cruises to alaska holland america

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Alaska cruises have surged in popularity in recent years, and demand to see America's last unspoiled frontier continues to grow. If you decide to cruise Alaska you can see snowcapped peaks, mighty glaciers, steep fjords and such wildlife as whales, black bears, brown bears, bald eagles, sea otters and seals. You'll also find historic gold rush towns, Native American art and culture, Russian heritage and plenty of outdoor adventure. Because of this region's popularity and short season, the per-diem prices for Alaska cruises are among the highest in the cruise industry.

Alaska cruises are generally divided into two types, Inside Passage cruises and Gulf of Alaska cruises. The Inside Passage has been the traditional way to cruise Alaska, with most ships sailing round-trip from Vancouver or Seattle, through glacier country as far north as Skagway or Juneau. Gulf of Alaska cruises cover more territory as they travel from Vancouver through the Inside Passage and up to Seward/Anchorage (or the reverse). Airfare for a Gulf of Alaska cruise is generally more expensive because Anchorage is so far north.

• The Alaska cruise season lasts from May through September.
• Cruises to Alaska are 7 to 12 nights in length.
• You can find the most affordable Alaska cruise rates in May and September, the off-peak periods.
• Nearly half of all passengers add a land tour to their Alaska cruise. Denali National Park, the Yukon gold rush country and the Canadian Rockies are among options.
• Alaska experiences long hours of daylight during summer, lasting up to 23 hours a day in June.
• In addition to popular sightseeing tours via train and motorcoach, cruise lines have added more adventurous shore excursions to Alaska itineraries, such as sea kayaking, mountain hiking and salmon fishing.
• If you have frequent-flier miles, this may be a good time to use a free ticket to fly round trip to Vancouver, the main port of departure for Inside Passage cruises.
• Because in most cases you'll need to fly a long distance to reach your port of departure, we suggest that you arrive at the port city at least one or two days in advance of your cruise. This will give you time to rest and get oriented before boarding the ship. Most cruise lines offer pre-cruise hotel packages.

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Experiencing the Best Of Alaska With Holland America Line

Cruises , Online Exclusives

Holland America Line’s immersive Alaska voyages showcase The Great Land’s amazing wildlife, scenic wonders, rich culture and authentic local cuisine

Alaska is a sought-after destination for leisure group travelers, and cruises are one of the most popular ways to experience the 49th state. Summer Alaska cruise volume climbed to nearly 1.7 million cruise passengers last year, significantly above the record number welcomed in 2019. Cruise lines expect the surging demand for Alaska voyages to continue this year as well.  

Holland America Line is an exceptional choice for Alaska voyages. With more than 75 years in Alaska, Holland America offers a variety of exciting itineraries and shore excursions in the Last Frontier. Holland America Line’s 11 upscale ships feature specialty dining restaurants, entertainment, and outstanding enrichment programming, allowing groups to customize a wide array of experiences to match their travelers’ interests.  

On Holland America Line voyages, guests can enjoy unforgettable adventures and experience Alaska in a memorable way. During our Southeast Alaska cruise, we saw humpback whales breaching and bubble-net feeding, sampled authentic local cuisines, soared above the rainforest on the world’s largest ZipRider, observed bald eagles and massive Alaskan brown bears, and learned about Alaska’s culture and way of life. Throughout our Holland America Line Alaska journey, the enchanting destination was the star of the show.

Holland America Line’s Eurodam (Photo credit: Nancy Schretter)

Sailing On A Holland America Line Southeast Alaska Cruise

Our Holland America Line voyage aboard the 2,104-passenger Eurodam sailed round-trip from Seattle, Washington. The classic 7-day Alaskan Explorer itinerary featured alluring ports of call, including Juneau, Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan, and Victoria, British Columbia. While I’ve explored Alaska multiple times on large and small ships, this itinerary offered the opportunity to visit Icy Strait Point for the first time and return to perennial favorite Glacier Bay. Holland America Line’s shore excursions are outstanding, and the entire journey exceeded my expectations.

Our Alaska adventure departed from Seattle in the mid-afternoon, which allowed a full day and a half of enriching Alaska programming and entertainment before reaching Juneau. Holland America Line’s exclusive Explorations Central (EXC) destination programs are exceptional, and we enjoyed several engaging EXC talks and presentations while bound for Alaska. Holland America Line’s cruises also feature an onboard wildlife expert, and we attended his wildlife spotting sessions throughout the cruise.  

