Learn everything you need to plan your dream Alaskan cruise – from choosing the best time to go, what to pack, top excursions, and insider tips that’ll save you money.
Alaska cruises offer scenic journeys through the Inside Passage, visiting ports like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway. Popular from late spring through early autumn, these voyages showcase glaciers, fjords, and wildlife including whales, bears, and eagles. Most cruises depart from Seattle or Vancouver, with options for one-way or round-trip itineraries combining land tours.
Quick Facts: Alaska Cruises at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Cruise Season | May through September |
| Average Cruise Length | 7 days (with 3-14 day options) |
| Main Departure Ports | Seattle, Vancouver, Seward, Whittier |
| Most Common Route | Inside Passage |
| Average Temperature (Summer) | 50-65°F |
| Typical Ports Visited | 3-5 ports per week-long cruise |
| Wildlife Viewing Peak | June through August |
Planning Your Alaska Cruise
The difference between an exceptional Alaska cruise and a disappointing one often comes down to timing, route selection, and realistic expectations. Our comprehensive Alaska cruise planning guide covers every decision point, but here are the foundations.
When Should You Actually Go?
Everyone will tell you that summer is peak season but let me break down what that really means for your wallet and your experience. The shoulder seasons of May and September offer significant advantages that most first-timers overlook.
May: The Underdog Champion
- Cruise fares can be 30-40% cheaper than peak summer rates
- Fewer crowds at popular excursions and viewpoints
- Snow-capped mountains provide dramatic backdrops
- Waterfalls are at their most powerful from snowmelt
- Trade-off: slightly cooler temperatures and occasional rain
→ Complete May Alaska cruises guide – shoulder season strategies and what to expect
June Through August: Peak Season Reality
- Warmest weather and longest daylight hours (up to 18-20 hours in some areas)
- Best odds for whale watching as humpbacks feed in Alaskan waters
- All attractions and excursions fully operational
- Wildlife viewing at its absolute best
- Prices at their highest and crowds at their thickest
→ June Alaska cruises – season kicks off with warming weather
→ July Alaska cruises – peak wildlife and salmon runs
→ August Alaska cruises – warmest temperatures, family travel peak
September: The Secret Weapon
- Lower prices return as kids head back to school
- Autumn colours transform the landscape into something magical
- Northern lights begin appearing towards the end of the month
- Fewer mosquitoes than summer months
- Some tours and shops begin closing for the season
→ September Alaska cruises – autumn colours and northern lights
→ Best month to cruise Alaska – comprehensive month-by-month comparison
→ Early vs late season Alaska cruises – shoulder season deep dive
Choosing Your Route
Not all Alaska cruises are created equal and understanding the difference between routes will save you from booking the wrong trip for your interests.
Inside Passage Cruises This is the classic Alaska cruise experience that most people envision. Ships navigate through a protected network of waterways between the mainland and coastal islands.
- Round-trip from Seattle or Vancouver (typically 7 days)
- Calmer waters mean less seasickness
- Focus on Southeast Alaska ports and culture
- More time spent cruising through scenic waterways
- Best for: First-timers, families, those prone to seasickness
→ Inside Passage cruises complete guide – route details and port combinations
Gulf of Alaska (One-Way) Cruises These cruises travel from Vancouver or Seattle north to Seward or Whittier (or vice versa), covering more territory but requiring flights and potentially hotel stays on either end.
- Typically 7 days of cruising
- Visits different ports than round-trip itineraries
- Often combined with land tours (cruisetours)
- Includes glacier-rich College Fjord or Hubbard Glacier
- No backtracking since you end in a different port
- Best for: Adventurous travellers wanting maximum coverage
→ Gulf of Alaska cruises – one-way route advantages and logistics
→ Roundtrip vs one-way Alaska cruises – direct comparison
Cruise Length Options
7-Day Cruises The most common length offers a solid introduction to Alaska without requiring extensive time off work. You’ll visit 3-5 ports depending on the route and spend at least one full day cruising through glacier areas.
→ 7-day Alaska cruises – what you can realistically see and do
10-Day Cruises Extended itineraries allow for more ports, longer stays, or additional glacier viewing days. Some include pre or post-cruise hotel nights in departure cities.
