Alaska Cruises: Cruise to Alaska | Royal Caribbean Cruises (2024)

FAQs

What is the best cruise line to use for an Alaskan cruise? ›

Holland America Line (HAL) — which recently snapped up a 2023 World's Best Award in the large-ship ocean cruise line category — has been cruising Alaska for over 75 years. HAL prides itself on having more permits for Glacier Bay National Park visits than any other cruise line.

The Best Time to Cruise Alaska for Good Weather: Summer (mid-June through August) If you prefer warmer temperatures, ranging from 50° to 70° Fahrenheit, and longer days with up to 22 hours of sunlight, a summer Alaskan cruise might be the perfect choice.

Sail Alaska's emerald fjords and glacier-dotted bays on seven-night adventures from Seattle on Quantum of the Seas ®. Get ready to marvel at enormous glaciers and majestic wildlife.

An average budget for a 7-day cruise along Alaska's Inside Passage route, with several shore excursions and additional amenities, is typically between $3,000 and $5,000 per person. We'll provide more details below, as we've experienced such a cruise twice ourselves.

The higher up the ship you are located, the more dramatic the views. If you want to take in those extraordinary Alaskan mountains and glaciers, or gaze over the cliffside villages and tiny fishing harbors of Italy's Amalfi Coast from your private veranda, aim for a deck as high up the ship as you can.

The higher the deck, the better and, often, more panoramic the view. Cabins on top decks aren't always the best on the ship, but many suites and specialty cabin categories are typically located on upper decks. Like to be near all the action? Most mega-ships place their lido (pool) areas on higher decks.

Think about going on a cruise around April or May if you want to save the most. In these months, Alaska has its shoulder season when costs often decrease, and there are fewer visitors. Despite the potential for a little bit of a chill, you'll see nature's breathtaking springtime blossoming.

While there are exceptions, Alaska land and sea cruise packages tend to feature 7 - 14 day itineraries from either Seattle or Vancouver, BC.

Alaska is a cruise destination unlike any other, showcasing a rarely seen side of the United States: still truly wild, practically untouched and open to endless adventure. But with such a hefty price tag, you may be wondering, “Are Alaska cruises worth it?” Our answer is undeniably yes.

The All-Inclusive Alaska Cruise Experience

You don't have to worry about spending extra for drinks, alternative restaurants, Wi-Fi or gratuities. Beyond that, some lines offer even more in their fares.

What side of ship is better for Alaska cruise? ›

Northbound Alaska cruises sail up the coastline through the Inside Passage and along Hubbard Glacier, so your best view of Alaska's scenic landmasses are likely on the starboard side of the ship. Southbound Alaska cruises are the opposite.

Certain conditions and locations may increase the likelihood of this phenomenon occurring. The best month to see the Northern Lights in Alaska while cruising is in September. With fewer hours of daylight and more darkness, there are additional chances to see the waltzing colors illuminate the evening sky.

Passport Requirements - US Citizens

If you are a U.S. Citizen and your Alaska cruise begins and ends in the same US port (Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles) you are not currently required to travel with a passport to Alaska. All cruise lines and WMPH Vacations highly recommend you carry a valid passport.

Remember, the cost of an Alaskan cruise typically ranges from $600 to $5,000 per person, depending on the type of cruise and the chosen accommodation. Additionally, it is advisable to allocate an extra $1,000 to $1,500 per person for shore excursions to fully immerse in the Alaskan experience.

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

Seattle and Vancouver are two of the most popular embarkation ports for Alaska cruises. Both are incredible cities with major airports and plenty to explore on pre- or post-cruise stays.

Shoulder Seasons Offer Lower Prices

For both cruising and land-based tours, May and September are the “shoulder” seasons in Alaska, with better deals and fewer crowds.