norwegian alaska inside passage cruise

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.

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Cruising the Inside Passage with NCL - Inside Passage

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• Inside Passage

Cruising the Inside Passage with NCL

From Seward to Vancouver, pretty much one great site/excursion after another. HUBBARD GLACIER was spectacular! "We got as close as we have ever gotten to the glacier", was one persons observation. We were able to see and hear a fair amount of calving during our approximately one hour by the glacier. This was worth the price of admission all by itself. ICY POINT STRAIT - a Jeep caravan with some good views and some good off road driving fun. Overall rating OK+ JUNEAU - Whale watching - After a short bus ride we boarded our boat and off to see the whales and other sea life. Be aware that these boats, for ecological reasons, cannot get within, I believe, 100 yards of these mammals. However, and it is a big however, they cannot stop the whales from swimming much, much closer to your boat, and they do. We also engaged with Seals, Sea Lions and Porpoises and saw many Bald Eagles perched along the many small islands we passed SKAWAY - A short bus ride to our gold panning site where we leaned the process of panning for gold. We found a few flakes which we placed in a vial, bringing it to the 'accessor's' office to determine its value. Next door is a ranch where musher dogs are raised and trained. We heard from a number of individuals who participated in the Iditarod and had an opportunity to enter a room kept at 40 below F where hot water will freeze in the time it takes to throw it up in the air - before it hits the ground. Next is a 14 mile train ride with tracks cut into the side of the mountain - the train was up against the mountain on one side and shear cliffs on the other. Trestles spanning gorges which allowed for spectacular views. An AAA+ day. Would have liked some time to walk around Skaway - it seems like a cute town. KETCHIKAN - Just some time to walk around the town, though our dock was next to an area where Sea Planes were landing and taking off. Fun to Watch. All in all a great trip.

We traveled through the Inside Passage on Holland America's MS Noordam in late May. This was not a stop but rather a cruising experience. It was chilly but not too cold to go out on the covered decks and our balcony to enjoy the beauty of this area. The blankets Holland America had available on the decks was also helpful in keeping warm.It was raining the day we visited and we saw numerous waterfalls that probably aren't visible when it's sunny. The fog was also pretty impressive as it hung low over the top of the mountains. Our ship traveled quite close to shore, which gave us a great view of the scenery. It was a neat preview of things to come on our cruise and Alaskan trip.

My 11-year-old son and I took a week long excursion of the Inside Passage aboard the Lindblad National Geographic Quest. It was the experience of a lifetime. The 10 naturalists and professional photographers on board were extremely friendly, informative, and organized. Crew made incredible gourmet meals, and the officers were welcoming in the open bridge. Each day we cruised the passage, we listened to lectures about the area and its inhabitants, rode zodiacs, hiked in the wilderness, and kayaked. We were fortunate to see humpback whales bubblenet feeding, stellar sea lions, puffins, sea otters, harbor seals, Dall's porpoises, and glaciers calving.

I can't figure out how to review a cruise line, so I'll use this spot. We sailed with Holland American in July from Seward to Vancouver. There were a few minor issues along the way which were dealt with. After arriving home, I got sent an email telling me that I still owed them $256 for transfers that I had book from Anchorage to Seward. Seeing as how I didn't make that trip (booking private transfer from Alyeska Resort to Seward on my own), I shouldn't have that on my bill. I also searched my own bills, and it doesn't show. However, they keep emailing me that I owe them. When I tried getting in touch with them on the phone, I kept getting transferred around, and no one will discuss this with me. I have sent repeated emails back to them. While the cruise was fine, the customer relations at company headquarters isn't. I doubt we'll ever take another cruise - but certainly not with Holland America.

My husband and I were on the Star Princess for a 7 day cruise leaving from Vancouver. Our ports were Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway! Our other two stops were Glacier National Park and College Fjord where we stayed on the boat. Landscape was fabulous and the glaciers were even more magnificent! Breathtaking.... A must see for all

We set sail from Vancouver on the Holland American Lines ms Noordam for a 7-day voyage to Seward, Alaska, with stops at Ketchikan, Juneau, and Sagway, and a day sailing through Glacier Bay National Park. The scenery was exceptional all along the way, with great photo opportunities, and the days on shore at each port were spectacular, largely because we booked excursions through independent brokers rather than those offered by the shipping line itself, which were far more costly. The ship itself is on the small side, but extremely clean and well maintained by the scrupulous staff. That was especially the case regarding our stateroom attendant Roy, who went out his way to make certain we were comfortable. The library offered a quiet respite to read, and the gym, although very small, was well equipped with machines and free weights. That said, I had to find off-peak times to work out to avoid the over-crowded conditions. The entertainment was rather limited. The highlights included two shows by comedian Justin Rupple, and one listening to B. B. Kings' All-Stars. Given that we were a captive audience on the ship the Sunday we left Vancouver, the next day, Monday, and the following Saturday, and every evening after dinner, the ship might have provided a more robust package of entertainment options. More problematic was the lack of a real naturalist, who might have prepped us for the sights we would see on the voyage. Our only real exposure to that kind of information happened during our cruise through Glacier Bay by a National Park Ranger, whose talk was pedestrian and at times overly patronizing, The dining options were robust, although varied in overall experience. The Vista dining room on the second deck combined fabulous service with a different enticing menu every night. Every meal there was covered by the cost of the trip, except for wine, which was modestly priced by the glass. The ambience was quiet and the service superb. The room did get filled at times, so a reservation the night before is a good idea. The more formal restaurants, not included in the tour package costs, appeared to offer interesting fare, although we only ate at the Italian one, Caneletto. Everything was tasty, although the menu was somewhat limited. The bar at the Pinnacle Restaurant lounge was exceptional, due largely to the mixologist Charles, whose Mojitos and Margaritas, rivaled those of any we have had. On the more negative side, the open dining area on the Lido Deck (9), was a daily nightmare. The food was fine and ranged widely to suit almost any taste at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The problem was the overcrowded venue where guests had a difficult time navigating the narrow spaces around the serving areas and were hard-pressed to find an open table.That was exacerbated by rude diners who cut the lines and acted as though they were feeding at a trough. At times it appeared they had never encountered food before, nor eaten in a restaurant. Moreover, many guests had the wait staff "reserve" tables for themselves, and then passed those tables along to their friends, while other diners struggled to find seating. At the end of the voyage, we learned that "reserving" tables was not allowed, although no one on Lido deck attempted to stop the practice during the voyage. Best advice, stay away from that venue, unless you wait until off hours to dine. The excursions, hiking the Tongass forest in Ketchikan, the Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watching in Juneau, and hiking and rafting in Skagway, were the highlights of the trip. Since we had been advised not to book those trips through the cruise line, I will save my comments on those experiences for separate reviews. Overall, despite the few areas of concern highlighted, the cruise provided a wonderful, relaxing vacation, coupled with an amazing introduction to the majestic beauty of Alaska.

Cruising to Alaska on the Norwegian Pearl

7 Days at Sea

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I embarked on my first ever cruise through Alaska's Inside Passage on the Norwegian Pearl in 2007. The day before our ship sailed off into the Pacific, I felt a mix of excitement and anxiety, especially at the prospects of packing my necessities into what looked to be too small of a suitcase.

