The Best Alaska Cruises For 2025

A cruise to Alaska, often dubbed "America’s final frontier," is an extraordinary way to explore this vast and rugged state. With many of Alaska's coastal regions, a cruise offers unparalleled convenience and access.

Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced traveler, the options are as varied as Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes. And in reality, there's no such thing as a ''best" cruise, as some are better for multigenerational trips, others focus mostly on kids and some are for people seeking all-out luxury on the sea.

From there, you have plenty of options for where to travel, what port to leave from and how long to stay. Some visit the Inside Passage, while others venture inward to Denali National Park. There is a cruise for every price point, desire and type of traveler.

We’ve researched and tested the best Alaska cruises to help you find the one that perfectly suits your travel style. Here's your guide to the best Alaska cruise lines (plus some tips on how to choose the best one for you).

Why we love Princess Cruises in Alaska

Striking the ideal balance between affordability and quality, Princess Cruises has long been synonymous with Alaskan voyages. With over 50 years of experience in the region, Princess combines exceptional itineraries with onboard comfort.

One standout feature? Access to Glacier Bay National Park, a privilege shared with only a few other cruise lines like Holland America and Norwegian Cruise Line.

What sets Princess apart

While Princess is a top-tier cruise operator worldwide, its dedication to Alaska-specific experiences is unmatched.

• Exclusive "direct-to-the-wilderness" rail service seamlessly connects passengers to Denali National Park and other land-based excursions.

• Access to Glacier Bay National Park, a highlight for any Alaskan adventure.

• Affordable pricing compared to luxury competitors while maintaining high-quality dining, entertainment, and accommodations.

Alaska-specific adventures aboard Princess Cruises

Beyond the food (more on that later), Alaska-unique onboard offerings include naturalist talks and a planetarium Northern Lights experience.

Though Princess still can't top Disney in terms of the best cruise line for kids, it still is a worthy contender. On Alaska itineraries, it offers a Junior Ranger program.

Local, fresh dining

If you love to eat (particularly seafood), then dining with Princess on its Alaska itineraries is unparalleled. Ever since 2022, Princess has offered what it calls its Wild for Alaska Seafood menu. With it, you'll nosh on fresh Alaska seafood dishes, such as Alaska salmon, Alaska cod (caught by hook and line only), halibut, rockfish, Dungeness crabs, wild spot prawns and razor clams. It's guaranteed fresh and sustainably sourced.

Besides local fish, the cruise offers dishes that are especially enticing in the cold, including coffee and hot chocolate-based beverages such as the “Spiced Rum Hot Chocolate" or “White Glacier," as well as themed frozen drinks such as the “Ketchikan Strawberry Shortcake,” “Alaskan Polar Bear” and “Juneau Goldbelt Tram.”

You might also book a unique excursion called "Cook My Catch," where you fish for your own dinner.

Princess on land

While the cruise ship itself is exceptional, don't miss out on the Princess land offerings. Princess operates local hotels including:

• Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge.

• Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge.

• Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge. 

Princess offers a “direct-to-the-wilderness” rail service, which means passengers can step off the ship and onto the train to head to their next adventure. And the train is pretty stunning at that, putting travelers in glass-domed railcars for unparalleled views.

You can book all sorts of itineraries that whisk you around the state in what Princess calls "cruisetours." One of the best (and longest) is a 15-night National Parks Tour that tales you to five of Alaska’s parks including Glacier Bay, Denali, Wrangell-St. Elias, Kenai Fjords National Park and Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park in Skagway. With that tour, seven days are at sea while eight nights are on land (including stays at four Princess-owned wilderness lodges).

A notable Alaska itinerary to consider

Perhaps the top Alaska itinerary you can possible take in 2025 kicks off on Sunday, Aug. 17, 2025. That's when the Discovery Princess sets sail on a 7-day trip out of Seattle with famous American biologist and wildlife conservationist Jeff Corwin on board (Corwin has hosted multiple TV shows including Disney Channel's Going Wild with Jeff Corwin and The Jeff Corwin Experience on Animal Planet).

