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Alaska Cruises from Vancouver

Take in the scenic inside passage on a roundtrip alaska cruise from vancouver.

Uncover treasures in the Great Land on an Alaska cruise from Vancouver. Relive Gold Rush history, experience Native Alaskan culture and come face-to-face with some of Mother Nature’s greatest masterpieces. On a roundtrip Inside Passage cruise, enjoy quicker access to Alaska while also exploring the friendly ports of British Columbia.

Itinerary Ports

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

• Endicott Arm
• Glacier Bay National Park
• Hubbard Glacier
• Icy Strait Point

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.

The largest tidewater glacier in North America, Hubbard Glacier has been moving its mass towards the ocean at a rate faster than most of its kind. Towering above the water over 30 stories, the glacier often calves 100-foot chunks of ice into the ocean. What lies beneath the waves is almost as impressive, where ice plunges 1,200 feet beneath the surface. See it for yourself on an Alaska cruise with Princess.

Icy Strait Point is home to the remote Tlingit village of Hoonah, home to fewer than 800 people and a deep Native history. The nearby Spasski River Valley holds one of the world’s largest populations of brown bears, who are often found hunting for salmon in the rivers. Zipline over the wilderness, watch a tribal dance or kayak in coastal waters to see the wildlife up close during your Alaska cruise vacation.

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.

On an Alaska cruise, take your pick of attractions in the port of Sitka. See how bald eagles and local bird populations receive first-class treatment at the Alaska Raptor Center. Encounter wildlife in their natural habitat at the Fortress of the Bear. Or experience the culture of Russian Alaska on a visit to St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Church, and relive Native history at the Sheldon Jackson Museum.

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.

Canada's third largest city feels like a North American metropolis mixed with a small European town. Explore the rainforest within Vancouver, B.C. — Stanley Park — and visit the continent's second largest Chinatown during your Alaska cruise vacation. Soar above the city's lush natural environment in a sky gondola for panoramic views, or get up close to the local sea life at the Vancouver Aquarium.

Why Choose This Itinerary?

Discover the top reasons to cruise to Alaska from Vancouver.

• Glacier Viewing  — Alaska’s glaciers were meant to be admired. That’s why every Alaska cruise from Vancouver includes at least one glacier viewing experience to either Glacier Bay National Park or Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier.
• Three Historic Ports of Call  — Fish for salmon in Ketchikan, pan for gold in Skagway or fly over snow-capped mountains in Juneau. Relive Alaska’s greatest tales in these spirited ports of call on an Inside Passage cruise.
• Convenient Roundtrip Air Travel  — On a roundtrip cruise to Alaska from Vancouver, enjoy easier travels to and from your cruise vacation with the opportunity for even more adventure before you set sail or after your trip ends.
• A Visit to Vancouver  — From Chinatown to Stanley Park, uncover old-world history amidst new-age living in Vancouver before or after your Alaska cruise.

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 Alaska cruise.

Caribbean Princess®

Coral Princess®

Grand Princess®

Ruby Princess®

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

Alaska Cruisetours

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

North to Alaska

Immerse yourself in all things Alaska with our onboard program.

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7 Night Alaska Experience Cruise

Your ship ovation of the seas.

SPACE AGE SURPRISES

North Star ®

Splashaway Bay℠

RipCord ® by iFLY ®

Bumper Cars

A full-on flavor fest.

Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver

Coastal Kitchen

Fish & Ships℠

An adventure onstage.

Bionic Bar ®

Live. Love. Legs.

Day 1: seattle, washington.

Seek Out the Center

Waterfront Wonders

Relive the Gold Rush

Local Cuisine

Day 2: Cruising

FlowRider ®

Adventure Ocean ®

Rock Climbing Wall

Day 3: juneau, alaska.

SEAFARING SAFARI

BECOME A MASTER MUSHER

GO FOR THE GOLD

LOCAL CUISINE

popular Shore Excursions

Amazing experiences coming soon., day 4: skagway, alaska.

ON THE RIGHT TRACK

TAKE A HIKE

GO FOR GOLD

Day 5: Sitka, Alaska

LINKS TO THE PAST

Bering history in mind.

FOR THE BIRDS

Day 6: Cruising

Chops Grille℠

La Patisserie

The Café @ Two70

Day 7: victoria, british columbia.

WALK TO REMEMBER

Adventure eden.

RAISE A CUPPA TO TRADITION

Day 8: Vancouver, British Columbia

BUBBLING WITH ADVENTURE

FULL OF FRESH AIR

COLONIAL CHARISMA

Round Trip Alaska Cruise Vancouver

Savor Vancouver's urban delights. Revel in Alaska's natural wonders.

• Alaska Cruises
• Round Trip Alaska Cruise from Vancouver

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Round Trip Alaska Cruises from Vancouver

Ringed by water and bordered mountains, the western Canadian city of Vancouver is somehow both cosmopolitan and outdoorsy. The urban gem has also become a renowned filming location, earning it the nickname "Hollywood North." It makes an enjoyable stepping off point for cruises bound for Alaska.

The cruise terminal within the Canada Place event center is the roundtrip Vancouver-to-Alaska homeport for Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Holland America Line. Located on the edge of downtown Vancouver, the beautifully designed multipurpose facility is known for its distinctive white sail rooftop.

Canada Place is far more than a transit hub. It's a gathering place as well, with walking trails, weekly events, and cultural exhibits drawing both visitors and locals. In these ways, it's quite representative of Vancouver as a whole. The busy, vibrant city has plenty of attractions to fill a few days pre- or post-cruise. And for those who can only spend a few hours between cruise and airport, Gastown, a lively historical neighborhood with trendy shops and eateries, and the beautiful Stanley Park, are each within a 20-minute walk of the terminal.

Roundtrip Alaska cruises depart Vancouver Harbor in late afternoon, affording passengers spectacular city skyline views as they sail underneath Lions Gate Bridge and into the Strait of Georgia. The first full day at sea is spent cruising among splendid fjords within the Inside Passage. Cruise lines typically take shore days in Ketchikan, Juneau, and either the historical goldrush town of Skagway or the quieter Icy Strait. In between ports of call, most ships spend a full day glacier viewing in places like Disenchantment Bay, Glacier Bay, or Tracy Arm. Cruisers return to Vancouver via Queen Charlotte Sound and Johnstone Strait.

Special services for cruise passengers include short-term baggage storage. There are many options for ground transportation, ranging from rental cars (there are in-terminal kiosks) to convenient airport and hotel transfers, taxis, and charters. Vancouver also has an affordable public transportation network. Direct rapid transit to the airport is provided by the SkyTrain Canada Line.

Celebrity Inside Passage with Hubbard Glacier

Begin and end in Vancouver, and in between experience the best of Alaska cruising on this seven-day Celebrity route. Highlights include Icy Strait and Hubbard Glacier. Learn More >

Holland Inside Passage with Glacier Bay

Sail fjords once carved by vast glaciers, visit a Native Alaskan village and bustling port towns, and explore Alaska's history on this Holland America cruise running roundtrip from Vancouver. Learn More >

RCCL Inside Passage with Tracy Arm Fjord

Revel in Royal Caribbean's lively onboard activities in between port calls in Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway on this seven-day roundtrip cruise from Vancouver. Learn More >

Cruises from Vancouver, BC to Alaska

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Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees of $254 pp not included.

Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees of $321 pp not included.

Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees of $204 pp not included.

Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees of $312 pp not included.

Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees of $236 pp not included.

Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees of $269 pp not included.

Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees of $284 pp not included.

Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees of $272 pp not included.

Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees of $251 pp not included.

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Cheap Alaska Cruises from Vancouver

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• Alaska (AK)

7 Night Cruise to Alaska

• You want an upscale cruise experience at a decent price
• You like having plenty of options for dining and entertainment
• You appreciate cruise ships with plenty of innovative amenities
• You are looking for a truly all-inclusive cruise vacation
• You typically only cruise on the latest and largest ships
• You want a big-ship experience with plenty of classy spaces
• You appreciate good cuisine, wine and beverage offerings
• You enjoy a more upscale cruise experience on a big ship
• You always cruise on ships that are brand-new and innovative
• You want the latest technological advances and features
• You aren’t interested on longer, more unique itineraries
• You like scenic cruising; this bright ship is perfect for it
• You appreciate a traditional look with high-tech features
• You want big ship amenities wrapped up in a smaller package
• You're after active diversions like ziplines and surf simulators
• You want nonstop activities and a party atmosphere onboard
• You want plenty of evening entertainment and production shows
• You don't mind paying extra for some specialty restaurants
• You want plenty of fun options for all ages by day and night
• You're after a more classic, laid-back onboard experience
• You prefer taking part in lectures and enrichment activities
• You don't like paying extra for drinks and other options
• You want the amenities of a big ship on a smaller scale
• You appreciate fine art and elegantly appointed public areas
• You love quiet nooks and spaces to appreciate the sea outside
• You are traveling with kids and need top-notch facilities
• You prefer vibrant nightlife that lasts into the wee hours

14 Night Cruise to Alaska

• You are looking for a big ship sailing exotic itineraries
• You want quality fun for the family at a reasonable price
• You like scheduled activities that aren’t too wild or wacky
• You want to party all night long; this isn’t the right ship
• You want a ship with the latest cutting-edge technology

5 Night Cruise to Alaska

• You want a family-friendly ocean cruise at a moderate price
• You like big ship amenities that don't sacrifice quality
• You want a balcony cabin; Caribbean Princess has plenty
• You are looking for enrichment activities or local cuisines
• You want action-packed nightlife and nonstop diversions
• You are averse to spending money onboard for extra options
• You enjoy a classic cruise experience with sophisticated touches
• You appreciate evenings with live music, dancing and shows
• You love being out on deck; Noordam has plenty of open space
• You like the more intimate atmosphere on HAL's older ships
• Your kids demand waterslides, splash parks and bumper cars

4 Night Cruise to Alaska

• You want a classy, traditional cruise on a feature-rich ship
• You love having plenty of choice, from dining to lounges
• You have kids and want features designed just for them
• You need larger-than-average cabin and suite accomodations
• You like a large pool at the back of the ship for relaxing
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• You are looking for an adult-oriented cruise experience
• You want a big ship with lots of classy fun for all ages
• You enjoy live music and plenty of enrichment activities
• You're happy with good quality service and a relaxing vibe
• You enjoy strolling on a true wraparound promenade deck
• You miss the more intimate feeling of the line's smaller ships
• You want to cruise on a ship with never-before-seen features
• You value cutting-edge technology and plenty of activities
• You are traveling solo and want a single-occupancy stateroom
• You are on a budget; this is one of the hottest ships around
• You are looking for a classic, traditional cruise experience
• You dislike using technology to enhance and manage your cruise
• You want a cruise with plenty of wow but on a smaller scale
• You appreciate bright, airy public rooms and lots of open decks
• You dislike the look and feel of the newest mega-cruise ships
• You need ziplines, thrilling waterslides or active diversions
• You want wall-to-wall entertainment; these ships are quieter
• You appreciate Princess Cruises' design and venue consistency across the fleet
• You like the line's high-tech Ocean Medallion digital assistant and connectivity
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• You wish to avoid a cookie-cutter ship with little aesthetic innovation
• You appreciate a greater destination focus with an observation lounge

Explore Vancouver

A Guide to The Best Cruise From Vancouver to Alaska

by Contractor | Nov 12, 2020 | resources , Travel Tips | 0 comments

Alaska has a rugged beauty with breathtaking natural views, and if you are looking to sail into the most northern state, you may be wondering what the best cruise from Vancouver to Alaska is. Almost every major cruise line has a presence in the state, so deciding which one is right for you can depend on a few factors.

