trip to alaska from vancouver

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Alaska Cruises from Vancouver

Take in the scenic inside passage on a roundtrip alaska cruise from vancouver.

Uncover treasures in the Great Land on an Alaska cruise from Vancouver. Relive Gold Rush history, experience Native Alaskan culture and come face-to-face with some of Mother Nature’s greatest masterpieces. On a roundtrip Inside Passage cruise, enjoy quicker access to Alaska while also exploring the friendly ports of British Columbia.

Itinerary Ports

When you cruise to Alaska from Vancouver, encounter unique ports of call that are rich in history, culture and natural beauty.

• Endicott Arm
• Glacier Bay National Park
• Hubbard Glacier
• Icy Strait Point

Endicott Arm is a jewel in Alaska’s crown. This 30-mile waterway is surrounded by cliffs, valleys and dozens of waterfalls. Icebergs and harbor seals decorate the water below while Dawes Glacier soars into the sky above. Revel in the beauty of Mother Nature’s masterpiece and listen closely as the scenery whispers secrets of times long ago during your cruise to Alaska.

When you cruise to Alaska with Princess, sail through one of the most iconic locations in the Great Land — Glacier Bay National Park. Listen to Margerie Glacier’s signature crack and boom rumble across the waves. Bring binoculars and scan both the shore and the waves for wildlife like brown bears and migrating whales while Park Rangers teach you the history and geology of the park.

Located between the Chilkat River and the Lynn Canal, Haines is the home of the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, where as many as 4,000 bald eagles gather each fall to feast on spawning salmon along the river. As many as 80 have been seen perched in a single tree and more than a hundred may be captured within the frame of a single photograph.

The largest tidewater glacier in North America, Hubbard Glacier has been moving its mass towards the ocean at a rate faster than most of its kind. Towering above the water over 30 stories, the glacier often calves 100-foot chunks of ice into the ocean. What lies beneath the waves is almost as impressive, where ice plunges 1,200 feet beneath the surface. See it for yourself on an Alaska cruise with Princess.

Icy Strait Point is home to the remote Tlingit village of Hoonah, home to fewer than 800 people and a deep Native history. The nearby Spasski River Valley holds one of the world’s largest populations of brown bears, who are often found hunting for salmon in the rivers. Zipline over the wilderness, watch a tribal dance or kayak in coastal waters to see the wildlife up close during your Alaska cruise vacation.

Juneau is unlike any other city in the United States. With no roads connecting it to the rest of Alaska or North America, it is truly a protected destination. Founded as a gold mining town and now the state’s capital, Juneau has one foot in history and one in the future. Embark on a whale watching tour, or sail past Mendenhall Glacier on an Alaska cruise.

Known for its timber, Ketchikan hosts the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, where athletes throw, race and chop their way to victory. Explore one of the world’s oldest collection of totem poles at the Totem Pole Heritage Center, or stroll along Creek Street. As the salmon capital of the world, Ketchikan’s waters make for incredible fishing. Cast your rod into a sea of opportunity on a cruise to Alaska.

On an Alaska cruise, take your pick of attractions in the port of Sitka. See how bald eagles and local bird populations receive first-class treatment at the Alaska Raptor Center. Encounter wildlife in their natural habitat at the Fortress of the Bear. Or experience the culture of Russian Alaska on a visit to St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Church, and relive Native history at the Sheldon Jackson Museum.

Once the gateway to Alaska's Gold Rush, Skagway strikes a dramatic image nestled between the water's edge and mountains. Follow in the footsteps of miners with a ride on a scenic train along the famous White Pass route through coastal mountains. During your Alaska cruise, explore the Yukon's pristine wilderness, pan for gold with professionals or meet sled dog puppies in training.

Canada's third largest city feels like a North American metropolis mixed with a small European town. Explore the rainforest within Vancouver, B.C. — Stanley Park — and visit the continent's second largest Chinatown during your Alaska cruise vacation. Soar above the city's lush natural environment in a sky gondola for panoramic views, or get up close to the local sea life at the Vancouver Aquarium.

Why Choose This Itinerary?

Discover the top reasons to cruise to Alaska from Vancouver.

• Glacier Viewing  — Alaska’s glaciers were meant to be admired. That’s why every Alaska cruise from Vancouver includes at least one glacier viewing experience to either Glacier Bay National Park or Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier.
• Three Historic Ports of Call  — Fish for salmon in Ketchikan, pan for gold in Skagway or fly over snow-capped mountains in Juneau. Relive Alaska’s greatest tales in these spirited ports of call on an Inside Passage cruise.
• Convenient Roundtrip Air Travel  — On a roundtrip cruise to Alaska from Vancouver, enjoy easier travels to and from your cruise vacation with the opportunity for even more adventure before you set sail or after your trip ends.
• A Visit to Vancouver  — From Chinatown to Stanley Park, uncover old-world history amidst new-age living in Vancouver before or after your Alaska cruise.

Ships on this Itinerary

Our Princess fleet includes ships that range from our smaller vessels to large ships. From a balcony stateroom, marvel at the glaciers passing by before enjoying local seafood in one of our many eateries during your Alaska cruise.

Caribbean Princess®

Coral Princess®

Grand Princess®

Ruby Princess®

Sapphire Princess®

Alaska Cruise Experience

We have a 50-year legacy of sharing the best places and experiences with our guests. On an Alaska cruise, unpack once and explore glaciers, wildlife and national parks.

Alaska Glaciers

One of the biggest reasons people visit

Glaciers feel alive. They groan, creak and shudder on their march to the sea, punctuated by the booms and crashes of "white thunder" — a sound that echoes across the water when ice calves into the ocean below. On an Alaska cruise, let us show you Glacier Bay National Park — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier, College Fjord or Hubbard Glacier.

Alaska Wildlife

Untamed, just like Alaska

Alaska is home to a rich array of wildlife, from the famous Big Five animals that live in Denali National Park — grizzly bears, wolves, moose, Dall sheep and caribou — to bald eagles and humpback whales that migrate through the Inside Passage. On a cruise to Alaska, live a nature lover's dream in the land where guests can catch postcard-worthy sights.

Alaska Mountains & National Parks

National treasures

With national parks and four of North America’s tallest mountains, Alaska’s wilderness has been preserved for generations. Denali National Park is larger than Vermont and home to the highest peak on the continent. Meanwhile, Glacier Bay National Park has over 2,000 square miles of glacial coverage. Along with Wrangell-St. Elias and Kenai Fjords, a world of natural wonders awaits on an Alaska cruise or cruisetour.

Alaska excursions

Don't just visit this famous land, live it on Alaska excursions. Rush across the snow on a dog sled with a professional musher, fly fish for salmon in fresh rivers and soar over miles of glacial tundra in a helicopter. Watch migrating humpback whales from the deck of a catamaran or Native craftsman carve a traditional totem pole, and expand your Alaska cruise experience.

Alaska Cruise Onboard Experience

Our award-winning North to Alaska program brings local personalities, culture and cuisine on board and ashore to immerse you in all things Alaska during your cruise to the Great Land.

Alaska Seafood

Fresh and bountiful, like Alaska itself

Alaska's seafood is famous, and we bring the best to you with locally inspired dishes from the state’s best eateries. With Cook My Catch excursions, catch your own salmon or halibut with the help of a local expert, and in the evening our talented chefs will prepare your haul for your dinner — a Princess exclusive. From ship to shore, the best is at your fingertips on our Alaska cruises.

Meet Local Alaskans

Real Alaska from local Alaskans

Alaskans are inviting people who love to share what makes their state unique. Watch lumberjacks in action, learn from Glacier Bay National Park rangers and craft with a Native totem pole carver. Or listen to harrowing Tales from the Deadliest Catch fishermen and climbers who have summited Denali during your Alaska cruise.

Unique Alaska Cruise Experiences

Great experiences from the great land

Travel back in time and pan for gold like a prospector during the Gold Rush or see the Northern Lights in the planetarium. At the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge, explore our treehouse and enjoy unmatched views of Denali. Or savor tree-inspired bites at our very own Sappy Hour. Dive deeper into what makes the Great Land special on your cruise to Alaska.

Alaska Cruise Articles and Videos

Read about Alaska’s must-see attractions, signature cuisine, and how to prepare for a wild adventure into the heart of The Great Land.

Discover Alaska with Princess in 2024-2025

The best cruise line in Alaska just keeps getting better! From top-rated cruises that visit Glacier Bay National Park to scenic rail travel and exclusive Princess lodges, you will find a seamless Alaska experience with Princess.

Best Dishes to Try on Your Alaska Cruise

No one does seafood quite like Alaska—which is why we brought the best of the Great Land on board, so you can experience it all with Princess.

Top Alaska Cruise Destinations

From exploring Denali National Park to fishing for salmon in Anchorage, discover the top Alaska destinations on a Princess cruise.

