alaskan cruise tips and tricks

Alaska Cruise Tips – 21 Things I Wish I Knew Before My First Alaskan Cruise

My husband and I recently returned from a wonderful cruise to Alaska. We took the trip (without our three kids) to celebrate our 10th anniversary. We thoroughly enjoyed our first cruise – especially since it was to Alaska with lots to see and history to discover. Having never cruised before, we read a lot of Alaska cruise tips for months before we traveled. 

You see, we had been saving since our wedding for a big trip like this. ( Alaska was one of our 15 savings accounts and a great way to save for a special event like this. ) We researched a lot online before we booked our cruise, and researched even more Alaska cruise tips before we actually left. We felt pretty well prepared but there were still some things that we had to learn on the ship. There were actually several times we looked at each other and commented how we wished we had known that. This is how this list of Alaska cruise tips began.

I’m sharing this list of Alaska cruise tips to help others who are getting ready for their Alaskan cruise! Some of these tips may apply to all cruises and some are specific to Alaskan cruises. Either way, I hope it helps someone else get ready to cruise.

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. You can read more in my disclosure policy.

Here are my most important Alaska cruise tips. Otherwise entitled, 21 things I wish I knew before my first Alaskan cruise.

1. The ship will seem overwhelming at first but you will figure it out. 

When we first walked onto our ship (the Norwegian Bliss), Andy and I were both overwhelmed. We expected more information than we received. We got a map of the ship at check in and the staff welcomed us aboard, but that was it. It took us a couple days of wandering around but we learned the ins and outs of the ship faster than we anticipated. Just plan to be overwhelmed at first and give yourself time to figure it out. 

2. Inside staterooms are a good deal.

We booked a guaranteed inside stateroom (with the possibility of an upgrade) to get the best deal. Not only did we save money, but we found our room was very comfortable and well designed for two people. There was space for our suitcases under our very comfortable bed, as well as a closet with shelves and a decent sized bathroom. It did not feel cramped at all. The other upside to an inside stateroom is that you don’t have windows. Since the sun sets so late and rises so early (around 4 am in the summer in Alaska), our inside stateroom was always nice and dark to sleep. We were very thankful for that.

3. Your cruise card is everything and links to your tv.

When you board the ship, you will be printed a credit card sized cruise card for your trip. Your card is how you access and pay for everything on the cruise. Do not lose it! You need it to check into all the restaurants (even the free ones), to open your room (obviously), to turn on your room lights, and to pay for anything you purchase on the ship. Your card will allow you to use any free or purchased credits you have for your cruise. After that, it is linked to your credit card so you don’t have to carry a wallet around the ship. On our Norwegian cruise, the rooms had a Smart TV where we could see a running summary of charges, activities and credits.

4. You don’t need a lanyard for your cruise card.

I saw the advice to buy a cruise lanyard (like this one ) for your card so many times when researching for our cruise. We decided not to buy one and I’m glad we didn’t. Honestly? Less than 15 percent of people on our cruise used a lanyard. You do need to have your card with you at all times but it is very easy to put the card in your pocket. It is also much less noticeable. If you are a girl and don’t have pockets in your outfit, just give your card to your spouse or carry the card with your book. I would not recommend buying a lanyard unless you really want to wear a necklace with your card the entire trip. I would possibly recommend it for grandparents who are cruising. Otherwise, I think you will be fine.

5. You don’t need a power strip or water bottle.

These were two more items I saw regularly recommended for purchase. We did not purchase a power strip and managed just fine with the 3 outlets in our room. None of the outlets were in the bathroom but they were by a large mirror in our room. We had two phones (which we used for pictures), two Fitbits and a Kindle to charge, plus my hair straightener. I never wished for more outlets. If you do think you will nee more outlets, make sure you purchase a cruise-approved outlet since it can not be a surge protected one.

A water bottle was mentioned as an important purchase and I did purchase one. However, I did not really use my water bottle on the cruise. You can take your glasses out of any dining room on the ship and it was easy to stop by the buffet for a drink anytime we needed one. Even when we were off the ship, I did not take nor did I need my water bottle. If you have strenuous hiking excursions planned, perhaps you want a water bottle. Otherwise, save the space and money from skipping this purchase too.

6. Pack Dramamine – just in case. 

Walmart has a generic box of motion sickness pills for less than $2. It is worth the money to pick up a box, just in case! We definitely noticed the motion of the ship, even though we had a relatively calm trip. There was one night the waves got higher than usual and I ended up taking one pill before bed. It is a cheap $2 insurance policy and a useful thing to pack, but you are not out much if you don’t need it.

7. Check your cell phone coverage before you go.

It is important to know what your cell plan covers before you leave. Most cell phone plans include Alaska so you can use your phone as normal when in port and on land.  When you are cruising, be sure to set your phone to airplane mode so you do not occur roaming charges. My husband debated on the internet package but we saved our money and touched base with the kids when we were on land, every day or two. It was nice to disconnect for awhile.

8. Print brochures ahead of time.

Wanting to make the most of our time in port, I researched every port city before we left. I printed any important directions or brochures before we left and put them in our cruise binder. Many cities have brochures available online and I printed those off. Skagway and Ketchikan had walking tours that I printed off. My husband printed maps of the cities so we knew how to get around once we docked. We also noted where all the visitor center locations were so we could pick up print copies of the brochures. In a couple cases, they were out of the walking tour brochures and other things we wanted. It was very useful to have our print copies from the moment we got off the ship. 

9. Be prepared for 30 to 90 degrees on your cruise, sun and rain.

Alaska is very unpredictable. We actually had beautiful weather on our mid-June cruise, which we are told is unusual. We had one rainy day in Juneau and a couple foggy hours at sea. Otherwise, we had sunshine and beautiful days to see Alaska. To be prepared, I packed 4 different coats – a tee-shirt type light jacket, a fall weather jacket, my heavy winter down coat and a wool shawl wrap. I wore every coat I packed.

We discovered that the coldest times were at sea with the wind coming off the water. When we were on land, I went without a jacket sometimes. My husband wore shorts a couple days. I wore jeans or leggings. It is difficult to know exactly what to wear so pack an assortment of clothes, plus various jackets, and you will be fine. We also packed our umbrellas and needed them in Juneau!

10. Elevators will get crowded. Be ready to take the stairs.

With thousands of people on a cruise ship, there are many times the elevators will be crowded. Plan on taking the stairs and you won’t have to wait for elevators. It also helps you burn off calories from the delicious food you will be eating!

11. You will walk a lot – on and off the ship.

I am a walker but I was surprised by how much we walked on our cruise. Our highest walking day was 30,000 steps in Skagway – and that was after we sat on a train for 3 hours in the morning! Even when we were on the ship all day, I easily hit 10,000 steps without ever stepping foot in the exercise room.

12. The dress attire on Alaskan cruises is pretty casual. 

We read much on this topic before we boarded our cruise. Knowing that we needed various coats for Alaska, we didn’t really want to waste room on formal clothes. I wore nice slacks and a dressy top one evening, and Andy changed into dress slacks and a polo that night too. That was as dressy as we got and we never felt out of place. We saw only a handful of people dress in formal attire at night. Most were dressed in jeans and leggings and nice tops. Alaska cruise attire on the Norwegian really was cruise casual.

13. Sign up early for shows and ship activities.

We were assigned a boarding time of 11 am for our cruise. Somehow, we were some of the first on the ship and the very first ones at the sign up desk for activities. Before you get on board, make sure you know what activities you plan on doing. We knew we needed to sign up for Andy to ride the go karts on our ship. Because we were the first ones there, we had our pick of times.

We had signed up online to see Jersey Boys but because we waited until just a couple weeks before our cruise, the only spots left were at at 10:30 pm show. We signed up, but then learned we could line up as stand by for the 7:30 show and easily got in. It was an excellent show and worth the wait! Still. Lesson learned. Sign up for whatever you can online as soon as you book your tickets. Then, make your first stop once you board, to sign up for any other activities or dining experiences you want.

14. Get up early for the best seats and views.

One of the most popular spots on the Norwegian Bliss was an Observation Gallery at the front of the ship. It had floor to ceiling windows for amazing views. There were also comfortable lounge chairs to relax and watch the scenery float by. As you can imagine, this spot was very popular!

On one at sea day, we were up early after breakfast and managed to snag two lounge chairs, where we spent the morning relaxing and reading. It was amazing! You certainly don’t want to hog seats or save them empty for hours (as some people did) but if you are up early, you will have the most choices of best seats to enjoy the beautiful Alaskan views. 

If all the areas seem crowded, keep exploring the ship! Some spots will get more crowded than others. Keep looking around. Our third day, we discovered a bar that was completely deserted in the morning. We were able to enjoy the peace and quiet and even spotted several whales that morning! We moved seats almost every day as we preferred the quieter areas. It is completely possible. Just keep exploring the ship and you can always find some good seats!

15. The time change will throw you for a loop.

When you cruise to Alaska, you will have to change time zones. Not only will you change from your time zone, but parts of Alaska are another time zone over from the United States. Traveling from Indiana (Eastern time), we had a 3 or 4 time hour difference for the cruise. It wasn’t terrible but it did throw us for a bit of a loop. Since it was just my husband and myself traveling, we decided to embrace it and keep an earlier cruise schedule. We were always up by 6 or 7 (Alaska time) and went to bed by 10:30. Granted, that was still late in Indiana but not nearly as late as some people kept. Whatever schedule you decide to keep, just be aware that the time change will take a bit of adjusting to during your cruise. 

16. Eat early for best views and service.

Since we were used to Eastern time, we kept that schedule and were usually the first to lunch and dinner. It meant we had the choice of seats and almost always early enough to be seated by a window. If you want great views as you dine, consider eating early.  We had good views and good service without having to deal with crowds.

Also, we decided the buffet was a great option for breakfast while we preferred to eat at the sit down restaurants for lunch and dinner. Breakfast was never crowded at the buffet and they had good food options. I loved their cinnamon raisin French toast while my husband liked the Belgian waffles. We both enjoyed the bacon! Lunch and dinner were crowded at the buffet and it was more relaxing to sit at our own table and have food brought to us. If you do eat the buffet, be sure to find an empty table first and then go get your food. It’s much easier than wandering around with full plates.

17. There is plenty to eat without paying for extra dining.

Every cruise ship will be different but the Norwegian cruise line had 5 restaurants included in our dining plan. After that, we could pay extra to eat at another 15 (or more) restaurants. Frugal travelers that we are, we decided to forgo the extra dining and save money. There were plenty of food choices at the included restaurants! The menu at the main restaurants changed daily with some items staying the same.

We did have some free credits that we had received so we tried one of the restaurants (Q – Texas Barbeque) the last night. It wasn’t that great. Nothing special that made us wish we had paid more money for specialty dining. In fact, it just made us more glad that we had saved on our money in this area.

18. Be prepared to share port cities with 2-4 other cruises.

We knew there would be other ships in all our ports but didn’t realize the impact until we docked. The ships arrival and departure times are staggered but you will see other cruise ships along your route. We noticed it most in Skagway which is a town of 800 people year round. On our cruise day? There were 12,000 people in town. Amazingly, it never felt overwhelming but it is something else I wish I had known.

19. Skagway has the most and best excursion options.

Hands down, Skagway was our favorite stop! We spent 14 hours in Skagway and made the most of them all. We started our day with a 3 hour train ride on the White Pass and Yukon railroad. It was our most expensive excursion but I am so glad we did it. It was fascinating to learn Gold Rush history as we traveled the same route so many of those people did.

After a very enjoyable train trip, we spent the rest of the day wandering around Skagway. The National Parks Service has a great (free!) museum with lots of information about the Gold Rush. We also took a free walking tour with one of their rangers. We enjoyed lunch at Skagway Brewing Company, which was worth the wait. Their Spruce Tip beer was a unique blend!

Later on, we did a short hike to Yukutania Point (beautiful water views) and a much longer than expected hike to see the old Gold Rush cemetery (I would skip this one if I had to do it again). This was also our favorite town for shops, although sadly, by the time we went back to buy something at the Christmas shop, it was closed. We learned so much about the Gold Rush during out stop in Skagway and it only made us want to learn more. Make the most of your time in Skagway. You’ll be glad you did!

20. If you have a port in Ketchikan, book an excursion.

Ketchikan was our shortest port day, and it was our least favorite. It had a very touristy feel that we didn’t really care for. We did not book an excursion in Ketchikan (to save money). If we did it again, we would book an excursion in Ketchikan to give us something to enjoy. We did enjoy walking around the town but easily saw all there was to see in under 5 hours. We were back on the ship early – in time for lunch.

21. You can cruise on a budget and have a marvelous time!

While an Alaskan cruise is not cheap, it does not have to be incredibly expensive either. We were able to cruise for a week to Alaska (flights, hotel, airport parking, cruise tickets, food, excursions and everything) for right at $5000 for 2 people.

My best two tips for saving money on your Alaskan cruise?

First, book your cruise through Rakuten.

Rakuten is a free online program that earns you cash back. When we went to book our cruise, I noticed that Norwegian’s prices on their website were exactly the same as at Priceline. I started at Rakuten and booked through Priceline – and earned $177 cash back, simple as that, just for taking 5 minutes to research and one extra click. Plus, Priceline gave us a free $200 in cruise credit which Norwegian wasn’t offering. Both were great perks! You can sign up for Rakuten here. (I use it for all my online shopping and baking hundreds of dollars back every year. More about how I use Rakuten to make money shopping online here. ) This tip may not work for all the cruises but it is definitely worth comparing prices to see if it works for you too!

Second, if you are flying to get to your cruise, consider signing up for an airline credit card. 

I am a firm believer in not carrying debt and only use credit cards if I can pay them off each month. That said, United (one of the most popular Seattle airlines if you are cruising to Alaska) has a great credit card program! They offer a $0 fee for the first year (and it is easy to cancel the credit card after your flight, if you so choose). Plus, it gives you free baggage fees – which at $30+ per bag, per flight – saved us $120. In addition to that, it gave us two free United club passes where we were able to pass an enjoyable 2 hours in the Seattle airport, enjoying complimentary snacks, beer and wine as we waited for our flight home. That was another $100 plus value. Our credit card also gave us a free upgrade on our flight out up to business class – another $100 value without paying any extra.

But the best perk of the United credit card? When we spent $2000 in the first 3 months of opening our account, we earned a bonus 40,000 miles to our United account! We simply booked our flights on the credit card and the remaining cruise balance and quickly met that amount for our free miles. These miles don’t expire and translate to at least one free flight – depending on where you are flying. With perks and savings like this, it made signing up for the United credit card a no brainer and a great source of savings. I highly recommend looking into the United credit card (or a similar airline credit card).

You can sign up for the United credit card (with the bonus 40,000 mile offer) here. 

To learn more about saving money on your cruise, check out exactly how we did it with this post – 10 Simple Ways to Save Money on a Cruise. 

I hope these tips help you enjoy your Alaskan cruise! If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments and I will do my best to help!

Have you ever been on a cruise – to Alaska or elsewhere? If so, what tips would you add to this list?

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I would love to know which excursions are worth the penny. Iḿ going with my family and everything adds up to a small fortune. Thank you for the great tips.

You’re welcome, Gloria! For us, the train ride was definitely worth the money. When traveling with a family, I think you prioritize and maybe alternate a paid excursion with a free one (like hiking to the Mendenhall Glacier), because you are right. Things definitely can add up quickly! I hope you have an amazing time in Alaska!

I loved your tips and they are pretty spot on. I agree with everything except the inside state room. Having a patio to watch whales, orcas, and glaciers calving is worth the extra price. Makes me want to go back on our trip! So fun. I liked your post😀

I’ve heard from others who loved their patio view too! Maybe if we go back, we will try it to compare! 🙂 Alaska really is an amazing place to cruise to, and I’m glad you agreed with the tips. Like you, I’m ready to go back too! 🙂

Thank you for the great post. We have a trip planned late June of this year.

I recommend downloading a couple of free audiobooks from the library to a cellphone so you don’t need to take your eyes off the scenery. I also think it’s a good idea to use an earpiece that is single sided meaning there’s only one ear being used. The ones I use mix the sound for both sides-I guess you’d call it stereo instead of mono and I purchase from amazon. I prefer this type so I feel more aware of what’s going on around me-I don’t mean for crime or anything like that but to feel more connected to the world. 🙂

Another thing I do before I travel is to take a look at my little stash of “travelers helpers” medications like say stool softener, Imodium, Benadryl, Aleve, temporary dental glue (in case a cap comes off) to make sure they’re fresh. Honestly the only one I’ve really used besides Aleve is the Benadryl and that was simply to rush it to the dining car when I was on Amtrak and heard an announcement requesting it for someone there on the train. I know they have these things on cruise ships because they’ve got doctors but I like having my own at my fingertips. Peace of mind…

I am so glad I found this post. I have been wondering about your trip!

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15 Valuable Alaska Cruise Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

What are some Alaska cruise tips to help you plan your trip? And, what are the Alaska cruise mistakes you can avoid while planning an Alaskan cruise?

Every trip planned is a learning experience.

Our first cruise to Alaska was one in which we made a few mistakes before even taking our cruise. Some of them are rookie cruise mistakes . We were so excited to cruise to Alaska that I ignored some finer details, usually unlike me.

Alaska is the largest state in the United States, boasting unparalleled natural beauty and wildlife. Its Inside Passage, a network of waterways that stretches along the southeastern coast, is dotted with picturesque towns and stunning fjords, making it one of the most popular destinations for Alaska cruises.

The state’s glaciers are also a must-see for any traveler. From the Hubbard Glacier, the largest tidewater glacier in North America, to the Mendenhall Glacier, located just outside of Juneau and is one of the most accessible glaciers in Alaska. You’ll be awed by these natural wonders’ sheer size and beauty.

Alaska’s national parks are another highlight of the state. Denali National Park, home to North America’s tallest peak, Mount Denali, is a popular destination for hikers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Glacier Bay National Park, located in southeastern Alaska, is home to some of the most spectacular glaciers in the state and is a great place to spot humpback whales, sea otters, and other marine life.

And cruising is one of the best ways to explore the wonders of Alaska.

But the process of planning an Alaskan cruise can be overwhelming, especially if you’ve never been and aren’t sure what to expect. Even for avid cruisers like us, cruising to Alaska for the first time, we feared things like the cold weather, being unprepared for shore excursions , and exploring Alaska cruise ports.

What do we pack for Alaska??

What do we wear to Alaska?

We were outside our comfort zone with the idea of cruising in Alaska, unlike the Caribbean or the Mediterranean, where we felt more at ease and in the know.

“The best part of travel is stepping outside your comfort zone and experiencing something new.”

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we earn a commission at no extra cost. Please refer to our  full disclosure  for details.

Now that we’ve been on an Alaskan cruise, once we were there, we realized that we may have been overthinking some things.

I even had guidance from a close friend, a veteran cruiser who has repeatedly taken Alaska cruises and advised me not to overthink things.

That’s the truth. Of course, it doesn’t mean we can’t share our cruise mistakes and the Alaska cruise tips we learned during our planning and trip.

For example, we may have picked the wrong cruise ship. We had a memorable first Alaska cruise, but Norwegian Encore may be too big of a cruise ship for Alaska. And NCL may not be the right cruise line altogether.

