hubbard glacier princess cruise

Hubbard Glacier, AK

While most of the world's glaciers are receding, North America's largest tidewater glacier is advancing. At 76 miles long and 7 miles wide, Hubbard Glacier presents a majestic sight for passengers cruising across Yakutat Bay on the Alaskan panhandle. One of the behemoth's most impressive stunts is the same reason ships must keep a safe distance from the spot where it occupies Disenchantment Bay: The glacier calves frequently, meaning that large chunks of ice break off from its face and plunge into the water below, creating icebergs. In addition to witnessing this spectacle of nature, keen eyes also can catch glimpses of the area's wildlife, which includes harbor seals, orcas and humpback whales.

Hubbard Glacier on Princess

By Glaciers , August 14, 2023 in Alaska

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Anyone on a Princess trip this year make it to the face of Hubbard Glacier?   Seems since they started the optional excursion a few years ago they are not making any attempts at getting closer. I do see several posts that other lines are making it much closer.

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NCL is chickening out of Hubbard if there is ice within 50 miles of the ship.  (Perhaps I exaggerate.  A little).

2 hours ago, quack2 said: NCL is chickening out of Hubbard if there is ice within 50 miles of the ship.  (Perhaps I exaggerate.  A little).

Not by much!  We sailed past the Spirit and up to 3/4 of a mile off the glacier on Crown this week.  Evidently they pranged a ship on an ice floe in the bay in 2022 and are orders to not get into any ice.  They were about 8 miles off and it was foggy so you couldn’t even see the glacier from there.

Great calving!

6 hours ago, wolfie11 said:  We sailed past the Spirit and up to 3/4 of a mile off the glacier on Crown this week. 

At what point did the excursion pick up from the ship? Was it still miles off or did they pick up after getting that close?

43 minutes ago, Glaciers said: At what point did the excursion pick up from the ship? Was it still miles off or did they pick up after getting that close?

We had two excursions.  One was early and then dropped off and picked up more pax when we were nearing the glacier.  They dropped off when we started to leave.  

1 minute ago, wolfie11 said: We had two excursions.  One was early and then dropped off and picked up more pax when we were nearing the glacier.  They dropped off when we started to leave.  

That's interesting. I had not heard they were doing multiple excursions from the same ship.

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Alaska cruise guide: Best itineraries, planning tips and things to do

Alaska might be one of the most beautiful places in the world, but it's rugged and can be tricky to get around. Explore the Last Frontier by cruise ship, and you can travel to gold rush towns, glaciers, Alaska Native heritage sites and natural areas brimming with wildlife in comfort, even luxury.

When planning an Alaska cruise, you have many things to consider: when to go for the experience you're anticipating, which cruise line is best suited to your travel style, the best Alaska cruise ports to visit and which shoreside activities you want to prioritize. It's not the kind of trip you want to throw together at the last minute — especially since the best fare deals typically go to organized travelers who book early.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

If you're eager to spot bald eagles in the wild, ride a dogsled atop an ice field or pan for gold after a hearty salmon feast, an Alaska cruise is calling your name. Dive into The Points Guy's Alaska cruise guide for all the planning tips you need for your dream cruise up north.

Why cruise Alaska?

Most people have similar reasons for cruising Alaska. They want to admire its rugged beauty, seek out wildlife (such as eagles, bears and whales) and learn about its Native cultures and gold rush history. It's so far from the rest of the mainland U.S. that it's become a bucket list destination, especially for travelers looking to visit each of the 50 states.

One of the key reasons to cruise Alaska versus taking a land tour is to visit destinations along the Inside Passage that you cannot reach by road. Plus, many of the state's famous glaciers are best viewed from the sea.

If you want to see landlocked areas, such as Denali National Park, you can tack a cruise line-operated tour onto the beginning or end of your sailing for a seamless land and sea vacation. It's easier than fumbling with multiple train, bus, ferry and hotel reservations to cobble together the same trip on your own.

A cruise can also make an Alaska trip more affordable. Instead of taking a long and expensive flight to Anchorage or Fairbanks, you can choose a cruise that sails round-trip from Seattle or Vancouver (note, you won't be able to tack on a post-cruise land trip to Denali if you do this). Restaurant prices in Alaska can be high, but a cruise bundles meals, accommodations and transportation into one price that, with sales, can be cheaper than you'd think.

