Inside Passage Cruises

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Alaska, America's "Last Frontier," is home to craggy glaciers, raging rivers, snow-capped mountains and miles upon miles of wild, windblown tundra. The state shares a border and much of its topographical characteristics with western Canada -- specifically, the snowy provinces of British Columbia and the Yukon.

Inside Passage cruises sail along the state's southeastern coast, from the cannery town of Ketchikan to Glacier Bay National Park. Alaska cruise tours, meanwhile, skim the coastline as well as explore the state's vast interior. Common targets for these vacations are Denali National Park, about 150 miles north of Anchorage, and Fairbanks, a former Gold Rush town some 200 miles northeast of Denali. Some cruise tours even cross the border into Canada, making stops as far east as Calgary, Jasper and Lake Louise, all popular points in the province of Alberta.

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Cruises Through Inside Passage, Alaska

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Inside Passage Cruise Port Guide

The majestic landscapes of Alaska are an unmissable bucket-list experience for any adventurous traveler, and on an Alaska cruise , you won’t just hit the highlights like Juneau. From the comfort of your incredible cruise ship, you’ll sail across 500 miles of Alaskan wilderness known as the Inside Passage. This coastal waterway is filled with glacial mountains, lush pine forests, and unforgettable wildlife sightings.

During the best Inside Passage cruise, the summertime sunshine offers plentiful photo opportunities. You might see orcas and humpback whales from your stateroom on your way to destinations like Ketchikan and Icy Strait Point. Marvel at the remote, untouched wilderness where you can breathe in the mountain air and truly think. Sky-high icebergs and glaciers await.

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Top sights & attractions for cruises through the inside passage, whale watching.

Entire families of orcas and humpback whales swim the waters along the Alexander Archipelago, and you may be lucky enough to spot them on your Inside Passage cruise. Whale sightings are most common in the summer months.

Snap a picture of a giant glacier up close in Alaska. If you’ve never seen a glacier in person, you’ll be amazed at their scale and enormity here. Alaska’s glaciers constantly shift and change, attracting thousands of environmental scientists and nature lovers to the region each year.

After cruising the Inside Passage, you’ll continue on to Juneau, where you can visit the 13-mile-long Mendenhall Glacier or go hiking in the Tongass National Forest during your day in port. This remote capital is also famous for dog sledding and incredible glaciers.

Did you know Ketchikan is the salmon capital of the world? Tasting the local varieties is a must once you’ve docked in Ketchikan. Don’t miss the Totem Heritage Center and the Southeast Alaska Discovery Set, where you’ll discover thousands of years of Alaskan history and culture.

Learn More About Alaska Shore Excursions

Top things to do in inside passage, extend your cruise with a cruisetour.

Why not extend your vacation with a Cruisetour of Alaska’s interior? A Cruisetour gives you the chance to combine your seven-night sailing with a trip inland to remote Alaskan towns, including the breathtaking Denali National Park. 

Enjoy more time in nature, spot brown bears as they catch salmon swimming upstream, or visit Denali National Park and see the highest mountain peak in North America. Our Cruisetour itineraries take you to Anchorage, Talkeetna, and other towns to experience hiking, Alaskan heritage tours, wildlife, and much more.

Culture & History of Inside Passage Cruise Port

Alaska’s rich history begins with the Indigenous groups that have lived in the region for thousands of years, including the Iñupiat, Yupik, Aleut, Eyak, Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian. Russian explorers reached the area in the 19th century, and the Yukon Gold Rush attracted thousands of miners to the remote area. Alaska became known as “the Last Frontier,” a place where you could stake a claim on the land and get rich trying. By 1959, Alaska was declared a U.S. state. Since the 1960s, the debate over oil rigs in Alaska greatly impacted the region. In the past decades, conservation and preservation of Alaska’s natural landscape has become vital to the area. Today, Alaska’s incredible nature and beauty, not to mention cool and sunny summers, have made it a popular vacation destination.

Local Currency & Tipping Customs

You’ll be cruising during your time through Alaska’s Inside Passage. However, Alaska does use the U.S. dollar as its official currency. Alaska’s main sources of economic growth and revenue are fishing and tourism. Don’t forget to tip tour providers, bartenders, and restaurant servers during your Alaska cruise.

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Located right along the coast of British Columbia, the Inside Passage is the longest sheltered inland waterway in the world. Watch the water for orcas and humpback whales as you cruise the passage to the historic Alaskan ports of Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan.

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Inside Passage Cruises

Cruise vacations along the alaska’s world renowned inside passage featuring amazing glacier scenery and unique small towns..

Home » Tours » Alaska Cruises » Inside Passage Cruises

An Alaska cruise vacation is truly impressive. You can arrive or depart on a different unique route – through Alaska’s glacier-lined, wildlife-filled, and smooth-sailing waterways of Alaska’s Inside Passage . Alaska’s Inside Passage is a water route between the Gulf of Alaska and Puget Sound. This popular Alaska cruise ship route usually features stops at a handful of Alaska and British Columbia ports and is known for its calm waters, boundless history, and spectacular scenery.

Along the Inside Passage, cruise passengers can see countless wildlife in the water (whales, orcas, sea lions, and seals), on the ground (bears), and in the air (eagles, raptors, and many water birds). There are over a thousand islands, millions of trees, dozens of glaciers, and a handful of Alaska’s quieter or hard-to-reach communities – Ketchikan , Wrangell , Prince of Wales Island, Sitka , Juneau , Haines, Skagway , Glacier Bay , among others.

A cruise through the Inside Passage also provides access to more than a dozen state and national parks and preserves, including the renowned Tongass National Forest , Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, Misty Fjords National Monument, and Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve . If you look closely, you will also be treated to traces of Alaska history along the Inside Passage in totem poles, Russian-influenced architecture, and gold rush remnants.

The average cruise through the Inside Passage takes around seven days, but you can go beyond the cruise with shore excursions featuring an array of outdoor adventures (kayaking, fishing, and bear viewing, to name a few). Sightseeing trips via seaplanes or boats take you up close to wildlife and glaciers, lodging options, and nearby communities.

Most Alaska cruise ships that travel the Inside Passage make their voyages from May through September, so plan and book accordingly.

Choose from 3 vacations in Alaska related to Inside Passage Cruises

two people in a sea kayak; a small cruise ship and snow-capped mountains in background

Glacier Bay National Park Adventure Cruise

Duration: 8 days

Starting at: $4400 / pp

Discover Alaska on this seven-night adventure cruise round trip from Juneau. Destinations include Glacier Bay National Park, Icy Strait, Tracy Arm and Frederick Sound. Guests enjoy daily guided opportunities... Browse itinerary

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Alaska’s Glacier Wilderness with Glacier Bay Cruise

Starting at: $6100 / pp

This seven night adventure cruise in Alaska's Inside Passage sails round trip from Juneau. Destinations include Glacier Bay National Park, Icy Strait, Kuiu Island, and Frederick Sound - a... Browse itinerary

The small cruise ship 'Safari Endeavour' near a rocky coast; snow-capped mountains in the distance

Northern Passage and Glacier Bay Cruise

Starting at: $5600 / pp

Seven nights of adventure cruising aboard your "floating lodge." Destinations include Chichagof Island, Icy Strait, and Glacier Bay National Park, where a national park ranger comes on board for... Browse itinerary

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National Park Forest, Inside Passage, Alaska

Cruise to Alaska Inside Passage, Alaska

Alaska inside passage shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in alaska inside passage.

Sea Lions Glacier Mountains, Inside Passage, Alaska

THE SCENIC ROUTE

Get an up-close view of Alaska’s wild seascapes, no matter which direction you look. Sail through ice-carved fjords flanked by sky-piercing mountains. See coastal towns only accessible by boat or air. Tongass National Park is filled with lofty spruce, hemlock and cedar trees, while giant calving glaciers pack Glacier Bay National Park.

Whale Jumping out of Ocean, Inside Passage, Alaska

Feel the pioneer spirit of Alaska, from First Nations tribes to early Russian settlers to Gold Rush prospectors. These waters are also home to a huge population of whales, sea lions, seals, porpoises and puffins. Bald eagles and seabirds often fly overhead— and Admiralty Island is the best spot for glimpsing bears.