Inside Passage Alaska Cruise

From exploring historic gold mines to venturing in the footsteps of early explorers, learn about Alaska’s Inside Passage and discover the wonders awaiting you.

Alaska Ports of Call

From the sweeping mountains of Juneau to the fish-bearing seas of Ketchikan, discover our Alaska cruise ports and set sail into the adventures that await you.

What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise

Check out our helpful checklist so that you know exactly what to pack for an Alaska cruise with Princess.

Travel, Airfare, & Hotels: Let Princess Get You There

Princess EZair® Flights

Stress-free airfare

Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airlines, allow you to modify your flight up to 45 days prior with no penalty and protect you if your flight is late or canceled.

EZair flight quotes are available on our cruise search result details pages.

Airplane to Ship Transfer

We get you where you need to go

Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

Stay longer and relax

Extend your cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling and the services of the representative.

Need help planning?

Princess Cruise Vacation Planners are a dedicated resource to help you every step of the way through the planning process of your cruise vacation. And the best part is, they are absolutely FREE!

Cruise deals & promotions

Find our top sales, deals, partnerships and promotions for our destinations all in one place. We run promotions throughout the year and sometimes run sweepstakes where you could win prizes!

#PrincessCruises Alaska Connection

See Alaska through our guests' eyes.

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Canada Alaska Tours & Trips from Vancouver

An adventure starting in Vancouver is a great way to see Canada Alaska. We have 14 tours that range from 13 days up to 96 days. The most popular time for tours from Vancouver is August, which has the most tour departures.

14 Canada Alaska tours from Vancouver with 662 reviews

• Ocean Cruise
• Coach / Bus

Spirit of the Rockies with Alaska Cruise

• In-depth Cultural

The Canadian Rockies with Alaska Cruise

Excellent tour to enjoy nature and Canadian culture without missing the Alaska scent. Highly recommended to get in touch with the North West of the continent.

Spectacular Canadian Rockies (Base, 17 Days)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Spectacular Canadian Rockies (16 Days, Spectacular Canadian Rockies Inside Cabin)

• Sightseeing

Inside Passage, Bears & Aleutian Islands | Southbound (MS Roald Amundsen)

The Ultimate Bucket List Expedition Cruise | Pole to Pole Adventure

Inside Passage, Bears & Aleutian Islands | Northbound

Alaska and British Columbia – Inside Passage, Bears and Aleutian Islands (Northbound)

• Northern Lights

Intimate Rockies, Northern Lights and Alaska Cruise Vancouver Return (2024)

Alaska and British Columbia—Inside Passage, Bears and Aleutian Islands (Northbound)

Inside Passage, Bears & Aleutian Islands | Southbound (MS Fridtjof Nansen)

Wilderness, Glaciers & Culture | Northbound (from Vancouver to Anchorage)

In the Wake of the Great Explorers | Eastbound

Alaskan Adventure Vancouver to Fairbanks (2024)

Tours starting from vancouver.

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Round Trip Alaska Cruise Vancouver

Savor Vancouver's urban delights. Revel in Alaska's natural wonders.

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• Round Trip Alaska Cruise from Vancouver

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Round Trip Alaska Cruises from Vancouver

Ringed by water and bordered mountains, the western Canadian city of Vancouver is somehow both cosmopolitan and outdoorsy. The urban gem has also become a renowned filming location, earning it the nickname "Hollywood North." It makes an enjoyable stepping off point for cruises bound for Alaska.

The cruise terminal within the Canada Place event center is the roundtrip Vancouver-to-Alaska homeport for Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Holland America Line. Located on the edge of downtown Vancouver, the beautifully designed multipurpose facility is known for its distinctive white sail rooftop.

Canada Place is far more than a transit hub. It's a gathering place as well, with walking trails, weekly events, and cultural exhibits drawing both visitors and locals. In these ways, it's quite representative of Vancouver as a whole. The busy, vibrant city has plenty of attractions to fill a few days pre- or post-cruise. And for those who can only spend a few hours between cruise and airport, Gastown, a lively historical neighborhood with trendy shops and eateries, and the beautiful Stanley Park, are each within a 20-minute walk of the terminal.

Roundtrip Alaska cruises depart Vancouver Harbor in late afternoon, affording passengers spectacular city skyline views as they sail underneath Lions Gate Bridge and into the Strait of Georgia. The first full day at sea is spent cruising among splendid fjords within the Inside Passage. Cruise lines typically take shore days in Ketchikan, Juneau, and either the historical goldrush town of Skagway or the quieter Icy Strait. In between ports of call, most ships spend a full day glacier viewing in places like Disenchantment Bay, Glacier Bay, or Tracy Arm. Cruisers return to Vancouver via Queen Charlotte Sound and Johnstone Strait.

Special services for cruise passengers include short-term baggage storage. There are many options for ground transportation, ranging from rental cars (there are in-terminal kiosks) to convenient airport and hotel transfers, taxis, and charters. Vancouver also has an affordable public transportation network. Direct rapid transit to the airport is provided by the SkyTrain Canada Line.

Celebrity Inside Passage with Hubbard Glacier

Begin and end in Vancouver, and in between experience the best of Alaska cruising on this seven-day Celebrity route. Highlights include Icy Strait and Hubbard Glacier. Learn More >

Holland Inside Passage with Glacier Bay

Sail fjords once carved by vast glaciers, visit a Native Alaskan village and bustling port towns, and explore Alaska's history on this Holland America cruise running roundtrip from Vancouver. Learn More >

RCCL Inside Passage with Tracy Arm Fjord

Revel in Royal Caribbean's lively onboard activities in between port calls in Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway on this seven-day roundtrip cruise from Vancouver. Learn More >

Road Trip from Vancouver to Anchorage, Alaska

Alaska will enchant anyone looking to reconnect with nature with its unique climate and stunning natural beauty. This road trip to Anchorage, Alaska from Vancouver will take you through the snow-topped Canadian Rockies and beautiful Jasper National Park.

The 2,390-mile road trip from Vancouver to Anchorage, Alaska will take around 42 hours to complete. Along the route, you'll get to visit Kamloops, Jasper National Park, Whitehorse, Beaver Creek, Whistler, Kelowna, Banff, Lake Louise, and Mukluk Land

Follow the world-famous Alaska Highway to Anchorage, where you can enjoy nineteen hours a day of sunshine as well as tons of outdoor activities in the summer, spring and fall. Read on to find out more about this epic adventure of a lifetime.

How far is Anchorage, Alaska from Vancouver, and how long will the road trip take?

The route from Vancouver to Anchorage covers 2,390 miles of uninterrupted wilderness. It will take you 42 hours of direct driving. You'll be able to stop in several unique cities, including Kamloops, BC and Beaver Creek, with options to stop in Banff, Kelowna and Whistler.

We recommend taking 6-7 days to complete this trip. Having these stopovers will give you time to explore the unparalleled natural landscapes and small towns along the way.

Best road trip route from Vancouver to Anchorage, Alaska

The most direct route from Vancouver to Anchorage, Alaska, takes you into the Canadian Rockies that extend through parts of Alberta, Northern British Columbia, and the Yukon.

You'll then pass the Canada-US border into Alaska, where you'll enter the Tanana Valley State Forest ahead of reaching Anchorage. To find out how to drive from the US to Alaska, check out our detailed guide .

There are also several detours you can choose along the way. The most memorable would be a stop in Haines, where you can take a ferry to Juneau, Alaska's capital , which is unreachable by car. Please see our article on this topic for more information.

There are also options to take cruises from Anchorage to Juneau, which allows you the opportunity to explore the Alaska coastline.

Road trip route from Vancouver to Anchorage, Alaska

From Vancouver, head east on BC-1 to the beautiful riverside town of Hope, BC. From here, drive northeast into the outdoor paradise of Kamloops, BC.

After taking in nature and visiting the BC Wildlife Park, head northeast into the Canadian Rockies. Continue on into Jasper National Park to experience one of Canada's most famous hubs for outdoor adventure.

Follow the wild and beautiful Athabasca River into the town of Entrance. From here, you'll veer north along the endless forests of western Alberta.

Follow the never-ending open skies and wilderness along BC-97. Continue on into the Canadian province of Yukon, famous for its Native American culture and wide-open wilderness.

Head west into the lovely town of Beaver Creek, BC. From here, make your way into Alaska and head into the town of Tok and visit the charming theme park, Mukluk Land, before driving south into Anchorage.

Best places to stop between Vancouver and Anchorage, Alaska

There are so many places along the way to experience. You'll want to take your time and take in all the natural wonders and vast empty spaces on your way to Alaska. Below, we included a few of our favorite stopovers for you to enjoy.

Admire the lakeside mountain vistas in Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park's 4,248 square miles of rugged beauty may be hard to take in with just a few hours. We recommend making it an overnight stop, so you have time to explore all the natural scenery it has to offer.

