Best Cruise for Alaska Glaciers

Embarking on an Alaskan cruise is a dream for many travelers, and for good reason. The Last Frontier offers unparalleled natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and, perhaps most captivating of all, breathtaking glaciers. Choosing the right cruise line and itinerary is crucial for maximizing your glacier viewing experience. This comprehensive guide will delve into the best cruise options for witnessing Alaska’s magnificent glaciers, considering factors such as itinerary, ship size, onboard amenities, and shore excursions.

Why Choose an Alaska Glacier Cruise?

An Alaska glacier cruise is more than just a vacation; it’s an immersive experience into a world of ice, water, and raw natural power. Here are a few compelling reasons to consider an Alaskan glacier cruise:

Unparalleled Natural Beauty

Alaska’s glaciers are a sight to behold. Imagine towering walls of ice, shimmering blue hues, and the thunderous sound of calving glaciers as massive chunks break off and plunge into the sea. The sheer scale and grandeur of these icy giants are truly awe-inspiring.

Witness Calving Glaciers

One of the most thrilling aspects of an Alaska glacier cruise is the opportunity to witness calving. This natural phenomenon occurs when a glacier loses large blocks of ice from its terminus. The resulting spectacle is a dramatic display of nature’s power, accompanied by a resounding boom and the splash of ice entering the water.

Abundant Wildlife Viewing Opportunities

Alaska’s waters are teeming with wildlife, and a glacier cruise provides excellent opportunities for spotting marine animals. Keep an eye out for whales (humpback, orca, and gray whales are common), seals, sea lions, otters, and even bald eagles soaring overhead. Some cruises even offer dedicated wildlife viewing excursions.

Access to Remote and Untouched Landscapes

Many of Alaska’s most stunning glaciers are located in remote areas that are only accessible by boat. A cruise allows you to explore these pristine landscapes, far from the crowds and noise of civilization. You’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the tranquility and solitude of the Alaskan wilderness.

Educational and Enrichment Programs

Many cruise lines offer onboard educational programs and lectures led by naturalists and experts on Alaska’s glaciers, wildlife, and history. These programs can enhance your understanding of the region and deepen your appreciation for its natural wonders.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Glacier Cruise

With so many Alaska cruise options available, it’s important to carefully consider your preferences and priorities when selecting the right cruise. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

Itinerary

The itinerary is arguably the most important factor in determining your glacier viewing experience. Different itineraries focus on different regions of Alaska and offer varying opportunities for glacier sightings. Some popular glacier viewing destinations include:

Glacier Bay National Park

Glacier Bay National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a premier destination for glacier viewing. Cruises that include Glacier Bay typically spend an entire day navigating the park, allowing passengers to witness multiple glaciers, including the iconic Johns Hopkins Glacier, Margerie Glacier, and Lamplugh Glacier. The park is also home to abundant wildlife, including whales, seals, and bears.

Tracy Arm Fjord

Tracy Arm Fjord is a narrow, deep fjord known for its stunning glaciers, towering cliffs, and waterfalls. Two prominent glaciers, Sawyer Glacier and South Sawyer Glacier, are located at the end of the fjord. The narrowness of the fjord provides an up-close and personal glacier viewing experience.

College Fjord

College Fjord is home to a collection of glaciers named after prestigious colleges and universities. This region offers the opportunity to see a variety of glaciers, including Harvard Glacier, Yale Glacier, and Vassar Glacier. The sheer number of glaciers in close proximity makes College Fjord a truly remarkable destination.

Hubbard Glacier

Hubbard Glacier is one of the largest and most active tidewater glaciers in North America. Its massive size and frequent calving events make it a popular attraction for cruise passengers. The glacier’s terminus is over six miles wide, and it calves off icebergs that can be as tall as a ten-story building.

Cruise Line

Different cruise lines cater to different types of travelers. Some cruise lines offer a more luxurious and upscale experience, while others focus on affordability and family-friendly activities. Consider your budget, travel style, and desired level of comfort when choosing a cruise line.

