norwegian alaska cruise route

Alaska cruise guide: Best itineraries, planning tips and things to do

Alaska might be one of the most beautiful places in the world, but it's rugged and can be tricky to get around. Explore the Last Frontier by cruise ship, and you can travel to gold rush towns, glaciers, Alaska Native heritage sites and natural areas brimming with wildlife in comfort, even luxury.

When planning an Alaska cruise, you have many things to consider: when to go for the experience you're anticipating, which cruise line is best suited to your travel style, the best Alaska cruise ports to visit and which shoreside activities you want to prioritize. It's not the kind of trip you want to throw together at the last minute — especially since the best fare deals typically go to organized travelers who book early.

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If you're eager to spot bald eagles in the wild, ride a dog sled atop an ice field or pan for gold after a hearty salmon feast, an Alaska cruise is calling your name. Dive into The Points Guy's Alaska cruise guide for all the planning tips you need for your dream cruise up north.

Why cruise Alaska?

Most people have similar reasons for cruising Alaska. They want to admire its rugged beauty, seek out wildlife (such as eagles, bears and whales) and learn about its Native cultures and gold rush history. It's so far from the rest of the mainland U.S. that it's become a bucket list destination, especially for travelers looking to visit each of the 50 states.

One of the key reasons to cruise Alaska versus taking a land tour is to visit destinations along the Inside Passage that you cannot reach by road. Plus, many of the state's famous glaciers are best viewed from the sea.

If you want to see landlocked areas, such as Denali National Park, you can tack a cruise line-operated tour onto the beginning or end of your sailing for a seamless land and sea vacation. It's easier than fumbling with multiple train, bus, ferry and hotel reservations to cobble together the same trip on your own.

A cruise can also make an Alaska trip more affordable. Instead of taking a long and expensive flight to Anchorage or Fairbanks, you can choose a cruise that sails round-trip from Seattle or Vancouver (note, you won't be able to tack on a post-cruise land trip to Denali if you do this). Restaurant prices in Alaska can be high, but a cruise bundles meals, accommodations and transportation into one price that, with sales, can be cheaper than you'd think.

Related: Best Alaska cruise tips to help you make the most of your time aboard and ashore

When do cruises go to Alaska?

Nearly every major cruise line has a presence in Alaska from May through mid-September, with some offering sailings as early as April or as late as October. The season is short due to weather. Cold temperatures, icy waters and a long snowy season are not conducive to early spring and late fall cruises.

Alaska cruise weather can be chilly (in the 40s to 50s) first thing in the morning and at night. However, if it's a sunny summer day, temperatures can shoot into the 70s and even low 80s. It also rains a lot in Alaska; it's drier in the spring than in the summer.

When you want to go will depend on which activities you want to do, how you feel about cool weather and rain, and the price. Cruises at the beginning (April and May) and end (September and October) of Alaska's cruise season are generally a bit cheaper than those in June, July and August.

Related: Best time to cruise to Alaska

Best Alaska itineraries

Where do Alaska cruises even go? Most sail along the Inside Passage, a maritime route along the state's southern coast (and into British Columbia and Washington state) that weaves around the area's thousand islands. Some venture farther north into the Gulf of Alaska; these are often one-way cruises that begin and end at the ports near Anchorage.

Learn more about the best Alaska cruise itineraries for your next vacation.

Inside Passage

The Inside Passage is the most popular Alaska cruise route. Weeklong itineraries generally embark in either Seattle or Vancouver, British Columbia — though some itineraries originate in Juneau. A few lines, such as Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line and Cunard Line, offer 10-night Inside Passage cruises from Seattle or Vancouver.

Glacial ice carved this passageway long ago, and today, cruise ships and fishing vessels thread their way through the islets and channels to see some of the most spectacular natural sights in the world.

You'll find magnificent mountains (often snowcapped, even in the summertime), lush forests, waterfalls, fjords and calving glaciers. If it's marine life you've come to see, you'll find it in abundance, from whales and dolphins to sea lions and harbor seals. On land, you'll likely spy bears and Dall sheep while eagles, puffins and a host of seabirds circle above.

Many people trek to Alaska to commune with nature, but there's also history here that you shouldn't overlook. Shore excursions and onboard lectures will explain the cultures of the Indigenous peoples of Alaska, as well as more recent inhabitants from the Russian community in Sitka and the fortune-seekers who moved to Skagway during the Klondike gold rush in the late 1890s.

Popular Inside Passage ports of call include Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan, Petersburg, Haines and Skagway. Most cruises will visit three or four ports of call.

Additionally, you'll have one day spent cruising the Inside Passage and one focused on "scenic cruising," where you can enjoy the landscapes but won't go ashore. This is not nearly as boring as you might think since you'll see incredible sights like Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve or Hubbard Glacier .

One nice thing about the Inside Passage is how calm the water is because you're sailing between land masses. If you worry about seasickness, an Inside Passage trip is the best Alaska cruise itinerary versus a sailing where your ship transits rougher, open waters.

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler

Gulf of Alaska

If you book a weeklong Gulf of Alaska voyage, you'll also enjoy exploring parts of the Inside Passage and its ports that could include a mix of Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, Ketchikan, Haines and Icy Strait Point.

You'll have up to two days of scenic cruising, in addition to sailing the Inside Passage. Because Gulf of Alaska cruises sail farther north, scenic destinations might include College Fjord, in addition to Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier.

Generally, these one-way sailings travel from Seward or Whittier (the cruise ports closest to Anchorage) to Vancouver (or vice versa). Most itineraries are seven nights, but you'll find a handful that are longer.

For these itineraries, you'll need to fly into or out of Anchorage and take a train or bus to/from the cruise departure ports, which can take an hour or two. You can book the transportation on your own or through your cruise line.

Gulf of Alaska sailings — especially those in late August and September — can encounter rough seas in the gulf portion of the voyage. Be prepared if you're particularly prone to seasickness.

Related: One-way Alaska cruises vs. round-trip: Which is best?

Longer sailings from the West Coast

Finally, you'll find some round-trip San Francisco itineraries — usually 10 or 11 nights long — as well as longer sailings between San Francisco and Vancouver. These cruises are best suited to travelers who love days at sea.

On a 10-night cruise, you'll have four sea days (for example, two days from San Francisco to Juneau) plus a day of scenic cruising at a spot like Tracy Arm (Twin Sawyer Glaciers), Endicott Arm, Hubbard Glacier or Glacier Bay National Park. The waters before you enter the Inside Passage can be calm, rough or anything in between, depending on when you go.

Ports on these longer sailings might include Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point and Victoria, British Columbia.

You can also find one-way repositioning cruises between Southern California ports (Los Angeles and San Diego) and Vancouver at the beginning or end of a ship's Alaska cruise season.

Related: The 5 best luxury Alaska cruises you can book right now

Cruisetours

Cruise lines understand that not all of Alaska's best sights lie along the coast. Denali National Park and the city of Fairbanks are well inland. And some coastal highlights, like the Kenai Peninsula, aren't typically visited on a seven-night cruise. So the cruise lines created their own "cruisetours": vacations that combine a weeklong cruise with a two- to seven-night bus tour.

On a cruisetour, you'll sail on a one-way Gulf of Alaska cruise, so your cruise starts or ends in Alaska. Depending on the tour itinerary you choose, you might visit Seward and the Kenai Peninsula, Alyeska, Talkeetna, Anchorage and Fairbanks — as well as spend one to three nights in Denali National Park.

Some lines also offer Alaska cruisetours that venture into Canada's Yukon, including a few Holland America tours that combine half a cruise with a cruisetour that starts or ends in Skagway.

Your tour might include a ride on the scenic Alaska Railroad . Some activities are included in the cost of the cruisetour; other outings can be booked like shore excursions, depending on your interest and budget. If you're hoping to see the northern lights, booking a cruisetour in September might be your best bet to see the aurora on a cruise vacation.

Related: The best credit cards for booking cruises

Best Alaska cruise lines

Most big-ship and luxury cruise lines send at least one cruise ship to Alaska every summer. Some of the best Alaska cruise lines are Holland America and Princess Cruises because they have especially long histories in the region and offer cruises, as well as cruise and land tour combinations, on multiple ships each season.

If you want a more active trip in less touristed areas, a great choice would be a small-ship expedition line, including Alaska specialists such as Alaskan Dream Cruises and UnCruise Adventures.

Ships in all price ranges sail a variety of itineraries, so don't let budget stop you from visiting. If luxury is what you're after, you can find lines that will go overboard pampering you on your journey north.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

Best cruise lines for extended trips to Alaska

If you want to cruise Alaska but also see some of the interior and enjoy a stay in a lodge or hotel, go for a cruisetour package from either Holland America or Princess Cruises. Both have fantastic itineraries that take passengers not only to the Inside Passage, but also to Anchorage, Denali National Park, the Yukon, Kenai Peninsula, Talkeetna and Fairbanks. Princess even owns a handful of its own lodges.

Best Alaska cruises for families with kids

Carnival, Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian, Princess and Royal Caribbean all have extensive kids clubs aboard their ships that cater to all ages, from babies to teens. Little kids will adore meet-and-greets with beloved characters onboard Disney cruises, or hanging with Dr. Seuss characters when sailing with Carnival. Older kids will love the rock climbing walls, video game stations, sports courts, go-karts and laser tag on Royal Caribbean and NCL ships.

Related: 6 best Alaska cruises for families

Best cruise lines for adventure-seekers

Active travelers might prefer expedition-style voyages on smaller ships that include more time for adventurous activities, such as hiking in the Tongass National Forest, wildlife and glacier viewing from Zodiac rafts or kayaks, or even overnight camping. These ships often feature complimentary shore excursions, kayaks and bikes for guest use and onboard scientists and naturalists.

If you've got active teens who have an interest in nature and the environment, an expedition voyage could be exactly what will keep them engaged and off their devices. Just expect the majority of your shipmates to be older adults.

Look to UnCruise Adventures, Alaskan Dream Cruises, Hurtigruten and Lindblad Expeditions for the best adventure cruises.

Related: Pros and cons of small-ship cruising in Alaska

Best for multigenerational groups

Sailing with grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles and kids? Try Celebrity Cruises, Holland America and Princess Cruises. These cruise lines, especially on their newer ships, offer something for everyone — as well as a higher caliber of onboard dining than on the cheapest cruises.

Kids can hang out in the youth lounges while parents hit the spa or try a wine-tasting class. Everyone can come back together for dinner and evening entertainment or onboard activities suitable for all ages.

Best for couples and big celebrations

The luxury cruise lines are your best bet if you're a couple and enjoy spacious suites, gourmet food, pampering (many luxe lines hire butlers to cater to every passenger) and the opportunity to meet other like-minded cruisers. The personalized service and all-inclusive nature of luxury voyages might also be attractive to anyone celebrating a milestone, such as an anniversary, big birthday or retirement.

Look at Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea Cruises and Viking.

Related: The best Alaska cruises for couples

Things to do in Alaska

Alaska cruises offer a wide range of activities in port, with options for active travelers, wildlife lovers, history buffs and shoppers. Whether you're traveling with young kids or require more sedentary recreation, the Alaska cruise ports won't disappoint.

Related: Best shore excursions on an Alaska cruise

Wildlife tours are available in every port. Hop a bus, kayak, boat or plane to look for bears, eagles, whales, sea otters and other wildlife. Note that moose don't regularly show up in the Inside Passage; you'll need to head farther north to find them.

Book a fishing trip to try your hand at catching salmon or halibut, or go out crab fishing for a glimpse into that type of work.

Active travelers can explore Alaska by sea kayak or canoe, hike on glaciers and through rainforests, zip line, bike, ride an ATV and even snorkel (you'll need a dry suit). You can even opt for a round of golf at the course in Haines.

In Alaska, sightseeing doesn't only take place on the ground. Floatplane and helicopter tours take you around scenic areas like Misty Fjords or land you on a glacier, perhaps for a dog-sledding or hiking adventure on the ice. If you prefer to stay grounded, you can find informative trolley tours of ports like Skagway.

