collette tours alaska 2024

Alaska Discovery Land & Cruise featuring a 7-night Holland America Cruise - 2024

• Enjoy an unforgettable rail journey from Denali to Talkeetna in a luxury domed railcar.
• Enjoy an expert guided Tundra Wilderness Tour in Denali National Park.
• Relive Alaska's Gold Rush days in historic Skagway.
• Relax aboard a 7-night Holland America cruise — your fabulous floating resort.
• Cruise past Hubbard Glacier, one of Alaska's largest glaciers.
• Sail through Glacier Bay, a treasure trove of glaciers and coastal islands.

What's this trip about?

Travel themes, destinations.

• North America

Attractions

• Historic sightseeing

Your tour opens in Fairbanks, in the great state of Alaska, on an adventure that brings together the best of both land and sea.

Step aboard the popular Sternwheeler Discovery, an unforgettable journey showcasing Alaska’s diverse culture and rich history. Make stops along the way to meet the people and get a taste of local life. Take a scenic motor coach ride to Denali National Park. Tonight, enjoy a musical performance that tells the story of the first brave men to summit Denali followed by dinner.

This morning, travel deep into Denali National Park on the Tundra Wilderness Tour* which affords the best opportunities to view the region’s wildlife. Learn about the history of the park and see why Denali is one of the top three reasons that people visit Alaska. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Your day begins with a scenic train ride to Talkeetna. Savor every moment inside your luxury domed railcar. View the incredible landscape from glass-ceiling railcars and open-air observation platforms as rail guides provide expert commentary. Check into the iconic Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge, perched on a ridge offering unforgettable views of Denali.

Your ship cruises past the mammoth Hubbard Glacier, one of Alaska’s largest glaciers. Have your camera ready and take in the natural beauty of the glacier's stunning surface.

Cruise through Glacier Bay, a spectacular national park and preserve that is a treasure trove of tidewater glaciers and scenic coastal islands. Its rich world of marine life and large concentration of tidewater glaciers is Alaska at its best.

Relive Alaska's Gold Rush days in this “Gateway to the Klondike” and home of the famed Chilkoot Trail. In historic Skagway, Alaska’s past lives on in a spectacular natural setting and cries of “gold in the Yukon!” can still be heard.

From massive scenic mountains to historic buildings, there is so much to explore in Alaska’s capital city of Juneau.

Your port of call today is Ketchikan, known as the “Salmon Capital of the World” and the “City of Totems.” Located on the tranquil Revillagigedo Island, Ketchikan is home to the world’s largest collection of totem poles.

A wonderful day of sightseeing awaits as your ship sails along the amazing Inside Passage.

Your cruise ends this morning in the vibrant Canadian city of Vancouver, leaving you with many wonderful memories of your tour to the last of the great frontiers.

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:.

• You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
• Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

Dates & Availability

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Collette .

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

Collette Reviews & Ratings

Other collette reviews, it was a wonderful trip and experience.

It was a wonderful trip and experience! We are still sorting all the pictures and memories about it, and some of them I would like to share with you - read my diary ...

we had an absolute wonderful time

My wife & I just returned from your National Parks tour and we had an absolute wonderful time. Great itinerary, tour director (Merrin) and driver (John). First c...

Worst and most poorly planned guided tour I have evr taken

Do not travel with Collette They area subpar company

This is worst tour I have ever taken. Poorly planned and not worth the money. Collette brought you to Lisbon where we sat for three days because NO TOURS or sited w...

See all Other Collette reviews

Tour Operator

True adventures go beyond incredible destinations or inclusive packages. Collette delivers a sense of possibility across all seven continents.

Since 1918, we have been sharing our love of travel. Today our worldwide travel collection features comprehensive land tours, river cruises, rail journeys, small group tours, family trips, garden holidays and more. With Collette, wake each morning on tour with a new experience in front of you, and when your head hits the pillow, you will know it has been an amazing day. Best of all - we seamlessly handle the details. All you have to do is enjoy the adventure.

Everyone at Collette believes travel is vital to a life well-lived and our executive team sets the tone. Drawing on a diverse set of skills that includes operations, sales, information technology, law and financial planning, they work across three offices to bring you the best experience possible.

There are so many benefits to letting someone else take on all the details that come with having The Perfect Trip. See why more and more travelers choose to Go Guided — and why they never go back.

5 Reasons to Go Guided:

Go Tour Managers!

