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Alaska's Inside Passage

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• 2024 Southbound
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Uniquely Tauck

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

All-included shore excursions feature choices to personalize your cruise and explore Alaska your way, including opportunities to get close to Alaska's wildlife by land and sea such as a unique wildlife safari, a visit to a sled dog camp and a trip aboard a very special railroad

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

All-included – Tauck's private shore excursions and distinctive inclusions valued at $3,383

Two of the more unique shore excursions are a "Dungeness Crab" experience where you learn about, and pull up, the Dungeness crabs (with a little help from volunteers) – and a kayaking adventure to observe wildlife in natural surroundings

On a special sea otter and wildlife cruise from Sitka, look for sea otters, whales, sea lions, porpoises, harbor seals, brown bears, blacktail deer, bald eagles and a variety of marine birds from the boat's expansive topside observation deck

Spend one night at a premier hotel in the heart of Vancouver with city sightseeing – and one night in Anchorage including an excursion introducing you to Kenai Fjords National Park

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Moderately paced, and may include some early morning hotel departures, one or two on-tour flights, and extended motor coach travel.

Cultural journeys and expeditions

Cruise through Alaska's legendary Inside Passage aboard Silversea's  Silver Moon , surrounded by some of the most dramatic and wildlife-rich scenery on Earth; a perfect combination of natural and cultural history...

Be at one with nature as you cruise the Inside Passage, surrounded by some of the most dramatic and wildlife-rich scenery on Earth – a cruise that is a perfect combination of natural and cultural history. Snow-crowned mountains, glacier-carved fjords, and lush green rainforests contribute to the feeling of being both uplifted and humbled by larger-than-life wilderness as far as the eye can see. There is always the possibility for wildlife spotting – humpback whales, eagles, orcas, harbour seals – and perhaps puffins, sea otters, the ever-elusive bears or the ever-moving salmon. Life under the sea reigns supreme while on the sea, fjords strewn with glacier chunks appear in shades of blue and white.  When you cruise through the Inside Passage, you'll soon understand why Alaska's state flower is the forget-me-not – because once experienced, this majestic state and its unique treasure trove of wildlife, landscapes, and rich multicultural heritage are truly unforgettable. Travel through awe-inspiring ice-capped waters and enjoy a choice of shore excursions on land, all included, to discover Alaska your way. Kayak to Eagle Island – take a scenic rail journey and streetcar tour – meet both musher and dogs on a sled dog experience – go on a wilderness safari in Glacier Point by boat, canoe, and a one-mile hike – explore a Gold Rush city to glean its historic past, a traditional Tlingit village to learn about its heritage, and the fishing town of Sitka to glean past and present. Alaska's Inside Passage – truly unlike anywhere else on the planet.

See for yourself what Small Ship Cruising is all about

Discover alaska's wildlife, encountering the incredible wildlife of alaska as you cruise the inside passage.

You are one with nature as you cruise Alaska's Inside Passage… through a larger-than-life wilderness capped by snow-crowned mountains, glacier-carved fjords, and lush green forests... encountering the most remarkable array of wildlife anywhere in the US – including humpback whales, bald eagles, orcas, seals, puffins, salmon, porpoises, sea lions… beaver, moose, grizzly bears, caribou, bison… elk, musk oxen, coyotes and more…

Cruising Alaska's fjords

Dramatic scenery all around you as you cruise alaska's fjords.

Named in honor of 1890s US Secretary of the Navy Benjamin Franklin Tracy, Alaska's Tracy Arm Fjord near Juneau is one of two deep, narrow fjords featuring dramatic, glacier-hewn landscapes dominated by sheer cliffs, towering waterfalls, and massive chunks of ice calved from the glacier at the head of the fjord, sparkling in an array of blues and whites. In contrast, Endicott Arm fjord, named in honor of a naval crewman dating back to 1899, marks the southern edge of the Fords Terror Wilderness Area, a 30-mile-long stretch surrounded by granite cliffs, mountain valleys and waterfalls alongside drifting glaciers, deep blue waters and the spectacular Dawes Glacier standing over 600 ft. tall and a half-mile wide. Both Tracy Arm and Endicott Arm fjords make for quite a show during your Inside Passage cruise... so be sure to have your camera ready and your eyes peeled for wildlife!

Wildlife Cruise

Sitka, Alaska

Sea Otter & Wildlife Cruise

A 3-hour cruise in Sitka provides a remarkable opportunity to observe sea otters, whales, sea lions, porpoise, harbor seals, brown bears, blacktail deer, bald eagles and a variety of marine birds, with commentary from an onboard naturalist explaining the workings of this remarkable ecosystem. The waterjet-driven tour vessel has been designed to navigate Southeast Alaska's narrow island passages, allowing for wildlife viewing at close range.

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Welcome Aboard

• Silver Moon

Ship Specifications

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Silver Suite

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Overnight Accommodations

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Arrive Early

Fairmont waterfront, vancouver.

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Nights 2-8 On Board

Tauck Small Ship

The hotel captain cook.

Anchorage, Alaska

Your Journey

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Northbound: Vancouver → Anchorage

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About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

Alaska's Inside Passage  begins in Vancouver, Canada and ends in Anchorage, Alaska, U.S.

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally, you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey to enter Canada. Click here for more information on the U.S. Department of Customs and Border Patrol website.

If you are a U.S. citizen, you do not require a visa for the short duration of this tour. Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation. If you are a frequent traveler to Canada from the U.S., you may benefit from the NEXUS program which is a joint initiative between the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency and the Canada Border Services Agency that allows pre-screened and approved travelers faster processing at designated highway lanes in high-volume border crossing locations, at certain airports, and at certain marine reporting locations in the Great Lakes and Seattle regions. For further information, you may log on to the Nexus Internet site by clicking here.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally, please contact an embassy or consulate of Canada and of the U.S. to determine what travel documentation will be required.

If you are a citizen of a visa-waiver country, you may need an ESTA from the USA and/or a Canadian eTa visa for this tour.

https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/

https://www.etacanadavisa.org/visa-information

Anyone with a criminal record (including some misdemeanors such as Driving While Impaired (DWI) charges) may be excluded or removed from Canada, and should contact a Canadian embassy or consulate well in advance of any planned travel to ensure proper travel documentation.

Every guest will be issued a boarding card that must be presented before embarking the ship in each port. 

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $1,500 per person

Final Payment is due to Tauck  60  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Cruise Protection Product

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection

Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON and Tauck will  reduce the regular cancellation fees outlined herein, provided we are notified of cancellation before your cruise departs. Certain terms and restrictions apply (see below*).

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey. Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  Should you cancel for covered reasons, the plan reimburses cancellation fees imposed, up to your total trip cost. 
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.

Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Cruise Protection is  $699  per person.

This plan provides cancellation coverage for your trip and other insurance coverages that apply only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Cruise & Event Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included in initial payment. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your reservation. Cruise & Event Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit   affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACCREDOM

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit

Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees.

If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit

Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply for this tour.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan:

120 days or more before departure: Loss of cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection fee per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 25% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person 59 – 1 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan: 120 days or more before departure: $1500 per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person 59 - 1 days before departure: Loss of 100% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

Tour Interruption Fees

If you have to interrupt your tour en route, you may be entitled to a refund for the unused land portion if it exceeds 24 hours; certain restrictions apply. Such refunds are based upon the number of overnights missed less a fee of $40 per person per day for unused transportation and other fixed expenses.

Partial Room Cancellation

A person who cancels or leaves a tour while a roommate remains constitutes a cancellation of one type of accommodation and rebooking of another type of accommodation. The price charged to the remaining person is the new, higher price for the new accommodation.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation and transfer terms outlined herein. Note: All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm). 

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

Silver Muse  is equipped with a medical center and a doctor is on call 24 hours. If you avail yourself of his/her services, a charge will be posted to your personal shipboard account. 

The ship's small infirmary is designed to provide medical care for certain temporary illnesses and accidents, and is not intended to or capable of providing on-going treatment of pre-existing medical conditions.

VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS  

Some of the countries visited on this itinerary may require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against certain diseases in order to enter the country.  These requirements are subject to frequent change as outbreaks occur and subside in different areas, and it is therefore crucial that you obtain the very latest information on entry requirements as you prepare for your journey.

For the most current information, please consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) by clicking here and the World Health Organization (WHO) by clicking here. You may also wish to visit the web sites for the embassies of the countries you will be visiting.  Besides providing details on vaccination requirements, these sites can also provide information on vaccinations that may be recommended (but aren't required) and other potential health issues for which no vaccines are available.

Any decisions relating to your health, of course, should not be based solely on information provided by a web site.  It is critically important that you consult with your personal physician prior to your journey to obtain any required vaccinations and to review any optional recommendations offered by the CDC or other sources.

Please be sure to discuss your journey with your physician at least four to six weeks in advance of your departure, as certain vaccinations take time to become fully effective.  Also, be certain to ask your physician for proof of any vaccinations you receive, and to pack this proof along with your other travel documents in your carry-on luggage (not in your checked luggage).

Researching and complying with vaccination entry requirements for the countries visited on this itinerary is the responsibility of the traveler and not Tauck. Tauck is therefore not responsible for any expenses incurred or disruptions to travel caused by improper or incomplete vaccinations, or by the failure to provide proof of required vaccinations. If you do not obtain the necessary vaccinations and proper documentation, you may be denied entry into one or more countries, or temporarily quarantined until the necessary vaccinations are administered, or until proper documentation is provided.  MOBILITY

Cruising Alaska's Inside Passage is very relaxing and the pace leisurely. To enjoy this cruise, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. There is a moderate to heavy amount of walking during our onshore excursions. However, for the most part, the amount of walking you do at the various sites and towns is at your discretion.

Onboard ship, health and fitness devotees will find a spa and fitness center on Deck 10, as well as a jogging track on Deck 9.

PLEASE NOTE: We regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs. The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited. SMOKING

Smoking is not permitted in any interior space on board Silver Muse . Smoke and open fire will activate the smoke detectors. Smoking is permitted in designated areas for cigarette, cigar and pipe smoking. Please do not throw your cigarettes overboard, as it is a violation of international maritime pollution laws and they can easily be blown back onto the ship. Please refrain from smoking on shore and in shore excursion vehicles and ship tenders. Smoking is also not permitted on the motor coaches. These regulations pertain to e-cigarettes as well.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

Although the assumption is that Alaska is a land of snow and sub-zero temperatures, the Alaskan climate is actually extremely varied, caused by the state's six different topographic regions. The far north is extremely dry and very cold, with Arctic conditions and temperatures average about -20 °F (-29 °C). Summer temperatures in the lowlands are surprisingly high, averaging in the 60's °F (16° C), and they have been known to reach 90 °F (32 °C), and up. The southeast tends to be fairly moderate, with damp, rainy and sometimes mild conditions, with temperatures in July averaging 56 °F (13 °C), and temperatures in January averaging 30 °F (-1 °C), and the south and central areas tend to be similar, with slightly colder winter temperatures. Western Alaska tends to be rainy, while the Aleutian Islands in winter are damp and rainy, with fog. Heavy snows are common in the north and central regions of the state.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov , by clicking here .

What To Pack

When joining a Tauck journey, every guest is responsible for their own health and, in turn, the protection of their fellow travelers, the Tauck staff, our suppliers and the places we visit. As such, you are expected to follow local and supplier guidelines regarding face coverings, as explained by your Tauck Director. Our partners may have a limited supply of face coverings, gloves, and hand sanitizer, so please bring such personal items for your own comfort.

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with Necessary Gear who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

The weather in Alaska is unpredictable. You will be visiting the warmer, dryer area of the interior and the cooler, wetter rainforest of the southeast coast. We suggest you pack clothing that can be layered for various weather conditions. Slacks, a sweater or fleece, a lightweight jacket and a rain coat are versatile clothes for touring, and comfortable "walking shoes" are a must.

For the welcome and farewell receptions, you may want to dress up a bit – a jacket for men and a casually-elegant outfit for ladies – but by all means be comfortable and note that this level of dress is not required, merely suggested.

Silversea operates an on board dress code after 6:00 PM, while during the day casual wear is appropriate for daytime and consists of standard sports outfits as worn at five-star resorts. Shoes should be flat or low heeled for deck activities. Evening wear falls into three categories: casual, informal and formal. On casual evenings, pants, blouses or casual dresses for women; open-neck shirts and slacks for men are appropriate. On informal evenings, women wear dresses or pant suits; men wear jackets (tie optional). Appropriate formal wear for women is an evening gown or cocktail dress; men wear tuxedos, dinner jackets or dark suits. Tie is required. On 7-day sailings or less, as is the case with this cruise, the formal night is per guest discretion, meaning that while the ship will operate one formal night, appropriate formal evening wear is optional.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed. No medications are sold on board the cruise ship other than those prescribed and stocked by the ship's physician.

Following is a list of recommended items to pack for your cruise:

• Comfortable walking shoes (VERY IMPORTANT)                                        
• Hiking boots for those who choose to hike                                         
• Waterproof shoes or shoes that can get wet for water activities such as kayaking or canoeing                                                               
• Rainwear, such as a raincoat and rain hat, plus a collapsible umbrella            
• Long pants, fleece jacket or warm sweatshirt                                      
• Warm hat, gloves and socks                                                        
• Sport coat for men (with tie, suggested but not required) and slacks/dress for women for evening wear                                                             
• Camera, lenses, batteries and extra memory cards                                  
• Swimwear and gym wear                                                                    
• Binoculars       (7 x 50 preferably)                                                                  
• Insect repellent containing DEET                                                  
• Sunglasses                                                                        
• Sunscreen and hat                                                                 
• Small flashlight   
• Daypack for your photographic equipment or other belongings                      
• Travel alarm clock/cellphone with alarm function                                                         
• Prescription medicines (an adequate supply to last your entire journey), and written copies of your prescriptions from your doctor.  While it may be possible to refill prescriptions during your journey, the availability of refills cannot be guaranteed.  What's more, refilling prescriptions can be difficult and time-consuming.                                                                  

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Alaska Uncharted

As the recognized leader in luxury small ship Alaska cruises, our 'Best of Juneau' awards in 2022 and 2023 underline our commitment to delivering exceptional cruise experiences. Welcome aboard for an adventure where luxury meets the wild beauty of Alaska.

Our handcrafted itineraries take you on a journey through Alaska’s awe-inspiring Inside Passage, from towering glaciers to remote wilderness teeming with wildlife.

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With our all-inclusive pricing, everything from exquisite dining experiences featuring the freshest Alaskan seafood to exhilarating excursions and activities is part of your package.