Alaska was at the top of my bucket list and a cruise seemed like the perfect way to explore it without having to haul my luggage around to a new hotel every night. Norwegian Cruise Line's Freestyle Cruising ® option seemed like a fit for someone (like me) who isn't fond of set schedules. The fact that it was easily accessible from my home city of Seattle was a plus.

Day 1: Boarding the Norwegian Pearl

I arrived at Pier 66 in Seattle three hours before the Norwegian Pearl was scheduled to depart, but I certainly wasn't the only one. After handing over my luggage to security, I retrieved my solo ticket to The Last Frontier and boarded the ship I would live on for the next seven days.

The common areas were crowded as people acquainted themselves with their temporary home-at-sea. The decor and atmosphere were reminiscent of a lively casino. After a quick lifeboat drill on deck that evening, the Norwegian Pearl sailed out to sea.

Day 2: At Sea

The waters west of Vancouver Island were rough and I felt every wave in my stomach as I tossed and turned in my cabin all night. In the morning, I tried to ignore the motion sickness by visiting the upper deck, but walking around the boat quickly became unmanageable.

I sought relief in the form of a seaweed wrap and massage at the spa, which relaxed me only until I stood up to walk again. The concierge, who called to invite me to the Captain's Dinner later that evening, had ginger ale and crackers sent to my cabin while he explained the waves were merely "moderate," not "rough."

The Captain's Dinner comprised cocktail hour at Spinnaker Lounge, whose windows offered views of a humpback whale in the distance, and dinner at an intimate French restaurant that served a mean warm goat cheese tart and duck à l'orange.

Day 3: Juneau

On the third day of the cruise, the Norwegian Pearl entered the Alaska Inside Passage. Whales sightings became more frequent as the ship weaved through the surrounding snow-capped islands. Other guests spent their mornings at the driving ranges, the tennis court, or the rock climbing wall.

Upon arriving in Juneau, the ship provided a shuttle to the Mt. Roberts Tramway, from which guests could walk to the center for shopping, museums, and restaurants. The Alaska State Museum in Downtown Juneau featured exhibits on natural history, native art and culture, the era of Russian possession, the transition to American possession, the gold rush, and modern-day tourism. Shopping at the port proved fruitful for souvenirs and local artwork.

Day 4: Skagway

The boat docked in Skagway—whose colorful buildings nestled in the mountains made it look like a model of a town from the ship—at 6 a.m.

Skagway offered a number of fun activities, such as the Gold Rush Cemetery and Reid Falls, albeit they're a two-mile walk from the dock. This little compact city has plenty of shops, galleries, and the charming Skagway Museum to peruse.

Day 5: Glacier Bay National Park

Waking up to a view of Glacier Bay National Park from my balcony wasn't a bad way to start the fifth day.

About a dozen guests—me included—were invited to view the 21-mile-long Marjerie Glacier from the Bridge. The boat maneuvered around the icebergs in Glacier Bay for about an hour before departing. Lamplugh Glacier was visible on the way out.

Day 6: Ketchikan

The Norwegian Pearl docked at Ketchikan at dawn so that guests could explore the town's totem poles, waterfalls, mountains, and salmon-spawning streams until lunchtime.

An aerial acrobatics show was on at the Stardust Theatre later that evening, during which the crew convened on stage to sing a farewell song.

Day 7: Victoria, British Columbia

On the last full day of the cruise, the Norwegian Pearl was at sea until about 5:30 p.m., when it arrived in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. Guests took the opportunity to relax as the ship passed through the Strait of Juan de Fuca that afternoon.

Upon arriving in Victoria, I boarded a bus to Butchart Gardens. The route was rural and picturesque, the gardens immensely colorful. The tour allowed two hours at the Gardens and when the bus returned to Downtown Victoria, it was already dark. The next morning, I would be back on home soil.

Editor's Note: As is common in the travel industry, the writer was provided with discounted accommodations, meals, and/or recreation for the purpose of reviewing those services. While it has not influenced this review, TripSavvy believes in full disclosure of all potential conflicts of interest. For more information, see our ethics policy.

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• Cruise Advice

Alaska Inside Passage Cruises: What You Need to Know

Orlando Martinez

• September 25, 2020

An Alaska Inside Passage cruise is on a lot of people’s bucket lists. It’s also one of those places that will leave you speechless.

What is an Alaska Inside Passage Cruise?

The Inside Passage, also sometimes called the Inner Passage by cruise novices, is the primary route for ships between Seattle, Vancouver, and all points north in Alaska.

Virtually all cruises that travel to or from Seattle, Washington, Vancouver, or British Columbia cruise this series of protected fjords and other waterways carved by glaciers thousands of years ago.

Typically, a cruise listed as an Inside Passage itinerary travels roundtrip from either Vancouver or Seattle. But even Gulf of Alaska cruises or one-way sailings between Anchorage (Seward or Whittier) and Vancouver also sail much of the Inside Passage when they aren’t in open water.

RELATED: Alaska Cruise Planning Guide

Some people refer to these routes as an “Outside Passage” cruise, but that’s not really an accurate description. A rare sailing may take the true “Outside Passage,” or the open Pacific waters between Seattle or Vancouver and the first port in Alaska, but it’s extremely uncommon and not typically marketed with that term.

Chances are, if you’re cruising in Alaska, you’ll be sailing the Inside Passage.

Best Time to Do an Alaska Inside Passage Cruise

The best time to cruise Alaska’s Inside Passage largely depends on what you’re looking for, be it the weather, wildlife viewing, or cruise deal.

We recommend sailing in late June through mid-July for the best overall Alaska cruise experience. But if you’re looking for the best price, the best wildlife viewing, or other specific criteria, you’ll want to check out our detailed analysis of all the Alaska cruising options here .

Best Cruise Lines for Alaska Inside Passage

Our Picks For The Best Inside Passage Cruises

Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line are great for sailing Alaska, but the cruise lines mentioned below are likely to give you a more authentic Inside Passage experience; the big three previously mentioned offer a more homogeneous experience.

The mass-market cruise lines also tend to sail larger ships in Alaska, making the experience less intimate and sometimes overcrowding the ports.

Princess Cruises: Princess sails more cruises in Alaska than any other cruise line, and more Princess ships sail into must-visit Glacier Bay National Park than any other cruise line. Onboard, you’ll experience Alaska-themed entertainment, food options (think reindeer chili), and more.

Holland America Line: Second only to Princess, Holland America Line offers a host of Inside Passage cruises to Alaska. Though known to cater to older travelers, the Alaska sailings tend to draw a lot of families, making these cruises an excellent option for multi-generational families and younger cruisers in general.

READ MORE:  5 Reasons All 20-Somethings Should Sail Holland America

Seabourn Cruises: Luxury line Seabourn sails a variety of seven to fourteen-night cruises that ply the waters of Alaska’s Inside Passage. Offering unique itineraries and premier service onboard, it’s one of the best options for discerning cruisers looking for the best of the best.

UnCruise Adventures: Sailing small expedition ships to Alaska, UnCruise is the perfect choice for active travelers looking for a different Alaska experience. UnCruise Adventures sails a number of unique itineraries that visit the Inside Passage, ranging from seven to fourteen nights.

Ports of Call on an Alaska Inside Passage Sailing

Most seven-night Alaska Inside Passage cruises stop at three of the mentioned ports. Longer cruises and special itineraries will visit more ports and smaller, remote destinations.

Ketchikan: The southernmost port in Alaska, Ketchikan is home to the historical Creek Street, countless Totem Poles, and scenic flightseeing in Misty Fjords National Park. It’s also the salmon capital of the world.

