Best Cruise Lines to Alaska: Top 10 Picks for Every Traveler

Taking a cruise to Alaska is one of the ultimate bucket-list adventures. Glide into a rich culture, explore colossal glaciers, spot breaching whales, and gaze at the northern lights dancing in the night sky.

Your adventure starts by choosing the right cruise line and itinerary. With Alaska's cruise season running from April through October, plenty of options exist to explore this expansive frontier.

Every cruiser's ideal experience boils down to a mix of amenities, dining options, cabins, excursions, and overall vibe. To help you find your perfect expedition, we’ve compiled a guide to the top cruise lines of Alaska for every type of traveler.

On This Page:

1. Best Value: Carnival
2. Best for Thrill Seekers & Families: Royal Caribbean, Norwegian
3. Best for Families with Kids & Toddlers: Disney
4. Best for Couples: Celebrity, Princess
5. Best for Cultural Enrichment: Holland America, Viking Ocean Cruises
6. Best for Luxury: Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas

Best Alaskan Cruise Line for Value: Carnival

Carnival Cruise Line

If you’re looking for the best Alaskan cruise deals, look no further than Carnival Cruise Line. Carnival's frequent discounts and affordable packages allow value seekers to explore the world without sacrificing comfort or fun.

Its most popular ships are the Carnival Spirit and Carnival Luminosa, which provide a range of activities and entertainment to keep guests of all ages engaged while at sea. The top Alaskan cruise itinerary for value-seekers is the 7-Day Alaska Inside Passage and Glacier tour, featuring spectacular coastal scenery and unique wildlife encounters.

Onboard Amenities

Carnival offers a variety of amusing activities for all ages, including:

• WaterWorks: Dive into the WaterWorks water park featuring the Twister Waterslide, Power Drencher Soaker, and DrainPipe, which ends in a swirling finish.
• Ropes Course: Challenge your limits on this exhilarating course high above the deck.
• SkyRide: Pedal your way through the air above deck for sweeping views of the Alaskan landscape.
• SportsSquare: Enjoy pool games, foosball, ping pong, soccer, and volleyball.

Dining & Cabins

Carnival offers a diverse range of dining options, from juicy burgers at Guy's Burger Joint to freshly baked pizzas at Pizzeria del Capitano. For a more unique culinary experience, Bonsai Sushi and Ol' Fashioned BBQ have you covered with regionally inspired menus at very reasonable prices.

Carnival’s staterooms come equipped with climate control, spacious closets, and 24-hour room service.

Shore Excursions

Carnival offers the best value Alaska cruise deals, with exciting shore excursions from as low as $40 per person, such as:

• Cooking in Alaska’s Wildest Kitchen: Learn traditional Alaskan cooking techniques.
• Helicopter Flightseeing and Glacier Walkabout: Take to the skies for a once-in-a-lifetime view.
• Sky Glider at Icy Strait Point: Glide through the treetops and catch glimpses of Alaska’s natural beauty.

Best Alaska Cruises for Thrill Seekers & Families: Royal Caribbean and Norwegian

Royal Caribbean International

If you’re traveling with a multigenerational family or seeking excitement, Royal Caribbean International is among the best Alaska cruise companies for you. With a variety of adventurous onboard entertainment and a selection of captivating excursions, everyone is guaranteed to have a great time.

Royal Caribbean's best cruise ships to Alaska are Radiance of the Seas, Quantum of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, and Serenade of the Seas. Their best Alaskan cruise itinerary for families is the 7-night Southbound Alaska & Hubbard Glacier trip, featuring extraordinary views of glaciers, wildlife, and charming towns.

Onboard Amenities

Royal Caribbean's onboard amenities emphasize action for family members of all ages. Their top facilities include:

• SeaPlex: The largest indoor activity complex at sea offers bumper cars, basketball, and roller skating.
• RipCord by iFly: Experience the sensation of freefall skydiving in a controlled environment.
• FlowRider: Ride the wave with the FlowRider surfing simulator, surrounded by Alaska's natural beauty.
• North Star Observation Capsule: Rise 300 feet above sea level for unparalleled 360-degree views.
• Video Game Arcade: On-board arcade featuring popular games like Guitar Hero, Fast & Furious Drift, and more.