That itinerary includes all the usual features of a Princess Cruise, such as high-end dining, live nighttime entertainment and activities like the pool, spa and casino. But this itinerary stands out for the one-of-a-kind shore excursions you can participate in alongside Corwin, as well as keynote presentations on the main stage once you're back on board.

Plan ahead for 2026

If you're planning super far out, you have even more options in 2026. Princess will run its biggest-ever Alaska season yet, which will include the debut of the newest ship in its fleet, Star Princess (which will make its first official launch in fall 2025). The Star Princess will largely resemble the popular Sun Princess ship, which stands out as an engineering marvel with architectural spectacles like The Dome, which is a unique, geodesic structure used for multiple functions including live entertainment, a club and yoga classes, as well as The Sphere, which is a suspended glass Piazza. 

Choose from the spiffy new sailing on the Star Princess — or otherwise book one of the other seven Princess vessels sailing to Alaska across about 180 departures and 19 destinations.

Why we love Holland America Line in Alaska

Holland America is a close second, appealing to older travelers and adventurers who prioritize destination immersion.

Holland America has a huge presence in Alaska. In fact, Holland America claims it has visited Glacier Bay National Park more than any other cruise operator. That's perhaps unsurprising given that it's operated there for almost eight decades. In addition to Denali National Park, this is the only cruise line to take passengers into Canada’s Yukon Territory.

While Holland America lacks the youthful energy on other competitors in this guide (including our overall pick, Princess, and our best pick for kids and families, Disney Cruise Line) Holland America excels with its extensive presence in Alaska and deep-rooted expertise.

What sets Holland America apart

HAL offers mid-sized ships that allow for a more intimate cruising experience, ideal for connecting with Alaska’s raw beauty.

Holland America excels in its onboard programming tailored to Alaska. Guests can participate in EXC Talks, featuring lectures on the region’s history, wildlife, and indigenous culture and the popular BBC Earth in Concert series, which pairs live orchestral music with footage of Alaska’s landscapes.

HAL also partners with National Park Rangers and Huna Tlingit cultural interpreters, who board the ships to provide unique perspectives during Glacier Bay sailings.

Local, fresh dining

Dining is a standout aspect of HAL's Alaska experience. The "Alaska Up Close" culinary program brings locally inspired dishes such as fresh salmon, crab, and halibut to the table.

Drinks are a must-try for one key reason: certain cocktails feature authentic Alaska glacier ice harvested by state permit among floating glacier bergs in Prince William Sound. Sip on drinks like Juneau Gin & Tonic, Blue Iceberg or Alaska's Blue Ice for not just top-shelf alcohol, but that sweet glacier ice.

Holland America on land

HAL’s Land+Sea Journeys pair cruises with in-depth land tours, offering travelers the chance to explore iconic locations such as Denali National Park. These journeys feature HAL’s exclusive McKinley Chalet Resort, with views of the park and luxury amenities.

If you don't extend for a full land tour, you can also take part in excursions at each port. Holland America's excursion options include hiking a glacier, kayaking through the water, dog sledding, panning for gold or taking a panoramic helicopter ride.

» Learn more: Cruises where you don’t need a passport

Why we love Disney Cruise Line in Alaska

When traveling with kids, balancing family-friendly amenities with enriching shore excursions is key. Disney Cruise Line’s Alaska itineraries excel at this.

When you sail with Disney to Alaska, your only option of ship is the Disney Wonder. It's the second-oldest ship in the fleet, but it's still going strong. Highlights on the Disney Wonder include pirate-themed deck parties and "Star Wars" events, among other activities.

Top features that set Disney apart

Disney combines Alaskan wilderness exploration with world-class entertainment. From Broadway-style shows to character meet-and-greets, there’s something for every family member. True to the chilly Alaska vibes, don't miss the "Frozen"-themed dinner.

The kids’ clubs, tailored for various age groups, are industry-leading, offering safe, engaging spaces for kids to play and learn.