The Juneau cruise port provides convenient access to local shops and restaurants. (Photo credit: Nancy Schretter)

Exploring Juneau’s Memorable Attractions

Juneau is a popular Alaska cruise port, offering a wide variety of shore excursions for all interests. Our Holland America Line itinerary gave us nine hours to spend in Juneau, and we used every moment to its fullest. We explored Juneau’s vibrant food scene on a fabulous culinary walk, tasting our way through many of the best food and drink venues in the downtown area. Juneau is home to award-winning eateries and James Beard-nominated chefs, and our fantastic guide provided insights about Juneau’s history, culture, and local culinary gems. 

Next up was our small-group whale-watching tour on a fully permitted research vessel which collects data for university and regional science programs. A whale sighting was guaranteed, and our captain and Mother Nature delivered in a big way. We saw humpback whales breaching and bubble-net feeding, cute seals, lounging sea lions and other marine life. Our naturalist guide was excellent, providing knowledgeable insights about Alaska’s whales and marine environment. 

Massive Margerie Glacier in Glacier Bay National Park (Photo credit: Nancy Schretter)

Spectacular Scenic Cruising In Glacier Bay National Park

In a cruise filled with extraordinary experiences, our stellar day sailing through Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve was at the top of the list. National Park Service rangers boarded our ship to provide a variety of programming, and our captain opened up Eurodam’s bow deck as we glided up the 65-mile-long waterway. Scenic commentary was offered throughout the journey, and we sampled Holland America Line’s delicious Dutch pea soup out on deck. 

Glacier Bay has more than 1,000 glaciers, and we spent much of the day mesmerized by the iconic ice-filled landscapes and awe-inspiring views. Our captain kept the ship situated in the Margerie Glacier area for some time, allowing us to watch as huge chunks of electric-blue ice cracked and crashed into the water below. We also sailed in front of Johns Hopkins Inlet for my first-ever view of the park’s most active advancing tidewater glacier. Wildlife is abundant, and we spotted graceful humpback whales, harbor seals, brown bears, sea otters, and bald eagles. 

Icy Strait Point’s ZipRider features breathtaking speeds and stunning views. (Photo credit: Nancy Schretter)

Thrilling Adventures And Cultural Heritage At Icy Strait Point

After sailing through Glacier Bay National Park, our ship arrived at Icy Strait Point for a several hour visit. Privately owned and operated by Huna Totem Corporation, this lovely port near Glacier Bay immerses visitors in Alaska’s beauty and Native Tlingit culture. Guests can visit a restored 1912 salmon cannery and museum, shop at Alaskan-owned retail stores and enjoy incredible outdoor experiences, including the epic ZipRider Adventure. 

I have looked forward to racing down the world’s largest ZipRider for well over a decade, and the thrilling flight lived up to its bucket list billing. We boarded the SkyGlider Mountaintop Gondola for a scenic ride to the top of Hoonah Mountain, then made our way to the ZipRider launch area. The Icy Strait Point attraction is taller than New York’s Empire State Building and features six 5,330-foot zip lines. Riders accelerate to more than 60 miles per hour, and the adrenaline rush is only matched by the dazzling panoramic views. 

A rescued Alaskan brown bear at Sitka’s Fortress of the Bear (Photo credit: Nancy Schretter)

Memorable Wildlife Watching In Sitka

Tiny Sitka is one of my favorite Alaskan ports of call, and it’s loaded with attractions for those interested in nature, history, and culture. Having visited Sitka’s charming downtown multiple times, I opted for an outstanding land and sea adventure focusing on Sitka’s unforgettable wildlife viewing experiences. It proved to be an excellent choice.

We boarded a deluxe catamaran for a beautiful cruise into Southeast Alaska’s marine ecosystem, viewing rafts of sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions, and humpback whales along the way. Our excursion continued by bus to the Alaska Raptor Center and Fortress of the Bear rescue center in Silver Bay. Our group enjoyed touring the outstanding facilities, learning about Alaska’s wildlife, and being so close to these incredible creatures. 

Entertaining Enrichment In Ketchikan

The final Alaskan port of call on our cruise itinerary was Ketchikan, home to the F/V Aleutian Ballad. The commercial crab fishing boat was made famous in the second season of the Discovery Channel’s award-winning “Deadliest Catch” reality TV series. The seasoned crew brings their captivating tales to life during the popular Bering Sea Crab Fishermen’s tour, immersing guests in their personal stories of harrowing adventures at sea.

The Aleutian Ballad sails along the protected waters of Alaska’s Inside Passage during the three-hour excursion, and wildlife is plentiful. We watched as the crew hauled crabs, octopus, fish, and other marine life onboard, and it was fun to hold some of them as well. One of the most memorable highlights was watching dozens of bald eagles circling and diving for fish near lovely Annette Island. Their aerial acrobatics were amazing. 