At least not for us, traveling as a couple, regarding the Alaska cruise itinerary. And you know, we do love NCL . We would only consider it again if it had an amazing itinerary we couldn’t pass up.

In this blog post, we’ll provide you with our essential Alaska cruise tips and tricks and the Alaska cruise mistakes to avoid to help you make the most of your Alaska cruise experience.

What Alaska cruise tips and tricks would you add to this list?

Table of Contents

Alaska Cruise Tips and the Mistakes to Avoid

Plan and book your alaska cruise early.

If you’re planning an Alaskan cruise, it’s best to plan and book early to ensure you get the itinerary, cabin type, and excursions you want. Alaska cruises are popular; the best cabins and excursions sell out, especially during peak season.

Booking early also allows you to get a better rate, save money on a cruise , and get your choice of the best cabin location. Since Alaska cruise season is short and in demand, the prices increase closer to its sail date.

We booked our Alaska cruise a year in advance. We called for a rate adjustment during a flash sale and saved a few hundred dollars months later. And then we watched the rates go up from there. We called a few weeks before our cruise about upgrade options, and the entire ship was sold out. 

That’s not to say you won’t find last-minute cruise deals for inside rooms; you may find plenty. The downside is that many of the best excursions will be sold out. If you’re ready to explore independently, it may be a great way to take a spontaneous cruise to Alaska.

Alaska Cruise Mistake:  Not booking an Alaskan cruise.

Read more: Kep Steps for Planning a Cruise Vacation

Choose the Right Time to Cruise to Alaska

If you plan to visit Alaska on a cruise, choosing the right time of year to maximize your trip is important. That’s going to look different for everyone.

Some like to go at the beginning of the Alaska cruise season because it is less rainy, other cruisers avoid mid-summer because of crowds, and some like to cruise towards the end of the season when it’s quieter.

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect during each month of the cruise season. The weather is unpredictable, so you may still be surprised when you cruise. It can even make a difference whether a port destination gets canceled.

• April: Experience fewer rainy days when you visit Alaska in April, making it a great time to explore the state’s natural beauty without getting too wet. However, it is still on the colder side, and cruising the passage of Glacier Bay may not be an option if the ship can’t get through.
• May: This is a good time to take advantage of discounts and deals as it’s still considered the shoulder season.
• June: See the sights on an Alaska summer cruise in June, when the days are long and the weather is mild. This starts to become a popular time for cruising, so be prepared for crowds.
• July: Alaska in July is the best month to spot wildlife, as many animals are active during this time. This is also a great time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking.
• August: They say to expect wet summer days when you cruise Alaska in August, but we mostly had warm days at most ports. Locals told us it was not the norm. While the weather may be unpredictable, this is a popular time to visit due to school holidays and mild temperatures.
• September: Alaska temperatures start to drop in September, but this is a great time to see fall foliage and enjoy fewer crowds. Be prepared for cooler weather and shorter days.
• October: Cruise Alaska in October for chilly weather and cruise deals. This is the end of the season, so you can often find discounts on cruises and shore excursions.

Alaska Cruise Mistakes:  Booking a cruise that cruises too late in the season.

There are cruise itineraries out there that are still sailing in October. Alaska tourism starts to shut down for the season in early October, so you’ll have difficulty booking excursions and visiting certain locations. 

On the plus side, you can find some great Alaska cruise deals for October if you are cruising for the scenery. You will run into less crowds at ports and on the ship.

And, if you’re hoping to experience the Northern Lights while on an Alaskan cruise, the chances of that happening are better in September and October.

Decide If You Want to Cruise Out of Seattle or Vancouver

Parking or booking your Alaska cruise itinerary is deciding where you want to depart from on your cruise. The most popular cruise itineraries leave out of Seattle or Vancouver. Still, you can find cruises that depart from Alaska, like Anchorage.

Seattle and Vancouver are both excellent departure points for an Alaskan cruise. Seattle offers stunning views of the Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains. At the same time, Vancouver is known for its cosmopolitan vibe and proximity to the Canadian Rockies.

The classic inside passage is a popular itinerary that departs from Seattle and Vancouver. This route takes you through the protected waters of the Inside Passage. You’ll visit ports such as Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway, which offer a range of activities and attractions, from hiking and kayaking to cultural experiences and shopping.

Consider cost, travel time, and ease of access when deciding on a departure point. Both Seattle and Vancouver offer convenient transportation options and various cruise lines.

Also, if you do not have a passport, leaving Seattle can be convenient as long as the ship returns to Seattle – it must be a closed-loop cruise that begins and ends in the same port. 

Leaving out of Vancouver, you will need a passport.

Sometimes, you’ll find itineraries that end at an Alaskan cruise port. Those itineraries are great if you combine them with a land vacation and spend extra days in Alaska.

Alaska Cruise Mistake: Booking a cruise that departs and ends at a port you cannot easily reach by flight or train.

Book a Balcony on Your Alaskan Cruise

If there is one cruise you should splurge on, it’s an Alaska cruise. And booking a balcony is a must if you’re going to splurge. 

The views from your balcony will be breathtaking, with glaciers, mountains, and wildlife passing by as you sail the inside passage.

Plus, your private outdoor space allows you to fully immerse yourself in Alaska’s natural beauty without jostling for a spot on the crowded deck.

We had a balcony during our Alaskan cruise, and it was one of the best decisions we made, especially when we cruised Glacier Bay . We had room service delivered and enjoyed breakfast on our balcony as we watched the incredible scenes, the chunks of ice floated by, listened to the sounds of the ice cracking, and watched as we cruised to our first glacier.

It was a truly magical experience that we will never forget.

Alaska Cruise Mistake:  Booking an inside room or a cabin with an obstructed view is one of the biggest mistakes you can make when planning an Alaska cruise. 

While these cabins may be cheaper than balcony cabins, they don’t offer the same level of experience. Sure, you can go into public areas to get the same views, but you’ll be elbowing through crowds to get a good view. This can be worse if there aren’t a lot of outdoor public spaces with views on the cruise ship.

Booking the Wrong Cruise Ship and the Wrong Cruise Line to Alaska

When booking an Alaska cruise, it’s not just about choosing the right time of year and the right cabin. It’s also important to choose the right cruise ship and cruise line.

Different cruise lines offer different experiences; some are better suited for an Alaska cruise than others. For example, cruise lines like Princess , Holland America , and Celebrity Cruises are known for their Alaskan cruises.

In addition to the cruise line, choosing the right cruise ship is important. Some Alaska cruises are on larger ships with more amenities, while others are on smaller ships that offer a more intimate experience. Again, it’s important to consider your priorities and choose a ship that aligns with them.

Alaska Cruise Mistake: Booking the wrong cruise to Alaska altogether.

We cruised with NCL for our first Alaskan cruise on one of their mega-ships in the middle of the summer, and we wished we were on a smaller, more intimate ship. Still loved Alaska, but we made notes for our next Alaskan cruise.

That’s not to say NCL is not the right cruise line for you. You need to research to figure out which is.

Find the Right Alaska Cruise Itinerary That Maximizes Your Time in Ports

One of our top tips for an Alaskan cruise is to find a cruise itinerary that maximizes your time in ports and visits key destinations.

To find a cruise itinerary that maximizes your time in Alaska cruise ports, start by looking at the length of the cruise and the number of ports it visits. Consider the amount of time you’ll have in each port. Some itineraries may only offer a few hours in each port, while others may allow for a full day or more. 

Look for itineraries that offer full days at each port. This will allow you to explore at your own pace without feeling like you have to rush around.

In addition, having ample time in each port allows you to book multiple excursions if desired. For example, you may want to go whale watching in the morning and then take a scenic train ride in the afternoon.

Alaska Cruise Mistake:  Booking a cruise that allows a short amount of hours at port destinations.

We did this. We did not pay attention to the itinerary. As I started to plan excursions, I was surprised to find that we’d have half a day in Juneau and Ketchikan. And, then, four hours in Victoria, Canada.

Did we make the most of it? Absolutely. Do we wish we had more time? Yes. Other cruise ships following similar routes had longer days. 

Ultimately, it was an Alaska cruise planning mistake made on our part that could have been avoided. 

Pack for the Weather

Even during the summer, the weather in Alaska can be unpredictable, and it’s important to be prepared for various conditions. Alaskan cruise tip: Pack layers, rain gear, warm clothing, and some lighter stuff for those warmer days.

The best thing you can do is check the weather a week before you cruise to know what to expect. We were delighted to see 70-degree weather on a few stops, but we still had to bring our jackets and rain gear for Juneau and Glacier Bay.

Take into consideration the kind of excursions you’ll be doing. If you’re doing a lot of hiking, you’ll need hiking shoes and maybe even hiking sticks. If you dog sledding on a glacier, the weather drops, so an insulated layer may be appropriate.

Alaska Cruise Mistake:  Thinking about an Alaskan Cruise during the summer would be like a Caribbean cruise.

Another mistake is thinking an Alaska cruise will be like a Caribbean cruise. While both are cruise destinations, they offer vastly different experiences. Alaska is all about the natural beauty and wildlife, while the Caribbean is known for its beaches and tropical climate. 

If you go on an Alaska cruise expecting the same experience as a Caribbean cruise, you may end up disappointed.

Still, though, pack that swimsuit! We surprisingly had fabulous days of sun during our cruise that was meant to be soaking up the warmth by the pool. And there are also hot tubs for those chillier days. Your cruise ship may also have an indoor pool!

Bring Binoculars

Don’t forget to pack a pair of binoculars for your Alaska cruise. While you may not think you’ll use them much, you’ll be surprised at how often you’ll reach for them. The views from the ship are breathtaking, and binoculars allow you to get a closer look at the wildlife and scenery.

You’ll want to focus on searching for bald eagles, whales, and other wildlife that call Alaska home. Binoculars also allow you to see glaciers calving up close, a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

We initially didn’t think we would use our binoculars much, but we whipped them out dozens of times. They made a huge difference in our Alaska cruise experience. They allowed us to appreciate the natural beauty of the region fully.

Alaska Cruise Mistake:  Not bringing binoculars or similar zoom lenses for your DSLR or Mirrorless camera.

Read more: Alaska Cruise Packing List

Book Excursions in Advance

Booking shore excursions in advance is not always necessary when cruising to the Caribbean or Mediterranean. You can often find local vendors and book last-minute tours once you arrive in port.

However, one of our top Alaska cruise tips is to book excursions as soon as possible.

Popular activities like dog sledding, glacier hikes, and kayaking can sell out quickly, so booking in advance is best to secure your spot.

By booking your excursions early, you’ll also have more options and can plan your itinerary accordingly. This will allow you to maximize your time in each port and ensure you don’t miss out on any must-see attractions or experiences.

You can either book with the cruise or plan your cruise shore excursions on your own to save money.

Alaska Cruise Mistake:  Thinking that you can book tours once you’re at port or hire a taxi outside to give you a tour.

You may have better chances booking a basic city tour or a wildlife tour from the few stands outside the cruise terminals.

However, booking a taxi is different as they are limited at these Alaska port destinations, but it’s not impossible. You have to call and book one in advance. 

You can also use Uber and Lyft to go somewhere specific. We used a Lyft to Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center in Juneau after an excursion of ours was canceled, and it worked out great. Again, there are limited drivers at the port.

We recommend researching the port destinations, things to do, and transportation options when preparing for your cruise .

Bring Your Camera

Do not leave home without your camera, even if it’s just your phone. Alaska is a photographer’s paradise, and you’ll regret not capturing some breathtaking and sometimes surprising scenes you’ll experience. 

Even if you don’t have a camera, don’t worry. You can always rent camera gear if you don’t want to invest in one for the long haul. This is a cheaper option, especially if you don’t plan to use the camera after your Alaska cruise.

One of our favorite sites to rent camera gear from is Lensrentals.com (non-affiliated), whether you need to add a camera or a zoom lens to your gear for your Alaskan Cruise.

Whether you use a phone or a rented camera, take plenty of photos to freeze-frame your memories. You’ll want to capture the glaciers, the wildlife, and the stunning landscapes that Alaska is known for.

Alaska Cruise Mistake:  One of the biggest mistakes you can make on an Alaska cruise is leaving home without a camera.

On an Alaska Cruise, You’ll Want to Get Up Early

Whether you’re a morning person or not, starting your days early on an Alaskan cruise will be more rewarding than not.

There are multiple reasons why getting up early on an Alaskan cruise is beneficial:

• Savor the peace of the early morning hours before the hustle and bustle of the day begins.
• When you beat the crowds, you can enjoy a quiet breakfast in the dining room and get first dibs at some of the best spots for wildlife viewing. People tend to sleep in and come out later in the day.
• Most cruises are docking super early at port destinations, and on those days, starting early will allow you to be one of the first ones off the ship. You can enjoy the port and join your excursions without feeling rushed.
• And if it’s a short day at port, you want to maximize your day.
• Catching the sunrise is always a good excuse to get up early.

Alaska Cruise Mistake: Sleeping in on an Alaskan cruise is a mistake you don’t want to make. With so much to see and do in Alaska, getting up early is essential to make the most of your experience. 

Port Destinations Will Be Busy, Plan Accordingly

It’s not a secret that Alaska cruise season is a big to do. Major cruise lines have multiple cruise ships that sail throughout Alaska from Seattle and Vancouver and sometimes from other cruise ports to ensure everyone can experience Alaska. 

However, with so many people visiting the same ports, expect crowds. To make the most of your port destinations:

• Consider booking excursions in advance. 
• Disembarking the ship early to beat the crowds.
• Have some plan or itinerary.
• Go explore off the beaten path. 

With a short day in Ketchikan, we were among the first ones off the ship at 7 a.m. Once the shuttle dropped us off from Ward Cove, we made a beeline to Jellyfish Donuts, which was empty, and by the time we got our order, there was a line out of the door. And we noticed only one cruise ship parked right in Ketchkian at the time outside of our ship. 

We had plans to explore Creek Street, which was fairly empty and enjoyable without crowds in the early morning. When we returned closer to noon to take the shuttle back to our ship, there were 3 more ships docked at the port, and people were everywhere. 

So this was an instance of getting up early and knowing what we wanted to do, helping us explore parts of the port that usually are crowded.

Try the Local Cuisine

Try the local food while exploring the Alaska cruise ports. Alaska is known for its seafood. From fresh salmon to king crab legs, there are plenty of delicious and unique dishes to sample. 

• Ask the locals for recommendations on the best places to eat and what dishes to try. They’ll happily share their favorite spots and give you insider tips on the local cuisine.
• You can always look and book a food tour , if available.

In Ketchikan, we were at a local shop purchasing a few things, and the staff insisted we had to have lunch at the Alaska Fish House. The salmon chowder and fish and chips were recommended – amazing!

In Juneau, speaking to the Lyft driver about crab legs, he said we had to go to Tracy’s Crab Shack, but the location was outside of downtown. We had a feast of Alaskan King Legs – so delicious!

In Skagway , we were told to have the Fry Bread at Klondike Doughboy, but we made it right after closing and missed it by minutes.

Alaska Cruise Mistake:  Sticking to eating only on the cruise ship. Part of travel is experiencing the local cuisine as it is part of the culture. 

Limiting yourself to the cruise ship’s dining options will make you miss out on trying new foods and experiencing freshly caught seafood from Alaskan waters.

Check out the local restaurants and food vendors in each port, and don’t be afraid to ask the locals for recommendations. You are investing in a new experience in the way of food and supporting small businesses.

Take Advantage of Onboard Activities Related to Alaska

One of the great things about an Alaskan cruise is the opportunity to learn more about the region. Many major cruise lines offer onboard presentations and activities related to Alaska, including talks by park rangers and naturalists.

On our Alaskan cruise, a park ranger came on board. In the morning, we cruised Glacier Bay to give a talk about the local wildlife, history, and geology. It was broadcast in all public areas of the ship, and you could turn on your TV in the cabin to hear it. These rangers are experts in their field and can provide valuable insights into the unique ecosystem of Alaska.

On sea days, they had audio lectures about the history of Alaska that were broadcast in certain parts of the ship, which went hand-in-hand with spotting wildlife from the Observation Lounge or The Waterfront area of the ship.

Not Taking the Time to Enjoy Alaskan Wonders

One of the most striking features of an Alaska cruise is its untouched beauty and the scenery that surrounds you at every turn.

To fully appreciate it, it’s important to take the time to enjoy it. Don’t spend all your time indoors or on your phone. Instead, take in the fresh air and beautiful views.

When we ventured out of our balcony cabin in Glacier Bay, we witnessed many people missing out on the beauty of the glaciers right outside. Too many were inside, busy eating or playing on their phones. Why would you? 

So whether you’re on the ship’s deck or exploring the ports, take the time to appreciate the natural beauty surrounding you. Look out for bald eagles soaring overhead, whales breaching in the distance, seal pups popping out of the waters, and the shape of the mountains in the distance.

In addition to simply admiring the scenery, consider participating in outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, or whale watching. These activities allow you to get up close and personal with the natural wonders of Alaska.

Alaska Cruise Mistake:  One of the biggest mistakes you can make on an Alaska cruise is missing out on the stunning natural beauty right before you. It’s a shame to cruise to Alaska and not really appreciate what could be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

🚢 Book a cruise sailing to Alaska

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Alaska Cruise Travel Tips: FAQs

What are some tips for taking an alaskan cruise.

• Planning and booking early is important when taking an Alaskan cruise, including shore excursions, as they sell out quickly.
• If you can book a balcony, you’ll only enhance your experience.
• Pack appropriately for the weather and outdoor activities.
• Don’t forget to bring binoculars and a camera to capture memorable moments. Look out for wildlife while exploring the ports and waterways.

Can you wear jeans to dinner on an Alaskan cruise?

Yes, you can wear jeans to dinner on an Alaskan cruise. Alaska cruises tend to be more about being comfortable and casual rather than dressing up. However, some cruise lines have dress codes for formal nights, so check with your cruise line before packing.

Read more: What Cruise Ship Attire Not to Wear

Which side of the ship is better for an Alaska cruise?

You can’t go wrong with either side of the ship as you’re surrounded by beauty. We were happy with our portside cabin as portside had the first glacier views while cruising Glacier Bay, which I consider a plus. The ship slowly spun, giving everyone a good view of the glacier at some point.

What’s the best month to go on an Alaskan cruise?

The best time to go on an Alaskan cruise is during the summer months, from June to August. The weather is generally mild during this time, and the days are long, giving you more time to explore the ports. Consider that peak season is July and August.

Although off-shoulder months can have its perks, too.

Is it important to have a balcony on an Alaskan cruise?

We think, YES. Having a balcony on an Alaskan cruise is not essential, but it does enhance your experience. A balcony allows you to step outside and enjoy the fresh air, take in the breathtaking views, and even spot wildlife from the comfort of your room.

In advance of your cruise, don’t miss these related articles:

• 120+ Helpful Cruise Tips
• What to Take on a Cruise
• What are Cruise Gratuities?

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Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she's become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She's always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.

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14 Alaska Cruise Tips to Make the Most of Your Vacation

By Sue Bryant

Last updated: August 8th, 2023

• Find a Cruise

A cruise is by far the easiest and most efficient way to see Alaska. It’s also effortless, as your ship transports you through pristine scenery from one spectacular setting to the next, providing a luxurious experience along the way. But a little insider knowledge with these Alaska cruise tips will help you get even more out of this extraordinary place.

Here are our top tips for an Alaskan cruise to help you plan the ultimate vacation.

