alaska quilt cruises

Quilting Adventures

Select one of our quilting adventures below for more information.

Eastern Caribbean

Caribbean rose, june 21 – 29, 2024, educator:  mj kinman.

Windows to the Arctic

August 10-17, 2024, educator:  belle brunner – seams sew me, last chance to get registered.

Western Caribbean

Piecing in harmony, october 20 – 27, 2024, educator:  rebecca lidstrom, includes admission to, international quilt festival – houston.

Southern Caribbean

Making waves, january 2 – 11, 2025, educator:  gudrun erla, sold out…register to join the waitlist.

Making Waves 2

January 11-20, 2025, 2 quilter seats open.

Quilting in Paradise

March 22 – april 2, 2025, educator:  jennie lamb, includes visit to caribelle batik.

Bold & Beautiful Quilters

April 2 – 12, 2025, educator:  jaymi horne, amazing 10 day caribbean cruise.

Netherlands, Norway, Iceland, Scotland

Quilting adventures in iceland, july 12 – 26, 2025, educator:  joan ford, simply amazing  filling quickly.

In the Wild

August 2 – 9, 2025, educators:  tracey stinger & becky malarski, sponsored by:  sew in stitches, escape to alaska – again, september 6 – 13, 2025, educator:  peggy gelbrich, paper piecing with peggy, only 3 quilter seats open.

Islands of Fun

October 3 – 11, 2025, educator:  sarah maxwell, more fun than you can even imagine.

Quiltripping

Life is a patchwork of experiences

Discover The Best Alaska Quilt Shops to Visit on Your Next Quilting Cruise

If you are a quilter taking a cruise in Alaska, taking a dedicated Alaska quilting cruise, or are just exploring Alaska on your own, you will find this list of Alaska quilt shops helpful.

Last Updated on 12/19/21 by Rose Palmer

An Alaska cruise is at the top of many people’s wish list. Quilters can get the best of both worlds by participating in a quilting cruise that includes an Alaska itinerary. But you do not have to be on a dedicated quilter’s cruise to explore and enjoy the quilt shops in an Alaska destination. This list of Alaska quilt shops will allow you to indulge in fabric shopping at all of these popular Alaska destinations.

Alaska is big – really, really big. It is in fact over twice the size of the state of Texas. The state has eight national parks that protects some of the most majestic and pristine scenery in the country, but these are also some of the least accessible national parks for easy exploration.

There really is no easier or more comfortable way to see the dramatic fjords of Glacier Bay National Park and the rest of southeast Alaska’s spectacular scenery than on a cruise. In the last few years I have taken an Alaskan cruise a couple of times and have enjoyed each one immensely. One cruise was a seven day round trip tour from Seattle with Holland America . The second was a cruise-land tour with Princess that started in Fairbanks, AK and ended in Vancouver, BC.

At each of the ports that the ships stopped at, I made sure to also take time to explore the quilt shops in town. With long, cold and dark winters, quilting is a popular craft in Alaska. As a result, I found the shops to be quite diverse and well stocked, especially with unique Alaskan themed items. Since these shops rely on cruise tourism income, they were all very centrally located and easy to get to on my own from my cruise ship.

Alaska Quilt Shops in Popular Cruise Ports

The quilted raven.

My cruise-tour stopped in Anchorage for a few hours on the way to the ship  – just long enough to have a good lunch and check out the local quilt shop in downtown Anchorage. The Quilted Raven  proudly sells fabrics by Alaskan artists like Barbara Lavallee, Ayse Gilbert and John Van Zyle. Besides a nice collection of fabrics, the shop also sells hand-dyed yarns and counted cross stitch kits.

A stop at Denali National Park is one of the highlights of an Alaska cruise-tour. Unlike the big national parks in the lower 48 states, Denali only has one 90 mile road going through it, and most of it is not accessible by private vehicles.

To go into the depths of the park, you’ll need to take a bus tour that is either organized by the cruise company or one that is offered by the park district. The scenery along the bus route is truly majestic, even if you do not see the top of Mt. Denali and you’ll most likely see some wildlife along the way as well. Just be prepared for a potentially long day in a bouncy bus.

Northern Heart Originals

Outside the Denali park entrance is a strip of shops and eateries including Northern Heart Originals where you will find unique gifts, fabric panels, kits and embroidery options designed by the owner along with a nice selections of Alaskan themed batik fabrics.

Fairbanks is often the starting or stopping destination for cruise-tours that combine both a land and a sea itinerary. For 70 days during the summer months, Fairbanks has 24 hours of midnight sun which provides a totally different experience than what you will have much further south.

Fairbanks has a wide range of summer activities and sights that entertain and provide an insight into the local culture. I’ve also had the opportunity to visit Fairbanks in winter (not on a cruise-tour) because it is a perfect location to see the northern lights.

Fairbanks also has two quilt shops, each one with a different personality.

Northern Threads

Northern Threads is a large shop that specializes in Alaskan themed quilt kits that incorporate laser cut Alaskan applique patterns. They also carry a large selection of wildlife themed panels and with over 2000 bolts of fabric, there are no lack of choices to add to your stash. Fairbanks is a large city, so depending on where you are staying in Fairbanks, you may need to take a taxi or Uber to get to this shop, but it will be well worth it.

I thought Ketchikan was one of the cutest towns that the ship stopped at on my Alaskan cruises. As with all the cruise port stops, there were a variety of excursion to choose from. However, I also enjoyed just walking around town, exploring the shops, seeing the colorful totem poles and eating a salmon crepe for lunch.

Whale’s Tale Quilt Shop

You’ll find the The Whales’s Tail Quilt Shop on the second floor of one of the buildings right by the cruise dock, which makes it a very quick and easy walk from the ship. It’s not a big shop, but it’s worth a browse, especially for Alaskan themed fabrics.

Juneau is Alaska’s state capital and is unique in that it it is a capital that cannot be reached by a road from the mainland. Since the city is not far from Glacier Bay National Park, it is often one of the ports of call on an Alaskan cruise itinerary.

One of the most popular sights in Juneau is the Mendenhall Glacier which is about 12 miles from downtown Juneau. Cruise ships offer excursions to see the glacier, though it is also quite easy to go see it on your own using public transportation that leaves right from the cruise ship dock.

Changing Tides

In the heart of downtown Juneau is the Changing Tides quilt shop. Here you’ll find a very nice selection of Alaskan themed fabrics, panels and kits, as well as other fabrics for your projects. The store also carries locally dyed yarns for all the knitters out there.

In Sitka I took one of the cruise ship excisions that provided many different wildlife viewing opportunities. The tour took us to see otters swimming in the ocean, beautiful birds at the Alaska Raptor Center and rescued orphaned bears at the Fortress of the Bear. Fortunately, there was also a little time left at the end of the day to check out Sitka’s quilt shop.

Abby’s Reflection

Abby’s Reflection quilt shop is located in the heart of historic Sitka. I bought some silk screened panels made at the shop depicting Alaskan scenes which I incorporated into my Alaskan themed quilt .  The shop offers locally designed quilt patterns as well as unique Sitka fabric with iconic images of southeast Alaska.

I learned all about Skagway’s wild gold rush days at the Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park. The White Pass and Yukon train ride is also a fun and easy way to explore the mountain scenery that towers over Skagway and to learn more about the area’s history.

Rushin Tailor

You’ll find the Rushin Tailor’s Quilt Alaska store centrally located in Skagway and an easy walk from the ship. The shop was packed from floor to ceiling with Alaskan themed fabrics, quilt samples, quilt patterns and a variety of quilt kits. Give yourself plenty of time to browse the displays and the sample quilts for inspiration.

Each of these ports has many great sights and activities and it was always hard to pick just one shore excursion. The amount of time spent in port varies with each cruise itinerary, but as a quilter, you’ll want to make sure you leave a little time to check out all of these great Alaska quilt shops as well. And if you are taking a dedicated quilting cruise, then you will definitely want to visit these quilt shops in Alaska with all your new quilting friends.

Hope this list of Alaska Quilt shops helps you find your next Alaska quilting inspiration.

Thanks for visiting.

Sew Peaceful

Paper piecing for everyone, taught by experienced teacher Anne Hall

Tel: (250) 468 1534    Email: [email protected]

Bowser, Vancouver Island, BC, Canada

14 day Great Alaska Explorer quilting cruise

14th - 28th September, 2025

Departing from, and returning to, Vancouver, BC

Named for the Northern compass point, Noordam dazzles with museum-quality art and lavish staterooms. In between quilting, guests of this Vista Class ship will have their pick of onboard activities. Sing along to your favourite hits at Billboard Onboard. Enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center. Or savour the delights of one of our specialty restaurants. The Pinnacle Grill serves the juiciest steak at sea and Canaletto beckons with tantalizing Italian dishes.

Our quilting space will be available 24/7*

( except possibly while in Glacier Bay, but I will work to make it available ).