The Jasper National Park of Canada is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, encompassing gigantic, forested mountains and an abundance of wildlife and vast wilderness.

Jasper's main draw is the National Park it sits within, so there is ample opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, horseback riding, biking, climbing, canoeing, swimming and taking sightseeing tours (by air, water and land).

While you're in Jasper, check out the Jasper Skytram. It's Canada's highest and longest sky tram and is the perfect way to get the best views of the mountainous region. For space fanatics, visit the Jasper Planetarium, the best way to enjoy Jasper's renowned star-and aurora borealis-filled night skies.

While in Jasper, we recommend staying at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. The beautiful lodge sits on the shores of Beauvert Lake, surrounded by the Canadian Rocky Mountains.

After your drive you can wind down in the swimming pool, golf course, spa, and 8 on-site restaurants. From here, take a stroll on the shores of Lake Beauvert, one of the most tranquil and photogenic lakes in Canada. When you leave, just hop on Alberta Highway 16, which will take you right back on the route.

Explore the endless wilderness of Whitehorse

Whitehorse is the capital of the Yukon territories and one of the last larger cities along this route before crossing into the US. With its cultural attractions, restaurants, and stores, it's a great stopover before heading into Alaska.

Founded during the Klondike Gold Rush, Whitehorse is a small and unique city that offers lots of interesting cultural attractions and ample opportunities for nature exploration.

Catch the Northern Lights or explore one of several museums before enjoying a hot spring soak or a canyon hike.

While in Whitehorse stay at the fabulous Raven Inn Whitehorse . The 4-star, family-owned hotel is located downtown and has a rail-themed bar and lounge on-site. The hotel also has an outdoor hot pool, where you can relax in after a long drive.

Nearby are the Takhini Hot Springs, known for being the best place in town to relax and unwind in nature. Other nearby sights include the SS Klondike National Historic Site, a restored sternwheeler dating back to 1936, and the Yukon Wildlife Preserve, where wild moose, elk, and bison roam.

Where to stay when you reach Anchorage, Alaska

Once you arrive in Anchorage, Alaska, we recommend staying at The Hotel Captain Cook . This luxury hotel downtown is just minutes away from the Anchorage Museum, Cook Inlet, and many parks and restaurants.

Inside there's a fitness room, retail stores, and on-site dining options in case you're too tired to go out. To top it all off are the expansive views of the Chugach Mountains and Cook Inlet in some rooms.

This stunning hotel is located in the close vicinity of the Anchorage Museum and Elderberry Park. So, when you wish to venture out and explore, you will have the city's famous attractions at your doorstep.

Things to see on a road trip from Vancouver to Anchorage, Alaska

Packed with postcard-worthy views, frontier landmarks, and chances to see the great wildlife of North America, this is truly the best road trip for an outdoor lover. To make your trip easier, we've included some must-see stops along the way.

• Whistler, BC - This world-renowned winter sports village also comes alive during the summer, when travelers can enjoy fine dining, festivals, and outdoor sports such as golf, zip lining and biking. Adds several hours to the route but well worth it!
• Kelowna, BC - With an addition of a few hours to your route, you can discover gorgeous Kelowna, celebrated for its natural beauty and as being home to over 20 local vineyards.
• BC Wildlife Park - Located just outside of Kamloops, the BC Wildlife Park is a large zoo and animal rehabilitation center with a focus on animals native to the area.
• Banff, Alberta - This resort town in Banff National Park is a year-round destination because of the breathtaking mountains that surround it. It will add several hours to the route, but well worth it in the end.
• Lake Louise - Between Banff National Park and Jasper National Park, you'll find this iconic turquoise and glacier-fed lake overlooked by a stunning chateau. One of, if not the most, well-known lakes in this part of Canada!
• Beaver Boardwalk - Nestled in the town of Hinton, AB, this boardwalk offers views of Canada's national animal, the beaver.
• Dawson Creek Art Gallery - This small museum housed in a renovated annex of a prairie grain elevator boasts exhibits and a gift shop.
• Fort Nelson Heritage Museum - Located along the world-famous Alaska highway, the Fort Nelson Heritage Museum is home to a large collection of WWII vehicles and equipment.
• Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park - These hot springs are surrounded by a stunning pine-forest park and are open from 7am to 11pm every day.
• George Johnson Museum - Intimate museum with a beautiful Indigenous-art façade, housing indoor as well as outdoor exhibits, including a collection of vintage vehicles.
• MacBride Museum of Yukon History - Featuring exhibits exploring Yukon's natural, social, economic, and industrial history. This local museum is a must-visit in Whitehorse.
• Haines, AK - Add a few hours to your route and discover this small town that's known for its many cultural attractions, including the world's only Hammer Museum, the Southeast Alaska State Fair, and is host to the largest congregations of bald eagles in the world.
• Kluane Lake - This large lake close to the US-Canada border boasts rocky beaches, tons of wildlife, gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains and a variety of trails and campsites.
• Mukluk Land - One of Alaska's most interesting attractions, Mukluk Land and the adjacent Alaskana Museum offer signature fair attractions like bouncy houses and mini golf, as well as curious exhibits. Only operates between June and August!

Best time to go on a road trip from Vancouver to Anchorage, Alaska

Because this destination is so far north, there are a lot of things to keep in mind when planning your trip to Anchorage. The primary tourism season is during the summer, as this is when Alaska enjoys an average of 19 hours of sun every day.

Between November and January, residents won't see any sunlight. If interested in enjoying snow sports, then winter is the best time to visit; otherwise, travelers will get the most out of their experience if visiting during the peak season (June-August) and the shoulder seasons (March to May, August to November).

Tourism is at its peak during the summer in Anchorage, as this is typically when you'll find the best weather in this region. Summer temperatures range between the mid-40s and the low-70s Fahrenheit, so pack a sweater and rain jacket for the occasional rain that you may encounter.

Winters in Anchorage can be very snowy. There are also few tourists visiting during these months, so prices will be cheaper. Temperatures range between 13 degrees and 24 degrees Fahrenheit but can drop up to -10 Fahrenheit.

Spring and fall are the tourism shoulder seasons and are wonderful times to visit Anchorage. Spring temperatures average between 10- and 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Fall is much shorter, with temperatures ranging between the low-20s and high-50s.

Festivities happen year-round in Anchorage. In winter, the annual Folk Fest, International Film Fest, and Alaska Beer Week pull in the crowds, and for good reason. In the spring, enjoy the Fur Rendezvous and the Anchorage Run Fest if you want to take in a celebratory vibe. Summer sees large crowds of the Summer Solstice Festival, Pride Fest, Girdwood Forest Fair, Independence Day, and the Bear Paw Festival.

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See the wilds of a great frontier

Immerse yourself in Tlingit culture and experience the outpost atmosphere that prevails in charming, mountain-ringed seaside towns. Sail a pristine wilderness of misty fjords, lush forests and gleaming walls of ice, pan for gold like prospectors of old, and hear tales of a region where a Wild West spirit still feels very much alive. Ports and order of ports are subject to change. Refer to the Dates & Pricing itinerary for specific details by departure date.

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More days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city, or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting cities. Pre & Post Cruise Extensions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.

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Post: Natural Alaska

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• - Glaciers - Rivers of Ice

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A Guide to The Best Cruise From Vancouver to Alaska

by Contractor | Nov 12, 2020 | resources , Travel Tips | 0 comments

Alaska has a rugged beauty with breathtaking natural views, and if you are looking to sail into the most northern state, you may be wondering what the best cruise from Vancouver to Alaska is. Almost every major cruise line has a presence in the state, so deciding which one is right for you can depend on a few factors.

The best Alaskan cruise will depend on what kind of experience you want. There are cruise lines that are small and intimate, while some advertise luxury and opulence. Overall though, the highest-rated cruise from multiple sources is the Regent Seven Seas.

Since Alaska has become such a popular cruise destination, you can expect to see many options when it comes time to purchase a ticket.  To better help guide your choice, figure out what you are looking for in a cruise experience; this will help you determine what type of cruise you should take.

What are The Best Cruise Options from Vancouver to Alaska?

With all the choices there are for cruises, you will, of course, be curious as to which one is best. Cruises offer much more to guests than just a ship; they offer a full experience, including dining, leisure activities, and outdoor excursions. They also cater to different clientele.

Some focus on a couple’s experience while some are more family-friendly, and some can even provide a more authentic Alaska adventure with loads of hiking and camping. Explore what the ship has to offer onboard and the itinerary of the trip to better plan your journey up north.

With that being said, below is a list of a few top-rated options.

Regent Seven Seas Mariner

This cruise line is undoubtedly one of the more luxurious ships traveling through the Inside Passage. Debuting in 2001, this modern cruise line holds about 700 passengers and boasts a crew to passenger ratio of 1:1. This means that customer service is unparalleled aboard the vessel.

