glacier bay from cruise ship

Maximize Cruising Glacier Bay With These Pro Tips

Planning an Alaskan cruise? Make sure Glacier Bay is on your itinerary, and follow our pro tips to make the most of your day. Its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and rich history make Glacier Bay a quintessential Alaskan experience.

Our day in Glacier Bay was a highlight of our cruise and one we can’t stop talking about. We were filled with awe from the moment we stepped onto our balcony until the final glacier faded into the horizon. Booking a balcony cabin, dressing for the cold, listening to the Park Ranger’s commentary, and capturing the stunning views are must-dos for the ultimate day cruising Glacier Bay.

We loved our experience so much that we returned and planned a family cruise for 2025 to share the magic of Glacier Bay.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we earn a commission at no extra cost. Please refer to our  full disclosure  for details.

This guide will share insights on selecting cruises to Glacier Bay, what to anticipate aboard, and tips for making the most of your day amidst these ancient ice formations.

Table of Contents

How to Plan for Glacier Bay With These Tips

Glacier Bay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in southeast Alaska, captivates with its tidewater glaciers, diverse wildlife, and sprawling 3.3 million acres of mountains, rainforests, and fjords. Accessible mainly by water, cruising is the preferred way to explore, with major lines offering itineraries that include a day in the park.

Glacier Bay is a big day on an Alaskan cruise. Even though it is called a sea day, it isn’t your typical one. This day is what you’d call scenic cruising when the cruise ship slowly goes through a scenic route—in this case, the majestic Glacier Bay.

Preparations for Glacier Bay start when you decide to cruise to Alaska by finding an itinerary that has secured this route since they are limited in permits. We dive into the following tips on how to maximize this special day.

Fun Fact: What does scenic cruising mean on a cruise ship? Scenic cruising on a cruise ship refers to the experience of sailing through a beautiful or picturesque area, such as a fjord, bay, or glacier. During scenic cruising, the ship typically sails slower, allowing passengers to fully appreciate the stunning scenery around them.

Choosing the Best Time to Visit Glacier Bay

The prime time to explore Glacier Bay is June to August and occasionally into September if the summer extends its warmth. These months offer the finest weather and the greatest probability for your cruise ship to journey through Alaska’s Inside Passage to Glacier Bay successfully. However, it’s important to note that excessive ice may elevate the risk of cruise cancellations in the bay.

Picking the Right Cruise Line for Glacier Bay

Only three major cruise lines are allowed in Glacier Bay: Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line. We suggest diving into each cruise line and its itineraries to see which best matches your travel style and budget. Remember, Glacier Bay day is a day at sea—you won’t disembark, but you’ll witness the stunning Alaska Inside Passage and glide into Glacier Bay as the sun rises. Check out our other article for a deep dive into Alaska cruise tips and how to dodge the usual slip-ups while planning your Glacier Bay adventure.

Splurge on a Balcony Cabin

Treat yourself to a balcony cabin. It’s an absolute game-changer for an Alaskan cruise, giving you your own slice of paradise to sip coffee and soak in the stunning vistas.

Come Glacier Bay Day, you’ll pat yourself on the back for choosing a balcony. My husband couldn’t stop thanking me for making that call. It improved our experience, especially since the observation lounge was always a hotspot, leaving us scrambling for a good view on other days.

Once we savored our private balcony views, we checked the public decks, finding that most spots were snagged. A balcony saves you from the hustle and ensures you don’t miss a thing or block anyone’s view. It’s like having VIP access to Alaska’s splendor.

Quick Tip: Opt for AFT Balcony for Panoramic Views Choose an AFT balcony cabin for unparalleled panoramic views, perfect for scenic cruising. If seasickness is a concern, consider portside cabins for early glacier views, but remember, the ship’s slow 360 ensures everyone gets a spectacular glimpse.

Dress in Layers for Glacier Bay

I’m wearing multiple layers on the day we cruise Glacier Bay. Even grabbed my electric hand warmers.

Alaska’s weather is a box of chocolates—you never know what you’ll get. Packaging for all types is key: cold, rainy, and the occasional sunny day. Our Glacier Bay day was the coldest of our week-long cruise, reinforcing the need for layers. I layered up with a long-sleeve shirt, a fleece hoodie, and a fleece shacket, keeping a water-resistant puffer at arm’s reach.

Don’t forget accessories like fingerless gloves and a knit hat for extra warmth. You might shed a layer or two as the day warms up, so versatility is your friend. And always pack a rain jacket—just in case.

Though there’s an observation lounge for viewing, nothing beats experiencing the breathtaking scenery directly. If you can, step outside and immerse yourself fully in the pristine beauty of Glacier Bay.

Bring a Good Camera for Glacier Bay Memories

Don’t forget a quality camera for your Glacier Bay visit! Consider a zoom lens for those close-up glacier shots. While fully soaking in the moment is valuable, capturing it allows you to relive and share this breathtaking experience later. These photos become lasting reminders of your journey’s beauty, perfect for sharing with friends and family, inspiring them to explore. Remember, sharing the awe of Glacier Bay extends its magic far beyond your cruise.

Tip: You don’t need to go out and invest heavily in camera equipment. You can always rent a good camera or a lens for the week from places like Lensrentals.com or Cameralensrentals.com . We highly suggest adding insurance to the rental agreement.

Don’t Forget Binoculars for Alaska

Hubby is looking at Lamplugh Glacier with his binoculars.

A must-pack for Alaska ? A solid pair of binoculars. They’re crucial for wildlife enthusiasts aiming to catch every detail of Alaska’s rich fauna. Spotting a whale or catching the subtle beauty of a glacier becomes an intimate experience with binoculars in hand. They bring the vibrant blues, intricate crevasses, and rugged edges of glaciers right to your eyes, enhancing your Glacier Bay visit uniquely. Though we initially doubted their necessity, our binoculars proved invaluable, making us grateful we brought them along.

While cruising Glacier Bay, I sat on my balcony, enjoying and taking pictures of the beautiful views, while staying warm under a cozy blanket.

Request an Extra Blanket for Balcony Coziness

Don’t hesitate to ask your cabin attendant for an extra blanket at the beginning of your Alaska cruise. It’s the perfect addition for those chill moments spent admiring Glacier Bay from the comfort of your balcony.

Rise Early for a Magical Day in Glacier Bay

Don’t give in to the temptation of a cozy duvet on Glacier Bay Day—trust me, the early wake-up call is your ticket to the day’s most magical moments. As you set that alarm the night before, think of the majestic views that await: a pristine morning panorama of glaciers and mountains, the occasional playful otter or whale making an appearance.

There’s something about the calm of Glacier Bay at dawn, a serene silence shared with other like-minded adventurers from the solitude of your balcony. The early morning moments are among the most magical. My husband, up before me with morning coffee, was captivated by the scenery and insisted that I come out to experience it.

Enjoy Glacier Bay from Your Cabin with Room Service

Make the most of your Glacier Bay morning by ordering room service for breakfast and coffee. Enjoy the luxury of dining in your cabin, allowing you to soak up the views without interruption until lunch—and perhaps even order in again for lunch.

Be aware there might be a nominal fee for room service, which is a detail worth checking with your cruise line. This small cost is a fair trade for the convenience and the opportunity to witness Glacier Bay’s beauty from the comfort of your room.

Pro Tip: For a seamless start to your Glacier Bay day, complete the room service order form the evening before. Schedule your breakfast and coffee to arrive when you’re ready to wake up. Having coffee delivered to your cabin makes for an ideal alarm, ensuring you don’t miss a moment of the morning’s beauty.

Just Listen

Staying indoors, playing the TV or music loudly in your cabin (don’t do this), means missing out on the breathtaking auditory experience of Glacier Bay. The awe-inspiring roar can suddenly break the silence of the pristine environment of a glacier calving. Hearing this powerful natural phenomenon is a unique experience that deepens your appreciation for being in such a majestic place.

Engage with the Park Ranger’s Insights on Glacier Bay

Enhance your Glacier Bay journey by tuning into the Park Ranger’s commentary, available throughout the ship and on your cabin’s TV. Check your cruise newsletter for the specific channel. This commentary, covering the bay’s history, geology, and ecology, adds depth to the visuals, enriching your experience.

For a more interactive experience, attend the Park Ranger’s presentation in the ship’s atrium or theater. It’s a great opportunity to dive deeper into Glacier Bay’s wonders and ask any lingering questions. Plus, you might find unique souvenirs to commemorate your visit.

On the Norwegian Encore, there was a Ranger’s Children program, where the kids met the Park Rangers and became Junior Rangers. Check your newsletter and watch for fun kid activities that may be taking place on the ship the day you cruise Glacier Bay.

Watch for the moment park rangers come aboard in the morning. It may require stepping out of your cabin for a better view.

