disney cruise ships to alaska

10 things to know about sailing on a Disney Alaska cruise

I don't like to pick favorites, but we just got back from what may have been our most enjoyable vacation to date: a three-generation family cruise to Alaska on Disney Cruise Line . The trip had it all: nature, excitement, relaxation, scenery, entertainment, food, fun, swimming, hiking and so much more.

If you're considering sailing on a Disney cruise to Alaska, realize it's a big adventure. It's a once-in-a-lifetime type of trip in terms of length, distance and financial commitment. But our group of travelers ranging from 7 to 74 years old all loved it.

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With our cruising crew now off the ship and back home in the lower 48, here are 10 things to know before you set sail on a Disney Alaska cruise.

The cheapest time to book is the day cruises go on sale

Let's talk about the price upfront. An Alaska cruise is one of the more expensive Disney Cruise sailings, and it's pricier than similar itineraries on other cruise lines. Once the cruises go on sale, the prices often only go up.

Because of this, one of the best ways to save on a Disney cruise is to book your Alaska sailing the first day it goes on sale. You can get additional discounts from booking through an agent offering an onboard cruise credit. Plan far enough in advance, and you can save 10% by putting $250 down on your next cruise when you're already sailing on a Disney ship. We used all of these money-saving tricks — and the Alaska vacation was still very expensive.

For example, the cheapest Alaska sailing in 2024 is about $5,000 for a family of four in a windowless inside cabin and over $8,000 in a room with a private balcony. Those prices are for shoulder-season May and September sailings; the peak June through August sailings, such as the early June one we were on, cost more.

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'Glacier day' is a marathon, not a sprint

The "glacier day" on the ship can be confusing if you haven't done it before and don't know what to expect.

Essentially, the ship will sail as close as it safely can (both for the ship and wildlife) to one of a few glaciers. For example, it's common on sailings to head to the Stikine Icefields, though weather and conditions do play into exactly where you may go on a given voyage.

No matter where you head, you will not be getting off the ship to set foot on a glacier on the glacier viewing day; it's a view-from-a-ship experience. However, you can book an excursion that leaves from the cruise ship to get a closer view of the glacier on a smaller boat for an additional fee ($199 for kids and $299 for adults).

On our sailing, the captain explained that it was a marathon day and to pace yourself watching the "show" of the scenery on deck ... and he was right.

As the day went on and we got closer, the scenery got better and better. If we had gotten our fill of looking around the deck that morning, we'd have missed some of the best views that came that afternoon.

Just before dinner, we sailed close to a waterfall. The whole day was an incredibly special experience because the view changed from hour to hour. You need to keep checking back outside, so you don't miss anything.

Related: These are the best Alaska cruises

Book some excursions — but price them carefully

Don't sail all the way to Alaska and just walk around the shops near the pier in cities like Juneau and Skagway, especially if this is a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

On the other hand, you don't need to book the $800 helicopter excursions to the glaciers to have a good time (though those flights look amazing). You can find plenty of full- and half-day tours in the $100 to $300 range that are excellent. But no matter how you choose to spend your days, get out and experience something you can only do in Alaska in at least one or two ports.

We loved the excursion in Juneau that included an hour at the Mendenhall Glacier (though 30 more minutes would have been ideal), whale watching and a surprisingly good outdoor salmon bake. It was expensive at $279 for adults and $199 for kids, but it was a highlight of the trip, and I wholeheartedly recommend it if those activities sound fun to you.

In Skagway, we booked an excursion that included learning about dog sledding, interacting with sled dog puppies, gold panning and a ride on the White Pass railroad . Unfortunately, the train portion of our excursion was canceled due to mechanical issues, but normally the tour is the same price as the Juneau excursion. Without the train, it came to $169 for adults and $119 for kids — and you can book it that way from the start.

While I can't speak to the train portion (I hear it's worth doing), the dog sled demo and gold panning were quite enjoyable. And this was a perfect example of how in Alaska, nothing is set in stone. It is common for operators to make adjustments to excursions based on weather, safety concerns and other factors. Helicopter and small plane tours are especially likely to be canceled or adjusted. My advice is to be flexible and not stake the trip's success on any one excursion.

For the long, multi-faceted excursions that get you a good distance away from the ship, booking through Disney makes sense, even if it is a little more expensive, as the ship won't leave without you if your tour gets delayed. In one port, we did see a group on a ship come back right at the designated sailaway time, which I'm sure would have been extremely stressful if they'd been traveling independently.

With other, shorter excursions, it can make a lot of sense (and save a lot of dollars) to book on your own directly with a tour operator.

For example, by booking directly, we paid much less for the silly but fun Disney-branded lumberjack show right next to the ship in Ketchikan. Booking direct also lets you take advantage of discounts, such as lower rates for veterans or active military. The show takes place a few steps from the dock, so there's no risk of not returning to the ship on time.

Oh, and whatever you do, make a point to get the sweet fry bread in Skagway from the Klondike Doughboy. It's a 10-minute walk from the ship and worth every step and penny.

Related: 15 Alaska cruise mistakes you don't want to make

You can warm up with free hot chocolate

Disney tries to think of everything, so complimentary hot chocolate is always waiting for you on deck during glacier day and at the pier as you return from port. It's a small touch, but one that was a fun treat when we got a bit chilly.

If you're looking for an adult version that will warm you to the bones, keep an eye out for bar carts out on deck during glacier viewing. You get a cool Alaska-themed reusable cup with the price of your drink.

Choose the late dinner

Days are long in Alaska, both in terms of the time in port and the sun itself.

For example, in Skagway, we were in port from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. With Disney, you need to choose the early or late dinner seating, and while eating late may sound like a bad idea with kids, it's the best choice on an Alaska cruise. If you choose the early dinner, you're being seated at 5:45 p.m. every night. Not only is the sun going to be up for at least four more hours, but you'll have to cut your port time short to make it to dinner on time.

Your show time is opposite your dinner time, so if you have late dinner, you see the show early. On a typical seven-night Alaska cruise, the ship puts on only three Broadway-caliber shows, which are usually scheduled on sea days or on days you leave ports earlier. It's not as big a trade-off to miss a few minor shows as missing out on port time to get to dinner at 5:45 every night.

On a night when you're wiped out and don't want to do a late dinner, you can always order free room service or visit the quick-service option up on deck for a burger, pizza, chicken fingers and other casual quick bites. Hands down, late seating is the better option in Alaska.

Pro tip: Don't miss lobster night on the ship, where you can order as many lobster tails as your heart desires.

Related: Is Disney Cruise Concierge Level worth it ?

Characters aren't in their Alaska outfits every day

If you're going to spend the bucks to sail on a Disney cruise, you need at least one photo with Mickey, Minnie or their friends in their Alaska-exclusive outfits.

Typically, the first (and arguably best) time you'll see them in these outfits is on glacier day. You'll see the times and locations in your Disney Navigator app once on board, and you can bet there will be lines — some of the longest you may encounter on the cruise.

I recommend getting at least one photo with the characters out on the top pool deck on glacier day as it's the most sure-fire time to do so, and it's the best only-in-Alaska backdrop.

If you're planning your day around the photo sessions, don't choose the morning option if you care about background because you'll likely not be right up to the glacier, snow and ice yet.

Wait until later in the day for photos, so you'll be closer to the glacier. During our sailing, Mickey was on the glacier side of the ship multiple times that day, but it wasn't visible in the background until just after lunchtime.

Glacier day isn't the only time Mickey and his friends wear these adorable outfits. On our cruise, they also wore them the day we were in Skagway. In fact, as we sailed away from port, we ran into Mickey out on Deck 4 — with no line — waving goodbye to land with the rest of us.

Pro tip: Have one person get to the spot where the characters will be on deck about 30 minutes before the stated time to secure your spot in line. Sometimes the line can get too long to take more guests even before the official photo start time.

Related: Is the Disney Visa worth it?

It's easy to overpack

I get it — packing for an Alaska cruise is tough.

You're packing for glaciers, chilly outdoor adventures and potential rain but also for a cruise, swimming and a dress-up night or two. In the summer, even in Alaska, it can be warm. But of course, on a glacier, it can be cold.

During our early June sailing, we swam in the heated pools, dunked in the hot tubs and careened down the waterslides multiple times on both sea days and port days.

While the time of year and the forecast for your sailing should influence what goes in your bag, try and resist the urge to overpack. Bring too much stuff, and your cabin will feel crowded with your belongings, you'll be less nimble and flexible in the airport and you won't have as many options for ground transportation. Plus, you'll spend more time packing and unpacking.

For a cruise to Alaska, you'll need layers, including accessories like a vest, hat and gloves you can take on or off. What you often don't need much of, at least during the summer months, is a variety of winter gear. It's possible you may not need a super heavy winter coat at all, but you will need rain gear and possibly a fleece vest or jacket, so you can probably opt for layers over individual bulky pieces, especially in June, July and August.

Our coldest day was the morning of the glacier day when it was windy and overcast out on deck. The weather went from the high 40s that day to the high 70s and sunny at other times, but we didn't need much bulky winter gear.

Here's a guide to packing for an Alaska cruise to get you started. The thing we used the most: magnetic hooks to hold and organize all those layers inside the stateroom, so get some of those, for sure.

Related: When is the best time to sail to Alaska

The 'Frozen' deck show isn't a must-do But the stage show is a must-see

Most of the elements of our Disney Cruise to Alaska were exceptional, but the much-anticipated "Frozen night" with deck show wasn't one of those things. It was fine; the littlest kids enjoyed it, and if it's convenient for you to pop up and see, then do it. But don't plan your evening around it or stress if you are tired and need to miss it, especially if you don't have young kids.

Elsa and her friends led a 15-minute sing-a-long and show with a minute or so of "snow," but it rated two out of five snowflakes in my book.

An earlier Frozen-themed indoor party, where there was an interactive activity to decorate the maypole, was almost more interesting, in my opinion. Look forward to Frozen night and attend some of the events and activities, but don't expect anything to knock your socks off.

That said, the "Frozen" Broadway-caliber stage show in the Walt Disney Theater is exceptional and not to be missed — but also somewhat confusingly not offered on Frozen night.

So to recap: You can skip Frozen Night and the deck show, but make a point to attend the Frozen show in the Walt Disney Theater.

Plan an extra day in Vancouver

Disney cruises to Alaska leave from Vancouver, as opposed to Seattle, where some other lines embark passengers for their Alaska sailings.

I highly recommend arriving in Vancouver at least the day before the cruise departs to ensure you don't miss it (that happened to some folks on our sailing) but also to enjoy the city. Plan an extra full day to enjoy Vancouver if you can. It's as fun and interesting as some of the Alaskan ports.

An easy excursion to do, even if you have just a few hours in Vancouver, is the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. Free shuttles leave from multiple downtown spots to the park, including from near the port itself, and it's a fabulous way to spend a few hours on land, or rather, in the trees.

The highlights are the suspension bridge itself and some other walkouts that take you all around the large park with great views of the trees, river, ponds and more. Sometimes there's live music, cozy fires to warm up by and free talks from staffers to learn about the totem polls, wildlife and other aspects of the park.

You don't need a verandah room

We started with the price, and we'll close with it.

Rooms with verandahs (aka balconies) always cost more on cruises than inside cabins and rooms with ocean views through a window. But on an Alaska Disney cruise, verandah rooms don't just cost a few hundred dollars more — they cost a whole lot more, usually to the tune of thousands of additional dollars for the stateroom over the cost of an ocean-view cabin.

Looking at prices for four on the early June 2024 seven-day sailing similar to the one we took this year, it costs an additional $4,000 to go from an ocean-view to a verandah.

If you have the money to spend, go for it and enjoy it. But if you don't, or if booking that room type means having to skip excursions or not being able to afford other trips, then relax and book the ocean view. It's also fabulous.

My parents had a verandah room, and they loved having that balcony. This was my dad's first cruise at 74 years old, so the trip really might be a once-in-a-lifetime thing. My dad said having a verandah made the trip at least 25% more enjoyable overall, which is a large amount of happiness, and they spent time out there each day. (It also made their room about 35-40% more expensive.)

Right next door to them, my girls and I had an ocean-view room. We had just as excellent of a cruise as they did.

It was fun to look out the window and see where we were, but honestly, I'd happily sail in an interior room if it meant we got to do the cruise all over again.

All my favorite moments of the trip happened outside the room, and I don't think that would have changed if we had a balcony. I enjoy having a balcony on warm Caribbean and Mexico sailings more than in Alaska, where it can be windy and chilly outside as the ship is moving.

Additionally, on truly exceptional viewing days, you probably don't want to be confined to the specific angle you can get from your cabin. Better to embrace the 360-degree view from out on the top deck.

That said, if you have mobility limitations or other logistical issues that will keep you in the room more often (aka a frequently napping little one), then the equation may shift because you do want to see and enjoy where you are. If you need to do that from your room, book the verandah if possible.

Related: Which type of cruise cabin is right for you?

Bottom line

It's highly unlikely you'll regret taking a Disney Alaska cruise.

Alaska is special, cruising is special, and a Disney cruise to Alaska is incredibly special. You can feel the shared appreciation for the journey with the other passengers. It's a camaraderie of sorts as you spot and point out wildlife on deck, talk about what you did in port at the bar in the evenings, and even agonize over what to pack in the unofficial Facebook groups leading up to the sailing.

Sailing with Disney specifically costs more than many other options, but getting to experience Alaska while interacting with favorite characters, seeing amazing Disney shows in the evening and relaxing while Disney Cruise Line took care of everything made what was already a great trip one of our favorites of all time.

If I were to add an 11th thing you should know about sailing on an Alaska Disney cruise, it's that you're going to be really sad when it's over.

I saw plenty of real tears the final night and on the morning of debarkation. At the risk of sounding like a cheesy commercial, the only real solution for this will likely be to start planning either a return trip to Alaska or another Disney Cruise ... or both. If you feel that happening to you a few days into the trip, be ready to put that $250 deposit down on a future sailing to get the 10% discount before you get off the ship and it's too late.

That's exactly what we did, so at the end of seven magical days, it wasn't "goodbye" — it was "see ya real soon."

Related reading:

• How to save money on a Disney Cruise
• Best Disney Cruise Line tips and tricks
• Review of Disney Magic, the original ship in the Disney fleet
• Best Alaska cruise tips to help you make the most of your time aboard and ashore

Save money, experience more.

Disney Cruise Alaska 2024 & 2025 Guide: ESSENTIAL Tips For Your Cruise

The Alaska Disney Cruise is a once in a lifetime experience. The below cruise review and tips are based on our recent seven day Disney Cruise Line Alaska itinerary that sails from Vancouver to Alaska. This guide will continue to be updated to provide advice for the 2024 and 2025 Disney Cruise Alaska seasons.

Onboard our cruise we had family ranging in age from 20 to 80+. On the last night of our trip I got everyone together and we talked through all the Disney Cruise tips we should pass on. This guide is based on those insights.

With the below tips I hope to prepare you for your future Disney Alaska cruise and give you everything you need to know to plan. We'll cover what month to book your cruise, an overview of the Disney Wonder ship, onboard activities, premium dining, what to pack for your cruise, Alaska Disney Cruise Line excursions, and more.

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In this planning guide:

When to Take a Disney Cruise to Alaska

The Disney Cruise Line Alaskan sailings on the Disney Wonder occur throughout the summer “warm” months. The first 2024 Alaska sailing begins on May 13, 2024 and the last sailing ends on September 23, 2024 (the Disney Cruise Line 2024 dates were announced here ). We don't yet the 2025 Disney Alaska Cruise dates. The sailing stretch throughout the summer months in Alaska.

These are the key factors to consider for picking your Alaskan Disney Cruise dates:

• When are kids in school? The May and September sailings will be less expensive and may even not be fully booked because kids will still be in school. Some of the same school discounting effects can be felt for the very beginning of June and very end of September as well. If you are not confined to summer school schedules, you may want to consider a sailing at the beginning or end of the Alaskan cruising season.
• Weather? The later in the season you plan your cruise the higher the potential for rain during your trip. You can see on this Juneau, Alaska monthly climate averages that the average rainfall by month is double in September what it is in May. Even with that said, during our August trip we only had one real day of rain during our trip when we were in Ketchikan, Alaska. This port is actually one of the rainiest cities in the U.S. and receives nearly 235 days of percipitation per year . A weather note – most think of Alaska as cold. Throughout the summer months the temperatures do not get too low and during our sailing were about 60 degrees. Pretty comfortable when in pants. Some days we saw lots of sun and others we had light rain and wind. More in our packing list section.

You can view the currently available dates for Summer 2024 on the Disney Cruise Line website (Summer 2024 dates just released). After viewing the dates be sure to come back and request a FREE quote from our travel partner for your cruise . For a limited time Mickey Visit readers get up to a $400 onboard credit.

As you'll see in the listings of available sailings, there are a range of length options for your trip…

Best Disney Cruise to Alaska – Which Length to Pick

Disney Cruise Line offers multiple Alaska itineraries that range from five to nine nights. Our recent Disney Cruise to Alaska was a seven night itinerary. The seven night Disney Alaska cruise is offered the most of any of the lengths of sailings.

The seven night cruise includes stops at Dawes Glacier; Juneau, Alaska; Skagway, Alaska; and Ketchikan, Alaska.

Here's some more context on each of the destinations listed for the various lengths of cruise:

• Juneau, Alaska is the state's capital and the largest town that the ship stops in during the Alaskan cruise. The town has some noteworthy food options (see below for excursions) and was the closest that we got to any glacier.
• Skagway, Alaska was the access point for the last gold rush. This old gold rush town is the jumping off point for excursions into the Yukon. Excursion options include a historic railway line with stunning vista views, helicopter tours, and tours of the old town.
• Ketchikan, Alaska is the rainiest place in the world and features an old town built on stilts above a creek, salmon runs, Native American totem polls, and a lumberjack show. This port is the closest to Vancouver in Alaska and all Disney Alaskan Cruises stop here.
• Dawes Glacier, Alaska is not a port but is a location that the boat pulls into for one day of all Alaska sailings. The boat enters the cove near the glacier and then rotates slow so that all sides of the boat get an angle of the glacier. There is an option for an excursion here to go out on a smaller boat that goes closer to the glacier. Though Dawes was scheduled as part of our itinerary, we actually didn't stop here. Scroll down and read what happened in our Disney Cruise to Alaska tips section.
• Sitka, Alaska was not a port that we visited during our seven night Disney Cruise sailing to Alaska but we heard the highlights revolve around the Russian history of the city (this was the capital of the territory when Alaska belonged to Russia) and the outdoor excursions which are similar to the excursions offered in the other ports.

Choosing Your Alaska Stateroom – Do you need a Verandah room for your Alaskan cruise?

While we do outline each of the various stateroom options for all of the Disney Cruise Line ships in our general guide to the Disney Wonder , there is special reason to consider your room option carefully for the Disney Cruise to Alaska.

For many cruises you could take the same approach that we take for hotels near Disneyland – why pay for the room if you are going to be out of the room the entire trip exploring and having fun? You may want to reconsider this for an Alaskan cruise as the itineraries are longer and the outdoor spaces are colder due to the Alaskan weather. With our group's age range for this trip (from 20 years old to 80+ years old), there was almost always someone in the room who wasn't keen to be out exploring. We were very happy to have a Verandah room during our Alaskan Disney Cruise and enjoyed waking up to views and having the option to check out the view without having to get warmer clothes on and go up on deck.

There is plenty to do throughout the ship and plenty of spaces for lounging outside of your room but the Verandah was truly a highlight for our days at sea. Even for the days when we were coming into port, it was delightful to watch our approach from the comfort of our own balcony.

The room shown in the photos here is a Deluxe Verandah room. There is a queen bed and the couch the converts into twin sleeper.

How much does a 2024 Alaskan Disney Cruise Cost?

The prices for the cruise vary dramatically by room type and date of sailing. We asked our travel partner to pull some sample pricing for cruises so that we could include them here for your reference.

For the seven night sailing that leaves May 22, 2023 for two people an interior room costs  $3,574.94 and an exterior deluxe verandah 5C category room with an unobstructed view and regular balcony size costs $8,012.94 .

Compare this to the seven night sailing that leaves on July 17, 2023 in the heart of the summer. For two people an interior room costs  $4,708.94 while an exterior Deluxe Verandah 5C category room with an unobstructed view and regular balcony size $11,148.94 .

The seven-night sailing that leaves on May 13, 2024 for two people in an interior room starts at $3,490 and an exterior verandah room starts at $6,347 . The exact prices are not available yet as booking details are not yet open.

Compare this to the seven night sailing that leaves on July 8, 2024, in the heart of the summer. For two people an interior room costs $4,635 while an exterior Deluxe Verandah 5c category room with an unobstructed view and regular balcony size is $11,495.2. As you can see, the more popular summer months when kids are out of school are more expensive.

