Check With Your Favorite Travel Agency
In addition to booking directly through your cruise line, you can also reach out to a travel adviser. Agents have access to the same great deals the lines are offering, but sometimes they can throw in a few more extras, such as free bottles of wine or onboard credit. Before booking anything directly, it might be worth a phone call.
Six Million Acres Of Discovery
Towering high in the center of the Alaska Range is the Denali, North Americas tallest peak at 20,310 feet. Central to the cultural heritage of the native peoples who have lived here for thousands of years, the giant mountain is the ultimate symbol of the Alaskan wild. Denali National Park remains a wild kingdom, where animals large and small, roam free. View Dall sheep, wolves, caribou, moose and the mighty grizzly bear among many. And come summer, they are joined by more than 160 species of migratory birds.
Night Alaska Glacier Cruise
Another one of my favorite seven-day Alaska cruises is the aptly named 7 Night Alaska Glacier Cruise offered by Royal Caribbean as well as Holland America, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line.
In contrast to the Voyage of the Glaciers offered by Princess Cruises, this cruise will start its journey in Seattle. Youll cruise through the sea, up into Alaska, seeing sights along the way until you arrive at Juneau.
From there, youll continue on to more historic port towns in Alaska and get your full fill of glacial sightings and natural beauty. You can expect to see the iconic Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier along the way. Depending on what cruise line you are on you might see Glacier Bay National Park or Hubbard Glacier.
With plenty of flexible options, this is one of the best cruises for Alaska newcomers.
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When Is The Best Time To See Alaskas Glaciers
Alaskas glaciers are magnificent, and Celebritys Alaska cruise itineraries take in two of the most accessible glaciers in Southeast Alaska: Hubbard Glacier and Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier.
The height of the Alaska cruise season is the best time to cruise Alaska on these itineraries to ensure youll be able to see and enjoy the glaciers on each of the routes.
Cruising during peak season increases the probability that warmer temperatures have allowed more of the winter ice to melt, allowing for smooth sailing through the Inner Passage and the fjords, and the captains ability to get as close as possible to the glacier to give you the most spectacular experience possible.
When sailing the Hubbard Glacier itinerary, your ships captain will slowly turn the ship so that passengers on all sides will be able to enjoy the view and witness any calving that might occur while the ship is in the glaciers vicinity.
Sailing the Endicott Arm fjord toward Dawes Glacier is just as spectacular an itinerary, and this Alaskan glacier is just as magnificent.
For these peak season Alaska cruise routes, its advisable to book early so you get the best stateroom. Booking a veranda stateroom ensures that youll have your own private space to see glaciers during your cruise.
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Best Extended Alaska Cruises
Most Alaska itineraries sail for seven days, either round trip or one-way. Traditionally, if you wanted to vacation longer, you could choose a cruise and land tour or book a back-to-back of two 7-day cruises. Although, back-to-back cruises repeat the same ports.
However, some lines offer up to 15-day routes with unique ports and more glacier sightings. Cunard has itineraries for up to 12 days, and most include two glacier viewing days.
However, their June 8-20, 2023 cruise goes to Hubbard Glacier, Glacier Bay, and Tracy Am Fjord.
Seabourn has many 14-day itineraries and one 15-day cruise. Their port-intensive cruise features some unique ports of call.
So, if you prefer to get off the beaten path, you can explore Inian Islands, Wrangell, Haines, Prince Rupert, and Alert Bay, Canada.
The Seabourn Odyssey also includes cruising in Misty Fjords National Monument.
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Uncruise Adventures Wild Woolly And Wow
- Cost: From $4,495 per person
Cruise vacations often have the reputation of being not very active. However, this UnCruise Adventures sailing is aimed at those who want an more heart-pumping immersion into some little-visited areas of the 49th state, like South Baranof Island Primate and National Wilderness Area and Chichagof Island.
One day might involve kayaking in Patterson Bay followed by a brisk snorkeling session. Another could see guests hiking to a glacial lake or going for a skiff tour among icebergs. And another could involve biking in an area known for its healthy population of brown bears .
These sailings take place on the intimate 86-passenger Wilderness Legacy, with cozy but comfortable cabins and unlimited activities and beverages.
When Is The Best Time For Families To Visit Alaska
Summer break, which is peak cruising season, is an ideal time for families to go on an Alaska cruise. Depending on your familys interests, youll want to decide whether to book earlier or later in the season, since there can be a difference in weather and activities between the end of June and mid-August.
Some of the shore excursions you can experience when going on an Alaska cruise with kids include hiking the Tongass forest, whale-watching tours, kayaking, and learning about Tlingit culture.
Aim for the week right after school ends or the week before school begins if youd like to get there just ahead of the most crowded part of peak season. A cruise to Alaska is an unforgettable summer family vacation experience your kids will cherish forever.