The cruise ship is also home to some extravagant amenities. This line is known for its all-suite and all-balcony rooms and is frequently ranked high for their luxury accommodations.

The ship also offers guests excellent food options with seven distinct dining areas to choose from. Most notably, you will find chefs from the world-famous Le Cordon Bleu Academy of French cuisine.

The ship offers guests catered experiences like cooking demonstrations and has a host of relaxing areas to choose from during the day. At night be regaled by the fantastic shows in the theater or have fun in one of the ship’s casino rooms.

All this luxury does come with a price tag; fares start at around $6,500.

Celebrity Solstice

A bit less intimate than the Regent ship, the Celebrity Solstice has a passenger load of around 2,850. What it offers guests is an experience catered to couples. But that certainly doesn’t mean it lacks the fun of other ships; in combination with the excellent restaurants and a spa, there are indoor pools and water slides too.

Also, most staterooms have verandas, which, if you are sailing the picturesque scenery of Alaska, are almost necessary. The ship has even gone under a recent renovation, so expect some spruced up interior design and more amenities for guests.

Fares for a tip on the Solstice start at around $3,300.

Disney Wonder

When it comes to family fun, a Disney Cruise really can’t be beaten. The worldwide entertainment company took to the seas in 1996 and has been setting the bar ever since. The 2,713 passenger liner offers guests a whole range of entertainment options and amenities.

The ship offers ten family areas, six clubs catered to kids, and seven areas only for adults. The Disney Wonder has six unique dining areas for guests and even an adults-only restaurant.

As you would expect from Disney, the staterooms are designed with families in mind. You will also be plunged into the world of wonder with a schedule packed with character meet and greets and even an extravagant live show based on Frozen.

Fares for the Disney adventure start at around $3,500.

What are The Types of Cruises You Can Find in The Area?

With all options, you may be curious if there is a type of cruise better suited for you.

Here are a few types of cruises that are offered in the area:

• Mainstream – These are the big names that are staples in the Alaskan cruise game. Norwegian, Celebrity, and Holland America offer the classic cruise experience in the Alaskan waterways.
• Small Ship – If you are looking for more action and time ashore, then a small ship experience is right up your alley. These ships are smaller and offer less in terms of amenities but provide excellent on-shore activities.
• Luxury – If style is the name of the game, you can’t go wrong with a luxury cruise experience. The Regent Seven Seas and Viking lines are best for this type of cruise.

What are The Best Itineraries?

When it comes to cruising in Alaska, you are going to see two main itineraries. Both are going to offer some excellent views and exciting ports of call. Whichever one you intend to choose, you can rest assured you will get to see a lot of the beauty the state has to offer.

The Inside Passage

This trip is by and large the most popular route. The inside passage is an ice-carved track that hugs Canada’s west coast and offers guests access to several iconic ports of call. This famous passage is home to some stellar natural sights.

The trip can offer more than just views and be an excellent experience for outdoor and sports enthusiasts. Relax ship side as you breeze through some famous natural wonders like the Johnstone Strait and Misty Fjords National Monument.

One thing that is great about the inside passage is that you are in relatively calm water. If sea-sickness is a worry, this trip may be right for you.

The Gulf Passage

This trip allows you to explore some of the great offerings of the Inside Passage, like their ports of call, while including an open sea excursion where the views are impeccable. This scenic cruising portion of the trip will take you to see some of the most iconic natural wonders Alaska has to offer. These are the Glacier National Park or the Hubbard Glacier.

This trip is almost always a one-way trip, and most of the offerings for this itinerary are around seven days.

If you intend to travel in the late summer, keep in mind that the Gulf of Alaska can have some rough seas. This just means if you are particularly prone to seasickness, maybe the inside passage is more your style.

What are The Best Ports of Call to Check Out?

Alaska isn’t just about scenic sights and outdoor wonders; the great state also has some great ports of call to check out:

• Skagway – If plunging yourself in Alaska’s rich gold rush history is your cup of tea, Skagway is a must-visit.
• Juneau – Alaska’s capital, this city is only accessible from the sea and is a great place to enjoy some of the area’s great outdoor activities.
• Sitka – This working town has more to offer tourists than just the sights. Enjoy a glimpse into Alaska’s rich Russian heritage here.

These are just a few must-sees in the area. Chances are that they are already on your itinerary.

Alaska can offer some great cruise options for any type of guest. If you are looking for a relaxing luxury experience or are more attuned to outdoor fun and natural wonder, you are sure to find a cruise experience that is right for you.

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Shermanstravel.com – 8 Best Ships Cruising Alaska

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Cheap Alaska Cruises from Vancouver

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7 Night Cruise to Alaska

• You want an upscale cruise experience at a decent price
• You like having plenty of options for dining and entertainment
• You appreciate cruise ships with plenty of innovative amenities
• You are looking for a truly all-inclusive cruise holiday
• You typically only cruise on the latest and largest ships
• You want a big ship with lots of classy fun for all ages
• You enjoy live music and plenty of enrichment activities
• You're happy with good quality service and a relaxing vibe
• You enjoy strolling on a true wraparound promenade deck
• You miss the more intimate feeling of the line's smaller ships

4 Night Cruise to Alaska

• You want a classy, traditional cruise on a feature-rich ship
• You love having plenty of choice, from dining to lounges
• You have kids and want features designed just for them
• You need larger-than-average cabin and suite accomodations
• You like a large pool at the back of the ship for relaxing
• You want a big ship experience with plenty of onboard choice
• You like a traditional cruise with lots of cutting-edge options
• You value having plenty of open decks to admire the scenery
• You want a ship that's got plenty of action-packed amenities
• You don't want to pay extra for optional purchases onboard

5 Night Cruise to Alaska

• You want a family-friendly ocean cruise at a moderate price
• You like big ship amenities that don't sacrifice quality
• You want a balcony cabin; Caribbean Princess has plenty
• You are looking for enrichment activities or local cuisines
• You want action-packed nightlife and nonstop diversions
• You are averse to spending money onboard for extra options
• You want the amenities of a big ship on a smaller scale
• You appreciate fine art and elegantly appointed public areas
• You love quiet nooks and spaces to appreciate the sea outside
• You are travelling with kids and need top-notch facilities
• You prefer vibrant nightlife that lasts into the wee hours
• You want plenty of evening entertainment and production shows
• You don't mind paying extra for some speciality restaurants
• You want plenty of fun options for all ages by day and night
• You're after a more classic, laid-back onboard experience
• You prefer taking part in lectures and enrichment activities
• You don't like paying extra for drinks and other options

12 Night Cruise to Alaska

• You want plenty of choice when it comes to bars and dining
• You like keeping busy and want plenty of scheduled activities
• You want a ship that's filled with fun but not too busy
• You're looking for Norwegian's newest, most elaborate ship
• You don't like extra costs; there are plenty of those onboard

10 Night Cruise to Alaska

• You want to channel the great ocean liners of yesteryear
• You want a sophisticated cruise that won’t hurt the wallet
• You enjoy live music, enrichment lectures and afternoon tea
• You dislike formality and dress codes; that's part of the fun
• You prefer wacky pool games to relaxing on deck with a book
• You want a ship that provides a fully inclusive cruise experience

14 Night Cruise to Alaska

• You are looking for a big ship sailing exotic itineraries
• You want quality fun for the family at a reasonable price
• You like scheduled activities that aren’t too wild or wacky
• You want to party all night long; this isn’t the right ship
• You want a ship with the latest cutting-edge technology
• You want a big-ship experience with plenty of classy spaces
• You appreciate good cuisine, wine and beverage offerings
• You enjoy a more upscale cruise experience on a big ship
• You always cruise on ships that are brand-new and innovative
• You want the latest technological advances and features
• You aren’t interested on longer, more unique itineraries
• You enjoy a classic cruise experience with sophisticated touches
• You appreciate evenings with live music, dancing and shows
• You love being out on deck; Noordam has plenty of open space
• You like the more intimate atmosphere on HAL's older ships
• Your kids demand waterslides, splash parks and bumper cars
• You want a cruise with plenty of wow but on a smaller scale
• You appreciate bright, airy public rooms and lots of open decks
• You dislike the look and feel of the newest mega-cruise ships
• You need ziplines, thrilling waterslides or active diversions
• You want wall-to-wall entertainment; these ships are quieter

13 Night Cruise to Alaska

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6 Top Luxury Alaska Cruises for 2024 & Beyond

C ruising to Alaska on a small luxury ship affords a very different experience than sailing through The Great Land on a larger vessel. On a smaller luxury ship, you'll enjoy the expected perks like fewer passengers and more personalized service – but you'll also physically get closer to the boundless wilderness, abundant wildlife, icy blue glaciers and majestic snow-capped mountains that you've waited a lifetime to see.

