carnival cruise alaska reviews

Carnival Alaska Cruise Review

“That’s going to be the best cruise you’ll go on!” said a lot of people I interacted with. Not long ago, I just came back from what many claim to be the “best cruise”. Growing up in a family who loved taking cruises throughout the years, I have to say the Alaska cruise was indeed one of my favorite cruises I’ve ever been on, by far. (Specifically the Carnival Alaska cruise)

Alaska is the biggest state in the country of the United States. When you choose to go on an Alaska cruise, you will definitely see the immense size of the state from being on the ship alone. It’s almost too wondrous to believe it’s real.

Why cruise Alaska?

You can explore Alaska by flying to the state, so you’re wondering why would you cruise around the state if you can just do that? Well, as you may or may not know, 20% of Alaska is only accessible to roads and only has four Interstate highways. Majority of the way to explore Alaska is through planes or boats.

By choosing to cruise Alaska, you will see locations that are only accessible by boat. You will see so much untouched, unspoiled gorgeous natural world beauty of this state and wonder how many of these islands are only lived by the animals that reside there. The state is so incredible with some of the best natural wonders to witness from tall mountains, glaciers, to vast parks.

Cruises are definitely one of the most convenient ways to vacation for certain types of people. Most of them are also handicap-friendly (where they make it accessible for those with canes and wheelchairs, such as ports do offer shuttle services to get them around) so if you’re a physically disabled person, this may be a good way to see the beautiful state! You don’t need to be able to walk everywhere to just experience real-time travel.

The main reason to go on a cruise is if you desire sightseeing for your trip. You will see so many different sights and who doesn’t love the meditative views of the big wide ocean? It’s literally the prettiest thing to see!

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The different itineraries and prices for Alaska Cruises

Carnival Cruise Line offers a few different itineraries of how you could cruise Alaska. They have a few different ships too that sail there. The ports they start off from is at Seattle, Washington (the one I did), San Francisco, California, and Los Angeles, California.

There are so many different itineraries to choose from if you go to Carnival’s official website page on Alaska Cruises right here . You’ll find the cruise packages to Alaska to be about 6 to 14 days long. The prices will range too depending on which cruise package you chose from $394 to $1244 per person on average. However, from my experience, cruises will always end up being more pricier than what is advertised. You have to consider the taxes, the gratuity tips for the workers, and other expenses you choose to spend on. (Including any booked excursions from the ship)

So you definitely want to figure out how long you want your trip to be and what cities you’re willing to stop at! I kind of wish, looking back, that I went for the 8 day one instead of a 7 day one because I missed out on going to one of the amazing cities of Alaska that many recommend to see! (Maybe next time?)

Choosing the type of cruise stateroom you want

There are a few options to choose from with what room you should stay in inside the cruise ship! I watched a few YouTube videos on how an Alaska cruise will be like and many will recommend getting a room with a balcony. We did not go with a balcony room, but I can definitely see how beneficial and a great choice that will be!

An Alaska cruise is one of those cruises that are really about its views outside the ship, so you will really get to take those views in outside of your room. There are a few options that Carnival ships offer: Interior, ocean view, balcony, suite, and then they have 3 specialty kinds.

If you choose to go with an interior, it won’t have any windows. We opted for the ocean view, which is basically like the interior but with a window. For a cruise like Alaska, I would highly go for one with at least a window and balcony.

Of course, if you’re on a specific budget, you can decide what kind of stateroom to go for. The least viewing experience you get and the smaller the room, the cheaper it will be.

Plan out your Alaska cruise according to your vacation goals

Outside of your cruise ship, you’re going to most likely need itineraries once you’re out of the docks. There will be excursions that you can book on the ship, which will most likely be pricier than if you were to book one outside of the ship. You’ll find there are many tour companies lined up right outside the docks, so you will have options to choose from.

However, you may be wondering “How do I plan my itinerary? It seems like there’s so much to do in Alaska!” You’re certainly right about there being a lot of things to do in Alaska.

You want to figure out what you’re most interested in seeing in the state. Do you just want to do sightseeing? Go for the food? Shopping? Hiking? Fishing? Dogsledding? Wildlife or whale watching? This is important to figure out as you plan out the excursions that target your desired reason to see Alaska.

As for shopping, I recommend you pick up the port guides that your shopping expert has curated for you because port guides will show you where are the best stores to shop from! You will also find out there are stores in some of the stops that offer complimentary gifts for cruise guests and those will be highlighted in your port guides.

It’s important to note and figure out the times you will get off the ship and when you have to get back on it, so you can plan how many hours you have in spending time on an excursion. Sadly, there won’t be much wifi or data service when you’re on the ship, unless you buy the packages, which means you won’t be able to do so much research on the city before…

My PRO TIP on this is before you get onboard, research on the Alaska cruise stops and what the recommended spots are! List out the trails you want to do, the food you want to eat, the prices, and anything you are seeking to reach your vacation goals using your “Notes” app on your phone or on a notebook. You could also use this time of research to look for legit and highly rated tour companies with the activities you want to join.

There are so many locations to see in Inside Passage!