Again, as you are considering your Disney Cruise to Alaska, be sure to request a FREE Disney Cruise line vacation quote from our travel partner . When you book with our partner you'll receive up to a $400 onboard credit .

Onboard Disney Cruise Line Programming

There are a variety of onboard Disney Cruise Line offerings to fill your days at sea and evenings. From lavish entertainment (see Disney Cruise Line entertainment section below) to educational programs to fitness offerings, there really are tons of ways to stay busy during the days at sea. Your Disney Cruise Line Personal Navigator app has information on all times for all activities onboard the ship. Make sure everyone in your party has downloaded the app before your departure.

Though we were onboard a unique Alaskan Disney Cruise (our trip was part of the Disney Vacation Club Member Cruise ) we did still experience quite a bit of the normal programming that is offered by the Disney Cruise Line on a standard Alaskan cruise.

One of the highlights on the onboard programming was the educational nature presentations . All of the adults in our group attended all three of the talks given by the naturalist that was onboard. His three presentations were on the fjords and waterways, whales and water ways, and Alaskan bears and salmon. Each of the presentations was educational and added to our excursion experience by providing context on our trip on land. The programming was well put together and could be interesting to all ages. If you have a nature curious preteen and up, I would recommend bringing them along to the presentation. Other topics sometimes presented by the naturalist include information on the Klondike Gold Rush and Vancouver Life.

Some of the other offerings on the Alaska Disney Cruise on the Disney Wonder include:

• The Art of the Theme Tour is a tour of the ship that focuses on the details and history built into the ship. You'll find fun features in the carpet and hear stories on design details. I also always like to take the opportunity to connect with another Cast Member.
• There is trivia with varying themes offered throughout the trip. Some themes include movie quotes trivia, Disney theme park trivia, sports trivia, and PIXAR trivia.
• In the Buena Vista Theater (the smaller of the two theaters onboard the ship) there are a variety of the latest movies from Disney playing . During our 2022 sailing we saw Togo (story about an Alaskan sled dog), Thor: Love and Thunder, and Encanto. The list is always updated with the latest Disney movies that were released but there is usually a film that ties into the Alaskan cruise theme like Togo or Brother Bear that is always offered.
• There is evening live music and entertainment available in the lounges. These offerings vary by cruise but we saw a lounge singer during our sailing. The songs are ones that you'll know and performances have specific themes.
• For an additional charge, you can join an alcohol tasting class or mixology class . These experiences do fill up so you should book them when they open for booking. See dates the varying dates that excursions and activities open to guests below.
• Throughout your stay you'll get to experience super fun folded towels and napkins. Each night when you return to your stateroom you'll find a folded towel animal on the bed waiting for you. There is a class where you can learn how to fold your own napkin and towel animal .
• For the musically excited, a night time karaoke and silent disco are offered.
• Throughout the trip you'll have lots of opportunity to join in playing BINGO . Be sure to check when there is presale of BINGO cards so that you don't end up waiting in the queue when you arrive to play.
• There is a very popular Match Your Mate game show where you and your significant other are challenged to see how well you know each other with trivia questions. This is a fan favorite!
• There are activities for every interest onboard the Disney Cruise to Alaska – you'll also find a cooking class demonstration and animation class .

The dates that guests can book onboard experiences (tastings, spa, nursery, Royal Court Tea), Alaskan excursions, and adult dining at Palo (details below) vary by sailing history with Disney Cruise Line . Once you have paid for your cruise in full, first time Disney Cruise Line guests can book 75 days before sail date, Silver Castaway Club members can book 90 days before sail date, Gold Castaway Club Members can book 105 days before, and Concierge Guests and Platinum Castaway Club Members can book 120 days before your sail date.

Alaska Disney Cruise Character Meet and Greets

Throughout our Disney Cruise there were characters everywhere. The Disney meet and greet limitations for the Disney Cruise Line had been recently lifted and we experienced a completely normal character meet and greet experience onboard our cruise. Many times throughout our trip I would be walking from one activity to the next and bump into a character just wandering. Multiple times I saw Thor wandering the hallways looking for someone to engage with.

All character meeting times are listed in the app. Our favorite character meet and greets were with the Disney fab five in their Alaskan outfits. For anyone excited about rare Disney meet and greets, these photos are super exciting. The best opportunity to take these photos comes on the Dawes Glacier day. On this day the characters will be up on the top deck outdoors so you can get an iconic Alaskan view in the background. I recommend arriving about fifteen minutes before the scheduled photo time to meet Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse up here. We started with Mickey Mouse and then jumped over to the line for Minnie Mouse. There were other times we saw opportunities to wait in line for characters (on the formal night the fab five is out in tuxedos) but were happy just to have these outdoor photos.

Don't be afraid of a short line for a memorable photo with your favorite character.

Fitness Offerings Onboard the Disney Wonder

The fitness center and spa offers a number of scheduled workout classes. During our sailing there were complimentary offerings that included a mile walk around the ship and a morning yoga class . I opted to try one of the premium experiences and purchased the personal training experience . You could opt for a two pack or four pack of classes. There was a discount if you went with the four pack. I decided just do purchase the two pack as I wanted to workout some on my own during the trip as well. The cruise really flies by. I was glad that I only purchased the two day experience.

The gym is at the very front of the Disney Wonder and has a wide array of fitness machines. I typically like to start my workout with a run. I did this everyday except for one when the boat was moving a little too much for the treadmill and I opted for the stationary bicycle instead. The fitness center also has a nice locker room. I actually ended up showering in the locker everyday of our trip after our workout instead of using the shower in our stateroom.

In Skagway I went for a run off the ship. When facing the town from the port I ran to the left and found a foot bridge. Over the bridge there was a dirt trail with work out stations (pull up bars, sit up bench, etc) all along it. This was a great way to get off the ship and get a workout in outside before our excursion for the day. I ran about 3.5 miles here.

Disney Cruise Line Sense Spa and Salon Offerings

The Disney Wonder has a full spa offering onboard with a suite of services. The spa rooms have massive windows with sweeping views from the top of the ship.

Some of the offerings at the spa include a Rainforest aromatherapy room, steam room, and sauna. There are also comfortable locker rooms for changing before and after the treatment. As I mentioned above, I used the locker rooms throughout our cruise after the weight room even when not getting a treatment.

The spa is available for guests 18 and older and reservations can be made online or after 1 pm in person at the spa on the first day of your cruise. An 18% gratuity will be applied to all spa and fitness services.

If you are interested in a manicure or a pedicure, consider booking your time slot for the first day of your trip for stunning views of Vancouver as you sail away. There is also a rainforest room which features a steam room and relaxation area. You can pay for a day pass or pass for your entire trip.

Disney Wonder Cruise Kids Activities

There are kids clubs and activities for kids of all ages. There are five different areas on the ship designed to service kids from toddlers to teens.

There are five different lounge options: the “it’s a Small World” nursery, Disney’s Oceaneer Club, Oceaneer Lab, Edge, and Vibe. You can view all the various kid activities in the Disney Cruise Line app.

All of the kids clubs except the “it's a Small World” nursery are included with the price of the cruise. The nursery is an additional fee and requires reservations.

On embarkation you and your child can tour the kids clubs together to calm any nerves. This is also when you'll register your child for the club. You can also pre-register your child before the cruise here .

Keep in mind that kids are not fed by the kids clubs so even though your child will likely want to stay in the club all day you will have to grab them for meals. This is also something to keep in mind when booking any Palo reservation that may conflict with your child's eating timing.

Disney Wonder Entertainment Available On Alaskan Cruise

During the cruise to Alaska there are a number of Broadway-caliber shows that are performed in the Walt Disney Theatre. The shows vary by sailing length. On nights when one of the Disney shows are not taking place in the theater, there will be some sort of variety show act performed.

The shows on the Disney Wonder are:

• “Frozen, A Musical Spectacular” is a full retelling of the Frozen story with huge musical acts that runs just over an hour. The production value is incredible, the musicians are very impressive, and Olaf was hilarious.
• “The Golden Mickeys” is a musical medley show that features songs from Disney films of past and present. A story is also woven in between the musical acts that a stage manager is suddenly pushed into the spotlight when she has to host the show at the last minute. By the end of the show, the host realizes that anything is possible.
• “Disney Dreams – An Enchanted Classic” is a musical medley show that pulls in classic Disney musical numbers when a young girl who is losing her belief in magic is visited in her dreams by characters from Disney classics and is helped along the way by Peter Pan and Tinker Bell.

Shows are typically performed twice nightly so that they are opposite your dinner seating. If you have a late dinner you'll watch the earlier show and if you have an early dinner seating you'll watch the later show.

There are also two deck shows that occur during the cruise:

• The “Mickey's Sail-A-Wave” party is a send off deck party with all of your favorite Disney characters that occurs right as the ship is pulling out of Vancouver. This show takes place in the mid-afternoon.
• The “Freeze the Night Away” deck party is a Frozen themed deck party with your favorite songs and characters from Frozen. Snow comes down at the end of this show. The night of our deck party is truly was freezing and we were bundled up enjoying the entertainment on deck. This show takes place after both dinner seatings have been completed.

Choosing Your Disney Cruise Line Alaskan Excursions

There are a wide array of excursions for Disney Cruises to Alaska. Guests can opt for the most extravagant helicopter ride to dog sledding or just enjoy a leisurely walk around town. CAUTION – You will likely have sticker shock. Some excursions are hundreds of dollars per person. Remember that you are in Alaska for a once in a lifetime Disney Cruise. Be sure to budget for these excursions as you plan for your trip.

Disney Cruise Line sells excursions directly. For research sake I compared prices between the offering from Disney Cruise Line and booking some experiences on our own. The pricing was often the same or only slightly more when purchasing from Disney when I could find it. For many of the more upscale experiences, there was no clear way to find the offering directly online to comparison shop as the experience was curated specifically for the cruise line. There are always vendors just off the ship selling other excursion offerings but be warned that if you take a third party excursion and do not get back to the ship before the official departure time the ship will leave you behind. This warning and a very real story of passengers being left behind in Juneau, Alaska after their seaplane couldn't fly back from the glacier due to lack of visibility scared us enough not to consider outside excursions.

When you purchase an excursion from Disney you'll check in for the excursion in D-Lounge and then be escorted to the correct transportation by a Cast Member.

Here were our trip reports for each Alaskan port we experienced:

Skagway – The White Pass and Yukon Route Railway was about a three hour train loop up the trail to the Yukon gold rush. The experience was well put together though after about 2 hrs we wished that we were back at the base. You'll follow the same route up and then back down. The train picks up directly at the ship.

We heard others who opted for a long hike, to rent a car and drive up into the Yukon (Skagway is the only port that we visited that is actually connected to the rest of the country by road), and taking an old town shuttle tour around the town itself. I would have loved to go on a long hike but due to others in our group with less mobility we opted to spend time together on the railway experience. This was a great way to see the sights and spend time together.

After our railway tour we still had a chance to walk around the town. We stopped at a Christmas shop and enjoyed chatting with the owners who turned out to spend winter in San Diego, California. We also enjoyed fried dough from the Klondike Doughboy . This is a must stop for your day in Skagway that you'll find on one of the side streets. Finally, we watched a National Parks historical film on the “last gold rush” that lead to the original establishment of Skagway as the gateway for gold seekers to sail to before a treacherous journey over the mountain to the site where gold was discovered. I enjoyed the context that the film provided. The film can be found in the National Parks building at the end of the street closest to the cruise ship slips.

This is a screenshot of the video I captured of the whales coming right up near our boat. The photo doesn't do the experience justice.

Juneau – At Juneau we participated in a whale watching and trip to the Mendenhall glacier . We were picked up by bus from the ship and then taken to a boat for the whale watching tour. We had whales get very close up to the ship and flip their tale. Just like the Pacific Life commercials ! This was an excellent experience getting into nature.

After our long morning on the boat we got back on the bus and headed to the Mendenhall Glacier. All along the ride we had very fun narration from our bus driver who shared a look into what it is like living in Alaska. She was witty and provided a look into the actual life rather than just giving facts and figures. A real highlight! At the Mendenhall Glacier we walked out to the waterfall. They claim this walk is an hour roundtrip but it only took us 45 minutes and that includes at least 10 minutes talking photos at the waterfall. Our bus then dropped us off in the heart of Juneau and we walked through some of the shops and found lunch.

We opted to enjoy the fish tacos at Deckhand Dave's . We debated going to Tracy's Crab Shack but decided we didn't want another large sit down meal for lunch. We were very happy with our pick to enjoy the tacos. After lunch we also found GREAT fudge from the Alaskan Fudge Company . Both great options!

Ketchikan – As I shared above, Ketchikan is one of the rainiest cities in the United States so it was raining during our day here. It rained on and off throughout the day and the sky was gray all day. The ship docks right in town. In the morning we walked through the various shops in town and I took a longer walk up the river beyond Creek Street. The amount of salmon floating peacefully in the river was astounding. There were hundreds just hanging out in the shallows. In the afternoon we enjoyed the Lumberjack Show . This is an activity you could easily purchase tickets directly from the venue if you wanted to.

There isn't much of a savings for the headache of booking through an outside payment system but the option is there. The show was lots of fun. In the format of a US vs Canada competition, professional lumberjacks completed impressive stunts with their saws. The show also pulls in audience participation. We saw kids of the friends also on the trip get pulled in and have a great time participating. This experience is tons of fun for the entire family.

Fun Disneyland Fact – Did you know that in the summers of 1987 and 1988 there was a “State Fair” event that included a Log Rolling and Lumberjack Show? The show was found along the Rivers of America area.

When you get back on the ship there's always a Cast Member with hot chocolate and cookies ready to greet you.

For 2 of the 3 days in port we opted to return to the ship for lunch rather than sitting down at any of the restaurant in town. We enjoyed eating at Triton's restaurant on the ship and appreciated the sit down service. After lunch we easily returned back into town for more exploring and some of our group opted to stay on the ship.

WiFi During Your Disney Cruise Line Alaska Trip

I can't say this more overtly. The WiFi onboard the ship worked well for messaging and looking things but do not rely on it for downloads. Save any digital material that you want to have available. If you need a book downloaded for your Kindle or podcast downloaded for the gym, do everything you can to download these before leaving for your trip.

While there is WiFi onboard the Disney Wonder, it is expensive and runs out quickly. Even when you are on the WiFi there were certain apps that did not work at all.

In our experience iMessages came through over the WiFi even when we didn't have our WiFi package turned on. For messaging between people in your party onboard, there is a messaging option within the Disney Cruise Line app. This worked fine.

In each port I was able to get on my normal Verizon phone plan with no difficulties. I even used it as a hotspot from my computer to send email. Be sure to check on your phone plan for use in Canada for your days coming into Vancouver.

Disney Cruise Line App Review

At first the Disney Cruise Line app was difficult to use. The interface is not intuitive to begin with but once you figure out how to locate activities it works well.

When you first get onboard, go through the activities listed and select the various onboard activities that sound interesting to you. To get the activities, click on the “Explore” section and click the day you want to view. There is also an option to filter by activity type – filtering by movie for instance. This schedule that you create will then cause the app to send you push notifications. The “Add Plans” button in the app doesn't work as expected and just suggests paid activities to you. Make sure to click the “Explore” section for details on everything happening onboard.

Disney Wonder Pools

The pools and water slide are open throughout the cruise to Alaska. We opted to quickly ride the waterslide the first day that we were onboard to check that box as we knew that our departure day from Vancouver would be the warmest day to enjoy the pools on the cruise. I recommend getting on the slide that first day to enjoy it while it is still sunnier outside. There were plenty of people enjoying the waterslide throughout the voyage but we were glad to have ridden it the first day.

Entering the pool area could be jarring at times. I would walk out on to the deck and be greeted with icy winds in the morning but also the upbeat tunes of “La Bamba”.

I actually used the pool almost everyday of the trip. In the early evening before our show I would try and get up to the adult pool area and hot tub. This area was a little more peaceful than the others and it was nice to meet other guests in the hot tub to swap stories on their experience.

How Food Works Onboard Disney Cruise to Alaska

For Dinner:

Onboard the Disney Wonder there are three different restaurants that you will rotate through for dinners during your voyage. Each night you'll go to your assigned restaurant and your same waiter and assistant waiter will be there ready for you. Throughout your trip you'll get to know the wait staff and they'll get to know your preferences. In our group one member took her water without ice and by the second night she was already receiving her water with no ice without asking.

The menus shift each night of the cruise and are somewhat reflective of the theme of the restaurant.

Our waiters encouraged us to order anything on the menu that looked interesting. Each night I started with one of the soups of the day and some other appetizer before my main course. We sometimes also ordered an additional main course if we all wanted to try it.

Some of the food highlights that stuck with us – the Beef Wellington, the Banoffee pie (a chocolate, banana, whipped cream dessert), and the carmel ice cream that we enjoyed one evening (we ordered that ice cream every night afterwards too!). Another lesson. Always ask for the food that you want even if it isn't on the menu. My grandmother wanted a blue cheese wedge salad because the other salads on the menu were not something she was interested in. Amazingly our server had a wedge salad based on her specifications at the table 5 minutes later. My aunt was craving asparagus and they also delivered. Overall we were very impressed with the kitchen's ability to accommodate requests.

These were some of our drawings during the fun Animator's Palate show.

The three main restaurants are: Triton's, Tiana's Place, and Animator's Palate. Be sure not to miss the second night at Animator's Palate as there is a very cute show where everyone in the group draws a character and then that character comes to life on screens around the restaurant.

There are two dinner seatings – an early seating at 5:45 pm and a later seating at 8:15 pm. We had the later dinner seating which meant that we would be eating much later than we were used to at home. This also led us to snack much more going into the evening because we weren't going to eat until so much later. You have the opportunity to switch seating times in the app if you have a preference.

Palo For Upscale Dinner and Brunch:

There is an upscale adults only restaurant onboard called Palo that is an additional charge. We opted to enjoy both brunch and dinner here. The restaurant does book up so be sure to book your Palo experience when it becomes available for your Disney Cruise. Though I have a full review coming soon, I will share that we far preferred the variety that came with brunch at the restaurant.

For Breakfast and Lunch:

Throughout the day there are a variety of food options constantly available. The Cabanas restaurant is open with a buffet for breakfast and lunch. For a sit down breakfast or lunch, the central sit down restaurant, Triton's, is also available. We started the cruise having our breakfast at Cabanas and then shifted over to eating breakfast at Triton's after we realized that our evening waiter was often there and we could have the same great table service as we did at dinner. The quality of breakfast food was also better at Triton's. I had very similar omelette orders at both locations and the Triton's omelette was far superior.

There are also quick service restaurants on the upper deck that serve sandwiches, hamburgers, chicken tenders (super good!), pizza, Asian style bowls, and of course soft serve. There is never a bad time to order soft serve on the cruise! Make sure you get in the habit of grabbing one otherwise the cruise will slip by. It is never too cold for Disney Cruise Line soft serve ice cream!

Additional Charge Food

There are a couple of food locations that are an additional charge. There are concession stands outside the theaters selling popcorn, soda, and candy. There are also a number of lounges with additional cost alcoholic beverages. On the top deck there is also a bar / coffee place that is for adults only. This Cove Bar feels a lot like a comfortable Starbucks.

The regular dinner restaurants also have extra charge alcohol as an option.

On Your First Day Onboard:

When you first board the Disney Wonder in Vancouver each restaurant will be open for you to enjoy lunch. On our first day we had lunch at Tiana's Place and enjoyed the sit down service. We could also have opted for the quick service options or buffet at Cabanas.

In addition to the above there is included 24/7 room service onboard. Let's just say, you really aren't going to go hungry. It is much more important to think about what you aren't going to eat than to worry about what you are.

There is also a water and soda station on the Deck 9 pool deck. We brought reusable water bottles and popped up here to refill them throughout the trip. There are a couple of water bottle fill stations on the upper deck by the pool and in the gym.

Disney Cruise Line Vancouver, Canada Boarding Process

To board the Disney Wonder in Canada we went through a number of different checks including US customs.

For your arrival, you'll want to pack a carry on bag with anything you need throughout your first afternoon. You'll keep this bag with you and your other baggage will be sent to your room.

If anyone in your group has trouble walking long distances you may want to get a wheelchair for the walk through the check in process. There is lots of winding back and forth through the Disney Cruise Line security, customs, passport control, and then boarding the ship.

After you check in, you'll be directed to the ship where your room key will be waiting for you outside your door.

Disney Cruise Line Vancouver to Alaska COVID Testing

For our COVID test we used OnPoint testing . This was a virtual service where a proctor would watch you take your own approved at home COVID test and then sign off on the result.

