Alaska Cruises

Discover Alaska’s Untamed Beauty with Cruise1st

Stretching from icy fjords to the rugged peaks of the Rocky Mountains, Alaska is a destination defined by awe-inspiring contrasts and breathtaking natural wonders. If you’ve ever imagined witnessing towering glaciers, crystal-clear lakes, and extraordinary wildlife up close, an Alaskan cruise is the ultimate gateway to adventure. With more than 3 million lakes and over 12,000 glaciers, Alaska offers a landscape like no other. Cruising through this remote region lets you explore multiple ports while enjoying the comfort and convenience of your floating resort. Whether you’re a nature lover, thrill seeker, or admirer of dramatic scenery, an Alaska cruise promises unforgettable moments at every turn.

Top Cruise Lines Sailing to Alaska

• Princess Cruises: With 17 ships in its fleet—and 10 dedicated to Alaska itineraries—Princess offers immersive journeys emphasising local culture, wildlife, and cuisine. Popular options include the Ruby Princess and Grand Princess. Frequent departures from Vancouver and San Francisco make it easy for travellers from Australia to begin their Alaska journey.
• Holland America Line: Operating 11 ships, with 6 devoted to Alaska routes, Holland America offers enriching voyages on vessels like the Westerdam and Noordam. Known for cultural insights through expert speakers and unique excursions, departures typically originate from Sydney, Vancouver, or Seattle.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With 20 ships—7 serving Alaska—Norwegian brings vibrant entertainment and diverse dining to the region. Signature vessels like Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Sun often sail from Seattle or Vancouver, giving guests an exciting start to their northern adventure.
• Royal Caribbean: Featuring 29 ships worldwide, Royal Caribbean sends 4 to Alaska, including the innovative Quantum of the Seas and scenic Serenade of the Seas. With thrilling onboard activities and world-class entertainment, sailings typically depart from Vancouver or Seattle.
• Carnival Cruise Line: Carnival’s 27-ship fleet includes 5 sailing to Alaska, such as Carnival Luminosa and Carnival Spirit. Known for family-friendly fun and lively onboard experiences, Carnival offers departures from Brisbane and popular U.S. ports like Seattle and San Francisco.

Luxury and Small-Ship Alaska Cruises

• Oceania Cruises: Offering intimate voyages and a strong focus on gastronomy, Oceania’s Riviera provides an indulgent way to explore Alaska, with departures from Seattle and Vancouver.
• Seabourn: Seabourn’s ultra-luxury ships—including Seabourn Quest and Seabourn Sojourn—offer personalised service and immersive itineraries departing from Vancouver and Juneau.
• Silversea: With all-inclusive luxury at its core, Silversea’s Silver Nova and Silver Moon sail from Vancouver and occasionally Tokyo, offering elevated experiences both onboard and ashore.

Must-See Ports and Harbours in Alaska

• Ketchikan: Famous for its salmon, Native Alaskan culture, and colourful historic Creek Street. Scenic flights over the Misty Fjords provide unforgettable views.
• Juneau: Alaska’s remote capital offers stunning attractions such as Mendenhall Glacier, Mount Roberts Tramway, and world-class whale watching.
• Skagway: Step back into Gold Rush history with the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway, scenic hikes, dog sledding adventures, and more.
• Glacier Bay: A highlight of many itineraries, Glacier Bay features dramatic glaciers, calving ice formations, and abundant marine wildlife, often narrated by onboard rangers.
• Sitka: A charming and culturally rich port blending Native Alaskan and Russian history, with totem trails, wildlife viewing, and fresh local cuisine.

Best Time of Year to Cruise Alaska

May–June brings comfortably cool temperatures (10–20°C), ideal for wildlife viewing and long daylight hours. July–August is peak cruising season, offering warmer weather (15–25°C) perfect for outdoor excursions. September ushers in striking autumn colours and cooler days (5–15°C), plus fewer crowds for a quieter experience.

How Much Does an Alaska Cruise Cost?

A typical 7-night Alaska cruise ranges from $1,500 to $2,500 AUD, while 14-night itineraries may reach $4,000 to $6,000 AUD. Luxury cruises start around $5,500 AUD for a week and can exceed $12,000 AUD for extended voyages. Meals are included onboard, but expect $20–50 AUD per person for meals ashore and $10–15 AUD per drink.

Other Destinations to Consider

• British Columbia: A spectacular blend of coastal wilderness and vibrant cities like Vancouver.
• Caribbean: Perfect for travellers craving sunshine, beaches, and tropical island culture.
• Norwegian Fjords: A dramatic, photogenic escape with towering cliffs and serene waterways.
• Antarctica: An unforgettable expedition into icy wilderness and rare wildlife habitats.
• Australian Coast: Ideal for Southern Hemisphere cruisers seeking pristine beaches, marine life, and coastal charm.

Ready to explore the wonders of Alaska? Cruise1st is here to help you turn your dream journey into a breathtaking reality—complete with glacier views, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences at every stop.

Planning ahead? Check out our Alaska 2027 deals!