience the Arctic environment. Sitting above the Arctic Circle, Norway ’s Lofoten Islands share the same vertiginous mountain geology with Svalbard, bathed in summer months by the midnight sun. Stay in a traditional red-painted fisherman’s cabin and spend days hiking along trails. In warm weather, sparkling white beaches scattered with scarlet starfish could easily be mistaken for the Caribbean – not something you’d expect to see at these northerly latitudes.

How: A seven-day tailor-made trip costs from £2,070pp, including B&B accommodation, flights and car hire. best-served.co.uk

Read more: The best places to see the Northern Lights around the world – and when to visit

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Explore the mystifying arctic and antarctica with aurora expeditions.

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People are profoundly impacted by visiting the Arctic.

Exploring some of the most isolated corners of the world often leaves an indelible impression on travelers who develop a connection and care for these places, and it’s rare that people return without their perspectives altered. As a part of their journey to the Arctic and Antarctica with Aurora Expeditions , travelers can give back to the area they’re visiting with Aurora’s Citizen Science Program where they can share new discoveries while deepening their connection to the natural world. By taking part, travelers can provide invaluable data to the scientific community, becoming ambassadors of the planet when returning home by sharing what they’ve learned.

Howard Whelan, Expeditions Leader for Aurora Expeditions, recently offered a detailed summary of the two emotive tours.

Aurora’s Antarctic season is October to March.

What are some highlights of the Arctic and Antarctica tours?

• Aurora Expeditions is known for its adventurous itineraries to some of the most remote corners of the world, and for truly immersing travelers in these unique regions on our purpose-built small ships, which serve as our comfortable base camps for adventure. A love of place, sense of curiosity and a desire to explore have been Aurora Expeditions’ guiding principles from the start. Now, our small, purpose-built ships provide comfortable base camps deep in the heart of nature.
• During the Arctic season, June through September, we visit Iceland, a fantastic land of volcanos, puffins and whales. Svalbard, Norway’s high-latitude archipelago is home to walrus, arctic fox, reindeer and polar bears. Greenland, where the world’s second-largest ice cap sheds incomprehensible amounts of ice daily including the planet’s most beautiful icebergs, and tundra alive with musk ox, reindeer, arctic fox and hare. We visit local Inuit communities from the most remote on the east coast to the world’s northernmost capital, Nuuk, on the west coast. Our Northwest Passage trip traverses the Canadian Arctic. We’ll Zodiac-cruise below vast sea cliffs buzzing with thousands of seabirds and will constantly keep watch for polar bears. As the season winds up and night-time returns, we hope to encounter Aurora Borealis, the Northern Lights.
• Aurora’s Antarctic season, October to March, is summer when the pack ice breaks out, wildlife returns to breed and feed and the days are the longest. Aurora offers trips that range from nine to 23 days, visiting spectacular regions including the Antarctic Peninsula. Its west coast features wildlife-rich islands against a backdrop of glaciated peaks. On the east side is the Weddell Sea, a world of ice-free landscapes and massive tabular icebergs. Our Antarctic Circle trips take you below 66° 33’ South where we enjoy the midnight sun shining on ice and land few have seen.
• The sub-Antarctic islands we visit include South Georgia and the Falkland (Malvinas) Islands. The former is renowned for its whaling stations. More recently, a successful pest eradication has brought back endemic birds including a pipit and pintail, as well as king penguin colonies half-a-million strong. The latter is a surprisingly rich wildlife haven where the Falkland War was fought. Today the waters surrounding South Georgia and the Falklands are feeding grounds for humpback, orca, fin and blue whales and dolphins.
• Aurora recently announced its return to East Antarctica and the Ross Sea, south of Australia, during its 2025-26 season. Comparing these regions to the Antarctic Peninsula is like comparing the Swiss Alps to the Australian outback. While one is a chocolate box pretty, the other is vast and powerful. Both offer the thrill of landing on the Seventh Continent, and both are worth visiting.
• Travelers hoping to experience our destinations in unique ways can choose from a variety of optional activities, including sea kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, camping on the ice and more.
• With an average of 132 passengers, our small size means we can go where larger ships cannot. We also have greater flexibility to change plans based on conditions or chance wildlife encounters, and passengers can enjoy more time exploring, whether on land or water.

Antartica remains a vast unexplored, pristine region.

Are there any physical demands that people need to be aware of when traveling to these isolated locations?

• Expedition cruising guarantees an adventure quite different from that of traditional cruise ships. The latter is typically associated with strict itineraries, plenty of time to rest and onboard activities that amuse. Expedition cruising, especially in the Arctic and Antarctica, is about embracing the unexpected and building deeper connections with the places we visit. For most people in reasonable physical condition, the demands should be well within their ability. All expeditions to these remote areas do involve moderate hiking and walking, meaning that some mobility is needed for most daily activities, however we generally offer hiking options with three levels of difficulty. For those who would prefer to opt-out of walks, we also offer plenty of scenic Zodiac-cruising excursions. Activities that require extensive activity like kayaking, paddling, snorkeling, scuba diving, etc. are optional add-ons and the level of fitness requires varies according to the activity chosen.