A variety of staterooms are offered to suit your budget.  Click on the pictures to see a description.  Queen beds shown in the pictures convert to two single beds upon request.  Additionally, each room includes a flat-screen TV with interactive menu of programming including; on-demand movies, music stations, as well as both live and pre-recorded television. Guests can access ship information, dining options, an onboard activities schedule, shore excursions, and port information through this interactive media console.  A mini-fridge is included with all staterooms, and coffee makers in Neptune and Pinnacle suites.

What is included in the price

  Your Stateroom as selected

On board Gratuities, taxes and port fees

Teaching from Quiltworx CI Anne Hall, even on port days

Use of quilting room 24/7* ( except possibly in Glacier Bay, although last time I was able to arrange access )

Coffee / tea / snacks in the quilting room

Afternoon tea "meet and greet" on first full day

Current Prices (as at October 1st, 2023)

Inside Stateroom

Quilter price CAD $3,799;  Non-quilter price CAD $3,643

Unobstructed Ocean View Stateroom

Quilter price CAD $4,399;  Non-quilter price CAD $4,299 ​

Unobstructed Balcony Stateroom

Quilter price CAD $5,749;  Non-quilter price CAD $5,499

Signature Suite

Quilter price CAD $7,789;  Non-quilter price CAD $7,479

Deposit:  required deposit is CAD$824 per person.

Final payment due: 30th April, 2025.

Cancellation Schedule per person:

• From booking Date: CAD  $75 cancellation fee will be charged

• From 17 June 2025:  CAD $874 cancellation fee • From 01 July 2025:  50% cancellation fee + CAD $50 • From 16 July 2025:  75% cancellation fee + CAD $50 • From 15 August 2025: 100% cancellation fee

The Quilting

You have two options:

Mystery Quilt - (Beginners and above):  For the first time, Anne will be offering a Mystery quilt* for the cruise!  It will be a 68" x 68" Quiltworx mixer pattern, expandable to a Queen.  And ... Anne does most of the prep!  (* additional cost )

The taught project    For EXPERIENCED QUILTWORX only, Anne will teach the new 2025 Technique of the Month.  

Bring your UFO projects - whatever you like!  Projects that you have started in class with Anne, or even hand sewing, knitting ... it's your choice!

Or ... a combination of the above!  Even if you are not a beginner, you are welcome to get the kit, and work on that and/or your own project.

Sewing Machines :  You will need to bring your own – a small one is preferable as you will be sharing a 8ft x 30” table with one other person.  (I use my Featherweight all the time!)

Quilt Stores:  YES!  We will provide you with information on quilting stores at our destinations, and directions on how to get there.  

Party size:   Limited to 20 quilters maximum to ensure that you get personal attention.

Kits, patterns and quilting supplies:   If you are doing the Mystery quilt, Anne will bring your patterns and fabrics (how cool is that?!).  All other projects, you will need to prep at home and bring with you - space for cutting big projects on board is limited.  

Will I have to be in the quilting room all the time?    Absolutely not!  This is your cruise, your class. If you miss anything in class because you want to go for a swim, spa, or walk around the deck with camera in hand, Anne will go over what you have missed when you are ready.

What is included:    There’s no getting away from it – cruising is expensive, and CruisePlus has set up a payment plan. More details are available from our cruise specialist, Fiona. ​

Dining options:  You will not be confined to dining as one big group each evening, particularly if you are bringing a “significant other” (quilters en masse can   be quite an intimidating prospect if you don’t know your fat quarters from your add-a-quarters). If some of you wish to dine as a group, tables can be requested on a day-by-day basis.  We all like to eat at different times and in different places.

Further Information

Travel related questions.

Fiona Butchart Sales Supervisor Insurance Specialist 1-800-854-9664 WEB:       CruisePlus.ca PHONE:   250-760-1200 FAX:        250-760-2000 3018 Ross Road, Nanaimo BC V9T 3Z1

Quilting related questions

Anne Hall Sew Peaceful Quilting Quiltworx Certified Instructor / BeColourful Authorized Teacher 1-250-468-1534 WEB:      www.sewpeaceful.com PHONE:   250-468-1534 EMAIL:    [email protected] Bowser, BC, V0R 1G0 (Vancouver Island)

Alaska Quilters Cruise 2024

September 8th, 2024, starting at $2,345.00.

• Price per person based on double occupancy, Interior Cabin (category 4V), cruise and quilter class fee and taxes.
• Embark Vancouver, BC, Canada, September 8th, 2024 – Return to Vancouver, BC, Canada September 15th, 2024
• Secure your spot for $500/person.
• Class Fee due by February 29th, 2024. Final payment for remainder of items is due  on June 10, 2024.
• Above prices include taxes and are in Canadian funds.
• Please read below for further details. 

day-by-day Itinerary

Hosts & teachers, cabins & pricing.

We are very excited for you to join us on Watergirl Quilt Co.’s first ever Quilting Cruise in SEP 2024 . We wanted to provide you with some info on how the classes will be facilitated.

There will be 3 workshop choices available at each session/day per the itinerary below. Two will be 6-hour classes and 2 will be 3-hour classes. While there is a total of 12 different workshops, each participant will only be able to attend 4 of the choices over the entire duration of the cruise.

All classes will be filled and you will have to tell us your first, second and third choice for each time slot during the week. This will be done in March 2024. Watergirl Quilt Co. will do their best to give everybody an equal number of 1st choices and so on. Watergirl Quilt Co. will also assign the classes on first come, first serve basis. Watergirl Quilt Co. will tell all participants what time and day that they should expect to receive the class selection form by email. Watergirl Quilt Co. will then assign people your first choices based on time of receipt of the returned form.

Only those individuals who have paid their quilt fees in full by February 29th, 2024, will receive the form emailed to them in March 2024. If you pay later than that, for whatever reason, you will still get the class form but can’t guarantee you will get your first choice as some classes could already be full by then.

Watergirl Quilt Co. will email all quilters a class form to print, scan and send back to us or take a photo and send it back to us via email in March 2024

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Explore each day - alaska inside passage.

This agenda/page was last updated on November 3rd, 2023. Please check back here for updates to the day-to-day plans, class schedules etc.

Time to Sail Away!

Welcome to “The Brilliance of the Seas”! Whether you’re catching a movie poolside or enjoying Tuscan dishes at Giovanni’s Table, you’re in for the ultimate adventure in between shores.

Ship Departs at 5:00 PM

Group dinner reservation will be held at 530PM in the main dining room for our group for those that wish to join

Note: The classroom is open 24/7 for plenty of free time sewing when there is no class in progress.

Cruise Schedule

Inside passage, canada – sightseeing.

Your ship offers the perfect platform for viewing British Columbia’s Inside Passage. This archipelago spans 25,000 miles from Seattle to Prince Rupert near the Alaskan border. Here you’ll ply calm waters sheltered between the British Columbia mainland and Vancouver Island. Along the way catch a glimpse of breathtakingly rugged scenery, plus staggering wildlife like salmon sharks, white spirit bears, and millions of seabirds.

Unspoiled Backdrop

Discover a wide range of landscapes and native wildlife without leaving the ship. See glacial valleys speckled with evergreens and powerful waterfalls plunging toward the sea. Watch bald eagles soar overhead and porpoises playing in the ship’s wake. This is British Columbia in all its raw, pure glory.

Adventure Maze

British Columbia’s Inside Passage is dappled with forested islands and nature reserves. Explore the southern portion, passing Vancouver Island’s remote villages and Gulf Islands National Park Reserve. To the north, the Great Bear Rainforest is home to grizzlies, while the peaks lining Grenville Channel reach 3,500 feet above sea level.

Quilting Schedule

Choose one, 6-hour workshop 9am to 4pm with an hour lunch break, from the following three choices below.

Teacher: Paul L é ger

Rainbow Alaska Quilt  

Come play with colours as Paul will take you on his Alaskan journey to make this quilt. The day will be filled with Paul using his techniques to create this eye-catching quilt, using the Alaska ruler by Creative Grids. (6 hours)

The finished quilt measures 711⁄2” x 711⁄2”.

(a fabric & notions kit will be available for purchase and fabrics may differ slightly from the photo of the quilt)

Supply List

Teacher: Patti Carey

Skill-building Sampler Wall Quilt (6-hour)

join Patti in this tip-filled class as you make a 5-block sampler. Learn Patti’s top tricks for quick, easy and accurate piecing. You will leave the class a better, more confident quiltmaker, with a toolbox full of new techniques to use on any quilt project! Kit includes pre-cut fabrics.

Teacher: Michelle Peters

The Butterfly Effect, English paper Piecing

Evening demonstrations and embroidery make and take (optional activities) from 7-9pm

4:30pm – 5:30pm cocktail meet up (Location TBA) – All invited

Evening demonstrations and embroidery make and take (optional activities) from 7-9PM – All welcome.

Sitka, Alaska –

12:00 pm – 7:00 pm.

