What to Consider When Planning an Alaska Cruise
- Denise Lang
- Jul 21
- 3 min read
Because sailing through glaciers and spotting whales is magical, but it’s even better when it’s stress-free.
There’s something about Alaska that feels otherworldly. The air is crisper. The blues are deeper. The silence is… inspiring. If you’re dreaming about cruising through fjords, watching glaciers calve into icy waters, and catching sight of a breaching whale or two, an Alaska cruise might be the experience your soul didn’t know it needed.
But planning a cruise to Alaska isn’t quite like planning a Caribbean getaway. The destinations, the excursions, the timing, even what you pack—there’s more to think about than most travelers expect. Here are a few key things to consider when planning your Alaska adventure (and how working with a travel advisor can make it seamless):
1. When Should You Go?
Alaska cruise season runs from May to September, with each month offering something different:
May/June: Fewer crowds, great wildlife viewing, snow still visible on mountaintops
July: Peak season, warmer weather, ideal for families with kids out of school
August/September: Stunning fall colors, salmon spawning, potential for Northern Lights in late September
Travel Advisor Tip: Book early - Alaska cabins go quickly, especially balcony rooms!
2. What Cruise Itinerary Should You Choose?
There are two main types of itineraries:
Round-trip (usually from Seattle or Vancouver): Great for simplicity, especially if you're short on time
One-way (between Vancouver and Anchorage): Often includes more scenic cruising and deeper port stops; ideal if you're adding on a land tour (think Denali or Fairbanks!)
Travel Advisor Tip: If you want to experience both Alaska’s coastline and its rugged interior, a cruise + land package might be the perfect combo.
3. Which Cruise Line Is Right for You?
Not all cruise lines offer the same vibe. Are you traveling with kids? Looking for luxury? Want a more inclusive experience? Some favorites we recommend often include:
Royal Caribbean – Great for families and multigenerational groups
Disney Cruise Line – Unmatched service + magical moments for every age
Holland America & Princess – Experts in Alaska with strong land tour options
Celebrity or Norwegian – Upscale experience with excellent balcony views
Virgin Voyages – This adults only cruise line begins sailing Alaska in summer 2026!
Travel Advisor Tip: We help match your style and budget with the ship that fits your dream.
4. What Should You Pack?
Alaska is all about layers. You might go from sunny 60s to drizzly 40s in one day.
Must-haves include:
Waterproof jacket and comfortable walking shoes
Binoculars for wildlife spotting
Layers: fleece, long sleeves, light sweaters
A sense of adventure (and maybe a journal!)
Travel Advisor Tip: Don’t overpack, but don’t underprepare. Your suitcase should be flexible, just like your days in port.
5. What Excursions Are Worth It?
This is where Alaska really shines. Imagine:
Helicopter rides to glaciers
Whale-watching tours
Dog sledding experiences
Cultural visits with Indigenous communities
Scenic rail journeys through breathtaking landscapes
Excursions can fill fast, and choosing the right ones (that match your interests, mobility, and pace) makes a huge difference.
Travel Advisor Tip: We help you prioritize excursions that add value—not just cost.
You Don’t Have to Figure This Out Alone
Cruising to Alaska is a dream, but the planning doesn’t have to be overwhelming. We’ll walk you through:
Choosing the right cruise line and itinerary
Booking flights, pre-/post-stays, and transfers
Selecting excursions and what to expect
Preparing with the right packing lists and planning tools
Because this isn’t just another vacation. It’s a memory-in-the-making.
Start your vacation conversation today and let’s get you to Alaska the stress-free way.
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