Royal Caribbean also ranks among the best family Alaska cruises because of its exciting onboard kids program. For children ages 3-11, the Adventure Ocean program provides supervised educational and play activities for free until 10:00 pm. Fees apply after that time.

Dining & Cabins

Royal Caribbean offers casual dining options ranging from authentic Mexican cuisine at El Loco Fresh to Dog House’s specially crafted hot dogs. If you prefer a more refined dining experience, specialty options such as the Chef's Table or Giovanni's Italian Grille are also available.

The staterooms include a personal attendant, daily cleaning service, HD-TV, and in-room climate control.

Shore Excursions

Royal Caribbean’s shore excursions are for the adventurous and bold, with thrilling activities such as:

• Wilderness Express Railcars: Journey through the wild Alaskan landscape.
• Mendenhall Glacier Dog Sledding: Take an exhilarating ride across the glacier.
• Whale Watching in Juneau: Witness the majesty of humpback whales in their natural habitat.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Another fantastic option for thrill seekers and multigenerational families is Norwegian Cruise Line. Their excursions are renowned for their exciting and freedom-focused approach, ranking them among the best Alaska cruises for families and thrill-seekers alike.

Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore are Norwegian’s best Alaska cruise ships, featuring the renowned 7-night Alaska itineraries. These are known as their best Alaska cruise tours since they let you explore the rugged wilderness and picturesque towns of Alaska while enjoying all the onboard amenities listed below.

Onboard Amenities

Norwegian’s onboard amenities are perfect for adventurers seeking excitement, with inclusions such as:

• Speedway: Race on a twisty, outdoor go-kart track high above the ocean.
• Exciting Sports: Enjoy a variety of on-board sports areas including basketball hoops, volleyball nets, and tennis courts.
• Exhilarating activities: Partake in a ropes course with over 40 different sections, or scale the 20ft rock climbing wall.
• Entertainment for adults: Enjoy an onboard casino equipped with blackjack, poker, and more. Also, check out the shopping center with a selection of unique art pieces.

Norwegian also ranks among the top Alaska cruises for families thanks to its variety of peer kids clubs. They offer games and activities for kids ages 3-12 at their onboard Splash Academy. Teens ages 13-17 can enjoy the designated space where they can express themselves through music, art, and games at Norwegian's Entourage Teens. Opening and closing times for both will be posted onboard.

Dining & Cabins

Norwegian is hailed for its variety of dining options, with global cuisine ranging from tableside carved meats at Pasadores Brazilian Steakhouse to their famous Teppanyaki Japanese grill, where your food is cooked right in front of you. Kids will love the once-a-cruise late-night Chocoholic buffet, while parents will appreciate the 24-hour eatery, serving up classic comforting dishes all day and night.

Norwegian staterooms include a TV, a 24-hour room service menu, and ice buckets available upon request. Upgrade to a suite or penthouse to get access to a personal escort on and off the ship, 24-hour suite service, a complimentary bottle of champagne, and specialty L’Occitane bathroom products.

Shore Excursions

Norwegians shore excursions are the pinnacle of excitement, with a range of adventurous activities such as:

• Grizzly Falls Ziplining Expedition: Soar through the Alaskan rainforest.
• Ocean Raft Adventures: Feel the rush on a high-speed rafting trip in Sitka.
• Whale Watching and Seafood Fest: Observe marine life and savor Alaskan seafood.

Best Cruise Line to Alaska for Families with Kids & Toddlers - Disney

Disney Cruise Line

For families with younger children, Disney Cruise Line stands out as the top choice. Disney has mastered the art of family-friendly cruises, providing entertainment and activities that captivate kids and adults alike.

Disney’s best cruise ship to Alaska is the Disney Wonder, known for its whimsical atmosphere. Their best Alaska cruise tour is the 7-night Alaska itinerary, allowing sufficient time to fully explore the region and enjoy the ship’s attractions.

Onboard Amenities

Disney’s onboard amenities reflect their “fun for the whole family” values, ranking them among the best Alaskan cruises for families. Family-friendly activities include:

• Mickey’s Sail-A-Wave Party: Dance alongside your favorite Disney characters.
• Frozen the Musical: Enjoy a magical performance of Frozen.
• Pixar Pals Party: Meet and greet with family favorite Pixar characters.
• Pirate Night: Get ready to dress up like pirates and enjoy nautical activities.