Indulge in Comfort

Step aboard Alaska Uncharted and enter a world where luxury and the untamed beauty of Alaska blend seamlessly. Our vessels, the MY Golden Eagle and MV Sikumi, are designed to provide an intimate atmosphere that feels both welcoming and exclusive.

Alaskan Excursions Unveiled

Dive into the heart of Alaska with our diverse range of all-inclusive excursions. Picture yourself kayaking through the serene waters of mist-shrouded fjords, hiking across untouched landscapes teeming with wildlife, or fishing in the bountiful seas—all without the worry of extra fees.

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Embark on a journey of luxury and discovery aboard our exquisite small ships, the M/V Golden Eagle and the M/V Sikumi. Each vessel offers a unique blend of elegance, comfort, and adventure, tailored to provide an unforgettable Alaskan experience.

MY Golden Eagle

Tailored Excursions for Unforgettable Adventures

Embark on an unparalleled journey through Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes aboard the MY Golden Eagle, where luxury meets adventure in the heart of the wilderness. This exquisite vessel offers an intimate cruising experience, designed to bring you closer to Alaska’s untouched beauty.

The MY Golden Eagle boasts state-of-the-art amenities and elegantly appointed cabins, providing a comfortable and luxurious base as you explore the rugged beauty of Alaska.

Exclusive Itineraries: Your Alaska, Your Way

Step aboard the MV Sikumi, an exceptional vessel that redefines the Alaskan cruise experience with its intimate ambiance and unparalleled access to the pristine wilderness of Alaska.

Navigating through the serene waters of Alaska, the MV Sikumi offers exclusive itineraries tailored to the interests and preferences of its guests. Whether it’s witnessing the awe-inspiring spectacle of calving glaciers, kayaking through tranquil fjords, or spotting wildlife in their natural habitats, the MV Sikumi brings you closer to the heart of Alaska’s natural beauty. Its ability to venture into secluded areas untouched by larger cruise ships ensures an authentic and unforgettable Alaskan adventure.

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Inside Passage Cruise Itinerary

Dive into the heart of Alaska with itineraries meticulously crafted just for you. At Alaska Uncharted, we believe in creating not just trips, but personalized adventures that resonate with your unique desires and dreams. Whether you yearn for the thrill of wildlife encounters, the tranquility of secluded fjords, or the excitement of glacier exploration, every detail of your journey is shaped around what you want to do. Discover the freedom of a truly customized Alaska cruise experience, where your aspirations set the course.

The Tlingit called this area "where herring spawn" and used the inlet for its abundance of salmon, halibut, clam, and shrimp. It is located on northern Admiralty Island and allows quick access from Stephens Passage to Chatham Strait. It is still used today by commercial, recreational, and subsistence fisherman. The area was home to Hawk Fish Company cannery from 1868-1920 and it now houses Green Creek Mine, the fifth largest silver producer in the world. The mine was established in 1989 and has been grandfathered in to be the only mine allowed to operate in a national monument. It is the largest private employer in Juneau with 440 employees that can only commute by ferry.

Taku Harbor

Former home of the San Juan Fish & Packing Company, a major salmon cannery, which was established in 1901. Now it is part of an Alaska state marine park. It was named after the Taku natives that lived in the area. In 1840 it was known as Fort Durham and was a trading post for Hudson Bay Co. There is an original cabin here that gold miner and trapper Henry “Tiger” Olson lived in that is now available for rent.

North Sawyer

Pavlof harbor.

A state designated bear viewing area where you’ll often see bears gracefully fishing in streams for salmon. You can kayak paddle upstream for safe bear viewing.

Tenakee Springs

A small community on Chichagof Island that was founded in 1910. The total population as of 2020 is 116 people. There is a grocery/general store, school, post office, and museum. There are no roads or cars, and the only way in and out is by seaplane or boat. Beautiful anchorages, great crabbing, brown bear viewing, and nature walks. Take a stroll through the quaint town while watching float planes navigate the waterway as the primary mode of transportation.

We will typically anchor here for the night prior to entering the spectacular fjords leading to the glaciers. We’ll set crab pots for the night while enjoying beautiful sunsets

A beautiful hike to a secluded lake tucked away in the quiet of the forest.

Brothers Island

Kayaking & sea lion rookery

5 Finger Lighthouse

This was the first US-governed lighthouse opened in Alaska, which was first lit on March 21, 1902. The original lighthouse burned down, and the now-standing lighthouse was built two years later in 1935. It sits on a small island between Stephens Passage and Fredericks Sound. In 2004, it was listed as a historic place in the National Register.

LeConte Glacier

This glacier can be seen outside of Petersburg. It is a 21-mile long tidewater glacier and is the southernmost tidewater glacier in the Northern Hemisphere. It is known for its “shooters,” which are icebergs that calve underwater and shoot out of the water due to their buoyancy.

Carroll Islands

Exciting adventures await you on your kayak paddle around these rugged islands. (Weather permitting)

Eliza Harbor

Hiking & Kayaking

Baranof Warm Springs

A great place to take a stroll along the boardwalk and soak in a private tub filled fresh with hot springs water or take a dip in the natural springs a short hike from the dock. Another great paddle is into a salt water chuck for bear viewing.

Alaska Cruise Excursions

Many large cruise lines will make you pick an activity for your trip and charge you if you want to experience more. We want our guests to have new and fantastic experiences without the added pressure of an additional bill at the end of the cruise.

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Alaska Small Ship Cruises

Cruise in Alaska with as little as 30 fellow passengers.

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Find a Cruise

When researching all your Alaska cruise options, also investigate small ship cruises. Companies like Uncruise Adventures offer an intimate cruise experience focused more on onboard education and active outdoor excursions. Uncruise itineraries run seven to 14 days long with most voyages staying within Alaska's Inside Passage. Their Alaska fleet ranges from boutique yachts that accommodate just 30 passengers, to larger expedition vessels for up to 75 passengers.

If you're energized by the idea of diverse entertainment, plentiful onboard activities, and exploring Alaska's port towns as well as its scenic wonders, then you'll likely love the experience of cruising on a large vessel. You can use our easy Cruise Finder to find cruise ship and itinerary descriptions for Alaska cruises based on when you'd like to sail and where you'd like to embark from. Want to know more about what makes each larger cruise company unique? Check out our cruise lines page.

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The Alaska Cruise of a Lifetime !

Join us aboard our luxury yacht, the mv discovery, for small ship cruises and experience alaska’s stunning scenery and wildlife up close., alaska wildlife adventure, truly experience alaska.

Our small ship cruises (6-12 guests) are designed for those who want to experience Alaska’s stunning scenery and wildlife up close and personal. Our cruise itineraries combine whale watching & wildlife viewing with some of the most magnificent fjords & glaciers of Alaska’s Inside Passage. Walk in a magical rainforest, watch brown bear feed on spawning salmon, see glaciers calve & bald eagle soar. In 1981 we were one of the very first to offer small boat cruising and private yacht charters in Southeast Alaska. More than 30 years later we continue to share our love of this wild land and its abundant wildlife with guests from around the world.

Activities are included

We want you to experience all that alaska has to offer., whale watching, bear viewing, fjords & glaciers, why choose us, we’ll show you alaska as only a long-time owner-operator can..

Safety is paramount and we strive to provide a professional service but what really makes our small ship cruises on Discovery special is the intangible … the excitement, the camaraderie, the shared wonder at this incredible natural world. Our fun-loving nature and passion for what we do will make you feel like you are traveling with friends who want to show you the best that Alaska has to offer.

• Alaska Yacht Charters are 7 nights (8 days)
• Family owned and operated since 1981
• A spacious and comfortable charter yacht
• We don’t cruise at night!
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Unforgettable Travel Experiences

It is with pleasure and pride that we continue to offer these Alaska wildlife cruises. Pleasure because they are as much fun for us as they are for our guests, pride because the unforgettable nature of these trips is evident in the fact that the majority of our bookings are returning guests or through word of mouth.

Photo by Ron Niebrugge

• Alaska Inside Passage

These expedition style small ship cruises explore the remote islands & inlets of the Inside Passage between Juneau, Sitka and Ketchikan. Routes take into account the seasonal movement of wildlife and scenic wilderness of the Tongass National Forest.

• Canadian Inside Passage

The scenery is ever changing as we navigate a myriad of tidal passages from Seattle and the San Juan Islands, inside Vancouver Island through northern British Columbia’s remote Fjordland region to Ketchikan, Alaska.

Discovery Journeys, LLC /Alaska Yacht Charters/All Aboard Alaska Yacht Charters operates small ship cruises and private yacht charters in Southeast Alaska under special use permits issued by the US Forest Service.

Travel beyond your imagination, with Alaska Charters!

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See Alaska's Inside Passage on a small ship cruise.

Home to a vast wilderness of narrow channels, misty fjords, tidal glaciers and abundant wildlife, this is the best way to experience alaska up close and without restrictions..

Words cannot adequately describe what it feels like to stand on the crest of an age old glacier, see a whale gracefully breach above the sea's surface or watch a grizzly bear hunt for spawning salmon in the gushing Alaskan rivers.

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7 Alaska Small Ship Cruises To Consider — Alaska Expert M.T. Schwartzman Shares Details

Apr 9, 2024 | 2

7 Alaska Small Ship Cruises

By M.T. Schwartzman

I took my first cruise to Alaska in 1988 aboard the old Noordam — an ocean-liner-type ship with over 1,200 passengers aboard, which was considered big back in those days. The next year, I boarded my first small-ship cruise with the venerable but long departed small-ship operator Cruise West .

The captain of that boat was Dan Blanchard , who is now the owner and CEO of UnCruise Adventures , which today has become the largest operator of small-ship cruises in Alaska.

Over the years, I continued to go back and forth between big ships and small ships. The big ships became ever bigger: The Regal Princess I sailed on in the early 1990s carried nearly 1,600 passengers. A decade later the Sapphire Princess accommodated more than 2,600.

Conversely, I sampled the wares of new and emerging small-ship lines like Alaska’s Glacier Bay Tours and Cruises (which later became Glacier Bay Cruiseline), which for a time nobly carried on the tradition of small-ship sailing in Alaska. (Both the UnCruise and Alaskan Dream fleets include ships that previously sailed for the Cruise West and Glacier Bay lines.)

To this day, my fondest memories of Alaska are from those small-ship cruises. True to their promise, they did go where the big ships couldn’t and brought me closer to everything that makes Alaska grand.

In Glacier Bay National Park , I remember going ashore through a bow ramp for an impromptu hike led by a park service ranger. Another time, I recall the excitement onboard when we came upon a humpback whale “lobtailing” — slapping its fluke against the surface of the water to create a big splash. I saw bears foraging in the intertidal grasses lining the shore and sea lions basking in the sun on an outcropping of rocks. These are experiences you’re not likely to have aboard a big ship, certainly not at such close range.

We also stopped in ports rarely visited by the big-ship lines. I had never been to Petersburg, Alaska ’s “Little Norway,” until I went there aboard a small ship. On yet another small-ship voyage I disembarked at Bartlett Cove , gateway to Glacier Bay, headquarters for the park service and site of the rustic yet comfy Glacier Bay Lodge.

Beyond the ubiquitous wildlife, little-seen villages and bucket-list moments, what I recall most vividly are the people I met, both passengers and crew. My fellow nature-loving small-ship travelers were of every age and from all over the United States. Often it was an international group, with one or two among us originating in some far-flung corner of the world, especially from Australia.

Small-ship cruises get you up close to the beautiful Alaskan landscape. * Photo: The Boat Company

Sometimes families would be traveling together, sharing the adventure and education of a lifetime. (UnCruise has a particular focus on multigenerational travel .)

The naturalists, meanwhile, shared our sense of anticipation for the next day’s adventure.

Many of the small ships sailing in Alaska today are the same ones I traveled aboard many years ago. Only one company, Lindblad Expeditions, has built new coastal ships for Alaska in recent years, these being the 100-passenger sisters National Geographic Quest (2017) and National Geographic Venture (2018).

Altogether, there are four major small-ship operators plus a few local and regional companies, with ships that carry less than 100 passengers (with the exception of ACL’s American Constellation ), and many fewer than 50.

Their combined fleets comprise some two dozen vessels, including a few converted working ships, at least one wind-powered craft and assorted other boats offering a wide range of sailing styles to choose from.

RELATED: Ted recounts his early Alaska adventures by car, ferry, train and small ships.

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Here’s a run-down of 7 lines offering alaska small ship cruises, alaskan dream cruises, american cruise lines, lindblad expeditions, maple leaf adventures, pacific catalyst ii, the boat company, uncruise adventures.

Alaska’s only Indigenous-owned cruise line, Alaskan Dream Cruises (ADC) is run by the Allen family of Sitka, who are of Tlingit descent. Its fleet consists of four small ships carrying 40 to 80 passengers.

One additional vessel — the 12-passenger Kruzof Explorer, a former Bering Sea crab-fishing boat refitted for expedition cruising — is available for small-group charters. (The Chichagof Dream, Admiralty Dream and Baranof Dream are former Cruise West ships.)

ADC’s trips focus on hiking and kayaking in secluded wilderness areas with a particular emphasis on cultural immersion.

RELATED: The Seldons review their small ship adventure with Alaskan Dream Cruises.

The 49-pax Baranof Dream. * Photo: Alaskan Dream Cruises

Focusing on traditional port-to-port* cruises of the Inside Passage, American Cruise Lines (ACL) is somewhat unique among Alaska’s small-ship operators. In addition to Southeast Alaska itineraries, ACL has added national parks-focused cruise-tours for explorations farther north in locations such as Denali National Park .

For 2024, ACL’s sole ship in Alaska is the 170-passenger American Constellation; for 2025, it will be joined by sister ship American Constitution .

RELATED: American Cruise Lines acquires four river boats from the now defunct AQV.

*Meaning a less impromptu itinerary, unlike many small ships that mostly anchor in remote places.

The 170-pax American Constellation. * Photo: ACL

One of the oldest names in Alaska small-ship cruising, Lindblad Expeditions has a history here dating back to the 1980s. Lindblad recently extended its partnership with National Geographic, which includes providing content and training for the line’s onboard programming.

In addition to four coastal-type vessels carrying 62 to 100 passengers that cruise the Inside Passage, Lindblad operates expedition ships in the Arctic on Northwest Passage transits that begin or end in Nome.

RELATED: An overview of cruising Alaska on a small ship.