Luxury Cruise Lines

Luxury cruise lines, such as Seabourn, Silversea, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, offer a premium experience with all-inclusive fares, spacious suites, gourmet dining, and personalized service. These cruises often feature smaller ships, allowing for more intimate glacier viewing experiences and access to smaller ports.

Mainstream Cruise Lines

Mainstream cruise lines, such as Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Celebrity Cruises, offer a wide range of itineraries and price points. These cruise lines typically feature larger ships with a variety of onboard amenities, including multiple restaurants, entertainment venues, and activities for all ages.

Adventure Cruise Lines

Adventure cruise lines, such as UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions, focus on immersive experiences and exploring remote destinations. These cruises often feature smaller ships, expert guides, and opportunities for activities such as hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.

Ship Size

The size of the ship can significantly impact your cruise experience. Larger ships offer a wider range of amenities and activities, but they may not be able to access smaller ports or navigate narrow fjords. Smaller ships offer a more intimate and personalized experience, but they may have fewer amenities.

Large Ships

Large cruise ships typically carry thousands of passengers and offer a wide range of onboard amenities, including multiple restaurants, swimming pools, casinos, and entertainment venues. These ships can be a good choice for families or travelers who enjoy a variety of activities and entertainment options. However, they may not be able to access smaller ports or navigate narrow fjords, which could limit your glacier viewing opportunities.

Small Ships

Small cruise ships typically carry fewer than 500 passengers and offer a more intimate and personalized experience. These ships can access smaller ports and navigate narrow fjords, allowing for closer glacier viewing and more opportunities for wildlife sightings. They often feature expert guides and offer activities such as hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.

Onboard Amenities

Consider the onboard amenities that are important to you. Do you want a ship with multiple restaurants, a spa, a casino, or a dedicated children’s program? Different cruise lines offer different amenities, so it’s important to research your options and choose a ship that meets your needs.

Shore Excursions

Shore excursions can enhance your Alaska cruise experience and provide opportunities to explore the region in more depth. Consider the types of excursions that are offered and whether they align with your interests. Some popular shore excursions include:

Helicopter Tours

Helicopter tours offer a bird’s-eye view of Alaska’s glaciers and landscapes. These tours typically include a landing on a glacier, where you can walk around and take photos.

Dog Sledding

Dog sledding is a popular Alaskan activity that allows you to experience the thrill of being pulled by a team of sled dogs. Some dog sledding tours take place on glaciers.

Whale Watching Tours

Whale watching tours offer the opportunity to see humpback whales, orca whales, and other marine animals in their natural habitat.

Kayaking Tours

Kayaking tours allow you to explore Alaska’s coastline and get up close to glaciers and wildlife.

Hiking Tours

Hiking tours offer the opportunity to explore Alaska’s trails and enjoy stunning views of glaciers, mountains, and forests.

Top Cruise Lines for Glacier Viewing

Several cruise lines offer exceptional Alaska glacier cruises. Here are some of the top choices, each with its own strengths and unique offerings:

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises is a popular choice for Alaska cruises, offering a wide range of itineraries and price points. They are known for their “Voyage of the Glaciers” itineraries, which include visits to Glacier Bay National Park, College Fjord, and Hubbard Glacier. Princess also offers a variety of shore excursions, including helicopter tours and whale watching tours.

Holland America Line

Holland America Line has a long history of sailing in Alaska and is known for its in-depth itineraries and enrichment programs. They offer cruises to Glacier Bay National Park, Tracy Arm Fjord, and Hubbard Glacier. Holland America also offers a variety of shore excursions, including hiking tours and kayaking tours.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises offers a modern and stylish cruise experience with a focus on culinary excellence and onboard entertainment. They offer cruises to Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier, and Endicott Arm. Celebrity also offers a variety of shore excursions, including helicopter tours and dog sledding tours.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line offers a more casual and contemporary cruise experience with a focus on flexibility and freedom. They offer cruises to Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier, and Sawyer Glacier. Norwegian also offers a variety of shore excursions, including whale watching tours and zip-lining adventures.