On Day 1 of your trip, you’ll meet a friendly person who sure does know a lot about your tour and the destinations you’re visiting. This highly skilled professional is your tour manage and from the moment you meet this key player on your tour, you’ll know you’re in good hands. With their rich travel backgrounds, as well as their useful information about language, currency, and all things local, you can relax and enjoy the ride.

Go Culture!

Visiting a destination gives you a taste of the local culture. But imagine actually becoming part of that culture. Staying overnight in an Irish castle like Old-World royalty…feeling the cool waters of the Great Barrier Reef envelop you as you snorkel in its turquoise paradise…or rolling dough with an Italian chef to make the perfect pizza. It’s not just about all the iconic spots that will make for the best photos, it’s about diving into another world that makes for the best memories.

Go Product Team!

Our product experts are probably on the road right now — scoping out the best of our worldwide destinations. They go, take it all in, and find the moments they love best. Those are the moments they create for you. Those experiences and sights comprise each itinerary and make each one extra-special. Best of all, you don’t have to plan a thing. You just need to choose which itinerary best suits you.

Travel is social by nature. Guided travel is extra social. Meet a cast of characters: your fellow travelers, tour manager, driver, local guides and more. The social aspect of guided travel is one of the best parts! Many travelers on our tours have forged lasting friendships. Think of all the wonderful people waiting to meet you out in the world.

Go Worry-Free!

Your peace of mind is the most important thing to us. And that starts with our roundtrip home to airport sedan service. Forget taxis, airport fees, or public transportation. We will get you there...and back. And if for any reason you need to cancel your tour, you can do so — right up until the day before departure — and receive a full refund (thanks to our travel protection plan).

There are many ways to experience the world:

Among Collette’s worldwide collection of tours we offer a variety of guided travel choices. No matter where (or how) you want to go, Collette can take you there.

Small Groups, Big Experiences

From vibrant cities to remote villages, immerse yourself in other worlds. As part of a small group, enjoy accommodations chosen to capture the spirit of the destination, savor spectacular local cuisine, and take the time to explore on your own. Along the way Explorations sets the stage for the unexpected moments that make travel so special. With just 12-24 passengers, these are the personal adventures that today’s cultural explorers dream about.

Amazing Family Moments Included

Collette's Family tours bring travelers of all ages together to experience the world’s greatest destinations. There’s no better classroom than the world, no better education than taking a walk through history. Today’s parents — and grandparents — want to share the riches of travel with their children and grandchildren. Each tour in our family line is specially crafted with the best local experiences, iconic must-see's, family-oriented hotels and immersive cultural activities. Children ages 14 and under enjoy substantially discounted rates.

Collette's Cancel for Any Reason Travel Protection Plan

The Traveling Well Experience

Our commitment to your well-being and enjoyment.

There’s no denying that life and travel will likely look a little different for the foreseeable future, which is why we worked with our partners all over the world to create enhanced protective measures for our guests. These measures are intended to help safeguard guests’ health and well-being, while allowing for an enjoyable travel experience.  

From flexible booking to more open space on the coach and much more – all aspects of travel have been considered. This is  The Traveling Well Experience .

• Travel Protection Plan  – cancel for any reason up until 24 hours before departure, plus provides numerous on-tour protections
• More Physical Space  – on the coach, in restaurants, and more
• Wellness Protocols  – for partners like motor coach operators, hotels, restaurants, and airlines
• Enhanced Tour Manager Training  ­– our tour managers are destination experts and highly equipped to handle a variety of unexpected situations – including illnesses and emergencies

Before Your Tour

Cancel for Any Reason Waiver

Our Travel Protection Plan financially protects you in the event you need to cancel or move your trip to a different date. Learn more here

Pre-Tour Health Screenings

We will ask all travellers to complete a wellness declaration form before joining their tour.

Private Sedan Service

Your ride to and from the airport will be stocked with fresh water for every pickup and all surfaces will be disinfected daily and after every passenger.

Specific details will vary by airline, but standard operations typically include flight attendants wearing masks, sanitizing all surfaces between flights and physical distancing. For links to major airlines, head to the bottom of the page, or visit your airline’s website for specific information.

On Your Tour

Smaller Groups

Tours will operate with a number of empty seats to allow guests to space out for a more comfortable experience.

Your Tour Manager

We have employed new and enhanced hygiene & physical distancing protocols for tour managers. They are local experts and highly trained to handle a variety of unexpected situations — including illnesses and emergencies. They are also available 24/7 for guests throughout the tour should any situation arise.