Wok-seared lobster and other delights at Eurodam’s Tamarind restaurant (Photo credit: Nancy Schretter)

Outstanding Amenities And Culinary Experiences On The Eurodam

Holland America Line’s Eurodam is an ideal size for an Alaska cruise, offering plenty of restaurants and attractions without being overwhelming. Refurbished in 2015, the intimate mid-size ship delivers an amenity-rich, premium cruise experience for guests without the crowds and distractions often found on larger vessels. The ship’s attentive service, World Stage performances, and “Alaska Up Close” guest experiences are exceptional. 

In addition to the immersive Alaska-themed enrichment programming, groups will enjoy the spacious accommodations, a wide variety of dining options, the centralized pool with retractable roof, world-class spa, and the prodigious amount of live entertainment on board. We spent most of our evenings at Billboard Onboard or B.B. King’s Blues Club, listening to the fabulous vocalists and dancing the night away. The ship’s high-octane Orange Party was a fun-filled celebration to remember, too. 

Dining is one of the perennial highlights aboard a Holland America Line Alaska cruise. Holland America Line’s culinary offerings are superb, and the Eurodam features a wide array of award-winning dining experiences to please every palate. The cruise line is passionate about culinary excellence, and its Culinary Council of renowned chefs develops world-class menus for dining venues throughout the fleet.  

We enjoyed the certified sustainable and traceable wild Alaska seafood and regionally inspired cuisine at multiple shipboard restaurants and the delectable Alaska Brunch in Eurodam’s Dining Room. My meals at two of the ship’s specialty dining venues, Tamarind and the Pinnacle Grill, rank among the best I’ve had at sea. We also enjoyed sampling Holland America’s cocktails featuring authentic glacier ice and the fantastic hot coffee drinks at the Explorations Cafe. 

While taking in the panoramic views in The Crow’s Nest on our last day at sea, I spent time thinking back on our incredible Alaska adventures. The Last Frontier is addictive, as is Holland America Line’s idyllic cruise experience. Once you’ve journeyed to Alaska, you’ll find yourself planning to visit again. 

By Nancy Schretter

Lead Photo: Holland America Line ship in Glacier Bay (Photo credit: Holland America Line)

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• Alaskan Cruises

This 'Alaskan Explorer' Cruise Takes You Whale-watching, Wandering Seaside Towns, and Sailing Right Through Stunning Glacier Bay

There are a great many cruise destinations around the world that I’d like to profess my love for, but the one I will forever rave about is Alaska. And as you’re planning your travel year and scouting cruise destinations, Holland America Line’s 7-Day Alaskan Explorer is an itinerary that should absolutely be on your radar.

Why does Alaska lend itself so well to cruises? The northernmost U.S. state has always been a bucket-list destination, and there are so many coveted sights to see spread throughout the Last Frontier. Once you get a taste, you’ll want to see them all, and cruising is the simplest and most luxurious way to cover as much ground as possible. Enter: Holland America Line’s Signature-class Eurodam ship.

Beyond the ease of getting around on the Eurodam, some of Alaska’s most memorable sights are best seen on the water. Because, you know, what’s better than paying 25-cents to peer through those clunky, iron binoculars (that look like refurbished parking meters) to scout glaciers? Sailing by the glaciers from the comfort of your cruise ship.

Holland America Line’s first trip of 2020 on the 7-Day Alaskan Explorer sets sail in May. And even before feasting your eyes on Alaskan glaciers and wildlife, you’ll get to cruise along one of my favorite coastlines in the world. Californians might argue that the legendary Pacific Coast Highway drive along Big Sur is the world’s best coastline experience, and the Francophiles are bound to favor the Riviera coast running from Nice to Monaco. But in my opinion, one of the most underrated but beautiful coasts is found in northern Washington. And while cruising to Alaska with Holland America Line, you’ll get to sail the Puget Sound and see the Pacific Northwest in its prime before arriving in Alaska.

After a day in Seattle, and a day along the Puget Sound and at sea, you’ll reach the famed Stephens Passage. The passageway starts in the Frederick Sound, which boasts the best whale watching in Alaska. As the sound narrows, you head into the wildly scenic Stephens Passage before winding up in Juneau.

Juneau is the eclectic capital of Alaska, and their quirkiness rivals the likes of Portland and Austin. We should really be saying, "Keep Juneau weird," if you ask me. While in Juneau, cruisers can tour the Mendenhall Glacier, or hike Mount Roberts with their eyes peeled for deer or bald eagles. If you’re looking for a treat-yourself experience, Juneau might be the place to splurge on Holland America Line’s Five Glacier Seaplane Exploration.