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The Ultimate Alaska Inside Passage Cruise Guide

Alaska Dream Cruises in Alaska's Inside Passage

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. All hosted affiliate links follow our editorial policies .

I’ve been dreaming of taking an Alaska Inside Passage cruise ever since my first visit to the state in 1999. During that trip I took a half-day Kenai Fjords National Park cruise, saw all sorts of glaciers and wildlife, and vowed to myself that I’d return one day to explore more of America’s last frontier.

So when my daughter Allie began expressing interest in visiting Alaska, I decided to surprise her with an Alaska trip as a high school graduation present. Since we loved our previous voyage to the Galapagos Islands  together, I started reading Alaska cruise reviews and planning our 2-week Alaska vacation.

As luck would have it, around that same time we received an email from AdventureSmith Explorations , a small ship cruise specialist that offers 25 Alaska cruises from numerous different cruise companies.

The fact that AdventureSmith also offered land-based wilderness adventures and several early season Alaska cruise deals got our attention. After a phone call with one of their personalized adventure planners, we had the rough outline for what ultimately became the daddy/daughter trip of a lifetime.

So here’s our guide to planning the ultimate cruise of Alaska’s Inside Passage. It covers everything from choosing the best time time to go and how to decide between the best cruise lines to the best Alaska cruise excursions and the wondrous array of wildlife you might see along the way. 

READ MORE: 20 Best Small Ship Cruises for Your World Travel Bucket List

ALASKA INSIDE PASSAGE CRUISE GUIDE

  • The Best Time to Cruise Alaska
  • Alaskan Dream Cruises vs. Uncruise Alaska
  • Our Alaskan Cruise Map
  • Inside Passage Cruise Excursions
  • Wildlife on a Cruise of the Inside Passage

Geikie Inlet in Glacier National Park, Alaska

THE BEST TIME TO CRUISE ALASKA

Alaska’s increasing popularity as a tourist destination (2 million annual visitors) and location in the Arctic and sub-Arctic makes the timing of your Inside Passage cruise tricky. 

The Alaska cruise season begins in May, when daily high temperatures generally range from 53°F to 62°F, and daily lows are in the 40s. It rarely gets above 70º, and it almost never dips close to freezing. 

On the downside, winds and bad weather can make it feel frigid on a cruise ship deck. And some animals, particularly Grizzly Bears, may not be visible at this time of year. On the plus side, shoulder season crowds are smaller, and you may find deals on cheap Alaska cruises.

The peak season for cruising Alaska is summertime. Temperatures are warm, with highs in the ’70s and low ’80s (and rising, thanks to climate change ). On the downside, cruise ships tend to be booked to capacity, and Alaskan cruise prices are at their highest.  

Another factor to consider when choosing the best time to cruise Alaska is what you want to see while you’re there. 

In May and early June, there’s still snow on the mountains, and cruising Glacier Bay is particularly spectacular. Summertime brings the Salmon run (and the Bears and Wolves that capitalize on it), but also larger crowds on shore excursions. Taking an Alaska cruise in late August or September may give you a chance to see the world-renowned Northern Lights.  

But the truth is, whether you choose to visit in late spring, peak season, or just before the autumn snows arrive, you’re guaranteed to have your mind blown. For us, the more difficult choice came down to which of the Alaska cruise tours was best suited to our travel style. 

READ MORE: Visiting the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

Admiralty Dream on Alaska's Inside Passage Cruise

ALASKAN DREAM CRUISES VS. UNCRUISE ALASKA

We’ve always preferred small ship cruises, and not just because smaller cruises are more eco-friendly . They also offer more personal space, better service, better shore excursions, and more exclusive experiences than mega cruise lines like Celebrity Cruises can.

So our trip through the Inside Passage really boiled down to a choice between two small Alaska cruise companies, Alaskan Dream Cruises and UnCruise Adventures. Each of these companies offered quite a few different Alaska cruise routes to choose from. 

UnCruise had a slight advantage going in: We’d met with them at a few travel conferences and had heard great things about the company from numerous blogging friends. We also liked the fact that they had six different 7-day Alaska cruise itineraries to choose from in the Inside Passage alone. 

Alaskan Dream Cruises was more of a wild card, as we’d never heard of them. But we liked the fact that the family that owns the parent company , Allen Marine, are all Alaska natives. They were also the very first company ever to offer an Alaska Inside Passage cruise, and had numerous options available.

Once we narrowed it down to these two cruise companies, choosing the best Alaska cruise for us really came down to the itinerary. We didn’t want a dedicated Glacier Bay cruise. But we did want to spend a few days in the national park , see lots of wildlife and glaciers, explore as much of the wilderness as possible, and learn more about the indigenous cultures of the area, especially the Tlingit . 

In the end, my daughter and I decided that Alaskan Dream Cruises’ 8-day Last Frontier Adventure had the best Alaska cruise itinerary for us. It offered an active schedule that included lots of hiking and kayaking , indigenous people as the expedition leader and cultural interpreter, and numerous intriguing shore excursions that were not available on any of the UnCruise Alaska trips.

We also liked that this Alaska cruise itinerary covered more of the Inside Passage territory than any of the other cruise holidays we compared it to. With prices around the same as those offered by UnCruise, and their ships’ cabins all offering full windows (some of UnCruise’s only had portholes), we ultimately felt that the Last Frontier Adventure was a better fit for us. 

READ MORE: Exploring Denali National Park, Alaska

OUR ALASKA CRUISE MAP

Alaska Cruise Map for Alaskan Dream Cruises' Last Frontier Adventure

OUR INSIDE PASSAGE CRUISE EXCURSIONS

Every day of our Alaska trip brought engaging morning and afternoon activities that allowed us to get off the ship and get active. One thing we loved about Alaskan Dream Cruises was how quickly they adjusted the itinerary when bad weather interfered. Here are a few of our favorite Alaska cruise excursions:

The Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area

The Last Frontier Adventure sometimes departs from Sitka, but ours began in Juneau. So our first excursion was a visit to the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area, part of the Tongass National Forest .

The glacier was named for Thomas Mendenhall, who led the National Geodetic Survey from 1889 to 1894, but never actually visited the area. Stretching 13.6 miles long, the gorgeous glacier is part of the Juneau Icefield, the fifth largest icefield in North America.

Attractions here include an impressive Visitor Center and hiking on the East Glacier Loop (which leads to an excellent overlook), Nugget Falls Trail (to a waterfall near the glacier), and Photo Point Trail. We loved the Steep Creek Trail, where we saw a family of Black Bears and a Porcupine. 

READ MORE: Hiking Grey Glacier in Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

Hiking at Reid Glacier in Alaska's Inside Passage

Hiking Reid Glacier

While cruising the Inside Passage, you’ll be forgiven if you see so many spectacular glaciers, you start having trouble telling them apart. 

But Reid Glacier will forever stick out in our memories because it’s the first one my daughter ever got a chance to climb on. (Longtime Green Global Travel fans may recall that Mary and I climbed during a glacier crazy storm in Norway back in 2014.)

Named for geophysicist Harry Reid during the Harriman Alaska Expedition , the 11-mile-long glacier feeds into an inlet about 2 miles south of Glacier Bay. Hiking up to (and, briefly, on) it was awesome, as you could hear the cracking ice and the roar of melting water running into the rushing river. 

READ MORE: Climbing Nigardsbreen Glacier (A He Said/She Said Story)

Horned Puffins in Alaska (Glacier Bay National Park)

Visiting Glacier Bay National Park

There are so many things to do in Glacier Bay National Park , we were delighted to spend two days exploring the 65-mile fjord. It was especially cool having a park ranger narrating this part of the cruise, as well as a native Huna Tlingit naturalist who told us all about the tribe’s history in the area. 

We’ll have a full story on the national park coming soon. But some of our favorite highlights included seeing tons of wildlife (including Mountain Goats, Steller’s Sea Lions, Puffins, and more) and watching the jaw-dropping calving displays at the famous Margerie Glacier (one of eight in the park). 

The best part for me, as someone who loves traditional indigenous cultures, was hiking through the forest in Bartlett Cove to a remarkably ornate Tlingit tribal house. The native interpreters there gave us an excellent overview of Tlingit culture, which we’ll talk about in more depth in a future post.

