cruises to alaska for families

6 best Alaska cruises for families

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.

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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.

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The Family Vacation Guide

13 of the Best Alaska Cruises for Families

posted by James Brockbank on October 25, 2021 // last updated on October 25, 2021

Nothing is as easy as finding cruise vacations that suit the needs of your family. Even so, you can never go wrong with an Alaskan cruise. Taking a family cruise to the state is something that you’ve undoubtedly considered. 

Alaska is breathtakingly beautiful but also radiates the calmness of nature, which your whole family will love.

If you’re planning a leisurely cruise to Alaska, here are 13 of the best cruises to consider.

Disney Cruise Line

Princess cruises, holland america line, norwegian cruise line, celebrity cruises, royal caribbean international, lindblad expeditions, carnival cruise line, windstar cruises, regent seven seas, oceania cruises, uncruise adventures, icy strait point.

Many people associate Disney with amusement parks, but the company is also known for its luxurious cruises to different parts of the world. Since it launched in 1998, the Disney Cruise Line has been a game-changer as far as family cruises are concerned. It’s no exaggeration to state that each cruise liner in Disney’s Alaska fleet delivers the ultimate family cruise. 

A Disney Cruise Line Alaska itinerary allows your family to relax and savor the ship. For instance, a typical seven-day cruise gives you two days at sea, three full port days, and a final day at sea. Hence, your family will have ample time to familiarize themselves with the ship, participate in onboard activities, and explore the various ports of call without feeling overwhelmed. 

While on the cruise, your kids will have plenty of opportunities to meet lifelike Disney characters, which is perhaps even better than visiting Disneyland. Also, expect lots of themed parties and events that keep the young ones occupied throughout the cruise. 

The kids-friendly staff and amenities such as pools and kids’ clubs guarantee a fun-filled cruise for the entire family. The large staterooms on Disney’s Alaska fleet are also convenient for families. 

Carnival Corporation-owned Princess Cruises also offers some of the best Alaska cruises for families. The cruise line offers a 10-night round trip cruise from Sam Fransisco, a seven-night roundtrip cruise from Vancouver and Seattle, and a 14-night round trip cruise from Los Angeles. 

Princess uses some of its largest ships for the Alaskan cruises, including the Golden Princess, the Emerald Princess, the Ruby Princess, and the Grand Princess. 

The Princess cruise ships are ideal for family vacations, thanks to their large staterooms, kids’ clubs, lots of dining options, spas, pools, and themed events that will fill your days. 

Most itineraries also include excursions to Ketchikan, Skagway, Juneau, and the widely popular Glacier Bay National Park. So, if you’re looking for a family cruise that takes you through Alaska’s untamed beauty, book a vacation with Princess Cruises. 

Holland America is one of the Alaskan cruise lines allowed to sail through the Glacier Bay National Park. Its ships sail from Vancouver, Seattle, Whittier, and Seward and offer 7-night one-way and round-trip cruises. 

Whichever ship your family hops onto, you’ll find lots of activities and day-long entertainment for all ages. So, whether you love golf challenges, lounging by the pool, or even karaoke, you’ll find it all on a Holland America Alaska cruise.

Each ship has friendly employees who are out to make your experience special and memorable. The employees’ extensive knowledge of Alaska and each port of call is also fantastic. Amenities include the main dining room, casualty dining rooms, specialty restaurants, lounges, and casinos. The ships also feature a kids’ club, two pools, spas, and fitness centers. 

Most Holland America Line itineraries include cruise calls to Skagway, Glacier Bay National Park, Ketchikan, and Juneau. If you’re lucky, your ship may stop at Icy Strait Point and Victoria. Wherever your Holland America cruise takes you, the whole family will have a truly fantastic experience. 

Norwegian Cruise Line is renowned for its freestyle cruising experience with fun activities for all ages. It uses four ships for its Alaska cruises, with plans to add an even larger one in 2022.

 The cruise line has a dedicated 4,000-passenger ship for Alaskan cruises (the Norwegian Bliss), which offers thrilling amenities including a go-kart track, a water park, water slides, and an open-air tag course. 

Besides the larger ships, Norwegian’s Alaska fleet includes a smaller ship, the Norwegian Sun, which has fewer than 1,000 staterooms. You can hop onto the ship if you’re looking for a leisurely and quiet family cruise. Regardless of the ship you find yourself on, you’re guaranteed large rooms and amenities that suit your family’s needs. 

With Norwegian, you can choose anything from a five to twelve-day one-way or round-trip cruise from Seattle. Besides, your family will experience memorable shore excursions that allow you to learn more about Alaska’s wildlife, people, and wildlife. 

Itineraries include a trip to the ZipRider zipline, fishing excursions, and whale watching. Family-friendly tours into Alaska’s interior can also be organized as part of your itinerary. 

If you’re planning a multigenerational cruising trip to Alaska, Celebrity Cruises will deliver the experience of your lifetime. With three ships dedicated to its Alaskan cruises, Celebrity offers more choices than you’ll get anywhere. Whether you prefer round trip or one-way itineraries, you can choose a Vancouver, Seattle, or Seward departure. 

Celebrity is renowned for its premium cruising adventures. Its Alaskan fleet visits 12 US and Canadian destinations. Thus, you get the opportunity to spend more time in port than other Alaska liners. Ports of calls include Icy Strait Point, Hubbard Glacier, Juneau, and Endicott Arms & Dawes Glacier. 

There are plenty of fun activities for all ages on each ship, including pools, water slides, themed events, and spas. Celebrity Cruises also offers land packages at its ports of call. So, if your family loves the outdoors, you may want to include a trip to the Banff National Park or Lake Louise in your Celebrity Cruises itinerary. 

If you’ve ever wanted to go on an Alaska cruise that your whole family will enjoy, Royal Caribbean International’s Alaskan cruises are the perfect fit. With departures from Vancouver, Seward, and Seattle, Royal Caribbean offers one-way, round-trip, and seven-night cruises with many family-friendly activities and excursions. 

Onboard, you’ll find everything your family needs to have a fun-filled cruise, from rock climbing and mini golf to wave surfing and ice skating. You’ll also come across familiar restaurants such as Johnny Rocket’s and Ben and Jerry’s. 

Royal Caribbean has spacious staterooms designed with family accommodation in mind. These rooms come equipped with large bathrooms, fun bunk beds, and everything else needed to ensure a fun-filled cruise. 

A well-attended and equipped kids club with activities for kids as young as six months is available onboard, so you can lounge by the pool without worrying about what the young ones are up to. Furthermore, there’s a tween hangout and teen disco for the older kids and a bar for the parents. 

If a cruise line partners with the National Geographic Society, you undoubtedly expect adventure when you get onto one of their ships, right? Well, Lindblad Expeditions delivers that and so much more. The cruise line is renowned for its culture and nature-focused Alaskan cruises that are not only memorable but also educational. 

When you get aboard with your family, you’ll love the host of activities and amenities on offer. For starters, the onboard specialists give lectures and tours to ensure you don’t miss out on anything. All ships come equipped with kayaks, so you get to explore places you never imagined. 

Inland excursions in your ports of call are included in the cruise fare. Hence, you can spend your days hiking, taking in Alaskan cultures, or even shopping. Unlike the other cruise lines on this list, Lindblad has smaller ships, so no worries about overcrowding. What’s more, the environment on the ship is so laid back that you can walk around barefoot. 

Carnival is one of the largest cruise lines in the world, and it offers some of the best Alaskan cruises for families. The mega cruise line’s Alaskan fleet boasts giant waterslides, dedicated entertainment zones for kids, teens, and adults, and poolside movie screens that will make your family cruise one to remember. 

Carnival has a dedicated kids program, Camp Carnival, divided into five age groups (2-5, 6-8, 9-11, 12-14, & 15-17). There are also supervised playrooms with plenty of age-appropriate fun activities such as gaming consoles, candy-making machines, and arts and crafts. If you have kids below two years old, Carnival offers reasonably priced day and evening babysitting. 

Most Carnival Cruise Line Alaska itineraries include Icy Strait Point, Hubbard Glacier, Seward, Ketchikan, and Juneau. You can also choose to visit historical ports such as Victoria, BC. Wherever your cruise docks or sails to, you’re in for a full-filled adventure for the entire traveling group. 

If you’ve always wanted to go on an intimate Alaskan cruise with your family, there’s no better cruise line to choose than Windstar Cruises. Windstar sails the Star Breeze for its Alaska cruises, a family-friendly ship that combines coastal cruises with memorable overland explorations that will leave your family wanting more. 

During a typical Alaska cruising season, Windstar offers nine journeys from June to September on four family-centered itineraries. Recently, it has introduced the Scenic Alaska itinerary that takes passengers through the Canadian Inside Passage. 

Thanks to Windstar’s Signature Expeditions program, your kids get to learn about Alaska’s geography, history, and culture from a team of six local experts with insider knowledge. 

All meals and non-alcoholic beverages are included in the fare on Windstar Cruises. Itineraries include an 11-night Vancouver to Seward trip with stops at Misty Fjords, Juneau, Sitka, Kenai Fjords National Park, and Wrangell. So, if you enjoy canoeing, catamaran cruising, or even wilderness safaris, book your upcoming Alaskan vacation with Windstar Cruises. 

If you want to experience Alaska in style, there’s no better cruise line for you than Regent Seven Seas. Booking your cruise vacation with Regent allows you to sample Alaska’s exciting wildlife, majestic glaciers, and charming frontier towns in the utmost luxury. There are plenty of sports and activities to keep the whole family entertained and relaxed during your cruise. 

Right from the moment you get on board, you’ll love the decently-sized staterooms with spacious bathrooms and closets. If you’re traveling in a group, you may want to book a suite so that you have a perfect gathering space for the group. Even so, you’re still guaranteed privacy because Regent’s Alaska cruiser, the Mariner, only carries 700 passengers. 

Tracy Arm Fjord is Regent’s Alaska destination. Here, your family will enjoy taking in the majestic glacier-carved cliffs, breathtaking waterfalls, and enchanting views of the Sawyer Glaciers. 

You can also book a helicopter trip to the Mendenhall Glacier. Although Regent doesn’t offer the amusement park-like amenities you’ll find on Disney and other better-known Alaska cruise liners; you’re still in for a memorable cruise vacation.

Norwegian Cruise Line owns Oceania Cruises, and therefore, its ships have the same look and feel as NCL’s cruisers. However, one thing that sets Oceania apart is the high-end cruise ship experience and gourmet dining on the high seas. 

On every Oceania Cruises itinerary, you get the opportunity to embrace your passion for travel while enjoying the ultimate cruise on a small luxurious ship. 

Oceania Cruises sails to Alaska during the summer months and takes you on seven to 11-day itineraries through the breathtaking Northwest Passage. The refined yet casually elegant cruises on the Regatta start at Seward or Vancouver and include stops at enchanting towns along the route you’ll take. 

Regarded as one of the best Alaska cruises for families, Oceania offers a kids-oriented Alaska Explorer Youth Program. The young ones can also choose the Regents Club Mariner Youth Program to learn more about Alaska. The Regatta features four dining venues, a coffee shop, five lounges, a spa, and an outdoor pool where the entire family can unwind during your cruise. 

The name “UnCruise” is undoubtedly the antithesis of the conventional cruise experience. Nonetheless, UnCruise Adventures offers some of the most memorable Alaska expeditions you’ll find anywhere. 

The cruise line’s expeditions are designed to help you experience Alaska’s wilderness. The small ships on its fleet take you to places where larger cruisers on this list won’t dare to venture. 

Whether you board the 84-passenger Safari Endeavour or the 22-passenger Safari Quest, each voyage with UnCruise Adventures is full of surprises for the entire family. The onboard expedition team is always at hand to exp[lain the family-friendly entertainment and adventure options on offer. 

Although most ships on the fleet only offer basic staterooms without balconies, your kids won’t mind it because there’s a lot for them to see and do. The cruise line offers dozens of itineraries in 14-day or seven-day formats, with stopovers in Sitka, Juneau, and the Glacier Bay National Park. 

Cunard is one of the oldest cruise liners, and it’s easy to see why it offers some of the best Alaska cruises for families. With Cunard, you get the opportunity to sail to Alaska and savor its sights and sounds with a tinge of British style. 

The refined experience aboard the cruise line’s Alaska fleet is something your whole family will love. Most cruises originate from Vancouver, and you can choose anything from a 10-night to a 19-night cruise.

Cunard mainly uses the 2,000-passenger Queen Elizabeth for its Alaskan cruises. The ship comes with three restaurants, a pool, a spa, and a disco for your nightly entertainment. 

On their part, your kids will love the dedicated play area that’s fully equipped and staffed. Since Cunard is a British cruise line, a formal night is a norm, so expect to have one during your Alaskan cruise.

To guarantee your family’s comfort, Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth comes with plenty of accommodation options, including spacious ocean view staterooms, inside staterooms, and even suites. The cruise line’s Alaska itinerary includes Prince Rupert, Skagway, Sitka, and the Glacier Bay National Park. 

Six Popular Ports of Call on Alaskan Family Cruises

Alaska is vast and is home to some of the most breathtaking and untouched natural wonders, including volcanoes, glaciers, shorelines, and wildlife. A cruise to Alaska should be considered incomplete if you fail to explore the interior and the ports of call along the route. That said, these are six of the most popular ports of call on Alaskan family cruises: 

Home to less than 1,000 residents, Skagway is one of the most important ports of call on Alaskan cruises. Despite its small-town charm, it boasts a big-city culture. Skagway is known for its rustic Victorian architecture, violet-spotted fields, and winding wooden railways, snow-capped mountains, and steep hiking trails that you’ll love exploring. 

During your stopover, you’ll enjoy sampling the dense rainforests and reliving the iconic Klondike Gold Rush. The best part of it is that most of these attractions are located close to the cruise ship port. Besides, there are lots of restaurants where you can sample Alaskan cuisines as you wait to hop onto your cruiser to the next port of call. 

Here, rolling mountains overlook quaint waters below, and it’s no surprise that Juneau is one of the most popular ports of call for Alaskan cruises. Most itineraries include this small town, thanks to its proximity to the picturesque Mendenhall Glacier. The majestic Orcas at Juneau are also a sight to behold and make the town a must-visit. 

If you love inland adventures, make it a point to sample the trails and mountains around Juneau. The panoramic view atop Mount Roberts, in particular, isn’t something to miss if you venture inland. You may also want to visit some of the biggest gold mines in the world during your stopover in Juneau. 

If you’re a history and culture enthusiast, there’s no better way to enjoy your Alaska voyage than booking a cruise that stops at Icy Strait Point. The small charming town is regarded as the home of the rich Alaskan culture. 

Here, you can attend a tribal dance or even venture out to the surrounding parks to check out the wildlife. In Icy Strait Point, you’ll also find ZipRider, the world’s longest zip line. 

Visiting this small Alaskan town, you’ll first see the small white boats floating together along the shoreline. Meanwhile, grizzly bears battle the fishermen in search of their next catch of salmon. Dubbed the Salmon Capital of the World, Ketchikan is a favorite port of call for seafood lovers. 

Beyond the colorful shoreline, the town invites you to experience Alaska’s rich past and present. Also, don’t let the opportunity to visit the Misty Fjords National Monument and the Tongass National Forest pass you when visiting Ketchikan. 

No port of call along Alaska’s heralded shoreline radiates Alaskan history better than Sitka. There’s so much to do and see in this small seaport. Whether you want to join the New Archangel Dancers in their patterned aprons and crimson skirts in a jingle, or prefer fishing, you’ll have it all in Sitka. 

At Sitka National Historical Park, you’ll have the opportunity to watch seasoned artisans as they weave, bead, carve, and metal-work to create amazing pieces of art that reflect Alaska’s culture and history. You can also pay a visit to the famed St. Michael Russian Orthodox Cathedral to marvel at the hand-painted Biblical scenes, glass-stained windows, and captivating interior. 

Arguably, Haines is one of the lesser-known ports of call on Alaskan family cruises, but it isn’t any less impressive. Staggering mountains and open roads surround this tranquil town. If you love clicking away, there’s no better place to capture lifelong memories of your Alaskan trip than Haines, thanks to the numerous photo-worthy opportunities that abound. 

Outside the cruise ship port, you’ll get the opportunity to feel the soft, soothing tickle of fur as you get up-close with Alaska’s legendary wolves. If you’ve always wanted to have an encounter with Alaska’s furry residents, such as the reindeer, moose, and bears, the Kroschel Wildlife Center is a walking distance from Haines. 

If your itinerary allows, don’t forget to visit the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve to see these majestic birds soaring through the air or resting amidst the bare trees.

More about our TFVG Author

James Brockbank

A seasoned traveller, Dad, and avid sports tourist, James foundered The Family Vacation Guide to share his expert vacation experiences- especially when it comes to being a travelling family man.

Featured in Travel articles such as Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy and SFGate, you know you're reading some of the best vacation tips online.

15 Best Alaska Cruises for Families with Kids and/or Teens

September 9, 2022

A cruise to Alaska with children and teens is a once-in-a-lifetime family experience. The Alaskan views are breathtaking, with vast swathes of wilderness, towering snow-capped mountains, and crystalline glaciers thunderously pouring ice into the sea. All of the new experiences create an excellent opportunity for family bonding.

Even the most hard-to-please teen will be charmed by shore excursions such as dog sledding or sea kayaking! The Last Frontier is bound to be a vacation your family will never forget!

So without further ado, here are the 15 best Alaska cruises for families that you can find!

Let’s get started

1. Disney Wonder

2. discovery princess, 4. norwegian bliss, 5. celebrity eclipse, 6. serenade of the seas, 7. ng venture, 8. carnival splendor, 9. star breeze, 10. seven seas mariner, 11. regatta, 12. wilderness legacy, 13. queen elizabeth, 14. majestic princess, 15. seabourn odyssey, all aboard, best alaska cruises for families.

The Disney Cruise Line has been a stand-out in family vacations since its inception in 1998, and it’s no stretch to say that each cruise ship in Disney’s Alaska fleet is designed to provide the ultimate family vacation.

Your family can relax and enjoy the Disney Wonder on an Alaska trip. The seven-night cruise balances days at sea with three full port days. As a result, your family will have plenty of time to get to know the ship, participate in onboard activities, and enjoy shore excursions without feeling rushed.

Your children will have numerous opportunities to encounter lifelike Disney characters while sailing. Plus, they can enjoy themed parties and events to keep them entertained throughout the vacation.

The kid-friendly personnel and amenities like pools and kids’ clubs ensure that the entire family has a great time on the voyage. Families also like the spacious staterooms which Disney’s Alaskan fleet is known for.

• Sails from : Vancouver
• Duration : 7 nights
• Cruise line : Disney Cruise Line
• Itinerary : Vancouver, Dawes Glacier, Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, Vancouver

When it comes to family-friendly cruises, you can’t go wrong with the Princess cruise line. The Discovery Princess boasts large staterooms, plenty of dining options, a kids’ club, teen lounge, and themed events to make your family vacation a stand-out time.

Opting for the shorter 4-day itinerary can be a great way to introduce your kids to cruising life. It is long enough to get a feel for life at sea, but not so long that you will be miserable if they can’t quite find their sea legs.

This cruise only has one stop in the Last Frontier — Ketchikan. However, you and your family can still get a solid Alaska experience with shore excursions like watching the lumberjack show, going sea kayaking, or wandering through the rainforest sanctuary.

• Duration : 4 days
• Cruise line : Princess
• Itinerary : Vancouver, Ketchikan, Seattle

There are numerous activities and all-day-long entertainment on Holland’s Eurodam which houses 2104 cruisers. Whether you prefer golf challenges, poolside relaxation, or karaoke, a Holland America Alaska cruise has it all. The main dining room, casual dining rooms, speciality restaurants, lounges, and casinos are just a few of the amenities.

The crew of the ship is pleasant and eager to make your visit unique and memorable, and the staff’s great knowledge of Alaska at por of call is equally impressive. This Signature-class ship makes stops in the popular ports on the 7-day cruise. You can head to shore in Sitka to visit the Alaska Raptor Center and play with bald eagles. Then, when you dock in Ketchikan, you can choose from even more activities like a visit to Totem Bight State Park.

• Sails from : Seattle
• Duration : 7 days
• Cruise line : Holland America Line
• Itinerary : Seattle, Juneau, Glacier Bay, Icy Strait Point, Sitka, Ketchikan, Victoria, Seattle

Norwegian Cruise Line is renowned for its freestyle cruising experience, which includes various engaging activities for passengers of all ages. The Norwegian Bliss is a 4,000-passenger ship explicitly designed for Alaskan trips, with thrilling features such as a go-kart track, a water park, water slides, and an open-air tag course.

Icy Strait Point and its wilderness experiences are included in the 7-day program. The state’s largest Native Tlingit community is located at Icy Strait Point, and surrounding waterways are abundant with wildlife, including orcas and humpback whales. You’ll also enjoy the magnificent Mendenhall Glacier, located just outside Juneau. Explore the Visitor Center, which has a view of the Juneau Ice Field, and walk the nature trails.

• Cruise line : Norwegian Cruise Line
• Itinerary : Seattle, Sitka, Juneau, Dawes Glacier, Icy Point Strait, Ketchikan, Victoria, Seattle

Celebrity Cruises will provide you with the trip of a lifetime if you’re planning a family cruise to Alaska. The ship has a variety of exciting activities for all ages, such as pools, water slides, themed events, and spas. Celebrity Cruises also offers land packages. If your family enjoys the outdoors, tack on an excursion to Banff National Park or Lake Louise.

If you decide to disembark in Sitka, you can spend the day exploring the seas in a Zodiac, visiting the rescued bears, or biking through the rainforest. You can paddle a canoe up to the glacier in Juneau, indulge yourself with a salmon feast, or go panning for gold.

The Celebrity Eclipse is the pinnacle of modern vacations. Take your taste buds on a culinary journey with various dining options. You can also enjoy one of the numerous entertainment venues, or work up a sweat in the Fitness Center.

• Cruise line : Celebrity Cruises
• Itinerary : Vancouver, Sitka, Hubbard Glacier, Juneau, Ketchikan, Vancouver

Royal Caribbean International’s Alaskan cruise is the perfect fit for the whole family. The Serenade of the Seas departs from Vancouver and gives you 7 nights of family-friendly activities and excursions. The ship has everything your family needs for a fun-filled cruise from rock climbing to ice skating.

The staterooms are large and decked out with families in mind. The rooms have huge bathrooms, comfortable bunk beds, and everything else you’ll need for a fantastic voyage.

Onboard, there is a well-equipped kids club with activities for children as young as six months, so the grown-ups can enjoy a little bit of vacation time on their own! For the slightly older kiddos, there’s a tween hangout and teen disco.