The 100-pax National Geographic Quest. * Photo: Lindblad

Based in Victoria, British Columbia, Maple Leaf Adventures offers a trio of small ships. The 138-foot Cascadia is a 24-passenger catamaran with 12 cabins, all with private facilities. The Swell is an 88-foot converted tugboat with room for 12 in six cabins, all with private heads. The Maple Leaf is a 92-foot schooner accommodating eight in four semi-private sleeping areas and three shared washrooms.

Trips focus on wildlife, Indigenous cultures and the natural beauty of the Inside Passage.

The 92-ft Schooner Maple Leaf. * Photo: Maple Leaf Adventures

Headquartered in Washington state, Pacific Catalyst II has two historic wooden vessels. The older of the pair, the Westward, was built in 1924 and has four cabins with en suite shower/toilet.

The second boat, the line’s namesake Catalyst, was built in 1932 and previously served as a research vessel. It has six cabins, four with private facilities.

Both vessels still use their original diesel engines but are also equipped with large battery banks for hours of quiet operation.

RELATED: Read more about Pacific Catalyst.

The 1924-built Westward. * Photo: Pacific Catalyst II

Also based in Washington, The Boat Company bills itself as one of the world’s only nonprofit cruise lines, putting profits back into helping to preserve the Alaskan wilderness — for example to work to prohibit logging and logging roads in national forests. ( More info HERE .)

Two vessels are available for cruises of the Inside Passage.

The Liseron was built in 1952 and once operated as a minesweeper. It accommodates 20 passengers in 10 cabins with private baths.

Meanwhile, the Mist Cove was constructed in 2000 by The Boat Company based on the Liseron , but with an updated design. It carries 24 passengers in 12 staterooms with private facilities.

The 24-pax Mist Cove. * Photo: The Boat Company

UnCruise Adventure s, located in Juneau and Seattle, fields Alaska’s largest small-ship fleet with seven vessels carrying 22 to 86 passengers. As its name suggests, UnCruise focuses on outdoor activities like satisfying hikes and kayaking in hidden coves and secluded bays for a different kind of cruise experience. Some departures are sold as adult-only or family cruises.

UnCruise’s Legacy stern platform. * Photo: UnCruise

The line has expanded beyond its home waters of the Inside Passage to offer itineraries in Prince William Sound and, coming next year, the Aleutian Islands.

The Kodiak bear, also known as the Kodiak brown bear, lives on the islands of the Kodiak Archipelago in southwest Alaska. * Photo: UnCruise

(The line’s current Safari Endeavor, Legacy and Wilderness Explorer are former Cruise West ships.)

RELATED: Heidi shares “7 Reasons to UnCruise in Alaska.”

RELATED: A review of an UnCruise Legacy adventure in Alaska.

Plenty Included in Small-Ship Cruise Fares

The small-ship cruises plying southeast Alaska tend to include more in their fares than the standard giant cruise ships — namely excursions.

All the lines covered in this story include daily guided tours in their fares, from hearty hikes to kayaking and skiff explorations.

Some also include alcoholic drinks in the fares — American Cruise Lines and Lindblad Expeditions do, while Alaskan Dream Cruises offers a complimentary glass of wine or beer at dinner.

My Final Two Cents About Alaska Small Ship Cruises

Although the phrase has been used so often it’s become a cliche, taking a small-ship cruise really is the best way to discover “the real Alaska,” close-up and personal.

You’ll spend all your time immersed in Alaska, both aboard ship and ashore, and that, to my way of thinking, is what an Alaska cruise vacation should be all about.

M.T. Schwartzman has been covering Alaska cruising and tourism since 1988. His articles have appeared in a wide range of consumer magazines, websites and travel industry publications. He has also edited several guidebooks on the state.

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About The Author

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Ted & Heidi are long-time travel writers with a penchant for small ship cruising. Between them they've traveled all over the world aboard hundreds and hundreds of small cruise ships of all kinds, from river boats to expedition vessels and sailing ships.

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Great reporting by M.T., the Alaska expert! Who knew there were so many small-ship lines in Alaska? I had not heard of three of them so this was very informative for me. Thank you.

Thank you, Anne. You’ve taught me so much over the years, glad I could return the favor!

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Quirky Cruise Contributors

Heidi & Ted and their team of curious travel writers explore the far corners of the world to share their experiences & insights about small-ship cruising.

Heidi M. Sarna

So far, I’ve explored 78 countries around the world by boat, road, plane, foot, bicycle and camel. My first big journey was a six-month trip around the world back in the days when…

Theodore W. Scull

I am happiest near water, over water or better still on a conveyance moving through water. When my brother Sandy and I were deemed old enough, mother took us to Europe by ship.

Anne Kalosh

Peter knego, john roberts, robin mckelvie, dana freeman, judi cuervo, lynn and cele seldon, elysa leonard.

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Experience true alaska, authentic and personal small expedition adventures through alaska’s inside passage.

Our all-inclusive, small expedition itineraries offer a mix of excursions in intriguing towns and Native villages and adventures in raw wilderness bays and glacial fjords. This approach to small vessel expeditions in Alaska offers travelers a comprehensive look at all the Inside Passage has to offer. Every experience is hand-picked for its value in immersing you in True Alaska.

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This is the alaska you’ve always imagined., featured articles, our true alaskan stories, the journey is the destination with these top tours, cruises, and transportation services.

Every year, the Sunset Travel Awards honor the best in travel in the West. This year, there were more than 600 entries across all categories (a record number!). Below are the 2023 winners of the How to Get There: Best Transportation and Tours category.

An “Inside” look at Alaska’s beauty and culture

The phrase “active exploration” can be both exciting and intimidating. Alaska is the Last Frontier, the largest state in the Union, home to many cultures, climates, and wildlife—how can a person experience a meaningful fraction of that during a single trip? How active does a person need to be?

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Pros and cons of small-ship cruising in Alaska

As I walked the streets in Wrangell, Alaska, I was thrilled not to have to share the town with thousands, or even just hundreds, of other cruisers.

Except for the welcoming locals, who were happy to talk about life in small-town Alaska, the only people I encountered were a few fellow passengers from American Queen Voyages' 186-passenger expedition ship Ocean Victory .

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My sailing aboard this small cruise ship in Alaska was a welcome change from my previous big ship experience in the region, where the shops and restaurants were crowded with other tourists and passengers were subjected to sold-out or large-group tours.

The in-port experience wasn't the only positive of seeking out a small ship in this huge state. Here are some of the pros and cons of small-ship cruising in Alaska, so you can decide if a little ship will make a big difference in your vacation enjoyment.

Pro: No lines or long waits

I knew my first big ship experience, a 2,000-passenger cruise to Alaska , would likely be my last when I arrived at the docks in Vancouver, British Columbia, at the same time as thousands of others eager to board the multiple giant ships in port. Once on board, I waited in another nightmare queue for dinner, as most passengers had not yet figured out the reservation system for dining venues.

On small cruise ships like Ocean Victory, the dining room opens at a set time and passengers can generally file in and out at their leisure, with no wait for a table.

Although we embarked in Vancouver, our smaller ship left late in the day, after the crowds for the big ships had cleared the terminal. Getting on and off during a port day was a breeze because tour groups were small and left at staggered times. The only time I had to wait to get on or off the ship was when the crew had to change the gangplank to a different level due to the rising tide.

Pro: Intimate ships

Figuring out the right size cruise – or any group travel experience – can be challenging. To me, small ships that carry between 70 to 200 passengers, like many in Alaska, are the perfect middle ground.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

These ships are small enough for you to connect with fellow travelers and find like-minded shipmates while offering enough room for you to seek out quiet space when necessary. The more intimate setting also means more personal engagements with staff, who quickly learn your name and your individual tastes. That generally translates to more personal, attentive service.

On Ocean Victory, the expedition team and onboard scientists are encouraged to eat with the passengers so you can get to know them and tap into their expertise about the Last Frontier.

For travelers comfortable going even smaller, UnCruise has ships carrying between 22 and 86 passengers. Alaskan Dream's fleet carries from 10 to 76 passengers, while Lindblad Expeditions/National Geographic Alaska cruises carry up to 100 people.

Con: Fewer dining options

If your idea of vacation is to sample as many restaurants as possible, small cruise ships aren't for you.

Ocean Victory, for example, has only two dining venues — the main dining room and a more casual bistro-style area with indoor and outdoor seating on the top deck. The menus vary daily, serving a wide range of options at every meal, and I certainly never lacked for food I enjoyed.

However, if you prefer variety, the ship has no room for specialty venues or bonus shops like ice cream or hamburger stands. On the flip side, you avoid the up-charges and scrambles to secure reservations that go along with additional onboard restaurant options.

Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

Pro: Casual ambiance on board

As with many small cruise ships in Alaska, Ocean Victory's onboard experience was relaxed and casual. As one travel advisor noted, it was "not for people who want to get dressed up and bring out the jewels."

While some cruisers love to get glammed up for formal nights on their big-ship sailings, I'd bet the majority of travelers would rather leave the cocktail dresses and suits at home and stick to comfortable clothing for their vacation.

Related: Alaska cruise packing list: What to pack for a sailing up north

Con: Minimal entertainment on board

If you choose to sail a small cruise ship in Alaska, forget about nightlife. Intimate ships like Ocean Victory do not provide casinos, musical shows or specialty bars for your entertainment.

The extent of evening entertainment on my sailing was a few nighttime stories from expedition team naturalists over after-dinner cocktails and late-night tunes from the onboard pianist.

You can also forget about waterslides , expansive spas, kids clubs and the like. Ocean Victory did have a tiny spa and gym. But most of the small lines who sail Alaska are bare-bones, focused on adventure rather than amenities.

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler

Pro: Authentic experiences in Alaskan ports

In Alaska, smaller adventure ships can sail through narrower passages and stop in less-visited towns, which offer a much more personal and authentic look at the real Alaska and its people.

For instance, between Vancouver and Alaska, Ocean Victory ventured out of the main part of the Canadian Inside Passage, sailing through a narrow maze of channels and passages to give an up-close view of the shorelines and wildlife of remote places like Queen Charlotte Sound and the Fjordland Conservation Area.

Related: Best time to cruise Alaska

Except for a stop in the popular port of Ketchikan, we visited smaller ports like Wrangell, Petersburg and Kake, getting a glimpse of everyday life and warm interactions at locally owned businesses rather than chain jewelry and souvenir ships.

These smaller towns also offered easy access to places such as the Tongass National Rainforest, LaConte Glacier and Sitkine river, which are off the better-traveled routes of the big ships.

Mixed: Limited shopping options in small towns

The flip side of getting off the beaten path is you won't find the same shopping options in small ports that you would in the major cruise ports of Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway. This could be a plus or minus depending on your point of view.

Most cities on major cruise line routes are known for their endless rows of jewelry, souvenir and specialty shops — many of which are not locally owned. If you love to spend hours looking for deals and gifts to bring home, you'll find the most variety in the big-ship ports.

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

The smaller ports take a different approach to souvenirs. In Wrangell, there were only about a half dozen stores, including a grocery store, drug store and a few stores that offered essentials, like swimsuits, flip-flops, T-shirts and sweatshirts. One was more of a traditional store than souvenir shop, and the other, the Compass Line Gift Shop, offered high-quality T-shirts, hats hand-designed by the owner, candles and handmade soaps.

"We purposely don't carry items that other shops may carry on the island," the shop's website says. "We like our neighbor shops, so why compete with them."

In Kake, population 500, I didn't come across any souvenir stores at all. Instead, a few locals sold handmade jewelry, postcards and other odds and ends in the community center before the town's children performed local dances for the cruise passengers.

Pro: More adventure

Instead of just sailing between ports, small cruise ships in Alaska offer expedition days. The ships sit anchored, completely alone, and expedition teams lead passengers in the exploration of rugged coastlines via onboard kayaks and Zodiacs.

That to me is the biggest plus of small ship cruising. You don't need to sign up for excursions, disembark, then travel somewhere else to launch your adventure. On my cruise, we simply walked to the Deck 4 mudroom to suit up in life jackets and rain gear (when needed), then boarded the kayaks and Zodiacs right from the side doors and a rear platform that folded out from the ship.

While all Alaska cruises offer stunning views day in and out, there's nothing quite like skimming the coastline from your own kayak, watching for wildlife in the water and on land. We watched sea otters carrying their babies, floated among chunks of glacial ice, and viewed starfish nestled on the sea floor below and mountain goats on the cliffs above. A few lucky passengers even watched a moose take a swim.

The highlight: feeling at one with Alaska's majestic outdoors.

Con: Fewer excursion options

Because the smaller ships have fewer passengers looking to book tours, and the smaller ports have fewer companies offering day trips, shore excursion options are limited. You will get a greater variety of excursion choices on big ships.

For instance, most big ships in Alaska offer shore excursions ranging from helicopter rides to glaciers and small plane excursions to known bear habitats to scenic train trips, zip-line adventures, salmon bakes and city tours by bus or on foot.

Other than pre- and post-cruise city tours in Sitka and Vancouver, our 10-day sailing on Ocean Victory only had three days with excursion options. Each included one free basic highlights tour of the port and a few premium experiences, including sport fishing, a nature walk and two different jet boat tours.

If you like planned activities and want a larger choice of tours, the small-ship experience is not for you. But for me, the ability to wander the streets of the less tourist-oriented towns was better than any group tour. In Wrangell, a few of us stopped in the Totem Bar, where bartender Drew Eyon gave us a more interesting and real take on life on this island of 2,500 than any official tour guide ever could.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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

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❝ Every day was more magical than the other. The entire experience was wondrous and more than we could have wished for. ❞

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Discovery voyages.

Discovery Voyages – Alaska’s small-ship cruise specialists exclusively navigating the pristine waters of Prince William Sound, located near Alaska’s largest city – Anchorage, since 1992. Our carefully crafted itineraries, friendly & knowledgeable guides, gourmet meals, and historic 12 guest capacity working yacht all contribute to the incredible Discovery Voyages experience.

Our voyages feature hiking & kayaking, glaciers, photography, whale watching and wildlife viewing, birding, as well as Land & Sea adventures and private family & friends charters.

Far from the crowds of conventional high-volume tourism, our personal approach offers a genuine and intimate encounter with Alaska. It’s an eco-friendly way to explore Alaska’s gorgeous and diverse marine environment. Our 65-foot steel hull vessel can voyage into quiet coves and navigate ice-bound channels that larger boats must avoid, letting Discovery passengers get an up close and personal view of glaciers and wildlife that is simply not possible on a larger cruise ship.