The best Alaskan cruise will depend on what kind of experience you want. There are cruise lines that are small and intimate, while some advertise luxury and opulence. Overall though, the highest-rated cruise from multiple sources is the Regent Seven Seas.

Since Alaska has become such a popular cruise destination, you can expect to see many options when it comes time to purchase a ticket.  To better help guide your choice, figure out what you are looking for in a cruise experience; this will help you determine what type of cruise you should take.

What are The Best Cruise Options from Vancouver to Alaska?

With all the choices there are for cruises, you will, of course, be curious as to which one is best. Cruises offer much more to guests than just a ship; they offer a full experience, including dining, leisure activities, and outdoor excursions. They also cater to different clientele.

Some focus on a couple’s experience while some are more family-friendly, and some can even provide a more authentic Alaska adventure with loads of hiking and camping. Explore what the ship has to offer onboard and the itinerary of the trip to better plan your journey up north.

With that being said, below is a list of a few top-rated options.

Regent Seven Seas Mariner

This cruise line is undoubtedly one of the more luxurious ships traveling through the Inside Passage. Debuting in 2001, this modern cruise line holds about 700 passengers and boasts a crew to passenger ratio of 1:1. This means that customer service is unparalleled aboard the vessel.

The cruise ship is also home to some extravagant amenities. This line is known for its all-suite and all-balcony rooms and is frequently ranked high for their luxury accommodations.

The ship also offers guests excellent food options with seven distinct dining areas to choose from. Most notably, you will find chefs from the world-famous Le Cordon Bleu Academy of French cuisine.

The ship offers guests catered experiences like cooking demonstrations and has a host of relaxing areas to choose from during the day. At night be regaled by the fantastic shows in the theater or have fun in one of the ship’s casino rooms.

All this luxury does come with a price tag; fares start at around $6,500.

Celebrity Solstice

A bit less intimate than the Regent ship, the Celebrity Solstice has a passenger load of around 2,850. What it offers guests is an experience catered to couples. But that certainly doesn’t mean it lacks the fun of other ships; in combination with the excellent restaurants and a spa, there are indoor pools and water slides too.

Also, most staterooms have verandas, which, if you are sailing the picturesque scenery of Alaska, are almost necessary. The ship has even gone under a recent renovation, so expect some spruced up interior design and more amenities for guests.

Fares for a tip on the Solstice start at around $3,300.

Disney Wonder

When it comes to family fun, a Disney Cruise really can’t be beaten. The worldwide entertainment company took to the seas in 1996 and has been setting the bar ever since. The 2,713 passenger liner offers guests a whole range of entertainment options and amenities.

The ship offers ten family areas, six clubs catered to kids, and seven areas only for adults. The Disney Wonder has six unique dining areas for guests and even an adults-only restaurant.

As you would expect from Disney, the staterooms are designed with families in mind. You will also be plunged into the world of wonder with a schedule packed with character meet and greets and even an extravagant live show based on Frozen.

Fares for the Disney adventure start at around $3,500.

What are The Types of Cruises You Can Find in The Area?

With all options, you may be curious if there is a type of cruise better suited for you.

Here are a few types of cruises that are offered in the area:

• Mainstream – These are the big names that are staples in the Alaskan cruise game. Norwegian, Celebrity, and Holland America offer the classic cruise experience in the Alaskan waterways.
• Small Ship – If you are looking for more action and time ashore, then a small ship experience is right up your alley. These ships are smaller and offer less in terms of amenities but provide excellent on-shore activities.
• Luxury – If style is the name of the game, you can’t go wrong with a luxury cruise experience. The Regent Seven Seas and Viking lines are best for this type of cruise.

What are The Best Itineraries?

When it comes to cruising in Alaska, you are going to see two main itineraries. Both are going to offer some excellent views and exciting ports of call. Whichever one you intend to choose, you can rest assured you will get to see a lot of the beauty the state has to offer.

The Inside Passage

This trip is by and large the most popular route. The inside passage is an ice-carved track that hugs Canada’s west coast and offers guests access to several iconic ports of call. This famous passage is home to some stellar natural sights.

The trip can offer more than just views and be an excellent experience for outdoor and sports enthusiasts. Relax ship side as you breeze through some famous natural wonders like the Johnstone Strait and Misty Fjords National Monument.

One thing that is great about the inside passage is that you are in relatively calm water. If sea-sickness is a worry, this trip may be right for you.

The Gulf Passage

This trip allows you to explore some of the great offerings of the Inside Passage, like their ports of call, while including an open sea excursion where the views are impeccable. This scenic cruising portion of the trip will take you to see some of the most iconic natural wonders Alaska has to offer. These are the Glacier National Park or the Hubbard Glacier.

This trip is almost always a one-way trip, and most of the offerings for this itinerary are around seven days.

If you intend to travel in the late summer, keep in mind that the Gulf of Alaska can have some rough seas. This just means if you are particularly prone to seasickness, maybe the inside passage is more your style.

What are The Best Ports of Call to Check Out?

Alaska isn’t just about scenic sights and outdoor wonders; the great state also has some great ports of call to check out:

• Skagway – If plunging yourself in Alaska’s rich gold rush history is your cup of tea, Skagway is a must-visit.
• Juneau – Alaska’s capital, this city is only accessible from the sea and is a great place to enjoy some of the area’s great outdoor activities.
• Sitka – This working town has more to offer tourists than just the sights. Enjoy a glimpse into Alaska’s rich Russian heritage here.

These are just a few must-sees in the area. Chances are that they are already on your itinerary.

Alaska can offer some great cruise options for any type of guest. If you are looking for a relaxing luxury experience or are more attuned to outdoor fun and natural wonder, you are sure to find a cruise experience that is right for you.

USnews.com – Best Cruises from Vancouver

Thepointsguy.com – Alaska Cruise Guide

Shermanstravel.com – 8 Best Ships Cruising Alaska

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Cruises From Vancouver, British Columbia

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Consistently ranked as one of the most livable cities in the world, Vancouver offers both outdoor adventure and urban comforts, as it sits nestled among majestic snow-capped mountains, sandy beaches, and a lush rainforest on the west coast of Canada. Before embarking on cruises from Vancouver, go hiking and biking in the mountains just outside of the city, or spend some time exploring Vancouver’s diverse culinary and arts scene. Known for its scenic landscapes and as a popular filming location for television shows and movies, the city’s cinematic backgrounds and cultural metropolis will leave a lasting impression.

Not only is Vancouver an incredible vacation destination, it’s also the departure port for unforgettable cruises to Alaska , jaunts along the Pacific Coast, and tropical vacations to Hawaii. Witness the splendor of Alaska’s striking glaciers and majestic wildlife. Laze on the paradisal beaches of the Aloha State. Hike through Pacific Northwest’s dense forests, or sail south to Los Angeles, sampling the state’s best wine along the way. 

Itineraries

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Top Itineraries on Cruises from Vancouver

Hubbard glacier.

On an Alaska cruise from Vancouver to Hubbard Glacier, sail down the legendary Inside Passage on your way to discovering stunning Alaskan cities such as Sitka, Ketchikan, and Juneau. During your journey, you’ll also visit Hubbard Glacier, the largest tidewater glacier in North America, and have the chance to witness one of its breathtaking calving displays.

Northbound Glacier

Marvel at the Last Frontier’s rugged landscapes and fascinating wildlife during an exciting seven-night Alaska cruise from Vancouver. Spot humpback whales and brown bears in Icy Strait Point. Sail through one of the most breathtaking waterways on the planet— Alaska’s Inside Passage. And discover the spectacular Kenai Fjords National Park in Seward.

Enjoy the sights of the Pacific Coast during a cruise that stops in a number of exciting destinations, including picturesque towns in British Columbia and vibrant cities in California. Stroll through the charming downtown area of Oregon’s Astoria. In Seattle, head up the famous Space Needle for unbeatable views of the city. Visit Victoria, a city filled with pristine parks and greenhouses, and world-famous San Francisco.

Spend a few serene days at sea before reaching the idyllic islands of Hawaii, where romantic shores and tropical oases await. Go hiking past spectacular waterfalls in Hilo. Try a freshly-brewed cup of the famous coffee of Kailua Kona and embrace all of the charms Hawaii has to offer in Honolulu.

Our Ships Sailing Out of Vancouver, B.C.

Why sail from vancouver with celebrity cruises®.

Our cruises from Vancouver give you the chance to explore this cosmopolitan Canadian city surrounded by natural beauty on your way to more must-see destinations in Alaska, Hawaii, or the Pacific Coast. Choose from three ships that give you so many ways to soak up the scenery. Enjoy soaring glacier views from the cantilevered Magic Carpet® on Celebrity Edge®. Watch for whales from the Lawn Club or your spacious private veranda on Celebrity Solstice®. Marvel at lush mountain landscapes while sipping hand-crafted cocktails at the Sunset Bar on Celebrity Summit®. All three ships perfectly complement the wonders you’ll discover on our cruises from Vancouver. 

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Vancouver port facilities & location.

On a cruise from Vancouver, you’ll depart from the Canada Place cruise terminal, which is conveniently located in downtown Vancouver and is just a 30-minute drive from the Vancouver International Airport near many restaurants, attractions, and shopping. Transportation options to and from the port include public transit, shuttles, taxi service, limousines and car services. If you do have extra time to explore the city of Vancouver, you can take advantage of short-term luggage storage services available in the cruise terminal for your convenience.

The facilities in the Canada Place cruise terminal include Vancouver Convention Centre East, Port Metro Vancouver cruise ship terminal, VINCI Park parkade, FlyOver Canada, and World Trade Centre office tower.

Learn More About Vancouver Shore Excursions

Top things to do before your cruise from vancouver, stroll through stanley park.

Vancouver’s number one attraction, Stanley Park, was created in 1888 and still lands near the top of the list of best parks in the world. Here, you’ll find exciting experiences for all ages and interests, including historical landmarks, cultural hotspots, local wildlife, breathtaking beaches, hiking trails, delicious food, and even Canada’s largest aquarium.

Old-fashioned horse-drawn carriages can take you on a peaceful stroll through Stanley Park while you take in the stunning beauty of this world-renowned locale. Visit its lush rainforests and admire the stunning views of the park’s natural surroundings, including water, mountains, and majestic forests that line the park’s famous seawall. 

Cross the Capilano Suspension Bridge

Cross the nearly 140-meter suspension bridge that hangs 85 meters over the Capilano River. Originally built in 1889, the Capilano Suspension Bridge sits among many hiking trails in a lush green rainforest setting—perfect for the hiking enthusiast.

Top Sites and Attractions in Vancouver

Gastown district.

Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood is also its busiest. As the home to hip restaurants, chic shops, and lively bars, Gastown attracts its fair share of young locals and visiting tourists. You can easily spend an afternoon walking down its quaint, cobblestone streets, where you’ll find plenty of historic landmarks, boutique shops, and outdoor cafes to keep you entertained.

As the third-largest Chinatown (after San Francisco’s and New York’s), Vancouver’s Chinatown is an essential stop for any Chinese cuisine lover or shopaholic. Walk past the golden entrance of the Millennium Gate, squeeze in a lunch at one of the neighborhood’s award-winning restaurants, browse through antique stores, and see the world’s narrowest building, which measures only six feet wide.

Shannon Falls

Immerse yourself in Vancouver’s natural beauty at Shannon Falls Provincial Park, a national park just outside of the city, where you’ll find the third-tallest waterfall in British Columbia. Towering over 1,100 feet above sea level, Shannon Falls is a spectacular sight that can be admired from the boardwalk at the base or by hiking up to an overlook point, where you’ll be surrounded by the cool mist from the raging water.

Where can I eat near the Vancouver cruise port?

Vancouver’s ethnically diverse culture shines through in its multicultural cuisine. A flavorful fusion of African/Indian, Greek/Italian, and Mediterranean/French, as well as fresh seafood, can be found on nearly every menu. 