• Cruise line : Royal Caribbean International
• Itinerary : Vancouver, Icy Straight Point, Juneau, Skagway, Haines, Tracy Arm Fjord, Vancouver

Lindblad Expeditions, National Geographic Society partner, delivers adventure and so much more. The cruise line is renowned for its educational, culture-focused Alaskan cruises where nature is, of course, the shining star of the vacation. The smaller ship offers casual environment that is nevery overcrowded.

Life aboard is full of funv activities and high-quality amenities. The NG Venture onboard specialists offer educational lectures to help your family make the most of thier time in the Last Frontier.

On your shore excursions (included in your ticket!), you’ll hike through lush Alaskan rainforests, paddle your kayak into secluded inlets, and marvel at crystalline icebergs from a Zodiac. You’ll even got to spend a full day basking in the wonder of Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve.

• Sails from : Juneau
• Duration : 8 days
• Cruise line : Lindblad Expeditions
• Itinerary : Juneau, Tracy Arm, Frederick Sound, Petersburg, Glacier Bay, Icy Straits, Sitka

One of the most extensive lines in the world, Carnival offers great Alaskan cruises geared towards families. 3,012 guests can set sail from Seattle on the Carnival Splendor to enjoy the 7-day Alaskan adventure. Families particularly love the Carnival line because of the vast array of amenities to be found onboard.

Camp Carnival, the ship’s children’s program, is separated into five age categories (2-5, 6-8, 9-11, 12-14, & 15-17). Parents can feel good knowing their little ones are enjoying the supervised playrooms and age-appropriate games. Plus, there is babysitting available for kids under two.

Head ashore to explore the quaint seaside town of Ketchikan and the state’s capital, Juneau. Make sure you bring your camera to capture the stunning vistas surrounding you. Carnival gives you opportunities to enjoy the fjords, glaciers, mountains, and Alaskan wildlife.

• Cruise line : Carnival
• Itinerary : Seattle, Tracy Arm Fjord, Icy Strait Point, Juneau, Ketchikan, Victoria, Seattle

For a more intimate cruise experience, book your family vacation aboard Windstar’s Star Breeze, where the staff-to-guest ratio is 1:1.5. A family-friendly ship, Star Breeze combines coastal cruising with overland explorations that your family is sure to adore.

The all-suite yacht has two dining options, an infinity pool, and a spa. Kids will love Windstar’s Signature Expeditions program, which will allow them to learn about Alaskan history and culture from local experts.

With only 312 guests on board, Star Breeze can tuck into the smaller ports like Wrangell or cruise through narrow waterways, giving you a more intimate Alaskan experience.

• Duration : 11 days
• Cruise line : Windstar Cruises
• Itinerary : Vancouver, Ketchikan, Wrangell, Juneau,Tracy Arm, Inian Island, Icy Strait Pointe, Misty Fjords, Prince Rupert, Vancouver

For families with slightly older children, Regent Seven Seas Cruises is a good choice (kids must be over one-years-old to sail.) Kids 5-17 can make sue of the free Club Mariner Youth Program which includes all sorts of interactive activiites like scavenger hunts and dance parties.

The staterooms are a great size with closet-space and ample bathroom amenities. Suites are available for larger families, but you will never feel overcrowded on board because the ship only holds 700 passengers.

Your cruise fare includes shore excursions, free onboard WiFi, ande even concierge services.

• Cruise line : Regent Seven Seas Cruises
• Itinerary : Vancouver, Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Icy Strait Point, Hubbard Glacier, Seward

Another good option for those families with older children is Oceania’s Regatta, which allows kids older than 6-months to sail. There are no babysitting or nanny services available for children under five. However, those aged 5-12 can enjoy the Alaska Explorer Youth Program, which provides games and special events.

The elegant Regatta is “the flagship” of the Oceania fleet. Cruisers will adore the teak decks, resplendent tile work, and the custom stone touches. All of the spaces — public and private — are luxuriously furnished, and there are four restaurants to meet all of your dining needs. You’ll also find a spa, lounges, and a casino to keep the adults on the trip entertained.

On the stopover in Ketchikan, Oceania offers excursions like a rainforest hike, zipline adventure, and the Lumberjack show. You can find additional exciting activities at each of the stops! Note: sailers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult on all shore excursions.

• Cruise line : Oceania Cruises
• Itinerary : Seattle, Ketchikan, Juneau, Sitka, Victoria, Seattle

UnCruise Adventures provides some of the most unforgettable Alaska adventures available. Expeditions offered by the cruise line are aimed to give you a taste of Alaska’s natural beauty. Its compact ships take you to places where the larger cruise ships on this list can’t go. The expedition staff onboard is always available to explain the various family-friendly entertainment and adventure opportunities.

The 86-passenger Wilderness Legacy allows you to get an up-close Alaskan experience that everyone is sure to enjoy. Visit Glacier Bay National Park regions that are rarely visited by tourists, and hike and cycle around Chichagof Island, where UnCruise is the only line to hold the permits. You’ll find many more intimate Alaskan adventures on an UnCruise cruise!

• Cruise line : Uncruise Adventures
• Itinerary : Juneau, Glacier Bay, Chichagof Island, Baranof Island, Baird Glacier, Ideal Cove, Juneau

Cunard is one of the world’s oldest cruise lines, so it offers some of the most fabulous Alaskan cruises for families. Cunard gives you the chance to cruise the waters of the Last Frontier and take in the wonderous — all with a British flair.

Your entire family will enjoy the polished experience aboard the Queen Elizabeth who can accommodate 2,000 cruisers on the 7-night cruise which departs from Vancouver. The ship has three restaurants, a pool, a spa, and a disco for your nightly amusement. Plus, the specialized play area, which is fully equipped and staffed, will be a hit with the kids.

• Cruise line : Cunard
• Itinerary : Vancouver, Glacier Bay, Icy Strait Point, Sitka, Ketchikan, Vancouver

Majestic Princess is one of the newest ships in the fleet and offers a signature experience with a touch of Chinese flair. Foodie families will love the dining options available every hour of the day. Endless buffets, frozen treats, and all the made-from-scratch entrees your hearts’ desire.

The 7-day Alaskan tour leaves from Vancouver and includes three desirable ports: Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway. The cruise culminates in Anchorage, where you could extend your vacation or fly back home.

There are so many excursions to enjoy, and there are often special pricing deals for children under 12 available. You and your family can hike, kayak, canoe, and watch performances like the Lumberjack show.

• Itinerary : Vancouver, Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay, College Fjord, Anchorage

While Seabourn does not have an organized kids’ program, children and teens are welcome. Babies younger than 6-months are not permitted to sail, however.

Families love that the shore trips are complimentary for children, and the line offers such up-close adventures. The expedition team is full of scientists, naturalists, and scholars to help you learn all about the Alaskan way of life.

Glide through the waterways on sturdy Zodiacs or sea kayaks for a more intimate experience in the Alaskan fjords. You’ll find the wildlife viewing opportunities are plenty, and the curious child will adore catching glimpses of seals, whales, and sea birds.

• Duration : 14 days
• Cruise line : Seabourn
• Itinerary : Vancouver, Ketchikan, Sitka, Glacier Bay, Inian Islands, Icy Strait Point, Haines, Juneau, Tracy Arm, Wrangell, Misty Fjords, Prince Rupert, Alert Bay, Vancouver

When it comes to family cruising in Alaska, the options are nearly endless! You can find all the adventure your little ones desire without giving up an ounce of comfort.

If you are able to splurge on your vacation, booking one of the smaller ships is definitely a great way to experience the Last Frontier!

If you’re searching for cruises to take with your better half, then head over to my guide of the best Alaska cruises for couples .

About the author

Travel Reporter - Alaska Expert

Dara is a travel writer, political news junkie, and part-time actress. Born in south, she spent her childhood hopping around the U.S., even venturing as far away as Kodiak, Alaska. When not bent over her laptop or prancing around on stage, Dara can be found binge-watching Netflix, making endless to-do lists, or reading a sci-fi book.

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• Cruises for Families

10 Best Alaska Cruises for Families 2020

Feb 18, 2020

See recent posts by Dave Parfitt

Not only is a cruise to Alaska at the top of many families’ bucket lists , but it’s also a convenient way to sample The Last Frontier.

The standard Alaska cruise used to feature a week-long itinerary departing from either Seattle, Washington , or Vancouver, British Columbia , and traveling to Seward or Whittier (or the reverse). Now, in addition to those one-way cruises to Alaska , families can find round-trip cruises through the Inside Passage , longer cruises to and from California , and smaller ships that maneuver inside fjords (where larger ships can’t).

Here, we highlight 10 Alaska cruises that are especially good for families, including what the ships have to offer onboard, as well as family-friendly port excursions.

1. Princess Cruises

In 2019, Princess Cruises celebrated its 50th year sailing to Alaska. Princess has won multiple industry awards for “Best Cruise Line in Alaska” (11 consecutive years including 2019), and currently has eight ships sailing to Alaska. Current Princess Alaska cruises include round-trip Inside Passage sailings of 14 days from Los Angeles, 10 days from San Francisco, seven days from Seattle, and seven days from Vancouver. In addition to the round-trip Inside Passage cruises, Princess Cruises also offers one-way “Voyage of the Glaciers” sailings northbound from Vancouver and southbound from Anchorage . Princess also owns five wilderness lodges throughout Alaska to create a seamless land and sea vacation.

In 2019, Princess Cruises won for Best Shore Excursions in Cruise Critic’s annual Editors’ Picks Awards , thanks the line’s wide range of excursions designed to appeal to almost everyone. Through its partnership with Discovery & Animal Planet, Princess Cruises offers shore excursions tailored to animal lovers, as well as science and nature enthusiasts. Discovery & Animal Planet exclusive tours include: Black Bear, Wildlife & Nature Walk; Discover Alaska’s Whales; and Underground Mine Exploration & Gold Panning.

The “North to Alaska” onboard program brings authentic Alaska experiences to life through local seafood while real Alaskans come aboard to share their stories. Sled dog fans will love “Puppies in the Piazza,” where husky puppies are available for photos and snuggling, and Iditarod sled dog champion musher Libby Riddles tells tales of her winning Alaska races.

Related: How to Communicate on Cruise Ship: 5 Ways to Stay Connected 

2. Disney Cruise Line

In 2011, the Disney Wonder offered its first Alaska voyage, and the seven-night summer sailings have proved very popular ever since. Between May and September 2020, the Disney Wonder visits Dawes Glacier, Icy Strait Point, Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan during week-long, round-trip cruises from Vancouver. Onboard, the spirit of Alaska is incorporated through themed entertainment and authentic experiences, including meet and greet opportunities with Disney characters dressed in northern attire, presentations from naturalists familiar with the region, as well as exclusive food and beverage offerings and cooking demonstrations.

Disney’s port excursions highlight the beauty of Alaska while bringing local culture and customs to life. During many of these excursions, there are special Disney touches, characters, and storytelling. In Skagway, guests can explore the Liarsville Gold Rush Trail, a camp nestled beside a waterfall where music, puppetry and panning for gold with classic Disney characters immerse guests in the gold rush era. While visiting Ketchikan, guests can look on as professional fishermen haul in the catch of the day in 700-pound king crab pots during the Bering Sea Crab Fisherman’s Tour.

After a behind-the-scenes tour of the ship, Disney Cruise Line guests have an exclusive opportunity to dine with the crew and listen to stories about life on the Bering Sea over freshly caught King and Dungeness crab. Several Ketchikan excursions include a visit to the Exclusive Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, a rollicking competition created for families that features some of the world’s top timber sport athletes going head-to-head for bragging rights and the title, “Bull of the Woods.” This enhanced performance features additional segments developed exclusively for Disney Cruise Line guests.

Families looking for even more Alaska immersion can add-on an Adventures by Disney package to their Disney Cruise Line sailing. This Adventures by Disney cruise package includes the benefits of two Adventure Guides, exclusive activities both on and off the ship (including meals), private welcome and farewell receptions, all photography, special VIP experiences, and more.

Related: What to Pack for a Disney Cruise: The Ultimate Packing List 

3. Royal Caribbean International 

Royal Caribbean International currently has three ships sailing to Alaska: Ovation of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas, and Serenade of the Seas. Ovation of the Seas is presently the largest ship sailing to Alaska— with all the bells and whistles families might expect on a 4,000-plus passenger mega-ship. One particularly awe-inspiring feature is North Star that offers panoramic views of jaw-dropping Alaska landscapes from a glass-enclosed capsule that ascends 300 feet above the ocean. Ovation of the Seas sails seven-night itineraries roundtrip from Seattle through the Inside Passage with stops in Skagway, Juneau, and more. Other onboard amenities include a theme park-like atmosphere complete with FlowRider surf simulator, RipCord skydiving by iFly, and a SeaPlex indoor active space that includes bumper cars, roller skating, trapeze school, and more.

Radiance of the Seas sails seven-night, one-way itineraries between Seward and Vancouver, where families can enjoy the sights of Hubbard Glacier and the Inside Passage. Land options can extend the cruise vacation by three to seven nights in order to visit Kenai Fjords National Park , Denali National Park & Preserve , and more. All cruise tours are led by local guides who take families deep into Alaska’s interior via bus, train, and optional flightseeing tours. Serenade of the Seas travels roundtrip on seven-night cruises that include time in Ketchikan, Alaska, and cruising through Tracy Arm Fjord. Possible excursions include dog-sledding, helicopter rides, and glacier hikes.

Both Radiance and Serenade of the Seas are much smaller ships compared to Ovation of the Seas (2,100 vs. 4,000 passengers). These mid-sized ships tout ocean-facing glass elevators and floor-to-ceiling windows throughout, allowing breathtaking views of the Last Frontier. Onboard the two Radiance Class ships, families can climb rock-wall towers for panoramic views, enjoy poolside movie nights under the stars, and dine at venues including Chops Grille, Giovanni’s Table, and Izumi.

4. Norwegian Cruise Line

In 2018, Norwegian Cruise Line launched the 4,000 passenger Norwegian Bliss, a ship specifically designed for Alaska cruises, and in spring 2021, Norwegian Encore (built in 2019) will sail to Alaska from Seattle, bringing Norwegian Cruise Line’s total to five ships in the Last Frontier. The newest ships offer thrilling amenities such as a two-level go-kart track where electric cars reach speeds up to 30 mph, an open-air laser tag course, and an expansive water park with two multi-story waterslides including one that extends over the edge of the ship and loops down to the deck below.

For those looking for smaller ships, the Norwegian Sun has less than 1,000 staterooms and was refurbished in 2018, adding a Spinnaker Lounge where guests can grab a drink and watch the scenery pass through panoramic windows.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Alaska itineraries include five- to 12-day round-trip sailings from Seattle, as well as week-long one-way cruises to/from Seward, Alaska. In partnership with Alaska Native Voices, cruises that sail into Glacier Bay National Park have Cultural Heritage Guides onboard to interpret the 25-million-acre World Heritage Site.

Norwegian Cruise Line has also invested in the ports of Icy Straight Point, Ketchikan, and Juneau to create shore excursions for visitors to experience the land, wildlife and native peoples of Alaska. Many of these investments are in partnership with Alaska native-owned corporations and built with environmentally sustainable practices in order to maintain the natural setting. A high speed gondola will transport families to attractions such as the world’s longest ZipRider zipline, accessible coastal brown bear viewing platforms, whale watching, and fishing excursions. A second will transport guests further up the mountain, offering spectacular views of icefields, the Fairweather Range and Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve. A network of hiking trails will allow families to explore the wilderness via a 340-foot suspension bridge swaying over a box-canyon with a 900-foot vertical drop. Another nature trail at the top-of-the-mountain wanders around a glacially carved pond.

Finally, for families wishing to see more of Alaska’s interior, four- to seven-day land tours can be added to Norwegian’s one-way cruises exploring Seward, Homer, Girdwood, Anchorage, Talkeetna, Denali, and Fairbanks via motorcoach or Alaska Railroad.

5. Holland America Line

Seven Holland America ships sail in Alaska from April through September on roundtrip cruises from Seattle or Vancouver, or one-way between Seward and Vancouver. For those interested in Glacier Bay National Park, Holland America offers the most itineraries that include the scenic destination. In 2020, families can cruise to Alaska aboard the Eurodam, Koningsdam, Maasdam, Noordam, Oosterdam, Volendam and Westerdam.

This is the inaugural season for Koningsdam (launched in 2016) in Alaska, sailing seven-day Inside Passage itineraries roundtrip from Vancouver. The luxurious Pinnacle Class ship has outstanding service and dining and a number of entertainment options including Music Walk, Rolling Stone Rock Room, and World Stage, and more. Holland America Line is currently the only cruise line with seven-day roundtrip itineraries from Vancouver that include Glacier Bay National Park.

Families with more time might consider the 14-day Great Alaska Explorer Voyages aboard the Maasdam. This smaller ship (1,258 passengers) provides an intimate atmosphere with plenty of room at the rail to watch passing scenery. Maasdam’s itinerary sails roundtrip from Vancouver and travels around the Kanai Peninsula calling upon Anchorage, Homer, and Valdez. Excursions include Zodiac boats departing directly from the ship for close-up views of glaciers, wildlife and scenery, all guided by an expert.

Every Holland America ship in Alaska includes onboard programming about local Alaska culture and history. Cruises to Glacier Bay bring on a national park ranger as well as a native Huna speaker. Other presentations include Alaska naturalists, bush pilots, and mushers from the Iditarod dog sled race.

For explorers who want to travel further into the Alaska interior, Holland America offers multiple land packages that spend up to three nights at Denali National Park & Preserve—maximizing the chances of mountain viewing. Finally, Holland America is the only cruise line that offers a land tour option to Dawson City, home of the Klondike Gold Rush in Canada’s Yukon Territory.

6. Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line is expanding its presence in Alaska with two ships in 2020 and a third coming in 2021. In 2020, Carnival Spirit sails week-long roundtrip cruises from Seattle, and Carnival Miracle will offer 10- and 11-day Alaska cruises from San Francisco for the first time ever. In 2021, Carnival Freedom will operate out of Seattle. A mix of itineraries includes Inside Passage ports of Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Icy Strait Point, cruising Tracy Arm Fjord, and Victoria, British Columbia.

For families wanting to truly explore Alaska, Carnival offers a variety of shore excursions from adventurous helicopter flightseeing to traditional salmon bakes and gold panning. Onboard, Carnival offers special menu items featuring Alaska fare including freshly caught local game, seafood, and fish, and a naturalist points out animal and sea life from the bridge for guests to photograph. Carnival Cruise Line’s kids program, Camp Ocean (for children ages 2 to 11), offers Alaska-themed activities for kids exploring the Last Frontier.

7. Celebrity Cruises

Families with older children or multigenerational groups looking for a premium vacation experience might consider Celebrity Cruises . In 2020, Celebrity sends three ships to Alaska, visiting 12 Canadian and U.S. destinations, and spending more time in port. Celebrity Eclipse and Celebrity Solstice sail seven night, round-trip cruises from Vancouver and Seattle. Ports on these sailings include Endicott Arms & Dawes Glacier, Hubbard Glacier, Icy Straight Point, Juneau, and Ketchikan to name a few (check specific itineraries for more details).

Celebrity Millennium will offer two, seven-night, one-way Alaska itineraries—one northbound from Vancouver, the other southbound from Seward, AK—making it easy to combine a tour of interior Alaska with a cruise. Both Celebrity Millennium cruise itineraries feature the Inside Passage and call upon Ketchikan, Icy Straight Point, Juneau, Skagway, and Hubbard Glacier. Celebrity Cruises offer land and sea packages extending the cruise from Seward on to Anchorage, Talkeetna, and Denali National Park. On the southbound cruise from Seward, Alaska, families can add on a Canadian Rockies tour and travel to Lake Louise in Banff National Park .

8. Lindblad Expedtions

Lindblad Expeditions partners with National Geographic to create exclusive family programming. Its National Geographic Global Explorers program is designed for kids and teens to develop the attitudes, skills and knowledge of an explorer. Activities include earning a Zodiac boat driver’s license, recording wildlife sightings in their field notebook, and learning to be a storyteller through photos, video, and more.

Families can choose from a selection of Alaska itineraries—ranging from six days to a 22-day end-to-end coastal cruise stretching all the way from Ketchikan to Nome. The 100-guest ships, National Geographic Quest and Venture, and the 62-guest sister ships, National Geographic Sea Lion or Sea Bird, travel past wildlife-filled islands and deep into channels to find bears, eagles, bubble-netting whales, and more. Family activities include hiking, kayaking, paddle boarding, biking, and exploring. Cultural programming include First Nation performers, as well as sailing with a team of naturalists and photographers.

9. UnCruise Adventures

Voted “Best for Adventure” by Cruise Critic , UnCruise Adventures specializes in off-the-beaten path itineraries. UnCruise zigs when the big ships’ zag, allowing passengers to avoid crowds in ports. The expedition-style cruises sail seven to 14-day itineraries around Glacier Bay National Park and as far south as Seattle. In addition, UnCruise Adventures cruises can be paired with an optional six-day pre-cruise Alaska Railroad excursion to Denali National Park.

For family travelers, UnCruise Adventures has designed specific family-focused departures called Family [F]UnCruise Discoveries. The Family Discoveries program offers summer camp at sea programs with activities for everyone to experience together.

Alaska-based family travel writer, Erin Kirkland of AKontheGo , sails onboard as the UnCruise Youth Adventurist on the 76-passenger Wilderness Discoverer, July 4 and August 1, 2020 Alaska Fjords & Glaciers Cruise, as well as the July 3 and 31, 2021 Northern Passages Glacier Bay Cruise on the 86-passenger S.S. Legacy. Activities include beach parties, kayaking and paddle board relays, local history and culture talks, arts and crafts, photography lessons, and more.

10. Windstar Cruises

Windstar Cruises is a small ship cruise line consistently rated as one of the best under 500 berths. Windstar’s smaller vessels can access Alaska fjords, inlets, and coves not available to large ocean liners. While children younger than 8 aren’t allowed on Windstar Cruises, it’s a great choice for families with tweens and teens. These smaller ships jettison the frills of the mega ships to focus on connecting as a family over authentic local experiences such as wildlife watching on deck and enjoying meals together.

Windstar’s small ship cruises in Alaska include lectures and onboard educational programming from a team of six experts who sail with the ship throughout its journey. This team of scientists and naturalists also lead optional Signature Expedition tours. Excursions include kayak and Zodiac boat trips directly from the ship, giving guests more time for extreme close-up views at sea level. The tours offer breathtaking perspectives of icebergs, calving glaciers, and gorgeous natural habitats.

Signature Excursions help guests experience the active wildlife of Alaska first-hand while cruising by rafts of sea otters, spotting sea birds overhead or sea lions lounging on mini-icebergs, all while keeping an eye on shore to spot bears and more.

