What is the best Alaska cruise for me?

The best cruise to take in Alaska is a northbound or southbound Glacier Route cruise, since those itineraries can be paired with land packages to make the most out of your Alaska vacation. A roundtrip cruise from Vancouver or Seattle is still a good option if you have a limited amount of time, or if you would only like to see Southeast Alaska .

Beyond the route, the best Alaska cruise depends on what you'd like from your cruise line. Each offers benefits and perks beneficial to different types of people. If you are a first-time cruiser, we suggest sailing with Princess Cruises. They offer the most ships and sailing dates, have many options for shore excursions, and are an excellent cruise line for both mature adult travelers and families with kids. Each Princess ship also offers onboard entertainment, dining, and educational programs specific to Alaska. Additionally, several of their cruise itineraries include stops at Hubbard Glacier, Alaska's largest tidewater glacier, and the stunning Glacier Bay National Park.

If you would prefer a more classic style of cruise ship, Holland America is the way to sail. Their ships offer promenades and formal nights, as well as traditional ship entertainment and dining. Most travelers on Holland America ships are over the age of 50, but they do have programs for children and teens if you are traveling as a family. Holland America also has frequent flash sales, meaning you can often get great prices on upgraded staterooms.

If you are more adventurous, or traveling as a large family, then sailing with either Royal Caribbean or Celebrity Cruises are great options. Both of those lines offer larger ships with a variety of programs for children and teens, and many choices for onboard entertainment. Foodies particularly enjoy Celebrity's culinary focus, and families have fun with Royal Caribbean's onboard climbing walls, bumper cars, and roller rinks. Both cruise lines also have a wide selection of shore excursions that cater to different activity levels and interests.