Pick Your Season

The Alaska cruise season runs from May to October. Summer is short here and every month brings different experiences. In May and June, the wildlife is starting to become active and the days are getting longer. You’re likely to see a profusion of spring flowers and some animals with their young. If you want to visit Denali National Park, avoid going in May as it doesn’t open until June.

One of the best times to travel is in late June, just before the busy peak season, when it tends to be dry and sunny. July and August are the warmest months and the weeks when bears are most active, as the salmon are spawning.

October is the end of the Alaska season. While it’s cool, it’s still an enchanting time to travel as you’ll witness the autumnal ochres and reds of the tundra and the first dusting of snow on the mountains. You’ve got a chance of seeing the Northern Lights shimmy across the dark sky from September, which is a bonus to any journey.

Consider a Cruisetour

Add a land-based portion to your sea voyage with an organized Alaskan cruisetour , which shows you the best of the 49th state. During the cruise element, you’ll explore the Inside Passage and the coastal towns of southeast Alaska, while the land section might take you to the wild beauty of Denali National Park, the landscape dominated by the ice and granite mass of North America’s tallest mountain.

You’ll visit intriguing towns and cities, from cosmopolitan Anchorage to boho Talkeetna, staying in an upscale wilderness lodge for your time in the park and traveling by motorcoach and scenic train.

Some itineraries take you as far inland as Fairbanks, following the trail of the early gold prospectors, while others might explore the snowy majesty and emerald lakes of the Canadian Rockies.

Read: Things to Do in Downtown Anchorage

Choose Your Itinerary

Watch: Luxury Alaska Cruise Aboard Celebrity Cruises

There are advantages to any Alaska cruise route you choose. A round-trip voyage might take you from either Vancouver or Seattle, Washington to Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and Victoria in Canada; a perfectly comprehensive exploration of Alaska with dazzling scenery from start to finish and the opportunity to spend time in either city before or after the voyage.

If you want to explore places further north, like Seward, the gateway to the craggy beauty of the Kenai Fjords National Park, and the mighty Hubbard Glacier, you’ll need to opt for a one-way voyage from Seward flying from nearby Anchorage to Vancouver, Canada. Either way, though, you’ll see majestic glaciers, incredible scenery, and the wild animals of Alaska .

Book a Veranda Stateroom

Celebrity Cruises Veranda Stateroom

One of the best Alaska cruise tips is to book a balcony cabin. Wherever you are, the views are incredible. You can’t beat the experience of stepping out of bed onto your private balcony in the early morning, breathing in lungfuls of invigorating Alaskan air, and taking in the scenery.

Towering mountains, dense forest, and with luck, the uplifting sight of dolphins playing alongside the ship riding the bow wave is the best possible way to start the day.

Your balcony is a wonderful space later in the day, too; a cruise to Alaska is pretty action-packed, and sometimes, you’ll want to enjoy the peace and quiet of your private space as the ship slips its moorings and edges off the dock, bound for another stunning location.

Read: How To Spot Marine Mammals From a Cruise Ship

Take the Kids

Gold-panning in Fairbanks

Alaska is a fantastic destination if you’re cruising with kids . Kids love the wildlife and adventurous activities that offer a great bonding experience. You can kayak, go whale-watching, embark on a bear hunt, zipline, mush husky dogs, and hike.

Other things kids will love include panning for gold , riding on steam trains, salmon cookouts, and if they’re very lucky, helicopter and seaplane rides.

Alaska is educational, too. Park rangers come on board when you’re visiting parks like Glacier Bay, or natural wonders like the Hubbard Glacier, and provide fascinating information in kid-friendly language. For downtime on board, and to give parents a rest, all of Celebrity’s ships also have excellent kids’ clubs.

Denali National Park

If you’re planning on traveling with children, note that kids may not be as excited as you are about spending hours on end scanning the water looking for distant whales. Make sure to plan your vacation together, as a family, to keep everybody happy.

Read: 18 Tips for Going on an Alaska Cruise With Kids  

Pack for all Climates

Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

Layers are your friend in Alaska. While July and August can get quite warm—up to around 67 degrees Fahrenheit in the daytime—the weather can change in minutes. You’ll need base layers, a couple of fleeces, a lightweight jacket (preferably waterproof), gloves, and some decent walking shoes.

A windproof item is ideal for the time you’ll spend on deck, whether the ship is sailing and you’re out looking for whales, or if you’re floating silently at the face of one of Alaska’s colossal glaciers.

If you book excursions like kayaking, the necessary equipment will be provided, but do bring closed-toe shoes, which are essential for activities like ziplining. Remember a swimsuit as well. While you may not be taking a dip in Alaska’s icy water, there’s plenty of opportunities on board to take a refreshing dip or relax in a hot tub.

For evenings, smart casual is perfectly fine with a couple of Evening Chic occasions to dress up, but nothing as formal as tuxedos and ball gowns—unless you want to, of course.

Read: What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise  

Don’t Forget Your Binoculars

Whale-watching in Alaska

Alaska is known for its magnificent wildlife, but sometimes, it’s in the distance. You might spot a bear foraging on a beach, or snoozing in a tree, for example, so the ability to get a close-up view is invaluable.

A distant whale blow becomes all the more exciting if you can zoom in and try to identify the species. One of the most useful tips for Alaskan cruise fans is to bring more than one pair unless you want to be haggling constantly about whose turn it is.

Read: Alaska Whale-Watching Cruises  

Bring a Dry Bag

The state gets a fair amount of rain and mist, although you’d be unlucky if it rained all day during the summer in Alaska . Still, a roll-top dry bag, ideally with straps so you can wear it as a backpack, is a worthwhile accessory for going ashore, as you’ll be carrying cameras, phones, and other equipment.

It’s even more useful if you’re planning on joining a kayaking excursion, or heading off on a small boat where you’ll want to protect your gear from the spray.

Remember Your Zoom Lens

Humpback whale in Alaska

While a smartphone will certainly capture your Alaskan adventure , a zoom camera can bring out the real detail; the colors on the head of a bald eagle or the tail of a humpback as it dives.

A wide-angle zoom lens is the best option if you don’t want the hassle of changing lenses all the time while photographing Alaska . The light in Alaska is so beautiful that it’s worth bringing a quality camera, whether you’re shooting the ethereal morning mist on the water or a salmon-pink sunset.

Read: Wildlife Photography Tips for Beginners  

Support the Local Economy

You can buy some cool souvenirs in Alaska , and there’s no shortage of retail opportunities in each port. Look for the Alaska Grown or Made In Alaska logos. When you buy local, you’re supporting the economy of towns that rely on a very short tourist season.

Locally made jewelry is a great buy, especially made from Alaskan jade, as are Christmas tree decorations, wood carvings, vacuum-packed Alaskan salmon, boxes of chocolate “moose poop” as amusing gifts for friends back home, and clothing.

“Bear claw” salad servers made from wood, not actual bear claws, are a typical Alaskan gift, as is a bottle of birch syrup, the state’s answer to maple syrup.

Plan Your Shore Excursions

Watch: Discover Juneau With Celebrity Cruises

An Alaskan cruise can be pretty busy if you pack your vacation with back-to-back shore excursions. While these are without doubt the best way to make the most of your time here, and the only real way to make it out into the true wilderness, there are ports where you can mix it up and do your own thing as well as enjoying the tours.

Ketchikan , for example, is compact, and it’s easy to wander along quaint Creek Street, the former red light district, now packed with craft stores. In Juneau, you could whizz up the Mount Roberts Tramway for a view of your ship and the surrounding mountains and then spend time in town.

Sitka, too, is a friendly little Alaskan town around which you can stroll independently, while downtown Seward is a cool, fun place to have a relaxing lunch or sample some craft beers.

You will, however, want to join expert-led Alaskan shore excursions if you want to see bears close up, try a guided hike, head out on a kayak tour, or go whale watching with an expert.

Ziplining is available at several ports, although Icy Strait Point is arguably the most thrilling; if you’re traveling with kids, you’re likely to be pressured into at least one zipline adventure.

Then there are the once-in-a-lifetime opportunities you won’t want to miss. Meeting working huskies at a sled dog kennel outside Juneau. Soaring over the Tongass National Forest in a helicopter and landing on a glacier to trek on the ice. Or clattering along the contours of narrow valleys on historic the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad.

Read: Best Places to Visit In Alaska for the First Time

Follow the Rules

Brown bear in Tongass National Forest

You’ll need some flexibility to travel in Alaska. July, for example, is salmon spawning season and tasty salmon means hungry bears.

As such, you may find that a lot of the forest trails could be marked off-limits with “Do Not Cross” tape because of bear activity, especially if you’re near a salmon spawning river. This is advice everybody should take seriously. Alaska is real wilderness, not a theme park, and the rules are there for your safety—and that of the wildlife.

Get the Best Views from the Ship

Hubbard Glacier

With a bit of planning, you can position yourself on the ship for the most beautiful views at the right time. For example, at sunset, when the ship sails the smooth waters of the forested, island-specked Inside Passage, you’ll want to be near a window.

If you like the idea of Italian classics in Tuscan Grille, a specialty dining restaurant that spans the aft end (the back) of Celebrity Eclipse and Celebrity Solstice or runs along the side of the ship on Millennium, book a window seat for dinner, timed for around sunset or earlier, and enjoy dreamy views of the ship’s wake and the pristine scenery.

Head for cocktails at the popular Sunset Bar, or take your morning coffee in the Sky Observation Lounge for uninterrupted forward views. Set up camp on the Lawn Club (on Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Eclipse) for the best views, while lounging on the grass with a steaming mug of hot chocolate. Fleece blankets are provided on deck for cooler days.

Read: Port Vs. Starboard: What Side of the Ship Is Best?

Try Alaskan Cuisine

Alaskan King Crab

No trip to Alaska is complete without sampling the delicious local produce. You’ll be able to try Alaskan dishes on board, but there are a few classics to sample in port, too.

In Juneau, Tracy’s King Crab Shack does the ultimate crab bisque, as well as whole buckets of king crab legs with melted butter. Meanwhile, one of the best things to do in Ketchikan for foodies is to visit the Alaska Fish House for all things fish, as the name suggests—fish tacos, fish and chips, and the restaurant’s signature smoked salmon chowder.

You can sample Alaskan salmon on a shore excursion, too. Book a tour that includes a salmon bake, for example, from Juneau, you can kayak the ice-strewn bay in front of the Mendenhall Glacier and then feast on grilled salmon in a forest clearing and grill marshmallows over a fire pit.

Watch: Luxury Alaska Cruises Aboard Celebrity Cruises

Inspired to start planning your next Alaskan adventure? Browse our range of exciting cruises on our website .

Sue has been writing about cruising for 20 years and is lucky enough to have sailed all seven continents. She lives in London, where she is cruise editor of The Times and The Sunday Times newspapers, as well as a freelance contributor to magazines and websites worldwide.

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Complete Guide to Taking an Alaskan Cruise (What It’s Like)

When it comes to cruising, there is nothing quite like sailing to Alaska. It’s difficult to explain exactly what it’s like to sail to the 49th state, surrounded by mountains, wildlife, and amazing natural beauty. That’s because no matter how many photos or videos you see, it simply doesn’t do it justice.

Maybe you’ve sailed the Caribbean, but we can tell you that the experience of sailing Alaska is completely different in what you see, the experience onboard, and even your other passengers. In fact, there are many people who may not have any interest in cruising, but do consider taking a trip to Alaska.

Whether you’ve sailed dozens of times or never stepped foot on a ship, there’s plenty to know about taking a cruise to this part of the world. Below, we cover a cruise to Alaska from bow to stern, including everything from costs to tips and much more.

In This Article...

Answered: Why Take an Alaskan Cruise

First things first, why take an Alaskan cruise? What’s so special about sailing to this part of the world? And if you’re interested in seeing the state, why not just visit by taking a flight?

Let’s start with why you would want to visit Alaska in the first place. No matter where you’ve traveled before, there’s little doubt that the landscape of Alaska compares — or beats — anything you’ve ever seen.

The state is one of the last unspoiled places in the United States. Mountains rise literally out of the water. Wildlife, including whales and bald eagles, are abundant. Even glaciers are a regular sight on many cruises.

In short, Alaska is one of those “bucket list” destinations that just doesn’t have an equivalent. It has to be seen to be believed.

That’s also where taking a cruise offers a better experience than a traditional vacation.

Unlike places in the continental United States, much of Alaska is not easily accessible via car. That means seeing multiple locations — even if they are relatively close to each other — often means traveling by plane or boat.

With a cruise, you have the ability to easily travel between different ports of call, allowing you to see much more in a short time. Being on the water, you’re also able to get up close to the scenery.

Most cruises in the Caribbean are in port for the day, and then head to sea each evening — meaning there isn’t much to see in between. In Alaska, even when you’re sailing, there’s still plenty to experience. The Inside Passage, which is the inner route that takes you all around the southeast of Alaska, takes you right next to the stunning landscape all day long.

In other words, if you’ve ever wanted to experience the state, there is no better way to do it than by cruise ship .

The Atmosphere on Board

One major difference of a cruise from Alaska compared to other cruises is the atmosphere onboard.

Head to the Caribbean and you’re likely to have a big sail away party, pumping music, free-flowing drinks, dancing, and more. And while there’s plenty to do on the ship when sailing in Alaska, the atmosphere is decidedly more subdued.

In part, this is due to the weather. While we wouldn’t describe sailing to Alaska during the summer season as “cold,” there are definite chilly moments. For example, it might be 75 and sunny one day, but other days it might be 50 degrees and raining. Especially if the ship is sailing (which creates a strong breeze), then this isn’t exactly “hang out and party at the pool” weather!

As well, you’ll find a different crowd on a trip to Alaska than a trip to the Caribbean. Now, you might be under the impression that Alaskan cruises are filled with older passengers. While older passengers are well represented, you’ll likely find the crowd remarkably diverse. All ages are on the cruise, and passengers from all over the country and the world.

That said, we’ve found the crowd does have fewer young adults that make a trip to the Caribbean more lively. All in all, expect an atmosphere that’s a lot quieter than what you would see on a four-day cruise from Miami.

Cost of Sailing Alaska

One thing that cruising is known for is offering great value. Instead of paying for airfare, a hotel room, entertainment, food, and more, it’s all included in one price that’s typically much lower than all of those put together. (Though since the return of cruising, prices have definitely moved higher.)

That’s definitely the case for Alaska, where the cost of arranging travel to all the ports you visit would be considerably higher for most people than taking a cruise. That said, in general you’ll find that a trip to Alaska will be more than a cruise to the Caribbean.

Cruises to Alaska can vary greatly, but even a good deal will typically be $600-$700 per person as a minimum for an interior cabin. Trips during the peak months can start higher than that. Of course, then you have port fees and taxes, as well as gratuities, onboard spending, and more.

Remember that most trips last a week, meaning there aren’t many opportunities for inexpensive, short getaways like you see from ports in Florida. As well, you have to factor in things like shore excursions, which tend to cost more than on a cruise to elsewhere.

And then there’s also the cost of airfare. Most cruises to Alaska depart from Seattle or Vancouver. Since most of the country lives far from these ports, you’ll have to consider airfare and transportation to the port.

All told, we think $2,000-$2,800 per person for a 7-day cruise to Alaska is a good estimate — not including airfare . You can cruise for less (or more), but this should give you an idea of what you’ll pay. For a more detailed breakdown on costs, read our article here .

Departure Ports

As mentioned, if you’re cruising to Alaska then you’re most likely departing from one of two port cities: Seattle or Vancouver.

Seattle (Pier 66): Located in the heart of downtown Seattle, Pier 66 is the starting point for cruises from Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania, and Regent Seven Seas. The centrally located port is convenient in that it’s easily reached by public transportation, making it relatively simple to get there from the airport.

Seattle (Pier 91): A few miles north of Pier 66, Pier 91 is where most cruises depart from the city. Here you’ll find names like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Princess and others setting sail. It’s on the northern side of downtown, offering a great view of the city as you depart to head north. The facility is a little harder to get to, and you’ll need a ride like a taxi or Uber.

Vancouver (Canada Place): The last of the “big three” terminals that bring the most passengers to Alaska, Vancouver’s Canada Place sits right on the edge of downtown. From here, you’ll sail around Vancouver Island before heading up to Alaska. For those from the U.S., flights to Vancouver tend to be more expensive, which is something to keep in mind when searching for cruises.

Ports of Call in Alaska/Canada

There are a number of places that you can visit on an Alaskan cruise, with most week-long trips working in a visit to four ports and viewing a glacier from the ship. So you can take multiple cruises before you hit all the available ports of call. Below we’ve highlighted some of the most common ports.

Ketchikan : The closest Alaskan port to the continental United States, this town is still a healthy 700-mile cruise from Seattle. Here you’ll find a downtown that’s near the docks in what’s known as the “Salmon Capital of the World.” There’s also a good bit of native history, including a number of areas to see totem poles (both original and recreated). But be sure to bring a rain coat — the area is essentially a rainforest, receiving more than 150 inches of rain per year!

Sitka : Sitting protected in Sitka Sound on the west side of Baronof Island, Sitka offers up a lot of history to visitors. First it was the home to native peoples prior to Russians arriving in the fur trade. But it was also here that the Russians handed over Alaska to the United States in the mid 1800s. Today you can tour the quaint town and still see signs of Russian and native influence, including St. Michael’s Cathedral and Sitka National Historical Park, complete with countless totem poles. ( See our guide to Sitka here .)

Skagway: Possibly the farthest north you’ll go on most cruises, Skagway’s claim to fame was as a starting point to head to the Yukon during the gold rush. Today, it’s kept that feel with a small but bustling downtown that looks right out of the turn of the century. Except today, it most definitely caters to tourism, with all sorts of storefronts and restaurants. One popular excursion is to take a train up into the mountains where the scenery is amazing. ( See our guide to Skagway here .)

Juneau: Alaska’s capital city, Juneau sits at the base of Mt. Juneau and Mt. Roberts. The town is split into two sections, with ships docking in downtown. From here you can take an excursion to see the Mendenhall Glacier, explore the city (including a visit to the capitol building), grab a bite to eat, or do some souvenir shopping, and more. We like that there’s a real city here — not just a spot built for tourists.

Victoria: Due to U.S. law, a foreign vessel (which most cruise ships are) must make a stop at a foreign port before returning to the United States. If sailing from Seattle, that stop is usually in the city of Victoria, British Columbia. Here you’ll find a gorgeous city that’s a must-see. We’d recommend doing some sort of tour to be able to see all the sights quickly, followed by a stop in the downtown harbor area to see the Legislative Assembly building, the Empress Hotel, and the Royal BC Museum.

Arms & Glaciers: In addition to actual ports of call, many ships work in a sailing tour through an arm of a fjord and a view of a glacier. Here, the walls of the mountains narrow even more, putting you right in the middle of the beauty of Alaska. Then, you get to see a glacier at the end of the cut, along with ice in the water along the way. It’s a neat experience you can only get a few other places on the planet.

Excursions in the Last Frontier

What can really set a cruise to Alaska apart from any other cruise you’ll take are the shore excursions. It’s no exaggeration to say that excursions in Alaska allow you to do things that you simply can’t do anywhere else.