The Inside Passage is the route that ships and boats take to get through Alaska and to pass through the many islands of the Pacific Northwest coast. It stretches 500 miles along the Pacific Ocean!

Basically, this is the way the cruise ship will be going to stop by all the Southeast Alaska cities including Juneau, Ketchikan, and more. I will be writing up a blog post on the stops you need to make in Southeast Alaska as well as recommended things to do there and it will be linked here once that’s done. 🙂

Entertainment and food are endless: Take advantage of them!

Cruises are usually known for its food and entertainment. When you take a Carnival Alaska cruise, you will always have the buffet open there for you through breakfast, lunch, and dinner times. The ship will also have restaurants with a variety of other dishes, some may require payments and some will be free from orders (such as the pizza and deli restaurants). It seems to be that their 24/7 ice cream machine is popular among their guests!

As for entertainment to find on the ship, there will be many activities that will be happening on the ship, while you’re on the sea or even when the ship has stopped. (For those who don’t plan to get off of it.) Some of the activities to find will include going to concert shows, musical performances in the lobby or bars, trivia, bingo games, game nights, promotion shows, and more. 

Carnival has its own app called “Carnival Hub”. When you download it, it will list out the times of the stops and the many activities that will be happening around the ship every day including their times. 

Watch me cruise Alaska on my vlog!

Still in the works! Meanwhile, you can subscribe to my Youtube channel to be notified when it’s up.

Did this review post make you excited to book that Carnival Alaska cruise? Do you think you’ll get to see Southeast Alaska going with the choice of a ship?

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• Carnival Cruise Lines

Carnival Spirit to Alaska - any recent feedback?

By ajtaylor29 , July 6, 2023 in Carnival Cruise Lines

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We sail on July 18th out of Seattle. Really looking forward to this cruise! We've been to Alaska but it's been several years, and we've never been on the Spirit.

We were on the Pride last year in Europe, i think they are sister ships so it will feel very familiar to me.

But, i'm just curious about anybody who's been on recently? Any comments or tips?

We were lucky to snag the deck 4 corner aft vista suite, excited to have that panoramic balcony for Alaska! I'm hoping the weather cooperates!

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Ihearttravel11

We were on Spirit June 27-July 4. It was fantastic! Shows were great. Jake (cruise director) was great. Staff was great. Frozen yogurt was great, lol. And DH just tested positive for Covid. I'm negative still. No real comments or tips, other than that. Anything specific you want to ask?

Just now, Ihearttravel11 said: We were on Spirit June 27-July 4. It was fantastic! Shows were great. Jake (cruise director) was great. Staff was great. Frozen yogurt was great, lol. And DH just tested positive for Covid. I'm negative still. No real comments or tips, other than that. Anything specific you want to ask?

OH i'm good with how many times you said "great"!!! That's what i really wanted to hear!!

Sorry for your DH's covid, hope it didn't affect his trip (or yours?!?) I just broke my foot over the weekend so found out yesterday that i'll be in a walking boot for 4-6 weeks. That is NOT how i wanted to cruise, but i'll just have to deal with it. We will have to adjust some of our plans to accommodate my gimpy foot but i'm sure we'll still have a blast!

The Segway tour is definitely out, but I'm hoping most everything else i can power thru.

We loved the Pride so i'm hoping we feel the same about Spirit. I have no problem with the older ships, or the smaller ships, as long as they're well-maintained. 

Actually, we love every ship we've been on!!! 🙂

The ship was great. Seriously, this whole trip, it ranks at the top for favorite vacations. We saw humpback and orcas from the ship. Way more than we saw on our Juneau Express whale watching excursion. If we had to go back, we would not do the excursion. On the way to Victoria, we saw bunches of whales. It was incredible. Our naturist, Louise, was so excited, saying that it was pretty rare to see so many. Of course, the weather may have had something to do with that, as it was beautiful weather the entire trip. Just a bit of rain at the fjord and the last hour in port in Juneau. White Pass 3 hour railway excursion was fantastic - we would do the one up to Canada next time. And Skagway was amazing. We loved Skagway. We did the railway and Goodtime Girls excursion there. 

Older ship in good shape.  Easy to navigate

Buffalobills

This was the best cruise I’ve ever taken! I have 17 cruises under my belt.  My favorite excursion was the Tracy Arm Fjord. It was worth every penny and I would do it again.  I did the whale excursion and really didn’t need to we saw so many whales from the ship including Orcas it was unbelievable.  Skagway we opted for an in town tour that included going into the Yukon absolutely gorgeous this was my second favorite on this trip. We even saw a bear!  We did the Utv excursion and it was not worth the money we bought it through Carnival.  Victoria was stunning! We just walked in town and actually saw 2 deer in someone’s front yard eating flowers.  The only negative area is we didn’t have enough time in each port besides Skagway. When I do go back and I will it was that beautiful I will fly into Alaska or go with another cruise line that has longer days in each port. 

Rollin Tide

2 hours ago, Ihearttravel11 said: We saw humpback and orcas from the ship. 

Seeing an orca would make my whole trip!  That's so freaking awesome!

