gay cruise alaska

7 nights roundtrip from/to Seattle, Washington

August 16–23, 2024 Celebrity Edge

Explore the Wilderness on the Best Alaskan Cruise

Alaska is so much more than its legends and myths. Boasting lively farmer’s markets, modern art galleries, and fine dining, 21st-century Alaska blends the old and the new, and urban life with the great outdoors in towns and cities surrounded by wilderness.

Journey through the wild terrain of Alaska with our Alaska cruise and discover the natural wonders that await as the rugged beauty of this pristine frontier unfolds. Set out on an unforgettable adventure where you’ll get up close and personal with 30-ton whales, zip-line through the rainforest with a visit to Mendenhall Glacier afterwards, or take flight high above the snow-capped lands and glaciers.

Celebrity Edge - A Ship Designed to Leave the Future Behind

Celebrity Cruises, the company that brought you modern luxury cruising, has done it again. Introducing a revolutionary new ship that’s poised to change the way you experience the world—and a new class of ships designed to shatter all expectations.

Through the latest 3-D technology, we’ve fine-tuned every detail of the ship like never before. From the incredible Magic Carpet – the world’s first cantilevered, floating platform that reaches heights of 13 storeys above sea level – to the private plunge pools in our new Edge Villas; the way you cruise will never be the same again.

Magic Carpet Soar over the open ocean on our Magic Carpet. Reaching heights of 13 storeys above sea level, the Magic Carpet is the world’s first cantilevered, floating platform. Majestically situated on the starboard side of Celebrity Edge .

Pool Bar Situated alongside the 25-yard lap pool (the largest in our fleet) and underneath an ever-changing, abstract mirror installation is the Pool Bar. An serene spot to relax, sip your favourite cocktail and take in your stunning surroundings.

Roof Top Garden Full of unexpected pleasures day and night, The Rooftop Garden is a living urban playscape inspired by childhood playgrounds. Catch a movie at A Taste of Film; dance the night away to a live band; or dine at the Rooftop Garden Grill.

Solarium The adults only Solarium is one of the most blissful spots on the ship and features a 3D art wall.

Pool Deck With oversized art installations including unique treetop sculptures; two 2-storey Jacuzzis; and 165-square-feet by 18-feet-high private Cabanas, The Pool Deck is a spectacular asymmetrical space with a distinct resort-style atmosphere.

Resort Deck On Deck 14 you’ll find endless ways to enjoy the outdoors and connect with the sea. Or as we call it, The Resort Deck, which includes the main pool area, the new Rooftop Garden, the jogging track, and the adults only Solarium.

Suite Deck A chic, spacious outdoor area with stylish furniture, a full-sized pool, a Jacuzzi and dedicated Pool Butlers – a private paradise aboard a floating paradise, exclusively for Suite Class guests.

Edge Villas Our 2-storey Edge Villas, Suites designed exclusively for Celebrity Edge boast 950 square feet of split level, indoor-outdoor splendour.

Infinite Balcony Staterooms Our new Edge Staterooms feature an Infinite Balcony – touch a button and your entire living space becomes the balcony, letting you walk right out to the water’s edge.

Alaska Cruise 2025

VACAYA’S 2025 Alaska Cruise HAS SOLD OUT!

The 2025 Alaska Cruise is SOLD OUT . If you’d like to put your name on our waitlist for this trip, please follow these 2 easy steps:

• If you don’t yet have a profile in our booking system, set one up  HERE .
• Once your profile has been completed, email  [email protected] and provide us with the following information: full name, phone number, email address, type of room(s) you’re looking for

Once on the list, we’ll reach out to you in the order your name appears on our waitlist if a room that fits your request becomes available.

To avoid disappointment in the future, we encourage you to book soon after the trip becomes available. Doing so is the only way to truly avoid missing out. ❤️

VACAYA’S SUMMER IN ALASKA CRUISE:

Eagles and otters and bears… oh my.

We’ll sail roundtrip from gorgeous and super-LGBT-friendly Seattle for 7 magical nights to Juneau, Ketchikan, the Dawes Glacier, and Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. With no roads connecting Alaska’s main cities, you have two choices to explore this wild frontier – by air or by sea. We think by sea is the better of those options and we hope you’ll join us to see for yourself why Alaska has repeatedly been rated the #1 cruise destination on earth.

There’s no better way to play during Summer 2025 than in Alaska with VACAYA!

HOLLAND AMERICA WESTERDAM

ENDLESS NATURE & ADVENTURE

FULL-SHIP CHARTER

MAGICAL VICTORIA

BEVERAGE PACKAGES

LIFE-LONG FRIENDSHIPS

WELCOMING TO ALL

The holland america advantage: the lido pool dome.

No one… and we mean NO ONE… has better ships for Alaska than HAL (Holland America Line). What makes them the best? With Alaska’s mercurial summer weather, HAL’s ships have you covered… literally! Each of their ships features a retractable Magradome roof that can open and close over the upper deck. This allows for the use of the pool and a warm dry place to hold our parties rain or shine no matter the outside temperature. Very few ships have this perfect-for-Alaska feature, but ours does. And with just under 2,000 guests, she’s the ideal size for the non-stop connections VACAYA creates.

After years of guests asking us for a second annual big-ship cruise, the time has finally come for us to make that leap! And there’s no better destination for it than The Last Frontier. Alaska is one of the most beautiful places on earth, full of majesty, natural wonders, and endless romance.

The V Team is already hard at work to bring this extraordinary adventure to you at the best possible price. Throw in the option to purchase HAL’s Beverage Package options, and you’ll be amazed at all that’s included:

• 7 Nights aboard the beautiful Westerdam from Holland America
• Meals with flavors from Tuscany to Thailand (Premium Dining Restaurants extra charge)
• 24×7 Room Service (complimentary around the clock)
• 24×7 Stateroom Service
• 24×7 Reception Desk
• Fitness Center
• All-Star VACAYA Entertainment
• Endless HAL and VACAYA social activities
• Warm friendly parties with music you love and can even sing along to!
• VACAYA ReachOUT Philanthropic Service Opportunities

Superbly refreshed, Westerdam features excellent bar, entertainment, and dining venues, plus completely reimagined suites. Westerdam is a fascinating destination in her own right and has won multiple Best Cruise Ship awards. Onboard, enjoy live entertainment with Music Walk, including Lincoln Center Stage, B.B. King’s Blues Club, and Billboard Onboard. Feel immersed on your cruise with regional cooking demonstrations and food and wine tastings with Port to Table. Enrich your travel experience at the new Exploration Central atop the ship.

Each day onboard offers delicious dining options, world-class entertainment, and enriching activities.

Ship Highlights

Westerdam is the perfect ship for exploring Alaska

WORLD STAGE

EXPLORATIONS CENTRAL

GREENHOUSE SPA

FITNESS CENTER

THE DINING ROOM

EXPLORATIONS CAFÉ

B.B. KING’S BLUES CLUB

BILLBOARD ONBOARD

Our play spaces.

Experience delicious, globally-inspired cuisine with our always-included onboard dining that offers true culinary adventure. Whether you prefer a sophisticated three-course meal amid an ambience of casual elegance, indulgent barbecue favorites poolside, or quick and easy on-the-go snacks to grab before your adventures, it’s always included.

LIDO POOL & DOME

GREENHOUSE SPA & SALON

Stop by the professionally-staffed Fitness Center equipped with the latest cardio and weight machines. Try one of our classes on indoor cycling, Pilates, and more, or work out at your own pace. Some classes may have a nominal fee.

LINCOLN CENTER STAGE

BBC EARTH IN CONCERT

DINING… A CULINARY ADVENTURE IN EVERY BITE

LIDO MARKET

Steps from the Lido pool, this modern marketplace includes a curated selection of delicious options you can grab on the go or have made to order: Breadboard, with freshly baked breads and pastries; Wild Harvest, offering a selection of hearty salads; Homestead, serving up comfort classics; Distant Lands, featuring global cuisine; Rise, savory quiches, croissants and sandwiches; Roasting Pan, hand-carved meats and fresh fish; Sweet Spot, for ice cream creations and desserts; Perk, freshly brewed beverages and chilled juices; and Quench, premium coffee, beer, wine, and soda available for purchase.

PINNACLE GRILL ($)

The refined menu features a selection of 28-day wet-aged USDA Prime steaks – meticulously chosen to guarantee the finest quality – as well as classic steakhouse dishes and innovative recipes from James Beard Award-winning chef and Culinary Council member, David Burke. Every dish is exquisitely prepared, beautifully plated and complemented by a vast collection of award-winning wines. Extra charge.

TAMARIND ($)

Praised by  Condé Nast Traveler for cuisine “that rivals the top restaurants on land,” Tamarind is the perfect place to explore the culinary traditions of Southeast Asia, China, and Japan. The menu, which honors the elements of water, wood, fire, and earth, features such exotic fare as wok-seared lobster, barramundi (Asian sea bass) in banana leaf, and sushi, accompanied by chilled or heated sake. Be sure to try the specialty sushi created in collaboration with Culinary Council member and Master Sushi Chef, Andy Matsuda. Extra charge. 

CANALETTO ($)

In Italy, there’s nothing more important than coming together to celebrate the joy of great food. This is the inspiration for our onboard Italian restaurant, Canaletto. Enjoy amazing Italian classics like braised chicken cacciatore al forno, branzino ai ferri, garlic shrimp ravioli, and fresh-made pasta. And for dessert: tiramisu, cannoli alla Siciliana, gelato, and more. Buon Appetito! Extra charge. 

24-HOUR ROOM SERVICE

UNIQUE BARS TO MEET NEW FRIENDS

The Crows Nest, located on the Observation Deck of the ship, provides 270-degree views of stunningly beautiful Alaska.

EXPLORATIONS CAFE

At Explorations Café, sink into plush chairs and sofas in a comfortable environment. Sip elegantly prepared espresso drinks and nosh on fresh pastries from the coffee bar. You can also take in fantastic views, catch up on your favorite book or browse the web.

NEPTUNE LOUNGE

The Neptune Lounge is open to certain suites as an exclusive and private place to relax, socialize, and enjoy the personalized service of a concierge who can make shipboard reservations and provide guidance about Holland America Line experiences.