READ MORE: Hiking Glacier National Park, Montana

Kayaking near Ford's Terror in Alaska's Inside Passage

Kayaking the Endicott Arm

It was a grey, gloomy day when we headed south from Glacier Bay to explore the dynamic  fjords of the 648,883-acre Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness .

The Endicott Arm and the Tracy Arm are both over 30 miles long and bordered by sheer mountains  dotted with sproce and hemlock forests. About 20% of this rugged wilderness is covered in ice, and the most distinctive characteristic of the Endicott Arm was the massive icebergs floating within.

My daughter was aclearly a little nervous as we paddled our kayaks around and even through the icebergs, which towered at least 20 feet above us. The drizzling rain and fog made for dramatic photos, but the brilliant glacial ice shimmered like blue diamonds all around us. 

READ MORE: The Haunting Beauty of Icebergs in Antarctica

Hiking Cascade Falls Trail in Thomas Bay, Alaska

Hiking the Cascade Falls Trail

If you want to know how crazy the weather can get during a cruise of Alaska’s Inside Passage, just take a look at the photo above.

What started that day as a light drizzle gradually became a relentless drenching. The fog was so thick, our ship had to crawl at a snail’s pace, blasting its horn to ensure any coming ships could hear us (since they definitely couldn’t see us). 

But that only made hiking the Cascade Falls Trail that much more of an adventure. The roaring waterfalls created a crazy mist that gave the entire trek a haunting feel. And my daughter loved using the rope to climb a steep, slippery section as I stayed back to photograph the surreal scene. 

READ MORE: The 10 Best Waterfalls in Iceland

Tlingit Artwork at the Wrangell Museum

Visiting the Wrangell Museum

While we were in Juneau we were fortunate to get an opportunity to explore the exceptional Sealaska Heritage Institute, which is arguably the finest indigenous art museum I’ve visited. 

Located on Wrangell Island (which has a total population of around 2,500), the Wrangell Museum has a decidedly more small town feel to it. But still it offers Inside Passage cruise passengers a great opportunity to learn more about the colorful history and indigenous culture of southeastern Alaska. 

Their unique collection includes four beautiful Tlingit house posts carved in the late 1700s, numerous stunning Tlingit masks, turn-of-the-century spruceroot and cedarbark baskets, and displays on the impact of the gold rush, trapping, and foreign influences (Russian, Chinese, Japanese, etc) on the area.  

READ MORE: Museo Maya de Cancun (Cancun Mayan Museum)

Ancient Stones at Petroglyph Beach in Wrangell, Alaska

Exploring Petroglyph Beach

To be honest, our visit to  Petroglyph Beach State Historic Park was hampered by terrible weather. It was cold and rainy, the rocks at low tide were extremely slippery, and our local tour guide (who was new and not exployed by the cruise companies) didn’t seem to know much about the site’s history. 

Still, the simple knowledge that these 40+ rock etchings (which are only visible during low tide) date back around 8,000 years is fascinating. Especially when you consider that these images of salmon, whales, birds, human faces, and circular patterns represent the oldest native art in southeast Alaska. 

Designated a State Historic Park in 2000, this Wrangell attraction has a ramp to provide easy beach accessibility. There are also replicas of some petroglyphs on the deck overlook, on which visitors can make rubbings. But do step lightly on the rocks in order to preserve this unique cultural treasure.

READ MORE: List of US National Parks By State (An Epic Guide)

Allie Love at Lake Eva in Sitka, Alaska

Rainforest Hike to Lake Eva

The last of our cruise excursions before making our way to the port in Sitka was a hike to Lake Eva, which is part of the Tongass National Forest. 

Located near the northeast coast of Baranof Island , the Lake Eva trail leads 1.5 miles, from picturesque Hanus Bay to the south end of the lake. There’s also an unmaintained section of the trail, which adds an additional 1.4 miles to the trek and takes you to the remote Lake Eva cabin.

The hike takes you through gorgeous maritime forest and pristine rainforest, which has thankfully been protected from deforestation . Along the way you’ll find stunning river reflections; wildlife such as birds, Sitka Deer, and Black Bears (during Salmon season); and several great fishing spots.

READ MORE:   The 20 Largest Lakes in the World (By Continent)

Tourists Taking the Polar Plunge in Alaska's Inside Passage

Doing the Polar Plunge

As much as I loved these other Alaska cruise shore excursions, my favorite activity from my two Alaksa trips was the one we did right off the back deck of the Admiralty Dream. 

Back in 2012, Mary and I had a chance to take a small ship cruise of Antarctica . One of the most memorable highlights of that experience was me using FOMO (fear of missing out) to convince Mary to do the polar plunge in 27ºF waters. The results, for those who haven’t seen our video, were hilarious!

The waters of Alskas’s Inside Passage were considerably warmer, so there was no need for ropes to haul us in or doctors waiting with electrical cardioversion paddles in case our hearts stopped. In fact, the weather that day was so unseasonably warm, I decided to do the polar plunge twice! 

It was an invigorating way to wind down our 8-day adventure with Alaskan Dream Cruises. 

READ MORE: Mary’s Hilarious Freakout During the Polar Plunge in Antarctica

Baby Black Bear at Mendenhall Glacier, Alaska

WILDLIFE ON A CRUISE OF THE INSIDE PASSAGE

The wildlife you can see on an Inside Passage cruise can vary widely depending on the time of year, itinerary, weather, and plain old luck. But here is a brief overview of the Alaskan animals we say during our 8 days with Alaskan Dream Cruises: 

No matter which Alaska cruise vacation you choose, you’re guaranteed to see plenty of beautiful birds along the way. We saw massive Ravens, Black Oystercatchers, Semi-Palmated Plovers, and several American Bald Eagles in Juneau before we even set foot on the Admiralty Dream. 

Once you’re at sea, keep your eyes peeled for the penguin -like Common Murre, Pelagic Cormorants (which nest on coastal cliffs), and four different types of Gulls. And you shouldn’t have any trouble spotting the popular puffins, including the Horned Puffins and Tufted Puffins.  

READ MORE: 25 Species of Birds You Can See During a Galapagos Cruise

Alaskan Moose in the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge

Land Mammals

If you really want to see lots of land animals during your vacation, you may want to consider taking a combination Alaska cruise and land tour, as we did. This will give you a better chance to spot Dall Sheep, Grey Wolves ,  Moose  and Sitka Deer than you’re likely to get during your cruise excursions. 

However, even Alaska cruises that depart early in the season can offer surprising wildlife sightings.

We were fortunate to spend nearly an hour watching a mama and two baby Black Bears during a hike at Mendenhall Glacier. We also saw a Porcupine there, and Mountain Goats and Red Squirrels in Glacier Bay National Park. Grizzlies are common along the Inside Passage shores in July and August.

READ MORE: 40 Species of Alaskan Animals You Can See on an Alaska Cruise

Sea Lions on rocks in Glacier Bay National Park

Marine Animals

Marine life has been a highlight of all the Alaska cruises I’ve ever taken. From Kenai Fjords and Glacier Bay National Park to the many Sounds and Straits of the Inside Passage, watching wildlife in the waters of Alaska has always proven rewarding. 

Whales are, of course, are the main attraction. And you’ll likely see at least a dozen Humpback Whales and Killer Whales (a.k.a. Orcas) during a 7-day Alaska cruise. We spent several memorable evenings watching whole pods of Orcas swimming along the surface at sunset.

But there are countless other marine animals in Alaska worth watching for. We spotted several pods of Dall’s and Harbor Porpoises leaping in the wake of our small cruise ship. We also saw huge colonies of Steller’s Sea Lions , adorable pairs of Sea Otters, and tons of Harbor Seals along the way. 

