Are Alaskan Cruises Worth It? Absolutely (Here’s Why)
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An Alaskan cruise offers unparalleled scenery, stunning glaciers, and fascinating wildlife opportunities from the comfort of a cruise ship. However, some people are skeptical that an Alaskan cruise is worth it. While these cruises are more expensive than Caribbean and Bahamas sailings, Alaskan cruises are worth the money.
Alaska has something to offer whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or adrenaline-pumping activities.
Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the Last Frontier. From the thrill of whale watching to the serenity of sailing through calm waters, every moment on an Alaskan cruise is a memory in the making.
Are Alaskan Cruises Worth It?
Alaskan cruises are worth it. They offer a unique way to experience stunning landscapes, observe fantastic wildlife, and enjoy local cuisine while enjoying a relaxed trip aboard a ship.
I fell in love with Alaska when I took my first Alaskan cruise at the age of 13. I’ve returned a few more times, and on each cruise, I’m equally impressed by the sweeping mountain landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Here’s why Alaskan cruises are worth it.
Southeast Alaska is Best Viewed by Cruise Ship
The Inside Passage is a famous route for Alaskan cruises that provides access to some of Southeast Alaska’s most breathtaking areas. This area is full of narrow waterways, lush forests, and hundreds of islands that are hard to reach by land.
Along the Inside Passage are dozens of small towns, including Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, Haines, and Ketchikan.
The towns are miles apart. And many are only accessible by boat or plane.
The sparseness of Southeast Alaska makes it difficult to travel any other way than by boat.
Cruising allows you to see several locations without constantly packing and unpacking. And the ship sails between destinations while you sleep, so you don’t need to worry about travel time.
Incredible Scenery
Alaska’s incredible scenery and natural beauty make it one of the most popular cruise destinations. From the ship, you’ll see vast glaciers, awe-inspiring fjords, and the dramatic coastlines that make up Alaska’s rugged beauty.
Most cruise itineraries include a “scenic cruising” day where you won’t leave the ship. Instead, the vessel will sail close to the Hubbard Glacier or take you on a scenic cruise through Tracy Arm Fjord to the Twin Sawyer Glacier.
Unlike other cruises, sailing between towns is a scenic trip. The inside passage is full of landscape photo opportunities with sweeping mountainscapes, blue ice glaciers, and tree-lined forests. You can even spot whales and bald eagles if you’re lucky enough.
Spectacular Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
Alaskan cruises offer some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities. You may see humpback whales breaching, playful sea otters, and majestic bald eagles soaring overhead.
On my first Alaskan cruise, I counted 14 humpback whales! And while the ship circled near Hubbard Glacier, I spotted a seal playing on a small iceberg.
Some cruises even have naturalists on board to help point out wildlife and share interesting facts.
A big highlight is the chance to see bears, mainly if your trip includes a stop in places known for bear sightings, like Haines.
Whether from the ship’s deck or during an onshore excursion, seeing many different animals in their natural habitat is unforgettable. While there is abundant wildlife year-round, the peak time to spot wildlife in Alaska is between June and September, which coincides with the cruise season.
You can spot wildlife from the cruise ship. However, I recommend booking a wildlife excursion to increase your chances of getting up close to the wildlife. Shore excursions also provide the benefit of trained guides who know where to find the animals and provide knowledge on the wildlife and their habitat.
More Laidback Onboard Atmosphere
Alaska cruises are more relaxed and casual than late-night and high-energy pool parties on Caribbean or Mediterranean sailings. These itineraries cater to older demographics and those who want to connect with nature.
You’ll still find dance parties and a good bar scene, but the focus is on the natural surroundings rather than onboard activities.
This laid-back atmosphere allows you to unwind and truly appreciate the stunning environment around you.
Editor’s Tip
Although Alaskan cruises are more laid-back, I often find that I’m more tired than any other style of cruising. That’s because I like to stay up late to watch the evening show, but I get up early every morning to look for whales.
I love spending the early morning hours whale-watching from the top deck.
The Local Cuisine is Incredible
One of my favorite parts of an Alaskan cruise is the fresh, local seafood.
You’ll have the chance to try wild-caught salmon, king crab legs, and halibut. I highly recommend visiting Tracy’s Crab Shack for King Crab if you stop in Juneau.
Tip: there are two restaurants. If you don’t want to wait in line, visit the second location farther from the cruise dock.
Local ports often have charming restaurants or food stalls where you can sample regional dishes. For example, Sitka offers incredible clam chowder, and Skagway has decadent fish and chips.
The freshness and quality of the local food are a treat for your taste buds and a vital part of the immersive experience.
Alaskan Cruises are Expensive (But You Can Find a Deal)
Alaskan cruises aren’t cheap, with the cost of an Alaskan cruise ranging from $500 to $5,000 per person. They’re much pricier than cruises to destinations like the Caribbean or the Bahamas.
For instance, you might find a three or four-day Caribbean cruise for around $200-$300 per person. In contrast, even a budget Alaskan cruise often starts at $500-$700 per person for an interior cabin during off-peak months.
Several factors contribute to the high cost of Alaskan cruises. These include the distance to Alaska, limited cruising season, unique experiences, and high port fees. And the price doesn’t include extras like Wi-Fi, drinks, specialty dining, shore excursions, and gratuities.
Despite the costs, you can still catch some good deals.
I always recommend booking early to secure lower rates and take advantage of price matching if a better deal runs after you purchase. Last-minute deals may also be available if you’re flexible with your travel dates.
Here are some tips to save on your Alaskan cruise:
- Look for inside cabins rather than oceanview or balcony rooms.
- Travel during the shoulder seasons, like May or September.
- If possible, book through a travel agent who might have access to special rates.
- Book as early as possible when prices are lowest.
Comparing prices also helps. Sometimes, choosing a different port can make a difference. For example, a cruise from Seward to Vancouver might be cheaper than one from Seattle, depending on the time of year and availability.