For only $14.99 per person we were able to easily test from our own home. Three of us tested during the same 10 minute Zoom call. This was much simpler, less expensive, and easier than attempting to test when we got to Vancouver or using the official Disney Cruise Line vendor.

What to See in Vancouver Before Your Disney Cruise

I definitely recommend arriving to Vancouver at least one day before your Disney Cruise. Our flight arrived around 3 pm into Vancouver which gave us some time to enjoy the city before leaving to check in with Disney for our cruise the next morning. You'll also want to arrive the night before so that you aren't anxious about any flight delay that might cause you to miss the departure. The city feels far larger than it's official population (650,000 people) with innovative architecture and stunning views that blend the ocean, mountains, and city to one. In Vancouver, the spirit of adventure only grows as you lean into your anticipation for your Disney Cruise to Alaska – “the final frontier”.

Here were our highlights of Vancouver, Canada before the cruise:

First, we enjoyed Granville Island. This market place of food and artisans is absolutely a tourist trap but is one for good reason. On our clear skies day the market was crowded with locals and tourists enjoying the sun, food and entertainment. The market has the same feeling of active marketplace as Pike's Place Market in Seattle and Redding Terminal Market in Philadelphia but seems to have more food stalls. During the summer months when you'll be here before your Disney Alaska Cruise, expect a very warm afternoon.

At the market we had great fish and chips from Celine's Fish and Chips, pad thai, and a german sausage plate. The fish and chips were the absolute highlight and we returned for another order.

To get to Granville Island you'll want to use Uber or Lyft from Downtown Vancouver (read my guide to Uber and Lyft at Walt Disney World for discount codes if you've never used the rideshare services before). If you are all mobile, be careful not to call your rideshare directly to Granville Island as your car will end up in a massive lineup while trying to drop you off and the price for the ride will be more expensive. Instead, put in “Blue Hat Bistro” for your drop off location. Return here after your time at the market to avoid headache as well.

After Granville Island we walked around in Gastown which is right near the cruise terminal that our ship was leaving from the following day. We enjoyed seeing the cobblestone streets here and then walked out along the seawall near the cruise terminal. We ogled the massive cruise ships thinking about the Disney Wonder that we would board the following day. It was a lot of fun to walk along the sea wall from here. We watched as sea plane after sea plane followed the same landing pattern swooping in from the clear blue sky that was just turning to dusk.

The next morning I went out for a run along the seawall and through Downtown Vancouver. The views along the seawall were stunning. I made a quick stop for a last minute electronics need at an Apple Store and then it was time to get onboard the Disney Wonder for our cruise.

Packing for Disney Alaskan Cruise

You can also see our Disney Cruise Line Packing List for a full perspective on what you need to bring with you.

A couple packing list notes:

• There is a formal night onboard the ship but you do not have to participate if you don't want to. During our sailing about 40% of the passengers we saw were dressed up, but plenty did not.
• There are slippers and a robe in your stateroom for your use throughout the trip.
• For those using a cane, walking sticks were a nice option that my grandmother utilized instead of a cane during this trip.
• We did not plan on doing any laundry during our Alaska cruise but we ended up using the laundry machine after our rainy day in Ketchikan to dry out our clothes. The machines can be operated by tapping your room key and charging the laundry to your room.
• Make sure to bring your binoculars and consider getting a camera extension for your iPhone to increase your zoom strength.
• Each guest 21 years and older may bring a maximum of 2 bottles of unopened champagne or wine or 6 beers on to the ship at the beginning of the voyage and at each port. The beverages must be carried onboard in your carry-on luggage.

General Disney Cruise to Alaska Tips

• The stars in the carpet design in the main hallways all point towards the front of the ship.
• Watch the morning show with the cruise director. We really enjoyed the witty humor from our cruise director, Stephen. We bought in and had a lot of fun watching the show.
• Be ready for anything! During our sailing there was a tugboat strike in Vancouver that was completely outside of Disney's control. The strike led us to leave Vancouver eight hours late which meant that we had to skip Dawes Glacier to make up for lost travel time. This was obviously disappointing (Disney added a state room credit for all guests even though the situation was beyond their control), but we still had a great day weather wise and all the characters were still out with the same celebration.
• There are free charms and a free charm bracelet that are available for guests everyday at a specific time. My aunt and grandmother enjoyed picking up a charm each day. By the end of the trip they had a complete bracelet. The charms are meant to get you in to the store looking at jewelry but they are still a cute keepsake.
• You can tip the Cast Members that work on the cruise at the beginning or end of your sailing. There's a good tip calculator here to think about amounts.
• As with anything Disney, mention if you are celebrating a special occasion while onboard. There are always magic makers looking to help!
• Get outside! The views throughout your cruise are just incredible. Bring enough layers so you are always comfortable stepping out to your own verandah or the general decks so you can take in the majesty of the inside passage.

Take a look at a nice promo video from Disney here that captures many of these views:

We were hosted on this cruise to Alaska by Disney Vacation Club so that we could provide coverage of the Disney Vacation Club Member Cruise and witness some of the highlights from Disney Plus day. All opinions expressed here are our own.

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2 comments add your comment

All the tips in the above article are super helpful. Thank you

Glad it was helpful! Thank you for the feedback. Have a great cruise!

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Cruising Alaska with Disney Cruise Line: A First-Timer’s Guide

Avital Andrews

Avital Andrews, SmarterTravel's editor-at-large, is a travel and lifestyle journalist who is also a contributing editor for AAA's Via magazine. Her stories have been among the 10 most emailed or viewed on the Los Angeles Times, Outside, Sierra, and SmarterTravel websites, and have also appeared in USA Today, HuffPost, Apple News, Business Insider, and many other nationwide outlets. Her travel book , sold at bookstores and on Amazon, is in its fourth edition, and her journalism gets national media attention, including from The New York Times , The Atlantic , Time , NPR, and MTV. She's currently working on her first children's book. Follow her on Twitter @avitalb .

The Handy Item I Always Pack: My laptop—the lightweight and stylish HP Spectre x360—since I'm almost always on deadline.

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: A round-the-world cruise that makes stops to experience Aurora Borealis, the Olympics opening ceremony, Borneo, Madagascar, the Jerusalem Festival of Light, the Bolivian salt flats, Kenya's Giraffe Manor, the Galapagos, the Maldives, Bora Bora, the Seychelles, and every Disney park. (That itinerary definitely exists, right?)

Travel Motto: I'll steal Saint Augustine's: "The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: Window, always. For the views and also the naps.

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If you’re like many travelers, you’ve long dreamed of taking a cruise to Alaska—and for good reason. An Alaskan ocean voyage provides an enviable almost-Arctic itinerary, opportunities for adventure at every port, and a constant supply of magnificently icy views, the likes of which probably won’t exist in 50, or even 20, years. You get all this via the comfort of an ocean liner that’s stocked with restaurants, theaters, hotel-like guest rooms, and much more.

I, too, had yearned to cruise to Alaska, so when the opportunity to hop aboard the Disney Wonder presented itself, I enlisted my husband and daughter as my travel mates. We flew to Vancouver to embark on a trip that would end up supplying us with exhilarating experiences, unforgettable nature encounters, heaping helpings of Disney fun, and, ultimately, lifetime memories.

If you’re not sure whether a Disney Alaska cruise is right for you, here’s a good idea of what you can expect based on my experiences and observations as a fellow first-timer.

Why Choose a Disney Cruise?

There are a few factors to keep in mind if Disney Cruise Line (DCL) is among the companies you’re considering for your journey to the Last Frontier.

Foremost among them: If any of the travelers in your group is a Disney fan, a Disney cruise will very much play into that enthusiasm. This may be too obvious to mention, but almost everything on a Disney cruise is Disney-themed, right down to the ketchup that’s squirted onto kids’ plates—in the shape of Mickey’s head. The characters and their stories pervade the ship, as well as some of the shore excursions.

The level of service, too, is thoroughly Disney. Everyone who works on the ship is there to make their guests’ experience magical, and it’s obvious that the hiring process is geared toward picking cheerful people who love to make other people—children, especially—happy.

“We have a fabulous, diverse team on board,” says Martin Kemp, Disney Wonder ’s hotel director. “Basically, we get to go around the globe and hire the best talent out there. And when our team members first come onboard, we go through a very, very extensive training program to introduce them to our Disney brand, our culture, and our heritage.”

In addition to providing the exemplary hospitality that the company has become known for, other Disney-specific elements that you can expect during a Disney cruise to Alaska include exclusive shore excursions that are enhanced with Disney touches, like Goofy showing up at the lumberjack show in Ketchikan, or Donald Duck panning for gold alongside your kids in Skagway. Disney hand-picked the top Alaskan tour operators, then worked directly with them to create experiences that are reserved solely for Disney Cruise Line guests.

Onboard, Disney characters wear Alaskan gear—resulting in photos that are Instagram gold—while naturalists lecture about glacier science, and nightly menus spotlight regional cuisine: buttered king crab legs one night, roasted salmon steak the next, alongside Alaska-inspired cocktails that carry the theme even further. Also exclusive to Disney’s Alaskan itineraries: a “Frozen” deck celebration featuring Anna and Elsa, plus a joyous Pixar party in the atrium.

“We truly do believe that Disney Cruise Line is a great way for families to see Alaska,” says Melanie Curtsinger, a company spokesperson. “From our themed dining spaces to the live entertainment, extensive children’s spaces, and exceptional detailed service, there truly is something for everyone in the family on these sailings.”

Disney Alaska Cruise Itinerary

Disney’s Alaska cruises depart from Vancouver for five-, seven- and nine-night summer cruises, with stops, depending on your specific itinerary, for Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Sitka, Victoria, Icy Strait Point, Hubbard Glacier, and Endicott Arm.

Mine was a seven-night cruise, and we spent a full pre-cruise day in Vancouver , where we rented bicycles from Club16  and took the spectacular waterfront ride around Stanley Park. (Other excellent in-Vancouver-for-the-day options include the Capilano Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountain.) We stayed overnight at the Fairmont Vancouver Waterfront Hotel , where Canadian hospitality is on full display, and where they personalize your shampoo bottles with your last name. The hotel is conveniently across the street from the Port of Vancouver, where we boarded the Disney Wonder. (Tip: Before boarding the ship in Vancouver, try an exotic flavor, like osmanthus flower, in a black cone at Bella Gelateria .)

After a day at sea, our first port of call was Skagway, where we took a stunning helicopter ride to a glacier (more on that below), hiked to land’s end, explored the Western-style State Street full of shops and saloons, and watched the visitor center’s film about the short-lived and ill-fated Klondike gold rush.

Next up was Juneau for some satisfying whale watching and browsing the shopping strip. There’s also the Mount Roberts Tramway , an aerial gondola that transports visitors to the top of the 3,800-foot peak for a wide-spanning, eagle-studded view over Gastineau Channel. Everyone kept saying how lucky we were to be here during such gorgeous weather.

In Ketchikan, we took a morning trolley tour to see the town’s iconic totem poles at Saxman Village. The afternoon was reserved for the raucous Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show (more on that below). In the early evening, as a light rain started to fall, we meandered the above-water walkways past Ketchikan’s former brothels—as colorful as the local characters—that now house curated art galleries, one-of-a-kind souvenir shops, and down-to-earth places to eat and drink.

At each port, there’s souvenir shop after souvenir shop, giving you no excuse to come home empty-handed. To save money, we returned to the Wonder for lunch, but there was plenty of opportunity to sample the local restaurants, many of which seem to be mom-and-pop outfits.

We also spent three full days at sea, including one in the Endicott Arm fjord during which the captain pulled the ship in as close as possible to see the 600-foot-tall Dawes Glacier, then did very slow 360-degree turns so that every passenger could take in its full splendor. Meanwhile, smaller icebergs floated past, crackling their presence. It was poignant to be in the presence of such threatened beauty—people all around us were telling their children to remember this scene, since they might not ever be able to see it look this way again. During the glacier viewing, Disney characters, donning galoshes and parkas, were on deck for hugs and photos.

After our last night onboard, we were shuttled back to Vancouver for an early-morning disembarkation. (Tip: Pack your bags the night before to have staffers lug them off the ship for you.) During our bus transfer back to the airport, Disney trivia played on the screens overhead, though our fellow passengers mostly slept through the ride, happily exhausted from such an activity-packed journey.

The Shore Excursions

Called “Port Adventures” in DCL lingo, there’s a menu of more than 200 family-friendly things to do whenever the Wonder docks in Alaska. Make sure to reserve ahead of time for these memorable shore excursions—you can easily find independent vendors to haggle with once you’re at the destination, but you’re taking a chance with the quality of your experience. You’re much better off booking in advance through Disney, whose contracted operators are total pros.

Disney’s most popular shore excursions in Ketchikan include the Bering Sea Crab Fishermen’s Tour  (a Disney exclusive that gives an inside look at the life of Alaskan crab harvesters) and the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show , a down-home demonstration of manly men showing off their impressive timber-sport skills, like chainsawing and log rolling. There’s plenty of enthusiastic audience participation, and Goofy makes an appearance. Wear red-and-black plaid if you’ve got it.

In Skagway, there’s the Klondike Gold Dredge and White Pass Railway  excursion, during which you take a gorgeous train ride and pan for gold; and Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp , which includes a narrated motor coach tour of Skagway, panning for gold (you’ll find some, guaranteed), a scavenger hunt, a puppet show that’s both hilarious and educational, a Donald Duck cameo, and a salmon bake.

In Juneau, the Dog Sled Summer Camp  lets you feel what it’s like to be pulled through the Alaskan wilderness at the speed of sprinting huskies, while the Whale Watching and Wildlife Quest  on Stephen’s Passage guarantees humpback and bald eagle sightings aboard a comfortable catamaran stocked with a full bar; an expert naturalist explains everything you see.

By far the most memorable event of our Disney Alaska cruise—and that’s saying a lot—was the Glacier Discovery by Helicopter  excursion, operated by Temsco Helicopters in Skagway. After a quick safety briefing, we boarded an Airbus helicopter manned by a very capable and personable pilot who was also an expert at calming any nerves, mine included. We flew over crystal-blue lakes, above vast expanses of gleamingly white ice fields, and incredibly close to steep, lush mountainsides. When we landed, it was on the 650-foot-deep Meade Glacier, but it may as well have been another planet. Confident, reassuring guides were there to explain what we were seeing—and to stop us from walking into danger—as we took in the surreal scenery before flying back to the Disney Wonder . The word “awesome” is egregiously overused, but this was awesome.

If you’re worried that your children won’t be able to make it all the way through that excursion you’re eyeing, or you’d just prefer some grownup time ashore, don’t feel bad about dropping your little ones off at the ship’s kids’ spaces before you disembark for some adventure. Most youngsters are ecstatic to have more time in these colorful rooms, where the storytelling is epic, the games and crafts are age-appropriate, and the movies are all Disney. Attentive camp-counselor types from around the world do an excellent job of supervising. (Read on for more about the kids’ spaces.)

Life Onboard Disney Wonder

The Disney vessel that shuttles passengers to and from Alaska is the impressive Wonder, which first set sail in 1999 and is one of DCL’s fleet of four (a fifth will be added in 2021; a sixth in 2023). The 83,000-ton ship has 10 floors, 875 guest rooms, 950 employees, and room for up to 2,713 passengers, a third of which are typically children.

Every day, there’s a program so packed with entertaining activity options that it’s easy to fall prey to some initial FOMO, but once you get into the swing of life onboard a Disney cruise (which doesn’t take long), the fun really begins.

Putting together the ship’s complex entertainment and dining schedule, says Natalie Bailey, Disney Wonder ’s cruise director, “is a Tetris puzzle, truly a group effort of everyone coming together to try to create variety for our guests throughout the day, and the entire cruise. Our biggest thing when it comes to planning is truly ensuring that we do have something for everyone.”

To that end, there are live shows, deck parties, character greetings, first-run movies in the theaters, trivia games, karaoke, crafts, bingo, chef demos, and plenty more. The handy Disney Cruise Line Navigator app , which you should download before your trip, tells you what’s going on at any given time. In addition to providing the day’s full lineup, it lets you “heart” the activities you don’t want to miss, text your fellow travelers for free, book shore excursions, make spa and specialty dining reservations, link your reservation number, and check in online.

Disney is, first and foremost, an entertainment company, so yes, you will be thoroughly entertained the whole way to Alaska and back. Twice nightly in the extravagant 977-seat Walt Disney Theatre, a cast of Broadway-caliber performers display their prodigious talents, with a new live production to enjoy each night, including the Alaska-appropriate “Frozen, a Musical Spectacular,” “Disney Dreams: An Enchanted Classic” (a production that helped launch Jennifer Hudson’s career), and the life-affirming “Golden Mickeys.” You don’t need to reserve a ticket or pay anything extra to see these shows—just show up; seats are first come, first served. (Tip: Even if the theater appears packed when you enter from the back, there are often seats available way up front.)

If you time your sailing to coincide with the release date of a new Disney movie, you’ll get to see it premiered onboard, to much fanfare—we were at sea the day Toy Story 4 came out and got to see it for free, with Green Army Men photo opps in front of the theater and a bag of popcorn as an in-room amenity.

As mentioned above, children have a whole realm of entertainment catered to them: the fifth-floor Oceaneer Youth Club. Whenever I came there to pick up my daughter, she asked to stay longer, a testament to the amount of fun she was having and the level of comfort she felt with the kind staffers.

These elaborate kids’ spaces were created to immerse youngsters in Disney stories—kids can hang out in the Wandering Oaken trading post from Frozen, Andy’s playroom from Toy Story , or the Marvel-themed Super Hero Academy, where kids train alongside their favorite superheroes. There are many enriching activities for kids to choose from, like crafting, scavenger hunts, dance parties, performing in a talent show, story times, character greetings, and so on; you can use the Navigator app to find out what’s going on in the kids’ spaces. (Tip: Once you’ve made your cruise reservation, you can have a Disney character call your child to get them excited for the trip.)

As for the guest rooms, they’re comfortable and cleverly designed, with enough space for a full family to live, sleep, bathe, and store luggage in. While we dined, our room attendant transformed the couch into a kid’s bunk, adding a guard rail for safety. He also left memorable Disney amenities on our bed, along with Ghirardelli chocolates and towels folded into amusing figures.

The themed restaurants aboard the Wonder  are extraordinarily thought-through and exist for much more than just feeding you. Take Tiana’s Place, based on The Princess and the Frog, a movie in which the title character dreams of opening a restaurant in New Orleans. Yes, the menu at Tiana’s Place includes gumbo and beignets, but the stage also features a talented quartet jazzing up favorite Disney tunes, while Tiana herself visits each table to take photos with young fans; the grand finale is a joyful parade that stars all the servers.

Over at Animator’s Palate, a screen-enhanced shrine to Disney’s drawn history, your server instructs you to draw a character on your placemat. Soon thereafter, your drawing, alongside those of your fellow diners, gets animated into a magical on-screen mashup. The food is good, too.

There’s also Triton’s, a traditional cruise restaurant, and Cabanas, a huge buffet on the ninth floor with great ocean views. Several walk-up-and-go snack counters hand out pizza, gyros, ice cream, and more. All food and beverage is included in the cost of your cruise (except alcohol; you can bring a small amount onboard), so you can order whatever you want without fretting about the tab.

The only restaurant with an upcharge is Palo, the adults-only Italian eatery atop the ship. The cuisine there is a step up, and the service is top-notch, too. If you’re interested in dining at Palo, make a reservation as far ahead of time as possible.

As you cycle through Tiana’s Place, Animator’s Palate, and Triton’s each night at your set dining time (5:45 p.m. or 8:00 p.m., your choice), your dedicated team of servers follow you from restaurant to restaurant. They’re genuinely kind and accommodating, and clearly hired in part for their ability to make kids smile, laugh—and eat. They joke around, bring you whatever you want, do magic tricks and origami, and give generous hugs and high fives.

If you’d rather skip the dining room, though, or if you get hungry in the middle of the night, room service is included in the cost of your Disney Alaska cruise, and you can order as much as you want without being charged extra.

Other features worth mentioning on the Wonder include the spacious spa and top-floor fitness center, where you can run on a treadmill while watching glaciers and icebergs glide by. No matter the weather, people are always using the swimming pool and outdoor hot tubs, while Disney movies play on the huge outdoor screen above. And the “nightlife district” is a collection of three handsome bars, including a classic British pub.

Wi-Fi on the Wonder is prohibitively pricey ($89 gets you 1,000 megabytes), so it’s wise to use your cruise as an excuse to unplug from email and social media.

Whatever you’re planning to do onboard, book as much of it that’s bookable well in advance, before departing for your vacation, to make sure that you get the spots you want. This includes nursery times, spa appointments, character meet-and-greets, shore excursions, and specialty dining reservations. Then once you get onboard, you can simply relax and enjoy.