While the fares to sail on such vessels are quite a bit higher than those of larger cruise providers, the all-inclusive (or mostly all-inclusive) prices typically include all-suite accommodations with balconies, all meals, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, 24-hour room service, Wi-Fi access, gratuities, welcome bottles of sparkling wine, pillow selection, some shore excursions and butler service. Best of all, you won't feel like you're being nickel-and-dimed while on board. As a special touch, the attentive crew members may even learn your name and memorize your preferred pre-dinner cocktail.

Unlike many mainstream lines, most luxury Alaska cruises do not offer pre- and post-cruise tours to extend your adventure. However, you can plan these experiences on your own through third-party providers.

Alaska Tour & Travel has pre-cruise packages that include visits to Denali National Park & Preserve and the small, quirky Alaska towns of Homer and Talkeetna. You can also see a different side of Alaska via a train ride on the Alaska Railroad, take a national parks tour that includes Kenai Fjords National Park or head northbound to Fairbanks , one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights (if you visit during aurora season, from late August to late April). In addition, the company can plan a self-drive tour from Anchorage to Seward, which includes a stay at a wilderness lodge, helicopter flightseeing over Knik Glacier and guided tours in the parks.

The following luxury cruise lines will ensure you make the most of your voyage in Alaska – one of the most magical destinations on Earth.

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Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises' small luxury ships are designed for adventurers interested in visiting a mix of Alaska's top ports and more rugged, off-the-beaten-track locales. Extended itineraries offer stops in less-visited destinations like the towns of Haines and Wrangell. On board, guests can expect a personalized experience that includes luxurious ocean-view suites with butler service, multiple gourmet dining options, complimentary alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, and attentive service with one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios in the industry.

Base fares for Silversea's 2024 and 2025 Alaska itineraries start at $3,250 per person. If you upgrade to Silversea 's door-to-door fare (which starts at $5,200 per person), you'll receive private chauffeur service from your home to the airport (and back home upon your return) and round-trip flights, with business class upgrades in some destinations.

Silversea also offers immersive pre- and post-cruise land experiences, departing from Seward, Alaska. Highlights include sightseeing flights over Denali National Park & Preserve or into bear country to see Alaska's magnificent grizzly bears. In Vancouver, travelers can take a flightseeing transfer to Victoria to tour the 55-acre Butchart Gardens or board the Rocky Mountaineer for a two-day train ride through the Canadian Rockies.

Silversea's Alaska itineraries extend from May to September, with voyages ranging between seven and 16 days. The line's newest and largest vessel, the 728-passenger Silver Nova , sails its inaugural Alaska season in 2024 along with two smaller ships, Silver Muse (596 guests) and Silver Shadow (392 guests). There are 35 Alaska voyages available in 2024. In 2025, luxury cruisers can hop aboard one of 45 scheduled voyages on either Silver Nova or the 596-guest Silver Moon .

For a seven-day itinerary, consider a sailing from Seward, Alaska, to Vancouver, British Columbia. This voyage cruises the Hubbard Glacier and the Inside Passage and stops in the Alaska towns of Juneau, Skagway, Sitka and Ketchikan. Complimentary excursions in Ketchikan include a tour of Saxman Native Village; a visit to Bonfire Bay Oyster Farm, featuring a sea-to-table oyster tasting; the Alaskan Cultural, Culinary & Lumberjack show; the Alaskan Lodge Adventure & Seafeast and a day as a fisherman aboard the Aleutian Ballard, as seen on Discovery Channel's "The Deadliest Catch." You can also opt for a Selected Shore Excursion (for an additional cost), such as mountain biking or a private fishing trip.

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Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises' elegant Seven Seas Explorer sails the line's Alaska itineraries in 2024 and 2025. The lavish 746-guest ship was coined "The Most Luxurious Ship Ever Built" when it debuted in 2016; among its impressive features are the 3,875-square-foot Regent Suite and a high-end collection of art displayed throughout the ship, including works by Pablo Picasso.

Alaska voyages with Regent in 2024 and 2025 start at $4,799 per person. Upgraded 2-for-1 all-inclusive fares (starting at $5,499 per person) cover elegant all-balcony suite accommodations; round-trip airfare (business class on international flights); a one-night pre-cruise hotel package; free two- or three-night land programs; free unlimited shore excursions; free unlimited beverages (alcoholic and nonalcoholic); complimentary specialty dining; and prepaid gratuities. You'll also receive complimentary airport transfers, unlimited Wi-Fi access and valet laundry service.

Every suite style includes a private balcony, roomy closets and upscale finishes. Concierge Suites (and above) add cozy in-room amenities like cashmere blankets, perfect to bundle up in while you take in the scenery. Meanwhile, Penthouse Suites (and higher) include a private butler who can book excursions, make dinner and spa reservations, unpack your luggage, arrange for a private cocktail soiree in your suite and indulge any other special requests.

Between May and September 2024, Regent sails 22 Alaska voyages. There are 16 Alaska sailings scheduled for the same period in 2025. Itineraries range from seven to 14 nights. For plenty of scenic cruising days, consider a round-trip itinerary from Vancouver departing May 28, 2025. The cruise includes five relaxing days at sea, where you'll enjoy scenic cruising through the Inside Passage (twice), Hubbard Glacier (twice) and Endicott Arm Fjord. Ports of call in Alaska include Wrangell, Juneau , Skagway, Sitka, Seward, Icy Strait (Hoonah) and Ketchikan. You'll also have a full day in Victoria, British Columbia, before returning to Vancouver.

While in Wrangell, consider the Tongass Botanical Forest Walk excursion. Tongass National Forest is the largest national forest in the U.S., with towering old-growth trees and unique flora, fauna and ecosystems. While in the temperate rainforest with your naturalist guide, look for local wildlife like Sitka black-tailed deer, porcupines and birds of prey. Other complimentary excursions at this stop include a round of golf at Muskeg Meadows Golf Course; a canoe trip through Wrangell harbor and nearby islands, and a heritage tour about Tlingit culture and the history of the town.

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Recently relaunched Crystal offers just seven voyages in Alaska aboard Crystal Serenity in July and August 2024. The 740-guest luxury vessel was refurbished in 2023 and features the line's signature top-notch service, elegant interiors and suites, and personal butler service in every room category.

Other perks and amenities include plush bathrobes and Sicily's Ortigia bath products; an impressive passenger-to-crew ratio; prepaid gratuities; complimentary beverages; and outstanding cuisine, including Umi Uma (an exclusive Nobu restaurant at sea, available only on Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony ). Guests can also feast on Italian cuisine at Osteria d'Ovidio; book an exclusive dining experience at The Vintage Room; indulge in Parisian cafe-style fare at The Bistro; opt for American cuisine at Waterside Restaurant or take their pick of several other casual indoor and alfresco options.

Cruisers also have their selection of unique shore experiences curated by Crystal's parent company A&K Travel Group, such as a ride on the world's largest zip line in Hoonah (Icy Strait Point); dog sledding and glacier flightseeing in Skagway; fishing and wilderness dining in Ketchikan and the Wildlife Quest and Fin Island Lodge experience in Sitka, boasting a feast of Alaska king crab and wild salmon.

Crystal offers seven- and eight-night round-trip voyages from Vancouver , as well as one-way cruises from Vancouver or Seward, Alaska. Select itineraries – like the July 30, 2024, voyage from Vancouver to Seward – offer a scenic cruising day in the Seymour Narrows in British Columbia. On this sailing, you'll also enjoy a day at sea cruising Hubbard Glacier, as well as stops in Ketchikan, Sitka, Hoonah (Icy Strait), Skagway and Sitka in Alaska. Or, opt for the July 2, 2024, round-trip sailing from Vancouver for three scenic cruising days in the Inside Passage, Endicott Arm and the Seymour Narrows.

The line's Aug. 13, 2024, round-trip sailing from Vancouver features a special guest: Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio, the executive chairman of A&K Travel Group. As such, the cruise will include an exclusive gala dinner and other unique experiences. Other special voyages welcome marine biologist and National Geographic photographer Flip Nicklin, who will share personal stories from his extensive career and expert insights about humpback whale habitats and behaviors.

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Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking Ocean Cruises' 11-day Alaska & the Inside Passage cruise is available on 11 dates during the 2024 season. It sails from Vancouver to Seward (or the reverse) on the 930-passenger Viking Orion . In 2025, the line offers the same itinerary on 22 dates between May and September, split between Viking Orion and its sister ship, the 930-passenger Viking Sea .

Viking's destination-focused itineraries are curated for travelers who are interested in history, science, culture and cuisine, as they feature onboard enrichment like lectures by Viking's resident historians. You'll also find regionally inspired dishes in The Restaurant and special access to unique tours and excursions ashore.