Day four brings cruisers to UNESCO World Heritage Site Glacier Bay National Park and Icy Point Strait. And the action continues on days five and six with two important Alaskan ports : Sitka and Ketchikan. If Juneau is the eclectic capital city of Alaska, Sitka is its rugged cousin. A much more remote section of the state, Sitka has a smattering of “Native Alaskan villages, all set amid lush forests and frigid, glacier-flanked waters,” says Holland America Line .

A true wildlife destination, the shore excursions here are all about fishing and otter spotting, and yes, to answer your inevitable question, the otters are exactly as cute as you’re expecting them to be. Ketchikan, on the other hand, feels like it’s straight out of a Scandinavian fairy tale. It is a destination of fjords and colorfully painted houses rising up from the water on stilts, and one of the shore excursions offered here involves a crab feast. Put another way, it’s a dream destination.

While at this point you’ve already seen the Puget Sound, the Frederick Sound, Stephens Passage, multiple glaciers, Seattle, Juneau, Sitka, and Ketchikan, you get a bonus city on the way back down to Seattle. That bonus city is Victoria, which in my humble Canadian opinion, is one of the most beautiful cities in Canada. Sitting right on the water, the Victoria Harbour views are surreal, and yet the whole city has a decidedly British feel to it.

Seeing this much beauty packed into seven days is, quite frankly, a lot to process. And while, first and foremost, it’s a privilege to see so much of the world’s natural majesty in one trip, you also need to give yourself adequate time to digest it. The serenity of Victoria is the perfect place to do this. Consider taking your day in Victoria to visit the Butchart Gardens where you can unwind amongst the plant life, regroup with the people you’re traveling with, or take some time to yourself.

Keep the perspective you’ve found in Alaska and Victoria with you as you sail back to Seattle and reacclimate to post-vacation life. Holland America Line’s 7-Day Alaskan Explorer trip will leave you filled with gratitude for our planet — from the orca whales and otters, to the fjords and glaciers.

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7 Best Cruises to Alaska, According to Travel Experts

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While some travelers dream of lounging on a beach in the Caribbean, others might be itching to put on hiking shoes and explore the great outdoors. If glaciers, wildlife and picturesque coastline have long been on your bucket list, consider booking a cruise to Alaska. The northernmost American state offers an activity for everyone's interest and level of adventure. You can take a thrilling helicopter flight to explore a glacier on foot or observe miles of Alaska’s lush scenery and spy whales from a comfortable seat on a boat.

Princess Cruises

A top choice for multi-generational families and larger groups seeking on-board experiences for a wide age range, Princess will sail seven ships to Alaska in 2024 — more than any other line. Princess also offers the most departure cities , potentially saving you money on airfare. Alaska sailings range from 4 to 22 days, though a week is the sweet spot. The line is also only one of seven permitted to enter the magnificent Glacier Bay National Park (shown); check out the tips at the end of the story for details.

Good Housekeeping Contributing Travel Editor Karen Cicero and her daughter recently sailed on Majestic Princess, a Family Travel Awards Winner , and raved about the ship's amenities, especially the Hollywood Pool Club. She described it as “an indoor space with a heated pool, plush loungers, and cabana-like spots that are free for all guests to use.” Cicero was also impressed with the entertainment and activities suitable for all ages, the excellent dining options and a supervised kids’ club for ages 3 to 12. "We saw grandparents and grandkids on the dance floor, at the shows, on the excursions — bonding moments were everywhere," Cicero said.

In 2024, Majestic Princess and Discovery Princess, the line's newest Alaska ship, will both sail roundtrip from Seattle. "You can't beat Princess if you're looking for an experience that will please all ages," said Cicero.

Departure Cities: Los Angeles; San Francisco; Seattle; Vancouver; Whittier, Alaska Cruise Ships: Crown Princess (2024 only); Grand Princess, Caribbean Princess (2025 only), Royal Princess, Sapphire Princess, Discovery Princess, Majestic Princess (2024 only), Crown Princess, Coral Princess (2025 only)

Norwegian Cruise Line

Passengers are loyal to Norwegian for its beautiful ships, top-notch service and innovative amenities. The cruise line pioneered the concept of “freestyle cruising," which includes a flexible dining time. Flexible cruising continues to be a major selling point , according to our testers who recently sailed roundtrip from Seattle to Alaska on the Norwegian Encore (pictured). "We enjoyed not having to rush back to the ship after an excursion because we had a dinner reservation," said our tester who sailed with her spouse.