Alaska-specific adventures aboard Disney Cruise Line

Disney’s Alaska cruises emphasize family-friendly excursions, such as dog sledding on glaciers, gold panning in Skagway, and whale-watching tours. Onboard, kids can join naturalist-led activities and exclusive programs like the Junior Ranger program.

Disney does not trade youthful events for local highlights, though. This sailing will also take travelers to the Hubbard Glacier or Stikine Icecap, among other places.

Why we love Lindblad Expeditions in Alaska

For travelers seeking a deep dive into Alaska’s wilderness, Lindblad Expeditions delivers. Known for its partnership with National Geographic, Lindblad offers small-ship expeditions designed for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.

If your goal is to get up close and personal with Alaska’s raw beauty, Lindblad Expeditions’ small ships deliver unparalleled access. Some highlights when booking with Lindblad:

• Smaller vessels allow access to remote fjords and wildlife-rich areas unreachable by larger ships.

• Exclusive multi-day permits for Glacier Bay National Park, providing deeper exploration than mainstream lines.

• Naturalist-led excursions, from kayaking to hiking, ensuring an immersive experience.

Top features that set Lindblad apart

When you book with Lindblad, realize that it's more about the off-ship exploration over onboard amenities. But if that's your priority, then Lindblad’s focus on exploration is unmatched. Small, nimble ships allow for access to remote coves and rarely visited areas. Every sailing is staffed with a team of naturalists, photographers and scientists who offer insights into Alaska’s ecosystems and wildlife.

Do note, though, that Lindblad cruises cost nearly double that of mainstream lines.

Alaska-specific adventures aboard Lindblad Expeditions

Guests can expect hands-on activities like kayaking among icebergs, hiking through temperate rainforests, and Zodiac rides for close encounters with glaciers and wildlife. Photography workshops led by National Geographic photographers are a unique highlight.

Local, fresh dining

Dining aboard Lindblad ships emphasizes sustainability and local sourcing, with menus featuring Alaska’s finest seafood and organic ingredients. Meals are often casual and communal, fostering a sense of camaraderie among guests.

Why we love Seabourn in Alaska

Seabourn offers a luxurious way to experience Alaska’s rugged beauty. With its all-inclusive model, intimate ships, and refined service, Seabourn caters to discerning travelers looking for a high-end adventure.

Stunning ships like the Seabourn Odyssey have just over 200 suite cabins, guaranteeing a small-ship experience with big-time amenities. From the moment you walk in, you'll get a complimentary welcome champagne. And don't assume rooms are small; suites have walk-in closets.

Consider Seabourn the pinnacle of luxury cruising in Alaska.

Top features that set Seabourn apart

Seabourn blends luxury with expedition-style cruising. Its ships carry only 250-600 guests, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. The all-suite accommodations, many with private verandas, are designed for ultimate comfort.

Alaska-specific adventures aboard Seabourn

Seabourn partners with the Ventures by Seabourn program to offer guided kayak and Zodiac excursions, led by a team of expert naturalists and expedition leaders. Guests can also enjoy onboard lectures and wildlife spotting from the Observation Lounge.

Local, fresh dining

Seabourn’s culinary offerings are as exceptional as its service. Guests can savor fresh, locally sourced seafood while enjoying regionally inspired menus crafted in partnership with Chef Thomas Keller.

With Seabourn, everything is included, from onboard bubbles to all kinds of drinks. In addition, specialty restaurants, minibars and even gratuities are part of the package. Yes, that includes fine wines and premium spirits.

Though the upfront price tag can be high (and much higher than the other picks in this guide), don't be scared off. If you're someone who would pay for all those extras anyway, you might find that Seabourn isn't actually that much higher than the competition when all is said and done (the extra fees on competitors can add up fast).

For this guide, we evaluated Alaska cruise lines based on several factors:

• Value: Balancing cost with inclusions and overall experience.

• Specialized offerings: For categories like family or expedition cruising, we focused on features tailored to those audiences.