Spirit was terrific on the sail from Miami to Seattle through the Panama Canal this past April.  The combination of a lot of public space and a low passenger to crew ratio really makes for an an overall wonderful experience.  The décor is whimsical to bizarre, which is part of the overall charm.

This is now my favorite ship class on Carnival in front of the Dream class ships, which are also nice.    

3 hours ago, Buffalobills said: This was the best cruise I’ve ever taken! I have 17 cruises under my belt.  My favorite excursion was the Tracy Arm Fjord. It was worth every penny and I would do it again.  I did the whale excursion and really didn’t need to we saw so many whales from the ship including Orcas it was unbelievable.  Skagway we opted for an in town tour that included going into the Yukon absolutely gorgeous this was my second favorite on this trip. We even saw a bear!  We did the Utv excursion and it was not worth the money we bought it through Carnival.  Victoria was stunning! We just walked in town and actually saw 2 deer in someone’s front yard eating flowers.  The only negative area is we didn’t have enough time in each port besides Skagway. When I do go back and I will it was that beautiful I will fly into Alaska or go with another cruise line that has longer days in each port.       

I agree.  Stunning natural scenery.  Air is amazing

We did Spirit to the Caribbean in January.  Haven't done an Alaska cruise yet, so we can't comment on that part.   No complaints at all regarding Spirit.  Food/Service/Ship were great.  We've been on 24 cruises FWIW...  See if "I Made" is still a bartender in the Red Frog Pub.  He'll take care of you.

17 hours ago, SF Cfan said: Spirit was terrific on the sail from Miami to Seattle through the Panama Canal this past April.  The combination of a lot of public space and a low passenger to crew ratio really makes for an an overall wonderful experience

This is so good to hear - in a couple months we will be taking Spirit through the canal the opposite direction (Seattle to New Orleans).  I was kind of nervous being on a smaller older ship for 16 days.

We were on the June 6th sailing and it was fabulous!!!

https://www.cruisecritic.com/memberreviews/memberreview.cfm?EntryID=702091

Absolutely loved the Spirit and would enjoy another sailing on her in the future.

Would like to echo some of the other comments:  we saw so many whales from the ship!!!  It was magical.  However, we did a third party whale watching tour in Juneau on a much smaller boat than the vessel that the Carnival excursion offered, so we were able to view orcas and humpbacks at a much closer distance.  Absolutely worth it for us, especially since that excursion saved us money over Carnival's.  

Really, the only negative thing that happened was that 7 out of 10 of us ended up sick.  My daughter and I had remarked upon the huge number of people who were coughing aboard the ship.  Despite lots of hand washing and sanitizing we both still ended up with a nasty virus and here I am, a month later, and it's still lingering!  I missed Victoria because of it.  My husband was simply enchanted by Victoria, so it's a must-do.  Oh well - next time 🙂

luvs2beachit

Was on the Spirit through the 4/16 Panama Canal cruise and then b2b on the May 2nd Alaska cruise.  One of the best 23 day cruises ever!  The  staff was outstanding.  The scenery was amazing.  Food was very good, with a few exceptions.  Love the ship, even the strange decor.  Never felt crowded. Fellow passengers were great. Would book the same b2b again in a heartbeat!

We completed out alaskan trip on the spirit on june 27. It was a great cruise with surprisingly good weather. Dining..MDR early seating. Unlike many cruises it was full most evenings. Staff was exceptional. Food was always good ( i have been on 17 cruises). The ship was clean and had plenty of alaskan theme shirts. Excursions were fantastic. Whales were hard to see but did appear with dolphins by ship. Ez to get to tour was lumberjack show. Block from pier. Took skagway train into canada and bus back. Bus tour had lots more details than train staff. Youtube videos of our red hat group are appearing more frequently. Many more details than i could give. Dome swimming pool was appreciated. We love the spirit. 

One thing I didn't see mentioned was "Soul Play."  Spirit is the only ship this activity is on.  It's a painting class/venue on Deck 3, Aft.  They have classes to paint specific things and also "free paint" classes where you can paint what you want.  My wife really enjoyed it. 

Sign up is on the Hub App, but sign up early as they fill up quick.  There are usually a few "no-shows," and they let people in on a first come basis, depending on how many seats are available.

On 7/6/2023 at 1:01 PM, Ihearttravel11 said: We were on Spirit June 27-July 4. It was fantastic! Shows were great. Jake (cruise director) was great. Staff was great. Frozen yogurt was great, lol. And DH just tested positive for Covid. I'm negative still. No real comments or tips, other than that. Anything specific you want to ask?

We're all of the excursions more than $100pp? I've heard that Alaskan excursions run high.

CruiseHealing

We sailed on the first Pride cruise for Alaska this year on May 2nd,  Embarkation was a total nightmare. We are platinum and in a suite.  We, as well as other D&P cruisers, were mixed in with all other cruisers.  It took us over an hour to board.  Priority meant nothing to the port of seattle or carnival.    