Juneau: The Capital of Alaska, Juneau is unique because it can only be accessed by boat or plane. The Mendenhall Glacier, the infamous Red Dog Saloon, and the Tongass National Forest — which is the largest national forest in the United States — are among the city’s must-visit sites. What makes the city even more interesting is its whale-watching tours, as well as its wide variety of animals, including bald eagles, sea lions, harbor seals, and many more!

READ MORE:  Visiting Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau, Alaska

Skagway: Alaska’s most famous Gold Rush town, visitors here can ride the famous White Pass and Yukon Route railway to White Pass Summit or go for a hike along the Skagway Skilloot Trail.

Sitka: Tucked away on the western side of Baranof Island, Sitka is located on the outer coast of Alaska’s Inside Passage. Guests can see brown and black bears being rehabilitated at the Fortress of the Bear, walk over to the Sitka National Historical Park, or enjoy a boat tour on the open water to watch seals, sea otters, and whales.

Icy Strait Point: This privately run port is owned by 1,350 Alaskan Natives that make up the Huna Totem Corporation. Guests can take part in adventure excursions such as the 5,300-foot zip line, learn native Tlingit history, or walk through the former Hoonah Packing Company cannery-turned-museum.

Haines: A less visited Alaska port, Haines offers a variety of adventure-focused excursions, including rafting, hiking, and flightseeing options. You can also rent bicycles at the pier and take the boardwalk into town to check out one of the local breweries.

Glacier Viewing Along the Inside Passage

Most Inside Passage cruises will stop at one of these locations for passengers to get up close with glaciers and watch them calve.

Glacier Bay National Park: The top spot for glacier viewing along the Inside Passage, thanks to the multiple ice flows present here. Often, a team of U.S. Park Rangers (varies by the cruise line) will board the ship as it enters Glacier Bay to offer narration and hands-on activities for the kids.

Hubbard Glacier: The six-mile wide, 400-foot tall Hubbard Glacier is an impressive specimen.

Tracy Arm Fjord: Home to the North and South Sawyer Glaciers, this narrow fjord is a tight fit for today’s large, modern cruise ships. But the amazing glacier views make it well worth the trip.

Final Thoughts

Alaska’s Inside Passage is an untouched beauty that’s filled with wildlife. Before you set sail to The Last Frontier, it’s important to research the itinerary, the cruise line you’re sailing on, and your budget.

Excursions in Alaska can be pricey, but they are worth every penny as you’ll likely experience things you’ve never seen in your life.

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Inside Passage, AK

Many Alaska cruise itineraries sail the waterways of the Inside Passage, which stretches from Washington's Puget Sound up through Southeast Alaska's panhandle. As ships glide across the reliably smooth waters, passengers have plenty of opportunity to absorb the transforming terrain and abundant wildlife that Alaska has to offer. Scenic views comprise an ever-changing landscape of charming coastal towns, towering forest walls and imperious glaciers. Be sure to search the sky for bald eagles and watch the water for signs of sea lions, otters and whales.

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Why You Should Cruise the Inside Passage

When most people think of cruising, more often than not they picture a white sand beach in The Caribbean . The people are hot, the waters are warm, and the rum is always cold. Sounds great, right? Whilst these cruises are some of the most popular, there's a different type of holiday that occupies a special place in my heart: an Alaskan cruise .

Whilst Alaska may not be the first destination you think of crossing off your list, don't make the mistake of selling this place short. Alaska offers some of the most scenic views and captivating wildlife, sending those who try it racing back for more. Here’s just a few of the many reasons why you will want to consider cruising The Inside Passage.

Ready to start planning? Explore all Alaska cruises .

1. Calm Waters

Shaped by massive glaciers, the Alaskan inside passage is a waterway nestled within islands along the Pacific Coast . Because of its location and the serene nature of this cruise it is an ideal holiday for guests who want to sail through still waters. Find more tips for those sensitive to motion here .

From British Columbia into Skagway, Alaska, the Inside Passage will dazzle you with spectacular views every step of the way. Dramatic snow capped mountains, calving glaciers, temperate rainforests, and small towns seamlessly meld together on this cruise. Step off board and onto the White Pass Scenic Railway for cascading waterfalls and historic sites. Need more adventure? Trek through the alpine meadows in historic Sitka or get a unique perspective on a ocean raft adventure.

3. Wildlife

Bring your binoculars because the only thing better than the picturesque coastlines are the animals that inhabit it. The inside passage is home to breaching humpback and orca whales, playful porpoises and roaring sea lions. Step on land for larger than life caribou, grizzly bears, and majestic bald eagles sightings. For closer observation opportunities, timetable a trip to the Alaskan Wildlife Conservation Centre.

RELATED CRUISES: 7-Day Alaska Cruise from Seattle on Norwegian Encore 10-Day Alaska Cruise from Seattle on Norwegian Sun 7-Day Alaska Cruise from Seattle on Norwegian Bliss

Old culture and fascinating pasts intertwine the quaint towns of Alaska. Take the Skagway & White Pass Railway tour and see history come alive as you ride an antique train car for sweeping views along the Klondike Highway. Explore the traditions of the Tlingit people in the native village of Klukwan, touch towering totem poles in Ketchikan, which hosts the largest collection of totem poles in the world! Then end your day with a famous Alaskan salmon bake. If you want to stay longer and see more, take advantage of an Alaskan cruise tour , all led by local Alaskan guides!

Whether you cruise Alaska in May which offers cooler temperatures; June through August where you'll get to experience the midnight sun; or in September where spectacular changes of colour occur in the Arctic tundra; there is always something to excite! Combine that with the freedom and flexibility of cruising on Norwegian and you’ll have a vacation as open as the wilderness around you.

Sign up for Norwegian's cruise deals to receive the latest specials and discounts directly in your inbox for your next cruise holiday.

EDITOR'S NOTE: This article was originally published on August 23, 2018. It has been updated to show related itineraries and content.

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Scenic Cruising The Inside Passage

Alaska's Inside Passage is a renowned cruising route through a protected network of waterways, featuring glacier-cut fjords, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife. Stops along the route showcase Alaska's rich history, including Native Alaskan culture in Ketchikan and Skagway's Gold Rush era legacy. Here's how to experience the best of the Inside Passage.

Featured Inside Passage Shore Excursions

Mendenhall Glacier & Whale Quest

Tongass rain forest nature hike, best of sitka: otters, raptors & bears, bering sea crab fishermen, black diamond atv adventure, inside passage travel tips.

Find out what to experience on your Inside Passage cruise. Read insider tips and recommendations for things to see and do in breathtaking Alaska.

Cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage

Top Things To Do In Alaska

Featured alaska cruise itineraries , plan your cruise to alaska’s inside passage.

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Book flights that depart and arrive in time for Mediterranean cruises with Holland America Line Flight Ease®. Find low prices, loads of options, and enjoy flexibility and support should plans change.

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Extend your luxury Greek and Italian cruise. Add a hotel package to your Mediterranean cruise and indulge in an unforgettable overnight departure or arrival city.

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On Mediterranean cruises, we make it easy to schedule transfers between the airport and cruise ship. Arrange ground transportation ahead of time and breeze to and from your Mediterranean cruise.

The Roaming Boomers

Alaska’s inside passage aboard the norwegian cruise line’s pearl.