• Access: The ability to explore iconic Alaskan landmarks like Glacier Bay and Denali.

• Reputation: Longevity and expertise in Alaskan cruising played a key role.

Various factors played different roles in each category. For best Alaska cruise line on a budget, we primarily focused on value, and didn't worry so much about access. On the other hand, for the best expedition cruise, we weighted access far more heavily than value.

For this guide, we considered the following major cruise operators in Alaska:

• Carnival Cruise Line.

• Celebrity Cruises.

• Disney Cruise Line.

• Holland America Line.

• Lindblad Expeditions.

• Norwegian Cruise Line.

• Princess Cruises.

• Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

• Royal Caribbean.

• Seabourn.

Exploring Alaska by cruise is not just a convenient way to access its remote destinations, but it also allows you to immerse yourself in the state’s natural beauty and rich culture without the hassle of overland travel. Here are some compelling reasons to choose an Alaskan cruise:

• Unmatched accessibility: Many Alaskan cities, like Juneau and Ketchikan, are best accessible by sea. Cruising lets you reach these destinations with ease while enjoying breathtaking coastal views.

• Passports sometimes aren't required: For U.S. citizens sailing on roundtrip itineraries from ports like Seattle, a passport might not be necessary, making it an even more accessible option for domestic travelers seeking to travel without a passport. Of course, check with your individual cruise operators to understand the passport rules before booking.

• Spectacular scenery: Cruise ships provide a front-row seat to Alaska’s glaciers, fjords and wildlife. Consider it a practical mode of transportation, a wildlife tour and a place to dine, workout and enjoy all-in-one. From the deck, you can spot humpback whales, bald eagles and even calving glaciers.

• Diverse itineraries: Whether you’re drawn to luxury, adventure, or family-friendly experiences, there’s a cruise line and itinerary tailored to your preferences.

» Learn more: Cruises where you don’t need a passport

Choosing the right port of departure and timing your trip carefully can make or break your Alaskan cruise experience. Here’s what you need to know:

Pay with the right credit card

The best travel credit cards not only offer bonus points for cruise bookings, but come with other benefits like travel insurance for trips paid for on that card.

Here's are some of the best credit cards for booking cruises:

Terms apply.

» Learn more: The best credit cards for cruises

Choosing a departure port

Most Alaska cruises depart from either Vancouver, Seattle or San Francisco (though you can sometimes find even longer itineraries that depart from elsewhere). Here's what to know about each:

• Vancouver: Often considered the best option for a more scenic route, many itineraries from Vancouver pass through the Inside Passage, offering breathtaking views. However, flights to Vancouver may be pricier for U.S. travelers (and you'll need a passport to enter into Vancouver).

• Seattle: A convenient option for U.S. travelers with plenty of roundtrip itineraries. While it’s slightly less scenic than Vancouver, it’s more accessible and typically more affordable.

• San Francisco: Less common but ideal for those looking to combine an Alaska cruise with a few days exploring California. These itineraries are longer (and thus often pricier).

The best time to sail on an Alaskan cruise

• Summer (June to August): Offers the best weather and longest days for sightseeing, but it’s also the most expensive time to cruise.

• Shoulder season (April, May, September): Prices are significantly lower, but weather can be unpredictable, and there’s a higher chance of rain or fog. In late September, some ports may be inaccessible due to weather conditions, potentially impacting planned shore excursions. It can be worth purchasing travel insurance for sailings during these periods given the increased risk of challenging weather.

Other tips for cruising through Alaska

• Plan for excursions: While it can be completely reasonable to skip paid shore excursions on European or Caribbean sailings (after all, you can step off and wander about on your own), that's generally not the case with Alaskan cruises. Many of Alaska’s highlights, like glacier treks or wildlife tours, require excursions. Book these in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. And of course, budget for these — as most cruise operators don't include shore excursions with the price of your sailing.

• Pack strategically: Weather in Alaska can vary widely, even in summer. Layers are key, including waterproof outerwear and sturdy walking shoes for excursions.