Overall the cruise was good, but the the steak house was terrible.  The wait staff was more interested to talk with the hotel director who was eating there, than the paying customer.  Both of our steaks were hugely under cooked.  We asked for help but they were not interested.  We have been dining in the steak house every cruise for 10 cruises. It’s gone done hill so much we will not eat their on our Greece cruise later this year or the other 5 cruises we have booked next year.

54 minutes ago, Etta1213 said: We're all of the excursions more than $100pp? I've heard that Alaskan excursions run high.

Whale watch was over $100pp, train was over $100pp, and the Skagway Ghost/Goodtime Girl was under $100pp. 

On 7/7/2023 at 1:22 PM, luvs2beachit said: Was on the Spirit through the 4/16 Panama Canal cruise and then b2b on the May 2nd Alaska cruise.  One of the best 23 day cruises ever!  The  staff was outstanding.  The scenery was amazing.  Food was very good, with a few exceptions.  Love the ship, even the strange decor.  Never felt crowded. Fellow passengers were great. Would book the same b2b again in a heartbeat!

What is strange about the decor?

Kind of subdued for Carnival, hieroglyphs around the mdr, giraffes and baboons foreword promenade etc. Love there’s still tablecloths in the mdr.  Really nice ship! 

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The best time to cruise to alaska in 2024.

Plan your bucket list adventure to explore the extraordinary beauty of the 49th state.

The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska

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Alaska's astounding beauty and vast wilderness are unlike any other destination in the U.S. – and even in the world. While you can plan land-based trips to the state, many of Alaska's majestic snowcapped mountains, pristine forests, glacial waterways and abundant wildlife are in remote locations, only reachable by plane or by boat. That's just one of the many reasons why Alaska is one of the most popular cruise destinations in the world.

If you're ready to stop dreaming and start planning a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to The Great Land, here are tips on the best times to cruise Alaska.

Best Overall Time: Shoulder Seasons

Best time for warmer weather, best time for wildlife viewing, best time for salmon fishing, best time for the northern lights, best time for shore excursions.

If you want to score a deal and have fewer crowds, travel during the shoulder seasons: May and September. In these months, cruise fares are typically lower and ships are not as full, offering more cabin availability. However, with changes in the global climate bringing more moderate temperatures to Alaska, and the cruise season now extending into April and October, cruisers can also expect to find deals in April and October. There will be fewer sailings to choose from, but you may find lower pricing and avoid the peak-season crowds on the ship and in the ports.

In addition, select shore excursions may be available at a discount in the spring and fall. If you're planning on exploring Alaska on your own before or after your cruise, you'll also find cheaper hotel rates at the beginning or end of the cruise season.

Alaska's weather can change dramatically, especially the further north you go, no matter the month or season. While the weather may not be as predictable in April as in the middle of summer, Alaska can be beautiful in springtime with temperatures in the mid-40s, according to Tyler Hickman, senior vice president of Icy Strait Point, an Alaska Native-owned port in Hoonah and a port of call in Southeast Alaska. Hickman says there are long stretches of sunny days and crisp, clear evenings, offering the opportunity for late-season viewing of the northern lights . He also adds that April is one of the favorite times of year for local Alaskans.

If you're interested in cruising to Alaska in April, Norwegian Cruise Line has a few options, including weekly sailings on Norwegian Bliss beginning April 6. The line also offers Alaska itineraries through the end of October. Other lines sailing the extended season in Alaska in late April include Princess Cruises , Holland America Line , Royal Caribbean International , Carnival Cruise Line , UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions.

If you prefer to travel in the fall, early October temperatures are usually in the 50s, while the end of the month brings snow in the higher elevations. The days are longer and there are no crowds, so it may be an ideal time to visit if you're not interested in the summer outdoor experiences. Norwegian, Holland America and Seabourn Cruise Line offer sailings in October.

Read: The Best Alaska Cruise Deals

If you'd prefer warmer weather for your cruise, the summer season in Alaska runs from mid-May to mid-September. During that period, daytime temperatures typically range from 60 to 80 degrees, though they can drop into the 40s overnight. You can expect to have between 16 to 24 hours of daylight in the warmer season. May is considered the driest month, with around a 25% chance of precipitation, but the rain becomes more frequent throughout the summer.

Alaska.org, a website run by local Alaskans that provides travel information and recommendations, advises that the best time to visit in summer is from June 15 to July 15. This 30-day period is regarded as the peak season for warm, dry weather – and it's the perfect time for outdoor activities such as wildlife viewing, fishing and hiking. If you want to experience the most "midnight sun," plan to cruise a few weeks before or after the summer solstice – the longest day of the year – which falls on June 20 in 2024.

Come September, the days are generally shorter, rainier and cooler – but not always. You might get lucky with some unseasonably warm days amid the beautiful fall foliage ; as a bonus, September also means no bugs and fewer crowds.

If you have school-age children, you'll probably need to travel midsummer, during peak season. However, if you're flexible on dates, there's really no bad time to visit this magical destination. Mountain peaks shrouded in clouds or misty days cruising Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve in late April are as beautiful as sunny days hiking through Tongass National Forest or whale watching on an excursion out of Icy Strait Point in July.