Chefs come to Vancouver from all around the globe, and each brings his or her own culinary heritage and tradition to the fresh seafood and bold flavors of Vancouver’s traditional West Coast cuisine, creating a uniquely flavorful blend that makes Vancouver cuisine renowned around the world.

Granville Island Public Market

At the Granville Island Public Market, you’ll find delightful delicacies of all kinds. Pick and choose delicious items from popular spots like Oyama Sausage Co, featuring mouthwatering salami and cheese selections; Terra Bread, with fresh-made baguettes; or doughnuts at Lee’s. Visit these delicious vendors and hand-select all your favorite items to create the ultimate waterfront picnic.

Head to eco-friendly Forage, which serves locally-farmed menu items and boasts a zero-landfill waste record. The sincere hospitality and top-notch service are noteworthy here. Try the Turtle Valley Bison sirloin or the Whittaker’s nettle farro grain risotto.

Hawksworth Restaurant

If you’re looking for fine dining in Vancouver, dress up and go to chef David Hawksworth’s white tablecloth and crystal chandelier restaurant, Hawksworth. Serving expertly and effortlessly delectable West Coast cuisine fused with Asian flavors and a modern twist, Hawksworth is a dining experience all on its own.

What’s the culture and history of Vancouver?

The city of Vancouver was first inhabited by several Native Canadian tribes. Around the late 1850s, Europeans started moving into the area after the establishment of the town of New Westminster. After gold was discovered in the banks of the Fraser River in 1858, tens of thousands of gold prospectors came to the area. It wasn’t until 1886 that the city of Vancouver was incorporated. It took its name from British explorer George Vancouver, who discovered the area back in 1792. Only a few weeks after its incorporation, the city of Vancouver was burnt down by a brush fire, but was immediately rebuilt.

With the introduction of the California Pacific Railway and the opening of the Panama Canal, Vancouver became a major exporter of grain and lumber and positioned itself as a major economic hub in Canada. It is one of the largest and most populous cities in the country and is known for its diverse community of immigrants. Many art and cultural festivals are held in the city throughout the year, including the Chinese New Year Parade, the Eastside Cultural Crawl, and the annual Jazz Festival. Today, Vancouver’s economy is mainly run by forestry, tourism, oil refining, and mining.

Where can I go shopping near the Vancouver cruise port?

The Canada Place cruise ship terminal is located in Vancouver’s downtown area, where you’ll find the Pacific Centre Mall and Robson Street, which is full of stylish boutiques. It wouldn’t be a true visit to Canada without a stop in the local favorite department store, the Hudson’s Bay Company, where you’ll find everything from clothes and shoes to jewelry, make-up, home décor, and more. While in Gastown, you can look for unique and authentic pieces of Northwest Coast Native and Inuit art at the Inuit Gallery.

What are the local currency and tipping customs?

The currency in Vancouver is the Canadian dollar. Although there is no foreign exchange service at the cruise terminal, you will find several ATM machines. There are exchange services throughout downtown Vancouver, as well as ATMs in hotels, banks, drug stores, and other venues. Canadian restaurants seldom include gratuities in the bill, and it is customary to tip an additional 15% to 20% of the total bill before tax.

Cruisetours

To explore further into Alaska and the Canadian Rockies, you can extend your cruise with a Cruisetour. This allows you to travel inland via motorcoach and railway exploring Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska, Talkeetna, Girdwood (Alyeska) and Denali National Park, taking in the views of the highest mountain peak in North America. Cruisetours include the finest hotel accommodations, a local dedicated Alaskan/Canadian Tour Director, luxury transportation, and some activities.

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Home » Ports of Call » Alaska » Complete Guide to Alaska Cruises from Vancouver

Complete Guide to Alaska Cruises from Vancouver

If you are considering a trip to the 49th state, our Complete Guide to Alaska Cruises from Vancouver will help with your cruise planning.

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An Alaska cruise is a dream of many who wish to enjoy the wonders of Alaska. Everything in Alaska seems bigger than in real life. Scenery, wildlife, culture, history and adventure beckon nature lovers to the Last Frontier. If you are considering a trip to this 49th state, we have our Complete Guide to Alaska Cruises from Vancouver to help with your cruise planning.

Cruising from Vancouver offers many advantages for sailing to Alaska. Ships take the Inside Passage as they cruise to the ports of Southeast Alaska and beyond. The waters are usually calm being protected from the open sea. Passengers may catch a glimpse of dolphins swimming along the ship, with a background of majestic mountains or lush rain forest. Additionally, calving glaciers are a highlight of any cruise to Alaska. Most cruise itineraries of at least one week in duration include a visit to a glacier.

Alaska Cruises From Vancouver Itinerary Options

From Vancouver, there are options to sail both a round-trip cruise and also one-way to Alaska. Doing a one-way trip on a cruise to Alaska allows the opportunity to explore areas of Alaska inaccessible by ship via a land tour add-on.

One of the highlights of many post-cruise land tours is Denali National Park. This may also be done in the reverse direction by flying into Alaska first and returning by cruise ship from Alaska back to Vancouver. With a round-trip cruise, there will be no possibility to extend your stay in Alaska.

A post-cruise tour can be arranged independently or through the ship. Several of the cruise lines have their own lodges, making planning a simple task. Whether you plan to add a land tour or will simply tour by cruise ship, there is no better time to visit Alaska on a cruise from Vancouver.

However, before you even consider cruising from Vancouver – or any other Canadian port for that matter, please review entry requirements if you are not a Canadian citizen. Almost any conviction makes one ineligible for entry into Canada. For example, a DUI is considered a felony in Canada. Do your research in advance .

EXCLUSIVE SAVINGS: Get Deals on Your Alaska Cruise from Vancouver!

Where Do Ships Dock in Vancouver for Alaska Cruises?

Many cruise lines set sail from Vancouver to Alaska each season. The Alaska cruise season generally starts in April and ends in October. Canada Place is the pleasant cruise port for ships in Vancouver. This three-berth terminal can service up to four cruise ships at one time. Further, it is conveniently located in the heart of Vancouver’s waterfront with nearby hotels, restaurants, and attractions.

If you traveled from Vancouver prior to 2014, you may have sailed from the decommissioned pier of Ballantyne.

Getting to Vancouver

There are lots of options for getting to Vancouver to start your cruise to Alaska.

Some think it’s cheaper to fly to Seattle and take a bus or train. Be sure to account for the additional time – about 4 hours – and the costs when considering these options.

The bus stations are not at Sea-Tac airport, so consider the time it takes to get from the airport to downtown Seattle to catch a bus. Actually, the bus ride from Seattle to Vancouver might take longer than your original flight to Seattle.

It is also possible to take a ferry to Vancouver from Seattle, but that requires several transfers and also takes time.

Remember that you will have luggage with you. One real disadvantage of the bus is having to unload luggage at Customs and Immigration.

How far is Vancouver airport from the cruise port?

Vancouver’s airport is located in Richmond, approximately 15 miles from Canada Place. It takes about about 34 minutes by car to reach the port depending on traffic. The transportation options from the airport include shared rides, taxis, bus, and the popular SkyTrain .

For any of your transportation options, look for the directional signs in the airport. If you need assistance finding your way to your preferred method of transportation, look for the customer care volunteer ambassadors. They are the ones wearing the green vests or jackets.

Getting to the Canada Place from the Airport Using SkyTrain

The SkyTrain goes to the Waterfront Station near Canada Place and takes about 25 minutes from station to station. Trains run about every 7 minutes from the airport. When leaving from the airport, there is an additional $5 surcharge added to the fare. Fares vary depending on the time of day. At non-peak times, the base fare starts at $4.45. Children under 12 travel for free, and there are discounts for seniors. SkyTrain runs from the airport between 5:07 a.m. and 12:56 a.m. Public transit providing services from the airport can accommodate wheelchairs.

From International Arrivals follow the signs. The station is on top of a parking garage. Watch for signs directing you to the Canada Line of SkyTrain. Once you reach Waterfront Station, you will need to walk less than 10 minutes to the cruise ship terminal.

To do that: Go out the main doors of the Waterfront Station. Turn right following Cordova St. Turn right again at Howe St. Turn left onto Canada Place.

Shared Rides from Vancouver Airport (YVR) to Canada Place Cruise Terminal

Lyft, Uber, and KABU are authorized to pick up at three areas at the airport: International Arrivals, Level 2; Domestic Arrivals, Level 2; and South Terminal.

Cruise Line Transport

From the Domestic Arrivals area on Level 2, cruise ship representatives can direct you to the proper boarding area. For guests arriving internationally, representatives will be found in the International Reception Lobby. If you have arranged transport with your cruise line, you will receive information from them with specific instructions.

From the airport, taxis charge a fixed-rate by zone. Canada Place Cruise port is in Zone 9 and the 2023 fare is CA$38. Find taxis on Level 2.

How do you get to the Vancouver Cruise Port from Seattle?

Most buses on the route from Seattle to Vancouver leave from King Street Station or the nearby bus terminal in Seattle. Many buses arrive at Pacific Central Station in Vancouver. Some Quick Shuttle routes stop at the Waterfront SkyTrain Station in Vancouver, which is very convenient to the Canada Place Cruise Port.

• Amtrak Thruway Connecting services offers a bus from King Street Station in Seattle to Pacific Central Station in Vancouver. The journey has no stops along the way and takes 3 hours and 15 minutes to reach Vancouver.
• FlixBus departs from several spots in Seattle including Sea-Tac. The buses arrive at two destinations in Vancouver – Pacific Central and Burrard. Depending on the starting point, the journey will take around four to five hours.
• Quick Shuttle leaves from SeaTac and takes between five and six hours. The bus stops at the Canada Place Cruise Port.
• Greyhound also offers service that takes about 4 hours and arrives at the Pacific Central Station.

Amtrak Cascades leaves from King Street Station in Seattle and other stations as it makes its way to Vancouver. The trip takes 4 hours to arrive at Pacific Central Station in Vancouver.

Renting a car and driving to Canada Place is always an option.

This method takes longer and involves several transfers, but for somebody with the time, it’s an alternative for getting to Vancouver from Seattle.

No matter how you arrive in Vancouver, it’s always a good idea to arrive at least a day prior to your cruise departure.

Which Cruise Lines Cruise from Vancouver to Alaska?

The Port of Vancouver welcomes upwards of 900,000 passengers each year as the homeport for many Alaska cruises. Thus, you will find cruise ships from most cruise lines sailing to the region from Vancouver. From larger family-friendly ships to smaller luxury cruise lines, and even adventure travel and expedition ships, the options are vast.

Schedules and itineraries vary from season to season, but this guide is a handy starting point for planning your cruise to Alaska from Vancouver in the next few seasons. (RT= Roundtrip, OW= One Way)

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Best Cruise Ships Offering Alaska Cruises from Vancouver

As you can see, there are a variety of cruise lines sailing from Vancouver. So, depending on your preferences, there is bound to be a perfect Alaska cruise ship for you and your family.

Princess Cruises has three ships sailing from Vancouver, BC offering a variety of one-way and round-trip itineraries, including Sapphire Princess, Crown Princess, and Grand Princess.

Similarly, Holland America Line has several ships with a variety of itineraries. Koningsdam and Volendam offer round-trip cruises from Vancouver stopping at popular ports. Other ships in the fleet, including Nieuw Amsterdam and Noordam, sail Northbound and Southbound one-way cruises from Whittier, Alaska and Vancouver.

Disney Wonder is the only DCL ship offering Alaska cruises in 2023. Additionally, Royal Caribbean has two ships sailing from Vancouver in 2023. With Brilliance of the Seas offering round-trip cruises and Radiance of the Sea offering one-way cruises.

