Alaskas Inside Passage Cruise
This nine-day cruise comes in two options: northbound and southbound.
Both cruises are taken aboard Silverseas Silver Muse. The ship offers seven passenger decks, a fitness center, spa, jogging track, complimentary WiFi, and butler services.
Being a relatively small ship in comparison to the majority of cruise vessels enables passengers aboard the Silver Shadow to get the full, luxury experience. The ship is outfitted with ample state-of-the-art amenities and customer-focused staff who are there to make your cruise the lavish vacation youre longing for.
While both the southbound and northbound cruises give you ample immersion into the wild, natural beauty of Alaska, you may prefer one over the other due to slight itinerary differences. Both cruises itineraries are detailed below to help you choose the best one for you.Your Northbound cruise includes the following ports of call:
- Day 1: Vancouver, B.C.
- Day 2: Vancouver, B.C.
- Day 3: Ketchikan
Frequently Asked Questions About A Small Ship Alaska Cruise:
How many people will be onboard?
Small ships carry less than 100 guests. The average Princess cruise ship carries over 2,400 guests in Alaska.
What is the dress code?
The atmosphere on a small ship is casual for all meals. Other cruise lines have two formal nights, two coat and tie nights, and three casual dress nights. Small ship cruises are casual every night.
Are there open meal seatings? Can I choose my dining companions?
All meals on small ships are open dining. You can eat when you want and with whom you want. There are no “early” and “late” seating and set dinner arrangements and tables like you have on the big ships.
Are there casinos and shows onboard?
A small ship cruise emphasizes Alaska, not the onboard amenities. It’s nothing fancy. Just an up close and personal vacation where Alaska and it’s natural treasures provide the entertainment.
How close will the ship get to glaciers, whales and shoreline?
Very, very close. Your captain may follow a pod of whales, pull up so close to a glacier you could touch it, drift next to a waterfall or even anchor off a remote cove close enough for you to take the gangway ashore.
Will the ship vary its schedule to maximize whale watching or wildlife sightings?
Absolutely. Unlike the massive 100,000 ton cruise ships, a small ship can follow its own schedule to maximize wildlife sightings.
Will I experience narrow waterways such as Wrangell Narrows and Peril Straight?
How big are the “Small Ships” compared to the Big Ships?
Enjoy A More Luxurious And Inclusive Experience
Alaska inside passage small ship cruises offer a relaxed atmosphere, with more window and balcony options a smaller, narrower boat means fewer interior cabins and more water-view staterooms.
Also, in contrast to the Bellagio atmosphere of large ships, smaller boats can take on a boutique, luxury hotel feel. This means well-maintained, state-of-the-art facilities, price-included gratuities, free shore excursions, and more.
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Con: Fewer Dining Options
If your idea of vacation is to sample as many restaurants as possible, small cruise ships arent for you.
Ocean Victory, for example, has only two dining venues the main dining room and a more casual bistro-style area with indoor and outdoor seating on the top deck. The menus vary daily, serving a wide range of options at every meal, and I certainly never lacked for food I enjoyed.
However, if you prefer variety, the ship has no room for specialty venues or bonus shops like ice cream or hamburger stands. On the flip side, you avoid the up-charges and scrambles to secure reservations that go along with additional onboard restaurant options.
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Con: Fewer Excursion Options
Because the smaller ships have fewer passengers looking to book tours, and the smaller ports have fewer companies offering day trips, shore excursion options are limited. You will get a greater variety of excursion choices on big ships.
For instance, most big ships in Alaska offer shore excursions ranging from helicopter rides to glaciers and small plane excursions to known bear habitats to scenic train trips, zip-line adventures, salmon bakes and city tours by bus or on foot.
Other than pre- and post-cruise city tours in Sitka and Vancouver, our 10-day sailing on Ocean Victory only had three days with excursion options. Each included one free basic highlights tour of the port and a few premium experiences, including sport fishing, a nature walk and two different jet boat tours.
If you like planned activities and want a larger choice of tours, the small-ship experience is not for you. But for me, the ability to wander the streets of the less tourist-oriented towns was better than any group tour. In Wrangell, a few of us stopped in the Totem Bar, where bartender Drew Eyon gave us a more interesting and real take on life on this island of 2,500 than any official tour guide ever could.
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There Are Many Great Itineraries Available For These Versatile Small Ship Cruises In 2022 And 2023
At Alaska Cruises & Vacations, small ship cruising is our passion! These are the cruises that get you up close to what we think you are coming to Alaska to see, the real Alaska! Scenic wonders, marine wildlife, outdoor adventure all can be had from the comfort of your ship and give you more of an Alaska experience than just a trip! Please check with us directly via or our FORM if you are interested in small ships for 2022 or 2023.