Dave Parfitt lives in Rochester, New York, with his wife and two daughters. A runner with a PhD in neuroscience, he lived in numerous Northeastern and Midwestern U.S. cities before taking a college job in the Finger Lakes. He’s traveled worldwide, but a Walt Disney World trip with two budding princesses is the trip that elicited the family travel wanderlust. He shares his vacation tips and tricks on AdventuresbyDaddy.com .

What to Pack for Your Next Trip 

Mom’s/women’s camping outfit, shop the look.

Organic Donegal Sweater

Rambler 20 oz Tumbler

Long-Sleeve Waffle Tee

Aberdeen Jogger

GEL-Contend® Walker

Dad’s/men’s camping outfit.

Super Deluxe Book Pack

Streamlight 88052 ProTac HL USB 850 Lumen Professional Tactical Flashlight

Flannel Shirt

Trailhead Pants

Outline Hiking Sneaker

Girl’s camping outfit.

Mini Sleepy-Eyes Backpack

Big Long Sleeve Solid Cardigan

Glitter Best Dad Graphic Tee

Warrior Knee Joggers

Wicked Good Slippers

Boy’s camping outfit.

Galaxy Superbreak Backpack

Thermos Funtainer 12 Ounce Bottle

Fleece Crewneck Sweatshirt

Everyday Chino Shorts

Jr Alonisso 41 Sneakers

Our team of parents and travel experts chooses each product and service we recommend. Anything you purchase through links on our site may earn us a commission.

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Our Family Alaska Cruise

By Candyce H. Stapen | Published on February 5 2024

On our family Alaska cruise, we stood on the deck staring in amazement at the sheer size of Hubbard Glacier — a cool icy blue in the sunlight — which stretched for miles and was backed by gloriously snowcapped mountain peaks. After dreaming of this moment for months, cruising past this dazzling sight on our first full day onboard Royal Caribbean's Radiance of the Seas®  reinforced that our family Alaska cruise was the best choice for us.

Not only were my husband and I awestruck by Alaska's natural wonders, but so were Alissa, our teen daughter, and Matt, our college-age son. We bonded over dog sledding, flightseeing and whale spotting and enjoyed discussing the day's events over dinner every night. In my experience, engaging teenagers on a family vacation is much more complicated than pleasing younger kids, and we were thrilled that this vacation succeeded in holding their interest each day and producing lively family conversations each evening.

The Train To Talkeetna

We set up our trip so that we'd have a cruise tour with a relaxing rail journey before our family Alaska cruise . In Anchorage, we boarded Alaska's famous glass-domed sightseeing train, the Wilderness Express. Through the large windows and the glass-domed ceiling, we watched Alaska's landscape roll by, including forests filled with spruce and hemlock, snowcapped mountains and small towns. We had lunch in the dining car and played gin rummy, a family favorite, after we ate.

We got off the train at Talkeetna, a funky little town filled with wooden storefronts and eateries. Located near Denali State Park, it is a gateway to flightseeing and fishing adventures. From the deck of the ridgetop Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge, about an hour from town, we savored views of the jagged slopes of the Alaskan Range. We dined on delicious grilled salmon and devoured blueberry tarts for dessert. And although clouds often envelop Denali's summit, the mist lifted one afternoon, revealing the majestic snow-capped peak of the mighty mountain.

The View From Above

The best decision we made on this trip? Booking a flightseeing trip to Denali National Park and Preserve, which was one of the most memorable experiences of our Alaska vacation. In the language of native Koyukon Athabascans, "Denali" translates to "the great one." At 20,310 feet, Denali's Mount McKinley is the highest peak in North America and a must-see Alaska travel site that inspires awe.

We took advantage of Alaska's 17-plus hours of daylight to board the helicopter in the late afternoon from Talkeetna. Our 10,000-foot vantage point gave us a sense of Ruth Glacier's massive size — it's a seemingly endless stretch of blue ice slit with crevasses and laced with turquoise pools. When we were within two miles of Denali's summit, the clouds lifted and we saw Denali's peak pierce the sky. Returning over the park, we spotted grizzlies loping across the frozen turf.

Spying On Whales

We arrived early in Seward , the departure point for our Alaska cruise, so that we could experience more sights before we set sail. Exploring Kenai Fjords National Park — home to nearly 40 glaciers that are part of the 700 square miles of the Harding Icefield — in an expedition boat proved to be another highlight of our family vacation in Alaska. Just minutes after we left the dock, our naturalist guide pointed out otters floating, then rolling like logs, in the water. We sailed by spruce thickets, a sea lion colony sprawled on a rocky islet and a puffin rookery. When we heard "thar she blows," we ran to the port railing just in time to catch a glimpse of the bumpy head of a 40-foot humpback whale before he disappeared below the surface.

Floating slabs of ice dotted the sea as we cruised to about a half-mile of the glacier's terminus, a vantage point that gave us a sense of the massive formation that dwarfed our vessel. When the captain cut the engines, we listened. Soon, we heard cracks and a thunderous roar as the glacier calved huge chunks into the sea. It was another awe-inspiring moment on our Alaska travels.

On the way to the glacier, our warm hats and gloves were enough to keep us comfortable, but heading into the wind on the way back, we started to feel the chill. Most of the other passengers escaped to the windowed ship's interior, but we craved the fresh air so we huddled together on a bench, laughing as we wrapped ourselves like burritos in blankets we borrowed from the crew.

Taking In Glaciers And Huskies

We boarded our ship, the 2,466-passenger Radiance of the Seas®, and immediately sailed away. Early on in our sailing, a day of cruising to Hubbard Glacier  gave us time to explore the ship.

Matt grabbed a deck lounge chair while Alissa walked the promenade with us before striking out alone to check out the teen lounge. When the ship drew near the colossal glacier, we met on deck to share the moment. A majestic sight, the glacier towered 350 feet above the water. But no teen or 20-something stares at a glacier for three hours, no matter how impressive. To remain in sight of the glistening blue behemoth and the ice-chunk-dotted sea, we convinced them to play shuffleboard with us. It has become a fun family cruise staple for us over the years, and the kids won again.

Later in the cruise, this family of dog lovers couldn't resist booking a dog-sledding shore excursion. After all, husky dog sledding is part of Alaska's heritage. The excursion starts with a helicopter ride above an emerald-green forest to the plateau of Mendenhall Glacier, one of Alaska's most noted sights. On a vast snow field, the huskies howled excitedly as our guide harnessed our team, explaining how lead dogs steer the sled and wheel dogs add muscle.

After the musher yelled "hike," the team took off, effortlessly falling into formation. We savored the soft sounds of the dogs' paws on the snow and the sun on our faces for about 20 minutes as we were pulled across the field. We could have spent the whole day gliding across the snow, but at the end of the ride we were treated to a visit with the husky puppies in the kennel. Before returning to the ship, we grabbed a seafood dinner in town — crab cakes and grilled shrimp — and picked up some souvenirs for friends back home.

The Gold Rush Route

Learning a region's history is important to us on a trip, and our family Alaska cruise was no exception. We boarded the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway, which first launched in 1898, in Skagway  for the three-hour excursion.

From our train's window, we saw Alaskan sights we had only read about — the grueling terrain many gold rush prospectors had to conquer to seek riches in the Yukon Territory. En route to the White Pass Summit, the narrow-gauge train climbed 2,888 feet. Tuckered out from an evening of dancing in the teen lounge, our kids were happy to sit and listen. They found the narrated history informative and the scenery engaging, even if we had to poke them awake occasionally so they wouldn't miss a waterfall or a gorge.

Over a dinner of sockeye salmon and crab legs in town, we talked about the obsession that motivated so many people to carry supplies along the arduous trail. Many perished in the process. A ruggedly steep stretch, Dead Horse Gulch, took its name from the 3,000 pack horses that died when prospectors tried to cross the pass. At the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park in Skagway's six-block historic district, a display of the supplies — tools, grain, blankets and clothing — made the climb seem impossible.

It was a beautiful family dinner to end the day with, and we were grateful for the time together. One of our best family vacations, our family Alaska cruise gave us days filled with Alaskan adventures and dinners over which to compare notes and share the stories. Most of all, we were grateful for the time with our children and a moment to enjoy them before they moved on to more adult lives.

Written By CANDYCE H. STAPEN

Candyce H. Stapen has served as a travel editor for USA TODAY and Frommers.com . She has also written for The Washington Post, Travel Weekly, Men's Journal and Washingtonian and is the author of more than two dozen books about family travel. Candyce lives in Washington, D.C. and travels with her family whenever she can.

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Alaska Cruises

The great land awaits – set sail with princess, the #1 alaska cruise line.

#1 Cruise Line In Alaska *

Our Alaska cruises are your ticket to adventure amidst the Great Land’s glaciers, wildlife and national parks. Voyage through the untamed beauty from the comfort of our world-class ships, exclusive rail service and Princess Wilderness Lodges near national parks. Choose from a variety of Alaska cruise and cruisetour itineraries and connect with loved ones, locals and Alaska's wilderness with Princess ® .

* More guests choose Princess in Alaska than any other cruise line

Up to 35% off + 3rd & 4th Guests Sail Free †

Alaska Cruises & Cruisetours

Alaska cruisetours, see denali on an alaska cruisetour.

Alaska cruisetours combine our top-rated Voyage of the Glaciers cruise with three to ten nights on land exploring Denali National Park. Travel aboard our exclusive Direct-to-the-Wilderness® train and unwind at Princess Wilderness Lodges®. Every year Princess introduces more people to Denali National Park than any other cruise line.

Voyage of the Glaciers

Twice the glaciers.

Sail 500 miles deeper into the Gulf of Alaska and Prince William Sound on our top-rated Voyage of the Glaciers Alaska cruise. Spend seven days traveling from Anchorage (Whittier) to Vancouver, B.C., stopping in historic port cities like Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway. Enjoy two glacier-viewing experiences on every itinerary — including Glacier Bay National Park, and Hubbard Glacier or College Fjord.

Inside Passage Roundtrip Seattle

7-day Alaska cruises

Sail the Inside Passage, a series of channels and waterways formed by the march of glaciers, on your 7-day roundtrip Alaska cruise from Seattle. With an abundance of landmarks and wildlife, take in the sights and sounds of the Inside Passage from the comfort of your ship or on a thrilling excursion ashore. Explore fjords, glaciers and Gold Rush-era towns on weekend voyages out of Seattle.

Inside Passage Roundtrip San Francisco

10 or 11-day Alaska cruises

Travel the Inside Passage on 10 or 11-day Alaska cruises from San Francisco and allow the natural landscapes to inspire your day’s adventures. Begin by sailing beneath the Golden Gate Bridge and along the Pacific Coast. As you voyage into the Inside Passage, enjoy one of the best ways to explore the fjords, small towns and natural landmarks with your favorite people.

Inside Passage Roundtrip Vancouver

Alaska cruises that inspire

Feed your hunger for adventure on a roundtrip Alaska cruise from Vancouver, B.C. Wind your way through fjords, by bright-green forests and through quaint Gold Rush-era towns on your way to the wonders of Glacier Bay National Park. Then experience age-old traditions with the locals.

Voyage of the Glaciers Grand Adventure

14-day Alaska cruises

Sail 500 miles deeper into the Gulf of Alaska and Prince William Sound on our back-to-back Voyage of the Glaciers Alaska cruise. Spend 14 days roundtrip from Vancouver, B.C., stopping in historic port cities like Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway. Enjoy three glacier-viewing experiences on every itinerary — including Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier and College Fjord.

NEW Alaska long voyages

New for 2025, we have crafted longer adventures at sea with a 22-day roundtrip voyage sailing from San Francisco that coincides with Summer Solstice and a 17-day roundtrip cruise from Seattle, featuring three days of scenic glacier viewing as well as charming ports like Wrangell and Valdez. For those voyagers seeking to sail from Southern California all the way up the Pacific coast to Alaska, try a new 16-day roundtrip Inside Passage voyage from Los Angeles.

2025 Alaska New Cruise & Cruisetour Itineraries.  Learn more

With its roaring glaciers, rugged mountains and deep fjords, Glacier Bay National Park feels like a dream. With 3.3 million acres to explore, cruise to this world-renowned landmark — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — and let the landscapes inspire your next adventure. Princess Cruises is an authorized concessioner of Glacier Bay National Park.

Alaska Cruise Ports of Call

• College Fjord
• Endicott Arm
• Glacier Bay National Park
• Hubbard Glacier
• Icy Strait Point
• Victoria, B.C.

The Harriman Expedition discovered College Fjord in 1899 and named the towering glaciers after the great East Coast universities of the United States, like the Harvard Glacier. With the largest collection of tidewater glaciers in the world, your scenic Alaska cruise through the fjord will make a lasting memory.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Valdez is situated in Prince William Sound and serves as the gateway to the interior of Alaska. Often referred to as the "Little Switzerland", Valdez is known for its breathtaking panorama of snow-capped mountains and glaciers. It is also well-known for its role in the transportation of crude oil from the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System, which ends in Valdez. Explore the charming waterfront area and take in the flavors of Valdez through culinary experiences at restaurants such as the Valdez Brewery and the Fat Mermaid.

At first glance many mistake Victoria for an English coastal city or northern European town. Full of greenery, pubs and Victorian architecture, it's difficult to believe that this was a tent city full of rough and tumble miners just 150 years ago. On a cruise to Alaska, explore the Butchart Gardens, tour the pub scene and taste some of the local brews or sail the bay for a whale-watching adventure.

Wrangell is a charming and scenic harbor known for its local fishing industry. It is not as bustling as larger ports in Alaska and maintains its historic charm and offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Explore its historic downtown and learn about the local culture and Native heritage while in Wrangell.

Alaska Cruise Experience

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

Alaska Glaciers

One of the biggest reasons people visit

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

Alaska Wildlife

Untamed, just like Alaska

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

Alaska Mountains & National Parks

National treasures

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

Alaska excursions

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

Alaska Cruise Onboard Experience

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

Alaska Seafood

Fresh and bountiful, like Alaska itself

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

Meet Local Alaskans

Real Alaska from local Alaskans

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

Unique Alaska Cruise Experiences

Great experiences from the great land

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

Alaska Cruise Articles and Videos

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

Discover Alaska with Princess in 2024-2025

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

Best Dishes to Try on Your Alaska Cruise

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

Top Alaska Cruise Destinations

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

Inside Passage Alaska Cruise

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

Alaska Ports of Call

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

What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise

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

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

Princess EZair® Flights

Stress-free airfare

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

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

Airplane to Ship Transfer

We get you where you need to go

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

Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

Stay longer and relax

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

Need help planning?

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

Cruise deals & promotions

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

#PrincessCruises Alaska Connection

See Alaska through our guests' eyes.

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Combine a cruise + train + lodge + Denali for an in-depth Alaska experience.

Enjoy two glacier-viewing experiences on our top-rated 7-day cruise.

North to Alaska

Immerse yourself in all things Alaska with our onboard program.

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Best Family & Kid Friendly Alaska Cruises

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• Alaska (AK)
• Family Cruises

7 Night Cruise to Alaska

• You want a more traditional, upscale cruise on a bigger ship
• You appreciate having a multitude of different dining choices
• You want plenty of activities but nothing overly wild or crazy
• You are looking for a ship with elaborate children's facilities
• You want an all-inclusive, ship-within-a-ship suite complex
• You prefer intimate, adult-oriented vacation experiences

4 Night Cruise to Alaska

• You like scenic cruising; this bright ship is perfect for it
• You appreciate a traditional look with high-tech features
• You want big ship amenities wrapped up in a smaller package
• You're after active diversions like ziplines and surf simulators
• You want nonstop activities and a party atmosphere onboard
• You want a big-ship experience with plenty of classy spaces
• You appreciate good cuisine, wine and beverage offerings
• You enjoy a more upscale cruise experience on a big ship
• You always cruise on ships that are brand-new and innovative
• You want the latest technological advances and features
• You aren’t interested on longer, more unique itineraries
• You want an upscale cruise experience at a decent price
• You like having plenty of options for dining and entertainment
• You appreciate cruise ships with plenty of innovative amenities
• You are looking for a truly all-inclusive cruise vacation
• You typically only cruise on the latest and largest ships
• You want plenty of evening entertainment and production shows
• You don't mind paying extra for some specialty restaurants
• You want plenty of fun options for all ages by day and night
• You're after a more classic, laid-back onboard experience
• You prefer taking part in lectures and enrichment activities
• You don't like paying extra for drinks and other options

5 Night Cruise to Alaska

• You want a fun, big-ship cruise with classic nautical motifs
• You love open deck space; this ship has plenty to go around
• You want a variety of window-lined restaurants and lounges
• You want the gadgets found on Royal Caribbean's newer ships
• You think bigger is better and want a Vegas-style experience

11 Night Cruise to Alaska

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

14 Night Cruise to Alaska

• You enjoy a classic cruise experience with sophisticated touches
• You appreciate evenings with live music, dancing and shows
• You love being out on deck; Noordam has plenty of open space
• You like the more intimate atmosphere on HAL's older ships
• Your kids demand waterslides, splash parks and bumper cars
• You like having plenty of choices on a classically styled cruise
• You want numerous bars, lounges and specialty restaurants
• You appreciate a laid-back cruise that's steeped in traditions
• You dislike crowds; lines and reservations are inevitable
• You need a cutting-edge ship with the latest technology
• You want a classy, big ship experience with lots of amenities
• You are traveling as a family and need a cruise for all ages
• You like having plenty of choice when it comes to food onboard
• You are looking for nonstop, Vegas-style nightly entertainment
• You dislike crowds; disembarking the ship can require patience
• You feel more at home on a smaller and more intimate ship
• You want a family-friendly ocean cruise at a moderate price
• You like big ship amenities that don't sacrifice quality
• You want a balcony cabin; Caribbean Princess has plenty
• You are looking for enrichment activities or local cuisines
• You want action-packed nightlife and nonstop diversions
• You are averse to spending money onboard for extra options
• You want a cruise that harkens to the glory days of travel
• You want a classy cruise on a big ship at a reasonable price
• You don't need a lot of crazy activities during the day
• You want a flashy cruise with cutting-edge onboard diversions
• You prefer a vacation experience with nonstop nightlife
• You expect an all-inclusive product; extra charges abound
• You want a big ship with lots of classy fun for all ages
• You enjoy live music and plenty of enrichment activities
• You're happy with good quality service and a relaxing vibe
• You enjoy strolling on a true wraparound promenade deck
• You miss the more intimate feeling of the line's smaller ships

8 Night Cruise to Alaska

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10 Best Alaska Cruises to Take This Summer, According to Experts

We spoke to cruise experts to find the best Alaska itineraries to book this year.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

With its majestic wildlife, otherworldly glacial scenery, and endless outdoor adventure, a trip to Alaska is one for the books — and the best way to experience it, in our opinion, is by cruise. An Alaska sailing offers travelers the chance to get up close and personal to some of the destination’s most stunning natural wonders (think: Glacier Bay, Hubbard Glacier, the Tracy Arm Fjord, and so much more). Fortunately, when it comes to the best Alaska cruises, options abound, from small-ship luxury sailings and expedition voyages to mega-ships that feel like a floating resort and theme park all in one. Ultimately, explains Travel + Leisure A-List travel advisor Eric Goldring , “The question of which are the ‘best’ cruise lines for Alaska really depends on the guest’s desires as there is a balance between how in-depth they wish to delve into Alaska’s nature and Indigenous culture, what type of onboard experience they desire, and, of course, whether the cruise is family-focused.” To determine which Alaska cruise is best for you, Goldring recommends using a travel advisor “who has actually been to Alaska more than once and on different ships” so that you have “access to important first-hand knowledge.” 

According to T+L A-List travel advisor Ashton Palmer , the Alaska cruise season is short (typically from May to September) and availability is limited, which is why travelers should plan their sailings six to eight months ahead of time. While the travel advisor notes that “most trips average a week in length,” he also recommends cruisers allow time to “visit the northern part of the state, including Denali National Park, the Kenai Peninsula, Anchorage, and Fairbanks,” either before or after the cruise. Several cruise lines also offer land extensions (sometimes called “cruisetours”) to make the experience as seamless as possible. 

While the Alaska cruise season takes place in the warmer months, be sure to pack a few sweaters — and consider dressing in layers. When I cruised Alaska in summer 2022, the weather was (mostly) warm and sunny; however, when we sailed through Glacier Bay, it was chilly, and I was especially glad to have brought a scarf, hat, and light jacket to help brace the chill. Rob Clabbers , another T+L A-List travel advisor , agrees. What’s more, he says, “Weather can change quickly in Alaska, so one moment you may need a sweater, and the next you’re better off in shorts.” 

Meet the Expert

Eric Goldring is a T+L A-List travel advisor specializing in expedition, small-ship, and medium-ship cruises. 

Ashton Palmer is a Seattle-based T+L A-List travel advisor who specializes in expedition cruises.

Rob Clabbers is a T+L A-List travel advisor specializing in cruises, and he’s the founder of Q Cruise + Travel. 

Dawn Gabree is a travel advisor who specializes in Alaska cruises at Travels by Danielle.

Mary Curry is another T+L A-List advisor who specializes in small-ship cruises to Polar regions and the Galapagos. 

Now that we’ve covered the basics of all things Alaska cruising, keep reading to discover the best Alaska cruises for every type of traveler, featuring expert insight and award-winning picks.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruisees

Dawn Gabree, a travel advisor at Travels by Danielle who specializes in Alaska cruising, deems Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) "excellent for multigenerational families" thanks to the abundance of onboard activities. "Their larger vessels used in the Alaska market ( Encore and Bliss ) feature must-do activities like go-karting, laser tag, and water slides." On the contrary, "Their smaller vessels ( Jewel and Sun ) provide a more intimate atmosphere over the large ships." Regardless of which ship you choose, expect an array of entertainment options, including Broadway-caliber shows, which Gabree describes as "excellent." What's more, she says, "We saw their production of 'Six' on an Alaskan sailing, and it was phenomenal." The travel pro also loves the World's Best Award-winning mega-ship ocean line for its Freestyle Dining program (read: no assigned seating or fixed reservation times) and plentiful dining options to appease even the pickiest of eaters. Lastly, says Gabree, "A huge selling point for NCL is always their Free at Sea promotion, which includes perks like specialty dining, an unlimited open bar, Wi-Fi, and more. "It's a great value, in my honest opinion." 

Itinerary: The 7-day Alaska: Dawes Glacier, Juneau, and Ketchikan itinerary sails from Seattle on select dates between April and October. Ports of call include Sitka, Juneau, Ice Strait, and Ketchikan in Alaska, as well as Victoria in Canada. Scenic cruising through the Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier is also included.