Ultimately, these engaging wildlife interactions proved to be among the most memorable aspects of our incredible Alaska adventure. –Bret Love; photos by Bret Love & Allie Love

The Ultimate Alaska Inside Passage Cruise Guide including the Best Time to Cruise Alaska, Alaskan Dream Cruises vs Uncruise Alaska, Inside Passage Cruise Excursions Wildlife on a Cruise of the Inside Passage, What to Wear on a Cruise in Alaska | alaskan cruise | cheap alaska cruises | uncruise alaska | alaska cruise | celebrity cruises alaska | 7 day alaska cruise | | best alaska cruise | best alaska cruise itinerary | cruise holidays | alaska inside passage | glacier bay cruise

About the Author

Green Global Travel is the world's #1 independently owned ecotourism website encouraging others to embrace sustainable travel, wildlife conservation, cultural preservation, and going green tips for more sustainable living.

We've been spotlighted in major media outlets such as the BBC, Chicago Tribune, Forbes, The Guardian, Lonely Planet, National Geographic, Travel Channel, Washington Post and others.

Owned by Bret Love (a veteran journalist/photographer) and Mary Gabbett (business manager/videographer), USA Today named us one of the world's Top 5 Travel Blogging Couples. We were also featured in the 2017 National Geographic book, Ultimate Journeys for Two, for which we contributed a chapter on our adventures in Rwanda. Other awards we've won include Best Feature from both the Caribbean Tourism Organization and the Magazine Association of the Southeast.

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Alaska Cruises from Seattle

Experience the great land on a 7-day alaska inside passage cruise from seattle.

Follow in the footsteps of the Yukon Gold Rush on an Alaska cruise from Seattle to some of the world’s most scenic wonders. With convenient weekend departures and proximity to the Great Land, a cruise to Alaska from Seattle allows you to leave when you want, and spend less time getting there.

Alaska Inside Passage Cruise Ports

When you cruise to Alaska from Seattle, encounter unique ports of call that are rich in history, culture and natural beauty.

  • Endicott Arm
  • Glacier Bay National Park
  • Victoria, B.C.

Endicott Arm is a jewel in Alaska’s crown. This 30-mile waterway is surrounded by cliffs, valleys and dozens of waterfalls. Icebergs and harbor seals decorate the water below while Dawes Glacier soars into the sky above. Revel in the beauty of Mother Nature’s masterpiece and listen closely as the scenery whispers secrets of times long ago during your cruise to Alaska.

When you cruise to Alaska with Princess, sail through one of the most iconic locations in the Great Land — Glacier Bay National Park. Listen to Margerie Glacier’s signature crack and boom rumble across the waves. Bring binoculars and scan both the shore and the waves for wildlife like brown bears and migrating whales while Park Rangers teach you the history and geology of the park.

Juneau is unlike any other city in the United States. With no roads connecting it to the rest of Alaska or North America, it is truly a protected destination. Founded as a gold mining town and now the state’s capital, Juneau has one foot in history and one in the future. Embark on a whale watching tour, or sail past Mendenhall Glacier on an Alaska cruise.

Known for its timber, Ketchikan hosts the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, where athletes throw, race and chop their way to victory. Explore one of the world’s oldest collection of totem poles at the Totem Pole Heritage Center, or stroll along Creek Street. As the salmon capital of the world, Ketchikan’s waters make for incredible fishing. Cast your rod into a sea of opportunity on a cruise to Alaska.

Seattle is known as "The Emerald City" thanks to its green forests and lush surroundings. Pike Place Market buzzes with merchants while coffee shops house locals drinking espresso in America's coffee capital. Climb the Space Needle and enjoy the Seattle skyline, or explore the history of Pioneer Square, the city's oldest neighborhood — only when you cruise to Alaska from Seattle.

Once the gateway to Alaska's Gold Rush, Skagway strikes a dramatic image nestled between the water's edge and mountains. Follow in the footsteps of miners with a ride on a scenic train along the famous White Pass route through coastal mountains. During your Alaska cruise, explore the Yukon's pristine wilderness, pan for gold with professionals or meet sled dog puppies in training.

At first glance many mistake Victoria for an English coastal city or northern European town. Full of greenery, pubs and Victorian architecture, it's difficult to believe that this was a tent city full of rough and tumble miners just 150 years ago. On a cruise to Alaska, explore the Butchart Gardens, tour the pub scene and taste some of the local brews or sail the bay for a whale-watching adventure.

Wrangell is a charming and scenic harbor known for its local fishing industry. It is not as bustling as larger ports in Alaska and maintains its historic charm and offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Explore its historic downtown and learn about the local culture and Native heritage while in Wrangell.

Why Choose An Alaska Cruise from Seattle?

Discover the top reasons to cruise to Alaska from Seattle.

  • Convenient Weekend Departures  — With departures available on weekends, embark on an Alaska cruise from Seattle on a day that fits your schedule.
  • Voyages to World-Renowned Glaciers  — A seven-day Alaska cruise is all you need to visit some of the region’s must-see sights – like Margerie Glacier in Glacier Bay National Park or Dawes Glacier in Endicott Arm Fjord.
  • Four Extraordinary Ports of Call  — Step into Alaska’s historic ports on an Inside Passage cruise with Princess®. Visit gold-rush era Skagway, salmon-rich Ketchikan, the capital city of Juneau and British-flavored Victoria, B.C.
  • Roundtrip Airfare  — Worry-free booking on your roundtrip cruise to Alaska from Seattle means more time relaxing amidst glacial wonderlands and less time figuring out how you’ll get home.
  • A Chance to Visit the “Emerald City”  — When you cruise to Alaska from Seattle, spend extra time exploring the city’s landscapes and uncovering the origin of its nickname.

Ships on this itinerary

Our Princess fleet includes ships that range from our smaller vessels to large ships. From a balcony stateroom, marvel at the glaciers passing by before enjoying local seafood in one of our many eateries during your seven-day Alaska cruise.

Royal Princess®

Discovery Princess®

Majestic Princess®

Alaska Cruise Experience

We have a 50-year legacy of sharing the best places and experiences with our guests. On an Alaska cruise, unpack once and explore glaciers, wildlife and national parks.

Alaska Glaciers

One of the biggest reasons people visit

Glaciers feel alive. They groan, creak and shudder on their march to the sea, punctuated by the booms and crashes of "white thunder" — a sound that echoes across the water when ice calves into the ocean below. On an Alaska cruise, let us show you Glacier Bay National Park — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier, College Fjord or Hubbard Glacier.

Alaska Wildlife

Untamed, just like Alaska

Alaska is home to a rich array of wildlife, from the famous Big Five animals that live in Denali National Park — grizzly bears, wolves, moose, Dall sheep and caribou — to bald eagles and humpback whales that migrate through the Inside Passage. On a cruise to Alaska, live a nature lover's dream in the land where guests can catch postcard-worthy sights.

Alaska Mountains & National Parks

National treasures

With national parks and four of North America’s tallest mountains, Alaska’s wilderness has been preserved for generations. Denali National Park is larger than Vermont and home to the highest peak on the continent. Meanwhile, Glacier Bay National Park has over 2,000 square miles of glacial coverage. Along with Wrangell-St. Elias and Kenai Fjords, a world of natural wonders awaits on an Alaska cruise or cruisetour.

Alaska excursions

Don't just visit this famous land, live it on Alaska excursions. Rush across the snow on a dog sled with a professional musher, fly fish for salmon in fresh rivers and soar over miles of glacial tundra in a helicopter. Watch migrating humpback whales from the deck of a catamaran or Native craftsman carve a traditional totem pole, and expand your Alaska cruise experience.

Alaska Cruise Onboard Experience

Our award-winning North to Alaska program brings local personalities, culture and cuisine on board and ashore to immerse you in all things Alaska during your cruise to the Great Land.

Alaska Seafood

Fresh and bountiful, like Alaska itself

Alaska's seafood is famous, and we bring the best to you with locally inspired dishes from the state’s best eateries. With Cook My Catch excursions, catch your own salmon or halibut with the help of a local expert, and in the evening our talented chefs will prepare your haul for your dinner — a Princess exclusive. From ship to shore, the best is at your fingertips on our Alaska cruises.

Meet Local Alaskans

Real Alaska from local Alaskans

Alaskans are inviting people who love to share what makes their state unique. Watch lumberjacks in action, learn from Glacier Bay National Park rangers and craft with a Native totem pole carver. Or listen to harrowing Tales from the Deadliest Catch fishermen and climbers who have summited Denali during your Alaska cruise.