Alaska cruises provide plentiful opportunities to learn about Native Alaskan culture. You can get a taste of the gold rush life by trying your hand at panning for gold, attending a salmon bake or visiting a dog-sled camp. A hike on the Chilkoot Trail or ride on the White Pass Railway lets you follow in the footsteps of the miners who came to seek their fortunes. Cap your day by trying out locally brewed craft beers.

Shopping abounds, and you can buy everything from diamond jewelry to T-shirts and other souvenirs. You'll need to look carefully for Alaskan-owned stores selling local handicrafts, but they're worth seeking out.

Related: 15 Alaska cruise mistakes you never want to make

Best Alaska cruise ports

The best Alaska cruise ports are also the most crowded because no matter which type of itinerary and cruise line you select, you'll likely visit a mix of the same ports. The immediate port area will be filled with tourist shops and eateries. If you want to see nature at its finest, you must book a tour or venture farther afield.

If you want to see some of Alaska's most rustic and charming villages or stick to wild places, book a voyage with a line like Alaskan Dream Cruises or UnCruise to visit destinations like Baranof Island, Chichagof Island, Petersburg and Wrangell.

Ketchikan is known for three things: Native Alaskan (Tlingit) totem poles, Misty Fjords National Monument and the city's distinction as the Salmon Capital of the World. The town has more standing totem poles than anywhere else in the state; see them at the Saxman Native Village and the Totem Heritage Center. Access the Misty Fjords by kayak, floatplane or scenic cruise. Fishing excursions are plentiful here, too.

Ketchikan is where folks go to see the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, with athletes wielding axes and saws in traditional lumbering activities. It is also the jumping-off point for a Bering Sea crab fishing tour.

Alaska's capital city is interesting because no road leads from here to the rest of the state. It's located at the base of Mount Juneau, and you can only get there via boat or small plane — even residents have to bring their cars to Juneau via ferry. Home to Mendenhall Glacier, this is a popular port for hikes by, kayak tours to and helicopter landings on the glacier.

For a view of the city and cruise port, take a ride in the sky on the Mount Roberts Tramway. Various wildlife-viewing trips (whale, bears and more) and visits to dog-sled camps and salmon bakes leave from Juneau.

If you're interested in Alaska's gold rush history, Skagway — 90 miles northwest of Juneau — is a port you shouldn't miss. In fact, it's the gateway to the Klondike and Dawson mining district in Canada's Yukon territory, where prospectors searched for gold in the late 1890s. The historic district still has a Wild West feel, though that's been a bit commercialized for the modern era. This port can get crowded in summer when several ships can call on the same day.

Skagway is an easy port for independent travelers who want to explore the town or go for a hike on their own. It's most famous as the terminus for the White Pass Railway into the Yukon.

Sitka is as much a working fishing town as it is a tourist destination. Sitka's Russian heritage also sets it apart from other Alaskan ports on your cruise itinerary. See St. Michael's Orthodox Cathedral with its onion dome and the Russian Bishop's House.

Before the Russians came, the Tlingit people settled here. You can learn about their history and culture at the Sitka National Historical Park and Sheldon Jackson Museum of Native Alaskan art. Wildlife enthusiasts might want to visit the Alaska Raptor Center, or go bird- and bear-watching.

The population of Haines remains less than 2,000, according to the United States Census Bureau, and it isn't yet as touristy as some of the other Alaskan ports, such as nearby Skagway. It's known for great fishing (salmon, halibut and trout) and an eagle preserve — because eagles know where the best fish can be found.

Animal lovers and kids tend to enjoy a visit to the Kroschel Center for Orphaned Animals here. For a special tour, go bear-watching at twilight.

Icy Strait Point

Icy Strait Point is notable among Alaska cruise ports because the area and its attractions are all Native Alaskan-owned. Most port and tour staff hail from Hoonah, Alaska's largest Tlingit village. The port is set on Chichagof Island, which is known for its large bear population. Wildlife lovers have plenty of opportunities to search for whales and eagles here; adventure-seekers won't want to miss the ZipRider, with its course of six zip lines.

Scenic cruising

Most Alaska itineraries include some "scenic cruising," where your ship sails past incredible natural sights. You'll rarely leave the ship during these sail-bys (unless you happen to be aboard certain expedition, luxury or small ships that offer the chance to get on board a skiff to get closer ... but, even then, you're still viewing these sites from the water).

Onboard naturalists generally narrate what you're seeing, so head to the observation lounge (or tune to a broadcast on your in-room television) to learn about some of the top sights featured on scenic cruising days.

Top scenic cruising destinations in Alaska include Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve , Hubbard Glacier, Tracy Arm (Twin Sawyer Glaciers), Dawes Glacier at Endicott Arm and College Fjord.

Related: Hubbard Glacier vs. Glacier Bay: Which is the better scenic cruising spot in Alaska?

When to book an Alaska cruise

The best time to book an Alaska cruise is when a cruise line first opens bookings on that sailing, often more than a year in advance. You'll have your pick of itineraries and cabins — balcony cabins are popular in this scenic destination — and often the best fares.

Because Alaska has such a short season with a limited number of ships and is a dream trip for many, cruises are in high demand and people plan early.

If you wait to book, you're not entirely out of luck. Cruise lines often run sales in the fall or in the early months of the year (a period known in the cruise industry as " wave season "). You can take advantage of discounted fares, free upgrades or complimentary add-ons, such as Wi-Fi, gratuities, restaurant meals, beverage packages and tours. Some of the most desirable cabins might be sold out; being flexible about your sail date or itinerary can help.

In general, waiting until the last minute is not the best idea, unless you live in Seattle or Vancouver and don't need to book flights. While some less preferred sail dates or cabin categories might be available a few months out, spurring cruise lines to drop rates, you might have trouble finding affordable airfare and pre- or post-cruise hotel accommodations that do not consume your cruise savings.

Related: When is the best time to book a cruise?

What to bring on an Alaska cruise

When it comes to packing for an Alaska cruise, your mantra should always be: dress in layers. On the same day, you might be warm in town but chilly on your tour to a glacier. If you plan on hiking, kayaking or riding on a dog sled, you'll need the appropriate activewear.

Definitely pack for rain; consider skipping the umbrella and instead bringing a wide-brimmed waterproof hat, rain jacket, rain pants and waterproof shoes or boots.

This is also the trip for a camera with good telephoto lenses and binoculars. For more on what to bring on an Alaska cruise, check out our Alaska cruise packing list .

Bottom line

An Alaska cruise is a memorable experience. The beauty of the land and its immense history; the thrill of seeing bears, moose and bald eagles; and the mysteries of the surrounding marine life will astound you. It's a trip worth taking the time to plan and doing right — because who knows if or when you'll make it back to the Last Frontier.

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
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Norwegian Alaska Cruise Ports, Tours & Itineraries

The epitome of wilderness in this increasingly “connected” world, Alaska is one of the last places in North America to really get away from it all. The very idea of Alaska invokes images of bald eagles soaring through a cloud-heavy sky, while grizzly bears fish for salmon in a rushing river. This is where you’ll find some of the world’s highest mountains and largest glaciers, where caribou roam and whales breach. Alaska is easily one of the best cruise destinations in the world .

Much of Alaska is inaccessible by road, but can actually be reached by boat or plane. This, of course, makes cruises arguably the best way to get to Alaska, to admire its natural wonders and discover Native American and pioneering heritage. Explore America’s Last Frontier on a Norwegian Alaska Cruise.

What to Expect from a Norwegian Alaska Cruise

Of all major cruise lines in the world, Norwegian is quite possibly the best one for Alaska cruises . While they also have cruises in warmer, tropical destinations like Hawaii and the Caribbean , Norwegian distinguishes itself with its cruises to the more rugged corners of the world. Examples of such destinations are Scandinavia, New Zealand and, especially, Alaska.

It also has one of the largest Alaska-bound fleets of any cruise line, comprised of no fewer than five ships (see below). This variety of ships results in a lot of possible, different experiences and activities. On a Norwegian Alaska cruise, you’ll travel along the southwest coast of Alaska, often also taking in the wild coasts of British Columbia, Canada.

These cruises aren’t limited to just the ocean, though. There are numerous on-shore activities as well. It’s that combination of on-board comfort and views, and in-depth exploration on land that makes an Alaska cruise with Norwegian so exceptional .

Read on to learn about the possible cruise ports on a Norwegian Alaska Cruise, and a few suggested itineraries.

Norwegian Alaska Cruise Ports

Ports of departure/arrival.

Most Norwegian Alaska cruises are one-way cruises, either from Seattle or Vancouver to Seward (or vice versa). Roundtrips are available, too, though.

• Seattle, Washington
• Vancouver, British Columbia
• Seward, Alaska

Ports of Call

In between Seattle or Vancouver and Seward, you’ll stop at most, if not all, of the following epic destinations in Alaska. Each offers a typical Alaska experience. You’ll get to indulge in such amazing things as Native American totem pole collections, world-class fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities, spectacular natural scenery , and pioneering and gold rush history.

• Victoria, British Columbia
• Ketchikan, Alaska
• Sitka, Alaska
• Juneau, Alaska
• Skagway, Alaska
• Icy Strait Point, Alaska

Norwegian Alaska Cruise Ships

With Norwegian’s five different Alaska cruise ships, you’ll certain to find the one that best suits your needs and desires. Want to see Alaska while enjoying the amenities and facilities of a huge ship? Book a journey on the Norwegian Bliss , Norwegian Encore or Norwegian Joy. If you’re after a more intimate, elegant and customized cruise experience, Norwegian Jewel and Norwegian Sun are the ships for you.

• Norwegian Bliss (4,004 guests)
• Norwegian Encore (3,998 guests)
• Norwegian Joy (3,804 guests)
• Norwegian Jewel (2,376 guests)
• Norwegian Sun (1,936 guests)

Excursions on Norwegian Cruises to Alaska

According to the website of Norwegian Cruise Line , there are currently more than 180 different shore excursions available on Alaska cruises! They include everything from culinary feasts to scenic railroad journeys, from salmon fishing to hiking on glaciers, and bear and whale watching tours.

Note, however, that these tours are non-complimentary. You’ll have to pay extra. Yet, they’re so unbelievably awesome that you simply can’t afford not to go on a couple of these optional excursions. They’ll only make your Norwegian Alaska cruise even more unforgettable.

Suggested Norwegian Alaska Cruises

• 7-Day Alaska with Glacier Bay from Vancouver (Northbound, one way)
• 7-Day Awe of Alaska: Glacier Bay & Inside Passage from Seattle (Roundtrip)
• 11-Day Ultimate Alaska: Passage through the Glaciers of Alaska from Seattle (Roundtrip)

Additionally, one of the reasons Norwegian Cruise Line is one of the leading Alaska cruise providers is that they also offer so-called cruisetours. These cruisetours are essentially vacation packages that combine an Alaska cruise and a multi-day overland tour, typically to Anchorage and Denali National Park.

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Born and raised in Belgium, Bram is currently based in the Pacific Northwest where he spends his days blogging, hiking, indulging in freshly roasted coffee and sipping craft beers. An experienced traveler, his… More about Bram R

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Norwegian Cruise Line Alaska Cruises

Explore the rugged beauty of the Alaska landscape with a Norwegian Cruise Line Alaska cruise. Take a paddleboat out to marvel at the gargantuan glaciers, or see the graceful whales breech. You can view the natural landmarks and interact with the incredible wildlife—including bears, eagles, and husky dogs! Climb and rappel the mountains, dog-sled through the snow, or go fishing for king salmon and halibut. Each day is an adventure when you choose a cruise to Alaska with Norwegian Cruise Line.

Things to Do on an Alaska Cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line

The snow covered mountaintops and dense forests set the mood for an Alaskan cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line. Make the experience more than a great backdrop by riding with sled dogs, watching a lumberjack show and flying high above the Mendenhall Glacier.