Disney also boasts a variety of youth entertainment and enrichment programs. For kids ages 3-10, Disney's Oceaneer Club offers the chance to interact with their favorite characters while enjoying themed playrooms such as Andy's Room, Mickey and Minnie's Captain Deck, and Marvel Superhero Academy.

Tweens aged 11-14 will love Edge Club, where games, a photo booth and karaoke machine, are available to enjoy with new mates. For older kids ages 14-17, the Vibe hangout area offers an exclusive space to relax and mingle, with music, TVs, games, and a private outdoor sundeck reserved for Vibe members.

Oceaneer Club is open from 9:00 am - midnight, while Vibe and Edge Club runs from 10:00 am - 1:00 am.

Dining & Cabins

Kids will love the casual dining at Daisy’s deLights and Pinocchio's Pizzeria, while Palos provides an adult-exclusive experience. Animator’s Palate provides an Asian fusion-inspired menu, and tasty sweets can be enjoyed at Eye Scream Treats.

Disney’s staterooms are designed with families in mind, meaning spacious beds, ample closet space, individual climate control, and 24-hour room service. If you opt for a Deluxe Ocean View Suite, you’ll be able to enjoy your private whirlpool tub and veranda.

Shore Excursions

For family-friendly adventure when off the ship, Disney has got you covered with unique excursions such as:

• Alpine Zipline Adventures: An exciting, scenic zipline tour.
• Adventure Kart Expedition: Navigate rugged terrain with off-road karts.
• Glacier Seaplane Expedition: Fly over breathtaking landscapes.

Best Alaska Cruise Lines for Couples: Celebrity & Princess

Celebrity Cruises

Looking for a romantic Alaskan getaway with your significant other? Celebrity Cruises is the perfect fit for you. Their elegant ships, including Celebrity Summit and Celebrity Edge, offer intimate experiences with exquisite dining options, luxurious spa treatments, and secluded relaxation areas.

Celebrity’s best Alaska cruise for couples is their 7-night Alaska Southbound Glacier itinerary, which leads you and your partner through breathtaking landscapes, including the awe-inspiring Dawes and Hubbard glaciers.

Onboard Amenities

Celebrity let's couples lounge and stay active together, with amenities including:

• Jazz Joint: Share a cocktail with a side of soulful live jazz.
• Pickleball courts: Try your hand at the social sport that's sweeping the world, with your partner or onboard friends.
• Spa & Fitness: Take a couple's massages, relax in the SEA Thermal suite, or try a yoga class together.
• Broadway shows: Enjoy live onboard performances of Broadway classics, like “Feel the Funk.”
• Private experiences: Rent out your own private space for activities like Personal Karaoke Parties, Ultimate Golf, and Sports Simulators.

Dining & Cabins

Celebrity caters to every palate with their array of dining options. Enjoy the modern Italian ambiance and traditional dishes at Tuscan, or head to Normandy for upscale French-inspired cuisine. If you want to take things up a notch, check out Celebrity's specialty dining options, like Fine Cut Steakhouse serving up exquisite steak and seafood dishes, or Le Petit Chef, offering a choreographed meal and elegant menu crafted by a Michelin star chef.

Each Celebrity stateroom includes a flat-screen TV, twice daily housekeeping service, laundry services, and free ice cream delivered to your room whenever you want. If you’re willing to splurge a bit, opting for an AquaClass stateroom will let you enjoy exclusive perks such as unlimited SEA Thermal suite access, a spa concierge, and private dining at both Blu Restaurant and Luminae.

Shore Excursions

Celebrity offers special exclusive tours to take your adventure to the next level, which is why they hold the spot for the best rated Alaska cruise according to US News rankings. Some options include:

• Alaska Gold Rush Tour: Relive the Gold Rush days with a historical tour.
• Talkeetna Treasures Port: Discover the charms of this picturesque town.
• Tongass National Forest: Hike, zipline, and kayak through this natural wonder.
• Whale-watching: Enjoy the views of majestic humpback whales on Celebrity's luxury catamarans and special safari vessels.
• Dawes Glacier, Hubbard Glacier, and Southbound Glaciers: Marvel at the spectacular glaciers from your ship.