Holland America Line

Tim Rue/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Holland America Line (HAL) — which recently snapped up a 2023 World’s Best Award in the large-ship ocean cruise line category — has been cruising Alaska for over 75 years. HAL prides itself on having more permits for Glacier Bay National Park visits than any other cruise line. The cruise line also offers beloved live music programming, which I got to experience firsthand on a summer 2023 Alaska sailing. Most ships boast a “Music Walk,” a section home to venues like B.B. King's Blues Club, Billboard Onboard (a dueling piano bar), Lincoln Center Stage, and Rolling Stone Rock Room. After our shore excursions, we’d hop back on board the ship for drinks, dinner, and a nightcap at the dueling piano bar to jam out to hits from Billy Joel and Elton John. All of the above make HAL a popular pick among middle-aged and mature couples traveling without kids; however, onboard our summer sailing, I did notice quite a few small children traveling with their parents and grandparents. 

The onboard culinary offerings are especially noteworthy. While pulling into port one day, I remember digging into a hearty lunch of fish and chips featuring fresh-caught Alaskan halibut. (HAL is the first cruise line to serve fresh, certified-sustainable Alaskan seafood.) As of September, acclaimed chef Masaharu Morimoto is the Fresh Fish Ambassador as part of the line’s Global Fresh Fish Program . Cruisers can try his flavorful seafood dishes during their sailing. 

Itinerary: As a first-time Alaska cruiser, I thoroughly enjoyed the Alaska Explorer itinerary , which cruises round-trip from Seattle between June and September. Enjoy scenic cruising along the Puget Sound and Stephen’s Passage before calling on Juneau, followed by more scenic cruising in Glacier Bay. From there, it’s off to Icy Strait Point, Sitka, Ketchikan, Skagway, and Victoria.

Related: The Ultimate Alaska Cruise Packing List

Royal Caribbean International

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean International — or Royal Caribbean for short — offers great fun for families of all ages looking to experience Alaska. As such, it’s no wonder why the mega-ship ocean line is loved by T+L readers and travel advisors alike. What’s more, says Gabree, “Their larger ships (Quantum Class) have equally impressive amenities like skydiving simulators (RipCord by iFLY), the FlowRider surf simulator, and SeaPlex (an indoor recreation center with bumper cars),” says Gabree. The pro is also quick to highlight the North Star observation capsule, which is available on Ovation of the Seas , which cruises Alaska. The attraction whisks passengers over 300 feet above sea level, offering picture-perfect 360-degree views. Put simply, she says, “This is a one-of-a-kind experience when sailing scenic destinations like Alaska.”

The fun continues the minute cruisers disembark in each port, with excursions ranging from dogsledding to private helicopter tours. Back on board, Gabree recommends The Chef’s Table for a truly memorable meal — and I, too, can attest to this. While on board a Caribbean sailing with the cruise line, I had the chance to indulge in this chef- and sommelier-led multi-course food and wine pairing adventure. Four years later, I still find myself dreaming of the delicious circular-shaped dessert known as “The World” — the perfect combo of peanut butter ganache, chocolate mousse, and salted caramel gelato).

Itinerary: Set sail on the aforementioned Ovation of the Seas and embark on a journey through Alaska with Royal Caribbean’s 7-night Alaska Experience itinerary . Cruising round-trip from Seattle, the ship stops in Juneau, Skagway, and Sitka before heading onto Canada, where it calls on Victoria and Vancouver.

Princess Cruises

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Princess Cruises is among T+L readers’ top five favorite mega-ship ocean lines , and its Alaska sailings are not to be missed. Unlike other mega-ship lines, says Gabree, Princess is not at all flashy. That said, she recommends it for “more mature cruisers or those looking for a quieter atmosphere.” So, while you won’t find go-karts or race tracks aboard Princess ships, you can expect incredible educational programming. Don’t miss Puppies on the Piazza, which offers passengers the chance to interact with sled dogs brought on board by local mushers in Skagway. The line also partners with the Glacier Bay National Park rangers and the Discovery Channel to offer unique onboard exhibits and interactive activities like the Jr. Ranger Program. Similarly, says Gabree, “The naturalists that come aboard are extremely knowledgeable.” Last but not least, the service is top-notch. According to the pro, the staff is best described as “attentive and very pleasant.” 

Itinerary: Book the 14-day Voyage of the Glaciers Grand Adventure , which sets sail on select dates between May and September. Passengers will cruise round-trip from Vancouver and visit Juneau, Skagway, Anchorage, and Ketchikan. Bonus: Scenic cruising through Glacier Bay National Park, College Fjord, and Hubbard Glacier is also built into the itinerary.

Related: All 16 Princess Cruises Ships, From Newest to Oldest

Seabourn Cruise Line

Courtesy of Seabourn

This World’s Best Award-winning cruise line combines the best of expedition-style and luxury cruising, making it a popular pick amongst well-heeled, adventure-seeking travelers. Highlights include bespoke service, all-suite oceanfront accommodations (most with private balconies), world-class dining (the cruise line has a partnership with Michelin-starred chef Thomas Keller), and, last but not least, a swanky country club-esque atmosphere. According to Goldring, both Seabourn Quest and Seabourn Odyssey offer similar Alaska itineraries in 2024; however, it will be the latter’s final sailing since it was sold. 

Alaska sailings feature a team of academics, scientists, and naturalists, all of whom are on hand to provide expert insight and lead excursions (think: kayaking and Zodiac tours, hiking, bear viewing, and so on). Also, according to Goldring, Seabourn ships “travel no further north than Juneau” and offer a “more intensive and nature-focused experience.” On a similar note, says Clabbers, thanks to the vessels’ small size, cruisers can “spend more time sailing through places like Misty Fjords, where most ships can’t go.” Back onboard, says Clabbers, “enjoy Champagne and caviar when you like, or relax in your suite, the spa, or elsewhere.” 

Itinerary: The 7-day Alaska Fjords and Canadian Inside Passage cruise sails from Juneau to Vancouver, calling on Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm, Wrangell, Rudyerd Bay (Misty Fjords), and, finally, Prince Rupert in British Columbia. Scenic cruising through Stephens Passage, Decision Passage, Stikine Strait, and the Behm Canal are also included in the itinerary.

Celebrity Cruises

jewhyte/Getty Images

Those who prefer a “younger atmosphere on a modern, larger ship with lots of bars and restaurants and entertainment” should consider cruising Alaska aboard the Celebrity Edge, explains Clabbers. (While Edge is the newest Celebrity ship to cruise Alaska, Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Summit also sail here . ) Per the pro, the seven-night sailings on Edge “include key destinations like Ketchikan and Skagway,” along with a quick visit to Victoria in British Columbia and scenic cruising through the beautiful Endicott Arm Fjord. Additionally, the World’s Best Award-winning line offers round-trip sailings from both Vancouver and Seattle — as well as one-way itineraries between Vancouver and Seward, the latter of which offer more time to explore (read: fewer sea days).

Regardless of the ship, passengers can expect a wide range of entertainment offerings, an abundance of bars, restaurants, and lounges, and a handful of accommodation options. Speaking of the latter, wellness-seeking duos can reserve an AquaClass stateroom, which includes perks like complimentary dining at the exclusive Blu restaurant, their very own spa concierge, and unlimited access to the adults-only Sea Thermal Suite. Alternatively, for a worth-it splurge, opt for a suite in The Retreat, which includes a dedicated team of concierges and butlers, access to a private lounge and/or sundeck (note that the latter is not available on Celebrity Solstice ), premium drinks, Wi-Fi, and access to the private Luminae at The Retreat restaurant, helmed by chef Daniel Boulud. 

Itinerary : The aforementioned 7-night Alaska Dawes Glacier itinerary on Celebrity Edge cruises round-trip from Seattle and visits Ketchikan, Endicott Arm Fjord (scenic cruising), Juneau, Skagway, the Inside Passage (scenic cruising), and Victoria.

Related: What to Know About All 16 Ships in the Celebrity Cruises Fleet

Viking Ocean Cruises

Courtesy of Viking Cruises

Viking Ocean Cruises recently nabbed a 2023 World’s Best Award in the midsize-ship ocean cruise lines category, coming in at first place for the second year in a row. The line’s identical ocean ships offer a sleek Scandinavian design, which only enhances the tranquil atmosphere on board. The luxury adults-only line is also all-inclusive, covering meals, activities, most beverages, Wi-Fi, port taxes and fees, spa access, and one complimentary excursion in every port of call. Cruisers can bask in the mountain and glacier views from the comfort of their private balcony — and, if they’re lucky, they may even spot a whale or two. Finally, in addition to classic ports like Juneau and Ketchikan, Viking Ocean Cruises’ Alaska itinerary also calls on Valdez, which is chock-full of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. 

Itinerary : The 10-night Alaska and the Inside Passage itinerary , which sails between Vancouver and Seward, “is a great choice for curious travelers who have a bit more time and want to learn more about Alaska,” says Clabbers.

Courtesy of Silversea

Those craving a luxury Alaska cruise need not look further than Silversea, says Goldring. Additionally, “While primarily for adults ranging from contemplative to active, Silversea is also a good option for families with more mature children who are more engaged with the journey than onboard child-focused activities.” Silversea guests enjoy all-suite staterooms with butler service and an all-around tony atmosphere. The line’s Door-to-Door All-Inclusive fares cover private airport transfers, economy flights, business-class upgrades or air credits, and shore excursions. 

This luxury cruise line offers classic and expedition-style cruising, the latter of which takes aboard the 274-passenger Silver Wind . (Classic cruises, on the other hand, take place on board Silver Muse , Silver Nova , Silver Shadow , Silver Whisper , or Silver Moon ). Nova and Moon offer the Sea and Land Taste program (S.A.L.T), offering culinary connoisseurs the incredible opportunity to experience the local food scene and culture both on and off the ship. Last but not least, keep in mind that Silversea sails between Vancouver and Seward (with the exception of one September 2024 itinerary, which sails from Nome to Vancouver).

Itinerary : The 7-day Vancouver to Seward sailing on board Silver Nova features Inside Passage scenic cruising and stops in Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and Sitka. Before disembarking in Seward, enjoy scenic cruising around Hubbard Glacier.

Related: This Is the Cheapest Time to Cruise to Alaska

UnCruise Adventures

Courtesy of UnCruise

“If you are looking for a more casual and laid-back experience, Seattle-based UnCruise Adventures offers down-to-earth trips with enthusiastic naturalist guides, simple accommodations, and hearty local cuisine,” says Palmer. Mary Curry , another T+L A-List travel advisor, echoes these sentiments, explaining that “small ships are the absolute best way to see Alaska if your goal is to immerse yourself in nature and wildlife.” While the cabins are no-frills, Curry stresses that the main focus of the cruise is “getting off the ship and exploring everything Alaska's Inside Passage has to offer.” With that said, when it comes to activities, options abound. Per the pro, travelers can “choose between a menu of included excursions such as kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking, zodiac cruises, whale watching, and more.” All in all, UnCruise really does offer something for everyone. 

Itinerary : For a truly unique Alaska itinerary, consider the Aleutian Islands Adventure with Kodiak, Katmai, and Kenai Wilderness . Cruisers embark in Whittier before making their way to Kenai Fjords National Park, Kodiak Island and Foul Bay, Katmai National Park, Ugashik National Wildlife Refuge, Aniakchak National Monument and Preserve, the Shumagin and Unga Islands, False Pass, and Unalaska (where they’ll dock overnight in Dutch Harbor before disembarking the next day).

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic

Courtesy of Nation Geographic

For a true expedition-style experience, Lindblad Expeditions is your best bet. The cruise line offers itineraries in partnership with National Geographic, which have come highly recommended by almost every travel advisor we spoke to. Just take it from Curry, who tells T+L, “If you want to learn about Alaska from a team of exceptional experts, there's no better choice than a Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic itinerary. “Every night before dinner,” she says, “We would hear about what we had seen on our excursions that day from the perspective of the experts — naturalists, geologists, marine mammal researchers, and even a diver who would share magical and colorful images from underwater of the area we had explored via Zodiac during the day.” According to the pro, the vessels are “some of the nicest and most modern small ships in the area,” some of which have private balconies along with “little extras” like water bottle filling stations, a mudroom to store gear, and multiple disembarkation platforms to get travelers on and off the ship quickly. Meanwhile, Goldring notes the line’s National Geographic Global Explorers family program, “which focus[es] on interactive and hands-on education with a true naturalist during outings.” As a result, cruisers can expect “a far more enriching experience [than those] offered by most other lines.” 

Itinerary : The weeklong Exploring Alaska’s Coastal Wilderness itinerary is “perfect for couples and multi-generational families interested in an engaging and authentic experience exploring the fjords, islands, and small coastal communities,” says Palmer. The itinerary sails between Juneau and Sitka throughout May and September. Along the way, cruisers will visit Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness, the tiny fishing town of Petersburg, Glacier Bay National Park, and more.

Related : 21 Cruise Tips That Will Help Make Your Trip Even Better, According to Experts

Best Alaskan Cruises for Families

Looking for an Alaska family cruise with a focus on active exploration and wildlife viewing? You’re in luck. Not only do we specialize in planning small ship Alaska family cruises and custom vacations, we are parents who’ve traveled to Alaska with our own kids. Below are tips and advice from our family to yours, along with our recommended best Alaskan cruises for families.    

ON THIS PAGE – Alaska Family Cruises : The 5 Best Alaska Cruises for Families What Is the Small Ship Experience Like? How Old Should Kids Be? Multigenerational Family Cruises When to Plan, Book & Other Considerations Alaska Family Cruise Deals Private Charters & Custom Trip Extensions Read Reviews from Families Like You View All Alaska Family Cruise Itineraries

5 Best Alaskan Cruises for Families  

So what is the best Alaska cruise for families? We have compiled these five favorite family friendly Alaska small ship cruises for their consistent top marks from families. But we know that each family is unique and thus travel is very personal, so review the trips below then contact our experts to be matched with the best Alaska family cruise for you.

1) Active Adventure for the Entire Family

Select “Kids in Nature” departures of the Wild & Woolly Alaska Cruise are designed specifically for families, with no minimum age limit. Enjoy kid-focused guides and activities on this exciting and educational cruise aboard 86-guest Wilderness Legacy . Every day offers a new opportunity for adventure with hiking, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and skiff rides. A variety of activity levels from easy to challenging appeal to all generations of travelers from kids to grandparents.

This cruise travels round-trip from Juneau over 8 days, featuring glaciers, fjord cliffs, deep valleys, whales, Tlingit culture and Alaska’s backcountry. Plus, children ages 8-17 save $500 per child on all departures except holidays. This is sure to become a bestseller among our best Alaskan cruises for families.

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2) Kids Can Live an Issue of National Geographic

Exploring Alaska’s Coastal Wilderness  aboard one of the 100-guest National Geographic sister ships— Quest or Venture —is one of the top expedition cruises in Alaska, and thus a natural fit for our list of best Alaskan cruises for families. Naturalists and expedition leaders from National Geographic are professional experts in their field offering an unparalleled educational and intellectual Alaska program. 

This comfortable 8-day cruise combines wilderness cruising with occasional off-vessel activities such as kayaking, skiff rides and shore walks. Families are welcome on any departure, all summer long, with kids programs always available. Special programming for kids on all departures includes photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and child-friendly menu options. Travelers under the age of 18 at the time of travel save $500, at double occupancy. 

3) A Compact & Action-Packed Alaska Family Cruise

The compact 6-day Wild Alaska Escape: Sitka & Juneau aboard 62-guest Nat Geo Sea Bird or Sea Lion will keep active kids (& adults) engaged. Hike temperate rainforest, and kayak and stand-up paddle among glaciers. This is perhaps the best Alaskan cruise for families with busy schedules, as the itinerary packs all the action into the span of one week. Plus, a bonus is that kids under the age of 18 at the time of their Alaska family cruise save $500, at double occupancy. 

4) Authentic Alaska with Kids

The  Glacier Bay & Island Adventure cruise offers an authentic Alaska experience through the lens of local Alaskans. The 8-day itinerary sailing aboard the 40-guest  Alaskan Dream  moves at a slower pace with more time to explore the nature and culture of Alaska. Highlights include visits to Sitka, Petersburg, Juneau and Kake with a special focus on Alaskan culture and Native American history. 

We recommend this cruise for all ages, but it is perhaps the best Alaska cruise for families with younger school-age children. Due to their interest in a mix of wilderness, Native culture, port visits and soft adventure activities, they will be able to interact with locals and be active. Children ages 15 and under receive 15% off the double occupancy rate. 

5) A Hands-On Alaska Family Cruise

The 6-day  Sea Wolf Glacier Bay Adventure  spends most of its itinerary in Glacier Bay National Park, maximizing time among famous glaciers and magnificent shoreline. Families explore Alaska’s outdoor classroom from the platform of the Alaskan-owned-and-operated, historic 12-guest M/V Sea Wolf . The small size of the ship plus her knowledgeable Alaskan crew create a flexible cruise that optimizes wildlife viewing and adventure opportunities. With the Sea Wolf donating time to local school groups every season, her crew of expert naturalists knows how to engage kids of all ages, helping spread the wonder and awe. This top naturalist program makes it a personal favorite of our company founder’s of all these best Alaskan cruises for families.

View All Alaska Family Cruises

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Alaska Family Cruises: What It’s Like

Imagine kayaking in front of a tidewater glacier or watching whales at water level from small skiff boat tours… If done right, an Alaska family cruise can be a transformative adventure where you share wondrous experiences. But in Alaska, there’s a big difference between big ship and small ship Alaska cruises for families.

Simply put, small ships offer the best Alaskan cruise for families. The primary purpose of a small Alaska family cruise is to experience authentic Alaska together. So instead of passing Alaska by from a big ship’s deck, your family will benefit from:

• more time exploring off the ship with professional expedition leaders
• a variety of activities included in the cruise fare, such as hiking, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding & skiff rides
• visiting remote Alaskan towns inaccessible to larger ships
• kid-friendly dining options
• onboard naturalist-led programs designed to entertain AND inform
• more up-close opportunities to view bears, whales & bald eagles

It’s an atmosphere of camaraderie, adventure and nature-focused fun versus the indoors-focused big ships. Read more about the differences in Big Ship vs. Small Ship . Aboard small ship Alaska cruises for families, screens and videos take a backseat to once-in-a-lifetime encounters and experiences, like whale watching and viewing the northern lights (aurora borealis) . If you are an adventurous family interested in spending quality time together experiencing Alaska up close, then we highly recommend an Alaska family small ship cruise. Don’t just visit Alaska, explore it.

How Old Should Kids be for an Alaska Family Small Ship Cruise? 

When considering an Alaska family small ship cruise, we suggest age 6 and older. Some ships will allow children as young as 2 years old or even babies. Most small Alaskan cruise lines do not provide babysitting services, video games or kids clubs that separate families. Instead, they provide off-vessel activities and onboard programs designed to bring families together. If your child chooses not to participate in an activity, then an adult will need to stay on board with them, so it is important to choose an Alaska family cruise that is suitable to your interests and ability levels and appropriate to the age level of your children. 

Multigenerational Alaska Family Cruises 

We are often asked if it is appropriate to cruise with three generations: kids, parents and grandparents. We emphatically answer yes! The best Alaska cruise for families is one where everyone can come along. Small Alaska cruise itineraries offer a lot of flexibility with activities suitable for travelers of all ages, mobility and ability levels. Imagine spending the morning on an easy walk together. The group splits up so avid hikers can enjoy a more challenging trail while others are picked up in the Zodiac for a wildlife excursion. In the afternoon, active kayakers paddle among icebergs while a Zodiac cruises nearby with grandparents taking photos of family members while they paddle. Choose as much or as little activity as your multigenerational family wishes.  

When to Plan & Book an Alaska Family Cruise 

The Alaska cruising season is short, beginning in March/April and ending in September/October. Most Alaska family cruises operate when kids are out of school in June, July and August. Because of a short season and a small number of dedicated small ship Alaska cruises for families scheduled each summer, we encourage families to plan and book early. For the best selection of itinerary, date, ship and cabin, we advise booking a Alaska family small ship cruise 9-12 months in advance. Not sure when to go? Consult our month-by-month guide for the best time to visit Alaska . 

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Getting to Your Alaska Family Cruise 

Alaska family small ship cruise itineraries embark in Juneau, Sitka, Gustavus, Petersburg, Ketchikan or Anchorage. Plan to arrive at least one day prior to your cruise embarkation. Arriving two days early will give you more time to relax, acclimatize and enjoy the port prior to the cruise. Many flights to Alaska are routed through Seattle and an overnight may be required for return flights to the East Coast. Our Alaska family cruise experts will help you plan flights and pre-cruise or post-cruise overnights. We offer Alaska family cruise packages that include it all, even time staying at wilderness lodges if you wish.

Best Family Cabins

Another planning tip for researching the best Alaskan cruise for families comes in your choice among the many ships and their cabins. Depending on the size of your family and the ages of everyone, you might want to look for Alaska cruises with family suites, triple cabin availability or even quad availability in select cases. Some ships offer interconnecting cabins. For a look at some of our favorite family cabins aboard cruise ships worldwide, see our Best Cruise Cabins for Families blog post. 

Alaska Family Cruise Deals

You can often find a bargain for the family in Alaska. While Alaska family small ship cruise prices may not look as initially low as you’ll find aboard the big ships, you’ll find that the additional inclusions (no high-added-cost shore excursions) and an authentic, intimate experience more than make up for any difference. Think more intimate encounters with nature and wildlife and less casinos, waterslides and midnight buffets. Learn more about small ship vs big ship cruises .  

To find Alaska family cruise deals and added value for kids, browse our Alaska small ship cruise deals . You can also look to the Families & Children section of each AdventureSmith trip itinerary’s Inclusions, Terms & Notes details for family deals that never expire. This section also explains if any special kid-friendly programming is offered aboard. Ultimately, contact us to speak with our crew who can personalize recommendations for you so that you can have the best kid friendly Alaskan cruise at the lowest price. 

View All Alaska Family Cruise Deals

See the full list of current Alaska cruise discounts

Private Small Ship Alaska Cruises for Families

Any of our small ships and yachts are available for charter (a private Alaskan family cruise just for your group). Blocking off the whole ship is a great option for family vacations, family reunions and multigenerational family groups. A private ship charter offers your family exclusivity, flexibility and savings, equating into truly the best Alaskan cruise for families. Smaller charter yachts in Alaska accommodate between 8 and 36 guests. For more information, read our comprehensive guide to Alaska yacht charters . These private Alaska family cruises will offer a more intimate experience and additional flexibility to craft the meals, itinerary and activities to suit your family’s interest and abilities. When considering charter, plan at least 9-12 months or more in advance. 

