Skip to main content
Group walking on glaciers in Alaska.
Group walking on glaciers in Alaska.

Alaska Cruises

Out Here, Chill is Mandatory.

There’s something different about you on a cruise to Alaska. Maybe it’s the crisp air that fills your lungs with a hint of spruce and salt or the endless glaciers glinting at the edge of an impossible world. But out here, you become somebody new. Your hands stop fidgeting, your heartbeat evens out and you start noticing every detail — the spray of a waterfall, the call of a bald eagle, the way the ice cubes seem to tinkle differently in your evening cocktail. On a cruise with Norwegian, you don’t just see the wild, you experience it.

HIGHLIGHTS

 

  • Norwegian Cruise Line has the youngest fleet sailing Alaska, with custom-built ships designed to bring you closer to glaciers, fjords, and wildlife.
  • Named Runner-Up for Best Alaska Cruise by USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards 2026
  • Decades of experience sailing Alaska’s legendary Inside Passage and scenic waterways
  • Convenient West Coast departures from Seattle and Vancouver with expertly curated itineraries
  • Enjoy award-winning dining & entertainment paired with unforgettable scenery

Featured Alaska Cruise Destinations & Experiences

Norwegian's Alaska cruises make it possible to experience multiple coastal destinations, glacier-filled waterways and breathtaking wilderness all in one seamless journey. From one historic port to another, you’ll enjoy charming towns and shore excursions beyond the imagination, while the voyage between destinations is a large part of the adventure. Scenic cruising through icy fjords, wildlife sightings and panoramic views ensure every moment is magnified.

Cople-Hot-Tub

Juneau – Glaciers & Wildlife Encounters

Surrounded by mountains and waterways, the remote capital of Juneau offers a “peak” Alaskan experience in the form of unparalleled glacier viewing, including access to Mendenhall Glacier. Popular excursions like whale watching, hiking, kayaking and gold panning deliver a blend of scenic wilderness and small-town charm.

Alaska-Cruise-Whale

Ketchikan – Culture & Coastal Charm

Known as the “totem capital of the world”, Ketchikan is a popular port of call highlighting Alaska’s lush wilderness, Native heritage and fishing industry. Its walkable downtown makes it easy to explore local shops, historic streets and scenic harbor views.

Scenic view of the lower Dewey Lake, Skagway, Alaska, USA

Skagway – Gold Rush History & Scenic Railways

Skagway brings Alaska’s Klondike Gold Rush history to life with its charming boardwalk, national museums and frontier character. Once a bustling boomtown, it now welcomes visitors to experience a bygone era. The White Pass Scenic Railway offers breathtaking views of mountains, valleys and waterfalls.

Wide angle view of glacier face with tourist boat and snow capped mountains and dappled sunshine on the icy waters

Glacier Bay – Dramatic Glaciers & Remote Wildlife

Glacier Bay, a 3.3-million-acre UNESCO World Heritage site, is a spectacular park featuring towering glaciers, vast icefields, and abundant wildlife, best viewed from the deck of a ship. Sailing through this remarkable national park reveals Alaska at its wildest - with pristine shorelines populated by whales, sea otters, seals, puffins and bears.

NCL Alaska Canoe

Inside Passage – Scenic Cruising Through Protected Waters

The Inside Passage is where calm, glacier-carved waters flow between islands, rainforests, and mountain peaks. This sheltered route is known for its ever-changing scenery and exceptional wildlife viewing, from whales and sea lions to soaring eagles — all easily spotted from the ship. The route includes iconic ports such as Ketchikan, while every moment onboard offers an immersive journey through Alaska’s landscapes.

Recent Awards

Popular Alaska Cruise Itineraries

Discover the best of Alaska with itineraries designed to showcase breathtaking glaciers, dramatic coastal scenery, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Choose from a classic 7-day Alaska cruise, a convenient roundtrip journey from Seattle, or choose a scenic one-way Alaska cruise from Vancouver or Whittier, with flexibility to construct your own journey. Many of our Alaska sailings travel through the iconic Inside Passage and world-famous Glacier Bay. If you're looking for both fire & ice, check out our combination Alaska and Hawaii itineraries, departing from Honolulu.

NCL's Alaska Shore Excursions

Expect Peak Experiences

As you embark on shore excursions throughout Alaska, the true picture of The Last Frontier comes fully into view. Each of our itineraries features curated excursions, while every sailing offers a choice of wildlife encounters, cultural immersions, breathtaking adventures, and more.

How Many Days Should You Cruise in Alaska?

A 7-day Alaska cruise is the perfect amount of time to experience a mix of majestic scenery, iconic ports and adventure. These itineraries typically offer at least one unforgettable glacier viewing day, and visit key ports like Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan. NCL’s 9 and 10-day Alaska cruises visit additional destinations like Sitka or Icy Strait Point. With extra days at sea, you’ll get more scenic cruising and a deeper look at Alaska’s coastal landscapes and wildlife. These itineraries also offer more opportunities to sail roundtrip from Seattle. Our longer Alaska itineraries (11+ days) are the most immersive option, combining a cruise with an extended land journey known as an NCL Cruisetour. The entire package is planned by us and allows you to explore inland destinations like Denali National Park before or after your sailing.

Seasonally, summer — June, July, and August — offers extended daylight hours and the most wildlife viewing. The fall months — September & October — showcase beautiful fall foliage and a chance to see the famed aurora borealis or Northern Lights.
Alaska

Why Choose an Alaskan Cruise Vacation

An Alaska cruise is one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to experience The Last Frontier's remarkable wilderness. Combining sightseeing, activities, and accommodations in one seamless journey, cruising allows travelers to witness Alaska's iconic glaciers, wildlife, and remote landscapes while exploring multiple destinations in one vacation.