GALLERY BAR

This moody bar and lounge is close to the casino and features an exclusive cocktail menu by Dale DeGroff and decorated with still-life, landscape, portrait, and abstract pieces of art.

SEA VIEW BAR

CRUISE WITH CONFIDENCE

On land or onboard, your safety is our top concern. This means the ship upholds strict health and safety measures. As the rules and regulations change and evolve, the cruise line is continuing to adapt and optimize its already robust protocols, integrating all the technological, human, and material measures to ensure the provision and maintenance of a healthy experience onboard. This reinforced protection is designed to guarantee onboard conditions, sanitary protocols, and daily monitoring (guests, equipment, and ships). For your added safety and peace of mind, doctors and nurses are present on every ship.

PLEASE NOTE:  Health and safety protocols, guest conduct rules, and regional travel restrictions vary by ship and destination, and are subject to change without notice. Due to ever-evolving health protocols, imagery and messaging may not accurately reflect onboard and destination experiences, offerings, features, or itineraries. These may not be available during your voyage, may vary by ship and destination, and may be subject to change without notice.

THINK YOU’VE SEEN ALASKA? NOT LIKE THIS, YOU HAVEN’T

Embark on an unprecedented and exclusive adventure with VACAYA, as we present a groundbreaking itinerary that showcases the unparalleled beauty of Alaska and the captivating charm of Canada. Delve into the extraordinary as you cruise through the mesmerizing Stephen’s Passage, where the meeting of towering mountains and pristine waters creates a landscape both awe-inspiring and serene. Be sure to save time in Juneau to take a helicopter ride to visit an authentic Alaskan Dog Sled Camp and experience the thrill of a ride! Traverse the majestic Endicott Arm Fjord, a nature lover’s paradise adorned with icy-blue glaciers and rugged cliffs. Witness the grandeur of Dawes Glacier, its icy façade reflecting the untamed wilderness that surrounds it. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Ketchikan, where Native American totem poles stand tall against the backdrop of lush forests. Cap off your journey with a full day in the quaint and historic Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, where the elegance of Butchart Gardens and the iconic Fairmont Empress Hotel await your exploration. This uniquely crafted and exclusive itinerary promises an unforgettable and diverse travel experience, marking a milestone in accessible luxury exploration with VACAYA.

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

THE BEST SHIP FOR EXPLORING ALASKA

ENDLESS NATURE & ADVENTURE

A FULL DAY IN MAGICAL VICTORIA (VACAYA EXCLUSIVE)

DAY 1 – SUN, JULY 27, 2025 SEATTLE, WASHINGTON USA – DEPART 3PM

DAY 2 – MON, JULY 28, 2025 A DAY OF SHENANIGANS AT SEA

DAY 3 – TUE, JULY 29, 2025 SCENIC CRUISING STEPHEN’S PASSAGE – 6AM-12PM JUNEAU, ALASKA – 1PM-9PM

DAY 4 – WED, JULY 30, 2025 SCENIC CRUISING ENDICOTT ARM FJORD & DAWES GLACIER – 8AM-1PM

DAY 5 – THU, JULY 31, 2025 KETCHIKAN, ALASKA – 8AM-5PM

DAY 6 – FRI, AUGUST 1, 2025 A FUN-FILLED FINAL DAY AT SEA

DAY 7 – SAT, AUGUST 2, 2025 VICTORIA, BRITISH COLUMBIA CANADA – 10AM-6PM

DAY 8 – SUN, AUGUST 3, 2025 SEATTLE, WASHINGTON USA – ARRIVE 7AM

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON USA 48°N 122°W

SUNDAY, JULY 27, 2025 BOARDING 12PM DEPART 3PM

Our journey starts in one of the most beautiful cities in the entire United States. Bounded by Puget Sound to the west and Lake Washington to the east, and surrounded by forests and mountains, Seattle boasts a stunning location. With its iconic attractions, such as the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass, and Pike Place Market along the stunning, steel-gray waterfront, you’ll be spoiled with endless things to do here. Since we sail away at 3pm, you’ll have hours to enjoy the incredible Pacific Northwest scenery as we journey northward.

A GORGEOUS DAY & A SIZZLING NIGHT AT SEA

MONDAY, JULY 28, 2025

After our THIS IS ME kick-off party last night, it’s time to settle in to our new home-away-from-home as we make our way up to Alaska. This (hopefully) sun-filled day will be bursting at the seams with endless social activities, entertainment, and our first V-Dance of the week, GS (short for Gray Sweatpants) – a tribute to everyone’s favorite season! We’re excited to share all we have in store for you on this journey.

SCENIC CRUISING STEPHEN’S PASSAGE & JUNEAU, ALASKA

TUESDAY, JULY 29, 2025 ARRIVE 1PM DEPART 9PM

Juneau’s known for its outdoor recreation, fresh seafood, and fine dining. The city itself is beyond charming, but the real highlight of Juneau is tracking down the wildlife. Most sightseeing and whale-watching tours head north to Auke Bay (bring a good pair of binoculars to get the best view of the various majestic and graceful creatures). For the more adventurous, take a helicopter up to Mendenhall Glacier and trek with sled dogs or even hike the icy blue and white behemoth. Weather permitting, of course.

SCENIC CRUISING ENDICOTT ARM FJORD & DAWES GLACIER

WEDNESDAY, JULY 30, 2025

The opportunity to witness towering glaciers up close is one of the main reasons adventurers choose to visit Alaska. Sailing through the 30-mile-long Endicott Arm Fjord, you’ll witness a frozen wonderland of granite cliffs, verdant valleys, and gushing waterfalls. Sitting at the southern edge of Fords Terror Wilderness area, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife in action, with bald eagles, harbor seals, moose, and bears regularly seen throughout the journey. Once we reach the end of Endicott Arm Fjord, you’ll come face to face with Dawes Glacier, a 600-foot-tall and mile-wide active icecap that produces daily displays of calving!

KETCHIKAN, ALASKA

ONE LAST RELAXING DAY AT SEA

FRIDAY, AUGUST 1, 2025

Our time together is almost up. It’s hard to believe this week has slipped by so quickly. But no worries… you’ve got a full day to enjoy Wetserdam. Looking to enjoy a relaxing spa appointment? Go for it! Or how about a spirited game of bingo? Yes! Use these final hours at sea together to share, laugh, and connect with friends old and new.

VICTORIA, BRITISH COLUMBIA CANADA

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON USA

SUNDAY, AUGUST 3, 2025 DISEMBARKATION: BEGINS @ 7AM

We return to where our magical journey first started, beautiful Seattle. Whether this day sees you continuing your summer holiday in the Pacific Northwest or heading home, we are so grateful you chose to spend this week with VACAYA exploring beautiful Alaska. Thank you. Flights onward or home should be scheduled for after 12pm.

View Full Itinerary

While we work tirelessly to craft the perfect itinerary for each trip, it’s always subject to change based on weather, sea, and myriad other conditions.

ROOMS & PRICING

When you book online directly with VACAYA, you’ll enjoy 24×7 access to your booking information, no-interest monthly payments, AIRLINE DISCOUNTS , and our  BEST RATE GUARANTEE !

SOLO TRAVELERS NOTE If you’re a Solo Traveler, we offer some great recommendations for finding a roommate  HERE .

Interior Staterooms

Oceanview staterooms, veranda staterooms, important information.

PORT & ADMIN FEES

Port taxes and admin fees are 347 USD per person.

PRE-PAID GRATUITIES

Pre-Paid Gratuities are 175 USD per person for guests in Suites and 145 USD for all other stateroom categories. 100% of these gratuities go to onboard staffers, including your stateroom attendant, the culinary services staff, the behind-the-scenes hotel services staff, and the myriad department heads who work with their teams around the clock to create a flawless VACAYA experience for you.

SOLO TRAVELERS

3+ guests in a room, room descriptions, “feel the beat” rooms.

Rooms designated as “Feel the Beat” Rooms are on the deck directly below the dance floor. These are perfect for anyone who tends to stay at our parties until the last beat drops. Rooms that are on lower floors beneath the dance floor may also feel vibrations from the bass and occasionally hear the music itself, but that will typically be at a much lower level than the “Feel the Beat” Rooms on the deck just below the dance floor. 

INITIAL DEPOSIT SCHEDULE

• Upon booking outside of 300 Days – 10%.
• At 300 Days (September 30, 2024) – 25%.
• At 240 Days (November 29, 2024) – 50%.
• At 180 Days (January 28, 2025) – 75%.
• At 120 Days (March 29, 2025) – 100%.

CANCELLATION PENALTIES

• Upon booking through 300 Days (September 29, 2024) – 10% of total.
• From 299 (October 1, 2024) to 240 Days (November 29, 2024) – 20% of total.
• From 239 (November 30, 2024) to 180 Days (January 28, 2025) – 40% of total.
• From 179 (January 29, 2025) to 120 Days (March 29, 2025) – 60% of total.
• From 119 (March 30, 2025) to 90 Days (April 28, 2025) – 80% of total.
• From 89 (April 29, 2025) to 0 Days (July 27, 2025) – 100% of total.

ITEMS NOT INCLUDED

• Flights from your home city to Seattle
• Airport Transfers to/from Westerdam
• Onboard Spa Services
• Onboard Laundry
• Gift Shop Purchases
• Optional Excursions
• Beverage Packages
• Specialty Dining

TERMS & CONDITIONS

Be sure to read VACAYA’s   Terms & Conditions , which include the Payment/Cancellation/Refund Policies for all reservations. Please note that cancellation fees apply from the time of booking.

JOIN WAITLIST

For real-time availability, proceed by clicking  BOOK NOW . With ever-shifting inventory, a category that shows availability on this page may no longer be available when you attempt to book. If you need help finding the perfect room in another category or to add your name to our wait list for a sold-out category, feel free to email The Vacayans at  [email protected]  and we’ll be happy to assist you.

PAY IN FULL OPTION

You may pay in full at the time of booking. Unless you later modify your reservation, no further payments will be necessary.