→ 10-day Alaska cruises – expanded itinerary options
Small Ship Adventures Vessels carrying fewer than 100 passengers can access narrow waterways and remote areas that big ships can’t reach.
- More intimate wildlife viewing opportunities
- Can anchor in secluded coves and fjords
- Often include kayaking and zodiac excursions
- Higher per-day cost but more inclusive
- Limited onboard amenities compared to large ships
→ Alaska small ship cruises – expedition-style experiences
→ Alaska expedition cruises – adventure-focused operators
Budget and Booking Strategy
Alaska cruises represent a significant investment but smart planning can reduce costs without sacrificing experience.
→ Alaska cruise cost breakdown – realistic budget expectations
→ How to save money on Alaska cruises – proven cost-cutting strategies
→ When to book Alaska cruises – wave season vs last-minute deals
→ Alaska cruise deals – finding legitimate discounts
→ All-inclusive Alaska cruises – luxury options with excursions included
First-Timer Resources
If this is your first Alaska cruise (or first cruise anywhere), start here:
→ Alaska cruise first-timer’s guide – everything beginners need to know
→ Alaska cruise mistakes to avoid – learn from others’ errors
→ What to pack for Alaska cruise – essential gear and clothing
Alaska Cruise Ports: Where You’ll Actually Go
Each port has a distinct personality and knowing what to expect helps you plan accordingly. Our comprehensive Alaska cruise ports guide provides detailed information for every destination.
Southeast Alaska Ports
Juneau (Alaska’s Capital) Only U.S. capital inaccessible by road. Home to Mendenhall Glacier, Mount Roberts Tramway, and excellent whale watching. The downtown area is walkable with shops and restaurants within easy reach of the dock.
→ Complete Juneau cruise port guide – terminal details, transport options, and top attractions
→ Juneau whale watching – booking the best tours
→ Mendenhall Glacier guide – accessing Alaska’s most visited glacier
Ketchikan (Totem Pole Capital) First or last port for most cruises. Creek Street historic red-light district built on stilts, largest collection of standing totem poles in the world, and gateway to Misty Fjords. Wettest city in Alaska, so bring rain gear.
→ Complete Ketchikan cruise port guide – walking routes and excursion planning
→ Creek Street guide – historic boardwalk exploration
→ Misty Fjords – flightseeing and boat tour options
→ Ketchikan totem poles – best locations and cultural context
Skagway (Gold Rush Town) Entire downtown is a National Historical Park. White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad is the signature excursion. Smallest population of major cruise ports with authentic frontier buildings. Most walkable port but gets overwhelmed when multiple large ships dock simultaneously.
→ Complete Skagway cruise port guide – historic walking tour and railway details
→ White Pass Railroad – booking the legendary train journey
→ Skagway gold rush history – historical context and sites
Sitka (Russian Heritage) Only major port on the outer coast (not Inside Passage). Ships anchor offshore requiring tender boats. Russian Orthodox cathedral, Totem National Historical Park, Fortress of the Bear rescue centre, and Alaska Raptor Centre. More authentic Alaska feel with less tourist infrastructure.
→ Complete Sitka cruise port guide – tendering logistics and top attractions
→ Sitka National Historical Park – totem trails and cultural centre
→ Sitka Russian heritage – Orthodox church and colonial history
Icy Strait Point (Native-Owned Port) Alaska’s only privately-owned cruise destination operated by Huna Totem Corporation (Tlingit-owned). Features world’s longest zipline, excellent whale watching directly from shore, and authentic native culture presentations in a former salmon cannery.
→ Complete Icy Strait Point guide – activities and cultural experiences
→ ZipRider at Icy Strait Point – world’s longest zipline experience
→ Icy Strait Point Tlingit culture – authentic native presentations
Haines Small port with dramatic mountain backdrops and exceptional eagle viewing. Less touristy than major ports, offering genuine Alaska small-town experience.
→ Haines cruise port guide – things to do and wildlife viewing
Gulf of Alaska & Remote Ports
Seward Northern terminus for many one-way cruises. Gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park and starting point for Alaska Railroad journeys to Anchorage and Denali.