Join us on unforgettable Land & Sea Adventures as we combine a cruise in the waters of Prince William Sound with either exploring the vast beauty and unparalleled wildlife of Denali National Park, or venturing west for extraordinary viewing of huge coastal brown bears feeding on salmon in a location only accessible by air — two journeys unlike any others!

What Sets Us Apart

Enjoy the endless views from our walk around deck, a glass of tea with a book in our charming lounge, and watching floating ice or sea otters out your porthole located just above waterline in one of six cozy cabins.

No stone goes unturned with the 25 page annual inspection by the US Coast Guard which assesses every aspect of vessel safety from construction and condition, safety equipment, to the qualifications of crew onboard.

Humpback and orca whales, sea otters and harbor seals with their pups, Steller sea lions enticing play, black bears fishing in the steams, and over 220 species of birds including characteristic puffins and regal bald eagles!

M/V Discovery was designed specifically to travel Alaskan waters. Alongside a steel hull, she was engineered to create a smooth ride, and a draft allowing access over shoals that larger vessels cannot cross.

Discovery Voyages is a family operation headed by captain and naturalist Dean Rand and Megan Ciana.

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Recent Guest Reviews

Highly recommended.

Our trip was outstanding. Dean, Megan, and the rest of the crew are very knowledgeable about the region and constantly monitor conditions to provide the best possible experience at any given time. We saw an array of wildlife and awe inspiring scenery.

Being aboard the Discovery, a small vessel with a storied past, one feels immersed in, rather than removed from, the immediate environment. The crew is very attentive, and the food was fresh, creative, and delicious; beautifully presented and accompanied by a very nice selection of wine.

If you’re interested in an immersive experience with knowledgeable guides in an intimate setting I don’t believe you can do better than a trip with Discovery Voyages.

The trip of a lifetime!

The owners of the Discovery, Dean and Meg, were so accommodating and helpful. Dean got a sense for what the group wanted to do and tried to cater to everyone’s interest and activity level. The two guides, Phyllis and Hugh, were extremely knowledgeable and fun to be around. We did a lot, saw a lot, learned a lot, and in general had an amazing week. Meg worked her magic for three meals a day in the kitchen and the food was fantastic with lots of fresh seafood and accommodations for everyone’s dietary restrictions. I loved that there was a lot of quiet time to read or sit outside and take in the magnificent scenery. I would highly recommend this trip for anyone who is okay staying on a small boat.

Great adventure. Worth it!

I loved every minute of our adventure. The weather was less than desirable, but I don’t think we missed a thing. Our chef, Meg, was creative and patient. There were eleven of us, and she pleased everyone. The adventures, included kayaking, photographing amazing wildlife, walking among the glaciers, and learning do much about Prince William Sound. The nature aspect of this trip was beyond beautiful. As a side note, the group we were with was terrific. We all got along great, chatted the entire time, and played a memorable game. Would I do this again? In a minute.

A magical experience.

The Captain and Crew of the Discovery made us feel special during the entire voyage. Their knowledge of the region, the hidden coves, the history, and the culture, all made for a magical experience. I can truly say that this trip exceeded my already high expectations. My two sons and my father-in-law also joined and they were equally impressed.

The Best Voyage Imaginable

The entire crew (Dean,Meg,Erin & Will) were awesome. PWS is a beautiful but also immense region, so the decades of experience of these folks took us to locations little known to lesser mortals. The Discovery itself was a comfortable, if compact, ship. Fully equipped not only with kayaks, “Zodiacs “ & rain gear but also with cozy quarters and Megs great meals! With just 10 other guests, we developed warm and lasting friendships.

This was the trip of a lifetime

This was the trip of a lifetime. Not hyperbole, just truth. Every single staff person was amazing. Captain Dean not only piloted expertly, he was a fountain of information. Tori and Ashley were wonderful on all outings, sharing knowledge while still always making sure everyone of us were comfortable physically. Finally, Meg. Hmm, not enough words for her mastery in the kitchen. Thank you all for your expertise and care.

This trip was unbelievable

This trip was unbelievable! So exciting to watch the glaciers and so much wildlife. Just the experience of being on the boat in beautiful Prince William Sound surrounded by beauty night and day was a lifetime high point. The guides were so knowledgeable and patiently helpful. The food was outstanding. Captain Dean and his wife Meghan were wonderful people to travel with. You won’t find a better adventure.

This was one of the most incredible and mind-blowing vacations!

This was one of the most incredible and wonderful vacations I have ever taken. It was a constant series of “Once-In-a-Lifetime” experiences. The crew was so knowledgeable and personable. To see Alaska from the comfort and mobility of the Discovery boat, set a new standard of travel….so unique, personal and experiential. Oh, did I mention the gourmet food Megan serves? OMG! Mind blowing! Thank you Dean & Megan. I simply loved the entire trip you created for your guests.

A Family Adventure

This was truly an adventure of a lifetime! Being on a six cabin boat allowed views and experiences that you could never get from a cruise liner. Dean, Megan & crew were amazing. We saw up close so much wildlife & learned so much about Prince William Sound. Megan provided unbelievable gourmet meals & were beautifully presented. The scenery, kayaking, and hiking was outstanding. Memories for a lifetime! Thank you Discovery!

An awesome Alaskan experience!

This was an awesome experience!! You can visit Alaska on one of the cruise ships with 4000 passengers or you can experience Alaska on a small ship like the Discovery. We were able to go ashore and hike twice, and we were able to go out and kayak amongst the ice flows, otters and harbor seals. Wen were also able to get up close and personal with the glaciers. Dean and Meg, the owners are awesome and take very good care of everything, including all gourmet meals!! This is the only way to go to Alaska!!!

Looking for your next great Alaska adventure?

• M/V Discovery
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Alaska Inside Passage Cruises

An Alaska Inside Passage cruise is the most iconic way to explore Alaska. Cruises along this coastal route sail amid steep, irregular coastlines, dramatic tidewater glaciers, dense evergreen forests and abundant wildlife. Many towns here have no major in-roads, so visiting by ship is not only the best way to see them—it’s also the only way. Read on to learn more about the Alaska’s Inside Passage and how get aboard an Inside Passage cruise.

ON THIS PAGE – Alaska Inside Passage Cruises : What Is the Inside Passage? Where Is the Inside Passage? Inside or Inland Passage Alaska? Key Ports & Places Inside Passage vs Glacier Bay The Smallest Boat of the Inside Passage Alaska Inside Passage Excursions Inside Passage Cruise Reviews View All Small Ship Inside Passage Cruises

What Is Alaska’s Inside Passage?

The Inside Passage is a coastal route for ships and boats. Virtually all Southeast Alaska small ship cruises sail in the Inside Passage, so the terms “Southeast Alaska” and “Inside Passage” are pretty much synonymous when it comes to cruising.

During the Klondike Gold Rush, the Inside Passage was popular for American prospectors seeking gold, but today its popularity remains for tourism and commercial fishing. It’s now by far the most popular destination to take a small ship Alaska cruise thanks to its protected waters, interesting geological features and abundant wildlife.

Where is Alaska’s Inside Passage?

The greater Inside Passage extends as far south as Olympia, Washington, but the northernmost section of the route is in Alaska. The Alaska portion extends 500 miles from north to south and 100 miles from east to west. It begins in Ketchikan in the south and runs to Skagway in the North. The area encompasses 1,000 islands, 15,000 miles of shoreline and thousands of coves and bays, many protected from the Pacific Ocean by the Alexander Archipelago. Prefect for small ship cruising,

Inside, Inner or Inland Passage Alaska?

Take note that many travelers mistake the name to be the Inland Passage Alaska, or even Inner Passage Alaska or Alaska Passage. So next time you hear about an Alaska Inland Passage cruise, just know the person is referring to an Alaska Inside Passage cruise.

A good way to remember the region’s name is to think of it as cruising “inside” the Alexander Archipelago (between the islands and the main shore), not “inland.” There’s not much “inland” about Alaska Inside Passage cruises as they mostly hug the shoreline due to impassable terrain as you head farther east from the shore.

Some travelers may also confuse the area with the Alaska Marine Highway used by the ferry systems, but our overnight cruises are much more immersive than these to/from transportation services. No matter… whether you call it Inland Passage, Inner Passage or simply the Alaska Passage, most travelers will catch your drift!

Key Ports & Places on an Alaska Inside Passage Cruise

At the northern reaches of the Alaska Inside Passage are the small towns of Skagway and Haines located up the Lynn Canal . These two towns are not the most commonly visited on Alaska Inside Passage cruise routes, so be sure to look for them in an itinerary if you wish to visit these historic places.

At the southern end of the Inside Passage are Ketchikan and Misty Fjords National Monument , a spectacular 2-million-acre wilderness preserve surrounded by 3,000-foot vertical cliffs, glacial fjords and cascading waterfalls. While you can take a Misty Fjords boat tour on a day trip, nothing compares to the broader experience of sailing farther up the Inside Passage.

Up and down the Alaska Inside Passage are dozens of glaciers, fjords, islands and towns including Juneau , Alaska’s capital city; Tracy Arm (pictured above); and Sitka , the former capital of Russian America. Designated bear viewing is available at Anan Creek near Wrangell and at Pack Creek Bear Sanctuary on Admiralty Island near Juneau. Many travelers seek to do the Inside Passage with Tracy Arm Fjord (about 45 miles south of Juneau) due to the twin Sawyer Glaciers (North and South Sawyer), but nearby Endicott Arm and its Dawes Glacier are also spectacular. Many Inside Passage cruise routes will include them both!

Cruise itineraries here include a mix of these ports and places, and routes can really vary by cruise line and the timing of your Inside Passage trip. Ask one of our experts about what might be the best small ship Inside Passage itinerary for your needs. Southeast Alaska small ship cruises are our specialty and our team of specialists have collectively been to every port.

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Inside Passage vs Glacier Bay

Just to the east of Lynn Canal on the northernmost end of the Inside Passage Alaska is the famed Glacier Bay National Park . To experience the park, you need to technically sail out of the Inside Passage coastal route, and into Glacier Bay. Many Inside Passage cruise itineraries will explore both Glacier Bay and the Inside Passage, spending two to three out of eight days within the national park.

In fact, about two-thirds of the Inside Passage cruise itineraries listed on this page include Glacier Bay. But note that there are some cruises that spend their entire journey only within the park. See our Glacier Bay cruise routes to be sure you access this national park if it’s on your must-see list.

The main difference of Inside Passage vs Glacier Bay (if you aren’t going to have them both in your cruise) is visiting towns and cultural interaction. Glacier Bay is an uninhabited national park that offers the epitome of remote wilderness and solitude. Yet the Inside Passage has glaciers in many other locations and remote solitude in many bays and coves. So you don’t have to go to Glacier Bay to see glaciers!

The Smallest Boat Cruising the Inside Passage

Since our team at AdventureSmith Explorations specializes in small ships, we often get asked about the smallest boat in the Inside Passage. Cruise ships in the Alaska Inside Passage are a wide range of sizes, with big ships reaching the thousands of passengers. But the most common small ship Inside Passage size is under 20 guests, with ships in the 50-100 range also being common.

The smallest boat offering Inside Passage cruises is 8 guests, two examples being the Westward and Sikumi yachts. These ships are great for Alaska yacht charters , or a more intimate experience with fellow travelers. The largest ship on our curated Inside Passage cruise itineraries are the 100-guest identical sister ships National Geographic Venture and Quest.

Find Your Inside Passage Ship

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Whether you choose the smallest boat or a larger expedition ship is up to you and your group’s travel needs. We’re here to help you decide and select your Inside Passage cruise small ship route and boat.

Alaska Inside Passage Excursions

Alaska Inside Passage excursions off the ship are a big part of the day when you are small ship cruising. Being off the ship exploring actively and intimately is a hallmark of any itinerary AdventureSmith Explorations offers worldwide. And an Alaska Inside Passage cruise on a small ship is no exception.

On an Inside Passage cruise, spend your days hiking, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, going on Zodiac and skiff rides to spot wildlife, and even snorkeling and fishing on select itineraries! Beachcomb, forage, explore small towns, cruise Misty Fjords, visit tribal houses and more on our small boat cruises in Alaska Inside Passage. Most often these shore excursions are included in the cost, another bonus of choosing a small ship cruise !

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All Small Ship Inside Passage Cruises

Find and filter below all the Inside Passage cruise routes aboard small ships. These cruise tours include excursions and expert guides to enhance your experience. Search by your travel dates or price range to find your best Alaska Inside Passage cruise. We’re ready to help you plan your Inside Passage trip.

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Enjoy 2 days venturing farther than 99% of visitors into Glacier Bay National Park. Plus, Tracy Arm, Frederick Sound, Icy Strait and Chatham Strait. Choose between two 76- & 84-guest Wilderness expedition ships as your home base.

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Inside Passage Cruise Reviews from Our Travelers

This trip exceeded our expectations (and that isn't an easy thing). It fit our style and interest. Just the right mix of activity and fun. The scenery in SE Alaska was spectacular and the weather (mostly) cooperated. The ship and crew were exceptional. The guides were knowledgeable and really seemed to enjoy their jobs. So glad that we chose a small ship and especially Uncruise. We liked it so much that we signed up for a future cruise with them. I can't recommend them enough.

We Loved our cruise w Alaska Dream Cruises on the Admiralty. AMAZING crew & staff that made everything so easy & fun!...The ship size & smaller guest list made this the PERFECT cruise experience for us!

All details were attended to. Everything went smoothly. Many instant connections were made.

Enjoyed kayaking almost every day. Got some great photos of dolphins, jelly fish, otters, seals, bears, and Orcas. We did see Humpbacks, but only a glimpse. Glaciers were excellent, and all of the many beautiful views along the way.

We've done a fair amount of travel and have never had a better trip. We wanted to travel with a small group vs a monster cruise. Good travel companions. Small group made it an especially comfortable and friendly environment.

The service was impeccable, and I truly appreciated Lindblad's focus on education and developing a better understanding and awareness of our environment. I also completely embraced the true exploratory spirit of this expedition, bushwhacking into the rainforest to find muskeg and salmon streams where there was no trace of any human touch. I absolutely loved it!

Accommodations Review

Cabin was small, but met all our needs. We spent very little time in the room anyway. 

Meals Review

The meal choices were varied and always found something that we liked - even if was the optional salad with the fish of the day. Presentation was as amazing as was the taste. The bartender would mix fun drinks of the day, one day it was called a mudslide (after a muddy hike!).

