juneau to glacier bay national park tour

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Last updated: August 12, 2022

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Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve PO Box 140 Gustavus, AK 99826

907 697-2230

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Taking You Back in Time

Spend the day on the waters of Glacier Bay and see magnificent tidewater glaciers, ancient snow-capped mountains, whales, stellar sea lions, rare birds such as puffins, coastal bears, seals, eagles, and so much more.

Aboard our comfortable, high-speed catamaran, you'll travel through dramatically different ecosystems - moving from the fully developed rainforest that surrounds Glacier Bay Lodge to the lichen-encrusted rocks that exist on the edges of the massive tidewater glaciers of the park.

Midway through the day, the catamaran arrives at the faces of the Margerie and Grand Pacific Glaciers, two towering masses of ice and snow rising 245 feet above the ocean and stretching another 100 feet beneath the water. The ice that calves from the face of the two glaciers is an average of 200 years old - so in a way, watching the ice break off of the glaciers is like watching the passage of time. This great Alaska vacation will leave you speechless.

This tour is the only scheduled day tour permitted inside Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve. Advance Reservations Highly Recommended.

Tour Information

This eight-hour voyage is a grand experience that promises you a lifetime of memories - so book it now! 

Cancellation Policy

Reservation cancellations more than 72 hours prior to tour will receive a refund less a $25 cancellation fee per tour ticket. Reservation Cancellations within 72 hours prior to tour will result in full deposit forfeiture.

Payment Policy

Advanced payment is required at time of booking reservation(s). Payment may be made by credit card only.

Coast Guard Regulations

Due to Coast Guard Regulations, prior to boarding the vessel photo I.D. may be required. All passengers boarding the vessel are subject to screening and inspection of person, baggage or cargo. 

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Glacier Bay Tours: Juneau & Sitka, Alaska

Dates unscheduled, (contact us to request dates).

Family Friendly

Double Booking

Single booking, roommate rebate.

Includes all lodging, all meals, support van, leaders, ferry, intra-tour flight, kayak tour, glacier boat tour, tour maps & narratives.

Assembly Point

All transfers between pre tour hotel and tour locations are included.

THIS TOUR STARTS IN JUNEAU AND ENDS IN SITKA

Not Included: Airfare to Juneau International Airport, or from Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport,  Guide Gratuity.

Meeting Time

Hotel 8:30 am, drop-off time.

Glacier Bay National Park

Glacier Bay National Park is a homeland, a living laboratory, a national park, a designated wilderness, a biosphere reserve, and a world heritage site. From the marine park sheltering humpback whales, seals and puffins, past its emerald–green forests to its snow-capped mountains and spectacular glaciers, the Glacier Bay wildness is remote, dynamic and intact. It is located in the northernmost section of the Alaskan panhandle, between the Gulf of Alaska and Canada, nearest to the city of Juneau, the capital of Alaska. This tour visits three locations – Juneau, Glacier Bay and Sitka.

Alaska by Boot and Boat:

We start the tour in Juneau, the state capital.  There is no road access to Juneau, which keeps the city isolated and unique.  The Juneau Icefield towers above the city, and our first hike will take us to see a finger of the icefield reaching down towards the sea in the Mendenhall Glacier.  Next day, we fly to the town of Gustavus, considered the gateway to Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. Glacier Bay Lodge is the crown jewel of the Mission 66 initiative to build roads, hiking trails, visitor centers and lodges in America’s National Parks. The architecture reflects the cultural and scenic heritage of Glacier Bay and its Tlingit influence. This will be our home for two nights, as we explore by boat and by boot the surrounding wilderness and waterways that make up the national park.

A thrilling seaplane flight will take us to our third location, Sitka. The town has renown for its gorgeous scenery, and is also the site of some fascinating history. The native Tlingit people clashed with the Russians for more than a century, until the sale of the Alaskan Territory from Russian to the United States took place at Sitka.  We enjoy a sea kayak excursion along with some hiking options in this small, beautiful community.  The combination of these three sites where nature, history and modern life intersects, provides a fascinating exploratory tour.

The departure from this tour is from Sitka.  An early morning flight from Sitka to Juneau is available on day 1, and an evening flight back to Juneau is available on day 6, if you have booked round trip tickets to Sitka or Juneau.