Princess Cruises

Another option for couples seeking a more intimate, premium cruise experience is Princess Cruises. Princess’s mid-sized ships such as Royal Princess, Discovery Princess, and Ruby Princess offer unique and personal amenities catered to couples, making them the best Alaskan cruise line for couples seeking a romantic bucket-list experience.

Princess is known for their 14-night Alaska Cruise itinerary, where you'll witness the scenic Voyage of the Glaciers and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.

Onboard Amenities

Princess's onboard amenities emphasize connection and enrichment catered to couples, with unique inclusions such as:

• Stargazing Deck: Enjoy the night sky and serene atmosphere.
• Lotus Spa: Indulge in couples' massages and soothing treatments.
• Special activities: Join onboard activities inspired by hit shows such as Shark Week, Deadliest Catch, and Finding Bigfoot. Don’t miss their exclusive Alaska cruise offer of meeting Alaskan lumberjacks.
• Scholarship at Sea program: Engage in enriching programs to learn new skills such as photography, cooking, and pottery.

Dining & Cabins

For breakfast, you can lose yourself in Horizon Court’s famous buffet filled with sweets and pastries, or opt for a Private Balcony breakfast with your partners. If you enjoy seafood, check out Tracy's King Crab Shack, serving up authentic crab cakes, or head over to Ketchikan Alaska Fish House for Alaska seafood and fish tacos.

Princess offers some of the best balcony cabins, where you’ll enjoy the wonders of Alaska from your stateroom. Complimentary chocolates and champagne can be found upon arrival. If you are willing to spend a bit more, select suites that offer a personal hot tub right in your room.

Shore Excursions

Princess’s shore excursions offer intimate and immersive experiences, making them the best cruise line to visit Alaska with your significant other. Their most popular excursions include:

• Wrangell-St. Elias National Park: Exclusive access to the largest U.S. national park, filled with stunning scenery.
• Cook My Catch: Catch fish during the day and prepare it for dinner onboard.
• Voyage of the Glaciers: Sail through Glacier Bay National Park and enjoy multiple up-close views of Alaska's most famous glaciers. Princess’s Alaskan Lodges: Stay a night at one of Princess’s designated cruise tour lodges including:
  • Copper River Princess Wilderness Lodge: The only hotel of its kind bordering Wrangell-St. Elias.
  • Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge: The only cruise tour hotel overlooking Mt. McKinley.

Best Cruise Lines in Alaska for Culture Lovers: Holland America & Viking

Holland America Line

If you want an adventure rich in Alaskan culture and curated educational excursions, Holland America is an ideal line for your Alaska cruise. They bring a lively touch to an Alaska cruise with exclusive events aboard their Zaandam, Noordam, Westerdam, and Nieuw Amsterdam ships.

Holland America’s 7-Day Glacier Discovery and 7-Day Alaska Inside Passage itineraries provide unique access to Alaska's natural beauty and include special offers that other lines don’t have.

Onboard Amenities

Holland America blends leisure with enrichment, sharing unique amenities like:

• Music Walk: Venues like the Rolling Stone Rock Room and BB King's Blues Club perform live music to keep you entertained.
• World Stage: Enjoy exclusive EXC Talk lectures hosted by the resident Cruise & Travel Director, as well as shows from iconic groups like Step One Dance Company, Island Magic, and Cantare.
• Billboard Onboard: Sing along to top hits and test your music trivia knowledge in the festive lounge.
• Greenhouse Spa and Salon: A tranquil escape with rejuvenating treatments.

Dining & Cabins

Holland America offers a range of exquisite dining options. Dig into fresh-caught Alaskan fish through their Global Fresh Fish program, or feast on a multi-course dinner at The Dining Room. If seafood isn’t your style, check out Pinnacle Grill for a delicious steak, or head over to the casual marketplace-style Lido Market for a fantastic pasta dish.

Holland America’s staterooms offer 24-hour in-room dining, daily housekeeping, deluxe bathrobes, and complimentary shoe shine service. For those wanting a touch of luxury, upgrading to Pinnacle Suites will get you a private verandah with floor-to-ceiling glass doors, complimentary laundry services, and access to the exclusive Club Orange dining venue.