Sitka truly offers the best of Alaska. Its small-town appeal stems from a unique blend of Russian, Tlingit and American history. Its snow-capped peaks and volcanic Mount Edgecumbe pose among the state’s most postcard-worthy scenes. And its rare wildlife astounds, from Saint Lazaria Island’s orange-beaked puffins to Alaska Maritime Refuge’s 40 million seabirds. This is off-the-path Alaska, where you can kayak Sitka Sound alongside swimming sea otters or fly-fish for the world’s biggest halibut. Whether it’s hiking Baranof Island trails or listening to tribal stories passed down for generations, in Sitka the midnight sun never sets on adventure.

Links to the Past Explore Sitka National Historical Park to trace the town’s early beginnings and native heritage. See indigenous artifacts, watch a documentary film, and walk the mile-long Totem Trail. Then view creative pieces by local Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian artists at the Sitka Cultural Center.

Bering History in Mind Learn about Sitka’s Russian influence on a walk to St. Michael’s Cathedral, one of the few remaining Russian Orthodox churches in Alaska. Check out the Russian Bishop’s House and watch New Archangel Dancers perform traditional choreography. Then stand atop Castle Hill, where the first American flag flew over Alaska in 1867.

For the Birds Get up close to native eagles, owls, falcons and hawks at the Alaska Raptor Center’s rehab hospital. Meet the vets who nurse injured birds back to health and view the flight-training center— a rainforest environment where recovered animals relearn survival skills before release back into the wild.

Local Cuisine The local Pacific Northwest “frontier cuisine” is packed with fresh seafood offerings like sockeye lox and halibut fish and chips. Here you’ll find Dungeness crab harvested by local families and food trucks serving black cod collars. And don’t miss Baranof Island Brewing Company— the Silver Bay IPA and Halibut Point Hefeweizen are two solid sipping options.

Shopping Downtown galleries are your best bet for Northwest Coast native art and jewelry made by Inupiat Eskimos. Russian nesting dolls, woven Tlingit baskets and wild berry products also make authentic Alaskan souvenirs. Stop by the Winter Song Soap Company for herbal bath products made on-site.

9-11 am – Open sewing time, optional demonstrations and guided make and takes on embroidery module.

12-7pm : Tour Sitka, Alaska

Juneau, Alaska

1:30pm – 8pm.

You can’t get to Juneau easily without a sprint by air or by sea. But once you arrive you’ll find majestic views and rich culture in every corner. With its snowcapped mountains, misty rainforests, massive glaciers and bounty of wildlife, Alaska’s remote state capital is the perfect place to dive into nature. Framed by Mount Juneau and Mount Roberts, the city’s picturesque downtown area offers centuries-old bars, boutique shops and historic landmarks. For a taste of the local culture, visit the historic district and the Alaska State Museum. And for outdoor thrills, you can take your pick of activities ranging from whale watching in Auke Bay Harbor to tundra trekking over Mendenhall Glacier, and even try your hand at gold panning in Last Chance Basin.

Seafaring Safari Watch for humpback whales, orcas, harbor seals, and Steller sea lions as you cruise through the icy Alaskan waters on a charter boat.

Become a Master Musher Travel to Juneau’s Mendenhall Glacier and join a team of professional mushers and their huskies on a sleigh ride over the snow.

Go for the Gold Follow in the footsteps of fortune hunters and pan for gold along trails forged by prospectors over a hundred years ago during the Juneau gold rush.

Local Cuisine From coffee shops to local pubs, Juneau’s food scene is all about seafood and simple fare, like burgers and sandwiches. If you’re craving a cold one, be sure you try Alaskan Brewing Company’s Alaskan Amber or Smoked Porter— they’re both local favorites.

Shopping For some frontier retail therapy, head to downtown Juneau and you’ll find plenty of shops and boutiques selling Native art, locally-crafted goods and designer brands.

9am – 12pm :  Sew at Sea

Choose one, 3-hour workshop

The Pointed Comments (3-hour)

During this half day workshop, you’ll learn the simple technique to make easy diamond shapes and then incorporate them into an easy to make and pleasing looking table runner measuring 20” X 40” and two place mats each measuring 12” x 18½”. Paul will guide you through the process to make these wonderful pieces.

(This technique does not use paper piecing.) (3 hours)

Try Your Hand at Sashiko (3-hour)

Try your hand at Sashiko, the traditional Japanese stitching. We will discuss the do’s and don’ts of stitching these classic designs, helpful tools and supplies, and will stitch a sampler of several designs in class. This is an appropriate class for all levels of experience. You can use these stitches to embellish quilts, clothing and more.

Clam Up Bag 

We love By Annie patterns at Watergirl Quilt Co. The Clam Up Bag is easy and fun to make and the pattern offers five sizes that are perfect for storing and carrying make- u p, sewing supplies, tech gear, and more. Double-slide zippers and handy grab tabs make the bags easy to open wide and attached side panels prevent contents from falling out. An optional strap with swivel hook may also be added.

When empty, the bags nest inside one another to save space. 

In this 3 hour workshop, you will construct the medium size bag and then you will be able to continue making more on your own, back home or at open sew time.

This is a confident beginner class and you will learn to sew in a zipper on a curved piece, tips for sewing with cork, how to make side panels and tabs and how to bind a bag with bias binding. (3 hours)

Haines, Alaska 8:00 AM – 7PM

If you’re looking for an authentic taste of wild, rugged adventure, a cruise to Haines, Alaska is just the ticket. Located less than 70 miles north of Juneau, along the continent’s longest and deepest fjord, Haines offers endless outdoor activities for intrepid explorers. Hike deep into misty coastal rainforests and ancient spruce woodlands. Set out on a rafting adventure along the rivers that thread the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. Learn about the gold rush era at Fort William H. Seward. And discover the area’s rich cultural heritage at museums dedicated to the Native Tlingit People.

Spend the Day in Glacier Bay e Glacier Bay is one of Alaska’s most impressive national parks, and Haines is the perfect town to catch a flightseeing tour of this pristine wilderness. Keep your camera ready as you soar over gleaming blue glaciers and sprawling forests, learning about glaciology and the local critters that call the preserve home.

Take a Hike You’ll find lots of trails to choose from here in Haines. One of the most popular is the Battery Trail Hike, which takes you all the way to the beach. If you’re a veteran hiker, try one of Haines’s alpine trails, like Mt. Riley and Mt. Ripinski. They’re steep but offer gorgeous views.

Go Wild A short drive north of Haines you’ll find Kroschel Wildlife Center, one of the best spots in the area to mingle with local critters. Join a wildlife expedition for an up-close look at grizzlies, wolves, reindeer and more, or set out on a photography tour across more than 600 yards of maintained trail.

Local Cuisine You’ll find all kinds of tasty food in Haines, Alaska, from wood-fired pizza to tacos to tantalizing Thai cuisine. That said, don’t leave without tasting some of the region’s locally caught seafood, like Alaskan king crab, salmon and halibut. Ask for a recommendation from your waiter or the chef — sometimes restaurants offer off-menu specialties.

Shopping One of the most popular souvenirs you’ll find in Haines is smoked salmon — pick up a pre-packaged morsel and bring it back to your stateroom for snacks later on during your trip. Or look for galleries and stores selling goods crafted by local artisans — Haines has several.

Tracy Arm Fjord

6:00 am – 10:00 am.

Tracy Arm Fjord extends over 30 miles alongside the wilderness of Tongass National Forest. Sailing through this deep and narrow passage delivers some of the most breathtaking scenery you’ll find in Alaska. See active glaciers carved into 7,000-foot-tall mountain peaks and plunging waterfalls burrowed into evergreen-clad cliffs. Glimpse native wildlife and watch deep blue icebergs float past the ship.

Face to Face Discover the twin Sawyer Glaciers at the end of Tracy Arm Fjord. While viewing the massive face of these tidewater glaciers, spanning more than a half-mile wide, you can hear the roar and feel the rumble of huge pieces of ice calving into the water in spectacular display.

Animal House Tracy Arm Fjord is home to a spectacular array of wildlife. See pigeon guillemots, kittiwakes and arctic terns. Mountain goats graze on rocky slopes, while newborn seal pups sun on ice floes. Glimpse black bears hunting for lunch and soaring eagles— or watch for the fluke of a whale diving below.

10am – 12pm :  Tools & Techniques Demonstrations

2pm – 5pm :  Sew at Sea

Kawandi Table Topper/Pillow

Explore using scrap fabric and hand stitching to create cheerful quilted projects! We will look at the techniques of the Siddi people and their stitching of Kawandi Quilts. Essentially it is a quick Quilt as You Go technique as you are sewing the patches to a backing and batting with the quilting stitches. It is traditionally done as hand work and so is quite portable. The quilt uses small amounts of fabric or scraps, and the big stitch style quilting using a bold thread creates the texture over the whole piece. In this 3 hour class, you will learn how to place fabrics and hand sew from the outside of the quilt to the middle, using a spiral line technique and finally the last step is adding the Phula flowers to the corners. (3 hours)

Finishing Touches (3-hour)

Learn professional warp-speed machine-binding. Patti guides you through a variety of binding styles to give your quilts that finishing touch. (3 hours)

There will be a required kit for this class. Kits will be available to order once class selection has taken place. The kit fee will be $20.