See our detailed itinerary here,  or  contact us for more information!  Timberline Adventures offers  guided hike and bike tours  across the U.S. and Canada, and our experts across the country are ready to guide you in your outdoor experience.

View Timberline Adventures’ other Alaska  hiking tour offerings.

Total Distance: 26.8 miles

Inn highlights.

• Glacier Bay Lodge
• Sitka Hotel

Timberline Adventures / 214 Mohawk Dr. Boulder, CO 80303 / 1-800-417-2453 or 303-664-8388 / Fax: 303-664-8395

Routes, mileage and accommodations are subject to change due to safety, road/trail conditions, weather and availability.

© 2017 Timberline Adventures. All Rights Reserved. | Web Design by VistaWorks

Glacier Bay Getaway

Quick Details

• Map Marker Location: Juneau
• Hour Glass Duration: 12 Hours
• User Ages: Ages 3+

Discover the Majesty of Alaska’s Glaciers and Wildlife

Experience a remarkable day of glaciers, wildlife and stunning scenery. This offering is brought to you by Alaska Dream Cruises. Alaska Dream Cruises is authorized by Special Use Permit to provide guiding and outfitting services in the Tongass National Forest and is an authorized Concessioner of the National Park Service, Department of the Interior

Tour Highlights

• Live your Alaskan dreams on this extensive exploration of the West Arm of Glacier Bay National Park
• Round-trip cruise transportation from Auke Bay
• Stops for photography and viewing at South Marble Island and Gloomy Knob
• Tidewater glacier viewing, including the stunning Margerie Glacier
• Narration from a knowledgeable captain and naturalist
• Opportunities for wildlife viewing, including humpback whales, orcas, porpoises, harbor seals, Steller sea lions, black and brown bears, wolves, mountain goats, moose, and more!
• Chevron down What to Bring
• While snacks and beverages will be available for purchase, lunch is not included. Please feel free to bring your own meal items.
• Keep a rain jacket, hat, and gloves close at hand at all times.
• Warm Layers.
• Camera and/or handheld video equipment.
• USD Cash / Credit Cards for onboard purchases
• Chevron down Vessel Amenities & Inclusions
• Complimentary hot chocolate, coffee, tea, and select snacks
• Additional beverages, including alcohol, and snacks available for purchase in the galley
• Souvenirs sourced from Alaskan makers available in the gift shop
• Spacious outdoor observation deck 
• Climate controlled interior seating with panoramic windows
• Includes one, or more, restroom(s)
• Chevron down Good to Know

Motion Sickness: Persons sensitive to motion sickness may wish to take medication at least one hour prior to the tour departure time.

Tour Minimums: Tours do need to hit a minimum capacity to run. We will contact guests 48 hours in advance if tour has not reached the minimum.

Cancellation Policy: A $10/person processing fee will be charged for cancellations made after the booking is confirmed. Full refund if you cancel at least 7 days prior to the tour date. 50% refund if you cancel 3-6 days prior to the tour date. No refund if you cancel less than 48 hours prior to the tour date. If the tour is cancelled by the operator for any reason, the customer will receive a full refund.

• Chevron down Participation Requirements

Age Restrictions: Guests must be 3+ due to the longer duration.

Please note: there are no changing tables available, and there is no room for strollers onboard. While there is no charge for children two years old & younger, all guests must have a ticket due to coast guard regulations.

Accessibility: Participants must be able to walk approximately 100 feet down an awning covered passenger ramp with a handrail. Boarding the vessel requires transiting 3-4 steps with non-lifting assistance only. The topside observation deck is accessed via stairs with a handrail.

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Icy Strait Premier Whale Watching Adventure

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About glacier bay national park tours.

Glacier Bay offers some Alaska's most amazing scenery and wilderness. While you're in Sitka or Icy Strait Point, you can visit Glacier Bay National Park to find out what makes it truly spectacular .

You can take a boat tour on a fjord that was formed from a melted glacier. If you want to view majestic wildlife, we recommend a  whale watching tour  via catamaran. Or, if you're interested in history and adventure, you can ride on a hand-carved Tlingit dugout canoe. The boat & land combo tour offers visits to Japonski Island to learn about Sitka's role in WWII.