Posted by David Porter on Monday, August 8, 2011 · 13 Comments  

Therefore, we just returned home from a seven night cruise of Alaska’s Inside Passage aboard the Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pearl.

The Pearl made her maiden voyage in 2006 and will accommodate roughly 2,500 passenger and 1,100 crew.

We learned that while aboard ship we all consumed 11 tons of fruit, 36,000 eggs, 12 tons of beef and chicken, 11 tons of vegetables, and 500 gallons of ice cream!

In spite of 5 days of walking at port, and 2 days of work-outs at sea, I still managed to bring home a few extra pounds.  It was likely the always available soft-serve chocolate ice cream cones!

Rather than writing thousands of words trying to describe this amazing experience, we have prepared a video for you that will highlight not only the experiences available on the ship, but our exciting ports of call as well.

Take a peek…

Alaska is a magical place, and the Norwegian Pearl was an excellent way for us to taste some of her treasures.  One thing is absolutely certain, these boomers will be again be roaming the wilds of Alaska.  We LOVED it.

Disclosure: this magical adventure was provided by the kind folks at Norwegian Cruise Lines.  Further, all photographs/video were taken with a Nikon D7000 on loan from Nikon, USA.  Thanks!

Category: Blog , Glacier Bay National Park , Inside Passage , Juneau , Ketchikan , National Parks , Skagway · Tags: Alaska , Glacier Bay National Park , Juneau , Ketchikan , Norwegian Cruise Line , Seattle , Skagway , Victoria , Washington

13 Comments on “ Alaska’s Inside Passage Aboard the Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pearl ”

Really enjoyed it…especially the Retirees on the Loose!

Thanks! They were a very fun bunch.

Too bad they didn’t go up Tracy Arm Fjord to Sawyer Glacier. There is some spectacular scenery there.

We’ve heard that the Sawyer Glacier is beautiful. We are definitely making Alaska a routine for The Roaming Boomers. Perhaps we can see it on another Alaskan adventure.

We just returned from an Alskan cruise on NCL.  It truly was an adventure – we had a great, exciting, yet relaxing time!

It was unbelievable, wasn’t it? What was your favorite part?

Pingback: Boomers on an Eight-hour Whirlwind Tour of Juneau, Alaska | Roaming Boomers

I took the same NCL cruise a couple of summers ago…our first.  We upgraded to a lovely suite in the stern.  If you’re really serious about seeing Alaska, this is probably not the best way.  The stops were all a bit staged and very touristy and not cheap.  I might try more of an adventure cruise or sail next time.

Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts.  We found the cruise to be a wonderful way to taste Alaska.  Now I’ve got a serious bug to spend a month and drive through Alaska.

Pingback: Nikon D7000 Camera Walk Through Seattle's Volunteer Park | Roaming Boomers

Pingback: What to do in Skagway, Alaska While on Your Alaskan Cruise | The Roaming Boomers

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• Norwegian Cruise Line

Port or Starboard for Inside Passage Alaska

By AK350 , December 24, 2018 in Norwegian Cruise Line

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I know this has been asked in previous threads/years, but looking for fresh opinions on cruising Inside Passage Alaska in a balcony room on port or starboard side of the ship? Roundtrip from Seattle in July 2019 9 (on Joy). It sounds like port side will have better morning sun when going northbound and also ideal when going southbound to still see the islands and not open water. I've also seen comments from Google that starboard is better as it provides more wildlife views when going northbound since it faces the mainland vs. the islands? This may be my one and only time cruising to Alaska and I want to make the right choice. I will spend a quite a bit of time on upper decks too, but for the times I want to relax on my balcony in the morning and randomly throughout the day... TIA!

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I've done starboard and gotten amazing sunset photo's from the balcony on the way back to Seattle. I have yet to see any land based wildlife from the ship while cruising, so I don't think I'd make a decision on the hope of seeing anything wildlife wise. Never been much of an early riser so I can't say if the morning sun would be a selling point for me or not. Then again in July the sun will be up around 4 AMish.

IMG_0854.CR2

don't-use-real-name

Six of one - a half a dozen another - - -

Not all cruises use the (Canadian) inside passage - the area between Vancouver Island and the Continental Mainland.

The inside passage extends into Alaska but there is a section of open Pacific ocean north of Vancouver Island

It is the norm for northbound cruises to go the ocean route and southbound the inside passage.

This norm is mostly for cruises sailing out of Seattle - those out of Vancouver could go either way.

Check your cruise itinerary for the specific routing - - -

Since the Alaska cruises are in the summer months from roughly mid May to late September there is a whole

lot of daylight especially the farther north one goes.

Northbound the sun will rise on the starboard side and set on the port -

Southbound the sun will rise on the port and set on the starboard -

At the summer solstice the sun rises around 4am and sets at around 10pm

Wildlife viewing could be on either side of the ship since passage is between islands and the mainland and

seasonal migration plays an important part in what is seen.

The first day or two scout around for those photographic vantage points especially for viewing the glaciers.

Be flexible and keep attuned to any announcements made about seeing the wildlife but better luck is with

the shore excursions getting up real close with knowledgeable guides and tour operators.

In any event be flexible to seize the moment for that photo or view that you came looking for !

Doesn't matter.  For much of the cruising you will be in open water where you won't see anything, anyways.   Once you head inland to Ketchikan, Stephens passage, Juneau, Skagway, etc, you will have land relatively close on both sides of the ship.  When you go view the glacier, the ship will hopefully do a 360 so all sides can view it (The Bliss did this past June).

If you really want to see wildlife along the cruise, I strongly recommend the small boat excursion up Endicott or Tracy Arm.  The small boat is much better suited for stopping and viewing wildlife. and gets much, much closer to the glacier.  It's a pricey excursion, but well worth every cent, IMO.

The Other Tom

1 hour ago, PATRLR said: If you really want to see wildlife along the cruise, I strongly recommend the small boat excursion up Endicott or Tracy Arm.  The small boat is much better suited for stopping and viewing wildlife. and gets much, much closer to the glacier.  It's a pricey excursion, but well worth every cent, IMO.

Yes, if you're going to see the glacier at Tracy Arm, you should take the small boat excursion.  We were disappointed with our "view" of the glacier from the cruise ship.  There's too much ice in the channel for the large cruise ship to get close enough to the glacier for a  decent view.  We only saw a glimpse of the glacier.

Edit:  If you really want to see a glacier with associated calving, take the cruise that goes to Glacier Bay.

18 hours ago, AK350 said: I know this has been asked in previous threads/years, but looking for fresh opinions on cruising Inside Passage Alaska in a balcony room on port or starboard side of the ship? Roundtrip from Seattle in July 2019 9 (on Joy). It sounds like port side will have better morning sun when going northbound and also ideal when going southbound to still see the islands and not open water. I've also seen comments from Google that starboard is better as it provides more wildlife views when going northbound since it faces the mainland vs. the islands? This may be my one and only time cruising to Alaska and I want to make the right choice. I will spend a quite a bit of time on upper decks too, but for the times I want to relax on my balcony in the morning and randomly throughout the day... TIA!

Most of your time is spent away from the inside passage. When you are in the inside passage both sides have the same view. IMO it really doesn't matter unless you are doing a true inside passage from Vancouver to Seward or Whittier, or the reverse.

BirdTravels

Port may be a little better for glacier watching day. 