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International offers a high-energy and family-friendly cruise experience with a wide range of onboard activities and entertainment. They offer cruises to Hubbard Glacier, Endicott Arm, and Icy Strait Point. Royal Caribbean also offers a variety of shore excursions, including helicopter tours and glacier trekking tours.

UnCruise Adventures

UnCruise Adventures specializes in small-ship adventure cruises to Alaska. Their itineraries focus on exploring remote areas and experiencing the natural beauty of the region. They offer cruises to Glacier Bay National Park, Tracy Arm Fjord, and Endicott Arm. UnCruise Adventures also offers a variety of activities, including hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.

Lindblad Expeditions

Lindblad Expeditions partners with National Geographic to offer expedition-style cruises to Alaska. Their itineraries focus on education, conservation, and exploration. They offer cruises to Glacier Bay National Park, Tracy Arm Fjord, and Misty Fjords National Monument. Lindblad Expeditions also offers a variety of activities, including hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.

Sample Itineraries for Glacier Viewing

To give you a better idea of what to expect on an Alaska glacier cruise, here are a few sample itineraries:

7-Day Inside Passage Cruise with Glacier Bay

This classic itinerary typically departs from Seattle or Vancouver and explores the Inside Passage, a protected waterway known for its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife. The highlight of this itinerary is a full day spent in Glacier Bay National Park, where you’ll have the opportunity to see multiple glaciers, including the Johns Hopkins Glacier, Margerie Glacier, and Lamplugh Glacier. Other ports of call may include Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway.

7-Day Hubbard Glacier Cruise

This itinerary focuses on visiting Hubbard Glacier, one of the largest and most active tidewater glaciers in North America. The cruise typically spends a full day cruising near Hubbard Glacier, allowing passengers to witness its massive size and frequent calving events. Other ports of call may include Juneau, Skagway, and Sitka.

7-Day Tracy Arm Fjord Cruise

This itinerary explores Tracy Arm Fjord, a narrow, deep fjord known for its stunning glaciers, towering cliffs, and waterfalls. The cruise typically spends a full day cruising through Tracy Arm Fjord, allowing passengers to see Sawyer Glacier and South Sawyer Glacier up close. Other ports of call may include Juneau, Petersburg, and Wrangell.

14-Day Grand Alaska Cruise

This longer itinerary offers a more comprehensive exploration of Alaska, including visits to Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier, College Fjord, and other scenic destinations. The cruise typically spends several days exploring different regions of Alaska, allowing passengers to experience a variety of landscapes and wildlife.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Glacier Cruise

To ensure that you have an unforgettable Alaska glacier cruise experience, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Book in Advance

Alaska cruises are popular, especially during the peak season (June-August). To secure your preferred itinerary, cabin type, and shore excursions, it’s best to book well in advance.

Pack Appropriately

Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to pack layers of clothing. Be sure to bring a waterproof jacket, warm sweaters, comfortable walking shoes, and a hat and gloves. Don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses, as the sun can be strong, even on cloudy days.

Bring Binoculars

Binoculars are essential for wildlife viewing and glacier observation. A good pair of binoculars will allow you to see details that you would otherwise miss.

Take Advantage of Onboard Activities

Most cruise lines offer a variety of onboard activities, including lectures, workshops, and entertainment. Take advantage of these activities to learn more about Alaska and enhance your cruise experience.

Attend Ranger Talks in Glacier Bay

If your itinerary includes Glacier Bay National Park, be sure to attend the ranger talks. Park rangers provide valuable information about the park’s glaciers, wildlife, and history.

Be Prepared for Motion Sickness

The waters in Alaska can be choppy at times, so be prepared for motion sickness. Bring motion sickness medication or use acupressure bands.

Respect the Environment

Alaska is a pristine wilderness, so it’s important to respect the environment. Avoid littering, stay on designated trails, and follow the instructions of your guides.

Consider Travel Insurance

Travel insurance can protect you in case of unexpected events, such as illness, injury, or trip cancellation. It’s a good idea to purchase travel insurance before your cruise.