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How to Visit Glacier Bay National Park in Alaska: Ultimate Guide

Last Updated on April 9, 2024

Glacier Bay National Park is a place of incredible beauty in a remote wilderness with glaciers, mountains and wildlife. It is truly unforgettable. It’s a place that can be quickly visited on a cruise ship, which is how 95% of visitors experience its beauty.

If you visit Glacier Bay National Park on your own you gain the opportunity to go deeper with this unique place . You can go deeper into this gorgeous wilderness, meet the people, the wildlife, the glaciers, the very land itself. Make sure you give yourself enough time to spend a few hours just experiencing it. Possibly walking along the beach, or sitting on the beach, or taking some deep breaths next to a giant tree, or sitting on covered deck of the lodge enjoying a beer or a cup of coffee while the rain falls around you. Expect to be changed.

How to get to Glacier Bay National Park from Juneau

• How much does it cost to go to Glacier Bay?
• Where to stay (including details about camping)
• What to do in Glacier Bay
• 4 Day Glacier Bay National Park itinerary
• Getting food and supplies
• What to pack

Related : How to visit Alaska without a car

Listen to our conversation with Glacier Bay Ranger Matt Enderle on the Alaska Uncovered Podcast:

Glacier Bay is located west of Juneau, Alaska . You’ll need to get to Juneau first in order to get to the park. Glacier Bay National Park is located on a peninsula that is surrounded by water and icefields and there are no roads in or out. You can only access Glacier Bay National Park by boat or by plane from Juneau. You can NOT drive to Glacier Bay ! We’ll discuss both options. The vast majority of visitors to Glacier Bay visit on a cruise ship, this post focuses on how to get there if you’re traveling on your own.

How to get to Glacier Bay National Park by Boat from Juneau

This is the least expensive, slowest and most complicated way to get to Glacier Bay National Park. It’s awesome, super scenic and relaxing, as long as you can handle a few logistics and have more time for travel. You can fly to Juneau from Seattle (2 hours) and then take the Alaska ferry from Juneau to Gustavus and then take a taxi or the Glacier Bay lodge shuttle from the ferry dock to Bartlett Cove in Glacier Bay National Park (the cost of both is about $30 round trip). The ferry schedule varies from year and is generally released in February for the coming summer season. Usually the ferry goes to Glacier Bay about three days a week.

I previously wrote about taking the ferry all the way from Bellingham, WA. In that post I also talk about how to read the ferry schedule and what’s available on board the ferry. The ferry from Juneau to Gustavus takes 4-6 hours depending on whether or not it stops in another port on the way. If you fly to Juneau and then take the ferry, you’ll need to take a taxi or rideshare from the airport to the ferry terminal. This costs around $20 each way.

One reason to consider the ferry is that you can bring bear spray (discussed below) and cooking fuel for your campstove (though you cannot use the campstove on the ferry). Getting supplies in Gustavus is challenging so this is something worth considering. You can always leave those items there and fly back. This is discussed in more detail below under “food and supplies”.

How to get to Glacier Bay National Park by Plane from Juneau

This is the faster and more expensive way to go. It’s also less complicated as there are more flight options and you don’t need to get between the airport and ferry terminal in Juneau. You’ll already be at the airport. The first step is to fly to Juneau and the second step is to book a flight from Juneau to Gustavus. The flight between Juneau and Gustavus will be on a small plane, which is a fun addition to your adventure!

Keep in mind that the flights on small planes in Alaska are subject to delays and cancellations based on weather. It’s important to stay flexible and give yourself a good amount of time between flights in Juneau (especially on the way back). Alaska Airlines does operate one flight a day on a jet between Gustavus and Juneau from early June through late August.

How Much Does it Cost to go to Glacier Bay National Park?

The cost of a trip to Glacier Bay can vary widely. Glacier Bay National Park does not charge an entrance fee . You can visit it almost for free (once you get there) if you:

• Stay in the free Bartlett Cove Campground
• Skip any tours in favor of hiking and beachwalking out of Bartlett Cove
• Bring all your own camp food with you

I recommend building a budget so you can see some of the highlights , since you’ll need to invest some money to travel to Alaska in the first place! Read all my tips for saving money on your trip to Alaska here .

Below is a sample of some of the things you should plan to budget for to visit Glacier Bay National Park:

When should I visit Glacier Bay National Park?