They also frequented the Encore’s Observation Lounge, where they were able to cozy up and spend hours searching for marine life from floor-to-ceiling windows. Activities and entertainment, like go-karting, slides and laser tag, are abundant. For a premium experience, consider booking a stateroom in The Haven. The Encore's most luxurious accommodations feature spacious rooms — the bathrooms are nearly double the size of those in standard staterooms — a private sundeck and a concierge.

The variety of sailings to Alaska is also another reason to choose Norwegian. "If Hawaii is also on your bucket list, Norwegian is one of the only cruise lines to offer a 16-day cruise departing from Honolulu that sails through both Hawaii and Alaska so you explore two dreamy destinations on one vacation," said Cicero. She added that Norwegian sails to Alaska until late October — about a month longer than most cruise lines.

Departure Cities: Honolulu; Seattle; Seward, Alaska; Vancouver; Whittier, Alaska (2025) Cruise Ships: Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Jewel (only in 2024), Norwegian Spirit (only in May 2024), Norwegian Sun, Norwegian Jade (only in 2025), Norwegian Joy (only in 2025)

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Disney Cruise Line

Disney lovers will have the time of their lives sailing roundtrip from Vancouver to Alaska aboard the Disney Wonder. "It was the best experience ever," said a mom of two young adults who sailed on the ship in May 2023. "We felt like it was a great combination of Disney and Alaska."

On-board experiences brilliantly align with the destination. For instance, Disney characters are dressed in special outfits for Alaska and are on deck during the days at sea. "We were able to get incredible photos with the glaciers behind the characters," said the mom, who also noted that you can order Mickey Mouse ice cream bars from room service. Cicero added, "Disney has the best kids' and teen clubs of any cruise line. They're enormous, filled with epic activities like superhero training and are a great place for kids and teens to make friends."

If you want an equal dose of Disney and Alaska, this is the cruise for your crew. Sailings range from five to nine nights. All routes head to Stikine Icecap so guests can observe stunning glaciers, cliffs, waterfalls and wildlife.

Departure City: Vancouver Cruise Ship: Disney Wonder

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean doesn’t only sail to the Caribbean. This global cruise line whisks passengers to Alaska from popular ports such as Seattle and Vancouver. You can choose a classic seven-night itinerary or a 13-night land-and-sea getaway.

Cruise enthusiasts at the Good Housekeeping Institute are fans of Royal Caribbean for its state-of-the-art ships, exceptional service and high-quality entertainment. "Royal Caribbean had the first rock-climbing wall and ice-skating rink on a cruise ship," said Cicero. "Since then, they've brought so many other epic activities to sea." For instance, Royal Caribbean’s Quantum Class, which includes Quantum of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas, offers skydiving, a surf simulator and a robot bar. "This line is an especially good fit for families with tweens, teens and young adults ," said Cicero, who sailed on Royal Caribbean with her teen daughter.

Departure Cities: Seattle; Seward, Alaska; Vancouver Cruise Ships: Quantum of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas, Brilliance of the Seas (only in 2024), Ovation of the Seas (only in 2024), Serenade of the Seas (only in 2025)

National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions

For an incredible small-ship experience, look no further than the Lindblad Expeditions–National Geographic team-up. The largest of its ships that sail to Alaska can accommodate no more than 138 passengers — just a sliver of the 4,900 or so that Royal Caribbean's Quantum of the Seas can hold. " Being on a smaller vessel means that you’ll be able to sail right up to less frequented glaciers, waterfalls and fjords, " said Cicero.

Of course, an intimate experience comes at a higher price tag — its eight-day Alaskan adventure starts at about $6,200 per person, though you won't need to pay extra for excursions. "Voyages tend to be themed and stress the educational component," said Cicero. For instance, one focuses on coastal wildlife while another explores native cultures. A Good Housekeeping staff member who sailed the line to the Galápagos Islands (a providence of Ecuador) raved, "The ship was beautiful! I was super impressed with the staff and the service felt above and beyond.”

Departure Cities: Juneau, Alaska; Ketchikan, Alaska; Seattle; Sitka, Alaska Cruise Ships: National Geographic Quest, National Geographic Venture, National Geographic Sea Bird, National Geographic Sea Lion, National Geographic Resolution

Holland America Line

Holland America has a well-earned reputation for bringing guests to new destinations for more than 150 years. Its ships tend to be mid-sized — larger than Lindblad's offerings but smaller than the Quantum ships from Royal Caribbean. While Holland attracts an older demographic, its Alaskan cruises are often filled with multi-generational families.