Optional: Venture Out to the Ships Bow, AFT, and Other Outdoor Areas

Hanging out in your cabin gives you those personal Glacier Bay moments, but stepping outside later adds so much more to your cruise experience. It’s all about striking that perfect balance between private chill time and mixing it up with the rest of the ship. We left our cabin right after admiring Marjorie Glacier.

• Shared Amazement There’s this awesome vibe of amazement on the ship, especially for us Alaskan cruise newbies. Being part of that collective excitement is priceless.
• Bow: Usually off-limits, the bow opens on Glacier Bay Day. It’s a rare chance to feel like you’re at the front of the world, and the photo ops here are epic.
• Aft: Hit the aft for a quieter spot with equally stunning views. It’s my go-to for less crowded, postcard-worthy scenery.
• Keep warm with stations offering coffee, tea, and hot chocolate. Fancy something with a kick? Irish coffee stations are where it’s at—I couldn’t resist a Bailey’s.
• Look out for treats like seafood chowder being handed out. It’s like they know exactly what you need to stay cozy.

The views, the atmosphere, and the little luxuries all add to a special experience you don’t want to miss. So, enjoy that balcony, but also get out there and see what the rest of the ship offers.

Above all, Respect the Environment

Experiencing Glacier Bay is a privilege. It offers an unparalleled closeness to nature’s untouched beauty. As visitors, we are responsible for preserving this wonder for future generations.

• Don’t toss anything overboard.
• Respect wildlife.
• Follow the rules.

Which cruise lines visit Glacier Bay?

These three major cruise lines were granted permits to enter Glacier Bay National Park:

• Princess Cruises
• Holland America Line
• Norwegian Cruise Line

What to Expect on a Cruise While Cruising Glacier Bay?

On a cruise to Glacier Bay, this day is an event throughout the ship. Most passengers wake up at dawn in anticipation of the day. Some start their morning with breakfast delivered to their cabin, while others head to public viewing areas for the best spots. Crew prepare for the busy day ahead, ensuring that all amenities and services are prepared for the influx of excited passengers.

What to expect:

• Maps of Glacier Bay and Other Reading Material The night before, you’ll be given a map of Glacier Bay, along with your newsletter and possibly some other reading material to prepare you for It’s great to have the map and follow along with the Park Ranger’s commentary.
• Park Rangers On Board A Park Ranger from the Glacier National Park boards the ship by boat in the early mornings. They are on the ship all morning and part of the afternoon for presentations and answering cruise passengers’ questions. That is included as part of
• All Hands on Deck There is always staff around on a cruise, but it feels like all hands on deck the day we are cruising Glacier Bay. They are there to provide you with the best day possible.
• Coffee Stations and Food Buffets and restaurants typically open on sea day will also be open (check your newsletters). However, since everyone will be outdoors or in observation areas, the cruise ship does a nice job setting up coffee, juice, and water stations and handing out hot chocolate, pastries, and seafood chowder later in the morning. These are small touches that add to the overall experience.
• Stunning Views of Glaciers and Natural Landscapes One of the primary reasons people cruise to Glacier Bay is to see the stunning glaciers and the untouched beauty of this part of Alaska that you can’t see unless it’s by ship or
• Public Viewing Decks Open There are public viewing decks, and some ships have better public viewing spaces than others. Some ships even open the bow so everyone can get a panoramic view—a perfect opportunity to take photos.
• Opportunities to See Wildlife You will spot wildlife. We’ve never seen so many whales in our life.
• A Connection With Fellow Cruise Passengers The shared experience of witnessing these magical moments can create a sense of camaraderie and connection throughout the cruise. One moment, everyone is quiet and in awe, enjoying what’s before them, and the next, someone is shouting, “Whale!” And then a flurry of excitement breaks out.

Is Glacier Bay worth seeing on a cruise?

Absolutely, Glacier Bay National Park is a must-see on a cruise. Imagine seeing incredible glaciers, hearing ice calve with a roar, and spotting humpback whales and eagles. Truly a bucket-list experience, Glacier Bay promises unforgettable moments and stunning natural beauty.

What is the best time to cruise Glacier Bay?

June to August are the best time to visit Glacier Bay as it is warmer and has the longest summer days. September can also be a good time, depending on how warm the summer has been. During this time, it is easier for cruise ships to navigate the area.

Do all Alaska cruises include Glacier Bay?

No. Not all Alaska cruises include a visit to Glacier Bay. Only select cruise lines with permits and contracts are authorized to enter the bay, and there is a strict limit of two cruise ships a day . If you are interested in cruising Glacier Bay, you must research the Cruise Lines that cruise into Glacier Bay, their cruise ships, and Alaska cruise itineraries before booking.

Which side of the ship is best for Glacier Bay?

Portside is the best side of the ship for Glacier Bay because you’ll get the first peek at Margerie Glacier. However, the ship will gradually turn so everyone can admire the glacier from all sides. It will do the same when it reaches Lamplugh Glacier.

Are there any shore excursions in Glacier Bay?

There are no shore excursions in Glacier Bay. Cruising Glacier Bay is technically a sea day because you don’t dock at a port and spend it on the ship.

What wildlife can be seen in Glacier Bay?

Yes! Glacier Bay is home to diverse wildlife, including humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, harbor seals, bald eagles, brown bears, moose, and more. Your eyes will be glued to the scenery, looking for any signs of movement as Glacier Bay is teeming with life.

Tips for an Alaskan Cruise

BEFORE YOU SET SAIL, HERE ARE SOME RELATED ARTICLES YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS:

• White Pass Train and Bus Shore Excursion in Skagway
• What to Do in Juneau for a Day
• Seattle, Washington: Cruise Port Guide

Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she's become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She's always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.

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Cruise to Glacier Bay (Cruising), Alaska

Glacier bay (cruising) shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in glacier bay.

Witness the Wild

From the land to the seas and skies, Glacier Bay is home to a wide array of wildlife. Keep your binoculars handy and your eyes peeled for seals floating on ice flows, whales splashing in the water and bears trolling the shores.

Grab the Camera

Because you'll be surrounded by towering icy blue glacial walls and roaming wildlife, you may not know where to point your camera in Glacier Bay. Be on the lookout for Margerie Glacier, with its icy-blue appearance as it reflects the waters of the inlet, and Johns Hopkins Glacier, backdropped by impressive, ice-capped mountain ridges. Be sure to catch a shot of the gray skies surrounding the glaciers, as they can really make the ice pop.

A Birder's Paradise

If you're a birdwatcher, be sure to keep your field guide and lists handy. Glacier Bay is home to more than 274 species birds, so you'll be sure to spot some fantastic flyers. As you pass by Bartlett Cove, keep and eye out for cute tufted puffins and ruby-crowned kinglets — although they're small, you can spot them by the bright-red feathers that top their heads.

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Cruise Glacier Bay, Alaska

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A destination eons in the making, Glacier Bay’s pristine landscape makes it one of the top spots on an Alaska traveler’s must-see list. Your Glacier Bay cruise takes you through this protected national park spread across 3.2 million acres of southeast Alaska… home to 15 active glaciers, countless seabirds, otters and humpback whales. And a Carnival Alaska cruise is the best way to get right in the middle of it! Your experience begins with complimentary maps to help get the most out of the day’s sightseeing. Then we invite local park rangers to board the ship, narrate your journey and point out the best sights along the way, throughout the day.

Popular Glacier Bay National Park cruise ships Explore all cruise ships

• Wilderness Discoverer
• from ₽ 34,027 / day
• 9.1   Superb
• 16   Reviews

• Safari Endeavour Alaska
• from ₽ 37,138 / day
• 9.3   Superb
• 12   Reviews

• from ₽ 38,363 / day
• 9.5   Exceptional
• 4   Reviews

• Admiralty Dream
• from ₽ 43,924 / day
• 9.2   Superb
• 17   Reviews

• Chichagof Dream
• from ₽ 43,830 / day
• 10.0   Exceptional
• 3   Reviews

• Safari Explorer
• 9.6   Exceptional

Adventure Cruises in Glacier Bay National Park

Glacier Bay National Park Cruises are a great way to explore the beauty of Alaska’s UNESCO-listed Glacier Bay National Park. Located in the southeastern part of the state, the 65-mile stretch of national park can be found within a coastal route called the Inner Passage.

Adventure cruises to Glacier Bay National Park let you observe the local wildlife and landscapes at close range and join in with a host of thrilling activities. Fuel your spirit of adventure with kayaking or paddling a skiff in the icy waters and hiking through the remote wilderness. Relax in an outdoor hot tub after an exciting day, or sample a mud bath.