Customizing the Alaska with Kids Experience

Pair your cruise with an Alaska land tour for the ultimate Alaska family vacation package. Or extend your Alaska family small ship cruise with a private tour to Denali National Park, Katmai National Park or Kenai Fjords National Park. We offer a number of kid friendly Alaskan cruise and land tour combos with special youth and child rates.  

Alaska family land tours can add unique activities such as a wildlife safari in Denali National Park , riding the Alaska Railroad, canoeing, wild berry picking, fishing, mountain biking, river rafting, gold panning and flightseeing. The opportunities for adventure are endless. Our experts will work with you to plan the best Alaskan family cruise package for a seamless vacation.  

So, What is the Best Alaska Cruise for Families? 

The Wild & Woolly Alaska Cruise detailed above is among our bestsellers of small ship Alaska cruises for families due to its active, all-ages appeal. But ultimately, the best Alaskan cruise for families depends on each family’s personal needs & preferences. Read some testimonials from our past family travelers to see a range of styles and trips. And let AdventureSmith Explorations show you more about Alaska with kids and families. We are parents ourselves and are here to help you find the best kid friendly Alaskan cruise. We can match you with the perfect family cruise for your interests, abilities and budget.

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MORE ALASKA FOR KIDS RESOURCES: Alaska Small Ship Cruises Alaska Yacht Charters Luxury Alaska Cruises Alaska Cruise Guide Alaska Cruise Deals Small Ship Alaska Cruise Reviews Small Alaskan Cruise Lines Glacier Bay Cruises Alaska Inside Passage Cruises Alaska Whale Watching Cruises Alaska Trips Alaska Tours Visiting Denali National Park Alaska National Park Tours Best Time to Visit Alaska

View All Alaska Family Cruise Itineraries

Now that you’ve read about the many ways to plan your Alaska family cruise, start your trip search below. Our top five small ship Alaska cruises for families are detailed above, but your ideal Alaska family cruise may revolve around interests offered in another of our below options. Use the filters to narrow down your search, or contact us for a personalized recommendation on the best Alaskan cruise for families centered around your needs.

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Enjoy 2 days venturing farther than 99% of visitors into Glacier Bay National Park. Plus, Tracy Arm, Frederick Sound, Icy Strait and Chatham Strait. Choose between two 76- & 84-guest Wilderness expedition ships as your home base.

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What It's Like on an Alaska Cruise with Kids

The boat was perfect for our family - lots of opportunities to do things and learn a lot. We loved the feeling of isolation we got by being a small boat where others couldn't get to.

Everything was up to or beyond our expectations: the staff were consistently pleasant, accommodating, and helpful. From the moment when we were met at the airport, everything went smoothly; nothing was a hassle or even a minor irritant.

This trip is beyond words!...My 21 year old and my 18 year old had the time of their lives and didn't even care that they didn't have phone or wifi access the whole week...We have all thought about a large cruise ship - but no longer!

We loved the small ship experience, with onboard staff accommodating our group's differing ages and needs. We booked our trip through AdventureSmith after reading online evaluations. So glad we did.

We were very impressed with the level of knowledge of the crew across a wide range of topics which value added to our experience enormously. The professionalism and knowledge of the leaders was impressive and their enthusiasm genuine.

We had a TERRIFIC National Park guides. The number 1 experience was the Glacier Bay National Park, and number 2 was Denali National Park. Both segments of the trip were well organized and superb and very relaxing. Imagine being away from cell phones and Internet for days at a time... and not minding at all!!

The boat was perfect for our family - lots of opportunities to do things and learn a lot. Glacier Bay was spectacular and we loved having the ranger along. Tracy Arm was the next best day - we loved the feeling of isolation we got by being a small boat where others couldn't get to. We met really interesting people. I think a small boat attracts like minded people. They were also really welcoming and open to chatting with our kids. 

Accommodations Review

The boat was really comfortable and had everything we needed.

Meals Review

Every meal was great - if anything there was just too much food! Don't think we needed 4 course lunches when dinner was so delicious.

Crew & Guides Review

Loved having [guide] Mark along on the trip - he was so knowledgeable and really inspired the kids on all the walks we went on with him.

Featured in this Traveler Review

• Glacier Bay & Island Adventure

We found every place interesting. The kayaking, RTVs, and Zego water vehicles were an exciting bonus. Our teenage grandchildren loved them and we all appreciated how effortlessly they were included in riding and operating them. Everything was up to or beyond our expectations: the staff were consistently pleasant, accommodating, and helpful. The baker invited my granddaughter to bake cookies; the captain let her steer the boat; Emily, our tour leader, went out to purchase cold supplies when our grandchildren developed coughs and sneezes; our waitress, Ginny, cheerfully served us in staggered stages when our grandchildren came to meals late; and Amy did our rooms out of her regular schedule when the grandchildren were in bed when she arrived. Emily even ran a movie for my 14 yr old granddaughter and the 17 yr old passenger she made friends with. The supplies were generous and first-rate - ample Celestron binoculars, high-quality boots, rain coats, pants, and gloves. More than we expected.

The food was excellent - with abundant choices that were fresh and tasty without being excessive.

As I said above, all the staff were excellent, including Dan the manager and Ka-Houk who was unfailingly though not cloyingly cheerful. Not to mention the bartender and the engineer, all of whom did whatever they could do make our trip pleasant - never limiting themselves to their defined duties.

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

From the moment when we were met at the airport, everything went smoothly; nothing was a hassle or even a minor irritant.

This trip is beyond words! Our experience was amazing! My 21 year old and my 18 year old had the time of their lives and didn't even care that they didn't have phone or wifi access the whole week. Everyone on the ship was so nice and helpful - we made new friends and will remember this trip for years to come! Met a lot of new friends! Everyone was so friendly - no drama. My kids met new kids their age. Best trip!! We have all thought about a large cruise ship - but no longer! My mother and I will for sure do another one and my kids have talked about in the future going on another UnCruise trip with their significant others. No large ship cruises for us!! What a wonderful experience!!

The beds were surprisingly comfortable!! Loved having the window cracked and having the fresh air at night. Very clean cabins and we were really only in our rooms at night to sleep :)

Again - beyond excellent!! Sarah (with an "h") was the BEST!! She was so friendly and fun! My kids and I really enjoyed her. She did a great job planning the activities and offered a good variety of options. She was also so enthusiastic about everything and she was really easy to approach and talk to. She was a blast when she was our guide. She and Julie were quite the combo!!!

Julie - she was my daughters favorite!! She was a great guide and so much fun!! She always made sure Syd was at the front of the boat to get the best pictures!! She knows her stuff and when asked questions - she had an answer for everything!

Ted - I went kayaking with him the first day. He was awesome!! Very helpful and knowledgeable too. He was fun and very easy to approach and ask questions. He did a presentation on loons - and taught us how to call birds. We are still trying to master that! My daughter is the best one out of all of us. 

Gray - he was my son's favorite. I had him for the fish hatchery. When I saw the bear - he came right to the front and "read" the bear and allowed us to take pictures and have that experience. Very respectful to the wildlife - I wanted to just stay there and watch the bear and baby - but he had us continue on after a few minutes to leave the bear be. 

Andy and Adelia - they drove the skiffs for us a few times. Very nice and fun! We saw orcas with Andy and she got us safely (very fast) lol - to the orcas in time to see carnage with the sea lions. That was a great experience (sad) but awesome. 

Dakota - he was our waiter. HE WAS THE BEST!! After one day - he  knew our drinks for every meal. He had drinks in place in the morning and then different drinks for lunch and dinner.  We and our tablemates adored him. He was a highlight of our day. He asked us about our adventures at night - that was appreciated. 

Matt the bartender ......  what a guy!! Any drink we wanted he would make.. My son is 21 - not a drinker but wanted to try some things. Matt was up for it. Now that I am home and I am not sure I can have a margarita - Matt made the best margaritas!!! He made drinks of the day - and was more than happy to tell how he made it. At the end of the trip he wanted to make me a new margarita. He made a jalepeno, orange cinnamon one. It took a while to make it and it was well worth the wait. I am sure I am missing someone - but EVERYONE was great!!!

Transportation Review

It was a smooth transition on and off the boat and with our luggage. No complaints!

Itinerary Review

I think every place we went had it's own unique experience. My son LOVED the bush whacking tours!!!! He loved seeing things that even people on the ship (me) didn't see. They found blueberries every time and stopped and ate them. He raved about how good they were. He also was able to eat salmon berries which he loved also. He would have done that every day for both excursions! My daughter loved the skiff rides because she wants to be a photographer and what a great place to get good pictures!! She was in heaven and 14,000 picture or more later - she found her happy place. 

I liked everything I did - going to the fish hatchery I think was my favorite though because that is where we saw a mamma grizzly and her baby!! They were right there and didn't seem to mind us a bit! I think my mom enjoyed the skiff rides and the one day it was open kayak - my son took her out on one for about an hour and she loved that. She has never done that before so she enjoyed that. My kids also loved the polar plunge. What a way to end the trip - and they can say they jumped in glacial waters!!! Everything was so beautiful and wonderful!

There was nothing we didn't enjoy - and I am saying that honestly! I think the only thing is one morning we anchored in a really rocky (back and forth) spot and my mom got sea sick and missed out on the days activities. After the morning excursions - they did move the boat to a calmer area - and Matt the bartender made my mom a drink that settled her stomach so she was able to join us for dinner and the evening activities.

Beyond excellent!! I packed snacks for the kids for in between meals - mistake!! I brought them all back home. There was way more than enough food! The food was excellent! The choices were great with a great variety. My son is soooo picky and he tried new foods and found out that he actually liked them. Breakfast was always exciting because we got to hear what we were having for lunch and dinner! No one can say they went hungry or didn't have anything they wanted. If we didn't like any of the options - they offered other items also - but we all tried something that was offered. I found out my self that I like scallops and my son decided he liked crab with the all you can eat crab night! Amazing!! The desserts were to die for also!!

Very good!! The packing list was spot on - our fault we didn't listen to all if it - most of it - but a few things we didn't think we would need - but we did need. That was our own fault!!

Traveler Advice

Listen to the packing instructions :) A strap for your phone and a camera and a sense of adventure!!!

• Wild & Woolly Alaska Cruise
• Wilderness Legacy
• UnCruise Adventures

We booked our trip through AdventureSmith after reading online evaluations. So glad we did. This was our first cruise and we wondered about booking directly through an operator versus involving an additional layer with AdventureSmith. We would do it again, as we found AdventureSmith to be definitely value added in every way. Our Adventure Specialist was endlessly helpful and patient, booking the cruise for 8 people ages 6 to 73, coming from 3 different locations, and required vegetarian and gluten free menus for several. 

We loved the small ship experience, with onboard staff accommodating our group's differing ages and needs. Glaciers, Zodiacs among sea lions and eagles, whale viewing, pilot whales and great naturalists all were special.

Our fellow passengers were personable and well matched. I think the nature of the trip, with Nat Geo, attracts passengers with similar interests very well, so the group was simpatico. There were also several other children in the mix which was good for the kids in our group.

The Sea Bird is a small ship, so naturally accommodations were small, but we enjoyed the limited number of passengers and ability to know crew and staff.

Good variety and accommodation for special food needs of the vegetarians, small child and gluten free passengers in our group. 

Rab, the group leader, was engaging, knowledgeable and always enthusiastic. He also was excellent at addressing individual requests. We enjoyed Kyle, the bartender, who was always welcoming and especially attentive to the 6 and 8-year-olds on our trip. The naturalists Andy and Jared were outstanding both in their expertise and their willingness to socialize with guests and answer all questions.

Our Adventure Specialist was exceptionally helpful during our rather more complicated preparations involving travelers from 3 locations and various ages and special needs. She was always available for any questions. She also successfully managed to have a lost item returned to us after the cruise. Any travel issues prior to departure were addressed by AdventureSmith expeditiously and knowledgeably. An A plus experience. 

No kidding, you really do need the rubber boots! It is a temperate rain forest environment, so just bring the wet gear and know that rain or shine it will be a fabulous destination.

• Exploring Alaska's Coastal Wilderness
• National Geographic Sea Bird

This was our first cruise of any kind so we were unsure of what to expect. We were very impressed with the level of knowledge of the crew across a wide range of topics which value added to our experience enormously.

We loved that the small numbers on board allowed for a family feel and that there was a genuine interest in us as people as well as guests. Our kids loved all the documentaries- as did we except I was too busy to watch them...needed another week on board I think! We made some lovely new friends.  We were a little surprised that there was only one other family with children as we expected the demographic to be a little younger but there were definitely some energetic older passengers!

Most Enjoyed: Definitely the Polar Bear Challenge on the last day! We enjoyed every outing and even the ones that I thought maybe less interesting always turned out to have something unexpected to see/ do. The food was absolutely a highlight- just as well there was plenty of exercise to counter the caloric intake! The visit to Klawock was a little underwhelming but I think it should be continued as it has great potential as it develops.

We love trips to unusual places where nature predominates rather than big cities and we were not at all convinced that a big cruise liner would suit us. We definitely made the right choice as the activity level was perfect.

Nothing could be improved! We were very impressed with the quality of the produce on offer especially given that fresh markets were not part of the plan. The desserts even got my (not sweet- toothed) husband tasting a sample each evening.

As commented above, the professionalism and knowledge of the leaders was impressive and their enthusiasm genuine.

Great communications and detailed information was provided in an excellent time frame leading up to the trip.

• Alaska Fjords & Glaciers
• Wilderness Adventurer

The number 1 experience was the Glacier Bay National Park section of our "un-cruise" on the Wilderness Explorer because of the variety of activities: hiking, kayaking, wildlife spotting - just one thing after another. We had a TERRIFIC National Park guides. Number 2 best experience was Denali National Park. The highlight was the presentation at the Kantishna Roadhouse on dog sledding and the Iditarod by Emmett, whose Dad has won the Iditarod four times. It was informative and entertaining, and then he took us out back to meet the sled dogs in training - all rescue animals! The least enjoyable part was the LONG bus ride - over six hours into and out of Denali. But the stay at Kantishna Roadhouse and the wildlife spotting made it worth the trip. Both segments of the trip were well organized and superb and very relaxing. Imagine being away from cell phones and Internet for days at a time..and not minding at all!! And we were also blessed with remarkably good weather for August.

The cabins at Kantishna were quite comfortable. The cabin on the Wilderness Explorer was fine, good shower pressure and lots of storage space (!) in our Trailblazer cabin.

All meals, at both Kantishna Roadhouse in Denali and onboard the ship were EXCELLENT. I particularly liked the fact that each night on the ship we were offered a choice of meat, fish, or vegetarian.

At Kantishna, we had no principal trip leader. Took two easy hikes. Particularly enjoyed the second one with Darryl along an old mining road. On board the Wilderness Explorer, the chief activity honcho was well organized but a seemed a bit distant at times. Very adequately supported by an excellent team: Jeremy, Julie, Hannah, Jen, Debi...sorry if I have left anyone out! They were all great!

Chris managed my Denali extension and also the Wilderness Explorer booking. He was immediately responsive to my questions and gave full and helpful answers. Wedded the two trips together seamlessly. We especially appreciated the Goldbelt Hotel in Juneau - very centrally located and nice rooms.

Take along your sense of adventure and be willing to leave the world at home behind...then you can really enjoy it!

• Inside Passage with Olympic National Park & 2 Days in Glacier Bay
• Denali Backcountry Explorer
• Kantishna Roadhouse

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

Alaska Family Cruise Guides

Eager to learn more about cruising Alaska with kids? The articles below will help you learn more about Alaska family cruises with AdventureSmith Explorations. Read an interview with a 13- and 9-year-old about their top highlights from their Alaskan family cruise. What is the best Alaska cruise for families? Our team is your ultimate resource to find out, and plan a fun, seamless family vacation to Alaska. We’ve traveled in the region with our own kids, so have the experience to match you with the best family cruise to Alaska for your interests and budget. Let the fun begin with our insight and expertise on booking and planning Alaska cruise family packages.

Bringing kids into the rugged and expansive wilderness of Alaska could just be the best thing for them, inspring curiosity, natural learning and a sense of freedom. Our founder brought his two boys on his last Alaskan land trip; learn about their adventure into the wild...

From classic grizzly bears and glaciers to float planes and totem poles, this Alaska bucket list of must see and dos is designed to be do-able by the average traveler. No extreme fitness or special access required, just a ticket to Alaska and a readiness for adventure.

When is the best time to visit Alaska? Consult this month-by-month guide for help planning your Alaska travel with tips on everything from weather, wildlife, daylight and the benefits of each month.

Contact Us - Best Alaskan Cruises for Families

Travel is best planned one-on-one, and we’re here to help you with your specific needs.

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15 Best Alaska Cruises for Families

Catherine Parker

Exotic wildlife, like bears, bald eagles, whales and otters are just some of the appeals of an Alaskan cruise. Seeing. Exploring glaciers and the scenic beauty of the 49th state are other big draws. On an Alaska cruise, you can see a good chunk of this vast state, learn about the Tlingit people and eat fresh seafood. Whether your family includes toddlers or teens, grandparents or young adult children, you can find the best Alaska cruise for your family.

Best Alaska Cruise for You

A majority of cruise lines offer Alaskan cruises, from  May through September.

Most cruise lines offer similar itineraries, like popular one-way formats with departures from either Vancouver, British Columbia or Seward, Alaska (near Anchorage). And lots of cruise lines offer pre-cruise or post-cruise tours or trips. Whatever your budget (and by budget we mean expensive to stratospheric) or style, you can find the perfect cruise for you and your loved ones.

Explore the rugged wilderness of the national parks in Canada and the U.S, take a scenic train ride or add on bucket list excursions like dogsledding, flightseeing and helicopter glacier tours.

The typical ports of call include cruising the Inside Passage, Ketchikan, Sitka, Skagway, Juneau, and cruising the Hubbard Glacier. Additional ports of call include Icy Strait Point and Tracy Arm Fjord or the Endicott Arm.

And for first-time cruisers, the waters of the Inside Passage are relatively calm. Of course, it’s always smart to pack remedies for seasickness for your cruise.

Read More: Planning A Family Cruise

Small Ship Luxury Cruises

With less than 1,000 passengers per ship, small ships offer more space and staff per cruise passenger. The cruise ship interiors feel more luxurious and include more options for dining and lounging.  

Many small ships feature all-inclusive options like signature dining at fine dining restaurants with wine included. Then you’ll find your favorite vintages and liquors in the lounges abroad as well as wine and beer in your suite.

With a smaller ship, you gain access to small ports. So itineraries will include ports of call like Wrangell, Prince Rupert, and College Fjord. And some ports of call might require tendering – using a smaller boat from your ship to get to the actual port.  

Regent Seven Seas

With departures from Vancouver and Seward, Regent Seven Seas offers a 7-night one-way cruise for the Alaskan summer season. Regent offers a truly all-inclusive cruise, so you’ll get free coach round trip airfare, airport transfers, unlimited excursions (and you can schedule more than one a day), signature dining, unlimited beverages including wine and premium spirits and WiFi along with gratuities.  

The Youth Program for kids is staffed with counselors who meet for a few hours a day on port days and twice on sea days. Kids play sports and board games, watch movies, decorate cupcakes and even have dinner together during the cruise.  

After taking my three kids, 15, 14 and 11, to Alaska, I was amazed at how a luxury brand can be family-friendly, especially for older kids. I liked the fact I could let them explore on their own on a small ship. And the outdoor excursions offer enough action for young cruisers.  

The Regent Seven Seas sails the Explorer for northbound and southbound Alaskan cruises with stops at Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Icy Strait Point or Sitka, and Hubbard Glacier. Find five dining venues, lounges, a coffee shop, an outdoor pool, and a spa along with a theater, nightclub, and casino onboard. And the majority of suites offer balconies.

Oceania Cruises

For fans of Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Oceania is also owned by the same parent company—NCL, or Norwegian Cruise Lines. And the overall feel of the ships is similar, with a high level of service and gourmet dining at sea.  

The difference is Oceania Cruises is an a la carte cruise. So you’ll have to arrange or pay for round-trip airfare, shore excursions and purchase an alcohol package. (You will get unlimited non-alcoholic beverages, ground transfers, and free WiFi.)  

For families, Oceania offers an Alaska Explorer Youth Program for kids 5 to 12. Where Regents’ Youth Program is a generic kids program, Oceania’s Alaska program offers specialized programming about Alaska. This program is lead by counselors though it lacks a dedicated kids club and it meets in an unused room onboard instead.

Oceania Cruises sails the Regatta for most Alaskan cruises. This ship offers inside staterooms, ocean-view staterooms, and staterooms with balconies along with suites. Find a selection of itineraries including a 13-night round trip cruise out of Seattle or 7-night one-way cruises from departing from Vancouver or Seward.  

The Regatta features four dining venues, five lounges, a coffee shop, an outdoor pool and a spa along with casino and nightclub.  

Seabourn Cruise Line

With departures from Vancouver or Juneau, Seabourn Cruise Line offers 7-night one-way cruises with different ports of calls in each direction. So you can sail two back-to-back cruises for an extended Alaskan round-trip experience.  

Seabourn also offers other itineraries besides the popular 7-night Alaskan cruise, like 12-night cruises. With an extensive list of ports of call, you can stop at Inian Islands, Haines, Alert Bay, and Rudyerd Bay. And Seabourn is one of the few concessionaires authorized to sail into Glacier Bay National Park.  

Seabourn Cruise Line is also an a la carte cruise, so airfare has to be arranged and excursions are not included. But there is complimentary caviar and premium spirits and fine wines are included in the price. And Wi-Fi is included.

For families, the Alaskan cruises offer similar kids club options as Regent and Oceania. Seabourn Cruises also lack a dedicated Kids club space so counselors meet in an unused room with kids’ activities. Be sure to check-in with your travel agent or cruise representative to see if the kids’ activities are available for your sailing.

Seabourn Cruise Line sails the Odyssey   an all-suite cruise (though not all suites have balconies). You’ll find four restaurants, three lounges, outdoor pools and spa along with a theater and casino.

Silversea Cruises

With departures from Vancouver and Seward, Silversea Cruises offers 7-night, one-way cruises on a luxurious small ship. This all-inclusive ship with complimentary premium wines and spirits also offers signature dining and butler service in every suite. Complimentary airfare and ground transfers are available as well.

Silversea Cruises sails the Silver Nova and Silver Muse   all-suite small ships. Each suite offers a balcony. This ships cater to adults and doesn’t offer a kids club or special activities for the younger set. The Nova has 10 dining venues, numerous lounges, an outdoor pool, art cafe, a spa and a casino. The Muse has eight places to eat, along with the other amenities.