Glacier Tours: Many cruises to the state offer a route that takes you past a glacier on the ship (it will be listed on the itinerary). Even so, one popular thing to do is go explore the glacier in an up close and personal way. This can include everything from helicopter rides that land on the ice to kayak trips to the foot of the Mendenhall Glacier near Juneau.

Wildlife Viewing: Whales, eagles, and bears? Alaska is famous for its wildlife and there’s no shortage of viewing opportunities no matter what you want to see. Just cruising between ports you might see whales, but there are also excursions that take you whale watching in hot spots. Bald eagles can be seen in the wild, but Sitka provides a sanctuary where you are guaranteed to see them. There is also a sanctuary to get a look (safely) at bears.

Sightseeing Tours: Of course, the reason you go to Alaska is to see the sights, whether it’s touring an amazing natural landscape or a historic city (or most likely, a combination of both). Any port you dock will offer some sort of tour of the area, ranging from walking to a motor coach to a train ride. These are typically affordable and a great way to see a lot of things in a short period of time.

You can check your cruise line’s list of excursions to see what your options are. In addition, you can also play it by ear. The ports you visit will have booths setup on land where you can go and explore your options — so don’t feel like you have to book something on the ship.

Tips & Things to Know About Sailing Alaska

While we have a full list of dozens of tips and things to know about sailing to Alaska , below we cover some of what we think are the most important items.

Be Ready for Long Daylight Hours (Messes With Your Sleep) Maybe you “know” that daylight hours during the summer in Alaska are long. It’s another thing to experience it. Depending on the month you visit, the sun can rise as early as 4 a.m. and not go down until closer to 11 p.m. That means you end up getting up earlier and staying up later. After a few days, don’t be surprised if the lack of rest catches up with you.

Be Selective on the Ship You Sail (Indoor Areas Are Important) Perhaps nowhere is it more important to pick the right ship for your cruise than when cruising Alaska. Here, weather is such a big factor. Days can range from 75 degrees and sunny to 45 degrees and rainy. That’s why we suggest a larger ship with more covered spaces, such as indoor pools and covered recreation areas. These provide more areas to enjoy instead of feeling “stuck” inside the ship while you’re sailing.

Dressing Can Be Hard (Layers Are a Must) Keeping in the theme of weather, you’ll likely find that it’s a little harder to dress for Alaska. When it’s warm and sunny, it is literally t-shirt and shorts weather. But cool and rainy… along with wind while the ship is moving? You’ll want to be bundled up with a hat, gloves, and jacket. And sometimes, those two can occur on the same day. It’s well-known, but dressing in layers is a must when you head to Alaska.

Excursions Are Pricey (But Worth It) Excursions were mentioned above, but we didn’t mention price. If you’re used to sailing the Caribbean, be prepared for sticker shock. The outings here are typically much higher priced than elsewhere. You can still find things to do under $100 per head, but most trips run at least $150 in our experience, with high-end excursions like helicopter tours running $300+ per person.

Don’t Miss the Scenery Between Ports Sail to the Caribbean and the schedule is typically stop in a port, enjoy the day, and then get back on the ship. Once the ship departs, there’s not much to see as you sail to the next port of call. In Alaska, there’s always something to see… and it shouldn’t be missed. Whether it’s sailing next to mountains or doing some whale-spotting as the ship cruises, there’s quite a bit to experience even between ports.

Balconies Are Worth It, But Don’t Fret Yes, if you’re going to get a balcony cabin, then Alaska is a great place to do it. There’s plenty to see the entire trip, and it’s nice to be able to simply step out on the balcony to take in the view.

But even if you don’t get one (they are more expensive), you will have plenty of opportunity to see the scenery. Ships have lots of open deck space for you to watch the mountains and water go by, so it’s not a huge loss if you don’t have your own private balcony. As well, with the long daylight hours, an interior cabin (which gets plenty dark) may help you sleep better.

If You’re On the Fence About Alaska… Book it. You Won’t Regret it Finally, if you’re still wondering if you should or shouldn’t take that cruise to Alaska, we say do it. It certainly can be a large amount of money to spend. But personally, sailing to Alaska is unlike any other cruise we’ve taken. It’s a chance to experience a landscape you can’t really visit any other way. You get to see and do things that you just don’t get anywhere else. We have yet to hear anyone be disappointed with a cruise to Alaska. It’s doubtful that you would be the first.

More on Cruising Alaska:

• How Alaskan Cruises Differ From Caribbean Cruises (And It’s NOT Just Colder)

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45 Alaska Cruise Tips You Absolutely Need to Know

This post may contain affiliate links, view our disclosure policy .

Are you looking for a list of helpful, go-to Alaska cruise tips for your upcoming Alaska cruise?

Having recently returned from an Alaska cruise, we’ve put together this mega list of practical, and incredibly helpful Alaska cruise tips that will help you get the most enjoyment from your trip.

This article contains important, need-to-know tips and advice on booking, ways to save, stateroom selection, excursions, and items to pack for an Alaska cruise.

We also have a fun selection of miscellaneous Alaska cruise tips at the end that you may not have heard before.

Hold on tight – and get ready to take notes – as you read our 45 Alaska cruise tips that you absolutely need to know as you embark on this vacation of a lifetime!

Table of Contents

Alaska Cruise Tips: Booking Your Cruise

Take your time in deciding which cruise line and which cruise ship to book for your Alaska cruise vacation – after all, there are many to choose from!

The following list includes tips on how to choose a cruise line, and how to go about booking your Alaska cruise.

1. Different cruise lines appeal to different passengers.

First-time cruisers often ask what is the best cruise line for going to Alaska.

The choice comes down to your budget, expectations, and the overall vibe preferred by a cruise line.

Some choose a cruise ship for the cruise itinerary and destination only, and the ship is merely the mode of transportation.

Others look at the ship’s age opting for a more modern ship or desire a ship with multiple conveniences and resort-like attractions to keep the family entertained.

Nevertheless, some factors influencing your decision could include finding a discount or cruise promotion, the ship’s embarkation port, the size of the ship, and the ability to add on a land tour.

When it comes to Alaska cruise tips, choose a cruise line and ship that meets your needs and your budget – this will be different for everyone.

Here is a list of cruise lines that go to Alaska:

• Royal Caribbean
• Princess Cruises
• Celebrity Cruises
• Norwegian Cruise Line (We cruised on Norwegian Encore to Alaska)
• Holland America Line
• Viking Ocean Cruises
• Disney Cruise Line
• Silversea Cruises
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
• Seabourn Cruise Line

2. Choose a ship with several indoor things to do .

A ship with a fancy pool deck and fun, outdoor swimming pools is more notable when cruising to the sun-soaked Caribbean.

Realize that due to the chilly weather and occasional rain showers, you’re likely to spend more time indoors on an Alaska cruise, however.

If you’re interested in having several options for things to do, find a ship that has a large selection of both indoor and outdoor leisure and relaxation areas.

Activities such as indoor shows, comedy clubs, casinos, arcades, and spas provide hours of entertainment.

In addition, various Alaska cruise lines have either indoor, covered, or solarium-type swimming pools that are appealing if swimming on the ship is of importance to you.

3. Sail late in the season for the best chance at Northern Lights.

The most popular time to go on an Alaksa cruise is during the months of June, July, and August as they offer both the warmest weather and longest hours of daylight.

The shoulder season of September–October is growing in popularity, however, as it boasts fewer crowds, lower prices, and seasonal attractions like the Northern Lights.

If you sail late in the season (late August -October), the daylight starts getting shorter leaving a longer, and darker, time for you to be able to see the Northern Lights.

There’s never a guarantee you’ll get to see this nighttime spectacular, but cruising late in the season will increase your odds.

4. Check into stateroom capacities.

Though this is a general cruise tip versus directly pertaining to Alaska, it is something that affected us so I want to mention it to you.

The capacity limits on cruise ship staterooms are strict, meaning that if the room says it fits 2-3 people, you may not have more than 3 people assigned to the room.

For bigger families or families with small children, check to see if there are ‘family staterooms’ that allow higher capacities, or look into getting adjoining staterooms.

Understand that even if you have 2 staterooms that are connected, each stateroom will require a separate cruise ship reservation, with a minimum of 1 adult assigned to each room.

This can be a hassle when it comes to booking shore excursions and making reservations, as each stateroom must be dealt with separately.

You’ll have no other choice, however, if you’re traveling with a large family or group that wants/needs to stick together.

5. Book shore excursions well in advance; popular ones fill up fast.

Alaska cruises are sought after for their epic scenery and unique, outdoor excursions.

Because of this, the most popular Alaska shore excursions fill up fast.

Research what shore excursions you’re interested in ahead of time and choose excursions that match the ages, abilities, and interests of your family.

Next, mark your calendar for when the shore excursion booking window opens and be ready to book your excursions that day. (I do not recommend waiting until you’re on the ship to book shore excursions.)

If you’re booking shore excursions through the cruise line, I recommend calling to book your initial excursions versus booking them online.

Questions are bound to arise, and having someone on the phone to help is invaluable.

If you’re booking shore excursions independently, assure that you’re using a reputable tour company and you leave yourself with plenty of time to re-embark the ship before it leaves the port.

More tips about shore excursions coming up…

6. Book specialty dining well in advance; popular times and restaurants fill up fast .

Most cruise lines offer specialty dining restaurants that require reservations.

If this is the case, research your dining options ahead of time, and be sure to make reservations at popular specialty dining restaurants as soon as the reservation window opens (this varies per cruise line).

Again, much time will be spent indoors on an Alaska cruise, and many people place emphasis on securing ideal restaurants and dining times.

7. Consider booking your Alaska cruise through a travel agent.

Booking and understanding the ins and outs of an Alaska cruise can be a big task.

With all of the money and time that you’ll be investing, you may appreciate trusting the details of your trip to a travel agent.

Booking through a travel agent can help you find the best deals, find additional perks, and assure that you’re up to date on the latest cruise recommendations.

Alaska Cruise Tips: Cost & Ways to Save

An Alaskan cruise is a costly vacation and one that most people will only experience once in their lifetime.

Here are our Alaska cruise tips that will help you plan, save, and budget accordingly.

8. Alaska cruises are expensive.

Two of the most important Alaska cruise tips are to budget appropriately and to expect to spend more than you anticipated on an Alaska cruise.

Alaska cruises tend to be more expensive than i.e. Caribbean cruises due to the seasonality of Alaska cruises (supply vs. demand) and its remote location yielding higher permit and port fees.

Do note that some cruise lines are less expensive for the same sights and itinerary (i.e. Holland America), so if the ship itself doesn’t matter that much to you – this is a place where you can save money .

Also, cruise lines have a reputation for nickel and diming passengers once onboard so be sure to look into what activities and fees are covered by your general cruise fare, and which are not.

Leave room in your budget for onboard restaurants, treats, and attractions that cost extra.

9. You’ll find the cheapest fares in May and September.

Alaska is a seasonal cruise destination from late May/early April through the end of September.

June through August is considered the prime season, and therefore, costs more.

Cruising during the shoulder seasons of May or September will save you money.

10. Watch for cruise promotions.

Oftentimes you’ll find that cruise lines run various promotions to stir up excitement and increase business.

Be sure to watch for promotions such as free onboard credit, discounted airfare and excursions, as well as free beverage packages and specialty dining.

This is definitely a way to save money on an Alaska cruise, however, read the fine print and be sure that the promotions actually apply to your interests.

11. WiFii is spotty in Alaska.

Most cruise fares do not include free WiFii for your devices.

Instead, you must purchase a WiFii package for either an unlimited or a certain amount of minutes.

While cruising Alaska, be aware that the ship’s internet access may be spotty and/or slow in some areas due to geography, weather, and satellite positions.

Because you’ll likely not going to be on your phone much, consider buying a cheaper WiFii package – or not purchasing one at all.

12. Do the math before buying a drink package.

Again, when it comes to how to save money on an Alaska cruise, consider if the cost of a drink package is worth it.

Depending on how many and how long your excursions are, you may be spending the majority of your time off of the ship and away from the ‘free drinks’.

Also, keep in mind that the vibe on an Alaskan cruise may not lend itself as much to drinking as it does on a Caribbean cruise, for instance.

If an unlimited beverage is part of a cruise promotion, I always opt for it. (I feel that it is a great value for me.) If not, I consider how many drinks I’ll realistically have in 1 day and buy a limited (more affordable) drink package for that amount.

13. Don’t get stuck having to buy warm clothing onboard.

It goes without saying that some people will forget, or fail to bring the appropriate cold-weather gear for their Alaska cruise.

Warm jackets, hats, rain ponchos, and more are typically sold onboard the ship for this reason – but for a hefty price.

Trust me…pack accordingly and don’t get stuck having to purchase your warm clothing onboard.

Alaska Cruise Tips: Documentation

This section of our Alaska cruise tips regarding documentation is not meant to be a guide on what documentation you do, or do not need for an Alaska cruise.

That information is found on your government’s travel website and should be verified against your actual itinerary and excursions.

Non-legally speaking, our tips are as follows:

14. Ensure that you have the correct documentation.

It is important to know what documentation is needed when cruising to Alaska, and specifically, what documentation is required per your particular cruise line.

For instance, your cruise company may require you to have a passport, even if U.S. Customs and Border Protection does not.

Finally, it is important to know that travel regulations and policies are subject to change without notice for the sake of national security…

So in my opinion, the more documentation you have on hand, the better.

15. Consider bringing a passport even if the cruise line itself doesn’t require it.

Though some  “closed loop” cruises  may not require a U.S. passport, I always recommend bringing yours in case of an emergency.

Situations such as an unexpected medical air evacuation or the ship docking at an alternate port are indeed possible, and you can never be too prepared when it comes to having proper documentation.

Also, keep in mind that even though the cruise itself may not require a passport, some shore excursions do.

For instance, while there are some Skagway, Alaska train tours that don’t require passports, all of the tours that extend past the White Pass Summit require them (as they pass into Canada).

In other words, be sure to read the fine print on your shore excursions to see if passports are required or not.

16. Keep your documentation safe.

It goes without saying that you should always protect your passport from theft and ensure that you don’t lose it.

It’s also important to protect your passport from damage by keeping it in a cool, dry place, and by using a passport holder or family travel document holder .

Last, be sure to have your passport with you as you first board the ship, and do not leave it in your luggage.

Alaska Cruise Tips: Staterooms

When it comes to Alaska cruise tips and tricks, these are my most important recommendations when it comes to your cruise ship stateroom.

17. Book a balcony room!

An Alaska cruise is all about the wildlife and the views.

For this reason, I strongly recommend booking a balcony stateroom when cruising Alaska.

It is well worth the additional cost for the balcony views, not having to fight for rail space on the main deck, and to make your room feel bigger.

In order to save money, I typically do not book a balcony room for tropical destination cruises. Again, I 100% recommend a balcony room on an Alaska cruise – quite simply, they’re awesome!

18. Storage is limited for your bulky outdoor gear.

As you know, cruise staterooms are not what you would consider ‘big’.

Carefully plan out how to store your bulky outerwear and rain boots in your stateroom so that they are not blocking the main walkways in your room.

You can always ask your room steward for more hangers or purchase magnetic room hooks ahead of time.

19. Get to know your stateroom TV.

Your stateroom TV is a hub of helpful information – it just takes some time to learn how to find the information that you may be looking for.

Most stateroom TVs will have access to the local weather, as well as broadcast the daily itinerary, port information, and the current view from the bow of the ship.

You can also access your cruise ship account to track upcharges as well as watch pre-recorded videos on ship information and the debarkation process.

Our stateroom TV on the Norwegian Encore even broadcasted the park-ranger-led talks that were being held in the ship’s Observation Deck on the day we were in Glacier Bay ( see photo above ).

20. Consider if an upgrade is worth it.

Several cruise lines offer staterooms or packages that give passengers access to private sundecks and pools.

I personally do not recommend upgrading to a private pool and sundeck, as you’ll rarely use it on an Alaska cruise.

21. Check your ship mail.

Each cruise line prints a daily itinerary of events and activities that includes information on the daily forecast, showtimes, and restaurant hours.

These onboard newsletters are placed outside your stateroom on a clip – or in a slotted mailbox – each afternoon on your cruise (with information regarding the next day).

The timing of their delivery varies, but I’ve noticed that daily onboard newsletters seem to arrive before 5 PM.

I have yet to find a way to access onboard newsletters prior to boarding. The cruise lines simply do not release them in advance. Some online cruise forums will have pdfs of daily itineraries that previous passengers submit if you’re interested as to what they look like.

Alaska Cruise Tips: Excursions

Perhaps the most exciting aspect of an Alaska cruise are the unique, memorable, and often time once-in-a-lifetime shore excursions!

Here are a few Alaska cruise tips pertaining to shore excursions.

22. Do things unique to Alaska.

Consider taking shore excursions that are extremely unique to Alaska, after all – you’re in Alaska!

Options include dog sledding, glacier landing helicopter tours, whale watching, and crab fishing.

Yes, these Alaska-unique shore excursions tend to be more expensive, but consider adding at least one special excursion to your itinerary if you think you’ll never be back to Alaska.

23. Have an ‘excursion backpack’.

Often times shore excursions leave early in the morning making it essential to pack and prepare for your excursion the night before.

I recommend having 1 backpack dedicated to shore excursions (that you never fully empty) that contains clothing layers, rain ponchos , your passports and wallet, a first aid kit, and any miscellaneous items.

This backpack should stay packed and ‘ready to go’.

Having a waterproof day bag or backpack is a bonus, but we didn’t find this necessary.

24. Don’t underestimate the weather.

Check the forecast for the day of your shore excursion and pack any necessary weather-related gear in your excursion backpack.

Excursions that involve fishing or are out on the ocean tend to get very chilly, so be sure to bring layers, a warm hat, mittens, and potentially rain gear.

These items are worth bringing along ‘just in case’, as the easiest way to ruin a shore excursion is to end up too cold – too wet – or both.

25. Know the cancellation policy.

The cancellation window for shore excursions is typically 3 to 30 days  before  embarkation day.

That doesn’t leave much room for flexibility or anything that may come up immediately before or while you’re on the ship.

Additionally, refunds are usually in the form of onboard credit instead of going back onto your credit card.

Generally, shore excursions that are canceled because of weather (which can happen on an Alaska cruise) will be fully refunded to your credit card with no fees or penalties.

26. Consider exploring the port on your own.

Often times Alaska cruise ship passengers forgo going on a guided shore excursion, and instead, disembark the ship in port and explore the towns on their own.

The Alaska cruise ports all have, either free or for a small fee, shuttles that take cruise passengers to and from the downtown port areas that are designed for tourists.

The important detail to find out, however, is how long the shuttle ride is so that you can leave yourself enough time to explore the town and get back to the ship on time for departure.

Sitka, Juneau, and Ketchikan, Alaska are all popular ports to explore on your own.

Alaska Cruise Tips: What to Pack

The topic of what to wear and what to pack for an Alaska Cruise is so big, that we’ve written an entire article on it!

Upon finishing this article, head to our guide on “What to Wear on An Alaska Cruise” that includes our entire Alaska packing list and photos of our daily outfits and gear.