Read: The Best Places to Visit in Alaska

According to Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, one of the top destinations on the Inside Passage itinerary, wildlife viewing is possible year-round, especially if you have your binoculars at hand. When you're not watching for turquoise ice calving in the bay from the glaciers, you might see humpback whales as long as 65 feet or black and brown bears up to 10 feet tall – as well as orcas, harbor and Dall's porpoises, sea otters, harbor seals, mountain goats, sea lions, seabirds, and bald eagles soaring overhead. And that's just what you can view from the ship.

During cruises through the park, rangers board the ships to offer commentary and information about the marine and terrestrial wildlife. They also help spot whales or other animals along the way. One of the highlights while cruising slowly through the park is to go outside on the bow of the ship – or even out onto your veranda – to listen to the incredible silence of this otherworldly place. You may hear nothing at all, or perhaps you'll be treated to the sounds of birds in the distance or the swoosh from a whale's blowhole before it dives down below the water's surface.

It's possible to view certain animals and marine life throughout the year, according to Hickman. "Whale sightings are consistent from May through September, with fewer occurring in April and October as they migrate from or to Hawaii for the winter," he says, adding: "Even on a foggy day when you can't see the whales, you can still hear them and feel their presence – and that's almost as incredible as seeing them from a ship or along the coastline."

If you're interested in spotting brown bears, here is Hickman's advice: "Bear sightings in the spring will depend on the snowpack and when they are leaving hibernation. This year we had very good bear viewing along the Spasski River starting in May when the coastal brown bears emerged from hibernation."

He adds, "They feed on the grass of the valley and eat skunk cabbage roots in May and early June. As the berries start to emerge in June, it holds many of the same bears, and as we get into mid-July, the salmon start heading upstream. There is a constant food source from May through September at Spasski. Many of the other bear viewing areas do not have the same features we have, and it leads to people thinking that bears are only around when fish are in the rivers."

Chichagof Island – the location of Hoonah and Icy Strait Point – was given the nickname "Bear Island" by National Geographic. The island boasts one to two brown bears per square mile, making it one of the largest brown bear populations in the world. Hickman says you're nearly guaranteed to see bears on one of Icy Strait Point's bear-watching tours. Icy Point Strait also offers whale watching adventures and other treks into the wilderness.

Alaska.org points to May through September as the best time for wildlife viewing, though you can spot some animals year-round, like moose or orcas. The website also advises that fly-in bear viewing starts in May but is at its best in July.

Looking to book a cruise to see Alaska's wildlife? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

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If you are an avid angler – or just want to watch the bears fish for their supper – then visit Alaska during the peak salmon runs, from May to September. King salmon season begins in May and goes through the end of July. The silver salmon run lasts from July up until the end of November. Red salmon are available between mid-June and mid-August, while you can catch pink and chum salmon in the brief window from mid-July to mid-August.

If you prefer halibut or just want to get out on the ocean, the best time for this wild Pacific species is from May to September. You can also seek out many other river and ocean species, such as rainbow trout, arctic char and northern pike. Cruise lines offer fishing excursions, or you can arrange for a private or group charter in an Alaskan town like Ketchikan.

If you want to see brown bears during the salmon run, book a bear-viewing excursion in one of the ports, such as Icy Strait Point. Or, extend your trip by combining a visit to Katmai National Park and Preserve and the renowned Brooks River with a stay at Brooks Lodge. Brooks Falls is the site for iconic photos of bears catching salmon that are jumping over the falls, and you may be able to view the bears feasting in salmon season when the property is open, from June through mid-September. The lodge is accessible by floatplane from King Salmon. You can also add a flyover tour during your stay to see the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, an area in southern Alaska transformed by ash from the 1912 Novarupta-Katmai volcanic eruption.

Aurora season – the best time to see the northern lights in Alaska – runs from mid-August to mid-April. While some passengers cruising the Inside Passage may catch a glimpse of the phenomenon in late summer and early fall, it's not guaranteed. As southeast Alaska typically has more precipitation and clouds since it's a temperate rainforest, you likely won't find optimal conditions for aurora viewing here.

Your chances to see the lights are better the further north you go, so you may want to look at booking a cruisetour: a land and sea package that's usually offered by some of the major cruise lines from May through September. These combined trips generally include the cruise, overnight accommodations in lodges, railway journeys and motorcoach travel between destinations.

With these tours, you'll be able to visit the vast landscape of Alaska, where you can explore cities like Anchorage and Fairbanks or spend time in Denali National Park and Preserve – and you'll have a better chance to view the northern lights. Lines that offer cruisetours include Norwegian, Celebrity Cruises , Holland America, Princess and Royal Caribbean.

Since 2024 is projected to be one of the best years to view the aurora borealis in Alaska, you might want to extend your trip to venture above the Arctic Circle or into Alaska's interior for a prime viewing opportunity. Fairbanks and the Arctic region are under the auroral oval, which is where the northern lights activity is concentrated. You can watch the forecast for the aurora borealis online at Explore Fairbanks' Aurora Tracker and the Geophysical Institute's Aurora Forecast .

Read: The Top Places to See the Northern Lights

Some of the excursions offered on an Alaskan cruise may be the most expensive tours you've seen on a ship, but they're also probably some of the coolest things you've ever thought about doing while on vacation.