Itinerary Review

The views, wildlife and activities were terrific. There were a few days in quiet bays that were not as exciting as the other days. Enjoyed the kayaking on these days. We saw a large pod of orcas, sea otters, humpback whales, bears, jelly fish, sea lions, eagles, jumping salmon and more. Got to go on a hike on the glacier with incredible views.

Crew & Guides Review

The guides were absolutely incredible. I can't imaging the hiring process to find such knowledgeable and upbeat, fun, happy people. You can't teach the service attitude that they demonstrated. Very impressed with the guides.

Fellow Passengers Review

We found ourselves with a lot of people like us - mostly young retirees just wanting to be active and have fun. Everyone was very easy to get along with.

Traveler Advice

This is not the trip for you if you want casinos, a fancy cabin or entertainment. If you want an active, casual trip with excellent food and service, go with Uncruise.

Featured in this Traveler Review

• Northern Passages with Glacier Bay & Sitka
• Safari Endeavour

We Loved our cruise w Alaska Dream Cruises on the Admiralty. AMAZING crew & staff that made everything so easy & fun! We were lucky to see incredible wildlife, our highlight was watching the humpback whales bubblenet feeding multiple times! The ship size & smaller guest list made this the PERFECT cruise experience for us! We got to enjoy many outdoor activities everyday and we were blessed w good weather! We would Highly recommend Alaska Dream Cruises!

The scenery was spectacular and all the beds were comfy!

Omg…the food! So delicious!

The sincere upbeat & fantastic crew (how do they do this for over 100 days in a row?!!) on the cruise impressed ALL the passengers!

[I most enjoyed] Watching the humpback whales bubblenet feeding! Enjoyed everything, even thru the rain! We had NO complaints!

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

Lauren was great!

• Last Frontier Adventure
• Admiralty Dream
• Alaskan Dream Cruises
• Lauren Pilholski

All details were attended to. Everything went smoothly. Many instant connections were made. [I chose this destination and trip based on the] Reputation and expertise of National Geographic and adventure to somewhere I’ve never been.

Spending time with the naturalists in nature was just the best. I especially enjoyed being with Shaun in the zodiac listening to stories laced with his fun sense of humor. He seemed to thoroughly want to be with us.

[I most enjoyed] Watching the Sawyer glacier calving and hanging out with the sea lions and eagles.

Be open to all excursions and reach out and connect with those journeying with you. Relax. Enjoy.

• Wild Alaska Escape: Juneau & Ketchikan
• Lindblad Expeditions

Great trip. Most enjoyable. Enjoyed kayaking almost every day. Got some great photos of dolphins, jelly fish, otters, seals, bears, and Orcas. We did see Humpbacks, but only a glimpse. Glaciers were excellent, and all of the many beautiful views along the way.

Room was very small, but we were OK with that. We didn't intend to spend much time there.

Food was great. No complaints.

All leaders were professional, and some, in particular showed great enthusiasm. Our favorite was Sam. He was a true leader, knowledgeable, and fun. He is a great people person, and truly needs a beard trip! Jess was also very enthusiastic. Her bright spirit was a constant.

Sitka and Ketchikan, and even Juneau, were OK, but we could have done without any of them. We were there to see nature in all its glory. We met one couple who will be a life-long friend, and most every other fellow passenger was pleasant, as well.

Transportation Review

All was good. The only negative was our uncertainty of our arrival in Seattle. We easily could have taken an earlier flight home, but were uncertain of our arrival time, and debarkation in Seattle. Also, we were uncertain of how we could and would get to the airport.  It was fine, but that day turned into a very long one.

Ask questions about last day arrival, and connections to the airport. We were unaware that we would have transportation to the airport. When we did, our driver was there on time, and she was efficient, pleasant, and gave us confidence that we would have no problem getting to the airport on time.

Very good experience. We would recommend AdventureSmith Explorations to friends and family.

• Wilderness Discoverer
• Inside Passage with Olympic National Park & 2 Days in Glacier Bay

We've done a fair amount of travel and have never had a better trip. We had never visited Alaska and wanted to see at least a small part of it. We wanted to travel with a small group vs a monster cruise. We prefer active trips rather than sightseeing, so the hiking and kayaking were exactly what we wanted. Kayaking Ford's Terror in the rain [was an] engaging activity in a peaceful and beautiful setting. Campfire/dinner on the beach at The Brothers was unexpected and thoroughly enjoyable evening on shore whale watching and wildlife viewing everywhere. Crew did a great job of spotting and allowing opportunities to view a wide variety of wildlife. Low-tide hike/excursion at Wood Spit was difficult footing in places was really the only negative. Good travel companions. Small group made it an especially comfortable and friendly environment. 

Individual cabins were admittedly very small, but the Catalyst was more comfortable and accommodating than we expected. The addition of the private head in our cabin was an unexpected plus. We loved the boat!

Paul, Shane, Caroline, Michael and new trainee, Jimmy, made a wonderful team. Always professional, yet very personable and engaging as individuals. Constantly interacting with guests. Paul was great at spotting wildlife, getting the boat in the best position and allowing us to linger and watch. Caroline was always enthusiastic and extremely knowledgeable about all things animal, plant, and other. Shane never failed to entertain and demonstrate/explain the running of the boat. 

Andrew provided complete/thorough information. We felt very prepared. 

Meals prepared by Michael - delicious, beautiful presentation, varied and always interesting. No room for improvement.

Be flexible.  Leave expectations at home and just enjoy what comes. We did decide that headlamps/flashlights are not necessary in Alaska in June.

Starting with Andrew who has been the best travel consultant to date, the trip with Lindblad/Nat. Geo. Expeditions to Southeast Alaska has been one of the most memorable weeks of my life. The service was impeccable, and I truly appreciated Lindblad's focus on education and developing a better understanding and awareness of our environment. I also completely embraced the true exploratory spirit of this expedition, bushwhacking into the rainforest to find muskeg and salmon streams where there was no trace of any human touch. I absolutely loved it!

The bed was incredibly comfortable, and the ship sailed so smoothly that I could tell if we were cruising or anchored. Bathroom was quite adequate.

The food was inconsistent, though many meals were great, some were not as good. Pancakes and french toasts were so dry that they were some of the worst. Some meals were rather salty. Overall, I was quite satisfied, however.

All naturalist guides were excellent and were clearly passionate about their work and sharing the wilderness with us.

The opportunities to land on pristine rainforest bay areas with untouched wilderness was simply magnificent. My best day was Kelp Bay in Baranof Island, where we had a fantastic encounter with 2 bears in the salmon stream. I will never forget that for the rest of my life. I was hoping to see more marine wildlife, but that did not turn out to be the case during our week. The fantastic bear encounter made up for the entire week, however.

Andrew has been the best consultant ever. Always prompt, always full of information and detailed in his response. I have never had a better person to prepare me for a trip. Anyone would be so fortunate to have Andrew's guidance.

Be prepared for whatever weather that Alaska throws at you. It rained the entire week, and so good waterproof gear is a must. Don't expect to find wildlife up close -- it does not happen reliably, or you might get disappointed. Make the most of each day and get the most out of the naturalists.

• Exploring Alaska's Coastal Wilderness
• Andrew Browning

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

What It’s Like Cruising the Inside Passage of Alaska

Our team is adept at personalizing recommendations for an Alaska Inside Passage cruise to fit your timing, budget, activity level and travel style. All we need are a few details like how many travelers are in your group and some basic interests to get started on a custom travel recommendation. Or if you have time to browse, consider taking an Inside Passage trip we’ve recently experienced and reviewed. Linked here are some of our most recent tales from small ship cruising the Inside Passage of Alaska.

Compare and contrast the various Lindblad Alaska cruises and ships from an expert who's been aboard. Learn what stands out about Lindblad's Alaska programming, guides and crew.

All you need to know before you take an Alaska UnCruise. Read this review to hear from an expert’s eye what sets this operator's cruises apart from others in Alaska.

Alaska is the perfect destination for slow travel. Learn about AdventureSmith Founder and President Todd Smith's slow cruising experience in this detailed review and get inspired to enjoy authentic Alaska aboard historic small ships Catalyst and Westward.

Contact Us - Alaska Inside Passage Cruises

Travel is best planned one-on-one, and we’re here to help you with your specific needs.

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Alaska Small-Ship Cruises: 7 Options for Up-Close Adventures

For a closer look at Alaska's majestic glaciers, fjords, and wildlife, try these recommended small-ship cruise lines. 

By Heidi Sarna

April 20, 2023

One of my first small-ship cruises ever was in southeast Alaska on the 102-passenger Spirit of Endeavour , which sails today as the Safari Endeavour for UnCruise Adventures.

That experience in the 1990s hooked me on small-ship cruising and inspired me to start QuirkyCruise.com to share reviews and news about this special corner of the cruise world.

On a small ship you can get much closer to Alaska’s unspoiled natural bounty, its glaciers, old growth forests and fjords, and its wildlife, from brown bears foraging along the shoreline to harbor seals and their pups lounging on chunks of ice. 

The small, agile ships themselves get you closer, and so do excursions via even smaller Zodiac boats and kayaks.

Small-ship cruises in Alaska offer you the luxury of access and serenity. When the captain cuts the engines near a shushing waterfall or a surfacing whale exhaling gusts of air through its blowhole, you not only see nature but hear it, too.

There are countless straits, canals, narrows, fjords, and sounds in the maze-like Inside Passage that only small ships can fit through. And while big ships spend no more than half a day in Glacier Bay National Park , the smallest ships can linger a full day and sometimes more. 

The majority of Alaska cruises last a week (though there are longer itineraries), exploring southeast Alaska’s Inside Passage via round-trip or one-way journeys from Juneau, Sitka, Seattle, and Vancouver.

Here are seven small-ship cruise lines in Alaska to consider.

UnCruise Adventures

Owned and operated by the passionate Captain Dan Blanchard, UnCruise has the largest fleet of small ships in Alaska. The line’s eclectic 22- to 86-passenger ships explore the nooks and crannies of southeast Alaska’s inlets, bays, and coves. 

Ships have stern marinas for easy access to kayaking, paddleboarding, and even swimming for those brave enough to take the chilly plunge. New late winter sailings in March and April come with opportunities to ski and snowshoe.

All-inclusive fares bundle excursions and open bar. UnCruise.com  

Alaskan Dream Cruises 

This is the other small-ship Alaska company with the deepest connection to the region. Alaskan Dream Cruises is owned and operated by the Allen family, who have been cruising the Inside Passage for more than 45 years. 

The company’s five cozy vessels were built in the 1970s and '80s, getting refits over the years to carry 12 to 76 passengers each.

Besides showcasing Alaska’s wildlife and landscape, Alaskan Dream Cruises offers experiences that focus on the region’s Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian native cultures. 

Fares include excursions and house wine or beer at dinner. AlaskanDreamCruises.com

Pacific Catalyst

The pair of historic wooden ships operated by Pacific Catalyst have varnished wood paneling, mahogany furniture, and great backstories. The 12-passenger Catalyst was built in 1931 as an oceanographic research vessel for the University of Washington, while the 1924-built 11-passenger Westward offered adventure cruises in the Pacific Northwest for celebrity passengers like Bing Crosby and Walt Disney. 

Today both vessels are equipped with diesel engines and battery power that allow them to cruise silently through the wilderness for up to 12 hours.

Fares include excursions, wine, and beer (hard liquor is BYOB). PacificCatalyst.com

Lindblad Expeditions 

Lindblad wrote the book on adventurous small-ship cruising worldwide, so it’s no surprise the company has four ships in Alaska this summer—two carrying 100 passengers apiece and the other two vessels carrying just 62 passengers apiece. 

Lindblad employs a talented expedition staff, with one naturalist (including a photo expert) for every 10 guests. Each ship carries multiple Zodiacs, kayaks, and paddleboards. 

Fares include all excursions, but not open bar. Expeditions.com

American Cruise Lines

The bright white 170-passenger American Constellation looks like a miniaturized version of a standard cruise ship, down to the spacious sundeck for scenery viewing and living room–esque main lounge with retro couches. 

Most of the Constellation’s cabins have private balconies, and six are designed for single travelers. An elevator serves all the main passenger decks. 

Fares include some complimentary excursions (but not all) as well as a daily cocktail hour and wine and beer at lunch and dinner. Starlink Wi-Fi and tips are covered in the fare, too. AmericanCruiseLines.com

American Queen Voyages

The new, 186-passenger Ocean Victory is a luxury expedition ship built to cruise through polar ice, spending winters in Antarctica. In the summer, the vessel heads for the relatively warmer waters of southeast Alaska. 

Eighteen Zodiacs keep excursion groups small. There are also sea kayaks and hydrophones to hear whales underwater. Onboard, most cabins have balconies. Among the ship’s other amenities: a gym, spa, and outdoor pool with two hot tubs. 

Fares include excursions, open bar, Starlink Wi-Fi, and tips. AmericanQueen.com

Silversea Cruises

The poshest (and largest) small ship in Alaska is Silversea ’s 392-passenger Silver Whisper , an all-suite vessel with doting service from a crew of 302. Each guest unit has a walk-in closet, stocked mini bar, and marble bathroom with a tub; most suites have balconies as well. 

While cruising through the wilds of southeast Alaska, Silversea’s pampered passengers enjoy creature comforts like butler service, four restaurants, a casino, a show lounge, a gym, and an impressive spa. 

Fares include open bar, tips, and at least one excursion in every port. Silversea.com

Heidi Sarna is a veteran travel journalist and the cofounder of QuirkyCruise , a top source for news, reviews, and information about small ship cruises and unconventional vessels.

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Small Ship Cruises in Alaska

Vast, untouched wilderness awaits. Alaska hosts magnificent wildlife encounters and spectacular glaciers.

From ice-filled fjords to stunning rainforests, southeast Alaska is an adventurer's dream. Known as one of the most beautiful cruise areas in the world, exploring the panhandle of Alaska by small ship will deliver a holiday of a lifetime. Exploring Alaska by adventure cruise ship means you can get up close and personal with the wonders of this region.

Learn about the rich history of the area, visit Glacier Bay, the world’s largest biosphere to see whales, seals, eagles and bears and visit local tribes of the Inside Passage. The action and adventure of Alaska is never-ending, and the memories will also last a lifetime. There are many different Alaska cruise itineraries on offer, each one equally amazing.

Most Alaskan cruises will explore the ‘panhandle’ or southeast tip of Alaska. Below are some key highlight areas on an Alaskan small ship cruise.

Sailing the Inside Passag e - shaped by huge glaciers millions of years ago, the Inside Passage stretches from Puget Sound, Washington, through British Columbia and into the Gulf of Alaska. The Inside Passage delivers stunning and ever-changing scenery. Home to whales, bald eagles, sea lions, and porpoises, the Alaskan Inside Passage covers more than 500 miles and encompasses over 1000 islands.

