Best Alaska Cruise Itinerary

Where do Alaska cruises typically navigate? Most of these cruises follow the Inside Passage, a coastal route in the southern part of the state, extending into British Columbia and Washington state. This route passes through numerous islands in the region. Some Alaska cruises travel further north into the Gulf of Alaska. These cruises are usually one-way and start and finish at ports near Anchorage. Here are some of the best Alaska cruise itineraries for your upcoming vacation.

Inside Passage

The Inside Passage represents one of the most favored routes for Alaska cruises. Our weeklong itineraries typically commence from either Seattle or Vancouver, British Columbia, although certain routes begin in Juneau.

This passage was formed by glacial ice many years ago, and today, our cruise ships and fishing vessels navigate through its islets and channels to offer you a glimpse of some of the most breathtaking natural wonders globally.

You'll encounter impressive mountains, often adorned with snow even in the summer, dense forests, cascading waterfalls, fjords, and glaciers that calve. If your interest lies in marine life, you'll be treated to an abundance of it, from whales and dolphins to sea lions and harbor seals. On the land, you'll likely spot bears and Dall sheep, while above, eagles, puffins, and various seabirds soar through the sky.

When planning your Alaska trip, consider the rich historical and cultural aspects that complement the natural beauty of the region. While many travelers come to Alaska for its pristine wilderness, it's essential not to overlook its captivating history.

Our shore excursions and onboard lectures are designed to provide you with insights into the diverse cultures of Alaska. You'll learn about the Indigenous peoples who have inhabited this land for centuries, as well as the Russian community in Sitka and the Klondike Gold Rush in Skagway during the late 1890s.

Your journey along the Inside Passage will include stops at popular ports of call such as Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan, Petersburg, Haines, and Skagway. Most of our cruises typically visit three or four of these destinations, allowing you to explore different facets of Alaska.

Additionally, you'll have two unique cruising experiences during your trip. One day will be spent cruising the Inside Passage, where the calm waters between the land masses make for a comfortable voyage. You'll also have a day focused on "scenic cruising," offering you the chance to take in breathtaking landscapes, including Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve or Hubbard Glacier.

If you have concerns about seasickness, rest assured that the Inside Passage offers a more stable sailing experience compared to routes with rougher, open waters. This makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a smoother Alaska cruise itinerary.

Gulf of Alaska

When you reserve a Gulf of Alaska cruise, you'll have the opportunity to explore various areas within the Inside Passage and its associated ports. These ports may encompass Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, Ketchikan, Haines, and Icy Strait Point.

During your journey, you'll enjoy up to two days of picturesque cruising, in addition to traversing the Inside Passage itself. Since Gulf of Alaska cruises venture further north, your scenic stops might include College Fjord, Glacier Bay, and Hubbard Glacier.

When considering one-way sailings in the Gulf of Alaska, they typically commence from either Seward or Whittier, the cruise ports nearest to Anchorage. Conversely, they conclude in Vancouver, or the reverse route is available. The usual duration of these itineraries spans seven nights, although there are a few options that extend beyond this timeframe.

To embark on one of these journeys, you will need to arrange transportation to or from Anchorage, which is the nearest major airport. Once in Anchorage, you have the choice of taking a train or bus to reach the cruise departure ports, a journey that typically takes one to two hours. It's important to note that you can secure this transportation either independently or through your chosen cruise line.

If you're contemplating a Gulf of Alaska sailing, especially one scheduled for late August or September, it's worth being prepared for the possibility of encountering rough seas during the gulf portion of the voyage. If you have a history of seasickness, it's advisable to take precautions.

Longer sailings from the West Coast

We offer a selection of San Francisco round-trip itineraries, typically spanning 10 to 11 nights, and extended voyages connecting San Francisco to Vancouver. These cruise options are particularly well-suited for travelers who enjoy spending time at sea.

During these journeys, you'll experience four days at sea, such as a two-day voyage from San Francisco to Juneau, in addition to a day dedicated to scenic cruising at locations like Tracy Arm (Twin Sawyer Glaciers), Endicott Arm, Hubbard Glacier, or Glacier Bay National Park. The conditions of the waters as you approach the Inside Passage can vary, ranging from calm to rough, depending on the timing of your trip.

Ports of call on these longer sailings may encompass destinations like Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, and Victoria, British Columbia.

For added variety, you may also discover one-way repositioning cruises between southern California ports (eg. Los Angeles) and Vancouver, marking the beginning or conclusion of a ship's Alaska cruise season.

Conclusion

Selecting the best Alaska cruise itinerary is a pivotal decision for an unforgettable adventure in the Last Frontier. With the diverse options available, it's crucial to carefully consider your preferences, budget, and desired experiences to find the perfect fit. And when it comes to booking your dream Alaskan cruise, there's no better place to turn to than Cruisebound, The easiest platform to book cruises online and discover the best cruise deals.