Wildlife, glaciers, fjords, serene nature, and quaint towns. These are just a few things you’ll see on an Alaskan cruise. Whether you’re seeking peaceful relaxation or an adventurous vacation, you’ll find it all in Alaska. Along with its breathtaking landscape, this untouched state brings a unique experience with either 24 hours of daylight or darkness, depending on the time of year you go.
Over the last few years, we’ve helped countless travelers explore Alaska. With so many destinations, excursions, and packing considerations, we’ve compiled this guide to help you make the most of your journey. While there’s no one-size-fits-all itinerary, here are our top recommendations:
The Right Route
Commonly referred to as The Last Frontier, Alaska is best experienced by sea with various routes to pick from. We highly recommend sailing the Inside Passage, this route starts in Seattle, Vancouver, or from Anchorage (Seward or Whittier). This weeklong sail promises amazing scenery and calmer waters. Be sure your boat stops at Glacier Bay National Park; this is not to be missed! Other must-see spots include Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, and Ketchikan. Many cruise lines also offer land packages, allowing you to explore the interior of Alaska. Popular destinations include Fairbanks and Denali. If you have time, we suggest spending 1-2 nights at each destination.
*Inside Passage map from Princess Cruises
Unforgettable Excursions
Alaska’s off-ship adventures cater to every traveler, from those who love a leisurely pace through Alaska’s charming towns to thrill-seekers craving adrenaline-fueled experiences.
For a relaxed adventure, consider:
Alaskan Cooking Class – Learn the art of preparing fresh-caught Alaskan salmon.
Wildlife Viewing by Boat – Spot whales and bears from a cozy, smaller vessel.
Historical & Cultural Tours – Dive into Alaska’s Gold Rush history and explore the rich traditions of the Tlingit people in Klukwan.
For adventure lovers, we recommend:
Deep-Sea Fishing – Cast your line for king salmon in the open waters.
Helicopter Glacier Tours – Get up close and personal with Alaska’s icy wonders.
Dogsledding Expeditions – Race across breathtaking Alaskan terrain with a team of sled dogs.
Whichever travel style you prefer, there is one excursion we recommend for all. This is the White Pass Scenic Railway. This 64 km (40 mile) rail trip climbs up to 900 m (3,000 ft) and takes you from Skagway, Alaska, through British Columbia to Whitehorse, Yukon, and back. Through large picture windows, enjoy the magnificent views of mountains, glaciers, gorges, waterfalls, historical sites, and more. Originally built in 1898 (don’t worry, they meticulously maintain it!), you’ll travel through tunnels and alongside cliffs to enjoy unforgettable glimpses of the beauty this region has to offer.
Packing for All Seasons
With the majority of Alaskan cruises running from May to September, it can be tricky to determine how to pack. While it’s safe to assume Alaska is a bit chillier, even during the summer months, you may be surprised! During these months, expect daytime temperatures to sit around 16°C. However, if the sun comes out for a visit, you’ll warm up quickly.
For this trip, a few packing tips we suggest include:
- Dress in layers – However the weather behaves, having layers can ensure you’re comfortable in any climate. Don’t forget to bring waterproof options!
- Bring a swimsuit – It might not seem like swimsuit weather, but after a full day of exploring, soaking in the hot tub is the perfect way to unwind.
- Bring a backpack – A small backpack is a must-have for off-boat adventures. It’s a handy way to store extra layers, souvenirs, and essentials for the day.
Set Sail with Princess Cruises
Ready to explore Alaska by sea? Princess Cruises, voted the #1 cruise to Alaska 20 times by Travel Weekly readers, offers unparalleled luxury, unique experiences, and stunning land packages to enhance your trip.
Book by Feb. 28, 2025, to enjoy up to 40% off plus a free room upgrade!
Contact your Fareconnect agent today to lock in this deal.