MONTHLY PAYMENT PLAN

Your initial deposit is due at time of booking. Then, your remaining monthly payments will be calculated using the number of months between your booking and the final payment due date. Payments will be charged on the 15th or the last day   of each month (determined automatically depending on the day of the month you book). Payments will be charged to your credit card on file. If your credit card details change at any time, simply update the info in our system prior to your next month’s payment date. Please note declined payments are subject to a convenience fee. For more information, explore our  Automatic Billing FAQs  and our  Terms & Conditions .

TRIP INSURANCE: GET IT!

There is one question every traveler across the globe universally faces: should I purchase Travel Insurance? It’s natural to ask yourself, should I spend the extra dollars to protect my vacation investment? Or do I leave it in the hands of Lady Luck and hope for the best. At VACAYA, we’ve always believed Trip Insurance was critical to the vacation planning process. That’s why we took special care to integrate the purchase opportunity into our online booking process. Pre-pandemic, the main reason to buy insurance was to assure your safe return home if something were to happen to your health while on vacation. That’s because quality insurance covers medical evacuation so people don’t have to pay medical emergency transportation expenses out of their own pocket.

With Covid-19 in our lives for the foreseeable future, we now have an even stronger rationale for recommending Trip Insurance. “Cancel For Any Reason” insurance has quickly risen in popularity, and for good reason. If you decide you don’t want to travel after the cancellation penalty period has begun, this type of insurance covers most if not all of your cancellation fee. It’s also a great way to help honor your  Social Contract  with VACAYA.

So go ahead and buy that bucket list trip, but protect your health and your investment by purchasing Trip Insurance. ❤️

Majestic Alaska!

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RSVP Vacations

The Gold Standard

Cruises Coming Soon

THE RSVP EXPERIENCE

For almost 40 years, RSVP has created fabulous experiences for our community, bringing people together from all walks of life to celebrate who we are in new and unexpected ways. We have warmly welcomed and entertained over 150,000 gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and straight-allied guests from around the world. But that’s just part of our story. Our commitment to excellence starts with full-ship charters on the world’s finest ships, big and small. The magic happens when RSVP brings together great friends, legendary service, fantastic parties, and a world of exciting entertainment in a relaxed social environment. In 2023, RSVP returns with new all-inclusive options along with fabulous accommodations, delectable meals, awesome entertainment, thrilling parties, and so much more. We’re dedicated to creating the absolute best value for you in every way. If you’ve been a part of the RSVP family for years, we can’t wait to show you all that’s new. And if you’ve never sailed with us, we make it easier than ever to discover why RSVP is exactly Where You Belong.

Meet Our Guests

Discover RSVP Cruises

Make Your Reservation

Alaska cruise

Celebrity Cruises August 16–23, 2024

CELEBRITY CRUISES August 16–23, 2024

Join Pied Piper on our annual gay group cruise to the last frontier, Alaska! A cruise is the best way to see the untouched natural beauty of Alaska. Your Pied Piper cruise features magnificent glaciers and mountain tops, unique wildlife like bald eagles and humpback whales as well as early Russian and Native American culture. Along the way you will visit interesting ports such as the gold rush town of Skagway, the capital city Juneau and Ketchikan, the salmon capital of the world. We will sail roundtrip from Seattle on the exciting new ship, Celebrity Edge!

All prices are per person, based on double occupancy, and include all meals, accommodations, and entertainment. Taxes, optional travel insurance, and gratuities are additional. PIED PIPER onboard host and activities are based on minimum participation.

PLEASE NOTE: Passengers who book Aqua Class (A) cabins will be assigned to a different dining room, the Blu restaurant, and not the main dining room.

Explore Similar Cruises

Line & Ship: Celebrity Cruises

Pricing & Availability Last Updated 4/1/2024

About Pied Piper | Contact Us | Site Map | Privacy Policy | Terms & Conditions | Our Partners | Webcam

Pied Piper Cruises | USA (800) 874-7312 | NY Area (718) 261-4596 [email protected] ©2024 Pied Piper Cruises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

PIED PIPER is not responsible for typographical errors on this website. All prices and itineraries are subject to change without prior notice. Reservations are subject to availability. PIED PIPER CRUISES and our logo are registered trademarks and cannot be used without the expressed written permission of PIED PIPER CRUISES. Reservations made on this website are subject to the terms and conditions as outlined by PIED PIPER CRUISES on the respective reservation forms.

Daddy Cruise ® Gay Singles Alaska 2024

Come see the ultimate bucket-list destination: alaska, in your own full-sized cabin, affordably priced just for singles, at a glance, ruby princess.

We sail on the Ruby Princess, which CruiseCritic rates 4.5 out of 5. They say despite carrying 3,000 guests, she never feels crowded. The service is noticeably good and overall the crew makes an effort to offer personalized and intimate service, even while being on a big ship.

Cruiseline.com recommends the Ruby because of the top notch entertainment, great food and varied dining venues, and superior service all around the ship

U.S. News and World Report ranks the Ruby as the sixth best ship for singles, the seventh best cruise ship for sailing to Alaska, and within Princess’s fleet, the Ruby is the second best ship overall. Debuting in 2008, the Ruby was completely refurbished in 2018, and then upgraded again in 2023. She boasts four pools, one of which is under a retractable roof (handy in cooler Alaska).

Day 1 - Vancouver, Canada

Day 2 - at sea, day 3 - juneau, day 4 - skagway, day 5 - endicott arm & dawes glacier (scenic cruising), day 6 - ketchikan, day 7 - at sea, day 8 - vancouver, canada, why sail with us.

Onboard, dedicated hosts

The fun starts before we even set sail, participate your way, not a floating bathhouse, we hold a seat for you, cruise with confidence, safe and secure, travel risk free (or pretty close to it).

• Travel protection insurance is available
• Deposits are refundable (less $100/person) until April 17, 2024
• We promise your Daddy Cruise ® experience will far exceed what the cruise line delivers without us. If not, we'll make it up to you.

Daddy Cruise ® FAQs

Q: what are the extra costs, q: what about single supplement, q: can couples come, q: can non-lgbtq people come, q: what if i'm shy or an introvert, q: what if i want time alone, q: what if i get seasick, q: is sex required, q: what are the demographics of the group.

Daddy Cruises® Exclusive Extras

• Welcome Aboard Party (with free drinks!)—come meet your fellow Daddies and friends in a warm, welcoming, and casual atmosphere. Play our fun mingling/get-to-know-you activity, and start forging friendships that will last a lifetime.
• Free Welcome Aboard Gifts include a lanyard for your sailing card… and then some other surprises!
• Access to exclusive excursions just for us (additional fee applies).
• Special Daddy Cruise ® group activities on board (card games, trivia contests, happy hours, parties, etc.)
• Special discounted rates at our host hotel in Vancouver before the cruise.

Any Cruise, Anywhere, Best Price (TM)

• Mexican Riviera
• Trans-Atlantic
• Australia New Zealand
• Cruise Lines

The Pauer Group, LLC., PO Box 59994, Dallas, TX 75229-1994

Office - 972-241-2000, Fax 972-241-4122

All prices are per person double occupancy before port charges, taxes and gratuities.

Best Gay Cruises (TM) , BestGayCruises.com (TM) , and Any Cruise, Anywhere, Best Price (TM) , are Common Law trademarks of The Pauer Group, LLC. All rights reserved. (C) 2007-2016, The Pauer Group, LLC.

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12 top gay cruises you don’t want to miss in 2024 and 2025

There's never been a better time to consider a gay cruise. Itineraries include more remote destinations, and more charter companies are offering a wider variety of cruise experiences to meet the full spectrum of the LGBTQ+ community. Also, the ships chartered are almost uniformly elevated and luxurious.

No longer are gay and lesbian groups and full-ship charters relegated to older, tired vessels. Full-ship gay charters command big business for the cruise industry, and major cruise lines are responding by offering their newest and most exciting ships. Many charter companies will take over the entire ship, bringing aboard their own dance parties, entertainment, activities and hosts to tailor the vacation experience to their audience.

The magic of a gay cruise lies in the shared experience of traveling with your community. Each sailing fosters an environment where you can be yourself. You can choose whether to blend in with the crowd or stand out and be celebrated for your flair.

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

Bonds often form more quickly and naturally aboard a ship where you're surrounded by your people, especially on full-ship charters where large mixers kick off each sailing.

Expect welcome parties with themes that go beyond just a name tag, whether that's icebreaker games or an opportunity to dress up in a way that signifies where you're from or how you identify. You'll find more openness throughout the ship compared to a traditional non-themed cruise, especially on the pool deck, as many passengers seek out the experience to expand their social circle.

Don't miss the boat on making lifelong friends during an epic cruise vacation. Here are 12 of the best gay cruises in 2024 and 2025.

R Family Vacations' 2024 Summer Cruise

Date: July 7-13, 2024

Join R Family Vacations for a special group sailing on board Celebrity Beyond . While this is not a full-ship charter, R Family will host many exclusive group activities during the sailing, including performances by Broadway belters, an LGBTQ+ comedy show, dance parties, a theater camp and special R Family dinners.

The ship will depart from Fort Lauderdale, with stops in Perfect Day at CocoCay , Royal Caribbean's private island in the Bahamas; George Town, Grand Cayman; and Bimini, Bahamas.

R Family was the first LGBTQ+ family travel company and has been a leader in the LGBTQ+ family travel market for 20 years, creating the opportunity for queer families to connect and share in the joy of travel. The company has since expanded beyond family travel to include adults-only, small-ship sailings.

Rates for the company's summer cruise start at $920.79 per person, including taxes, fees and gratuities.

How to book: Visit R Family's website for pricing and availability, or call 917-522-0985 to book.

Vacaya's Europe River Cruise 2024

Date: Aug. 3-15, 2024

If you're looking for one of the best Pride celebrations in the world, Vacaya's Europe River Cruise 2024 is the place to be. The cruise begins with the ship docked in the heart of Amsterdam for two nights during its celebrated Pride festival. Catch the one-of-a-kind floating Pride parade that snakes its way through the city as you revel in the party atmosphere.

The travel company's Europe River Cruise will bring LGBTQ+ passengers to many ports in the Netherlands and Belgium on a luxury river ship, the newly revamped Advance by Transcend (the former Crystal Mahler).