Top things to do and see in Glacier Bay National Park

Cruises to Glacier Bay National Park combine nature and wildlife, dramatic landscapes, adventure activities, relaxation, and the chance to explore remote villages and see the local way of life. Cruise itineraries generally combine a variety of experiences so that you can enjoy the very best of Glacier Bay National Park. Top things to enjoy on cruises around Glacier Bay include:

Glaciers - Stunning glaciers surrounded by snow-capped peaks and verdant forests will take your breath away. Admire these huge natural wonders, and watch as the landscapes gradually change, with huge blocks of ice calving away and crashing into the waters. The Marjerie Glacier is a particularly exceptional spot for witnessing the majesty of nature. John Hopkins Glacier is incredibly photogenic, while McBride Glacier is a terrific place for kayaking.

Wildlife - An abundance of wildlife calls Glacier Bay National Park home, and small ship cruises let you get even closer to an array of fascinating creatures. Watch as whales and seals glide through the icy waters while sea lions and sea otters frolic nearby, look to the skies, see eagles soaring above, and see bears, deer, wolves, and moose roaming on dry land. Other animals that populate the area include squirrels, weasels, foxes, ermines, marmots, and minks.

Guided Tours - Take a narrated guided tour of the national park to learn more about the area’s history, ecology, and biology to appreciate the glorious sights better. The experienced and knowledgeable guide can answer any questions for a truly fulfilling experience.

Culture - Meet the Huna Tlingit, a community that inhabited Glacier Bay for many years. Discover more about their ways of life and ancestry and be fascinated by their traditions and cultural practices. While the group no longer permanently lives in the area, having been forced to relocate after natural disasters, they still retain strong historical ties to the area. The Huna Tribal House provides a great overview.

Top Tips for Visiting Glacier Bay National Park

• Don’t forget to take your camera on your cruise around Glacier Bay National Park; there are so many spectacular sights that you will want to capture! Long-range lenses are ideal for snapping distant wildlife, while wide-angled lenses are perfect for landscape shots. You will probably also want to take a tripod.
• Warm clothing is recommended, and dressing in layers is strongly advised. Make sure you have a change of clothing easily to hand following adventures, like kayaking and boating, on the waters.
• Don’t forget to take rain gear on your land outings.
• Binoculars are recommended to see wildlife from a distance.
• Glacier Bay National Park has some excellent hiking opportunities; pack sturdy and broken-in hiking boots.
• Pack a bathing costume to enjoy hot tubs under the stars.

Best time to cruise Glacier Bay National Park

The best time to visit Glacier Bay National Park is summer when the temperatures are slightly warmer, humpback whales return to the area after the winter, and seal pups float on blocks of ice. Summer is also when you may be lucky and glimpse the spectacular Northern Lights .

April to June are typically the driest months, while Glacier Bay generally experiences the most rainfall in September and October. Plan ahead and book your Glacier Bay National Park cruise in advance to avoid disappointment.

While winter is usually cold and foggy, there is still plenty to enjoy on a cruise around Glacier Bay National Park.

Where do Glacier Bay National Park cruises depart from?

Your Alaska small ship cruise to Glacier Bay National Park will usually depart from the state capital of Juneau , Sitka , or Ketchikan . Juneau has no road access; visitors typically arrive by sea or fly into Juneau International Airport (JNU). Sitka, the former state capital, is best reached by flying into Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport (SIT), and you can also fly into Ketchikan International Airport (KTN), from where you need to take a short boat ride to reach the cruise departure point. Flights to each Alaskan airport are available from a selection of US airports.

Some Glacier Bay National Park cruise itineraries can also depart from Seattle , in the mainland US state of Washington.

Our reservations team is available to help arrange your next Alaska adventure cruise to Glacier Bay National Park. Book online today.

Glacier Bay National Park Reviews

• 30 Verified Reviews
• 9.6 Exceptional

Great... loved seeing the glaciers, hearing about history from Tlingit guide and seeing clan house. Waking up in front of glacier was spectacular

Cruising Glacier Bay National Park in August on the Admiralty Dream

They were great. I have wonderful pictures of the glaciers. The islands with the sea lions and birds were really interesting.

Cruising Glacier Bay National Park in May on the Wilderness Discoverer

Loved having park ranger onboard. She was a delight!

Cruising Glacier Bay National Park in May on the Alaskan Dream

I loved kayaking around the icebergs, watching the Margerie Glacier calve, and our walk around Barrett Cove

Cruising Glacier Bay National Park in June on the Admiralty Dream

Ranger and Tlingit representatives were greatly appreciated. Delighted to be so close to glacirrs and to see bears and marine mammals.

Cruising Glacier Bay National Park in July on the Alaskan Dream

Ok glaciers were beautiful

Cruising Glacier Bay National Park in August on the Baranof Dream

• 10.0 Exceptional

Awesome the Dib ride close to the sea lions and touching an iceberg were amazing

Cruising Glacier Bay National Park in August on the Alaskan Dream

The size and beauty of the glaciers were impressive. I particularly enjoyed Ranger Matt’s telling of the story of the Klinget people, their trials and history, especially with the glacier.

Cruising Glacier Bay National Park in September on the Safari Endeavour

Great I did not expect to paddle through ice.

Cruising Glacier Bay National Park in June on the Wilderness Legacy

• 8.0 Very good

Cold! Saw many icebergs and calving glaciers

Cruising Glacier Bay National Park in August on the Wilderness Discoverer

Great! Had plenty of time to hike and explore!

Fantastic hike up along Lamplugh Glacier!

The excursions were great. Hiking and or kayaking every day at beautiful stops.

Cruising Glacier Bay National Park in June on the Catalyst

Outstanding and educational. The effects of climate change were clearly evident and frightening.

Kayaking. Bushwhacking. Eco hike and skiff Tour

Excellent, we got very close to the glacier in the skiff. The naturalist on board assisted us in understanding the nature and history of the glacier area.

Out of Sight and in Camera Range! For natural scenery, up there with Yosemite in the early summer.

remarkable kayak to the glacier

Cruising Glacier Bay National Park in August on the Safari Endeavour

Weather was cold and wet that day unfortunately.

Cruising Glacier Bay National Park in September on the Alaskan Dream

We chose the ice garden walk. It was very nice. We were able to get close to the ice and good views of the area. I like that they had several choices for everyone.

Cruising Glacier Bay National Park in April on the Wilderness Legacy

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A beginners guide to visiting Alaska’s Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve

Among North America's best-known national parks, Glacier Bay is a bit of an outlier.

Unlike Yellowstone or Yosemite, you can't visit Glacier Bay on a road trip. There are no roads leading into the park, and the only way to reach it is by small plane, boat or ship.

There's also little infrastructure within the park. It does have a visitor center and lodge, located at its very edge. But its biggest attractions — its giant tidewater glaciers — are viewable only from the deck of a vessel. At its essence, Glacier Bay is a giant, fjordlike body of water lined with snowcapped mountains, forests and glaciers, and it's best seen from the water.

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It is for this reason that a large percentage of Glacier Bay's nearly 700,000 visitors a year arrive on a cruise ship. Indeed, you could almost call Glacier Bay a cruise ship park.

Only by arriving by cruise vessel (or another boat, including the park tour boat) can you fully experience the park by traveling up the 65-mile-long waterway to a glacier and back.

Even so, you'll only see a small portion of the park. Established as a national monument in 1925 and elevated to national park status in 1980, Glacier Bay covers more than 5,200 square miles — an area about the size of Connecticut. That makes it nearly as big as Yellowstone and Yosemite combined — though much of this area is relatively inaccessible.

As a longtime travel writer specializing in cruising, I've been to Glacier Bay many times, and it's one of my favorite places in Alaska. Its glaciers are its star attractions, for sure. But it also offers spectacular mountain scenery, wildlife and — for those who make an effort to come for a multinight stay — wonderful hiking, kayaking and other outdoorsy pursuits.

Related: How to find the right Alaska cruise for you

Getting to Glacier Bay

As noted above, most of Glacier Bay's visitors arrive by cruise ship. The typical cruise that includes a visit to Glacier Bay is a seven-night Alaska voyage out of Vancouver, British Columbia, or Seattle that also includes stops at the Alaskan towns of Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan. The visit to Glacier Bay fills just one day of the seven-night trip.

Two major lines with historic ties to the park — Princess Cruises and Holland America — offer the most sailings with a visit to Glacier Bay. The National Park Service allows just two ships a day into the park, and arrivals are governed by a permitting system that gives preference to lines that operated in the park before the permitting system began.

Norwegian Cruise Line , Seabourn , Cunard Line and Viking also have ships that visit the park, as do small-ship operators UnCruise Adventures , Alaskan Dream Cruises, Lindblad Expeditions and American Cruise Lines .