• White Pass Scenic Railway (Skagway) Get the best of Klondike as you hop aboard a historical railway and learn the legends of the region from your guide. You’ll even have the opportunity to explore a gold dredge used in the Gold Fields, view a panning demonstration and pan for some gold!  

• Musher’s Camp & Sled Dog Discovery (Skagway) Get up close and personal with some Alaskan huskies, play with some puppies and learn about the sport of the state—sledding. Mushers will teach you about the Iditarod and Yukon Quest, and then take you on a 4X4 into the rainforest to meet the dog teams, where you’ll be thrilled by an exhilarating sled ride pulled by 16 huskies!  

• Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show (Ketchikan) Woodsmen, logging history and wildlife highlight this rugged Alaskan excursion. You’ll catch some head-to-head competitions like sawing and log rolling, and even see the highly dangerous speed climb. It’ll be a fantastic time, full of laughs, stories and maybe a few surprises.  

• Mendenhall Glacier by Helicopter & Guided Walk (Juneau) Soar high into the sky on a helicopter and get a magnificent vista of the ridges, wetlands and rainforests, and hear a few stories along the way. Spires, glaciers, mountains and more before you get out and trek over the glacier by foot with your guide.  

• Gold Panning, Sled Dogs & 40 Below (Skagway) Take a motorcoach through the streets of historic Skagway to the Klondike Gold Fields, where you’ll learn about sledding, panning and more. You will be chilled by the 40 degree “Iditarod Experience” room, pan for gold and the weigh your take!  

• Klondike Rock Climbing & Rappelling (Skagway) Not for the faint of heart, this excursion puts you in the hands of some professional mountain guides for a challenging and exhilarating day. Gear up, choose your route and complete your path for a view you’ll never forget. After the climb you’ll have the chance to rappel 70 feet back down.  

Top 10 Norwegian Cruise Line Alaska Cruises

• Norwegian Bliss 7 Night Alaska - Seattle (SEA/SEA) Departing From Seattle, Washington (May 2024 - Oct 2025)
• Norwegian Encore 7 Night Alaska - Seattle (SEA/SEA) Departing From Seattle, Washington (May 2024 - Oct 2025)
• Norwegian Jewel 7 Night Alaska - Southbound Whittier (SWD/VAN) Departing From Seward, Alaska (May 2024 - Sep 2024)
• Norwegian Sun 10 Night Alaska - Seattle (SEA/SEA) Departing From Seattle, Washington (May 2024 - Sep 2024)
• Norwegian Jewel 7 Night Alaska - Northbound Whittier (VAN/SWD) Departing From Vancouver, British Columbia (May 2024 - Sep 2024)
• Norwegian Sun 9 Night Alaska - Seattle (SEA/SEA) Departing From Seattle, Washington (May 2024 - Sep 2024)
• Norwegian Jewel 7 NIGHT Alaska CRUISE Departing From Vancouver, British Columbia (Jun 2024 - Sep 2024)

Norwegian Cruise Line Alaska Departure Ports

Learn more about each of the possible departure ports for an Alaska cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line. Your Norwegian Cruise Line Alaska cruise could leave from any of the following cities:

Known as The Emerald City, Seattle is a beautiful, luscious city with incredible views of the Cascade Mountains and Elliott Bay. The city is full of activities for both water lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Seward, Alaska

The beautiful small coastal town of Seward, which is most known for its picturesque scenic views and many visitors’ attractions, is a perfect addition for your next Alaska cruise.

Whether it’s your cruise destination or a launching point, Vancouver is a beautiful destination in itself with a sophisticated downtown and lots of natural elements to explore.

Whittier, Alaska

Experience the best of the Last Frontier in quaint Whittier, Alaska. Enjoy the clear water filled with salmon, red snapper and trout along with the freely roaming wildlife, all combining to make Whittier a treat to visit.

Photo Gallery for Norwegian Cruise Line Alaska Cruises

View our photo gallery of Alaska cruising photos from Norwegian Cruise Line. Keep in mind, this is just a sample of the sights waiting for you on a Norwegian Cruise Line Alaska cruise vacation.

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Alaska Cruise & Land Tour

Some vacations combine a cruise of spectacular coastal Alaska with a land tour that features transportation by motor coach or train and hotel stays. Before or after your cruise, you might explore Denali National Park in Alaska or the resort towns of the Canadian Rockies, for example.

• The season for Alaska cruise and land tours generally lasts from May through September.  
• Alaska cruise and land tours are typically 9 to 19 nights in length.  
• You can find the most affordable rates in the off-peak periods of May and September.  
• Alaska experiences long hours of daylight during summer, lasting up to 23 hours a day in June.  
• Passengers who end their trips in Anchorage or Fairbanks typically are scheduled to return home on late evening "red-eye" flights.  
• If you need to fly a long distance to reach your port of departure, we suggest that you arrive at the port city at least one or two days in advance. This will give you time to rest and get oriented before boarding the ship. Most cruise lines offer pre-cruise hotel packages.

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Review of our Norwegian Encore Alaska 7-Day Cruise

This post may contain affiliate links, view our disclosure policy .

Are you looking for a real-life review, testimony, and photos of a Norwegian Encore Alaska cruise?

We recently had the amazing opportunity to take a 7-day Alaska cruise aboard the Norwegian Encore.

In this article, we share all of our thoughts (the good & the bad) on our Norwegian Encore Alaska cruise as well as give our honest opinion on the Encore ship and its Alaska itinerary.

We’ll also share the Norwegian cruise tips that we wish we knew ahead of time, as well as share our day-to-day experiences on shore excursions and aboard the ship.

With over 15 personal photos included, this is the ultimate Norwegian Encore Alaksa review you’ve been looking for!

Table of Contents

Norwegian Encore Alaska Cruise

We chose Norwegian Cruise Lines for our much anticipated Alaska Cruise due to its 7-day, 8-night itinerary that included a day in Glacier Bay National Park (a place that not all Alaska cruise itineraries include) .

We chose to sail on the Norwegian Encore as we were referred by friends who had a great experience, and the fact that the sail dates aligned with our summer vacation week.

Further, we were largely impressed by the enormous amount of family-friendly activities found on the ship that we knew our kids (ages 11, 14, & 16) would love.

Our only other experience cruising together as a family was on a 7-day Western Caribbean cruise aboard the Disney Fantasy that we write about here .

Disney Cruise Line exceeded our expectations in terms of its elegant design, high-end services, and enchanting entertainment and set the bar high for our future cruises.

Keep reading to learn our thoughts on Norwegian Encore Alaska and if we loved it just as much.

Alaska cruises are expensive and involve a lot of scenery and sightseeing versus attractions, character, and thrills.

Though we saw children of all ages on our cruise, I recommend that kids be at least 10 years old for an Alaska cruise- or mature enough to fully appreciate the experience.

Norwegian Encore Alaska Itinerary

For comparison purposes, we took a 7-day cruise on Norwegian Encore that featured 5 ports of call.

Our sail dates were June 11th – 18th and we have an entire article on what to pack and what to wear on an Alaska cruise , as well as the 45 Alaska cruise tips that you need to know before sailing.

Do note that the Norwegian Encore also hosts a 13-day “cruisetour” (land and cruise combo) that includes 6 land tours, and 5 ports of call if that is of interest to you.

Our Norwegian Encore Alaska Itinerary & Map

• Sunday: Embarkation from Seattle , Washington
• Monday: At sea
• Tuesday: Juneau , Alaska
• Wednesday: Skagway , Alaska
• Thursday: Glacier Bay (cruising)
• Friday: Ketchikan (Ward Cove) , Alaska
• Saturday: Victoria , British Columbia
• Sunday: Disembarkation in Seattle, Washington

Other cruise lines, including Norwegian, offer itineraries with varying ports of call.

Different ports of call on a cruise to Alaska include Sitka, Icy Point Strait, Dawes Glacier, Valdez, Seward, Whittier, and more.

*Stick around until the very end of this article for a look at what we did, where we ate, and what excursions we took on each day of our Norwegian Encore Alaksa cruise.

Norwegian Encore Cruise Ship

The Norwegian Encore first launched in 2019 and is part of Norwegian Cruise Line’s Breakaway Plus category of ships.

There are 20 passenger decks with 2,043 staterooms for up to 4,903 passengers (served by 1,731 crew).

As a side note, the ship was near capacity during our 7-day Alaska cruise at a whopping 4,850 passengers!

While much information can be found on the Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) website regarding the Norwegian Encore ship, we find the NCL website somewhat difficult to navigate.

For that reason, we are including a brief overview of our thoughts on the Norwegian Encore cruise ship in terms of the rooms, deck plans, restaurants, and entertainment.

Norwegian Encore Rooms

Norwegian Encore rooms, also referred to as ‘cabins’, are available in various sizes and price points.

Generally speaking, the larger, more luxurious the room, the higher the price.

Standard options include interior, oceanview, and balcony cabins, and upgraded options include The Haven spa suites, penthouse suites, and 2-bedroom family villas.

Hidden at the top of the ship, The Haven suites also feature 24-hour butler service and a private sundeck.

Most Norwegian Encore Rooms, excluding The Haven family villas that sleep 6, only accommodate 3 – 4 guests.

Because we were sailing with our family of 5, we opted for 2 adjoining Balcony staterooms. (There are a limited number of adjoining staterooms on the Norwegian Encore that make a perfect option for larger families and groups.)

They are connected by a doorway within the rooms, as shown in the photo below.

Norwegian Encore balcony room review:

• We stayed in rooms 10220 and 10222 (Deck 10, mid-ship).
• Modern, spacious, clean, and adequate storage.
• Super comfortable beds and luxurious bedding (We all loved the beds and slept wonderfully – in addition, we did not feel the ship’s motion.)
• A large bathroom that includes toiletries; powerful toilets.
• The balcony was larger than expected and includes 2 chairs and a table.
• Could opt in or out of daily room cleaning via a wall switch.
• Overall impression: Exceeded our expectations, would recommend to others.

Norwegian Encore Deck Plans

As you may know, the Norwegian Encore is a HUGE ship.

In order to not feel overwhelmed by the size of the Norwegian Encore, I highly recommend that you study the ship’s deck plans prior to departing on your Alaska cruise.

Familiarize yourself with where your stateroom is in relation to the complimentary dining, main atrium, Observation Lounge, and pool deck.

Then get comfortable with where the bars, restaurants, theater, spa, and casino are in terms of being in the front (fwd), or back (aft) of the ship.

Cruisedeckplans.com allows you to make and print a custom map (pdf) of up to 5 decks on the Norwegian Encore. (Personally, we printed off 2 separate sheets, one with Decks 15, 16, 17, 18, and 19 on it, and the other with Decks 6, 7, 8, and 10, where our stateroom was.)

We found this incredibly helpful and used our custom deck plans as a ‘map’ that we carried with us at all times on the ship to help us get around. (Use these sheet protectors to keep your deck plans intact.)

When you first embark on the ship, you enter Deck 7 of the Norwegian Encore. (Immediately proceed to Deck 6 to make dining and showtime reservations – more on that coming up in ‘Tips’)

The decks we visited the most were Deck 6 (main atrium, guest services, and Starbucks), Deck 7 for the Encore Theater and The Local Bar & Grill (our favorite complimentary dining venue), and Deck 16 (main pool deck and the Garden Cafe buffet).

Norwegian Encore Restaurants

The Norwegian Encore has plenty of complimentary dining options including the Garden Cafe main buffet, a 24-hour eatery of classic pub fare at the Local Bar & Grill, and sit-down meals at Taste, Savor, and the Manhattan Room.

Taste, Savor, and the Manhatten Room all feature the same daily, rotating menu. (These are all “Freestyle dining”, meaning no reservations are needed.)