Related: Best Alaska cruise tips to help you make the most of your time aboard and ashore

When do cruises go to Alaska?

Nearly every major cruise line has a presence in Alaska from May through mid-September, with some offering sailings as early as April or as late as October. The season is short due to weather. Cold temperatures, icy waters and a long snowy season are not conducive to early spring and late fall cruises.

Alaska cruise weather can be chilly (in the 40s to 50s) first thing in the morning and at night. However, if it's a sunny summer day, temperatures can shoot into the 70s and even low 80s. It also rains a lot in Alaska; it's drier in the spring than in the summer.

When you want to go will depend on which activities you want to do, how you feel about cool weather and rain, and the price. Cruises at the beginning (April and May) and end (September and October) of Alaska's cruise season are generally a bit cheaper than those in June, July and August.

Related: Best time to cruise to Alaska

Best Alaska itineraries

Where do Alaska cruises even go? Most sail along the Inside Passage, a maritime route along the state's southern coast (and into British Columbia and Washington state) that weaves around the area's thousand islands. Some venture farther north into the Gulf of Alaska; these are often one-way cruises that begin and end at the ports near Anchorage.

Learn more about the best Alaska cruise itineraries for your next vacation.

Inside Passage

The Inside Passage is the most popular Alaska cruise route. Weeklong itineraries generally embark in either Seattle or Vancouver, British Columbia — though some itineraries originate in Juneau. A few lines, such as Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line and Cunard Line, offer 10-night Inside Passage cruises from San Francisco, Seattle or Vancouver.

Glacial ice carved this passageway long ago, and today, cruise ships and fishing vessels thread their way through the islets and channels to see some of the most spectacular natural sights in the world.

You'll find magnificent mountains (often snowcapped, even in the summertime), lush forests, waterfalls, fjords and calving glaciers. If it's marine life you've come to see, you'll find it in abundance, from whales and dolphins to sea lions and harbor seals. On land, you'll likely spy bears and Dall sheep while eagles, puffins and a host of seabirds circle above.

Many people trek to Alaska to commune with nature, but there's also history here that you shouldn't overlook. Shore excursions and onboard lectures will explain the cultures of the Indigenous peoples of Alaska, as well as more recent inhabitants from the Russian community in Sitka and the fortune-seekers who moved to Skagway during the Klondike gold rush in the late 1890s.

Popular Inside Passage ports of call include Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan, Petersburg, Haines, Sitka and Skagway. Most cruises will visit three or four ports of call.

Additionally, you'll have one day spent cruising the Inside Passage and one focused on "scenic cruising," where you can enjoy the landscapes but won't go ashore. This is not nearly as boring as you might think since you'll see incredible sights like Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve or Hubbard Glacier .

One nice thing about the Inside Passage is how calm the water is because you're sailing between land masses. If you worry about seasickness, an Inside Passage trip is the best Alaska cruise itinerary versus a sailing where your ship transits rougher, open waters.

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler

Gulf of Alaska

If you book a weeklong Gulf of Alaska voyage, you'll also enjoy exploring parts of the Inside Passage and its ports that could include a mix of Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, Ketchikan, Haines and Icy Strait Point.

You'll have up to two days of scenic cruising, in addition to sailing the Inside Passage. Because Gulf of Alaska cruises sail farther north, scenic destinations might include College Fjord, in addition to Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier.

Generally, these one-way sailings travel from Seward or Whittier (the cruise ports closest to Anchorage) to Vancouver (or vice versa). Most itineraries are seven nights, but you'll find a handful that are longer.

For these itineraries, you'll need to fly into or out of Anchorage and take a train or bus to/from the cruise departure ports, which can take an hour or two. You can book the transportation on your own or through your cruise line.

Gulf of Alaska sailings — especially those in late August and September — can encounter rough seas in the gulf portion of the voyage. Be prepared if you're particularly prone to seasickness.

Related: One-way Alaska cruises vs. round-trip: Which is best?

Longer sailings from the West Coast

Finally, you'll find some round-trip San Francisco itineraries — usually 10 or 11 nights long — as well as longer sailings between San Francisco and Vancouver. These cruises are best suited to travelers who love days at sea.

