🛳️Best Alaska cruises

The average cost of a 7-day cruise to Alaska’s Inside Passage ranges between US$3,000 and US$5,000 per person. This includes shore excursions and additional amenities, offering a complete experience of Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes and wildlife. The cost for a similar 7-day cruise along the Gulf of Alaska has the same price range. Do keep in mind prices vary depending on the cruise line, cabin type, and the season, among other factors.

If you’re a U.S. citizen and your Alaska cruise begins and ends at the same U.S. port (Seattle, San Francisco, or Los Angeles), you do not need a passport for your trip to Alaska as per the existing guidelines. However, there are specific situations where a U.S. passport is necessary, especially if your cruise stops in Canada or other foreign ports. A valid passport is mandatory for non-U.S. citizens on an Alaska cruise. Depending on your nationality, you may also need a U.S. visa or an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) if your cruise departs from a U.S. port.

It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the cruise itinerary, the types of excursions offered, and the unique wildlife and landscapes you’ll encounter. Pack appropriately for varying weather conditions, and check if your cruise requires any specific documentation.

Most Alaska cruises last 7 days. They are either Alaska Inside Passage cruises, which sail roundtrip from Seattle or Vancouver, or Alaska glacier cruises, which sail south from Anchorage or North from Vancouver.

The best time to go on an Alaska cruise is between May and September, with July being the pick of the lot. If you want to see the Northern Lights, take a cruise in September.

The cost of an Alaskan cruise ranges from $200 to $5,000 per person, depending on the type of cruise and the chosen accommodation. For instance, a brief 3 to 4-night cruise can cost as low as $200-$300 per person for an inside cabin, whereas a seven-day cruise can cost anywhere between $1500-$5,000 per person, depending on the cruise line, destination, and cabin type. The above expenses apart, it is best to allocate an extra $1,000 to $1,500 per person for shore excursions to fully immerse in the Alaskan experience.

Pack a mix of warm and waterproof clothing, and bring layers, such as thermal shirts, fleece jackets, and waterproof outerwear. Don’t forget a good pair of binoculars for wildlife spotting, comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions, and sunscreen for sunny days at sea.

The most popular types of Alaska cruises include expedition and adventure cruises, Inside Passage cruises, Northern Lights cruises, Glacial Bay cruises, family-friendly cruises, luxury cruises, and Kenai Fjords National Park cruises.

You can take a helicopter ride to a glacier, go dog sledding, enjoy wildlife tours to see bears, whales, and eagles, or try your hand at fishing. For the more relaxed traveler, city tours of Juneau, Ketchikan, or Skagway offer rich cultural experiences.

The best ports on an Alaska cruise include Juneau, known for its stunning Mendenhall Glacier; Ketchikan, famous for its totem poles and the Misty Fjords; and Skagway, which offers a glimpse into the Gold Rush era.

Cruise lines on this route range from large ships (Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, etc.) to smaller expedition-style cruises (UnCruise Adventures, Lindblad Expeditions, etc.).

Amenities include everything from luxurious spas, fine dining, and entertainment options to educational lectures about Alaskan wildlife and culture. Some cruises even offer heated pools and hot tubs.

Most cruise lines have comprehensive contingency measures in place, including onboard medical facilities and emergency protocols. 

Travel insurance safeguards you from unexpected events such as cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage.

Yes, an Alaska cruise is ideal for all age groups. Families can enjoy a variety of shore excursions, while older travelers might appreciate the scenery and relaxing pace of the voyage. Many cruise lines also offer special activities for kids and teens.

Most major cruise lines have accessible cabins and facilities, making it possible for travelers with mobility issues to enjoy an Alaska cruise. Nevertheless, it’s a good idea to check with the cruise line in advance whether shore excursions and other activities are also accessible.

An Alaska cruise offers incredible opportunities to see wildlife such as humpback whales, orcas, bald eagles, bears, moose, and sea otters. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars and camera to capture these unforgettable moments!

September is the best month to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights during an Alaska cruise, though they are never guaranteed due to the unpredictable nature of this phenomenon.

Food on an Alaska cruise can range from casual buffets to gourmet dining experiences. Many cruise lines incorporate local flavors, offering dishes like Alaskan king crab, salmon, and other fresh seafood.

The type of cabin you choose can greatly affect your experience. Balcony cabins are popular because they allow you to enjoy Alaska’s stunning scenery right from your room. If you’re on a budget, inside cabins are more affordable but still offer comfortable accommodations. Oceanview cabins provide a middle ground with windows for natural light and views.

Coastal temperatures typically range from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C) during the summer months, but it can be cooler near glaciers and at higher elevations. Thus, layering is key to staying comfortable.

Yes, glaciers are one of the highlights of an Alaska cruise. Popular glacier viewing spots include Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier, and Tracy Arm Fjord.

Most cruise ships offer Wi-Fi packages, but connectivity can be slower or more expensive than what you’re used to on land. If staying connected is important, consider purchasing a Wi-Fi package or checking with your mobile carrier about coverage.

The dress code on an Alaska cruise is generally casual during the day, with comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. In the evenings, some cruise lines have “formal nights” where guests are encouraged to dress up, but this is usually optional.

Casinos, dance clubs, themed parties, live shows, music performances, and movies are some entertainment offered onboard. You can also find quieter spaces like libraries or observation lounges for a more relaxing experience.

If your cruise is entirely within the U.S., you only need U.S. dollars. However, if your cruise includes stops in Canada, it’s helpful to have some Canadian dollars, though credit cards are widely accepted in both countries.

If you’re prone to seasickness, consider choosing a cabin mid-ship and on a lower deck where movement is less noticeable. Bringing motion sickness remedies, such as wristbands, patches, or medication, can also help.