The line's mostly all-inclusive fares cover accommodations in spacious all-veranda staterooms and suites; beer, wine and soft drinks at lunch and dinner; meals at all the dining venues; one shore excursion in every port; free Wi-Fi access; 24-hour specialty teas, coffees and bottled water; complimentary access to The Nordic Spa & Fitness Center; and other upscale amenities.

Voyages traveling northbound from Vancouver include one day of scenic cruising through the Inside Passage before stopping in Ketchikan, Sitka, Juneau, Skagway and Icy Strait Point in Alaska. The eighth day of the cruise sails through picturesque Yakutat Bay, which includes the Hubbard Glacier. The ship then calls on Valdez, Alaska, before the trip ends with two days in Seward.

While in Valdez, take an optional tour to explore the incredible scenery surrounding the small fishing town. Viking offers a kayaking trip to see the Valdez Glacier; a scenic cruise through picturesque Prince William Sound to view the Columbia Glacier; a wildlife cruise where you can look for humpback whales, orcas, porpoises, sea otters and bald eagles; a helicopter ride over the area's rugged, icy wilderness; or a UTV adventure through the Chugach Mountains to Mineral Creek Canyon.

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Seabourn Cruise Line

Between May and August 2024, Seabourn Cruise Line will host 20 Alaska voyages aboard the Seabourn Odyssey , before the ship leaves the cruise line in the fall. In 2025, the line offers 27 Alaska sailings on Seabourn Quest. Both yacht-inspired ships accommodate up to 458 guests and feature Seabourn's signature all-inclusive amenities, including luxurious oceanfront suites with verandas; personalized service; complimentary fine wines and premium spirits; complimentary dining; and caviar served throughout the sailing. You'll also have a complimentary W-Fi package and an in-suite minibar stocked with your favorite beverages. Ashore, sign up for exclusive programs like shopping for fresh salmon, halibut and Alaska king crab alongside a Seabourn chef.

Guests booking Seabourn Quest for 2025 will be able to sample the line's new dining concept, Solis. Inspired by destinations in the Mediterranean, the menu features a fresh, modern take on traditional dishes and whimsical cocktails. The restaurant is a collaboration with master chef and culinary partner Anton Egger and senior corporate chef Franck Salein. In addition to dishes like salt-encrusted whole branzino and Tuscan-style steak, guests will also find a wide selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes.

The seven-day Alaska Fjords & Canadian Inside Passage itinerary on May 31, 2024, aboard Seabourn Odyssey, sails from Juneau to Vancouver and includes a day in either Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm, depending on the ice conditions. From there, you can take one of the optional guided excursions: Ventures by Seabourn. These tours are an additional cost but offer opportunities for up-close Zodiac, kayaking or catamaran experiences in the wilderness to see glaciers calving and view local wildlife, such as black bears, mountain goats, seals, wolves and seabirds.

You'll also enjoy many days of scenic cruising on this voyage, and have the opportunity for more optional adventures in Rudyerd Bay (Misty Fjords). The ship makes additional stops in Wrangell, Alaska, and Prince Rupert, British Columbia, before disembarking in Vancouver.

If you want to see stunning Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, then consider booking the seven-day Alaska Inside Passage & Glacier Bay sailing on May 10, 2024, from Vancouver to Juneau. This itinerary also includes the Seymour Narrows and Snow Pass, cruising Queen Island Sound and the Lynn Canal. There's a stop for Ventures by Seabourn activities like kayaking and Zodiac rides in the Inian Islands. The Alaska ports of call on this voyage are Ketchikan, Sitka, Icy Strait Point and Haines. You'll disembark in Juneau.

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French luxury expedition line PONANT offers 10 Alaska cruises in 2024; itineraries span between seven and 11 nights. Aboard the 264-guest yacht-style Le Soléal, you'll meet up to 10 naturalist experts and guides specializing in geology, history, ornithology or marine or land mammals. Guests can attend onboard lectures and embark on Zodiac landings with the guides.

The ship features elegant staterooms and suites, a library, a spa, a hair salon and a gym. Guests will be treated to movies in the theater, wine tastings and cooking demonstrations throughout the expedition. All fine dining meals, 24-hour room service, an open bar (including an in-room minibar) and complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi access are covered in the pricing.

Two of PONTANT's eight-night voyages from Vancouver to Sitka are in partnership with Smithsonian Journeys and are curated for English-speaking travelers. Fares for these expeditions include transfers to and from the ship and a shore excursion in each port. On board, you can attend talks and discussions hosted by two Smithsonian Journeys experts: geologist Scott Burns and natural history filmmaker John Grabowska.

On these voyages, there is a sea day after departing Vancouver. You'll cruise through the Johnstone Strait, where you'll have an excellent chance of seeing humpback whales and orcas. After a day spent in the Inside Passage, the ship will call on the village of Metlakatla, Alaska, on the western coast of Annette Island, which is home to the Tsimshians from British Columbia. Other unique Alaska ports of call in this itinerary include the commercial fishing town of Petersburg, the Tlingit village of Kake and the small fishing community of Alfin Cove.

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Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is a U.S. News & World Report contributor and an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times both by land and sea to explore the state's vast wilderness and abundant wildlife, and to chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. Pratesi used her extensive knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• Alaska Cruise Packing List: Must-Have Items
• The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises
• The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska
• The Best Alaska Cruise Lines
• The Best Alaska Cruises for Families

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Seabourn kicks off 2024 Alaska Season, with immersive, ultra-luxury voyages in the last frontier

Seabourn, the leader in ultra-luxury cruising and expedition travel, will kick off its 2024 Alaska season on May 10,2024 with Seabourn Odyssey departing from Vancouver for an enriching and in-depth schedule to some of the region’s most popular destinations and rarely visited ports throughout the Inside Passage. The season will also mark Seabourn Odyssey’s final season with the cruise line, providing one more opportunity for guests to sail on the iconic ship.

Seabourn Odyssey will sail on  12 seven-day voyages  from May through August 2024, sailing northbound or southbound between Vancouver and Juneau, with different sites, scenes, adventures, and ports to experience each way. Each seven-day voyage can also be combined to create a longer, more immersive 14-day round-trip Vancouver voyage. The ship will also offer two  10-day Alaska Fjord Odyssey  itineraries, as well as one  11-day Inside Passage & Alaska Fjords  voyages, scheduled round trip from Vancouver in June. In addition, guests may choose from a number of immersive experiences through Seabourn’s popular and unique  Ventures by Seabourn  program, featuring optional guided kayak and Zodiac tours led by the line’s world-class expedition team. The ship will complete its final season with a  22-day Farewell Voyage , traveling through Alaska before crossing the Pacific to Japan.

“While Seabourn will continue sailing to Alaska in the future, this upcoming season marks the final journeys of Seabourn Odyssey to ‘the Great Land,’ and we invite our guests to embark on one final voyage with her before she departs our fleet,” said Natalya Leahy, president of Seabourn. “As our very experienced Alaska Captain Tim Roberts shared with me once, ‘you have not seen Alaska until you have sailed with Seabourn’. This is because our meticulously crafted itineraries will take our extraordinary guests on the ultimate retreat into nature with a blend of up-close adventures and ultra-luxury amenities to immerse themselves in the beauty of Alaska. The ship’s intimate size and yacht-like atmosphere will grant them unparalleled intimacy with the land’s vast wildlife and breathtaking wilderness.”

Seabourn Odyssey’s 2024 Alaska season includes:

• Seven-Day Alaska Itineraries – Each seven-day Alaska itinerary features days of pure cruising through jaw-dropping settings such as Seymour Narrows, Stikine Strait, Snow Pass and the Behm Canal, interspersed with landings at culturally significant towns from Ketchikan to Sitka to Wrangel, Alaska, and Prince Rupert and Alert Bay in British Columbia. Each sailing will include at least one scenic cruise of glaciers like Tracy or Endicott Arm or Glacier Bay.
• On the  10-Day Alaska Fjords Odyssey ,  guests travel roundtrip from Vancouver with multiple sea days through destinations such as Queen Charlotte Sound, Clarence Strait, Snow Pass, Sumner Strait, Misty Fjords and more, as well as visits to Ketchikan, Sitka, Icy Strait Point, Juneau, and the Tlingit village of Klawock on Prince of Wales Island. There will be abundant opportunities to go deeper with Ventures by Seabourn activities at Inian Island, Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm and Misty Fjords.
• 11-Day Inside Passage & Alaska Fjords is a roundtrip voyage from Vancouver with a day to explore Wrangell on an eponymous island at the heart of the Tongass National Rain Forest, setting for the Stikine River, Shakes Glacier, and Anan Creek Bear Observatory, home to the largest pink salmon run in the Inside Passage.