On a 10-night cruise, you'll have four sea days (for example, two days from San Francisco to Juneau) plus a day of scenic cruising at a spot like Tracy Arm (Twin Sawyer Glaciers), Endicott Arm, Hubbard Glacier or Glacier Bay National Park. The waters before you enter the Inside Passage can be calm, rough or anything in between, depending on when you go.

Ports on these longer sailings might include Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point and Victoria, British Columbia.

You can also find one-way repositioning cruises between Southern California ports (Los Angeles and San Diego) and Vancouver at the beginning or end of a ship's Alaska cruise season.

Related: The best luxury Alaska cruises you can book right now

Cruisetours

Cruise lines understand that not all of Alaska's best sights lie along the coast. Denali National Park and the city of Fairbanks are well inland. And some coastal highlights, like the Kenai Peninsula, aren't typically visited on a seven-night cruise. So the cruise lines created their own "cruisetours": vacations that combine a weeklong cruise with a two- to seven-night bus tour.

On a cruisetour, you'll sail on a one-way Gulf of Alaska cruise, so your cruise starts or ends in Alaska. Depending on the tour itinerary you choose, you might visit Seward and the Kenai Peninsula, Alyeska, Talkeetna, Anchorage and Fairbanks — as well as spend one to three nights in Denali National Park.

Some lines also offer Alaska cruisetours that venture into Canada's Yukon, including a few Holland America tours that combine half a cruise with a cruisetour that starts or ends in Skagway.

Your tour might include a ride on the scenic Alaska Railroad . Some activities are included in the cost of the cruisetour; other outings can be booked like shore excursions, depending on your interest and budget. If you're hoping to see the northern lights, booking a cruisetour in September might be your best bet to see the aurora on a cruise vacation.

Related: The best credit cards for booking cruises

Best Alaska cruise lines

Most big-ship and luxury cruise lines send at least one cruise ship to Alaska every summer. Some of the best Alaska cruise lines are Holland America and Princess Cruises because they have especially long histories in the region and offer cruises, as well as cruise and land tour combinations, on multiple ships each season.

If you want a more active trip in less touristed areas, a great choice would be a small-ship expedition line, including Alaska specialists such as Alaskan Dream Cruises and UnCruise Adventures.

Ships in all price ranges sail a variety of itineraries, so don't let budget stop you from visiting. If luxury is what you're after, you can find lines that will go overboard pampering you on your journey north.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

Best cruise lines for extended trips to Alaska

If you want to cruise Alaska but also see some of the interior and enjoy a stay in a lodge or hotel, go for a cruisetour package from either Holland America or Princess Cruises. Both have fantastic itineraries that take passengers not only to the Inside Passage, but also to Anchorage, Denali National Park, the Yukon, Kenai Peninsula, Talkeetna and Fairbanks. Princess and Holland America even own a handful of their own lodges.

Best Alaska cruises for families with kids

Carnival, Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian, Princess and Royal Caribbean all have extensive kids clubs aboard their ships that cater to all ages, from babies to teens. Little kids will adore meet-and-greets with beloved characters on board Disney cruises, or hanging with Dr. Seuss characters when sailing with Carnival. Older kids will love the rock climbing walls, video game stations, sports courts, go-karts and laser tag on Royal Caribbean and NCL ships.

Related: Best Alaska cruises for families

Best cruise lines for adventure-seekers

Active travelers might prefer expedition-style voyages on smaller ships that include more time for adventurous activities, such as hiking in the Tongass National Forest, wildlife and glacier viewing from Zodiac rafts or kayaks, or even overnight camping. These ships often feature complimentary shore excursions, kayaks and bikes for guest use and onboard scientists and naturalists.

If you've got active teens who have an interest in nature and the environment, an expedition voyage could be exactly what will keep them engaged and off their devices. Just expect the majority of your shipmates to be older adults.

Look to UnCruise Adventures, Alaskan Dream Cruises, HX (formerly Hurtigruten) and Lindblad Expeditions for the best adventure cruises.

Related: Pros and cons of small-ship cruising in Alaska

Best for multigenerational groups

Sailing with grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles and kids? Try Celebrity Cruises, Holland America and Princess Cruises. These cruise lines, especially on their newer ships, offer something for everyone — as well as a higher caliber of onboard dining than on the cheapest cruises.

Kids can hang out in the youth lounges while parents hit the spa or try a wine-tasting class. Everyone can come back together for dinner and evening entertainment or onboard activities suitable for all ages.

