What are the best cruises to Alaska? An expert guide

Alaska is unlike any of the other states. Its wild, frontier spirit continues to soar – as do the tens of thousands of eagles that circle the shores looking for an easy swipe at a homecoming salmon. For nature lovers, an Alaska cruise has it all, and the very best way to experience its great and diverse landscapes is by cruise ship.

At a glance

Alaska is the largest state in the United States, and its vast landscapes mean you might not be able to check absolutely everything off your bucket list in one trip – consider what’s most important to you, be it relaxing while enjoying dramatic fjords, challenging yourself with adventurous expeditions or spotting Alaska's 'Big Five'.
It’s possible to cruise Alaska at a wide range of price points, from relatively wallet-friendly fares to ones that reflect caviar-on-tap ultra-luxury
Cruises to Alaska are more family-friendly than you might assume, so long as you pick the right cruise line

What makes a cruise ‘the best’?

At World of Cruising, we curate ‘best for…’ guides rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach. By focusing on subtle, if-you-know-you-know details, we tailor our recommendations to fulfil different travel aspirations. Here, we’ve found the best cruises for different types of passengers, all seeking the Alaska cruise of their dreams.

The best for first-timers: Holland America Line

Holland America Alaska — Holland America Line's experts have the know-how to craft incredible Alaskan cruises

Holland America Line has been sailing in Alaska for almost 80 years, long before it became such a trendy destination to sail. Today, it offers classic Alaskan cruises, perfect if you've never sailed the region before. The line has deep connections to Alaskan communities, and sailings feature local park rangers and a resident wildlife guide to help you get the most out of the experience. Plus, the line’s Glacier Guarantee shows their confidence that you'll see some glaciers on your Alaska cruise – a top reason for choosing to take a voyage to the state in the first place.

Browse offers: Holland America Line

The best for families: Norwegian Cruise Line

Alaska Families — An Alaskan cruise can be wonderfully family friendly

Norwegian Cruise Line sends three of their Breakaway Plus-class megaships to Alaska for the summer season, which is ideal for a family holiday into the fjords. With observation lounges for the best views and more restaurants than you can imagine, NCL creates a chilled atmosphere for the adults to relax while the junior cruisers are having a blast in the kids’ club or out on deck… where there’s even a multi-level go-kart track. Imagine that – go-karting in front of the glaciers as bears scout for salmon at the water’s edge.

Browse offers: Norwegian Cruise Line

The best for a cruise tour: Princess Cruises

Alaska Denali National Park and Preserve — With a cruise tour you can experience Denali National Park and Preserve

Princess Cruises leads the way in what they call a ‘cruise tour’ – an Alaska cruise coupled with extra time on land to help you truly connect with the best of the state. The line has built five riverside lodges in the Alaskan wilderness, including along the Copper River and in the Denali National Park.

How do you get there? By the most gorgeous scenic train ride, which is all included in the cruise tour fare. It’s arranged for you and is a seamless transfer from the ship at the end of the cruise element of your Alaskan adventure.

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The best for approachable luxury: Celebrity Cruises

Alaska Big Five — Grizzly bears are one of Alaska's 'Big Five'

Celebrity Cruises gets you close to Alaska’s ‘Big Five’ in style. Geared towards couples, though you’ll also see families holidaying together with Celebrity Cruises, the line’s ships are elegant and sophisticated without crashing into the ultra-luxury price tag. It’s an ideal option for cruisers who are accustomed to the finer things in life while still leaving spending money for the ports.

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The best for ultra-luxury: Silversea Cruises

Alaska vistas — Imagine drinking these vistas in along with a flute of Champagne

With almost one staff member per guest, the attention to detail and personalised service onboard a Silversea cruise is unmatched. And how better to experience the grandeur of Alaska than on an intimate, top-of-the-line small ship? Silversea sails perfectly sized ships for unlocking access to ports and experiences that larger ships can only dream of.

Plus, luxury service starts and ends at home if you select the door-to-door option that includes airfare and private transfers.

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The best for affordability: Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean Cruise — Royal Caribbean offers a more affordable way to explore Alaska

Royal Caribbean isn’t always the first line that comes to mind when considering budget options, what with their massive entertainment offerings featuring multi-million-dollar Broadway productions and ice skating shows in the only ice rinks at sea. But Alaska cruises with Royal Caribbean offer exceptional value for money, especially if you’re able to jump on some last-minute offers. Royal Caribbean tends to send both its largest and smallest ships to Alaska, so that’s a lot of cabins – it’s not unusual to bag a fantastic bargain.

Browse offers: Royal Caribbean International

The best for expedition cruising: National Geographic- Lindblad Expedition

Alaska wildlife — Experts aboard can guide you when photographing wildlife

The globally renowned explorers at National Geographic have teamed up with Lindblad to deliver an exceptional wildlife-driven luxury expedition programme in Alaska. All sailings are crewed with experienced and inspirational expedition guides who elevate the experience and get you closer to the action. And the ship itself also plays a big part, with specifically designed tools for true exploration. This is luxury, yes. But it’s a real adventure, too.

Browse offers:National Geographic-Lindblad Expedition

Find out why a cruise is the best way to explore Alaska.