Our quick tips on what to pack for an Alaska cruise include:

27. Pack layers, layers, layers. Alaska temps can fluctuate 25-30 degrees in one day.

28. Bring travel-size binoculars . You’ll be glad that you did.

29. Bring lightweight rain boots . Your feet will stay warm and dry.

30. Don’t forget your swimsuit. Hot-tubbing is awesome on an Alaska cruise.

31. Check the carry-on alcohol policy. Bring what is allowed if applicable.

32. Bring sunscreen ‘just in case’. There are definitely sunny days in Alaska.

Alaska Cruise Tips: Miscellaneous

Last, but not least, here are some of our more basic Alaska cruise tips that you may or may not know.

All of these tips are incredibly helpful in making the most of your Alaska cruise experience.

Miscellaneous tips:

33. Learn basic nautical terms, as they will be used while sailing. Portside=left side of the ship when facing forward – Starboard=right side of the ship when facing forward.

34. Always fly into port the night before departure – to avoid missing the ship’s departure due to a canceled or delayed flight.

35. Always download your cruise line’s app before your cruise. You will use this app onboard.

36. Don’t forget cruise insurance. Alaska cruises are expensive; protect your investment.

37. Prepare for long daylight hours. This may affect your sleeping pattern.

38. Expect odd port times. Alaska cruises are on tight schedules and port times vary.

39. Know where the best observation areas are on the ship.

40. Keep all of your paperwork and reservation information in 1 place.

41. Use your cabin safe to store your documentation and valuables.

42. Go to the presentations offered by onboard naturalists and historians.

43. Go to a table service restaurant for breakfast – the buffet is crazy busy in the morning.

44. Most Alaska cruises are near capacity due to their popularity and limited sailing season. It is hard to find seating for a large group in the common areas of the ship.

45. There will be a time change onboard an Alaska cruise. Your ship will keep you updated.

Well, that covers it!

If you have any further questions about your Alaska cruise, please feel free to ask in the comments below

Happy travels!

*Before leaving, be sure to check our  Travel Resources Page  to find our exclusive travel discounts and to book hotels, rental cars, and guided tours.*

Jen Brommer is a family travel expert. She has been featured as an authority on several notable travel websites and is a member of the Family Travel Association (FTA), Midwest Travel Network, and TravMedia global media network.

A prominent content creator and influencer on Instagram, Jen has over 150K unique monthly blog readers from countries all over the world. She has spent the last 16 years planning fun, and hassle-free family vacations for her family of 5.

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

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

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

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

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

Why cruise Alaska?

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

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

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

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

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

When do cruises go to Alaska?

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

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

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

Related: Best time to cruise to Alaska

Best Alaska itineraries

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

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

Inside Passage

The Inside Passage is the most popular Alaska cruise route. Weeklong itineraries generally embark in either Seattle or Vancouver, British Columbia — though some itineraries originate in Juneau.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: The best Alaska cruises out of Seattle for every type of traveler

Gulf of Alaska

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

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

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

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

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

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler

Longer sailings from the West Coast

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

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

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

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

Related: The best Alaska cruises for couples

Cruisetours

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

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

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

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

Related: The best credit cards for booking cruises

Best Alaska cruise lines

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

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

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

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

Best cruise lines for extended trips to Alaska

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

Best Alaska cruises for families with kids

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

Related: Which cruise ship cabin category should your family book?

Best cruise lines for adventure-seekers

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

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

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

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

Best for multigenerational groups

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

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

Best for couples and big celebrations

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

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

Related: 8 luxury lines that'll make you rethink everything you thought you knew about cruising

Things to do in Alaska

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

Related: Best shore excursions on an Alaska cruise

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: 15 Alaska cruise mistakes you never want to make

Best Alaska cruise ports

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Icy Strait Point

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

Scenic cruising

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

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

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

When to book an Alaska cruise

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

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

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

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

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

What to bring on an Alaska cruise

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

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

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

Bottom line

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

Thinking of booking a cruise? Here's some more advice:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for a cruise

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9 Alaska Cruise Tips and Tricks (Including What To Pack and Expect)

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Pack Lots of Layers

Bring binoculars and a camera, budget for pricey shore excursions, book a stateroom with a balcony, expect crowds, choose your ship wisely, make plans for the kids, arrive in port the day before your cruise departs, manage expectations, final thoughts.

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An Alaska cruise is a dream vacation for many travelers. Sailing through glaciers, spotting bald eagles and humpback whales, and wandering through quaint towns is what it’s all about.

Whether or not you’ve cruised before, going on a cruise in Alaska is a new experience that requires a bit of planning. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of our best Alaska cruise tips and tricks to help you prepare for a fantastic adventure up north.

You might wonder what to pack for an Alaskan cruise. The answer? A bit of everything!

The first thing I read when researching a trip to Alaska was to pack plenty of layers. I found this to be one of the most important pieces of advice I got. While most Alaska cruises happen in the summer, the weather can still be chilly. But it can also be warm, wet, cold, windy, foggy, etc. You get the idea.

When packing for an Alaska cruise, you need to focus on items that can be easily layered so you can adapt to whatever weather is thrown at you .

Days spent cruising through destinations like Glacier Bay National Park will involve lots of time spent on deck. You’ll probably need a jacket , hat , and perhaps gloves . In contrast, port days in towns like Ketchikan can see temperatures up to 70 degrees.

Different elevations can have different weather, so it’s not uncommon to need a coat and hat in the morning, just a T-shirt during the afternoon, and a rain jacket in the evening.

Don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen. Just because the weather is a bit chillier than you would experience in other destinations in the summer doesn’t mean the sun won’t be out. Alaska can be bright and sunny, so sun protection is a must.

July is considered the best month to cruise Alaska. While daytime temperatures can reach up to 70 degrees in parts of the state, you’ll still need to pack clothes for layering on chilly days, including long-sleeve shirts, pants, a jacket, and a hat.

Binoculars are a must for an Alaska cruise. I know this because I didn’t bring them and felt like I missed out on some wildlife sightings.

Much of an Alaska cruise is spent on the ship enjoying the scenery. While the views are beautiful, your ship probably won’t be close enough to shore to spot wildlife with the naked eye, so a pair of binoculars is essential to get the most out of your cruise .

You’ll want to document your trip with pictures and videos of the vast landscape and local animals. While most phones take great photos, consider bringing a camera with a zoom lens if you want close-ups of glaciers or wildlife.

The time of year you cruise to Alaska will affect the wildlife you may see. June and July are best for viewing humpback whales, while May and June are best for spotting orcas. Bear activity peaks from June to August, when rivers are full of salmon. Otters and bald eagles can be spotted year-round.

If you’re used to shore excursion prices on other cruise itineraries, you’re in for some sticker shock — Alaska cruise shore excursions are expensive . Many cruisers love to get off the boat to explore on their own. But to get the most out of a majority of Alaska ports, you’ll need to book a shore excursion. Whether you book through the cruise line or the provider, expect to pay a lot.

Many popular tours can be several hundred dollars a person — some were as much as $600+ per person on my Alaska cruise in July 2023 .

Don’t forget to book your excursions early as many of the most popular ones will sell out quickly.

If you book your shore excursions through the cruise line, they will be charged to your stateroom and appear on your bill as a cruise line charge. That means you can earn lots of points by paying with a card like the Chase Sapphire Reserve ® , which earn 3x points per dollar spent on eligible travel purchases .

An Alaska cruise is all about the views, so booking a room with a balcony is worth it if you can afford it. The freedom to step outside your room to enjoy the scenery without having to trek up to the main deck is a luxury that can make your cruise even more special.

Enjoying those same views while staying warm in your cabin is also fantastic.

Booking an Alaskan cruise doesn’t have to be expensive. Many websites offer cruise deals , and you can even use points and miles to book a cruise .

You should always expect crowds on a cruise unless you’re going on a small ship. However, the crowds on an Alaska cruise can be more intense than those on warm-weather cruises.

On an Alaska cruise, no one except for perhaps a few brave kids will take advantage of the pool and pool decks. So, during days at sea, all those people who would be at the pools are inside the ship. This can lead to very crowded common areas during sea days .

On scenic cruising days, a large number of people will be up on the decks taking in the scenery, resulting in crowding on the main outside decks.

If you aren’t prepared to battle crowds on your cruise, look for a smaller ship with fewer passengers. Lindblad Expeditions , Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas, and Silversea offer Alaska cruises on smaller ships with under 800 passengers.

Some say you cruise Alaska for the scenery and not the ship. While that’s true to a point, the ship you choose for your Alaska cruise can affect your overall enjoyment of your trip.

On an Alaska cruise, more days can be spent on the ship than on other cruises . These days, called scenic cruising days, offer guests a chance to see spectacular views, but there’s only so much time you can spend staring at the landscape.

I found I spent much more time on board during my Alaska cruise than I have on cruises to the Caribbean and Mediterranean.

If you’re planning to bring the kids along on your Alaska cruise, remember these tips.

First, don’t expect them to be entertained by the scenery as much as you will be. On scenic cruising days, let them enjoy the ship’s kids’ club or another more kid-friendly activity while you’re enjoying the landscapes.

Set expectations ahead of time. Many kids (including mine) assume they can spend all day at the pool when they hear you’re going on a cruise. Make sure they know what to expect — there may be some time for the pool, but it can often be too cold.

Take full advantage of the kids’ club if your ship has one. My 9-year-old loved hanging out and meeting new friends in the kids’ club while the adults did something she deemed “boring.” Many cruise lines have trackers so you can locate your children at any time, making it much easier for parents to feel comfortable giving kids who are old enough a little autonomy on the ship.

If you’re traveling with your kids, set expectations ahead of time so they know what types of activities will be available. Remember that they won’t be interested in the same things you are, so let them choose their activities (if they are old enough), and don’t forget to take advantage of the kids’ club.

Flight delays and cancellations can happen. That’s why flying into your departure port the day before your Alaska cruise leaves is so important. It’s a big deal if you miss your cruise’s departure, so it’s best to play it safe. If you arrive the day before, you’ll have plenty of buffer time even if your flight gets severely delayed .

You may even want to fly a few days early to explore more. There is much to do in the common Alaska departure ports of Seattle , Vancouver, and Anchorage.

Managing expectations is an important Alaska cruise tip that doesn’t get mentioned much.

First, the weather can be a big factor affecting your itinerary . On my Alaska cruise in July, we were scheduled to spend the day cruising around Hubbard Glacier. However, we couldn’t access the glacier due to fog and ice, so it was canceled, and we just moved on to our next port. It was disappointing, but nothing can be done about it, so it’s good to go into an Alaska cruise knowing things might not work out exactly as planned.

The other important thing to remember is that seeing glaciers in the summer in Alaska won’t match your expectations if you’re picturing cruising Antarctica in the winter. For many, the term glacier conjures visions of vast ice chunks floating in an icy sea. In reality, seeing glaciers in Alaska can be underwhelming if you don’t know what to expect.

Another important thing to remember is that wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed . While you may be able to see plenty of animals, including bears, whales, and bald eagles, there’s a chance you won’t see any. If seeing wildlife is a big part of your Alaska wish list, be sure to schedule excursions or activities specifically focused on those animal sightings — don’t assume you’ll be able to see them all from the ship.

An Alaska cruise can be a fantastic family vacation, especially if you know what to expect and how to prepare for your trip. Whether you’re bringing the whole family on a big ship or taking a romantic trip for 2 on a small luxury ship, Alaska is a beautiful destination with much to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need a passport for an alaskan cruise.

If you’re traveling on a cruise that begins and ends in the same U.S. port, you don’t need to bring a passport, although it’s highly recommended. If your Alaska cruise begins or ends in a foreign port, you will need a valid passport.

Can you see the northern lights on an Alaska cruise?

It’s possible to see the northern lights (also known as the aurora borealis) on an Alaska cruise. Your best chance of seeing this nighttime light show is during the winter months. However, it’s possible starting in late September all the way through early April.

Is it worth having a balcony on an Alaska cruise?

Yes, getting a stateroom with a balcony is worth it if you’re going on an Alaska cruise. You’ll love having a private viewing area to enjoy the spectacular sights, and on chilly days, you’ll still enjoy the views while staying warm in your room.

Is the water choppy on an Alaskan cruise?

It depends. If you sail through the Inside Passage, the water will be very calm. Cruises that include time on the open sea (like sailings from Anchorage or Seattle) can be a bit choppier.

What is the best side of a cruise ship for an Alaskan cruise?

It doesn’t matter. There will be sights on both sides of your cruise ship. During scenic cruise days, the ship will be turned around so guests can view the glaciers from both sides of the ship.

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About Katie Seemann

Katie has been in the points and miles game since 2015 and started her own blog in 2016. She’s been freelance writing since then and her work has been featured in publications like Travel + Leisure, Forbes Advisor, and Fortune Recommends.

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ALASKA , CRUISES , NORTH AMERICA , UNITED STATES · June 11, 2018 Last Updated on March 10, 2024

A FIRST TIMER’S GUIDE TO TAKING AN ALASKA CRUISE

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We may receive a small commission when you make a purchase using our link.

If you have never taken a Alaska cruise  before then you absolutely should! Cruises are an amazing way to visit a destination and maximise how much you see whilst you are there.

After taking two cruises in Alaska I have collected a bunch of tips and advice that I think will help first timers to plan for the cruise, make the most of their time on board and above all have fun! My most recent cruise was with Carnival Cruises in Alaska and in this guide I share my top tips for joining an Alaskan (or any other) cruise!

1) Packing For An Alaska Cruise

First things first, before you even start thinking about what items to pack for your Alaska cruise you probably are wondering if you can take a suitcase, or if you should have a soft bag for a cruise. Cruise cabins are not huge, but they are well designed to maximise the space and provide large wardrobes, plenty of drawers and usually space to store your hard shell suitcases.

On our recent cruise with Carnival we had two large suitcases (around 20kg each) and we had plenty of space to hang up all of our clothes and store the cases in the wardrobe. However, if you prefer travelling with a soft bag this will also ensure you can tuck it away in a wardrobe too.

In terms of clothing for an Alaska Cruise, definitely bring warm items and most importantly a windbreaker jacket. Even when the sun is shining and warm (which we were lucky enough to have through the week), the wind on the upper decks can be chilly. One of the best parts of an Alaskan cruise is that there is usually a beautiful landscape to enjoy as you sail so you will want to be on deck for most of it.

Bring some hats, gloves, good walking shoes or boots, and other warm weather gear for your day trips. A rain jacket and umbrella is also advised as Alaska weather can often be overcast and rainy so be prepared for that.

For the evenings, there will be at least two “elegant” evenings where everyone on the cruise dresses up for dinner and drinks. Men will wear full suit and tie or even a tux and women can wear their best dresses. So make sure that you bring a couple of elegant outfits for these evenings, and if you like to dress up it’s nice to do this even on the casual nights!

2) Selecting A Cabin Type For Your Alaska Cruise

For most people cabin selection will be based on your budget but there are a few things to consider when selecting your room and whether its worth upping your budget a little to get a room you truly love. There are a variety of state rooms, and I think the first choice is whether you want an interior room (no windows), a sea view room (has a window), a balcony room or a suite with balcony.

If you are claustrophobic or get a little seasick, then going for a room with a window or balcony is essential. We enjoyed a balcony room and found this was such a great way to be able to enjoy the sailing days, relaxing on the balcony, book in hand, waiting for a whale to swim by!

The second consideration is which part of the boat you want to be on, the back, middle or front. Honestly, I personally don’t think this is as much of a consideration as selecting which room type you go for. The selection of which location is usually based on what you want to be close to, but with activities on board all over the boat you will be walking from one end to the other no matter what.

One thing to check if possible is that you are not in a middle corner room. Our room was on a corner in the middle of the ship where the next section of cabin rooms and balconies jutted out farther than ours to one side. This meant we had a large wall next to our balcony completely obscuring the view to the left and front of the boat so could not see anything ahead of us when we were sailing.

Here are some excellent Alaska cruise options to explore!

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3) The Best Time Of Year To Go On An Alaska Cruise

This Alaska cruise was my second time visiting Alaska, and both times I visited in mid-May and was blessed with absolutely amazing weather with sunshine and clear skies everyday.

Based on my experience I would definitely recommend going in May, however if you are interested in seeing the salmon season and capturing photos of the bears fishing for salmon this is later in the season between mid-July and mid-August.

4) Tips For Boarding Your Cruise

Boarding a cruise is probably the only part of a cruise that can be a bit slow. You will receive information beforehand about boarding times and what time the ship departs, these are important to follow – the ship will not wait for you so make sure you know your ship departure time and have flights that arrive in plenty of time to get you through the airport, to the dock and through the boarding process. Personally I would advise arriving a night before so that you do not have to worry about this.

Once you arrive at the port, boarding can be slow. There will be several lines to hand in your luggage, show your passports, check in and then waiting for your boarding group to be called to get onto the boat. As long as you are prepared for this, it’s really not a big deal and just know that you will spend a few hours getting on board – but once you are on-board the fun begins!

If you don’t want to line up then you could purchase priority boarding which allows you to skip the queues and be first on-board the boat. This really is a wonderful luxury and I would recommend it!

5) Once On-Board Insider Tip

My first timer’s tip for once you get on-board the boat is not to head straight to your cabin, but to take a tour of the entire boat and get yourself acquainted with everything on-board. When we arrive in any new travel destination we always take a walk and familiarise ourselves with the area, and on-board a cruise is no different.

Also, depending on the cruise you are taking this gives you an opportunity to get ahead of the other guests and book yourself into your preferred restaurant or pick the excursions before everyone else does.

6) Picking Your Cruise Activities & Excursions 

Perhaps the hardest part of the cruise is deciding which activities to take and making sure that you get the ones that you want. In your cabin you will find a detailed document with all the excursions available and there are a lot!

My suggestion is to go through your Alaska cruise activity packet and star the ones you think appeal to you, and there are usually a few slightly different variations of each trip. For example, there will be whale watching, whale watching with lunch, and also whale watching with both a glacier trek and lunch, so it’s hard to know what to select. Read these carefully and choose the one that sounds best, keeping in mind the price and time of each excursion.

Once you have your general picks, head down to the activities desk and have a chat with one of the representatives. They usually have their favourites and will help you decide between the myriad of options available.

In Alaska, I suggest that you do the following activities on the port days:

• Juneau: Helicopter and glacier walk
• Skagway: White Pass and Yukon Full Day trip
• Ketchikan: Lumberjack show or the flight-seeing seaplane

7) Seeing The Wildlife In Alaska

A big part of visiting Alaska is making sure that you see the wildlife. One of the great things about taking a cruise is that you can see this right from the boat. When you are on-deck or wandering around the boat, the on-board naturalist will call attention to any wildlife that is seen throughout the cruise.

In Alaska this will include orcas, humpback whales, dolphins, sea otters, eagles and even bears if you are lucky! When you are in your cabin, check the TV channel schedule and tune into the naturalist channel so that you hear when something has been spotted from the side of the boat and you can either quickly head to your balcony or, if it’s on another side of the ship, run up to the main deck.

8) WIFI On Board

Wifi on board cruises is available at an addition fee and depending on whether you need it for work you can make a decision on whether you think the additional cost is worth it to you. It’s also worth noting that the Wifi is relatively slow so make sure to finish any urgent work or large downloads/uploads before boarding the ship. I personally think taking a cruise in Alaska and having the opportunity to switch off from your phone to enjoy your surroundings is a good thing!

Another note is that whilst you are travelling by cruise you will likely travel into international waters and your cell provider may charge you some hefty fees if you have your service turned on, so make sure to turn off your roaming and stick to airplane mode whilst on board.