  • Glacier viewing directly from the comfort of the ship, without requiring an excursion
  • Access to remote fjords, protected waterways, and coastal landscapes difficult to reach by land
  • Opportunities to spot whales, bears, bald eagles, and other wildlife throughout the journey
  • Scenic cruising through the Inside Passage and other breathtaking waterways
  • The ability to visit multiple Alaska destinations in one seamless itinerary
  • A comfortable and convenient way to explore Alaska's vast geography

 

Why Alaska Feels Different With Norwegian

An Alaska cruise is an extraordinary adventure. With Norwegian, it becomes something more. Our ships are designed to let the outside in, with expansive decks, the signature Observation Lounge featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, and panoramic views that make glacier sightings, whale encounters, and dramatic coastal scenery part of everyday life. As the youngest fleet sailing Alaska, Norwegian combines decades of regional expertise with thoughtfully crafted itineraries designed to showcase the region's most spectacular landscapes. Our signature flexible cruising gives guests the freedom to explore Alaska on their own terms, while seamless shore excursions make it easy to venture deeper into each destination. While onboard, award-winning dining, entertainment, and amenities ensure every day is as memorable as the surrounding scenery.

NCL's Alaska Cruisetours and Land Experiences

An Alaska cruise showcases this region's breathtaking coastline, but an NCL Cruisetour takes the journey even further. NCL Cruisetours combine a 7-day cruise with a fully planned land adventure, giving guests the opportunity to explore Alaska’s interior before or after their sailing. From the towering landscapes of Denali to communities beyond the reach of traditional cruise itineraries, these Alaska land and cruise packages offer a more immersive approach to The Last Frontier. With hotels, transportation, select meals, and guided experiences all arranged and included, NCL Cruisetours make it easy to experience both Alaska’s coastal highlights and inland wonders in one seamless vacation. Whether you choose a northbound route, from Vancouver up, or southbound itinerary, from Fairbanks down, an NCL Cruisetour is ideal for travelers who want a deeper Alaska experience.

Skagway, Alaska. The scenic White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad.

Departure Ports

Norwegian Cruise Line offers Alaska cruise departures from several convenient North American ports, including Seattle and Vancouver, making it easy for U.S. travelers to sail from the West Coast and start their vacation immediately. Alternatively, you can fly directly to Alaska and embark from Whittier, or add an NCL Cruisetour and begin or end in Anchorage or Fairbanks. Guests can also choose one-way itineraries that begin in one city and end in another, offering flexibility and more opportunities to explore unique destinations before or after their cruise.

The Best Way to See Alaska is With Norwegian Cruise Line

Something shifts the first time you glimpse Alaska from the stillness of the sea — as the mountains rise in the distance and wilderness unfolds around you, the world feels like it has suddenly slowed down. Days are filled with adventure yet feel naturally unhurried, from relaxed moments on deck sipping cocktails as you spot whales to exciting excursions like glacier hikes, kayaking through icy waters, or meeting world-famous sled dogs. With decades of experience sailing Alaska’s legendary waters, Norwegian Cruise Line brings guests closer to the region’s most unforgettable destinations and sights on ships custom-built to maximize the view. An NCL Alaska cruise is not just about seeing the great outdoors — it’s about becoming part of it. With Alaska’s limited six-month season and high demand for peak sailings, the most sought-after itineraries fill quickly, so now is the time to find your dream vacation.

Alaska whale watching boat excursion. Inside passage mountain range landscape luxury travel cruise concept.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best month to go to Alaska on a cruise?

April through October are the best months to cruise Alaska — can select your ideal timing based on what you want from your journey. The summer months showcase extended daylight hours and the most wildlife viewing while the autumn months offer beautiful autumn foliage and a chance to see the Northern Lights.

How long are Alaska cruises?

Alaska cruises usually range from 7-10 days, while NCL Cruisetours extend up to 16 days.

What major ports are included on Alaska cruises?

Major port stops on an NCL Alaska cruise include Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan (Ward Cove), Sitka and Icy Strait Point.

Do Alaska cruises visit glaciers?

Yes, NCL's Alaska cruises sail to a variety of common glacier viewing destinations.

Are Alaska cruises good for families?


Alaska cruises are one of the most memorable and exciting holidays you can take as a family, with adventure and exploration for guests of all ages and stages plus the convenience of travelling in your 'floating home.'

Do you need a passport for an Alaska cruise?

For cruises leaving from a U.S. or Canadian port and sailing to Alaska, U.S. Citizens are required to carry a valid passport or Proof of Citizenship See details. 

Can you see the Northern Lights on an Alaska cruise?


The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) are visible in Alaska from late August to mid-April when the nights become dark, and chances for viewings increase. September is often considered the best month to see the Northern Lights because of the autumn equinox.

Are Alaska cruises good for first-time cruisers?

Cruises are a great option for first-time cruisers wanted to explore Alaska, as you can experience this unique destination from the comfort of the ship with the convenience of sailing from one port to another.

What should you pack for an Alaska cruise?

Packing for Alaska is all about layers. We have a detailed blog post with all the tips you need to pack for an Alaska cruise.

What type of excursions are available on Alaska cruises?

Alaska cruise excursions are some of the best in the world - from dog sledding to kayaking, wildlife spotting, exploring native culture & history, fishing, hiking glaciers and more. View Alaska excursions. 

What is the Inside Passage on an Alaska cruise?


Shaped by massive glaciers, the Alaskan Inside Passage is a beautiful waterway nestled within islands along the Pacific Coast, offering uniquely calm waters. Learn more about the Inside Passage on our blog.

What wildlife can you see on an Alaska cruise?

You can see all kinds of wildlife on an Alaska cruise including whales, bears, seals, sea otters, moose, eagles and more.