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11 Ways to Find a Cheap Cruise: The Secrets of Cruise Discounts in 2024

By Tamara Hinson

May 31, 2024

Bag a shoulder season deal

In travel, shoulder season is the period between peak season and low season, and you’ll find it in cruising, too. Cruise lines don’t only offer consistently lower prices during shoulder season sailings—they’ll typically offer regular flash sales during these times, too. 

“Keep an eye out for flash sales during shoulder seasons,” says Elaine Warren, founder of specialist cruise travel agency FamilyCruiseCompanion.com . “Cruise lines are desperate to fill ships during these times. I've found some real steals by being ready to book as soon as I see a great offer pop up.” 

Bear in mind that different regions have different shoulder seasons. In Alaska, for example, the main shoulder seasons are April and early May, and then at the end of summer between September and mid-October. Europe’s shoulder seasons are April and May, and then again in September to November. For Caribbean cruises, it’s May, June, and July and then in December, January, and March.

Try to book at least six months in advance 

Passionate cruisers Don and Heidi Bucolo, founders of top cruise blog EatSleepCruise.com , say that advance booking can be a key to great deals. 

“Our advice is to book cruises between 6 and 12 months in advance. Typically, cruise prices tend to go up closer to the sail date, especially for newer ships or for more desirable travel dates.”

Consider repositioning cruises 

Repositioning cruises are one-way sailings during which ships relocate from one region to another, like when they switch between summer Europe sailings to a winter Caribbean schedule. Because these voyages typically cross entire oceans, they’re a great way to see multiple regions. 

You’ll need to brush up on shoulder seasons to find the best deals. For example, autumn is when ships based in the Mediterranean are most likely to head to the Caribbean’s sunnier shores, while spring is when ships based in the Middle East often reposition to the Mediterranean. But when you find a good repositioning run the savings can be huge.  

“Repositioning cruises can be 50% cheaper than regular sailings, offering great value and the chance to discover destinations many travelers overlook,” says Jeremy Clubb, founder of Antarctica Cruises .

Consider an itinerary with fewer port days 

On the itinerary of the cruise you’re considering, pay extra attention to the number of in-port days and the number of sea days. Doing so can help make your money go further while also making sure you get the most out of your sailing.  

“I always try to weigh up port days versus sea days based on the [client’s] interests and budget,” says travel advisor Elaine Warren, founder of FamilyCruiseCompanion.com . “Extra time on board means fewer shore excursions, and excursion costs can really add up over a week.”

Leverage your loyalty

If you’re considering booking with a cruise line you’ve sailed with before, ask for a loyalty discount. Remember that it always pays to ask. "Even if your preferred cruise line doesn’t explicitly promote loyalty discounts, there’s absolutely no harm in asking for one,” says Jeremy Clubb at Antarctica Cruises . “More often than not, you’ll be successful because cruise lines prefer to incentivize repeat business rather than spend more attracting new customers.”

Book your next cruise while you’re still aboard

When you’re still on a cruise, you’ll almost always be able to get a discount off future sailings on the same cruise line, and many ships have special booking desks set up expressly to handle new reservations. Some lines will also give you onboard credits to use for expenses on your next voyage. So if you’re planning another vacation with the same cruise line, don’t wait until you’re on dry land.

Ask about special discounts

You may not know that many cruise lines offer fixed discounts to shareholders, military personnel, senior citizens, and members of the armed forces. And the reason you may not know is they’re usually poorly advertised, and when they are, details are often vague at best. 

For example, Royal Caribbean promotes discounts for anyone aged 55 and over ( RoyalCaribbean.com ) but only on selected cruises, while Cunard touts onboard credit offers to members of the armed forces ( Cunard.com/en-us/military ). Norwegian Cruise Line gets bonus points for clearly laying out its discounts for shareholders on a dedicated page ( NCLhltd.com ) although there’s no information relating to other discounts.

It’s important to bear in mind that cruise lines won’t necessarily shout about available discounts—if you don’t ask, you won’t get them.

Don’t hold out for last-minute bargains 

These days, waiting for last-minute cruise discounts can end up costing you more. 

“While cruise lines once used last-minute reductions to fill their ships, there’s not currently any need for them,” says Chris Owen, founder of ChrisCruises.com ). “This is because, currently, post-pandemic, there’s no need as there’s still this huge pent-up demand.”

Hold off booking that expedition cruise

If you dream of exploring Antarctica or gawping at the Galapagos’ sea lions but you’re put off by the high prices associated with this type of cruise, don’t despair. Cruise lines are constructing an ever-growing number of expedition-style ships serving these destinations, and as availability to these regions increases with time, prices are likely to fall. 

“More cruise lines are starting to offer expedition voyages,” say Don and Heidi at EatSleepCruise.com . “In the coming years, there will be an increase in the number of cruises being offered to places once considered remote—destinations like Antarctica, the Arctic Circle and the Galapagos are all becoming more accessible.”

