Whittier to Vancouver Alaskan cruise – cost, itinerary, ports, and excursions 

Do you know there are two Whittiers? One in California and the other in Alaska—the latter being the starting point of your cruise from Alaska to Vancouver.

After flying into Anchorage (Ted Stevens ANC being the nearest airport) for your expedition, you can reach Whittier via train, cruise, or taxi, relishing the sights of the city nestled between mountains and ice sheets. 

The coastal route from Whittier to Vancouver offers nonstop scenic views of tidewater glaciers, rocky islands, cliffs, and marine wildlife. 

Along the way, you’ll pass through the mighty Hubbard Glacier, the Icy Strait Point, and beautiful Alaskan cities like Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan before you finally arrive in Vancouver. 

Fun fact: Whittier, Alaska vs. Whittier, Canada

Travelers often tend to mistake the Canada ‘Whittier’ for the Alaska one due to their shared name. However, they are worlds apart in climate, geography, history, and population. Both cities are named after the 19th-century Quaker poet and abolitionist John Greenleaf Whittier, and that’s where the similarities end. Cruisegoers looking for icy Whittier in Alaska end up reading about sunny Whittier in California, which is far less exciting than the former. For instance, do you know that Whittier, Alaska, is known as a ‘town under one roof’?Interestingly, all residents live in a single building, Begich Towers—originally a World War II military facility. This building has everything from a post office, school, hospital, government offices, and even a grocery store. So, the next time you plan a trip to the last frontier, double-check whether you’re heading to the right Whittier!

Why should you choose an Alaska cruise departing from Whittier? 

Whittier is an amazing city with fascinating history and civilization, making it a perfect departure point for many Alaska cruises. 

You might think Anchorage would be an ideal port for docking a ship because of its comparatively larger size and accessibility. But Whittier has a deep-water port that helps accommodate large cruise ships. 

Since this is a much smaller port, it gives an intimate feeling and a less-crowded experience to all its passengers. 

Plus, its magical landscape surrounded by glaciers and mountainous peaks is a visual wonder. 

There are several major cruise lines that offer a southbound route from Whittier to Vancouver.  

Some of the most popular ones are the Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Oceania Cruises. 

All these cruise ships are known for their luxury amenities, incredible dining, and endless entertainment. 

Sailing through some of the remote locations on a luxurious ship, spotting marine wildlife, and enjoying the blissful scenery is just an unforgettable adventure!

Do you know that there were no roads in Whittier till the 2000s?
Yes, Whittier’s roads were built only during the 2000s, with the existing railroad tunnel converted into a one-lane highway. Today, both the road and railroad run side by side, making this stretch a sight you ought not to miss. 

Cost of Whittier to Alaska cruise

The ticket price for an Alaska cruise from Whittier ranges from $972 to $10,941 USD, depending on the cruise and the suite you select. 

Here are the detailed costs for the Norwegian Jade ship from Norwegian Cruise Line on its 7-night Alaska cruise.

Note: Based on your interests, you can choose a 6-9 night or 10-14 night cruise. The cost varies depending on the ship and its destinations.

Itinerary of the cruise from Whittier to Vancouver

Your Alaska expedition starts from the port of Whittier and ends in Vancouver, Canada. 

Here’s a detailed itinerary:

Which cruise line should you choose?

Here comes the tricky part—choosing the cruise line for your journey! 

The idea is to match your interests with the cruise itinerary. 

Overall, all these cruises are family-friendly and suitable for a romantic getaway, a wedding party, or a honeymoon.

Among the four cruise lines that venture from Whittier to Alaska, the Norwegian line has stops at Hubbard Glacier and Icy Strait Point, while the Holland America line takes you through Glacier Bay (there’s no heavenly substitute for this place). 

The Oceania Riveria, on the other hand, visits spots like Icy Strait Point, Haines, Sitka, and Prince Rupert. 

The Princess Cruises, by comparison, sails through popular places like Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and the Inside Passage before ending in Vancouver. 

After identifying your route, the next concern is about the ship’s amenities. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. 

Norwegian Cruise Lines are known for their flexibility and fun. For instance, they do not have a fixed dinner time and host some Broadway-style shows to keep you entertained. 

Holland America Lines focuses mainly on cultural enrichment, and their cruises offer a more refined experience, enlightening cruisers with Alaska’s history and landscapes. 

Now, if you’re looking for a luxurious and more intimate atmosphere, then Oceania is your best bet. 

Meanwhile, Princess Cruises is all about elegance and comfort, with premium services, observation decks, and nature highlights that are perfect for nature lovers. 

Ports and excursions

As you sail merrily down south, you’ll be mesmerized by the constantly changing panoramic views like glaciers, islands, mountains, and chances to spot wildlife. 

The route from Whittier to Vancouver promises incredible scenery right from the ship, but that’s just the beginning. 

You’ll have exciting on-land excursions at various ports of call, and they all provide equally vivid experiences.

Whittier, Alaska

Located on the Passage Canal and surrounded by the Chugach mountains, Whittier is truly a mystical city. 

You can take a drive along the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, the longest tunnel in North America, connecting you from Anchorage to Whittier. 

Love camping? Welcome to Prince William Sound. And if possible, stay there for an overnight adventure. 

You can book a private walking tour to learn more about Whittier’s history. Also, meet the unofficial mascot of Whittier, Manu the reindeer, who’s guest-friendly.

Remember, Whittier is a small city with few hotels. So, most tourists prefer to stay in Anchorage or will try booking a private transfer from ANC airport to Whittier in time for their cruise.

Icy Strait Point, Alaska

As the name hints, this is a hidden gem in Alaska, filled with unique adventures. 

Perfect for wildlife spotting, this area is where tourists usually enjoy extended hours of whale-watching and catch glimpses of orcas and sea lions. 

If you’re wild at heart, go on a bear-watching tour through the dense forests of Icy Strait Point. 

Those who love to learn about the region’s natives can visit the Tlingit population and discover their traditions, art, and culture. 

Need some exciting quests during your excursion? Take on the world’s longest zip line, the Icy Strait Point ZipRider. 

And when it comes to the local cuisine, it’s not just about savoring fresh seafood—you’ll even have the chance to try your hand at salmon fishing and crabbing!

Juneau, Alaska

One of the most popular hotspots in Juneau is the Mendenhall Glacier. 

Situated within the Tongass National Forest, the U.S.’ largest biosphere reserve, it is an ideal place to view Alaskan wildlife.

Other places to visit include the State Capitol Building, Saint Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church, several museums, and the historic South Franklin Street. 

If you like to hike, Juneau has some of the best locations you’ll relish. Perseverance National Recreation Trail and the Mount Roberts Trail are the most popular. 

Vancouver, Canada

The cruise ends in Vancouver, a vibrant city excellent for a post-cruise adventure.

You can scout out to Granville Island and Stanley Park or explore Gastown on a bike. 

And if you’re also a mountain person, visit the Grouse Mountain and Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, the largest aerial tramway in North America.

With so many options available, Vancouver is the ideal place to continue your exploration after your cruise!