The 12-night itinerary begins with two nights in Amsterdam, followed by stops in the Netherlands that include Volendam, Edam, Ultrecht, Nijmegen, Kinderdijk, Schoonhoven, Heusden, Rotterdam and Dordrecht. The journey finishes in Belgium with a stop in Ghent and an overnight in Antwerp. The itinerary finishes in time to make the quick trip down from Antwerp to Belgium for the stunning Flower Carpet Festival.

Rates for available cabins start at $6,997 per person based on double occupancy and do not include port fees, admin fees or gratuities. Fares do include open bar and unlimited internet. There are only a handful of cabins remaining for this summer sailing.

How to book: Check the latest cabin availability and book Vacaya's Europe River Cruise 2024 on Vacaya's website or by calling 718-504-0404.

Source Journeys' Treasures of Venice and Dalmatian Coast

Date: Aug. 17-24, 2024

Source Journeys has been a small-group LGBTQ+ charter company for more than 20 years, hosting a handful of small-ship charters and land-based tours each year. Source prides itself on a shipboard atmosphere of acceptance, where all feel welcome.

Of the company's upcoming trips planned, its summer 2024 Venice and the Dalmatian Coast cruise on Star Clippers' Royal Clipper is a highlight, as it charters the world's largest sailing ship.

The round-trip itinerary from Venice, Italy, includes a stop in Kotor, Montenegro, before hitting up the highlights of Croatia, including Dubrovnik, Zadar, Hvar, the Pakleni Islands and Rovinj.

Pricing for the seven-night cruise starts at $2,899 per person based on double occupancy. The fare does not include port fees, gratuities and pre- and post-cruise packages.

How to book: Reserve your spot on the Treasures of Venice and the Dalmatian Coast cruise via Source Journeys' website or by calling 305-672-9779.

Related: From Asheville to Prague: 11 underrated LGBTQIA+ friendly destinations to visit

Olivia's Majestic Alaska Cruise

Date: Sept. 21-28, 2024

Olivia is the most renowned and popular travel group for lesbians, having hosted more than 300 trips for 350,000-plus women. Among the many trips on the books for the next two years, Olivia will charter its first-ever large-ship Alaska cruise on Holland America 's Eurodam.

Join 2,100 women for a seven-night cruise through Alaska from Seattle. The itinerary includes visits to Juneau, Glacier Bay, Icy Strait Point, Sitka and Ketchikan, Alaska, as well as Victoria, British Columbia. Several renowned guests and performers will also be on board.

Rates for the remaining available cabins start from $1,499 per person based on double occupancy, not including fees and airfare.

How to book: Reserve your spot on Olivia's website or by calling 800-631-6277.

Related: 15 Alaska cruise mistakes you never want to make

Atlantis Events' Halloween San Diego to Mexico Cruise

Date: Oct. 26-Nov. 2, 2024

Atlantis is the largest gay cruise charter company. When it hosts a sailing, the company takes over some of the largest ships at sea.

If you appreciate partying 'til sunrise, don't miss the chance to sail on Holland America Line's Koningsdam this fall with Atlantis' Halloween San Diego to Mexico Cruise.

Expect a one-of-a-kind fusion of Holland America Line's classic cruising experience (think white glove service and baked Alaska dessert ) with an impressive overlay of high-tech party lights and sound gear to keep the dance parties hopping day and night.

This weeklong itinerary from Los Angeles returns after a successful 2023 cruise, sailing round-trip from San Diego with a stop in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, on its way to an extended stay in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, until 2 a.m., followed by a stop in Mazatlan, Mexico.

Make sure to pack accordingly, as this sailing spans Halloween week, and you will want to dress to impress. Every night will bring a different theme, and you can be sure many of the 2,500 guests on board will dress up.

Select cabins for the fall 2024 sailing are still available, with rates from $919 per person based on double occupancy. Prices do not include gratuities, taxes and port fees.

How to book: Pick the cabin you want for the Halloween Cruise on the Atlantis website or by calling 310-859-8800.

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

Out Adventures' Egypt: Nile River Cruise & Cairo

Date: Nov. 8-17, 2024; March 7-16, 2025; Nov. 7-16, 2025

Check the Great Pyramids of Giza off your bucket list, trace Egypt's queer history while exploring the tomb of Khnumhotep and Niankhkhnum, and lose yourself in Cairo's bustling bazaars on Out Adventures' nine-night Egypt tour. The trip features three nights in a hotel in Cairo, followed by a four-night Nile River cruise and two additional nights in Cairo before flying home.

You'll sail with a small group of no more than 20 gay men (and their allies and families) with excursions that'll include visits to Luxor Temple, the Royal Tombs in the Valley of the Kings and the Abu Simbel temple complex.

Out Adventures has a number of gay charter cruises, some combined with land tours, planned through 2025. The trips focus on groups no larger than 40 to enable a more tight-knit sense of community and connection. Additionally, the small size allows Out Adventures' groups to travel to more exotic, remote destinations.

There are only a few spaces left for the November 2024 sailing, with more availability for the 2025 sailings. Rates for these sailings start at $5,395 per person based on double occupancy, not including taxes, tips and fees.

How to book: Book your spot on the Nile River cruise on the Out Adventures website or by calling 866-360-1152.

Related: 4 things to consider before booking an LGBTQ cruise

GaySail's Gay Nude Cruising in Tahiti

Date: Nov. 23-30, 2024

Anchors aweigh, and off with your clothes! GaySail's nude sailings offer the rare chance to sail au naturel in the safe confines of a private, full-charter catamaran.

GaySail's upcoming Tahiti cruise will take a small group of up to 14 gay men on a journey to many of the highlights of the South Pacific, including Bora Bora, Maupiti and Moorea.

GaySail has an impressive lineup of small-ship charters scheduled, including both clothing-optional and all-nude sailings. The charter company predominantly caters to European gay men (its headquarters is based in Amsterdam), but men from all around the world are welcome to join.

Pricing for the November 2024 sailing starts at 2,495 euros (about $2,696) per person, including taxes and fees.

How to book: While the experience of sailing naked will be freeing, the experience is not free. Book your reservation on the GaySail website or email [email protected] for more details.

Outbound's Rhine River Christmas Market Cruise

Date: Dec. 14-21, 2024

The best part of a winter river cruise is docking in a port that's a few steps away from the warm glow and transfixing scents of a European Christmas market. The best part of booking that cruise with Outbound, a charter company that focuses on LGBTQ+ travelers, is going to those markets with your newfound group of queer friends.

Outbound will take passengers on the Rhine River this December on Emerald Cruises' Emerald Sun. The itinerary begins in the Netherlands and alights in ports in Germany, France and Switzerland, where guests can sample the local warm chestnuts and mulled wine.

A few cabins are still available for the 2024 cruise, with rates starting at $2,997 per person based on double occupancy. Fares do not include port fees and taxes.

How to book: Reserve your spot on the Outbound website or by calling 916-683-1000.

Vacaya's Caribbean Cruise 2025

Date: Feb. 22-March 1, 2025

Now in its sixth year of large-scale charter cruises and full resort buyouts, Vacaya is changing its annual winter Caribbean itinerary in 2025. Instead of sailing round-trip from southeast Florida, this year's island getaway will depart from New Orleans. The travel operator will be chartering Royal Caribbean's Brilliance of the Seas for a sailing taking place the week prior to Mardi Gras (scheduled for March 4, 2025).

The ship will depart from New Orleans and stop in Cozumel, Mexico; George Town, Grand Cayman; and Yucatan (Progreso), Mexico, with three days at sea.

Vacaya is the first and only large-scale travel group to openly and outwardly welcome the entire LGBTQIAPK (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, polygamous/polyamorous and kink) community and its allies.

The vibe on board is friendly and easygoing, the entertainment is Broadway-caliber and the nightly parties are more about gay anthems than house beats. The company also features an opportunity to give back on each trip with its ReachOut program, where passengers can volunteer with a local project while in port.

Fares for available cabins on the upcoming Caribbean cruise start at $1,147 per person based on double occupancy, not including port taxes, fees and gratuities.

How to book: Get up-to-the-minute availability on the cabins and their locations for the Caribbean Cruise 2025 on Vacaya's website or by calling 718-504-0404.

Related: 11 things I learned on my 1st gay cruise

Pied Piper Travel's Post-Thanksgiving Caribbean cruise

Date: Nov. 30-Dec. 7, 2024

Pied Piper's small gay groups on large-scale ships have sailed on hundreds of cruises since its inception in 1990. With more than 20 group sailings currently scheduled through February 2025, Pied Piper's globe-trotting trips span an impressive variety of destinations and themes, including trips to Alaska, New Zealand and Rio de Janeiro during Carnival.

Of the many cruises scheduled, the company's upcoming 22nd annual post-Thanksgiving cruise on Celebrity Apex is the company's most popular itinerary. Sail on Celebrity Cruises' Edge Class ship as it departs from Fort Lauderdale with stops in Basseterre, St. Kitts; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; and Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic.

Sailing with the Pied Piper group includes a special Welcome Aboard cocktail party, private dining tables, an onboard Pied Piper host and invitations to special events and activities. The base rate for cabins available on this cruise is $1,095 per person based on double occupancy, not including taxes, gratuities and additional port fees.

How to book: For more details about Pied Piper Travel's Post-Thanksgiving Caribbean Cruise on Celebrity Apex, visit Pied Piper Travel's website . Book your reservation by calling 800-874-7312.

Related: Tipping on a cruise ship: Everything you need to know

Brand g Vacations' 2025 Amazon Cruise and Machu Picchu Discovery

Date: March 30-April 11, 2025

Join a small group of 40 other LGBTQ+ travelers for Brand g's four-night cruise on the Amazon River on Delfin III, an all-suite ship owned and operated by Delfin Amazon Cruises. The cruise is part of a 13-day luxury vacation package that will capture many highlights of Peru, most notably with a glass-domed train journey to Machu Picchu.

Brand g is known for its intimate, small-ship charters with a focus on all-inclusive luxury. The tour is priced based on the cruise cabin you select and still has availability in the base rate suites. Trip fares start at $7,699 per person based on double occupancy, not including taxes, tips and fees.

How to book: You can reserve a cabin for this cruise on the Brand g website or by calling 952-405-9309.