Viking Ocean Cruises

With departures from Vancouver and Seward, Viking Ocean Cruises offers 10-night, one-way cruises. Viking Ocean Cruises are all-inclusive, with complimentary excursions. While Regents Seven Seas offers several (complimentary excursions) for each port-of-call, Viking only offers one per port-of-call.  

In addition, Viking Ocean Cruises offers many pre- and post-cruise options, like the Rocky Mountaineer scenic train, Banff National Park, Denali National Park, Fairbanks, and Anchorage. This is a luxury all-veranda ship with a selection of staterooms.  

Viking Ocean Cruises sails the Orion to Alaska. This ship caters to adults (no one under 18 allowed) with several dining venues onboard, along with lounges and bars. With the design clues from Scandinavia, it’s less opulent than other luxury cruises. But you will find a planetarium, thermal suite in the spa with a snow grotto boasting falling snow, and a pool with a retractable roof along with an infinity pool.  

Larger Cruise Ships

With cruise ships that carry 2,000+ passengers find lots of amenities, like water slides and dedicated kids and teen clubs. However, finding a quiet corner to read might be harder.  

And most larger ships are a la carte cruises so airfare, airport transfers, specialty restaurants, beverage packages, including soft drinks and bottled water and excursions are not included. Though shows, kids club, meals at the main restaurants and in-room dining are typically included.  

Disney Cruise Lines— Disney Wonder

If kids were in charge of the cruise planning, they’d choose a Disney Cruise. And Disney Cruise Line caters to families, especially Disney-loving families.

Find interior staterooms, ocean-view staterooms, staterooms with balconies along with concierge suites. The 7-night round-trip cruises depart from Vancouver. Ports of call include Dawes Glacier, Skagway, and Ketchikan.

Disney Cruise Line sails the Wonder to Alaska. Onboard, you’ll find Disney characters, Disney stage shows, kids clubs, tweens club and teens club. Three pool areas, including a splash area for babies and toddlers, a double-looping water slide and an adults-only area, help keep everybody cool. Hungry? There are three main dining areas, and three casual dining areas along with character meals.

Port excursions and extras are not included, like adult-exclusive dining at Palo, bottled water, alcohol, and specialty drinks and gratuities.  

Easy-to-use website, especially for those who’ve planned a Disney Parks vacation before. Find the best price for this cruise  here . 

Read More: Disney Wonder Review: A Most Wonderful Adventure at Sea

Celebrity Cruises— Celebrity Solstice

With three separate ships dedicated to Alaskan cruises, Celebrity Cruises offers more options for cruisers. Find 7-night or 8-night cruises in one-way and round-trip itineraries. And choose from Seattle, Seward or Vancouver departures.  

Celebrity Cruises uses the Solstice , Summit and the Edge . There are plenty of kid and teen activities on board. Stateroom options include inside stateroom, ocean view stateroom, veranda stateroom, and suites. Celebrity Cruises is an a la carte cruise line, so be prepared to pay for a beverage package including soda and barista coffee, photo package, and WiFi along with excursions.  

Most itineraries include Vancouver, Inside Passage, Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, Skagway, Juneau and a glacier viewing.  

The overall feel is a bit more upscale than other large cruise ships. Celebrity Cruises is owned by the parent company, Royal Caribbean International. Find the best price for this cruise here .

Royal Caribbean International

With departures from Vancouver, Seattle, and Seward, Royal Caribbean offers 7-night, one-way cruises, along with round-trip cruises. There’s also an option of adding a selection of post-cruise excursions to Denali, Fairbanks, and Anchorage.  

Royal Caribbean is one of the few concessionaires authorized to sail into Glacier Bay National Park. Look for special itineraries with Glacier Bay National Park. And park rangers will hop on board for the day and lead interpretive programs.

Royal Caribbean sails the Radiance of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas,  and the Brilliance  of the Seas . Find interior staterooms, ocean view staterooms, staterooms with balconies along with suites . There are multiple dining venues plus room service, bars and lounges, a spa, fitness center, and specialty classes.  

A kids club with age-appropriate activities from 6-month-old babies to 12-year-olds is available. Ships have multiple pools and options like that may include a sky diving simulator, bumper cars, mini golf, and a rock climbing wall.

Most itineraries include Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, Juneau, Skagway, Hubbard Glacier, and Seward. You’ll also have lots of options to visit ports like Victoria, B.C.. Find the best price for this cruise here .

Holland America Line

With Holland America, you get lots of options. It sails from Seattle, Seward, Whittier (near Anchorage) and Vancouver. And Holland America offers 7-night one-way cruises as well as round-trip cruises. Options allow you to add post-cruise excursions to Denali, Fairbanks, and the Yukon.  

Holland America Line is one of the few concessionaires authorized to sail into Glacier Bay National Park. So look for special itineraries that include Glacier Bay.  

Holland America offers several similar ships cruising to Alaska, like the Eurodam ,  Nieuw Amsterdam , Noordam , Westerdam and Zaandam . All ships include inside staterooms, ocean view staterooms, staterooms with balconies along with suites .  

Each ship offers similar amenities like the main dining room, casual dining room, and specialty restaurants. Entertainment options include two lounges along with Billboard Onboard, World Stage Performances, movies and a casino. Finally, each ship features two pools, spa, fitness center, pickleball, and a kids club.

Most itineraries include Ketchikan, Juneau, Glacier Bay National Park, and Skagway. Some itineraries include Victoria, Icy Strait Point, and Sitka. Find the best price for this cruise here.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian offers cruises departing from Seattle, including a 7-night round trip cruise and an 11-night round trip. It also sails 7-night one-way cruises departing from Seward and Vancouver. And you can add on a   post-cruise excursion to Denali, Fairbanks, and Anchorage.  

Norwegian Cruise Line is authorized to sail into Glacier Bay National Park. So look for special itineraries that include Glacier Bay.

For its Alaskan cruises,  Norwegian has seven different ships. All have specialty restaurants and great evening entertainment. Other amenities include a racetrack, dual water slides, laser tag, free kids club and a teen space. . Find the best price for this cruise  here .

Most itineraries include Ketchikan, Juneau, Icy Strait Point, and Victoria. Some itineraries include Sitka and Skagway.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises, owned by Carnival Corporation, offers departures from Seattle and Vancouver for its 7-night round trip cruises, 10-night round trip cruises from San Francisco and 14-night round trip cruises from Los Angeles. There’s also the popular 7-day one-way cruises from Whittier, near Anchorage. Princess Cruises offers a post-cruise excursion to Denali, Fairbanks, and Anchorage.

Since the National Park Service limits the ships in Glacier Bay, Princess Cruises is also authorized to sail into Glacier Bay National Park. So look for special itineraries that include Glacier Bay. 

For its Alaskan cruises, Princess uses a fleet of ships. Find the Coral Princess with about 2,000 passengers and the Golden Princess and the Grand Princess with 2,600 passengers. Then find the Ruby Princess and Emerald Princess with about 3,000 passengers.  

Enjoy a host of dining options international cafe, chocolate journeys, and afternoon tea. Also, find your favorite regional culinary delights in a host of specialty restaurants. A spa, fitness center, casino, nightly entertainment, movies under the stars along and pools and spas will fill your days. Each ship also includes a kids club.  

The Regal Princess and the Royal Princess each carry 3,500 passengers. Both have the same features as the rest of the Alaska ships. Experience the Skywalk, an over-the-ocean glass walkway to see the ocean below. If you dare!  

Princess cruise ships feature inside staterooms, ocean-view staterooms, and staterooms with balconies along with suites .

Most itineraries include Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway along with a glacier viewing. Find the best price for this cruise here .

Carnival Cruise Lines

With the red, white and blue whales’ tail funnels, Carnival offers a bargain at sea. Choose from a 10-night cruise departing from San Francisco along with 7-night and 9-night cruises departing from Seattle.  

For its Alaskan cruises, Carnival sails the  Spirit ,   Legend , Luminosa and Miracle with capacities between 2,000 and 3,000 passengers. Find similar amenities on both, like lots of dining options from burgers to Asian to pizza. For dining, there are specialty restaurants like a steakhouse and sushi. You’ll also enjoy a nightclub, karoake an adults-only retreat and kids, tween and teens clubs. Some ships have pickleball, mini golf, water slides and a spa.

The Carnival cruise ships feature inside staterooms, ocean view staterooms, and staterooms with balconies along with suites .

Most itineraries include Juneau, Skagway, Sitka and Tracy Arm Fjord along with Victoria, B.C. Find the best price for this cruise  here .

Specialty Cruises to Alaska

Looking for a different cruise experience? Then a specialty cruise might be for you.  

Cunard Line

The famed Cunard Line sails to Alaska with a bit of British style so expect a more refined experience. With the majority of cruises originating out of Vancouver, find a 10-night to a 19-night Alaskan Cruise. Though cruisers can depart from Victoria, BC as well as San Francisco.  

Cunard is authorized to sail into Glacier Bay National Park. So look for special itineraries that include Glacier Bay.

For Cunard’s Alaskan cruises, it sails the Queen Elizabeth with about 2,000 passengers. It offers three restaurants along with specialty restaurants like Mexican and Asian. Also, Alaskan cruises include a formal night, which is not the norm for Alaska. And don’t forget to indulge in afternoon tea. The Queen Elizabeth offers a pool, spa along with lectures and nightly entertainment. Cunard is owned by Carnival Corporation.  

The Queen Elizabeth features inside staterooms, ocean view staterooms, staterooms with balconies along with suites .

Most itineraries include Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier, Prince Rupert, and Victoria. Though longer cruises include Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan, Astoria in Oregon, Anchorage, Kodiak, and San Francisco.  

UnCruise Adventures

Adventure calls so pack the rubber boots and be prepared to Yak-n-Whack (or kayaking and bushwhacking). Uncruise small ships sail into ports that others can’t. And families with kids 8 and older are welcome. Since the itineraries require hiking and paddling, younger kids are discouraged.  

With a fleet of ships from the 22-passenger Safari Quest to the 84-passenger Safari Endeavour, to the 86-passenger Wilderness Legacy each ship is ready for an adventure with kayaks, paddleboards, and skiffs. Most ships include at least one hot tub but no pool. And UnCruise celebrates Alaska with a Polar Plunge .  

Dining onboard is chef-created with fresh and local ingredients. So for Alaska, find a lot of seafood. The staterooms are basic and don’t feature balconies though have ocean views. And a few ships offer suites.  

UnCruise offers lots of itineraries in 7-day or 14-day formats. The main ports-of-call include Sitka, Juneau, and Glacier Bay National Park. It’s also an authorized concessionaire into Glacier Bay National Park. So look for special itineraries that include Glacier Bay. similar ports-of-call. Or the 15-night Vancouver to Fairbanks cruise that includes a land tour of Talkeetna and Denali.  

Popular Ports of Call on an Alaskan Cruise

For kids, the top ports-of-calls are Skagway for the train (additional) and Ketchikan. Each offers an Alaskan gold rush feel. And both offer free activities for kids at the National Park Service sites. Juneau’s Mendenhall Glacier is another must-see although to see the glacier requires a bus ride from the city center (additional).

As a frequent point of embarking and disembarking, Seward offers a scenic location to explore before or after your cruise. Located in the shadow of Mount Marathon and on Resurrection Bay, get a dose of the rugged Alaskan landscape.  

The historic downtown offers a gateway into Alaska’s past. And Seward is a gateway to the Kenai Fjords National Park. Stop at the visitor center in the center of town or arrange a visit to Exit Glacier.

Hubbard Glacier

As the largest tidewater glacier in North America, it boasts a 400-foot face, it’s 76 miles long and 1,200 feet deep. As your cruise ship sails Disenchantment Bay, use binoculars to view the marine life and birds.  

As the capital of Alaska, Juneau is a small city (but with lots of free things to do). A trip to Mendenhall Glacier is worth the effort. Since it’s not on the water, it’s a mountain glacier. It’s a National Forest site  with programming and hiking. 

Most first-time cruisers don’t know about Sitka’s Russian heritage. So stop by the Sitka National Historical Park visitor center to watch a short interpretive film or walk among their collection of totems. Or visit the separate building, Russian Bishop’s House.

This restored mining town is home to the White Pass and Yukon Route Rail Road. The narrow gauge scenic train trip is a stand-out for cruisers, not just families. As a bonus, the train depot is a short walk from the cruise ship port.  

The Gold Rush swaggered into Alaska and Canada’s Yukon Territory during the 19 th century. Then a tiny town busted with lawlessness as it turned into a boomtown. Head to the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. Watch the interpretive film to learn about the gold rush and how would-be miners climbed the treacherous White Pass Trail to get to the goldfields.

Icy Strait Point

Learn about the rich heritage of native Alaskan culture at a tribal dance. Or visit nearby Hoonah, the largest Tlingit village. And Icy Strait Point boasts the ZipRider, the longest zip line in the world.  

Ketchikan offers the official visitor center for the Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the U.S. It runs along the Alaskan panhandle and includes two ice fields, Stikine and Juneau. So visit Tongass National Forest’s Southeast Alaska Discovery Center on Ketchikan’s Main Street.  

Or arrange a flightseeing tour to witness the majesty of the Misty Fjords National Monument. As you walk the streets of Ketchikan, learn about the symbolism used on the totems like the plants and animals of the temperate rainforest. Or better, arrange for a hike in the rainforest to see its animals, like the black bear.  

And Ketchikan is the canned salmon capital of the world.

Read More: Prefer a land adventure? Here’s what a small adventure tour in Alaska is like!

Cruising the Inside Passage

All Alaskan cruise itineraries include at least one sea day. Spend the day on a deck using binoculars to catch glimpses of lighthouses, bald eagles or fishing boats at work.  

Sailing in the Inside Passage is unique since glaciation made deep channels between the mountains. The deep waters allow for deep-draft vessels to sail close to the mountains.  

And a bonus for first-time cruisers, the waters of the Inside Passage are relatively calm compared to open ocean cruising.  

Victoria Island, British Columbia

Stroll the charming streets with English-inspired architecture. Or enjoy an afternoon tea at the celebrated Empress Hotel.  Or trek out to Butchart Gardens if you have the time. 

Vancouver, British Columbia

As a large port for western Canada, it offers cultural influences from around the Pacific Ocean. So sample the rich and diverse food scene with tastes of Asia, like Chinese dim sum or Japanese ramen.  

Walkthrough the Museum of Anthropology to learn more. Or head to the Capilano Suspension Bridge to walk over an old-growth fir forest.

What Cruise Ships Sail into Glacier Bay National Park?

A highlight of Alaskan itineraries, sailing into Glacier Bay National Park offers views of the Fairweather Mountains along with up-close views of tidewater glaciers.  

Since the National Park Service regulations the number of large cruise ships this is a factor for would-be Alaskan cruisers. For environmental factors, only seven cruise lines have the NPS contract.  

First, the NPS park rangers board the ship for interpretive programming for adults and kids. Cruising Glacier Bay takes at least 8 hours and remember the binoculars for up-close wildlife viewing.

What to Pack for an Alaskan Cruise

Be prepared for cold and rainy weather even during the height of the summer cruising season. Though high season (late June and July) will bring sun and short-sleeve weather.  

• A winter coat with a waterproof shell for glacier exploring or viewing
• Quick dry hiking pants for rainforest hiking
• A fleece layer for most days
• Hiking boots, preferably waterproof
• Waterproof packable rain jacket
• Fleece hat and gloves

Do I need a travel agent?

If this is your first cruise, it might not be a bad idea to bring in a professional. Even seasoned travelers use travel agents since there’s usually no charge and there’s value in the concierge services and expertise. And a lot of agents can provide perks to their clients.  

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Alaska Cruises

Embark On The Ultimate Alaskan Cruise

Find the Best Alaska Cruise for You

Explore the dynamic glaciers, soaring peaks and captivating history of the 49th state on our award-winning itineraries. Sail Alaska’s serene seas to Glacier Bay National Park or Hubbard Glacier for a chance to witness ice calving, known as “white thunder.” Extend your Alaska vacation with a cruisetour, a combination of ocean cruise and land tour deep into Alaska’s rugged interior.

Cross Alaska’s massive ice shelves, crystal fjords, and fascinating marine wildlife off your bucket list with itineraries that conveniently depart from Seattle and Vancouver. Enjoy perks such as privileged access to Glacier Bay National Park and prime docking locations that give you a head start on sightseeing.

Our cruisetours combine an ocean cruise with a land tour into Alaska’s interior. Watch northern wilderness views unfold from aboard our glass-domed train, the McKinley Explorer®. Stay up to 3 nights at the McKinley Chalet Resort near Denali National Park. Go into the Yukon with a guide.

Find Your Perfect Cruisetour

On this page, why cruise alaska with holland america.

With us, Alaska travel is personal. We’ve been sharing the wonders of Alaska longer than any other cruise line. See the best of the Great Land’s glaciers, coastal towns and wildlife on board perfectly sized ships offering superior service and exclusive programming.

Alaska Wildlife

Few places can compete with Alaska’s wildlife diversity. With more than 20 animal sanctuaries and sightseeing excursions, we bring you closer to creatures great and small. Learn about the Big Five and other amazing animals you might spot.

White Pass & Yukon Railroad

Hop a train back in time to the Klondike Gold Rush. Built during peak gold fever, this 120-year-old iron trail traverses tunnels, trestles and misty valleys to the White Pass Summit at 2,865 feet.

Alaska National Parks

Like everything else in Alaska, the Great Land’s national parks far exceed expectations. Read about Glacier Bay’s seven tidewater glaciers, Denali’s 6-million acres of undisturbed wilderness, Kenai Fjords' astonishing Exit Glacier and other national parks.

Alaska's Glaciers

Glaciers are more than breathtaking rivers of ice. They are living laboratories that show what the Earth was like thousands of years ago and how it is changing today. Get ready for the ultimate glacier experience.

Northern Lights

Many flock to Alaska every year for a chance to witness the aurora borealis. Did you know they are more likely to display during high solar activity cycles? Find out how to pick the best time to see the northern lights in Alaska.

Alaska Cruise Sneak Preview

Meet Alaska's Giants, Face-To-Face

With 75 years in Alaska, we know every nook, cranny and crevasse. We have more Alaska cruise port departures featuring Glacier Bay National Park than any other cruise line. All Alaska cruises include one or more glacier-viewing days, and you’ll get closer to ‘the giants’ on ships perfectly sized for the Great Land.

Glacier Bay National Park

Cruise To Hubbard Glacier

Read More About College Fjord

Cruises To Tracy Arm, Alaska

Glacier Bay Experts

Alaska cruise itineraries, weekly alaska cruises may to september.

Stretch out your Alaska cruise vacation with convenient weekend departures. Enjoy a roundtrip Alaska cruise from Seattle on Alaskan Explorer itineraries or from Vancouver on Alaskan Inside Passage itineraries.

Alaskan Explorer

Alaskan inside passage, featured alaska cruise itineraries.

Roundtrip Alaska Cruise from Seattle

A 7-day roundtrip Alaska cruise from Seattle.

Roundtrip Alaska Cruise from Vancouver

A 7-day roundtrip Alaska cruise from Vancouver.

Alaska Cruisetours

Cruise to Alaska, explore Denali or Denali and the Yukon.

We Bring Alaska On Board

Experts on board your cruise to alaska, an unrivaled culinary journey, alaska immersion with explorations central™.

Alaska Up Close

Our Alaska Seafood Is Certified Sustainable

Why cruise our mid-sized ships.

Choose from seven refreshingly uncrowded ships for a front-row seat to Alaska's splendor.

Fluid lines, light-filled spaces and a blend of modern elegance and nautical tradition make Koningsdam a sublime ship for Alaska cruises.

Eurodam was named “Best for Great Dining & Diverse Destinations” and features a vast selection of entertainment venues and restaurants.

Nieuw Amsterdam

Cruise to Alaska in high style. Nieuw Amsterdam's exceptional onboard experience earned "Best Cruise Ship Overall" at the Travvy Awards.

Named for the Northern compass point, Noordam is fitting for a cruise to Alaska. Museum-quality art outfits this ship, from oils to photographs of music legends. 

An elegant and spacious Alaska cruise ship with fresh floral arrangements and garden-inspired décor. Master frontier flavor with regional cooking demonstrations on board.

Sink into refreshed suites and a new lounge, plus dining and entertainment venues. Take in Alaska’s evergreen fjords and thunderous glaciers on this Vista-class Alaska cruise ship.

Classic nautical finishes and a spectacular art collection make the Zuiderdam the ideal sanctuary for your cruise to Alaska.

Best Shore Excursions On An Alaska Cruise

Top 10 alaska shore excursions, great for families, ideal for adventurers, iconic alaska cruise ports & destinations.

Ketchikan, Alaska

Ketchikan, Alaska is one of the best spots along Alaska's Inside Passage to explore the rich cultural sights of the Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian. Amble historic Creek Street, a boardwalk over a wide creek that fills with salmon during certain times of year.

Skagway, Alaska

Go back in time to the Klondike Gold Rush on cruises to Skagway, Alaska , once the primary gateway to the goldfields. Take a trip on the scenic railroad and still have time to dine and shop.

Convenient Alaska Cruise Departure Ports

Our Alaska cruise departure ports have big personalities and loads of attractions.

Best Alaska Cruises from Seattle

Set out on your Alaska cruise from Seattle’s serene waterfront. Visit its most popular attractions, such as the Space Needle and Pike Place Market. Do as locals do and fuel up at one of the numerous cafes.

Alaska Cruises from Vancouver

Sightsee in this bustling metropolis before gliding the Inside Passage en route to Alaska. Historic neighborhoods and a thriving food scene await.

Alaska Cruises from Whittier

Conveniently located an hour and a half from Anchorage, Whittier is a small town on the shore of the glacier-filled Prince William Sound.

Cruise To Alaska Travel Tips & Articles

• What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise
• Planning an Alaska Cruise Itinerary with Kids

• How to Pick the Best Month For Your Alaska Cruise
• The Complete Guide to Alaska Glacier Viewing
• Top Things to Do in Alaska
• Best Places to Visit in Alaska
• Whale Watching on Alaska Cruises

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• Carnival Legend
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If you’re looking for a cruise vacation that’s a little bit out of the way and a little bit out of the ordinary, make an Alaska cruise your first choice. If your first thought is “Alaska… cool!” you’re on the right track — even in the mild summer season, you should still pack your sweater. Grab it and get up here because Alaska is a natural wonder through and through, and the coastal panhandle region Carnival sails to is perhaps the most stunning. How’s Alaska planning on stunning you? Alaska cruises will do it with quaint seaside towns like Ketchikan and Skagway, and with stunning harbor vistas like Juneau’s. Cruising Alaska will also give you a first-row ticket to the best of nature — including fjords, wildlife and mountains galore. “Oh, mother nature… now you’re just showing off.”