Glacier Bay National Park - Marvel at the awe-inspiring scenery as you cruise Glacier Bay, the largest UNESCO-protected biosphere in the world. With some luck, you’ll see brightly-colored puffins, mountain goats, eagles, bears, and sea lions, all with a stunning backdrop and the amazing sounds of nature.

Chichagof Island & Baranof Island - Just a couple of the many  Alaska Islands and both a nature lover's dream, Chichagof Island is home to porpoises, seals, whales, and the largest population of bears per square meter in the world. Baranof Island features hidden coves, hot springs, and an amazing array of wildlife calling this island home.

Tracy Arm - Prepare for breathtaking scenery as you cruise Tracy Arm. Located 45 miles south of Juneau, Tracy Arm is a narrow fjord extending over 30 miles long. With over a quarter of the area covered in ice and encompassing some of Alaska’s largest glaciers, Tracy Arm offers views of stunning waterfalls and sheer rock walls over a mile high and is also home to hundreds of harbor seals, mountain goats, eagles, and passing whales.

Ketchikan - Known as the ‘Salmon Capital of the world,’ Ketchikan is a city rich in history. The area started off by building a fish saltery, followed by a salmon cannery, mining copper and gold, and even supplying timber for the construction of WWII airplanes. Now, Ketchikan’s main industry is tourism. It's easy to see why with museums, libraries, restaurants, and amazing wildlife sightings such as mountain goats, black bears, sea otters, humpback whales, orcas, and seals.

Sitka - Another city rich in history, Sitka, located on the southern part of Baranof Island, is where the Russian flag was lowered, and the US flag was raised after the US purchased Alaska from the Russians in 1867.

Best time to cruise Alaska

The best time to cruise Alaska is between April and September, with the high season in June and July, mainly because of the warmer weather and longer days. The beginning of April and end of September are typically the low season but offer the best time to see the Northern Lights because of the shorter days. April and May also offer stunning scenery as the mountain peaks are still covered in snow.

Mid-April until the end of August offers the best time to see whales, particularly Orca and Humpback whales. However, it doesn’t matter which time of year you choose between April and September, as amazing wildlife sightings are a given, whether it’s mountain goats, black bears, harbor seals, sea otters, or bald eagles, couple that with the stunning Alaska landscape and you’re sure to have an adventure cruise to remember.

Where do Alaska cruises depart from?

The departure port for your Alaska cruise varies depending on the itinerary, but the most common departures are below;

Ketchikan - On Revillagigedo Island, Alaska Airlines provides daily flights from Seattle . It is also possible to get to Ketchikan via sea with the Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS), which has connections from the US and Canada, although to get from Washington to Ketchikan takes around 3-4 days!

Juneau - There are 2 ways to get to Juneau: air or sea. Alaska Airlines offers daily flights year-round from Seattle or Anchorage, and Delta Airlines offers seasonal flights from Seattle to Juneau. The other option to get to Juneau is by the state-run ferry, the AMHS.

Petersburg - Alaska Airlines offers twice-daily flights from Washington, Seattle, and Anchorage and the option to get to Petersburg via the AMHS.

Sitka - With links from Seattle, Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, and Ketchikan, Alaska Airlines offers daily flights to Sitka. There is also the option to go via ferry, which can take 3-4 days.

Seattle - As a major US city, Seattle offers numerous ways to get there, from planes and trains to trams; there are plenty of options to get to Seattle.

Be sure to check your itinerary beforehand, as different routes can offer different departure/arrival options. Itineraries vary from round trip departures, for example, Juneau to Juneau, or one way, such as Seattle to Juneau and Sitka to Ketchikan. Which type you choose can depend on whether you intend to incorporate further land-based options at either end of your trip. Also worth considering is a (re)positioning cruise where the boats move from operating in one area/country to another and can offer a unique trip normally not part of regular itineraries. Whatever your route, it is recommended that you get to your departure location at least 1 day in advance to be ready for your Alaska small-ship adventure cruise.

Alaska cruise tips

Before you head off on your amazing Alaska Small Ship cruise, below is some general advice and tips to ensure your trip runs smoothly;

What to expect on an Alaskan Cruise - Alaskan cruises generally promise adventure, excitement, and the beauty of southeast Alaska. On board, you can expect comfortable rooms, fine Alaskan cuisine, and new friends for life. Days will generally start with a hearty breakfast to set up your day, followed by hiking, whale watching, bird-watching along coastal river trails or meeting the locals. Enjoy a hot chocolate or hot toddy to warm you up through the day, and relax in the evening with a glass of wine at dinner. Most Alaska cruises are casual, so no need to dress up for dinner.

Plan ahead - Most spaces on Alaska cruises sell out 6-9 months in advance, so to avoid disappointment, book early so you can guarantee your space. Mid-April to the beginning of May and the end of August to mid-September offer the most affordable time to go to Alaska, where you can save $400+ compared to traveling in June or July.

Arrive early - As mentioned earlier, arriving a day in advance is a good idea to ensure you’re on your cruise on time. As most Alaska cruise ship departure ports require a short flight, allowing time for delays is a good idea.

Choosing the right trip - Which type of trip you choose depends on personal preference, but all Alaskan cruises will offer a great experience in this remote region. Most boats have put a lot of effort into scheduling the itineraries, so no matter which one you pick, you will have a memorable experience. Alaska itineraries are usually 7, 8, or 10 days, depending on your chosen trip. Various boat sizes are available for cruising Alaska; see our Best Small Ship Cruises in Alaska page for more information.

What to pack - The Alaskan cruise season takes place between April - September, leading into and out of the summer months. Are cruises cold? The average temperatures are between 55f-65f (12-18c) and can drop by around 5 degrees at night, so clothing appropriate to these temperatures is required. Rainfall can be quite high in southeast Alaska, so a good waterproof jacket is also a good idea. Many Alaska cruises involve hiking, so you will also need a good pair of comfortable hiking shoes or boots, and sunglasses are a necessity during the summer months, particularly to protect your eyes from the glare of the water. Most Alaska cruise ships will have binoculars available, but if you have your own, bring them so you don’t have to wait for a pair to become free or share.

Alaska Travel Advice - Alaska is a US state, so if you’re traveling from outside the US, you will need a valid passport with at least 6 months left on it. If you’re not a US passport holder, you will also need the correct visa to enter the US. Please check the latest visa requirements before making any travel plans.

Alaska Reviews

• 18 Verified Reviews
• 9.6 Exceptional

The whole trip was great. My only negative was that I had hoped to do some kayaking and/or spend more time out in the DIB - the advertising led me to believe we would do a lot more of this! To us the cabin was fine but some people might find it a bit small. The crew, guides etc were all fabulous; food was terrific; bar was fantastic; boat was very comfortable; information provided was also great. Shore excursions were always informative and interesting; lovely to get to the areas the big boats don't go!! Why would anyone ever do a big boat cruise??

Cruising Alaska in May on the Alaskan Dream

Cruising Alaska in May on the Catalyst

• 8.8 Fabulous
• Elizabeth M

Impossible to match on any other cruise that we know about.

Cruising Alaska in August on the Alaskan Dream

• 10.0 Exceptional

Exceeded my expectations

Cruising Alaska in May on the Admiralty Dream

Very enjoyable.

Cruising Alaska in June on the Catalyst

Best way to see the Inside Passage is via small boat cruise. Large cruise ships don't come close to what the small boats can offer.

Cruising Alaska in July on the Catalyst

• 8.0 Very good

Great experience seeing icebergs, iceflows and glaciers. The countryside is just overwhelmingly beautiful.

Cruising Alaska in September on the Admiralty Dream

My family truely enjoyed this uncruise and have been recommending it to all our friends and family.

Cruising Alaska in May on the Wilderness Discoverer

This is a breathtakingly beautiful, ideal cruise environment, since most of the spots visited are only accessible by sea.

Absolutely wonderful

More pleasurable than I expected.The very best cruise choice. Only way to go!

Cruising Alaska in July on the Alaskan Dream

Great 17 day adventure for both couples!!

Cruising Alaska in July on the Wilderness Legacy

It exceeded our expectations a hundred times over!!

Cruising Alaska in August on the Wilderness Discoverer

Uncruise emphasizes the natural areas of Alaska on their excursions. I liked this approach. The bushwacking, kayaking and skiffs allow you to experience the natural beauty of Alaska close-up.

Cruising Alaska in September on the Safari Endeavour

Exceptional, I have already recommended this cruise to several friends

Cruising Alaska in April on the Wilderness Discoverer

Very impressed with the shore hiking and mountain. Iews!

I felt like we got to experience some local culture we would have missed in a larger boat or even touring on our own

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Alaska Adventure Cruises

7, 12, & 14 Night Alaska Adventure Cruises | April 2024 through 2025 | Explore the Great Land.

Life on the outside. Our Alaska cruise adventures deliver action, exploration, and the unexpected—paddling and hiking, calving glaciers, Glacier Bay National Park, bears, whales, and polar plunges. Nobody does Alaska better. Alaska boasts the most itineraries of all our destinations. Whether you go for 7, 12, or 14 nights, there truly is a trip for everyone.

From early April into May, Southeast Alaska awakens. Bears, baby animals, migrating grey whales and birds, budding forests, snow-covered peaks, gushing waterfalls, and Aurora Borealis sightings can be part of your experience. Plus, it's crowd-free.

Long days of Alaska summers mean extra playtime. Temps are warmer, so there's better access to higher elevation hikes. And humpbacks are back en masse. Come summer's end and into early fall, wildlife gets busy—mating, migrating, and feeding up for winter.

Don't Forget to Book Your Land Options! Pre or Post Hotels in Juneau, Sitka, and Ketchikan. Plus Denali & Talkeetna Wilderness Rail Adventures Await.

7-Nights | Alaska’s Fjords & Glaciers with Ketchikan

From USD $3600 per person

From Juneau to Ketchikan or reverse on the Wilderness Discoverer for 7 nights. April 28th, to Sept. 22nd, 2024.

Visiting Endicott Arm, Thomas Bay, Blashkee Islands, Behm Canal and more.

Compare All Boats | Additional port taxes and fees $375 per person

7-Nights | Wild Woolly & Wow with Glacier Bay

From USD $4400 per person

Wild, Woolly, & Wow Alaska Outback.

Roundtrip Juneau to Juneau on the Wilderness Legacy for 7 Nights. April 27th to Sept. 14th, 2024.

Visiting Glacier Bay National Park, Chichagof Island, Baird and LeConte glaciers and more.

7-Nights | Northern Passages with Glacier Bay & Sitka

From USD $4900 per person

From Juneau to Sitka or reverse on the Safari Endeavour for 7 nights. April 27th, to Sept. 21st, 2024.

Visiting Glacier Bay National Park, Margerie and Grand glaciers, Icy Straits, South Marble Island and more.

7-Nights | Glacier Bay Adventure Cruise with 2 Days in Glacier Bay

Rountrip Juneau to Juneau on the Wilderness Discoverer for 7 nights. May 5th to Sept. 15th, 2024.

Visiting Glacier Bay National Park (2 days) Margerie, Grand Pacific and Sawyer glaciers, Tracy Arm, Frederick Sound and more.

7-Nights | Kids in Nature, Wild Woolly & Wow with Glacier Bay

From USD $6300 per person

Rountrip Juneau to Juneau on the Wilderness Legacy   for 7 nights. Select dates only. June 22 & 29th; July 27th, 2024.

7-Nights | Adult Tranquility, Wild Woolly & Wow with Glacier Bay

Rountrip Juneau to Juneau on the Wilderness Legacy for 7 nights. Select dates, April 27th; May 4th; & September 7th, 2024.  

10-Nights | Aleutian Islands Adventure with Dutch Harbor & Kodiak

From USD $8900 per person

From Whittier to Dutch Harbor or reverse on the Safari Explorer for 10 nights. May 30th to August 5th, 2025.

Visiting three breathtaking national parks, along with Shumagin, Unga and Akutan Islands, exploring throughout UnAlaska with wildlife watching and more.

Compare All Boats | Additional port taxes and fees $590 per person

7-Nights | Prince William Sound Explorer with Cordova

From USD $7200 per person

Rountrip Whittier to Whittier on the Safari Explorer for 7 nights. May 31st, to Aug. 30th, 2024.

Visiting dozens of glaciers including Chenega, Columbia, Meares, and Sheridan; College and Harriman Fjords; Cordova and Valdez, and more.

7-Nights | Alaska’s Glacier Wilderness with Glacier Bay

From USD $6100 per person

Rountrip Juneau to Juneau on the Safari Quest for 7 nights. May 24th to August 30th, 2024.

Visiting Glacier Bay National Park, Dawes and (2 days) Margerie glaciers, Tongass National Forest, Fords Terror, Chatham Strait and more.

12-Nights | Inside Passage with Olympic National Park & 2 Days in Glacier Bay

Seattle to Juneau or Juneau to Seattle on the Safari Explorer,   Safari Endeavour , Safari Quest , or Wilderness Legacy for 12 nights. April 15th to Sept. 21st, 2024.

Visiting Alaska and Canada's full Inside Passage, Glacier Bay National Park, LeConte, Margerie and Grand Pacific glaciers, San Juan Islands, and more.

Compare All Boats | Additional port taxes and fees $675 per person

14-Nights | Alaska’s Fjords & Glaciers Ultimate with Glacier Bay Adventure Cruise

Juneau or Ketchikan or reverse on Wilderness Discoverer for 14 nights. April 28th to Sept. 15th, 2024.

Compare All Boats | Additional port taxes and fees $750 per person

What to Expect in Alaska

When liquid sunshine hits, we’ve got you covered. Life on board in Alaska means wildlife sightings from the bow and a warm drink at the ready. You'll see plenty of wildlife. Humpback whales. Seals, sea lions, and sea otters. Eagles and oystercatchers. We love the Alaska wildlife and we know you will too  

We are known for our daily activities so get ready to put boots on the ground. Paddles and spray skirts at the ready. Cameras in hand. Water bottles filled. Your guides—highly trained to keep you safe and confident in the field—are prepped to lead the charge. Our inclusive Alaska cruises feature these activities at no extra charge. So get out there. Try something new. There will be warming beverages and hearty stories to tell back on board.

Choose from hiking, kayaking and paddle boarding, skiff rides, whale watching, northern lights viewing, jump into a polar plunge or learn about native Alaska cultures and tribes.

What's Included?