Best for couples and big celebrations

The luxury cruise lines are your best bet if you're a couple and enjoy spacious suites, gourmet food, pampering (many luxe lines hire butlers to cater to every passenger) and the opportunity to meet other like-minded cruisers. The personalized service and all-inclusive nature of luxury voyages might also be attractive to anyone celebrating a milestone, such as an anniversary, big birthday or retirement.

Look at Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea Cruises and Viking.

Related: The best Alaska cruises for couples

Things to do in Alaska

Alaska cruises offer a wide range of activities in port, with options for active travelers, wildlife lovers, history buffs and shoppers. Whether you're traveling with young kids or require more sedentary recreation, the Alaska cruise ports won't disappoint.

Related: Best shore excursions on an Alaska cruise

Wildlife tours are available in every port. Hop a bus, kayak, boat or plane to look for bears, eagles, whales, sea otters and other wildlife. Note that moose don't regularly show up in the Inside Passage; you'll need to head farther north to find them.

Book a fishing trip to try your hand at catching salmon or halibut, or go out crab fishing for a glimpse into that type of work.

Active travelers can explore Alaska by sea kayak or canoe, hike on glaciers and through rainforests, zip line, bike, ride an ATV and even snorkel (you'll need a dry suit). You can even opt for a round of golf at the course in Haines.

In Alaska, sightseeing doesn't only take place on the ground. Floatplane and helicopter tours take you around scenic areas like Misty Fjords or land you on a glacier, perhaps for a dogsledding or hiking adventure on the ice. If you prefer to stay grounded, you can find informative trolley tours of ports like Skagway.

Alaska cruises provide plentiful opportunities to learn about Native Alaskan culture. You can get a taste of the gold rush life by trying your hand at panning for gold, attending a salmon bake or visiting a dogsled camp. A hike on the Chilkoot Trail or ride on the White Pass Railway lets you follow in the footsteps of the miners who came to seek their fortunes. Cap your day by trying out locally brewed craft beers.

Shopping abounds, and you can buy everything from diamond jewelry to T-shirts and other souvenirs. You'll need to look carefully for Alaskan-owned stores selling local handicrafts, but they're worth seeking out.

Related: Alaska cruise mistakes you never want to make

Best Alaska cruise ports

The best Alaska cruise ports are also the most crowded because no matter which type of itinerary and cruise line you select, you'll likely visit a mix of the same ports. The immediate port area will be filled with tourist shops and eateries. If you want to see nature at its finest, you must book a tour or venture farther afield.

If you want to see some of Alaska's most rustic and charming villages or stick to wild places, book a voyage with a line like Alaskan Dream Cruises or UnCruise to visit destinations like Baranof Island, Chichagof Island, Petersburg and Wrangell.

Ketchikan is known for three things: Native Alaskan (Tlingit) totem poles, Misty Fjords National Monument and the city's distinction as the Salmon Capital of the World. The town has more standing totem poles than anywhere else in the state; see them at the Saxman Native Village and the Totem Heritage Center. Access the Misty Fjords by kayak, floatplane or scenic cruise. Fishing excursions are plentiful here, too.

Ketchikan is where folks go to see the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, with athletes wielding axes and saws in traditional lumbering activities. It is also the jumping-off point for a Bering Sea crab fishing tour.

Alaska's capital city is interesting because no road leads from here to the rest of the state. It's located at the base of Mount Juneau, and you can only get there via boat or small plane — even residents have to bring their cars to Juneau via ferry. Home to Mendenhall Glacier, this is a popular port for hikes by, kayak tours to and helicopter landings on the glacier.

For a view of the city and cruise port, take a ride in the sky on the Mount Roberts Tramway. Various wildlife-viewing trips (whales, bears and more) and visits to dogsled camps and salmon bakes leave from Juneau.

If you're interested in Alaska's gold rush history, Skagway — 90 miles northwest of Juneau — is a port you shouldn't miss. In fact, it's the gateway to the Klondike and Dawson mining district in Canada's Yukon territory, where prospectors searched for gold in the late 1890s. The historic district still has a Wild West feel, though that's been a bit commercialized for the modern era. This port can get crowded in summer when several ships can call on the same day.

Skagway is an easy port for independent travelers who want to explore the town or go for a hike on their own. It's most famous as the terminus for the White Pass Railway into the Yukon.

