Alaska cruises are the best way to see glaciers, wildlife, and fjords. May-September only. Here’s the real cruise guide.
Top Alaska Cruises Options
Princess Cruises (Alaska specialist)
$1,200-3,500/week. Most Alaska experience. Best for families + couples.
Holland America (Alaska Aficionado)
$1,000-3,000/week. Best Glacier Bay access. More mature crowd.
Royal Caribbean (large ships)
$1,200-3,000/week. Best for families with kids.
Norwegian (freestyle)
$1,000-2,500/week. Best deals + flexibility.
UnCruise Adventures (small ships)
$5,000-8,000/week. 25-90 passengers. Real wilderness access.
7-Day Inside Passage Itinerary
Seattle/Vancouver + Juneau + Skagway + Glacier Bay + Ketchikan.
Cruise + Land Tour
Add 3-5 days Denali National Park before or after cruise. $1,500-3,000 extra.
Best Time
May (fewer crowds, lower prices). June-August (peak whale watching + 18+ hr daylight). September (Northern Lights start).
Cruising Tips
Book balcony if budget allows: Worth the extra $200-500. Especially in Alaska + fjords.
Buy travel insurance: Especially during hurricane season + for medical evacuation.
Plan excursions ahead: Cheaper to book independently vs cruise line excursions ($30-150 vs $80-300).
Bring extra cash: For tips, drinks, excursions. ATM fees on ships are high.
FAQ
How much does a alaska cruises cost?
Budget: $700-1,500/week. Mid: $1,500-3,500/week. Luxury: $5,000-15,000+/week. Plus flights to port + excursions + tips.
When is the best time to cruise?
Shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) offer best balance of weather + crowds + prices. Peak summer = highest prices + most crowded.
Should I book in advance?
Book 6-12 months ahead for best cabins + prices. Last-minute deals exist but limited cabin selection.
What’s included?
Most cruises include: cabin, all meals, basic drinks, entertainment, port docking. NOT included: alcohol, specialty dining, shore excursions, gratuities, WiFi.
How do tipping + gratuities work?
Most cruise lines add $15-20/person/day automatic gratuity. Some include in fare. Bring extra cash for room service + spa staff.
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