Sister brand Celebrity Cruises also offers cruises from this homeport. Celebrity Eclipse sails round-trip from Vancouver, while the newly updated Celebrity Millennium alternates one-way itineraries from Seward, AK or Vancouver.

Other options include one-way voyages on Norwegian Spirit, which recently underwent a major refurbishment. Not to mention, luxury cruisers with extra vacation time can choose from longer voyages on vessels like Viking Orion, Silver Muse, or Seaborn Odyssey.

How Much Do Alaska Cruises from Vancouver Cost?

There are so many variables to consider when trying to determine the cost of an Alaska cruise . Cabin type, cruise line, and time of year factor into the cost. Additionally, Alaska does tend to have higher taxes and fees than other destinations. Good values are often found during the shoulder seasons.

In our analysis, Alaska cruises from Vancouver, BC do not differ meaningfully in price from those departing from Seattle, WA.

Typically, we recommend cruisers budget around $2,000 to $5,000+ per person for total Alaska cruise costs. Keep in mind, some ships might be more desirable than others, and cruises leaving at peak times of the year are more money regardless of the departure point.

How Long Are Alaska Cruises from Vancouver?

Cruises range from 4-night sampler cruises with just one port of call in Alaska to extended cruises of 21 days. However, the most common is a 7-day roundtrip Alaska cruise from Vancouver. It’s also possible to lengthen the time and experience in Alaska by adding a land tour to the cruise portion.

Typically, a one-way cruise takes a week from Vancouver to the Anchorage area, where the two nearest ports are Whittier or Seward. Then, three to seven nights is the average length of land tours. If heading to Denali, the land tour will often end in Fairbanks. There are other options for a land tour as well, such as one to the Kenai Peninsula, which would end in Anchorage.

Of course, if you book your land tour independently, you can spend as much time as you like exploring the interior of Alaska. Alaska Railroad and Knightly Tours both offer itineraries for the independent traveler.

Where Do Alaska Cruises from Vancouver Go?

Alaska cruises from Vancouver typically sail the Inside Passage calling at some of the popular ports in Southeast Alaska. Many itineraries include ports like Ketchikan , Juneau , Skagway , and Icy Strait Point . A few cruise lines call at lesser visited, but equally interesting ports, like Haines, Sitka , or Valdez.

Glacier Bay National Park

Cruising to see the glaciers is a highlight of any cruise to Alaska. Some ships cruise into Glacier Bay National Park . Only a few permits are offered on a daily basis to limit the number of large ships in the park. Cruise lines like Holland America and Princess, which have been cruising Alaska for decades get more permits than other cruise lines.

The excursion into Glacier Bay is usually a full-day affair. Park rangers board the ships with displays, books and souvenirs of the experience. They are available to answer questions and also provide commentary.

Other Glaciers

Outside of Glacier Bay, cruise ships do sail to other areas where passengers are able to see glaciers. For example, Dawes and Hubbard Glaciers are popular attractions on Alaska itineraries. Most sailings to Alaska include at least one viewing of a glacier.

Once in viewing range, the captain often will rotate the ship so that everybody gets a chance to view the glacier. The captain always has the last say about proceeding to see a glacier. If conditions are not safe, the captain may turn the ship around.

Should conditions not permit glacier viewing, don’t forget that there are shore excursions that include glacier viewings or even glacier landings. Mendenhall, outside of Juneau, and Exit Glacier, just outside of Seward, are easy to visit.

When to Cruise to Alaska from Vancouver

Alaska is worth cruising anytime during the cruising season. Early in the season, there may be more snow in the mountains giving a totally different experience. Temperatures may be cooler as could be the case in the fall. The weather may also be clearer.

Cruising in the early or late season offers different opportunities: fares may be lower, weather may be clearer, whales may be migrating, and the Northern Lights may be visible.

So, the best time to cruise to Alaska is truly an individual decision based on what you want out of the trip.

What to Pack for a Cruise from Vancouver

Remember the adage that there is no bad weather, just poor clothing. Pack in layers. Be ready to adjust to stay comfortable. Waterproof and breathable materials are recommended. Don’t forget hats and gloves. But, don’t forget clothes for warm weather. Alaska can get hot!

Don’t worry, we have you covered with our complete Alaska cruise packing list .

Exploring Vancouver

Vancouver is a popular destination with many attractions . For nature lovers, there are outdoor areas like Stanley Park with its totem poles. Granville Island has a public market. Richmond Night Market is popular, and neighborhoods like Gastown are worth visiting. Those interested in indigenous culture should visit the UBC (University of British Columbia) Museum of Anthropology.

When sailing away from Vancouver, get on a deck to take in the scenery along the way. The ship will pass by Stanley Park, a lighthouse, and sail under Lions Gate Bridge. From there, you will be on your way to more scenic views and the great state of Alaska. You will soon be enjoying the wonders of the Tongass National Forest, the largest intact rain forest in the world.

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Do you have any other helpful tips to add to this guide on Alaska cruises from Vancouver? Have you sailed to the Last Frontier from this Canadian homeport? Drop us an anchor below to share your experiences cruising to Alaska.

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Nice sharing! I and my husband is planning to spend our honeymoon in Vancouver. It must be interesting if I and my husband enjoy beautiful landscape while playing the game cubes 2048 .

DB & The Princess

Welcome Aboard! We are Don and Heidi, the husband and wife travel team behind EatSleepCruise.com. We took our first cruise vacation together 13 years ago and have been hooked ever since. Follow along as we share our travel tips, cruise reviews, information on ports of call, and the latest cruise news to help you plan the ultimate cruise vacation. Are you ready to embark on your journey to “sea the world, one port at a time”?

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What to expect on an Alaska cruise

How much are alaskan cruise prices, what affects the cost of an alaskan cruise, how to save money on an alaskan cruise, so, how much does an alaskan cruise cost.

Many travelers dream of taking an Alaskan cruise, but they often fear how much it will cost. But the truth is, Alaskan cruise prices can be more affordable than you think. There are simple ways to reduce Alaska cruise prices to fit almost any travel budget.

In this article, we'll share expected Alaskan cruise prices, additional unexpected costs to factor in and tips for saving money on your trip.

Your experience on an Alaskan cruise will vary based on the time of year you travel. The scenery, wildlife and foliage change by season, so many travelers return at different times of the year to experience it all.

One of the favorite things to do on an Alaskan cruise is to see wildlife. Cruise passengers have opportunities to see animals at sea and on land. Pay close attention throughout your journey because you may see Grizzly and black bears, moose, bald eagles, humpback whales and pods of orcas.

While many travelers assume that Alaska is cold year-round, that isn't necessarily true. The weather can change multiple times in a single day. Travelers may enjoy warm sunshine one minute, then chilly rain the next. Because of this, it is wise to dress in layers and bring clothing that's suitable for different types of weather.

Hours of sunshine also vary widely throughout the year. Alaska cruise season is from April to October, which avoids the coldest and darkest times of the year. Cruises around the summer solstice may enjoy around 20 hours of sunshine since the days are so long.

Alaskan cruise costs vary widely based on travel dates, length of trip, cabin style and other factors. To illustrate what you might expect to pay for an Alaskan cruise, we priced out trips from a few of the most popular cruise companies.

The sample trip departs from Seattle and takes place in May 2024.

* The Disney Cruise departs from Vancouver since it does not offer a Seattle departure.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

When figuring out how much an Alaskan cruise is, travelers need to understand that many factors determine the price, as the total cost of an Alaskan cruise is more than just booking the cruise.

Base cruise fare

The base cruise fare is the price you'll often see advertised when researching Alaska cruises. This is the basic cost of getting on the ship and securing your room.

Port taxes and fees

In addition to the base cruise fare, all cruisers must pay port taxes and fees. Even if you find a "free cruise" through some promotion, you'll still pay these extra charges. The cruise company pays these taxes and fees to the ports and destinations you visit throughout your trip.

Cabin upgrades

Many travelers choose to upgrade their experience by booking a larger room, a better view or a room with better features. Base cruise fares often include an interior room. Depending on the cost, upgrading to an exterior room with a window can be a good idea.

Flight/transportation

Most cruise travelers don't live within driving distance of the departure city. Because of that, you'll need to factor in how you'll get to the departure port. Many travelers fly to the departure city, which can increase the cost of your trip.

You may want to extend your trip to factor in travel time and avoid issues in case of a delayed or canceled flight. Additionally, this provides time to enjoy the city for a few days before or after the cruise travel dates.

» Learn more: Is cruise travel insurance worth it?

Hotel stays

When staying in the departure city, you'll need a place to stay. Booking a hotel room, short-term rental, hostel or other accommodation is key because you won't be able to stay on the cruise ship during this time.

Shore excursions

During your cruise, your ship may stop in several ports along the way. At each stop, you can get off the ship to explore local attractions, tours and cuisine as part of a shore excursion.

These excursions have a wide variety of prices depending on the destination, admission cost and other factors. The excursion price typically includes transportation to and from the attraction.

Some travelers explore the port city on their own. You may be able to save money this way. However, you're responsible for organizing and paying for your transportation, admission and other items along the way.

Onboard entertainment and gambling

Most onboard entertainment is included in the price of your cruise. However, some exclusive events or VIP seating may cost extra. Many cruise ships also offer spa treatments and gambling, which aren't included in the cruise price.

Alcoholic beverages

While most cruises include all-you-can-eat and drink in the cruise price, alcoholic beverages generally cost extra. You can pay for each drink individually. However, some cruises offer a flat price for unlimited beer, wine and other alcohol.

» Learn more: 7 ways a cheap cruise gets pricey fast — and how to deal

Premium meals

Premium meals offer higher-end cuts of meat and gourmet specialties. Depending on the cruise ship company, premium meals may be included or cost extra. Factor this in when comparing Alaska cruise options.

Meals off ship

While most meals are covered on the cruise, once you depart, you're on your own for meals. Even if your shore excursions include food, you may not like what they offer. Alternatively, you may want to try local eateries to enjoy dishes you can't get at home.

Shopping and souvenirs

Part of the experience of traveling is buying goodies to bring home. You may find local food or cultural items that you can't find at home. Or these items can serve as a reminder of fond memories.

Vacation clothing

Many travelers use vacations as an excuse to update their wardrobes. When traveling to different climates, you may also need to buy new clothes to be comfortable in varying conditions. Additionally, you may need formal clothes to dine at the higher-end restaurants on the ship.

Although many cruise ships are all-inclusive, it is common practice to tip the staff for a job well done. Additionally, extra tipping can be useful to secure prime meal times or spots on excursions.

Travelers should budget $14 to $19 per day per person to cover gratuities. However, some cruise lines include gratuities in your package price.

» Learn more: The best cruise lines

With so many items to factor into the cost of an Alaskan cruise, savvy travelers look for ways to save money. Here are a few ways our readers have saved money on their Alaska cruise vacations.

Travel off-peak . Booking during slower periods can reduce the cost of your cruise or provide additional incentives from the cruise company.

Book last minute . Last-minute reservations can save money because once the cruise ship departs, they cannot sell that cabin. Some travel websites specialize in last-minute travel deals.

Use travel rewards . Cruise travelers often use airline miles to fly to their cruise and hotel points to stay in the departure city. Additionally, flexible points can be a solid option to cover the cost of the cruise.

Consider cruise insurance. If you're concerned about losing money because of a last-minute change or cancellation, consider purchasing a separate cruise travel insurance plan or booking your trip with a credit card that has travel insurance .

Book early . Cruise lines often offer deals and incentives to travelers who book early.

Work with a cruise agent . Travel agents who book cruise vacations often have access to deals and promotions not available anywhere else.

Stay in an interior room . While balcony or exterior rooms provide better views, consider how often you will be in your room.