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Best 2 Week Alaska Itinerary: Plan A Trip To Alaska By Land & Sea
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I still remember how long it took to plan a trip to Alaska the first time. The options were overwhelming and I wasnt an experienced traveler. My first thought was to look into package cruisetours but I had no interest in joining a busload of tourists in exchange for thousands of dollars.
I wanted something more adventurous, more personalized, and a heck of a lot cheaper. Through sheer stubbornness and a whole lot of research, I decided to figure it out on my own.
It ended up being so easy and so rewarding that I went a total of three times!
And if I could do it, so can you.
Here Are The Best Cyber Monday Cruise Deals Of 2022
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Editors note: This is a recurring post, regularly updated with new information and offers.
If youve had your eye on a specific cruise, now could be the time to lock it in. Thats because many lines are offering Cyber Monday cruise sales that feature fare discounts and BOGO deals, as well as added perks like Wi-Fi, alcohol packages and even complimentary room upgrades.
Check back often. Well update this article as new deals roll out.
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When Is The Best Time To Visit Alaska To Avoid Crowds
Shoulder season is also the best time to go on an Alaska cruise if you prefer fewer crowds while exploring the historical and cultural aspects of Alaskan cities and towns.
Shore excursions are easier to book, so take full advantage of roomier whale-watching cruises and less crowded restaurants.
Schools are still in session in May and September, so fewer families are traveling. Also, many cruise passengers prefer to travel to Alaska in the warmer weather, so crowds on both sea and land tend to thin out.
Disney Cruise Linesdisney Wonder
If kids were in charge of the cruise planning, theyd choose a Disney Cruise. And Disney Cruise Line caters to families, especially Disney-loving families.
Find interior staterooms, ocean view staterooms, staterooms with balconies along with concierge suites. The 7-night round trip cruises depart from Vancouver. Ports of call include Dawes Glacier, Skagway, and Ketchikan.
Disney Cruise Line sails the Wonder to Alaska. Onboard, youll find Disney characters, Disney stage shows, kids clubs, tweens club and teens club. Three pool areas, including a splash area for babies and toddlers, a double-looping water slide and an adults-only area, help keep everybody cool. Hungry? There are three main dining areas, and three casual dining areas along with character meals.
Port excursions and extras are not included, like Signature dining experiences , bottled water, alcohol, and specialty drinks and gratuities.
Easy-to-use website, especially for those whove planned a Disney Parks vacation before. Find the best price for this cruise here.
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Why Cruise To Alaska
The 49th U.S. state is home to a beautiful mountainous landscape and an abundance of wildlife, from bald eagles to bears and moose. It possesses a unique Gold Rush history and a vibrant mix of native Alaskan cultures. You wont find this blend of scenery, outdoor pursuits, history, and culture in any other cruise itinerary.
Plus, many of the Inside Passage ports are tricky to visit by land. For example, Ketchikan is only accessible by air or sea. You cannot visit the breathtaking glaciers of Glacier Bay by car, so if you want to explore this region of Alaska, youll need a ship to get there.
Unlike other cruise destinations, Alaskan ports arent separated by vast swaths of ocean. When you cruise the Inside Passage, the ship is constantly within site of land. Most sea days offer something to see, even if not an official scenic cruising day. Its a different kind of cruise experience, and one many travelers are eager to pursue.
Best For Adventure: Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises are perfect for big families as their staterooms are larger and include kids clubs, spas, a variety of dining options, pools, and themed events. A Princess Cruise guides families through the untamed beauty that is Alaska.
Their Alaskan cruises provide guests with an adventure-packed voyage through various glaciers, national parks, and wildlife. Guests can enjoy Cruisetours which involve the cruise itself, a scenic train travel direct to your lodging, and spending three nights in a Princess Wilderness Lodge located near many famous national parks.
Ports of call include College Fjord, Endicott Arm, Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier, Icy Strait Point, Juneau, Ketchikan, Sitka, Skagway, and Victoria, British Columbia. Activities tend to be on the traditional side with historical tours, fishing/wildlife expeditions, and the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show.
Their cruises offer a ticket to adventure in the middle of wildlife, national parks, and glaciers.
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See The Wilds Of A Great Frontier
Immerse yourself in a world of Tlingit heritage and experience the outpost atmosphere that prevails in charming, mountain-ringed seaside towns. As you cruise this pristine wilderness of misty fjords, lush forests and gleaming walls of ice, pan for gold like prospectors of old, meet local Tlingit who have fished these waters for centuries, and hear tales both tall and true of a region where a Wild West spirit still feels very much alive.
Immerse yourself in a world of Tlingit heritage and experience the outpost atmosphere that prevails in charming, mountain-ringed seaside towns. As you cruise this pristine wilderness of misty fjords, lush forests and gleaming walls of ice, pan for gold like prospectors of old, meet local Tlingit who have fished these waters for centuries, and hear tales both tall and true of a region where a Wild West spirit still feels very much alive.
Silverseas Vancouver To Seward
- Cost: From $5,650 per person
What Silversea does well is creating an onboard experience that is luxurious and one-of-a-kind but doesnt distract from the real star of the show: Alaska.
