Alaska Cruises: Complete 2025 Guide
Everything you need to know about cruising America's Last Frontier
16
Massive Glaciers
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Wildlife Species
500+
Miles of Coastline
40%
Savings Available
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Your Complete Alaska Cruise Guide
An Alaska cruise represents one of the world's most spectacular travel experiences, combining the convenience of unpacking once with the adventure of exploring America's last frontier. From the moment you embark, you'll be immersed in a world of towering glaciers, pristine wilderness, and abundant wildlife that exists nowhere else in such accessible abundance.
The Inside Passage, your primary route, is a protected network of waterways that winds through islands and fjords, offering calm waters and breathtaking scenery at every turn. Here, you'll witness glaciers actively calving into the sea, pods of orcas hunting in coordinated groups, and bald eagles soaring overhead – all from the comfort of your ship or during carefully curated shore excursions.
Whether you're drawn to the gold rush history of Skagway, the Russian heritage of Sitka, or the raw natural beauty of Glacier Bay National Park, an Alaska cruise offers experiences that will stay with you for a lifetime. Our expert team has sailed these waters countless times and can help you choose the perfect itinerary, ship, and season for your Alaska adventure.
Alaska Cruise Planning Guide
Essential Planning Tips
Book 12-18 Months Ahead
Alaska cruises sell out quickly, especially balcony cabins and suites. Book early for best selection and prices.
Choose Your Ship Size
Smaller ships (under 1,000 passengers) access more ports and offer intimate experiences. Larger ships have more amenities.
Invest in a Balcony
A balcony is worth the extra cost for Alaska. You'll have private viewing for wildlife and glaciers.
Bring Good Optics
Pack binoculars (8x42 recommended) and a camera with zoom lens for wildlife and glacier viewing.
Layer Your Clothing
Alaska weather changes quickly. Pack waterproof outer layer, warm middle layer, and moisture-wicking base layer.
Book Excursions Early
Popular excursions like helicopter glacier landings sell out months in advance. Book as soon as possible.
Alaska Cruise Costs Breakdown
| Expense Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7-Day Cruise (per person) | Budget Range | Mid Range | Premium |
| Cabin Type | Interior | Balcony | Suite |
| Excursions (per port) | Budget Options | Standard Tours | Premium Experiences |
| Gratuities (per day) | Standard | Standard Plus | Suite Level |
| Total Estimated Cost | Value Package | Comfort Package | Luxury Package |
Alaska Cruise Routes & Itineraries
Inside Passage Route
The most popular route, sailing through protected waters with stops at Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway.
- ✓Round-trip from Seattle or Vancouver
- ✓Calm, protected waters
- ✓Perfect for first-time cruisers
- ✓7-day standard duration
Gulf of Alaska Route
One-way cruises between Vancouver and Anchorage, covering more territory and glaciers.
- ✓More glaciers and fjords
- ✓Includes Hubbard Glacier
- ✓Option for land tours
- ✓7-14 day options
Sample 7-Day Itinerary
Alaska Wildlife Guide
Marine Mammals
- 🐋Humpback Whales
Best: June-September, especially near Juneau
- 🐋Orcas (Killer Whales)
Year-round, often in pods of 5-30
- 🦭Sea Lions & Seals
Common at all ports and rookeries
- 🦦Sea Otters
Especially common near Sitka
Land Animals
- 🐻Brown/Grizzly Bears
Best viewing: July-September during salmon runs
- 🐻Black Bears
Common in forests near all ports
- 🦌Moose
Interior Alaska, rare from ships
- 🐺Wolves
Elusive but present in all regions
Birds
- 🦅Bald Eagles
Abundant, especially in Ketchikan
- 🐧Puffins
Coastal cliffs, May-September
- 🦜Arctic Terns
Summer visitors, incredible migrations
- 🦉Ravens
Sacred to Native cultures, very intelligent
Wildlife Viewing Guarantee
Most Alaska cruises guarantee whale sightings or provide compensation. Ask about wildlife guarantees when booking!
Expert Alaska Cruise Tips
Money-Saving Tips
- 💰Book shoulder season (May or September) for 30-40% savings
- 💰Consider older ships for better value - Alaska scenery is the star
- 💰Book ship excursions for glaciers, independent for towns
- 💰Pack lunch in ports for significant daily savings
Photography Tips
- 📸Bring extra batteries - cold drains them faster
- 📸Use polarizing filter to reduce glare off water and ice
- 📸Best glacier photos: overcast days reduce harsh shadows
- 📸Stabilized binoculars double as telephoto for phones
What Most People Don't Know
- 💡Glacier Bay entry permits are limited - not all ships can enter
- 💡Smaller ships can navigate Misty Fjords and Tracy Arm better
- 💡September cruises may see Northern Lights
- 💡Pack seasickness remedies for Gulf of Alaska crossings
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I pack for an Alaska cruise?
▼
What should I pack for an Alaska cruise?
▼Pack layers including waterproof jacket and pants, warm fleece, comfortable walking shoes, hat and gloves, binoculars for wildlife, camera, and sunscreen. Weather can change quickly, and mornings/evenings are cool even in summer.
Which side of the ship is best for Alaska?
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Which side of the ship is best for Alaska?
▼For northbound cruises, book starboard (right side) for best coastal views. For southbound, choose port (left side). However, ships often turn for optimal viewing of glaciers and wildlife, so both sides get great views.
Is a balcony worth it for Alaska?
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Is a balcony worth it for Alaska?
▼Yes! A balcony is highly recommended for Alaska cruises. You'll enjoy private glacier viewing, wildlife spotting from your room, and the stunning Inside Passage scenery without crowds on deck.
What's the difference between Inside Passage and Gulf of Alaska cruises?
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What's the difference between Inside Passage and Gulf of Alaska cruises?
▼Inside Passage cruises are round-trip from Seattle or Vancouver through protected waters, ideal for first-timers. Gulf of Alaska cruises are one-way between Vancouver and Anchorage, covering more territory including Hubbard Glacier and College Fjord, but crossing open ocean.
How rough are Alaska cruise seas?
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How rough are Alaska cruise seas?
▼Inside Passage waters are generally calm and protected. However, Gulf of Alaska crossings can be rough, especially in shoulder seasons. If prone to seasickness, choose Inside Passage routes and bring remedies for any Gulf crossings.
Should I book excursions through the cruise line or independently?
▼
Should I book excursions through the cruise line or independently?
▼Book glacier tours, flightseeing, and remote excursions through the cruise line for timing guarantees. City tours, museums, and walking tours can be done independently for significant savings. The ship will wait if their excursion runs late, but not for independent tours.
Start Planning Your Alaska Adventure
With so many cruise lines, ships, and itineraries available, finding the perfect Alaska cruise can be overwhelming. Let our Alaska cruise specialists help you navigate the choices and find the ideal voyage for your budget and travel style.
Why Book With Next Trip Anywhere?
- ✓Alaska cruise specialists with firsthand experience
- ✓Exclusive group rates and shipboard credits
- ✓Pre and post cruise land packages available
- ✓24/7 support throughout your journey