Cruising to Alaska: Ships, Seasons & the Best Time to Go

If Alaska has been on your bucket list, you’re not alone. There’s something powerful about watching glaciers calve into the sea, spotting whales from your balcony, and waking up surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

If you’re thinking about cruising to Alaska, here’s what you need to know about which cruise ships go, when they sail, and the best time to travel.

When Is Alaska Cruise Season?

Alaska cruise season typically runs from late April through early October, with peak season from June through August.

Here’s a simple breakdown:

• April–May (Early Season): Fewer crowds, lower prices, snow still on the mountains.

• June–August (Peak Season): Warmest weather, best wildlife viewing, highest demand.

• September–Early October (Late Season): Fall colors, fewer ships, potential for Northern Lights sightings.

Most cruise lines only sail Alaska during these months because of weather and ice conditions.

What Cruise Ships Go to Alaska?

Several major cruise lines operate seasonal Alaska itineraries. Here are some of the most popular:

🚢 Princess Cruises

Princess is considered one of the leaders in Alaska cruising. They offer:

• Inside Passage itineraries

• Glacier Bay National Park sailings

• Land + cruise packages into Denali National Park

Popular Alaska ships:

• Majestic Princess

• Discovery Princess

• Sapphire Princess

🚢 Holland America Line

Holland America has been sailing Alaska for over 75 years.

• Strong focus on Glacier Bay

• Enrichment programs and wildlife talks

• Excellent mid-size ship experience

Popular ships:

• Koningsdam

• Nieuw Amsterdam

• Noordam

🚢 Royal Caribbean International

Great for families and first-time cruisers.

• Large ships with lots of onboard activities

• Quantum-class ships sail from Seattle

Popular ships:

• Quantum of the Seas

• Ovation of the Seas

🚢 Norwegian Cruise Line

Known for Freestyle Cruising (no fixed dining times).

Popular ships:

• Norwegian Encore

• Norwegian Bliss

🚢 Celebrity Cruises

Great for couples looking for a more modern, upscale feel.

Popular ships:

• Celebrity Solstice

• Celebrity Edge

Where Do Alaska Cruises Depart From?

Most Alaska cruises depart from:

• Seattle, Washington

• Vancouver, British Columbia

• Seward, Alaska

• Whittier, Alaska

Seattle and Vancouver usually offer 7-night roundtrip Inside Passage itineraries.
Seward and Whittier are often used for one-way cruises combined with land tours.

What Is the Best Time to Cruise Alaska?

It depends on what matters most to you.

🌞 Best Weather: Late June – August

• Warmer temperatures (50s–70s°F)

• Long daylight hours

• Peak wildlife season

💰 Best Value: May & September

• Lower cruise fares

• Fewer crowds

• Cooler but still beautiful scenery

🐋 Best Wildlife Viewing: June – July

• Whale sightings

• Bears active near shorelines

• Salmon runs beginning

Inside Passage vs. Gulf of Alaska

Inside Passage (Roundtrip):

• Smooth sailing

• Great for first-timers

• Often includes Glacier Bay

Gulf of Alaska (One-Way):

• Includes Anchorage area

• Allows land extensions (Denali)

• More immersive Alaska experience

Is Alaska Worth Cruising?

Absolutely.

Alaska is one of the few destinations where the journey truly is the destination. You’re not just stopping in ports — you’re cruising past glaciers, fjords, and wilderness you can’t reach by road.

If you love:

• Nature

• Wildlife

• Photography

• Cooler temperatures

• Bucket-list experiences

Alaska should be at the top of your list.

If you're thinking about Alaska, planning early matters. Balcony cabins sell quickly because everyone wants glacier views from their room.

When you're ready to turn that Alaska dream into reality, make sure you plan with someone who understands cruise lines, ship differences, and seasonal timing — because not all Alaska sailings are the same.

Alaska isn’t just a cruise. It’s an experience you’ll never forget.