Foundation Paper Piecing (3-hour)

Come spend time with Paul in this half-day workshop where he’ll take the taboos out of foundation piecing. In the process you’ll make an alpine scene to remind you of the super time you’ve had on this cruise. (3 hours)

7pm – 9pm : Demonstrations and optional machine embroidery make and take.

Inside Passage – At Sea

Choose one, 6-hour workshop 9am to 4pm with an hour lunch break.

Teacher:  Paul L é ger

Come Sail Away

Paul will lead the day sharing his tips and tricks used to guide you through the process to make this eye-catching, easy to make quilt measuring 41” x 44”.

No curved piecing was used in the making of this quilt! Come learn the mystery to create this beautiful pattern, designed by Paul. (6 hours) 

Kit will be available for purchase. 

Creative Free-Motion Machine Quilting (6-hour)

after an in-depth discussion of necessary tools, books, etc, Patti will guide you through 6 different techniques of free-motion machine quilting. By the end of class, you will be ready to tackle your own quilts.

Circle Play Pin Cushion (Sue Spargo wool applique and hand embroidery)

The bright design of this pincushion is achieved through layering of velvet and wool, as well as colourful embellishing with embroidery stitches. The Circle Play pincushion is sure to bring a vibrant pop of happiness to your sewing space!

During this 6 hour class, you will learn how to whipstitch applique down the wool circles onto a background, how to needle turn the velvet and applique it and then we will learn embroidery stitches to embellish this cheerful pin cushion.

This is a beginner friendly class. You will not complete the whole project in one day but you will have the skills to finish it on your own. (6 hours)

No sewing after 4pm.

7:30pm – 8:30pm : Show and Tell, desserts, drinks and farewells. – All welcome (complimentary).

Disembark the ship. Safe travels home!

Ship and deck details, discover the brilliance of the seas.

Getting to know the Brilliance of the Seas

• Catch a movie on the poolside screen, tee up for a game of mini golf or indulge in some “me time” at Vitality℠ at Sea Spa and Fitness Center
• Discover different flavours at one of our restaurants. Like prime cuts of steak at Chops Grille℠ and Italian favorites at Giovanni’s Table. Not to mention a Far East feast at Izumi and wines from around the world at Vintages.
• Experience a dazzling showcase at sea with Center Stage, a variety revue featuring exceptional singers and dancers. Join the fun and sing along to contemporary stage hits in Now and Forever. Prepare for an entertainment extravaganza that reaches soaring heights.

Hosts and Teachers

Meet your hosts.

Michelle Peters

Watergirl quilt co..

Host/Teacher

Michelle grew up by the majestic St. Lawrence River in Brockville, Ontario. and continues to live there by the water.  As a child, she always looked forward to summers spent boating on the river and the annual visits to her extended families in L’Ardoise, Nova Scotia and Bay Bulls, Newfoundland. Hence, the name Watergirl Quilt Co.

Michelle was inspired to learn to quilt by her Nanny Williams who made crazy quilts embellished with herringbone stitching. Those quilts always were heavy as they were made of old clothing and whatever fabrics could be found around the home for repurposing. When Michelle was 18 years old, she signed up for a 3 month night course to learn how to quilt at St. Lawrence College.

After 24 years of being an elementary school teacher both in Canada and Japan, Michelle was compelled to follow her passion for quilting and to create her own family legacy. She started Watergirl Quilt Co. and now shares her passion for teaching by putting a focus on education in her business. She is proud to be a member of the Ottawa Modern Quilt Guild and the Thousand Islands Quilters' Guild.

Michelle also loves to do ballroom dancing with her hubby, Mr. Watergirl. Her other love is travelling so of course, the Watergirl has to host a quilting cruise! Michelle is excited to return to Alaska again, with all of you.

Whether you quilt to feel joy, to heal from sadness, or to express your love for family and friends, Watergirl Quilt Co. is honoured to be part of your creative journey.

Scott Waldron

Gravitate travel.

Total countries travelled:  36+ Years in the travel business:  25 Favourite destination(s):  Austria & India Coolest trip ever planned:  For 2021, Canadian Arctic in July and Antarctica in December Travel philosophy:  Go with the flow Travel advisor history:  Senior Personal Experience Advisor for global firms to boutique travel planners offering arctic expeditions. Created custom tours and vacations in Europe, South America, Scandinavia, North America and beyond. Ask him about:  Working as a Cultural Ambassador at Walt Disney World at the start of his career Favourite trip booked for a client:  National Geographic & G Adventures Family Trip to Vietnam & Cambodia Next bucket-list trip:  Japan

Meet Your Teachers

Patti Carey

Patti’s patchwork & northcott fabrics.

Patti is the Vice President – Public Relations for Northcott, where she headed up the marketing/sample department from 1986 to 2012. This included coordinating Northcott’s pattern program to support the new fabric collections, as well as liaising with the various quilting magazines, book publishers and quilt designers to provide current collections of fabric for editorial projects. Currently she travels to quilts guilds and shops to inspire and educate quilters with interesting and entertaining presentations on how fabric is designed, and how to use it to her best advantage. Her comprehensive line of quilt patterns utilize efficient and time-saving techniques, and are available through her website at www.pattispatchwork.com. She has also published a book entitled “A Taste of Napa Valley”. She is a regular contributor to the Golden Peak Media group of publications (McCall’s, Love of Quilting, Quiltmaker). She has designed 2 fabric collections for Banyan Batiks, a division of Northcott, and Color Play, her “learn-to-free-motion-quilt” collection for Northcott, shipped to shops in August 2022. In addition, she developed the E-Z Miter tool for painless mitered borders and lone stars. Patti is married and has 2 grown sons. In her spare time, she enjoys cycling, golfing, snowboarding and cruising to far-away lands. Fun fact : I have been to over 60 countries, including Kiribati Favourite travel destination : Alaska shares top spot with Norway

Paul Léger Quilts & Bernina Ambassador

Your cabins and pricing, explore your cabin choices.

Consider bringing a friend, your spouse or your family on this cruise as non-quilters are always welcome to join our non-workshop activities. Share your enthusiasm with those dear to you, as you learn and create at sea. Plus, your companion will have fun exploring the ship’s activities while you sew and then you get the joy of exploring the Alaskan ports and sights together.

* Triple and Quad available on request based on room availability.   Reach out to Scott if you have any questions.

• Cabin selected, based on double or single occupancy.
• Quilting Fee for Quilter / Non-Quilter as indicated.
• All Watergirl Quilt Co. organized events. (Get together on 09SEP and Sew & Tell on 14SEP, for all and other onboard events as they take shape)

Interior Cabin

• Size – Stateroom: 170 sq. ft.
• Beds – Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed. One or two Pullman bed in staterooms with up to 3 or 4 guests
• Occupancy – Up to 4 guests
• Views – n/a
• Living Spaces – Room with bed, vanity and sitting area with sofa
• Bathrooms – One bathroom

Double Occupancy/Per Person

Single occupancy / per person, non-quilter, ocean view cabin.

• Beds – Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed. One single sofa bed or one Pullman bed in staterooms with up to 3 guests. One double sofa bed or two Pullman beds in staterooms with up to 4 guests
• Views – Ocean view
• Note: Staterooms on deck 2 have a porthole instead of a window

Ocean View Balcony

• Size – Stateroom: 179 sq. ft.
• Balcony: 20 – 41 sq. ft.
• Beds – Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed. One single sofa bed in staterooms with up to 3 guests. One double sofa bed in staterooms with up to 4 guests
• Views – Ocean view (Some staterooms have an obstructed view)
• Private balcony

This departure doesn’t have any groups rates available for Ocean View Balcony cabins as it’s a busy sailing. Should you select this option Scott will price out the best promotional rate on the day he reaches out to you and should you decide to proceed he will lock it in and add it to our group so the cruise line is aware your traveling with us. If you decline, then we can put you in on of the above categories at our group rate, based on availability at the time you decide to proceed

Enjoy The Moments

Trip inclusions and exclusions, cruise inclusions.