• Get up and go glacier-gazing, big time.
• Follow hiking trails to catch some grand scenery.
• Grab binoculars and whale-watch some big ones.

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The 8 top alaska cruise lines of 2024.

Discover the best lines and itineraries for your type of travel style.

The Top Alaska Cruise Lines

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

A cruise vacation to Alaska is a profound adventure. The spectacular natural beauty, rugged wilderness, massive glaciers and endless opportunities for wildlife viewing make a trip to the 49th state a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many travelers. As an added bonus, cruise ships can reach remote parts of the state, including Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve: one of the most significant (and picturesque) marine and wildlife sanctuaries in the world.

With the ever-growing popularity of the destination and an extended cruising season (some lines now travel to Alaska between April and October), more ships are heading north to the shores of The Great Land. With these expanded itineraries, there's more than ever to think about when booking your Alaska cruise.

To assist in your decision-making process, U.S. News listed the top cruise lines to consider across five categories, including the best options for families, luxury-seekers and adventurers. U.S. News consulted data provided by Cruiseline.com and the results of our 2024 Best Cruise Lines rankings to help develop this list of the top cruise lines sailing to Alaska.

• Best Overall: Holland America Line; Princess Cruises
• Best for Families: Norwegian Cruise Line; Royal Caribbean International

Best for Couples: Celebrity Cruises

• Best Luxury: Regent Seven Seas Cruises; Silversea Cruises

Best Small-Ship Expedition Line: UnCruise Adventures

Find your perfect cruise

Best Overall: Holland America Line and Princess Cruises

Holland america line.

Courtesy of Holland America Line

Alaska cruise ships: Eurodam , Koningsdam , Nieuw Amsterdam , Noordam , Westerdam , Zaandam Departure cities (cruises and cruisetours): Anchorage , Fairbanks and Whittier, Alaska; Seattle; Vancouver, British Columbia Starting from: $379 per person for seven-night Alaska Inside Passage cruise on May 1, 2024, or Sept. 22, 2024. Round-trip from Vancouver.

Holland America Line has been cruising Alaska's pristine glacial waters for more than 75 years – longer than any other cruise line. On top of that, the line features more voyages to Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve than its competitors. Seven-night round-trip sailings depart from either Seattle or Vancouver, while cruisetours – Holland America Line 's sea- and land-based packages – leave from several cities and extend each trip to nine to 18 days.

If this will be your first visit to Alaska, consider booking the comprehensive 14-day Yukon + Denali cruisetour. This Alaska adventure includes a voyage aboard Koningsdam, plus a three-night stay at Holland America's exclusive lodge in Denali National Park, where you'll have the opportunity to see Alaska's big five: moose, caribou, grizzly bears, Dall sheep and wolves – and book bucket list activities like flightseeing over Denali. If it's a picture-perfect day, your pilot might even be able to land on the tallest mountain in North America, also known as "The Great One." Other excursions include meeting dog mushers from the Iditarod, landing on the Yanert Glacier, heli-hiking or embarking on a covered wagon adventure on the Alaska tundra. The Yukon Territory portion of this trip is exclusive to Holland America; while there, visit the mining town of Dawson City and learn about Northern Canada's Klondike Gold Rush of August 1896.

Another highlight of sailing Alaska with Holland America is the Alaska Up Close program, which immerses guests in an array of expert-led lectures and excursions on board and shore. When it comes to dining , Holland America is the only cruise line to achieve the Responsible Fisheries Management (RFM) certification, which means cruisers will enjoy certified sustainable wild Alaska seafood on board (think: Alaskan king crab legs and fresh salmon). You may also have access to culinary excursions in partnership with Food & Wine magazine, as well as special offerings like Alaska salmon bakes.

Cruisers should also consider one of the Holland America's new itineraries for 2024: the 28-night Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice voyage aboard Westerdam, round-trip from Seattle. This sailing, which departs on June 9, 2024, features highlights like crossing the Arctic Circle; celebrating the summer solstice in Nome, Alaska; and watching Kodiak bears – the largest bears in the world – on Kodiak Island.

Insider tip: Sample Holland America Line's famous Dutch pea soup while glacier viewing on the outside decks. The crew passes around mugs of the warm soup in this Holland America tradition that gives a nod to the line's heritage – and keeps guests warm on chilly summer days in Alaska.

Princess Cruises

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

Alaska cruise ships: Grand Princess , Sapphire Princess , Royal Princess , Ruby Princess , Majestic Princess , Discovery Princess , Crown Princess Departure cities (cruises and cruisetours): Seattle; Anchorage, Alaska; Vancouver, British Columbia; San Francisco ; Fairbanks, Alaska Starting from: $398 per person for seven-night cruise from Anchorage (Whittier, Alaska) to Vancouver on May 18, 2024

Princess Cruises has a long history in Alaska, boasting more than 50 years of sailing to the Great Land. Cruise itineraries last between seven and 14 nights, and many visit the Inside Passage. Princess Cruises also owns and operates five wilderness lodges for guests of its cruisetours, plus exclusive "Direct to the Wilderness" rail service to those properties. The line's wide selection of cruisetours includes independent adventures and off-the-beaten-path destinations, like Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve, the largest national park in the U.S. For travelers seeking the highest level of service and the most time on land, the Connoisseur cruisetour is a good option, including up to 10 nights ashore following the seven-day Voyage of the Glaciers cruise. The Connoisseur trip is hosted by a tour director and includes select sightseeing outings and most meals in the fare.

Princess' special programming, North to Alaska, offers guests unique insights into the history and culture of the region with visits from local Alaskans, photography sessions, demonstrations on lumberjacking and excursions like Cook My Catch, where guests will go fishing (with a guide), then bring their fish back for chefs to prepare for dinner at one of the designated Princess lodges.

There are two new Princess cruisetours to consider for 2024. The 15-night National Parks Tour includes a seven-day cruise, visits to five national parks, scenic rail travel and a total of eight evenings across four Princess wilderness lodges. Meanwhile, the Katmai National Park Tour is a nine-day adventure that takes guests to the famed Brooks Falls in Katmai National Park & Preserve to see bears feasting on wild salmon in Alaska's wilderness.

Insider tip: While visiting Denali National Park, be sure to check out the Princess Treehouse at the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge. Built by Pete Nelson of Animal Planet's "Treehouse Masters," the treehouse offers a different perspective of Denali and features "Sappy Hour" and other fun activities.  

Best for Families: Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International

Norwegian cruise line.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Alaska cruise ships: Norwegian Encore , Norwegian Bliss , Norwegian Jewel , Norwegian Sun , Norwegian Spirit Departure cities (cruises and cruisetours): Seattle ; Vancouver, British Columbia; Seward, Alaska Starting from: $349 per person for seven-night sailing between Seward and Vancouver (itineraries visit Hubbard Glacier and Skagway, or Glacier Bay, Skagway and Juneau). Available on Norwegian Jewel in April, May and June 2024.

Norwegian Cruise Line has one of the longest seasons in Alaska, extending from April through October. The line operates two of its larger ships in Alaska: Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore. These ships feature a plethora of onboard activities to keep kids and adults entertained, like racetracks, laser tag, mini-golf, complimentary kids and teen clubs, video arcades, themed parties, live performances and more. Families will also enjoy entertainment by Nickelodeon, character breakfasts, salmon bakes and sessions with a park ranger who comes on board to narrate the Glacier Bay passage. You'll find many spacious room options on board perfectly suited to larger families – especially in The Haven, the line's exclusive ship-within-a-ship concept. In addition, Norwegian Cruise Line offers select cruise deals where third and fourth guests sail free .

There are two new Alaska shore excursions for 2024: the Mendenhall Glacier Canoe Paddle & Trek and the Fly-In Norris Glacier Hike and Packraft. The first outing takes place in Juneau , where you'll paddle a 12-person canoe across Mendenhall Lake to reach the towering glacier. Prepare to be surrounded by the spectacular setting of Tongass National Park, a 400-foot waterfall and an Arctic tern nesting ground. The second excursion, also in Juneau, takes participants on a flight into the Alaska wilderness via floatplane; you'll then paddle across a pristine glacial lake and hike the surface of Norris Glacier. Unforgettable sights along the way include densely forested mountains; the mouth of the Taku Inlet, a waterway that offers access to Juneau Icefield; and plenty of wildlife, including sea lions and bald eagles.

Also new for 2024 is the option to take the Denali Talkeetna Explorer tour after your cruise. (This cruisetour previously only took place prior to the voyage.) The 13-day sea and land package, Denali Talkeetna Explorer – Northbound Cruisetour, is available on three dates in 2024 in combination with a Norwegian Jewel sailing. The package includes a seven-night cruise; a total of six nights in Fairbanks, Denali and Talkeetna; a stop at the Trans-Alaska Oil Pipeline; a riverboat cruise in Fairbanks; a visit to an Iditarod dog musher's kennel; a deluxe glass-domed Alaska Railroad journey between Fairbanks and Denali; and more. You'll also have free time to book optional shore excursions like whitewater rafting, park tours, helicopter flightseeing and other outdoor adventures.

Insider tip: If you're sailing on Norwegian Bliss or Norwegian Encore, be sure to grab a front-row seat in the Observation Lounge when sailing in Glacier Bay Park & Preserve. This expansive space on Deck 15 at the bow of the ship offers breathtaking panoramic views from the comfort of inside the ship. 

Royal Caribbean International

Alaska cruise ships: Radiance of the Seas , Quantum of the Seas , Brilliance of the Seas , Ovation of the Seas Departure cities (cruises and cruisetours): Seward, Alaska; Vancouver, British Columbia; Seattle Starting from: $439 per person for seven-night cruise on Radiance of the Seas, Seward to Vancouver on May 24, 2024

Royal Caribbean International offers seven-night cruise-only Alaska options (some featuring the Inside Passage) and extended cruisetours (lasting nine to 13 days) with land portions before or after the voyage. Cruisetours may visit Denali National Park & Preserve, among other highlights. The line also offers select "kids sail free" itineraries, which will appeal to families.

If you want nonstop entertainment while on board, choose one of Royal Caribbean International 's two larger Quantum Class vessels: Quantum of the Seas or Ovation of the Seas. Both megaships accommodate approximately 4,900 passengers. If you prefer a smaller ship, consider booking one of the Radiance Class vessels, which hold a maximum of around 2,500 guests.

Quantum Class ships have multiple outdoor attractions that provide panoramic views of the scenery. For example, the surf simulator, FlowRider, affords views of magnificent snow-capped mountains and glaciers all around the ship. If you're adept at rock climbing, this is another chance for optimal scenic viewing – at 40 feet above the deck. Additional entertainment includes free-fall skydiving at RipCord by iFly, outdoor movie nights, live performances and musical entertainment, bumper cars, an escape room, a sports court and indoor pools for those cool Alaska summer days.

Insider tip: For more awe-inspiring vistas, take a ride on North Star. Exclusive to Royal Caribbean (on Quantum and Ovation of the Seas), the glass-enclosed capsule rises 300 feet above sea level while suspended over the ocean.

Read: The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises

Celebrity Cruises

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Alaska cruise ships: Celebrity Summit , Celebrity Edge , Celebrity Solstice Departure cities (cruises and cruisetours): Seward, Alaska; Vancouver, British Columbia; Seattle Starting from: $397 per person for seven-night voyage on Celebrity Summit, Seward to Vancouver on May 17, 2024

Adventure-seeking couples will have many options to choose from during Celebrity Cruises ' 2024 Alaska season. The line's six- and seven-night cruise-only itineraries include up-close views of the Dawes Glacier in the Endicott Arm Fjord and the Hubbard Glacier, the world's longest tidewater glacier at 76 miles long. For an in-depth exploration of Alaska's interior, Celebrity's cruisetours extend the trip to a maximum of 13 nights and feature small-town destinations like Talkeetna, Alaska – the quirky village that inspired the 1990s television show "Northern Exposure." There are also themed tours centered on wildlife viewing and national parks, as well as culinary tours highlighting the flavors of Alaska.

Couples will also find plenty of adult-focused activities and entertainment on board, no matter which vessel they choose. Each ship offers a spa, multiple bars and lounges, and an excellent selection of complimentary and specialty restaurants. Celebrity's three Alaska-bound ships carry between 2,158 guests (Celebrity Summit) and 2,908 passengers (Celebrity Edge). Celebrity Edge, the newest of the ships, offers immersive entertainment and especially beautiful public spaces – like Grand Plaza, a three-story venue at the heart of the vessel.

For extra privacy during your couples' vacation, consider splurging on a suite or villa in The Retreat. This all-inclusive space features luxurious accommodations; a private lounge; a sundeck (unavailable on Celebrity Solstice); and a private restaurant, Luminae at The Retreat. The swanky culinary venue serves dishes curated by renowned French chef Daniel Boulud. In addition, you'll have a team of attendants, butlers and concierges to indulge every whim.

Insider tip: Book your Alaska cruise on Celebrity Edge. The outward-facing design of the ship and expansive outdoor spaces, including the Magic Carpet, offer guests excellent viewing opportunities of Alaska's vast landscapes, calving glaciers and wildlife, including humpback whales in the Inside Passage and around Juneau and Sitka.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Best Luxury: Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises

Regent seven seas cruises.

Alaska cruise ships: Seven Seas Explorer Departure cities: Vancouver, British Columbia; Seward, Alaska Starting from: $4,699 per person (all-inclusive) for seven-night cruise, Vancouver to Seward on May 1, 2024

Regent's Seven Seas Explorer will spend the 2024 season in Alaska, with the first sailing embarking from Vancouver, British Columbia, on May 1, 2024. The line offers 20 seven-night voyages and two 14-night sailings between May and September. The 746-passenger ship provides an in-depth exploration of Alaska's wilderness, thanks to the vessel's smaller size and all-balcony suites. Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' all-inclusive fares include free unlimited shore excursions (though select tours come with a fee); complimentary fine wines and spirits; dining at specialty restaurants; 24-hour room service; unlimited Wi-Fi access; prepaid gratuities; free valet laundry service; and more. Depending on the suite category, guests may also receive a pre- and post-cruise hotel stay with their voyage.

Complimentary shore excursions are available in a number of Alaska ports. In Ketchikan, sign up for the Tongass Rainforest Expedition, the Great Alaska Lumberjack Show or the Alaskan Lodge Adventure & Seafest. (Note: Some excursions in Ketchikan, such as the Alaska Fishing & Wilderness Dining option, come with an additional fee.) In Juneau, guests can take the complimentary hiking adventure through the Mendenhall Glacier National Recreation Area, home to black bears, mountain goats and other wildlife. Cruisers can also dine on wild Alaska salmon grilled over a fire at the Gold Creek Salmon Bake.

Insider tip: Take advantage of the complimentary shore excursions during your cruise. These are tours you'd normally have to pay for on a ship that's not all-inclusive – and that can add up quickly.

Silversea Cruises

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Alaska cruise ships: Silver Nova , Silver Muse , Silver Shadow Departure cities: Seward, Alaska; Vancouver, British Columbia Starting from: $3,450 per person for seven-night cruise, Vancouver to Seward on Silver Muse on Aug. 1, 2024

Debuted in August 2023, Silversea's latest addition, Silver Nova, is the newest luxury vessel sailing Alaska for the 2024 season. Silver Nova features an asymmetrical design and advanced technologies that make it Silversea Cruises ' most environmentally friendly vessel yet. With just 728 guests, spacious suites (some affording 270-degree views) and outdoor spaces showcasing The Great Land's pristine wilderness, Silver Nova is an excellent luxury option for an Alaska adventure. Silversea offers seven-night itineraries on its three Alaska ships, plus longer voyages on Silver Muse and Silver Shadow.

Silversea's all-inclusive fares include pre- and post-cruise hotel stays; complimentary nonalcoholic and alcoholic beverages; in-room minibars; gourmet dining; all gratuities; at least one excursion per port; butler service in every suite; and other upscale amenities. Complimentary Alaska excursions include a scenic railway tour aboard the White Pass and Yukon Railway in Skagway, the Sea Otter & Wildlife Quest in Sitka Sound and more. You can also visit the Iditarod dogs' summer camp in Juneau. For an additional cost, Silversea offers more exclusive experiences, like a helicopter ride to Mendenhall Glacier followed by a dogsledding adventure with a team of Alaskan huskies in Juneau, or a remote fly-fishing trip in Sitka.

Insider tip: Spend some time on Deck 10; you'll enjoy unobstructed views of the spectacular scenery from the comfort of the heated pool, thanks to the asymmetrical design of the pool deck.

UnCruise Adventures

Alaska cruise ships: Wilderness Discoverer, Wilderness Legacy, Safari Endeavor, Safari Explorer, Safari Quest Departure cities: Ketchikan, Juneau, Whittier, Dutch Harbor and Sitka, Alaska; Seattle Starting from: $3,600 per person for seven-night cruise, Juneau to Ketchikan (or reverse itinerary) on Wilderness Discoverer; various dates between April and September 2024

UnCruise's expedition-style small ships call on ports and remote areas in Alaska that larger ships can't access, taking guests to locales that the line coins, "UnAlaska." The five ships operating in The Great Land accommodate between 22 passengers (Safari Quest) and 86 guests (Wilderness Legacy), and there are seven-, 12- and 14-night itineraries to choose from. You can also book optional land tours, including a Denali & Talkeetna Wilderness Rail Adventure. Expedition teams take guests on kayaking, skiffing, paddleboarding, bushwhacking, waterfall walks and hiking excursions close to the glaciers and visit secluded areas and waterway passages known for optimal wildlife viewing.

Cruise fares include group transfers to and from the ship; all meals; premium wine, beer and liquor; all nonalcoholic beverages; daily activities; wellness amenities; onboard heritage and expedition guides; and access to guest experts. You'll need to disconnect from your devices in remote areas, as there is no Wi-Fi access on UnCruise vessels.

For a once-in-a-lifetime trip, book the 14-night Alaska's Fjords & Glaciers Bay Adventure Cruise on Wilderness Discoverer, a 76-passenger ship. This voyage includes birding in the South Marble Islands, where you'll see puffins, cormorants, oystercatchers and other bird species. You can also search for brown bears in Corner Bay, bushwhack in old-growth forests, visit the town of Haines to sample local brews and spirits, and more.

UnCruise has introduced a few new cruises for 2024 with a renewed focus on The Great Land. One of these is the Kids in Nature, Wild Woolly & Wow with Glacier Bay cruise. The seven-night, family-focused voyage departs round-trip from Juneau aboard Wilderness Legacy and is available on three dates between June and July. One highlight of the voyage is exploring off-the-grid in Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve's "Outback."

A second new option is the seven-night Prince William Sound Explorer with Cordova cruise. This adventure visits dozens of glaciers; the small fishing village of Cordova; the Harriman and College glacial fjords; the islands of Knight and Montague; and multiple places where you can see orcas, humpback whales, sea otters, seals, sea lions, puffins and other wildlife. The itinerary is offered round-trip from Whittier, Alaska, on Safari Explorer throughout the summer.

Insider tip: Depending on your itinerary, you may be able to hop in a skiff directly off the ship to watch bears along the shore hunt for salmon just 100 feet away. This is an Alaska experience you can only have when sailing on a small ship.

Read: The Top Cruises on Small Ships

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, traditional masted sailing ships, river ships in Europe and a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica. She has cruised to Alaska and visited The Great Land in the summer, fall and winter, and journeyed to remote areas by bush plane above the Arctic Circle. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• Alaska Cruise Packing List
• The Top Things to Do in Alaska
• The Top Northern Lights Alaska Cruises
• The Top Antarctica Cruises
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

Tags: Travel , Cruises

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Best Alaskan Cruises For Families, From Tots To Teens

Finding Alaskan cruises which appease both adults and kids can be challenging. The best Alaskan cruise for families have kids’ programs and activities to keep your little ones entertained but provide amenities for adults too.

Cruises depart from California, Seattle, and Vancouver. But no matter where you cruise from, there are cruise ships to suit an entire family, depending on your budget and age group of children.

On most cruise lines, infants must be at least six months old when they sail. However, some Alaska cruise and land itineraries have a minimum age of twelve months.

It’s important to know that not all lines offer infant programs or babysitting for children under three. And those three or older must be potty trained.

While a few itineraries are offered from California, you’ll have the most selection by choosing a cruise from Vancouver or Seattle, Washington.

Looking for the best Alaska cruise for your family?

Find it on Cruise Direct . Choose from different embarkation ports and various vessels.

Family-Friendly Alaska Cruises From California

Given the extra distance ships need to travel, Alaska cruises from California range from 10 to 14-day sailings. San Francisco offers the lion’s share of the sailings, and Carnival Miracle has a few 14-day itineraries in the shoulder season.

For the 2024 and 2025 seasons, only the Ruby Princess, Crown Princess, Carnival Miracle, and Carnival Legend offer roundtrip sailings to Alaska from California. Of the four, the Carnival Miracle is the better option for a family cruise to Alaska.

While both cruise lines have kids’ programs, babysitting, and mini-golf, the Miracle has family-friendly bonus attractions. These include a video arcade, water slide, and the signature Carnival Waterworks added during the last renovation.

It’s essential to know sailing along the Pacific Coast can be rough. So, if you’re prone to seasickness, pack a motion sickness patch  and select a stateroom mid-ship on a lower deck.

Alternatively, you can fly to Vancouver, which offers inside passage cruises for calmer seas.

Young Children Or Older Kids?

If your children are young and you’re seeking a kids club and nothing more, you may opt for a budget-friendly smaller vessel and use the savings on excursions. In Alaska, expect to pay more for those bucket list tours than you spent on the cruise.

However, teens will want something more than a youth program to occupy their time. I’d suggest either Norwegian’s or Royal Caribbean’s larger ships. Be prepared to budget for additional fees for attractions and the arcade.

Which one you choose could come down to cost, itinerary, or royalty to one of those lines. While Norwegian sails to Glacier Bay National Park , Royal Caribbean goes to Endicott Arm.

While it’s hotly debated over which is better, they are both spectacular in their own way. Glacier Bay National Park offers multiple smaller glaciers, and Endicott Arm offers a fjord experience with steep cliffs and cascading waterfalls.

All cruise lines have adjoining cabins, but you’ll need to book early to ensure you can get them. Alternatively, families sometimes book a balcony and an inside across the hall.

Kids Club And Youth Programs

Most mainstream lines like Norwegian, Celebrity, Holland America, Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Princess Cruises cater to children aged 3 to 17.

Larger vessels will have more amenities than older, small ships. Most ships will have outdoor pools, and some will have water slides, mini-golf, and rock climbing walls. However, the water isn’t always heated, so you may not use them in Alaska.

