Rugged mountains, breathtaking fjords, turquoise glaciers, and abundant wildlife make Alaska's coastline truly unique. The state boasts more than 2,500 islands and many breathtaking sites that can be only accessed by water. No wonder, over a million people book cruises in Alaska every year.
When is the best time to go on a cruise in Alaska
The best time to explore Alaska by boat is summer. The cruise season usually runs from late April through October, and each month has its advantages. May offers somewhat chilly but also dryer weather. You can also count on lower prices compared to the summer months. June, July, and August boast mellow weather and comfortable temperatures, but it's also more expensive to travel during the peak season. July marks the beginning of the wetter season with more rainfall, but it's also the best month in Alaska for spotting wildlife. During September and October, temperatures drop, and there's plenty of rain. However, you can enjoy fall foliage views and thinner crowds.
The budget for an Alaska cruise varies from $500 to $8000, depending on the type of boat, amenities, and the length of your stay. A standard trip includes a 6-day or 14-day itinerary. However, you can find a longer cruise, taking three to four weeks, as well as a smaller boat and off-the-beaten-track itinerary. Juneau is the busiest cruise port in Alaska and a good place to locate cruises.
Cruise routes
The Inside Passage is the most popular cruise route in Alaska. It starts from either Seattle in the USA or Vancouver in Canada and goes along the islands of the southeast coast of Alaska. Ships usually stop in Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Sitka, Haines, or Victoria. Most cruises also visit the famous Glacier Bay National Park.
Cross Gulf of Alaska is an alternative cruise route that allows passengers to see more of Alaska's natural beauty. This route starts in Vancouver or Seattle and ends in Anchorage. Cruise ships stop in some Inside Passage towns as well as Hubbard Glacier, College Fjord, Prince William Sound, and Valdez.
Some cruise companies offer less touristic routes and destinations, such as the Aleutian Islands in the southwestern part of Alaska, where passengers can stop at indigenous villages and uninhabited islands.
Practical info
What is the most popular cruise route in Alaska?
The route that starts from Seattle or Vancouver and goes along the southeast coast of Alaska is the most sought after by tourists. This route, also known as the Inside Passage, is famous for the stunning scenic views of places like Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Sitka, Haines, or Victoria. Most cruises also visit the Glacier Bay National Park which is one of the highlights of the journey. Show more
What are the advantages of travelling to Alaska by boat?
Travelling to Alaska by boat provides several advantages that cannot be experienced through land travel. There are opportunities to witness the abundant and diverse wildlife, picturesque fjords, turquoise glaciers, and imposing mountains - all of which can be accessed via waterways. With a season that runs from April till October, travellers can enjoy comfortable temperatures, fall foliage views, and a less crowded experience. Show more
What is the best month for spotting wildlife in Alaska?
Wildlife spotting in Alaska can be great in any season but the best time to view them is in July. This period marks the beginning of the wetter season but still offers pleasant temperature and increased sightings of marine creatures like Humpback whales or Orcas. However, the peak of wildlife season differs based on the species and their migration patterns across the state. Show more
How much does an Alaska cruise typically cost?
The cost of an Alaska cruise is dependent on various factors such as the duration of stay, preferred amenities, and type of boat. While some cruises start from $500, others can be as expensive as $8,000. The standard itinerary is usually six to fourteen days long, while a longer trip could take up to four weeks, travelling a smaller boat and path. It is important to consider additional expenses like airfare, excursions, etc. when budgeting for an Alaska cruise. Show more
Are there any alternative cruise routes apart from the Inside Passage and the Cross Gulf of Alaska?
In addition to the popular Alaska cruise routes, some tour companies offer unique, off-the-beaten-path itineraries. For example, you can explore the Aleutian Islands on the southwestern part of Alaska, visit remote village settlements and uninhabited islands while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of the Bering Sea, Pacific Ocean, and Alaska Peninsula. Nevertheless, these alternative routes come with a higher price tag compared to the conventional routes. Show more