Specialty dining  (that is priced per person and often times included in cruise promotions) includes seafood at Ocean Blue, Italian at Onda by Scarpetta, Asian at Food Republic, Japanese at Teppanyaki, Mexican at Los Lobos, French at Le Bistro, BBQ at Q Texas Smokehouse, and Cagney’s Steakhouse, as well as Dolce Gelato and Coco’s for sweets. (Reservations required.)

There are also numerous  bars and lounges , including The District Brewhouse, Cellars Wine Bar, Sugarcane Mojito Bar, and Maltings Whiskey Bar, among others! 

The Observation Lounge on Deck 15 has several drink and snack stations making it a wonderful place to relax during the day.

It is also a good alternative for those looking for a light breakfast or lunch. Food items include danishes, mini quiche, fruit, bread, cheese, fruit, and desserts.

You have to get to the Lounge very early in the morning to find a good seat, however. It is a very popular lounge, and people tend to ‘save seats’ as well as ‘camp out’ there for an entire day. Head to the back and you’ll almost always find a table near the bar.

Specialty Dining Reservations

Depending on which type of stateroom you’re staying in, you can make specialty dining and entertainment reservations 90 – 130 days in advance.

Be sure to check this page as to when you can make reservations, and book your selections ASAP. Only a certain percentage of reservations open ahead of time, and popular restaurants and dining times book up fast,

If you fail to get the restaurant or reservation time of your choice, head to Deck 6 (in Teppanyaki) immediately upon boarding the ship as this is when the remaining reservations are released.

Thoughts on the Norwegian Encore restaurants:

• The Garden Cafe buffet is very busy during breakfast. We prefer a more relaxed atmosphere and ate breakfast at The Manhatten Room on most days.
• The Local Bar & Grill has a fun atmosphere that overlooks the main atrium. We had consistently good food, service, and drinks there. Our favorites were the chicken wings, loaded nachos, and burgers.
• The Manhatten Room is very busy during evening dinner hours. We mostly ate dinner at Taste or Savor for dinner- although all 3 have the same menu, so it’s just a matter of where you can get a table.
• Our cruise promotion included 2 specialty dining meals per person. We ate at Cagney’s Steakhouse and Q Texas Smokehouse.
• We LOVED and highly recommend Cagney’s Steakhouse (had filet mignon – Yum!), however, would not go to Q Texas Smokehouse again. The food at Q was good, but the service was mediocre and the ambiance was casual and dark – needed our phone flashlight to read the menu.
• Overall impression: Exceeded our expectations; the food on the ship was tasty and delicious.

Norwegian Encore Dining Tips

• When going to the Garden Cafe , have 1 person from your party search for and reserve a table while the others get their food. It is always busy and can be hard to find a table there. Your best option is to find a table in the back of the cafe.
• Complimentary soft-service ice cream machines are in the Garden Cafe. They are very popular! There is also hand-scooped ice cream in the Garden Cafe at a station.
• If we had to choose again, we would go to Ocean Blue instead of Q Texas Smokehouse.
• If the 2 specialty dining restaurants were not included in our cruise promotion, I personally would only pay out-of-pocket to visit 1 specialty dining restaurant (Cagney’s) . We found that there was plenty of variety in the main, complimentary dining.
• If you don’t mind eating early, get to the main dining rooms for dinner 5 minutes before their evening opening time. This will ensure immediate seating and quick service.
• The District Brewhouse beers, Sugarcane’s mojitos, and Maltings specialty cocktails and whiskies are awesome. Ask the bartenders for a ‘snack mix’ as all of the bars have small containers of nuts/corn nuts if you ask for them.
• At random times during the cruise, there is an additional tax on alcohol (something due to international waters/regulations) that you may or may not be warned about.
• I felt that the restaurant attire was much more casual than I anticipated.

Norwegian Encore Entertainment

The Encore offers dozens of onboard  activities , including a go-kart track (singles and doubles), laser tag, VR arcade, outdoor pools, hot tubs, and water slides, as well as a fitness center, jogging track, casino, and spa.

( NOTE: Go-karts, laser tag, the Galaxy Pavilion VR arcade, casino, and spa all cost an additional fee. Go-karts, laser tag, and the spa require reservations.)

There are also stand-up comedians, karaoke, and magic shows, as well as live music, trivia, and fun presentations in The Atrium.

The musical performance Choir of Man was the headliner show while we were on our cruise. It plays 4 different times during the 7-day itinerary and requires reservations.

All of the information regarding the next day’s activities and showtimes can be found in the daily newsletter called Freestyle Daily.

A paper copy of Freestyle Daily is placed outside of your stateroom each afternoon, and can also be found on the NCL app , or at Guest Services.

Thoughts on Norwegian Encore Entertainment

• Reservations are required for Choir of Man and can be booked ahead of time online per this chart , and then again when on the ship.
• Choir of Man was absolutely amazing, however, we wished there had been an additional main-stage production. We ended up going to Choir or Man twice both because we loved it, and because there were no other options for nighttime shows.
• Go-karting ($15 per person) at Encore Speedway, and laser tag ($9.95 per person) also require reservations, which we feel is a bummer and makes it hard to be spontaneous. Reservations filled up fast on sea days, and we ended up only being go at random ‘off times’ and were not able to go as often as we had planned.
• Encore Speedway closes unexpectedly due to weather. If you have a reservation during a weather delay, you are reimbursed but have to rebook on your own. In our case, there were no reservations left, which meant we were not able to rebook.
• There are always fun activities going on in The Atrium . Grab a seat in between performances as the seating area is limited. The Atrium Bar has quick, friendly service.
• We don’t have any tips on the casino or spa as we did not go there.
• Overall impression: Met our expectations, however, wished there were more shows as well as onboard movies shown on the big screen.

In order to avoid having to micro-manage the onboard activity fees during our sailing, we purchased each of our 3 children a set amount of onboard credit.

The onboard credit was applied to their keycards for them to use at their leisure.

This allowed them to plan ahead of time which activities they wanted to spend their onboard credit on and prevented overspending.

Norwegian Cruise Tips

Be sure to download and familiarize yourself with the Norwegian Cruise Line app. You can manage your entire trip from the app, and it does not require WiFii when being used on the ship.

NCL is not very forthcoming on when and how to make dining and show reservations, so mark your calendars accordingly . Once onboard, make reservations at the Guest Services on deck 6, or at the electronic touchscreen kiosks located at each elevator bay.

Also, on the Norwegian Encore, note that the fish on the hallway carpet always swim forward pointing to the front of the ship.

Knowing this will help you maneuver around the ship better.

Last, watch for NCL cruise promotions! We were able to get a “Free at Sea” promotion that includes unlimited open bar, 2 free specialty dining restaurants per person, free WiFii, and $100 off per shore excursion per stateroom. (For the first 2 people on the reservation.)

Tips for Online Check-in and Embarkation

• You choose your port arrival time at the time of online check-in which begins 21 days before your cruise.
• The sooner you do online check-in, the earlier you’ll be able to secure a port arrival time. (I did online check-in at 8 AM, 21 days prior to our cruise, and was able to secure the earliest port arrival time of 9:30 AM.)
• Your NCL luggage tags are mailed to you ahead of time. Place them on your suitcases (after your flight) before boarding the ship.
• Luggage delivery to staterooms is around 3 PM on the day of embarkation. Have a day bag packed of items you’ll need on the ship before your luggage arrives (i.e. passport, medications, swimsuit, sunglasses, etc.)
• Your muster station number will be on your keycard. The initial muster drill is quick and can be done in small groups, at your leisure.

Our 7-day Norwegian Encore Alaska Cruise

The day before our cruise our flight from Minneapolis, MN arrived at 8 AM in Seattle, Washington.

Our early flight allowed us to have an entire day to explore Seattle, which we highly recommend leaving or finding time to do.

Upon arrival, we were able to store our luggage at our hotel, Seattle Marriott Downtown , and walk around the city from there.

We’ve written an entire article on how to spend 1-day in Seattle that will show you what you can realistically do and see in Seattle before your cruise.

Though a bit pricey, I highly recommend staying at Seattle Marriott Downtown before your Norwegian cruise!

Terminal 66 is literally right across the street (you can see the Encore directly outside the hotel windows!) and you simply walk there the morning of your cruise.

The hotel will also store your luggage for you before and after your cruise based on your flight times and if you’ll be walking around Seattle.

Day 1: Seattle, Washington

There is more than 1 cruise terminal in Seattle, so it is important to know that the Norwegian Encore ports at Bell Street Cruise Terminal at Pier 66.

At your port arrival time, enter the cruise terminal, go through security, check-in, and you’ll be given a boarding group number.

Passengers are then held in a waiting area (coffee/tea/juice are provided) until the captain signals that boarding may begin. (Exact boarding time varies by the day and is at the captain’s discretion.)

Boarding for boarding group #1 typically begins anytime after 11 AM (ours was at 11:30 AM).

Have a plan for when you initially get on the ship. I suggest first going to Deck 6 to make all dining reservations (at Teppanyaki), then all showtime reservations (at The Social Comedy Club).

Then head to your muster station for a brief safety overview.

Afterward, I recommend going to The Local for lunch. It is very laid back and overlooks the activities in the main atrium.

• 9:15 AM: Got in line (which was already 30 people deep) for our 9:30 port arrival time.
• 11:30 AM: Boarded the ship
• 11:40 AM: Made dining and show reservations, did muster station drill, made go-kart and laser tag reservations at a touchscreen kiosk
• 12:15 PM: Lunch at The Local Bar & Grill
• Toured the ship and took photos
• 5:00 PM: Departure. Went to the Sail Away pool deck party.
• 6:30 PM: Dinner at Taste
• 7:30 PM: Comedian in the Encore Theater

Day 2: Day at Sea

Any pre-booked shore excursion tickets are placed in your room on this day.

As on every day of the cruise, we spent our downtime relaxing, playing cards and cribbage in The Atrium, attending presentations & shows, eating, drinking, and enjoying the ship.

• 8:00 AM: Breakfast at The Manhatten Room
• 11:30 AM: Lunch at The Local
• 6:30 PM: Dinner at Cagney’s Steakhouse
• 7:30 PM: Choir of Man performance in Encore Theater
• 9:00 PM: Adult-only comedy shows at Social Comedy Club

Day 3: Juneau, Alaska

• 11:30 AM: Lunch at Garden Cafe
• 3:30-9:00 PM: Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Quest shore excursion
• 9:30 PM: Late-night snacks at The Local before going to bed

Recommendations if touring downtown include Red Dog Saloon and Tracy’s King Crab Shack.

Day 4: Skagway, Alaska

We needed our passports on this day’s excursion as our tour entered Canada.

• Morning hot tubbing
• 11:30 AM: Light lunch in the Observation Lounge
• 12:30-5:30 PM: White Pass Railway and Suspension Bridge shore excursion
• 6:45 PM: Reservations at Q Texas Smokehouse (specialty dining)
• 8:00 PM: Encore Speedway go-kart reservations
• 8:30 PM: Laser tag reservations
• 9:30 PM: The Beatles Invasion performance in Encore Theater

Recommendations if touring downtown include Red Onion Saloon, Klondike Doughboy, Skagway Brewing Co., and Alaska Christmas Store.

Day 5: Glacier Bay (Cruising)

This was, by far, the most scenic day of our Alaska Cruise as Glacier Bay National Park is absolutely stunning.

National Park rangers come aboard the ship and narrate about the glaciers and wildlife you see, as well as share stories about the park’s history.

The narration can be watched live in the Observation Lounge and is simultaneously broadcasted on your stateroom TV and on a large screen in The Atrium.

In addition, the captain opens up the bow of the ship on Deck 8 for this day only, and passengers can enjoy coffee, tea, and hot chocolate while viewing Glacier Bay outdoors.