Shore Excursions

Holland America offers uniquely enriching and immersive shore excursions such as:

• Glacier Bay National Park: Marvel at the best sights of Glacier Bay, where Holland America has more permits than any other cruise line.
• Alaska Native Heritage Center: Witness Native Alaskan culture firsthand through authentic song and dance performances, art exhibitions, and storytelling.
• Icy Strait Point: Authentic cultural experiences with the native Tlingit people.
• Juneau and Skagway: Explore picturesque towns filled with storied history and sights.

Viking Ocean Cruises

For its cultural enrichment and immersion programs, Viking Ocean Cruises is unmatched. Vikings' best ships for Alaska, the Viking Sea, and Viking Orion, deliver a comprehensive view into Alaskan heritage on their popular 10-Night Alaska & The Inside Passage itinerary. From ports-of-call at culturally significant landmarks to locally-inspired cuisine, entertainment, and lessons, this immersive itinerary is renowned as the best Alaska cruise for adults.

Onboard Amenities

Viking’s amenities are designed to enhance cultural understanding, with highlights that will leave you thinking such as:

• World-class guest lecturers: Participate in enrichment programs shedding light on Alaskan history and culture.
• Viking resident historians: Learn from experts about the destinations visited.
• The Kitchen Table: Enjoy culinary lessons from experts highlighting Alaskan cuisine.
• Destination performances: Watch live shows that celebrate Alaska's unique art and culture.

Dining & Cabins

Viking’s dining options feature luxurious, hand-crafted cuisine. Sample a high-quality Alaskan-inspired menu at The Restaurant restaurant or opt for international flavors at the World Cafe. For a top-notch dining experience, The Chef’s Table delivers a delectable multi-course tasting menu, perfect for fine dining foodies.
Viking’s staterooms are worth the price and come well-equipped with ocean views, 42-inch flatscreen TVs, a welcome bottle of champagne, and sightseeing binoculars. You’ll also enjoy 24-hour room service, complimentary laundry, and shoe shine services.

Shore Excursions

Viking’s shore excursions offer deep immersive experiences in Alaska, including:

• Nature Walk in Pristine Alaskan Resort (included in fare): Hike through scenic landscapes and learn about the ecosystem.
• Taku Glacier Lodge Feast & Five Glacier Seaplane Discovery: An all-encompassing view of Alaska's natural wonders.
• Helicopter Glacier Trek: Take a helicopter ride over Tongass National Forest, then park in a 2-hour guided walk across a glacier.
• Mendenhall Glacier & Whale Watching: Explore the glacier and watch for humpback whales.

Best Luxury Alaska Cruises: Seabourn & Regent Seven Seas

Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn is the epitome of luxury Alaska cruise lines, taking an all-inclusive approach to ensure every aspect of your onboard experience is accounted for. Their best cruise ship in Alaska, tied between the Seabourn Odyssey and Seabourn Quest, offers the line’s incredible 7-day Alaska Fjords & Canadian Inside Passage itinerary. This journey takes guests through serene waters and sublime landscapes while providing phenomenal personal service.

Onboard Amenities

Seabourn’s amenities emphasize luxury and retreat, including:

• The Club: Relax in the main room, terrace, plunge pool, two whirlpool spas, and enjoy the afternoon tea service.
• Spa & Wellness Center: Take educational seminars and classes with the onboard Mindful Living Coach, a certified yoga and meditation practitioner.
• Seabourn Conversations: Engage with distinguished on-board guest speakers including diplomats, chefs, authors, oceanographers, and others.
• Card Room: Play traditional games like bridge, all in a cozy setting.

Dining & Cabins

Seabourn’s dining options are refined, and crafted by world-renowned chefs. Solis offers Mediterranean recipes focused on garden produce and fresh seafood. The Restaurant prepares delicate seasonal menus with designated sommeliers offering wine suggestions, while Sushi in The Club provides freshly made sushi bites every evening. For a more casual dining experience, head over to Patio Grill and enjoy their tasty hamburgers and salads.

Seabourn staterooms include complimentary wines and spirits, flat-screen TVs, walk-in closets, and luxury shower products. Seabourn guests can pack light thanks to the free self-serve laundry service on board.