Book excursions directly . Cruise lines often mark up the cost of excursions when selling them to passengers. Book directly to reduce the cost.

Skip the beverage package . While many people enjoy an alcoholic drink or two, will you drink enough to justify the daily fee? To save money, it can be worth skipping the inflated drink prices.

» Learn more: How to earn and redeem points on cruises

Many travelers dream of taking an Alaska cruise with friends or family. Alaskan cruise prices vary widely depending on many factors, but you can expect to pay at least $600 before taxes for a 7-night cruise to Alaska. Factors that will increase the cost include the cruise line selected, cabin type, the time of year and how long your trip is.

Extras like excursions, gambling, alcohol and premium meals may also affect the price. You can save money on your Alaska cruise by traveling in the off-season, booking at the last minute or using your travel credit card rewards .

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

on Bank of America's website

1.5x-2x Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

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Vancouver to Anchorage cruise + things to do (My Princess one-way northbound 7-day cruise on the Majestic Princess + things to do) 🏔 Alaska cruise travel blog

I did an Alaska cruise in May on the Majestic Princess cruise ship.

This is to give you an idea of what an Alaska cruise can be like!

Your experience will vary!

Map of one-way Alaska cruise route

My one-way Alaska cruise itinerary (7-day Alaska cruise from Vancouver to Anchorage)

• Day 1 | May 13: Vancouver, Canada
• Day 2 | May 14: sea day
• Day 3 | May 15: Ketchikan (6:30am to 3pm)
• Day 4 | May 16: Juneau (8am to 9:15pm)
• Day 5 | May 17: Skagway (6am to 8:30pm)
• Day 6 | May 18: Glacier Bay National Park scenic cruising sea day
• Day 7 | May 19: College Fjord scenic cruising sea day
• Day 8 | May 20: Whittier

Day 1: Vancouver embarkation day

Be out on the open deck as the cruise ship is sailing away from Vancouver cruise port!

The cruise ship will sail right under the iconic Lion’s Gate Bridge of Vancouver !

If you have time before your cruise boarding time , you might be able to go to Granley Square to see your cruise ship!

The Princess cruise ship I was boarding could be seen from here, but not all cruise ships will dock in this spot which means not all cruise ships can be seen from Granley Square.

I walked from Granley Square to the cruise port and saw another angle of the cruise ship.

Day 2: sea day (May 14)

Day 3: Ketchikan cruise port (May 15: 6:30am to 3pm)

My plan for Ketchikan cruise port:

• morning: Snorkel Alaska tour
• after tour: Saxman Park totem poles on my own

Snorkeling in Alaska?!?!?!

I was VERY nervous about this, and even upon booking the tour, I was immediately having regrets!

But to reassure myself, I read all the reviews (again), and basically everyone who mentions the water temperature says that you will not be cold because you’ll be wearing a wetsuit and other cold water swimming gear!

And, even as someone that gets cold easily, I must agree!! 

For most of the time in the water, the water temperature didn’t even occur to me!

It was a water temperature of 50 degrees.

I was excited about seeing tons of small little clear jellyfish. And I saw a couple of red ones too.

I was also excited about seeing so many starfish.

Plus, I got the experience of cold water swimming and snorkeling in Alaska!

After the snorkeling tour, Saxman Park was on the way back to the cruise port, so I got dropped off there.

Saxman Park is one of the places in Ketchikan to see totem poles.

Then I took a bus back to the cruise port.

If you have time, I liked Totem Bight State Historical Park better, possibly because it felt like you were surrounded by nature more.

I went to Totem Bight State Historical Park by bus on my previous cruise ship arrival to Ketchikan.

My plan for my previous cruise to Ketchikan:

• morning: Totem Bight State Historical Park on my own ( Ketchikan bus )
• afternoon: Misty Fjords National Monument seaplane tour with Island Wings
• late afternoon:  Creek Street on my own

Read about Ketchikan:

• Things to do in Ketchikan
• Best Ketchikan excursions
• Best cruise ports to see totem poles in Alaska

Day 4: Juneau cruise port (May 16: 8am to 9:15pm)

My plan for Juneau cruise port:

• morning: Juneau whale watching tour (Princess excursion)
• afternoon: Mendenhall Glacier tour by canoe + hike with Liquid Alaska

Juneau is known as one of the best Alaska cruise ports for whale watching , so if you want to go whale watching, Juneau can be it!

There are different types of boat tours, and I chose a whale watching tour that had less people.

There were around 20 people on the boat.

With a cruise port pick-up, we took a shuttle to Auke Bay to get on a boat to go see whales.

You know the pictures you see in all the whale watching advertisements?!

Well, it’s actually quite rare to see whales like that.

Still, I was happy with what I saw.

Especially since I got a picture of a whale with its mouth open!

We also saw sea lions on a buoy.

I talked to someone who went on a different whale watching tour and their boat went past a whole bunch of harbor seals. I saw the picture and it looked really cool. I wish our boat had gone by it!

The thing about wildlife watching tours is that wildlife sightings are not guaranteed! At least, the variety that you will see.

Most whale watching tours in Juneau do seem to have a guarantee that you will see at least one whale. Although this doesn’t mean that you are guaranteed to get a GREAT sighting. 🤪

But this is just how it goes with wildlife viewing! Patience is required. And that’s also what makes it so exciting when you do see wildlife, whether it’s in the water or on land!

The Mendenhall Glacier is one of the most popular things to do in Juneau.

Most people will go to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center to get a distant view of the glacier.

This glacier is retreating which means that it continues to get further and further away year after year.

I did a canoe tour across the lake to get a closer look at the glacier.

You can’t actually walk on the glacier (it seems you used to be able to), but I thought this experience was so great.

We paddled the canoe to shore near the Mendenhall Glacier which means that we got closer to the glacier than the vast majority of people do.

We also got to see blue ice.

There was another tour group who was there about an hour earlier than us, and they were able to witness a big chunk of ice fall off the Mendenhall Glacier into the water!

Our tour guide was in touch with another tour guide and showed us the video.

This process of ice falling off a glacier is called calving, and calving is one of the best Alaska glacier experiences you can see!

Your best chance to see calving on a cruise from Vancouver to Anchorage is at Margerie Glacier in Glacier Bay National Park! You might also see this at Harvard Glacier in College Fjord.

You can do a Mendenhall Lake canoe tour without a shore landing, but I think it’s better if you had the short walkaround!

This was one of my favorite tours that I did during my 2 Alaska cruises.

My plan for my previous cruise to Juneau:

• morning + lunch: Taku Lodge Feast & 5-Glacier Seaplane Discovery with Taku Lodge Wings Airways (Princess shore excursion)
• afternoon + evening: Mendenhall Glacier and Nugget Falls on my own (Juneau bus)

Read more about Juneau:

• Things to do in Juneau
• Best Juneau excursions
• Best cruise ports for whale watching in Alaska

Day 5: Skagway cruise port (May 17: 6am to 8:30pm)

My plan for Skagway cruise port:

• morning: Skagway dog sledding on a glacier + helicopter tour with Temsco Helicopters (Princess excursion)
• afternoon: Yakutania point hike on my own
• see more: Things to do in Skagway

This is the only day that didn’t go according to plan because a delayed water shuttle in Skagway caused me to miss the morning excursion. That excursion was moved to the late afternoon, so I did the hike before the excursion.

The absolutely most popular thing to do in Skagway cruise port is the White Pass train.

There are different types of combination tours that you can do that includes the White Pass railway.

Skagway is one of the best cruise ports for a helicopter tour.

If you’re thinking about doing a helicopter tour, I recommend doing one that includes some sort of landing. It makes the experience that much more special!

Like… dog sledding! You can make it a helicopter tour with dog sledding on a glacier!

Skagway is also one of the best cruise ports for dog sledding in Alaska .

There are also hikes in Skagway that you can do on your own for free.

My plan for my previous cruise to Skagway:

• morning: White Pass Rail & Klondike Highway (Princess shore excursion)
• afternoon: Glacier Discovery by Helicopter with Temsco Helicopters (Princess shore excursion)

Read more about Skagway:

• Things to do in Skagway
• Best Skagway excursions
• Best cruise ports for dog sledding in Alaska

Day 6: Glacier Bay National Park scenic cruising sea day (May 18: 6:15am to 3:15pm)

My plan for Glacier Bay National Park cruise day:

• be outside as much as possible!

If you aren’t going to be doing any excursions during your Alaska cruise, then you must make sure that you choose an Alaska cruise itinerary that includes Glacier Bay National Park!

On Glacier Bay National Park day, national park rangers will board the cruise ship by arriving on a small boat.

Then they will be on the cruise ship the entire time that you are in Glacier Bay National Park.

Sailing into Glacier Bay, one of the most anticipated spots is Margerie Glacier where the cruise ship will be spending some time at.

The hope is that you will get to witness the calving of an Alaska glacier!

That is, you might get a chance to see huge chunks of ice fall off the glacier to make a big splash into the water!

Since I didn’t bring binoculars with me, the thing that was nice about the Majestic Princess that my previous ship didn’t have (Sapphire Princess) was the binoculars.

I saw a couple of people try to take pictures of what they were seeing through the binoculars.

Does that work?!

Yes, yes it does. 🤣

As we were leaving Glacier Bay, Mark the naturalist onboard said to be on the lookout for a glacier as we are sailing into the Gulf of Alaska.

So, I was on the lookout and took pictures through the binoculars of the glacier!

And then we were back sailing out on the open water of the Pacific Ocean!

Or, more accurately, the Gulf of Alaska.

Day 7: Sea day with evening of College Fjord scenic cruising (May 19: 6pm to 8:30pm)

College Fjord was the first rainy day of the cruise.

Welcome to Alaska!

Day 8: Whittier disembarkation day (May 20)

My plan for Whittier disembarkation day:

• get off the cruise ship as late as possible (9:30am)
• 26 glacier boat tour during the day
• evening train from whittier to anchorage

I wanted to take the train from Whittier to Anchorage, so this meant that I needed an overnight in Anchorage.

Whittier doesn’t seem to really have much to do, so the best thing to do to “pass time” seemed to be the 26 glacier cruise.

Well, it did more than pass time!

Even though it went to College Fjord, same as the cruise ship, seeing College Fjord from a smaller boat was a completely different experience!

It also did go to a couple other places the cruise ship didn’t go to.

The tour company for the 26 glacier tour coordinates their timings to match the train and cruise ships.

I got on the train to Anchorage right after the tour.

Read more about Whittier:

• 26 glacier cruise
• Whittier to Anchorage train

How much does a cheap Alaska cruise from Vancouver to Anchorage cost?

This Alaska cruise that I did was early in the Alaska cruise season, so it was on the “cheaper” side.

That said, when looking at Alaska cruises, you don’t just want to look at the base rate that’s displayed on the website!

Along with the port fees and taxes, the cheapest Alaska cruises will be an inside cabin.

It’s often said that if you’re going to splurge on a balcony on a cruise, then it’s for an Alaska cruise.

But of course, it depends on your priorities, and it’s how you want to spend your cruise.

For example, if you are seriously considering getting a balcony, then maybe instead of spending that money on a balcony, you’d rather spend it on an epic Alaska cruise excursion… like a dog sledding tour in Alaska !

You also may want to budget extra money separately for the best Alaska excursions.

But, just to give you an idea, I took screenshots of what the cost of my Alaska cruise was showing up as less than 3 weeks before departure.

The cruise started on May 13, and the cost of the Alaska cruise displayed below is for an inside cabin that you could book on April 23.

And that’s a bit about my one-way northbound Alaska cruise!

HAPPY CRUISING FROM VANCOUVER TO ANCHORAGE!