9) Cruise Hygiene

With so many people on board, viruses, coughs and colds can spread quickly among passengers. A good rule for you is to bring some handbag sized hand sanitiser and use the hand sanitiser provided around the boat and in the buffet areas every time you see them.

On a cruise you really can’t wash your hands too many times, so be sure to keep yourself healthy by practicing good hygiene.

10) Alaska Lectures 

When you go on holiday you probably don’t picture yourself sitting in a lecture theater, but on an Alaskan cruise you absolutely should! Rangers come on-board when the ship sails through glacier bay and going to the on-board education sessions are a great way to learn a lot about the area, how these glaciers evolved, whether they are advancing or retreating, the wildlife in the area and lots more.

The details for these lectures, along with all the fun activities available on board, are given to you each day in your cabin.

11) Use The Carnival Cruise App

One of the really helpful things on the cruise was the Carnival App which details everything you need to know about what’s happening on board, the daily activities, ship port times, etc. We found this app really helpful to plan what we wanted to do on board.

With so many options it is hard to keep up with the daily schedule, but the app allows you to favourite things you are interested in so you can be reminded of the times and not miss out on anything fun you want to do!

A First Timer’s Guide To An Alaska Cruise Wrap Up

I hope you found this Alaska cruise guide helpful. You can also check out 10 Reasons To Visit Alaska On A Cruise which has more useful information and you can explore these Alaska Cruises  to book.

Taking a cruise though Alaska is truly an unforgettable, bucketlist adventure. If you want more cruise inspiration read 20 Cruises To Take Before You Die . Happy exploring!

We hope that this article has inspired you to visit Alaska on a cruise. If you have any questions about the destination, please leave these in the comments below.

Want to share your own travel tips by guest writing for We Are Travel Girls? Please visit our Contribute page for guidelines and to submit your article.

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• Explore Alaska Cruises

Read More About Cruises & Alaska

• 20 Cruises To Take Before You Die
• 10 Reasons To Visit Alaska On A Cruise
• 10 Reasons To Take A Carnival Cruise To Cozumel
• Skagway, With Pass & The Yukon Train, Alaska
• The Ultimate Guide To Visiting Alaska

We Are Travel Girls Founder & Editor Becky van Dijk of  BeckyvanDijk.com Connect with Becky  Facebook  |  Twitter  |  Instagram  |  Pinterest  |  YouTube

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This article is a paid partnership with Carnival Cruise line, as always all opinions are my own and reflect my true experience on the Alaska cruise. This website is a free resource and to keep it free for our readers we may use affiliate links in our articles. Please see our Disclosures for more information.

You’ll Also Love

Cardiff Cruises says

July 10, 2018 at 5:46 am

Awesome article!! I appreciate your article you have shared here excellent information. It’s helpful for us. Thanks for sharing this article.

April 21, 2019 at 12:05 pm

Your photos are so great! Would love to see more!

Nallely says

August 3, 2019 at 11:30 pm

Did they require a passport for re-entry into the US, do you leave the us ?

We Are Travel Girls says

August 3, 2019 at 11:40 pm

Hi Nallely,

Some of the cruise routes do leave the US and enter Canada, either departing to/from Vancouver or making a stop in Victoria. If your route includes Canada as a stop then you will need a passport. Other routes are “closed-loop” and only visit Alaska without any Canadian stops so for those routes you would not need a passport (assuming you are a US citizen). I recommend checking with your specific cruise and they should have more information on visa requirements. Thanks for reading!

– Becky, Founder of We Are Travel Girls

October 16, 2019 at 8:22 am

Thanks for this informative post. We have never been on a cruise before and are currently looking at booking an Alaska cruise next summer. Your article is so helpful!

January 13, 2020 at 8:09 am

I have heard that Carnival cruises in the Caribbean are a younger party crowd. Is the atmosphere different on Alaskan cruises?

January 13, 2020 at 8:57 am

The general crowd was older and more relaxed on our Alaska cruise. Most people were interested in doing day trips from the port, getting dressed up for evening dinners and seeing the glaciers, and it was not at all a party crowd. I hope that helps!

Thanks for reading,

Becky, Founder of We Are Travel Girls

Virginia Nelson says

June 24, 2023 at 1:42 pm

I loved this article! We are leaving for an Alaskan cruise this August. I am 71 young and do not tend to dress up much. Plus I’m a little fat 🤨. Not to bad but self conscious. What are options for dressy dinners? I’m from Minnesota so I’m set with warm clothes! It’s just the dressing up I’m not good at. I don’t want to embarrass my husband or our traveling companions. Btw I’m usually a nice dresser just nothing fancy. Thank you.

Vanessa Rivers says

June 26, 2023 at 9:41 pm

Hi Virginia! Thanks for reading, glad you liked the article! You don’t have to dress up too fancy on a cruise. Black slacks and a silk top or sweater or a dress and sandals (depending on if your destination is warm or cold). I’m sure you’ll look great no matter what you wear! Hope you have the best time! X, Vanessa Rivers, Co-Founder – We Are Travel Girls

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Home » Ports of Call » Alaska » Best Alaska Cruise Planning Tips & Hacks (2022)

Best Alaska Cruise Planning Tips & Hacks (2022)

Learn all our insider Alaska cruise planning tips and hacks to have the best Alaska cruise vacation in this complete planning guide for 2022.

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If you are looking to book that bucket list cruise to Alaska this year, we help you pick the best Alaska cruises in our ultimate Alaska Cruise Planning Guide. We outline everything you need to know before taking an Alaskan cruise.

Learn all our insider Alaska cruise planning tips and hacks to have the best Alaska cruise vacation. We cover everything from the best time of year to take an Alaskan cruise, to what to pack for an Alaska cruise, to our picks for best cruise ships and itineraries for an Alaskan cruise in 2022.

Related Post: Best Alaska Cruises for 2022!

Best Alaska Cruise Planning Tips and Hacks

Best time of year to take an alaska cruise.

Alaska is one of the  top cruise destinations . It is a cruise on the top of many travelers’ bucket lists.

While Alaska might not be what you first picture when you think of a cruise, a cruise is actually the easiest way to visit this region. If you aren’t convinced just yet, we share why cruising is the best way to travel !

Get Our Insider Cruise Tips With our Ultimate Guide to Alaska Planning!

Unlike  Caribbean cruises  though, Alaska is a seasonal cruise port. This means that you will only be able to cruise to Alaska during select months of the year.

To have the best Alaska cruise, there are actually several factors to consider. First, you will need to determine the best time of year to take an Alaskan cruise . The important Alaska cruise planning tips to consider here are weather, price, and crowds.

Thus, when to cruise to Alaska is not as clear cut as you might think.

EXCLUSIVE SAVINGS: Get Deals on Alaska Cruises Now!

The Alaskan cruise season generally runs from late April/early May through the end of September. With that being said, many choose to visit Alaska in the middle of the season as they believe this will provide the best Alaska cruise experience.

July usually offers the best combination of average temperatures, rainfall amounts, and hours of daylight. Rain and temperature swings of 25 degrees or more are still common. However, you will have the most hours of daylight and the best chances at wildlife sightings.

However, with this optimal weather comes increased crowds and increased price. 

If you take an Alaskan cruise during the shoulder seasons, you will save money. You will also avoid the crowds, especially families. While the weather and wildlife will be less predictable early and late in the season, we have cruised to Alaska later in the season three times now and had great weather.

Related Post: Majestic Princess Alaska Cruise Review

How Much Does an Alaska Cruise Cost?

If you are looking for the best Alaska cruise, you will certainly need to consider the costs. When Alaska cruise planning, you should know that Alaska cruise vacations are a bit on the pricey side when compared to Caribbean cruises .

Alaska cruise costs fluctuate considerably depending on a few factors. The cruise line, cruise ship, Alaskan itinerary, and time of year will all weigh heavily on pricing.

If you have flexible vacation time, choosing the right time to take an Alaskan cruise can have a big impact on your budget. As mentioned above, the middle of the summer, which coincides with the best weather, most wildlife, and school break, will usually be the most expensive.

Further, the cruise line and cruise ship you choose will also dictate the cost of your Alaskan cruise. Most major cruise lines now sail to Alaska. So, you will have a wide selection from which to choose.

Generally speaking, the newer ships from each cruise line will be more expensive than some of the older ships in the fleet as there is more demand for these vessels. Premium and luxury cruise lines will also be more expensive than the more family-friendly cruise lines .

Related Post: Holland America Line Alaska Cruise Review

Other factors to consider when determining costs for your best Alaska cruise are the embarkation port, stateroom category, and shore excursions.

Depending from where you are traveling, you will likely need at least one pre-cruise hotel day. Flights to Anchorage for one-way voyages will likely be more expensive than Seattle or Vancouver. So, your Alaska cruise itinerary will certainly impact the cost.

Further, many cruisers choose to upgrade to a balcony on Alaska cruises which will cost more than inside or oceanview cabins. While not necessary, we certainly enjoy admiring the Alaskan landscapes from our cruise ship balcony.

If you are trying to decide what type of cabin is right for you, we have a complete guide to cruise cabin categories .

Lastly, when Alaska cruise planning, you should know that shore excursions in Alaska can also be more expensive than other destinations like the Caribbean. This is especially true if you want to book some of the “once in a lifetime” tours during your Alaska cruise.

When we think best Alaska cruise experiences, a helicopter ride over the Mendenhall Glacier comes to mind. However, this tour can cost $500 or more per person.

Best Cruise Lines and Cruise Ships for an Alaska Cruise

Alaska is one of the top cruise destinations with over a million cruisers travelling here each year. With that said, more and more cruise lines and ships are sailing to the region every year.

From family-friendly cruise lines, to luxurious, all-inclusive experiences, to small ship adventure cruises, there is truly no single best cruise line for an Alaskan cruise . Truthfully, it all depends on what your travel party wants out of their cruise vacation.

Brands like Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean offer more diversity for multi-generational families. With some of the newest and most innovative ships in the fleet cruising this region, these might be the best Alaska cruise picks for families.

Cruise ships like Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Bliss , Ovation of the Seas , and Quantum of the Seas offer some of the most innovative onboard amenities for the whole family to enjoy. These ships also have some of the best entertainment at sea.

Royal Caribbean’s Quantum Class of ships is designed perfectly for cold weather cruising. The ship’s SeaPlex is a massive indoor complex featuring bumper cars and roller skating. There is also the innovative North Star, an aerial gondola that extends 300 feet above sea level for one of a kind views of the Alaskan landscape.

Norwegian Encore boasts the brand-new Italian restaurant,  Onda by Scarpetta . Also debuting for the first time at sea on Norwegian Encore is the show Kinky Boots, which ranks as one of our top signature shows on a cruise ship.

Brands like Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line , and  Princess Cruises  offer a bit more luxury for the sophisticated traveler with fewer kid-friendly options. This is not to say that these brands necessarily appeal to an older clientele though; they are just more couple-oriented .

We have cruised all three of these brands to Alaska and have enjoyed our experiences on all of them.

In 2022, Holland America Line is offering Alaska cruises on six different ships. On this list is one of HAL’s newest ships, Koningsdam. When you need a break from sightseeing, Koningsdam offers plenty of top-notch amenities, entertainment, and dining as well.

Princess Cruises is known for having a big presence in Alaska. In 2022, Princess Cruises is also offering six different ships in the region. Our pick for best Alaska cruise from this lineup is definitely Discovery Princess. The brand-new Discovery Princess is the final Royal Class ship that will debut just in time for the 2022 Alaska cruise season.

Related Post: Best Things to Do on a Princess Cruise in Alaska

Luxury brands like  Viking Cruises  might cost a bit more, but they include shore excursions at each port of call, beer and wine at meals, free WiFi, and no up-charges for specialty dining, among other complimentary amenities.

So, if you are looking for a more all-inclusive Alaska cruise vacation, you might want to consider a luxury brand. Other luxury brands that visit the region include Regent Seven Seas, Silversea, and Seabourn.

Finally, small ship adventure brands like UnCruise and National Geographic offer more up close and personalized visits to this region. These brands appeal to nature explorers and those who don’t want the “typical” cruise experience.

Also debuting in Alaska this year is American Queen Voyages brand-new Ocean Victory . This purpose-built expedition vessel will debut in time for the Alaska cruise season and will visit the less-traveled regions of Alaska’s Inside Passage.

Best Alaska Cruise Destinations and Itineraries

The most common Alaska cruises are 7 days in length, though this can vary. Alaska cruises can either be round-trip or one-way sailings. Round-trip sailings generally depart from Seattle, Washington or Vancouver, British Columbia .

While one-way sailings generally cruise from Seward or Whittier, Alaska to Vancouver, BC (and vice versa) on Northbound or Southbound routes.

Some cruise lines also offer select Alaska cruises out of California.

The top ports of call on an Alaskan cruise are Juneau , Ketchikan , and Skagway in Southeast Alaska, as well as Victoria , British Columbia. Some ships might also visit Sitka, Haines, or Icy Strait Point.

Most cruise ships will also have at least a day of “scenic cruising”, where you will sail past majestic glaciers and fjords. These might include the Inside Passage, Sawyer Glacier, Dawes Glacier, Glacier Bay National Park, or the Hubbard Glacier.

If you are looking for the best Alaska cruise itinerary, we suggest booking one that cruises through Glacier Bay National Park. The views are amazing!

If you can’t find a cruise ship that suits your needs with this itinerary, you can get a similar up-close experience by booking a Tracy Arm fjord and glacier explorer excursion.

Related Post: Top Destinations to Cruise Without a Passport

Best Alaska Cruise Shore Excursions

The capital city of Juneau is the perfect port for cruisers to test their appetite for thrill-seeking. Visitors can take a zipline adventure through the Tongass National Forest or admire the Mendenhall Glacier from a helicopter tour, guided walk, or dog sled adventure.

Juneau is popular for whale watching tours and traditional salmon bakes as well. You can also explore the Downtown area, including visiting Tracy’s Crab Shack for the “best legs in town” and the Reg Dog Saloon.

Made famous by the gold rush, Skagway is now largely supported by tourism. The  White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad is the number one Alaskan cruise excursion .

This narrow gauge railway built in 1898 during the Klondike Gold Rush ascends nearly 3,000 feet along its 20 mile path from Skagway to the White Pass Summit.

In Skagway, you can also interact with Iditarod sled dogs, go ziplining, or visit a bald eagle preserve. The historic Downtown also offers a number of landmarks including the Red Onion Saloon.

Given Ketchikan’s weather and location, it is no surprise that you will find beautiful landscapes including the Misty Fjords National Park. This 2.3 million acre National Forest is best viewed by seaplane. Thus, a floatplane tour is one of the most popular shore excursions in this city.

We also loved our bear watching excursion in Ketchikan.

Ketchikan is also known for its large collection of totem poles and the infamous Creek Street. This former red light district is where “both men and salmon came upstream to spawn”. 

If your cruise ship happens to be visiting Icy Strait Point, the Zip Rider is one of the best Alaska cruise shore excursions. If you love a thrill, you should book this world’s largest zip rider immediately!

Related Post: How to Plan the Perfect Shore Excursions

Best Alaska Cruise Packing Tips

Packing for an Alaskan cruise is altogether different than what you would typically  pack for a Caribbean cruise .

From toiletries to outfits, and everything in between, we detail what we pack for our trips in this Complete Alaska Cruise Packing Guide to help eliminate your pre-cruise stress. Even if you are a veteran cruiser, you might find a few additional items that will be helpful on your next cruise.

We even include a printable check list!

In short, the time of year you cruise to Alaska will dictate to some degree what items you will need to include on your Alaska cruise packing list. The type of excursions you book should also factor into what you pack.

Most importantly, layers and rain gear are essential! You will want to be prepared for rain and temperature swings of 25 degrees or more in a given day.

Another Alaska cruise packing hack is don’t forget your bathing suit. There are hot tubs and indoor pools onboard many ships, as well as the spa and thermal suite. You might even get lucky enough with the weather to enjoy the outdoor pools!

While you might find it surprising, there are also  many household items  that will come in handy during your cruise vacation. Would you think to pack magnets and ziploc bags? We always do!

Of course, you will also want to make sure that you do not pack any of  these prohibited items . Items like an iron will get your suitcases sent to the “naughty room”.

Related Post: Complete Alaska Cruise Packing List

Other Best Alaska Cruise Tips & Hacks

Regardless of your cruise destination, there are some tried and true cruise tips and cruise hacks that are essential for planning and executing the best cruise vacation. Not sure where to start? We have our Beginner’s Guide to Cruise Planning .

Even if you have cruised before, things look a little different now. So, we also have our guide to Preparing for a Cruise in 2022 .

Some expert cruise tips you should know are  what’s included in your cruise vacation  and  what things will cost you extra . That way, you can budget accordingly. Speaking of budgeting for a cruise, we have a complete guide on cruise budget . As Alaska cruises tend to be a bit more expensive, this will help you plan the best Alaska cruise while saving a bit of money.

Once you have decided on your cruise line and cruise ship, there are  several other helpful tips that can save you some money  on your cruise. These range from booking early , to booking a  guaranteed cabin , to using a travel agent, and more. There are also some things that are just a waste of money on a cruise.

In terms of pre-cruise planning, now more than ever, it will be important to download the cruise line’s app (if applicable) to your smart phone. You will also want to book reservations for any restaurants and entertainment that are available, as well as reserve your shore excursions.

Alaska cruise shore excursions do sell out quickly!

Further, you should decide which packages, if any, you want to purchase. Then, monitor the cruise line’s website for pre-cruise sales and promotions.

The most popular package is a beverage package. You will want to weigh the pro and cons to decide if a  drink package is worth the investment  for you.

Regardless of your cruise line, we have a drink package guide to help.

• Royal Caribbean Drink Packages
• Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Packages
• Princess Cruises Drink Packages
• Holland America Drink Packages
• Celebrity Cruises Drink Packages
• Carnival Cruise Drink Packages

Related Post: Top 15 Alaska Cruise Tips

Alaska Cruise Planning Guide: Additional Tips

Finally, your cruise day has arrived! And yes, there are even more cruise tips to ensure every part of your cruise vacation is smooth sailing. Don’t worry, we have you covered.

• Everything You Need to Know About Tipping on a Cruise
• Tips for Using Your Smartphone on a Cruise
• Simple Ways to Avoid Seasickness
• How to Not Gain Weight on a Cruise
• 20 Things You Should Never Do on a Cruise
• Cruise Gratuities Explained
• Space Saving Hacks for Your Cruise Cabin
• Guide to Cruise Ship Internet and WiFi
• What to Do When it Rains on a Cruise
• Why You Should Stay on the Ship at a Port of Call

Have we convinced you to book a cruise to Alaska? If you have any other questions with your Alaska cruise planning, feel free to reach out. We are always happy to help fellow cruisers plan the best Alaska cruise vacation.

Did you find this Alaska Cruise Planning Guide helpful? Are there any other Alaska cruise tips or hacks that you would add to this list? Drop us an anchor below with your best Alaska cruise planning tips.

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DB & The Princess

Welcome Aboard! We are Don and Heidi, the husband and wife travel team behind EatSleepCruise.com. We took our first cruise vacation together 13 years ago and have been hooked ever since. Follow along as we share our travel tips, cruise reviews, information on ports of call, and the latest cruise news to help you plan the ultimate cruise vacation. Are you ready to embark on your journey to “sea the world, one port at a time”?