• 8:00 AM: Went out to the bow of the ship to view Glacier Bay
• 9:30 AM: Breakfast at The Manhatten Room by the windows overlooking Glacier Bay
• Listened to the park ranger talks throughout the day
• Watched the views, glaciers, and wildlife sightings from our balcony stateroom
• 12:30 PM: Light snacks in the Observation Lounge
• 7:30 PM: Comedy Show in Encore Theater

Day 6: Ketchikan, Alaska

• 7:00 AM: Breakfast at Garden Cafe
• 8:15 AM-12:00 PM: Backcountry Jeep and Canoe Safari shore excursion
• 12:30 PM: Lunch at The Local
• 5:00 PM: Encore Speedway reservations (canceled due to rain)
• 5:15 PM: Dinner at Taste

Day 7: Victoria, British Columbia

Disembarkation instructions are placed in your room on this day.

• 12:00 PM: Lunch at Garden Cafe (ate on the pool deck as it was a beautifully sunny day)
• Afternoon: Sat outside around the pool all day enjoying sunshine and live music; kids went on waterslides
• 4:00 PM: Magic show in Encore Theater
• 5:00 PM: Dinner at Savor
• 8:00 PM: The ship arrived at the port in Victoria. We did not get off the ship as the timing was too late for us and we did not want to do an evening shore excursion.

Day 8: Seattle, Washington

• 9:00 AM: Disembarked the ship
• 1:30 PM: Flight home

Norwegian Encore Alaska Cruise Conclusion

With an Alaska cruise having been on our bucket list for quite some time, I feel such happiness having gotten to take our family on this epic Alaskan adventure.

Overall, our experience on our Norwegian Encore Alaska cruise exceeded my expectations in our ship choice, itinerary (that included Glacier Bay), shore excursions, stateroom comfortability, and food quality – as well as Alaska in general.

We would have liked to have experienced more shows on the ship, as well as wish the family-friendly activities (go-karts & laser tag) did not cost extra money and did not require reservations.

I would highly recommend the Norwegian Encore for an Alaska sailing as well as Alaska overall in terms of a once-in-a-lifetime family vacation experience.

Happy travels!

*Before leaving, be sure to check our  Travel Resources Page  to find our exclusive travel discounts and to book hotels, rental cars, and guided tours.*

Jen Brommer is a family travel expert. She has been featured as an authority on several notable travel websites and is a member of the Family Travel Association (FTA), Midwest Travel Network, and TravMedia global media network.

A prominent content creator and influencer on Instagram, Jen has over 150K unique monthly blog readers from countries all over the world. She has spent the last 16 years planning fun, and hassle-free family vacations for her family of 5.

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NCL Inside Passage with Glacier Bay

A route showcasing Alaska's icy blue glaciers, diverse wildlife, and a rich history.

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Norwegian Cruises Inside Passage Glacier Bay from Seattle

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The Inside Passage with Glacier Bay itinerary maximizes time on shore by including just one full day at sea and another spent within the borders of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. The route visits four ports of call over its seven days, showcasing so much of what makes the region special: Fjords and mountains, gold rush history and native cultures, plentiful outdoor adventures and awe-inspiring scenery. Norwegian Cruise Lines runs this roundtrip cruise.

Daily Itinerary & Sailing Dates

Below is a general itinerary for this cruise. Note that there are variations in the exact cruise itinerary between sailing dates. Ports of call, route, and details will vary. Be sure to request a cruise quote using the links below or with our cruise finder to see the most up to date information for the particular voyage you are interested in.

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The cruise embarks from Pier 66 in downtown Seattle, a busy waterside metropolis known as the Emerald City.

Leaving the Pacific Northwest for the Alaskan Southeast, the route begins with a full day cruising north through the Pacific Ocean.

The route enters the calm waters of Alaska's Inside Passage en route to the journey's first port of call. Juneau, Alaska's state capital, is a fitting first port. Here, passengers can view glaciers from the air, wildlife from kayaks, and even whales from a smaller day cruise.

With a long day at port in Skagway, passengers have ample time to explore the town's gold rush beginnings and its many modern-day activities. Learn about the antics of Soapy Smith, Alaska's most infamous criminal, at the Days of '98 Show. Meet dog sled teams. Take to the tall trees on a zipline adventure.

Even the largest cruise ships are dwarfed by the high peaks surrounding Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. Nearby Mt. Fairweather rises an astonishing 15,325 feet above sea level. The cruise spends a full day at sea exploring this remote and pristine park.

The route returns once again to land for a morning port call in Ketchikan. The small coastal community is perched on the corner of Revillagigedo Island, a rambling and densely forested piece of land shared by Misty Fjords National Monument. Passengers can visit this nearby natural wonder via jetboat or floatplane.

Although surrounded by the dense temperate rainforests and wildlife-rich waters that define southeast Alaska, Victoria is an entirely different destination. The cruise docks for an evening in this refined Canadian city where garden tours, horse-drawn carriage rides, and high tea service rank among the most popular shore excursions.

The voyage comes to its end back in Seattle. Port services make airport transfers particularly easy in this cruise-friendly city.

Reader's Digest

Best Alaska Cruise for Every Type of Vacationer

Posted: May 5, 2023 | Last updated: July 10, 2023

Best time to cruise to Alaska

An Alaska cruise is such a popular bucket-list item because it's one of the best ways to immerse yourself in some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. Not only will you get to see breathtaking glaciers closer than you ever dreamed, but you're also likely to see eagles soaring and whales spouting—often from the deck of your ship. The best Alaska cruises give you an opportunity to explore the Far North from both land and sea, and we've got cruise tips to help you optimize your time and your budget.

The state's long, cold winters are not conducive to cruising, so the Alaska cruise season is relatively short. The best time to travel to Alaska is from late spring to early fall, with peak cruising happening during July and August. Those are also the most crowded and expensive months, so don't rule out September, which is actually the best time to see the Northern Lights on an Alaska cruise. But with dozens of ships sailing to Alaska, how do you decide which are the best cruise lines for you?

Luckily, when it comes to Alaska cruises, there is truly something for everyone. Whether you're traveling solo or with kids, whether you're looking for total luxury or a bargain and whether you love giant ships or something more intimate, we've found the best Alaska cruises to fit your needs. See which one sounds right for you, and once you're booked, get a head start by checking out these hidden cruise features, cruise ship code words and things you can't do on cruises .

How we chose the best Alaska cruises

To find the best Alaska cruises, we followed expert recommendations and read hundreds of user reviews and ratings. Because I've been on several Alaska cruises alone, with my family and with my husband, I also based my choices on my own personal experiences. After combining all that information, we came up with this guide to the best Alaska cruises.

Best overall

Princess cruises.

Princess has been cruising to Alaska for more than half a century, and they continue to lead the industry by bringing more guests to the state than any other cruise line. In fact, they introduced a generation to the idea of cruising via the hit TV show The Love Boat , which was set on a Princess ship and featured many episodes in Alaska! Because of their deep ties to the state, the cruise line is able to offer a variety of itineraries and shore excursions, and they even own a number of Princess Wilderness Lodges near national parks , so you can add a land extension to your trip.

Onboard, there are plenty of activities for both adults and kids, including the North to Alaska enrichment program, which brings the state's culture to you so you can sample fresh Alaska seafood and hear from local celebs like Libby Riddles, the first woman to win the 1,100-mile Iditarod sled dog race.

• Guests can meet Alaskan Huskies on the ship through Puppies in the Piazza!
• So many options for cruise length, extensions and land and sea packages
• Price is not all-inclusive

Best for families

Disney cruise line.

With lots of outdoor activities and great wildlife sightings, an Alaska cruise is ideal for kids, and not surprisingly, no one does it better for them than Disney . Kids will love whale watching, panning for gold, searching for black bears and going dog sledding—and they'll equally love everything Disney has planned for them on the Disney Wonder, from live shows ("Frozen" takes on a whole new meaning in Alaska) and character greetings to kids clubs they won't want to leave to themed pools and restaurants. Little ones will be just as happy to see Goofy as they are to see a glacier, making this the best cruise for kids . Before you go, check out these Disney cruise tips .

• Disney is beloved by kids of all ages
• The focus is on families
• On the pricier side

Best adults-only

If you want to immerse yourself in the beauty of Alaska without the distraction of little kids, you'll be in good company on Viking . Their gorgeous ocean ships sail with a maximum of 930 passengers, all over the age of 18, so you can indulge in adult conversation over a bottle of wine or a cocktail or two. One of the many features that makes Viking the best adult-only cruise is that every single room comes with a private veranda, so you can take in the views and feel that fresh Alaska air with no one else around—and without paying extra. You can also get away without paying additional fees for shore excursions, because one is included in every port, giving you an opportunity to see the highlights of destinations including Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Sitka and Valdez.

• Every stateroom has a veranda
• A shore excursion is included in every port
• Optional cruise extensions let you explore Talkeetna, Denali, Fairbanks and Anchorage on land
• The shortest Alaska cruise is 11 days

Best for solo travelers

Norwegian cruise line.

Cruising has traditionally been a bit of a challenge for solo travelers because of the single supplement that basically makes them pay the same price for a room as two people sharing a room would pay in total. Not with Norwegian , the best singles cruise ! The first cruise line to build staterooms and common areas specifically for solo travelers, they've made it easy for singles to cruise to Alaska comfortably and affordably. The Studio Lounge is a welcoming spot to meet other solo travelers so you can join up for meals or shore excursions to places like Dawes Glacier and Icy Strait Point.

• No single supplement
• A dedicated lounge just for solo travelers
• Lots of families and kids, which may not appeal to solo travelers

Best for couples

Celebrity cruises.

The best cruise for couples , both straight and gay, Celebrity offers lots of opportunities for romantic experiences in Alaska, from hiking through a rainforest in Juneau to cuddling up during a ride back in time on the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway. On the ship itself, there are lots of spots where you can take some Instagrammable selfies with the majestic Alaska scenery behind you. What a backdrop for a wedding, honeymoon or vow renewal! Consider upgrading to The Retreat, Celebrity's exclusive ship within a ship, for a more private and intimate cruise.

• Many options for cruise length
• Offers land tour extensions
• Families with kids may disrupt the romantic atmosphere

Best budget

Carnival cruise line.

Yes, you can visit Alaska without spending a fortune, thanks to Carnival . You may not get all the bells and whistles that you would on more expensive cruises, but the views don't cost anything, and they're all around you as you chill by the pool or take advantage of one of the many activities and dining venues included in your fare. Save money to use for shore excursions by opting for an interior room, since you won't be spending much time in your cabin anyway.

• Affordable way to see Alaska
• Lots of cruise length options
• The party atmosphere may not be for everyone

Best luxury

Regent seven seas.

Regent's Seven Seas Explorer is all about luxury, from its all-suite design to its all-inclusive fares , which cover airfare, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, restaurants, gratuities, Wi-Fi, laundry and unlimited shore excursions. With only 750 passengers, service is exceptional and personal. Itineraries can be customized to fit your specific interests, whether you want to take a glacier hike, immerse yourself in Alaska's history or eat your way through the state.

• Truly an all-inclusive cruise
• All-suite accommodations are roomy and plush
• Only one Regent Seven Seas ship sails to Alaska

Best small ship

Seabourn cruise line.

A great choice for fans of smaller, more intimate ships, Seabourn's Odyssey holds 450 passengers and treats them to a personal, all-inclusive luxury experience. Smaller ships can take you to spots where the bigger ones just can't fit, and the Ventures by Seabourn program offers optional excursions where you can get up close and personal with some of Alaska's most awe-inspiring sights via kayak and Zodiac. You'll be sailing with a world-class expedition team, including a marine biologist, ornithologist, geologist, historian, photographer and natural experts who share their knowledge through lectures and casual conversations during scenic cruisings.

• All-inclusive
• Offers 7- to 14-day cruises
• Gets you closer to Alaska's natural beauty

Best large ship

Royal caribbean cruises.

Built for cruisers who believe the bigger, the better, Royal Caribbean's megaship, Quantum of the Sea, is the biggest ship in the region, with the capacity to hold 4,905 passengers. It also boasts the tallest viewing deck on any cruise ship—perfect for enjoying the stunning Alaska scenery. Three other Royal Caribbean ships sail to the state, as well—all big and beautiful and filled with enough activities to keep travelers of every age busy, including their signature Rock Climbing Wall, simulated skydiving and surf sessions on the Flowrider. Yes, you can "surf" in Alaska!