A trip on a cruise ship isn't the only way to get into Glacier Bay. Would-be visitors can also fly or take a ferry to Gustavus, a tiny town (population 642) on the edge of the park near the access point for a tour boat that travels into the park daily. Dubbed Baranof Wind and operated by park concessionaire Aramark, the tour boat departs from Bartlett Cove, which is just inside the park boundary and the home to the park's visitor center.

During the summer tourist season, Alaska Airlines offers daily service to Gustavus Airport (GST) from Juneau International Airport (JNU), 48 miles to the southeast. An air taxi company, Alaska Seaplanes, offers small-plane flights to Gustavus from Juneau year-round. Ferry service to Gustavus is through the Alaska Marine Highway System, which sends a ferry to the town regularly from Juneau.

The two main airlines that fly to Juneau are Alaska Airlines and Delta Air Lines.

Park visitors also can arrive at the park by private or chartered boat.

Related: How to get to Alaska with points and miles

While Glacier Bay is open year-round, visitor services are extremely limited outside of the summer season, and nearly everybody who visits comes between May and September.

Most cruises that include a stop in Glacier Bay take place between April and September, and the Glacier Bay tour boat only runs in the summer months. The park's visitor center and only lodge (Glacier Bay Lodge), which share a building, also are open only in the summer.

Summer is the most pleasant time to be in Glacier Bay, temperature-wise. But even at the height of summer, it can be chilly, with temperatures topping out between 50 and 60 degrees during daylight hours. Rain is also common, with the area around Gustavus getting around 70 inches a year.

April, May and June are often the driest months. September and October tend to be the wettest. The bottom line is that, even at midsummer, you should be prepared for any sort of weather. Pack good rain gear, waterproof boots, wool or fleece layers and a warm hat and gloves.

No matter when you go, there's no fee to enter Glacier Bay, which is unusual for national parks. Nor are there fees for camping or boating permits. So you can leave your national park annual pass at home.

Related: Best time to cruise Alaska

What to see and do

As the name suggests, Glacier Bay is a park all about glaciers. It's home to more than 1,000 of them, and seeing a glacier up close is the big draw for most visitors.

Specifically, tourists come to view one of the park's seven-ish giant tidewater glaciers, which flow down from the mountains to the water. I say seven-ish as the park's rangers in the past couple of years have noted that some of the tidewater glaciers have melted back so much that they may not be interacting with the ocean water anymore. That's the definition of a tidewater glacier. The park rangers these days like to say there are "no more than seven" of the tidewater glaciers now, maybe fewer.

The reduction in the number of tidewater glaciers at the park is an ongoing trend. When I wrote an earlier version of this guide a few years ago, the number of tidewater glaciers at the park was nine.

Whatever the exact number, for those visiting Glacier Bay by cruise ship, the experience will revolve heavily around a stop at one of these glaciers to watch giant chunks of ice crash down from its face — a magnificent show.

Cruise ships arrive in the park for the better part of a day, and the experience goes beyond a stop at one of the park's glaciers. Sightings of puffins, harbor seals, Steller sea lions and even the occasional humpback whale or brown bear are part of the allure — all while traveling by water through an immense, glacier-carved landscape.

If you come on a big cruise ship, you'll be doing your Glacier Bay viewing from the deck of your vessel. Big cruise ships in Glacier Bay never dock, and nobody gets off them. Still, you'll get the full National Park Service experience. Park rangers and often a local Huna Tlingit cultural guide will board the vessel for the day to offer presentations and shipwide commentary over loudspeakers, lead activities for kids and answer questions.

Some small cruise vessels that spend the night in Glacier Bay do allow passengers to disembark.

For those visitors who travel by plane or ferry to Gustavus, more options are available. In addition to taking the Glacier Bay Day Tour up the bay on the park tour boat ($262.44 per adult; $137.11 for children ages 3 to 12), visitors will find opportunities to hike, kayak and camp.

The day tour on the park tour boat includes stops at two glaciers — Margerie and Grand Pacific. Each towers nearly 250 feet above the ocean and stretches another 100 feet beneath the water. The ice that calves from their faces is, on average, 200 years old.

Hiking trails within the park near Gustavus range from the 1-mile Forest Trail, which offers a leisurely meander through a lush forest, to the 8-mile-long Bartlett Lake Trail, a rugged trek to a tranquil lake. Most visitors head down one of the trails on their own, but for those looking for interpretation, park rangers based at Bartlett Cove offer a daily guided forest loop walk (at 1:30 p.m., as of the publication of this story).

Kayak rentals are available at Bartlett Cove, where the park service visitor center is located, for both day trips around the area and multiday outings deep into the park. Kayakers can go off on their own or sign up for a guided tour.

Birdwatching also is a popular activity in Glacier Bay. The park's diverse habitat allows for a wide variety of species (at last count, 281), including rainforest species such as the American three-toed woodpecker and neotropical migrant warblers, thrushes and other songbirds. There also are island and cliff seabird colonies of gulls, guillemots, puffins and cormorants.

In addition, daily cultural activities are available at Xunaa Shuka Hit (the tribal house) in Bartlett Cove. Unveiled in 2016, this is the first permanent Huna Tlingit clan house since the original Huna Tlingit villages of the area were destroyed by a glacier over 250 years ago. Located within a short walking distance of Glacier Bay Lodge, it offers the chance to learn firsthand about Huna Tlingit history, culture and life from tribal elders. Visitors can also experience dance performances and native foods and see historical photographs. Hand-carved totem poles tell the Huna Tlingit story.

A National Park Service visitor center is located on the second level of Glacier Bay Lodge. Park rangers are available much of the day to answer questions, and films on the park are available for watching in the visitor center's auditorium. A ranger program is presented in the auditorium each evening.

Visitors also can get an overview of Glacier Bay's mountains, ice and water from a flightseeing tour out of Gustavus or even the Alaskan towns of Yakutat or Haines.

Where to stay

If you're arriving at Glacier Bay on a cruise, you don't have to worry about a place to stay. You'll be spending the night on your ship.

Those planning to visit the park by way of Gustavus will find several places to bed down. Many visitors stay at the 48-room Glacier Bay Lodge , which is within the park about 10 miles from the town (rooms from $270.40 a night). Cozy and rustic, the lodge is nestled among Sitka spruce on the shores of Bartlett Cove, which also is home to the park's headquarters and the jumping-off point for daily tours on the park boat. Glacier Bay Lodge is the only lodging within the park.

Back in Gustavus, you'll find a handful of small inns, guesthouses and bed-and-breakfasts. They include the 14-room Bear Track Inn (from $495 per person per day, including meals and ground transportation) and the five-room and five-cabin Glacier Bay Country Inn ($319 per person per day, including meals and ground transportation). Gustavus is not a big place; some venues here offer just a few rooms.

You also may face a bit of sticker shock when seeing the rates for lodging in Gustavus. In many cases, this is driven by the fact that the properties operate on a semi-all-inclusive basis, with all meals and transportation from the airport included in the base price.

Unfortunately for points and miles devotees, there are no points hotels in Gustavus. You can find a few points hotels back in Juneau, such as the Four Points by Sheraton Juneau (rooms in the summer start at $389, or 50,000 points) and a trio of Wyndham Rewards -affiliated properties (a Ramada, Travelodge and Super 8).

The park also maintains a free, walk-in campground in a rainforest setting at Bartlett Cove. Available on a first-come, first-served basis, it offers bear-proof food storage caches, composting toilets, a fire pit on the beach and a small warming shelter. Firewood is provided.

That said, most camping in Glacier Bay takes place in the wilderness. The park offers more than 700 linear miles of shorelines, beaches and islands open to camping. Campers can arrange for the park's tour boat to drop them off at one of several designated locations within the park and pick them up days later.

Campers must register upon arrival at the Visitor Information Station near the Bartlett Cove dock. Campers can call 907-697-2627 prior to arrival to inquire about space availability at the campground at Bartlett Cove.

Related: How to use points and miles to stay near national parks

Where to eat

Again, if you're arriving by cruise ship, you'll be eating on board your vessel.

If you're staying in the Gustavus area, you'll probably be eating at the lodge or inn where you're staying or at another one of the lodging properties in town. The town is so small that its dining establishments generally are tied to its lodging outlets. They're also only open in the summer.

Many of the lodging options offer a "full board" plan that includes three meals each day. Be warned that a la carte pricing at eateries can be high in the Gustavus area, as is true in many places in Alaska. This partly has to do with the high cost of getting supplies to remote parts of the state.

For those staying at Glacier Bay Lodge, the in-house restaurant, the Fairweather Dining Room , is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner for both lodge guests and outsiders. The dinner menu includes local Alaska salmon and halibut. Lunch brings burgers and sandwiches (including a halibut sandwich).