The Glacier Bay Lodge and the Glacier Bay Day Boat Tour (both discussed below) are open from Memorial day weekend (late May) until Labor Day (early September) . This is the time that you want to visit! Outside of this time, a visit to Glacier Bay as an independent traveler isn’t a realistic option.

I recommend visiting in the earlier part of the season (late May and early June) because it’s less crowded. It is also statistically less rainy than later in August and September. It’s important to keep in mind that Glacier Bay National Park is RAINY and CHILLY at any time in the summer. Typical summer temperatures are in the 50s and 60s, though you could experience warmer weather at times. It is imperative that if you plan a visit to Glacier Bay National Park that you are prepared for and expecting rain.

Where to Stay in Glacier Bay

There are vacation rentals available in Gustavus, but here I will focus on your two options for staying in the park, since the town is 10 miles away. Definitely stay in Bartlett Cove if you are coming to visit Glacier Bay National Park as an independent traveler. You have two options, the Glacier Bay Lodge and the Bartlett Cove Campground .

The Glacier Bay Lodge is expensive, starting at around $250 per night for a solid, comfortable, though basic room. Rooms are situated around the lodge in cabins. There are no TVs and NO CELL SERVICE. Wifi is available in the lodge lobby, but not in the rooms. The other option is to camp in the Bartlett Cove Campground, which I highly recommend as long as you have a tent with a SOLID rainfly. Read my guide to camping in Alaska here !

Camping at Bartlett Cove Campground in Glacier Bay National Park

This campground is absolutely fantastic. I cannot say enough wonderful things about it. There are only two downsides to it: it’s in a very rainy place and it’s remote, so if you forgot something you’ll have to improvise. This is bear country, and the park service has strict rules for the campground to ensure safety of bears and people.

When you arrive, you’ll go to the Visitor Information station that’s near the dock (and a 5 minute walk from the lodge). They’ll issue your free permit and give you an orientation. It’s important to pay attention to the rules and follow them. The big ones are no food, cooking materials or toiletries in the tent area (they have food caches that are like sheds that you keep these things in, there are several in the campground). The other big rule is no cooking by your tent . The sites are in the trees, and you can cook and eat anywhere on the beach in the intertidal zone (so that the smells wash away when the tide comes in). Here are the reasons why the campground is awesome:

• It’s FREE
• It’s BEAUTIFUL
• New (in 2019) composting toilets
• There are showers (they aren’t in the campground, they are a the lodge which is a 5 minute walk away), you go to the gift shop and pay $5 and they give you a key to the shower for half an hour. They also provide a towel, soap, shampoo and conditioner!
• Laundry is available (again, it’s at the lodge). It’s coin operated $2 for wash, $2 for dry
• Covered set of picnic tables near the dock (this is not right in the campground but it’s very close, 5 minute walk)
• Flush restrooms in that same location (near the dock)
• There is a filtered water bottle filling station by the dock
• There is a hose and wash station for gear by the dock
• Trash AND RECYCLING are available near the dock
• If you forgot food, didn’t bring enough food, don’t want to cook or if you change your mind about cooking in bad weather there’s a lodge (5 minute walk) where you can just go and have your meals, or a meal, or a drink!).
• The lodge also has a lobby with chairs where you can sit and read a book, there’s also a small LIBRARY upstairs where you can do the same.
• Did I mention it’s beautiful? And remote? And awesome?

Things to do in Glacier Bay National Park

1. glacier bay day boat tour.

In my opinion, the Day Boat Tour is a MUST do . I’m telling you this because it’s expensive ($240/person) and you might be tempted not to do it, but really, it’s absolutely incredible! I’ve never been on a day boat tour anywhere in Alaska that wasn’t awesome, but this one is really incredible! I highly recommend it. One of the best day tours you can do in Alaska . This is also the only way to see the glaciers in Glacier Bay, as they are not viewable from Bartlett Cove where you’ll be staying.

Glacier Bay is absolutely beautiful without seeing the Glaciers, but you don’t want to miss this!! If it’s good weather, you’ll be able to see mountains all around as well, but if if it’s rainy, foggy or cloudy you’ll still be able to see the glaciers at the head of the bay and lots of wildlife ! I saw many whales (including some breaching, which is when they jump out of the water and I had never seen that before, so cool!), two bears, many sea lions, sea otters, seals and lots and lots of birds of all kinds. Amazing!