If your children are water babies, select a ship with an indoor pool or one with a retractable roof.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney has one vessel which sails to Alaska, the Disney Wonder. It offers 7 to 9-day (for the 2023 season) roundtrip itineraries from the  Vancouver port at Canada Place. Expect to pay significantly more for a Disney cruise than the mainstream lines.

Families are attracted to a Disney cruise, not for its water slide or kids’ programs but because they cruise with Mickey Mouse and his friends!

Since many children have grown up with a love of Mickey and all his friends, it’s no wonder a cruise on a Disney vessel is a bucket list adventure.

While the kids are entertained with endless activities, the adults can relax in the adult-only areas.

Disneyland has been called the “happiest place on earth.” After one cruise on the Wonder, you may consider a Disney cruise the “happiest place at sea.”

While the Wonder isn’t one of the largest ships or the newest, there’s no denying it offers one of the best Alaskan cruises for families with small children.

Also, Disney offers food choices catering to children and those with food allergies. You’ll also have an opportunity to meet your favorite Disney characters.

Staterooms have split bathrooms and privacy curtains between the bed and sitting areas. Split baths consist of two rooms, one with a tub and sink and the other with a sink and toilet. On other cruise lines, you’d have to upgrade to a suite to get a bathtub.

Their cabins are also roomier than the competition. Deluxe insides and oceanviews are 214 sq. feet. However, the deluxe veranda staterooms measure 268 sq. feet.

Everything on a Disney cruise is Disney-themed, from the pirate parties with Mickey himself to dining at Tiana’s Place, inspired by The Princess and the Frog. You’ll also have an opportunity to watch first-run Disney movies without attending a theater to see them.

And who can resist the Character Breakfast with choices like Meeska Mooska Mickey Waffle or Buccaneer Bagel (with salmon and cream cheese)? Disney will cater to their dietary needs if your child is cruising with multiple food allergies.

The Disney Navigator app allows you to message members of your family or traveling group without paying a fee. A nice feature for which most lines charge an additional cost.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Older children or teenagers might prefer sailing with Norwegian Cruise Lines. The Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore are mega-ships offering roundtrip Alaska itineraries from Seattle , Washington.

With a capacity of over 4,000 guests, these large vessels have amenities not seen on other lines. Its two-level go-cart track is a hit with families and a chance to test your driving skills against a family member in a friendly competition.

Laser tag is another family-friendly attraction that’s sure to bring smiles. While both incur an extra fee (USD 20 for go-carts and USD 9.95 for laser tag), your kids will never be bored at sea.

Complimentary amenities include a kids’ aqua park, ocean loops slide, and aqua racer (tandem waterslide).

Norwegian provides complimentary kids programs; Splash Academy for ages 3 to 12 and Entourage for those 13 to 17. Late Night Fun Zone is available from 11 pm to 1 am if you need an adult-only night.

The Encore and Bliss were designed for Alaska with its signature 180-degree Observation Lounges. With a covered area at the ship’s bow, you can enjoy the Alaskan landscape regardless of the weather.

Its Haven suites have lots to brag about. The two-bedroom Haven Family Villa Suite allows families to stay in the same cabin in a spacious layout. They also benefit from having access to the Haven Lounge, Haven pool, and an exclusive restaurant.

Since most families book when the kids are out of school, you can expect higher prices when cruising in July and August on an Alaska cruise.

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International has two mega-ships sailing to Alaska. The Quantum of the Sea and the Ovation, both Quantum-class vessels, offer countless activities onboard for children (and adults) of all ages.

They are larger than the Norwegian ships, holding up to 5,000 guests. Like the Bliss and Encore, they sail from the Seattle cruise terminal.

Its SeaPlex is an innovative indoor space with multi-purpose use. Sometimes it’s used for bumper cars, which are fun for all ages but expect a crowd on sea days.

When the cars are charging, Royal Caribbean uses the arena for roller skating, basketball, pickleball, or volleyball.

Upstairs in the SeaPlex, the fun continues with Foosball, ping pong, air hockey, and Xbox games. Plus, there’s an arcade near the SeaPlex with more thrilling games.

Kids and adults can take advantage of rock climbing and learning to surf on the FlowRider simulator. Kids must be at least six years old and 52″ to try the FlowRider, a complimentary activity.

The massive rock-climbing wall has three courses with varying degrees of difficulty. It’s open for climbing every day if conditions allow.

Next to the surf simulator, RipCord by iFly allows guests to try skydiving in a wind tunnel. My husband and I tried the RipCord by iFly and thought it was a blast!

Unique to the Quantum-class ships, the NorthStar allows you to enjoy the majestic views of Alaska from 300 feet above the ocean. If you want to ride thebe NorthStar near a glacier, be prepared to pay USD 70 per person.

Splash Away Bay is a massive hit on the Lido deck for the little ones. The indoor pools are a big bonus of the Quantum-class vessels over Norwegian’s Breakaway-class.

Since it can often be cool in Alaska, the Royal Caribbean ships have an indoor pool and an adult-only Solarium, ideal when the weather isn’t cooperating.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises mini-suites have bathtubs, ideal for babies and toddlers. If you have a smaller cabin and need a bathtub, Princess provides shower bins upon request.

Their Discovery program welcomes little ones as young as six months when accompanied by an adult. The Treehouse caters to kids 3 to 7, The Lodge 8 to 12, and 13 to 17-year-olds have a group called The Beach House.

The activities such as scavenger hunts, sports tournaments, and fun parties are created for the age group. Some of them, like the “Wild Alaska Festival,” are themed towards your exciting destination.

Princess Cruises and Animal Planet offer unique shore excursions to elevate your family vacation.

They include a Coastal Wildlife Cruise in Ketchikan, an underground mine tour in Juneau, and a  Chilkoot Hike and Float Excursion  in Skagway. Some of these tours are exclusive and can’t be found through port operators.

Unique to Princess, the line hosts “Puppies in the Piazza,” a chance to see the newest sled dog champions in the making. Kids will enjoy holding the pups, while parents can meet their handlers.

They also host “North to Alaska” events that allow guests to meet Alaskan locals both on the ship and in ports.

These include mountaineers who have conquered Denali, and the first woman to win the Iditarod race, Libby Riddles. You can also learn tips on capturing amazing images of Alaska’s landscape from photographers Daryl Pederson, Kim Heacox, and Mark Kelly.

In port, on the  Bering Sea Crab Boat Tour  in Ketchikan, you can get a review of life aboard the Aleutian Ballad from Captain David Lethin and his dedicated crew.

They will recount their thrilling and often dangerous jobs of trying to catch king crabs in the Bering Sea.

All Princess’s vessels are Medallion Class, which has some handy features. For families, you can find a family member using the Ocean Compass Shipmates and message them using a chat feature.

Kids might enjoy making their own Tagalong sea creature, which randomly appears on large TV screens.

Celebrity Cruises

Whether your kids are into science, crafts, or video games, Celebrity Cruises caters to their needs with its Camp at Sea program. Their Camp at Sea programs opens daily from 9 am to 10 pm and offers slumber parties on selected nights from 10 pm to 1 am.

If you choose to explore a port without your children, the kids’ program is open at various times while docked. Outside of those hours, there’s a small fee.

The Camp at Sea divides the children into four age groups; Shipmates 3 to 5, Cadets 6 to 9, Captains 10 to 12, and 13 to 17.

Celebrity also welcomes kids and adults with autism by providing autism-friendly activities, movies, and a toy-lending program.

For the 2024 season, the revolutionary Celebrity Edge offers 7-day roundtrip Alaska cruises from Seattle, Washington. Alternatively, the Solstice offers roundtrip itineraries from Vancouver, while the Summit does one-way cruises between Vancouver and Seward, Alaska.

In port, Celebrity offers family-friendly excursions. Choose from whale watching in Juneau, zip lining in Icy Strait Point, the White Pass and Yukon Route  Railway in Skagway , or one of many other tempting tours.

Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line offer cruise and land tours to Denali National Park.

Carnival Cruises

Carnival Cruises have marketed itself as the “fun ship,” and its fun is suitable for all ages. Guests know them as a budget-friendly line, so if you’re sailing with a family of four to six, this may be a good choice.

Carnival has four vessels cruising to Alaska. The Miracle sails from California in 2024 and is replaces by the Legend in 2025. From Seattle, you can choose from the Spirit and Luminosa. There are no options to sail on a Carnival vessel from Vancouver, British Columbia.

If you choose to cruise in the shoulder season, you’ll benefit from swimming pools with retractable roofs. On the Lido decks, the kids will enjoy the signature Carnival Waterworks.

Families will benefit from larger staterooms if you’re sharing. Even the insides are roomy at 185 sq. feet and have the same footprint as a balcony cabin.

Like the other mainstream lines, Carnival entices families with its kids’ program called Camp Ocean. It caters to children 2 to 17 years of age.

Its Seuss at Sea brings the fun and silliness of the Cat in the Hat to life. With storytime, Seuss-a-palooza Parade, and Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast, adults can relive their childhood with their kids.

Keep those binoculars handy; you might see one fish, two fish, red fish, or blue fish during your cruise!

Cruise Lines To Avoid  

When planning your family cruise , it’s good to know that not all cruise lines offer kids’ clubs, and some that do, have very few children onboard.

It’s no secret that luxury lines like Silversea, Regent, Windstar, Viking, and Oceania cater to adults. So, you’ll want to avoid these lines with young children.

I took a cruise to Alaska on Cunard Queen Elizabeth, and while it had a kids’ club catering to those aged two and up, there was only a handful of children on the ship.

If your children are hoping to meet new friends, it won’t happen on ships with only a few little ones.

Holland America Line is another company that provides kid facilities, but its Alaska cruises attract much older guests.

Kid-Friendly Shore Excursions

If you have older kids, allowing them to be part of the planning can add to the excitement. Part of the decision is the ship, but the ports of call and excursions can play a significant part too.

An Alaska family cruise has lots of activities onboard, but also include a port-intensive itinerary. While choosing a cruise line, you’ll also want to factor in times spent in each port. With 10 to 12 hours, you can participate in several excursions.

Bucket list family activities include dog sledding and whale watching. While dog sledding on a glacier will set you back more than your cruise at USD 650 pp, you can enjoy a dog mushing camp at a fraction of the price.

Since summer dog sleds run on cars with wheels, you won’t need an expensive helicopter ride to reach the camp.

Gold panning is budget-friendly activity and fun for the whole family. Also, whatever you pan, you keep in a miniature bottle. Kids will have the coolest “show and tell” of gold they panned themselves.

In Sitka, you can view bald eagles and other birds of prey at the Alaska Raptor Center. The sanctuary rescues and rehabilitates injured birds and returns them to the wild where possible.

Also, in Sitka, the Fortress of the Bear rescue saves orphaned bears. It’s a chance for your family to see black bears and coastal brown bears up close.

Traditionally, cruisers favor smaller ships to Alaska for their intimacy and ability to navigate in fjords. However, larger vessels provide more activities for older children and teenagers.

The big favorites, the Norwegian Encore and Bliss, and Royal Caribbean Quantum and Ovation of the Seas are hard to beat, along with the Disney Wonder. So, if you’re planning an cruise vacation to Alaska with kids, you have lots of choices.

But ships are only part of the decision. You’ll need to factor in ports of call and time spent in each port. No matter who you sail with, you’ll create wonderful family memories and fulfill a bucket list vacation!

Monday 27th of March 2023

P.s- the one difference between the two itineraries is that Princess has a stop in Glacier Bay & Cunard does not

Forever Karen

Tuesday 28th of March 2023

Personal choice, and you have to weigh all the pros and cons. Last year, Hubbard Glacier was more spectacular than Glacier Bay.

Thanks for your reply 😊 There's also a 14 day Princess cruise, still to Alaska from Vancouver ... would you still go for Cunard? Thanks!

Back-2-back 14-day itineraries repeat the same ports. I'd go with different ports.

I would be traveling alone with my 15 year old son. I find the Cunard itinerary from Vancouver appealing but do you think he would find the ship boring since it doesn't really cater to "kids"? It would be our first cruise ever ... do you think 10 days is too much? Thanks!

Cunard, like other lines, has a kids' club and caters to teens. A 10-day itinerary has lots of port days, so you won't spend much time on the ship.

Privacy Overview

The 11 Best Alaska Cruise Excursions in 2024

T he best Alaska cruise excursions can range from the thrilling to the serene. Passengers can fly on sleds led by huskies , ogle bald eagles and salmon-gobbling grizzlies , and soar over towering glaciers in a helicopter. And the best part? All these activities are planned for you as part of the cruise itinerary—as a way for travelers to sample the diverse wonders of The Last Frontier in one fell swoop.

Wildlife sightings may be the more popular Alaska cruise shore excursions, but travelers shouldn't overlook incredible opportunities to learn about the state’s Indigenous cultures , as well as culinary experiences centered around local delicacies such as fresh salmon, halibut, berries, and craft beer.

Just know that the real Alaska , teeming with natural beauty and wildlife, primarily lies away from crowded touristy ports. (Pro tip: for fewer people and more animals, the best time to cruise Alaska is in the spring.) Know, too, that different cruise lines can offer similar excursions, so first choose a ship that speaks to you, then immediately book excursions (popular ones sell fast). Here, an array of Alaska-bound ships with the best cruise excursions, sure to resonate long past your vacay.

Princess Cruises: Dogsledding and Glacier Adventures by Helicopter

Family-friendly Princess Cruises, in its 55 th season plying Alaskan waters, delivers exemplary excursions that include learning about gold rush history and gold-panning, as well as fishing trips on which one of the ship's chefs cooks your catch. The Dog Sledding and Glacier Adventure by Helicopter, created by an Iditarod musher (they lead huskies on annual 1,000-mile races over Alaska’s roughest terrain), combines two top-notch thrills. Don glacier overboots, board a helicopter, and fly over the Alaskan ice field as the pilot points out icefalls and rock formations. After landing on Norris Glacier, meet top Iditarod race veteran mushers and their dogs. Soon you’ll be whisked on a sled pulled by a team of exuberant huskies for the ride of a lifetime.

Ships and sailings to know: From May to September 2024, Princess offers Alaskan cruises ranging between 7 and 17-days on seven ships, including the 3,660-passenger Discovery Princess .

Book now with Princess Cruises

Celebrity Cruises: Wilderness Exploration and Crab Feasts

Adventurous couples relish Celebrity’s adult-oriented amusements, including inviting bars and lounges, fine restaurants, and relaxing spas. Big spenders book the Retreat, a luxurious private enclave—its Luminae restaurant showcases dishes by famed French chef Daniel Boulud. In Ketchikan , a four-hour Wilderness Exploration and Crab Feast in Tongass National Forest (America’s largest national forest) scores big buzz. Drive past jaw-dropping sights, like Native Alaskan totem poles, snowcapped mountains, and thunderous waterfalls. Relish a sightseeing vessel ride, assist crew pulling in crab pots (if you like), before tearing into unlimited fresh Dungeness crab with warm clarified butter, and cheesecake drenched in Alaskan blueberries.

Ships and sailings to know: Three premium ships, Celebrity Summit , Celebrity Solstice, and Celebrity Edge , cruise in Alaska from May until September 2024. The newest and most glam, 2,918-passenger Celebrity Edge, on its maiden Alaska season, offers eight-day voyages between Vancouver and Seattle .

Book now with Celebrity Cruises

Holland America Line: Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Quest

Holland America Line serves sustainable wild Alaskan seafood, with park rangers and local Indigenous tribe members often boarding for presentations. In Juneau, Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Quest rocks everyone’s boat. Gawk at one of North America’s most spectacular glaciers and learn about glaciers’ remarkable force in a compelling visitor center. Ride to Auke Bay and board a water-jet-powered expedition vessel designed for superior wildlife viewing. When sailing Stephens Passage—renowned as a summer breeding ground for humpback whales—you may well get close enough to hear these giants breathe.

Ships and sailings to know: This cruise line has plied Alaskan waters for more than 75 years, with seven ships sailing 6-19 day itineraries from May to September 2024.

Book now with Holland America Line

Crystal: Klondike Highway and White Pass

Formerly Crystal Cruises, the ultra-luxury two-ship Crystal, now owned by global travel leader Abercrombie & Kent, has been beautifully remodeled while maintaining its primary lures: beyond-attentive crew and superb dining. Note this sensational Skagway outing offered on Crystal Serenity Alaskan cruises: Motor along on iconic Klondike Highway to White Pass, reaching its 2,865-foot majestic summit and the Yukon Suspension Bridge. Take an exhilarating walk on this iconic bridge, suspended some 57 feet above Tutshi River’s churning rapids below, if you dare. (Make sure somebody gets a pic.) Even if you beg out, you still get the astonishing view and a hearty bison chili lunch.

Ships and sailings to know: The 740-passenger Crystal Serenity offers eight-and-nine-day Alaska voyages in July and August 2024.

Book now with Crystal Cruises

Seabourn: Anan Creek Bear Viewing and Photography

The outings on this adventure-minded Alaskan cruise exceed typical cruise ships, featuring Ventures by Seabourn excursions with Zodiac explorations, kayaking, and hiking led by expedition experts. In Wrangell, sign up for Anan Creek Bear Viewing and Photography, joining the expedition team bear expert and a photography specialist for this rousing small-group bear-viewing experience. Travel by boat to the Anan Estuary and Wildlife Observatory in the Tongass National Forest (Anan Creek has Southeast Alaska’s largest pink salmon run) and climb to the observation deck overlooking cascading waterfalls. Expect an electrifying view of salmon jumping and black and brown bears snatching their next meal.

Ships and sailings to know: The ultra-luxury 458-passenger Seabourn Odyssey offers seven-day sailings between Vancouver and Juneau, as well as 10- and 11-day roundtrip Vancouver cruises from May to September 2024. Seabourn fares include all-suite accommodations, dining, alcohol, WiFi, gratuities, and 24-hour in-suite service.

Book now with Seabourn

Norwegian Cruise Line: Spasski River Valley and Wildlife

Looking to cruise Alaska with your family in tow? Consider Norwegian Cruise Line. On offer are children and teenage clubs, plus families can come together to play video arcade games, laser tag, and race cars. During a Glacier Bay passage, a park ranger hops aboard to narrate scenic sights. Explore majestic Icy Strait Point—one of the world’s few places where wildlife outnumbers humans—with family-minded excursions like the Spasski River Valley and Wildlife tour. Motor to an elevated observation area in a postcard-perfect remote valley to safely observe bears, deer, and bald eagles in their natural habitats. Learn, too, about Tlingit Indigenous Alaskans who reside in nearby Hoonah, Alaska’s largest such settlement.

Ships and sailings to know: NCL primarily offers seven-to-10-day voyages, April through October 2024, on multiple ships.

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Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Taku Lodge Feast and Seaplane Discovery

The Alaska-sailing 746-passenger Seven Seas Explorer is mega glam, with a museum-worthy art collection. This writer gives a shoutout to the Taku Lodge Feast and Five-Glacier Seaplane Discovery excursions. Soar by floatplane over the majestic Juneau Icefield, land in a river near Hole-in-the-Wall Glacier, and feast on fresh-caught wild salmon by a roaring fire at a 100-year-old lodge. On this outing, I inhaled two salmon filets that slid down my throat like silk. Spoiler alert: After this culinary escapade, I couldn’t eat salmon for two years anywhere else.

Ships and sailings to know: Regent's Seven Seas Explorer mostly offers eight-day cruises running between Seward and Vancouver, from May to September 2024. On this ultra-luxury line, fares include airfare, unlimited shore excursions (other than select tours), alcohol, dining, WiFi, valet laundry, and gratuities.

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Royal Caribbean International: Kroschel Wildlife Refuge

Animal lovers of every age relish visiting the Kroschel Wildlife Refuge in Haines, a popular excursion among Royal Caribbean Alaska cruise passengers. Steven Kroschel, a wildlife expert who devoted decades to training wild animals for TV and films, owns the center that is home to orphaned and rescued animals, like lynx, Kodiac bears, arctic fox, porcupines, and wolverines. It’s also interactive; get close for photos and learn how the refuge protects these animals.

Ships and sailings to know: Royal Caribbean's nearly 4,000-passenger megaships, Quantum of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas , thrill families via free-fall skydiving, outdoor movies, and escape room games. Their Alaska cruises run from 8-14 days, April to September 2024.

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Viking: Scenic Train and Rafting

The Scenic Train and Rafting excursion delivers an inspired eight-hour shore tour, beginning with a train ride on the Alaskan Railroad through the vast wilderness. Gaze out windows, eying otherworldly views of the Placer River Valley and soaring peaks of Spencer Glacier, while enjoying a box lunch. Then meet guides to go rafting, paddling between dramatic icebergs and down the serene and scenic Placer River.

Ships and sailings to know: Viking’s adults-only 930-passenger Viking Orion sails 11 days May to September 2024, between Seward, Alaska and Vancouver. Viking ocean-liner fares include amenities like king-bed accommodations with spacious baths equipped with heated floors and anti-fog mirrors, dining, complimentary wine and beer with lunch and dinner, and spa access.

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Silversea: Sitka Culinary Adventure

Silversea’s lauded S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) program features Alaskan ingredients and recipes on all its S.A.L.T. Kitchen menus, S.A.L.T. Lab culinary classes, and S.A.L.T Bar mixology offerings. Soon-to-be-scheduled S.A.L.T excursions will showcase regional chefs and ingredients. Meanwhile, foodie fun unfolds with Sitka’s Culinary Adventure shore excursion. Visit a tap room, tasting beers made with filtered glacial water. Then graze about town, tasting pelmeni (popular dumplings evoking Sitka’s Russian heritage), and other local goodies like chowders, shrimp, black cod tips, and “reindeer dogs.”

Ships and sailings to know: Three ultra-luxury Silversea ships offer 7-16 day sails from May to September, but only the 728-passenger Silver Nova presents Silversea’s lauded S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) program. Fares include all-suite accommodations, butler service, most dining, alcohol, a shore excursion in each port, caviar, WiFi, and gratuities.

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UnCruise Adventures: Explore Glacier Bay National Park’s Rarely Visited Outback

Attracting high-energy explorers drawn to less conventional shore excursions, this expedition-driven small-ship line visits bays and coves inaccessible to larger cruise ships. Traditional ships just cruise UNESCO World Heritage Site Glacier Bay; on Wilderness Discoverer , the captain drops anchor in Fern Harbor, Sawmill Bay, and Dundas Bay during the Explore Glacier Bay National Park’s Rarely Visited Outback excursion. Count on a full day of activities like kayaking, paddle boarding, skiff expeditions, and beach strolls. Expert-led hikes take you deep into the breathtaking beauty of the backcountry of one of Alaska's most remote national parks . Few Alaskan cruisers can ever claim this experience.

Ships and sailings to know: The 76-passenger Wilderness Discoverer offers eight-day voyages from April to August 2024.

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