• There's literally something for everyone
• Studio staterooms are designed for solo travelers
• It can get crowded

Best for land and sea

Holland america line.

With more than 75 years of experience in Alaska—the longest of any cruise line— Holland America knows the state inside and out and presents you with lots of ways to enjoy it, from both the sea and land. Not only do they feature the most Glacier Bay itineraries, but they're also the only way to see the Yukon in combination with a cruise. You'll get to stay at Holland America's Westmark Hotels and their beautiful McKinley Chalet Resort at the entrance to Denali National Park, enabling you to get closer to wildlife and explore more of Alaska on land.

The cruise line has also expanded its onboard programming, so guests can engage with an Alaska naturalist, dig deeper into topics like Alaska's bush pilots and learn from a National Park Ranger and local Huna Tlingit guides.

• Every cruise includes a visit to one or more of Alaska's iconic glacier destinations
• Only cruise line to offer an Alaska cruise combined with an overland tour to Denali and the Yukon
• Land and sea Cruisetours range from 9 to 18 days
• Caters to an older crowd

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• Ports Of Call

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), Alaska Glacier Bay from Seattle, 20 April, 2024

Cruising from: Seattle, Washington ;

Departure Date: 20 April, 2024 ;

Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) ;

Cruise Ship: Norwegian Bliss ;

Duration: 7 days ;

Ports of Call: Seattle, Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay, Ketchikan, Victoria, Seattle ;

7-day Alaska cruise on board Norwegian Bliss.

Day 0 seattle, washington.

Seattle is a popular departure port for Alaska cruises, offering convenient access to the stunning natural wonders and unique cultural experiences of the region....

Day 1 At Sea, At Sea

Wonderful day at Sea....

Day 2 Juneau, Alaska

Juneau is a popular cruise port for Alaska cruises, located on the Inside Passage of Alaska. It is the capital city of Alaska and the third largest city in the state. ...

Day 3 Skagway, Alaska

Skagway, located in the Upper Lynn Canal is a place in Alaska where the past lives on. The Port of Skagway is the northernmost ice-free, deep-water port in North America, and serves as a year-round transportation hub between Alaska, the Yukon Territory, Northern British Columbia, the Northwest...

Day 4 Glacier Bay, Alaska

Glacier Bay National Park is a pristine wilderness area in southeast Alaska that is famous for its stunning glaciers, towering mountains, and abundant wildlife. A cruise through Glacier Bay is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers visitors the chance to witness the raw beauty of this...

Day 5 Ketchikan, Alaska

An Alaskan cruise from Ketchikan is an unforgettable adventure that will take you through some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world....

Day 6 Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria, British Columbia's capital, is an occasional Cruise Port during the Alaska cruise season, especially at the beginning or the end of the cruise season, when cruise lines have unique itineraries as they reposition their ships from the south to the north, or vice versa....

Day 7 Seattle, Washington

Experience wildlife, wilderness, and native culture on this Alaska cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL). Visit Seattle, Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay, Ketchikan, Victoria, Seattle. Norwegian Bliss leaving Seattle, Washington, for 7 days from 20 April, 2024.

Alaska cruise from Seattle April 2024

Please note that port orders, dates, and itinerary details, including content, are subject to change. Verify specific details for your chosen sailing date on the Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) website.

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Norwegian Bliss

Cruise line Norwegian Cruise Line

• Seattle (Washington)
• Los Angeles (Long Beach-San Pedro, California)
• Miami (Florida)

Norwegian Bliss current position

Norwegian Bliss current location is at North America West Coast (coordinates 58.28835 N / -134.39932 W) cruising en route to JUNEAU,AK. The AIS position was reported 30 minutes ago.

Current itinerary of Norwegian Bliss

Norwegian Bliss current cruise is 7 days, round-trip Alaska Dawes Glacier, Juneau Ketchikan . Prices start from USD 749 (double occupancy rates). The itinerary starts on 27 Apr, 2024 and ends on 04 May, 2024 .

Specifications of Norwegian Bliss

•   Itineraries
•   Review
•   Wiki

Norwegian Bliss Itineraries

Norwegian bliss review, review of norwegian bliss.

The 2018-built Norwegian Bliss cruise ship is the 3rd of all four Breakaway Plus-class NCL vessels - together with the sisterships Norwegian Escape (2015), Norwegian Joy (2017) and Norwegian Encore (2019). This class of ships is approx 7,000 GT larger in comparison to the previously biggest vessel of the line, Norwegian Epic . Bliss is NCL's 16th vessel and the 11th built by Meyer Werft (Papenburg Germany) .

The vessel (IMO number 9751509) is currently Bahamas- flagged (MMSI 311000710) and registered in Nassau .

History - construction and ownership

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is a subsidiary company of the shipping corporation Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd (NCLH). NCL was founded in 1966, headquartered in Miami (Florida USA) and publicly traded (NASDAQ) company listed on NYSE ( NYC ). NCLH's major shareholders are the corporations Apollo Global Management (American), Genting Group (Malaysian) and TPG Capital (American). In 2017, the brand NCL had a worldwide cruise market share 8,7% (passengers) and 8,4% (revenue). NCLH (shipowner) owns the brands NCL , Oceania , and RSSC-Regent .

The 4000-passenger ship Norwegian Bliss boasts the innovative features found on Norwegian Getaway and Norwegian Breakaway , as well as a number of new interactive experiences. The new miracle by NCL features an expanded Haven – the line’s concept “ship within a ship”. This space (accessible only by keycard) boasts an outdoor terrace, private restaurant, courtyard area with retractable roof pool, whirlpools, spa treatment rooms, separate sauna, private sundeck. Other differences from the Breakaway-class NCL vessels are more Haven Suites (42 to 55), 26 additional Penthouses, 14 Spa access suites, more Studio cabins (59 to 82). The Port of Miami is the home port of the ship.

Decks and Cabins

Norwegian Bliss staterooms (2043 total, in 42 grades) include 1698 outside, 374 Inside, 82 Studios (single cabins). Most staterooms are sized 160-170 ft2 (15-16 m2). Balcony cabins are 1112, Oceanviews 111, Inside 374. Wheelchair-accessible cabins are 47. The largest accommodations are The Haven Deluxe Owners Suites (970 ft2 / 90 m2, with wraparound terrace sized 490 ft2 / 46 m2).

The 82 Studios (designed for solo travelers) are with virtual views and exclusive access to Studio Lounge. The ship also features many family cabins (connecting staterooms) across most categories.

The boat has 20 decks , of which 16 are passenger-accessible and 11 with cabins.

Shipboard dining options - Food and Drinks

Norwegian Cruise Line introduced Norwegian Bliss' à la carte specialty dining at the signature specialty restaurants onboard, providing passengers the freedom to savor gourmet dishes, various tastes and the flexibility to choose the number of courses to enjoy during the meal. On Norwegian Bliss, guests can choose between 11 complimentary dining options. They can also experience new flavors at signature specialty restaurants, such as Le Bistro, La Cucina, Cagney’s Steakhouse and Bayamo by James Beard Award-winning chef Jose Garces. Norwegian’s signature specialty restaurants feature enhanced menus including favorite dishes and new tastes. Whether passengers prefer a light meal of a favorite soup or appetizer, or indulge in a dinner featuring Maine lobster, with the new à la carte options, they have the opportunity to create their own, desired dining experience.

• The shipboard dining options feature the new "Q Texas Steakhouse" (barbecue eatery with live country music). The menu includes brisket, chicken, ribs, and sausages smoked over oak, pecan and hickory woods. A modern Mexican restaurant is named Los Lobos (first debuted on Norwegian Dawn in 2016).
• Adjacent to Los Lobos is The A-List Bar, serving handcrafted cocktails, premium spirits, and wines.

Norwegian Bliss is the first NCL ship with full-service Starbucks store. The first Starbucks at sea was opened in 2010 on Allure of the Seas ( Royal Caribbean ). Another new for NCL amenity is the chocolate-themed dessert outlet Coco’s (patisserie/treat shop), serving handmade pralines, crepes, truffles and other treats paired with specialty teas and coffees.

Follows the complete list of Norwegian Bliss restaurants and food bars.

• Savor Restaurant (forward Main Dining Room /complimentary)
• The Manhattan Room (aft Main Dining Room /complimentary, Freestyle dining, dinner-only) has a dance floor for the evening dance show.
• Taste Restaurant (forward Main Dining Room /complimentary)
• “Private Room at Taste” (group private dining, 100 seats capacity, with a separate lounge area)
• Le Bistro French Restaurant (dinner-only, reservations-only; US$20 cover charge)
• The Local Bar & Grill is a complimentary eatery designed as an updated version of O’Sheehan’s Pub. The menu showcases similar offerings, such as Fish and Chips, Chicago Style Hot Dog, and some new additions (like Tortilla Bowl). The Grill is open 24 hours per day serving up different menus depending on the time of day guests choose to dine).
• Q Texas Smokehouse is a BBQ restaurant featuring live country music. It serves authentic Texas-style barbecue including smoked meats, pulled pork, brisket, beef and pork ribs, and side items.
• Teppanyaki is the Japanese Hibachi specialty restaurant (reservations’-only, at surcharge US$29 pp, kids charged a full cover). The Teppanyaki restaurant is open for Lunch (12-1:30 pm) and Dinner (5:30-10 pm). It features live cooking demonstrations and traditionally prepared (a la carte priced) specialties, including sushi, fruit sashimi, Yakitori grill, a sake menu.
• O’Sheehan’s Neighbourhood Bar & Grill (sports bar, with 24-hour American cuisine - burgers, steaks, desserts; complimentary)
• Shanghai’s Noodle Bar (Asian cuisine complimentary restaurant inside O’Sheehan’s Pub area)
• Food Republic is a new and exclusive dining concept (via a partnership with the Pubbelly Restaurant Group). This specialty restaurant is open lunch through dinner, offers international cuisine with a la carte menu and iPad ordering system.
• Pincho Tapas Bar (Latin dishes)
• Cagney’s Steakhouse (specialty dinner restaurant for prime steaks and gourmet seafood specialties; reservations-only, US$30 cover charge per person and free Kids Menu)
• Moderno Churrascaria (Brazilian steakhouse; reservations-only; US$20 per person cover charge; with outdoor seating waterfront area)
• La Cucina Italian Restaurant (reservations-only, US$15 cover charge) with outdoor seating waterfront area)
• Bayamo Restaurant (Cuban/Latin seafood restaurant)
• Ocean Blue (seafood restaurant, reservations-only, with cover charge US$39 per person, kids are charged a full cover) is open for lunch and dinner. It is run by the Michelin Star chef Geoffrey Zakarian, who personally picked the 4-course menu and each of the wine pairings. “Ocean Blue on the Waterfront” is the restaurant’s outdoor seating/alfresco dining area.
• Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville At Sea (debuted in Southampton on October 27, 2015, as a complimentary fast food restaurant; however, in November 2015 NCL confirmed that the first-ever Margaritaville at Sea aboard Norwegian Bliss, would operate as a specialty a la carte restaurant, due to "crowd-control reasons")
• Garden Cafe (708 indoor seats, 280 outdoor seats) is a complimentary, buffet-style casual restaurant, plus an Open-Air Garden Cafe (outdoor seating area). It offers traditional Asian cuisine as well as specialty dishes from all around the world.
• Los Lobos Cantina (Mexican restaurant)
• The A-List Bar (44 seats) serves handcrafted cocktails, premium spirits and wines. The Bar is named after Andy Stuart (NCL's President and CEO).
• Coco's is a chocolate-themed dessert outlet/patisserie serving handmade pralines, crepes, truffles and other treats paired with brand teas and coffees.