Sitka is as much a working fishing town as it is a tourist destination. Sitka's Russian heritage also sets it apart from other Alaskan ports on your cruise itinerary. See St. Michael's Orthodox Cathedral with its onion dome and the Russian Bishop's House.

Before the Russians came, the Tlingit people settled here. You can learn about their history and culture at the Sitka National Historical Park and Sheldon Jackson Museum of Native Alaskan Art. Wildlife enthusiasts might want to visit the Alaska Raptor Center, or go bird- and bear-watching.

The population of Haines remains less than 2,000, according to the United States Census Bureau, and it isn't yet as touristy as some of the other Alaskan ports, such as nearby Skagway. It's known for great fishing (salmon, halibut and trout) and an eagle preserve — because eagles know where the best fish can be found.

Animal lovers and kids tend to enjoy a visit to the Kroschel Center for Orphaned Animals here. For a special tour, go bear-watching at twilight.

Icy Strait Point

Icy Strait Point is notable among Alaska cruise ports because the area and its attractions are all Native Alaskan-owned. Most port and tour staff hail from Hoonah, Alaska's largest Tlingit village. The port is set on Chichagof Island, which is known for its large bear population. Wildlife lovers have plenty of opportunities to search for whales and eagles here; adventure-seekers won't want to miss the ZipRider, with its course of six zip lines.

Scenic cruising

Most Alaska itineraries include some "scenic cruising," where your ship sails past incredible natural sights. You'll rarely leave the ship during these sail-bys (unless you happen to be aboard certain expedition, luxury or small ships that offer the chance to get on board a skiff to get closer ... but, even then, you're still viewing these sites from the water).

Onboard naturalists generally narrate what you're seeing, so head to the observation lounge (or tune to a broadcast on your in-room television) to learn about some of the top sights featured on scenic cruising days.

Top scenic cruising destinations in Alaska include Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve , Hubbard Glacier, Tracy Arm (Twin Sawyer Glaciers), Dawes Glacier at Endicott Arm and College Fjord.

Related: Hubbard Glacier vs. Glacier Bay: Which is the better scenic cruising spot in Alaska?

When to book an Alaska cruise

The best time to book an Alaska cruise is when a cruise line first opens bookings on that sailing, often more than a year in advance. You'll have your pick of itineraries and cabins — balcony cabins are popular in this scenic destination — and often the best fares.

Because Alaska has such a short season with a limited number of ships and is a dream trip for many, cruises are in high demand and people plan early.

If you wait to book, you're not entirely out of luck. Cruise lines often run sales in the fall or in the early months of the year (a period known in the cruise industry as " wave season "). You can take advantage of discounted fares, free upgrades or complimentary add-ons, such as Wi-Fi, gratuities, restaurant meals, beverage packages and tours. Some of the most desirable cabins might be sold out; being flexible about your sail date or itinerary can help.

In general, waiting until the last minute is not the best idea, unless you live in Seattle or Vancouver and don't need to book flights. While some less preferred sail dates or cabin categories might be available a few months out, spurring cruise lines to drop rates, you might have trouble finding affordable airfare and pre- or post-cruise hotel accommodations that do not consume your cruise savings.

Related: When is the best time to book a cruise?

What to bring on an Alaska cruise

When it comes to packing for an Alaska cruise, your mantra should always be: dress in layers. On the same day, you might be warm in town but chilly on your tour to a glacier. If you plan on hiking, kayaking or riding on a dogsled, you'll need the appropriate activewear.

Definitely pack for rain; consider skipping the umbrella and instead bringing a wide-brimmed waterproof hat, rain jacket, rain pants and waterproof shoes or boots.

This is also the trip for a camera with good telephoto lenses and binoculars. For more on what to bring on an Alaska cruise, check out our Alaska cruise packing list .

Bottom line

An Alaska cruise is a memorable experience. The beauty of the land and its immense history; the thrill of seeing bears, moose and bald eagles; and the mysteries of the surrounding marine life will astound you. It's a trip worth taking the time for planning and doing right — because who knows if or when you'll make it back to the Last Frontier.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Alaska cruise packing list: What to pack for a sailing up north

P acking for an Alaska cruise does not have to be a stressful experience. Yes, you will be visiting some places where the weather might be chillier than back home, but you will not encounter truly Arctic conditions. Away from the viewing sites of magnificent glaciers and icefields that brought you to Alaska, you might even encounter weather suitable for shorts and T-shirts.