• Ship accommodations based on category chosen
• Most meals onboard (excluding specialty Restaurants)
• Some beverages onboard (non-alcoholic)

QUILTING CLASS INCLUSIONS

• Pre-Booked group dining at 5:30pm daily for those in our group who wish to dine together or go to open dining at anytime during dining room hours* (you can tidy that up Scott)
• Organised cocktail time to meet with others in our group (drinks are not included in the cost)*
• A Sailor’s Ditty Bag of gifts*
• Quilting workshops when we are at sea: 18 hours of instruction time with 12 choices of workshops being offered by Michelle Peters (Watergirl Quilt Co. owner), Paul Leger and Patti Carey
• Use of a BERNINA Sewing Machine (The classroom is open 24/7 for plenty of free time sewing when there is no class in progress.)
• Sewing machine technical assistance that will keep you sewing with little interruption
• Premier thread provided for onboard projects
• Full-size irons and boards will be available for your use
• Optional class supply kits
• Demonstrations of quilting products & techniques
• Mandatory Make and Take Project on sewing machine
• Guided Make and Take Project on a BERNINA embroidery machine*
• Show and Tell Desert/Cocktail Gathering on 14SEP, 2024.
• Tips on great quilt shops in Alaska!
• More quilty fun than you ever thought possible
• Group photo will be provided*
• Gratuities, Port fees and taxes*
• Opportunities for discounted class fees on pre-cruise, online workshops to make fun items that will get you organised for your trip.
• A boatload of fun with the Watergirl Quilt Co. Crew!*
• Plus, you will get to sew on a BERNINA 475QE sewing machine.

CRUISE EXCLUSIONS

• Transfers form the Vancouver Airport to the Port
• Dining in Specialty Restaurants such as Chops Grille, 150 Central Park, and Izumi
• Dining in Johnny Rockets (Where applicable)
• Spa and Salon services
• Gambling (Including Bingo)
• Art Auction
• Any purchases made in the gift shops onboard.
• Shore excursions
• Photographs
• Video Arcade
• Medical Services
• Internet Access
• Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Services
• Ship to Shore Telephone calls
• Alcoholic / Non-Alcoholic Beverage Packages (excluding water, lemonade, and iced tea)

QUILTING CLASS EXCLUSIONS

• Class kits / fabric
• Quilting Notions

By clicking the button below and filling out the info required, this is not confirmation of a booking, but a form of intention that you are interested in the cruise/require more information. Once the form is completed Rafaela or Scott from Gravitate Travel, will be reaching out to you individually based on first come first serve basis to collect your information. Cabins are only secured and confirmed once a non-refundable deposit of CAD $500 per person is paid

Frequently Asked Questions

Before you book with us or depart on your Alaska Quilters Cruise you may have some questions about what to expect. Below are questions and answers relating to the most important topics to our guests to give you peace of mind and assurance before you set off on your vacation.

Questions about COVID-19 travel?  Read our COVID-19 FAQs  for answers to help you feel informed and confident when booking your tour.

Yes, Gravitate Travel has many contracted stopover rates at all major airports across Canada often with long-term parking included.

Yes, you're more than welcome to bring other family members with you to experience Alaska. Cabins are based on a first come, first service basis so have a chat with them now and let Scott know once you speak with him that you would like to book multiple cabins. We will do our best to secure cabins that connect, if required, but there are only a limited number of cabins that connect on each cruise ship. So, if a connecting cabin is important to you, book ASAP.

Yes, you can make multiple payments towards the cruise package components only.  If you booked additional travel arrangements via Gravitate Travel, refer to “What if I booked additional travel arrangements via Gravitate?”

No these items are not included and can be added at the guest’s discretion. Information on these services for our voyage can be found here . Once you are booked and Scott has sent you a confirmation reflecting your booking number with Royal Caribbean, then create an account with Royal Caribbean using the above link and you can view Excursions, Beverage Packages, Dining Packages, and Internet Packages. Please note that some of the options items only open to be booked, closer to departure.

Yes, they do, it can be downloaded here for Apple and Android devices.

Our group has a dedicated time each night pre-reserved at 530PM in the main dining room for supper/dinner, by the time foods comes it would be closer to 600PM after we all order. However, if you wish to make a specialty dining reservation or dine elsewhere or at another time that’s not a problem. We wanted to have a time for all our group to eat and this needed to be done far in advance to accommodate our numbers.

Guests can see if there is available space at Canada Place Pier, but this will require reservations in advance. Canada Place Pier - Cruise ship and convention parking is run by Indigo can accommodate long term parking for cruise and convention guests as well as offer a solution for over height vehicles at a nearby facility. For more information, please visit the Indigo website .

• Cruise Deposit of $500 Canadian non-refundable per person, is due at the time of booking to secure your cabin type.
• Watergirl Cruise Quilting Fees in Canadian Funds (Quilter(s) & Companion(s)) are due in full by February 29, 2024.
• Final payment for the cruise is due on 10JUN, 2024,  in Canadian Funds.

Yes, it's mandatory and non-negotiable, it is a reduced rate. There are a lot of things behind the scenes set up for the group and activities companions/non-quilters are invited to. The cost is CAD $ 199 plus taxes.

All payments for the Cruise package; cabin, quilter/non-quilter fees and additional travel arrangements arranged by Gravitate Travel are to be made via Scott at Gravitate Travel.  For dates to remember, refer to “When are payments due for the various components of the Cruise package?” for payment deadlines.

At time of booking - $500 CDN non-refutable per person Cruise Deposit.  This secures your cabin type.

February 29th, 2024 - $775 CAD+ taxes due in full for Watergirl Cruise Quilting; if applicable.

February 29th, 2024 - $199 CAD + taxes due in full for Watergirl Cruise non-quilting fee; if applicable.

June 10, 2024 – Cruise Balance (based on type of cabin / occupancy booked) - final payment for all components of cruise package (cruise/cabin costs).

NOTE: you may make multiple partial payments at any time.  However, the cumulative total of payments must meet the deadlines above.

If you booked additional travel arrangements through another 3 rd party or business, you will be responsible for payment in full according to their deadlines.

Supply List: Fabric

• 1½ yards (1.4 m) orange ombre fabric for sky
• 1½ yards (1.4 m) blue or aqua ombre fabric for water (or four ½ yards (.5 m) of four blues and/or aquas)
• 1 FQ for the sailboat
• ⅓ yard for binding
• 1½ yard for backing

Notions and tools

• 1 Clover – Black Quick Bias Tape roll – ¼” x 11 yds (6mm 10m)
• 1 SCHMETZ twin Needle 80/12 – 4.0mm (provided for you)
• 1½ yards (1.4 m) Heat n’ Bond Woven Fusible Interfacing - Soft White
• 6½” x 24” ruler (or similar)
• Rotary cutter
• Seam ripper (in case)
• Small cutting mat
• Pencil or pen and paper for note taking.
• And any other supplies that one likes to use while at the workshop.

Fabric (a fabric kit will be available for purchase)

• Print 1 - Fat 1/6 of Cadet
• Print 2 - Fat 1/6 of Maya Blue
• Print 3 - Fat 1/4 of Waterfall
• Print 4 - Fat 1/4 of Indian Ocean
• Print 5 - Fat 1/8 of Teal
• Print 6 - Fat 1/6 of Peacock
• Print 7 - Fat 1/4 of Dusk
• Print 8 - Fat 1/4 of Spruce
• Print 9 - Fat 1/8 of Moss
• Print 10 - Fat 1/8 of Honeycomb
• Print 11 - 3/8 yard of Olive
• Print 12 - Fat 1/8 of Root
• Print 13 - Fat 1/4 of Shortbread
• Print 14 - Fat 1/8 of Rust
• Print 15 - Fat 1/8 of Persimmon
• Print 16 - Fat 1/8 of Scarlet
• Print 17 - Fat 1/8 of Red Rose
• Print 18 - Fat 1/8 of Tiger
• Print 19 - Fat 1/4 of Shortcake
• Print 20 - Fat 1/8 of Dusted Pink
• Print 21 - Fat 1/6 of Primrose
• Print 22 - 1-1/4 yards of Sandcastle
• Print 23 - 1-1/2 yards of Bisque
• Border: 1-1/8 yards of Bisque
• Binding: 2/3 yard of Waterfall
• Backing: 4¼ yards of light fabric
•  Creative Grids Alaska ruler (available at Watergirl Quilt Co.)

Fabrics: This technique works best with a darker background. Due to the construction technique used, if your background is significantly lighter than your Fabrics A, B and C, you will get some shadowing.

• Fabric A (Diamond 1,2) ¼ meter
• Fabric B (Diamond 3,6 Placemat) ¼ meter
• Fabric C (Diamond 4,5, Placemat) ¼ meter
• Fabric D (Background) 1 meter
• Binding ½ meter
• Backing 1 meter
• Pointed Comments Pattern by Tamarinis (available at Watergirl Quilt Co.)
• Scissors (small)
• Large ruler (6½” X 24” or similar)
• Medium Ruler (6” x 12” or similar)
• Rotary cutter.
• Chalk marker, pencil or other fabric marking tool
• The fabrics requirement list will be added later.
• A spool of neutral coloured thread
• Add a quarter ¼ ruler
• Cutting mat 18” x 24" will work best but bring what you have.