Also open to guests and outsiders is the restaurant at Glacier Bay Country Inn. It serves Alaskan cuisine, such as salmon, typically offered en croute with a green peppercorn sauce.

Bottom line

A visit to Glacier Bay is one of the iconic experiences of a trip to Alaska, and something you should try to do at least once in your life — if only to see the giant calving glaciers. For most visitors, experiencing the park will involve a voyage on a cruise ship that brings just a day in the park. But for those who want to explore deeper in the park, there are ways to do that, too.

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Highlights of a Glacier Bay National Park Cruise

For many people, the highlight of an Alaskan cruise is a visit to a glacier. These natural formations are best viewed from the decks of a cruise ship or your own balcony, as you can get close to the action. When it comes to the best viewing opportunities in Alaska, Glacier Bay National Park frequently ranks among the best for its natural scenery, wildlife spotting, and the unique learning opportunities available to travelers visiting on a cruise ship.

Park Rangers Join the Ship

One of the unique, enriching features of experiencing Glacier Bay National Park on an Alaskan cruise is that you're able to learn directly from the park rangers. At the beginning of a Glacier Bay cruise, they board the ship in order to provide background information on the natural scenery, wildlife, and conservation efforts going on within the park. So, in addition to viewing some of the world's best scenery, you receive personal information from the people who work hard to protect this natural wonder each and every day.

The Peace and Power of a Glacier

During the visit to Glacier Bay National Park , you'll have ample viewing time of these impressive formations. Apart from taking in the beautiful Alaskan scenery, lucky travelers may witness giant hunks of ice breaking off of the glacier and crashing down into the bay with a cracking roar that echoes all around.

Cruising to Alaska provides great viewing opportunities no matter where you are on the ship. Whether you wish to enjoy the scenery from your balcony, on the ship's promenade, or on deck enjoying a truly Alaskan meal of locally caught salmon or reindeer chili, you'll enjoy being surrounded by one of the most beautiful views you can have at sea.

Wildlife Spotting

You may be booking your Alaskan cruise for the natural beauty of Glacier Bay National Park, but this scenic destination is also the perfect place for viewing animals straight from the ship. The land and waters of Glacier Bay National Park have been a destination for viewing whales, bald eagles, and so much more. Be sure to bring a pair of binoculars and ask the on-board rangers what to look out for in order to get a closer glimpse at Alaska's most treasured wildlife.

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Cruising Glacier Bay in Alaska: 9 Tips from an NCL Employee

As an NCL employee for over 15 years, I've cruised Alaska many times for work and always left inspired by its majesty. Though, on one particular sailing, I have a memory of walking through the Observation Lounge during Norwegian Bliss' venture into Glacier Bay National Park. I was mesmerized by the stunning views. The water was a beautiful light blue teal, and the guests were in silent meditation as we floated past centuries-old glaciers. I couldn't sit and join everyone because I was heading to meet co-workers, but knew I had to come back as a guest to experience this for myself.

This summer I did just that — along with my husband and three of our friends, we sailed Norwegian Encore on a 7-day Alaska sailing from Seattle .

Knowing that the Observation Lounge was a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the sailing through Glacier Bay National Park , we woke up early to find our place. Sailing through this enchanted bay was a definitive highlight of my Alaska cruise vacation and I'm happy to share it with our blog readers.

Ready to start planning? Explore all Alaska cruises with Norwegian.

Read on if you want to get the most enjoyment from Glacier Bay National Park on your Alaska cruise vacation with Norwegian.

• Glacier Bay National Park Rangers board the ship and narrate the experience onboard. The rangers also provide complimentary maps to follow along on the journey so you can learn more about the history and facts of this unique park. Plus, their commentary is broadcast on the stateroom TVs for when you want to enjoy the views from your balcony.
• Since Glacier Bay is a National Park, you can get your National Park Passport Book stamped . If you don't have one, the park has souvenirs and interesting books for sale on board during the park rangers visit so you may be able to purchase a passport book then—or a souvenir t-shirt!
• The crew passes out hot chocolate on the bow. Since we sailed on Norwegian Encore, access to the bow was on deck eight through the hallway that runs parallel to The District Brewhouse.
• Prepare to see otters leisurely floating in the icy waters. They have made a comeback to the area in recent years. You may even spot one cradling a baby otter. Make sure you bring binoculars so you don’t miss them and all their cuteness!
• The Captain keeps the ship situated in the Margerie Glacier and the Grand Pacific Glacier area for an hour so plenty of time for photos. The Grand Pacific Glacier is thought to be responsible for the formation of the bay and its scale and proximity to Margerie Glacier is spectacular!
• Your binoculars will come in very handy as you scan the shores for glacier bears which are unique to this area. You may also spot other indigenous animals like black bears, brown bears, mountain goats and moose during the sailing.
• There will be several small floating icebergs to witness throughout the bay. They are called “growlers” or “bergy bits” and they feature a beautiful bright blue at the water line.
• Many seals can be spotted around South Marble Island on the southern opening of the bay. The park rangers will point out the best spots to find wildlife during the sailing.
• Prepare to be incredibly relaxed. My friends and I felt so serene as we sailed slowly through this beautiful and magnificent area—we all felt our blood pressure collectively drop. It was nearly a master class in stress relief!

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Last Frontier Adventure

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Glacier Bay National Park Adventure

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Northern Passages & Glacier Bay

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Inside Passage & Glacier Bay Wilderness Cruise

• Enjoy Canada’s Inside Passages
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Alaska's Inside Passage Sojourn

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• View unique wildlife such as orcas
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North to True Alaska Expedition

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Alaska Glacier Discovery

Get face-to-face with frozen giants. Wait breathlessly for ice to thunder into the sea. Each Glacier Discovery itinerary showcases two pristine wilderness areas, home to some of the best glaciers in Alaska. Northbound sailings feature both Glacier Bay and College Fjord. Southbound sailings cruise Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier. Find countless adventures in three charming ports. Reel in salmon in Ketchikan, soar 1,800 feet up on the tramway in Juneau, ride the rails to a gold rush camp in Skagway.

Map of Alaska Glacier Cruise

A 7-day one-way cruise north- or southbound from Vancouver, B.C., or Whittier, Alaska.

Ports of Call on This Cruise (Northbound)

• Vancouver, BC
• Scenic Cruising the Inside Passage
• Glacier Bay

College Fjord

Ports of call on this cruise (southbound), hubbard glacier, ships sailing this cruise, nieuw amsterdam.

Why Take This Cruise?

Cross glaciers off that bucket list. Twice. Two glacier cruise opportunities increase your chance to witness ice calving, one of nature’s greatest spectacles.

Glacier Bay National Park

Alaska Glacier Discovery Ships

Travel in high style to the Last Frontier. Nieuw Amsterdam is an homage to New York City, featuring an outstanding art collection, ambitious design and exceptional onboard experience. Named “Best Cruise Ship Overall” at the Travvy Awards.

Discover the great outdoors on a ship named for the Northern compass point. Outfitted with museum-quality art, from 19th-century oils to photographs. Enjoy our exclusive Alaska programming, Alaska Up Close on board.

Glacier Bay cruise port

• Coordinates 58.568, -136.027
• Local Time 2024-06-26 20:39

Glacier Bay cruise ship schedule

• Temperature

Protect Your Trip »

6 top luxury alaska cruises for 2024 & beyond.

Book a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to The Great Land on one of these top luxury ships.

Top Luxury Alaska Cruises

Courtesy of Crystal

Cruising to Alaska on a small luxury ship affords a very different experience than sailing through The Great Land on a larger vessel. On a smaller luxury ship, you'll enjoy the expected perks like fewer passengers and more personalized service – but you'll also physically get closer to the boundless wilderness, abundant wildlife, icy blue glaciers and majestic snow-capped mountains that you've waited a lifetime to see.

While the fares to sail on such vessels are quite a bit higher than those of larger cruise providers, the all-inclusive (or mostly all-inclusive) prices typically include all-suite accommodations with balconies, all meals, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, 24-hour room service, Wi-Fi access, gratuities, welcome bottles of sparkling wine, pillow selection, some shore excursions and butler service. Best of all, you won't feel like you're being nickel-and-dimed while on board. As a special touch, the attentive crew members may even learn your name and memorize your preferred pre-dinner cocktail.

Unlike many mainstream lines, most luxury Alaska cruises do not offer pre- and post-cruise tours to extend your adventure. However, you can plan these experiences on your own through third-party providers.

Alaska Tour & Travel has pre-cruise packages that include visits to Denali National Park & Preserve and the small, quirky Alaska towns of Homer and Talkeetna. You can also see a different side of Alaska via a train ride on the Alaska Railroad, take a national parks tour that includes Kenai Fjords National Park or head northbound to Fairbanks , one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights (if you visit during aurora season, from late August to late April). In addition, the company can plan a self-drive tour from Anchorage to Seward, which includes a stay at a wilderness lodge, helicopter flightseeing over Knik Glacier and guided tours in the parks.