→ Seward cruise port guide – transport to Anchorage and excursion options
→ Seward to Anchorage transport – train, bus, and car rental
→ Kenai Fjords from Seward – boat tour booking guide
Whittier Accessible only through North America’s longest highway tunnel. Small port serving as northern gateway for Gulf of Alaska cruises and Prince William Sound exploration.
→ Whittier cruise port guide – tunnel access and logistics
Homer “Halibut Fishing Capital of the World” on the Kenai Peninsula. Features the famous Homer Spit extending into Kachemak Bay.
→ Homer cruise port guide – fishing charters and local attractions
Kodiak Remote island famous for massive Kodiak brown bears. Requires small ship access or expedition cruises.
→ Kodiak cruise port guide – bear viewing and Russian heritage
Scenic Cruising Areas
Glacier Bay National Park Ships don’t dock but spend the day cruising through this protected wilderness. Park rangers come aboard to provide commentary as you pass tidewater glaciers.
→ Glacier Bay cruising guide – what to expect during the day
Hubbard Glacier Largest tidewater glacier in North America. Ships approach the face for dramatic viewing and possible calving events.
→ Hubbard Glacier guide – positioning yourself for best views
College Fjord Glacier-rich area containing multiple named glaciers. Gulf of Alaska cruises often include this spectacular cruising day.
→ College Fjord guide – glacier identification and viewing tips
Tracy Arm Fjord Narrow fjord with sheer cliffs and glaciers. Popular excursion from Juneau or scenic cruising stop on some itineraries.
→ Tracy Arm Fjord guide – boat tours and ship positioning
Canadian Ports
Victoria, British Columbia Often included for U.S. embarkation compliance (Passenger Vessel Services Act requires foreign ports). British Columbia’s capital with Butchart Gardens, Inner Harbour, and afternoon tea traditions. Usually brief evening stops of 4-6 hours.
→ Victoria BC cruise port guide – maximising short port calls
→ Butchart Gardens from cruise port – transport and timing
→ Victoria Inner Harbour – walking tour and attractions
Alaska Departure Ports: Planning Your Journey
Where you start and end your cruise significantly impacts logistics, costs, and pre/post-cruise opportunities. Our Alaska departure ports guide covers all your options.
Vancouver, British Columbia
The world’s busiest Alaska cruise departure port. Offers excellent pre-cruise exploration opportunities with diverse neighbourhoods, exceptional dining, and easy airport access.
→ Vancouver departure port guide – complete planning resource
→ Vancouver airport to cruise terminal – transport options and costs
→ Best hotels near Vancouver cruise terminal – pre-cruise accommodation
→ Vancouver cruise port parking – rates and reservations
→ Things to do in Vancouver – pre-cruise activities
Seattle, Washington
Most popular U.S. departure port for Alaska cruises. Downtown location makes pre-cruise exploration easy with Pike Place Market, waterfront, and Space Needle all accessible.
→ Seattle departure port guide – comprehensive planning information
→ Seattle airport to cruise terminal – transport options
→ Best hotels near Seattle cruise terminal – accommodation guide
→ Seattle cruise port parking – long-term options
→ Things to do in Seattle – pre-cruise exploration
Seward & Whittier (Gulf of Alaska)
Northern termination points for one-way Gulf of Alaska cruises. Require flights into Anchorage and ground transport to reach these smaller ports.
→ Whittier as departure port – logistics and planning
→ Anchorage to Whittier transport – shuttle, train, and car options
→ Alaska Railroad Anchorage to Whittier – scenic train journey
→ Things to do in Anchorage – pre-cruise exploration
Comparing Your Options
→ Vancouver vs Seattle for Alaska cruises – direct comparison helping you decide
→ Alaska departure port comparison – all options evaluated
Picking the Right Cruise Line
The ship matters more than you think because it shapes your entire experience beyond just the ports you visit. Different Alaska cruise lines cater to vastly different travel styles.
Mass Market Lines (Best Value)
Norwegian, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Princess offer the most sailings with competitive pricing.