Budget Queen

Seattle crusies are the least scenic and have pretty much 2 days of open ocean sailing.     The only "glacier"   viewing that has a port view edge,  is Glacier Bay-   with the port side matching up with the commentary.   That is IF you plan on just viewing from your cabin?    Realize this would be only 50% of the potential viewing.     Tracy Arm,   Endicott Arm  and Hubbard Glacier,   are forward and both side viewing . 

6 hours ago, Budget Queen said: Seattle crusies are the least scenic and have pretty much 2 days of open ocean sailing.     The only "glacier"   viewing that has a port view edge,  is Glacier Bay-   with the port side matching up with the commentary.   That is IF you plan on just viewing from your cabin?    Realize this would be only 50% of the potential viewing.     Tracy Arm,   Endicott Arm  and Hubbard Glacier,   are forward and both side viewing . 

Perhaps a another way to explain the viewing - at Glacier bay the ship approaches the glacier and spins one or more times

around giving everyone a view from all angles. You can park in one place or move around to take it in.

At Tracy Arm the ship sails up a narrow fjord like passage - then turns around and sails back the same way.

So one would not have to leave your cabin (balcony) perch - only thing changing would be the daylight causing

different photo views of the fjord.

How far the ship sails up to seeing the actual (Sawyer) glacier is dependent on the ice calving and jamming the fjord passage.

How close to the glaciers that the cruise gets is dependent on the amount ice that the ship must maneuver around.

The ships thrusters (that cause the movement in circles) are not ice crushing propellers and care it taken to prevent

disabling damage.

Not all the glaciers are visited on any one trip - refer to your itinerary or Daily newsprint for details.

For some glaciers i.e. Tracy Arm Sawyer & Endicott Arm Dawes are best viewed by a shore excursion smaller ship/boat.

The Hubbard and College glaciers are visited on the Vancouver Seward cruises due to their northerly location.

Due to environmental concerns only a certain number of ships are permitted access to viewing the glaciers.

NCL shares these viewings with Holland-America Princess and other cruise lines.

A National Parks Ranger(s) is usually brought onboard to narrate the viewing and answer questions comments.

Early morning viewing of the glaciers is often hampered by fog and mist - later in the day the sun will burn off

the fog and make for a better viewing opportunity.

5 hours ago, don't-use-real-name said:   Perhaps a another way to explain the viewing - at Glacier bay the ship approaches the glacier and spins one or more times around giving everyone a view from all angles. You can park in one place or move around to take it in. At Tracy Arm the ship sails up a narrow fjord like passage - then turns around and sails back the same way. So one would not have to leave your cabin (balcony) perch - only thing changing would be the daylight causing different photo views of the fjord. How far the ship sails up to seeing the actual (Sawyer) glacier is dependent on the ice calving and jamming the fjord passage. How close to the glaciers that the cruise gets is dependent on the amount ice that the ship must maneuver around. The ships thrusters (that cause the movement in circles) are not ice crushing propellers and care it taken to prevent disabling damage. Not all the glaciers are visited on any one trip - refer to your itinerary or Daily newsprint for details. For some glaciers i.e. Tracy Arm Sawyer & Endicott Arm Dawes are best viewed by a shore excursion smaller ship/boat. The Hubbard and College glaciers are visited on the Vancouver Seward cruises due to their northerly location. Due to environmental concerns only a certain number of ships are permitted access to viewing the glaciers. NCL shares these viewings with Holland-America Princess and other cruise lines. A National Parks Ranger(s) is usually brought onboard to narrate the viewing and answer questions comments. Early morning viewing of the glaciers is often hampered by fog and mist - later in the day the sun will burn off the fog and make for a better viewing opportunity.

Clarification-    TIME is a major reason for transiting  Tracy Arm.  Some schedules  allow only for perfect conditions for it to be successful.     ALL ships will turn for both sides,  viewing   and only Glacier Bay,  requires  NPS rangers,  and usually Alaska Geographic reps,  to escort the ship in.    All these Glacier dead end,   ALL sailing back the "same way".   

College Fjords is only routinely visited by Princess-   which goes in/out of Whittier,  not Seward.   

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Alaska and British Columbia

Inside passage, bears and aleutian islands (southbound).

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Cruise Overview

Alaska cruise | alaska and british columbia—inside passage, bears and aleutian islands (southbound) 2025/2026.

Experience Alaska's wild nature and rich culture as you cruise from Nome to Vancouver, exploring the remote Aleutian Islands and towns of the Inside Passage.  

Scout for bears in Katmai National Park and Kodiak Island, and look out for whales, seals, sea otters and rare birds like the red-legged kittiwake.  

Discover the untouched scenery, fascinating history and wild atmosphere of the remote, isolated islands of St. Paul and St. Matthew.

Wild Pacific coastal beauty 

Discover the pristine beauty of Alaska’s rugged coast, as well as Canada’s Inside Passage and the Aleutian Islands. In Misty Fjords National Monument and on remote islands you’ll visit where nature reigns free. As we go, keep an eye out for brown bears on Kodiak Island and in Katmai National Park, and scout for whales, fur seals, birds like bald eagles and rarities like the Kittlitz’s murrelet as we voyage north. 

 Discover a living history  

Meet people belonging to Indigenous Tlingit and Unangan cultures, hunt for petroglyphs in Wrangell, and follow in the footsteps of gold prospectors and explorers on your expedition cruise. You’ll visit the picturesque ghost town of Unga and uncover ancient stories on mossy totem poles at Chief Shakes Tribal House, and you’ll go home with a profound sense of knowing the culture, ecology and history of this beautiful region.

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• What to pack?
• Frequently Asked Questions About Life on Board

Health and Safety

Health & Safety Onboard

The safety of our guests, our employees, and the communities we visit is our top priority.  This is why we have partnered with leading experts in health and safety to design and implement protocols/procedures across our expedition fleet.

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Scenic Seattle

Begin your adventure in the Emerald City

Your expedition cruise starts with an overnight stay in Seattle. 

If you can, why not arrive early and see what the Emerald City has to offer? Head to the Seattle Aquarium to see sea otters and a giant Pacific octopus. Or for incredible views of Puget Sound and the surrounding mountains, take a stroll through the nine-acre Olympic Sculpture Park, admiring the work of renowned artists as you go.  

 For a feast of the senses, visit the famous Pike Place Market. Operating for over a century, this lively farmer’s market boasts everything from buskers and bars to salmon-throwing fishmongers!

Your Expedition Begins

Launch your adventure in historical Nome

Today, we’ll fly you from Seattle to Nome for the start of your expedition cruise.  

Set at the tip of the Seward Peninsula and overlooking the Bering Sea, Nome is perhaps the most famous Gold-Rush town in Alaskan history. There are artifacts from this era to be seen everywhere, including abandoned dredges, turn-of-the-century steam engines, and old railroad tracks. 

Nome was also the end point of three of Roald Amundsen’s great polar expeditions, including an attempt to reach the North Pole by air in 1926. It’s a fitting place to launch your grand Alaska adventure.

Crossing the Bering Sea

Get ready for adventure and watch for wildlife at sea

Spend your first day at sea chatting with fellow explorers or just watching the world sail by out on deck. You’ll have plenty of time to get to know your expedition ship, so perhaps now’s the time to take advantage of its facilities as you settle into expedition mode.  

