It’s no wonder Alaska has become one of the top cruise destinations in the past few years. The incredible natural scenery and wildlife, adventurous excursions, and the variety of experiences–from value to white-glove luxury–have made Alaska the most universally loved cruise destination.
Alaska Cruises Offer Something For Everyone
Like no other cruise destination, Alaska appeals to young and old as well as budget-conscious and premium cruisers. Parents, grandparents, teens, and children will all enjoy whale spotting and bear watching. The more thrill-seeking members of your family can ride some of the longest and tallest zip lines in the world or high-speed Zodiacs while everyone else takes a leisurely coach tour soaking in grand mountain vistas.
Land Tours Before Or After Your Cruise Are The Best
Alaska is, after all, huge. Cruises poke in and out of the bays and coves and the famous Inside Passage along the Pacific-facing south shore of Alaska, but there are hundreds of thousands of square miles inland to explore. Denali National Park is home to North America’s highest mountain peak–not to mention abundant and diverse wildlife. Inland Fairbanks offers some of the best, and most consistent, northern lights spotting in the world (if you go at the right time of year). Even big cities–Anchorage, Vancouver, Seattle–offer city-lovers great touring opportunities.
Alaska Cruises Are Diverse
With nearly two dozen cruise lines now offering Alaska itineraries, there is an Alaska cruise experience for everyone. If big ships are your thing, choose from Royal Caribbean, Norwegian (and the brand new Norwegian Bliss!), or Princess. If you prefer mid-sized ships, consider Holland America. Looking for a luxury experience? Then Oceania, Regent Seven Seas, Crystal, and Seabourn will appeal to you. You’ll even find yacht-style experiences on Windstar (which is high on our personal wish list).
The Alaska Cruising Season
Alaska cruises run from late spring to fall, with departures from Seattle, Vancouver, and Seward (Anchorage) Alaska. Some cruises are “out-and-back”, leaving and returning to the same port, convenient for flying in and out of the same city. Other cruises are 1-way, often north from either Seattle or Vancouver to Seward, then turning around and heading south. These 1-way cruises are ideal for land tours and visits both before and after your cruise.
If seeing the northern lights are on your bucket list, plan a pre or post cruise visit to Fairbanks and book an early (spring) or late (fall) season cruise. These happen also to be the best times for great deals.
If you need help planning your Alaska cruise adventure, give us a call at (877) 585-SHIP!