If you're used to cruising around tropical islands, you'll find an Alaska cruise packing list is different from your Caribbean one. Spend some time learning about what you should pack for an Alaska cruise so you're prepared for the changeable weather and terrain of the 49th State.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

What to pack for an Alaska cruise

Alaska weather can be unpredictable and varies by elevation. In temperate Southeast Alaska, which is the main cruising area, summertime temperatures can be in the 30s (Fahrenheit) when you are close to glaciers, such as when cruising Glacier Bay National Park , Yakutat Bay (home to the gigantic Hubbard Glacier ) and College Fjord, but rise into the 60s or above in the fishing town of Ketchikan, the gold rush town of Skagway or Alaska's capital city of Juneau. Juneau can hit 80 degrees some days. Nights in these towns are cooler.

The key is to wear layers of clothes you can put on and peel off to help you deal with temperature fluctuations.

Warm and waterproof layers

Rain will likely be in the picture, particularly if you cruise during the popular months of July and August. (Want to avoid rain? Here's the best time to cruise Alaska .) Waterproof jackets and shoes or boots, umbrellas and hats will serve you well.

In April, you might encounter snow; anything goes in the fall. There is a reason you'll encounter many Alaskans throughout the year wearing waterproof Xtratuf boots, otherwise known as "the Alaskan sneaker." Warm parkas, gloves, hats and scarves will come in handy during early and late cruises, as well as when you're outside on deck watching glaciers calve.

Outdoor clothing

You should pack a variety of outdoor clothing options for an Alaska cruise. The good news is you probably have these things in your closet already: Think fleece jackets and vests, zip-off hiking pants and rugged footwear. If you're not planning any adventurous Alaska activities , you likely won't have to gear up in advance at a retailer such as REI, Dick's Sporting Goods or L.L.Bean or scour Amazon for the right gear.

Also, if you are doing a shore excursion in Alaska where you are likely to get cold or wet — such as a dog-sledding tour on top of a glacier (highly recommended) — the tour operator will provide specific, necessary gear, such as parkas, waterproof pants and boots. If you do a water activity such as kayaking, the operator will loan you waterproof gear.

Eveningwear

While casual is the order of the day on your ship, your cruise line might have specific suggestions for what to wear at night. Lines such as Princess Cruises and Holland America host both casual and dress-up nights.

Some lines take the always-casual approach to eveningwear in Alaska. Other cruise lines designate certain nights as informal, smart casual or "elegant chic," meaning you are expected to get slightly dressed up, such as a nice sweater or blouse for women or a sport coat for men.

Many cruisers enjoy capping dress-up at that. However, a few lines offer the opportunity for guests to gussy up even more for "formal" nights. Cunard Line , and to a lesser extent Holland America, are lines in Alaska where some passengers tend to relish dressing for dinner — even in some cases with suits and gowns. Itineraries longer than one week tend to attract more of the cocktail dress and tuxedo crowd.

If you don't want to get dressed up at all, you can dine in your ship's more casual eateries. Or, if your ship is doing a late-night stay in port, you might want to seek out the best place for king crab, wild Alaska salmon and other local delicacies on shore. Alaskans tend to dress for comfort at restaurants — even those with fancy menus.

Related: The 5 best luxury Alaska cruises you can book right now

Accessories and gear

You don't have to pack for an Alaska cruise as if you are going camping, but it's important to bring the appropriate amount of adventure and travel gear .

A camera with a zoom lens or a cellphone that takes good quality photos is probably already on your list, but make sure you have chargers and enough memory for the hundreds of photos you will likely take. A portable charger is useful for full-day trips where you might burn through your cellphone battery.

Binoculars are essential. Your ship might stock some, but you'll want your own for spotting whales, bears, eagles and other wildlife and for close-up views of glacial ice and other wilderness from the ship and on shore. If you plan to do a lot of hiking, you might want to bring a retractable walking stick for uneven surfaces.

It might sound counterintuitive, but the sun shines brightly in Alaska, so don't forget sunscreen. You will also want bug spray since Alaska has a prolific mosquito population.

You'll likely encounter rain or take a water-based shore excursion on your trip up north, so bring a dry bag or dry pack to protect your equipment. For drier days, consider a day pack to stash any extra layers you're not wearing.