Along with talks by the Expedition Team about what to expect on the voyage ahead, delve into the books in the onboard library and get to know the Science Center. Natural wonders abound here, so keep an eye out for humpback whales and seabirds wheeling through the skies.

Wild St. Matthew

Experience this wild, remote and isolated island

Part of the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge and 200 miles from the nearest village, St. Matthew Island is wild, remote, and isolated. You’ll see traces of abandoned buildings between black sand beaches and wildflower-dotted tundra. A few hardy souls have tried—and failed—to make a home here.  

Today, the only inhabitants are birds, including thousands of puffins, murres, and cormorants. On our nature landing, if we’re lucky, we’ll see the rare McKay’s bunting, which breeds almost exclusively here—and listen out for the sound of the singing vole, which was named after its unusual warning cry.

Unangan Life in St. Paul

Look out for wildlife on the largest of the Pribilof Islands

The windswept island of St. Paul is home to the largest Unangan community in the US, numbering around 480. You can visit the historical remains of barabaras here—traditional dwellings built halfway underground to protect against the sea winds.  

St. Paul is also designated an Important Bird Area, and around 300 species of migrating birds use it as a resting point. Scan for horned and tufted puffins, the Pribilof sandpiper and the rare red-legged kittiwake.  

On the shore, you may find northern fur seals waddling and playing—half the world's population of these charming animals lives on these islands.

Learning and Leisure

Relax and reflect as we cruise along the coast

We’ll continue south through the Bering Sea from the Aleutian Islands toward our next stop of Dutch Harbor. The Expedition Team will prepare you for our upcoming destinations and continue their lecture series. 

Keep scanning the seas and skies for puffins, auklets, and murrelets, especially closer to the coast. If you’re lucky, you might glimpse the red-legged kittiwake, which is only found in this part of the world. 

If you’d like to take it easy, you can take in the panoramic views from our Explorer Lounge & Bar, from the infinity pool or the outdoor hot tubs.

Discover Dutch Harbor

Learn the fascinating history of America’s biggest fishing port

America's largest fishing port, Dutch Harbor, is a fascinating place to visit. As we sail toward it you may see Mount Makushin, an occasionally steaming volcano that reaches almost 6,000 ft.  

Here, you’ll learn about the local Indigenous Unungan people at the Museum of the Aleutians. Visit the Russian Orthodox Cathedral, or tour the WWII museum commemorating the battle that took place here in 1942.  

Scout for bald eagles and puffins. Foxes, lemmings and wild horses thrive on land, while whales, sea lions and porpoises command the waters. Dutch Harbor was the filming location of the reality television series The Deadliest Catch , which follows crab fishermen at work under extreme conditions.

The Ghost Town of Unga

Experience a deserted Alaskan town

Wild and deserted, Unga Village is an abandoned yet picturesque settlement on the southern end of Unga Island.  

It was settled by Aleuts in 1833 but was abandoned in 1969, as subsistence fishing proved insufficient to support living here. Today, the few wooden buildings that remain are the only evidence that people once lived here.  

A carpet of pink lousewort, fireweed and other wildflowers surrounds the abandoned shacks as nature has gradually taken over. Experience the eerie beauty of this place during a nature landing with our small expedition boats.

The Remote Bays of the Alaska Peninsula

Explore rugged scenery in an untamed wilderness

The Alaska Peninsula is an untamed wilderness and a haven for wildlife. The region is characterized by its raw coastal landscapes, towering mountains and secluded bays.  

Join your Expedition Team for close exploration of hidden bays and inlets along the shoreline, offering the opportunity to scout for bears, bald eagles, and marine species like sea otters and humpback whales. Learn about the geological evolution of the region, appreciating how natural forces have sculpted the unique topography around you.

Brown Bears in Katmai

Spot brown bears in Katmai National Park

Your adventure continues in the four-million-acre Katmai National Park, which has over a dozen active volcanoes. Katmai is also home to more than 2,000 protected brown bears—the largest concentration in the world.  

Accompanied by an experienced bear guard, we’ll safely scout for bears from the deck or in our small boats (RIBs). They might be foraging for berries, digging for clams or catching fish in the stream. 

Depending on conditions, we might visit either Geographic Harbor, Kinak Bay or Kukak Bay.

Kodiak’s Brown Bears

Explore the home of the Alutiiq people

Kodiak Island got its nickname, the “Emerald Isle,” due to its spruce forests and grasslands, and it's the second largest island in the US.

The island’s most famous inhabitants are Kodiak brown bears. Around 3,500 of them live in the Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge, which covers two thirds of the island.  

We’ll search for these powerful creatures in their natural habitat, marveling at their size and grace from the safety of our small expedition boat. This perspective offers a rare glimpse into the lives of these bears against the backdrop of Alaska’s breathtakingly rugged landscape.

Across the Gulf of Alaska

Enjoy a day of relaxation and birdwatching at sea

Your cruise continues across the Gulf of Alaska. It’s the ideal time to enjoy onboard facilities such as the infinity pool, hot tubs, and sauna. Go for a run, hit the gym, or enjoy a massage in the spa.  

In the Science Center, the Expedition Team invite you to join lectures about subjects such as Alaska’s wildlife, geology, glaciology, history and culture.  

Relax in the Explorer Lounge & Bar and share a drink with your fellow guests, or just sit back and enjoy the view. See if you can spot all three species of North Pacific albatross. The Laysan and black-footed albatross are often sighted, but the short-tailed albatross is harder to spot.

Glaciers of Icy Bay

Spot wildlife in these glacier-fed waters

Today is an exploration day in Icy Bay. Three glaciers—Guyot, Yahtse and Tyndall—regularly calve into this bay. If conditions allow, you’ll explore in our small expedition boats or by kayak, immersing you in the remarkable beauty of this icy landscape.  

Wildlife abounds in the Gulf of Alaska, offering unrivaled photography opportunities. Humpback whales, orcas, Stellar sea lions, sea otters and harbor seals lazing on floating chunks of ice are often seen in these waters.

Blended Cultures of Sitka

Take in Sitka’s views and a unique mix of cultures.

Surrounded by Tongass National Forest, Sitka is only accessible by sea or air. Get out on deck for stunning views of the Sisters Mountains and Mount Edgecumbe volcano.  

Inhabited by the Tlingit people for 10,000 years, the town was settled by Russian explorers around the turn of the 19th century before being sold to the United States after Russia lost the Crimean War. Today, Sitka has roots in all three cultures.  

A visit to the Russian Orthodox cathedral and Russian Bishop's House is recommended. Admire ornate Haida and Tlingit totem poles at Sitka National Historical Park and enjoy a walking trail through the forest to the ocean.

Wrangell's Petroglyphs

Visit one of Alaska’s oldest harbor towns

We continue cruising the Alaskan islands toward Wrangell. Only a mile outside of town, Petroglyph Beach is where you'll see ancient rock carvings among the sand. 

Visit the local museum to learn more about Wrangell's fascinating past. Now part of the United States, it was once governed by Britain, Russia and the Tlingit people. Cross to Shakes Island, where the Chief Shakes Tribal House and totem poles tell the story of the Indigenous Tlingit people.  

Hikers will enjoy the nature trails surrounded by alluring scenery at the mouth of Stikine River, and the foot of Mount Dewey at the edge of the rainforest.

Unspoiled Misty Fjords

Revel in a wilderness where wildlife thrives

Part of the Tongass National Forest, Misty Fjords is a pristine wilderness of evergreens, waterfalls and snowcapped peaks. The revered naturalist writer John Muir described the area as one of the most beautiful places he’d ever seen.  

