Best Cruise for Alaska Glaciers

Embarking on an Alaskan cruise is a dream for many, and for good reason. The breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife, and, of course, the majestic glaciers, create an unforgettable travel experience. But with so many cruise options available, choosing the best cruise for viewing Alaska’s glaciers can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive guide will navigate you through the options, highlighting the top cruise lines, itineraries, and essential tips to ensure your Alaskan glacier adventure is nothing short of spectacular.

Why Choose an Alaska Glacier Cruise?

Before delving into the specific cruises, let’s explore why an Alaska glacier cruise is such a popular and rewarding vacation choice. The sheer scale and beauty of these icy giants are awe-inspiring, and witnessing them up close is an experience that will stay with you long after you disembark. Beyond the glaciers, Alaska offers a wealth of other attractions, including stunning fjords, lush rainforests, and abundant wildlife such as whales, bears, and eagles. A cruise provides a convenient and comfortable way to explore this vast and rugged landscape.

The Allure of Glaciers

Glaciers are essentially rivers of ice, formed over centuries from accumulated snowfall. They are constantly moving, albeit slowly, and their movement shapes the landscape around them. Watching a glacier calve, the process where large chunks of ice break off and crash into the sea, is a truly remarkable sight. The sound of the ice cracking and the splash of the water create a powerful and unforgettable moment. Beyond the visual spectacle, glaciers play a crucial role in the global climate, and witnessing them firsthand can foster a deeper appreciation for the importance of environmental conservation.

Beyond the Ice: Exploring Alaska’s Wonders

While glaciers are undoubtedly a highlight of an Alaskan cruise, they are just one piece of the puzzle. Many cruises offer opportunities to explore other aspects of Alaska’s natural beauty, such as:

• Fjords: These narrow, deep inlets carved by glaciers offer stunning scenery and calm waters perfect for wildlife viewing.
• Rainforests: The Tongass National Forest, located in Southeast Alaska, is the largest temperate rainforest in North America, offering lush vegetation and diverse wildlife.
• Wildlife Viewing: Alaska is home to a wide variety of animals, including whales, bears, eagles, seals, sea otters, and more. Many cruises offer dedicated wildlife viewing excursions.
• Native Culture: Alaska has a rich Native culture, and many cruises offer opportunities to learn about the history, traditions, and art of the Tlingit, Haida, and other indigenous peoples.

Choosing the Right Cruise Line

Selecting the right cruise line is crucial for an enjoyable Alaska glacier cruise. Different cruise lines cater to different demographics and offer varying levels of service, amenities, and itineraries. Here’s a look at some of the top cruise lines for Alaska glacier viewing:

Holland America Line

Holland America Line is a popular choice for Alaska cruises, particularly among mature travelers. They have a long history of cruising in Alaska and offer a wide range of itineraries, including Glacier Bay National Park. Their ships are known for their comfortable accommodations, excellent food, and enrichment programs focused on Alaska’s history, culture, and natural environment. Holland America Line often features onboard naturalists who provide informative lectures and guided wildlife viewing. They frequently offer longer itineraries that delve deeper into the Alaskan experience.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises is another well-established cruise line with a strong presence in Alaska. They offer a variety of itineraries, including Inside Passage cruises and cruises that visit Glacier Bay. Princess Cruises is known for its “Voyage of the Glaciers” itineraries, which combine a cruise with a land tour of Alaska’s interior. This allows passengers to experience both the coastal and inland regions of the state. Princess also partners with Discovery Channel to offer onboard programs and shore excursions focused on Alaska’s wildlife and natural history. Their ships are generally modern and well-equipped, catering to a wide range of travelers.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is a more contemporary cruise line that appeals to a younger demographic. They offer a more casual atmosphere and a wider range of onboard activities and entertainment. NCL offers a variety of Alaska cruises, including those that visit Glacier Bay and Sawyer Glacier. They are known for their “Freestyle Cruising” concept, which allows passengers to dine at any time and in any restaurant. NCL’s ships are typically larger than those of Holland America and Princess, offering a wider range of amenities and activities.