Consider older ships

Only looking at new ships could cost you dearly, and the rewards aren’t necessarily worth it.

 “Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas , the world's largest cruise ship, has cruise fares which are close to double what you might pay for similar sailings on other megaships from the brand's older Oasis-class ships, which were once record-breaking ships and still have loads of onboard attractions and amenities,” says the team behind  EatSleepCruise.com . “To get the most value for your money, we’d suggest looking at ships which are between 5 and 7 years old. These will still offer some of the best on-board options in terms of restaurants, entertainment, and nightlife but will be considerably cheaper than ships which are 1 or 2 years old.”

Use a trusted travel advisor

As tempting as it might be to go it alone, booking through a travel agency—ideally, one specializing in cruises—will frequently result in the best deals. Because they deal with the cruise lines often, travel advisors may know how to find the best discounts, too. 

“Travel advisors can access the best perks, like on-board credit and free gratuities, as well as other promotions in addition to the deals the cruise line might be offering at that time,” say Don and Heidi of EatSleepCruise.com . “Additionally, they’ll be able to help with any issues that may arise before or during your trip.”

If you know the specific line and departure date you want to take but don’t know a good travel agent to book it with,  CruiseCompete.com , which has been running since 2003, allows travelers to obtain free price quotes from multiple travel agents at the same time. Many of them will throw in upgrades or onboard credits to earn your business.

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Juneau  | Local Government  | Tourism

With cruise tourism booming, Juneau has negotiated a limit on how many passengers can come off ships

May 31, 2024 by Clarise Larson, KTOO

After a record-breaking boom in cruise ship tourism following the COVID-19 pandemic, city leaders in Juneau have been publicly considering if — and how — they can limit that growth in the coming years. 

Now they’ve negotiated an agreement with cruise lines that they believe does just that. Starting in 2026, Juneau will have a cap on the number of daily passengers that come off cruise ships: 16,000 people on most days and 12,000 people on Saturdays. Currently, Juneau can see up to 21,000 visitors on its busiest days. 

Juneau’s Visitor Industry Director Alix Pierce said the agreement was finalized Friday. She called it groundbreaking.

“This has been a hard-fought agreement for the city, and it is a huge win for the city,” she said. “It is exactly what I wanted out of this, and I’m extremely happy that we’re here.”

Earlier this month, the Juneau Assembly approved the limits. 

Last year, a record-breaking 1.6 million passengers visited Juneau, with about the same expected this year and next. Pierce said the new agreement should keep the annual passenger count at that same level. 

She said that will be key in curbing future growth while also protecting local businesses that rely on the industry.

“This was an effort to kind of thread the needle and balance the competing voices that we hear in our roles as public officials trying to work through this,” Pierce said. 

But some residents in Juneau, like Karla Hart, said they are less than impressed. Hart is a longtime advocate who often criticizes the growth of tourism in Juneau and the effects it has on the people who live here year-round. 

“The pretense that it’s doing anything to address the real issues of the community is just absurd. It’s not even worth the paper it’s written, so it’s totally worthless,” she said. 

Hart said the agreement — and other agreements the city has done in the past to mitigate the impacts of the industry —  are all for show. 

“They’re not doing anything that really protects the community as a whole,” she said.

Because of that, she and other residents have been looking for ways to limit tourism without necessarily getting the consent of cruise lines. 

Hart and four other residents are trying to get a question on the local ballot this October asking whether Juneau should ban all large cruise ships on Saturdays. So far, she said they’ve collected enough signatures to get it on the ballot, but the city clerk is still verifying them. 

“I think that’s our best immediate vehicle to get word to the industry and to the city leaders, that the community wants some relief from this industry,” she said. 

If the “ship-free Saturdays” ballot initiative gets passed by voters, that could go into effect as soon as next year.

But Pierce has long said negotiations are better than trying to enforce regulations. That’s because other communities have tried to do that and wound up in court.  

And the cruise industry has sued Juneau in the past. A lawsuit over how the city spends the money it earns from passenger fees was settled in 2019, with both parties agreeing to work together to settle disputes outside of court.

“It’s not that the city is beholden to the cruise industry or anything like that. And I do hear that narrative sometimes,” Pierce said. “It’s more, it’s always a lot easier to solve a problem with somebody you have a positive relationship with, than somebody who you’re in a big, legal fight with all the time.”

Pierce said there could be a lot of unknown implications to passing a ballot initiative like this one — both legally and logistically. And she also doesn’t know how it might affect the new agreement. 

“There was a ballot measure that limited cruise ships that passed in Bar Harbor, Maine, and there are lawsuits on top of lawsuits on top of injunctions on top of different trading legal barbs, and the city spent a lot of money on legal fees,” she said. “So I think there would be a lot of legal activity after a ballot initiative passed.”

The new agreement means once the limits go into effect in 2026, they will remain in place in perpetuity. But the city and cruise lines also agreed to meet annually, and changes can be made during those discussions. 

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