Weather permitting, you'll join the Expedition Team to tour Misty Fjords in our small expedition boats or take kayaks out. 

Misty Fjords is rich in wildlife. You’ll scan for mountain goats, black and brown bears and moose as you explore. The waters are home to Pacific salmon, otters, Steller sea lions, harbor seals, orcas and Dall’s porpoises. Skyward, you might spot herons and bald eagles.

Canada’s Inside Passage

S** ee sublime scenery as we sail the Inside Passage**

The Inside Passage coastal route takes us through the great North American Pacific Fjordland, a protected stretch of water over 930 miles long. Unlike other cruises, which pass through at night, you’ll be able to view the sublime scenery in all its glory during the day.   

Our smaller expedition ship allows us to reach areas that larger vessels can’t, meaning you’ll get to explore lesser-traveled channels with breathtaking scenery. Keep your cameras and binoculars at the ready to catch sight of whales, including humpback, fin, minke and perhaps even orca.

A Taste of Vancouver

Disembark in British Columbia’s iconic city

Your expedition cruise ends in Vancouver, a beautiful city at the foot of the Rockies. Visit Gastown, the city's oldest neighborhood, and climb Vancouver Lookout for a citywide view overlooking neon-lit Granville Street, the West End beaches, and the towering cedars of Stanley Park.  

Vancouver has a flavor all its own—and so does its global cuisine. Before your onward journey,  we recommend you dine out in Chinatown, Punjabi Market or Little Italy for a taste of the city's buzzing atmosphere.

What's included

• Flight in economy class from Seattle to Nome before the expedition cruise.
• Transfer from the hotel to the airport in Seattle before the expedition cruise
• Transfer from the airport to the ship in Nome before the expedition cruise
• Overnight in Seattle, including breakfast, before the expedition cruise

Expedition Cruise

• A stay in a cabin of your choice
• Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Wine, beer and spirits available at meals and throughout the day and evening (subject to licensing laws, excludes premium drinks)
• All day coffee, tea and soft drinks
• Meals and take-away available throughout the day during Fredheim restaurant opening hours
• Fine dining in restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests
• A complimentary water bottle to refill on board and take home
• A polar expedition jacket, a backpack, or another piece of HX kit
• Professional photos from your trip taken by our onboard photographer
• Complimentary Wi-Fi. Please note, streaming is not supported
• Use of sauna, hot tubs, pool, fitness room, lounges and more
• Gratuities included. Fantastic service is standard at HX – though if you’d like to leave something extra, it’s always appreciated
• Range of included activities 

Onboard Activities

• In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team
• Full access to the ship’s Science Center
• Citizen Science Programme allows guests to assist with ongoing scientific research
• Professional onboard photographer gives tips and tricks for the best landscape and wildlife photos
• Informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings

Landing Activities

• Escorted landings with small expedition boats
• Loan of boots, trekking poles and all equipment for activities
• Expedition photographers on hand to assist you
• All planned activities are subject to weather and ice conditions
• Excursions and activities are subject to change
• Please make sure you meet all entry and boarding requirements 
• Depending on your flight times, an additional overnight might be needed (not included)

What's not included

International flights 

Additional overnight stay(s) may be required due to the timing of international flights  

Travel insurance 

Luggage handling 

Optional shore excursions with our local partners 

Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Team 

Optional treatments in the on-board wellness and spa area

Special offers

Expedition exclusive cost savings and rare opportunities.

* Certain offers may not be combinable, up to two savings opportunities except where noted otherwise

Book now and save up to 40% on 2025-2026 cruises

Get a jump start on an all-inclusive adventure with the comfort of our Price Promise*

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Excursions & Activities

Learn more about what you can experience when going with us

Pre-post programs

Wild Nature Discovery: Mount Rainier National Park (Pre)

With an ice-capped volcano surrounded by lush evergreen forest, discover the awe-inspiring Mount Rainier National Park.

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The best Alaska cruises for every type of traveler

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best for megaresort fans

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

Norwegian Encore

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

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

Ovation of the Seas

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

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

Best for land and sea adventures

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

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

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

Related: The coolest things to do on an Alaska cruise

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

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

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

Sapphire Princess

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

Best for travelers on a budget

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

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

Related: Best time to cruise Alaska

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

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

Radiance of the Seas

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

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

Grand Princess and Sapphire Princess

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

Best for off-the-beaten-path travel

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

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

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

UnCruise Adventures

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

Lindblad Expeditions

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

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

Alaskan Dream Cruises

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

Best for families

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

Disney Wonder

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

Related: 5 best cruise lines for families

Discovery Princess

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

Carnival Spirit

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

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

Best for luxury lovers

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

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

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

Seven Seas Explorer

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

Seabourn Odyssey

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

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

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

Best for solo travelers

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

Norwegian Bliss

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

Quantum of the Seas

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

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

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

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

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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

Additional reporting by Erica Silverstein.

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

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

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

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

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See the northern lights on every princess cruise to alaska in 2024.

Award-Winning "North to Alaska with Princess" Program Debuts New Immersive Experiences for 55 th Anniversary 2024 Cruise and Cruisetour Season

FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla. , May 1, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The dreamlike images of green and purple lights swirling in the northern sky, known as the Aurora Borealis or "Northern Lights," is an unforgettable spectacle, and something all guests sailing this summer with Princess Cruises to Alaska is guaranteed to see.

This new immersive Voyage to the Stars experience is part of the cruise line's award-winning North to Alaska with Princess program set to debut for the upcoming 2024 cruise and cruisetour season that strengthens the overall guest connection in the Great Land. This year Princess guests will step inside a planetarium in the Princess Theater for a front row seat to the "Northern Lights" presentation showcasing the beauty and wonder of this phenomenon featuring live imagery, designed to engage adults and kids alike.

"Each season in Alaska we strive to deliver enriching experiences for our guests to feel immersed in the beauty and local culture of this spectacular destination," said Terry Thornton , chief commercial officer of Princess Cruises. "After receiving our highest guest satisfaction ranking ever last season, we knew we wanted to design elevated programming to further connect our guests to all of the wonders of the 49 th state for our 55 th anniversary season."

The 2024 season promises to be the biggest and best ever for Princess with 158 departures on 14 unique itineraries with 17 destinations, including five glacier viewing experiences on seven stunning ships. The cruise line's 55 th  anniversary season also features 91 visits to Glacier Bay National Park, taking more guests through this scenic cruising experience than any other cruise line, including the "Voyage of the Glaciers" itineraries between Anchorage ( Whittier ) and Vancouver, B.C. , and Inside Passage voyages roundtrip from Seattle , San Francisco and Vancouver, B.C.

The award-winning North to Alaska by Princess program is exclusive to the cruise line and designed by experts to showcase local storytellers, cultural experiences, the flavors of Alaska and more. Additional North to Alaska by Princess offerings for the 2024 season include:

Onboard Princess Ships Cook My Catch comes to The Catch by Rudi  Guests sailing to Alaska aboard Majestic Princess and Discovery Princess can enjoy their very own catch of the day after a day of fishing on special Princess shore excursions in the new specialty seafood restaurant, The Catch by Rudi. The first Princess restaurant primarily devoted to seafood offers a completely fresh take on seafood with contemporary interpretations of classic dishes, international fusion influences, highly creative presentations, and an engaging dining experience.

