Are you planning an Alaskan cruise this year? Alaska cruises are so popular these days, and it’s really the ideal vacation for nature lovers! After all, it’s the perfect blend of breathtaking scenery and adventure.
However, cruising to Alaska presents some unique challenges compared to tropical destinations. The weather can be unpredictable, and knowing what to pack, which excursions to choose, and what to expect can make a huge difference in your experience.
In this post, I share 30 Alaska cruise tips that will help you plan the perfect vacation. I’ll cover everything from choosing the right cruise line to what to pack and how to make the most of your time in the 49th state.
Choosing Your Alaska Cruise
1. Choose Between Small Ships vs. Big Ships
The ship size is an important choice that will shape your entire Alaska experience. Traditional big ship cruises offer Broadway-style shows and midnight buffets, while small ships can access narrow fjords and provide a more intimate experience.
I found that larger vessels like those from Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises and Holland America offer amazing amenities.
However, they may not get as close to the glaciers as smaller vessels. For instance, small ships from UnCruise Adventures can navigate into smaller bays and give you a more personal experience with nature.
2. Consider the Inside Passage
The Inside Passage is an absolute must-see on any Alaskan cruise. This protected sea route weaves through islands and mainland Alaska, offering some of the best views of wildlife and glaciers.
Something many first-timers don’t realize is that cruises departing from Vancouver tend to have calmer waters since they immediately enter the Inside Passage. In contrast, ships leaving from Seattle must navigate the open waters of the Pacific Ocean first, which can be choppier. If you’re concerned about seasickness, this is worth considering!
Most cruise lines include the Inside Passage on their itineraries. It’s where you’ll likely spot whales, sea lions, and eagles against a backdrop of stunning forests and mountains. Did you know the Inside Passage is part of the Tongass National Forest? It’s actually the largest temperate rainforest in the world!
3. Time Your Trip Right
The best time for an Alaska cruise is typically between May and September, with the warmest months being June, July, and August. Late June offers incredibly long daylight hours—we’re talking up to 20 hours around summer solstice! This is perfect for sightseeing but bring a sleep mask if you’re sensitive to light when sleeping.
May offers a unique advantage many people overlook: the mountains are still beautifully snowcapped and the glaciers look exceptionally crisp, clean and white. The scenery actually looks different throughout the season!
I recommend booking during salmon run season (July to early September) if wildlife viewing is high on your list. This natural phenomenon attracts bears to streams and makes for incredible photo opportunities.
Related: The Best Time to Cruise Alaska: A Month-by-Month Guide
4. Choose the Right Cabin
While a balcony cabin costs more, it’s absolutely worth it for an Alaska cruise. The scenery constantly changes, and having your own private viewing spot is priceless. I’ve spent hours on my balcony watching glaciers calve and spotting wildlife.
For one-way cruises, cabin location matters more than you might think. If you’re booking a northbound cruise, choose a starboard (right) side cabin for the best views. For southbound cruises, the port (left) side will give you the best scenery.
Don’t rule out ocean view cabins, either! Being closer to the water line actually gives you better opportunities to spot marine life. You might catch sea otters lounging on icebergs or whales breaching right from your window.
5. Check the Itinerary for Glacier Bay
Not all Alaska cruises visit Glacier Bay National Park, but this should be a top priority when selecting your itinerary. The park has some of the most spectacular tidewater glaciers, including the magnificent Hubbard Glacier.
Only a limited number of ships are permitted to enter Glacier Bay each day, so cruises that include this stop are special. The park rangers who come aboard provide informative educational programs about the glaciers and wildlife.
Packing for Alaska
6. Layer, Layer, Layer
The weather in Alaska can change rapidly. A good base layer is essential, followed by insulating layers and a waterproof outer layer.
I always pack thermal underwear, fleece jackets, and a waterproof windbreaker. Even on warm days, the breeze near glaciers can be quite chilly.
Related: What to Wear on an Alaska Cruise (outfit ideas with photos)
7. Don’t Forget Rain Gear
Alaska’s coastal areas can be rainy, especially in the later summer months. Waterproof jackets, pants, and shoes will keep you comfortable during shore excursions.
I’ve learned this the hard way! Nothing ruins an amazing whale watching tour faster than being soaked and cold for three hours. Bring a waterproof backpack and some gallon-sized ziplock bags to protect valuables like phones, cameras, and wallets in sudden downpours.