By day, the Silver Shadow visits buzzing, historical port towns including Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and Sitka, where guests are invited to disembark and participate in an activity of their choosing, like leisurely bopping around the downtown area or getting spine-tinglingly close to brown bears on a flightseeing tour. Back on the vessel, after a gourmet meal and drinks, evening entertainment is viewing the deep fjords, glaciers, and abundant whales that make Alaska so magical. Spacious suites accommodate 388 guests. Theres also complimentary pilates and yoga, a gym, jogging track, spa, observation library, and a slew of bars and restaurants, including the fabulous La Dame, which features fine wine and French cuisine.
Whats particularly convenient about this sailing is that it ends in Seward, making it easy to continue your Alaska vacation by road or rail.
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How Much Do Alaska Cruises Cost
Alaska cruises can cost anywhere from $500 to $7,500 per person for a five-night sailing, but total costs will depend on the size of the ship, length of the trip, and other factors like whether onshore excursions and food and beverage are included in the base rate.
Generally speaking, the larger the ship, the cheaper the initial price tag. Mega-cruises can go for as little as $100 a night . These resorts at sea, however, are often not all-inclusive, so be sure to check the fine print before putting your credit card down. Passengers frequently have to pay extra for things like specialty dining, alcoholic beverages, and off-boat activities. Its also worth factoring in on-board activities that cost extra like the spa and gift shop.
While small-scale operators have fewer dining and entertainment options on board, they do have an edge over larger ships: better chances of seeing wildlife. The larger ships are often relegated to port towns due to their sheer size, but smaller ships can more easily navigate and visit remote areas for hiking and kayaking excursions. Because theyre not hurrying to get to a port on time, their schedules are looser than those of large-scale ships, so if a pod of orcas is spotted, they can idle and watch them a little longer. Some of the smallest boats hold between 12 and 100 passengers, and many of them are all-inclusive . That more intimate experience commands a higher nightly rateanywhere between $250 and $1,500 a night.
What Kind Of Amenities Are Provided
There are plenty of all inclusive Alaska cruises that make sure your every need is met for the quoted price. Certain cruises will have longer excursions on land, and may have additional lodging on land thats included in your price.
There are some excursions, however, that are additional costs in your cruise. Talking to one of our specialty trip planners here at AAA of WA can be a big help in conceptualizing your cost and customizing your itinerary.
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Small Ship Cruise + Land
The small ship cruise + land is a great alternative for those who still want a seamless experience, but also want to stop at less-visited ports where large ships can’t go as well as stay at wilderness lodges when on land. The downside is that many such itineraries do not include Denali. However, you will still see equally beautiful destinations. See small ship cruise + landitineraries below.
Best Cruise Lines For Adventure
Active travelers may prefer expedition-style voyages on smaller ships that include more time for adventurous activities, such as hiking in the Tongass National Forest, wildlife and glacier viewing from Zodiac rafts or kayaks, or even overnight camping. These ships often feature complimentary shore excursions, kayaks and bikes for guest use and onboard scientists and naturalists.
If youve got active teens who have an interest in nature and the environment, an expedition voyage could be exactly what will keep them engaged and off their devices. Just expect the majority of your shipmates to be older adults.
Look to UnCruise Adventures, Alaskan Dream Cruises, Hurtigruten, Lindblad Expeditions and Ponant for the best adventure cruises.
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Alaska Cruise & Land Tours
Some vacations combine a cruise of the spectacular Inside Passage or Gulf of Alaska with a land tour to the interior of Alaska or Canada that typically includes travel by motor coach, a train excursion in domed rail cars and stays in wilderness lodges and hotels. Denali National Park is the most visited destination on land tours of Alaska while the Canadian Rockies are a favorite on Canada tours.The season for Alaska cruise and tour packages generally lasts from May through September, and itineraries are typically 9 to 19 nights in length. Rates tend to be lowest in the off-peak periods of May and September.
Alaska cruise combined with an Alaska tourHere you have the option of sailing a northbound or southbound cruise itinerary. Northbound itineraries typically begin with a 7-night Alaska glacier cruise departing Vancouver and ending in Seward or Whittier, where the land portion of your Alaska vacation begins.
On a southbound itinerary, you will begin your vacation with the land portion followed by a 7-night cruise. You will fly into Anchorage or Fairbanks and visit Alaska’s interior, then travel to Seward for your cruise to Vancouver.
What’s included?Below are guidelines of what is typically included and excluded on a cruise tour. Every cruise tour is unique. Always verify the details of the trip you select with your Vacations To Go cruise counselor.
Alaska Cruises The Best Times And Destinations To Cruise
Alaska cruises have become substantially more popular in the past decade. The northwestern-most state has gained huge notoriety as one of the most beautiful destinations to visit because of its serene mix of natural features. Here are the best Alaska cruises to consider for your next trip. There are so many different kinds of destinations to hit, its tough to pick only a few.
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