• Included in your fare:
• Group transfers and baggage handling between airport/vessel on embark/disembark day
• Entry fees to national parks/preserves
• From-the-vessel adventure activities and equipment
• Exclusive activities and shore visits
• All meals aboard the vessel
• Premium wine, beer and liquor (excludes super-premium wines)
• Non-alcoholic beverages
• Wellness amenities
• Onboard expedition/heritage guides and guest experts
• Refer to your final guest documents for any additional inclusions specific to your itinerary and vessel

Not included in your fare:

Airfare to and from your home city

Discretionary gratuities to vessel’s crew

Travel protection

Optional excursions and land tours

Port taxes/fees ( except La Pinta )

No onboard wifi

YOUR ADVENTURE IS ONLY A CLICK AWAY

"We've had amazing holidays with you. Ketchikan to Juneau, Juneau to Sitka, Panama to Costa Rica and recently two Pacific Northwest - Rivers of Adventure and Wine and San Juan Islands. What next for us? Looking forward to another adventure. I think another Alaska visit is in the cards. " - Sue D., Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK

"There are never enough hours in the day to do all the activities you want to do. The crew does an amazing job to make the trip a lifetime memory !" - Greg M, NSW Australia

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How to plan a memorable first-time alaska cruise.

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The remarkable scenery of Glacier Bay is a highlight on many Alaskan cruise itineraries.

Embark on a journey through Alaska's pristine wilderness aboard a cruise ship, where you can experience the awe-inspiring nature of the last American frontier in comfort.

As you glide past icy fjords and into secluded bays, seize the chance to witness magnificent glaciers up close, and keep your eyes peeled for the mighty bears, whales and eagles that call this rugged landscape home.

However, don't make the mistake of thinking you’ll have peace and quiet. Remote it may be, but Alaska is one of the world’s most popular cruise destinations.

Ports such as Skagway can accommodate up to four large cruise ships at once. Smaller ports can easily become overwhelmed with visitors, while popular shore excursions sell out well in advance. As such, there’s a lot to understand about Alaska cruises before booking.

Cruise Lines In Alaska

Most major cruise lines sail in Alaska, ranging from large, modern ships full of amenities, down to smaller, older ships with more outside space and a relaxed vibe. Expedition cruises on even smaller ships focus more on wildlife and geology.

When picking a line and ship, consider your choice of cabin carefully. Although inside cabins offer a cheaper deal, the value of a balcony cabin shouldn't be underestimated. On scenic cruising days, you’ll be able to enjoy the landscape—and potentially wildlife—without jostling for position.

Alaska Cruise Itineraries Explained

There are two main types of Alaskan cruise itinerary: the Inside Passage roundtrip, and a one-way Gulf voyage. Each route offers unique opportunities to see both glaciers and wildlife, with specifics depending on the season.

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Alaska is a popular cruise destination in the summer.

Seven-night Inside Passage cruises typically depart from hubs like Seattle or Vancouver, calling at popular stops like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway. Many feature a scenic cruising tour of the breathtaking Glacier Bay National Park.

For example, this 7-night itinerary on Norwegian Encore including all those highlights is available between April and October in both 2024 and 2025.

For those seeking deeper exploration, one-way Gulf voyages include the highlights of the Inside Passage route, but also venture closer to the Arctic Circle. Typically, such itineraries start or end at Whittier or Seward near Anchorage.

This 7-night itinerary from Celebrity Cruises includes port calls at Sitka, the historic Icy Strait Point, and scenic cruising of the Hubbard Glacier on the way from Vancouver to Seward.

Some cruise lines combine Gulf voyages with curated tours before or after the cruise for a comprehensive Alaska experience. Such tour packages include famous rail journeys, visits to Denali National Park, and optional overnight stays in Anchorage or Fairbanks.

Longer Alaskan cruise itineraries, especially those on smaller ships or expedition lines, may include remote locales like Kodiak Island and the Aleutian Islands.

Port Excursions In Alaska

Exploring ashore on guided excursions is a highlight of any Alaskan cruise. Each port offers unique opportunities to engage with the natural environment and local culture, but the popularity of cruising in the region means advance booking is essential.

Some of the most popular tours may fill up just days after they go on sale, in some cases months before the actual cruise. Consider independent tour options, but read the terms and conditions carefully and check for reviews from previous cruisers.

Mendenhall Glacier is a popular cruise excursion from Juneau on Alaska cruises.

Alaskan capital Juneau is renowned for its glacier tours and wildlife viewing opportunities. The hike through backcountry to the Mendenhall glacier requires a good level of physical fitness, while whale watching boat trips are just as popular.

The historic Skagway train tour along the Klondike route in a vintage coach, featuring stunning vistas and rich gold rush era history, is a must-do.

Cultural tours in Ketchikan often include visits to the Saxman Native Village, where totem poles and traditional dance performances offer insight into the local Tlingit culture.

When To Cruise Alaska

Alaska is not a year-round cruising spot, and the season is shorter than most leading cruise destinations. Alaska’s cruising season ranges from late April to late September.

April : Expect relatively dry days, though not completely devoid of light showers and fog. Bears are only just emerging from their winter slumber so sightings are unlikely, but you may see eagles and humpback whales.

May : With more ship options, relatively dry weather, long hours of daylight, and good value fares, May is a popular time to cruise Alaska before the peak. Wildlife, including migrating shorebirds, whales, and bears, are more visible.

June : Mild temperatures and long daylight hours—up to 19 per day—provide optimal cruising conditions. Enjoy vibrant greenery and more wildlife sightings, but prepare for the possibility of mosquitoes (especially on trips inland) and variable weather.

July : July brings mild temperatures, often reaching the 70s, but it's also the start of the wetter period. Expect long hours of daylight ideal for wildlife sightings, including salmon runs and bear activity. However, peak cruise season means high fares, busier ships, and busier ports. Local produce starts to feature heavily on menus shoreside.

Juneau, Alaska, has a spectacular natural setting and is a gateway to many exciting outdoor ... [+] experiences.

August : Expect rain, with daytime temperatures in the low to mid-60s and nights cooling to the upper 40s, and ample wildlife viewing opportunities, as bears and bald eagles are active near salmon streams. Fares, along with the number of daylight hours, fall later in the month.

September : Expect cooler temperatures and frequent rain, which may risk the success of outdoor excursions. Despite less demand, wildlife viewing remains good with bears still active near salmon streams and whales still present in coastal waters. September also offers a chance to see the northern lights .

What To Pack For Alaska Cruises

Packing smart for an Alaska cruise means being prepared for both adventure in the great outdoors and the comforts of cruise life.

An Alaskan journey demands attire for cooler climates. Essentials include a fleece jacket, thermal socks, and a warm hat to combat the cold, along with sweaters and thermal underwear for effective layering. Waterproof gear such as a reliable rain jacket and waterproof pants are crucial for unexpected rain or snow showers.

You should also consider waterproof bags to protect your electronics and important documents during shore excursions.

Sun protection is vital due to the deceptive Alaskan sun. High SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat are necessary to guard against UV rays and snow glare.

Footwear should include waterproof hiking boots for rugged terrain and slip-proof sandals for the deck, accompanied by thermal or wool socks for additional warmth.

For shore excursions, a collapsible backpack and a thermal water bottle will keep you organized and hydrated, while binoculars can greatly enhance wildlife tours. A simple first aid kit, sea-sickness bands, and insect repellent are other wise packing choices.

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A Norwegian Cruise Line worker is accused of stabbing people on board with scissors

• A cruise ship worker was accused of stabbing a passenger and attacking crew members.
• The incident occurred on the Norwegian Encore on its voyage to Alaska from Seattle, AP reported.
• The worker was arrested and faces assault charges, the district attorney's office said.

A cruise ship employee was arrested after he allegedly used scissors to stab three people aboard a ship that was traveling to Alaska.

The employee, identified as Ntando Sogoni from South Africa, had recently started working on Norwegian Encore, a ship operated by Norwegian Cruise Line,.

According to AP News , which cited an affidavit from FBI Special Agent Matthew Judy, the ship disembarked from Seattle on Sunday and was scheduled to stop in Alaskan ports, including Junea, during the weeklong voyage.

Sogoni, 35, was on duty on Monday when he began to exhibit "unusual and irrational behaviour," a spokesperson for the Norwegian Cruise Line told Business Insider. He allegedly tried to deploy a lifeboat from the ship, according to a press release issued by the district attorney's office .

According to the FBI, Sogoni was taken to the ship's medical center for examination, where he then "physically attacked" a security guard and a nurse before using a pair of scissors to stab a passenger who was being examined.

Sogoni allegedly stabbed the passenger several times in her arm, hand, and face. A security guard who intervened was stabbed in the head, while a second security guard was stabbed in the back and shoulders, authorities said.

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The conditions of the passenger and staff are unknown, though AP News reported that none of the injuries were life-threatening.

The ship was traveling west of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, when the alleged incident took place, the publication added.

Sogoni was held in the ship's jail before being arrested in Juneau on Tuesday.

Sogoni is facing charges of assault with a dangerous weapon. He could face up to 10 years in prison in addition to a $250,000 fine for each count if convicted, they added.

The cruise industry made $19 billion in revenue in 2022, according to the online data platform Statista .

The US Department of Transportation keeps a record of reported crimes on cruise ships through quarterly reports. According to a recent cruise line incident report , 47 alleged incidents were reported to the FBI between January and March of this year.

Of the incidents reported, eight were recorded as assault with serious bodily injury, one was recorded as a missing US national, and six alleged thefts of under $10,000 were reported. There were also 16 cases categorized as "sexual assault," and a further 16 were categorized as "sexual assault — rape."

The district attorney's office, Juneau's police department, and Sogoni's lawyer did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

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Icon of the seas: the best dining, amenities and more on royal caribbean's new ship.

This family-friendly megaship features plenty of activities, entertainment and restaurants.

Icon of the Seas

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Key Takeaways

• Icon of the Seas is the largest cruise ship in the world, with 18 passenger-accessible decks, eight different neighborhoods and 2,805 staterooms.
• Think of Icon of the Seas as an all-in-one adventure vacation contained on a ship. Young families and energetic travelers will enjoy it most.
• Itineraries originate from Miami , sail to destinations around the Caribbean and include a stop at Royal Caribbean's private island , Perfect Day at CocoCay.

If you have any degree of interest in traveling or cruising, chances are you've heard the buzz around Icon of the Seas. Another record-breaking ship by Royal Caribbean International , Icon of the Seas debuted on Jan. 27, 2024, as the largest cruise ship in the world. It is epic in every sense, featuring 18 cruiser-accessible decks and stretching 1,196 feet from bow to stern.

With greatest-of-all-time soccer player Lionel Messi as the ship's godfather, the Icon of the Seas is truly iconic. Messi brought the entire Inter Miami team along for the opening ceremony and the big reveal of the team's new Royal Caribbean-sponsored jerseys. I was fortunate enough to attend this star-studded ceremony as part of the press preview sailing in the days leading up to the ship's grand debut to the public. It was everything I thought it would be and more, and nobody could have been more appropriate than Messi to send this ship on her maiden voyage.

Boarding a ship of this size can seem overwhelming, but not when you understand the layout. Icon of the Seas is broken up into eight distinct neighborhoods: AquaDome, Central Park, Thrill Island, Chill Island, Royal Promenade, The Hideaway, Suite Neighborhood and Surfside, a neighborhood built for young families looking for nonstop fun and kid-approved eats and treats.

In addition to these public areas, there are 2,805 staterooms spread across 12 decks. Icon of the Seas' capacity maxes out at 7,600 passengers and 2,350 crew members, but with the plethora of public spaces and variety of things to do and see, you can choose your own adventure without encountering more crowds than you want to.

Find your perfect cruise

Skye Sherman

Icon of the Seas itinerary

During its inaugural 2024-2025 cruising season, Icon of the Seas offers seven-night eastern or western Caribbean adventures from Miami, stopping at a variety of tropical destinations. All sailings include a stop at Royal Caribbean's award-winning private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, in the Bahamas . Other destinations include Basseterre, St. Kitts & Nevis ; Roatan, Honduras; and Cozumel, Mexico .

During the 2025-2026 cruising season, new destinations will include Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic ; San Juan, Puerto Rico ; Labadee, Haiti; Costa Maya, Mexico; and Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas (part of the U.S. Virgin Islands ). All sailings will originate from Miami.

No matter your Icon of the Seas itinerary, you'll visit beautiful places – but you can expect to feel torn about spending any time off the ship, because it's just that jampacked with things to do.

Who should sail on Icon of the Seas?

Icon of the Seas appeals not so much to a demographic as to a psychographic; you're going to need to be someone who likes to live life in all caps. Royal Caribbean set out to create "the world's best vacation" contained on a ship, so Icon of the Seas is for anyone who would enjoy the combination of a beach trip, a resort stay, a water park adventure and island-hopping.

Fun-loving travelers and families with kids of varying ages will do best on this ship; it feels a little bit like Disney World with over-the-top everything and a truly massive sprawl. Older travelers who prefer a more quiet, refined experience may want to opt for a less kid-friendly ship. Still, even couples without children will find plenty of fun adult-friendly things to do and romantic places to tuck in.

The Royal Promenade can be quite loud and buzzy, but simply relocating to another onboard neighborhood can completely shift the vibe. Also, keep in mind that the ship really is huge, and walking from end to end can be a hike, so those with limited mobility or endurance might want to look into a smaller ship.

Icon of the Seas prices are high in its opening season, but cruisers with big dreams and small budgets can expect rates to drop by the time the next ship in the series debuts.

The stateroom

With a ship this overstimulating, it's imperative that your stateroom is a haven. Luckily, Icon of the Seas offers peaceful rooms, many of which feature ocean or Central Park neighborhood views. Cruise ship accommodations are stereotypically compact – even cramped – but the floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows in Icon of the Seas' cabins (with the exception of the windowless interior rooms) lend an airy, open feel. The cabin layouts are also optimized to provide the maximum amount of storage, floor space and comfort.

Stateroom decor is mildly nautical- and tropical-themed, with calming hues that mimic the scenery outside your window (think blues, beiges and whites). High-tech elements include smart TVs, LED mirrors and the ability to control many aspects of your room from an app.

My husband and I stayed in an Ocean View Large Balcony Stateroom, a 204-square-foot refuge from the hustle and bustle of the ship (the balcony adds another 65 to 70 square feet). This room type can sleep up to four people with a sofa bed for one or two; the room also features twin beds that convert to a king bed for couples.