Ventures by Seabourn in-depth experiences

Seabourn Odyssey’s 2024 Alaska season will offer a variety of luxurious adventures through  Ventures by Seabourn , featuring optional escorted activities for guests to get up close to wildlife and other wonders via hike, kayak, catamaran, and Zodiac with skilled expert guides leading the way. Ventures by Seabourn will include explorations of Hubbard Glacier, Tracy/Endicott Arm, Inian Islands, Rudyerd Bay (Misty Fjords), Alert Bay in British Columbia, and more. Ventures by Seabourn excursions are led by the ship’s expedition elite, world-class team of naturalists, science, wildlife and historical experts who regularly interact with guests throughout each sailing, sharing insights and in-depth knowledge on the history, ecology, and culture of respective regions.

22-day Farewell Voyage

Seabourn has also planned special activities and entertainment to commemorate Seabourn Odyssey’s 22-day Farewell Voyage, departing September 2, 2024, from Seattle, Wash., to Yokohama, Japan. The one-of-a-kind voyage will feature a number of memorable tributes to Seabourn Odyssey’s greatest moments, including appearances from the original team and performing cast, incredible local artists, and unique gifts and memories to be made with their Seabourn family. The ship will traverse the glacial scenery of Alaska’s southern reaches, visit the wildlife havens of Kodiak Island and Dutch Harbor, and explore the cultural enclaves of Japan’s Hokkaido Island to revel in the first turn of fall foliage.

Seabourn plans special entertainment and activities to commemorate Seabourn…

Travel predictions for 2024

Cruise news: Windstar Cruises reaches to the world and more

Seabourn completes ‘ice model hull test’ for new expedition ship

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August 5 9:00 PM: Arrive in Anchorage - Stay in Anchorage

August 6: Drive from Anchorage to Denali via Wasilla (?). Stay night in Denali

August 7 Explore Denali. Stay night in Denali

August 8: Drive from Denali to Valdez via Fairbanks (Richardson Hwy). stay in Valdez

August 9 Explore Valdez. Drive to Matansuka. Stay in Glacier View

August 10 Explore Matanuska. Drive to Seward

August 11 Explore Seward. Stay in Seward

August 12 Explore Seward Stay in Seward

August 13 Drive from Seward to Homer. Stay in Homer

August 14 Explore Homer. Stay in Homer

August 15 Drive from Homer to Anchorage 6:00 PM: Fly back home

13 replies to this topic

Aug. 8 is almost not possible. It is about 9 hours drive, hand on wheels. So you'd plan an overnight stay about halfway.

WAY too much driving. Cut out either Valdez or Homer.

And it would help if you were more specific than just "explore". What do you intend to see and do in each place?

Far too much driving. You need to drop Valdez or Homer.

Think, every hour sitting in a car is an hour you could be doing an actual activity.

... and if Homer's on the list, I'd do it before Seward ; and return to Anchorage from Seward. Driving from Homer to ANC on a day you plan to fly out has risk (i.e. highway shut down risk) to it.

Thank you for the feedback.

2. We wanted to go to Matanuska Glacier and read that the Richardson Hwy is very scenic, hence chose the drive from Denali to Valdez.

3. If we skip Homer, where can we add additional 2 days? Any town between Seward and Anchorage ?

We will be renting a car . Can we drive Denali Hwy or should we drive up to FB and drive south on Richardson?

Many folks drive from Denali to the Glacierview area the same way…Parks hwy to Wasilla, then to Palmer and then up the Glenn Highway. One of my favorite drives in the state is from Palmer to Sheep mountain lodge. :)

Would you recommend adding a day at Whittier before heading south to Seward?

DNP- glacier view - Whittier -seward -homer- anc

Sorry, but you're putting the cart before the horse. First figure out what you want to see and do, and that will tell you where to go and how long to stay in each place.

On that route I'd recommend staying the first night in Fairbanks and another night in Glenallen.

We have the same number of nights in June. We are staying in:

I'd love to get to Valdez, I just don't feel we have time. If Valdez is important to you, maybe drop Homer.

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Alaska Cruises From Vancouver

Get closer to awe-inspiring wildlife, charming coastal towns and magnificent glaciers on Alaska cruises from Vancouver. Find one-way and roundtrip cruises to Alaska with convenient weekend departures from Vancouver’s dazzling waterfront. Explore Glacier Bay National Park or Hubbard Glacier on our Inside Passage cruises. Take a Glacier Discovery voyage to glide several of Alaska’s most dramatic icescapes. Or go to the seldom-visited Kodiak Island, home of the famous Kodiak bears on our Great Alaskan Explorer. Continue the exploration on ship with local insights and onboard programming. Read on to plan cruises from Vancouver to Alaska and beyond.

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More details about cruises from vancouver, vancouver at a glance.

• When was Vancouver founded?  April 6, 1886 
• Where is Vancouver located?  Located in the southwest corner of British Columbia, Canada. 
• What is the population of Vancouver?  631,486 according to the 2016 Canada Census 
• What language is primarily spoken?  English 
• Vancouver, BC, Canada is GMT/UTC - 8h during Standard Time
• Vancouver, BC, Canada is GMT/UTC - 7h during Daylight Saving Time
• What currency is used in Vancouver, BC, Canada?  CAD (Canadian Dollar)

Travel Tips for Vancouver

How do I book a flight to Vancouver?  At Holland America we offer cruise travelers low prices on their flights. Please see more information on our  Flight Ease program here .

Where should I stay when cruising from Vancouver? We offer hotel packages to our already booked guests. For more information, visit our  hotel packages and pre- or post-travel arrangements .

What are some of the top places to see in Vancouver?  Visit our  Vancouver Port page  for more information on our top travel recommendations.

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What should I expect boarding to like for my cruise departing Vancouver, BC, Canada?   Please visit our  cruise preparation FAQ  for information on how to access or print boarding passes, how to check in online, and to see if you need a passport.

Can I book an airport shuttle to my cruise?   Book an airport transfer from the airport to your ship after you book a cruise with Holland America Line. We make getting to and from your cruise comfortable, convenient and hassle-free. For more information on EXC City Stays & Overland Tours, please visit:  https://www.hollandamerica.com/en_US/pre-post-travel-cruise.html .

Are you an already booked guest with Holland America Line? For booked guests, please see our  travel planning  details on how to book an airport transfer.

Curious about learning more about cruising or want more information?

Please visit our most  frequently asked questions page  on cruise preparation, transportation, safety and security, and more.

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Touring by train is a fantastic way to see Alaska in the spring

Alaska Railroad locomotives head northbound along the Turnagain Arm on Thursday, May 9, 2024. (Bill Roth / ADN)

The Alaska Railroad had to cancel this weekend’s trains between Anchorage and Seward because of avalanche danger.

Sure, the weather’s been crazy this year, but I didn’t have a Mother’s Day avalanche on my bingo card. Thankfully, the railroad arranged for bus transportation to and from Seward both for day-trippers and those catching a cruise ship south to Vancouver.

But the announcement served as a wake-up call that it’s time to book passage on the Alaska Railroad for travel this summer.

Already, visiting friends are calling with questions about which train to book and where to stay.

Once the avalanche risk to Seward is mitigated by the railroad’s crew, daily service on the Coastal Classic train is set to resume on May 15.

The ride from Anchorage to Seward is a beautiful one, but it calls for an early wake-up. Departing at 6:45 a.m., the train arrives in Seward at 11:20 a.m. That’s in time to take the midday glacier and wildlife cruises that leave from Seward’s small boat harbor. The train depot is close enough that it’s just a five-minute walk to check in for your boat ride.

Between now and May 31, travelers can ride the rails for $183 round-trip in Adventure Class. For an upgrade, choose Gold Star service, which includes breakfast on the way to Seward and dinner on the way back. In between meals, there’s a full-dome car to watch the scenery. Two drinks are included. The cost during the “value season” between now and May 31 is about twice as much: $376 round-trip. After June 1, the regular pricing kicks in: $211 round-trip for Adventure Class and $430 round-trip for Gold Star. Children under 12 are half-price. There’s also a military discount of 20% off published rates.

There are a few more options for traveling north from Anchorage to Talkeetna, Denali and Fairbanks.

In addition to the railroad’s own cars, there’s a collection of private cars that the railroad pulls each day.

The Denali Star train started its daily service on May 9, with “value pricing” through May 31.

Between Anchorage and Talkeetna, the value price is $95 each way ($226 one-way for Gold Star). After June 1, the price increases to $119 one-way ($263 for Gold Star). The Denali Star leaves at a more reasonable hour: 8:20 a.m., arriving in Talkeetna at 11:05 a.m.

The popular route for visitors is between Anchorage and Denali. After leaving Talkeetna, the train arrives at the Denali depot at 3:40 p.m. Between now and May 31, ride to Denali from Anchorage for $151 one-way in Adventure Class, or $320 in Gold Star. Again, meals, drinks and the full-dome car seating is included in the Gold Star package. Adventure class travelers can purchase their meals in the dining car, or bring their own food along.