The following luxury cruise lines will ensure you make the most of your voyage in Alaska – one of the most magical destinations on Earth.

Find your perfect cruise

Silversea Cruises

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises' small luxury ships are designed for adventurers interested in visiting a mix of Alaska's top ports and more rugged, off-the-beaten-track locales. Extended itineraries offer stops in less-visited destinations like the towns of Haines and Wrangell. On board, guests can expect a personalized experience that includes luxurious ocean-view suites with butler service, multiple gourmet dining options, complimentary alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, and attentive service with one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios in the industry.

Base fares for Silversea's 2024 and 2025 Alaska itineraries start at $3,250 per person. If you upgrade to Silversea 's door-to-door fare (which starts at $5,200 per person), you'll receive private chauffeur service from your home to the airport (and back home upon your return) and round-trip flights, with business class upgrades in some destinations.

Silversea also offers immersive pre- and post-cruise land experiences, departing from Seward, Alaska. Highlights include sightseeing flights over Denali National Park & Preserve or into bear country to see Alaska's magnificent grizzly bears. In Vancouver, travelers can take a flightseeing transfer to Victoria to tour the 55-acre Butchart Gardens or board the Rocky Mountaineer for a two-day train ride through the Canadian Rockies.

Silversea's Alaska itineraries extend from May to September, with voyages ranging between seven and 16 days. The line's newest and largest vessel, the 728-passenger Silver Nova , sails its inaugural Alaska season in 2024 along with two smaller ships, Silver Muse (596 guests) and Silver Shadow (392 guests). There are 35 Alaska voyages available in 2024. In 2025, luxury cruisers can hop aboard one of 45 scheduled voyages on either Silver Nova or the 596-guest Silver Moon .

For a seven-day itinerary, consider a sailing from Seward, Alaska, to Vancouver, British Columbia. This voyage cruises the Hubbard Glacier and the Inside Passage and stops in the Alaska towns of Juneau, Skagway, Sitka and Ketchikan. Complimentary excursions in Ketchikan include a tour of Saxman Native Village; a visit to Bonfire Bay Oyster Farm, featuring a sea-to-table oyster tasting; the Alaskan Cultural, Culinary & Lumberjack show; the Alaskan Lodge Adventure & Seafeast and a day as a fisherman aboard the Aleutian Ballard, as seen on Discovery Channel's "The Deadliest Catch." You can also opt for a Selected Shore Excursion (for an additional cost), such as mountain biking or a private fishing trip.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises' elegant Seven Seas Explorer sails the line's Alaska itineraries in 2024 and 2025. The lavish 746-guest ship was coined "The Most Luxurious Ship Ever Built" when it debuted in 2016; among its impressive features are the 3,875-square-foot Regent Suite and a high-end collection of art displayed throughout the ship, including works by Pablo Picasso.

Alaska voyages with Regent in 2024 and 2025 start at $4,799 per person. Upgraded 2-for-1 all-inclusive fares (starting at $5,499 per person) cover elegant all-balcony suite accommodations; round-trip airfare (business class on international flights); a one-night pre-cruise hotel package; free two- or three-night land programs; free unlimited shore excursions; free unlimited beverages (alcoholic and nonalcoholic); complimentary specialty dining; and prepaid gratuities. You'll also receive complimentary airport transfers, unlimited Wi-Fi access and valet laundry service.

Every suite style includes a private balcony, roomy closets and upscale finishes. Concierge Suites (and above) add cozy in-room amenities like cashmere blankets, perfect to bundle up in while you take in the scenery. Meanwhile, Penthouse Suites (and higher) include a private butler who can book excursions, make dinner and spa reservations, unpack your luggage, arrange for a private cocktail soiree in your suite and indulge any other special requests.

Between May and September 2024, Regent sails 22 Alaska voyages. There are 16 Alaska sailings scheduled for the same period in 2025. Itineraries range from seven to 14 nights. For plenty of scenic cruising days, consider a round-trip itinerary from Vancouver departing May 28, 2025. The cruise includes five relaxing days at sea, where you'll enjoy scenic cruising through the Inside Passage (twice), Hubbard Glacier (twice) and Endicott Arm Fjord. Ports of call in Alaska include Wrangell, Juneau , Skagway, Sitka, Seward, Icy Strait (Hoonah) and Ketchikan. You'll also have a full day in Victoria, British Columbia, before returning to Vancouver.

While in Wrangell, consider the Tongass Botanical Forest Walk excursion. Tongass National Forest is the largest national forest in the U.S., with towering old-growth trees and unique flora, fauna and ecosystems. While in the temperate rainforest with your naturalist guide, look for local wildlife like Sitka black-tailed deer, porcupines and birds of prey. Other complimentary excursions at this stop include a round of golf at Muskeg Meadows Golf Course; a canoe trip through Wrangell harbor and nearby islands, and a heritage tour about Tlingit culture and the history of the town.

Recently relaunched Crystal offers just seven voyages in Alaska aboard Crystal Serenity in July and August 2024. The 740-guest luxury vessel was refurbished in 2023 and features the line's signature top-notch service, elegant interiors and suites, and personal butler service in every room category.

Other perks and amenities include plush bathrobes and Sicily's Ortigia bath products; an impressive passenger-to-crew ratio; prepaid gratuities; complimentary beverages; and outstanding cuisine, including Umi Uma (an exclusive Nobu restaurant at sea, available only on Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony ). Guests can also feast on Italian cuisine at Osteria d'Ovidio; book an exclusive dining experience at The Vintage Room; indulge in Parisian cafe-style fare at The Bistro; opt for American cuisine at Waterside Restaurant or take their pick of several other casual indoor and alfresco options.

Cruisers also have their selection of unique shore experiences curated by Crystal's parent company A&K Travel Group, such as a ride on the world's largest zip line in Hoonah (Icy Strait Point); dog sledding and glacier flightseeing in Skagway; fishing and wilderness dining in Ketchikan and the Wildlife Quest and Fin Island Lodge experience in Sitka, boasting a feast of Alaska king crab and wild salmon.

Crystal offers seven- and eight-night round-trip voyages from Vancouver , as well as one-way cruises from Vancouver or Seward, Alaska. Select itineraries – like the July 30, 2024, voyage from Vancouver to Seward – offer a scenic cruising day in the Seymour Narrows in British Columbia. On this sailing, you'll also enjoy a day at sea cruising Hubbard Glacier, as well as stops in Ketchikan, Sitka, Hoonah (Icy Strait), Skagway and Sitka in Alaska. Or, opt for the July 2, 2024, round-trip sailing from Vancouver for three scenic cruising days in the Inside Passage, Endicott Arm and the Seymour Narrows.

The line's Aug. 13, 2024, round-trip sailing from Vancouver features a special guest: Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio, the executive chairman of A&K Travel Group. As such, the cruise will include an exclusive gala dinner and other unique experiences. Other special voyages welcome marine biologist and National Geographic photographer Flip Nicklin, who will share personal stories from his extensive career and expert insights about humpback whale habitats and behaviors.

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Viking Ocean Cruises

Courtesy of Viking

Viking Ocean Cruises' 11-day Alaska & the Inside Passage cruise is available on 11 dates during the 2024 season. It sails from Vancouver to Seward (or the reverse) on the 930-passenger Viking Orion . In 2025, the line offers the same itinerary on 22 dates between May and September, split between Viking Orion and its sister ship, the 930-passenger Viking Sea .

Viking's destination-focused itineraries are curated for travelers who are interested in history, science, culture and cuisine, as they feature onboard enrichment like lectures by Viking's resident historians. You'll also find regionally inspired dishes in The Restaurant and special access to unique tours and excursions ashore.

The line's mostly all-inclusive fares cover accommodations in spacious all-veranda staterooms and suites; beer, wine and soft drinks at lunch and dinner; meals at all the dining venues; one shore excursion in every port; free Wi-Fi access; 24-hour specialty teas, coffees and bottled water; complimentary access to The Nordic Spa & Fitness Center; and other upscale amenities.

Voyages traveling northbound from Vancouver include one day of scenic cruising through the Inside Passage before stopping in Ketchikan, Sitka, Juneau, Skagway and Icy Strait Point in Alaska. The eighth day of the cruise sails through picturesque Yakutat Bay, which includes the Hubbard Glacier. The ship then calls on Valdez, Alaska, before the trip ends with two days in Seward.