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International is a popular choice for families and those seeking a more active cruise experience. Their ships are known for their innovative features, such as rock climbing walls, ice skating rinks, and surfing simulators. Royal Caribbean offers a variety of Alaska cruises, including those that visit Hubbard Glacier and Endicott Arm. While their focus may be more on onboard entertainment, they still offer opportunities to experience Alaska’s natural beauty. They tend to offer a good balance of activities and shore excursions suitable for all ages.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises offers a more premium cruise experience, with a focus on sophisticated dining, elegant accommodations, and exceptional service. They offer a variety of Alaska cruises, including those that visit Glacier Bay and Tracy Arm. Celebrity Cruises is known for its onboard enrichment programs and its partnerships with renowned chefs and sommeliers. Their ships are typically smaller and more intimate than those of Royal Caribbean or NCL, offering a more relaxed and refined atmosphere. They cater to travelers seeking a more upscale and immersive experience.

Smaller Cruise Lines and Expedition Ships

For a more intimate and adventurous Alaska cruise experience, consider smaller cruise lines and expedition ships. These ships typically carry fewer passengers and offer a more personalized and immersive experience. They often visit smaller ports and remote areas that larger ships cannot access. Some popular smaller cruise lines for Alaska include:

• UnCruise Adventures: Focuses on active adventures and wildlife viewing in remote areas.
• Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic: Offers educational expeditions with expert naturalists and photographers.
• Ponant: Offers luxury expedition cruises with a focus on cultural immersion.

Choosing the Right Itinerary

The itinerary of your Alaska cruise is just as important as the cruise line. Different itineraries offer different experiences and visit different glaciers and ports. Here are some of the most popular Alaska cruise itineraries:

Inside Passage Cruises

Inside Passage cruises are the most popular type of Alaska cruise. They typically depart from Seattle or Vancouver and sail through the protected waters of the Inside Passage, a network of waterways that stretches along the coast of Southeast Alaska. Inside Passage cruises offer stunning scenery, calm waters, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. Common ports of call include:

• Juneau: Alaska’s capital city, known for its glacier viewing, whale watching, and hiking trails.
• Ketchikan: Known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” Ketchikan offers excellent fishing, Native culture experiences, and rainforest hiking.
• Skagway: A historic gold rush town that serves as the gateway to the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park.
• Sitka: A charming town with a rich Russian and Native history, known for its wildlife viewing and cultural attractions.

Many Inside Passage cruises also include a visit to Glacier Bay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to some of Alaska’s most spectacular glaciers.

Glacier Bay Cruises

Glacier Bay National Park is a must-see destination for any Alaska glacier enthusiast. This park is home to over 1,000 glaciers, including several tidewater glaciers that calve directly into the sea. Glacier Bay cruises typically spend a full day cruising through the park, allowing passengers to witness the stunning scenery and abundant wildlife. A National Park Service ranger typically boards the ship to provide commentary and answer questions about the park’s history, geology, and ecology.

Tracy Arm Cruises

Tracy Arm is a narrow fjord located south of Juneau, known for its dramatic scenery and two impressive tidewater glaciers: Sawyer Glacier and South Sawyer Glacier. Cruising through Tracy Arm is a truly unforgettable experience, as the ship navigates through narrow channels flanked by towering cliffs and icebergs. Sawyer Glacier is particularly impressive, known for its frequent calving activity. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including seals, bears, and eagles.

Hubbard Glacier Cruises

Hubbard Glacier is the largest tidewater glacier in North America, measuring 6 miles wide and 76 miles long. It is an active glacier, advancing into Disenchantment Bay. Hubbard Glacier cruises offer the opportunity to witness the sheer scale and power of this icy giant. The glacier is known for its frequent calving activity, creating a spectacular display of nature’s power. The deep blue color of the ice is also a sight to behold.

College Fjord Cruises

College Fjord is a fjord located in Prince William Sound, named for the many glaciers that are named after Ivy League and women’s colleges. This fjord offers stunning scenery and the opportunity to see a variety of glaciers in one location. The glaciers in College Fjord are not as active as some of the other glaciers in Alaska, but they are still impressive and offer a unique perspective on the landscape.