8. Bring Binoculars
Wildlife in Alaska often appears at a distance. A good pair of binoculars will enhance your experience when spotting bears on shorelines or eagles perched in trees.
They’re also perfect for getting a closer look at glaciers and the intricate details of their blue ice formations.
Related: What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise (clothing, gear & essentials)
9. Pack Motion Sickness Remedies
Parts of the Alaska cruise route can get choppy, particularly if your itinerary includes open water sections. Be prepared with your preferred motion sickness remedy.
I always keep ginger candies and sea bands handy, even though I don’t typically get seasick. Better safe than sorry!
Related: How to Prevent Seasickness on a Cruise: 10 Effective Remedies
10. Bring a Good Camera
Alaska’s landscapes are spectacular, and you’ll want to capture them. A camera with a decent zoom lens is ideal for wildlife photography.
Remember extra batteries and memory cards. The cold temperatures can drain batteries faster, and you’ll be taking more photos than you expect!
Shore Excursions and Activities
11. Book Popular Excursions Early
Shore excursions in Alaska are incredibly popular and often sell out well before the cruise begins. Helicopter tours, dog sledding, and fishing trips are especially in demand.
I recommend booking at least 3-4 months in advance for the most popular tours, especially if you’re cruising during peak season.
12. Try the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway
In Skagway, the White Pass scenic railway is one of the most popular excursions and for good reason. This historic narrow-gauge railroad climbs nearly 3,000 feet in 20 miles.
The views are absolutely stunning, and the history of the Gold Rush era comes alive through the narration provided during the journey.
13. Try Local Food and Drink
A stop at Tracy’s King Crab Shack is a must for seafood lovers. This Juneau institution serves some of the freshest and most delicious king crab legs you’ll ever taste. It’s actually owned by a local family!
In Skagway, check out Skagway Brewing Company and try their signature spruce tip ale for a truly Alaskan experience. Local tour guides often hang out here after work, which is always a good sign.
Don’t forget to bring some small bills ($5 and $10) for tipping tour guides. While credit cards are widely accepted throughout Alaska (it’s the US after all), cash is handy for gratuities and small purchases.
14. Explore Icy Strait Point
Icy Strait Point offers authentic Alaskan experiences with fewer crowds than larger port towns. The zipline here is one of the longest in the world!
This port is owned by the local Tlingit community, so excursions and shopping directly benefit the native population. It’s a more authentic experience than some of the other more commercialized ports.
15. Consider Independent Excursions
While cruise line excursions are convenient, independent tours are often less expensive and can offer more personalized experiences with smaller groups.
Just be sure to choose reputable companies and allow plenty of buffer time to return to the ship. I’ve saved hundreds of dollars booking directly with local operators.
When shopping in ports, look beyond the typical sweatshirts and t-shirts. Alaska offers unique souvenirs like handcrafted items by native artists, jewelry made from gold nuggets or jade, Alaskan smoked salmon, and even birch syrup—a delicious alternative to maple syrup that’s distinctly Alaskan.
Onboard Experience
16. Take Advantage of Naturalists and Experts
Most cruise lines feature expert naturalists who provide fascinating insights about Alaska’s wildlife, geography, and culture through lectures and guided viewing sessions.
These sessions aren’t just informative—they’ll help you spot wildlife you might otherwise miss and deepen your appreciation for everything you see.
17. Use the Hot Tubs and Thermal Spa
Soaking in a hot tub while gazing at glaciers is an experience you won’t forget. Most large ships have outdoor hot tubs, and there’s nothing quite like the contrast of warm water and cool air.
Consider splurging on a thermal spa package for the week. These are incredibly popular on Alaska cruises and tend to book up quickly. The combination of heated ceramic loungers, steam rooms, and saunas is perfect after a day of exploring in cooler temperatures.
I love to grab a spot in the hot tub early morning or at sunset. The views are amazing, and it’s usually less crowded during these times.
18. Attend the Glacier Viewing
When your ship visits glaciers like Hubbard Glacier, the captain will rotate the vessel so everyone gets a good view. But the best spots fill up quickly.
Head to the viewing areas early and be patient. The sounds of calving ice (when chunks break off) are just as impressive as the sight.
19. Look for Northern Lights
If you’re cruising in late August or September when nights get darker, you might have a chance to see the northern lights. The best viewing is usually after midnight.
I set an alarm for 1 AM during my September cruise and was rewarded with a spectacular light show. Ask the crew to notify you if they appear—many ships offer this service.
