Comparing Alaskan cruise itineraries and ships can be overwhelming, with many options.  It seems every season more ships are added to the Alaska cruise route.

Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, finding the right itinerary and ship to fit your needs can make or break your vacation experience. Alaska is one of the most popular cruise destinations in the world, offering breathtaking scenery and a chance to see wildlife.

Overview of Alaskan Cruise Itineraries

When planning an Alaskan cruise, there are several itineraries and ships to choose from. Each route and ship has its own unique features and attractions, so it’s important to do your research and select the one that best suits your preferences and interests.

Popular Routes and Destinations

The most popular Alaskan cruise routes typically include stops in ports such as Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway, and Sitka. However, several cruises stop in more ports than just those.

In addition to these popular ports, some itineraries include visits to less-traveled destinations such as Glacier Bay National Park or the Inside Passage. These destinations offer stunning natural beauty and unique experiences unavailable in the more touristy ports.

The Most Popular Alaskan Cruise Routes

Typical Alaskan cruise itinerary varies depending on the cruise line and the duration of the cruise, but most cruises will offer a mix of scenic cruising through fjords and glaciers, stops at various ports, and excursions that allow passengers to experience Alaska’s unique culture and wildlife. Here’s a general idea of what most  7-day Alaskan cruises itineraries look like.

Day 1: Departure

• Embark from a city such as Seattle, Washington or Vancouver, British Columbia.
• Spend the day at sea, getting acquainted with the ship’s amenities.

Day 2: Inside Passage

• Cruise through the Inside Passage, known for its calm waters and scenic views.
• Enjoy wildlife spotting opportunities, with the chance to see whales, eagles, and other marine life.

Day 3: Juneau

• Arrive in Juneau, Alaska’s capital city.
• Possible excursions include visiting the Mendenhall Glacier, whale watching, or a helicopter tour.

Day 4: Skagway

• Dock at Skagway, known for its Gold Rush history.
• Excursion options might include a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, hiking, or historical tours.

Day 5: Glacier Bay National Park

• Spend the day cruising through Glacier Bay National Park, witnessing active tidewater glaciers.
• Park rangers often come aboard to provide commentary and education about the glaciers and the park’s ecosystem.

Day 6: Ketchikan

• Visit Ketchikan, famous for its rich Native American culture.
• Consider touring the Misty Fjords National Monument by seaplane, visiting Totem Bight State Park, or exploring Creek Street.

Day 7: Victoria, British Columbia (optional)

• Some itineraries include a stop in Victoria, known for its British charm.
• Possible activities include visiting the Butchart Gardens, exploring the Royal BC Museum, or walking around the Inner Harbour.

Day 8: Arrival

• Return to your port of departure and disembark.

Longer cruises might include additional stops, such as Icy Strait Point, Sitka, or Hubbard Glacier, and may offer more days at sea for relaxation and onboard activities. Itineraries can also vary based on whether one-way (often between Vancouver and Anchorage) or round-trip. Some cruises may also include land tours that take passengers deeper into Alaska to visit places like Denali.

One-Way Routes

There are several cruise ships that offer one-way routes for a cheaper price. They depart from Achorage and sail to Vancouver or Seattle, or they do it the other way.

One-way routes have the advantage of spending more time in Alaska and cruising to Anchorage.

The disadvantage is that you start and stop from different ports.

Seasonal Variations and Best Times to Cruise

Alaskan cruise itineraries vary depending on the season. The peak season for Alaskan cruises is typically from May to September, with the warmest weather and longest days occurring in June and July. However, this is also the busiest time of year, with larger crowds and higher prices.

If you are looking to avoid the crowds and save some money, consider cruising in May or September. While the weather may be cooler, these months offer a quieter and more affordable experience.

Comparison of Cruise Ships

When choosing an Alaskan cruise, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is selecting the right ship. Here’s a comparison of some of the top cruise ships that sail to Alaska.

Ship Size and Capacity

The size and capacity of a ship can greatly affect your experience on board. Larger ships often have more amenities, but smaller ships can offer a more intimate and personalized experience. These ships are some of the most popular cruises in Alaska.

• Norwegian Bliss: This ship is one of the largest in Alaska, with a capacity of over 4,000 passengers. It features a variety of dining options, entertainment venues, and activities.
• Ruby Princess: The Ruby Princess is a mid-sized ship with a capacity of around 3,000 offers a more intimate experience, focusing on passengers.
• Wilderness Explorer: This small ship only accommodates around 70 passengers, allowing for a more personalized and immersive experience. It’s perfect for those who want to get up close and personal with the Alaskan wilderness.

Amenities and Onboard Services

The amenities and services offered on board can greatly enhance your cruise experience. Here are some of the top ships and what they offer:

• Celebrity Solstice: This ship features a Lawn Club where you can play bocce ball or picnic on natural grass. It also has a Canyon Ranch Spa, a hot glass show, and various dining options.
• Holland America Line’s Eurodam: This ship has a Culinary Arts Center where you can take cooking classes, as well as a spa, pool, and fitness center. It also offers a variety of dining options, including a sushi bar and a steakhouse.
• Royal Princess: The Royal Princess features a SeaWalk, a glass-bottomed walkway extending over the ship’s edge. It also has various dining options, a spa, and a pool.