Cruises Departing from Whittier or Seward

Some Alaska cruises depart from Whittier or Seward, two ports located north of Anchorage. These cruises offer a different perspective on Alaska, as they sail through Prince William Sound and the Gulf of Alaska. These itineraries often include visits to glaciers such as Hubbard Glacier and Columbia Glacier. They also offer opportunities to explore the Kenai Fjords National Park, known for its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife.

Tips for Choosing the Best Cruise

With so many options available, choosing the best cruise for viewing Alaska’s glaciers can be a challenge. Here are some tips to help you make the right decision:

Consider Your Budget

Alaska cruises can range in price from relatively affordable to incredibly expensive. Consider your budget and choose a cruise that fits within your financial constraints. Keep in mind that the price of the cruise is just one factor to consider. You will also need to factor in the cost of airfare, shore excursions, and onboard expenses.

Think About Your Interests

What are you most interested in seeing and doing in Alaska? Are you primarily interested in glacier viewing, or do you also want to explore the state’s wildlife, culture, and history? Choose a cruise that aligns with your interests.

Read Reviews and Compare Options

Before booking a cruise, read reviews from other travelers and compare different cruise lines and itineraries. This will help you get a better sense of what to expect and choose a cruise that is right for you.

Consider the Time of Year

The Alaska cruise season runs from May to September. The best time to go depends on your priorities. May and June offer the best chances of seeing wildlife, while July and August offer the warmest weather. September is a good time to see the fall foliage, but the weather can be unpredictable.

Book in Advance

Alaska cruises are popular, so it’s best to book in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season. Booking early will also give you a better chance of securing the cabin type and itinerary that you want.

Factor in Shore Excursions

Shore excursions are an important part of the Alaska cruise experience. They offer opportunities to explore the ports of call, see wildlife up close, and learn about the local culture and history. Factor in the cost of shore excursions when budgeting for your cruise. Book shore excursions in advance, as they can sell out quickly.

Pack Appropriately

Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to pack appropriately. Bring layers of clothing, including a waterproof jacket, warm hat, and gloves. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as you will be doing a lot of walking. Don’t forget to bring binoculars for wildlife viewing and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

Be Prepared for Seasickness

If you are prone to seasickness, be sure to pack medication or take other precautions. The waters in the Gulf of Alaska can be choppy, so it’s best to be prepared. Consider booking a cabin in the middle of the ship, as this area experiences less motion.

Essential Gear for Your Alaska Glacier Cruise

Packing the right gear is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable Alaska glacier cruise. Here’s a checklist of essential items to bring:

Clothing

• Layers: Pack a variety of layers that you can add or remove as the weather changes.
• Waterproof Jacket and Pants: Essential for staying dry in Alaska’s often-wet climate.
• Warm Hat and Gloves: Even in summer, the temperatures can be cool, especially near glaciers.
• Fleece or Wool Sweater: Provides warmth and insulation.
• Comfortable Walking Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking on shore excursions.
• Waterproof Boots: Ideal for exploring wet and muddy areas.
• Thermal Underwear: For extra warmth on colder days.
• Socks: Bring plenty of warm socks, including wool or synthetic options.

Accessories

• Binoculars: Essential for wildlife viewing and glacier gazing.
• Camera: Capture the stunning scenery and wildlife.
• Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the glare of the sun and ice.
• Sunscreen: Even on cloudy days, the sun can be strong.
• Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes can be prevalent in some areas.
• Water Bottle: Stay hydrated, especially on shore excursions.
• Daypack: For carrying essentials on shore excursions.

Medications and Health

• Seasickness Medication: If you are prone to seasickness, be sure to bring medication or take other precautions.
• Prescription Medications: Bring enough of your prescription medications to last the entire trip.
• First-Aid Kit: Include basic supplies such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.

Maximizing Your Glacier Viewing Experience

To make the most of your glacier viewing experience on an Alaska cruise, consider these tips:

Choose a Cabin with a Balcony

A balcony cabin provides a private and unobstructed view of the glaciers and surrounding scenery. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the breathtaking views.