Related: 21 tips and tricks that will make your 1st cruise go smoothly

Brand g's 2025 Norway, Greenland and Iceland cruise

Date: July 31-Aug. 9, 2025

Brand g continues to expand its full-ship charters for LGBTQ+ travelers and their straight allies with its 2025 Norway, Greenland and Iceland cruise. The travel operator will charter Atlas Ocean Voyages' World Voyager, a luxury expedition ship, as it sails the Arctic waters in the temperate summer months.

The all-inclusive trip includes nearly everything but the guarantee you'll spot a polar bear. You will, however, witness vast and diverse bird colonies on Clavering Island, Greenland.

The nine-night itinerary starts at the top of the world in Longyearbyen in Norway's Svalbard archipelago. Guests will visit additional Svalbard ports including Ny-Alesund and Gashamna, before crossing to Greenland, stopping in Wollaston Foreland/Clavering Island, sailing the Kaiser Franz Josef Fjord, and visiting Ittoqqortoormiit and Hurry Inlet, Scoresbysund. The journey ends in Reykjavik, Iceland.

Fares for available cabins on the upcoming Norway, Greenland and Iceland cruise start at $7,999 per person based on double occupancy, not including port taxes, fees and gratuities.

How to book: Check the latest cabin availability and book Brand g's 2025 Norway, Greenland and Iceland on Brand g's website or by calling 952-405-9309.

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Tel. 304 964 0568

Ocean and River Cruises for the LGBT community, their friends and families

Welcome to Arno's Bear Cruises, where we offer unforgettable ocean and river cruises tailored to the LGBT community and their loved ones. Embrace the freedom to travel the world and create lasting memories with like-minded individuals.

Oct 28, 2024 Halloween Cruise Utopia of the Seas Port Canaveral

A 4 night sailing out of Port Canaveral to the Bahamas, and CocoCay. This is just a party cruise to dress up for Halloween. Cruise starts at only $448 p.p. 

Feb 15-22, 2025  New Orleans here we come. 

A 7 night sailing on the Brilliance OTS to Cozumel, Grand Cayman and Yucatan. Private Disco Party already approved. Cabins start at $669 p.p. Host Hotel in walking distance to Bourbon Street. 

May 10 - 17, 2025.  From Los Angeles to Vancouver on the Princess Sapphire. 

Someone asked me to add a sailing on the West Coast, so here it goes. 

Sailing on Princess this time out of LA to San Diego, San Francisco, Oregon, Victoria, Canada, and ending in Vancouver. Sailing starts at $1149 p.p. incl. Taxes, Gratuities, Wifi, Drink package and more. 

Sep 17 - 28, 2025 Oktoberfest in Munich and a River Cruise to Budapest. 

Enjoy the opening of Oktoberfest in Munich followed by a River Cruise on Amadeus River Cruises from Passau Germany, through Austria, Slovakia and Hungary. This is a full ship charter just for us. 

Feb 15 - 22, 2026 Celebrity BEYOND with Captain Kate from Miami, FL

Sailing out of Miami, FL to Puerto Plata; St. Thomas and St. Kitts. As always, private excursions and parties on board will be announced later as well as the host hotel. Infinity Veranda cabins for $1915 pp incl. taxes, gratuities, wifi and drink package. 

World Pride Amsterdam 2026 July 27 - August 3, 2026  

A river cruise out of Basel, Switzerland with stops in France, Germany and a 3 night weekend in Amsterdam for World Pride. No need to get a hotel there.  I chartered two identical vessels. Both are sold out. Waitlist ONLY. 

Our Service to You

For almost 15 years, I have been dedicated to creating unforgettable vacations within the realm of LGBT Group Cruises. What started as a Bear Cruise is now an all inclusive LGBTQ vacation, ensuring that every guest can relax and enjoy themselves without any worries. Many friendships were created over the years and yes, many marriages as well. 

At our events, no one is left behind - we strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone can feel comfortable and accepted. Your friends, families, neighbors, all are welcome. 

Virgin Voyages Booking Link

Wether you are going with a group, your partner, or just by yourself. Use my booking link for any Virgin Voyages sailing and get additional benefits. 

Traveling to Europe

Coming in 2025 there will be new requirements for traveling to the EU for Non-EU members.  You can apply for the ETIAS application online. 

Traveling to the United Kingdom

Traveling to or through the UK? Please check the requirements before you leave the country. 

About Arno's Bear Cruises

Embrace adventure, embrace inclusivity.

At Arno's Bear Cruises, we believe in creating spaces of acceptance and fun for the LGBT community. We started in 2009 offering two cruises a year. The February cruise is always the Caribbean, the others somewhere around the world. Our cruises are not just about exploration; they're about celebrating diversity and unity. Join us on a journey where every moment is filled with fun, joy and acceptance.Travel the world with pride and passion. We've been to Europe, South America and Antarctica together. There is more to explore. 

“Have you ever had an experience that made you wish it would never end? One that is so much fun that you almost forget about the real world? This is what cruising with Arno is like. It’s a tremendous experience from beginning to end and beyond; One that for me has spawned lifelong friendships and memories that make anything I’ve done in the past echo in comparison. My husband and I were lucky enough to meet Arno several years ago while cruising with another bear group organizer. We encountered so many members of his group who sung the praises of cruising with Arno. We watched as they hosted amazing parties, spent time together throughout the ship and exuded so much comraderie.  One night on our cruise we were double booked for a party room and Arno offered for our two groups to combine. It was the most fun we had ever had!! We booked our next cruise through Arno. Booking was amazingly easy and within a day of submitting our request we received our reservation information. Arno actually emailed us and told us that he had a better cabin available at a better price (he didn’t have to do that but he did). Since then we have been on 4 more sailings with Arno. Leading up to the cruise Arno puts an immense amount of work into helping educate his group on excursions, sales on onboard purchases, activities and so much more.  Then you get to the onboard experience. Arno goes to great lengths to line up activities on the ship and ensure they are executed to perfection. He interacts with all of his cruisers and makes sure their sailing is top-notch. I have personally seen him go to bat for a cruiser and will not stop until sufficient resolution is met. I personally have brought double digits of sailers to Arno’s group based solely on the amazing experience we have in each and every sailing. We will never consider cruising with any other bear group again. Heck, we won’t even book another cruise if it isn’t with Arno.  I wholeheartedly recommend anyone that even has a curiosity of what this will be like to consider Arno. He fights for us, he is passionate about ensuring our happiness and he genuinely cares for each and every one of the people that sails with him. You will make friendships and memories that will last a lifetime!!!”

Price and Carlos

I happened upon Arno’s Bear Cruise purely by accident.  I was recently widowed after 20 years and was forcing myself to get out and make new friends.  My new boyfriend encouraged me to do something special for my 50th birthday, and with a Google search, found his site.  We were obviously apprehensive being our first cruise, let alone not knowing anyone else in this group.  We have been to other events with gay men, but found that due to our ages and, let’s face it, body shapes, and we would feel out of place among the younger men.   We took a leap of faith and our first Arno’s Bear Cruise was to Alaska! Booking was a breeze.  There were no “surprise” fees, and Arno was very prompt with replying to questions and updates on excursions that he coordinated for the group.  Arno even organized to have a host hotel both pre and post boarding upon the ship.  Everyone we met was so nice and looked just like us!  My inhibitions were gone as I confidently walked shirtless to the ship’s pool to join the group at the pool.  As the cruise continued, more and more guys in the group introduced themselves to us and we even exchanged contact information.  We took a helicopter flight atop an actual glacier, visited a dog-sled encampment within the Yukon Territory, and toured the 19th century capital of Juneau where my boyfriend Michael and I purchased rings.  (These rings later turned into wedding bands).  Upon our departure of that first cruise with Arno’s Bear Cruises, we made new friends and experienced wondrous nature while being entertained on a glamorous Royal Caribbean ship.  We decided right then that we must do another cruise the following year. Our second cruise was with a competitor.  We felt we should try a Gay Bear Group on the West Coast, as we live in San Diego, California.  This cruise was with Princess Cruises from Los Angeles to Mexican ports.  We were disappointed overall.  Although, the group was very nice and outgoing, excursions were mainly through the ship.  The group did provide a DJ and arranged our group to have private dances; however, the other guests kept crashing our parties due to the ship keeping the other disco dark.  We were spoiled with our on board entertainment with Royal Caribbean with costumed singers in the promenade, acrobatics on bungee cords dancing above our heads, and truly funny comedians in the theater.  Our Princess Cruise entertainment consisted of the head maître d and chef joking on stage before escorting hundreds of guests through the empty cooking rooms.  A new friend we met reported to us that he witnessed a ship worker pouring cheaper liquor into expensive bottles from behind the bar at 4am.  We knew that we had to go back to Arno. Since then, we have been with Arno's Bear Cruises to the Western Caribbean, Eastern Caribbean, Australia/New Zealand, and are currently booked to another Western Caribbean cruise through Arno and Royal Caribbean.  We feel that not only do we feel pampered on a Royal Caribbean ship, we also feel confident that everything will be organized and orderly, yet very playful and accepting with Arno and the group of men I now call friends.

Robert M. San Diego

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The 9 best gay cruises for 2024 (+ planning tips).

Dance parties, drag queen performances and fun destinations await on these LGBTQ voyages.

The Best Gay Cruises

Courtesy of The Cruise with La Demence

Embark on an all-gay or LGBTQ-friendly cruise for excellent entertainment, food and excursions.

Whether you are looking to hop aboard a Pride Week cruise with a major line or sail away with a smaller company that specializes in LGBTQ voyages, the following cruise operators promise a fun, safe and memorable vacation.

(Note: While many of these cruise lines sail to LGBTQ-friendly ports of call, travelers should research destinations to learn more about cultures, customs and safety in each location and determine what's right for them.)

Virgin Voyages

Atlantis events, brand g vacations, celebrity cruises, royal caribbean international, the cruise with la demence, source journeys.

Gabriel Goldberg | Courtesy of VACAYA

Founded by avid travelers Randle Roper, Patrick Gunn and John Finen, VACAYA bills itself as the first all-LGBT travel company in the full-ship charter/resort buyout sector of the travel industry to launch in more than 25 years.