Unique Alaska Cruise Experiences

Great experiences from the great land

Travel back in time and pan for gold like a prospector during the Gold Rush. Snuggle sled dog puppies in the ship's Piazza, or see the Northern Lights in the planetarium. At the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge, explore our treehouse and enjoy unmatched views of Denali. Or savor tree-inspired bites at our very own Sappy Hour. Dive deeper into what makes the Great Land special on your cruise to Alaska.

Alaska Cruise Articles and Videos

Read about Alaska’s must-see attractions, signature cuisine, and how to prepare for a wild adventure into the heart of The Great Land.

Discover Alaska with Princess in 2024-2025

The best cruise line in Alaska just keeps getting better! From top-rated cruises that visit Glacier Bay National Park to scenic rail travel and exclusive Princess lodges, you will find a seamless Alaska experience with Princess.

Best Dishes to Try on Your Alaska Cruise

No one does seafood quite like Alaska—which is why we brought the best of the Great Land on board, so you can experience it all with Princess.

Top Alaska Cruise Destinations

From exploring Denali National Park to fishing for salmon in Anchorage, discover the top Alaska destinations on a Princess cruise.

Inside Passage Alaska Cruise

From exploring historic gold mines to venturing in the footsteps of early explorers, learn about Alaska’s Inside Passage and discover the wonders awaiting you.

Alaska Ports of Call

From the sweeping mountains of Juneau to the fish-bearing seas of Ketchikan, discover our Alaska cruise ports and set sail into the adventures that await you.

What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise

Check out our helpful checklist so that you know exactly what to pack for an Alaska cruise with Princess.

Travel, Airfare, & Hotels: Let Princess Get You There

Princess EZair® Flights

Stress-free airfare

Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airlines, allow you to modify your flight up to 45 days prior with no penalty and protect you if your flight is late or canceled.

EZair flight quotes are available on our cruise search result details pages.

Airplane to Ship Transfer

We get you where you need to go

Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

Stay longer and relax

Extend your cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling and the services of the representative.

Need help planning?

Princess Cruise Vacation Planners are a dedicated resource to help you every step of the way through the planning process of your cruise vacation. And the best part is, they are absolutely FREE!

Cruise deals & promotions

Find our top sales, deals, partnerships and promotions for our destinations all in one place. We run promotions throughout the year and sometimes run sweepstakes where you could win prizes!

#PrincessCruises Alaska Connection

See Alaska through our guests' eyes.

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Alaska cruises.

See the Great Land’s glaciers, wildlife, and national parks.

Alaska Cruisetours

Combine a cruise + train + lodge + Denali for an in-depth Alaska experience.

Shore Excursions

Which one of our uniquely Alaskan experiences is right for you?

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Choose Your Stateroom

Please select your stateroom or suite type and room category from the available options.

  • Daily housekeeping
  • Complimentary 24-hour room service
  • Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
  • Luxurious bathrobes
  • Generous storage
  • Fresh fruit upon request
  • Ice service
  • TV with On Demand movies, programming

Two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads and a host of amenities are featured in these comfortable staterooms.

  • Hair dryers, makeup mirrors

These expansive staterooms include two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our Signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads, a host of amenities and an ocean view.

Filled with light from floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these staterooms include a sitting area, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and bath tub with premium massage showerheads.

Signature Suite

  • Whirlpool bath

These large, comfortable suites feature a spacious sitting area with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and one murphy bed for one person. The bathroom includes a dual-sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath and shower, and an additional shower stall.

Neptune Suite

  • Premium bathrobes, slippers
  • Fresh flowers
  • One-Touch concierge service
  • Whirlpool bath (suite dependent)
  • In-suite coffee, espresso
  • Complimentary laundry
  • Pre-dinner hors d'oeuvres served in suite
  • Welcome glass of sparkling wine
  • Priority boarding for tender ports, priority dining/seating requests, special disembarkation service
  • High tea in suite on request
  • Exclusive tote bag

With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these spacious suites are flooded with light. They feature a large sitting area and two lower beds convertible to one king-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses. The bathroom comes with a dual-sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath and shower, plus additional shower stall. Amenities include use of the exclusive Neptune Lounge, a private concierge and an array of complimentary services.

Your Ship: Nieuw Amsterdam

The second of our Signature Class ships, Nieuw Amsterdam, celebrates historic New York City with an inspired design and art collection. While on board, rejuvenate in the tranquil Spa & Salon, play pickleball at sea, or enjoy a tantalizing meal at fine dining restaurants. When you’re in the mood for music, Billboard Onboard fills the room with chart-topping hits.

  • 2106 Guests
  • 936 ft. Length
  • 105.8 ft. Width

Dining & Onboard Activities

Each day on board offers delicious dining options, world-class entertainment and enriching activities.

Pinnacle Grill

The ultimate steakhouse at sea, with an exceptional menu of Prime steaks, seafood and wine.

Pinnacle Grill is the ultimate steakhouse at sea, where an exceptional menu and impeccable service make for one of finest meals you’ll ever have. The refined menu features a selection of 28-day wet-aged USDA Prime steaks — meticulously chosen to guarantee the finest quality — as well as classic steakhouse dishes and innovative recipes from James Beard Award-winning chef and Culinary Council® member, David Burke. Every dish is exquisitely prepared, beautifully plated and complemented by a vast collection of award-winning wines. Here, your meal is an event unto itself, a celebration of fine dining and a triumph of flavor.

*Meals at Pinnacle Grill are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Canaletto is a relaxed setting with authentic Italian cuisine that is best enjoyed when shared.

In Italy, there’s nothing more important than coming together to celebrate the joy of great food. This is the inspiration for our onboard Italian restaurant, Canaletto. Enjoy amazing Italian classics like braised chicken cacciatore al forno, branzino ai ferri or garlic shrimp ravioli. And for dessert: tiramisù, cannoli alla Siciliana, gelato, and more. Including pasta made fresh daily. Buon Appetito!

Meals at Canaletto are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Explore traditions of Southeast Asia, China and Japan with cuisine praised by Condé Nast Traveler as rivaling the top restaurants on land.

Praised by  Condé Nast Traveler  for cuisine “that rivals the top restaurants on land,” Tamarind is the perfect place to explore the culinary traditions of Southeast Asia, China and Japan. The menu, which honors the elements of water, wood, fire and earth, features such exotic fare as wok-seared lobster, barramundi (Asian sea bass) in banana leaf and sushi, accompanied by chilled or heated sake. 

Meals at Tamarind are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Lido Market

A casual, modern marketplace, Lido Market offers the widest range of food options on board for breakfast, lunch, dinner and a late-night snack.

Explore a world of intriguing culinary possibilities in the Lido Market. Steps from the Lido pool, this modern marketplace includes a curated selection of delicious options that you can grab on the go or have made to order: Breadboard, with freshly baked breads and pastries; Wild Harvest, offering a bountiful selection of hearty salads; Homestead, serving up comfort classics; Distant Lands, featuring global cuisine; Sweet Spot, for ice cream creations and desserts; Roasting Pan, hand-carved meats, fish and other hearty entrees; Perk, freshly brewed beverages and chilled juices; Quench, premium coffee, beer, wine, and soda available for purchase; Rise, savory quiches, croissants and sandwiches, and more.

This casual poolside grill serves up the best burgers at sea, Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dogs, golden French fries and more.

Dive-In offers a variety of casual culinary classics, using the highest quality ingredients. Enjoy a burger, grilled to perfection and served on a toasted brioche with our own trade-marked secret sauce. Savor a succulent Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dog with golden French fries. Or choose a grilled chicken breast sandwich or juicy portabella mushroom stack. Dive-In is the perfect spot to dine poolside on the best burgers at sea.

New York Pizza

Our poolside pizzeria has fresh Italian salads and authentic thin-crust personal pizzas with savory toppings.

At New York Pizza, choose from a variety of scrumptious, 9-inch, thin-crust pies. Named for New York’s famed five boroughs, our signature pizzas are made to order and topped with only the finest ingredients. Enjoy your pizza by day while overlooking the Lido pool, and into the night. This venue is New York Deli & Pizza on  Koningsdam ,  Rotterdam  and  Nieuw Statendam , offering made-to-order deli sandwiches in addition to pizza.