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20 Best Alaska Cruise Tips To Know Before Booking

The process can be overwhelming if you’re planning your first Alaska cruise. However, in this article, you’ll discover essential tips for booking an Alaska cruise.

While it may be hot down south, what can you expect of the weather further north? What do you need to pack? Will you see whales? Keeping on reading to find the answers to these questions and many more.

Many travelers go to Alaska once due to cost. However, after your first trip, you will likely want to make the journey again if you live in North America.

So, before booking your Alaska cruise, here are some essential tips.

1. Excursions Are Expensive

Top Alaska cruise excursions come at premium prices, and some sell out more than six months in advance. So, if it’s on your bucket list to  dog sled on a glacier , take a Jeep tour, or do a helicopter and hike tour, bite the bullet, and book it.

Helicopters can only seat up to six guests, so spaces are limited. Rarely do companies offer these tours at discounted prices because they fill up fast. Expect to pay over USD 600 per person for some of these tours.

Cruise passengers can enjoy an adrenaline zip line activity in Icy Strait Point. It runs from the top of Hoonah Mountain to sea level. At USD 155 for a 90-second ride, the ticket price may outweigh the need to go.

Be prepared to spend more for excursions than you did for your cruise. Consider a cheaper stateroom if your bucket list excursion is a bit out of your price range. 

You’ll still enjoy the same amenities, food, and scenery from the deck. However, the money saved can pay for the experiences you want.

Also, in some cases, you can book directly with the tour operator than through the cruise line. You could save on the cost of the excursion ticket. Remember, the best excursions sell out fast, so avoid this mistake on your Alaska cruise .

🛳️ Haven’t booked your cruise yet?

Find your perfect itinerary on Cruise Direct . Select from different ships and different departure cities. There’s one for every budget.

2. You Don’t Need A Balcony Cabin

Most past guests will tell you that a balcony room is a must when cruising to Alaska. After all, a cruise through the Last Frontier provides scenic views you won’t find in other destinations.

If you’re going to spend your entire budget on your cruise fare, you won’t be able to take any excursions. So, book what you can afford and consider foregoing that balcony cabin for an interior room or ocean view instead.

Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas  and Quantum of the Seas offer an inside cabin with a virtual balcony. These come with floor-to-ceiling high-definition screens that show real-time views of the scenery outside.

While you won’t have the benefit of fresh air or being able to step outside, you can see the scenery and know when the ship is pulling into port.

By selecting a different stateroom, you can still enjoy the same food and entertainment onboard and use the extra money to take a shore excursion or two.

3. Not All Cruise Lines Go To Glacier Bay

If it’s on your bucket list to visit Glacier Bay National Park, not all major cruise lines go there. So, if you’re loyal to one cruise line, such as Royal Caribbean or Celebrity Cruises, you’ll need to settle for another itinerary or opt for a different company.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site only allows two large cruise ships to sail in the park a day. A park ranger will board your vessel and narrate the journey.

Holland America Line and Princess Cruises, who have been cruising to Alaska the longest, take the lion’s share of sailings. All other lines must win slots by way of a lottery.

Currently, Norwegian Cruise Line, Seabourn, and Britain’s Cunard Queen Elizabeth hold the other rights to cruise in Glacier Bay.

If you book a one-way cruise between Vancouver and Whittier or Seward on Holland America or Princess Cruise Line, you’ll enjoy two scenic cruising days to glaciers. You’ll spend one day in Glacier Bay and the other day at Hubbard Glacier or College Fjord.

Alternatively, smaller ships like Uncruise offer expedition-type cruises to Glacier Bay.

4. Don’t Overpack 

It can be very challenging packing for Alaska compared to a Caribbean cruise. Even if the forecast calls for warm weather, you could experience cold and wet.

Expect cooler temperatures if you’re booked on an Alaska cruise in May or September. With visits to glaciers and ports, you could go from winter wear one day to shorts and a t-shirt the next day.

Instead of packing for four seasons, take a little bit of everything and add layers as you need them.

All ships have laundry: some provide a fee for service, while Princess, Cunard, and Carnival have self-serve launderettes. In fact, the Cunard Queen Elizabeth and Discovery Princess have complimentary laundry facilities (including soap and fleecy).

So, don’t overpack for your cruise. If you’re cold, you can always purchase Alaska-themed clothing from the ship’s shop or do some impromptu Alaska souvenir shopping at a cruise port.

5. Bring Binoculars

You need binoculars to see bald eagles, humpback whales, and other wildlife on your Alaskan cruise! While premium cruise lines may provide them, traditional cruise lines don’t.

Your binoculars don’t need to be expensive, but having a pair is necessary for Alaska. We use this compact pair which we carry in our port day backpack. They are lightweight and don’t take up much space.

Alternatively, you can use a more powerful  model like these.  They include a small tripod, and you can attach your cellphone to take photos through the binoculars.

Humpback whales swim through the inside passage as you sail. With your binoculars, look for the plumes of mist near the shoreline. You could also spot a bear foraging for food.

If your itinerary includes a trip to Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm, the cliffs around the glaciers are prime areas to see mountain goats. Around Sitka, you could spot sea otters.

Check for dark spots on the icebergs when cruising near Hubbard Glacier, Johns Hopkins Glacier, or Sawyer Glacier. These are often harbor seals enjoying the midday sun.

6. It Can Be Cold, Even In Summer

When  packing for Alaska, bring layers regardless of the weather forecast. A trip to Alaska might shock the system if you’re from Florida, Texas, or a warm-weather destination.

It could reach the low 80s on port days in the summer months. However, expect temperatures in the low 40s (or lower) on glacier viewing days. Having the right outfits for Alaska is essential.

The wind off the glaciers can chill you to the bone. So, wear a base layer as you’d wear for skiing, and add clothing on top.

If you’re taking a helicopter excursion to a glacier, you’ll need a warm jacket, gloves, and a hat. While you could luck out and experience warm weather, it’s best to expect something colder.

If you luck out, you could use the Lido deck pools. Otherwise, choose a vessel with an indoor pool or enjoy the hot tubs instead.

7. You Could Get Seasick

If you suffer from seasickness, you may not want to book an Alaskan cruise from California. The sailings up and down the Pacific Coast are notoriously rough.

Select one that sails the inside passage when choosing an itinerary from Seattle or Vancouver. Sailings from the Vancouver port provide the calmest seas, and you’re less likely to get motion sickness.

Although the Queen Charlotte Sound and Gulf of Alaska (if you’re cruising one way) could have choppy waters. To be safe, learn about and how to prevent seasickness.

Another tip to avoid rough waters is to avoid an itinerary that stops in Sitka. Located on the west coast of Baranof Island, cruise ships must sail the open waters of the Pacific to access Sitka Sound. These waters can be pretty choppy, with no islands to shield the swells.

Lastly, if you tend to get motion sickness, book a mid-ship cabin on the lower decks.

8. Wi-Fi Can Be Spotty In Alaska

If you decide to purchase the cruise line’s Wi-Fi, don’t expect the lightning speeds you enjoy at home. While there have been considerable advances in recent years regarding internet speed, Wi-Fi in Alaska can be very slow or non-existent.

Spotty service is a common complaint no matter whom you sail with, but lines like Cunard and Disney can be worse than others.

Cruise ships get their signals from satellites positioned over the Equator. So, the further north you travel, the less reliable the signal.

If you sail from or to Vancouver, the first and last day will have service for part of the way. Cruise ships sail between the mainland and Vancouver Island, close enough that you can receive cell coverage.

9.  Alaska Cruises Are More Casual

Contrasting warmer destinations, Alaskan cruises are pretty casual. Unless you’re cruising on a line with a strict dress code, such as Cunard, expect guests to wear comfy cruise attire.

Since it can be cold in Alaska, plan to take fleece, sweats, and base layers. Going to dinner in dark jeans and a shirt or top is perfectly fine.

Unless you’re cruising during a heat wave, you’ll want to dress for warmth onboard and on glacier cruising days.

Even your formal night could be optional, depending on the cruise line.

If you haven’t packed enough warm items, the stores onboard have area-specific themed clothing. So, if you need a waterproof jacket, fleece top, or sweatshirt, you can buy it all onboard.

10. You Won’t Always See Wildlife

Alaska cruises are all about the scenery, glacier, and wildlife. For many guests, it’s their first time seeing a glacier, whale, or bear. If you hope to see moose, bears, or even whales, you could be out of luck.

If you cruise to Alaska in April or early May, you’ll unlikely see whales. Humpback whales migrate from Hawaii, and only the males arrive in May. The females, with their young, come later, being slower swimmers.

Bears come out of hibernation in May and stay higher in the mountains. In later months (July and August), the bears move to lower areas to feast when the salmon run.

Moose and mountain goats are rarely seen. You’ll only have a slightly better chance of seeing moose if you’re traveling to Denali National Park.

To increase your chances of seeing wildlife, keep your binoculars handy. Check the shoreline for bears, the waters for whales and porpoises, the icebergs for seals, and the trees for bald eagles.

11. It Can Rain Anytime

Much of Alaska’s scenery is comprised of the Tongass National Forest, North America’s largest rainforest. Rainforests aren’t the result of dry weather. April, May, and June offer the driest months.

As the summer arrives, the chances of rain increase, so by August, an Alaska cruise has a 50% chance of showers. Ketchikan is one of the United States rainiest cities, averaging over 140 inches of annual rainfall.

Since you’re visiting a rainforest, prepare for your trip by bringing waterproof gear. Waterproof jackets such as a Columbia or Helly Hansen are essential. Since it can downpour on port days, waterproof footwear such as Vessi footwear  are vital too.

Want dry feet in Alaska?

Find your perfect waterproof shoes here. Check out the newest colors, styles and trends for both adults and children.

The weather in Alaska can be unpredictable. It can be hot and dry one week and cold and rainy the next. While you hope for a warm and dry week, preparing for the alternative is best.

12. Mosquitoes Can Be Rampant

When cruising to Alaska , chances are you’ll have to contend with mosquitoes somewhere on your journey. After all, you’re visiting a rainforest.

While they don’t exist everywhere across the state, areas that experience higher amounts of rainfall tend to be home to larger populations of these pesky bugs.

Northern Alaska is particularly prone to mosquito swarms during the summer. So, if you’re doing a land tour, remember the bug repellent when adventuring into Denali National Park.

Wooded areas, streams, lakes, and other wetlands will likely house large numbers of mosquitoes. In Skagway, mosquitoes are bad on the Chilkoot Trail and along Pullen Creek near the cruise dock.

Guests in Juneau can expect mosquitoes and biting flies when hiking Mount Roberts and trails in Mendenhall Glacier Park.

13. Spring Can Be Drier Than Summer

In most destinations, spring brings rain, and summer provides sunshine with little precipitation. Not so in Alaska. Cruising in the springs generally provides for drier days.

As the weeks and months go by, the chances of rain increase. However, you will benefit from warm temperatures. So cooler and drier vs. warmer and wetter, take your pick.

Unpredictable is the best word to describe Alaskan weather. Juneau, the capital averages 4.75″ of rain in May, 8.5″ in August, and 13.3″ a month later.

Further north, Anchorage sees less fluctuation in precipitation. It averages less than an inch in May and around 3″ in August and September.

Ketchikan, the rainfall capital of Alaska, features a liquid sunshine next to the visitor center. May brings just over 5 inches of rain, which climbs to almost 11″ by September. No matter when you visit Ketchikan, you have a 50% chance of seeing rain.

14. Weather Can Change Your Itinerary

Most passengers travel to Alaska to see the tidewater glaciers. However, the weather could affect your cruise itinerary if you sail in the first four weeks of the season.

Tracy Arm and Endicott Arm are notorious for having ice flow block a ship’s passage in April and May. Ships will sail up the arm but turn around once they spot ice.

Sometimes, vessels skip the fjords due to thick fog. Since the fjords are narrow, captains need good visibility to cruise the small channel.

Large amounts of ice can prevent vessels from getting close to glaciers. In 2022, the Norwegian Sun hit an iceberg at Hubbard Glacier. The July cruise was cut short since the ship needed some repairs.

15. Tour Operators May Cancel Excursions Due To Weather

Shore excursions that use a plane or helicopter only fly in good weather. So, if it’s stormy or there’s low cloud cover, port tours sometimes get canceled. However, don’t worry; you will receive a full refund.

Since cancellations happen more than you think, have a backup plan on what to do on your port day. Most cancellations take place in Juneau.

Here, guests book helicopter tours for dog sledding or hiking on a glacier. Instead, pick up an impromptu whale-watching tour or catch a  shuttle to Mendenhall Glacier.

If your floatplane excursion to the Misty Fjords National Monument gets canceled in Ketchikan, plan to explore the colorful history of Creek Street. Known as the globally salmon capital, Ketchikan provides a great place to try seafood.

16. Seafood Isn’t Necessarily From Alaska

Cruise passengers expect a selection of Alaskan seafood during their cruise. Some cruise lines even have a “taste of Alaska” night when they feature seafood dishes.

However, most of the seafood comes from somewhere other than Alaska. Cruise lines have signed contracts with food wholesalers who supply their fleets worldwide. Cruises from Seattle receive their supplies in Seattle.

Alaska cruises from and to Vancouver get their supplies in Vancouver, not in Seward or Whittier. During a galley tour on a Princess, I learned their seafood supply comes from New Zealand.

With the decline in the crab population in Alaska, the Alaska’s Fish and Game Department has stopped crab fishing for the 2022 to 2023 season.

So, if you’re hoping to taste king crab in port, chances are, it comes from another destination. Not only will you eat crab from another country, but you may need to pay a higher price due to the shortage in Alaska.

17. You May Not See The Northern Lights

If you’re hoping to get a glimpse of the spectacular Aurora Borealis, an Alaska cruise provides you with that perfect opportunity!

The winter months provide the best chances for clear skies, away from light pollution and city lights. But Alaska cruises don’t run in winter.

While the chance of seeing the northern lights is small, if you’re lucky enough, you could spot them on a shoulder season cruise. The Aurora, like the Alaska weather, is unpredictable.

No matter when you choose to embark on your Alaska cruise, check the Aurora forecast to access your chance of catching the light show.

To see the Aurora, it needs to be dark. Alaska experiences long days in summer, and it’s sometimes light until 11 pm. With only a few hours of darkness, it diminishes your chances of seeing the light show.

Denali, Alaska, is a great spot to witness the spectacle of the northern lights. Located at a far northern latitude and having almost no light pollution, it’s the perfect place for nighttime viewing. The prime viewing period for the Aurora is between late August and September.

18. Some Ships Dock At Ward Cove

If you book with Norwegian, and your cruise itinerary includes Ketchikan, you’ll dock in Ward Cove. Norwegian Cruise Lines developed Ward Cove as a stand-alone alternative to docking downtown.

Located seven miles north of Ketchikan, cruise passengers need to catch a shuttle to access tours, shopping, and attractions in town.

If you want to walk off your vessel and explore the downtown area, think twice about booking with Norwegian. However, Ward Cove might be the perfect dock if you love the wilderness and prefer a remote location.

Ward Cove was opened in 2021. While still relatively new, the cruise line will develop the area, add more amenities and offer more stand-alone tours as time passes. You could say it’s Alaska’s version of a CocoCay or Great Stirrup Cay.

Cruise guests have mixed opinions on docking in Ward Cove. If you want to avoid the added burden of taking a shuttle bus to and from town, you’ll need to pick a different itinerary or another cruise line.

19. Prepare To Go Over Budget

You may need to double your budget for an Alaskan cruise. Even if you find a cheap deal, the expensive excursions will blow your initial allowance.

If you’re flying from Australia, Asia, or Eastern European, chances are, you’re making this trip once. So, if it’s on your bucket list to ride the  White Pass train , spend a day halibut fishing, take a helicopter ride, or go whale watching, do so.

Alaska cruises are notoriously expensive when you factor in all the costs, such as flights, hotels, tours, and cruise extras. Sailing in the peak months (July and August) will cost you significantly more than the shoulder season (April/May and September/October).

If you’re on a budget, you can save money by selecting an older vessel such as the Norwegian Jewel or the Grand Princess.

20. Not All Itineraries Are Created Equal

While many ships sail to Alaska with options for different embarkation ports, not all itineraries are created equal. Heck, some don’t even visit a glacier!

Before booking your vacation, do your research and decide which ports and glaciers you want to visit. You may prefer a wilderness-based cruise, while others may choose ports with a rich history. No one cruise will suit everyone.

Only some lines go to Glacier Bay, and College Fjord is only included on a one-way itinerary from or to Vancouver.

If you want to add on a land tour or do a self-guided trip to Denali National Park, you’ll need to sail to or from Seward or Whittier.

During the Alaska cruise season, you can find a cruise that includes more than one glacier sighting. Since all vessels have yet to reposition for the Alaska season, you could find a cruise that goes to two glaciers in April or early May. A 2-for-1 deal, that’s something worth booking!

Wednesday 26th of April 2023

My family is going to Alaska on Princess this June. In Juneau and Ketchikan we are renting cars and driving to some trails we want to hike. The car rentals are at the airport, so we will need transport to the airport from the cruise port and back again. What are the transportation options like? Do you think this will be a problem?

Forever Karen

Taxis are readily available and I know they have Lyft in Juneau, although get rideshare may be different if there are multiple ships in port.

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A Lot That Can Go Wrong On An Alaska Cruise. Here’s How To Avoid That Happening

by Gary Bembridge · August 16, 2022

There’s A Lot That Can Go Wrong On An Alaska Cruise

The stakes are high. For you it may be a once in a lifetime trip you’ve been dreaming of. Or if you’re returning and think you know the traps, there’s still much that can go wrong. An Alaska cruise often costs twice the price of a Caribbean one, excursions are phenomenally expensive. It’s got to be right.

Here’s 7 things I have found are essential to a successful Alaska cruise. Some I learnt from making mistakes and others from those I see people keep making.

Choosing Cruise Mistakes

The first thing people trip up on is choosing the cruise, as all look very similar.

On the surface, there are just two itineraries, and they share three key features but it’s more complex than it seems if you want to get the best trip.

The two itineraries are either the Inside Passage, which are round trips usually out of Vancouver or Seattle, or one-way trips between the north and south between ports near Anchorage (Whittier or Seward) and Vancouver or Seattle.

Three shared key features 

First, they are usually seven nights long. Second, they call on the same three ports (Skagway, Juneau, and Ketchikan, although some may use Sitka). Thirdly they include one of more days of scenic glacier cruising to places like Hubbard Glacier or Glacier Bay.

However, look at the itinerary closely to check how many days will be spent in Alaska versus just getting there and back.

For example, Inside Passage cruises out of Vancouver or Seattle, have two days at sea getting to and from Alaska.

The north to south I recently did on Majestic Princess had only one day not in Alaska.

I recommend going on a cruise calling to Skagway, Ketchikan, and Juneau, as this is where the best excursions and activities are. But, look carefully at how long the ship will be in port.

Time in port

Some ships are in one or more ports for limited times. For example, I saw Discovery Princess spending just five hours in Juneau and Celebrity Solstice just four hours in Skagway. You want to have as much time as possible in each port to do the best or even multiple activities in each.