"[VACAYA] was sparked by our own vacations, where we all had encountered two very different experiences," says Gunn. "The all-gay cruises were liberating, empowering and fun, but limited to a small spectrum of people. And while everyone loves a good time, there's more to a memorable vacation than just parties. Mainstream vacations offered more activities and destinations, and were accessible to a diverse set of people, but didn't always feel like a friendly, judgment-free environment."

As such, VACAYA set out to bring LGBTQ travelers from across the spectrum together in a welcoming, inclusive setting, while offering varied onboard activities and immersive itinerary options. Cruisers will enjoy traveling to ports around the world, in the Caribbean , the Galápagos, Europe , Antarctica and more. You can participate in shipwide events ranging from themed deck parties to performances by LGBTQ entertainers to rejuvenating yoga classes. Note that VACAYA's cruises are for adults only.

Previous cruisers had abundant praise for VACAYA's voyages, highlighting the company's responsiveness when booking and the kindhearted staff, as well as the genuine connections they made with other passengers on board. Many were also impressed by the events and entertainment options throughout their sailings.

In 2024, VACAYA will offer a number of voyages worldwide. The seven-night Caribbean Cruise on Celebrity Apex in February will sail round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, with several fun-filled days at sea in addition to stops in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Antigua. In August, VACAYA has a 12-night river cruise in Northern Europe on board Advance by Transcend Cruises; this sailing includes the Amsterdam Pride event. The 11-night Antarctica expedition on Atlas Ocean Voyages' World Navigator in December 2024 is sold out, but you can join the waitlist.

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

The Virgin brand has long been known for its celebration of the LGBTQ community, and cruise line Virgin Voyages is no different. The strictly adults-only cruise operator aims to provide a unique experience, with onboard tattoo parlors, impressive live entertainment, and dining options that include more than 20 eateries and menus created by Michelin star chefs. This line gets the stamp of approval from previous LGBTQ cruisers, who praise the ships' gender-neutral bathrooms, diverse staff and onboard shows with resident drag queens.

Virgin Voyages offers gay-specific sailings through travel companies like Atlantis Events, but its more mainstream itineraries still offer a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere that attracts LGBTQ cruisers year-round. Virgin hosts a number of events during Pride Month each year, including deck parties and interactive social media campaigns.

"Each June here at Virgin Voyages, we like to go big for Pride Month with larger-than-life events … all monthlong," the cruise line says in a statement on its website. "It's an important time for us – both internally within our crew and for our sailors – to honor and celebrate the LGBTQ community; who for so long has had to continually fight for equality and the right to be seen, heard and included."

Virgin Voyages sails to a variety of LGBTQ-friendly countries, including New Zealand, Greece and Spain. In June 2024, consider a seven-night sailing aboard Scarlet Lady departing from Barcelona with stops in Marseille and Cannes in France as well as Spain's Palma de Mallorca and Ibiza.

Read: The Best Cruise Lines for the Money

The world's largest gay and lesbian travel brand, Atlantis Events was founded in 1991 and welcomes more than 20,000 travelers annually on LGBTQ vacations. For its all-gay cruises, Atlantis charters megaships from popular lines like Royal Caribbean International , Norwegian Cruise Line and Virgin Voyages in addition to smaller vessels with companies like Oceania Cruises so cruisers will have a fully immersive experience.

On board, travelers can enjoy all the perks these ships have to offer (think: pools, hot tubs, sports courts and plenty of dining choices), plus special events like drag performances, motivational speakers, LGBTQ movies on demand in each cabin and high-energy circuit parties across the ship.

"As an LGBTQ cruiser, you're looking for a ship with lots of entertainment, including dance parties and events," says Marcos Martinez, founder of Men Who Brunch, a Black gay lifestyle blog. "One of the best cruise [lines] for gay cruising is Atlantis, since you'll be able to meet hundreds of attractive men and party all day and night on the ship."

Atlantis hosts primarily gay men; women make up about 5% to 10% of bookings, according to the Atlantis website. Previous cruisers said the atmosphere on board was fun, friendly and welcoming, though some noted that the company's customer service could be better, especially when it comes to details about the cruise.

Due to the company's popularity, its three 2024 cruises are already sold out.

Read: The Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean

Courtesy of Brand G Vacations

Specializing in all-gay river cruises – and now luxury ocean liners – Brand g Vacations was founded in 2011 and explores destinations all over the world. Chartered river cruises typically welcome between 40 and 200 LGBTQ passengers (and their straight allies), which allows cruisers to get to know one another in a smaller setting. Guests tend to skew more mature (think: 40 and older), and the line attracts both men and women.

Onboard entertainment differs slightly from larger ocean voyages: Expect more cabaret-style entertainment than massive all-night dance parties. Cruisers will also enjoy performances by drag queens, gay Broadway stars and more, on top of typical river cruise perks like sightseeing and lavish meals. Past guests recommend choosing Brand g if you're looking for a well-planned, relaxed and luxurious experience over a busier, more party-heavy vacation.

Brand g aims to provide a nearly all-inclusive cruise experience , with Mercedes or small van airport transfers, upscale hotel stays prior to embarkation, and unlimited alcoholic beverages as well as meals included in the fare. As such, prices tend to be on the high end. Plus, cruisers can feel good about their trip knowing that Brand g donates to causes in the U.S. and around the world that assist LGBTQ refugees, AIDS organizations, LGBTQ centers and more.

In 2024, Brand g sails through unique waterways around the world, including the Amazon, the Loire, the Danube, the Mekong, and the Columbia and Snake rivers in the Pacific Northwest. The line's small cruise ship charters also take guests to Iceland, Spain, Morocco, Italy, Croatia and other European destinations.

Read: The Top River Cruise Lines

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Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises sets the scene for an excellent vacation for gay travelers, from its extravagant annual Pride parties to its daily LGBTQ programming throughout the year. The mainstream line has received numerous awards for its inclusivity, receiving accolades from the Cruizie Awards, TTG Travel Awards and Travel Weekly's Magellan Awards for being one of the best cruise lines for LGBTQ passengers.

LGBTQ cruisers can start their vacations off on a high note with a special welcome party on the first night of their voyage to meet other travelers on board. After night one, there are other social events for gay cruisers to party and hang out together. Additionally, Celebrity Cruises was the first cruise line to legally marry a couple at sea in 2018, and it continues to perform same-sex marriages on its ships.

Past cruisers enjoyed their voyages with Celebrity, noting that the line was welcoming, the food was delicious, and there were plenty of areas to hang out as a group with fellow LGBTQ passengers or other companions throughout the ship.

Although all itineraries are gay-friendly, consider booking a sailing during Pride Month in June for an extra special experience. Onboard entertainment during this month includes guest entertainers, a flag raising ceremony, Celebrity's signature Pride Party at Sea and more. The Italian Riviera & France cruise will depart from Barcelona on June 8, 2024, on the new Celebrity Ascent; this 10-night Mediterranean sailing stops at ports in France, Italy and Malta. Private travel companies like VACAYA also charter Celebrity ships for all-gay voyages throughout the year.

Read: Cruise Packing List: The Top Essentials for Any Cruise

Getty Images

Specifically marketed toward lesbians and LGBTQ women, Olivia has hosted more than 350,000 travelers by land and sea over five decades. Cruisers can choose between river voyages or ocean sailings to destinations around the world. On the lesbian cruises, expect a mix of nostalgic decade-themed dance parties, folk singers, writing workshops, karaoke and other activities. Cruisers can also relax poolside, spend some time in the onboard spa or take it easy in one of the ships' lounges.

Travelers who are looking to connect with others who share similar backgrounds can do so in one of Olivia's specialized programs. There are group and solo traveler meetups, as well as programs like Sisters, which is for LGBTQ women of color; Gen-O, for cruisers 40 and younger; Women in Uniform gatherings, for veterans and those currently in the armed forces; and events for OWLs (which stands for "older, wiser lesbians"). Past cruisers on Olivia's voyages report feeling a true sense of community and belonging on board, resulting in a fun, carefree trip.

In June 2024, set sail with Olivia from Edinburgh, Scotland, to Dublin on Windstar Cruises' Star Legend. Or, visit the islands of Tahiti on the line's Star Breeze in September. Other cruise itineraries include Alaska, the Greek Isles, Mexico and the Panama Canal.

Read: The Best Girls Trip Ideas

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International provides a welcoming and inclusive experience for LGBTQ travelers. The popular cruise line frequently partners with Atlantis Events to offer all-gay voyages throughout the year, but even the standard sailings earn praise.

Highlights of the sailings are the ships' entertainment options (including the Tony Award-winning musical "Mamma Mia!") and attentive staff, according to past cruisers. Itineraries typically include LGBTQ meetups at the beginning of each cruise for gay travelers to meet like-minded passengers. Outside of the sailing experience, Royal Caribbean has also publicly committed to supporting the LGBTQ community throughout the year, and it was the first cruise line to earn the title "Gay Traveler Approved" from GayTravel in 2016.

In 2024, consider a Royal Caribbean voyage that sails to gay-friendly destinations. "Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, [is] full of gay bars, clubs and gay beaches," says Martinez. Hop aboard Navigator of the Seas in May for a seven-night sailing round-trip from Los Angeles that stops in Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Ensenada, Mexico. Navigator of the Seas also hosts a seven-night itinerary throughout the year that calls on Mazatlan, Mexico, as well.

Ready to plan a cruise? Find the best value sailings on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Courtesy of The Cruise With La Demence

According to past cruisers, if you're looking for one of the best party scenes on the open seas, consider an all-gay cruise with La Demence. Powered by a popular gay nightclub in Brussels with the same name, La Demence – French for "the madness" – primarily caters to a European crowd. Most passengers are male, though women are also welcome.

On board, passengers should expect to dance the night away at massive deck parties that last into the wee hours of the morning. The line prides itself on its top-notch DJs, impressive light setup and electric party atmosphere. Previous cruisers had high praise for the itineraries – which exclusively visit gay-friendly locations – as well as the fruity cocktails, themed nights (costumes strongly encouraged) and glamorous entertainment. Enjoy unique events like drag bingo, high heel runs and more.