• Best whale watching in Alaska
• Best dog sledding in Alaska (on a glacier, on snow, in summer!)
• Snorkeling in Alaska 😂
• Deadliest Catch tour (as seen on TV!)
• Juneau icefield seaplane + Taku Glacier Lodge salmon bake
• Nugget Falls in Tongass National Forest (Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area)
• Helicopter + glacier walk to see blue ice
• Klondike Highway to Fraser BC + White Pass summit train
• What I did on another Skagway cruise ship arrival: Dog sledding and Yakutania Point
• Totem Bight State Historical Park
• Misty Fjords National Monument Wilderness seaplane + wilderness landing
• Creek Street
• Icy Strait Point to Hoonah
• Sitka National Historical Park totem poles
• Things to do in Sitka
• What is it like: Glacier Bay National Park from a cruise ship
• This was not available on my early season cruise: Hubbard Glacier excursion (yes, you can get off the ship on a sea day! available until early September... if it's not already sold out!)
• Tips for first Princess cruise (getting familiar with Princess food + more!)
• Ideas for your first Alaska cruise

Protect Your Trip »

The 13 most affordable alaska cruises for 2024 & beyond.

Book your Alaska cruise during one of the best promotions of the year.

The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises

Courtesy of Holland America Line

There's no better time than now to book your dream vacation to The Great Land. Cruise vacations are more popular than ever, and affordable cruises are getting harder to find – especially for beloved destinations like Alaska.

Cruisers can nab some of the lines' best deals of the year during wave season. This period, which extends from January to March, refers to the "tidal wave" of lower pricing across the cruising industry during this time. Some cruise lines even kick off their sales in December, so it's advisable to begin your search for discounted pricing early.

Below, we've included some of the best Alaska cruise deals available right now for sailings in 2024 and 2025. All quoted prices are per person for double occupancy and were accurate at the time of writing. Keep in mind: Each itinerary may be available on multiple dates; we've listed the date with the lowest starting price to get you the best value.

Read on to explore the top options for an affordable Alaska cruise.

Find your perfect cruise

Holland America Line

Holland America's "Time of Your Life" wave season deal features up to 40% off bookings for select sailings from summer 2024 through spring 2025; the sale ends at the end of February. You can also add the premium "Have It All" bundle. This added perk features a signature drink package , specialty dining, shore excursions and Wi-Fi access. The exact pricing and benefits of the package depend on the length of the cruise. The wave season pricing also features a complimentary stateroom upgrade, reduced deposits, and free or discounted fares for kids.

7-Day Glacier Discovery Southbound

Holland America's seven-day voyage aboard Noordam includes an afternoon cruising in Hubbard Glacier and a full day of sailing through picturesque Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve. The ship also calls on the ports of Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, with one additional day of scenic cruising on the Inside Passage, before disembarking in Vancouver. Plan to stay an extra day in Vancouver to explore on your own, or opt for a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour with Holland America (complete with luggage service and an airport transfer) before taking a flight home later that evening.

This southbound itinerary is also available on May 25, 2025, aboard Nieuw Amsterdam , starting at $679 per person.

7-Day Alaska Inside Passage

This round-trip sailing on Zaandam from Vancouver highlights the Inside Passage with a day of scenic cruising, plus a limited stop in Tracy Arm Inlet for excursions, before reaching the coastal towns of Juneau and Skagway. Then, you'll enjoy another day of scenic cruising in Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, followed by a stop in Ketchikan and cruising the Inside Passage before disembarking in Vancouver .

The Tracy Arm fjord features glacier-covered mountains and the largest intact coastal temperate rainforest in the country. It is also home to abundant wildlife, including whales, harbor seals, bald eagles, bears and mountain goats. Book the Tracy Arm Fjord & Glacier Explorer excursion to see the majestic beauty of the Tracy Arm wilderness and the twin Sawyer Glaciers up close. You might even see and hear ice calving into the pristine waters. You'll cruise through Stephens Passage on your way back to meet the ship in Juneau.

Zaandam sails this itinerary in 2025, as well. The lowest fare starts at $629 per person for the voyage on May 14, 2025.

Princess Cruises

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises' wave season deals feature up to 40% off cruise prices, complimentary room upgrades, $100 deposits, and free fares for third and fourth guests in the same stateroom or suite. The advertised fares on the Princess Cruises website are for the line's MedallionClass experience, which includes dining at the complimentary onboard restaurants, entertainment on the ship, fitness facilities, and the youth and teen clubs. You can add optional upgrades, such as a beverage package, specialty dining, shore excursions and Wi-Fi access, either individually or with a Princess Plus or Princess Premier package.

7-Day Voyage of the Glaciers with Glacier Bay (Northbound)

Princess' seven-day itinerary aboard Grand Princess features the lowest available fare for the line's 2024 Alaska season. The itinerary starts with a relaxing sea day, followed by stops in three ports of call in Alaska: Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway. You'll also have two days of scenic cruising in Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve and College Fjord before disembarking in Whittier, near Anchorage .

The southbound voyage (which is the reverse itinerary) on Grand Princess departs May 15, 2024, from Anchorage and also starts at $398 per person. Or, you can sail that southbound itinerary on Sapphire Princess on May 18, 2024, for the same price.

In 2025, you can book this itinerary on Caribbean Princess for as low as $467 per person, embarking on May 10, 2025.

7-Day Inside Passage (Roundtrip Vancouver)

This shoulder season sailing in September is available on Grand Princess. The round-trip voyage from Vancouver features two days at sea; one day of scenic cruising in Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier; and stops in the coastal towns of Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan. While on the ship, spend warmer days outdoors relaxing at The Sanctuary, an adults-only venue. You can also experience one of the line's Discovery at SEA enrichment programs on board, or book one of the affiliated excursions ashore.

This Grand Princess itinerary is also available on May 27, 2025, for as low as $547 per person.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian's current "Free At Sea" promotion includes a free unlimited open bar package, free specialty dining, free shore excursions and complimentary Wi-Fi access. You'll also find additional deals like 50% off deposits, free third and fourth guests (or $99 per additional person, depending on the sailing), and free airfare for a second guest. Be sure to check the terms and conditions before booking a Norwegian sailing.

7-Day Alaska: Hubbard Glacier & Skagway

Norwegian's sailing from Seward to Vancouver on Norwegian Jewel features two days cruising through Hubbard Glacier, where you'll be able to book the Hubbard Glacier & Wilderness Explorer excursion for an up-close look at North America's largest tidewater glacier. Afterward, the ship calls on Icy Strait Point, Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan (Ward Cove).

In Ketchikan, reserve a spot for the Alaskan Cultural & Lumberjack Show Experience, which includes an entertaining show, a chance to learn about Alaska Native culture, and a tasting of local food and wines. Alaska also offers some of the best fishing conditions in North America, so anglers may want to consider booking a private excursion to go fishing for halibut or salmon. After several days in port, enjoy one more day of scenic cruising through the Inside Passage before disembarking in Vancouver.

In 2025, the seven-day Hubbard Glacier & Skagway itinerary will sail from Vancouver to Whittier. The lowest fare for this cruise starts at $529 per person aboard the Norwegian Jade on May 5, 2025.

7-Day Alaska: Glacier Bay, Skagway & Juneau

This sailing on Norwegian Jewel departs from Vancouver and includes three sea days cruising the Inside Passage, Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve and Hubbard Glacier. The itinerary also calls on the ports of Ketchikan (Ward Cove), Juneau and Skagway.

The 13-mile-long Mendenhall Glacier is one of the top attractions in Juneau, and the line offers a variety of excursions to view the impressive ice sheet. For a bucket list adventure, splurge on the helicopter and dog-sledding excursion to Mendenhall Glacier from Skagway. You can also opt for another once-in-a-lifetime trip: a flightseeing tour by floatplane. You'll fly into the wilderness, kayak across a stream and then hike the surface of the Norris Glacier, a remote glacier in the Coast Mountains that's only accessible by plane or on foot.

If you're looking forward to 2025, you can book a similar itinerary from Whittier to Vancouver on April 28, 2025, starting at $499 per person on Norwegian Jade.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Celebrity Cruises

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity's 2024 wave season includes flash sales with offers like 75% off the second guest on nonrefundable deposit rates and a 50% discount with refundable deposit fares. Other deals may include free upgrades, depending on the sailing. Refer to the Celebrity Cruises website for the current promotions, or consult with a cruise specialist for the best deals and pricing.

7-Night Alaska Southbound Glacier

This mid-May itinerary on Celebrity Summit is currently the line's lowest-priced Alaska cruise for the 2024 season. The one-way sailing from Seward includes a day of scenic cruising around Hubbard Glacier: one of Alaska's most beautiful natural treasures at 7 miles wide, 76 miles long and an impressive 30 stories high. The ship also calls on ports in Juneau, Skagway, Icy Strait Point and Ketchikan, with an additional full day cruising the Inside Passage, before disembarking in Vancouver.

For 2025, this same itinerary currently starts at $649 per person for the May 16 sailing on Celebrity Summit.

7-Night Alaska Northbound Glacier

The reverse itinerary of the southbound voyage above, this cruise offers similar ports of call and sea days, except you'll stop in Sitka rather than Skagway. This sailing is also on Celebrity Summit. During your time in Icy Strait Point, consider a whale watching excursion; you are guaranteed to see whales (or receive your money back) on one of the tours departing from their shores. In Sitka, take a guided hike to explore the beautiful Tongass National Forest or a tour to learn about the Tlingit culture. This outing includes a visit to local totem artists and a beer meister, as well as a sampling of regional foods at a popular restaurant.

Or, consider a comparable cruise aboard Celebrity Summit on May 9 or May 23, 2025. Fares start at $649 per person.

Royal Caribbean International

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean's current deal features up to $600 in onboard credit, 60% off the second guest and kids sail free fares . The line offers sales throughout the year, so you can check back to see what promotions are available at a later date, or contact a cruise specialist for additional specials. Below, you'll find the lowest fares currently available for Royal Caribbean sailings in Alaska.

7-Night Northbound Alaska & Hubbard Glacier

Royal Caribbean's one-way sailing aboard Radiance of the Seas features scenic cruising along the Inside Passage and Hubbard Glacier, as well as stops in the ports of Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Sitka and Skagway. Consider booking a ride on the White Pass and Yukon Route while in Skagway: The historic narrow-gauge railway offers a picturesque ride through Alaska's wilderness, with views of White Pass.

The reverse itinerary, the Southbound Alaska & Hubbard Glacier voyage, is also available on Radiance of the Seas; prices start at $339 per person for the May 10, 2024, sailing. In 2025, the May 30 northbound itinerary aboard Radiance of the Seas currently begins at $680 per person.

7-Night Alaska Experience Cruise

This round-trip voyage from Seattle on Quantum of the Seas calls on Sitka, Skagway and Juneau in Alaska. It also makes a late afternoon stop in Victoria, British Columbia , where you can plan to have dinner that evening. You'll have two days at sea for relaxing or enjoying all the activities and attractions on the ship, including the RipCord by iFLY skydiving simulator, robotic bartenders and live performances with aerial entertainers. You can also take a ride on the FlowRider surf simulator, surrounded by snowcapped mountain views and calving glaciers.

In 2025, this round-trip voyage from Seattle on Quantum of the Seas starts at $840 per person for the Sept. 8 voyage.

Carnival Cruise Line

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

This cruise line advertises limited-time promotional rates and deals throughout the year. You can join Carnival 's VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) Club to unlock even more deals and additional perks. Current specials include reduced deposits, up to 35% off fares, free room upgrades, onboard credit and discounts for families traveling in the same stateroom.

7-Day Alaska from Seattle

This seven-day voyage on Carnival Spirit sails round-trip from Seattle and features one day to explore the ship while at sea, plus a scenic cruising day in Tracy Arm Fjord. Ports of call include Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, as well as a late evening stop in Victoria before you disembark the next day in Seattle. For your day in Ketchikan, consider booking the award-winning Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour on the famed Aleutian Ballad from the Discovery Channel show, "Deadliest Catch."