What to Pack for a Disney Alaska Cruise

Once you’re ready to get your stuff together for your Disney cruise to Alaska, check out DCL’s full list of what to pack —and what not to.

There are some pretty specific things that you’ll want to bring along for this type of cruise, including binoculars (which are available for purchase at the Port of Vancouver), rain gear, boots, layers, and waterproof jackets. Bring fancy attire for the ship’s formal and semi-formal nights, and if you plan to dine at Palo, keep in mind that the dress code there encourages dress pants or slacks and a collared shirt for men, and a dress, skirt, or pants and a blouse for women.

It’s fun to wear red-and-black plaid in Ketchikan, especially if you’re planning to see the lumberjack show there, and it’s also fun to bring Disney-themed door decorations—check Pinterest and Etsy for ideas. Don’t forget Disney autograph books for your little ones to get signed, princess dresses for the young princesses in your life, Disneybounding gear for you (if you’re into that), and at least two bathing suits so that you can wear the dry one while the wet one dries.

It’s also smart to fold an extra duffel bag into your suitcase—what with the merchandise available onboard and the many souvenir shops on shore, you’ll be coming home from Alaska with way more than you packed.

More from SmarterTravel:

• Walt Disney World Vacation Planning Guide
• What to Expect on Your First Disney Cruise
• 10 Best Disney Hotels Around the World

Follow Avital Andrews on Twitter  @avitalb  or on  Facebook .

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Disney Cruises to Alaska

Explore Alaska’s breathtaking landscape aboard a Disney cruise departing from Vancouver. Select from five- to nine-night itineraries for couples and families to discover the awe-inspiring northern region of the US. This guide presents essential information about Disney cruises to Alaska, including departure dates, pricing, ship options, and Alaskan ports of call. It also provides important details about Disney Cruise Line’s Vancouver terminal to ensure a seamless and stress-free experience.

Dates & Itineraries   |  Ships   |  Port   |  Airports   |  Hotels

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Dates & Itineraries: Alaskan Disney Cruises

Below are the departure dates and itineraries for Disney Alaskan cruises from Vancouver in 2024 and 2025 . Disney’s 2026 Alaska sail dates are expected to be announced around March 2025.

Note : Disney Alaskan cruises are currently all aboard the Disney Wonder cruise ship and begin in Vancouver, Canada.

5-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver

Itinerary Includes

• Vancouver (British Columbia), Canada (Cruise Start/End)
• Glacier Viewing (Stikine Icecap), Alaska
• Ketchikan, Alaska
• Day at Sea (2 days)

2024 Sail Dates

• July 24 – 29, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $3,236 USD

2025 Sail Dates

• July 16 – 21, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $3,500 USD

7-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver featuring Skagway

• Juneau, Alaska
• Skagway, Alaska
• May 20 – 27, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $3,503 USD
• June 3 – 10, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $4,301 USD
• June 17 – 24, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $4,483 USD
• July 1 – 8, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $4,651 USD
• July 29 – August 5, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $4,623 USD
• August 12 – 19, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $3,769 USD
• August 26 – September 2, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $3,363 USD
• September 9 – 16, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $3,027 USD
• September 16 – 23, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $2,929 USD
• May 12 – 19, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $3,578 USD
• May 19 – 26, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $3,592 USD
• May 26 – June 2, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $4,222 USD
• June 2 – 9, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $4,446 USD
• June 9 – 16, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $4,614 USD
• June 23 – 30, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $4,824 USD
• June 30 – July 7, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $4,922 USD
• July 21 – 28, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $4,810 USD
• July 28 – August 4, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $4,810 USD
• August 4 – 11, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $4,600 USD
• August 18 – 25, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $3,900 USD
• August 25 – September 1, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $3,550 USD
• September 1 – 8, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $3,424 USD
• September 8 – 15, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $3,130 USD

7-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver featuring Icy Strait Point

• Icy Strait Point, Alaska
• May 13 – 20, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $3,490 USD
• May 27 – June 3, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $4,036 USD
• June 10 – 17, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $4,484 USD
• June 24 – July 1, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $4,568 USD
• July 8 – 15, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $4,680 USD
• August 5 – 12, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $4,400 USD
• August 19 – 26, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $3,784 USD
• September 2-9, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $3,252 USD
• June 16 – 23, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $4,646 USD
• August 11 – 18, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $3,932 USD

8-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver

• Glacier Viewing (Stikine Ice Cap)
• Ketchikan, AK
• Skagway, AK
• None currently scheduled for this itinerary
• September 15 – 23, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $3,409 USD

9-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver

• Sitka, Alaska

Victoria (British Columbia), Canada

• July 15 – 24, 2024 on Disney Wonder | From $5,765 USD
• July 7 – 16, 2025 on Disney Wonder | From $5,800 USD

Do You Have Questions About Disney Cruises to Alaska?

Are you considering a Disney Alaskan cruise and need help deciding between itineraries for 2024 or 2025? Look no further than The Vacationeer , one of the best Disney travel agencies with years of experience and exceptional customer service.

When you have a dedicated Vacationeer by your side, every detail of your Alaskan cruise will be expertly tailored to meet your needs. Their goal is to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience both on land and at sea while securing the lowest rates for your trip . Plus, The Vacationeer offers complimentary Disney onboard credit as a booking bonus, providing you with free spending money to pay for extras not included in the fare.

The Vacationeer isn’t limited to Alaskan itineraries alone. They can also help you explore exciting Disney cruises from New Orleans , San Diego , Galveston , and New York , in addition to the numerous Disney cruises departing from the Florida ports of Miami , Port Canaveral , and Fort Lauderdale .

Let The Vacationeer assist you in making your Disney cruise dreams a reality. Contact them today for an instant price quote and discover how affordable Disney Cruise Line can be. Their planning services are completely free!

Where Do Disney Cruises to Alaska Go?

In 2024 and 2025, Disney Cruise Line will offer sailings from Vancouver, Canada, to ports of call throughout Alaska. Passengers can choose from itineraries ranging from five to nine nights, with stops at various destinations, including Ketchikan, Juneau, Sitka, Skagway, Glacier Viewing at the Stikine Icecap, and Icy Strait Point .

Guests can enjoy fine dining, Broadway-style live shows, and other diverse entertainment aboard the Disney Wonder. Additionally, guests can enhance their cruise packages with excursions (Port Adventures) , allowing for a deeper immersion into the cultures and attractions of each destination.

A Disney cruise to Alaska is the ideal way to experience the magic of this remarkable region. There is no shortage of things to do on a Disney cruise to Alaska, whether you’re looking for breathtaking wilderness, local traditions, walks around lively cities, or exciting adventures.

The following is an overview of Disney’s Alaskan cruise ports of call and points of interest.

About the Juneau Disney Cruise Port

The city of Juneau, Alaska’s capital, is a popular port of call on Disney cruises to Alaska. Visitors can explore the city’s natural wonders, museums, and historic sites, including the Mendenhall Glacier, Alaska State Museum, and Red Dog Saloon.

Other options include:

• Shopping for Alaskan souvenirs.
• Taking a tram to an observation deck for a bird’s eye view of the city.
• Visiting the Macaulay Salmon Hatchery to see salmon eggs harvested and fertilized.

Many excursions (Port Adventures) are available at Disney’s Juneau port , including salmon bakes, zip-lining, dog sledding, glacier tours, and whale watching.

About the Ketchikan Disney Cruise Port

Ketchikan is a city in Alaska that is the fifth most populous and known as the “Salmon Capital of the World.” It is rich in Native Alaskan culture, with towering totem poles and shops offering hand-carved items for tourists.

Visitors can explore the world’s most extensive collection of original 19th-century totem poles at the Totem Heritage Center , enjoy shopping for unique items, stroll along Creek Street, and escape to the Misty Fjords National Monument. Optional excursions include a lumberjack show, a trolley tour, wilderness dining, and salmon fishing.

About the Sitka Disney Cruise Port

Disney cruises to Alaska offer a stop at Sitka , a multicultural port with a rich history as the former capital of Russian America. Visitors can enjoy outdoor adventures in the Tongass National Forest, spot wildlife, and learn about Tlingit and Russian cultures through local museums and performances. Popular activities and attractions include:

• Shopping for unique items.
• Watching traditional Russian and Ukrainian dances.
• Visiting the Fortress of the Bear.
• Exploring Sitka National Historical Park and St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Cathedral.

Your Disney Alaskan cruise package can also include sightseeing tours, salmon fishing, and sea kayaking excursions.

About the Skagway Disney Cruise Port

Skagway, located in the Alaskan Panhandle, is a charming town that served as the setting of Jack London’s book, The Call of the Wild . The town grew during the Klondike Gold Rush of the 1890s, and visitors can explore its history at the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park and Skagway Museum and Archives. Other must-see destinations include the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, Jewell Gardens, and the Chilkoot Trail. Horseback riding, sled dog adventures, hiking, rafting, and touring glaciers are among the many excursions available.

About the Other Disney Alaskan Destinations

Aside from the main port cities, Disney cruises to Alaska offer a number of less-frequented destinations and points of interest. They include the following.

Glacier Viewing at the Stikine Icecap

Disney cruises to Alaska offer a unique opportunity to visit the Stikine Icecap and witness the region’s natural beauty. Passengers can navigate through an icy fjord, observe wild animals and soaring cliffs, and gaze upon sapphire waters and glowing blue ice as they make their way to one of the majestic glaciers along the Stikine Icecap. The icefield is renowned for its granite spires and imposing peaks and is one of the three biggest icecaps in Alaska.

Icy Strait Point

Disney cruises to Alaska offer the opportunity to visit Icy Strait Point, a scenic destination known for whale watching. Visitors can explore the lively fishing community, former logging town, and Tlingit village of Hoonah and enjoy various activities such as kayaking, zip-lining, ATV expeditions, and watching tribal dance performances. The shops offer souvenirs, clothing, salmon products, art, and books. Additionally, visitors can savor an authentic culinary experience and challenge themselves in the Tree Top Adventure Park and Ropes Course.

Home to the world-famous Butchart Gardens, Victoria, Canada is a port that blends natural beauty with a bustling metropolis. Victoria is the capital city of the Province of British Columbia and is known as the “City of Gardens.” Beyond Butchart Gardens, explore Beacon Hill Park or visit the Butterfly Gardens. For an eye towards history, visit Craigdarroch Castle or the Royal British Columbia Museum.

Book With The Vacationeer To Get a Credit Toward Excursions in These Ports

How Many Disney Cruises to Alaska Are There?

Disney Cruise Line typically offers between 15 and 20 departures from Vancouver to Alaska ports between May and September each year . These cruises are organized into several different itineraries, all of which typically stick the the panhandle area of Alaska, including stops at popular ports such as Juneau, Ketchikan, Sikta, Skagway, and others.

Guests can enjoy exceptional service, entertainment, and cuisine onboard, as well as shopping, sightseeing, adventurous activities, and cultural excursions on land.

The Vacationeer can help you select the best Disney cruise that fits your budget and offer valuable trip-planning advice. Don’t hesitate to contact them with any questions you have about your next Disney cruise to Alaska and beyond!

How Long Are Disney’s Alaskan Cruises?

Disney Cruise Line offers a range of cruise options to explore the picturesque beauty of Alaska. The cruises depart from Vancouver, Canada, and usually last from 5-9 nights, with 7-night sailings being the most common .

With various stops at Alaskan port cities such as Ketchikan, Juneau, Sitka, Skagway, Glacier Viewing at the Stikine Icecap, and Icy Strait, Disney’s Alaskan itineraries are designed to cater to the preferences of both experienced and first-time Disney cruisers .

For those who are new to cruising, the shorter 5-night voyages would be a great choice since they offer a glimpse of Disney’s magical experiences without committing to an extended trip. However, experienced cruisers may prefer longer voyages to explore more Alaskan destinations and spend more time in its breathtaking wilderness.

How Much Do Disney Cruises to Alaska Cost?

Disney Cruise Line offers an unforgettable and affordable vacation experience for families who wish to explore the beauty of Alaska.

2024 starting prices for a Disney cruise to Alaska from Vancouver range from $2,733 to $5,765 for two people, depending on the itinerary and sail date chosen. 2025 starting prices range from $3,130 to $5,800. Prices will be higher for some stateroom types and for more than two passengers per stateroom. Prices and availability can change anytime, so it’s always a good idea to check with The Vacationeer for the latest.

One of Disney Cruise Line’s unique selling points is what’s included in a Disney cruise .

The price includes most dining, activities, entertainment, and services , including character meet-and-greets, Broadway-quality shows, movie screenings, water activities, and fireworks at sea. Children and teens can enjoy complimentary activities at Oceaneer Club, Edge, and Vibe. At the same time, adults can access a range of complimentary amenities, such as a pool for adults, a nightclub, and a fitness center.

In addition, the price of a Disney cruise includes port expenses, taxes, and fees, making it an excellent value for families. However, it’s important to note that airfare, gratuities , specialty restaurants , spas, excursions (Port Adventures), bottled beverages, and alcohol purchased on a Disney cruise aren’t covered.

Want To Calculate Your Exact Price? Contact  The Vacationeer

About the Disney Wonder Cruise Ship to Alaska

The Disney Wonder offers cruises from Vancouver to Alaska. The cruise ship, which has been operating since 1999, resembles Disney Magic but boasts Art Nouveau interiors instead of Art Deco. With a capacity to host 2,400 passengers, Disney Wonder features 11 public decks, 875 staterooms, and a crew of about 950. It spans 974 ft in length and has a gross tonnage of 83,000.

The Disney Wonder underway with a gorgeous sunset in the background | Image © Disney

Dining on Disney Wonder

Disney Cruise Line has a unique dining rotation system, where guests switch to a different restaurant each night while keeping the same table number and waitstaff throughout their voyage.

Among the main restaurants on the Disney Wonder are Triton’s, Tiana’s Place, and Animator’s Palate, which serve French cuisine, Southern cooking with live jazz, and contemporary cuisine with Disney characters, respectively. There are also a number of other dining options, including a buffet-style restaurant, a sandwich and salad shop, a pizza place, and an adult-oriented Italian-inspired restaurant with live music called Palo.

Activities on Disney Wonder

Guests of all ages will find a wealth of things to do on a Disney cruise to Alaska aboard the Disney Wonder. Popular attractions on the ship include Goofy’s Pool, AquaLab water playground, Frozen, A Musical Spectacular inside the 977-seat Walt Disney Theatre, and movies at the Buena Vista Theatre. Guests can also enjoy a fully-equipped fitness center, the luxurious Senses Spa and Salon , and many lounges and pubs, including the adults-only Crown & Fin Pub .

Meanwhile, children can enjoy various activities and clubs, including character meet and greets with beloved Disney favorites, the It’s a Small World Nursery, Oceaneer Club, Oceaneer Lab, Edge, and Vibe. With options tailored to all age groups, these activities provide younger guests with a fun and engaging experience.

One of the many onboard adventures for younger travelers at Disney Cruise Line’s Oceaneer Club | Image © Disney

Staterooms on Disney Wonder

The Disney Wonder cruise ship offers a range of staterooms that cater to the different needs and preferences of its guests. These include the Inside, Outside, Verandah, and Concierge categories. We recommend referring to our comprehensive guide on the Best Staterooms on a Disney Cruise for a more detailed understanding of the various stateroom options. Alternatively, if you require further information about the rooms or voyages, we suggest consulting an experienced Disney travel agent.

In terms of overall cruising experience, Disney Wonder is one of the best ships in the Disney fleet , offering guests a unique and enjoyable experience. Regardless of the time of year or destination, a Disney cruise to Alaska on board the Disney Wonder is always a magical experience.

Get Answers Without Waiting on Hold

About Disney Cruise Line Vancouver Terminal

The Port of Vancouver is an established departure point for Disney Cruise Line’s Alaskan cruises. Situated at 999 Canada Place, the terminal can host up to four cruise ships simultaneously and is owned and operated by the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority. With over 900,000 passengers annually and around 300 ship calls per year, the Port of Vancouver Cruise Terminal is Canada’s busiest cruise port, welcoming visitors from late April to September.

For passengers embarking on a Disney cruise to Alaska, the Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal is conveniently located just 12 miles away from Vancouver International Airport. Additionally, the terminal’s location grants travelers access to various amenities and attractions in Vancouver, such as shopping, cultural experiences, and fine dining.

There’s even an on-site flight simulator attraction, FlyOver Canada , which features a ride system reminiscent of the Soarin’   attraction at EPCOT and Disney California Adventure. (Separate admission is required.)

The Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal is easily accessible by various modes of transportation, including Uber, taxi, public transit, and walking for those staying in nearby hotels. Overall, Vancouver’s ideal location and superb facilities make it the perfect starting point for an unforgettable Disney cruise to Alaska.

What is Disney Cruise Line’s Address at the Port of Vancouver?

The address for Disney Cruise Line’s Port of Vancouver cruise terminal is:

Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal 999 Canada Place Vancouver, BC V6C 3E1, Canada

• (604) 665-9000 (for Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal)
• 800-951-3532 (for general Disney Cruise Line help)
• Get free, personalized assistance booking your Disney cruises by contacting The Vacationeer at 1-833-469-8747 .

Driving Directions to Disney’s Vancouver Cruise Terminal at Canada Place

The address for the cruise ship terminal at Canada Place in Vancouver is 999 Canada Place, Vancouver, BC V6C 3E1, Canada. The directions are also available on this printable map if you prefer to see them visually.

• If you drive to Canada Place from the U.S./Canada border , you can take I-5 north and continue on BC-99 until you cross the Oak Street Bridge. Then, turn left on 49th Avenue, followed by a right on Granville Street. Proceed north across the Granville Street Bridge, take the Seymour Street exit, and continue north on Seymour Street to West Cordova Street. Turn left on West Cordova Street, followed by a right on Howe Street. You will now be facing Canada Place.
• If you drive to Canada Place from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) , you can exit the airport via Grant McConachie Way, cross the Arthur Laing Bridge in the right lane, take the Granville Street exit, and proceed north down Granville Street. Follow the same directions as above from the Granville Street Bridge.
• If you take public transportation , take the Canada Line (SkyTrain) from YVR-Airport Station Eastbound, get off at Waterfront Station (terminus station), exit the station, and walk westbound on Cordova Street. Then, turn right at Howe Street and follow the sidewalk to the Canada Place cruise terminal. TransLink can provide public transit schedules and route planning information.

Parking at Port of Vancouver (Canada Place) for Disney Alaskan Cruises

If you’re driving to Vancouver for your Disney cruise, you’ll need a parking space. Here’s what you need to know.

Official Port of Vancouver (Canada Place) Cruise Terminal Parking Garage

Indigo Park Canada operates a covered parking facility at the Canada Place Cruise Terminal in Downtown Vancouver, which caters to the needs of cruise line passengers, including Disney Cruise Line passengers. It provides 770 parking spaces and is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The facility offers Disney Cruise Line guests the best parking experience in the area, both in terms of convenience and reliability.

Short-Term Parking: Free

There is short-term parking available at Canada Place Cruise Terminal for those dropping off or picking up cruise passengers. Parking in the Canada Place garage is free for vehicles parked for less than 15 minutes .Similar to airports, the terminal has separate areas for dropping off and picking up passengers.

Long-Term Cruise Parking: $234.89 CAD per week

The cost of long-term parking depends on the length of stay, the time of year, and availability. Parking at Canada Place costs $234.89 CAD for a week-long stay, or approximately $33.50 CAD per day (roughly $25 USD) . These rates are based on the latest available information and are subject to change.

For long-term parking, enter the vehicle ramp at the foot of Howe Street. As you enter the garage, take a ticket from the dispenser and proceed to either level P1 or P2 to find a spot. A Port of Vancouver traffic attendant will be on hand to direct you to the appropriate parking area.

The Canada Place cruise terminal parking garage accommodates vehicles up to 6’9″.

Reservations are recommended and can be made by visiting Indigo’s website . For more information, contact Indigo’s parking guest services at 604-669-7275.

Hotels with Parking and/or Shuttles to Port of Vancouver’s Canada Place Cruise Terminal

If you’re planning to drive to the port, many hotels in Vancouver offer cruise parking options. Spending the night before your departure at one of these nearby hotels also lets you unwind and discover Vancouver without worrying about rushing to the terminal.