Shipboard entertainment options - Fun and Sport

The Bliss vessel features an expanded 55-Suite Haven, a spacious sundeck, 2 whirlpools, private dining, and specialty restaurants, an expanded courtyard, outdoor terrace, Thermal suite, treatment rooms (14 – suite Heaven SPA) and a fitness center.

NCL Bliss is the world's second cruise ship (together with NCL Joy) featuring a Ferrari racetrack (deck 19). It's a first for a cruise ship based in North America. The facility is built by RiMO Supply (RiMO Germany Group) and operated via a partnership with Scuderia Ferrari Watches. This is also the first-ever branded Formula 1 race car track.

• The 2-level track spans on 2 decks and offers incredible sea views at height of 60 m (200 ft). It has a capacity up to 10 racers at a time on electric go-karts (Ferrari branded).
• The GoCars can reach speeds up to 40 mph (65 kph). In comparison to the sister-ship Norwegian Joy, Bliss' racetrack is 40% longer and has 10 turns (Joy has 8), two of which are cantilevered over the ship's side.
• Unlimited go-kart rides (weekly pass) costs USD 100 pp (offered on all 7-day-cruise itineraries). Day passes cost USD 30 pp. A single run costs USD 10 pp. Unlimited pass passengers access the race track via separate (shorter) queue line.
• Passengers booked in Concierge and The Haven staterooms enjoy complimentary rides with bookings. The used by RiMO technology ensures optimal usage under intensified UV conditions and saltwater exposure.

NCL Bliss also features an open-air laser tag course (top deck), Aqua Park with Double Aqua Loop (two multi-deck waterslides - one hull-extending loop, one with transparent loop section stretching down to the below deck) and 2 racing slides (high-speed inner tubes with length over 110 m / 360 ft) both with a transparent section.

Pool Deck 16 has 2 swimming pools (located away from the deck's center) and cantilevered whirlpools (hot tubs over the ship's sides). A water fun kids zone (on the top deck) has splash pads, tipping buckets, water cannons, and slides.

Entertainment options also include the NCL's FIREWORKS show (on each voyage), "Rock of Ages", "Cirque Dreams", "Illusionarium" (magicians show). Follows the complete list of Norwegian Bliss lounges, clubs and other entertainment venues for kids, teens, and adults.

• Bliss Theater (907 seats; features Broadway-style musical productions; two grand shows per night). Theater's signature programming features the new Broadway musical show “Jersey Boys" ("Best Musical" 2006 Tony Award, rock ‘n’ roll-themed), "Four Seasons" musical (NCL exclusive production show by Warren Carlyle / themed on Cuba’s culture - dancing, music, costumes) and "SIX: The Musical" (British pop musical-themed on Henry VIII’s 6 wives).
• The Supper Club (theatrical entertainment dining venue, with grand-style aerial acrobatics; surcharge $30-40 PP)
• Atrium (3-deck midship hub area - “678 Ocean Place”, with a big-size LED screen, dance area and live entertainment)
• Atrium Cafe & Bar (specialty tea & coffee bar)
• The Library; Card Room; Internet Cafe (24-hour)
• Social Comedy and Night Club (103 seats) has a large dance floor and offers live entertainment by stand-up comedians and DJs.
• Mixx Bar (29 seats) is a piano bar located between Taste and Savor restaurants, making it a popular pre- and after-dinner venue for enjoying cocktails.
• Bar 21; 5 O’Clock Somewhere Bar; Tobacco Road Liquor Bar; Prime Meridian Bar; Studio Lounge, Waves Pool Bar (deck 16)
• Maltings Whiskey Bar (56 seats) serves a rich variety of premium whiskies and beers; live music. The Maltings lounge also doubles as Library( books, board games, cards playing).
• Horizon Lounge (90 seats) is a 2-deck bar lounge exclusive for The Haven passengers.
• The Humidor Cigar Lounge (16 seats) is the ship’s smoking-allowed bar lounge.
• The Cellars Wine Bar (49 seats) is operated via NCL partnership with Mondavi and offers premium wines and tapas-style a la carte menu. The Wine Bar has a separate room for wine tastings (with sommelier service) and outdoor seating area on The Waterfront.
• Sugarcane Mojito Bar (52 seats/indoor and Waterfront/outdoor) features live Latin music performances.
• Carlo's Bake Shop is a premium patisserie/bakery by ‘the “cake boss” Buddy Valastro.
• Tradewinds Tax & Duty-Free Shops are duty-free retails selling alcohol, tobaccos, NCL-logoed merchandise, jewelry, watches, perfumes and cosmetics, brand fashion and accessories, special occasion gifts. The shopping complex includes Tides Boutique, Cartier, Omega, Bvlgari, Fine Watches, The Time Zone, Salvatore Ferragamo, Versace, Bally, Godiva (gourmet sweets, including truffles, premium chocolates, soft-serve ice cream), also Beauty Shop.
• The Cavern Club Lounge (45 indoor seats, 45 Waterfront/outdoor seats) is a replica of Liverpool's music club and offers Beatles music, tribute bands performances and "The Choir of Man” crew show (dynamic performances with live percussions, high-energy music, dancing and foot-stomping by 9 crew performers).
• Bliss Casino is a premium gaming lounge with both smoking and non-smoking areas, large-size LED screens, a separate Bliss Casino VIP Room (high-stakes gambling room) and is served by Skyline Bar.
• Skyline Bar offers cocktails before dinner. Guests can meet friends after a show or press their luck with the bar-top poker screens.
• Promenade Deck’s best feature is the Waterfront Promenade (1320 ft/402 m long, open-air area with multiple alfresco dining and entertainment venues). It offers a unique open-air deck experience by several seaside venues with outdoor seating. The list of the venues features shops, bars, restaurants, a 1/4-mi-long boardwalk (outdoor area with shaded seating) located 8 stories above the water.
• Bliss Ultra Lounge & Nightclub
• The Haven Lounge & Bar (90 seats) is a VIP lounge exclusive for Concierge Level passengers with a delicious buffet available for light breakfast, lunch and afternoon snacks.
• Waves Pool Bar (15 seats) is a casual outdoor bar serving beverages, including popular cocktails.
• The District Brew House has a keg room and offers a selection of 50 bottled beers and 24 draft beers on tap (including the new Wynwood brew). The venue is operated via the NCL partnership with Miami’s Wynwood Brewing Company.
• Dolce Gelato (Italian ice cream bar, a la carte)
• Starbucks Coffee Bar (44 seats) offers items from the full Starbucks menu.
• Atrium Boutiques (tax-duty free shops)
• Photo Gallery & Shop (photo-video services by professional onboard photographers)
• Galaxy Pavilion is an indoor complex for virtual-world and multi-player gaming, equipped with interactive video walls and virtual reality technology. 
• Aqua Park (3-deck, with two pools, 2 racing twist-slides, and 5 multi-level waterslides)
• Kids venues, club lounges (Kid’s Aqua Park, Splash Academy for kids 3-12 yo, Guppies Nursery for kids 6 months to 2 years old)
• Mandara Spa & Fitness (Thermal Suite, Snow Room, Salt Room, Medi Spa, 24 Treatment Rooms, Beauty Salon, Barber Shop, fitness classes)
• Spice H2O (adults only; served by Breezeway Bar & Grill)
• Entourage Teen Centre (jukeboxes, table football, video arcades, teen disco)
• “The Haven” (Suite- and Villa-passengers only complex; consists of The Haven Courtyard Sundeck, The Haven Restaurant, The Haven Lounge)
• Rock Climbing Wall; Jogging Track; Sports Complex (Spider Web - enclosed 24ft/7m tall kids' climbing wall with a spiral slide, Bungee Trampoline, 9-hole Mini Golf course, the largest at sea Ropes course, Zip Line, The Plank - 8ft/2,5m extending platform)
• Vibe Beach Club (99 seats, deck 19) is an adults-only relaxation area (surcharges per day apply) with cantilevered whirlpools, sunbathing area with sun loungers and luxury chaise lounge chairs, outdoor bar, private cabanas.

Next are listed the NCL Bliss ship's venues by deck location.

• On deck 20 are the Laser Tag Course, Ropes Course, Aqua Racer Waterslide (entry-level).
• On deck 19 are located The Haven Courtyard (sundeck and Jacuzzies), Vibe Beach Club (sundeck, Jacuzzies), Encore Speedway (Race Track), Mini-Golf Course, Sports Complex (Bungee Trampoline, Spider Web, Zip Line)
• On deck 18 are located Ocean Loops Waterslide (entry-level), The Haven complex (Sundeck, Courtyard, Lounge, Restaurant, Outdoor Restaurant.
• Forward on decks 17-18 are located two 2-level bar lounges (exclusive for The haven passengers) - Horizon Lounge and The Haven Lounge.
• On deck 17 are located The Haven Courtyard (Sundeck, Swimming Pool), Jacuzzies, waterslides (Aqua Racer, Ocean Loops), Speedway Jogging Tracks, Rock Climbing Wall, Le Bistro French Restaurant, American Diner, Galaxy Pavilion.
• On deck 16 are located Garden Cafe, swimming pools, Sundeck, Kids' Aqua Park, wellness facilities (Fitness Center, Mandara Spa, Beauty Salon, Barber Shop).
• Forward on deck 15 is the Observation Lounge & Bar (444 seats, size 2723 ft2 / 253 m2). This is a VIP lounge (exclusive for Concierge Level passengers) with a delicious buffet (available for light breakfast, lunch, afternoon snacks) and offers 270-degree ocean views (from floor-ceiling windows) and full Bar service.
• On deck 13 is the Infirmary/Medical Center.
• On deck 11 is the Studio Lounge (exclusive to Studio/single cabin passengers).
• On deck 8 are Cellars Wine Bar, Maltings Whiskey Bar, Cavern Club, Humidor Lounge, Sugarcane Mojito Bar, The A-List Bar, La Cucina Italian Restaurant, Ocean Blue, Los Lobos Cantina, Cagney’s Steakhouse, Food Republic, Maltings Whiskey Bar, Dolce Gelato, Carlo's Bake Shop, Tradewinds Shops.
• On deck 7 are the Box Office, The Local Bar & Grill, Bliss Casino, Manhattan Restaurant.
• On deck 6 are Shore Excursions, Internet Cafe-Library-Card Room, Perspective/Photo Studio, Meeting Rooms, Reception/Guest Services, Art Gallery, Atrium Bar, Q Texas Smokehouse, Teppanyaki, Taste and Savor restaurants, Mixx Bar, Starbucks Bar, Social Comedy Nightclub, Coco's.
• On deck 5 are located childrens' venues (Splash Academy, Guppies, Video Arcade, Entourage).

Signature activity facilities include 2-level electric go-cart track (Scuderia Ferrari, on top-deck), outdoor Laser Tag Course (deck 20), a water park with 2 multi-story waterslides, outdoor park for tai-chi practicing, luxury-brand shopping district.

Galaxy Pavilion (gaming center) is equipped with interactive video walls and Oculus virtual reality technology. The equipment includes three XD Dark Ride Motion simulators (with 3D real-time graphics, 3D Virtual Surround Sound, multi-sensory effects), six Xbox stations, Star Wars Battle Pod (arcade game), hovercraft bumper cars.

Itineraries

Norwegian Bliss itinerary program is based on weekly 7-day Alaska voyages departing Seattle WA on Saturdays. Passengers experience the wildlife and beauty of Alaska while visiting Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and enjoy the charm of Victoria BC.

Following the inaugural Alaskan season, the ship was homeported in Miami Florida for the winter season 2018-2019, with scheduled 7-day Caribbean roundtrips to St Thomas USVI, Tortola BVI, Nassau Bahamas.

In January 2018, NCL announced that for winter season 2019-2020, the Bliss ship will be homeported in NYC New York . From NYC, the ship will operate on roundtrip itineraries to Caribbean (a total of 18 voyages). Ranging from 7- to 14-days, the itineraries visit call ports in Bahamas (Nassau, Great Stirrup Cay), St Lucia, St. Thomas USVI, Antigua, Jamaica (Ocho Rios), Puerto Rico (San Juan), Barbados, St Maarten, St Kitts, Roatan, Mexico (Costa Maya, Cozumel), Belize (Harvest Caye).