Use of Face Coverings

Face coverings will be included with your pre-tour documents and will be required throughout many experiences on tour including the motor coach and air travel.

Motor Coach

All surfaces will be sanitized often, including regular cleaning of high-touch areas with disinfecting wipes. Hand sanitizer will be available at all times and drivers will wear protective gear when appropriate.

On-Tour Experiences

We work closely with our local partners to ensure adequate physical distancing during meals, experiences, and sightseeing. Guests may be rotated in smaller sub-groups when necessary.

On-Tour Insurance Coverages

When you purchase our Travel Protection Plan, you’ll have access to telehealth services should you need it, plus you’re covered on tour for emergency assistance, baggage loss, trip interruption, medical expenses, and more. Learn more here

Self-Screening

We will ask all travellers to monitor their health throughout their tour, with protocols in place in the event someone becomes ill.

Specific protocols will vary from destination to destination, hotel to hotel. Overall, rooms and areas like restaurants, fitness centres, etc. will be deep-cleaned regularly, with rooms disinfected thoroughly between guests. High-traffic areas like lobbies and elevators will be cleaned hourly.

After Your Tour

Post-Tour Survey

After you get home, you’ll be able to share your opinions of your tour experience, allowing us to constantly improve for the benefit of future guests.

Associations

Why Travelstride

Find your perfect trip, travel confidently, what's excluded.

• The land price does not include air travel, airline fees, airport or departure taxes, transfers, visas, customary end-of-trip gratuities for your Tour Manager, driver, local guides, hotel housekeepers, cruise ship waitstaff, and any incidental charges.

Misty Fjords Flightseeing - $375

Jet Boat Whale Watching - $160

Skagway Tour and Summit Overlook - $65

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• Save up to $700 per person
• Access members-only specials
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Tour Companies

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All USA Tours from Collette

43 collette trips through usa.

Spotlight on South Dakota featuring Mount Rushmore & The Badlands (2024)

Had a very nice trip.

Alaska: America's Last Frontier (Fairbanks, AK to Anchorage, AK)

Painted Canyons of the West featuring Utah’s Five National Parks (Denver, CO to Las Vegas, NV) (2024)

• In-depth Cultural

Alaska Discovery Land & Cruise featuring a 7-night Holland America Cruise (Fairbanks, AK to Vancouver, BC) (2024)

Canyon Country featuring Arizona & Utah (Scottsdale, AZ to Las Vegas, NV) (2024)

We started the trip in Phoenix, just as the US was beginning to adjust to the effects of the Corona Virus. For the first few days, the main indication of the problem was decreased attendance at the national parks we visited. But by the next to last day of the tour, we had to cut the trip short because Las Vegas was effectively closed. The bus driver and the tour director were excellent, making sure that we stayed safe as the outside world started to collapse. A special thank you to the last hotel we stayed in (the Majestic View Lodge in Springdale Utah). The manager, head chef, and staff went out of their way to make us feel welcome and to feed us even though just about everything around was closing.

• Coach / Bus

National Parks of America (Scottsdale, AZ to Rapid City, SD)

America's Cowboy Country (Rapid City, SD to Cody, WY) (2024)

Spotlight on Boston

I was a little nervous before the start of the trip because there were some complications trying to confirm the trip. It was partially my fault because I did book the trip relatively last minute, but I do believe there was some miscommunication on both ends that could have been avoided from the very beginning. The biggest problem was the method of communication. I did not understand that in order for the information to be relayed correctly, you had to message through the communication portal on touradar's website. That was not explicitly made clear, and it took several days and conversations with multiple people to finally realize that. Once that was made clear, everything ran much more smoothly, but I definitely think for the customer's sake especially new customer, someone needs to be very clear in explaining that and confirm with the customer by having them relay it back to them. Thankfully, once everything was booked and confirmed, the trip ran wonderfully! I had such a blast. My tour guide was amazing and the group I was with were incredible. I am definitely looking forward to booking another trip in the future.

California Dreamin': Monterey, Yosemite & Napa (Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA) (2024)

• Wildlife & Nature Photography
• Hiking & Trekking

Montana: Exploring Big Sky Country featuring Yellowstone & Glacier National Parks (Bozeman, MT to Missoula, MT)

Painted Canyons of the West featuring Utah’s Five National Parks (Denver, CO to Las Vegas, NV) (2023)

It was Excellent! Our tour manager was the best!