My husband is 6 feet, 3 inches tall, and we were comfortable in our room, even though our quarters included a large bed, a bathroom, a sofa and a desk. We loved sitting on our private balcony and watching the deep blues of the Atlantic Ocean flow by.

If money is no object, the Ultimate Family Townhouse – an over-the-top eight-guest, three-story pad with a private whirlpool on the balcony, three bathrooms, a slide that connects the second and main levels, an in-suite cinema, a dining room and a kitchenette – looks epic. But keep in mind, it costs nearly $100,000 for the week.

The Sunset Corner Suites (about one-fifth of the cost of the Ultimate Family Townhouse, but still expensive) are also pretty sweet, with a wraparound balcony and a bed facing the sea.

Luckily, not all rooms break the bank; with four main stateroom categories (suite, balcony, ocean view and inside) and 28 subcategories, there's something for everyone.

Best amenities on Icon of the Seas

It's almost impossible to run out of things to do aboard Icon of the Seas.

For thrill-seekers, the largest water park at sea – Category 6 – features the Frightening Bolt (the tallest waterslide on a ship) and the Pressure Drop (the first open freefall waterslide on a cruise vessel).

If you've tired of the seven swimming pools, six waterslides, laser tag, mini-golf, rock climbing wall, escape room, sports courts, outdoor decks, theater, spa and all-day programming, simply take a stroll down the Royal Promenade for Las Vegas -style people-watching. The Royal Promenade has 15 restaurants, bars and lounges, as well as a Starbucks that seems to have a line no matter what time you go. The neighborhood feels a bit like a shopping mall … if a shopping mall had floor-to-ceiling ocean views made possible by the world's largest kinetic art sculpture.

The Pearl, a feat of engineering, is one of the most unique aspects of the ship's design. This art piece is actually a load-bearing structure supporting three decks, but it looks and feels like an interactive art experience designed solely for the enjoyment of guests. The multisensory immersive structure has 3,000 kinetic panels and moody ever-changing lighting. It is one of the first things guests will see when they walk on board, as it stretches from the Royal Promenade up to Central Park.

My husband and I spent most of our time at the FlowRider surf simulator – his favorite amenity – but we made sure to leave time for Taylor Swift trivia at Spotlight Karaoke and the superhuman stunts of the Aqua Theater show, a must on any Icon of the Seas voyage. The ship even has a massive ice arena called Absolute Zero for ice skating (the 20-minute sessions are complimentary) and impressive shows.

We also loved lounging in The Overlook Bar & Pods, an area at the very front of the ship (behind the AquaDome) that features two levels of floor-to-ceiling wraparound windows. It felt airy and open, which can't be said about many cruise ship interiors.

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Best dining venues on Icon of the Seas

There are more dining options aboard Icon of the Seas than you can fit in on a seven-night cruise – but you can give it the old college try. Thirteen of the dining venues are complimentary, while 14 are specialty restaurants (which cost extra; fees vary). There are also 18 bars and lounges.

The best meal we experienced on the ship was at the Chops Grille specialty eatery. When we spotted Royal Caribbean CEO Jason Liberty and a group of bigwigs at a table next to us, we knew we were in the right place. We loved sitting outside and enjoying the breezes of Central Park while we chowed down, but you can eat indoors for an elegant steakhouse experience and a view of the open kitchen and butcher's display, which shows off specialty cuts like high-grade wagyu and bone-in tomahawks.

While I'd never turn down a swanky steak dinner, grabbing quick poolside bites at El Loco Fresh and indulging in some food hall-style grazing at AquaDome Market were equally enjoyable. We also had no complaints eating several meals at Windjammer, the classic complimentary cruise ship buffet.

Even though we don't have children, we stopped into Surfside Bites for a very kid-friendly meal, complete with soft serve ice cream cones from Sprinkles (because no cruise is complete without soft serve). We didn't try anything from the open-air, lemonade stand-inspired Lemon Post bar, but its menu of cocktails and mocktails looked delicious.

And since you're on vacation, be sure to check out the milkshake bar Desserted, where the sugary creations are as photo-worthy as they are decadent. They're worth the upcharge.

Best excursions on Icon of the Seas

Depending on what's on your Icon of the Seas itinerary, you may be able to book activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, tropical jungle adventures, visits to Mayan ruins, volcano hikes, rainforest zip lining, relaxing beach days or cultural immersion tours.

Note that Royal Caribbean features the same options on many of its other Caribbean cruises; none of the excursions on offer are exclusive to Icon of the Seas.

Because our press preview sailing only visited Perfect Day at CocoCay, we did not experience any of the shore excursions. Royal Caribbean's private island in the Bahamas was plenty of fun, even though we didn't plan anything in advance.

If we had made plans, we would have liked to check out the Up, Up and Away tethered hot air balloon, which wasn't running that day, and the overwater cabanas at Coco Beach Club, which were all booked. Thrill Waterpark (which features the tallest waterslide in North America), Oasis Lagoon (the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean) and the adults-only Hideaway Beach are other highlights of Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Overall impressions of Icon of the Seas

Royal Caribbean seems to be focused on superlatives. It has the biggest, best, tallest, largest and most of everything – especially when it comes to Icon of the Seas. If you like jampacked, adventurous vacations that squeeze a lot of adventure and relaxation into one memorable week, Icon of the Seas is probably for you.

While I love seeing Royal Caribbean push the limits of what cruises can be, the ship may almost be too big for some. It's an all-out Vegas-esque vessel that feels more like a floating city; you will probably forget (more than once) that you're not on dry land.

That's not necessarily a bad thing – if Icon of the Seas looks fun to you, it probably will be – but my husband and I tend to gravitate more toward authentic, immersive, on-the-ground cultural experiences when we travel. While Icon of the Seas is a lot of things, it's not that. We had a fantastic time and have already started planning a future Royal Caribbean cruise with a group of friends and family, but we also sympathize with the anticruisers of the world. Vacationing does not a traveler make.

Still, the shows are entertaining, the service is attentive, the music is jamming, and the architecture and design are incredibly impressive. I have no real complaints and suspect that most cruisers will have the time of their lives on Icon of the Seas – exactly as the minds at Royal Caribbean envisioned when they dreamed up this iconic ship.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Skye Sherman has been cruising since childhood, when her parents took her on her first cruise through the Caribbean. She has sailed various ocean cruise lines, gone off the grid for a six-day riverboat expedition deep into the Amazon River and even planned a European river cruise with 48 of her closest family and friends. She's a fourth-generation Floridian and hopes to visit every country in the world during her lifetime. She covers travel and lifestyle topics for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

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• Tauck Travel unveils 2025 river and ocean cruises with new...

Tauck Travel unveils 2025 river and ocean cruises with new itineraries and training initiatives

Tauck Travel USA ( Scylla Cruises ' charterer) has announced ambitious plans for 2025, featuring a range of captivating river and ocean cruising experiences.

The upcoming year will see the introduction of enticing new itineraries, increased capacity on the River Seine, and the launch of the inaugural Tauck River Academy aimed at travel advisors.

Tauck's ocean cruising offers include two new itineraries: "Aegean Voyage: Istanbul to Athens " and " Rome , the Amalfi Coast & Sicily ." These immersive 14-day itineraries promise enriching experiences, blending luxurious accommodations with curated shore excursions and Tauck's signature hospitality.

The "Aegean Voyage" itinerary begins with a 3-night hotel stay in Istanbul followed by an 8-day cruise (on Windstar 's ship Star Legend ) exploring captivating ports like Mykonos , Santorini , and Athens.

The "Rome, the Amalfi Coast & Sicily" itinerary offers a blend of historical discovery and scenic beauty, featuring a 7-day cruise (on Ponant Explorer class ships) and in-depth excursions in destinations like Sicily ( Palermo , Taormina ) and Malta ( Valletta ).

Both ocean cruisetour packages include all shore excursions, gratuities, and onboard beverages, ensuring a seamless and immersive journey for guests.

On the river cruising front, Tauck will unveil the "Romantic Capitals: Paris to Prague" itinerary, featuring a 14-day exploration from Prague to Paris along the Danube, Main-Danube Canal, and Rhine. This voyage highlights exclusive experiences such as private receptions at historical sites and a boating excursion on the Seine.

Additionally, Tauck will double its capacity on the River Seine by deploying the ms Esprit , anticipating heightened interest following the Paris Summer Olympic Games. This strategic move underscores Tauck's commitment to delivering exceptional experiences in response to evolving traveler preferences.

Notably, Tauck will host its inaugural Tauck River Academy during the 2025 sailing season, offering travel advisors an immersive educational experience focused exclusively on river cruising. This innovative training initiative reflects Tauck's dedication to fostering expertise and enhancing guest satisfaction through knowledgeable and certified advisors.

With a diverse portfolio of 20 small ship ocean cruises and captivating river journeys, Tauck continues to redefine luxury travel by combining unparalleled service with immersive cultural experiences.

Anchorage welcomes first cruise ship of 2024 season

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) - Nearly 2,000 passengers from Holland America’s Nieuw Amsterdam arrived Thursday morning, walking down a gangway at the Don Young Port of Alaska to find a chilly morning in Anchorage.

Passengers from the ship had 14 hours to explore the city and its surroundings and some planned to make the most of it despite the thin layer of fresh snow on the ground.

“I have seven friends and family with me celebrating my 60th birthday,” said a woman who hailed from St. Louis, Missouri. “So I’m the de facto tour guide. Today we are going to the Alaska Wildlife Center, Portage Glacier, Turnagain Arm, we are just going to have a great time in Anchorage.”

The Nieuw Amsterdam’s visit is one of just three port calls that Anchorage will see this summer — including one in June and a third in July — but according to leaders with the Anchorage Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, known as Visit Anchorage, those stops represent just a small portion of the cruise visitors that Anchorage will see this summer.

“There is a cruise ship visitor in Anchorage pretty much every day starting from April 22 all the way through the middle of September,” said Jack Bonney, vice president of destination services at Visit Anchorage.

According to Bonney, cruise ship passengers make up about half of all visitors in Southcentral Alaska, which is anticipated to see about 450,000 cruise visitors this summer. The majority, he said, are on weeklong trips that begin or end in Whittier or Seward.

Those passengers, according to Bonney, often take trips before or after their cruise to visit Anchorage and beyond.

“Those seven-day one-way trips, that’s where you really have the opportunity to say, ‘I’m going to add a couple of days. I’m going to get to Denali, I’m going to see Kenai Fjords I’m not back on the boat as soon as the day is over,’” Bonney said. “So all of those things are really important.”

Bonney said tourism in general is expected to be strong this summer, which is good news for local businesses. In Downtown Anchorage, the doors to most businesses were already wide open as early-season visitors descended on the streets.

“Tourism is a huge part of our economy, it’s something like 1 in 9 jobs for Anchorage,” Bonney said. “And it means hundreds of millions of dollars in direct spending, from everything from gift shops to restaurants to car rentals to hotels.”

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Competing Alaska House and Senate bills propose fixes to homeschool laws ruled unconstitutional

Lawmakers in the Alaska House and Senate are racing to craft a bill that would allow homeschool programs to continue after a judge threw out two key homeschool laws as unconstitutional , leaving parents of more than 20,000 students wondering what next school year will look like. 

Legislators are hoping to pass a bill in the next week or so that would provide those parents with some clarity on what’s ahead, but there’s some disagreement on the best approach.

In the Senate, Sen. Löki Tobin, D-Anchorage, is pitching Senate Bill 266 , which she says would basically restore the homeschool system that existed before the 2014 law that was ruled unconstitutional.

“That was the most recent example we have of a constitutionally sound correspondence allotment program,” she said Friday.

A judge said April 12 that Alaska’s current allotment program is not constitutionally sound because it allows parents to use state homeschool funding for tuition at private schools in violation of a section of the state Constitution barring the use of public money for private or religious education.

Tobin’s bill aims to address the judge’s concerns. For one thing, if the bill becomes law, there would be stricter rules on how homeschool funds, known as “allotments,” can be spent. Students would also no longer be allowed to opt out of state testing as they currently are under a 2016 law . Tobin says that’s an effort to assess whether homeschooled students are keeping up with state standards.

“One of the things we’ve heard pretty repeatedly here in the Legislature is that we need more accountability data, and one of the strongest tools of accountability is receiving that assessment data,” Tobin said.

The bill has received significant pushback during public hearings from homeschool parents. Some take issue with the bill’s requirement that unspent allotments be returned at the end of the year — some parents say they save up allotment funding to spend on college classes that allow their students to get ahead. Others object to the bill’s restrictions on purchases, saying things like ski passes, gym memberships and travel to cultural events play a key role in their children’s education.

The testing requirement is another source of criticism, including from Gov. Mike Dunleavy and his administration. At a news conference on May 1, Dunleavy said it could be inconvenient for homeschool families who value flexibility. 

“[If] one is in Kazakhstan, the family is, and the job requires them to be there March, April, May — and homeschool goes on all year long — and the state or whoever decides to do testing in March, what do we do with those folks?” Dunleavy said.

Just 14% of students at Alaska’s largest statewide correspondence school participated in state reading and math tests last year , but, speaking remotely alongside Dunleavy, Education Commissioner Deena Bishop said that’s no cause for alarm. 

“I don’t have a concern. In fact, statistically speaking, a 14% return is an excellent way to understand how, you know, a survey or some type of program, if you look at any type of research, is doing,” Bishop said.

A day after the judge in the homeschool case declined to put the ruling on hold beyond the end of June, Dunleavy came out in support of a House bill that would take its own approach toward fixing the constitutional issues with the homeschool program. 

The sponsor, Rep. Justin Ruffridge, R-Soldotna, said  House Bill 400 would task the state Board of Education with coming up with new homeschool regulations — rules that specifically abide by the Alaska Constitution’s ban on using state funds for private or religious education.

“It was essentially trying to find, what is the most simple way to say an individualized learning plan should exist and an allotment should be able to be paid, as long as it is paid in accordance with constitutional language,” Ruffridge said.

Ruffridge argued the drafting of detailed rules should be up to people more familiar with the day-to-day operations of correspondence schools rather than the Legislature. The bill would also require the state to monitor how allotments are spent. 

At public hearings, homeschool parents have generally offered support for the approach , though what rules the state board would roll out are a question mark at this early stage.

It’s unclear at this point which approach will win out — but lawmakers will have to act fast. The Legislature’s regular session must adjourn by midnight on May 15.

Eric Stone, Alaska Public Media - Juneau

Eric Stone covers state government, tracking the Alaska Legislature, state policy and its impact on all Alaskans. Reach him at [email protected] .

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