Supply List (to make Medium size bag):

Purchase a kit from us or assemble your own supplies as follows:

• Clam Up Bag pattern from ByAnnie
• Main/Outside Fabric: 1 piece of cork fabric measuring at least 10” x 14”
• Lining Fabric: 1 Fat Quarter
• Coordinating Fabric (tabs, gusset, binding): 1 Fat Eighth (9” x 21”)
• ByAnnie’s Soft & Stable: 10” x 14” piece
• One 18” or longer, double-slide handbag zipper (if you plan to make all 5 bags, we recommend you purchase a package of ByAnnie’s Zippers by the Yard)
• Sheet of template plastic or freezer paper: 10” x 14”
• ByAnnie's Double Sided Basting Tape 1/8in wide
• ByAnnie's Stiletto & Pressing Tool or similar tool
• 12 Wonder Clips 

Purchase the complete supply kit including fabrics by Tula Pink (as pictured in the photo) or assemble your own supplies as follows:

• Mini Butterfly Effect Pattern (included with supply kit)
• Mini Butterfly Effect Paper Piece Complete Pack
• Mini Butterfly Effect Templates With 3/8in Seams 19pc
• Bohin Glue Pen and 3-5 refill glues
• One or two Sew Tite magnets
• Sew Fine Thread Gloss
• #10 milliners needles
• Thimble (optional)
• 50wt, 60wt or 80wt thread to match fabrics or use a neutral such as pale grey
• 22 fat eighths of a variety of fabrics for the butterflies
• Half yard of a pale grey or cream fabric for the large diamonds
• 3/ 4 yard of low volume background fabric that contrasts a bit to your half yard of pale fabric.
• Marking pen or chalk pencil
• Tiny cutting mat approximately 6” x 8”
• Sharp scissors such as Karen Kay Buckley Perfect Scissors
• Backing fabric 20” x 20”
• 100% cotton batting piece 19” x 19”
• 42 - 5” squares of a variety of colours/prints of fabrics
• Applique pins (approximately 50)
• Seam Roller
• Sashiko needle , long size
• 12 wt thread in a contrasting colour to your fabrics. We recommend a variegated thread or go with plain white
• Velvet fabric 4 - 3.5” squares

You will need the book Creative Stitching by Sue Spargo. We will have copies available to purchase before the cruise.

• 10 different colours of wool fabric each sized 2” x 2”
• Background wool fabric in spring leaf green sized 6” x 6”
• Backing wool fabric of pin cushion 6” x 6”
• 3 different colours of velvet fabric each sized 2” x 2”
• One small button for embellishing
• Cotton fabric lining 2 pieces each sized 5-½” x 4-½” (not needed on the cruise)
• Crushed walnut shells (not needed on the cruise)
• #24 chenille needle
• #11 straw needle
• #3 milliners needle
• Drizzle stitch wool pad
• 5 different colours of size 8 perle cotton thread to coordinate with your wool fabrics
• 12wt Ellana wool applique thread in 7 colours to coordinate with your wool fabrics
• 60wt neutral applique thread in cotton
• Bohin glue pen

Supply List:

•  scissors (any size)
• reading glasses if you use them
• Sashiko thread (any colour but navy) and sashiko needle (available from Watergirl Quilt Co.)
• rotary cutter, ruler and cutting mat
• basic sewing supplies, including pins, seam ripper, tape measure and wooden presser/point turner or Hera marker
• kit pre-purchased from Watergirl Quilts (contains all pieces pre cut and ready to sew) or you will be able to pre-cut your own fabrics. Cutting list will be provided after workshop selection has taken place.
• rotary cutter, ruler and small cutting mat
• basic sewing supplies, including pins, seam ripper, tape measure and wooden presser/point turner or a Hera marker (Clover brand or a custom wood one from Watergirl Quilt Co.)

There will be a required kit for this class. Kits will be available to order once class selection has taken place. The kit fee will be approximately $30. Quilting cotton thread will be supplied. Please do not bring your own threads.

Please bring the following to class with you:

• Quilter’s gloves such as Grippy Gloves, Acugrip Quitler’s glove (Machinger’s not recommended)
• basic sewing supplies – scissors, pins, curved safety pins, etc.

Your request is important to us. We are currently addressing pandemic needs and will get back to you in 1 to 2 business days.

• 0 Shopping Cart $ 0.00 -->

Alaska Quilter’s Cruise

Join Christina on the Holland America Vista Class ship, the  Eurodam September 23-30, 2023 along with other quilters and fiber artists for a “Quilt Seminar at Sea” Alaskan Explorer cruise.

Alaska Wildlife- Otters by Christina Fairley Erickson

For the complete itinerary and information, go to QuiltCruises.com

Experience Alaska!

With so much bountiful wildlife and breathtaking scenery, no wonder “The Last Frontier” is the first choice on most cruise lover’s wish lists. There’s something wonderful awaiting you in every port of call:

• Juneau –  In Alaska’s capital, taste salmon baked over an alderwood fire, pan for gold, flight-see the Juneau Ice Field, and visit the Mendenhall glacier.
• Sitka –  Step back to the days of Russian Alaska as you watch lively performances of the New Archangel Dancers and view holy paintings of the Czarists’ days. Plenty of wildlife adventures await!
• Icy Strait Point  – See the beautifully restored cannery building, museum and cannery demonstration set amid the breathtaking backdrop of the Tongass.
• Ketchikan –  Immerse yourself in Tlingit Indian culture as you view the world’s largest collection of totem poles or kayak the colorful waterfront. Visit Creek Street and see Alaska as the early pioneers did.
• Victoria, B.C. –  Stroll through the charming downtown of this very British city. Or, just outside the city, visit the lush flora and fauna of Butchart Gardens.

You can play tourist, choosing your pleasure, whether it be walking, touring, flight-seeing or shopping. All the ports we visit are directly in town, and there is a lot to see within walking distance, including quilt shops in every port.

Consider bringing a friend, your spouse or your family – non-quilters are always welcome to join us and will have many activities to pursue while you are in class. We hope you can join us!

Sincerely, Christina Fairley Erickson, Chardel Blaine, Scott Walton, and Jeanette Walton, instructors

Amy Ross, Group Coordinator – Quilt Seminars at Sea

Here are the classes Christina is teaching:

Alaska Wildlife Portrait:

Choose one of your favorite Alaska animals or birds (otters, moose, wolf, grizzly bear, eagle, or auklet) to transfer to fabric and then color in yourself using Gelatos (fabric pastels) and InkTense pencils. After lunch we’ll add hand-stitching to enhance the animal and bring it to life! You do not need to know how to draw to be successful in this class – you’ll learn a simple technique to get a fabulous result that you can use in your quilting in the future.

Mendenhall Glacier in Impressionistic Textile Collage:

Using an impressionistic technique of pointillism, you’ll choose from 12 different color schemes and collage fabric pieces to create a landscape view of Mendenhall Glacier. After your collage is complete, you can add stitching to embellish, giving your piece dimensionality and texture.

Mendenhall Glacier by Christina Fairley Erickson

See information on all the available classes here!

This function has been disabled for Christina Fairley Erickson .

**Section for Mobile | Please don't delete | This is not visible to Visitors**

Providing quilt inspired journeys since 2004.

World of Quilts Travel is internationally recognized as the leading provider of quilt inspired travel, taking pride in providing unparalleled experiences, service and value. We believe that travel should be about the total experience and promise to turn your journey into a memory that will last a lifetime!

**Start Editing From Below | This is not visible to Visitors**

World of Quilts Travel is internationally recognized as the leading provider of quilt inspired travel, taking pride in providing unparalleled experiences, service and value. We believe that travel should be about the total experience and promise to turn your journey into a memory that will last a lifetime!   We hope to see you sometime soon in the World of Quilts.

Meet The Founder

For twenty years, Deb Roberts has provided quilt and textile related travel to the quilting world.  Her quilt-rich past spans more than 3 decades as a quiltmaker, collector, researcher/historian, teacher, author, appraiser and video/dvd producer. Deb has been interested in quilts since childhood and passionate about travel for as long as she can recall.

See Us In Action

Why travel with us, customer reviews, sponsors and affiliations.

• Why Travel with Us
• Our Tour Managers

USEFUL INFORMATION

• Travel Safely with Covid
• Solo Travelers
• Free Travel Opportunities
• Travel Tips
• Fundraising

TOURS & CRUISES

• Upcoming Trips
• General FAQ’s
• Cruise FAQs

COPYRIGHT © 2004-2024 DEB ROBERTS – Itineraries, images or text may not be used without written permission. World of Quilts uses the services of Deb Roberts’ Tours, CST  2090694-40. ( Copy of Certificate ) All travelers are protected by the Travel Consumer Restitution Corporation.  Trips, itineraries and provided information are the intellectual property of Deb Roberts Tours and are protected.  

The collection of guest’s email addresses or other contact information for list distribution is strictly prohibited.  

Terms and Conditions may be found here.

We’re in this together. See our thoughts on COVID-19

Call toll-free 1-866-573-6351

Quilt Your Way to Extraordinary Destinations!