Are 20 passenger ships still too large? Ask about yachts with fewer passengers! Have a family or group and want an exclusive adventure? Full yacht charters as well as Mid-sized ships and Large Ship cruises are available. Call us at 800-977-9705 and inquire about these exclusive opportunities! Planning ahead? Many small ships have their 2022 & 2023 itineraries and we are taking bookings now. In the COMMENTS field of our form please note that you’re interested in a 2022 or 2023 cruise and any ship and itinerary preference! Also check out our Early Booking Incentives.Please check with us directly via or our FORM if you are interested in small ships for 2022 ot 2023.
Alaska Cruise In October
Alaska Weather in October: Alaska’s October temperatures aren’t the coldest of the year, but you should expect a chill in the air. Temperatures in Southeast Alaska, where most October itineraries will sail, are similar to late April and May. Expect highs in the 40s and possibly 50s, with lows in the 30s. , so prepare for low clouds and rain.
Alaska Cruise Prices in October: Depending on your cruise style, prices will range widely, though than summer months for cruising to Alaska. A 7-night cruise averages around $1,000 without inclusions or extras.
Hours of Daylight in Alaska in October: You can expect an average of 10 to 11 hours of daylight in Southeast Alaska during October, though that will vary depending on how far north you travel. Later in the year, the majority of the day passes in darkness.
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Alaska Cruise In September
Alaska Weather in September: Temperatures in Alaska start to drop in September, with averages in the mid-50s and lows in the low 40s. On top of that it can be even rainier than August, with up to 20 days ofprecipitation. That could put a few of your excursions at risk of being rained out.
Alaska Cruise Prices in September: Prices for average around $1,000 for a seven-night itinerary. Cruise season starts to wind down in September and children head back to school, leading to less demand. You can also look for a last-minute Alaska cruise deal, though keep in mind that with Alaska’s cruise season growing longer, interest in Alaska September cruises is rising.
Hours of Daylight in September: Expect 12 hours of daylight during September in Alaska.
Pros And Cons Of Small
Editors note: TPG contributor Jeri Clausing sailed on Ocean Victory on a free trip provided by American Queen Voyages. The opinions expressed below are entirely hers and werent subject to review by the line.
As I walked the streets in Wrangell, Alaska, I was thrilled not to have to share the town with thousands, or even just hundreds, of other cruisers.
Except for the welcoming locals, who were happy to talk about life in small-town Alaska, the only people I encountered were a few fellow passengers from American Queen Voyages 186-passenger expedition ship Ocean Victory.
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My sailing aboard this small cruise ship in Alaska was a welcome change from my previous big ship experience in the region, where the shops and restaurants were crowded with other tourists and passengers were subjected to sold-out or large-group tours.
The in-port experience wasnt the only positive of seeking out a small ship in this huge state. Here are some of the pros and cons of small-ship cruising in Alaska, so you can decide if a little ship will make a big difference in your vacation enjoyment.
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Alaska Cruise In July
Alaska Weather in July: If you like mild temperatures, Alaska in July is for you. Expect highs in the mid 60s and sometimes into the 70s, with lows in the 50s. The tradeoff? The wet season kicks into high gear, with the state averaging around 12 inches in July.
Alaska Cruise Prices in July: July is one of the most expensive months to cruise to Alaska, with seven-day itineraries above $1,300. It’s the peak of Alaska’s peak cruise season and things will be busy. If you’re on a budget, stick to interior rooms and look for the big ships, which tend to have more inventory.
Hours of Daylight in July: Alaska’s Inside Passage gets about 17 hours of daylight in July, while more northern destinations will see close to 19.
Alaska Cruises Small Ships Versus Big Ships
Some people automatically think that bigger is better. At small ship cruiselines, they think differently. They believe that close is better than far away…that personal is better than mass produced…that a few like-minded friends are better than thousands of strangers. No waiting in line. No trying to find a window seat. No crowds.
That’s why each of their ships only hold around 100 guests, and why almost all of their cabins face outside with large windows or portholes. That’s why they serve delicious informal meals in comfortable dining rooms where you can sit wherever and with whomever you like.
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Why Should I Work With A Travel Advisor Specifically Alaska Cruises & Vacations
First, here is what Christopher Elliott says to answer this question, as written in the May 14, 2020 edition of Forbes:Travel is radically and almost unrecognizably different after the COVID-19 pandemic. That is why you need a travel advisor, say experts. A travel expert can handle any emergency that may arise when you’re on the road everything from a missed flight connection to a hotel that closes unexpectedly..
Food On Ocean Victory Offers Variety Could Use A Stronger Tie To Region
Meals are offered in two spots: The Main Restaurant and the more casual Panorama Restaurant. The variety featured is solid, with enough to appeal to most tastes — even for those with dietary restrictions.
Food might be the biggest opportunity for improvement on the ship, as many of the dishes are underseasoned or overcooked — and they’re inconsistent from one dish to the next. In a place like Alaska, where you want that beautiful salmon filet, we were disappointed by the salmon, which we tried on several occasions and found to be dry and lacking flavor. We also wish there was a stronger connection to the region the ship is sailing, something parent company American Queen Voyages does so well on its river ships. Outside of salmon, there was no dish that screamed Alaska, no use of huckleberries, for example, and crab was offered only once, as an appetizer.