Pack your bag with packaged snacks brought from home. Cruise lines don't typically provide them, and they come in handy, especially if you are traveling with kids, on long train or bus tours.

Tips for taking the stress out of Alaska cruise packing

When packing, keep in mind that your ship might feature a self-serve, complimentary or coin-operated laundry room or offer send-out laundry and dry-cleaning service for a fee. This is particularly useful if you extend your cruise with a land tour (or cruisetour) in Alaska. You don't need to pack for the entire journey if you can wash your clothes during the trip.

If you forget to pack something, you can make purchases with U.S. dollars in the Alaska towns and cities you will visit. You'll find familiar brands at stores and pharmacies.

Related: Best Alaska cruise tips to help you make the most of your time aboard and ashore

Alaska cruise packing list

With all this in mind, here is a suggested packing list for your Alaska cruise vacation:

• A lightweight waterproof jacket or raincoat (not a parka or bulky winter jacket)
• Heavy sweaters, sweatshirts or fleeces (to layer under the jacket)
• A selection of T-shirts or other casual shirts (some long-sleeved)
• Two or three pairs of jeans, khakis or leggings
• A pair or two of good walking shoes that you don't mind getting wet or muddy (sneakers are OK, though if you are a big hiker, you might want to bring your waterproof hiking boots)
• A hat and gloves (for when your ship brings you close to the walls of a glacier)
• An umbrella
• Shorts (especially if you are the type of person who wears them in anything over 65 degrees)
• A swimsuit (for your ship's hot tubs, pools or waterslides; some small adventure ships might present the opportunity for a polar plunge)
• Sunglasses, sunscreen and a baseball hat or other sun hat (the long lingering midnight sun shines bright in Alaska, especially when reflected off ice)
• Bug spray (Alaska has a serious bug population that includes some 55 different kinds of mosquitos)
• An assortment of evening attire and footwear for dinner, based on your ship's suggestions (check your cruise line's website for details)
• Accessories (a belt, scarf or fun jewelry can transform a simple outfit so you can repurpose it)
• Gym clothes (if you plan to take classes or use your ship's fitness center)
• Toiletries and prescriptions (pack these in your carry-on)
• Underwear, pajamas and socks (including some thicker wool socks for hikes or treks into higher elevations)
• Your cellphone or camera, preferably with a zoom lens
• Chargers for all your electronics plus a multiplug extender so you can power up multiple devices at once
• A portable charger in case your cellphone runs low on an excursion
• A waterproof backpack or bag to protect your cellphone or camera and stash your extra layers and snacks
• An e-reader or books, games and cards, as Alaska cruises involve a few days at sea without port visits (look, too, for interesting selections at local Alaska bookstores or Alaska-themed novels, such as "The Great Alone" by Kristin Hannah, "Alaska" by James Michener or "The Snow Child" by Eowyn Ivey)
• Your own wine or Champagne (this can be a cost-saving move, but check your cruise line policy for how many bottles are allowed; corkage fees might apply)

Bottom line

Pack with a focus on versatility — and prepare for a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions — and you'll be all set for a cruise to Alaska. When in doubt, prioritize outdoor gear over formalwear. And remember: You'll be able to pick up in port most things you inadvertently forget to bring on your trip up north.

Planning an Alaska cruise? Start with these stories:

• 15 Alaska cruise mistakes you never want to make
• Everything you need to know about booking a trip to Alaska on points
• 8 of the best Alaskan lodges for getting close to glaciers, Denali and more
• The 9 best Alaska cruises for every type of traveler
• 6 best Alaska cruises for families
• One-way Alaska cruises vs. round-trip: Which is best?
• What to pack for a cruise
• 20 must-have cruise items — including a roll of duct tape

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

Skagway, Alaska

Description.

Skagway was the gateway to the gold fields for the thousands who flocked to Alaska and the Yukon with the hope of striking it rich. Skagway may have boasted the shortest route to the Klondike, but it wasn't the easiest. Over 100 years ago, the White Pass route through the Coast Mountains and the shorter but steeper Chilkoot Trail were used by countless stampeders. Many a would-be miner perished on the treacherous Chilkoot Trail. The gold rush was a boon and by 1898, Skagway was Alaska's largest town with a population of about 20,000. Hotels, saloons, dance halls and gambling houses prospered. But when the gold yield dwindled in 1900, so did the population as miners quickly shifted to new finds in Nome. Today, Skagway has less than 1,000 residents. It still retains the flavor of the gold rush era.