Spend Time on the Open Decks

The open decks of the ship offer panoramic views of the glaciers and surrounding landscape. Be sure to spend time on the decks, especially when the ship is cruising through glacier-filled areas.

Attend Onboard Lectures

Many cruises offer onboard lectures by naturalists and experts on Alaska’s glaciers, wildlife, and culture. These lectures can provide valuable insights and enhance your understanding of the region.

Take Advantage of Shore Excursions

Shore excursions offer opportunities to get closer to the glaciers and experience them in a more immersive way. Consider taking a helicopter tour, a kayaking trip, or a small boat tour to explore the glaciers up close.

Listen to the Ship’s Announcements

The ship’s crew will often make announcements about glacier sightings and wildlife activity. Pay attention to these announcements so you don’t miss any opportunities.

Dress Warmly and Be Prepared for Changing Weather

The weather near glaciers can be unpredictable, so be sure to dress warmly and be prepared for changing conditions. Bring layers of clothing, a waterproof jacket, and a warm hat and gloves.

Be Patient and Observe

Glacier viewing is often a waiting game. Be patient and observe the glaciers carefully. You may witness a calving event, see wildlife, or simply marvel at the beauty of the ice.

Beyond the Cruise: Extending Your Alaska Adventure

While an Alaska cruise is a fantastic way to experience the state’s glaciers and natural beauty, consider extending your trip with a land tour to explore other parts of Alaska. Here are some popular options:

Denali National Park

Denali National Park is home to Denali (formerly Mount McKinley), the highest peak in North America. The park offers stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Consider taking a bus tour into the park to see Denali and other landmarks.

Kenai Fjords National Park

Kenai Fjords National Park is located on the Kenai Peninsula and offers stunning scenery, glaciers, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Take a boat tour to explore the fjords and see glaciers such as Exit Glacier and Aialik Glacier.

Anchorage

Anchorage is Alaska’s largest city and offers a variety of attractions, including museums, parks, and cultural centers. Visit the Anchorage Museum to learn about Alaska’s history and art, or take a scenic drive along the Turnagain Arm to see the bore tide.

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is located in the interior of Alaska and is known for its gold rush history and northern lights viewing opportunities. Visit the University of Alaska Museum of the North to learn about Alaska’s natural and cultural history, or take a riverboat cruise on the Chena River.

The Alaska Railroad

The Alaska Railroad offers scenic train journeys through some of Alaska’s most beautiful landscapes. Consider taking the train from Anchorage to Fairbanks or from Anchorage to Seward to see glaciers, mountains, and wildlife.

Responsible Glacier Tourism

As we marvel at the beauty of Alaska’s glaciers, it’s important to be mindful of the impact of tourism on these fragile ecosystems. Here are some tips for practicing responsible glacier tourism:

Choose Eco-Friendly Tour Operators

Select tour operators who are committed to sustainable practices, such as minimizing their environmental impact, supporting local communities, and educating visitors about conservation.

Respect Wildlife

Observe wildlife from a safe distance and avoid disturbing their natural habitat. Never feed animals, as this can alter their behavior and make them dependent on humans.

Stay on Marked Trails

When hiking or exploring near glaciers, stay on marked trails to avoid damaging fragile vegetation and disturbing wildlife.

Leave No Trace

Pack out everything you pack in and dispose of waste properly. Avoid using single-use plastics and choose reusable alternatives whenever possible.

Support Local Businesses

Support local businesses and communities by purchasing local products and services. This helps to boost the local economy and preserve the cultural heritage of Alaska.

Educate Yourself

Learn about the glaciers and the impact of climate change on these fragile ecosystems. This will help you appreciate the importance of conservation and take steps to protect them for future generations.

Conclusion: Your Unforgettable Alaska Glacier Cruise Awaits

An Alaska glacier cruise is an unforgettable experience that combines stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and the awe-inspiring beauty of glaciers. By choosing the right cruise line, itinerary, and shore excursions, and by packing appropriately and practicing responsible tourism, you can create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a first-time cruiser, an Alaska glacier cruise is a journey you will never forget. Start planning your adventure today and discover the magic of Alaska’s glaciers!