You’ll want to book the boat ahead of time, you can do that here . It’s operated by the lodge. The boat is a full day, it departs at 7:30 am from the dock in Bartlett Cove and you return about 3:30. They provide hot drinks, a clam chowder snack, and lunch (a sandwich and chips). There are additional snacks as well as beer and wine available for purchase on board.

Make sure to dress warmly for this trip so you can be outside on deck as much as you want. When you’re at the head of the bay near the glaciers, it will be colder, and the boat is fast so it’s very windy on deck even in warm and clear weather. They also provide maps, binoculars and there will be a park ranger on board to tell you everything you want to know about what you’re seeing! They also love your questions!

Related : Best places to see wildlife in Alaska

2. Visit the Huna Tribal House

The Huna Tribal House is the most unique and important element of a visit to Glacier Bay. It is a place where the story of reconcilation is being played out right now. In Glacier Bay, the Huna Tlingit are collaborating with the park service to build opportunity for Huna Tlingit people on their land. This is a unique and collaborative effort, and while certainly not complete, it’s movement in the right direction and incredibly hopeful and beautiful.

There are regular interpretive programs (check the schedule in the visitor center at the lodge) led by Huna Tlingit Cultural Interpreters . Even with all of Glacier Bay’s natural beauty, wildlife and solitude, this is one of the biggest highlights of a visit to Glacier Bay National Park. I was so grateful for the opportunity to learn about Huna Tlingit culture and witness this breathtaking art, both in and on the Tribal House as well as the totem poles.

3. Kayaking around the Beardslee Islands

Glacier Bay Sea Kayaks offers half day and full day kayak rentals or tours around Bartlett Cove. They do not allow you to rent and kayak alone, so if you are a solo traveler you’ll need to join a tour. You don’t need any previous experience to take part in this! They will provide all the gear you need and teach you what you need to know. The full day tour includes lunch.

Paddling gives a different perspective on the water and is a wonderful way to see wildlife. If you’re wanting to plan a multi day backcountry kayaking adventure, they can help you with that too!

4. Hiking in Bartlett Cove

There are a number of trails near Bartlett Cove, the park service has an excellent trail guide here .

The Forest Trail is a short, 1 mile, minimal elevation gain loop through the forest and along the beach. This is a good trail for getting oriented when you arrive, or to stretch your legs after the day boat tour.

The Bartlett River Trail is a mellow four mile round trip, minimal elevation gain hike through the forest to the estuary at the mouth of the Bartlett River. This is a good half day hike option.

If you want a longer, more remote adventure, you could go for the Bartlett Lake Trail (10 miles round trip).

5. Tidepooling and Exploring the Beach

Exploring the beach is an excellent any type of weather activity! It’s especially fun at low tide (check the tides at the visitor center in the lodge or the visitor information center near the dock). You can explore the beach in both directions from the campground and dock area for many miles. Just make sure to pay attention to time and how far you’ve walked.

4 Day Itinerary to Visit Glacier Bay National Park

Now that we’ve talked about how to get there, when to get there and what to do, it’s time to put it all together! You could make it shorter by doing more in a shorter time or skipping some of the activities listed above. For example, you could decide not to do a longer hike, or you could decide to fly out from Gustavus the same day as you do the day boat or a kayak trip. Here’s a suggested leisurely 4 day itinerary (including travel from Juneau):

• Day 1: Ferry or Fly from Juneau to Gustavus . Get settled in the campground or lodge. Take a walk on the beach and/or along the Forest trail
• Day 2: Day Boat Tour , visit the Huna Tribal House
• Day 3: Half or full day kayak trip
• Day 4: Hike Bartlett River Trail or the beach, ferry or fly back to Juneau in the afternoon

Food and Supplies in Glacier Bay

The part of your trip that is going to require the most planning is food and supplies. Once you reach Gustavus, you are in rural, remote Alaska and finding things is difficult and they will be very expensive . If you can afford the time, I recommend taking the ferry from Juneau so that you can get your supplies together (including fuel and bear spray, discussed below). You can then travel with them by ferry (you can’t bring cooking fuel or bear spray on airplanes).