While in Valdez, take an optional tour to explore the incredible scenery surrounding the small fishing town. Viking offers a kayaking trip to see the Valdez Glacier; a scenic cruise through picturesque Prince William Sound to view the Columbia Glacier; a wildlife cruise where you can look for humpback whales, orcas, porpoises, sea otters and bald eagles; a helicopter ride over the area's rugged, icy wilderness; or a UTV adventure through the Chugach Mountains to Mineral Creek Canyon.

Seabourn Cruise Line

Courtesy of Seabourn Cruise Line

Between May and August 2024, Seabourn Cruise Line will host 20 Alaska voyages aboard the Seabourn Odyssey , before the ship leaves the cruise line in the fall. In 2025, the line offers 27 Alaska sailings on Seabourn Quest. Both yacht-inspired ships accommodate up to 458 guests and feature Seabourn's signature all-inclusive amenities, including luxurious oceanfront suites with verandas; personalized service; complimentary fine wines and premium spirits; complimentary dining; and caviar served throughout the sailing. You'll also have a complimentary W-Fi package and an in-suite minibar stocked with your favorite beverages. Ashore, sign up for exclusive programs like shopping for fresh salmon, halibut and Alaska king crab alongside a Seabourn chef.

Guests booking Seabourn Quest for 2025 will be able to sample the line's new dining concept, Solis. Inspired by destinations in the Mediterranean, the menu features a fresh, modern take on traditional dishes and whimsical cocktails. The restaurant is a collaboration with master chef and culinary partner Anton Egger and senior corporate chef Franck Salein. In addition to dishes like salt-encrusted whole branzino and Tuscan-style steak, guests will also find a wide selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes.

The seven-day Alaska Fjords & Canadian Inside Passage itinerary on May 31, 2024, aboard Seabourn Odyssey, sails from Juneau to Vancouver and includes a day in either Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm, depending on the ice conditions. From there, you can take one of the optional guided excursions: Ventures by Seabourn. These tours are an additional cost but offer opportunities for up-close Zodiac, kayaking or catamaran experiences in the wilderness to see glaciers calving and view local wildlife, such as black bears, mountain goats, seals, wolves and seabirds.

You'll also enjoy many days of scenic cruising on this voyage, and have the opportunity for more optional adventures in Rudyerd Bay (Misty Fjords). The ship makes additional stops in Wrangell, Alaska, and Prince Rupert, British Columbia, before disembarking in Vancouver.

If you want to see stunning Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, then consider booking the seven-day Alaska Inside Passage & Glacier Bay sailing on May 10, 2024, from Vancouver to Juneau. This itinerary also includes the Seymour Narrows and Snow Pass, cruising Queen Island Sound and the Lynn Canal. There's a stop for Ventures by Seabourn activities like kayaking and Zodiac rides in the Inian Islands. The Alaska ports of call on this voyage are Ketchikan, Sitka, Icy Strait Point and Haines. You'll disembark in Juneau.

Francois Lefebvre | Courtesy of PONANT

French luxury expedition line PONANT offers 10 Alaska cruises in 2024; itineraries span between seven and 11 nights. Aboard the 264-guest yacht-style Le Soléal, you'll meet up to 10 naturalist experts and guides specializing in geology, history, ornithology or marine or land mammals. Guests can attend onboard lectures and embark on Zodiac landings with the guides.

The ship features elegant staterooms and suites, a library, a spa, a hair salon and a gym. Guests will be treated to movies in the theater, wine tastings and cooking demonstrations throughout the expedition. All fine dining meals, 24-hour room service, an open bar (including an in-room minibar) and complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi access are covered in the pricing.

Two of PONTANT's eight-night voyages from Vancouver to Sitka are in partnership with Smithsonian Journeys and are curated for English-speaking travelers. Fares for these expeditions include transfers to and from the ship and a shore excursion in each port. On board, you can attend talks and discussions hosted by two Smithsonian Journeys experts: geologist Scott Burns and natural history filmmaker John Grabowska.

On these voyages, there is a sea day after departing Vancouver. You'll cruise through the Johnstone Strait, where you'll have an excellent chance of seeing humpback whales and orcas. After a day spent in the Inside Passage, the ship will call on the village of Metlakatla, Alaska, on the western coast of Annette Island, which is home to the Tsimshians from British Columbia. Other unique Alaska ports of call in this itinerary include the commercial fishing town of Petersburg, the Tlingit village of Kake and the small fishing community of Alfin Cove.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is a U.S. News & World Report contributor and an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times both by land and sea to explore the state's vast wilderness and abundant wildlife, and to chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. Pratesi used her extensive knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• Alaska Cruise Packing List: Must-Have Items
• The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises
• The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska
• The Best Alaska Cruise Lines
• The Best Alaska Cruises for Families

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Alaska Vacations

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The best Alaska cruises for every type of traveler

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Even with a season that only runs from April through October, there are some 40 big ships and dozens of small ships cruising Alaska , making it one of the most popular cruise destinations in the world after the Caribbean and Europe. The best Alaska cruises range from off-the-beaten-path voyages on vessels carrying fewer than 100 passengers to weeklong jaunts through the Inside Passage aboard megaships that hold thousands.

The itinerary choices are numerous in Alaska. Some ships stick to tried-and-true ports, sailing through Southeast Alaska and into western Canada. Others wander deeper along the Alaska coastline to places such as the Kenai Peninsula, north to Nome and Barrow and even deep into the Bering Sea.

Some trips hit multiple national parks; others dive into Alaska culture, allowing guests to learn the stories told by totem poles or hear about “the big one” from a fisherman at a dive bar.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG’s cruise newsletter .

It can be hard to figure out which ship will deliver your idea of a “bucket list” experience in The Last Frontier. A lot comes down to your travel style, preferences and budget. Some travelers demand luxury, while others don’t mind going less fancy if it means close encounters with bears and other creatures in the wilderness. Some look for romance, while others want to introduce the kids or grandkids to glaciers and eagles, gold panning and sled dogs.

The good news is there’s a ship in Alaska for you no matter your taste or style. Here’s a beginner’s guide to the best Alaska cruises to help you narrow down your choices.

Best for megaresort fans

Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean both sail some of their largest ships in Alaska. They are floating megaresorts, carrying thousands, and are big on amenities, glitz and a certain amount of glamor — think flashy casinos, Broadway shows, lavish spas. Dining and drinking venues number in the dozens, while amusement park features thrill the kids and adrenaline-seekers.

Norwegian Encore

On Norwegian Encore, you can race along a go-kart racetrack, compete in outdoor laser tag and zoom down slides at the water park while you traverse Alaska’s Inside Passage. The ship sails seven-night cruises from Seattle, visiting Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan in Alaska, as well as Victoria, British Columbia, and Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve .

Related: A beginner’s guide to picking a cruise line

Ovation of the Seas

On Royal Caribbean’s Quantum-class ships, you can order a drink from a robotic bartender, try simulated skydiving or surfing experiences and take a ride in a glass capsule that travels high above your ship on a mechanical arm — a weird and wonderful way to see the Alaska scenery.

Ovation of the Seas sails round-trip from Seattle on seven-night cruises, but the exact itinerary varies by week. The ship cruises Endicott Arm for scenic views of Dawes Glacier and typically visits three Alaska ports and Victoria.

Best for land and sea adventures

You’ve traveled far to get to Alaska, and it would be a shame to miss inland sights such as Denali National Park and Preserve and the sight of Denali, North America’s largest peak — so big it’s often shrouded in clouds caused by its own weather system.

Market leaders Holland America Line and Princess Cruises both send a half-dozen ships to Alaska each year, and they have 75 and 55 years in the market, respectively.

They top the list in terms of cruises, as well as cruise tours, which combine time sailing with overnight stays on land. The companies operate their own lodges, rail cars and motorcoaches for exploration of Alaska’s interior and beyond. Many of the ships have permission to sail in Glacier Bay.

Related: The coolest things to do on an Alaska cruise

Choose from 10- to 17-night land tours that combine a standard weeklong cruise (sometimes half a cruise) with time spent exploring Alaska’s interior by bus, train or even plane.

Holland America will base six ships in Alaska in 2024, with tour offerings to Denali, Fairbanks and Anchorage.

However, it also offers nine- to 14-night cruise tours on Koningsdam that head into the Canadian Yukon, following the route of the Klondike Gold Rush from Alaska to northwestern Canada. Disembark your cruise ship in Skagway, then travel to Whitehorse and Dawson City in the Yukon before continuing on to Fairbanks (the gateway to Arctic Alaska), Denali National Park and Anchorage.

Sapphire Princess

Princess Cruises offers a cruise tour where you visit four national parks: Glacier Bay, Denali, the Kenai Fjords and America’s largest national park, Wrangell-St. Elias. The 15- and 17-night trips combine a seven-night cruise on Sapphire Princess from Vancouver to Whittier, Alaska, with another week or more on land, ending in Fairbanks or Anchorage.