Join fellow quilt enthusiasts and award-winning instructors on a variety of worldwide quilt cruises and tours. Learn new techniques from the experts and share your love of quilting with fellow quilters. You will walk away with new friends, fond memories, new techniques and completed projects. Select a cruise below or contact us for more information.

Glacier Bay Alaska Adventure

7 Days • August 17-24, 2024

Explore the majestic Glacier Bay on this Alaskan adventure with instructors Michele Everts, Gail Garber and Rita Lynne .

Canada New England Discovery

7 Days • October 5-12, 2024

Marvel at the Fall colors on this cruise from Boston to Quebec City with instructors Chardel Blaine and Kathy K Wylie .

Batiks of Bali

14 Days • December 8-22, 2024

A unique and exciting journey that gives you an inclusive look into the fabric and textile industry of Indonesia.

Exclusive AQS Panama Canal

12 Days • February 2-14, 2025

A memorable journey to the historic Panama Canal on our inaugural American Quilting Society Member’s only cruise!

Japan & South Korea Discovery

14 Days • March 16-30, 2025

Join Sue Nickels and Paula Nadelstern as we sail around Japan and South Korea..

Kenya Textile Safari

10 Days • July 15-25, 2025

Explore the fabric markets in Kenya, amazing wildlife and beautiful landscapes on this once in a lifetime trip!

Set Sail on a Quilting Cruise

Quilting’s common thread stitches instant connections at sea .

Imagine being surrounded by friendly people who share your passion for an activity while learning from world-class teachers. Then, picture yourself exploring beautiful port cities around the world. That’s exactly what quilters can expect on a specialty quilting cruise . 

While quilting dates back to medieval times, quilting cruises are a relatively new invention. They’ve fast risen in popularity, drawing beginners and experts alike.  

Stitch and cruise to Alaska, Norway, Thailand and beyond 

Quilt cruise destinations range from Thailand to Norway, and from Alaska to Panama, and each cruise is custom cut for quilters. Quilt Seminars at Sea , for example, typically welcomes 150 quilters aboard at each sailing. Owned by AAA Washington, Quilt Seminars at Sea offers cruises to a variety of destinations, each with a AAA travel expert on board to ensure that everything goes smoothly. The company also provides equipment, including high-quality sewing machines, irons and scissors.  

What’s more, the quality of instruction on board quilting cruises is second to none. The cruise environment is a unique setting in which to learn, be inspired and really get to know the teachers. 

While ships are at sea, quilters take classes and seminars with instructors Kathy McNeil, Gyleen X. Fitzgerald, Paula Nadelstern, Cindy Walter, and Sue Nickels, among others.  

“Most quilters enjoy the fact that our instructors are part of the group,” explains AAA’s Amy Ross, who leads several quilting cruises a year. “At retreats on land, you may not see teachers outside the classroom. By contrast, Quilt Seminars at Sea’s teachers are chosen because they are friendly and love to join in—you’ll see them pop in for Open Sew and chat with students before dinner. These experts are available outside of class to vacation with.” 

Quilting cruises offer something for non-quilters, too 

Most quilting cruises are “cruises within a cruise”—each cruise is staged on a larger ship, so everyone on board enjoys all the activities and amenities of a traditional cruise as well. It’s for that reason that many quilters are accompanied by non-quilting friends and family members. There’s an abundance of fun for everyone, and all the amazing food, fitness and entertainment options that make cruising popular. While quilters enjoy learning new techniques and deepening their skills, their travel buddies have the time of their lives.  

Cruises are what you make them, and you never know what’s going to happen when quilters and their friends come on board. 

“Each cruise tends to form its own personality,” said Ross. “On one cruise, you could find the quilters (and teachers) almost every night in the BB King Blues Club aboard Holland America Line dancing the night away. On another, the spouses banded together as a pack and created mischief (the good kind) in the casino and whiskey bars while the quilters were in class. Another cruise had the instructor stopping class early so they could go to High Tea every day.” 

Cruises tailored for solo travelers 

While some quilters bring their families along, others travel solo. In fact, many solo travelers consider quilting cruises an ideal way to travel solo—but not be alone. Not only do sole travelers have the comfort and safety of traveling in a group, but they also have the fun of being together with like-minded people. Plus, solo travelers can take advantage of the roommate matching program—it’s a virtual guarantee that roommate will never complain about any fabric purchases cluttering the cabin. 

According to Ross, many first timers choose the Alaska Quilt Seminar for their first venture to sea. It offers a taste of quilt cruising and an instant sense of community. It also goes without saying that the natural beauty of Alaska is second-to-none. 

Spending time with others who love quilting is perhaps the number one reason that quilters love cruises. The common thread that unites all quilters makes for fast friendships, lots of laughs and beautiful quilts. When you’re surrounded by people who “get” you, there’s always something to talk about and share. 

Shop local fabric stores and connect with kindred spirits 

Each Quilt Seminars at Sea itinerary is unique and puts a fresh twist on quilting. For anyone who can never have “enough” fabric, the Batiks of Bali cruise answers the call. It’s a deep dive into the Indonesian fabric industry that features visits to textile markets galore, plus the chance to observe the process of making batiks—and make your own. Quilters hear directly from a batik expert and learn the process all the way from design and production. They’ll even make their own hand-made batik to bring home. 

Regardless of the destination, the Quilt Seminars at Sea team is always standing by with recommendations for the best local fabric stores at each port of call. Suffice it to say that you’ll never be rushed out of a fabric store because a fellow traveler wants to do something else. 

On select tours, quilters also can connect personally with other quilters and share their cultures through quilting. During a port day in Istanbul on a recent cruise, quilters gathered together with a local quilting guild. They were in awe as Turkish quilters opened their homes and shared their take on designs, fabrics and each quilt’s unique story. 

Connect with your personal guild 

The instant connection that quilters experience with each other on board quilting cruises often extends to post-vacation life. Many quilters form lifelong friendships and connect with future travel partners. Some take a different cruise together each year, uniting on board as if not a moment has passed.  

Ask anyone who has been on a quilting cruise and they’ll tell you, friendship is sewn with love and measured by kindness, especially at sea. 

For a list of quilting cruise 2023 sailings, click here . 

Travel Planning Tips

Get expert advice: No matter what destination you choose, or how you wish to travel, AAA Travel Agents can help you plan a perfect experience that you will remember for years to come.

Purchase travel insurance: Protect your trip investment with travel insurance .

Consider Concierge: AAA’s Concierge Vacations feature done-for-you details and special amenities for travel to world-wide destinations. AAA Travel Agents will make your planning a breeze and your vacation unforgettable.

Join AAA: Your AAA membership offers peace of mind on the road, valuable benefits, travel and insurance services, exclusive discounts , and much more.

Interested in planning your next road trip with AAA Washington? Call your travel agent directly or your nearest AAA store to get pro tips, TripTik maps, and more. Find more Pacific Northwest scenic drives and road trips .

Share this post

Featured Stories

Woodinville Getaway: Pair Wine with Adventure

Summer at Crystal Mountain Is Filled with Adventure

Get Discount Sports Tickets with AAA

Explore Ireland Off the Beaten Path

All You Need to Know About E-Bikes 

10 Great Washington State Children’s Museums 

Discover More

What’s the Best Food to Eat in Alaska?

Alaska’s food culture, especially world-renowned Alaskan seafood, has a way of bringing people back to the state again and again.

Adventure Awaits on a Cruise to Québec, Newfoundland and New England

A mythic journey along the scenic St. Lawrence River and out to the Atlantic, this Concierge Cruise is a cultural immersion into Québec, Newfoundland and the Maritimes.  

3 Alaska Port Cities Worth Exploring

See rugged beauty, Klondike history and Indigenous culture in the Alaska port cities of Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan.

Plan Your Next Cruise with AAA Travel

Products & services.

• Identity Theft Protection
• Financial Services
• Approved Auto Repair
• Roadside Assistance
• Auto Club App
• Store Locations
• Traffic Safety
• Terms & Conditions
• Become a Provider
• Renew Membership
• Upgrade Membership
• Find Discounts
• Maps & Tourbooks
• Visit Another Club

Copyright © 2022 AAA Washington. All Rights Reserved. | Privacy Policy | Website Terms of Use | Membership Terms & Conditions

Our Territory: AAA Washington proudly serves AAA members residing in Washington & Northern Idaho. Products and services may vary depending upon your geographic location. Restrictions apply. AAA membership is subject to terms and conditions. See the membership terms for further details.

Google Play and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google LLC. App Store® and the App Store® logo are trademarks of Apple Inc.

explore near and far

Travel with aaa, exclusive offers and discounts.

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

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

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

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

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

Why cruise Alaska?

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

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

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

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

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

When do cruises go to Alaska?