Spotlight on New Orleans

There were a couple glitches along the way that were beyond your control. I was very disappointed that the Mississippi River cruse had to be cancelled Your Tour Manager (Jen) Out standing job.

Mackinac Island (Chicago, IL to Southfield, MI) (2024)

Roaming Coastal Maine featuring Portland, Acadia & Penobscot Bay (Portland, ME to Freeport, ME) (2024)

Spotlight on Washington, D.C. Exploring America's Capital (2024)

All usa collette tour reviews.

Could not have asked for a better time. Our Tour Guide Katie and Driver Joe were phenomenal . All aspects of our comfort were taken into account. The attention to detail is evident and appreciated

I was a little nervous before the start of the trip because there were some complications trying to confirm the trip. It was partially my fault because I did book the trip relatively last minute, but I do believe there was some miscommunication on both ends that could have been avoided from the very beginning. The biggest problem was the method of communication. I did not understand that in order for the information to be relayed correctly, you had to message through the communication portal on touradar's website. That was not explicitly made clear, and it took several days and conversations with multiple people to finally realize that. Once that was made clear, everything ran much more smoothly, but I definitely think for the customer's sake especially new customer, someone needs to be very clear in explaining that and confirm with the customer by having them relay it back to them. Thankfully, once everything was booked and confirmed, the trip ran wonderfully! I had such a blast. My tour guide was amazing and the group I was with were incredible. I am definitely looking forward to booking another trip in the future.

• USA Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
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• Best Time to Visit the West Coast, USA in 2024/2025 (with California)
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International Versions

• Deutsch: USA Rundreisen von Collette
• Français: Circuits États-Unis proposés par Collette
• Español: Circuitos a Estados Unidos (EUA) de Collette
• Nederlands: USA Rondreizen van Collette

• 8 Africa Tours
• 8 Asia Tours
• 6 Australia Tours
• 86 Europe Tours
• 38 North America Tours
• 3 South America Tours

Our Destinations

• Middle East
• North America
• South America

Tour Styles

Enjoy a refined take on the art of group travel.

Experience true adventures on these Collette small group tours.

Set out on inspiring journey on these faith-based travel experiences.

Explore the world's most beautiful waterways.

Come to know your destination during a single-hotel stay.

Why Guided Travel

Sit back, relax, and let us handle all the details. You won't miss a thing.

Enhance your tour with this easy to use mobile companion.

Combine two tours into one grand adventure.

Making the travel experience a force for good.

No worries, we're with you every step of the way.

Going guided gets you more for your money.

Find travel tips, travel advice, and answers to some of the most commonly asked travel questions here.

Meet the Tour Managers that enhance your travel experience at every turn.

Travel Planning

Current tour and destination information based on world events.

Current travel requirements by country including entry and exit information.

Your questions regarding travel requirements, trip interruptions, payments and refunds.

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• To book, call Interval Travel at 877.273.7737

Alaska's Northern Lights From $3,999 pp*

*Rate is per person, land only, double occupancy, tour inclusions and available options may vary based on departure date. Please select a date below for more details.

• Exploration

Set out on an inspiring journey on these faith-based travel experiences.

Your Tour at a Glance

Tour Activity Level

The activity level for this tour:

You’re a leisurely traveler. You typically take it easy and discover the energy of a new place by people-watching or soaking in the atmosphere at a local café. You can climb at least one flight of stairs, board a coach, and walk unassisted at a relaxed pace for up to 60 minutes without difficulty. You can easily handle altitudes up to 5,000 feet.

You like a balanced approach to travel. Walking two to three miles over the course of a day is no problem for you. You can partake in a two-hour leisurely walking tour, covering up to two miles (with included breaks). You can handle a variety of terrains, from cobblestone streets to moderate hills with relative ease and without assistance. You can climb two flights of stairs with ease. There may be 1 to 2 days on this tour when walking tours can cover 3 to 4 miles over uneven terrain. You can handle altitudes up to 6,000 feet.

You’re an on-the-go traveler. You don’t want to miss a thing, so walking and standing for longer periods of time (2-3 hours) isn’t a big deal. A moderately paced two-and-a-half-hour walking tour, covering several miles, hills, and uneven surfaces, is no problem for you. Walking four miles over the course of a day is very doable, as is climbing into and out of various modes of transportation (tuk-tuk, cable car, zodiac, etc.). You can climb three flights of stairs easily and handle altitudes between 6,000 and 9,000 feet. Expect some longer days balanced with free time to recharge or set out on your own adventure. This level is not a fit for travelers who require mobility assistance devices.