This itinerary is also offered on Carnival Luminosa . If you are sailing in 2025, you can book the same seven-day cruise starting at $609 per person for the April 14 voyage on Carnival Spirit.

Shorter cruises

A shorter cruise may be an attractive option if you don't have extensive vacation time or you prefer to spend a few days ashore before or after your sailing. If kids are in tow for the adventure – and it's your first time cruising with them – you might also want fewer days at sea to test the waters (literally). See our pick of competitively priced four- and five-night Alaska cruises, below.

Princess Cruises: 4-Day Alaska Sampler

This 2025 cruise aboard Discovery Princess includes one port of call, Ketchikan, and two days at sea between Vancouver and Seattle. This 4-Day Alaska Sampler itinerary is also offered on May 13, 2025, on Royal Princess , with a starting price of $327 per person. The reverse itinerary (Seattle to Vancouver) is offered on May 23, 2025, on Grand Princess; pricing starts at $347 per person.

Princess Cruises: 5-Day Alaska Sampler

If you want to sail with Princess for one extra day, consider booking the five-day sampler cruise sailing round-trip from Vancouver. This early season itinerary aboard Caribbean Princess calls on Sitka and Ketchikan, offering more time ashore to explore these two popular coastal towns along Alaska's Inside Passage. Guests will also have two sea days to enjoy activities and dining experiences on the ship.

How to find the best Alaska cruise deals

Book during wave season.

As previously mentioned, you can take advantage of some of the best deals of the year during wave season. Promotions offered during wave season include lower cruise fares, reduced deposits and onboard credits. You can also find special rates (or free fares) for the third and fourth guests in the same room, making this the perfect time to book a family cruise.

In addition, look for discounts on higher-level staterooms and suites, or even accommodations in exclusive areas of the ship, such as The Haven on Norwegian Cruise Line or The Retreat on Celebrity Cruises. These private spaces offer swanky extras like luxurious accommodations, all-inclusive pricing , butler service, a team of attendants and concierge service, as well as private restaurants, lounges and pools. With lower pricing, wave season may be the best time to splurge on a cruise vacation in one of these upscale enclaves.

Promotional pricing beyond wave season

If you miss booking your cruise during wave season, don't panic. Many lines offer special pricing and flash sales throughout the year and advertise lower fares for voyages during Alaska's shoulder seasons, which fall in May and September.

"You will always find the more affordable Alaska cruises toward the beginning and end of the season. This year, the Alaska cruise season begins in April and continues through October," says Chris Gray Faust, executive editor of Cruise Critic. She adds, "The challenge with shoulder season Alaska cruises is that the weather might not be the best – it can snow in Alaska in April and early May – and in the fall, the nights will be longer (although, there is a chance you might see northern lights )."

In addition to giving up the warmer summer weather (and possibly having snow), you may also miss some optimal wildlife viewing opportunities if you cruise early or late in the season. For example, the peak time for bear-watching excursions extends from mid-June to mid-August, which falls during the height of the Alaska cruise season in July and August.

If you're looking for other ways to save money on your cruise, Gray Faust advises that older ships also provide more value when you're looking for deals.

It's important to note that a few of this year's wave deals extend just until the end of February 2024, so you'll need to refer to the individual cruise line websites to see the exact dates for the special offers. You may also be able to find lower prices on some discount and aggregator sites, like Cruise Critic, Cruises.com and Priceline.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship, including the newest megaships, traditional masted sailing ships, river ships in Europe and a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica. She has cruised to Alaska and visited The Great Land in the summer, fall and winter, and journeyed to remote areas by bush plane above the Arctic Circle. She used her knowledge of Alaska cruises and extensive research to write this article. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska
• Alaska Cruise Packing List: Must-Have Items
• The Top Alaska Cruise Lines
• The Top Northern Lights Alaska Cruises
• The Top Alaska Shore Excursions

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Alaska Vacations , Budget Travel

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Alaska Cruises from Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver, a bustling coastal city on Canada's west coast, serves as an ideal departure port for your Alaska cruise, offering a seamless blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. As you prepare to embark on your Alaskan voyage, Vancouver sets the stage with its stunning waterfront, breathtaking mountain views, and diverse cultural scene. This dynamic city perfectly complements the adventure that awaits you in the Last Frontier. Explore a variety of Alaska cruises in 2024 departing from Vancouver , including itineraries from Celebrity Cruises , Crystal Cruises , Cunard Cruise Line , Disney Cruise Line , Holland America Line , Hurtigruten , Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) , Oceania Cruises , Princess Cruises , Regent Seven Seas Cruises (RSSC) , Royal Caribbean , Seabourn Cruise Line , Silversea Cruises , and Viking Ocean Cruises , among the most well-known cruise lines. Ships usually depart from the Vancouver Cruise Terminal in the late afternoon, allowing ample time for passengers to check-in and settle aboard their cruise ship.

The best time to take cruises from Vancouver

The best time to visit Vancouver and embark on your Alaskan cruise is during the summer months, from June to September. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions, with mild temperatures and longer daylight hours. It also aligns with the peak season for Alaskan cruises, ensuring optimal weather and a vibrant atmosphere in the city. Explore cruises from that depart in the months of April 2024 , May 2024 , June 2024 , July 2024 , August 2024 , and September 2024 .

Duration of cruises from Vancouver

Cruise Lines offer itineraries from Vancouver that range from 5 to 17 days. You can choose cruises lasting from 5-day cruise , 6-day cruise , 7-day cruise , 8-day cruise , 9-day cruise , 10-day cruise , 11-day cruise , 12-day cruise , 13-day cruise , 14-day cruise , and 17-day cruise , depending on the length of your holiday.

Cruise to Alaska from Vancouver Schedule 2024

The ship schedule for the year 2024 includes numerous exciting voyages from Vancouver, the picturesque capital city of Alaska, to various enchanting destinations across the beautiful state. Embark on an unforgettable journey aboard luxurious cruise ships, and experience the breathtaking natural wonders, rich wildlife, and charming coastal towns that Alaska has to offer. Explore magnificent glaciers, witness majestic humpback whales, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and history of this remarkable region. Whether you're seeking thrilling adventures, serene landscapes, or cultural encounters, the ship schedule for 2024 from Vancouver to Alaska promises an extraordinary travel experience filled with unforgettable memories.

Vancouver, with its stunning waterfront, vibrant cityscape, and rich cultural scene, serves as an exceptional departure port for your Alaskan adventure. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the city, explore its diverse attractions, and savor its culinary delights before setting sail on your voyage through the pristine wilderness of Alaska. From the captivating landscapes of the city to the wonders of the Last Frontier, Vancouver sets the stage for an unforgettable cruise experience.

8-day Alaska cruise from Vancouver

Grand princess, princess cruises.

Date: April 30, 2024

Ports of Call: Vancouver, Sitka, Juneau, Skagway, Dawes Glacier, Ketchikan, Vancouver; View Itinerary

14-day Alaska cruise from Vancouver

Seabourn odyssey, seabourn cruise line.

Date: June 28, 2024

Ports of Call: Vancouver, Queen Charlotte Strait, Ketchikan, Sitka, Hubbard Glacier, Icy Strait, Haines, Juneau, Tracy Arm, Wrangell, Misty Fjords, Prince Rupert, Whale Channel, Alert Bay, Vancouver; View Itinerary

7-day Alaska cruise from Vancouver

Seven seas explorer, regent seven seas cruises.

Date: July 24, 2024

Ports of Call: Vancouver, Inside Passage, Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Icy Strait, Hubbard Glacier, Seward; View Itinerary

17-day Alaska cruise from Vancouver

Ms roald amundsen, hurtigruten.

Date: July 19, 2024

Ports of Call: Vancouver, Nome, St. Matthew Island, St. Paul, Dutch Harbor, Unga Island, Chignik, Katmai National Park, Kodiak, Icy Bay, Sitka, Wrangell, Misty Fjords, Inside Passage, Vancouver; View Itinerary

Sapphire Princess, Princess Cruises

Date: August 17, 2024

Ports of Call: Vancouver, Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay, College Fjord, Whittier, Hubbard Glacier, Glacier Bay, Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, Vancouver; View Itinerary

Date: July 26, 2024

10-day Alaska cruise from Vancouver

Viking orion, viking ocean cruises.

Date: August 2, 2024

Ports of Call: Vancouver, Inside Passage, Ketchikan, Sitka, Juneau, Skagway, Icy Strait, Yakutat Bay, Valdez, Seward, Seward; View Itinerary

Date: July 6, 2024

Date: July 12, 2024

Ports of Call: Vancouver, Queen Charlotte Strait, Ketchikan, Sitka, Hubbard Glacier, Icy Strait, Haines, Juneau; View Itinerary

Date: July 13, 2024

Disney Wonder, Disney Cruise Line

Date: July 1, 2024

Ports of Call: Vancouver, Stikine Icecap, Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, Vancouver; View Itinerary

Norwegian Jewel, Norwegian Cruise Line

Date: August 5, 2024

Koningsdam, Holland America Line

Date: September 7, 2024

Ports of Call: Vancouver, Inside Passage, Tracy Arm, Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay, Ketchikan, Inside Passage, Vancouver; View Itinerary

Celebrity Solstice, Celebrity Cruises

Date: May 12, 2024

Ports of Call: Vancouver, Inside Passage, Icy Strait, Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, Inside Passage, Vancouver; View Itinerary

Royal Princess, Princess Cruises

Date: June 29, 2024

Ports of Call: Vancouver, Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay, College Fjord, Whittier, Hubbard Glacier, Glacier Bay, Icy Strait, Juneau, Ketchikan, Vancouver; View Itinerary

13-day Alaska cruise from Vancouver

Queen elizabeth, cunard cruise line.

Date: September 9, 2024

Ports of Call: Vancouver, Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay, Hubbard Glacier, Sitka, Victoria, Vancouver, San Francisco; View Itinerary

Silver Nova, Silversea Cruises

Date: July 4, 2024

Ports of Call: Vancouver, Inside Passage, Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, Hubbard Glacier, Seward; View Itinerary

Date: July 22, 2024

Ports of Call: Vancouver, Ketchikan, Endicott Arm, Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay, Wrangell, Victoria, Vancouver; View Itinerary

Norwegian Spirit, Norwegian Cruise Line

Date: July 17, 2024

Ports of Call: Vancouver, Inside Passage, Icy Strait, Juneau, Skagway, Hubbard Glacier, Valdez, Seward; View Itinerary

Date: August 14, 2024

Date: July 8, 2024

Ports of Call: Vancouver, Stikine Icecap, Icy Strait, Juneau, Ketchikan, Vancouver; View Itinerary

Date: June 10, 2024

5-day Alaska cruise from Vancouver

Ports of Call: Vancouver, Stikine Icecap, Ketchikan, Vancouver; View Itinerary

Noordam, Holland America Line

Date: June 9, 2024

Ports of Call: Vancouver, Inside Passage, Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay, College Fjord, Whittier; View Itinerary

Date: June 2, 2024

Ports of Call: Vancouver, Inside Passage, Icy Strait, Hubbard Glacier, Juneau, Ketchikan, Inside Passage, Vancouver; View Itinerary

Ruby Princess, Princess Cruises

Date: May 7, 2024

Ports of Call: Vancouver, Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay, Ketchikan, Vancouver; View Itinerary

Brilliance of the Seas, Royal Caribbean

Date: July 14, 2024

Ports of Call: Vancouver, Inside Passage, Sitka, Juneau, Icy Strait, Tracy Arm, Inside Passage, Vancouver; View Itinerary

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Alaska Cruises From Vancouver

Get closer to awe-inspiring wildlife, charming coastal towns and magnificent glaciers on Alaska cruises from Vancouver. Find one-way and roundtrip cruises to Alaska with convenient weekend departures from Vancouver’s dazzling waterfront. Explore Glacier Bay National Park or Hubbard Glacier on our Inside Passage cruises. Take a Glacier Discovery voyage to glide several of Alaska’s most dramatic icescapes. Or go to the seldom-visited Kodiak Island, home of the famous Kodiak bears on our Great Alaskan Explorer. Continue the exploration on ship with local insights and onboard programming. Read on to plan cruises from Vancouver to Alaska and beyond.