Points of Interest

• White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad
• Outdoor Adventures
• Klondike Summit
• Gold Rush History
• Yukon (Canada)
• Red Onion Saloon
• Dog Sledding

More about Skagway, Alaska Points of Interest

The "Scenic Railway of the World" links Skagway with Yukon, Canada. A 41-mile roundtrip offers an unforgettable journey to the summit of the White Pass at nearly 3,000 feet in elevation.

Enjoy what is truly an outdoorsman's paradise, with activities you won't find anywhere else. Go for a ride on a dog sled, horseback riding, hiking, river rafting, flightseeing, ziplining and more.

The Klondike Summit, also called the White Pass Summit rises 3,292 feet above sea level along the Klondike Highway. The journey, running parallel to the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, offers breathtaking views of waterfalls, glaciers, scenic vistas and glimpses of the original Brackett Wagon Road and Tormented Valley.

Relive the color and history of the Yukon Gold Rush. Tour the camps, pan for gold or meet a few costumed characters who'll show you what life was like during the boom-town days in the 1800s.

Yukon is a wilderness playground with an extensive network of waterways. On the scenic 65-mile drive from Skagway, the lush coastal landscape gives way to rugged wilderness. Its capital, Whitehorse, is the center for the Yukon's mining and forestry industries.

Pristine beauty and an abundance of wildlife define Haines. Just 14 miles from Skagway by water, the town is renowned for huge convocations of bald eagles and one of the planet's longest fjords.

During the Klondike Gold Rush, the Red Onion Saloon was Skagway's most exclusive bordello. Now this colorful establishment is a bar/restaurant and a National Historic Building.

Meet professional mushers and their amazing canine companions in an introduction to Alaska's state sport. Take a flight to a glacier to experience flying over the snow, or visit the summertime training grounds for a ride in a wheeled sled.

50 Excursions

Easy skagway: city, klondike highway & the days of '98 show, easy skagway: city, klondike highway & the days of '98 show (wheelchair accessible), klondike summit,liarsville experience & gold panning, klondike summit, suspension bridge & salmon bake, rise & shine at the red onion saloon & historical city tour, to the klondike summit, local connections: skagway street car city tour with storyteller, experience the yukon & suspension bridge, yukon expedition & white pass scenic railway, white pass scenic railway, white pass scenic railway (wheelchair accessible), 怀特育空铁路观光之旅（普通话导游） / 白色隘口觀光火車（中文導遊）, white pass scenic railway - luxury class, white pass steam train to bennett lake, local connections: white pass rail bennett lake & yukon adventure created by train historian, white pass rail & klondike highway - multilingual, best of skagway: rail, salmon bake & saloon, rail, summit & suspension bridge with brunch, white pass rail, summit, gold panning & bbq lunch, sip & summit: white pass scenic rail & skagway brewing company, local connections: garden-to-table kitchen science with alaskan chef, legends & lies: gold rush saloon experience & city tour, skagway in focus photography tour, ultimate gold panning, sled dogs & scenic railway - a discovery exclusive, gold fever experience: gold panning & alaska sled dogs, gold fever experience: gold panning & alaska sled dogs (wheelchair accessible), kroschel wildlife refuge - an animal planet exclusive, local connections: ghosts & goodtime girls walking tour created by madam jan, adventure park & ziplines, grizzly falls ziplining expedition, ultimate musher's camp experience: dog sled ride, gold panning & s'mores, alaska nature & wildlife expedition, bear & eagle quest, musher's camp & sled dog experience, musher's camp & s'more roasting adventure, klondike summit to sea bicycle tour, rainforest bicycle tour, laughton glacier hike & white pass rail adventure, klondike rock climbing & rappelling, wilderness utv adventure, haines wilderness odyssey by jet boat, jeff corwin hosts jet boat wilderness odyssey & bald eagle foundation, ocean raft adventure, chilkoot trail hike & float adventure - a discovery exclusive, haines eagle preserve rafting & wildlife quest, glacier point wilderness safari, klondike summit lake canoe, chilkoot lake kayak experience, glacier discovery by helicopter, dog sledding & glacier helicopter flightseeing.