Crabshack This fan favorite returns to Alaska in all its shell-cracking glory with casual seafood options not to be missed. The four-course meal features a range of seafood favorites, including popcorn shrimp, clam chowder, even an Alaska -inspired steamer pot full of crab legs, shrimp, clams, and mussels. Guests will find this pop-up dining event in the World Fresh Marketplace on all seven ships sailing in Alaska in 2024.

Salmon Cooking Demonstration  Embark on a culinary adventure onboard with a new Salmon Cooking Demonstration, an exclusive experience on the last sea day of the cruise, that celebrates the richness of Alaska cuisine. Expert chefs showcase the art of preparing and cooking salmon, a staple in the region and a delicacy known for its flavor and versatility.

Pendleton : A Partnership Highlighting American Craftsmanship  Celebrating the 55 th anniversary sailing to Alaska , Princess has partnered with Pendleton , an iconic lifestyle brand that has been based in the Pacific Northwest for over 100 years. Popular Pendleton blankets, flannels, coats, graphic tees and more will be available for purchase onboard (and at the Princess Wilderness Lodges). Specially designed for Princess, a commemorative limited edition " Alaska , The Great Land" blanket will be available for $299 .

Shore Excursions Princess has added 13 new shore excursions to the already abundant lineup ashore to bring Alaska to life in an engaging, immersive, sometimes delectable and always memorable way. New shore excursions for the 2024 season include:

Juneau Highlights: Glacier Gardens & Whale Park

Treadwell : Living History Walk of Alaska's Lost Mine

Crab Feast at George Inlet Lodge

Exclusive Flightseeing & Taste of Alaska

White Pass Steam Train to Bennett Lake (offered on Friday & Sunday calls only)

Port Chilkoot Distillery Tour & Tastings

Stories of Haines E-Bike Tour

Stories of Haines E-Moped Tour

Metal Torching Alaska Art Class

Advanced Mountain Bike Adventure

Guide's Choice Hike

Marine Expedition & Wildlife Quest

WaveRunner Island Exploration

On Land at Princess Wilderness Lodges Alaska Adventure Quest: Geocaching Expedition  Guests will embark on a thrilling Alaska adventure like never before with a new Geocaching Expedition program at each of the five Princess Wilderness Lodges throughout Alaska . The program offers a unique blend of outdoor exploration and teamwork, making it the perfect adventure for families, friends, and solo explorers alike. Guests can use their cellphone as a GPS device or grab a map from the front desk at their lodge and follow clues and coordinates to find hidden caches strategically placed throughout the lodge properties.

Alaska-Themed Cocktails, Mocktails and Appetizers  Leveraging local ingredients, embark on a taste journey throughout the rugged wilderness of Alaska with signature crafted cocktails, mocktails and appetizers. All are infused with the flavors of Alaska and all options vary by lodge to give guests the most exquisite tastes from all over the state.

Garden to Table At the Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge and Copper River Princess Wilderness Lodge, Princess chefs tap natural resources to provide guests with the freshest ingredients from the on-property gardens in their dishes and drinks made right at the lodge. The menus are seasonally crafted to accommodate nature's growing and harvesting season. Using fresh vegetables, fruits and herbs from these gardens will help guests feel more connected with the great land and make a positive and sustainable impact by minimizing the food delivery carbon footprint.

Golden Heart Tea at Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge Nestled in the heart of the Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge, Princess' Alaska tea experience invites guests to step into a world of sophistication and culinary delights. The attentive staff, well-versed in the art of tea service, will guide them through Alaska sourced tea, helping them choose the perfect blend to enhance each exquisite bite—from scones to salmon mousse, mini cakes and more.

Naturalists Lead Outdoors Program For those seeking a more hands-on connection with nature, the naturalist program at the Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge, Copper River Princess Wilderness Lodge and Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge immerses guests in the breathtaking wilderness of Alaska , offering a unique and educational experience focused on the region's rich natural environment. Led by experienced naturalists, the program combines hands-on field experiences with informative lectures to deepen understanding of Alaska's flora, fauna, and geological wonders.

Cocktail-Making Class at Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge  Guests can immerse themselves in the art of mixology at the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge's Cocktail Making Class. This hands-on experience at Fannie Q's Saloon invites participants to discover the secrets behind crafting the perfect cocktails and mocktails. Led by skilled mixologists, the class covers various techniques, from muddling and shaking to garnishing.

Denali Education Center Presentations at Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge Discover the wonders of Denali National Park as the Denali Education Center presents sessions that bring the region's natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage to life. Expert educators and naturalists lead these presentations, sharing their deep knowledge and passion for the unique ecosystem that surrounds the lodge.

Cooking Demonstration at Copper River Princess Wilderness Lodge  Embark on a culinary adventure at the Copper River Princess Wilderness Lodge with a captivating cooking demonstration. Led by an expert chef, this experience invites guests to discover the artistry behind crafting delectable dishes inspired by the flavors of the region. The chef will share insights into the use of local and seasonal ingredients, highlighting fresh seafood that define the culinary landscape of the Copper River region.

New for 2024 are convenient, seven-day Inside Passage itineraries, many including Glacier Bay National Park, round-trip from Vancouver on Ruby Princess. The cruises deliver four awe-inspiring ports, including Juneau , Skagway , and Ketchikan along with visits to Endicott Arm and scenic cruising of Dawes Glacier.

Plus, there are more than 20 amazing cruisetours (cruise + land tour) that combine the unmatched Princess cruise experience with visits to the sights of Denali National Park , Kenai Peninsula , Copper River, Fairbanks and Anchorage and all from the comfort of the exclusive Princess lodges. Celebrating the 55 th  anniversary, two new cruisetours debut in 2024:

National Parks Tour - A 15-night adventure to five of Alaska's most breathtaking parks including Glacier Bay, Denali, Wrangell-St. Elias, Kenai Fjords National Parks, and Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park in Skagway . This experience combines a seven-day cruise, scenic rail travel, and eight nights land, including stays at four Princess-owned wilderness lodges.

Katmai National Park Tour - Nine-day cruisetour includes two nights in Anchorage , where guests have the chance to embark on an intimate bear-watching experience at Brooks Falls in Katmai National Park. This tour immerses travelers in the heart of Alaska's wilderness, allowing them to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, before or after sailing on a seven-day Voyage of the Glaciers cruise that includes a coveted visit to Glacier Bay National Park.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-Princess (1-800-774-6237) or by visiting www.princess.com .

About Princess Cruises Princess Cruises is The Love Boat, the world's most iconic cruise brand that delivers dream vacations to millions of guests every year in the most sought-after destinations on the largest ships that offer elite service personalization and simplicity customary of small, yacht-class ships. Well-appointed staterooms, world class dining, grand performances, award-winning casinos and entertainment, luxurious spas, imaginative experiences and boundless activities blend with exclusive Princess MedallionClass service to create meaningful connections and unforgettable moments in the most incredible settings in the world - the Caribbean , Alaska , Panama Canal, Mexican Riviera, Europe , South America , Australia / New Zealand , the South Pacific, Hawaii , Asia , Canada /New England, Antarctica , and World Cruises. The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE:CCL; NYSE:CUK).

View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/see-the-northern-lights-on-every-princess-cruise-to-alaska-in-2024-302133073.html

SOURCE Princess Cruises

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