Taking all this into account, I preferred my North-to-South cruise, as it had just one day that was not in Alaska and got me to the Hubbard Glacier. I experienced the incredible Glacier Explorer train from Anchorage, where I flew into, and then on to Whittier to join the ship. I avoided the more complicated and slow Vancouver embarkation, which has both Canadian and US Immigration checks.

However, for first timers, an Inside Passage is a simple way of doing it as less flights and logistics and still see incredible sides of Alaska.

Timing Mistakes

No matter which you choose, a mistake I made the first time I went on an Alaska cruise was to not add in pre- and post-cruise stays.

Firstly, because it’s a long way to go. It took me nine and a half hours on a flight from the UK and then I had to get up to Anchorage, where there was an 8-hour time difference. Many US travellers spend 6 plus hours getting to the cruise ship and face time differences, too.

It’s worth having days to recover and be on top form for the cruise. It is hectic and tiring, with many excursions being lengthy and full days out on deck taking everything in.

Consider adding a land-based trip to see more of Alaska and the chance to see wildlife up-close. For example, head to Denali where lines like Princess and Holland America own lodges, operate scenic trains, and busses.

Best Time To Go

One thing many worry about getting wrong is when to go. I don’t think there is a wrong time.

The season is short, roughly five months from May to September. It’s always in demand, and it can be pricey. It’s likely to rain pretty much any time you go, and the weather will fluctuate from being chilly, right through to warm pretty much all of the time too.

I like the beginning of the season, May, or June before it gets busy during school vacation time.

If you want to see wildlife, then the peak months of late June, through to August are good, particularly once the salmon run has started and the bears really come out. But on my May and June Alaskan cruises, I saw whales, bears, sea otters, and loads of birds.

If you can go early in the season or at the very end, it’s likely to be slightly less busy and less expensive. Some businesses and tours may not be open very early and towards the very end of the season.

Although, any time you go is going to be busy. There are around 30 ships sailing there in the season. With only those limited ports there will be 5 to 6 ships in each when you call.

Cruise Line Mistakes

The third thing people ask me is what is the right line to go to Alaska with? And should they go with a line they like, or one of the lines like Holland America, that has been cruising there for over 75 years, or Princess for over 50 years?

There is a lot of choice, as pretty much every line from ultra-luxury to mass resort style is either based in Alaska for the season or does some cruising in Alaska. So, you should be able to go on your usual favourite.

My advice is the itinerary should be the most important consideration, and I recommend at least considering going on a line that will take you into Glacier Bay. Going there should trump your usual line preference. It is so amazing and going to Alaska without seeing it is a miss.

Glacier Bay only allows two large cruise ships in per day and only a few lines have access. Holland America and Princess have the most access, followed by Norwegian Cruise Line. Very few other lines can offer you Glacier Bay.

Traditional, classic and premium

Of course, Holland America and Princess are traditional, classic, premium cruise lines with a reputation for being more staid and possibly older guests. However, this gets turned on its head in Alaska based on my experience.

On my Alaska cruises on both Holland America and Princess, I saw much younger and more varied age ranges than usual, dramatically more multi-generational families than usual, many kids and teens of all ages and little attention to the usual more formal dress code. Even on formal nights, people dressed informally.

Even if you choose your favourite line, do not expect it to be the normal crowd and on-board vibe. People chose the line more for the itinerary and budget than in any other region from what I have seen.

Cabin Mistakes

More than in any other region I get asked if a balcony cabin is a must for Alaska.

If you can, stretch to a balcony cabin as it’s particularly good when you’re doing scenic cruising days. These are long days and it’s great to be in your cabin and out on the balcony watching it go by. Some of the best views and photographs I’ve got were from my balcony cabin.

If they make an announcement that they’ve spotted whales or bears, you can quickly just jump out on the balcony and look at those if on the right side of the ship.

Can you make a mistake by choosing the wrong side of the ship?

In my view, it does not make a huge difference. However, if you’re doing a north to south, I would tend to, if you’re heading south, try and be on the left-hand side (port side) because the land is on that side. And of course, if you’re heading the other way, you go on the starboard side so you’re in the right-hand side.

On my last trip I couldn’t get a cabin on the left-hand port side for my north to south and I felt I missed out a little bit, but it doesn’t massively make a huge difference.

Budget Mistakes

One mistake that I almost made on my first Alaska cruise was budgeting. There is a lot of extra costs to build in.

I’ve already mentioned that you’ll often find on average for the cruise, you can be spending twice going to a busy area like the Caribbean.

Then you need to factor in the onboard extras, like gratuities, drinks, Wi-Fi, speciality dining, shopping, spa, and casino. However, if you want to get the most out of Alaska, I do feel that you must spend on excursions.

The towns themselves are interesting, but they’re small. Skagway only has a population of between 800 and 1,000 and there’s pretty much nothing going on. Ketchikan is a bit of a tourist trap town, filled with souvenir shops. Juneau is more exciting.

But for all, the action is out of town and often involve floatplanes, helicopters, boats and even trains and they cost.

I recommend you try and budget to do a series of key things in Alaska.

Alaska key things to see and do – Juneau

First, get up and close to glaciers. Walk on them, fly over them, go dog sledding on them, hike or have a boat get you close to them.

Juneau is a fantastic place for that. I tend to do my glacier stuff here because you’ve got the Mendenhall Glacier, and other glaciers around here. I did a helicopter ride up onto the Norris Glacier to go dog sledding but cost about $600.

On my last trip, I did a helicopter ride to walk on a glacier that was around $360 so these are insane amounts of money. You can though get a local bus for $4 and then hike to the glacier.

Alaska key things to see and do – Ketchikan

Ketchikan is another good place for glacier watching where you can go on a float plane for example and fly over the Misty Fjords and see many.

The second activity to budget for, particularly if you’re a wildlife fan is to go whale and wildlife viewing. Whale watching excursions can cost you over $150 to go out. That’s a particular popular activity in Skagway and Ketchikan.

Alaska key things to see and do – Skagway

The third thing I recommend to do is the White Pass and Yukon Railway, in Skagway. This historic railway line was built to transport goods and ore when the Gold Rush started. Now, it is purely for recreation and takes you high up into the mountains. It costs about $135 per person.

The fourth thing you may want to do is go eating and drinking. There are often salmon bakes, which can be a bit of a tourist trap but fun, or going to local breweries. I must say probably the best fish and chips I have ever had was when in Juneau at the Alaska Brewhouse.

Adrenalin pumping tours

If you’re particularly active is there’s many activity-based excursions, like zip lining, kayaking, and hiking.

There are very limited cultural immersion activities. In Ketchikan you can go to explore totem poles and indigenous history, of course you should go to the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show which is a lot of fun.

As these can all be so costly, you should cost out your options. You can go with a cruise line, and I strongly recommend booking your excursions far in advance as many will sell out.

If they are sold out, or too costly, look at independent providers like VentureAshore.com who offer similar excursions, or you can wait until in port. You’ll find as you step off the ship there are many booths quayside offering trips.

I tend to prefer to stick with either the cruise line ones or those through the independent providers. I feel they are better screened and the cruise line will wait only for their excursions if running late. So, make sure you book with plenty of time to get back to the ship.

Packing Mistakes

This brings me to the one topic that I know everyone going on an Alaska cruise makes a mistake with. Evidenced by everyone I spoke to on my last trip. They were all saying they wished they had brought something they had left at home. And that includes me!

Let’s talk clothing first.

Assume it will rain and bring stuff to deal with being on an excursion, walking about town or standing out on deck scenic viewing in the rain. A hooded jacket is best, though a portable umbrella is also a good idea. I also take my waterproof trousers though only used once and not essential.

Hot and cold, and wet!

Next, assume when you are out in port or scenic cruising. You will be both cold and hot in one day, and within hours of each other. The best way to deal with that is layers.

I use the principle I was taught expedition cruising. Base layer, Protection layer and Waterproof layer.

For base layer, I pack my long johns, thick wooly socks and top. I only used these when was on excursions that landed on a glacier. For the rest of the days, jeans, t-shirts, and long-sleeved tops were my base layer.

For protection layer, I packed a fleece, a zippy top and a thick warm jumper, so I had options based on how cold it was. I also took waterproof gloves, scarf, and a warm beanie hat. I did also pack a puffy jacket which I was glad of for one of the scenic cruising days and up on the glacier

Layers are a MUST

Then for the waterproof layer that I have covered already.

For example, in Juneau I had all layers on in the morning to fly and walk on the glacier. On return, by lunch time, I was walking around in just a t-shirt with all the layers in my rucksack.

Which, by the way is a must bring, to put your layers on before in case you need them when out.

Make sure that you bring sunglasses too because it can be very bright, particularly if you’re going onto glaciers.

For the ship during the day, I packed causal gear, polo shirts, spare jeans, and my gym gear. I did pack a pair of smart non-jean slacks and a long-sleeved shirt for formal nights. Although I didn’t need to have those in the end. But of course, in theory on Princess, jeans are not to be worn in the dining room and some lines are even stricter.

ABOUT TIPS FOR TRAVELLERS —————————————– Gary Bembridge’s Tips For Travellers aims to help you make more of your precious travel time and money on land and when cruising the oceans or rivers of the world. To help you, in every video I draw on my first-hand tips and advice from travelling every month for over 20 years and average of 10 cruises a year.

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Tags: cruise cruise holiday cruise mistakes cruise tips cruise vacation cruising tips for travelers tips for travellers travel tips

Gary Bembridge

I grew up in Zimbabwe, but I have been based in London since 1987. My travel life spans more than three decades and that includes more than 95 cruises. In 2005, I launched Tips for Travellers to make it easy and fun for people to discover, plan and enjoy incredible cruise vacations. And the rest, as they say, is history. I have the largest cruise vlogger channel currently on YouTube, with more than 3 million video views per month.

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3 Responses

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Thanks for the great review Gary. Alaska is on our bucket list and a few years off but your tips will help us plan and budget correctly. This is likely to be a once in a lifetime experience for us and we want to make the most of it.

Hi Gary, there is a typo in the Skagway section. “The fourth thing you may want to do is do going eating and drinking.” s/b to go eating and drinking.

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6 best Alaska cruises for families

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Adorable sled dog puppies, graceful whales, fascinating totem poles, crazy lumberjacks, majestic glaciers — Alaska has much to offer families of all ages. But if you’re looking for the best Alaska cruise for kids, which ship should you choose?

Families have great choices when sailing up north, including a ship full of Disney characters, one with laser tag and a go-kart race track and many with expansive play spaces for kids, waterslides and family-focused onboard activities. Look for bigger ships with plenty of amusements; smaller and older ships might not have as many kid-friendly attractions.

I’m not mentioning luxury cruise ships here because they are geared for adults, but families looking for a more upscale, smaller-ship cruise to Alaska should know that many high-end lines will put on some kid programming during summer-break cruises to Alaska with a higher-than-usual number of children on board.

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

If you’re ready to cross Alaska off your bucket list, here are our recommendations for the best Alaska cruises for families.

7-night Alaska Adventure cruise on Quantum of the Seas

The 4,180-passenger Quantum of the Seas is not one of Royal Caribbean ’s largest-in-the-world Oasis Class ships that boast zip lines, ice skating rinks and AquaTheaters. But it still offers a great mix of activities, including a skydiving simulator, high-tech theater with robotic “dancing” screens, an escape room, indoor basketball court/bumper car pavilion and dedicated spaces for both kids and adults.

Kids can gobble up hot dogs and pizza at themed eateries, while adults can enjoy date night at Wonderland with its imaginative molecular gastronomy or Jamie’s Italian, created by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.

Seven-night Alaska cruises sail round-trip from the easily accessible port of Seattle and visit Sitka, Skagway and Juneau, Alaska; as well as Victoria, British Columbia. One day is spent cruising through the scenic Endicott Arm to Dawes Glacier. Sailings depart between late April and September.

Related: Alaska cruise packing list: What to pack for a sailing up north

7-night Alaska cruise on Disney Wonder

Disney Cruise Line ‘s 1,754-passenger Disney Wonder (which can carry 2,713 guests when completely full) is the perfect size ship for a family cruise to Alaska. It’s smaller than many of the megaships catering to families in this part of the world, so guests can view glaciers and enjoy shore excursions without feeling too crowded.

The ship is full of Disney magic — photo ops with Mickey and friends and Disney princesses, restaurants themed to “The Little Mermaid” and “The Princess and the Frog” and a musical stage show of “Frozen.”

Cabins are thoughtfully designed for families, with plentiful bunkbeds and split bathrooms so two people can get ready for bed at once. Waiters assist with cutting up food for little cruisers or bringing pureed baby food, and the imaginative kids clubs keep little ones happily occupied when you’re not exploring in port.

Disney Wonder’s weeklong Alaska cruises sail round-trip from Vancouver, so all Americans, even kids, will need passports to fly in to the departure port. The ship visits Juneau, Ketchikan and either Skagway or Icy Strait Point, with glacier viewing at the Stikine Icecap. Seasonal sailings run May to September.

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

7-night Alaska cruise on Carnival Spirit

Carnival Cruise Line ’s Alaska cruises aboard the 2,124-guest Carnival Spirit might not be the cheapest sailings the line offers, but you get a lot for your money. Families will appreciate not having to pay extra for kid-friendly eats at the onboard pizzeria, Mexican outlet, Guy Fieri’s burger joint and all-day soft serve ice cream station. Comedy shows (both family-friendly and adults-only), an onboard water park, mini-golf and kid, tween and teen clubs are also included in the fare.

Cabins are no-frills but tend to be roomier than comparable cabins on competitors’ ships. Many rooms sleep four, but connecting cabins will get you more space and an extra bathroom while still keeping the family together.

Carnival Spirit spends summers in Alaska from late April to mid-September. It sails round-trip from Seattle and visits Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan and Victoria, BC, with scenic cruising in Tracy Arm Fjord.

Related: Best time to cruise Alaska

7-night Glacier Bay cruise on Norwegian Encore

Norwegian Cruise Line offers one of the longest cruise seasons in Alaska, and Norwegian Encore is based in the region from April through October each year. This might not help the typical family, but if your kids are young, you homeschool or have atypical breaks, a shoulder-season deal might be waiting for you.

The 3,998-passenger ship is NCL’s biggest, and families will be amazed at how much there is to do on board (though be prepared to pull out your credit card for the best activities). The ship features a laser tag arena, go-kart race track, virtual reality pavilion and water park.

Norwegian is also known for its entertainment, and after a day hiking on glaciers or chowing down at salmon bakes, you can take in the spectacular “Choir of Man,” sing along to the Beatles tribute show at The Cavern Club, or laugh yourself silly at The Social Comedy Club.

Like many of the best Alaska cruises for families, Norwegian Encore sails round-trip from Seattle, stopping in Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan and Victoria. The standout day on this itinerary is scenic cruising in Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve , which only a limited number of ships can visit each year. Save more by taking advantage of Free at Sea perks , which often include a free beverage package, Wi-Fi, shore excursion credit, specialty dining and — perfect for families — free third and fourth guests in each cabin.

Related: Alaska cruise mistakes you never want to make

7-night Voyage of the Glaciers cruise on Royal Princess

Families with a little more vacation time might want to tack a visit to the Alaskan interior before or after their cruise, either independently or with a cruisetour. For this, you’ll need a one-way cruise that begins or ends in an Alaskan port.

A top candidate for this kind of family vacation is a seven-night cruise on Princess Cruises ‘ Royal Princess sailing between Vancouver and Whittier, Alaska. The ship stops in Ketchikan, Juneau and either Skagway or Sitka, with scenic cruising in Glacier Bay and either College Fjord or Hubbard Glacier, depending on the itinerary.

It’s then up to you whether you spend you pre- or post-cruise time in the Kenai Fjord area, in Anchorage or traveling north to Denali National Park, Fairbanks or into the Arctic.

Royal Princess is known for its fan-favorite Alfredo’s pizza, Movies Under the Stars (when the Alaskan weather permits) and snacks and entertainment in the central Piazza. With its special North to Alaska activities, families can cuddle some adorable sled dogs on board the ship and meet Iditarod winners and other notable locals. Kids can become junior rangers with the help of the park rangers who come aboard the ship in Glacier Bay.

7-night Kids in Nature cruise on Wilderness Legacy

Suppose your family isn’t into the big-ship lifestyle and wants a small-ship, off-the-beaten-path experience that’s also geared toward families with kids and teens? In that case, the best family cruise to Alaska for you might be the “Kids in Nature” departures of UnCruise Adventures ’ 86-passenger Wilderness Legacy.

The ship sails round-trip from Juneau on “Glaciers & Wildlife” itineraries. These seven-night cruises include hiking and biking on Chichagof Island, daytime and evening kayak and skift tours in places like Patterson Bay and Robert and Crow Islands, exploring Glacier Bay’s less-visited “Outback” and visits to the LeConte and Baird Glaciers.

On three departure dates in June and July 2024, the Wilderness Legacy will staff up with “Kid Wranglers” who will lead the kid-focused activities. The minimum age to sail is 8 years old, but plenty of tweens and teens join the fun as well.

Bottom line

You no longer have to wait until you’re retired to explore Alaska. Take the kids on a weeklong exploration of the 49th State, and you’ll have plenty of cruise ships and itineraries to choose from. The best Alaska cruises for families combine action-packed itineraries with vessels designed for family fun, but we’re sure your family can find a way to have a great time up north no matter which cruise ship you choose.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

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

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Major Airlines Are Raising Baggage Fees — 5 Tricks To Avoid Paying Them

American Airlines, JetBlue, Alaska Airlines, and Delta all recently raised their fees for checked baggage, as  GOBankingRates previously reported . But you don’t have to pay baggage fees if you learn how to pack smart and book your trip smarter.

The Reddit forum r/Frugal offers tons of tips on how to save money on travel. Frugal traveler r5d400 noted that packing light is a learned skill that has saved them tons of money.

“I see so many people paying for airline bags when it’s a super short trip, or having to pay to do their laundry on location for a < 1 week trip,” they wrote. “I do all my trips, including 2 week trips, with a single backpack. This includes trip[s] to snowy places which require heavier clothing. The jacket doesn’t need to go in the backpack, just carry it on your hand… [roughly] 100 bucks of airline luggage saved!”

Buy What You Need When You Arrive

You can slim down your carry-on bag or lighten your checked luggage load by purchasing trial sizes of personal items like toothpaste and deodorant when you reach your destination. Also, take advantage of the hotel’s shampoo, conditioner, and soaps. If you can streamline your beauty routine when you travel, you will have less to pack.

Join the Frequent Flyer Club

Joining a frequent flyer club has many benefits, including waived baggage fees. You may not even have to accrue enough miles to reach a higher tier to enjoy this benefit. For instance, Delta offers waived baggage fees to SkyMiles Medallion members beginning at the first (Silver) level.

Use the Right Credit Card

Several top-tier travel credit cards or cards affiliated with certain airlines will waive checked bag fees when you book your flight with that card. For instance, the American Airlines AAdvantage Aviator card issued by Barclay’s Bank lets you check one bag free for yourself and four companions traveling with you. You also enjoy preferred boarding for you and four companions, plus 25% off in-flight purchases.

Chase Sapphire Reserve offers a $300 annual travel credit for any travel-related purchases, which you can apply to checked bag fees on any airline.

Know the Rules for Your Airline

You have to know the rules for baggage fees before you can find ways to avoid them. Check the airlines’ website to find the most up-to-date information and policies, including sizes, weights, and how many bags you can check or carry on.

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