It’s a 12-hour ride from Anchorage to Fairbanks, but it’s a great trip. Between now and May 31, ride in Adventure Class for $215 one-way. Starting June 1, the rate goes up to $277 one-way.

One-way is enough on the train to Fairbanks. It’s faster and cheaper to fly Alaska Airlines back home. If you plan ahead, it’s $98 one-way, or 5,000 miles (plus $6 in fees).

Princess Alaska Lodges offers packages which include rail transportation on the line’s private cars, plus accommodations in Talkeetna or Denali Park.

A two-day/one-night package from Anchorage to Talkeetna includes the train ride up to Talkeetna and a bus ride to the lodge from the depot. The Mt. McKinley Princess is not far from Talkeetna as the crow flies, but the drive takes about an hour from the depot. The lodge sits above the banks of the Chulitna River and affords a beautiful view of Denali from the deck near check-in. Cost is $274.50 per person, double occupancy.

A three-day/two-night package to Denali costs $499.50 per person, double occupancy. That includes round-trip rail, two nights of hotel accommodations and transfers to and from the hotel.

Princess offers one- to four-night packages, as well as rail-only fares which are comparable to the Alaska Railroad’s. The rail cars are full-dome on the top deck, with dining cars below (cost of meals is not included).

[ Are guests visiting you in Alaska? Here are a few easy options for quick journeys or easy day trips. ]

Premier Alaska Tours also offers full-dome cars on the route between Anchorage, Talkeetna and Denali. If you see the passenger trains on the tracks during the summer, Premier’s cars are distinctive because of the white paint job.

Premier’s “Wilderness Express” train cars offer a dining car below the full-dome viewing area. The seats are 23 inches wide with leather upholstery. All the seats recline and feature power ports.

Most of the travelers on the Wilderness Express are part of a group. For individual travelers, Premier works with Alaska Tour and Travel for reservations. Rates for the Wilderness Express are $285 one-way between Anchorage and Denali.

For a fun day-trip on the train, there are a couple of options.

1. Drive down to Portage and catch the train out to Spencer Glacier. It’s just a 20-minute ride on the train, but it’s a great way to get off the road system and into the wilderness. Once you arrive, go for a hike up to the lake for a view of Spencer Glacier. The cost for a round-trip ticket is $88. Spend about three hours exploring before the train returns to pick you up.

Chugach Adventures offers a package that includes the train ride and a guided raft trip down the Placer River from the lake in front of Spencer Glacier. Rafters get the chance to get up close to the icebergs before heading under the railroad bridge for the easy float downstream. Then, at the appointed moment, the guide beaches the raft and everyone gets out on the shore. Right on cue, the train comes by and picks you up for the return trip to Portage. The cost is $295 for adults, or $148 for children under 12.

2. Take the Hurricane Turn train from Talkeetna. This is the last “flag stop” rail service in America. It’s designed specifically for those who have camps or homes off the road system. Pack your own lunch for this special journey. You’re likely to see homesteaders and adventurers on this six-hour trip from Talkeetna up to Hurricane and back.

The train goes real slow over the Hurricane Bridge so you can appreciate the 296-foot drop from the rails to Hurricane Creek. The cost for the trip is $119 per adult.

Mahay’s Jet Boat Adventures offers a “ River, Rail and Trail ” journey which includes the train ride from Talkeetna to Curry. From there, travelers can check out what remains of a once-popular layover for train travelers. Then, get in a jet boat for an exciting trip back to Talkeetna on the Susitna River. Stop at a trapper’s cabin for a brief tour and history lesson. Cost is $185 per adult.

Now that the avalanches are out of the way, it’s time to say “all aboard” for the Alaska Railroad.

Scott McMurren

Scott McMurren is an Anchorage-based marketing consultant, serving clients in the transportation, hospitality, media and specialty destination sectors, among others. Contact him by email at [email protected]. Subscribe to his e-newsletter at alaskatravelgram.com. For more information, visit alaskatravelgram.com/about.

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Cruise ship worker accused of stabbing 3 people with scissors on board vessel bound for Alaska

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JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) — A cruise ship worker from South Africa was arrested Tuesday in Alaska’s capital city, accused of attacking a woman and two security guards with scissors on board the vessel, according to authorities.

The U.S. attorney’s office says the man is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon within maritime and territorial jurisdiction. Online court records do not show an attorney for the 35-year-old man.

According to an affidavit from FBI Special Agent Matthew Judy, the man was recently hired by a cruise line and joined the ship, the Norwegian Encore, in Seattle on Sunday. The ship set off that day for a weeklong trip with scheduled stops in Alaska ports, including the capital of Juneau, and British Columbia.

The alleged incident happened west of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, as the ship was sailing to Alaska. According to the affidavit, during the ‘late evening” Sunday, ship personnel saw the man trying to deploy a lifeboat, and he was taken by security to a medical center for an evaluation.

While there, he “became irrational and attempted to leave,” and “physically attacked” a guard and a nurse, the affidavit states. He ran into another room, where he grabbed a pair of scissors and stabbed a woman who was being examined, as well as two guards who tried to intervene before being subdued and held in a “shipboard jail,” the affidavit says. None of the injuries were considered life-threatening.

The ship arrived in Juneau on Tuesday, when he was arrested by the FBI, the U.S. attorney’s office says.

Hey Canada! Alaska Airlines launches new nonstop service between Seattle and Toronto 

• May 16, 2024
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For the first time, we’re linking our home airport and Canada’s largest city; our guests can also connect on flights with Porter Airlines in Toronto, our newest global partner

Starting today, Alaska Airlines is flying our new daily, nonstop flight between our home airport in Seattle and Toronto Pearson International Airport – our newest destination and the sixth Canadian city we now serve. Tickets, with convenient departure and arrival times, are available for purchase at  alaskaair.com .

In Toronto, guests can enjoy the city’s rich culture or catch a flight from Toronto Pearson with our  30th global airline partner , Porter Airlines, to destinations across Eastern Canada and beyond, including Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City, Halifax and St. John’s. These Porter flights and others are available for one-way purchase at  alaskaair.com  with more booking options coming this summer.

“There are so many opportunities with our new service between our hometown airport and Toronto, from tremendous leisure travel options to connecting a pair of key business regions in North America,” said Kirsten Amrine, vice president of revenue management and network planning for Alaska Airlines. “Toronto has a lot to offer. And for our guests looking to venture into other areas of Eastern Canada, Porter Airlines can take them there with its signature onboard service.”

Toronto is the largest city in Canada along the shores of Lake Ontario. For visitors, the possibilities are endless with its bustling downtown and walkable neighborhoods, stunning parks, rich history and diverse restaurants and entertainment. 

“We are very excited to welcome Alaska Airlines to Toronto Pearson. Their service to Seattle will provide much-needed capacity to the market and enhance customer choice,” said Kurush Minocher, Executive Director, Customer Experience and Airline Relations, Greater Toronto Airports Authority. “Last year, over a third of passengers traveled between Toronto and Seattle, and we’re delighted to enable this service for thousands of passengers while simplifying travel to the West Coast, Alaska and Hawaii.”

Alaska continues to add international options for travelers out of SEA Airport, providing a wide array of unique, adventurous experiences,” said Lance Lyttle, SEA Airport Managing Director. “Ease of access throughout the continent brings Eastern Canada closer with more competition.”  

New Seattle-Toronto nonstop ser vice

Times are local

Porter Airlines began new flights to Toronto from two of our West Coast hubs in January: Los Angeles and San Francisco. Those flights, along with flights connecting on Alaska throughout our West Coast network, can also be purchased at  alaskaair.com . 

Across Canada, we also fly to Calgary, Edmonton, Kelowna, Vancouver and Victoria. While Toronto is a brand-new destination for us from Seattle, this isn’t the first time we’ve flown to Eastern Canada from the West Coast. In the early 90s, we flew nonstop service between Los Angeles and Toronto.

Our guests can take advantage of a premium travel experience on their next Alaska flight. We are the West Coast’s premier airline offering our flyers the most legroom in First Class* and Premium Class; no change fees; multiple fare offerings; the most generous loyalty program with Mileage Plan with the fastest path to elite status; 30 global partners; and West Coast food and beverage on board. We’re also making it easier for our guests to buy tickets and earn Mileage Plan miles with our domestic and global partners directly at alaskair.com.

For inflight entertainment, our guests can enjoy hundreds of free movies and TV shows streamed to their devices. Our flights are also enabled with streaming-fast satellite Wi-Fi available for purchase and the option to pre-order from a range of fresh meal selections. Our mainline flights also offer power outlets at every seat to charge devices.

* Out of any U.S. airline excluding lie-flat seats   

This is great news! Hope to see Montreal added in the future.

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