- Princess has the longest Alaska history and largest fleet presence
- Norwegian offers flexible dining and freestyle cruising
- Royal Caribbean brings adventure activities like rock climbing walls
- Carnival appeals to families with active kids
- Rates typically £100-200 per person per night
→ Princess Cruises Alaska – the Alaska specialist
→ Holland America Alaska – traditional elegance and expertise
→ Celebrity Cruises Alaska – modern premium experience
→ Royal Caribbean Alaska – adventure activities onboard
→ Norwegian Cruise Line Alaska – freestyle cruising flexibility
→ Carnival Alaska cruises – family-friendly budget option
Premium & Luxury Options
Holland America, Celebrity, Disney, and luxury lines provide elevated experiences with higher service standards and often more inclusive pricing.
→ Disney Cruise Line Alaska – exceptional family experience
→ Luxury Alaska cruises – Regent, Seabourn, Silversea options
Small Ship & Expedition Operators
Vessels carrying fewer than 100 passengers access remote areas big ships can’t reach, with expedition leaders and naturalist guides.
→ UnCruise Adventures Alaska – adventure-focused small ships
→ Lindblad National Geographic Alaska – expedition cruising with photographers
→ Alaskan Dream Cruises – locally-owned small ship operator
Making Your Decision
→ Alaska cruise ship size guide – big vs small ship comparison
→ Small vs big ship Alaska cruises – which suits your style
→ Princess vs Holland America – comparing the two Alaska specialists
Cabin Selection
Alaska is one of the few cruise destinations where cabin choice significantly impacts your experience due to extended daylight and scenic cruising.
→ Best cabins for Alaska cruises – location and type recommendations
→ Inside vs balcony cabin Alaska – is the upgrade worth it?
→ Is a balcony worth it on Alaska cruises? – cost-benefit analysis
→ Best cabin location Alaska cruises – deck and position strategy
→ Best budget cabins Alaska – maximising value
Shore Excursions: Making the Most of Port Days
This is where your budget can either stay on track or completely derail. Shore excursions often cost as much as the cruise itself if you’re not strategic. Our Alaska shore excursions guide covers every activity type and booking strategy.
Signature Alaska Experiences
Helicopter Tours Landing on glaciers provides unforgettable perspectives. Expensive but genuinely once-in-a-lifetime experiences combining flightseeing with glacier walks.
→ Alaska helicopter tours – booking guide and what to expect
Dog Sledding Summer glacier dog sledding combines helicopter flight with musher interaction and actual sled rides on snow. The quintessential Alaska experience.
→ Alaska dog sledding excursions – summer glacier experiences
Railway Journeys Historic narrow-gauge railways offer spectacular mountain views without requiring physical exertion. White Pass & Yukon Route from Skagway is the signature experience.
→ Alaska railway excursions – booking the best train journeys
Adventure Activities
→ Alaska fishing excursions – salmon and halibut charters
→ Alaska kayaking tours – paddling amongst glaciers and wildlife
→ Alaska ATV adventures – off-road wilderness exploration
→ Alaska zipline adventures – canopy tours and record-breakers
→ Alaska hiking excursions – guided trail experiences
→ Alaska flightseeing tours – aerial glacier viewing
Cultural Experiences
→ Alaska cultural excursions – native heritage and gold rush history
→ Alaska gold panning – authentic prospecting experiences
Booking Strategy
→ Ship excursions vs independent tours – pros and cons of each approach
→ Alaska shore excursions booking guide – when and how to book
→ Best Alaska shore excursion companies – vetted independent operators
→ Alaska excursion scams to avoid – protecting yourself
→ Shore excursion cancellation policies – weather and refunds
Specialised Options
→ Mobility-friendly Alaska excursions – accessible activities
→ Budget Alaska shore excursions – affordable options
→ Family Alaska shore excursions – kid-friendly activities
→ Rainy day Alaska excursions – weather-proof activities
→ Free things to do in Alaska ports – self-guided exploration
→ Alaska shore excursion weather guide – planning for conditions
Wildlife and Nature: What You’ll Actually See
Alaska wildlife is genuinely spectacular but nature doesn’t perform on a schedule. Our comprehensive Alaska wildlife guide sets realistic expectations and maximises your viewing opportunities.
Marine Wildlife
Whale Watching Humpback whales feed in Alaskan waters throughout the cruise season with 80-90% success rates on dedicated whale watching tours. Orcas appear less frequently but are spotted regularly.
→ Alaska whale watching guide – best locations and booking
→ Humpback whales in Alaska – behaviour and viewing strategies
→ Orcas in Alaska waters – where and when to spot them
→ Gray whales Alaska – migration patterns
Land Wildlife
Brown Bears and Black Bears Viewing wild bears requires either specialised excursions to remote locations or fortunate timing during salmon runs. July and August offer best odds as bears fish for spawning salmon.
→ Alaska brown bear viewing – best locations and tours
→ Alaska black bears – behaviour and safety
Bald Eagles You’ll see dozens, if not hundreds, of bald eagles throughout your cruise. Ketchikan and Haines offer particularly dense populations.
→ Bald eagles in Alaska – viewing hotspots and photography
Other Wildlife
→ Alaska salmon runs – timing and viewing locations
→ Alaska puffins – where to spot these charismatic seabirds
→ Alaska marine life – seals, sea otters, sea lions
→ Alaska wildlife viewing guide – comprehensive species guide
→ Alaska wildlife guide – identification and behaviour
Glacier Experiences
Watching massive chunks of ice calve from glacier faces ranks among Alaska’s most memorable moments. Understanding glacier viewing positions and timing improves your experience.
→ Alaska glacier viewing – ship positioning and timing
→ Best Alaska glacier experiences – top viewing locations
→ Alaska glacier calving – what to expect and when
→ Glacier viewing positions on ships – where to stand
→ Alaska glacier photography – camera settings and composition
Photography Guidance
→ Alaska cruise photography tips – equipment and techniques
→ Alaska nature photography tips – capturing wildlife and landscapes
→ Alaska photo opportunities – don’t-miss shots
Other Natural Features
→ Alaska temperate rainforest – understanding the ecosystem
→ Northern lights on Alaska cruises – September viewing possibilities
Extending Your Trip: Cruise Tours
Cruise tours extend your Alaska experience into the interior, accessing Denali National Park and Fairbanks that ships can’t reach. Our Alaska cruise tours guide covers all your options for combining sea and land adventures.
Denali National Park
Alaska’s premier interior destination features North America’s tallest peak and exceptional wildlife viewing in a protected wilderness setting.
→ Denali cruise tours – combining cruises with Denali visits
→ Best Denali tours – bus tours and activities
→ Where to stay in Denali – lodge options
→ Denali Park Road – accessing the wilderness
→ Denali wildlife viewing – bears, moose, and caribou
→ Is Denali worth it? – honest assessment
Fairbanks
Alaska’s interior hub offers gold rush history, riverboat cruises, and northern lights viewing in autumn.
→ Fairbanks cruise tours – interior Alaska experiences
→ Things to do in Fairbanks – attractions guide
→ Northern lights in Fairbanks – September viewing
Yukon Territory
Cross into Canada’s Yukon for additional wilderness and gold rush heritage.
→ Yukon cruise tours – Canadian extensions
→ Whitehorse Yukon – capital city guide
→ Alaska Highway – historic road journey
Planning Your Cruise Tour
→ Pre vs post-cruise land tours – which works better
→ Alaska cruise tour cost breakdown – budgeting guide
→ Alaska cruise tour planning guide – comprehensive logistics
Comparisons: Making Informed Decisions
Understanding how different options stack up helps you make the right choices for your preferences and budget. Our Alaska cruise comparisons section covers all major decision points.
Destination Comparisons
→ Alaska vs Norway cruises – fjords face-off
→ Alaska vs Caribbean cruises – fundamental differences
Timing Comparisons
→ Summer vs shoulder season Alaska cruises – peak vs value
→ May vs June Alaska cruises – early season comparison
→ June vs July Alaska cruises – weather and crowds
→ July vs August Alaska cruises – peak season differences
→ August vs September Alaska cruises – late season comparison
Route Comparisons
→ Inside Passage vs Gulf of Alaska – route differences
→ 7-day vs 10-day Alaska cruises – length comparison
→ Cruise tour vs cruise only – adding land extensions
Travel Style Comparisons
→ Alaska cruises for families vs couples – experience differences
→ Budget vs luxury Alaska cruises – what extra money buys
→ Expedition vs traditional Alaska cruises – ship style comparison
Practical Information and Logistics
The practical details can make or break your Alaska cruise experience. Our Alaska cruise practical guide covers everything from documentation to connectivity.
Essential Documentation
→ Documents needed for Alaska cruises – complete checklist
→ Alaska cruise passport requirements – closed-loop vs one-way rules
→ Alaska cruise insurance guide – coverage recommendations
Travel Logistics
→ Alaska cruise flights guide – booking flights around cruises
→ Alaska cruise cell service – staying connected (or not)
Special Traveller Needs
→ Cruising Alaska with kids – family planning guide
→ Cruising Alaska with teens – keeping teenagers engaged
→ Alaska cruises for seniors – considerations for older travellers
→ Solo Alaska cruise travel – single supplements and meetups
→ Accessible Alaska cruises – mobility considerations
→ Alaska honeymoon cruises – romantic planning
What to Wear: Alaska Cruise Outfits
Alaska packing lists tend to focus on layering (which is important) but miss crucial items that significantly impact your comfort. Our comprehensive Alaska cruise outfits guide covers complete wardrobe strategies.
Monthly Outfit Guides
→ May Alaska cruise outfits – early season layering
→ June Alaska cruise outfits – transitional weather dressing
→ July Alaska cruise outfits – peak summer clothing
→ August Alaska cruise outfits – warmest month strategies
→ September Alaska cruise outfits – autumn layering
Gender-Specific Guides
→ Women’s Alaska cruise outfits – complete wardrobe planning
→ Men’s Alaska cruise outfits – practical packing guide
→ Alaska cruise outfit ideas – mix-and-match strategies
Understanding Alaska: Culture and History
Alaska’s human history is as rich as its natural beauty. Our Alaska specialty guides explore cultural context that enriches your cruise experience.
→ Alaska gold rush history – Klondike and Nome stories
→ Alaska native culture – indigenous peoples overview
→ Tlingit culture in Southeast Alaska – totem poles and traditions
→ Alaska cruise brochure truths – realistic expectations vs marketing
Common Questions and FAQ
Do I need a passport for an Alaska cruise?
For closed-loop cruises (starting and ending at the same U.S. port), U.S. citizens can travel with a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID. However, a passport is required for one-way cruises or cruisetours that fly in or out of Canada. Even for closed-loop cruises, a passport is strongly recommended in case of emergency evacuation or unexpected travel changes.
Will I get seasick on an Alaska cruise?
Most Alaska cruises travel through the protected waters of the Inside Passage, which are significantly calmer than open ocean. Seasickness is less common on Alaska cruises than Caribbean or transatlantic voyages. That said, the Gulf of Alaska and certain passages can experience rougher seas. If you’re prone to motion sickness, bring medication and consider booking a mid-ship cabin on a lower deck where movement is minimised.
Can I see the Northern Lights on an Alaska cruise?
Northern Lights viewing on summer Alaska cruises is extremely unlikely due to the extended daylight hours. During peak cruise season (May through August), Alaska experiences nearly continuous daylight with only a few hours of twilight. September sailings offer the best chance as darkness returns, but sightings are still uncommon and not guaranteed. For serious Northern Lights viewing, visit Alaska in winter months when cruises don’t operate.
What happens if weather cancels my excursion?
Weather-related cancellations do occur in Alaska. If you booked through the cruise line, you’ll receive a full refund to your onboard account. If you booked independently, refund policies vary by operator – always check cancellation terms before booking. Some excursions like helicopter tours are particularly weather-dependent, whilst others like city tours are rarely affected. Consider travel insurance that covers excursion cancellations.
How much cash should I bring?
Cruise ships operate on cashless systems where everything charges to your cabin. However, cash is useful for tipping independent tour guides (£10-20 per person), small purchases at markets or from street vendors, emergencies if credit card systems fail, and tipping hotel staff during cruisetours. Bring £200-400 in small notes. ATMs exist in most ports but may charge significant fees.
Are Alaska cruises suitable for young children?
Alaska cruises work well for families with children of all ages, though the experience differs from beach-focused cruises. Young children enjoy wildlife viewing, train rides, and gold panning activities. School-age kids appreciate educational aspects and adventure activities. Teens might find Alaska more engaging than beach destinations. Consider Disney or other family-focused lines if travelling with young children. Pack activities for sea days as Alaska ships offer fewer pools and water features than warm-weather vessels.
How formal is dining on Alaska cruises?
Alaska cruises are the most casual cruise destination. Even on formal nights, expectations are significantly relaxed compared to other itineraries. Many passengers wear nice jeans and collared shirts rather than suits and cocktail dresses. Some luxury lines maintain higher standards, but mass-market lines have embraced Alaska’s casual nature. Speciality restaurants may request resort casual attire. Pack one or two nicer outfits if you want to dress up, but elaborate formal wear isn’t necessary.
What’s the difference between cruise line excursions and independent tours?
Cruise line excursions cost more but guarantee the ship will wait if your tour runs late, offer convenient booking and coordination, and provide vetted operators that meet safety standards. Independent tours typically cost 20-40% less, offer more personalised experiences with smaller groups, and allow more flexibility in timing and customisation. The risk is that the ship won’t wait if you’re delayed. For distant excursions or tight schedules, cruise line booking offers peace of mind. For walkable ports and experienced travellers, independent booking saves significant money.
Can I drink the tap water in Alaska ports?
Yes, tap water in all major Alaska cruise ports meets U.S. safety standards and is safe to drink. The water often comes from pristine mountain sources and tastes excellent. Bring a refillable water bottle for excursions rather than purchasing bottled water. On the ship, tap water is also safe though some passengers prefer filtered or bottled water based on taste preferences.
What if I’m travelling solo?
Solo travellers face single supplement charges on most cruise lines, typically 150-200% of the per-person double occupancy rate. However, some lines offer solo cabins with reduced or no supplements, particularly Norwegian Cruise Line. Alaska’s destination-focused nature actually works well for solo travellers since days are spent on excursions rather than couples activities. Consider joining ship-organised meetups for solo travellers or signing up for group excursions to meet people.
Final Insider Tips
Bonus Tips That Make a Difference
- Set your alarm for glacier cruising even if it’s early – you’ll regret missing it
- The buffet on deck during scenic cruising offers the same views as expensive speciality restaurants
- Request a free upgrade to the next cabin category at check-in (sometimes available if ship isn’t full)
- Download the cruise line app before embarkation for daily schedules and updates
- Pack snacks for excursions – Alaska port prices are high and selection limited
- The back of the ship (aft) typically has fewer crowds during glacier viewing
- Morning excursions often have better weather before afternoon clouds roll in
- Ask your room steward about lesser-known viewing spots on the ship
- Save speciality dining for port days when fewer passengers are aboard
Red Flags to Avoid
- Booking excursions for every port without building in rest time
- Assuming summer means warm – it doesn’t, and being underprepared ruins the experience
- Skipping travel insurance on this expensive trip
- Overlooking pre or post-cruise hotel nights if your flight schedule is tight
- Booking the cheapest inside cabin then regretting no balcony for glacier viewing
- Neglecting to charge camera batteries the night before glacier day
- Planning elaborate formal wear when casual is standard
- Assuming all ports require organised tours – some are perfect for independent exploration
Personal Experience
I still remember stepping off the ship in Juneau and feeling completely overwhelmed by how much there was to do in just one day. We had maybe seven hours before we needed to be back on board, and I’d spent weeks reading about all the cruise ports but still wasn’t quite prepared for the reality of it. My husband wanted to take the tram up Mount Roberts, I was dying to see the Mendenhall Glacier, and the kids spotted a dog sledding excursion that they wouldn’t stop talking about. We ended up splitting the difference and doing a glacier helicopter tour, which honestly was the best compromise we could’ve made.
What really struck me about the Alaska ports is how different each one feels from the others. Ketchikan was all about the totem poles and Creek Street with its colourful buildings on stilts, whilst Skagway felt like we’d walked onto an old Western film set. In Sitka, we didn’t even dock at a pier – we had to take a tender boat to shore, which the kids thought was an adventure in itself. The hardest part was accepting that we simply couldn’t do everything at every port. I made peace with the fact that we’d have to come back someday, and honestly, that’s not a bad problem to have.