What to Expect During Glacier Viewing

Seeing a glacier up close is an incredible experience, but it’s helpful to know what to expect. Here’s a breakdown of what you might encounter:

The Sound of Calving

As mentioned earlier, calving is the dramatic breaking off of ice from a glacier. This is often accompanied by a loud cracking or booming sound. The size of the ice that calves off can vary from small chunks to massive blocks. The sound of calving is a memorable part of the glacier viewing experience.

The Sight of Blue Ice

Glacial ice often appears blue due to the way it absorbs and reflects light. The longer wavelengths of light (reds, oranges, yellows) are absorbed by the ice, while the shorter wavelengths (blues and violets) are reflected. This is why glaciers often appear to be a stunning shade of blue.

Changes in Weather

The weather near glaciers can change rapidly. It’s not uncommon to experience sunshine, rain, and fog all in the same day. Be prepared for changing conditions and dress in layers.

Floating Ice

As glaciers calve, icebergs and smaller pieces of ice float in the water. These floating ice formations can be quite beautiful and add to the overall scenery. Be aware that icebergs can be dangerous, so it’s important to maintain a safe distance.

Cooler Temperatures

The air temperature near glaciers is often cooler than in other areas. This is due to the cooling effect of the ice. Be sure to dress warmly, even on sunny days.

Beyond the Glaciers: Other Alaskan Attractions

While glacier viewing is a highlight of an Alaska cruise, there are many other attractions to explore. Here are a few examples:

Juneau

Juneau is the capital of Alaska and a popular port of call for cruise ships. Attractions include the Mendenhall Glacier, the Alaska State Museum, and the Mount Roberts Tramway. You can also take a whale watching tour or go hiking on one of the many trails in the area.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is known as the “Salmon Capital of the World” and is a popular destination for fishing. Attractions include Creek Street, a historic boardwalk lined with shops and restaurants, and the Totem Heritage Center, which showcases Native Alaskan art. You can also take a floatplane tour or visit the Misty Fjords National Monument.

Skagway

Skagway is a historic town that was a key transportation hub during the Klondike Gold Rush. Attractions include the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, and the Red Onion Saloon. You can also go hiking, kayaking, or take a dog sledding tour.

Sitka

Sitka is a historic town with a rich Russian heritage. Attractions include the Sitka National Historical Park, the St. Michael’s Cathedral, and the Alaska Raptor Center. You can also go fishing, kayaking, or take a wildlife viewing tour.

Choosing the Right Cabin

The type of cabin you choose can impact your enjoyment of the cruise. Here’s a quick overview of cabin options:

Inside Cabins

Inside cabins are the most affordable option and do not have a window or balcony. They are a good choice for budget-conscious travelers who don’t plan to spend much time in their cabin.

Oceanview Cabins

Oceanview cabins have a window that provides natural light and views of the ocean. They are a step up from inside cabins and offer a more pleasant environment.

Balcony Cabins

Balcony cabins have a private balcony where you can relax and enjoy the fresh air and views. They are a popular choice for Alaska cruises, as they provide a great vantage point for glacier viewing and wildlife sightings.

Suites

Suites are the most luxurious option and offer more space and amenities than other cabin types. They often include a separate living area, a private balcony, and personalized service.

Sustainable Cruising in Alaska

It’s important to consider the environmental impact of your cruise and choose a cruise line that is committed to sustainable practices. Look for cruise lines that:

* Use fuel-efficient ships
* Reduce waste and recycle
* Support local communities
* Educate passengers about conservation
* Follow responsible wildlife viewing guidelines
By choosing a sustainable cruise line, you can help protect Alaska’s natural beauty for future generations.

Final Thoughts

An Alaska glacier cruise is a truly unforgettable experience. By carefully considering your preferences, researching your options, and booking in advance, you can create a dream vacation that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. From the awe-inspiring glaciers to the abundant wildlife and stunning landscapes, Alaska has something to offer everyone. So, start planning your adventure today and prepare to be amazed by the Last Frontier.