Shore Excursions

Seabourn brings luxury to the shore with exclusive excursions, such as:

• Bear Creek Winery Tour: Wine tasting paired with beautiful landscapes.
• Dog Sledding on Mendenhall Glacier by Helicopter: Take a scenic helicopter ride to Mendenhall Glacier, and enjoy a fast-paced dog sled ride.
• Helicopter Glacier Trek: Marvel at the dense Alaskan wilderness during a stunning helicopter ride, then embark on a once-in-a-lifetime glacier trek.
• Luxury Whale Watching: An all-inclusive, easy-paced adventure.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

For an all-inclusive experience that combines Alaska's majestic terrain with opulent service and amenities, Regent is the best choice. Regent’s best cruise ship for Alaska is the Seven Seas Explorer, which offers unparalleled luxury whether you’re onboard or ashore.

Regent's 7-Night Alaska Cruise tour is the most luxurious Alaska cruise itinerary, covering the region's must-see landmarks with a special emphasis on exclusivity.

Onboard Amenities

Regent’s amenities reflect their commitment to offering the best all-inclusive Alaska cruises, featuring:

• The Constellation Theater: View lavish nightly performances.
• Culinary Arts Kitchen: Craft exquisite dishes with the help of expert chefs.
• Putting Green: Put your putting skills to the test on the green.
• Infinity Pool: Take a leisurely swim in the on-deck infinity pool.
• The Atrium: Relax with complimentary fine wines and spirits at this luxurious lounging area.

Dining & Cabins

Regent’s dining options are nothing short of exquisite, with delicious flavors from around the globe. Enjoy outdoor seating and scenic views of Alaska over a delicious breakfast and lunch at La Veranda buffet. Explore a unique Pan-Asian style menu in a Tibetan-inspired venue at Pacific Rim or grab a table at Chartreuse for a modern French menu and lavish Parisian decor.

Regents staterooms provide 24-hour room service, a welcome bottle of champagne, and free laundry services. Upgrading to a Regent Suite offers elevated amenities, including a private car and driver at every cruise port, a private balcony with a mini heated pool spa, and an exclusive dinner with the ship’s senior officer.

Shore Excursions

Regent’s luxury extends to the shore with premium excursions that come at no extra cost, including:

• Flavel House Tour: Discover Queen Anne-era Victorian architecture in the region.
• Fort Stevens: Get a behind-the-scenes tour of the historic Civil War fort.
• Cannon Beach shopping: Find unique gifts at charming boutiques with mountain views.

Adventure to Alaska

Taking a cruise to Alaska is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will create lifelong memories. Whether you're seeking affordable adventures, thrilling family activities, cultural immersion, or a luxurious retreat, we’ll help find the best cruise Alaska has for you.

Ready to set sail? Book your Alaskan adventure online with Cruisebound today. We've made the booking process seamless and transparent, so you can focus on enjoying your scenic journey to the last frontier.

FAQs:

Q: What is the best Alaska cruise line for couples?
A: The best Alaska cruise lines for couples are Princess Cruises and Celebrity Cruises.

Q: What is the best cruise to Alaska for families?
A: Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line offer the best cruises to Alaska for families.

Q: What is the best adults-only Alaska cruise line?
A: Viking Ocean Cruises offers the best adults-only cruises to Alaska.

Q: What is the best luxury Alaska cruise for families?
A: Regent Seven Seas offers the best luxury Alaska cruises for families thanks to their engaging onboard Club Mariner youth program.

Q: What is the difference between northbound Alaska cruises and southbound Alaska cruises?
A: Alaska's northbound cruises typically start in Vancouver and sail north to Alaska, while Alaska's southbound cruises start in Alaska and sail south to Vancouver. If a cruise line offers both northbound and southbound cruises, the stops along the way will most likely be the same.

Q: What line offers the best Alaska cruise deals?
A: Carnival Cruise Line offers the best deals for cruises to Alaska.

Q: What is the best Alaskan cruise for adults?
A: Viking Ocean Cruises is the best cruise line for adults to Alaska.

Q: How long should an Alaska cruise be?
A: The ideal length for Alaska cruises is 7 nights, allowing you to enjoy your time onboard while thoroughly exploring your destination. Longer cruises, like Princess’s 14-Night Alaska Cruise, are also offered for a more immersive and relaxing experience.