You’re ready to seize the day, whatever it may bring. You lead an active life at home (walking, biking, and half or full day hikes are things you may enjoy) and 10,000 steps a day is normal for you. You can handle longer walking tours (more than 3 hours covering 3+ miles at a steady clip) and activities that involve traversing uneven terrain, steep slopes, standing for periods of time, and varying altitudes and temperatures. You don’t mind being on the go with some early starts, late-nights, and full days. You can handle altitudes of 9,000 feet or higher with little to no issue. This level is not appropriate for travelers who use wheelchairs, walkers, and other mobility assistance devices.

Alaska's Northern Lights

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Your Day by Day Itinerary

Travel tips, full itinerary.

We are currently building the itinerary for the tour date you have selected.

Enhance Your Trip

Optional excursions.

Add some more spice to your tour with this optional excursions.

Pre and Post Night Stays

Enjoy arriving early or checking out late with our Pre and Post night stays.

Tour Extensions

Extension style.

The extension style for this tour:

Independent

You’re accompanied by a Tour Manager throughout the extension, except for any time that’s set aside for independent discovery.

You’re accompanied by a Tour Manager part of the time, for some guided excursions. The rest of the time, you’re at leisure to explore the destination your own way.

You’re not accompanied by a Tour Manager during your extension stay. You’ll access locales you wish to visit on your own, and are free to create your own adventure.

Traveler Reviews

From $3,999 pp *

7 Days • 11 Meals

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We are pleased to hear you had a great time on our Alaska's Northern Lights tour! Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us, we hope to see you again soon!

Review on 05/20/2022

Review on 05/13/2022.

Thank you for sharing your experience with us. We have forwarded your feedback about Fairbanks to our product team. They will review it and use it to improve the tour for future guests.

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Collette Alaska Tours 2023 / 2024 - Collette Tours Alaska Northern Lights

Collette alaska northern lights tours.

Alaska is filled with inspiration and on Collette Alaska Tours you'll have all the inspiration you'll need for those amazing photographs, canvas drawings, and videos! Whether you're thinking of touring, vacationing or cruising through Alaska, Collette Alaska tours include many of the features you're looking for in a trip to Alaska.

Alaska is a land of breathtaking natural beauty, and one of the most sought-after experiences for visitors and a chance to witness the Northern Lights, also known as the aurora borealis. This mesmerizing displays of colorful light in the night sky are caused by solar particles colliding with the Earth's atmosphere, and they can be seen in many parts of Alaska during the winter months.

For those looking to see the Northern Lights in style, an Alaska Northern Lights luxury tour is the perfect option. These tours offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the aurora borealis from the comfort of a private, luxury cabin or tour vehicle, complete with all the amenities you need for a comfortable and memorable experience.

There are many Alaska northern lights tour options available in many different price ranges. Collette Vacations offers an Alaska Northern Lights tours that is 7 days long. They also offer an Iditarod and Alaska Northern Lights tours which is 10 days long.

Collette Alaska Packages

Collette Alaska packages provide opportunities to see Alaska from land and water... For example, you can choose to take one of our many amazing Alaska cruise tours through Denali National Park via motor-coach and train service... Then take a seven day cruise through Alaska's Inside Passage, stopping at ports such as Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway.

An Alaska Northern Lights luxury tour offers the perfect way to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the aurora borealis in style. With amazing accommodations, expert guides, and a variety of additional activities, these tours provide a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the Northern Lights and make memories that will last a lifetime. So, if you're planning a trip to Alaska, make sure to consider an Alaska Northern Lights luxury tour as a must-do experience.

Alaska's essence can be captured in its rich history, wildlife, and landscapes. Collette Alaska tours are a great way to experience the beauty Alaska offers. You can read more about Alaska Northern Lights: A Spectacular Natural Phenomenon

Alaskas Northern Lights (7 Days, Reverse)

CODE: CV-660-R-7 OPERATOR: Collette Tours Popularity: 10 -->

Alaskas Northern Lights (7 Days, Standard)

CODE: CV-660-S-7 OPERATOR: Collette Tours Popularity: 0 -->

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The 8 Best Alaska Cruises to Take in 2024

R oughly 1.5 million people visit Alaska on a cruise ship each year, according to the Cruise Line International Association Alaska . With more than 2,500 islands, mountainsides that tickle coastal waterways, a robust seasonal whale population (as well as the opportunity to spot moose, bears, and eagles, among other wildlife), and rich cultural traditions in truly remote communities, some only accessible by water, it's easy to see why so many travelers decide to sail in Alaska.