Note that the probability of a tour being canceled for weather is almost the same for all tours offered between April and October, as the weather in Alaska can be unpredictable. Some of the more extreme tours, however, may not be available early or late in the season. If you want the best chance for optimal weather, consider the advice from Alaska.org and book your cruise between mid-June and mid-July.

If you're looking at splurging on a bucket list adventure while in Skagway – like Alaska Shore Tours' flightseeing helicopter adventure, which includes a dog-sledding experience on a glacier – you should check to make sure it's available the month you'll be cruising. This particular tour may not be open for booking before May or after September due to the conditions for the sled dogs.

Another over-the-top excursion dependent on optimal weather conditions is the Heli-Hike and Rail Adventure that begins in Skagway. This tour includes a helicopter ride from town that flies over glaciers and mountains, then drops you off for a roughly 5-mile guided hike to view Laughton Glacier and learn about the natural history of the area. After the hike, you'll board the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad at Glacier Station for the scenic journey through the mountains back to Skagway.

If you're interested in the Misty Fjords Flightseeing tour in Ketchikan, this thrilling ride is also best on a clear day. This Alaskan bush plane tour soars over the Misty Fjords National Monument, which has more than 2 million acres of pristine lakes, waterfalls, ancient forests and snowcapped mountains.

Tours that include activities like mountain climbing or navigating suspension bridges might also be best when done on a sunny day. The prime time for wildlife viewing and fishing, as mentioned above, will depend on what animals you're interested in seeing and which species of fish you want to catch.

The ship's excursion desk, local guides or tour providers can offer the best advice on how to plan your activities. No matter which tours you opt to take, be prepared for the ever-changing weather patterns by wearing layers – and make sure to bring a waterproof rain jacket. Before booking, you should check the individual tour operator's cancellation and refund policy.

Read: The Best Alaska Tours

The Bottom Line

If you're flexible as to when you can travel to Alaska, you may be able to take advantage of lower pricing, travel incentives and added perks in the shoulder seasons – and you'll have fewer crowds than in the busy summer months.

If your goal is to view wildlife, then most of the cruise season, especially from May to September, will offer ample opportunities to see bears, humpbacks whales, bald eagles and other amazing animals – depending on the itinerary and excursions you choose. You'll also be able to catch Alaska's prized salmon throughout much of the cruise season.

And if extreme adventures are going to be the highlight of your vacation, then be sure to check with the tour providers to make sure your top picks are offered when you're planning to travel. Not all tour providers operate the full seven months of the season.

No matter when you decide to visit, a cruise to The Great Land will be one of the most memorable vacations of your lifetime.

Planning a cruise to see Alaska? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is a U.S. News contributor and an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times on land trips and by ship to seek year-round outdoor adventure, view wildlife and chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. She's even considered moving to The Great Land as a full-time resident. Pratesi used her deep knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• Alaska Cruise Packing List
• The Top Alaska Cruise Lines
• The Top Luxury Alaska Cruises
• The Top Things to Do in Alaska
• Do You Need a Passport to Go on a Cruise?

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The 10 Best Alaskan Shore Excursions

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• Speed Down a Zip line
• Explore Mountain Trails
• Glacier Watch in Style
• Ride the Yukon Railway
• See Fjords and Glaciers
• Glacier & Wildlife Quest
• Roam with the Bears

Are you looking for something a little bit out of the way and a little bit out of the ordinary? Then a cruise to Alaska could be for you.

Travel to Alaska is like a little gift from Mother Nature. Ok, it’s more like a big gift! Lying northwest of Canada, Alaska is known for its diverse terrain, wide open spaces, stunning mountain views and abundant wildlife. Thus it’s the perfect cruise destination for memorable experiences.

To make sure you don’t miss out on anything during your cruise vacation , we’ve made a list of some places you must see in Alaska.

Adventure Activities

When it comes to what to do in Alaska, adventure is at the top of the list! There are plenty of fun Alaskan shore excursions to help you make the most of your vacation.

1. Speed Down a Zip line

Fly high across the treetops at the Klondike Zipline Adventure Park ! Begin with a short, guided drive through the quaint seaside town of Skagway. Then, after a quick nature hike from the bus stop, you’ll be fitted with safety equipment and ready to zip! Let the thrilling ropes course challenge you and the heart-pumping aerial zip lines excite you.

2. Explore Mountain Trails

Start your day with a high-speed catamaran down North America’s longest and deepest fjord. Then jump on your four-wheel drive vehicle and get ready to drive past panoramic views of beautiful waterfalls and crystal clear creeks. Feel the crisp northern air as you drive to the highlight – panoramic views of sub-alpine meadows as seen from 1500-foot elevation. Top it all off with some time by a cozy fire, gourmet lunch and some rest before returning to the ship with timeless memories.

3. Glacier Watch in Style

Fly in a classic seaplane o Visit Site ver the Juneau Icefield for a view of 5 breathtaking glaciers. After the thrill of your flight, you’ll land at a riverside lodge and settle in for an elegant and relaxing dinner of local wild-caught salmon. This is truly an unforgettable Alaskan excursion.