Cabin Types and Accommodations

The type of cabin you choose is one of the biggest choices for your comfort and enjoyment on board. Here are some of the top ships and what they offer:

• Carnival Legend: This ship offers a variety of cabin options, from interior staterooms to suites with balconies. It also has various family-friendly options, including cabins that can accommodate up to five people.
• Oceania Regatta: The Regatta features luxurious cabins with marble bathrooms and private verandas. It also offers a variety of suite options, including the Owner’s Suite with a separate living room and dining area.
• Viking Orion: This ship offers all veranda cabins, so you can enjoy the Alaskan scenery from the comfort of your own room. It also has multiple suite options, including the Explorer Suite with a private wraparound balcony.

You may want to save some money and book an inside room. That doesn’t mean you won’t see the gorgeous Alaskan scenery; it just means you will need to spend more time out of your room.

Onshore Activities

One of the most exciting parts of an Alaskan cruise is the opportunity to explore the Alaskan wilderness and charming towns of Alaska. Most cruise itineraries include a variety of onshore excursions, ranging from scenic hikes to cultural experiences.

Some popular onshore activities include wildlife sightings, glacier tours, and dog sledding. You can also explore the quaint towns of Ketchikan, Skagway, and Juneau, each with its own unique history and culture.

You do not have to book an excursion through the ship to be able to enjoy the activities on land. You can book through a 3rd party or just get off and wander around.

Onboard Entertainment and Enrichment

When you’re not exploring the Alaskan wilderness, there’s plenty to do onboard your cruise ship. Most ships offer entertainment options, from live music and theater performances to comedy shows and game nights.

In addition to traditional entertainment, many Alaskan cruise ships offer enrichment programs such as lectures and workshops on Alaskan history, culture, and wildlife. You can also participate in cooking classes, wine tastings, and other hands-on activities.

Family-Friendly Features

When it comes to family-friendly features, Alaskan cruise ships offer a wide range of activities and amenities to keep everyone entertained. Many ships have dedicated kids’ clubs, where children can participate in age-appropriate activities and games while parents enjoy some time to themselves. Some ships also have family-friendly pools, waterslides, and sports courts.

If you’re traveling with infants or toddlers, look for ships offering babysitting services, high chairs, cribs in the dining areas, and cabins. Some ships even have strollers available for rent.

Most ships offer kid-friendly menus and flexible dining times to accommodate families. Some ships also have specialty restaurants that cater to families, such as pizza and ice cream parlors.

Accessibility for Passengers with Disabilities

If you or someone in your family has a disability, choose a ship that can accommodate your needs. Many Alaskan cruise ships have accessible cabins and public areas, as well as wheelchair ramps and elevators.

Most ships offer menus that accommodate dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free or vegetarian options. Some ships also have special dining areas for passengers with disabilities.

If you require special assistance during shore excursions, check with the cruise line beforehand to ensure your needs can be accommodated. Many ports of call have limited accessibility, so planning ahead is essential to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Booking Tips and Strategies

Planning an Alaskan Cruise is not particularly hard. All you need to do is pick the cruise and decide on excursions. You can plan ahead or choose something last minute.

Best Time to Book

When booking an Alaskan cruise, timing can be everything. The best time to book is typically 6-12 months in advance. This will give you plenty of time to research and compare different itineraries and ships and take advantage of early booking discounts and promotions.

Last-minute deals are also available. Sites like Vacationstogo and Cruise Critic list them constantly.

If you want to save money, consider booking during the shoulder season, typically in May or September. During these months, you can often find lower prices and fewer crowds. However, remember that the weather may be chilly and there may be fewer daylight hours.

Comparing Deals and Offers

When comparing different Alaskan cruise deals and offers, it’s important to read the fine print and understand what’s included in the price. Some cruises may include airfare, shore excursions, or other extras, while others may not.

You can also get deals like the 3rd and 4th guest free, or free drinks packages.

To help you compare different deals, consider creating a spreadsheet or table to track the different prices and inclusions. Be sure to also check for any additional fees or taxes that may be added to the price.

Passenger Reviews and Testimonials

When choosing an Alaskan cruise itinerary and ship, one of the best ways to get an idea of what to expect is by reading passenger reviews and testimonials. These can provide valuable insights into the overall experience and specific aspects such as the ship’s amenities, food quality, and shore excursions.

Many cruise lines have dedicated web sections where passengers can leave reviews and ratings. These can be a great resource for anyone researching different Alaskan cruise options. In addition, several third-party websites aggregate reviews from multiple sources, such as Cruise Critic and TripAdvisor. (These are my favorite places to look for cruise deals.)

When reading reviews, keep in mind that everyone’s experience is different. What one passenger loved about a particular ship or itinerary may not be as important. However, if you notice a consistent theme in multiple reviews (such as complaints about the food or praise for the onboard entertainment), that can indicate what to expect.

Some things to look for in passenger reviews include:

• Overall rating: This can give you a quick sense of how satisfied passengers were with their experience.
• Specific comments about the ship: Pay attention to comments about the ship’s condition, layout, and amenities (such as pools, spas, and fitness centers).
• Food quality: Many passengers are concerned about food quality, so look for comments about the variety and quality of the dining options.
• Shore excursions: If you’re interested in exploring Alaska’s ports of call, read reviews about the shore excursions the cruise line offers. (As I mentioned before, you can make your own 3rd party reservations.)
• Service: Comments about the crew and staff can give you an idea of the level of service you can expect onboard.

Get Ready for your Alaskan Cruise

After all that, all you need to do is book your cruise, plan your excursions and enjoy! Alaska is a beautiful place and being able to see it from the shore is one of the best perks of a cruise.