Here are some great hotel options in Vancouver that provide cruise parking packages, in case you prefer not to park at the Canada Place garage:

• Pan Pacific Hotel (Distance to Cruise Port: 0.1 miles) : The Pan Pacific Hotel’s Cruise Package offers a one-night stay in luxurious rooms with king-size or two double pillow top beds. The package includes breakfast for two in Oceans 999 with a view of Coal Harbour and North Shore Mountains, complimentary luggage transfer to Canada Place Pier/cruise ship, direct elevator access to the cruise ship terminal, on-site cruise ship parking (bookable directly with Westpark at standard rates), and complimentary WiFi. The hotel is conveniently located on the Canada Place pier, allowing for easy access to Disney’s cruise ship terminal. The option of purchasing additional nights is available.
• Lowden Hotel (Distance to Cruise Port: 0.62 miles) : Staying at Loden Vancouver is the perfect way to kick off your Disney cruise to Alaska. This luxury boutique hotel is only .62 miles from the Canada Place cruise terminal and offers a free shuttle service to take you there. Although they don’t have long-term cruise parking, you can park just down the street at the Port Canada garage at Disney Cruise Line’s departure terminal. With elegant accommodations and excellent service, the Loden Vancouver is a great choice for a comfortable and stylish pre-cruise stay.
• Atrium Vancouver Inn (Distance to Cruise Port: 3.5 miles) : Book your pre-cruise stay at Atrium Vancouver Inn and take advantage of their Stay and Park Package . This package lets you park your car for up to seven days with a paid room night in the hotel’s underground parking and enjoy complimentary shuttle transportation to the Canada Place cruise terminal. Start your Alaska cruise stress-free with this convenient and affordable package.

The hotel’s rates, availability, and offers are subject to change, so be sure to contact them directly. Better yet, speak with a Disney travel expert at The Vacationeer and let them handle all the details.

Restaurants Near Port of Vancouver (Canada Place) Cruise Terminal

If you’re embarking on a Disney cruise from the Port of Vancouver’s Canada Place terminal and looking for nearby dining options, here are seven great restaurants within walking distance:

• Cactus Club Cafe Coal Harbour : Enjoy upscale casual dining with a West Coast flair and a stunning waterfront view at this popular restaurant.
• Chewies Steam & Oyster Bar : Savor fresh seafood and Southern-inspired dishes in a cozy, rustic setting at this local favorite.
• Chop Steakhouse & Bar : Enjoy perfectly cooked steaks and other mouth-watering dishes in an elegant and sophisticated setting.
• Miku Vancouver : Sample fresh and flavorful sushi and Japanese-inspired dishes at this stylish, modern restaurant with stunning waterfront views.
• Steamworks Brewpub : Indulge in delicious pub fare and locally crafted beer in a lively and inviting atmosphere at this popular brewery and restaurant.
• Top Of Vancouver Revolving Restaurant : Treat yourself to breathtaking panoramic views of the city and mountains while dining on gourmet cuisine that’s both classic and contemporary.
• Water St. Café : Experience contemporary Pacific Northwest cuisine made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients at this charming and intimate restaurant.

And if you’re in a hurry and looking for quick fast-food options, there’s a nearby McDonald’s and Tim Horton’s within walking distance of the terminal.

Airports for Disney Cruises From Vancouver to Alaska

For those embarking on a Disney Alaskan cruise from Vancouver, flying into the city is the preferred mode of transportation. Luckily, the Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal, which serves as the embarkation point, is conveniently situated near Vancouver International Airport (YVR).

Here are some crucial details to keep in mind when flying into Vancouver for a Disney cruise to Alaska.

Which Airport Should I Fly Into for a Disney Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver?

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is the best airport to fly into if you’re planning a Disney cruise to Alaska departing from the Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal .

First and foremost, YVR is incredibly convenient as it’s just 9.5 miles (or 15.3 kilometers) away from the terminal.

Additionally, the airport offers a wide range of transportation options, including Uber, taxis, shuttles, limos, public transit, and car rentals, making it easy to get to your destination quickly and efficiently.

YVR is also known for its world-class amenities, such as restaurants, lounges, and shops, providing passengers with everything they need to relax and refresh before or after their journey.

Vancouver International Airport’s convenient location, efficient transportation options, and excellent amenities make it the perfect choice for those embarking on a Disney cruise to Alaska from the Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal.

Can You Fly Into Seattle for a Disney Alaska Cruise?

Disney Cruises to Alaska sail out of Vancouver, so Vancouver’s airports are the obvious choice for flights. But travelers with a bit of extra time — and a little wanderlust — might instead opt to fly into Seattle-Tacoma Airport (SEA) a day or two in advance of their cruise. Domestic flights into Seattle can be cheaper than international flights to Vancouver, and allow for a great day of sightseeing in the Pacific Northwest ahead of the cruise.

Spend the afternoon exploring the iconic Pike Place Market or visiting the Space Needle , stay overnight, and get up early the next morning to catch Amtrak’s Cascades Route for a stunning scenic train ride up the west coast to Vancouver. The early morning train should get you to Vancouver in time to catch the ship, though a safer bet would be to arrive the day before you set sail.

How Do I Get from Vancouver Airport to Disney’s Canada Place Terminal?

There are several ways to get from Vancouver International Airport to Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal. These include the following:

Ridesharing Apps (Uber, Lyft)

One popular and convenient method is using ridesharing apps like Uber or Lyft. After landing at the airport, passengers can easily request a ride through the app. Ridesharing services are convenient and generally more affordable than taxis and shuttles. For these reasons, ridesharing is the preferred transportation for many guests heading to the Canada Place Cruise Terminal.

Taxi Service

For those who prefer a more traditional mode of transportation, taxis are readily available at the airport and provide the same level of convenience without needing your phone. The drawback is cabs can be more expensive than alternatives like Uber and Lyft.

Public Transit

Another convenient way to get from Vancouver International Airport to the cruise port is by taking the Canada Line Rapid Transit SkyTrain. The station is located between the international and domestic terminals. A covered walkway (with escalators and elevators) makes walking to the station easier, even with baggage.

Passengers should take the Canada Line , which has two routes; one runs from Vancouver Airport to the cruise port on the waterfront, and the other serves the City of Richmond. The journey takes 26 minutes and runs every 6 minutes at peak times, starting at YVR airport. There are 13 stations along this route.

Check the SkyTrain website for fare and schedule updates, but you can expect to pay approximately $8-$10 (Canadian) per person per trip.

Renting a Car

Although renting a car at Vancouver International Airport is possible, it’s not necessary since it’s only 9.5 miles (15.3 km) away, and there are plenty of transportation alternatives for getting to Disney’s Port of Vancouver cruise terminal. In addition, renting a car is likely to be more expensive.

Official Disney Ground Transportation (Shuttle Service)

Disney Cruise Line provides a convenient ground transportation shuttle service for guests traveling from Vancouver International Airport to the Canada Place Cruise Terminal. By opting for a Disney ground transportation package, you can enjoy a stress-free and seamless Disney experience from the moment you arrive until the time you depart.

Although other transportation options, such as Uber, may be less expensive, Disney’s transportation service takes care of everything for you, ensuring you have a hassle-free experience. For this reason, we believe that the additional cost of the Disney transportation package is worth it .

Upon arrival at Vancouver International Airport, guests will undergo a Canadian Border Services Agency Immigration inspection before heading to Baggage Claim. A Disney Cruise Line representative will be waiting for guests outside of customs. Transportation options may include a motor coach, minibus, or taxi, depending on arrival time and party size.

Ground transfers are available on embarkation and debarkation days only and can be purchased in advance for $25 per guest ($50 roundtrip) . If guests have booked a hotel stay before or after their cruise, transfers are available for an additional fee between the airport, hotel, and cruise port.

Guests should make reservations for ground transfers in advance. If you wish to add air travel, ground transportation, or a hotel stay, please contact Disney Cruise Line or work with a Disney travel planner like The Vacationeer .

What is the Uber Fare From Vancouver Airport to Disney’s Canada Place Cruise Terminal?

Uber fares from Vancouver International Airport to Disney’s Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal can vary depending on the vehicle you choose, and the distance traveled. The following is an estimate of fares between YVR and the Disney Cruise Line Terminal at Port of Vancouver’s Canada Place cruise terminal. Please remember that these figures are estimates and that the final fare may vary due to traffic, surge pricing, and other factors.

Estimated Cost of an Uber From YVR to Disney’s Canada Place Cruise Terminal:

• Uber X or Uber Green: $29.32
• Uber XL: $45.55

*estimates do not include tips.

According to our calculations, Uber X and Uber Green offer the best way to save money on Disney cruise transportation between the airport and the Disney’s Vancouver cruise port.

How Much are Taxis from the Airport to Canada Place?

Plenty of taxis are readily available at the airport to transport you to the Port of Vancouver’s Canada Place pier. However, they tend to be more expensive than comparable ridesharing services like Uber X and Uber Green. The evidence is as follows:

• The estimated taxi fare from YVR to Disney’s Canada Place Cruise Terminal is $45.35

How Much Does the Disney Shuttle Cost From the Airport to the Cruise Port?

Looking for a convenient and hassle-free way to travel between Vancouver International Airport and Disney’s Cruise Port at Canada Place? Consider taking the Disney shuttle service, which offers a seamless and enjoyable experience from start to finish.

Disney’s Vancouver ground transfers cost $25 one-way or $50 round trip, which is more expensive than a taxi or Uber, especially for families or groups of two or more. However, the peace of mind and convenience that comes with the Disney brand can be well worth the investment.

To learn more about Disney cruises to Alaska, including Disney Cruise Line’s ground transfers (shuttle service), contact The Vacationeer . They can provide helpful advice and guidance to make your trip extra magical.

Bundle Your Cruise, Hotel, and Ground Transit Into a Single, Carefree Package

Hotels Near the Airport and Canada Place

Fairmont Waterfront | Image © Disney / Fairmont

It is recommended that you arrive in Vancouver at least one day before your cruise departure to avoid missing it. Additionally, travelers may wish to extend their vacation by exploring the beautiful city of Vancouver, British Columbia, before or after their cruise. In either case, there are several excellent hotels near Disney’s Canada Place Cruise Terminal and Vancouver International Airport, where you can stay for one or more nights.

Consider the following nearby hotels:

Official Disney Pre/Post Cruise Hotels:

There are three Disney affiliate hotels in Vancouver where you can combine your Disney cruise reservation with pre- or post-cruise accommodations.

• Fairmont Vancouver Airport : Relax and recharge at the fully soundproofed Fairmont Vancouver Airport hotel, conveniently located within Vancouver International Airport. With stunning views, luxury amenities, and close proximity to the airport and Port of Vancouver (9 miles), this hotel is an excellent choice for a hassle-free pre- or post-cruise stay.
• Fairmont Waterfront : Enjoy a comfortable and luxurious stay at the prime harbor-front location of Fairmont Waterfront, an official Disney hotel within walking distance of popular attractions like Gastown and Stanley Park. With luggage-only transfers available and proximity to the Port of Vancouver cruise terminal, this hotel is perfect for Disney Cruise Line guests departing for Alaska.
• Vancouver Marriott Pinnacle Downtown Hotel : Stay at the Vancouver Marriott Pinnacle Downtown Hotel, an official Disney hotel just two blocks from Disney’s cruise ship terminal and within easy reach (9 miles) of the airport. Enjoy spacious accommodations with upscale style, stunning views of Coal Harbour, and nearby attractions like Stanley Park and Gastown.

Contact The Vacationeer for more information about booking a room at a Disney Cruise Line partner hotel.

Other Nearby Hotels:

Besides Disney’s official partner hotel, there are many excellent lodging options within walking distance of Disney’s cruise terminal. Below are four hotels that are ideal for pre- or post-Disney cruises to Alaska:

• Pan Pacific Vancouver : This hotel’s prime location is quite literally right on top of Canada Place’s cruise terminals — you can take an elevator from the hotel down to the boarding area of the terminal! Add in elegant décor and stunning views, and it’s an ideal choice. Chic rooms have upscale amenities, and guests can enjoy an outdoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, and spa. The hotel offers both casual and fine dining options.
• Days Inn by Wyndham Vancouver Downtown : This hotel’s location, just a 5-minute walk from Canada Place, provides easy access to the cruise port, while the Waterfront SkyTrain station offers transportation to the airport. The hotel’s straightforward rooms include free WiFi, TVs, and coffeemakers, and children stay free with a paying adult. Suites are also available for larger groups.
• Vancouver Marriott Pinnacle Downtown Hotel : Just a 6-minute walk from Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal, this hotel features comfortable rooms with city views, an indoor pool, a whirlpool, a sauna, a gym, and a chic restaurant with a bar.
• Auberge Vancouver : An upscale hotel within a 5-minute (downhill) walk of the Canada Place cruise terminal. For a true splurge, opt for a Deluxe King Harbour View Suite, offering a trendy apartment-type setting with giant wall-to-wall windows overlooking the port. Get up early to watch the Disney Wonder arriving in port for your cruise!

Are You Ready to Book Your Disney Alaskan Cruise?

Booking a Disney cruise to Alaska has never been easier thanks to The Vacationeer , an Earmarked Diamond-Level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner . Their vast experience planning trips to Disney destinations allows them to find the best Disney cruise itineraries for families or couples.

Your dedicated Vacationeer will handle every aspect of your trip from start to finish, so you won’t have to deal with multiple agents . Whether you’re looking for the cheapest month to cruise , a last-minute Disney cruise deal , tipping policies on Disney cruises , or discounts on your Disney cruise package, The Vacationeer can assist you with all your requests. They work diligently to find the perfect cruise that meets your vacation goals at the lowest possible price .

In addition, The Vacationeer offers valuable onboard cruise credit as a booking bonus, which can be used as free money on your Disney cruise for expenses not covered in the base cost. This alone makes working with The Vacationeer worthwhile!

Plan and book your Disney cruise with ease with the help of The Vacationeer . With their expertise, you can trust they will manage all the details and logistics for you . Request a free quote today, and they will respond promptly. Their services are completely free , so don’t hesitate to ask them anything you wish about Disney cruises to Alaska!

Related Posts:

Disney Alaska Cruise Planning and Tips

Taking a Disney Wonder Alaska cruise is a great way to experience nature with all the comforts and fun of a Disney vacation. Use our Disney Alaska cruise planning timeline and tips to make the most out of this expensive, but incredible vacation.

• 12 months or more before Alaska cruise
• 10 months or more before cruise
• 4 to 6 months before cruise
• 2 to 4 months before cruise
• 1 month before cruise
• Embarkation Day
• Our Favorite Disney Wonder Alaska Cruise Excursions

Disney Alaska Cruise Vacation Tips

12 to 15 months before your alaska cruise, book your disney alaska cruise.

Disney Alaskan cruises are extremely popular bucket-list vacations. Many people reserve their Alaska sailings as soon as the booking window opens for the best prices and room locations.

Pricing first increases not long after the Disney Alaska cruise itineraries are released and usually continue to climb. Guests booking their first Disney cruise should reserve a cabin when the dates open.

The best way to save on a pricey Disney Alaska cruise for experienced Disney cruisers is booking early and using a placeholder reservation. 

Placeholder reservations are only available to those who have previously cruised with Disney. Pay a $250 deposit while still on a Disney cruise and you’ll get a “placeholder”. Once this placeholder is reserved you have 24 months to use it. 

Placeholder deposits are applied to your next reservation and also provide a 10% discount on the Disney cruise. This discount saves a lot of money on expensive cruises like Alaska and Europe.

We used our placeholder discount for a Disney Wonder verandah room. These rooms have private outdoor balconies perfect for gorgeous inside passage views, but these are more expensive cabins.

Guests saving money with inside staterooms can head to Disney Wonder’s top deck for stunning wildlife views.

Alaskan Disney Cruise itineraries vary slightly by sail date. We were locked into specific dates so our ports of call were Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway.

In the end I was grateful our Disney Wonder Alaska cruise stopped in Skagway instead of Icy Point Straight. The White Pass Railway in Skagway was incredible versus what I think are less interesting Icy Strait Point excursion options.

10 Months Before Disney Alaska Cruise

Book your hotel.

Hotels near Canada Place are in-demand with all Alaska cruise lines guests.  Easy access to Canada Place on embarkation day and a limited number of hotels within walking distance make prices soar and availability plummet much earlier than you’d expect. 

We opted for Pan Pacific Fairmont which is directly above Canada Place. Although the price was shockingly high for a mediocre room, embarkation was a breeze. 

Pan Pacific bell services has a convenient, tip-only service that brings your marked bags down to your ship straight from your room. This means no lugging heavy suitcases through the terminal.

If you opt for a hotel further away, budget for extra travel time. Heavy traffic and large crowds make arriving, dropping bags, and embarking take longer than you’d expect. 

6 Months Before Disney Alaska Cruise

Check Your Passports

Everyone flying into Canada must have a valid passport to enter. Passports are routinely checked throughout the cruise since guests often cross the US and Canada border on excursions, too.

Last year US passport applications had a significant processing time with expected waits of 10 to 13 weeks plus mailing time. Thankfully 2024 US Passport application and renewal times have significantly decreased. Expect new passports to take 6 to 8 weeks or 2 to 3 weeks for renewals plus mailing time.

To avoid last minute drama, I still recommend applying for all new passports and renewals at least 6 months in advance. This ensures passports are in your possession well before Disney Alaska cruise check-in.

5 Months Before Disney Alaska Cruise

Research Excursions and On Board Activities

Excursion and on board activity reservations open as early as 120 days before the cruise so it’s wise to research options ahead of time. 

Each port has a range of potential excursions from simple sightseeing to ziplining, helicopter rides, and other active options. Excursion descriptions on Disney’s website have an overview of what to expect, mobility or age restrictions, and prices.

There are many excursion options at each port, but some fill up more quickly than others. For example, a tender boat excursion where guests take a ramp off the Disney Cruise Line ship onto a waiting boat for close up glacier viewing is one that routinely sells out. 

Glacier dog sledding via a helicopter is another excursion that sells out quickly despite the high price and risk of same-day cancellation due to weather. 

Disney Alaska cruises also have several sea days where guests can book special on board activities. The most popular on board options are alcohol tastings, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique makeovers , and Palo brunch or dinner reservations.

75 to 120 Days Before Disney Alaska Cruise

Book Excursions and On Board Activities

On board and excursion booking windows vary by Castaway Cay Club status with higher status and concierge guests booking further ahead of time. 

Disney Cruise Line Booking Windows:

• Concierge – 130 days prior to departure
• Pearl ( After completing 25 DCL sailings ) – 123 days prior to departure
• Platinum ( After completing 10 DCL sailings ) – 120 days prior to departure
• Gold ( After completing 5 DCL sailings ) – 105 days prior to departure
• Silver ( After completing 1 DCL sailing ) – 90 days prior to departure
• First Time Disney Cruisers – 75 days prior to departure

Narrow down preferred Disney Alaska cruise excursions and then have one or two back up options in case your first choice is unavailable. This is especially important for guests who have later booking windows.

If you don’t get your preferred reservations, keep checking back. Sometimes availability is added closer to the sail date or as other guests cancel. 

We loved all of our Disney Alaska Cruise excursions and felt like they were the right choice for our family and friends. There’s tons of options, but here’s a quick overview of what we did.

Glacier Viewing (Stikine Icecap), Alaska

Glacier Explorer is the only Disney Wonder excursion on glacier viewing day. Your excursion begins by checking in and waiting for instructions in a holding area. 

From here the group walks down to a lower deck where a ramp leads from Disney Wonder directly onto a smaller glacier viewing boat. This tender boat gets incredibly close to glaciers where we were able to see both glacier calving and baby seals along the shore with our binoculars. 

This port adventure is expensive, but we enjoyed the experience and gorgeous pictures of Disney Wonder in icy surroundings. However, on our sailing Disney Wonder was able to get pretty close, making the excursion less crucial.

The picture above shows our view from the tender ship and the picture below shows the glacier view from our stateroom.

Skagway, Alaska

Steeped in Gold Rush history, Skagway is a small town with shops and cool National Park Service museums . We explored these on our own before taking our port adventure. 

We booked the Yukon Suspension Bridge, City and White Pass Railway excursion. This port adventure began with a bus ride back into Canada where we explored a small Yukon suspension bridge. From here we took the bus back to Fraser and climbed aboard the White Pass Railway.

The White Pass Railway runs along the same tracks used during the Gold Rush with incredible views of the Alaskan wilderness. Guests can sit inside the train car and watch through the large windows or stand on outside train platforms for an even more exciting experience.

I absolutely recommend riding the White Pass Railway. This train ride was unlike anything we’d done before and an iconic part of the Skagway area.

Some of our group did the Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp & Salmon Bake Featuring Exclusive Disney Character Experience instead. Although the characters were cute and food decent, they didn’t love the overall experience and regretted forgetting bug repellant.

Juneau, Alaska

We booked the Mendenhall Glacier Dog Sled port adventure despite my nervousness about the helicopter ride to the top of Mendenhall Glacier. The flight provided stunning views of the glacier and riding a dog sled across the snowpack felt surreal.