Each summer, scads of ships cruise Alaska's coastal waterways, ranging from 12-person expedition-style sailings to mega-ships with passenger numbers into the thousands. Some stick to a manageable six-day itinerary within the popular and more easily accessible southeast region, while others head out on epic three-week sailings that cross multiple time zones. Some are as rugged as the 49th state, and others are pure opulence.

That's all to say: There is probably an Alaska sailing that will match your travel style and budget. Here are eight of the best Alaska cruises to consider.

How much do Alaska cruises cost?

Alaska cruises can cost anywhere from $500 to $7,500 per person for a five-night sailing , but total costs will depend on the size of the ship, length of the trip, and other factors like whether onshore excursions and food and beverage are included in the base rate.

Generally speaking, the larger the ship, the cheaper the initial price tag. Mega-cruises (with cruise lines such Princess, Carnival, Celebrity, Disney, and Holland America) can go for as little as $100 a night (so roughly $600 per person for a six-night sailing). These resorts at sea, however, are often not all-inclusive, so be sure to check the fine print before putting your credit card down. Passengers frequently have to pay extra (and usually at a premium) for things like specialty dining, alcoholic beverages, and off-boat activities. It's also worth factoring in onboard features that cost extra like the spa and gift shop.

While small-scale operators have fewer dining and entertainment options onboard, they do have an edge over larger ships: better chances of seeing wildlife. The larger ships are often relegated to port towns due to their sheer size, but smaller ships can more easily navigate and visit remote areas for hiking and kayaking excursions. Because they're not hurrying to get to a port on time, their schedules are looser than those of large-scale ships, so if a pod of orcas is spotted, they can idle and watch them a little longer. Some of the smallest boats hold between 12 and 100 passengers, and many of them are all-inclusive (or at least inclusive of almost everything except alcohol). That more intimate experience commands a higher nightly rate-anywhere between $250 and $1,500 a night.

The best time to cruise to Alaska

The best time to cruise in Alaska is generally between May and September.

The Alaska cruise season, like the 49th state's summer , is all too brief. The vast majority of sailings, particularly those along the Inside Passage (the island-filled coastal waterway in the southeast portion of the state), occur somewhere between Memorial Day and Labor Day. That being said, there are some shoulder-season departures in April, May, September, and October.

The best time to visit also depends on your tolerance for the cold and for other travelers. Those shoulder-season trips are chilly (there's a good chance you'll see snow in places and will need to bundle up more), but there are significantly fewer tourists to do battle with during shore excursions. However, the peak season (July and August) is divine. The sun hardly sets, the landscapes (save for the glaciers) are verdant, and the waterways are choked with playful whales getting their fill before winter.

Best Alaska cruises to book

1. alaska dream cruise's "glacier bay & island adventures".

• Cost: From $4,895 per person
• Days: 8 days
• Departure port: Sitka, Alaska
• End port: Juneau, Alaska

What makes Alaska Dream Cruises so special is the fact that it's the only Indigenous-owned cruise company in the United States-and that heritage presents itself in an authentic way throughout the sailings. One subtle example of this: At the top of daily dining menus are Tlingit phrases, like Xáanaa atxá gaawú áyá, meaning "it's dinner time." On a larger scale, the sailings are usually the only ones to visit and get a lesson on the Glacier Bay National Park Huna Tribal House (a traditional gathering place for Tlingit peoples). And because the ships are Alaska Native–owned, they're able to go to remote, tribally owned corners of the Inside Passage that non-Indigenous companies simply aren't allowed to, like Hobart Bay. Other items on the agenda include exploring the pristine west coast of Chichagof Island, visiting the Tlingit community of Kake (site of the world's tallest totem pole), and visiting a slew of tidewater glaciers.

If you're looking to eschew the cruise ship behemoths for something more intimate, this is it-Alaska Dream Cruises' Alaskan Dream holds only 40 passengers. And because it's so small, passengers can weigh in on the daily itinerary, perhaps opting to skip a hike in favor of more time photographing the face of a glacier or watching juvenile humpback whales learn to breach. Meals and activities (including going for high-speed Zodiac rides, kayaking, and paddleboarding) are included.