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Norwegian Bliss ship related cruise news

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Other Norwegian Cruise Line cruise ships

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Norwegian Bliss Wiki

In late October 2016 was revealed the NCL Bliss ship's hull art - themed as “Cruising with the Whales”. The art design is by Robert Wyland - an American artist known worldwide for his large outdoor sculptures and murals (named "Whaling Walls"), all featuring life-size images of whales and other marine life. The NCL Bliss' hull art has as a centerpiece an image of a mother humpback whale and her calf. The design signifies Alaska's beauty and the importance of conservation.

On October 28, 2016, the vessel's construction officially started with the steel cutting ceremony. Instead of the traditional water method (injecting the metal with heat), for NCL Bliss was used the dry plasma method - for more precise cuts and creating less mess).

The ship has the world's biggest marine scrubber system, consisting of 5 units (produced and installed by Yara Marine Technologies). These units clean engines' sulfur oxide emissions by 99%. At max cruising speed, ship's engines consume ~11 tons of diesel fuel per hour. NCL Bliss new "scrubbers" (exhaust gas cleaning systems) as technology reduce the equivalent of approx 1500 tons of Sulfur Oxide (poisonous gas). The five in-line scrubbers are lightweight and able to operate in a dry mode, as well as in open and closed loops. The liner also features Heat Recovery Systems, energy saving LED lighting, improved hydro-dynamic (hull design).

Ship's powerplant consists of all 5x MAN marine diesel engines (2x model 14V48/60CR) plus 3x model 12V48/60CR) with combined power output 76,8 MW. Propulsion's combined output is 44 MW.

Fun facts: On the vessel was applied paint with total weight approx 300 tons. The total length of onboard cables is 2200 km (1367 ml). The total length of onboard pipes is approx 400 km (249 ml).

On May 24, 2017, at Meyer Werft shipyard (Papenburg) was held the vessel's keel-laying ceremony. During the special event, the first block (out of 90) was lifted into the yard's covered shipbuilding hall. With this officially started the NCL Bliss ship's assembly. The ceremony was attended by Andy Stuart (NCL's President and CEO). He laid a “lucky coin” before the first keel block was lowered into place.

On November 29, 2017, NCL announced the name of ship's godparent - Elvis Duran. He is a US radio personality and host of a daily morning radio show in NYC New York on the radio station WHTZ (branded Z100). On February 17, 2018, was vessel's float-out ceremony held at the Papenburg shipyard. The ship was officially delivered to NCL on April 18, 2018.

On March 13, 2018, the vessel left Meyer Werft Papenburg for its conveyance down Ems River to Eemshaven Holland (arriving March 15). It was assisted by tugboats and navigating in reverse (stern first) up to the North Sea for trials. As the passage clearance through Meyer Werft's sea lock is less than 4 ft (1,2 m), the maneuver took ~2 hours at speed 0,2 Kn (0,2 mph / 0,4 kph). In Eemshaven, the ship loaded additional crew and provisions, then headed to the North Sea for sea trials.

The official delivery to NCL was on April 19 in Bremerhaven Germany . The christening ceremony was on May 30, 2018, held in Seattle WA (USA) .

Inaugural cruise itineraries 2018

The following tables show the ship's Inaugural cruise itineraries with ports of call, port times and USD prices per person (based on double occupancy).

(repositioning) 12 nights / 13 days Inaugural Transatlantic cruise from Southampton to NYC New York - from $1000

During the 2-day inaugural ship preview in NYC, NCL Bliss was berthed at Pier 88 in Manhattan. On May 4, the ship was boarded by brand partners, US media and cruise industry representatives, also boat godfather Elvis Duran. The Z100 morning show was live-broadcasted from the liner. Following the cocktail reception (held in The Haven's Horizon Lounge) VIP guests enjoyed the premiere of the "Jersey Boys" show in the Bliss Theater.

(repositioning) 15 nights / 16 days, Inaugural Panama Canal cruise from Miami to Los Angeles - from $1350

Ship's 2-day preview cruise from Miami (May 8-10) was a special voyage for VIP guests only, including Wyland (hull artist), Elvis Duran, The Morning Show members, Alex Vega (The Auto Firm).

7 nights / 8 days, Inaugural Alaska cruise roundtrip from Seattle - from $1200

8 nights / 9 days, Inaugural Mexican Riviera cruise roundtrip from Los Angeles - from $850 pp

On November 3, 2018, the ship sails on a repositioning 14-night Panama Canal cruise from Los Angeles to Miami, visiting Ensenada (04), Mazatlan (06), Puerto Quetzal (09), Puerto Caldera (11), Cartagena (14) - prices start from $700 pp.

7 nights / 8 days, Inaugural Caribbean cruise roundtrip from Miami - from $800 pp

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The Best Way to Experience Alaska is with Norwegian

• Cruise Destinations
• Things to Know
• VIEW CRUISES

Cruise to Alaska: Feel Free to Let the Outside In

Come aboard Norwegian Cruise Line to Alaska and feel what it's like when you let the outside in. Browse through our Alaskan cruises and find the best cruise deals designed to make your cruise experience unforgettable. With 7 cruise ships sailing from 5 departure ports , including land and sea packages on our Alaska Cruise Tours , there's something for everyone to enjoy. From action-packed wilderness adventures and extraordinary sightseeing on our shore excursions , to an extended sailing season, there are plenty of opportunities to find the perfect Alaska cruise holiday designed for you. With ships custom-built to help you see nature at its most majestic, you can witness whales breaching the surface, marvel at spectacular glaciers, and experience everything Alaska has to offer. When you cruise with Norwegian, the awe of Alaska stays with you throughout your holiday.

^Buy an air ticket and the 2nd guest flies for free. *View for full terms and conditions.

Enjoy the Freedom to Cruise Alaska the Way You Like

There's a reason why the best way to cruise Alaska is with Norwegian - we've got something for every type of traveller. Thrill-seekers will jump for joy at our two-level race track and laser tag, followed by a stroll down The Waterfront , our revolutionary quarter-mile oceanfront promenade, for a glacier-side meal, available on board Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Bliss . Looking for a more intimate cruise ship experience? The newly revitalised Norwegian Jewel , Norwegian Sun and Norwegian Spirit bring that and more with beautifully renovated spaces and staterooms. Sip a cocktail with spectacular views from the coziest spot at Spinnaker Lounge or take a dip in one of five luxurious hot tubs. Whichever ship you choose, Alaska and the holiday of a lifetime await.

Explore Alaska by Land and Sea

Head deeper into the frozen wilderness with one of our Alaska Cruise Tours on board Norwegian Jewel and Norwegian Spirit, combining your cruise with an immersive land holiday that goes beyond the expected. Spanning from 7 to 15-days, these cruise vacation packages include overnight stays in Denali, Anchorage, Fairbanks, Homer, Talkeetna, and Valdez. Exclusive to Norwegian, all Cruise Tours are led by local Alaskan guides to provide you with an authentic Alaska experience.

Alaskan Ports of Departure

Alaskan ports of call.

• Icy Strait Point
• Prince Rupert

Alaska Cruise Image Gallery

• Skagway Harbor
• Glacier Exploration
• Sled Dog Racing
• Chugach National Forest in Seward
• White Pass Scenic Railway
• Bald Eagle in Sitka
• Mendenhall Glacier
• Hotel Alyeska
• Kayaking in Tatoosh
• Starfish along the Water's Edge
• Canoe along Mendenhall Glacier
• The Waterfront on Norwegian
• Experience Alaska
• Glaciers on a flightseeing excursion

Explore Alaska Cruise Ports

Best Alaska EXCURSIONS

We know the destinations you'll be visiting and what there is to see, do and experience. We offer you a variety of excursions to choose from, in every port you'll visit.

Mendenhall Glacier & Whale Quest

Experience Alaska’s premier attractions glaciers and wildlife, from two very different vantage points, by land and by sea....

Misty Fjords & Wilderness Explorer - One Way

Cruise on the Wilderness Explorer expedition vessel through Misty Fjords, a waterway that ancient glaciers carved out of the rugged landscape. ...

Saxman Native Village & Lumberjack Show

Discover the rich culture of Southeast Alaska’s Native Americans and witness a rip roaring lumberjack competition on this comprehensive tour of Ketchikan. ...

Bering Sea Crab Fisherman's Tour

Join an adventure of a lifetime aboard the Aleutian Ballad, as seen on Discovery Channel’s - The Deadliest Catch. ...

Alaska HOTELS

Crowne Plaza Seattle

The Crowne Plaza Hotel Seattle offers both a distinctive style and an ideal setting with unparalleled access to all that makes Seattle one of America's greatest cities. Conveniently located in downtown Seattle just minutes away from historic Pike Place Market, Pioneer Square and within two blocks of over 25 restaurants and shops. Inside, we offer the Regatta Bar and Grille, a full service restaurant/lounge and complimentary exercise facility. Our Sleep Advantage Programme, offering luxury bedding, sleep amenities, quiet zone floors, and guaranteed wake up calls, is included in all of our spacious rooms offering city skyline and surrounding mountain & water views.

This 3.5 star hotel offers luxury and convenience with charming views from its exquisitely appointed rooms. Located Downtown, just steps away from historic Pike Place Market, Pioneer Square and other attractions.

• Room and room tax Bellman gratuities Transfers between Hotel and Pier

Important Note: Accommodations are based on double occupancy per room. Some accommodation will allow triple and quad guests in a room and are subject to availability and surcharge will apply. Additional hotel rooms to accommodate triple and quads may be required, and surcharge will apply.

The Westin Seattle

The Westin Seattle is the front door to downtown shopping, attractions, dining, and much more. This ideal urban retreat is steps away from the Washington State Convention Centre, Pike Place Market, and Space Needle. Our unique design offers breathtaking views of the Northwest's beauty including Puget Sound, the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges. Our 891 smoke-free guest rooms and suites are designed to provide ultimate comfort and tranquility for our guests.

The Westin Seattle is the front door to downtown shopping, attractions, dining, and much more. This ideal urban retreat is steps away from the Washington State Convention Centre, Pike Place Market, and Space Needle. Our unique design offers breathtaking views of the Northwest's beauty including Puget Sound, the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges. Our 891 smoke-free guest rooms and suites are designed to provide ultimate comfort and tranquility for our guests. All guest rooms offer high speed internet access and flat screen televisions and feature the Heavenly® Bed and Heavenly® Bath. Visit Relish Burger Bistro, our contemporary venue featuring a modern twist on an American classic.

Distance/Airport: 14.5 miles Distance/Pier: 1 mile

Package includes: Room and room tax Bellman gratuities Transfers between Hotel and Pier

Important Note: Hotel is only available for the Joy sailings - Accommodations are based on double occupancy per room. Some accommodation will allow triple and quad guests in a room and are subject to availability and surcharge will apply. Additional hotel rooms to accommodate triple and quads may be required, and surcharge will apply.

Read THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT Alaska Cruises

A Local Guide to Alaska's Glaciers

With over 27,000 glaciers, Alaska is one of the best places to see these majestic pieces of nature up close.

Let the Outside In

The best way to experience Alaska is with Norwegian. Learn why our ships are uniquely designed for the best glacier experiences.

See Alaska The Authentic Way

Choose from eight Cruise Tours to see the heart of this great land.

Why You Need to Cruise the Inside Passage

Few of the many reasons why you will want to consider cruising The Inside Passage.

Mount Denali is the tallest mountain in all of North America. A must see whilst in Alaska.

Cruise Alaska Without a Passport

Did you know it's possible to cruise without a passport? Learn more about cruising to Alaska without a passport.

Explore Seattle

8 Reasons to Check Out Seattle on Your Alaska Cruise