4. Ride the Yukon Railway

See the legendary Yukon Territory by train . From your departure in Skagway, you’ll climb 3,292 feet above sea level in your deluxe motor coach to White Pass. Next, enter Canada and explore the Yukon. Visit the authentic Yukon town of Caribou Crossing, marvel at sparkling lakes, and more. Between the amazing lunch location, informative guides, tales of simpler times, and the majestic views, you’ll love this combination excursion.

On the Water Activities

There’s nothing quite as special as spending some time on the water, especially in a place as magical as Alaska.

5. Seafaring

Experience a day in the life of commercial fishermen. This tour takes place aboard a very famous crab fishing boat , fitted with a special on-deck aquarium for watching as the crew brings in their daily catch. Besides giant crabs and other amazing marine life, you might catch a glimpse of whales, octopus, sea lions, porpoise, sharks and seals.

6. See Fjords and Glaciers

Explore the famed Tracy Arm Fjord on this popular catamaran tour . Marvel at the jaw-dropping cliffs rising 4000-feet above the serpentine sea. See glaciers, witness the wildlife, and experience “white thunder” for a true northern exposure.

7. All in One

If you need a little bit of everything, the Best of Juneau combination tour is definitely for you. Do 3 of Alaska’s top attractions all in one action-packed day. Visit a feeding ground for humpback whales, devour a delectable salmon bake on a wilderness island, and visit a mighty glacier. It doesn’t get more exciting than this!

Discover Wild Alaska

8. Glacier & Wildlife Quest

Stroll alongside a glacier, watch salmon spawning in a nearby stream, and look for wildlife in their natural habitat – this tour has it all. After visiting the glacier, you’ll go wildlife viewing aboard a speedy catamaran customized for your excursion. Lookout for humpback whales, sea lions, porpoises, harbor seals, bald eagles, and Sitka black-tailed deer.

9. Roam with the Bears

There is more than sea life in Alaska! This once-in-a-lifetime wildlife expedition from the port of Ketchikan features the awe-inspiring black bears of southeast Alaska . See the bears up close in their natural habitat.

10. Go Mushing

Dog lovers, this excursion is for you! Learn about mushers and their sleds, take part in a real mush ride , and interact with the dogs, all in a spectacular outdoor setting. You’ll even see the charming town of Skagway on your way to the mush.

From the pristine landscape of Glacier Bay to untamed mountain forests, Alaska is one of the last remaining frontiers. This natural wonderland is lesser explored and enchantingly wild. A cruise to Alaska is a must-have experience, and you can have it right now.

Note: Onboard activities, shore excursions, and dining options may vary by  ship  and destination.

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Experience alaska.

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6 best Alaska cruises for families

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Adorable sled dog puppies, graceful whales, fascinating totem poles, crazy lumberjacks, majestic glaciers — Alaska has much to offer families of all ages. But if you’re looking for the best Alaska cruise for kids, which ship should you choose?

Families have great choices when sailing up north, including a ship full of Disney characters, one with laser tag and a go-kart race track and many with expansive play spaces for kids, waterslides and family-focused onboard activities. Look for bigger ships with plenty of amusements; smaller and older ships might not have as many kid-friendly attractions.

I’m not mentioning luxury cruise ships here because they are geared for adults, but families looking for a more upscale, smaller-ship cruise to Alaska should know that many high-end lines will put on some kid programming during summer-break cruises to Alaska with a higher-than-usual number of children on board.

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

If you’re ready to cross Alaska off your bucket list, here are our recommendations for the best Alaska cruises for families.

7-night Alaska Adventure cruise on Quantum of the Seas

The 4,180-passenger Quantum of the Seas is not one of Royal Caribbean ’s largest-in-the-world Oasis Class ships that boast zip lines, ice skating rinks and AquaTheaters. But it still offers a great mix of activities, including a skydiving simulator, high-tech theater with robotic “dancing” screens, an escape room, indoor basketball court/bumper car pavilion and dedicated spaces for both kids and adults.

Kids can gobble up hot dogs and pizza at themed eateries, while adults can enjoy date night at Wonderland with its imaginative molecular gastronomy or Jamie’s Italian, created by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.

Seven-night Alaska cruises sail round-trip from the easily accessible port of Seattle and visit Sitka, Skagway and Juneau, Alaska; as well as Victoria, British Columbia. One day is spent cruising through the scenic Endicott Arm to Dawes Glacier. Sailings depart between late April and September.

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

7-night Alaska cruise on Disney Wonder

Disney Cruise Line ‘s 1,754-passenger Disney Wonder (which can carry 2,713 guests when completely full) is the perfect size ship for a family cruise to Alaska. It’s smaller than many of the megaships catering to families in this part of the world, so guests can view glaciers and enjoy shore excursions without feeling too crowded.

The ship is full of Disney magic — photo ops with Mickey and friends and Disney princesses, restaurants themed to “The Little Mermaid” and “The Princess and the Frog” and a musical stage show of “Frozen.”