2. HX's (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions) "Inside Passage, Bears, and Aleutian Islands"

• Cost: From $9,614 per person
• Days: 19 days
• Departure port: Vancouver, Canada
• End port: Vancouver, Canada (this same itinerary is also offered in reverse)

Now that it has a couple of seasons in Alaska under its belt, HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions) is not holding back. In 2024, the company is offering a 19-day sailing that starts in Vancouver, Canada, before working its way past the fjords, glacier-filled straits, and Indigenous villages of the Inside Passage. Unlike most other sailings that stay within the southeast, from here, the ship hangs a hard left and chugs along to Kodiak, an island community known for humongous brown bears and prolific crab fishing. Though it's the second-largest island in the entire United States, it's rare that cruise ships visit, mainly because it lacks the infrastructure for big ships.

Then it's onward to the even less-visited Aleutian Islands (a chain of islands, 14 of which are volcanic, in southwestern Alaska), where guests visit the uninhabited St. Paul and St. Matthew islands and Unga Village (a ghost town), before crossing (and recrossing) the International Dateline, sailing through the Bering Strait (between the Pacific and Arctic oceans, separating the Russian Far East from Alaska), and eventually docking in Nome, the far-flung city best known as the finishing point for the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. From there, guests are flown back to Vancouver, where their itinerary ends.

Perhaps as interesting as the itinerary is the fact that the vessel, the 528-passenger MS Roald Amundsen , is battery hybrid-powered. In addition to being a model for cruising sustainably, the MS Roald Amundsen features an observation deck, science center, three Nordic-style restaurants, an infinity pool, and hot tubs. In other words, it's definitely a place you wouldn't mind spending 19 days.

3. Lindblad Expeditions' Exploring Alaska's Coastal Wilderness

• Cost: From $6,286 per person
• Departure port: Juneau, Alaska
• End port: Sitka, Alaska (this same cruise is also offered in reverse)

Many of the sailings to Alaska center on the state's major ports of call, like Juneau and Sitka. There's nothing wrong with those itineraries, but they do tend to focus more on touristy downtowns and less on the great outdoors.

While this Lindblad sailing does start and end in those cities (since most Alaska cruise passengers fly to the state to begin their sailing journey, it's most convenient to embark in a large port near a major airport before heading to more remote destinations), the days in-between are adventure packed. Multiple times a day, guests are invited to disembark for a closer look at the true wilds of Alaska. That could entail going kayaking among bobbing bits of glacial ice in Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness, or going for a Zodiac ride in Frederick Sound to view whales up close. Another option includes trekking on lesser-known forest trails and getting an explainer on tide pools along smaller islands. While Lindblad has a general idea of where the vessel will stop each day, itineraries are not set in stone and the crew is not afraid to mix it up if it means having a locale to themselves or if there's a stellar animal encounter to enjoy-this is an expedition ship, after all.

Because Lindblad Expeditions partners with National Geographic, there's always a professional photographer onboard to help travelers best capture their trip, as well as naturalists and expert guides to put what passengers see on the voyage into a more informative context. Both the National Geographic Quest and National Geographic Venture make the sailing. The sister ships were purpose built to sail the North American coast and feature 50 rooms each, all with windows or portholes, private bathrooms, climate controls, and a TV, plus Wi-Fi connection.

4. Maple Leaf Adventures' "Alaska Supervoyage"

• Cost: From $8,471 per person
• Days: 12 days
• End port: Vancouver, Canada

The Inside Passage is popular for a reason. Here you'll find remote islands dappled with stately spruce trees, dreamy fields of pink fireweed, and long stretches of undisturbed, rocky beaches. But if you motor a bit further, there's a good chance you'll be greeted by electric-blue icebergs, dizzying fjords, and dramatic, millennia-old glaciers. And, sooner or later, you'll also meet communities of hardy locals. What's appealing about this Maple Leaf Adventures itinerary is that it's a good mix of Alaska's natural landscapes and coastal cityscapes. Visits to bustling port towns like Sitka and Ketchikan are balanced with days spent entirely in the wilderness of Endicott Arm and Misty fjords.

Holding just 12 guests, the ship is one of the smallest sailing commercially in Alaska, so it's able to tuck into areas the mega-ships can't. And it's a unique ways to spend 12 days-the Swell is a converted tugboat.