One of the cruise line’s most popular itineraries is the Seven-Day Inside Passage, which takes you through Glacier Bay National Park, the Inside Passage, Tracy Arm Inlet and several must-visit port towns. But for adventure seekers curious to see as much of Alaska as possible, you’ll find tons of extended itineraries including a robust 28-day voyage that crosses the Arctic Circle.

Holland America is the only cruise line permitted to serve glacier ice, using it for cocktails like the Blue Iceberg and Juneau Gin & Tonic. The line also launched a new Alaskan-themed brunch menu offered once per cruise.

Departure Cities: Anchorage, Alaska (for land-sea tours only); Fairbanks, Alaska; Seattle; Vancouver, Whittier, Alaska Cruise Ships: Eurodam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Zuiderdam, Zaandam

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity is popular with adults and couples looking for a premium onboard experience, including delicious cuisine, luxurious staterooms and a high-end spa . We can’t imagine a better way to rest and relax after spending a day exploring the Alaskan wilderness. Our travel experts suggest choosing one of Celebrity's many Alaska itineraries that sail through the Inside Passage and up to Dawes Glacier or Hubbard Glacier, two of the state’s gems.

Of the three Celebrity ships that sail to Alaska, we recommend the Celebrity Edge for those new to cruising or seeking a more contemporary experience. Launched in 2018, the ship features standout innovations like Eden, a multi-level bar with panoramic views, and the Magic Carpet, a multi-purpose floating space suspended directly above the sea.

Departure Cities: Seattle; Seward, Alaska; Vancouver Cruise Ships: Celebrity Solstice, Celebrity Summit, Celebrity Edge

Tips for booking your cruise to Alaska

✔️ Check your itinerary. The itinerary you choose is key on an Alaskan cruise. If you have your heart set on visiting Glacier Bay National Park, make sure that your cruise line has it listed on the schedule. "Only seven lines were awarded the Glacier Bay contract by the National Park Service ," Cicero said. If you're not sure whether the cruise you have in mind will go through Glacier Bay, double-check with the cruise line or your travel agent.

✔️ Book shore excursions well in advance. Alaskan cruises generally sail from April to October. Because of the shorter season, your ship will likely be close to capacity and several ships may overlap in ports. Excursions will book up quickly. To secure your spot, book excursions well in advance or as soon as they're available.

✔️ Focus on family. Alaskan cruises are best for kids who are at least 5 years old. "Keep in mind that cruise lines don't allow kids who aren't potty-trained to be in pools, even if they're wearing a swim diaper," Cicero said. It's also worth noting that most cruise lines don't permit babies under 6 months or pregnant passengers who are 24 or more weeks along. Cicero advises families with school-age children to look for on-ship amenities, such as an indoor heated pool, a supervised kids' club and a variety of family-friendly nighttime entertainment. "Before you sail, you should also find out which non-alcoholic beverages are complimentary," Cicero said. "Many cruise lines charge extra for soft drinks, but milk and juice are usually included." Free room service is another big perk for families, she notes, so see if that's offered on the line you're considering.

✔️ Check your passport. Even if your cruise starts and stops in a U.S. port like Seattle, there's a high chance your ship will dock in Canada at some point throughout your trip. Also, " some of the excursions in Alaskan ports venture into Canada and will require a passport," explained Cicero. For instance, you may take the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway from Skagway into Yukon, a Canadian territory. Your passport will need to be valid for at least 6 months following the cruise.

✔️ Pack layers. This is especially crucial if you're traveling in Alaska's shoulder season — May and September. While May tends to be drier, temperatures remain relatively chilly. Likewise, September marks the end of the summer season and welcomes cooler temperatures and more rainfall. Because you'll be spending a lot of time outdoors, it's important to prepare for all weather scenarios, including windy conditions common to sailing cruise ships.

✔️ Book next summer's cruise soon. To get the best staterooms and excursions, start looking for a 2025 cruise in 2024, Cicero said, noting that many ships start to fill up at least 6 months in advance. And don't forget about major sale days. "Last year, cruise lines had fantastic Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals," she said.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Good Housekeeping Institute Writer and Product Analyst Olivia Lipski covers everything from tech to travel, fitness, outdoor, home and more. Not only does she have years of product review experience under her belt, but she’s also a travel enthusiast who has been on more than 20 cruises (and counting)!

The former travel editor at Parents magazine, Karen Cicero specializes in travel, children's book, lifestyle and food coverage. She manages the experience portion of the Good Housekeeping Family Travel Awards. She has sailed on four cruise lines with her family and toured several others. She recently was a featured speaker at several travel industry conferences, including PRSA, Mid-Atlantic Tourism Alliance and the Family Travel Association.