Our group was lucky to experience a Mendenhall Glacier Dog Sled excursion. Groups before, and after, us had their port adventures canceled due to weather conditions right before leaving.

Want a dog sled experience without the risk of cancellation or the high price tag? We also considered the Dog Sledding Summer Camp port adventure which lets you play with puppies and ride on a cart through a forest.

Ketchikan, Alaska

We mostly explored Ketchikan on our own, visiting Creek Street, museums, and Salmon Ladder. However, we did opt for one super touristy excursion in Ketchikan, The Exclusive Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show.

The lumberjack show was a hit with all ages in our group which encompassed a future Kindergartener, tween, teens, and adults. The riotous show demonstrated incredible lumberjack skills with most of the lumberjacks having serious competition credentials. 

We opted for the Disney Wonder Exclusive Lumberjack Show since some of the storytelling was modified to be more family friendly.

30 to 40 Days Before Disney Alaska Cruise

Complete Online Check-in

Castaway Club status determines when online check-in is available for guests. Online check-in is an important step for anyone sailing on Disney Cruise Line since this is when guests choose a port arrival time.

Have family member pictures on a plain background, think passport style photos, taken on your phone before check-in.

Also have everyone’s passport information and pictures of the documents ready which are required to complete online check-in. Once all the essential documents and photos are uploaded you can book your port arrival time. 

Early port arrival times are ideal since you have early access to the ship to explore, swim, and eat even though staterooms are not available until later in the afternoon. 

Disney Cruise Line Online Check-in Windows:

• Concierge/Pearl – 40 days prior to departure
• Platinum – 38 days prior to departure
• Gold – 35 days prior to departure
• Silver – 33 days prior to departure
• First Time Disney Cruisers – 30 days prior to departure

Book Royal Gathering

Royal Gathering is a popular Disney Alaska cruise princess meet and greet.

Book a reservation time and then stand in one short line to meet several Disney princesses. On our Disney Alaska Cruise we met Tiana, Belle, Ariel, and Cinderella in just a few minutes.

Reservations for Royal Gathering open 30 days before the sail date for all guests, regardless of Castaway Club status. Book this popular onboard activity right at 30 days for the best chance of reservations.

Find out more about Disney Cruise line character experiences in this article.

14 to 30 Days Before Disney Alaska Cruise

Start packing.

Alaska cruise packing is not for the faint of heart. Active outdoor excursions, formal nights, daytime clothes, and an unbelievably wide range of weather means you really need to pack for every option. 

I purchased so many things I wasn’t sure I’d use, like waterproof boots and pants, but ended up needing almost everything at least once. 

Packing early meant that as I thought of missing items I still had time to order them. Avoid the stress I felt by using my free, printable Disney Alaska Cruise packing list to keep track of everything you’ll need.

Disney Wonder Alaska Cruise Day Of Embarkation

Complete online questionnaire.

Every guest embarking Disney Wonder on an Alaska cruise must complete a health questionnaire before boarding. This form is easily done online and only takes a minute. 

Disney Wonder Embarkat ion

When completing online check-in you signed up for a port arrival time. This port arrival time window is when you complete the in-person check-in and then wait to board the ship. Earlier groups access the ship sooner. 

Wear a comfortable outfit you’d like for pictures. There are a couple photo ops before boarding Disney Wonder and it’s best to be camera ready.

Pack important items like medications, all documents like passports and IDs, and any other essential items in your day pack. Luggage arrives at the staterooms late. 

For example, on our Alaska cruise our luggage was the last to arrive of anyone we knew. It came so late we didn’t even have time to change for dinner the first night.

Start Your Epic Adventure

Have some lunch, explore the ship, and even take a dip or ride the water slide once you’ve embarked. Since the weather looked cool on embarkation day we didn’t wear our suits on, but I did pack them in our day pack.

The water was plenty warm and crowds were low so Elizabeth and her friends changed into suits and had a good time using the pool and slide before the Sail-A-Wave party.

The Sail-A-Wave party occurs on embarkation day and is usually timed to coincide with departing from the dock. The party features Disney friends in an energetic pool deck stage show and gets everyone excited for the trip to begin.

Book Wildlife Viewing Tours For (Almost) Guaranteed Experiences

We read a lot of reviews that wildlife viewing was easy on Disney Wonder Alaska cruises. While we did see some wildlife, it was few and far between. I regret we didn’t do a whale watching tour excursion or take one in Vancouver.

Most wildlife excursions don’t guarantee sightings, but reputable companies work hard to ensure the best chances to see wildlife.

Spend Time In Vancouver Before Your Cruise

We always recommend arriving in a port city at least one day before embarkation just in case there are flight delays or cancellations.

Vancouver is such a lovely destination we easily filled two whole touring days exploring this beautiful city. Our three night pre-cruise stay seemed perfect.

Pack Waterproof Gear

I read everywhere that I needed to pack waterproof gear, but I was skeptical we would actually use it. However, everywhere we went locals told us that we were in a temperate rainforest.

We used our waterproof gear on the ship, in Ketchikan, and in Juneau. I was so glad I bought and packed our waterproof boots, pants, and rain jackets. 

Have A Plan For Alaska Port Days

Alaska port towns are generally small and touristy with lots of shops. Although it is nice to walk around the towns it doesn’t provide the Alaska experience most of us picture when planning. 

Booking excursions lets you explore outside the port and experience more of what Alaska has to offer. I recommend booking excursions ahead of time, especially through Disney Cruise Line, for a generally seamless experience.

Walking off the ship you’ll find lots of booths hawking excursions, but often these tours are expensive and underwhelming. 

If you opt out of excursions, make a plan of what you’d like to do. For example, tour the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park Visitor Center in Skagway to learn about the area’s Gold Rush history.

Bring Binoculars

What wildlife we saw from Disney Wonder on our Alaska cruise generally needed binoculars. Views of Bald Eagles, a couple whales, and seals were all better with our binoculars.

Arrive Early For Broadway-Style Shows Like Frozen

There are three big productions on Disney Wonder: The Golden Mickeys, Disney Dreams, and Frozen. Both Disney Dreams and Frozen, A Musical Spectacular, are incredible shows.

Arrive when the doors open for the best seats since the theater fills up quickly for performances.

Book Palo Brunch On Sea Days

Palo is an adult-only restaurant on Disney Wonder. The food, service, and atmosphere provide an elevated dining experience perfect for a day at sea. We enjoyed a long, multi-course brunch on our sea days without missing out on port adventures.

Buy The Disney Cruise Line Unlimited Photo Package

Although the unlimited downloads photo package is expensive, we loved having good quality photo ops where we are all in the picture.

Take advantage of photo opportunities at character meet and greets, dinner, and cool backgrounds in the lobby available before dinner on most nights. 

On our Disney Wonder Alaska cruise I pre-booked the Unlimited Digital Package which was $295.95 when reserved ahead of time. Once on the cruise the same package would have cost $349.95.

Check The Prohibited Items List

I knew our formal clothes would likely be wrinkled upon arrival. Irons are only available on-board in the laundry rooms for safety reasons. I packed a travel steamer so we could avoid the laundry room which gets very busy.

Fortunately the night before embarking I double checked the prohibited item list and discovered that steamers are not allowed.

I sadly had to leave a great steamer in our hotel room, but if I had left it in our bag it would have been confiscated and also delayed our luggage.

For Extra Fun Participate In Fish Extender Activities

We had never participated in a Fish Extender before our Alaska cruise. One family in our group surprised us with an extender (a hanging pouch placed outside your stateroom) and the other families delighted us each day with fun trinkets. 

We couldn’t wait to see what was waiting in the pouches when we went back to the room. If you aren’t traveling with a large group you can find Disney Alaska cruise fish extender Facebook groups for your sail date.

Understand Disney Cruise Line Rotational Dining

There are three Disney Wonder dining rooms: Tiana’s Place, Animator’s Palate, and Triton’s. Guests experience the restaurants more than once over the course of a Disney Wonder Alaska cruise.

The dining rotation and tables are assigned to guests.  Upon embarkation you can see which restaurant you’ll dine at each night. 

We enjoyed our experiences at each of the restaurants. Tiana’s Place atmosphere is super fun with live music during dinner, but conversation is difficult on these nights. 

Another incredible dinner experience was on our third night at Animator’s Palate.

Everyone is encouraged to sketch a character on a special paper when they arrive for dinner. Through Disney magic these characters are animated and come to life on the screens surrounding the restaurant during dinner.

Final Thoughts On Disney Alaska Cruise Planning Timeline and Tips 

Our Disney Wonder Alaska cruise was a bucket list item and I did tons of planning for this once in a lifetime trip. I loved each of our excursions, the incredible scenery, and wonderful Disney vacation experiences.

Follow our Disney Alaska Cruise planning timeline and tips to make the most of this unique and expensive Disney vacation.

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Ear To There Travel

Trusted Disney Travel Agents for Every Disney Destination

Disney Cruise To Alaska

If you want to indulge in one of the most sought-after and frequently-repeated trips offered by Mickey & Co., the Disney cruise to Alaska is the supercalifragilisticexpialidocious choice. 

Let the Disney Wonder (both the wonder of Disney magic and the actual ship itself ) carry you to the land of gold prospectors, ancient glaciers, and gasp-worthy sea creatures.

Our expert Disney travel agents (we call them “Vacationeers”) will book your cruise with ease at absolutely no extra cost to you . Click on the button below to get the party started. 

Why Take A Disney Cruise to Alaska?

Many cruises go to Alaska, but what you get with a Disney Alaska cruise is a marvelously magical, unrivaled experience that’s in a class all its own.

The grandest comfort. 

The greatest fun.

The most environmentally-friendly pleasure cruise.

And by far the most for your money. 

With Ear To There Travel, you get even more because you’ll have a highly experienced, completely free travel agent helping you navigate the stressful seas of opportunity.

No hidden fees, no hidden agenda. We’re just here to help you create the vacation of your dreams.

What’s Included In A Disney Alaska Cruise

Mermaids make ready, princes get pumped – let’s get down to business and see the enchantment that awaits you.

Entertainment And Activities On The Disney Wonder

Do you want to build a snowman at sea? You do? Fantastic! Frozen is one of the shows you can see (and one of the things you can feel) on your Alaska cruise. 

• Spas and hair salons
• Live, original, extravagant, Broadway-quality, musical theatre performances 
• Dancing & Disney character deck parties
• Freshwater pools, waterslides, play areas for different ages
• Live music 
• Variety shows
• New & Classic Disney movies on deck and in high-class, state-of-the-art movie theaters
• Basketball court
• Running track  
• Ping pong 
• Shuffleboard 
• Fitness center, personal training, and classes with ocean views
• The best views of the world from the most beautiful rooms at sea
• Photo-ops and interactions with your favorite Disney, Marvel, and Star Wars characters throughout the ship

Unique Activities On The Disney Alaska Cruise

Specific onboard and port adventures that you can only find in Alaska – and many that you can only get through Disney Alaska cruise excursions. 

There aren’t any fireworks on the Alaska cruises, but, oh, there is sooooo much you can enjoy instead:

• Pixar Pals Party on deck
• Dog Sledding
• An Alpine zipline 
• Adventure ropes course 
• Flying in a seaplane  
• Afternoon tea
• Hummer expedition
• Salmon bake
• Lumberjack show
• Museums 
• Gardens 
• Trails 
• Trains 
• Trolleys 
• Canoes 
• Horseback riding
• Fisherman tour 
• Snorkeling 
• Gold panning
• Scavenger hunt  
• Bikes 

Delicious Disney Cruise Food 

One of the highlights of a Disney Cruise is the huge selection of unforgettable food in an atmosphere that you can only find with Disney. 

Every member of your party is sure to find just what they want when they want it, and that makes everyone’s trip more fun and relaxing. 

Whether it’s a meal for the whole family, a romantic evening for two, or quick snacks between exciting back-to-back activities, the possibilities for great food are ready when you want them with: 

• Upscale, gourmet fare 
• Quick-bite casual fare
• Poolside nibbles
• 24-hour room service (included in the cost of the cruise)
• Unlimited coffee, tea, and soda
• Unlimited soft-serve ice cream
• An adults-only cafe for fancier coffee and pastries

Best Disney Cruise Restaurants

For a few hours of grown-up getaway time, you’ll appreciate the sophisticated, highly sought-after options for the young at heart. Palo is an adults-only, Italian dining option and is one of the big draws for many on Disney cruises.   

Tiana’s Place 

With upbeat Jazz, the best of Louisiana-style specialty foods, and lively storytelling, Tiana’s Place is inspired by Disney’s The Princess and the Frog . Its beautiful, New Orleans-style architecture sets the perfect backdrop for your dining pleasure.    

Dedicated Variety For Every Age Group

Cruises created by Disney. Alaskan and ship-board activities approved by both the young and young at heart. 

Some of the highlights?

For kids: Oceaneers Club , complete with a Marvel Super Hero Academy. Aqualab pool . Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique . 

For tweens: Edge hangout. Goofy’s Pool . Royal afternoon tea .

For teens: Vi b e club. Chill spa. Waterslides.

For adults: Senses Spa . Cadill a c Lounge . Crown & Fin pub. Azure nightclub with live shows. Quiet Cove Pool. 

… And tons more that everyone can do together both on and off the ship!

With more to do than you can fit into one lifetime, let alone one trip, you might want some expert help understanding all the options and picking what’s best for you. Click the link below to engage our free, EarMarked by Disney (which means we’re official!) services.

Disney Alaska Cruise Prices

Essentially for the cost of a Broadway ticket, you can get an all-inclusive vacation with food, comfortable accommodations, activities, relaxation, the best service on the planet, and entertainment galore – complete with Broadway-caliber performers performing Broadway-level performances.

As for exact numbers, the cost is calculated according to the following factors:

• Length of the cruise (usually about a week)
• Number of people (including wheelchair accessible at all price points)
• Room type (10 varieties) 
• Destination (17 places)
• Additional Port Adventures (virtually unlimited possibilities)

The starting cost for a Disney cruise to Alaska is around $180 – $600, per person, per day.  

When you’re creating your budget, don’t forget airfare, souvenirs, internet, any extra adventures at the port, services on the ship, and gratuity at the end.

Disney Wonder Cruise Rooms

Innovative and relaxing, no expense was spared on the living quarters on the Disney Wonder. They were designed with the whole family in mind.  

You’ll find spacious accommodations, a dedicated sitting area, a private bathroom, privacy curtains, extra storage space, a refrigerator, a safe, wheelchair accessible rooms, usually a sleeper sofa plus a pull-down bunk, and more.

• Concierge Royal Suite with a verandah
• Concierge two-bedroom suites with a verandah
• Concierge one-bedroom suites with a verandah
• Deluxe Family Stateroom with a verandah 
• Deluxe Stateroom with a verandah 
• Deluxe Stateroom with a Navigator View verandah
• Deluxe 

Disney Alaska Cruise Packing Suggestions

Have both a carry-on day bag and luggage to check. Your luggage will be loaded into your stateroom for you, but since that is true for everyone on the ship, your luggage may not arrive promptly and you’ll want to have the important things on hand.

Day-Bag Suggestions:

• Sunglasses and prescription glasses
• Sunscreen and a hat
• Swimsuit and a cover-up
• Change of clothes
• Lightweight sweater or jacket

Larger Luggage Suggestions:

• Windproof and comfortable clothing
• Water-proof gear (but Disney will provide a poncho if you forget a raincoat)
• Pants or jeans
• Comfortable, sturdy shoes
• Dinner Attire 

Interested in what not to pack on a Disney Cruise? 

Disney’s got a list of what’s not allowed onboard their cruise ships.

A Note About Dress Codes

The main dining restaurants are all “cruise casual,” but some people do prefer to gussy it up a little. 

The adults-only restaurant Palo prefers to maintain the highest level of elegance, while also attending to the comfort of its patrons. While certainly not black-tie formal, there is a dress code for dining at Palo.

If you are on a cruise that lasts 7+ days, there will be themed nights (including a formal evening) so be prepared to dress up (both in gowns and costumes) should you wish to enjoy the frivolity. 

Ready To Book Your Alaska Cruise?  

Ear To There Travel makes it easy. So easy, in fact, that we’ve created an easy booking button just for you.

Simply click on the button and it will take you to our handy-dandy quote form. 

The quotes are completely free .

Our services to turn the quote into a booking are completely free .

Receiving our help ensuring your vacation proceeds according to the wishes of your heart… Yes! Also completely free !

The only thing you have to cover is the vacation itself. Save your hard decision-making abilities for whether to eat one dessert or two on your first night at sea and which Disney movie to watch while you’re rocked to sleep afterward. Our goal for you is to simply relax and enjoy your delightful Disney cruise.  

You want to take a Disney cruise – let us take the complicated stuff off your plate and make it as easy as catching a Jungle Cruise in one of the parks.

Ear To There Travel is EarMarked by Disney. What does that mean?

It means that our Vacationeers are some of the best Disney travel agents in the biz. 

Ear To There is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planning company. Disney destinations are our specialty, our focus, our passion. 

To become EarMarked, you must maintain a multi-year track record of booking a high volume of Disney vacations and demonstrating your Disney expertise. You must also maintain the highest of standards in providing service to the discerning Disney guest that has come to expect a detailed, well-structured, easy experience. 

4 Great Reasons To Work With A Disney Authorized Travel Agent

• You’ll save money. 
• You’ll save time.
• You’ll save energy, effort, and emotional distress.
• You’ll feel confident being in the know and having easier access to the vacation of your dreams.

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Disney Wonder Alaska Cruise – The Essential Guide 2024

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One sailing that is on many people’s bucket lists is a cruise to Alaska.

And if you want to sail on one of the best cruise lines which offer that itinerary you really should consider a Disney Wonder Alaska Cruise.

Here we look at the Alaskan cruises that are available on the Disney Wonder, get an idea of pricing and find out more about what Disney Cruises have to offer.

Disney Wonder Sailings from Vancouver

First, let’s see what itineraries are available.

All the Disney Wonder Alaska Cruises sail from the port of Vancouver, Canada.

There are a number of different cruises available including 5, 7, 8, and 9-night itineraries.

Most of the Disney Wonder Cruises are for 7 nights.

There are some variations on the Disney Wonder Alaska cruise itinerary but most are 7-night cruises sailing from Vancouver.

4-Night Pacific Coast Cruise From San Diego California to Vancouver Canada

• San Diego, California
• Victoria, Canada
• Vancouver, Canada

Sailing on 5/9/24

7-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver

• Glacier Viewing, Stikine Icecap
• Icy Strait Point

Sailing on 5/13/24, 5/27/24,

6/10/24, 6/24/24,

8/5/24, 8/19/24,

Sailing on 5/20/24,

6/3/24, 6/17/24,

7/1/24, 7/29/24,

8/12/24, 8/26/24,

9/9/24, and 9/16/24

9-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver

Sailing on 7/15/24

Do You Need a Balcony Stateroom on a Disney Alaska Cruise?

The very simple answer to this is that a balcony stateroom is always very nice to have, particularly for an Alaskan cruise.

However, balcony staterooms are almost always more expensive than Inside and Outside staterooms – and never more is this true on any Alaskan cruise that you may choose.

Let’s look at this price difference.

These Disney Alaskan cruise costs are shown as correct if you were booking on November 27, 2022. Prices vary a lot so always check the Disney website for up-to-date pricing.

The prices below are for 2 guests including taxes and port fees.

The rates shown are for the lowest rates in that category.

As you can see the rates for a balcony stateroom are considerably higher than for an Inside or Oceanview stateroom.

For some dates, the cost of a balcony stateroom is more than double that of an Inside stateroom.

So should you book a balcony stateroom on a Disney Alaskan cruise?

Only you can decide whether the cost is within your budget.

Of course, it is nice to be able to sit on the balcony and watch the beautiful scenery go by, but you can do that in the public areas of the ship.

Is it as great an experience?

Probably not, but you are saving $3,000 to $4,000. You need to decide how important that is to you.

How to Find the Best Staterooms on Disney Wonder

When is the Best Time to Book a Disney Alaska Cruise?

There is no easy answer to this – as pricing patterns have changed since sailings restarted.

The usual advice prior to 2022 was that you should always book a Disney Cruise as close to the opening date as possible as the prices were likely to go up considerably over time.

However, this has become a little more complicated when you look at the prices for 2022 and how they have changed.

You can see  Disney Alaska Cruise 2022 Prices  here to see how they changed from the release date to right up to before sailing.

Some cruise prices for Alaska even went down from the opening day.

This is really not what you would expect, and was probably unique for 2022.

What you can see is that if you want to sail Concierge on a Disney Wonder Alaskan Cruise then the best idea would be to book as early as possible.