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

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

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

Related: Best time to cruise to Alaska

Best Alaska itineraries

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

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

Inside Passage

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler

Gulf of Alaska

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

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

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

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

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

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

Longer sailings from the West Coast

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

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

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

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

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

Cruisetours

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

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

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

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

Related: The best credit cards for booking cruises

Best Alaska cruise lines

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

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

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

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

Best cruise lines for extended trips to Alaska

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

Best Alaska cruises for families with kids

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

Related: 6 best Alaska cruises for families

Best cruise lines for adventure-seekers

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

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

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

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

Best for multigenerational groups

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

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

Best for couples and big celebrations

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

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

Related: The best Alaska cruises for couples

Things to do in Alaska

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

Related: Best shore excursions on an Alaska cruise

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: 15 Alaska cruise mistakes you never want to make

Best Alaska cruise ports

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Icy Strait Point

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

Scenic cruising

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

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

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

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

When to book an Alaska cruise

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

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

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

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

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

What to bring on an Alaska cruise

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

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

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

Bottom line

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

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Help me choose: which Alaska Cruise is right for me?

Apr 23, 2024 • 7 min read

Taking to the water is a wonderful way to see Alaska's incredible coastline © Bala Sivakumar / Getty Images

Alaska's impressive southern coastlines contain hordes of island archipelagos, deep fjords and ancient glaciers. Nearly all of the area is roadless, so seafaring vessels, including cruise ships, are a popular way for visitors to experience these pristine areas.

Large cruise companies sail Alaska's Inside Passage from Seattle , Washington and Vancouver , and on through the Gulf of Alaska to Seward or Whittier. In between, passengers usually stop in Ketchikan , Juneau and Skagway , and then sail up College Fjord to see glaciers stretching their icy fingers into the sea. You'll see plenty of stunning scenery along the way but not up close – for most cruisers, it's more than enough to satisfy.

Smaller cruises max out at around 200 passengers and can nose into Southeast Alaska's nooks and crannies, launching skiffs and kayaks from their lower decks for an immersive shore visit full of exploration. These vessels may not stop in local ports, instead anchoring at night and offering guests the chance to hike a remote shoreline, whale-watch from a kayak or attend a presentation by indigenous artisans. If any ports are visited, they're likely to be smaller communities like Wrangell, Sitka, Petersburg and Yakutat.

Additionally, with the Northwest Passage now open to marine traffic, the northwestern city of Nome is a regular port of call for higher-end, midsize cruise lines to expose passengers to the rural reaches of coastal Alaska. The Aleutian Island city of Unalaska is also on some boutique cruise line itineraries, so check carefully that the region that sparks your interest.

Which part of Alaska should I choose to cruise?

For an overview of Alaska The standard Inside Passage cruise between Vancouver or Seattle and Seward or Whittier is an excellent choice, boasting beautiful scenery and the chance to experience a route taken by steamships of the late 1800s. You’ll get a snapshot of the Tongass National Forest , glaciers and the occasional whale or bear, but not up close unless you’re on a specific shore excursion. Holland America, Cunard and Viking all have cruises that fit this itinerary.

Taking a deep dive into Alaska’s coastal regions   Book a small ship cruise between Sitka, Ketchikan, and Juneau for a week or longer in the nooks and crannies of southeast Alaska. You’ll hike where there are no trails, paddle without another human in sight, and get to know the traditional lands of Alaska’s Coastal Native tribes. We like Alaskan Dream Cruises, UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions for smaller, more sustainable cruises.

To discover Alaska’s rich history You can’t skip Ketchikan, Juneau or Skagway on an itinerary. Juneau is the state capital and a former mining community. Ketchikan once was a major player in the timber industry and has a sordid past steeped in bootlegging and brothels. Skagway was a jumping-off point for the Klondike Gold Rush beyond Chilkoot Pass and has an old railroad to prove it. All three cities are often on large ship itineraries.

Explore Alaska’s most remote coastal areas Consider a luxury midsize (or smaller) cruise to places like Dutch Harbor in the Aleutian Islands or to the northwestern city of Nome. Both combine a look at the rugged, raw coastlines with time spent on shore in towns with few frills. Weather can often be cold, rainy and windy, but if you want a unique adventure in Alaska, check out the itineraries from Hurtigruten.

When should I go?

Depending on the cruise line, sailings begin in late April and continue through to early October. The most dependable weather typically appears in July and August, but that's also the most popular (and expensive) time; pick a trip earlier or later in the season for cheaper passage and shore excursions.

For spring and fall passengers, know that temperatures will be cooler than you might expect and variable types of precipitation, including snow showers, aren't unusual. In the summer, it's still cool on deck and near glaciers, so don't expect a lot of outdoor pool time or sunbathing on board.

If spotting wildlife is a priority, consider cruising during the salmon runs, when bears are most active and can be spotted from the decks of the ship. Humpback whales often follow schools of herring and other small fish during the summer and can be seen anytime between May and September before they migrate to Hawaii or Mexico .

How do I know my cruise line is operating sustainably?

While all travel has environmental and cultural impacts, cruising leaves its mark to varying degrees on Alaska's fragile ecosystems. The average large cruise ship can have a carbon footprint greater than 12,000 cars and produce up to a ton of trash each day. While there can be a positive economic impact on ports of call, a small community visited by 15,000 people per day during sailing season can intrinsically change.

The industry's trade group Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) touts a desire for "conscious cruising." They have guidelines for water conservation and upgrades to heating, air-conditioning and ventilation, with a goal for ships to be net zero by 2050. There is also a focus on respecting the cultural traditions of destinations through cooperative regenerative tourism that preserves a community's unique history, culture and values.

What kinds of activities can we experience?

Onshore activities differ depending on the size and style of the cruise. Traditional excursions are created to fit a specific number of people, all of whom come from the ships and are expected to be in port for a specific time. They provide an overview of Alaska's history, culture, recreation and industry, and don't offer much of a personal touch.

Smaller boutique cruises strive to immerse their guests in the wild Alaska they've researched and desire to experience. Trips to shore rarely involve large port cities except for embarking and disembarking – instead, they drop kayaks in the water from the ship or use a rubber skiff to reach a deserted shoreline for a hike. The communities they visit are usually smaller, like Petersburg, Wrangell or Haines.

• Glacier & Wildlife Tours: Cruise for a few hours aboard a smaller vessel to witness whales, otters, seals and icy glaciers.
• Dogsledding: Learn about mushing, huskies and the operations of sled-dog kennels before taking a spin behind a team.
• ATV Adventuring: Rev up for a wilderness or tundra tour aboard a four-wheeler or side-by-side vehicle.
• Flightseeing:  Take a unique peek at Alaska's landscapes from above, spotting wildlife, and ogling glaciers and mountain ranges.
• Alaska Native Traditions:  Learn the ways of Alaska's many tribal groups, with dancing, drumming and art displays as part of the program.
• Ride a Historic Train:  Skagway's White Pass Yukon Railroad climbs over Chilkoot Pass for a hands-on gold-rush history tour.
• Paddle Power:  Hop in a raft or kayak and explore Alaska's beautiful coastlines and rivers.

Need-to-know before you go

Plan for wet weather Alaska’s southeastern region is part of a rainforest, where wet conditions are the norm even in summer. Bring waterproof rain gear, sturdy shoes, a hat and gloves to stay warm and dry.

Know your physical limits If mobility or other health issues may affect your ability to enjoy a cruise to the fullest, consider traveling with a larger operator. These companies are well-versed in accessibility and have made accommodations for those with mobility needs. Smaller ships are full of trip hazards and watertight door jambs and require bending and stepping up or down to access activities like kayaking or skiff rides.

Plan your own shoreside activities There is no requirement to book excursions or activities through the cruise line. If a more independent style of exploration is your thing, feel free to do your own research ahead of time or visit each port of call’s visitor bureau upon arrival. Just be sure to adhere strictly to the ship’s boarding time. 

Look to shoulder season sailings Not only will you often receive a significant discount, you’ll also be able to witness Alaska’s seasonal transitions and fewer crowds at ports of call.

Know what "all-inclusive" really means:  Drill down into the details of your cruise and ask questions about meals, alcoholic beverages, activities and shore trips. It may be that a smaller cruise line will include everything at one price.

Explore related stories

Apr 22, 2024 • 6 min read

From challenging climbs to leisurely strolls along the beach, Oregon has a hiking trail for every ability level.

Apr 19, 2024 • 10 min read

Apr 18, 2024 • 7 min read

Apr 15, 2024 • 12 min read

Apr 6, 2024 • 9 min read

Apr 5, 2024 • 6 min read

Apr 4, 2024 • 7 min read

Mar 27, 2024 • 7 min read

Mar 25, 2024 • 8 min read

*FREE shipping on orders of $99+

Stitchin Heaven

2019 north to alaska quilting cruise.

Join Stitchin' Heaven and friends on a 7-night Alaska Sawyer Glacier Cruise! Cruise and learn from quilting experts:  Chris Hoover, Kari Nichols, and Cat Nix.

Call for Price

Notify me when available

We will send you a notification as soon as this product is available again.

We don't share your email with anybody