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Vintage Trolley Highlights & Scenic Seal Cove Picnic

Prince Rupert, British Columbia, Canada

Activity Level

Excursion Type

Wheelchair Accessible

Starting At

Minimum Age

Information Not Currently Available

Approximately 2½ Hours

Meals Included

Meals included

This narrated city orientation reveals some great historical and cultural gems. Travel by trolley through Prince Rupert 's picturesque streets.

At the iconic Arabisk, pick up a specially-curated picnic box .

Head down to the Seal Cove picnic tables -- a scenic spot where nature meets tranquility. You'll have a leisurely 45 minutes to indulge in your picnic delights, surrounded by the beauty of the cove.

The return journey to the pier is no ordinary ride. Aboard the vintage trolley, you'll uncover some hidden gems along the way, with every turn revealing a new chapter in the story of this interesting little city.

Return to the ship by trolley. Guests wishing to stay in town to shop or explore independently are welcome to do so but must make their own way back to the ship (a 40-minute walk via the waterfront Rushbrook Trail).

Very little walking is required and is limited to boarding the tour transportation and accessing the restaurant and picnic tables in Seal Cove. Terrain includes grass and paved paths.

Holland America restaurants: The ultimate cruise guide to food and dining on board

Nonstop access to food is one of the main draws of cruising, and Holland America Line offers a variety of venues and menus for every craving, no matter the time of day.

Every Holland America ship offers multiple restaurants included with your cruise fare, and any guest could be satisfied dining at these locations for the duration of their sailing. The rest of the venues come with additional charges (either a set cover charge or a la carte pricing). They are certainly worth the price of admission; these restaurants are an ideal way to taste more global flavors, dine in a more intimate setting and enjoy more attentive service.

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I always recommend choosing two specialty dining experiences per seven-night sailing and spacing them out a few days apart from one another (doing main dining room "resets" in between).

Here, I'll outline all your Holland America dining options and price points. Many of the restaurants detailed below are available on every ship, with a few distinct options reserved for the newest vessels in its fleet — including Iron Chef Morimoto's new sushi-centric specialty dining concept, Morimoto By Sea, and Rudi's Sel de Mer French eatery.

After that, we'll dive into a series of frequently asked questions to ensure you're up to speed on all the pertinent information about Holland America restaurants and dining.

The Dining Room

As the main restaurant on any Holland America ship, the Dining Room serves a sit-down breakfast, elevated lunch and multicourse dinner. Meals here are included, and Indian and kosher menus are available with advance notice. "Featured" and "Morimoto" specials do come with an extra charge (for example, the filet mignon and lobster tail is $18 and the Fresh Halibut XO from Morimoto is $25).

Related: The ultimate guide to Holland America cruise ships and itineraries

Lido Market

The Lido Market, included with your fare, offers a wide-ranging buffet morning, noon and night to cruisers who aren't in the mood for changing their attire or don't have time for a more formal experience. Expect an array of proteins and hand-carved meats, a large salad bar and custom-made salads of the day, pastries, vegetarian-friendly options, hearty dishes from nearly every global cuisine (Italian, Mediterranean, Asian, Indian and more), and tempting dessert stations.

New York Pizza

Satisfy your desire for thin-crust pizza with a 9-inch pie and your choice of toppings (think: spicy capocollo and sweet Italian sausage or roasted chicken with red onions and barbecue sauce) from New York Pizza. This casual eatery is included in your fare and available on Eurodam and Nieuw Amsterdam. (A New York Deli & Pizza on Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam serves pizzas along with Reubens on rye, corned beef or pastrami sandwiches, bagels and shmear, and more).

Related: Which line has the best cruise pizza? I tasted slices from 7 brands

When hunger strikes poolside, choose Dive In, the included burger and gourmet hot dog bar — and don't forget an order of crispy fries (served four ways!) on the side. The menu features several veggie-friendly Beyond Meat burgers as well, made from brown rice.

Grand Dutch Cafe

Located in the atriums of the Pinnacle Class ships — Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam — the Grand Dutch Cafe offers Belgian and Dutch beers, a variety of spirits, coffee beverages and made-to-order Dutch fare. Crowd pleasers include Dutch pea soup with buttered pumpernickel bread, apple and bacon pannenkoek (Dutch pancake), vegetable quiche, and toasted ham and cheese with a curry ketchup dipping sauce. Place your order at the counter (a la carte pricing) and a server will bring your drinks and snacks to your table.

Available on Pinnacle Class and Signature Class ships for a $35 cover charge, Tamarind specializes in the flavors of Southeast Asia, China and Japan — think Malaysian lamb and Indonesian pork satay, ramen soup, panang curry coconut chicken, roasted pork belly char siu and dan dan noodles. Sushi creations are made in collaboration with master sushi chef Andy Matsuda.

Pinnacle Grill

This classic steakhouse serves up a selection of 28-day wet-aged USDA Prime steaks and other dishes from James Beard award-winning chef David Burke. The wine collection here is extensive, so guests are sure to find the perfect pairing with any dish. Pinnacle Grill is found on every ship with a cover charge of $19 for lunch and $46 for dinner (half-price for kids 12 and under or free when they order from the kids menu).

Related: The 8 best cruise ship steakhouses and steak-serving restaurants

An Italian restaurant featuring such classics as ossobuco, spaghetti with shrimp and clams, and veal meatballs, Canaletto is available on every ship for a $29 cover charge (half-price for kids 12 and under or free when they order from the kids menu). The pasta is made fresh daily, and Italian-inspired cocktails (think: negroni, Aperol spritz and bellini) flow freely for an additional charge.

Rudi's Sel de Mer

Rudi's Sel de Mer, named for master chef Rudi Sodamin, is known for French-inspired seafood, such as Dover sole meuniere and fruits de mer. Guests will also find non-fishy classic French dishes, such as coq au vin and steak frites, on the menu, alongside an impressive wine list. This restaurant is available on Pinnacle Class ships for a $55 cover charge, but the menu is available in the main dining room on other ships on select evenings.

Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

Morimoto By Sea

As Holland America's newest specialty restaurant, Morimoto By Sea opened on Nieuw Amsterdam in December 2023. Showcasing Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto's talent and creativity, the menu includes everything from Hamachi tacos and vegetable curry to sushi and lobster pad Thai. Expect a $55 cover charge, and look for Morimoto By Sea pop-up experiences offered once per cruise on the fleet's other 10 ships in either Pinnacle Grill or Tamarind.

Holland America Line food: Frequently asked questions

Is the food free?

Meals in the main dining room, Lido Market, New York Pizza and Dive In are included with your cruise fare. All other eateries have a la carte pricing (per item) or a cover charge. (Some specialty restaurants with a cover charge also feature specific menu options with additional a la carte fees.) Each specialty restaurant also adds an 18% service fee.

Related: Are cruises all-inclusive? What's actually included in your cruise fare

Do I need a reservation?

Dinner times in the dining room are at 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. Alternatively, you can arrive at any time between 5:15 and 9 p.m. to be seated at the first available table. You must select your preference for set-seating dining or anytime dining prior to your cruise.

Reservations are recommended for specialty restaurants and can be made prior to boarding (for best date/time choices) or once on board.

What dining options are available for kids?

Children are welcome in any of Holland America Line's dining venues. A special kids menu is available at each venue, including such fare as pizza, chicken strips, mac and cheese, salads and fresh fruit. Menu items from the daily menu are also available in half portions upon request. Children 12 or under pay half price in the specialty dining restaurants or can select items from the regular kids menu for free.

Is room service available?

Yes, 24-hour room service is included in your cruise fare, unless otherwise noted in the in-room menu.

Where does Holland America source its fish?

Holland America recently launched a Global Fresh Fish Program, an initiative that engages a global network of 60 ports to source and serve 80 types of fresh fish on board in all restaurants. This fish goes from port to plate in less than 48 hours. Additionally, Holland America was the first cruise line to serve 100% fresh, certified sustainable Alaska seafood on board its ships in Alaska.

Is there an all-inclusive package that includes specialty dining?

Specialty dining is featured as part of Holland America's Have it All package . Guests receive one night at Pinnacle Grill, Canaletto or Tamarind on six- to nine-night voyages, two nights on 10- to 20-night cruises and three nights on cruises of 21 nights or more (excludes Grand Voyages).

What if I have food allergies?

Guests with food intolerances or allergies that are not life-threatening should contact the Ship Services Department at 800-541-1576. Guests with life-threatening food allergies must provide detailed information to the Guest Accessibility Department by completing a Special Requirements Information Form . Passengers should indicate on this form which foods might cause a severe reaction.

Are there any other food-related offerings to know about?

Don't miss the Cake Me Away dessert celebration event in the Lido Market, which occurs once per seven-night cruise, and the Sea Food Boil pop-ups, which take place mainly on Alaska and Canada/New England itineraries.

What beverages are included with my cruise fare?

Non-bottled water, iced tea, lemonade, milk, some juices and regular coffees and hot teas are available at no cost. You can purchase a drink package to get unlimited beverages for a set price.

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