Cruising Through the Last Frontier: Your Guide to an Unforgettable Alaska Vacation

If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing glaciers calve into icy blue waters, spotting whales surfacing beside your ship, or exploring charming frontier towns surrounded by towering mountains — an Alaskan cruise might be calling your name.

Alaska offers a completely unique cruising experience: it’s one part wilderness adventure, one part luxury vacation, and one hundred percent unforgettable. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or planning your first voyage, here’s what you need to know before setting sail for The Last Frontier.

Why Cruise Alaska?

Alaska is one of the most spectacular cruise destinations in the world, offering jaw-dropping scenery and incredible wildlife from the comfort of your ship. Unlike tropical cruises that focus on beaches and sunshine, an Alaskan cruise is all about natural beauty, culture, and adventure.

Imagine waking up to views of mist-covered mountains, sailing past glaciers the size of skyscrapers, or enjoying dinner as eagles soar overhead. Each day brings a new port — and a new opportunity for discovery — from salmon fishing to dog sledding to exploring Gold Rush history.

Cruising is also one of the easiest ways to see Alaska’s vast and remote landscapes. Roads don’t connect many of the key towns and parks, so sailing allows travelers to access otherwise hard-to-reach destinations while unpacking only once.

When to Go

The Alaskan cruise season typically runs from late April through early October, with the most popular months being June through August when the weather is mildest and daylight hours are longest (up to 20 hours a day in some areas!).

• May & September: Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and better prices.

• June–August: Peak season with warmer weather, more wildlife sightings, and lush green scenery.

No matter when you go, pack layers — Alaska’s weather can change quickly, even in summer!

Cruise Itineraries: What to Expect

Most Alaskan cruises follow one of two main itineraries:

1. Round-Trip Cruises

Departing from Seattle or Vancouver, these itineraries typically last 7 days and return to the same port. They’re ideal for travelers who want the convenience of flying in and out of one location.

Sample Route:
Seattle → Juneau → Skagway → Glacier Bay → Ketchikan → Victoria, BC → Seattle

2. One-Way “Cross-Gulf” Cruises

These itineraries sail between Vancouver and either Seward or Whittier (near Anchorage). They allow travelers to explore more of Alaska’s interior — like Denali National Park — before or after the cruise.

Sample Route:
Vancouver → Ketchikan → Juneau → Skagway → Glacier Bay → College Fjord → Whittier

At People Mover Travel, we often recommend pairing a Cruise + Land Tour (also known as a “cruisetour”) for the ultimate Alaskan adventure — combining your voyage with a few days in Denali National Park or Fairbanks to see more of the state’s breathtaking interior.

Top Cruise Lines Sailing Alaska

There’s no shortage of cruise lines sailing to Alaska, but each offers a slightly different experience depending on your travel style:

Disney Cruise Line

Perfect for families, Disney brings its signature magic to the Alaskan wilderness. Expect character meet-and-greets in cozy sweaters, family-friendly shows, and activities for all ages.

Princess Cruises

One of the leaders in Alaskan cruising, Princess offers immersive onboard programming and exclusive land tours through its own lodges in Denali and Fairbanks.

Holland America Line

Known for its long history sailing Alaska, Holland America offers exceptional itineraries, smaller ships, and enriching lectures on local culture and wildlife.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

A great choice for active travelers and families, Norwegian features freestyle dining, fun entertainment, and itineraries that include scenic glacier cruising.

Royal Caribbean & Celebrity Cruises

These lines offer a mix of modern amenities, adventurous excursions, and great options for couples or multigenerational groups. Celebrity tends to offer a slightly more upscale experience, while Royal Caribbean features larger ships with plenty to do onboard.

At People Mover Travel, we work with all of these cruise lines and can help match you to the one that best fits your preferences, whether you’re looking for family fun, quiet luxury, or something in between.

Popular Ports & Excursions

Each port along Alaska’s coast offers a different glimpse into the state’s rugged beauty and fascinating history.

Juneau

The state capital — accessible only by air or sea — is home to the incredible Mendenhall Glacier and whale-watching tours in Auke Bay. You can also take the Mount Roberts Tramway for panoramic views or join a dogsledding excursion on a glacier.

Skagway

Step back in time to the Klondike Gold Rush era. Ride the historic White Pass & Yukon Route Railway, explore gold rush trails, or visit nearby ghost towns.

Ketchikan

Known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” Ketchikan features colorful totem poles, Native Alaskan art, and opportunities for fishing, kayaking, or visiting Misty Fjords National Monument by floatplane.

Sitka

Rich in Russian and Tlingit history, Sitka offers cultural tours, wildlife encounters, and stunning coastal hikes.

Glacier Bay National Park

Most itineraries include scenic cruising through Glacier Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ships sail close enough for you to hear the glaciers crack and roar as they calve into the sea — one of the most awe-inspiring sights on Earth.

What Makes an Alaskan Cruise Unique

Alaskan cruises are about nature, culture, and exploration — not just relaxing by the pool. Here’s what sets them apart:

• Wildlife viewing: Whales, sea lions, otters, eagles, moose, and even bears — all in their natural habitat.

• Scenic cruising: Many days are spent gliding through fjords, channels, and glacier parks, meaning the views are a huge part of the experience.

• Educational enrichment: Onboard naturalists and local experts share fascinating insights about glaciers, wildlife, and history.

• Cool weather cruising: Unlike tropical itineraries, Alaska offers a cozy, adventurous vibe with crisp air and dramatic landscapes.

Ready to Set Sail?

An Alaskan cruise offers something for everyone — from adventure seekers and photographers to families and retirees. Whether you’re kayaking through icy waters, watching humpback whales breach, or enjoying a cup of hot cocoa while sailing past a glacier, every moment feels like a scene from a nature documentary.

At People Mover Travel, we’ll help you find the perfect Alaskan cruise — choosing the right cruise line, itinerary, stateroom, and even pre- or post-cruise experiences in Denali or Anchorage. We’ll handle every detail so you can focus on making memories, not managing logistics.

Ready to start planning your Alaskan adventure? Reach out to your People Mover Travel agent today — and let’s find your perfect cruise through the wild, wonderful beauty of Alaska.