5. Norwegian Cruise Line's Alaska: Glacier Bay, Skagway & Juneau

• Cost: From $619 per person
• Days: 9 days
• Departure port: Seattle, Washington
• End port: Seattle, Washington

If we were to pick one mega-ship operator to see Alaska on, it would be Norwegian Cruise Line . If your idea of a good time includes loads of onboard amenities (like over-the-top spas, nightly theater productions, go-kart tracks, and a water park), this is the sailing for you. It's also one of the more family-friendly lines sailing in Alaska, with kids clubs and programming specifically geared at youngsters.

Over the course of nine days, this sailing on the 1,976-passenger Norwegian Sun visits seven ports, including Sitka, Icy Strait Point, Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, and Victoria (in British Columbia), and spends a full day puttering around the otherworldly beautiful Glacier Bay National Park. All in all, the sailing is affordable, and travelers can customize the land part of their itineraries to fulfill their Alaska wish list (at an added cost), by opting for excursions that include kayaking to the face of a glacier, going on a flightseeing tour to see brown bears feast on salmon, meeting sled dogs, shopping for Indigenous handicrafts, marveling at totem poles, and visiting local breweries and distilleries. Onboard, Wi-Fi, bar drinks, and specialty dining are free, but activities like the spa cost extra.

6. Ponant's "Alaska, nature on a grand scale"

• Cost: From $13,230 per person
• Days: 13 days (11 nights onboard)
• Departure port: Seward, Alaska
• End port: Vancouver, Canada (this cruise is also offered in reverse)

Another itinerary that focuses on lesser-visited ports is French line Ponant's 13-day trip starting in Seward, a fishing port town two hours from Anchorage. As the boat pulls out of the harbor, guests are invited to bring their binoculars to the deck to check the landscape for whales, which come to the food-rich waterways each summer to bulk up for their winter calving season. The first full day on the water is spent sailing around Prince William Sound where islets and icebergs are abundant, followed by a day at Tsaa Fjord in the captivating (and appropriately named) Icy Bay for glaciers. Next it's off to Sitka, a former Russian colony that now has one of the largest totem pole collections in the world. From there it's the little-visited Elfin Cove and Point Adolphus, two dreamy locations known for their rugged coasts and wildlife spotting opportunities. After a few more days in the Inside Passage communities of Skagway, Kake, and Petersburg, the sailing culminates in Vancouver.

These sailings take place on the 264-passenger Le Soleal , a high-end expedition-style ship that boasts a theater, gym, spa (with hammam), panoramic lounge, and pool.

7. Silversea's Vancouver to Seward

• Cost: From $3,650 per person
• Days: 7 days
• End port: Seward, Alaska

What Silversea does well is creating an onboard experience that is luxurious and one-of-a-kind but doesn't distract from the real star of the show: Alaska.

By day, the Silver Nova visits buzzing, historical port towns including Ketchikan, Skagway, and Sitka, where guests are invited to disembark and participate in an activity of their choosing , like leisurely bopping around the downtown area or getting spine-tinglingly close to brown bears on a flightseeing tour. Back on the vessel, after a gourmet meal and drinks, evening entertainment is viewing the deep fjords, glaciers, and abundant whales that make Alaska so magical. Spacious suites accommodate 728 guests. There's also complimentary Pilates and yoga, a gym, jogging track, spa, observation library, and a slew of bars and restaurants.

What's particularly convenient about this sailing is that it ends in Seward, making it easy to continue your Alaska vacation (a visit to Denali National Park and Preserve, anyone?) by road or rail.

8. Uncruise Adventures' "Wild, Woolly and Wow"

• Cost: From $4,400 per person

Cruise vacations often have the reputation of being not very active. However, this UnCruise Adventures sailing is aimed at those who want an more heart-pumping immersion into some little-visited areas of the 49th state, like South Baranof Island Wilderness Area and Chichagof Island.

One day might involve kayaking in Patterson Bay followed by a brisk snorkeling session. Another could see guests hiking to a glacial lake or going for a skiff tour among icebergs. And another could involve biking in an area known for its healthy population of brown bears (if you dare).

These sailings take place on the intimate 86-passenger Wilderness Legacy , with cozy but comfortable cabins and unlimited activities and beverages.

This story was originally published in January 2023, and was updated on March 27, 2024, to include current information.