One option is to take the ferry to Gustavus, but fly on the way back. You can leave your cooking fuel and bear spray in the camper exchange at the visitor information center near the dock.

Another option is to bring freeze dried food and shelf stable snacks with you from home. If you’re not going to be cooking your own food, you don’t have to worry about this so much, you can just bring a few snacks and be good to go.

If you plan on doing any hiking or camping having bear spray is a good idea. Bear spray is essentially pepper spray in a larger container. The idea is that you carry it and if you encounter a bear you get ready to spray if it charges you. It’s a personal decision whether or not to carry it, but this is a place you definitely want to consider it. If you’re wanting to fly and try to buy it once you arrive, try calling the park service to see if they have any bear spray in the exchange. In the exchange, campers leave things like bear spray and cooking fuel and you can take it when you arrive.

At the gift shop in the lodge you can get a few things, and there are a couple of stores in Gustavus (keep in mind that this is 10 miles from Bartlett Cove, where you’ll be staying), but in general it’s a good idea to bring what you need with you in terms of food and supplies .

There is NO CELL SERVICE in Bartlett Cove or anywhere in the park . Wifi IS available in the lodge lobby and at the dock, but not in the campground or lodge rooms. If you’re camping, charging devices is also a challenge (there are a couple outlets in the lodge). See the section below for my solution to this.

What should I pack to visit Glacier Bay National Park?

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This is a trip where being organized about what you pack and not forgetting anything is important. Check out this post for my general packing list for Alaska, which is a great checklist for Glacier Bay.

Because of the likelihood of lots of rain and the remote location, a few things to call out as especially important here:

• Rain gear : This is absolutely essential. Plan on it raining the whole time and if it doesn’t you can be pleasantly surprised! I recommend either this rain jacket from REI or this Marmot one you can get on Amazon (unfortunately no plus sizes). Both are very similar and are excellent, waterproof and durable. I also recommend rain pants because even if you’re like me and hate wearing them hiking, you’ll still want them for sitting on wet things and bug protection. These REI ones are the most comfortable ones I’ve found.
• Boots : Waterproof boots are a necessity. For wet places, I prefer to use rubber boots like these , which are totally waterproof, comfortable to walk in, durable and warm. Hiking boots would also work well.
• Warm clothes , including a hat and gloves: temperatures are chilly compared to most of the US during the summer, you don’t want to be cold!
• Lighter weight clothes : it is possible for it to be sunny! If this happens, you’ll want some lighter layers
• A hat with a brim : this is for sun protection, but also so that you can use a bug net with it (there are mosquitoes in Glacier Bay!)
• Sunscreen, sunglasses and lip protection : If the sun comes out, it’s intense! And, if you’re on the water, even more intense.
• If you’re going hiking, the 10 essentials . This is particularly important here as you’re in a very remote area.
• Binoculars (the day boat provides ones you can use, but you may want them for hikes and looking at the water for whales as well)
• A lightweight travel mug : even if you’re not camping, this is awesome for enjoying your hot drinks on the ferry, or taking it from the lodge for a walk outside.
• One or two waterbottles for hikes and day trips.
• A pack cover or garbage bag to put over your backpack (or whatever you are carrying your gear in) if it’s not waterproof
• Analog entertainment such as a Kindle in airplane mode with books already on it, other reading material, sketchbook, portable games, etc. Make sure everything is downloaded so you don’t need to connect to wifi or a phone signal to get it. I also recommend a backup battery for your phone (and keep your phone in airplane mode which saves a lot of battery power in remote locations).
• Any toiletries or personal items you need, prescriptions
• If you’re camping: Headlamp, camp stove and fuel (no fuel on airplanes), any cooking utensils you use, tent with a REAL rainfly and stakes, camping pad and sleeping bag. Read all my advice for camping in Alaska here .

If you’re planning a trip to Alaska, check out this post about the best things to do all across the state! If you’re planning to visit other national parks in Alaska, read my guide for that here .

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6 Top Luxury Alaska Cruises for 2024 & Beyond

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

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

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

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

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

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Silversea Cruises

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

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

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

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

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

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Regent Seven Seas Cruises

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Viking Ocean Cruises

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

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

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

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

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

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Seabourn Cruise Line

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Why Trust U.S. News Travel

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

You might also be interested in:

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

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