Concierge is likely to sell out quickly on many dates, and 2022 shows that prices can rise considerably.

What Are The Disney Alaskan Cruise Port Stops Like?

A Disney 7-night Alaska cruise has port stops in Skagway, Juneau, and Ketchikan.

It also has a day exploring Dawes Glacier. Each of these experiences has something different to offer.

Disney Cruise Dawes Glacier

This isn’t a port stop in the conventional sense. However, it is an experience sailing around the Dawes Glacier.

This is an amazing experience and is often the highlight of a Disney Alaskan cruise.

To be able to get up close and see the amazing scenery is an experience not to be missed.

Dawes Glacier is part of the scenic Endicott Arm fjord which is located approximately 45 miles south of Juneau, Alaska.

You get very close to the glaciers. Nothing can prepare you for that amazing sight of the spectacular glaciers.

The Tracy Arm experience will last around 5 hours, so there is plenty of time to enjoy the experience from different viewpoints.

Remember to dress in layers and bring those binoculars with you!

Icy Strait Point, Alaska

The 7-night Disney Alaskan Cruises and the 9-night cruise sails to Icy Strait Point, Alaska.

It is a stunningly beautiful port with spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.

A relatively new addition to Icy Strait Point is the gondola which gives spectacular views of the area. The Skyglider climbs 1,600 feet to Sky Peak.

It is well worth the journey for the view from the top.

Gondola Mountaintop and Transporter Port Adventure costs $50 for adults and $40 for children aged 3 to 9.

There are lots of tours which will give you the opportunity to see the abundant wildlife. There are a number of Whale Watching Tours available.

There is also a Discovering Birds excursion.

Other Port Adventures include Family Scavenger Hunt, Seafood Fest, Back Country Jeep Adventure, and the Spasski River Valley Wildlife and Bear Search.

Disney Cruise Alaska Skagway Port and Excursions

Skagway is probably my favorite port stop in Alaska.

This is another town where you dock very close to the center, so it is easy to just walk off the ship and explore.

Skagway is a small Gold Rush town. It is part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park.

This is how you imagine stepping back in time would feel like.

Skagway is a tiny town. It has one main street which isn’t very long. The population is just 1,191 people.

It is well worth the short walk into town though if only to imagine what it must have been like to live in one of the Gold Rush towns.

There are some tourist stores, a couple of bars, and a museum which is worth checking out.

However, you will most likely want to combine your visit to Skagway with some Disney cruise excursions to make the most of your time there.

A highlight for many visitors is the White Pass Scenic Railway.

You really couldn’t dock any closer to the station – it is right next to the ship.

This is a very very popular Port Adventure and it does sell out.

The cost is $149 for adults and $74 for children aged 3 to 9 for the basic journey.

There are other Port Adventures that include the rail journey but add on other elements such as a hike, a bike trail, or a VIP experience.

This vintage train takes you on a spectacular journey on a track that was built in 1898.

This is another one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences which we highly recommend.

One of the most sought-after Disney Cruise Alaska excursions is a dog sledding adventure.

There are plenty of opportunities to book an Alaskan port adventure where you can enjoy this amazing experience.

There are many other options for excursions in Skagway

. One of the least pricey is Skagway’s Original Street Car City Tour which is $52 for adults and $35 for children.

On this excursion, you board an original 1927 sightseeing bus and are taken on a historical journey around the town.

It is a good way to see more of the breathtaking scenery surrounding the town and to get an overview of the history of the area.

Other excursions include Alpine Lake Canoe Adventure, Dog Sledding and Glacier Flightseeing, Evening Wildlife Expedition, Klondike Bicycle Tour, Ocean Raft Nature Adventure, Sunset Horseback Adventure and the Yukon Expedition.

Disney Cruise Alaska Juneau Port and Excursions

Junuea is the only US State Capital that is landlocked.

The only way to get there is by land or sea – there are no roads going in or out of the town.

Disney Wonder docks right in the center of town.

Just step off the ship and you can explore the shops and restaurants.

It is, of course, a town which caters to tourists, so you will find a lot of souvenir shops which start to look the same as each other very quickly.

The Goldbelt Tramway is a very popular attraction in Juneau and it is just a short walk from where the Wonder docks.

The aerial tramway takes guests 1,800 feet into the mountains for a spectacular view of the surrounding scenery.

You can do this on your own, but there is also an excursion available. The lines can be long and if the weather is bad (as it often is) you may not see much of a view.

We would say to wait until you arrive and see what the weather is like before deciding if it is worth standing in line.

There is a huge choice of activities in Juneau – it is difficult to choose just one.

Juneau is well known for the Mendenhall Glacier.

This breathtaking natural feature is the only glacier in Alaska that you can access by road.

There are many Disney Port Adventures that give guests the chance to visit Mendenhall Glacier.

These range from a trip to view the glacier from the ground to plenty of options from a boat or kayak.

The Mendenhall Lake Kayak Adventure gives you an opportunity to explore the glacier up close. It is $229 for adults and $119 for children

Alaska is of course known for its abundant wildlife.

You will likely see whales from your ship, but if you want to increase your odds of seeing one of these beautiful creatures there are plenty of Whale Watching Adventures to choose from.

The Whale Watching and Wildlife Quest is $179 for adults and $109 for children.

Guests will board a catamaran and sail on a whale-watching adventure.

Want to be even more adventurous? The Taku Lacier Adventure by Helicopter is one of those bucket list experiences that you will never forget. It is available for $459 for all ages.

Disney Alaska Cruise Ketchikan Port and Excursions

Another fascinating port on your Disney Cruise is the town of Ketchikan.

Disney Wonder docks right in the town so you can just step off the ship and explore.

As you would expect, the town is full of tourist shops.

It is worth taking a short time to browse around, but you will probably want to book a Port Adventure to explore much more than the town itself.

Ketchikan is most famous for its colorful totem poles which you can see around the town.

The Misty Fjords National Monument by Seaplane is a very popular excursion.

This 75-minute flight will have you flying over spectacular scenery and enjoying a view of the surrounding fjords, waterfalls, and lakes. The cost is $499 for adults and $409 for children aged 2 to 9. Under 2 are free.

Ketchikan is also famous for its lumberjack show, which is a short walk from the cruise ship. You can book the Exclusive Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show at $50 for adults and $28 for children. For an extra charge, you can even try your hand at axe throwing!

There are lots of Disney Alaska Cruise Port Adventures to get you out in the amazing Alaskan scenery. These include an Alaskan Bear Adventure, Zipline Adventures, Hunting for Halibut, Mountain Point Snorkeling Adventure, Rainforest Family Adventure, and a Wilderness Exploration and Crab Fest.

Which Side of the Cruise Ship is Best on an Alaska Cruise?

Visiting Sitka on a Disney Alaska Cruise

The Wonder only has a port stop in Sitka on the 9-night itinerary which only sails once in 2023.

You can easily explore on your own but you will get the most out of your experience if you book a guided tour or Port Adventure.

There are several Disney Port Adventures available to the National Park which is also known as Totem Park. The basic tour is $64 for adults and $44 for children aged 3 to 9.

If you prefer something a little more adventurous then the Alaska Zodiac Adventure and Fin Island Lodge Port Adventures are available for $199 for adults and $139 for children.

Hubbard Glacier

You will only visit Hubbard Glacier on a Disney Alaska Cruise if you are sailing on the 9-night itinerary.

This is subject to actually being able to access the glacier as for part of the cruise season it is too icy to actually pass close to Hubbard Glacier.

It is a spectacularly beautiful place and most guests enjoy the views from the ship.

However, there is one Port Adventure available which is the Hubbard Glacier Explorer costing $299 for adults and $199 for children. This 2-hour tour on a water-jet-powered catamaran  takes you close up to the glacier so that you are likely to see

Want to Know More About the Disney Wonder?

We have spent many months on the Disney Wonder and have written lots of guides about this fabulous ship:

Disney Wonder Staterooms – What Do You Need to Know?

Disney Wonder Restaurant Guide

Disney Wonder Bars

Disney Cruise First-Timer Money Mistakes

Alison Meacham is the founder of EverythingMouse Disney Blog. For over 15 years she has shared her love of Disney Parks, Disney Cruises and Universal Orlando.  In over 30 years of Disney Travel she has spent countless months in Disney Parks and has sailed on over 45 cruises. A British native and now a United States resident she splits her time between California, Florida and the UK. And spends a serious amount of time sailing the seven seas. She helps over 200,000 people per month follow their Disney travel dreams.

Wednesday 30th of November 2022

The photo posted of the Disney Magic in Vancouver - just an fyi that’s not Vancouver! Great article though :)

10 Do’s and Don’ts for your Disney Alaska Cruise

It’s almost time for Disney Cruise Line’s yearly Alaska sailings!  In fact, it’s almost time for Disney to release their 2020 Alaska sailings, and I’m guessing several of you are thinking about booking.  I’ve done Disney cruises all over the world, and Alaska will always be one of my favorites.  It’s amazing.  It is, however, a very different experience than a typical Caribbean cruise.  Here are some tips that will help you prepare!

2. Don’t Count on an Upgrade in Port – You’ve heard me say before that there are often great upgrades at steep discounts available in port. In Alaska, they are fewer and farther between. It’s all about that view.  Everyone wants one, and they are gone by boarding day.  I’m not saying it’s impossible, so get to the port early and try!  What I am saying, is book a room you will be happy with.  If you aren’t going to be happy in an inside room, don’t book it, hoping for an upgrade.  Book what you will be happy with.  If there are upgrades available – woohoo!  Bonus!

6. Do Be Prepared to Enter Canada – An interesting law that you may need to be aware of is a Canadian law that will not allow anyone with a felony to cross their border, no matter how long ago it occurred. Under Canadian law, a DUI is a felony. If you do not clear some legal hurdles beforehand , you can and will be denied entry.  Also, for anyone wondering what kind of proof of citizenship is needed for an Alaskan cruise, Disney spells it all out right here for you.  Easiest answer – get a passport.

8. Don’t be Frightened off by Expensive Flights to Vancouver – There are more options to get to Vancouver than you think! Some of you may live close enough to drive, but most will probably fly. My family tends to avoid using airline miles for overseas flights because it takes so gosh darn many of them.  The good news about Canada, is that with many airlines, it takes the same amount of miles to fly there as it does to fly domestically within the US.  You can also consider flying into Seattle.  It’s possible to rent a car and drive to Vancouver from there, but the train is a fun option as well.  Look at all your options before making your decision!

Bonus – Don’t Worry About Missing Glacier Bay.  Disney gets a bad rap for not visiting Glacier Bay on its itineraries.  I’ve been there, and Glacier Bay is stunning, amazing.  The good news is – so is Endicott Arm.  Or Tracey Arm, or whatever arm Disney will sail through.  You can’t see all the glaciers in Alaska on any single itinerary, but you’ll see plenty with Disney.  And you will be amazed by the beauty.  I’m already excited for you!

Do any other Alaska cruisers have tips?  Or questions?

Tammy Whiting  is the owner of  Storybook Destinations . Did you know Storybook Destinations offers a  complimentary subscription to TouringPlans  with qualified Disney and Universal bookings? Click  here  for a no-obligation quote on your next vacation!

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Tammy Whiting

Tammy has been a lover of all things Disney for most of her life. There’s nowhere on this Earth she’d rather be than on a Disney cruise with her family. She’s a Space Force wife and proud mom of two wonderful children and one beautiful daughter-in-law . She fulfilled a lifelong dream in 2008 and became a travel agent specializing in Disney vacations. She now owns her own travel agency - Storybook Destinations. You can reach Tammy at [email protected].

9 thoughts on “ 10 Do’s and Don’ts for your Disney Alaska Cruise ”

Disney’s website mentions pools on the ship for the Alaska sailings. Given how you describe the weather here, it doesn’t seem like I should plan on any swimming. What is Disney talking about?

Actually, I think you should absolutely pack swimsuits! The pools are heated to a great temperature, and there are always hot tubs. We definitely swim in Alaska. 🙂

Good to know!!

Any water slides?

Just the Twist & Spout for kids. That one would probably be too cold for me (too much of your body is out of the water), but kids may!

My kids are anti-cold splashing too 🙂

I second all of these suggestions! Truly the most amazingly beautiful scenery we’ve ever seen. I booked most of our excursions directly, which saved a lot of $$$. Most of the time, the Disney Excursion group actually joined us on the very same outing.

It is beautiful, isn’t it? And you are right! Disney often uses the same tour operators that you can book directly with!

Would you recommend the seven day with Icy Strait Points or without?

My philosophy on ports is – the more the better. If you ever decide you don’t want to get off, you can always make that your own “sea day”. But I’d recommend getting off everywhere for at least an hour or two! 🙂

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Complete Guide: Disney’s Alaska Cruises for 2023, 2024 and Beyond

By Lisa Gilmore Leave a Comment

If sweating and tan lines aren’t your style, that’s totally okay — we’ve got you covered. If that is what your typical vacation looks like, and you just want to switch things up, this post is also for you!

Today, we’re gonna talk about another popular vacation option: an Alaskan cruise! But with Alaska’s extremely cold climate, it can be difficult to pinpoint the best time to visit while also coordinating schedules with the people in your travel party. We’re here to provide you all the information on Disney Cruises to Alaska for 2023 and 2024 so you can find that sweet spot of a sail date for you and your family .

The good news is the hard part is over. You’ve already made a few big and critical decisions. You’ve decided that you want to go on a Disney Cruise and that you want to cruise to Alaska. The rest is just navigating through the details, like do you want to bring the black shoes or the red shoes, and how many evening gowns you might bring. Ok, ok, those probably aren’t the questions you’re scratching your head over.

Let’s take a look at some of the biggies you’re probably creating a pro/con list for right now:

When to Take a Disney Cruise to Alaska

How long of a cruise to select, which stateroom to choose, how much will it cost, choosing your alaskan shore excursions.

Not to worry, we’re gonna help you want through those questions! And even better, we’ll help provide you with some additional information, just so you can be sure to have the best cruise vacation ever!

Onboard Disney Cruise Line Programming

Alaskan cruise character meet & greets, packing for your alaskan cruise.

Because Alaska is way up north and cold (shocker, right? 🤣), the cruisin’ months are limited. So you can only sail up to the great white north (is that what it’s called, well… we’re coining it, you heard it here first… oh wait, it’s actually called The Last Frontier, ok, we’ll go with that. Love you, Alaska!) between April and September.

Phew, one hurdle down. We don’t have to stress about 12 months of options. We only have to consider six months. Easy, breezy.

©Disney Cruise Line Sailing to Alaska

Do you need to prioritize when your kids are in school? The May and September sailings will be less expensive and may not even be fully booked because kids will still be in school. Some of the same school discounting effects can be felt for the very beginning of June and the very end of September as well. If you are not confined to summer school schedules, you may want to consider a sailing at the beginning or end of the Alaskan cruising season.

The weather is beautiful!

The other option to consider is the weather (wait, you mean Alaska isn’t just a snowy, frosty wonderland all year-round?).  The later in the season, you plan your cruise, the higher the potential for rain during your trip. You can see on this Juneau, Alaska, monthly climate average that the average rainfall by month is double in September, which is in May. Ketchikan, Alaska, is actually one of the rainiest cities in the U.S. and receives nearly 235 days of precipitation per year. A weather note – most think of Alaska as cold. Throughout the summer months, the temperatures do not get too low, averaging around 60 degrees. Pretty comfortable when in pants. You’ll experience a mix of sun, rain, and cooler temperatures.

You can typically find 3 cruise lengths to Alaska. Disney Cruise Line offers a 5-night, 7-night, and 9-night cruise. Not a big head-scratcher here. Just like Goldilocks, consider your family, and your needs and find the cruise length that “just right” for you.

For many cruises, you could take the same approach that you might take for choosing a Disney resort – why pay for the room if you will be out of the room the entire trip exploring and having fun? You may want to reconsider this for an Alaskan cruise as the itineraries are longer, and the outdoor spaces are colder due to the Alaskan weather.

Oceanview Verandah

As you might not experience an Alaskan cruise more than once in your lifetime, you might think about splurging to have a Verandah room during your Alaskan Disney Cruise and enjoy waking up to views and having the option to check out the view without having to get warmer clothes on and go up on deck.

The prices for the cruise vary dramatically by room type and date of sailing. 

• For the seven-night sailing that leaves May 22, 2023, for two people, an interior room costs $3,574.94, and an exterior deluxe verandah 5C category room with an unobstructed view and regular balcony size costs $8,012.94.
• Compare this to the seven-night sailing that leaves on July 17, 2023, in the heart of the summer. For two people, an interior room costs $4,708.94, while an exterior Deluxe Verandah 5C category room with an unobstructed view and regular balcony size costs $11,148.94.
• The seven-night sailing that leaves on May 13, 2024, for two people in an interior room starts at $3,490, and an exterior verandah room starts at $6,347.

Again, 2024 follows the same trend as 2023, that the mid-summer period is more expensive with kids out of school and potentially better weather. On the seven-night sailing starting on July 29, an inside room for two people starts at $4,623, and a verandah room starts at $8,851.

There are over of excursions for Disney Cruises to Alaska (over 200!). Guests can opt for the most extravagant helicopter ride to dog sledding or just enjoy a leisurely walk around town. CAUTION – You will likely have sticker shock. Some excursions are hundreds of dollars per person. Remember that this is probably a once-in-a-lifetime Disney Cruise. Be sure to budget for these excursions as you plan for your trip.

Disney Cruise Line sells excursions directly, so you can add them to your Disney Cruise reservation plans and have the simplicity of just paying Disney for everything. There are always vendors just off the ship selling other excursion offerings, but be warned that if you take a third-party excursion and do not get back to the ship before the official departure time, the ship will leave you behind.

Skagway as Seen from the Ship

Excursion options will vary based on your length of cruise and the time of the year.

• Juneau, Alaska , is the state’s capital and the largest town that the ship stops in during the Alaskan cruise. The town has some noteworthy food options.
• Skagway, Alaska , was the access point for the last gold rush. This old gold rush town is the jumping-off point for excursions into the Yukon. Excursion options include a historic railway line with stunning vista views, helicopter tours, and tours of the old town.
• Ketchikan, Alaska , is the rainiest place in the world and features an old town built on stilts above a creek, salmon runs, Native American totem polls, and a lumberjack show. This port is the closest to Vancouver in Alaska, and all Disney Alaskan Cruises stop here.
• Dawes Glacier, Alaska , is not a port but a location the boat pulls into for one day of all Alaska sailings. The boat enters the cove near the glacier and then rotates slowly so that all sides of the boat get an angle of the glacier. There is an option for an excursion here to go out on a smaller boat that goes closer to the glacier. 
• Sitka, Alaska highlights revolve around the Russian history of the city (this was the capital of the territory when Alaska belonged to Russia) and the outdoor excursions, which are similar to the excursions offered in the other ports.

There are a variety of onboard Disney Cruise Line offerings to fill your days at sea and evenings. From lavish entertainment to educational programs to fitness offerings, there are many ways to stay busy during the days at sea. Your Disney Cruise Line Personal Navigator app has information on all times for all activities onboard the ship. Make sure everyone in your party has downloaded the app before your departure.

Walt Disney Theatre on the Wonder

Some of the standard Disney Cruise offerings you can expect are:

• Fitness centers
• Spa and Salon offerings
• Kids Clubs and activities
• Broadway-style live performance
• Cinema theatres
• Trivia and family game activities
• Beverage tasting and workshops
• Onboard WiFi, 
• Rotational Dining
• Specialty Dining

Animator’s Palate

Alaskan cruises offer educational nature presentations focused on the unique Alaskan environment. Check your Personal Navigator app for talks given by the naturalist onboard. These presentations can cover the fjords and waterways, whales and waterways, and Alaskan bears and salmon. Presentations are educational and provide context for your view and experience in this landscape.

All character meeting times are listed in the Personal Navigator app. Be on the lookout for the Disney fab five in their Alaskan outfits. The best opportunity to take these photos comes on the Dawes Glacier day. On this day, the characters will be up on the top deck outdoors so you can get an iconic Alaskan view in the background. Plan to arrive about fifteen minutes before the scheduled photo time to meet Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse up here.

Mickey and Minnie in Alaska

The “Freeze the Night Away” deck party is a Frozen-themed deck party with your favorite songs and characters from Frozen. Snow comes down at the end of this show. The night of our deck party, it can be actually “freezing,” so dress appropriately! This show takes place after both dinner seatings have been completed.

Oh no, now you really DO have to decide if you’re going to pack the red shoes or the black shoes, and figure out your evening gown inventory! But don’t panic! There is a formal night onboard the ship, but you do not have to participate if you don’t want to.

What do you pack for a cruise?