La Demence sails every summer to European destinations like Greece, Italy and Malta. The 2023 cruise was chartered on Royal Caribbean's Explorer of the Seas. Fares include all food and nonalcoholic beverages, plus access to all parties, shows and the onboard gym.

Read: The Top Party Cruises

Source Journeys has been planning luxury vacations for LGBTQ travelers for more than 20 years. The Miami-based company, with the vision of founder and chief executive officer Craig Smith, offers small group land tours and full-charter cruises for like-minded travelers with a focus on giving back to the communities they visit. The company also supports LGBTQ organizations, such as the National Gay & Lesbian Task Force and the Human Rights Campaign.

Past guests of their tours say their fellow travelers were as fun and interesting as the destinations. They appreciated the excellent personalized planning for the trips by Smith and his life partner, Rafael Rodriguez.

The company's cruises in 2024 include a seven-night Galápagos sailing in late September on a Relais & Chateau luxury yacht: Ecoventura's new ship, Evolve. The intimate ship accommodates just 20 passengers. Source Journeys is also offering a seven-night river cruise through Burgundy and Provence, France, in June on Avalon Waterways' Avalon Poetry II, as well as a seven-night voyage from Venice along the Dalmatian Coast. This ocean cruise scheduled in August is chartered on Star Clippers' masted sailing ship, Royal Clipper.

Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to gay cruising, gone are the days of discreet "Friends of Dorothy" meetups. The term – a euphemism that dates back to the 1950s – was once used to indicate gay social events on daily cruise line programs, without explicitly calling out members of the community on board. It's a far cry from today's LGBTQ cruising industry, which loudly and proudly celebrates passengers from all walks of life.

According to experts, LGBTQ cruising is a market that will only continue to grow. Travelers can take their pick between cruise operators tailored specifically to queer communities and major cruise lines that offer festive Pride celebrations and inclusive onboard entertainment. As travel on the high seas continues to grow in popularity for vacationers, gay and lesbian travelers should consider setting sail on a fun-filled cruise vacation for their next trip.

When planning a cruise, vacationers should first consider what their ideal sailing looks like.

Gay-friendly vs. all-gay sailings: Cruisers should think about whether they'd like to travel aboard a gay-friendly mainstream line – such as Celebrity Cruises or Virgin Voyages – or opt for an all-gay, full-ship charter with a third-party vacation company.

"Each and every LGBTQIAPK person has a different level of comfortability in their 'outness,' " says Patrick Gunn, co-founder and chief marketing officer of LGBTQ vacation company VACAYA. Of VACAYA's all-gay charters, he adds, "For one magical week, our community gets to be the majority and live life out loud in the blissful utopia VACAYA creates on a gay cruise. That single change from being an always-minority to a sudden majority can have a profoundly positive real-world effect on individuals."

• Travel style: Some cruise operators (think: Atlantis Events and La Demence) are known for their electrifying all-night parties, which may be perfect for gay groups of friends. Meanwhile, other companies like VACAYA and Olivia look to provide a more diverse selection of activities, ranging from tea dances (LGBTQ parties that, historically, included tea service) to philanthropic service activities to immersive onshore experiences.
• Ports of call: Some of the most LGBTQ- and gay-friendly destinations for cruises include: Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Sydney; Barcelona, Spain; Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan; Helsinki; Quebec City; Auckland, New Zealand; Mykonos, Greece; Reykjavik, Iceland; Amsterdam; Tel Aviv, Israel; Buenos Aires, Argentina; and San Francisco. Countries that gay travelers may want to avoid include the Maldives, Jamaica, Morocco, Malaysia and Haiti, as homosexuality is illegal in these destinations.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has visited destinations around the globe on nearly every type of ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels, traditional masted sailing ships and intimate river ships on the Mekong River. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Cruise Lines
• The Top Solo Cruises (No Supplement Fare)
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• The Top 3-Day Cruise Itineraries
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Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

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8 LGBTQ+ Cruises to Book for Incredible Itineraries and Inclusive Fun

These cruises for LGBTQ+ travelers offer inclusive experiences on itineraries around the world.

Courtesy of Atlantis Events

Cruising is back, and as passengers set sail once again, there’s no shortage of LGBTQ+-friendly cruise lines and dedicated itineraries to embark upon. Whether you’re hoping to discover centuries-old gems across Europe’s rivers , bask in the beauty of the Alaskan wilderness , or just party the night away with a vodka soda in hand and “Into You” by Ariana Grande blasting overhead, these cruise lines and tour operators offer something for every LGBTQ+ traveler.

Brand G Vacations

Courtesy of Brand G Vacations

Specializing in curated experiences for LGBTQ+ community members since 2011, Brand G Vacations has found particular success within the realm of small-scale cruises, offering voyages on the high seas and the Earth’s most iconic rivers. With trips across spectacular rivers like the Douro , Ganges , and Amazon , each Brand G excursion provides ample opportunities for forging new friendships thanks to their low passenger count. As an added bonus, philanthropy is a central tenet of the company, with each year bringing a new partnership with a charity committed to addressing issues within the LGBTQ+ community.

Gabriel Goldberg/VACAYA

A recent addition to the cruise industry, Vacaya caters specifically to LGBTQIAPK+ patrons, with cruises ranging from classic tropical island routes to truly far-flung options. In terms of classic cruise experiences, guests can find spacious suites, vibrant nightlife, and 29 drinking and dining venues aboard the Celebrity Apex on Vacaya’s annual Caribbean cruise taking place in February 2024 — but for the adventurous soul, there’s no beating one of their smaller options. Though itineraries span from the Adriatic Sea to the heart of Polynesia , each cruise offers the perfect blend of relaxing amenities and bustling nightlife to keep you occupied between ports.

Courtesy of Olivia Travel

The gay cruise industry is largely geared toward men, but Olivia is the industry’s reigning champion for LGBTQ+ women. The company hosts a plethora of river and open-water cruises all across the globe, with lesbian and queer woman-focused excursions to Alaska , Egypt and Jordan , and Greece on the roster for 2024. Amenities ranging from meals to self-service laundry to alcoholic beverages are all included as part of your purchase, and for those wishing to keep the party going after testing their sea legs, Olivia also offers land-based tours, with a wealth of relaxing resort stays available to book.

Atlantis Events

With beloved celebrity entertainers and dazzling dance parties on the regular, Atlantis is one of the cruise industry’s top contenders for a fun-filled, LBGTQ+-centered getaway on the high seas. For the most social of butterflies, this fall’s Italy, France, and Ibiza cruise is set to shatter records for the largest gay cruise to set sail across Europe, uniting more than 4,000 passengers on the massive Odyssey of the Seas . For a smaller-scale (but still grandiose) experience, Atlantis is putting some of Southeast Asia’s most dazzling cities on full display this November, offering a nine-night cruise along Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Bangkok.

Celebrity Cruises

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

One of the most dedicated queer allies in the water tourism world, Celebrity Cruises has gone to great lengths to partner with LGBTQ+ impact groups and promote inclusivity in the workplace, and the cruise line even offers same-sex weddings on board, officiated by the cruise captain. Though queer passengers are certain to feel welcome aboard any voyage, the company has been hosting the iconic Pride Party at Sea since 2018, imbuing cruises across the globe with an added dose of LGBTQ+-curated programs and parties throughout the month of June.

The Cruise by La Demence

Courtesy of The Cruise

While La Demence has been one of Belgium’s most coveted queer events for decades, the festivities are taking on an aquatic spin on The Cruise , a week-long journey scheduled for July 2023. Kicking off with the Italian city of Ravenna , this week-long excursion highlights fascinating destinations across the Mediterranean, with Sarandë, Malta, and Catania all gracing the itinerary — but of course, the most incredible festivities take place far beyond the shore. Equipped with dazzling amenities like an on-ship spa, a dedicated nudist deck, and a star-studded cast of entertainers, the Explorer of the Seas is a one-way ticket to a memorable jaunt across Europe’s stunning southern coast.

Source Journeys

Courtesy of Source Journeys

Source Journeys has mastered the art of cruising, providing LGBTQ+ travelers with a treasure trove of carefully curated luxury cruises. For wildlife lovers, September brings the opportunity to spot sea lions, turtles, and marine iguanas on a voyage to Ecuador’s iconic Galapagos Islands , with the Relais & Chateaux-aligned Evolve yacht serving as a particularly relaxing abode for the trip, while October’s Vietnam and Cambodia cruise highlights the rich beauty of the Mekong from urban and natural perspectives.

Uniworld River Cruises

Courtesy of Uniworld River Cruises

When it comes to low-effort/high-yield travel, river cruises are hard to top. They offer an opportunity to visit a vast array of storied cities, neatly bundled into one itinerary — and in terms of uniquely LGBTQ+ experiences, Uniworld has a few special journeys in store. During an Out on the Rivers cruise, guests can attend a wide array of curated events and performances, with R Family Vacations founders Gregg Kaminsky and Kelli Carpenter taking charge of the journey. While the France-focused Brilliant Bordeaux cruise is set to depart next month, be sure to mark your calendars for April 2024’s Holland and Belgium at Tulip Time , a trip that highlights some of Western Europe’s pioneers for LGBTQ+ inclusivity.

BEARS on a BearCruise tell all!

The Bears Are Leaving In:

Mayday caribbean cruise , may 26- june 1, 2024 .

On Board a NEW SHIP : The CELEBRITY BEYOND

Our BearCruisers Depart for a 6-Night Getaway! The MayDaze Cruise sails from Fort Lauderdale,  going to Coco Cay, Bimini Bahamas, & Grand Cayman. 

Whether catamaran sailing and snorkeling, swimming with stingrays in Grand Cayman, partying & relaxing on the amazing private island “Perfect Day at Coco Cay” , or relaxing on the unspoiled beaches and in the crystal blue water in Bimini, Bahamas, you are sure to have an amazing BearCruise vacation!

Find out why 97% of our previous clients rate us 4.5 stars out of five!

Virgin Voyages Mediterranean  Cruise!

July 7 – 14, 2024 .

On Board THE SCARLET LADY

BearCruisers Depart for a 7-Night Getaway!

Visit  Barcelona, Marseille, Cannes, Palma de Mallorca, Ibiza Pre-Cruise Hotel In Barcelona, and a Sitges post-cruise package!

Traveling solo? Check out our Singles Share program.

It’s great; with no-risk options..

HALLOWEENIE in Hawaii!

Oct 26 – nov 2, 2024 .

Aboard the Norwegian Cruise Line PRIDE OF AMERICA

BearCruisers LOVE our 7 Day Hawaii, Round-trip, Honolulu BearCruise. It’s back my popular demand!

Join your Bear buddies on the only cruise sailing 4 Hawaiian islands  in 7 days! You will love visiting Honolulu,  Maui (overnight), Hilo, Kona, Kauai (overnight) and the Napali Coast with your good Bear Buddies!

Don’t miss our “Buy one, get one airfare FREE” promotion!

New Orleans Mardi Gras Cruise

8 nights, march 1-9, 2025.

Aboard the CELEBRITY CONSTELLATION

Don’t miss out on this incredible 8-night getaway packed with unforgettable experiences.

Join BearCruise for a memorable adventure sailing from Tampa, Florida, on the Celebrity Constellation to experience the vibrant celebration of Mardi Gras in New Orleans!

Immerse yourself in the music, parades, picnics, and floats that make Mardi Gras an unforgettable holiday in the city.

After three exciting days in the heart of the festivities, we will continue our journey to the beach city of  Progreso, Mexico, with beautiful beaches, charming thatch-roofed restaurants, and lively bars.

MayDaze BearCruise Fire & Sunset Soirees!

4-nights, may 14 – 18, 2025.

Aboard the Virgin Voyages “Valiant Lady”

Our BearCruisers Depart for a 4-Night Getaway!

Unlock a true paradise having a full day on the sunset-seekers island of  Key West , followed by a relaxing visit to our exclusive seaside experience in the breathtaking  Beach Club  at  Bimini, Bahamas .

Fall New England and Canada BearCruise

7 nights from nyc:  sept 28 – oct 5, 2025.

Aboard the  Norwegian Getaway

Join BearCruise for a memorable adventure sailing from the vibrant island of Manhattan (yes, that island… New York City !!!) on the Norwegian Getaway to experience the vibrant fall colors of New England and Coastal Canada!

Visit the gorgeous mansions in fabulous Newport, Rhode Island, and enjoy  Bar Harbor with its delicious Maine Lobster, Acadia National Park & Thunder Hole.

In Halifax, Nova Scotia enjoy the shops and the Museum of the Atlantic. At St. John on the Bay of Fundy visit the Reversing Fall Rapids and explore their beautiful coastal village.

What percent of our clients LIKE and LOVE their BearCruise experience?

★  ★  ★ ★  ★, read a few unsolicited endorsements from our happy bears.

We were apprehensive at first, but we quickly made friends and felt like family!

We have traveled with some other tour companies that cater to the gay traveler, and this was our best trip.

Best vacation in a long-long time! A good blend of things to do and relaxation. Loved the gay-friendly cruise line.

The BearCruise was so much fun. Met so many wonderful people and made some great friendships that will continue.

Very well coordinated cruise vacation. It was my first time booking with Dan Howell and it was glitch-free from start to finish!

The BearCruise part of the experience overall was very good. We were all well informed for what there was to do. It was easy to mingle and get to know each other, and there were lots of activities provided.

Loved the camaraderie of the group. Highlight of the time was the pool and hot tub takeover!

I thought the group was great. I thought BearCruise.com was great. I thought AL was amazing and I think almost everything was spot-on as far as BearCruise.com.

I booked the cruise to spend time with my friends, not because I identify with the bear community. Most everyone was friendly!

See What the BearCruise Growling is All About!

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.

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

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

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

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

Why cruise Alaska?

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

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

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

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

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

When do cruises go to Alaska?

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

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

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

Related: Best time to cruise to Alaska

Best Alaska itineraries

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

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

Inside Passage

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler

Gulf of Alaska

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

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

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

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

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

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

Longer sailings from the West Coast

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

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

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

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

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

Cruisetours

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

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

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

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

Related: The best credit cards for booking cruises

Best Alaska cruise lines

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

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

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

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

Best cruise lines for extended trips to Alaska

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

Best Alaska cruises for families with kids

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

Related: 6 best Alaska cruises for families

Best cruise lines for adventure-seekers

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

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

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

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

Best for multigenerational groups

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

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

Best for couples and big celebrations

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

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

Related: The best Alaska cruises for couples

Things to do in Alaska

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

Related: Best shore excursions on an Alaska cruise

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: 15 Alaska cruise mistakes you never want to make

Best Alaska cruise ports

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Icy Strait Point

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

Scenic cruising

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

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

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

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

When to book an Alaska cruise

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

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

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

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

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

What to bring on an Alaska cruise

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

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

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

Bottom line

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

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• 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

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

Travel | Alaska is ready for another record-breaking…

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Travel | Alaska is ready for another record-breaking cruise season

Alaska is home to more than 30,000 grizzlies, but the state’s cruise industry is experiencing anything but a bear market as momentum of last year’s record-breaking season is expected to continue in 2024.

The most-visited Alaskan port, Juneau set a new mark a year ago with 1.65 million passengers descending on the capital city during cruise season, which generally runs from April to late October. That figure from the Juneau Chamber of Commerce is a Denali-sized jump of 30 percent compared to pre-pandemic 2019.

Coinciding with Alaska’s 65th anniversary of statehood, the upcoming cruise season appears to be just as robust, with 19 cruise lines sending 43 ships to the Last Frontier. Kicking things off for the second straight year is the 4,008-passenger Norwegian Bliss, which docked in rustic Skagway last week. With four mainstream-category ships homeported in either Seattle or Vancouver, Norwegian Cruise Line  has nearly 100 more after that.

Two competing companies have staked out even larger claims in this modern-day, maritime Alaskan gold rush. Holland America Line is sending seven premium-class ships for 141 total cruises. And at the top of the totem pole is Princess Cruises , which is celebrating its 55th year in these waters with seven premium ships sharing 158 departures.

Not counting grand voyages with itineraries so rich they make a visit to Alaska seem more like a pit stop, this cruise season will see more than 800 trips of mostly seven to 10 days starting or ending on this side of the Pacific. Where they’re all going is a destination rich in unparalleled wilderness, wildlife and native culture. In other words, bucket list stuff.

“Alaska is one of those places that draws you in and sets the hook right away,” said Kristi Switzer, destination marketing manager for Travel Juneau. “Visitors come for the otherworldly experience of being in the presence of glaciers and fjords, seeing whales and bears and finding the balance of Alaska Native cultural heritage with the rustic sophistication found in the capital city.”

Although Switzer recommends visits lasting several days instead of several hours, the city’s destination evangelist hopes that a partial day in Juneau and each major Alaskan cruise port will have 1.5 million passengers wanting more.

“This magical corner of the world has so much to offer beyond being a checkmark on people’s bucket lists,” she said.

Alaska is a checkmark for about three-quarters of all passengers headed there, according to the Alaska Tourism Industry Association, and the same can be said for two ships this season.

Starting with a six-day sail out of Vancouver on May 11, the namesake of Celebrity Cruises ’ popular Edge class will make its Alaskan debut with weeklong roundtrips from Seattle through Sept. 13. The 2,918-passenger vessel features a unique “outside-in” architecture that provides more floor-to-ceiling glass on the exterior and expanded outdoor spaces to soak up the Alaskan coastlines.

Edge will be joined by a pair of fleet mates for the season, albeit Summit’s seven-day roundtrips are turnarounds out of Anchorage or Vancouver, and Solstice’s weeklong jaunts are solely based in the British Columbian seaport. Celebrity, a premier-category cruise line has 57 departures to Alaska scheduled this year.

The other new recruit is Silver Nova, the youngest Silversea Cruises  ship in the luxury fleet to ever service Alaska. Capped at 728 guests, Silver Nova was launched last year and has the goods to do justice to a dreamlike place that captures the imagination of wilderness lovers and history buffs.

“Silver Nova is the ideal ship for Alaska cruising,” said company spokesman Brad Ball. “Her innovative design, which incorporates an unprecedented 4,000 square meters of glass, immerses guests into the incredible scenery of Alaska from virtually all venues and suites, with far-reaching views at every turn.”

The ship’s reimagined pool deck, which overlooks the water on her starboard side, and all-new outdoor venues — the Dusk Bar and the Marquee — allows unique openness to view spectacular Alaskan glaciers and wildlife. Those who want to experience an older and smaller Evolution-class Silversea vessel can book the Silver Muse, which also will sail mostly seven- to 14-day trips between Anchorage and Vancouver.

Because nearly every Alaskan cruise includes the staples — Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Inside Passage and Denali with a land add-on — some cruise lines like to shake things up with unique itineraries.

Holland America has a roundtrip that makes it easy to visit the 49th and 50th states without a long flight. A new “Glaciers & Volcanos: Alaska to Hawaii” cruise, part of the premium line’s Legendary Voyages collection of journeys from 25 to 59 days, departs on Aug. 31 from Seattle or Sept. 1 from Vancouver aboard the 1,916-passenger Westerdam. The nearly four-weeklong itinerary includes seldomly visited Kodiak and Dutch Harbor before heading down to the tropics to make four calls to three Hawaiian islands.

Seabourn  strives to offer a more tasteful Alaskan cruise and not only because it’s an ultra-luxury cruise line. “Caviar on the Ice” is a savory and swanky soiree on every Alaskan voyage, and when the 450-passenger Odyssey is in Sitka, a town originally built by Russian traders in the early 1800s, Seabourn guests can enjoy a culinary adventure that includes a scenic drive to a taproom for a sampling of local brews and a few eateries to try Siberian-rooted pelmeni dumplings and a hot dog made with caribou that the locals call “reindeer dawgs.” Sorry, vegetarians and friends of Santa, but Blitzen on a bun is da bomb.

Disney Cruise Line  is sending its 2,700-passenger Disney Wonder out of Vancouver for 15 week-long roundtrips, one five-day spin leaving on July 24 and an extended nine-day voyage on July 15.

Other cruise lines showing passengers a whale of a time in Alaska include Crystal, Cunard, Hurtigruten, Lindblad/National Geographic, Oceania, Ponant, Regent Seven Seas and Viking.

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