24-Hour Room Service

Enjoy breakfast in bed or an early dinner on your verandah — entrées and more are available whenever you wish.

Sleep in and have breakfast delivered. Enjoy an early dinner on your verandah before an evening excursion. Order a salad, sandwich or entrée any time. Room Service is only a phone call away. All selections are included in your cruise fare unless otherwise noted on the in-room menu.

Explorations Cafe

Our relaxing café with panoramic views is your home for handcrafted espresso drinks during the day and refreshing cocktails in the evening.

At Explorations Café, sink into plush chairs and sofas in a comfortable environment. Sip elegantly prepared espresso drinks and nosh on fresh pastries from the coffee bar. You can also take in fantastic views, catch up on your favorite book or browse the web. 

Dine on delectable sushi and sip Asian-inspired spirits at Nami Sushi, a sushi bar within Tamarind offering stunning ocean views.

Nami Sushi offers a tempting array of the sushi rolls he’s created. Choose from such delectable selections as Tempura Lobster Roll with soft shell crab tempura; Dragon Roll with tempura shrimp, unagi sauce and avocado; Tsutsumi Roll with snapper, green olive, caper and avocado; Futomoki Roll with crab, yamagobo, avocado and cucumber; Volcano Roll with sesame-marinated salmon and Thai chilis; Nigiri sushi with tuna, salmon and ebi shrimp; and more. The word “nami,” Japanese in origin, means “wave” and is an homage to the ocean views you’ll enjoy as you dine on the freshest, tastiest and most inventive sushi at sea.

The Dining Room

Our flagship dining experience is a welcoming and sophisticated setting for an exquisite breakfast, lunch or superb multicourse dinner.

For an elegant breakfast, leisurely lunch or unforgettable multi-course dinner, The Dining Room is your destination. For dinner, choose from classics such as Boneless Lamb Loin en Croute, Rosemary Roasted Chicken, as well as regionally inspired cuisine and artfully prepared vegetarian dishes. 

Crow's Nest

BARS AND LOUNGES

Enjoy cocktails and sunsets in this lounge, featuring panoramic views.

Holland America Line offers you a wide selection of lounges onboard. The panoramic view takes center stage in The Crow's Nest at the top of the ship, where you can relax just about any time of day and enjoy your favorite drink.

Explorer's Lounge

Elegant and refined, stop by for a glass of wine or your favorite cocktail.

The Explorer’s Lounge is an elegant and refined space to enjoy a glass of wine, a cocktail, or your favorite liqueur.

Enjoy cocktails and ocean views while listening to live music.

Holland America Line offers you a wide selection of lounges. This popular bar is at the top of the atrium and is the perfect locale for cocktails and dancing.

Tamarind Bar

Partake in exotic cocktails and sakétinis amid wraparound ocean views.

Which is more delightful: the apple-pear saketini in your chilled glass or views of the sun going down in a crimson blaze? Enjoy both in this stylish hideaway – your destination for panoramic views and exotic cocktails, and just one of the wide selection of lounges and gathering places on board.

Billboard Onboard

ENTERTAINMENT

Sing along, test your music trivia knowledge, or sit back and enjoy as chart-topping hits fill the room each night.

2 pianos - 60 Years of Chart Toppers - 100s Of Songs.  Sing along, test your music trivia skills or just sit back and enjoy as the hits fill the room each night.

World Stage

World Stage features innovative cruise ship shows and a two-story LED screen that creates a vivid wraparound display.

World Stage, the largest theater on board is home to a variety of performances day and night. Our exclusive EXC® Talk lecture series features captivating regional stories told by local experts and narrated by your Cruise & Travel Director. In the evenings, Step One Dance Company, vocal sensation Cantaré, BBC Earth in Concert and more take the stage.  Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam  and  Rotterdam  bring the World Stage experience to the next level by surrounding you in spectacular sight and sound with a two-story, panoramic LED screen.

Onboard Shopping

Enjoy a wide variety of duty-free shopping onboard.

Enjoy a wide variety of duty-free shopping in such signature shops as The Vault, Diamonds and Gemstones by Merabella, which offers the best diamonds at sea, brought to you by Effy.

Fitness Center

Take a class in our professionally staffed Fitness Center.

Stop by the professionally staffed Fitness Center equipped with the latest cardio and weight machines. Try one of our classes on indoor cycling, Pilates and more or work out at your own pace. You can also head out for fresh air and exercise on deck, where you'll find basketball and volleyball courts, and two refreshing pools (available on select ships). Some classes may have a nominal fee.

Holland America Line Navigator

Personalize your cruise experience with our free mobile-friendly tool.

Personalize your cruise experience once you’re on the ship with our free mobile-friendly tool. Plan your daily activities, browse and purchase shore excursions, view restaurant menus, make dining reservations, check your account balance and more. 

Casino Action

The Casino offers games for all levels.

Your Holland America Line ship’s Casino offers a wide array of gaming options. Whether you prefer slot machines or want to try your hand at blackjack or poker, our dealers and staff are available to provide complimentary instruction — and we offer many engaging tournament options. The Casino is only open at sea.

Pickleball at Sea

Enjoy complimentary lessons, tournaments, and courts with amazing top-deck views.

Play the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. with Holland America Line, the exclusive cruise line partner of the Professional Pickleball Association. All our cruise ships feature pickleball courts with amazing top-deck views. The equipment and courts are available for a match anytime, so long as the weather allows. Frequent pickler? Join a pickleball tournament at sea and put your dink shot to the test. Hesitant amateur? Learn the basics at complimentary beginner’s lessons, starting in spring 2023. Commemorative starter kits will soon be available in our retail shops — purchase as gifts for avid players or as souvenirs, so that you can always look back on your pickleball cruise memories.

Kids ages 3 to 17 can enjoy an array of activities. Registration required for children under 13.

Holland America Line's youth activities program, Kids Club, offers an array of entertaining events for kids and teens ages 3-17, supervised by a full-time, professionally trained staff. They'll have an opportunity to join other kids their age for arts and crafts, sports, video game competitions, scavenger hunts, challenging team games and themed parties. Note: Kids Club is not offered on cruises of 25-days or longer, including all Legendary and Grand Voyages. We will offer a selection of children’s activities throughout these longer voyages for any children who may be onboard.

7-DAY ALASKA INSIDE PASSAGE

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Small Ship Cruises in Inside Passage

An Inside Passage Cruise carries passengers along various stretches of the long coastal route. Reaching beyond the USA’s state of Alaska along the coast of Canada’s British Colombia, Alaska’s section of the Inside Passage runs for around 800 kilometres (500 miles) north to south and can span 160 kilometres (100 miles) across. Awash with spectacular scenery that encompasses towering mountains, gleaming glaciers, deep fjords, remote islands, lush forests, and tranquil beaches, there’s never a dull moment when you cruise the Inside Passage. A haven for wildlife fans, adventure junkies, and people who love to learn more about different cultures, Inside Passage cruises really are amongst the top adventure cruises in Alaska.

Top things to do & see on an Inside Passage cruise

From observing plentiful wildlife, bird watching, and trying an array of active activities and outdoor pursuits to honing your photography skills, sightseeing, admiring the dramatic landscapes, and meeting members of local communities, there is so much to experience on an Inside Passage cruise. Some top things to do when cruising Alaska’s and Canada’s Inside Passages include:

Glacier Bay National Park - A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Glacier Bay National Park is one of Alaska’s real gems. Stretching for 105 kilometers (65 miles), the many beautiful glaciers are a wondrous sight. The John Hopkins, Marjerie, and McBridge Glaciers are especially popular. Small ship cruises of the Inside Passage let you observe a range of wildlife from close quarters, including whales, seals, sea lions, otters, moose, bears, wolves, deer, and a host of smaller land-living creatures and birds. Kayaking and hiking are among the activities you can enjoy.