20. Pack Cruise-Specific Items
Don’t forget cruise essentials like magnetic hooks for the walls (cruise ship walls are metal), a small power strip (without surge protection, as those aren’t allowed), and a nightlight for the bathroom.
These small items make a big difference in the functionality of your cabin, especially if you’re sharing with family or friends.
Related: 75 Must-have Cruise Essentials from Amazon
Alaska Money-Saving Cruise Tips
21. Cruise Extras
When budgeting for your Alaska cruise, remember that the advertised fare doesn’t include port fees, daily gratuities, and optional extras like beverage and dining packages. Shore excursions are an additional cost to budget for, as they can be pricey in Alaska.
You can save some money in ports by doing some exploring on your own, and choosing a couple of excursions or tours that are on your wish list.
22. Book Shoulder Season for Better Deals
May and September (the shoulder season) typically offer the best cruise values. Prices can be 20-30% lower than during the peak summer months.
I’ve found that late May still offers amazing wildlife viewing, and September cruises have a chance of northern lights sightings – both at a fraction of mid-summer prices.
23. Skip the Bottled Water
Alaska’s tap water is pristine, and the ship’s water is perfectly safe to drink. Instead of buying bottled water, bring a reusable water bottle.
This saves money and is better for the environment. Most ships have water refill stations in the buffet where you can fill your bottles.
Related: 31 Cruise Cabin Essentials Every Cruiser Needs
24. Leverage Cruise Line Credit Cards
Many cruise lines offer credit cards that have great sign up bonuses in the form of on board credits. You can even earn free cruises. If you cruise frequently, these cards can provide significant value through points on everyday purchases.
The points earned can cover shore excursions and other costs on your cruise.
25. Book Future Cruises While Onboard
Cruise lines offer their best deals and perks for future cruises while you’re onboard. If you think you might want to return to Alaska, check out the future cruise desk.
You’ll often get reduced deposits, onboard credits, and better cabin selection. Most offers allow you to change your dates later if needed.
Health and Safety
26. Prepare for Full Days and Time Changes
Alaska cruises tend to be more active and port-intensive than tropical cruises. Excursions often start early and involve hiking, walking, or other physical activities.
Consider arriving 2-3 days before your cruise to adjust to time zone changes. If you’re coming from the Eastern time zone, you’re looking at a 3-4 hour difference. Arriving early not only helps you adjust but also gives you time to explore your departure city. Vancouver and Seattle are both worth visiting!
Book the earliest embarkation time possible. Boarding for Alaska cruises typically takes longer than Caribbean cruises, especially in Vancouver where the process can feel more like airport security.
27. Use Sun Protection and Wear Sunglasses
Despite the cooler temperatures, the sun can be intense, especially when reflected off water and ice. It can be surprising, but good sunscreen and polarized sunglasses are must haves for an Alaska cruise.
28. Be Prepared for Mosquitoes
If you plan on hiking or walking along a trail, which happens on many Alaska tours, there’s a good chance you’ll want to have bug spray with you. This is more important during warmer months.
29. Prepare for Limited Internet and Pack Smart
Internet service can be spotty in Alaska’s remote areas. Download maps, guides, and entertainment before your trip.
Pack an embarkation day bag with essentials including medications, valuables, and a change of clothes for dinner. This way, you won’t stress if your luggage takes time to reach your cabin on the first day.
Related & Popular Posts:
- 50+ Must-have Cruise Essentials from Amazon
- 13 Alaska Cruise Mistakes that Can Ruin Your Cruise
- What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise (clothing, gear essentials)
- 17 Best Things to Do in Juneau Alaska Cruise Port – Complete Guide
- 20 Best Things to do in Skagway Alaska Cruise Port – Complete Guide
- What to Wear on an Alaska Cruise (outfit ideas with photos)
Final Thoughts on Alaska Cruises
Alaska cruises offer some of the most spectacular scenery and unique experiences of any vacation. From calving glaciers to breaching whales, the natural wonders you’ll witness are truly unforgettable.
Alaska cruises have a more casual vibe than other destinations, even on formal nights. You’ll often see people in jeans and sweaters in the main dining room, especially after active days in port. This relaxed atmosphere is most noticeable on mainstream lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian.
Whether you choose a traditional big ship cruise or a smaller expedition vessel, the key is planning ahead. Pack appropriately, book your must-do excursions early, and be prepared for weather changes.
Have you been on an Alaska cruise before? What tips would you add to this list? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!