You’ll find plenty to eat, but those looking for an immersive dining experience might end up disappointed.
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Helpful Tips Before Booking An Alaskan Cruise
Taking a beautiful Alaskan cruise is something that many people dream of doing at least once in their lifetime. Many terrific cruise lines travel t …
Helpful Tips Before Booking an Alaskan Cruise
Taking a beautiful Alaskan cruise is something that many people dream of doing at least once in their lifetime. Many terrific cruise lines travel to this spectacular geographical region where you can still see amazing and unspoiled nature scenes and wildlife up-close and personal in their natural habitat. Some aspects of the cruise need considering before booking your cruise date, including cruise line perks, must-do activities, and when to go.
Every cruise line will have different perks and benefits. Some are family-oriented and have many special programs and activities for children and teens. Other cruise ships cater to older travelers without kids in tow, and some cruise ships are known more for their luxury status and added amenities onboard. That said, most cruises that go to this natural scenic state do not have all the entertainment and extra onboard activities like the cruises that travel to warmer ports.
Travers on an Alaskan cruise should pack breathable clothing that you can layer as the temperature and other weather conditions change rapidly in this region. Bring along your medications, toiletries, a good pair of hiking boots, a pair of comfortable sneakers, a hat to block sun and wind, sunscreen and a light-colored raincoat with a warmer coat too in cooler months.
More Authentic Shore Excursions
In contrast to chaotic, large group excursions, Alaska cruises on small ships ensure that shore excursions are intimate and memorable. With fewer passengers to divide attention between, tour guides are able to devote more effort towards creating a high-quality, more personal experience for guests.
Fewer passengers also means that shore excursions will be more time-efficient, enabling you to see and do more during each excursion.
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Concierge 2022 Alaska Wildlife & Frontiers Cruise
This 11 night cruise is aboard the lavish Regatta, a nearly 600-foot ship with nine decks and more than 300 elegant suites. Decked out with elaborate furnishings in every room, a cruise aboard the Regatta is a full immersion into a true life of luxury.
The ship offers four upscale restaurants, eight lounges, and a grand dining hall adorned with chandeliers.
An Alaskan cruise aboard the Regatta includes the following ports of call:
to learn more about this exciting Alaska small ship cruise.
How Many Guests Can A Small Cruise Have
The average cruise ship carries around 3,000 passengers far from most peoples definition of intimate. A small cruise, on the other hand, may have closer to two or three hundred passengers aboard .
The benefits of embarking on a small, intimate cruise are numerous and give passengers a more luxurious, relaxing experience.
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How To Book A Small Ship Cruise
Small ship cruise lines do not offer online booking capability. Since small ships depart from more remote Alaska ports and there are so many different vacation extension options, we highly recommend you speak with an AlaskaCruises.com cruise expert to help you plan your small ship vacation.
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Best Time To Cruise Alaska
The best time to cruise Alaska is between April and September, with the high season in June and July, mainly because of the warmer weather and longer days. The beginning of April and end of September are typically the low season but offer the best time to see the Northern Lights because of the shorter days. April and May also offer stunning scenery as the mountain peaks are still covered in snow.
Mid-April until the end of August offers the best time to see whales, particularly Orca and Humpback whales. However, it doesnt really matter which time of year you choose between April and September, as amazing wildlife sightings are a given, whether its mountain goats, black bears, harbor seals, sea otters or bald eagles, couple that with the stunning Alaska landscape and youre sure to have an adventure cruise to remember.
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Small Ship Cruises Are Not For Everyone
Small ship cruises are for travelers who understand the difference between Mass Market and Expedition-Style cruising. On a small ship cruise, Alaska is the focal point, not the ship. These ships are small, intimate and able to take guests up close to find Alaska’s hidden treasures, where the big ships don’t – and can’t – reach.
The Small Ship Advantage
A cruise on a small ship is not filled with elaborate distractions, sleek resorts and packaged tours. Rather, small ships are perfect for intimate exploration of off-the-beaten track waterways, narrow channels and tiny ports that passengers on large ships will never see. When Lindblad Expeditions guests visit a small port in Alaska’s Inside Passage they don’t overwhelm the local communities. Their largest vessel hosts just 62 guests.
Small ship guests would rather watch for whales in Frederick Sound than spend the afternoon in a casino. They linger outside on deck as the Captain noses under a waterfall, rather than watch a video. On a small ship, the focus is very often outside, on what Nature has provided for entertainment, rather than on amusements provided to occupy your attention on board.
Your time is spent wisely, too. Rather than making a beeline from port to port, small ship Captains have the flexibility – and the inclination – to linger when whales are putting on a show, a glacier is calving spectacularly, or to seek out sea otters when a nearby fisherman radios the word.
On a small ship cruise, you are not just a visitor. You are a participant. Whether kayaking next to a glacier, hiking in a rain forest in Alaska, or enjoying a spectacular spring garden in British Columbia, a small-ship cruise is an engaging experience for all the senses.
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