Tracy Arm and Endicott Arm - Two long and scenic fjords in the Fords Terror Wilderness; a highlight of the area is seeing the Sawyer Glaciers, glaciers that frequently calve, sending large icy blocks crashing into the waters below. The rocky and mountainous landscapes are punctuated by verdant patches of forest and cascading waterfalls. Wildlife you may spot while on your cruise includes whales, harbor seals, bears, deer, and wolves. Keep your eyes peeled for mountain goats, a rather unusual sight at such lower elevations, and watch birds bobbing on the waters and soaring overhead as you kayak through the clear waters.

Frederick Sound - The scenic Frederick Surround separates Admiralty Island and Kupreanof Island. A great place for summer whale watching, the Five Fingers Island Light can present an attractive sight in front of the icy landscapes behind it.

Misty Fjords - A sublime wilderness area and a national monument, be awed by the gigantic glacial cliffs as your Inside Passage Cruise makes its way through Misty Fjords. A smaller cruise ship might pass close enough to the many waterfalls for you to feel the spray from the powerful water. You can see the volcanic Eddystone Rock and listen to the calls of seabirds that musically fill the air.

Stephens Passage - In southeastern Alaska, Stephens Passage is known for its marvelous sights, sounds, and smells, with the resident whales, sea lions, gulls, and guillemots breathing life into the majestic surroundings. Deep waters and soaring mountains blend to create a visual dream, with rolling meadows and lush forests further adding to the appeal.

A range of Activities - Climb into a skiff (small one-person rowing boat) or kayak to feel completely free on the waters, soaking up the air of tranquility as you lose yourself in the many magical sights. Unleash your imagination as you explore. Join a guided hike to learn more about the magnificent landscapes and how they were formed over the years and discover more about the cultural groups and animals that occupy the remote areas. Discover the traditions and customs of different groups, including the Tlingit and the Haida, see intricate totem poles, visit cultural centers and much more.

Wildlife Encounters - A cruise of the Inner Passages offers wildlife encounters galore. Whether you’re an avid bird water or more interested in the creatures big and small that live in a watery home, there is no shortage of chances to be wowed. The icy waters are ecologically diverse, from enormous hales to small fish and everything in between. Myriad animals roam dry land, from bears, wolves, and deer to smaller creatures like weasels, ermine, and rodents.

Top Tips for Visiting Inside Passage

  • Don’t forget to take your camera for some spectacular shots of Glacier Bays’ gems, particularly the Marjerie Glacier and the John Hopkins Glacier.
  • Take a video camera to film the frequent calving of the Sawyers Glaciers and the whale activity at Frederick Sound.
  • Binoculars are advised for spotting wildlife from a distance.
  • Sturdy walking boots or shoes are required if you want to join hiking excursions.
  • Due to the typical climate and weather, dress in layers to combat the cold, and take wet weather clothes on your cruise. You might also want to invest in a waterproof bag for shore trips; keep your camera, money, and other essentials safe and dry.

Best time to cruise Inside Passage

Plan ahead and book your cruise of the Inside Passage for the relevant months that best fit the things you are most interested in seeing and doing. The best time to visit both Alaska’s Inside Passage and Canada’s Inside Passage is from spring to the end of summer. The temperatures are pleasant, especially in the summer; the days can be sunny and bright. Do be aware though that, although the rainiest months are generally October and November, the area is known for lots of rainfall all throughout the year.

You can watch migrating animals returning in the springtime and wildflowers bursting into bloom in the forests. Summer is several local species' main mating and birthing season; watch as seal pups drift on large blocks of ice and birds teach their offspring to fly and swim. There are also increased chances of seeing whales in the summer. The best time for hiking in the Inner Passages is from mid-summer onwards when the terrain has thawed.

Where do Inside Passage cruises depart from?

Alaska adventure cruises of the Inside Passages typically depart from Alaska’s Sitka , Juneau , or Ketchikan . Each is served by an international airport, with direct flights available to and from a range of Alaskan airports. Several direct flights connect Alaska with the mainland US. Still, if you add a connection, reaching the cruise departure points from almost anywhere in the USA is incredibly easy. Alternatively, you can also take an Alaska cruise from Seattle , removing the need to get to Alaska before your cruise adventure begins.

The closest international airports for an Inside Passage cruise are Sitka Rocky Gutirrez Airport (SIT), Juneau International Airport (JNU), and Ketchikan International Airport (KTN). Most flights to Alaska from the US mainland arrive in Juneau, Anchorage, and Fairbanks; connecting flights are readily available from both Anchorage and Fairbanks.

Inside Passage Reviews

  • 8.7 Fabulous
  • 6 Verified Reviews
  • 10.0 Exceptional

Amazing loved the wild life

Cruising Inside Passage in August on the Alaskan Dream

  • 8.4 Very good

Some kayaking on glassy waters.

Cruising Inside Passage in July on the Alaskan Dream

Beautiful - whale watching in particular

Overall, I took more than 800 photos and videos, many from the deck of the Alaska Dream. The waters, the whales and otters, the extraordinary mountains draped in snow, ice, and clouds, and the sunrises and sunsets were perfect. Many great art subjects. We loved the opportunities to hike the beaches and interiors.

Whale watching during passage was really fun. Many pods to view and captain did a great jump keeping them in fairly close view for our enjoyment. Wilderness Bay/Kake hike to rainbow falls and totem viewing was nice.

Cruising Inside Passage in September on the Alaskan Dream

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Inside Passage (Alaska-Canada)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Inside Passage cruise port

Region Alaska

Local Time 2024-04-20 19:52

Port Inside Passage cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Inside Passage, Alaska-Canada. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Inside Passage is a popular Alaskan coastal cruise itinerary route for oceangoing ships. The shipping route extends from Southeast Alaska (AK USA) to Northwest Washington (WA USA) passing through Western British Columbia (BC Canada). Vessels using this shipping route are able to avoid open ocean's bad weather and visit some of the isolated Alaskan communities. Inside Passage is best known for the scenic coastal cruising through straits and passing by Alaskan islands, the largest of which are Chichagof , Baranof and Prince of Wales (see the map below).

Inside Passage is navigated by cruise liners, as well as tugboats, freighters (cargo ships), fishing boats and passenger ferries serving Alaska Marine Highway, Washington State Ferries and BC Ferries systems. The "Inside Passage" term is often used to refer to the islands and ocean round the passage itself. Sometimes the Inside Passage is mistakenly referred to as "Inland Passage", a reference to early quests of explorers to locate Northwest Passage between the Pacific and the Atlantic Oceans.

It is generally accepted that Inside Passage starts in Washington's Puget Sound and extends north, first along the coast of British Columbia and the Alaska Panhandle. During the Klondike Gold Rush, it was one of the sea routes from California and Seattle WA carrying prospectors north.

The route's portion that belongs to BC Canada has coastline approx 40,000 km (25,000 mi). It includes the protected Strait of Georgia (between BC mainland and Vancouver Island), Johnstone Strait (between mainland and Vancouver Island), as well as a short stretch along Hecate Strait (close to Haida Gwaii Islands ). Northwards from Fitz Hugh Sound, the route is sheltered through various large islands - like Pitt Island and Princess Royal Island.

The Alaskan portion of the Passage extends 800 km (500 mi) from north to south and 160 km (100 mi) from east to west. The region encompasses 1,000 islands, 24,000 km (15,000 mi) of shoreline and thousands of bays and coves. While Alexander Archipelago in Alaska offers some protection from the Pacific weather, much of the area suffers from strong semi-diurnal tides that can create extreme 9 m (30-foot) differences between high and low tide. Careful piloting is required in many places in order to not hit underwater obstructions.

The Inside Passage is a well-known destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The coastal mountain ranges and the islands make for great wildlife viewing and outdoor travel activities such as boating, kayaking, fishing, hiking, camping.

Alaska’s Inside Passage route is used by cruise liners leaving from homeports Seattle and Vancouver BC and usually operating on 7-day roundtrips. The "cruise coastline" has length approx 800 km (500 mi). Ship travel in the region offers unique opportunities for wildlife viewing (whales, sea lions, seals, brown bears, bald eagles) and enjoying the coastal scenery (glaciers, small settlements). All cruise companies offer as alternatives land tours (optional) to expand their customers' vacation. The list of Alaskan cruise ports along the Inside Passage route includes Ketchikan (Revillagigedo Island) , Sitka (Baranof Island) , Skagway , Juneau . Scenic destinations along the route include Glacier Bay NP , Misty Fjords (wilderness), Tongass Forest (USA's largest), Klondike Gold Rush Historical Park.