Best for travelers on a budget

Older ships in Norwegian and Royal Caribbean’s fleets tend to offer more reduced prices than you’ll find on the lines’ larger and newer ships, based on the fact the older ships don’t have as many bells and whistles.

Since they have so many ships in the market, Holland America Line and Princess Cruises also tend to offer frequent sales — especially on their older tonnage. These ships have a loyal following and tend to have fewer families on board, which some couples find particularly appealing.

Related: Best time to cruise Alaska

If you’re looking for other surefire ways to save, consider sailings in the area’s shoulder season. You’ll find better deals from April to early June and in September than you will in the height of summer.

Also, in Alaska, balcony cabins are highly desirable, with everyone seeking views of the wilderness, snow-capped peaks and glaciers. As those reserves get low, the prices tend to get higher. Bargain seekers should either book early for these accommodations or choose inside, outside or guarantee cabins (where you don’t pick your room location) to save more.

Radiance of the Seas

Royal Caribbean’s 20-year-old ship Radiance of the Seas mainly sails weeklong, one-way cruises between Vancouver and Seward, Alaska, with prices below $100 per person, per night, for inside and outside cabins on many departures.

However, its early-season May 2024 sailing from Seward to Vancouver is the cheapest Royal Caribbean Alaska cruise of the season. It starts at $368 per person for an inside cabin.

Grand Princess and Sapphire Princess

Princess Cruises has so many ships based in Alaska that you’re bound to find deals, especially on shoulder-season cruises. Both Grand and Sapphire Princess offer weeklong Alaska cruises in May 2024 starting from $548 per person for inside cabins. The itinerary starts in Vancouver and ends in Whittier, Alaska, with calls in Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway and scenic cruising in Glacier Bay and College Fjord.

Best for off-the-beaten-path travel

Want to see and deeply experience coastal Alaska, and don’t mind a mellower environment where lectures and impromptu guitar singalongs replace casinos and show productions? Consider lines such as UnCruise Adventures , Lindblad Expeditions and Alaskan Dream Cruises, all with ships that carry fewer than 100 passengers (and in the case of Alaskan Dream, even under 20 passengers).

On these small ships, captains have the flexibility to alter itineraries and linger if the naturalist onboard spots a pod of whales or bears digging for clams on a beach.

Small ships can go places bigger ships can’t, so itineraries stretch far beyond the traditional ports. You’ll visit more remote places such as Petersburg, a fishing town with strong Norwegian roots, and Wrangell, one of Alaska’s oldest communities. Some itineraries are conducted entirely in the wild, with no port calls at all.

UnCruise Adventures

UnCruise Adventures explores Southeast Alaska on seven-, 12- and 14-night itineraries. A day might start with a morning birding expedition, continue with a kayaking adventure and end with an evening campfire ashore. You might visit LeConte and Baird Glaciers (where the big ships don’t go), plus UnCruise has the only permits for hiking and biking adventures on Chichagof Island.

Lindblad Expeditions

Lindblad Expeditions frequents off-the-beaten-path destinations in both Alaska and British Columbia, with itineraries ranging from six to 15 nights.

Guests might explore the small fishing town of Petersburg or discover native petroglyphs on the beaches of Wrangell Island in Alaska, or search for grizzly bears in Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest. Lindblad has special permits to bring passengers into the wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve and the Tongass National Forest, beyond what the big ships can offer.

Alaskan Dream Cruises

Alaskan-owned Alaskan Dream Cruises’ ships carry 12 to 76 passengers to remote Native villages that rarely see visitors, with plenty of time for wildlife viewing far from the cruise ship crowds. Itineraries range from five to nine nights, from departure ports such as Sitka, Ketchikan and Juneau.

Best for families

If you’re traveling with your kids or grandkids in Alaska and want an activity- and entertainment-packed experience, target the newest and biggest ships of Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Carnival and especially Disney Cruise Line. All have excellent camp-like activity programs for kids, plus eye-popping amusement attractions.

Disney Wonder

On Disney ships, Goofy might make an appearance as you admire soaring eagles, blue icebergs and glaciers. The extensive children’s program, entertainment and such activities as water slides and play areas deliver what you would expect from the purveyor of dreams. Bonus: Cabins are designed with families in mind and include split bathrooms (one with a toilet and sink, the other with a shower/tub combo and sink).

Related: 5 best cruise lines for families

Discovery Princess

While lacking in whiz-bang attractions, Princess Cruises is another good choice, both for its children’s and teens program, complete with spacious facilities, and for such programming as bringing sled dogs on board, which is a hit with young passengers. The line’s newest ship, Discovery Princess, sails round trip from Seattle, a convenient U.S. home port for families to fly or drive to.

Carnival Spirit

Water slides, a partnership with Dr. Seuss and three hangouts for kids and teens make Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Spirit a great bet for families in Alaska.

The ship’s huge array of included quick eats — pizza, tacos, Guy Fieri’s burgers and unlimited soft serve ice cream — and casual atmosphere take the stress out of dining with the family. The ship sails round trip from Seattle on seven-night itineraries that call in Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan and Victoria, with scenic cruising in Tracy Arm Fjord.

Best for luxury lovers

If you envision sipping Champagne as you watch a glacier thunderously calve into the sea, consider booking one of the all-inclusive luxury cruise lines in Alaska: Seabourn , Regent Seven Seas Cruises or Silversea .

All these lines include ships that are experts at delivering gourmet cuisine and the other finer things in life in intimate, cushy floating environments. Additionally, all the lines are big on featuring lectures by experts, which provides passengers with a deeper insight into Alaska.

Itineraries tend to include the popular ports and beyond. You might, for instance, visit Wrangell and Prince Rupert, a port city in Canada, and linger in places such as the Misty Fjords and Prince William Sound. Seven- to 14-night sailings embark from ports such as Vancouver, Seward and Juneau.

Seven Seas Explorer

Regent’s 750-passenger Seven Seas Explorer is an all-suite ship offering guests in Alaska multiple gourmet onboard restaurants, all-inclusive beverages, free airfare and included gratuities. Many shore excursions are complimentary. Enjoy little luxuries, like an afternoon in the thermal suite of the two-story spa-and-fitness center, or really splurge out by booking the Regent Suite, the most lavish suite you’ll find at sea.

Seabourn Odyssey

The 450-passenger Seabourn Odyssey boasts an onboard expedition team and does a posh version of expedition cruising in Alaska, using inflatable Zodiac craft and kayaks.

Seabourn calls its program Ventures by Seabourn. Experts onboard these sailings include naturalists, biologists and other scientists who are members of the expedition team. Once guests finish communing with nature, they can indulge in complimentary Champagne and caviar on board or relish a meal created by famed chef, Thomas Keller.

Related: The 4 best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Best for solo travelers

Solo travelers don’t always have to pay double to cruise Alaska on their own. Several ships feature cabins designed and priced for one. Single cruisers should also note that luxury lines Silversea and Seabourn, while not cheap, do a great job of taking care of single cruisers, hosting them at dinner and providing easy opportunities to meet and mingle with other travelers.

Norwegian Bliss

The ships in Norwegian Cruise Line’s Breakaway and Getaway classes all have cozy studio cabins designed and priced for one person. Additionally, they’re located in a complex where a private lounge encourages mingling. Norwegian Bliss offers 82 solo rooms on its round-trip Seattle cruises that visit Dawes Glacier, Sitka and Icy Strait Point.

Quantum of the Seas

Royal Caribbean’s studio staterooms, on its Quantum-class ships in Alaska, give solo travelers the benefits of both decent space and balconies.

On Quantum of the Seas, choose a 101-square-foot inside cabin or a 119-square-foot ocean-view room with a 55-square-foot balcony. Either way, you get a full-size bed and plenty of space for one person. The ship sails a similar weeklong itinerary to sister ship Ovation of the Seas, round-trip from Seattle with scenic sailing along Endicott Arm.

Holland America offers ocean-view accommodations for one in Alaska only on Koningsdam. Measuring 127 to 172 square feet, these rooms come with a full-size bed and a picture window.

Koningsdam sails round trip from Vancouver to Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan, with scenic cruising in Tracy Arm and Glacier Bay. Its cruises can be combined into nine- to 14-night cruise tours to the Yukon and Denali.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Additional reporting by Erica Silverstein.

SPONSORED:  With states reopening, enjoying a meal from a restaurant no longer just means curbside pickup.

And when you do spend on dining, you should use a credit card that will maximize your rewards and potentially even score special discounts. Thanks to temporary card bonuses and changes due to coronavirus, you may even be able to score a meal at your favorite restaurant for free. 

These are the best credit cards for dining out, taking out, and ordering in to maximize every meal purchase.

Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.