Cabins are thoughtfully designed for families, with plentiful bunkbeds and split bathrooms so two people can get ready for bed at once. Waiters assist with cutting up food for little cruisers or bringing pureed baby food, and the imaginative kids clubs keep little ones happily occupied when you’re not exploring in port.

Disney Wonder’s weeklong Alaska cruises sail round-trip from Vancouver, so all Americans, even kids, will need passports to fly in to the departure port. The ship visits Juneau, Ketchikan and either Skagway or Icy Strait Point, with glacier viewing at the Stikine Icecap. Seasonal sailings run May to September.

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

7-night Alaska cruise on Carnival Spirit

Carnival Cruise Line ’s Alaska cruises aboard the 2,124-guest Carnival Spirit might not be the cheapest sailings the line offers, but you get a lot for your money. Families will appreciate not having to pay extra for kid-friendly eats at the onboard pizzeria, Mexican outlet, Guy Fieri’s burger joint and all-day soft serve ice cream station. Comedy shows (both family-friendly and adults-only), an onboard water park, mini-golf and kid, tween and teen clubs are also included in the fare.

Cabins are no-frills but tend to be roomier than comparable cabins on competitors’ ships. Many rooms sleep four, but connecting cabins will get you more space and an extra bathroom while still keeping the family together.

Carnival Spirit spends summers in Alaska from late April to mid-September. It sails round-trip from Seattle and visits Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan and Victoria, BC, with scenic cruising in Tracy Arm Fjord.

Related: Best time to cruise Alaska

7-night Glacier Bay cruise on Norwegian Encore

Norwegian Cruise Line offers one of the longest cruise seasons in Alaska, and Norwegian Encore is based in the region from April through October each year. This might not help the typical family, but if your kids are young, you homeschool or have atypical breaks, a shoulder-season deal might be waiting for you.

The 3,998-passenger ship is NCL’s biggest, and families will be amazed at how much there is to do on board (though be prepared to pull out your credit card for the best activities). The ship features a laser tag arena, go-kart race track, virtual reality pavilion and water park.

Norwegian is also known for its entertainment, and after a day hiking on glaciers or chowing down at salmon bakes, you can take in the spectacular “Choir of Man,” sing along to the Beatles tribute show at The Cavern Club, or laugh yourself silly at The Social Comedy Club.

Like many of the best Alaska cruises for families, Norwegian Encore sails round-trip from Seattle, stopping in Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan and Victoria. The standout day on this itinerary is scenic cruising in Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve , which only a limited number of ships can visit each year. Save more by taking advantage of Free at Sea perks , which often include a free beverage package, Wi-Fi, shore excursion credit, specialty dining and — perfect for families — free third and fourth guests in each cabin.

Related: Alaska cruise mistakes you never want to make

7-night Voyage of the Glaciers cruise on Royal Princess

Families with a little more vacation time might want to tack a visit to the Alaskan interior before or after their cruise, either independently or with a cruisetour. For this, you’ll need a one-way cruise that begins or ends in an Alaskan port.

A top candidate for this kind of family vacation is a seven-night cruise on Princess Cruises ‘ Royal Princess sailing between Vancouver and Whittier, Alaska. The ship stops in Ketchikan, Juneau and either Skagway or Sitka, with scenic cruising in Glacier Bay and either College Fjord or Hubbard Glacier, depending on the itinerary.

It’s then up to you whether you spend you pre- or post-cruise time in the Kenai Fjord area, in Anchorage or traveling north to Denali National Park, Fairbanks or into the Arctic.

Royal Princess is known for its fan-favorite Alfredo’s pizza, Movies Under the Stars (when the Alaskan weather permits) and snacks and entertainment in the central Piazza. With its special North to Alaska activities, families can cuddle some adorable sled dogs on board the ship and meet Iditarod winners and other notable locals. Kids can become junior rangers with the help of the park rangers who come aboard the ship in Glacier Bay.

7-night Kids in Nature cruise on Wilderness Legacy

Suppose your family isn’t into the big-ship lifestyle and wants a small-ship, off-the-beaten-path experience that’s also geared toward families with kids and teens? In that case, the best family cruise to Alaska for you might be the “Kids in Nature” departures of UnCruise Adventures ’ 86-passenger Wilderness Legacy.

The ship sails round-trip from Juneau on “Glaciers & Wildlife” itineraries. These seven-night cruises include hiking and biking on Chichagof Island, daytime and evening kayak and skift tours in places like Patterson Bay and Robert and Crow Islands, exploring Glacier Bay’s less-visited “Outback” and visits to the LeConte and Baird Glaciers.

On three departure dates in June and July 2024, the Wilderness Legacy will staff up with “Kid Wranglers” who will lead the kid-focused activities. The minimum age to sail is 8 years old, but plenty of tweens and teens join the fun as well.

Bottom line

You no longer have to wait until you’re retired to explore Alaska. Take the kids on a weeklong exploration of the 49th State, and you’ll have plenty of cruise ships and itineraries to choose from. The best Alaska cruises for families combine action-packed itineraries with vessels designed for family fun, but we’re sure your family can find a way to have a great time up north no matter which cruise ship you choose.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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

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