There are laundry machines to minimize the about of bulky clothes you need to pack. And the dryers are particularly handy for drying clothes that got soaked in the rain or snow. The machines can be operated by tapping your room key and charging the laundry to your room. Make sure to bring your binoculars, and consider getting a camera extension for your iPhone to increase your zoom strength. And you’ll still want to bring a bathing suit and sunscreen, in case you plan to enjoy the pool or spa.

Disney Cruise Packing List

Each guest 21 years and older may bring a maximum of 2 bottles of unopened champagne or wine or 6 beers on to the ship at the beginning of the voyage and at each port. There are some things you’re not allowed to bring on a cruise , so make sure you’re following those rules.

Get Your Disney Cruise Must Haves — HERE!

What You Need to Know About Disney Cruise Line

Learn all about disney cruise line and its various ships, explore disney’s mega cruise ship – the wish, a full list of what you can’t bring on a disney cruise, these are the best times to book your disney cruise, the best ways to save space in your tiny cruise cabin, 10 things you need on your next cruise (that you won’t think to pack), what it’s like to live on a cruise ship for 6 months, join the dfb newsletter to get all the latest disney news delivered right to your inbox click here to subscribe.

Is there a Disney Cruise to Alaska in your future? Let us know in the comments below!

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Alaska Cruise Tours:

A cruise tour is a voyage and land tour combination, with the land tour occurring before or after the voyage. Unless otherwise noted, optional services such as airfare, airport transfers, shore excursions, land tour excursions, etc. are not included and are available for an additional cost.

Alaska: Alaskan Cruise

7-night disney wonder cruise.

From $1,505 per person* Additional government taxes, fees and port expenses per person: $230

Disney Cruise Line

Outdoor adventure and picturesque scenery will enchant all who embark on an Alaskan cruise aboard the Disney Wonder. Discover exciting ports featuring prehistoric glaciers, gold-mining relics and eclectic shopping, while enjoying first-rate entertainment and family-friendly recreation on board the ship. Navigate the Inside Passage to the last frontier, home to historic mining towns and stunning natural beauty. Whale watching and glacier flightseeing are some of the excursions offered on a Disney Alaskan cruise.

Included Extras

  executive member benefit.

Executive Members receive an annual 2% Reward, up to $1,000, on qualified Costco Travel purchases

  Digital Costco Shop Card

Member Exclusive: Digital Costco Shop Card, courtesy of Costco Travel, with every Disney Cruise Line sailing†

Sailing Itinerary

Note: Cruise itineraries are subject to change. Please verify ports and times directly with the cruise line.

Port of Call Port of Call (Arrival, Departure)

Vancouver, a bustling west coast seaport in British Columbia, is among Canada’s densest, most ethnically diverse cities. A popular filming location, it’s surrounded by mountains, and also has thriving art, theatre and music scenes. Vancouver Art Gallery is known for its works by regional artists, while the Museum of Anthropology houses preeminent First Nations collections.

Stikine Strait

The Stikine Strait is a strait in the Alexander Archipelago of Alaska, located between Zarembo Island to the west and Etolin and Woronkofski Islands just southwest of the City of Wrangell.

Skagway, with a population of 862, is located in the Upper Lynn Canal at the northernmost point on the Inside Passage in Southeast Alaska, 100 air miles north of Juneau and 110 road miles south of Whitehorse, Yukon Territory. The City of Skagway is geographically the largest city in Alaska with 455 square land miles. Skagway's history and spectacular natural setting combine to create unparalleled sightseeing and recreation opportunities. Poke around on your own, or select from a variety of commercial tours. Either way, you will be amply rewarded with the sights and activities in and around Skagway.

Considered the "gem" of Southeast Alaska, the city is nestled against the ocean, tucked tight against the mountains and back-dropped by the lush green of the largest national forest in the United States, the Tongass. Visitors will find that Juneau is not only the state's capital, but it's also a melting pot of history, unique topography and jaw-dropping scenery that is found nowhere else on the planet. Whether it's wildlife viewing, glacier trekking, ziplining or just shopping for locally created artwork, visitors to this remote yet extraordinary region will certainly find a bit of "Alaska" to take home.

A city of southeast Alaska on an island in the Alexander Archipelago. A supply point for miners during the gold rush of the 1890s, it is now a major port and tourist center on the Inside Passage. Population: 7,450.

Onboard the Disney Wonder

Disney Wonder

Costco Member Reviews

• Year Built: 1999
• Year Refurbished: 2016

Double Occupancy Capacity: 1754

Disney Wonder pays homage to the timeless style of the past while embracing the contemporary. Experience Disney's traditions of extraordinary family entertainment and superb service while you ride the waves.

Member reviews become available after at least 5 are received in order to provide you with an accurate picture of this travel product.

Onboard Activities

Activities & services (included in cruise).

Goofy's Pool

• Disco/Nightclub
• Game Arcade
• Theater/Show Lounge
• Fitness Center
• Sauna/Steam Room
• Pool - Adults Only
• Pool - Children's
• Pool - Outdoor
• Sports Facilities
• Water Park Arena
• Water Slide
• Whirlpool/Jacuzzi
• Bars/Lounges
• Children's Outdoor Play Area
• Organized Age Specific Activities
• Teen Center or Disco
• Teen Programs
• Business Center
• Concierge Desk
• Duty-Free Shops/Boutiques
• Safe Deposit Boxes

Activities & Services (available for an extra fee)

• Beauty Salon
• Full-Service Spa
• Internet Center
• Babysitting
• Dry Cleaning/ Laundry Service
• Infirmary/Medical Center
• Self-Service Laundromat

Main Dining

Rotational Dining:  The Disney Cruise Line method for making sure each guest experiences each themed dining environment onboard. Every evening you dine with the same tablemates and have the same servers as you "rotate" to one of the three main restaurants: Animator's Palate, Tiana's Place, and Triton's. You will be given your schedule when you board, so you'll know exactly when you'll enjoy the unique atmosphere of each restaurant.

Animator's Palate:  Inspired by the magic of Disney animation, this spacious yet stylized restaurant is filled with everything you'd expect to find inside an actual animator's studio. Character sketches, maquettes, light boxes, paint brushes, computer work stations and other tools of the animation trade delightfully decorate the venue; and scenes and characters from popular Disney films adorn the walls—creating a one-of-a-kind experience.

Tiana's Place:  Guests of Tiana's Place, the restaurant inspired by Princess Tiana in the Disney animated feature, "The Princess and the Frog," will be treated to a celebration of New Orleans dining and entertainment. Live music will be performed on the main stage, with rhythmic, toe-tapping notes of jazz, swing and blues setting the tone for the French Quarter supper club atmosphere. Chefs will cook up Tiana's recipes, drawing inspiration from the flavors and ingredients of the Louisiana bayou. Tiana's personal touch will be evident in the menu, the entertainment and throughout every detail in the restaurant. From Tiana's family photos to water lily-shaped candleholders to her framed culinary awards—all will help tell the timeless tale of Tiana's journey from waitress to frog to princess to proud restaurant owner.

Triton's:  This grand ballroom recalls a transatlantic ocean liner with a dazzling Art Deco theme. It brims with ornate chandeliers, stained glass walls and a mural with an "under the sea" theme. Enjoy a 4-course dinner with a distinct French-inspired twist.

Specialty Dining

Royal Court Royal Tea:  Lady Chamomile, Chef Brule and some popular Disney princesses welcome you to a dining celebration in your honor. Enjoy a whimsical teatime in an idyllic storybook setting adorned with sparkling chandeliers and fanciful icons. The Royal Tea Hostess and Royal Pastry Chef are pleased to make your acquaintance and encourage you to join in the fun as they sing, dance and regale you with stories. Feel like royalty - and delight in a very special meet-and-greet with some favorite Disney princesses!

Palo:  Experience elegant dining in an intimate atmosphere exclusively for adults. Engage every one of your senses with the sweeping ocean view, unsurpassed service and inspired Northern Italian specialties. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Pete's Boiler Bites

Casual Dining

Beach Blanket Buffet:  Delight in this tasty, tempting buffet for a casual breakfast and lunch. Choose to enjoy your meal in the lively indoor area or the open air of the dazzling deck.

Pinocchio's Pizzeria:  Savor the flavor of real Italian pizza: traditional cheese, pepperoni and a scrumptious special every day — along with tasty tropical drinks for the entire family.

Daisy’s de-Lites:  Indulge those between-meal cravings at this poolside eatery serving flavorful food items that are both well-balanced and delicious. Choose from salads, sandwiches, wraps and fruit—health-conscious treats sure to satisfy the pickiest of palates.

Pete's Boiler Bites:  Sink your paws into a scrumptious selection of tasty treats at this breezy eatery. Featuring classic American fare like burgers, hot dogs and tacos, Pete's Boiler Bites is a great place to enjoy a quick meal for lunch, dinner or anytime in between.

Eye Scream Treats:  Named after the friendly, one-eyed monster Mike Wazowski from the Disney·Pixar animated feature Monsters, Inc., this breezy eatery offers such a scary selection of soft-serve ice cream and spook-tacular toppings, you won’t believe your eye!

Room Service:  Complimentary 24-hour dining in the comfort of your stateroom.

Disclaimer regarding ship dining

Inside Stateroom

Ocean view stateroom, balcony stateroom, suite stateroom.

Enjoy more space than you'd find on most other cruise ships in a room with custom-designed furnishings and charming nautical appointments.

Standard Inside Stateroom (Category: 11C)

• Sleeps: 3 to 4
• Size: 184 sq. ft.
• Room Configuration: queen bed, single sleeper sofa, and upper-berth pull-down bed (if sleeping 4)
• View: no exterior view
• Custom Premium Plush Euro-top mattress
• Frette® 300-thread-count, 100%-cotton linens
• Premium bath towels
• 22" LCD flat-screen TV with remote control
• Full-length mirror
• Ample closet space
• Refrigerator
• In-room safe
• Phone with voicemail messaging
• Individual climate control
• Porthole mirror
• H2O Plus® spa, bath, and shower products
• WiFi (additional fee)
• A sitting area with a couch, TV, and desk
• A heavy privacy curtain to separate the sitting and sleeping areas
• A full bathroom with a vanity, sink, shower, and tub
• Elevated wooden bed frames for under-bed storage of suitcases and other large items
• Attractive yet functional cabinetry in the living area

All this plus unparalleled Disney service at any and all hours is bound to make your stay a true pleasure.

Standard Inside Stateroom (Category: 11B)

Standard inside stateroom (category: 11a), deluxe inside stateroom (category: 10c).

• Size: 214 sq. ft.
• Room Configuration: queen bed, single sleeper sofa, upper berth pull-down bed (if sleeping 4)
• View: no exterior view (in all but the following: staterooms 5020, 5022, 5024, 5520, 5522, 5524, 6006, and 6506, which feature obstructed views)
• A "split bath": a bathroom with a vanity, sink, shower and tub and a half bathroom with a vanity, sink, and toilet (in all but accessible staterooms)

Deluxe Inside Stateroom (Category: 10B)

Deluxe inside stateroom (category: 10a), inside stateroom with restrictions (category: igt).

Category: IGT This category can be booked for a special rate, guaranteed to you. Please note that the category is not associated at the time of booking with a specific stateroom, deck, bedding configuration or other particular settings. The assignment of an actual cabin will be performed during your check-in. The cabin can be anywhere on the ship.

Enjoy a view of the ocean in this stunning stateroom. Well-designed interiors provide ample living space and a split bath.

Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom (Category: 09D)

• Room Configuration: queen bed, single sleeper sofa, and upper berth pull-down bed (if sleeping 4)
• View: One large porthole window or 2 small porthole windows (in Category 9D staterooms)

Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom (Category: 09C)

Deluxe oceanview stateroom (category: 09b), deluxe oceanview stateroom (category: 09a), oceanview stateroom with restrictions (category: ogt).

Category: OGT This category can be booked for a special rate, guaranteed to you. Please note that the category is not associated at the time of booking with a specific stateroom, deck, bedding configuration or other particular settings. The assignment of an actual cabin will be performed during your check-in. The cabin can be anywhere on the ship.

Tasteful décor, an expansive view, plush bedding and a private balcony make this stateroom your home-away-from-home.

Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Navigator's Verandah (Category: 07A)

• Size: 268 sq. ft., including verandah
• View: private verandah
• Patio furniture
• Deck lighting
• Plexiglas® or solid whitewall railings (in Category 6A staterooms)
• Childproof locks

Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah (Category: 06A)

Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah (Category: 05C)

Deluxe oceanview stateroom with verandah (category: 05b), deluxe oceanview stateroom with verandah (category: 05a), deluxe family oceanview stateroom with verandah (category: 04e).

• Size: 304 sq. ft., including verandah
• Room Configuration: queen bed, single sleeper sofa, wall pull-down bed, and upper berth pull-down bed
• Plexiglas® or solid whitewall railings (in Category 4E staterooms)

Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah (Category: 04B)

Deluxe family oceanview stateroom with verandah (category: 04a), verandah stateroom with restrictions (category: vgt).

Category: VGT This category can be booked for a special rate, guaranteed to you. Please note that the category is not associated at the time of booking with a specific stateroom, deck, bedding configuration or other particular settings. The assignment of an actual cabin will be performed during your check-in. The cabin can be anywhere on the ship.

Opulent suites feature a tasteful design, upgraded amenities, a private balcony, a whirlpool tub, a rain shower and a vanity mirror with a built-in TV.

Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah (Category: 03A)

• Room Configuration: queen bed, single sleeper sofa, upper berth pull-down bed, and wall pull-down bed
• Premium Frette® bath towels
• 24" LCD flat-screen TV, with remote control
• Digital clock with 2 USB charging ports
• Elemis® Body Exotics bath, shower, and spa products
• Down Duvets: Enjoy a superlative night's sleep with the softness of genuine feather duvets, featured in Concierge main bedrooms.
• Guests of our Concierge Suites may choose from pillow options including hypoallergenic, feather, and therapeutic memory foam.
• Personal Robe and Slippers: These plush comforts are yours to use for the duration of your cruise.
• Complimentary Wi-Fi Internet Service (up to 100 MB)
• A "split bath": a bathroom with a vanity, sink, shower and round tub and a half bathroom with a vanity, sink, and toilet
• Plexiglas® or solid whitewall railings
• Reservations (Port Adventures, Palo dining, spa treatments, and nursery stays)
• Dining reservation confirmations and changes
• Priority tendering in ports of call
• Updates to your personal itinerary
• Special occasions and celebration planning

From the Lounge, Concierge Guests can access a sun deck via a private entrance. Soak up the sun at this VIP onboard oasis and savor tranquil breezes in cushioned lounge chairs.

Concierge 1-Bedroom Suite with Verandah (Category: 02B)

• A separate bedroom
• 1.5 bathrooms, including a main with a whirlpool tub
• Living room
• Wet bar stocked with water and sodas
• Walk-in closet
• Media library access
• Size: 614 sq. ft., including verandah
• Room Configuration: 1 bedroom with queen bed; double sleeper sofa in living room; wall pull-down single bed in living room (in staterooms 8032, 8034, 8532, and 8534) or bedroom (in staterooms 8022, 8046, 8048, 8078, 8080, 8086, 8522, 8548, and 8582) in all but staterooms 8100, 8102, 8600, and 8602
• View: private verandah with floor-to-ceiling windows
• High-definition LCD flat-screen TV
• Couch, desk and chair
• Dining table
• Complimentary Wi-Fi Internet Service (up to 100 MB). Usage fees apply after 100 MB.
• In-suite dining from our concierge in-suite dining menu. 

Concierge 1-Bedroom Suite with Verandah (Category: 02A)

Concierge 2-bedroom suite with verandah (category: 01b).

• 2 separate bedrooms
• 2.5 bathrooms, including a main with a whirlpool tub
• 2 walk-in closets
• Size: 945 sq. ft., including verandah
• Room Configuration: 2 bedrooms: main with queen bed, second with two twin beds and upper berth pull-down bed; double sleeper sofa in living room
• View: private verandah with floor-to-ceiling windows in main living space
• Two high-definition LCD flat-screen TVs (1 in the living room, 1 in the main bedroom)
• Guests of our Concierge Suites may choose from pillow options including hypoallergenic, feather, and therapeutic memory foam..
• Plexiglas® or solid whitewall railings and dividers
• In-suite dining from our concierge in-suite dining menu

Concierge Royal Suite with Verandah (Category: 01A)

• Open dining salon
• Pantry and wet bar stocked with water and sodas
• Size: 1,029 sq. ft., including verandah
• Room Configuration: 2 bedrooms: main with king bed, second with 2 single beds and 2 pull-down upper berths; wall pull-down bed in living room
• Frette® 1000-thread-count, 100% cotton linens
• Four high-definition LCD flat-screen TVs (located in main bedroom, second bedroom, living room, and media room)
• Couch, desk, and chair
• Complimentary Wi-Fi Internet Service (Length of cruise)
• Plexiglas® railings and dividers

• Ship Name: Disney Wonder
• Year Entered Present Fleet: 1999
• Ship Class: Magic
• Maximum Capacity: 2,713
• Number of Passenger Decks: 11
• Number of Crew: 950
• Officers' Nationality: International
• Ocean-View without Balcony: 237
• Ocean-View with Balcony: 362
• Total Inside Staterooms: 256
• Tonnage (GRT): 84,000
• Capacity Based on Double Occupancy: 1,754
• Country of Registry: The Bahamas
• Total Staterooms: 875
• Suites with Balcony: 22
• Crew/Hotel Staff Nationality: International

Available Dates & Prices

Departure date, departure date - 05/20/2024, departure date - 06/03/2024, departure date - 06/17/2024, departure date - 07/01/2024, departure date - 07/29/2024, departure date - 08/12/2024, departure date - 08/26/2024, departure date - 09/09/2024, departure date - 09/16/2024, terms & conditions.

*Price shown is per person based on double occupancy and is valid for select stateroom categories only. Click on the Terms & Conditions link below for details.

†This cruise includes a Digital Costco Shop Card that will arrive by email approximately 10 days after the start of your cruise. The exact amount of the Digital Costco Shop Card will be calculated during the booking process. The Digital Costco Shop Card promotion is nontransferable and may not be combined with any other promotion. To receive your Digital Costco Shop Card, bookings must be made directly through Costco Travel. Bookings made through Disney Cruise Line or the Disney onboard cruise consultant must be transferred to Costco Travel's reservation system to qualify for the Digital Costco Shop Card. Click on the Terms & Conditions link below for additional information.

Ship's Registry: The Bahamas

As to Disney's artwork, properties and logos: ©Disney

Digital Costco Shop Card

This booking includes a Digital Costco Shop Card which will arrive by email one to two weeks after you return from your vacation. The Digital Costco Shop Card is a convenient payment option in our warehouses and on Costco.com.

Ship Rating

An outstanding luxury cruise experience with an exceptional level of attention to detail. Expect superb service from all levels of officers and staff.

A very good quality all-around cruise experience aboard a ship that offers a range of facilities and services.

A decent, unpretentious cruise experience, with a moderate amount of space and quality in furnishing and fittings.

A modest quality cruise experience with less attention to detail and service.

Expect a very basic cruise experience with minimal attention to service, hospitality and finesse.

Offers some, but not all, of the amenities and services associated with the next highest star rating.

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

Apr 23, 2024 • 7 min read

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

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

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

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

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

Which part of Alaska should I choose to cruise?

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

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

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

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

When should I go?

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

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

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

How do I know my cruise line is operating sustainably?

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

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

What kinds of activities can we experience?

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

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

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

Need-to-know before you go

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

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

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

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

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

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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

SPONSORED:  With states reopening, enjoying a meal from a restaurant no longer just means curbside pickup.

And when you do spend on dining, you should use a credit card that will maximize your rewards and potentially even score special discounts. Thanks to temporary card bonuses and changes due to coronavirus, you may even be able to score a meal at your favorite restaurant for free. 

These are the best credit cards for dining out, taking out, and ordering in to maximize every meal purchase.

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.

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Disney World Earns Its First Michelin Star

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Golden visas—which grant residency and/or citizenship through an investment—may be disappearing from Europe, but many EU countries are now luring travelers with digital nomad visas, which grant travelers the legal right to work remotely for an extended period. Italy recently became the latest country to offer the visa and here are other EU countries with digital nomad visas .

America’s Best Airlines 2024

The personal-finance website WalletHub recently announced its annual ranking of the best U.S. airlines . The study evaluates the nine largest national airlines and one regional carrier across a range of criteria, including safety, on-time records and overall service. This year, Alaska Airlines was named the best airline in America, beating out Delta, which ranked first in 2022 and 2023. The survey also ranked U.S. carriers based on reliability and comfort.

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Ketchikan, Alaska