Inside Passage cruise terminal

The following map shows all ports of call, islands and destinations visited on traditional Alaska Inside Passage cruise itineraries.

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Inside Passage - user reviews and comments

IMAGES

  1. Alaska's Inside Passage & San Juans Cruise • USA River Cruises Official

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  2. Inside Passage (Alaska-Canada) cruise port schedule

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  3. Inside Passage Cruise

    inside passage cruise map

  4. Alaska & the Inside Passage

    inside passage cruise map

  5. Alaska Inside Passage Cruise American Constellation

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  6. North to Alaska Maps

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VIDEO

  1. Helicopter Landing on Norris Glacier in Juneau, Alaska

  2. Alaska Cruise 360 #alaskacruise #cruise #travel

  3. Cruising The Northern Half Of The Inside Passage To Prince Rupert Part 1

  4. Destination Vancouver Island-Cruising the Inside Passage Pt 3

  5. HAL, Koningsdam

  6. Alaska. Inside Passage

COMMENTS

  1. Alaska Cruise Routes

    Alaska Inside Passage Cruise Route Map. Start shopping for a conventional Alaska cruise and you'll find two basic options for your route: an Inside Passage or a Cross Gulf cruise. The Inside Passage is considered the classic—it's the choice of about two-thirds of Alaska cruisers—but we feel the cross-Gulf is a fuller Alaska experience.

  2. Inside Passage Cruise

    Cruise from Vancouver to Alaska's most iconic ports of call, such as Tracy Arm, Juneau and Skagway, and experience the best of Glacier Bay National Park. Enjoy smooth-as-glass waters, scenic cruising and wildlife spotting on this roundtrip cruise with Holland America Line.

  3. What Is an Alaska Inside Passage Cruise?

    The most popular way to take in Alaska's splendors is on an Alaska Inside Passage cruise, which makes a round-trip journey from Seattle or Vancouver, B.C.It sticks to the southeastern "panhandle ...

  4. North to Alaska Maps

    Starting in either Bellingham, WA or Vancouver, BC, the Inside Passage Route combines both ferry and land travel for a truly unique road trip. Board the Alaska Marine Highway, Alaska's state-owned ferry system, in either Bellingham, WA tor Prince Rupert, BC to connect to over 35 ports of call along the Alaska coastline - from the Inside ...

  5. Inside Passage Cruises: Map

    Inside Passage cruises sail along the state's southeastern coast, from the cannery town of Ketchikan to Glacier Bay National Park. Alaska cruise tours, meanwhile, skim the coastline as well as explore the state's vast interior. Common targets for these vacations are Denali National Park, about 150 miles north of Anchorage, and Fairbanks, a ...

  6. Inside Passage Alaska Cruise

    Learn about the history, culture and attractions of the Inside Passage, a stunning and diverse region of Alaska that Princess Cruises sails through. Discover how to explore the Inside Passage on an Alaska cruise with Princess and enjoy the stunning scenery, glaciers and wildlife of this scenic route.

  7. Scenic Cruising The Inside Passage

    Scenic Cruising The Inside Passage. Alaska's Inside Passage is a renowned cruising route through a protected network of waterways, featuring glacier-cut fjords, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife. Stops along the route showcase Alaska's rich history, including Native Alaskan culture in Ketchikan and Skagway's Gold Rush era legacy.

  8. Cruises Through Inside Passage, Alaska

    Our Cruisetour itineraries take you to Anchorage, Talkeetna, and other towns to experience hiking, Alaskan heritage tours, wildlife, and much more. Discover the Inside Passage with Celebrity Cruises. View top vacation itineraries and exciting shore excursions. Book your award-winning cruise through the Inside Passage today!

  9. Cruising Alaska's Inside Passage

    Learn everything you need to know about Alaska cruises to the famed Inside Passage, from where the passage is to how to pack for the weather. Discover the wildlife, glaciers, towns, and activities you can enjoy on your cruise to this dreamscape of white-capped peaks, calving glaciers, and deep fjords.

  10. INSIDE PASSAGE Port Map and Cruise Schedule

    INSIDE PASSAGE cruise port map with cruise ship locations and cruise schedule arrivals/departures. READ MORE... CruiseMapper provides free cruise tracking, current ship positions, itinerary schedules, deck plans, cabins, accidents and incidents ('cruise minus') reports, cruise news ... Inside Passage cruise port Alaska. Schedule Review Hotels ...

  11. Inside Passage Cruises

    Cruise Inside Passage. Located right along the coast of British Columbia, the Inside Passage is the longest sheltered inland waterway in the world. Watch the water for orcas and humpback whales as you cruise the passage to the historic Alaskan ports of Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan. Cruise to the Inside Passage, a narrow waterway between ...

  12. Alaska Inside Passage Cruises

    A cruise through the Inside Passage also provides access to more than a dozen state and national parks and preserves, including the renowned Tongass National Forest, Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, Misty Fjords National Monument, and Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. If you look closely, you will also be treated to traces of ...

  13. Cruises to Alaska Inside Passage, Alaska

    Cruise to Alaska's Inside Passage, a scenic route of fjords, glaciers, and forests along the Pacific coast. Explore the wildlife, culture, and history of this stunning destination with Royal Caribbean's shore excursions, dining, and activities.

  14. The Ultimate Alaska Inside Passage Cruise Guide

    THE BEST TIME TO CRUISE ALASKA. Alaska's increasing popularity as a tourist destination (2 million annual visitors) and location in the Arctic and sub-Arctic makes the timing of your Inside Passage cruise tricky. The Alaska cruise season begins in May, when daily high temperatures generally range from 53°F to 62°F, and daily lows are in the ...

  15. Alaska's Inside Passage Region

    Today, the Inside Passage is the most popular route for large and small cruise ships departing from the Seattle, Los Angeles, and Vancouver, B.C. from May through September. For those that want to travel at their own pace, the Inside Passage is also accessible on the state ferry along the Alaska Marine Highway System, which stops in 35 ports of ...

  16. Inside Passage Cruise Map & Guide

    February 1, 2018. With Almost 2,000,000 cruise ship passengers going through Seattle and Vancouver, with most sailing the Inside Passage of British Columbia and South East Alaska. GM Johnson has just published a map of the Inside Passage. Inside Passage / Haida Gwaii / South East Alaska. In 2017, Seattle welcomed 218 cruise ships and 1,071,594 ...

  17. Inside Passage

    A map of the Alaskan portion of the Inside Passage. Alaska's portion of the Inside Passage extends 500 miles (800 km) from north to south and 100 miles (160 km) from east to west. ... The most popular way to explore the Inside Passage during summer is by cruise ship. Over 2 million people take cruises each year in this region, impacting the ...

  18. Seattle to Alaska: 7-Day Inside Passage Cruise

    Experience the Great Land on a 7-day Alaska Inside Passage cruise from Seattle. Follow in the footsteps of the Yukon Gold Rush on an Alaska cruise from Seattle to some of the world's most scenic wonders. With convenient weekend departures and proximity to the Great Land, a cruise to Alaska from Seattle allows you to leave when you want, and ...

  19. 7-day Alaska Inside Passage

    On this extraordinary Alaska voyage, scenic cruise pristine Glacier Bay, gaze at Juneau's vivid-blue Mendenhall Glacier and hop on the White Horse Railway in Skagway. DATES. PORT. TIME. Sep 21, 2025. Vancouver, B.C., CA. DEPARTS 04:00 PM. LEARN MORE.

  20. 7 Cruises in Inside Passage, Alaska

    An Inside Passage Cruise carries passengers along various stretches of the long coastal route. Reaching beyond the USA's state of Alaska along the coast of Canada's British Colombia, Alaska's section of the Inside Passage runs for around 800 kilometres (500 miles) north to south and can span 160 kilometres (100 miles) across.

  21. Inside Passage (Alaska-Canada) cruise port schedule

    Cruise Port schedule, live map, terminals, news. Port Inside Passage cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Inside Passage, Alaska-Canada. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival ...