Taking a cruise to Alaska is one of the ultimate bucket-list adventures. Glide into a rich culture, explore colossal glaciers, spot breaching whales, and gaze at the northern lights dancing in the night sky.
Your adventure starts by choosing the right cruise line and itinerary. With Alaska's cruise season running from April through October, plenty of options exist to explore this expansive frontier.
Every cruiser's ideal experience boils down to a mix of amenities, dining options, cabins, excursions, and overall vibe. To help you find your perfect expedition, we’ve compiled a guide to the top cruise lines of Alaska for every type of traveler.
If you want an adventure rich in Alaskan culture and curated educational excursions, Holland America is an ideal line for your Alaska cruise. They bring a lively touch to an Alaska cruise with exclusive events aboard their Zaandam, Noordam, Westerdam, and Nieuw Amsterdam ships.
Holland America’s 7-Day Glacier Discovery and 7-Day Alaska Inside Passage itineraries provide unique access to Alaska's natural beauty and include special offers that other lines don’t have.
Holland America blends leisure with enrichment, sharing unique amenities like:
Holland America offers a range of exquisite dining options. Dig into fresh-caught Alaskan fish through their Global Fresh Fish program, or feast on a multi-course dinner at The Dining Room. If seafood isn’t your style, check out Pinnacle Grill for a delicious steak, or head over to the casual marketplace-style Lido Market for a fantastic pasta dish.
Holland America’s staterooms offer 24-hour in-room dining, daily housekeeping, deluxe bathrobes, and complimentary shoe shine service. For those wanting a touch of luxury, upgrading to Pinnacle Suites will get you a private verandah with floor-to-ceiling glass doors, complimentary laundry services, and access to the exclusive Club Orange dining venue.
Holland America offers uniquely enriching and immersive shore excursions such as:
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Another option for couples seeking a more intimate, premium cruise experience is Princess Cruises. Princess’s mid-sized ships such as Royal Princess, Discovery Princess, and Ruby Princess offer unique and personal amenities catered to couples, making them the best Alaskan cruise line for couples seeking a romantic bucket-list experience.
Princess is known for their 14-night Alaska Cruise itinerary, where you'll witness the scenic Voyage of the Glaciers and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.
Princess's onboard amenities emphasize connection and enrichment catered to couples, with unique inclusions such as:
For breakfast, you can lose yourself in Horizon Court’s famous buffet filled with sweets and pastries, or opt for a Private Balcony breakfast with your partners. If you enjoy seafood, check out Tracy's King Crab Shack, serving up authentic crab cakes, or head over to Ketchikan Alaska Fish House for Alaska seafood and fish tacos.
Princess offers some of the best balcony cabins, where you’ll enjoy the wonders of Alaska from your stateroom. Complimentary chocolates and champagne can be found upon arrival. If you are willing to spend a bit more, select suites that offer a personal hot tub right in your room.
Princess’s shore excursions offer intimate and immersive experiences, making them the best cruise line to visit Alaska with your significant other. Their most popular excursions include:
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Our go-to choice for solo travelers and multigenerational families is Norwegian Cruise Line. Their excursions are renowned for their exciting and freedom-focused approach, ranking them among the best Alaska cruises for families and solo travelers alike.
Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore are Norwegian’s best Alaska cruise ships, featuring the renowned 7-night Alaska itineraries. These are known as their best Alaska cruise tours since they let you explore the rugged wilderness and picturesque towns of Alaska while enjoying all the onboard amenities listed below.
Norwegian’s onboard amenities are perfect for adventurers seeking excitement, with inclusions such as:
Norwegian also ranks among the top Alaska cruises for families thanks to its variety of peer kids clubs. They offer games and activities for kids ages 3-12 at their onboard Splash Academy. Teens ages 13-17 can enjoy the designated space where they can express themselves through music, art, and games at Norwegian's Entourage Teens. Opening and closing times for both will be posted onboard.
Norwegian is hailed for its variety of dining options, with global cuisine ranging from table-side carved meats at Pasadores Brazilian Steakhouse to their famous Teppanyaki Japanese grill, where your food is cooked right in front of you. Kids will love the once-a-cruise late-night Chocoholic buffet, while parents will appreciate the 24-hour eatery, serving up classic comforting dishes all day and night.
Norwegian staterooms include a TV, a 24-hour room service menu, and ice buckets available upon request. For solo travelers, Norwegian offers dedicated studio staterooms complete with access to a private lounge. Upgrade to a suite or penthouse to get access to a personal escort on and off the ship, 24-hour suite service, a complimentary bottle of champagne, and specialty L’Occitane bathroom products.
Norwegians shore excursions are the pinnacle of excitement, with a range of adventurous activities perfect for those who who want to explore independently but also enjoy the company of new friends, such as:
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If you’re traveling with a multigenerational family or seeking excitement, Royal Caribbean International is among the best Alaska cruise companies for you. With a variety of adventurous onboard entertainment and a selection of captivating excursions, everyone is guaranteed to have a great time.
Royal Caribbean's best cruise ships to Alaska are Radiance of the Seas, Quantum of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, and Serenade of the Seas. Their best Alaskan cruise itinerary for families is the 7-night Southbound Alaska & Hubbard Glacier trip, featuring extraordinary views of glaciers, wildlife, and charming towns.
Royal Caribbean's onboard amenities emphasize action for family members of all ages. Their top facilities include:
Royal Caribbean also ranks among the best family Alaska cruises because of its exciting onboard kids program. For children ages 3-11, the Adventure Ocean program provides supervised educational and play activities for free until 10:00 pm. Fees apply after that time.
Royal Caribbean offers casual dining options ranging from authentic Mexican cuisine at El Loco Fresh to Dog House’s specially crafted hot dogs. If you prefer a more refined dining experience, specialty options such as the Chef's Table or Giovanni's Italian Grille are also available.
The staterooms include a personal attendant, daily cleaning service, HD-TV, and in-room climate control.
Royal Caribbean’s shore excursions are for the adventurous and bold, with thrilling activities such as:
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For families with younger children, Disney Cruise Line stands out as the top choice. Disney has mastered the art of family-friendly cruises, providing entertainment and activities that captivate kids and adults alike.
Disney’s best cruise ship to Alaska is the Disney Wonder, known for its whimsical atmosphere. Their best Alaska cruise tour is the 7-night Alaska itinerary, allowing sufficient time to fully explore the region and enjoy the ship’s attractions.
Disney’s onboard amenities reflect their “fun for the whole family” values, ranking them among the best Alaskan cruises for families. Family-friendly activities include:
Disney also boasts a variety of youth entertainment and enrichment programs. For kids ages 3-10, Disney's Oceaneer Club offers the chance to interact with their favorite characters while enjoying themed playrooms such as Andy's Room, Mickey and Minnie's Captain Deck, and Marvel Superhero Academy.
Tweens aged 11-14 will love Edge Club, where games, a photo booth and karaoke machine, are available to enjoy with new mates. For older kids ages 14-17, the Vibe hangout area offers an exclusive space to relax and mingle, with music, TVs, games, and a private outdoor sundeck reserved for Vibe members.
Oceaneer Club is open from 9:00 am - midnight, while Vibe and Edge Club runs from 10:00 am - 1:00 am.
Kids will love the casual dining at Daisy’s deLights and Pinocchio's Pizzeria, while Palos provides an adult-exclusive experience. Animator’s Palate provides an Asian fusion-inspired menu, and tasty sweets can be enjoyed at Eye Scream Treats.
Disney’s staterooms are designed with families in mind, meaning spacious beds, ample closet space, individual climate control, and 24-hour room service. If you opt for a Deluxe Ocean View Suite, you’ll be able to enjoy your private whirlpool tub and veranda.
For family-friendly adventure when off the ship, Disney has got you covered with unique excursions such as:
If you’re looking for the best Alaskan cruise deals, look no further than Carnival Cruise Line. Carnival's frequent discounts and affordable packages allow value seekers to explore the world without sacrificing comfort or fun.
Its most popular ships are the Carnival Spirit and Carnival Luminosa, which provide a range of activities and entertainment to keep guests of all ages engaged while at sea. The top Alaskan cruise itinerary for value-seekers is the 7-Day Alaska Inside Passage and Glacier tour, featuring spectacular coastal scenery and unique wildlife encounters.
Carnival offers a variety of amusing activities for all ages, including:
Carnival offers a diverse range of dining options, from juicy burgers at Guy's Burger Joint to freshly baked pizzas at Pizzeria del Capitano. For a more unique culinary experience, Bonsai Sushi and Ol' Fashioned BBQ have you covered with regionally inspired menus at very reasonable prices.
Carnival’s staterooms come equipped with climate control, spacious closets, and 24-hour room service.
Carnival offers the best value Alaska cruise deals, with exciting shore excursions from as low as $40 per person, such as:
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Looking for an Alaskan getaway for self-care or romance? Celebrity Cruises is the perfect fit for you. Their elegant ships, including Celebrity Summit and Celebrity Edge, offer intimate experiences with exquisite dining options, luxurious spa treatments, and secluded relaxation areas.
Celebrity’s best Alaska cruise for couples is their 7-night Alaska Southbound Glacier itinerary, which leads you and your partner through breathtaking landscapes, including the awe-inspiring Dawes and Hubbard glaciers.
Celebrity let's couples lounge and stay active together, with amenities including:
Celebrity caters to every palate with their array of dining options. Enjoy the modern Italian ambiance and traditional dishes at Tuscan, or head to Normandy for upscale French-inspired cuisine. If you want to take things up a notch, check out Celebrity's specialty dining options, like Fine Cut Steakhouse serving up exquisite steak and seafood dishes, or Le Petit Chef, offering a choreographed meal and elegant menu crafted by a Michelin star chef.
Each Celebrity stateroom includes a flat-screen TV, twice daily housekeeping service, laundry services, and free ice cream delivered to your room whenever you want. If you’re willing to splurge a bit, opting for an AquaClass stateroom will let you enjoy exclusive perks such as unlimited SEA Thermal suite access, a spa concierge, and private dining at both Blu Restaurant and Luminae.
Celebrity offers special exclusive tours to take your adventure to the next level, which is why they hold the spot for the best rated Alaska cruise according to US News rankings. Some options include:
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For its cultural enrichment and immersion programs, Viking Ocean Cruises is unmatched. Vikings' best ships for Alaska, the Viking Sea, and Viking Orion, deliver a comprehensive view into Alaskan heritage on their popular 10-Night Alaska & The Inside Passage itinerary. From ports-of-call at culturally significant landmarks to locally-inspired cuisine, entertainment, and lessons, this immersive itinerary is renowned as the best Alaska cruise for adults.
Viking’s amenities are designed to enhance cultural understanding, with highlights that will leave you thinking such as:
Viking’s dining options feature luxurious, hand-crafted cuisine. Sample a high-quality Alaskan-inspired menu at The Restaurant restaurant or opt for international flavors at the World Cafe. For a top-notch dining experience, The Chef’s Table delivers a delectable multi-course tasting menu, perfect for fine dining foodies.
Viking’s staterooms are worth the price and come well-equipped with ocean views, 42-inch flatscreen TVs, a welcome bottle of champagne, and sightseeing binoculars. You’ll also enjoy 24-hour room service, complimentary laundry, and shoe shine services.
Viking’s shore excursions offer deep immersive experiences in Alaska, including:
Seabourn is the epitome of luxury Alaska cruise lines, taking an all-inclusive approach to ensure every aspect of your onboard experience is accounted for. Their best cruise ship in Alaska, tied between the Seabourn Odyssey and Seabourn Quest, offers the line’s incredible 7-day Alaska Fjords & Canadian Inside Passage itinerary. This journey takes guests through serene waters and sublime landscapes while providing phenomenal personal service.
Seabourn’s amenities emphasize luxury and retreat, including:
Seabourn’s dining options are refined, and crafted by world-renowned chefs. Solis offers Mediterranean recipes focused on garden produce and fresh seafood. The Restaurant prepares delicate seasonal menus with designated sommeliers offering wine suggestions, while Sushi in The Club provides freshly made sushi bites every evening. For a more casual dining experience, head over to Patio Grill and enjoy their tasty hamburgers and salads.
Seabourn staterooms include complimentary wines and spirits, flat-screen TVs, walk-in closets, and luxury shower products. Seabourn guests can pack light thanks to the free self-serve laundry service on board.
Seabourn brings luxury to the shore with exclusive excursions, such as:
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For a truly all-inclusive experience that combines Alaska's majestic terrain with opulent service and amenities, Regent is the best choice. Regent’s best cruise ship for Alaska is the Seven Seas Explorer, which offers unparalleled luxury whether you’re onboard or ashore.
Regent's 7-Night Alaska Cruise tour is the most luxurious Alaska cruise itinerary, covering the region's must-see landmarks with a special emphasis on exclusivity.
Regent’s amenities reflect their commitment to offering the best all-inclusive Alaska cruises, featuring:
Regent’s dining options are nothing short of exquisite, with delicious flavors from around the globe. Enjoy outdoor seating and scenic views of Alaska over a delicious breakfast and lunch at La Veranda buffet. Explore a unique Pan-Asian style menu in a Tibetan-inspired venue at Pacific Rim or grab a table at Chartreuse for a modern French menu and lavish Parisian decor.
Regents staterooms provide 24-hour room service, a welcome bottle of champagne, and free laundry services. Upgrading to a Regent Suite offers elevated amenities, including a private car and driver at every cruise port, a private balcony with a mini heated pool spa, and an exclusive dinner with the ship’s senior officer.
Regent’s luxury extends to the shore with premium excursions that come at no extra cost, including:
Taking a cruise to Alaska is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will create lifelong memories. Whether you're seeking affordable adventures, thrilling family activities, cultural immersion, or a luxurious retreat, we’ll help find the best cruise Alaska has for you.
Ready to set sail? Book your Alaskan adventure online with Cruisebound today. We've made the booking process seamless and transparent, so you can focus on enjoying your scenic journey to the last frontier.
Q: What is the best Alaska cruise line for couples?
A: The best Alaska cruise lines for couples are Princess Cruises and Celebrity Cruises.
Q: What is the best cruise to Alaska for families?
A: Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line offer the best cruises to Alaska for families.
Q: What is the best adults-only Alaska cruise line?
A: Viking Ocean Cruises offers the best adults-only cruises to Alaska.
Q: What is the best luxury Alaska cruise for families?
A: Regent Seven Seas offers the best luxury Alaska cruises for families thanks to their engaging onboard Club Mariner youth program.
Q: What is the difference between northbound Alaska cruises and southbound Alaska cruises?
A: Alaska's northbound cruises typically start in Vancouver and sail north to Alaska, while Alaska's southbound cruises start in Alaska and sail south to Vancouver. If a cruise line offers both northbound and southbound cruises, the stops along the way will most likely be the same.
Q: What line offers the best Alaska cruise deals?
A: Carnival Cruise Line offers the best deals for cruises to Alaska.
Q: What is the best Alaskan cruise for adults?
A: Viking Ocean Cruises is the best cruise line for adults to Alaska.
Q: How long should an Alaska cruise be?
A: The ideal length for Alaska cruises is 7 nights, allowing you to enjoy your time onboard while thoroughly exploring your destination. Longer cruises, like Princess’s 14-Night Alaska Cruise, are also offered for a more immersive and relaxing experience.