Featured Alaska Cruises From Vancouver

See the World From Your Doorstep

Things to do in vancouver.

Find the best things to do before or after your cruise from Vancouver.

Stanley Park

Vancouver Aquarium

More details about cruises from vancouver, vancouver at a glance.

• When was Vancouver founded?  April 6, 1886 
• Where is Vancouver located?  Located in the southwest corner of British Columbia, Canada. 
• What is the population of Vancouver?  631,486 according to the 2016 Canada Census 
• What language is primarily spoken?  English 
• Vancouver, BC, Canada is GMT/UTC - 8h during Standard Time
• Vancouver, BC, Canada is GMT/UTC - 7h during Daylight Saving Time
• What currency is used in Vancouver, BC, Canada?  CAD (Canadian Dollar)

Travel Tips for Vancouver

How do I book a flight to Vancouver?  At Holland America we offer cruise travelers low prices on their flights. Please see more information on our  Flight Ease program here .

Where should I stay when cruising from Vancouver? We offer hotel packages to our already booked guests. For more information, visit our  hotel packages and pre- or post-travel arrangements .

What are some of the top places to see in Vancouver?  Visit our  Vancouver Port page  for more information on our top travel recommendations.

Port Information

What should I expect boarding to like for my cruise departing Vancouver, BC, Canada?   Please visit our  cruise preparation FAQ  for information on how to access or print boarding passes, how to check in online, and to see if you need a passport.

Can I book an airport shuttle to my cruise?   Book an airport transfer from the airport to your ship after you book a cruise with Holland America Line. We make getting to and from your cruise comfortable, convenient and hassle-free. For more information on EXC City Stays & Overland Tours, please visit:  https://www.hollandamerica.com/en_US/pre-post-travel-cruise.html .

Are you an already booked guest with Holland America Line? For booked guests, please see our  travel planning  details on how to book an airport transfer.

Curious about learning more about cruising or want more information?

Please visit our most  frequently asked questions page  on cruise preparation, transportation, safety and security, and more.

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Holland America Line Flight Ease® offers specially negotiated low prices, a convenient and worry-free way to book air travel, late-arrival protection, and the freedom to change your flights with no change fees.

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Life should be celebrated! What better way than with a Holland America Line cruise? Let us create the perfect event while you relax and have the time of your life.

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Here's how you can sail on dozens of Vancouver cruises for $49 a day

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Travellers looking for a cheap Alaskan cruise from Vancouver have a new option for under $50 a day before taxes. 

Holland America Line (HAL) has launched a program that allows flexible travellers to sign up for its standby program enabling them to sail on most routes for a fraction of the regular price. 

HAL Spokesperson Adrienne Carter said the program is ideal for people who live in Vancouver and can take a last-minute cruise from the Canada Place terminal. 

Hundreds of cruises visit the downtown terminal annually, offering dozens of opportunities for possible standby options through HAL's program. While most of these options visit Alaska, a few others journey down the Pacific Coast to California. 

The cruise line has a list of cruises that are eligible for the  Standby List Program .

How much does the standby program cost?

HAL's standby program costs US$49 per person per day or US$98 per stateroom per day before port taxes and fees, regardless of the itinerary. This means you can experience any applicable sailing at a low-cost price. 

Standby guests cannot select a cabin and may be assigned any stateroom category up to a veranda stateroom, based on availability.

Solo travellers won't be charged a double-capacity premium, meaning they only need to pay the $49 fee. If they travel with third or fourth guests, they'll stay free (but they must pay taxes and port expenses). 

For example, a seven-night Alaskan cruise that departs from Vancouver on June 1 and sails through the Inside Passage making stops in Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan before returning home regularly costs $855 for the seven-night sailing before taxes and port fees. However, it is on sale, so travellers can find prices as low as $722. The taxes, fees, and port expenses are an additional $356.73 for this cruise, so the final price works out to $1,078.73 with the sale.

Standby guests can sail for $49 a day for seven days or $343, so the final price is $699.73 with taxes and port expenses. This is an overall savings of $379.

All guests who sail with HAL must pay an additional $17 per diem for "crew appreciation" (gratuities). 

When will I be notified if space becomes available on a sailing?

Prospective passengers will be notified a week to two days before embarkation if they have been accepted for the cruise. 

HAL will notify people who have added their name to the program no less than two days before departure. 

Guests are charged when they sign up for the Standby List. If they are not selected, HAL will process a refund within four to six weeks. However, people who chose not to sail but signed up for the program will be refunded.

What other kinds of destinations can I visit on the standby program?

Aside from round-trip Vancouver Alaskan sailings, and ones that go from Whittier, Alaska to Vancouver, travellers can also find numerous options across North America. 

Three sailings from San Diego to Vancouver feature five-, six-, and seven-day itineraries and make stops in places like Catalina Island and San Francisco. There is even a 20-day option that departs from Fort Lauderdale and sails through the Panama Canal en route to Vancouver. 

There are also options from other ports across the continent but locals would have to include flights to and from these destinations to take advantage of the standby option.

Cruise options will be added to the Standby List weekly .

To join the standby list for your preferred cruise, contact a travel agent or call 877-724-5425.

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6 Top Luxury Alaska Cruises for 2024 & Beyond

C ruising to Alaska on a small luxury ship affords a very different experience than sailing through The Great Land on a larger vessel. On a smaller luxury ship, you'll enjoy the expected perks like fewer passengers and more personalized service – but you'll also physically get closer to the boundless wilderness, abundant wildlife, icy blue glaciers and majestic snow-capped mountains that you've waited a lifetime to see.

While the fares to sail on such vessels are quite a bit higher than those of larger cruise providers, the all-inclusive (or mostly all-inclusive) prices typically include all-suite accommodations with balconies, all meals, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, 24-hour room service, Wi-Fi access, gratuities, welcome bottles of sparkling wine, pillow selection, some shore excursions and butler service. Best of all, you won't feel like you're being nickel-and-dimed while on board. As a special touch, the attentive crew members may even learn your name and memorize your preferred pre-dinner cocktail.

Unlike many mainstream lines, most luxury Alaska cruises do not offer pre- and post-cruise tours to extend your adventure. However, you can plan these experiences on your own through third-party providers.

Alaska Tour & Travel has pre-cruise packages that include visits to Denali National Park & Preserve and the small, quirky Alaska towns of Homer and Talkeetna. You can also see a different side of Alaska via a train ride on the Alaska Railroad, take a national parks tour that includes Kenai Fjords National Park or head northbound to Fairbanks , one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights (if you visit during aurora season, from late August to late April). In addition, the company can plan a self-drive tour from Anchorage to Seward, which includes a stay at a wilderness lodge, helicopter flightseeing over Knik Glacier and guided tours in the parks.

The following luxury cruise lines will ensure you make the most of your voyage in Alaska – one of the most magical destinations on Earth.

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Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises' small luxury ships are designed for adventurers interested in visiting a mix of Alaska's top ports and more rugged, off-the-beaten-track locales. Extended itineraries offer stops in less-visited destinations like the towns of Haines and Wrangell. On board, guests can expect a personalized experience that includes luxurious ocean-view suites with butler service, multiple gourmet dining options, complimentary alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, and attentive service with one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios in the industry.

Base fares for Silversea's 2024 and 2025 Alaska itineraries start at $3,250 per person. If you upgrade to Silversea 's door-to-door fare (which starts at $5,200 per person), you'll receive private chauffeur service from your home to the airport (and back home upon your return) and round-trip flights, with business class upgrades in some destinations.

Silversea also offers immersive pre- and post-cruise land experiences, departing from Seward, Alaska. Highlights include sightseeing flights over Denali National Park & Preserve or into bear country to see Alaska's magnificent grizzly bears. In Vancouver, travelers can take a flightseeing transfer to Victoria to tour the 55-acre Butchart Gardens or board the Rocky Mountaineer for a two-day train ride through the Canadian Rockies.

Silversea's Alaska itineraries extend from May to September, with voyages ranging between seven and 16 days. The line's newest and largest vessel, the 728-passenger Silver Nova , sails its inaugural Alaska season in 2024 along with two smaller ships, Silver Muse (596 guests) and Silver Shadow (392 guests). There are 35 Alaska voyages available in 2024. In 2025, luxury cruisers can hop aboard one of 45 scheduled voyages on either Silver Nova or the 596-guest Silver Moon .

For a seven-day itinerary, consider a sailing from Seward, Alaska, to Vancouver, British Columbia. This voyage cruises the Hubbard Glacier and the Inside Passage and stops in the Alaska towns of Juneau, Skagway, Sitka and Ketchikan. Complimentary excursions in Ketchikan include a tour of Saxman Native Village; a visit to Bonfire Bay Oyster Farm, featuring a sea-to-table oyster tasting; the Alaskan Cultural, Culinary & Lumberjack show; the Alaskan Lodge Adventure & Seafeast and a day as a fisherman aboard the Aleutian Ballard, as seen on Discovery Channel's "The Deadliest Catch." You can also opt for a Selected Shore Excursion (for an additional cost), such as mountain biking or a private fishing trip.

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Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises' elegant Seven Seas Explorer sails the line's Alaska itineraries in 2024 and 2025. The lavish 746-guest ship was coined "The Most Luxurious Ship Ever Built" when it debuted in 2016; among its impressive features are the 3,875-square-foot Regent Suite and a high-end collection of art displayed throughout the ship, including works by Pablo Picasso.

Alaska voyages with Regent in 2024 and 2025 start at $4,799 per person. Upgraded 2-for-1 all-inclusive fares (starting at $5,499 per person) cover elegant all-balcony suite accommodations; round-trip airfare (business class on international flights); a one-night pre-cruise hotel package; free two- or three-night land programs; free unlimited shore excursions; free unlimited beverages (alcoholic and nonalcoholic); complimentary specialty dining; and prepaid gratuities. You'll also receive complimentary airport transfers, unlimited Wi-Fi access and valet laundry service.

Every suite style includes a private balcony, roomy closets and upscale finishes. Concierge Suites (and above) add cozy in-room amenities like cashmere blankets, perfect to bundle up in while you take in the scenery. Meanwhile, Penthouse Suites (and higher) include a private butler who can book excursions, make dinner and spa reservations, unpack your luggage, arrange for a private cocktail soiree in your suite and indulge any other special requests.

Between May and September 2024, Regent sails 22 Alaska voyages. There are 16 Alaska sailings scheduled for the same period in 2025. Itineraries range from seven to 14 nights. For plenty of scenic cruising days, consider a round-trip itinerary from Vancouver departing May 28, 2025. The cruise includes five relaxing days at sea, where you'll enjoy scenic cruising through the Inside Passage (twice), Hubbard Glacier (twice) and Endicott Arm Fjord. Ports of call in Alaska include Wrangell, Juneau , Skagway, Sitka, Seward, Icy Strait (Hoonah) and Ketchikan. You'll also have a full day in Victoria, British Columbia, before returning to Vancouver.

While in Wrangell, consider the Tongass Botanical Forest Walk excursion. Tongass National Forest is the largest national forest in the U.S., with towering old-growth trees and unique flora, fauna and ecosystems. While in the temperate rainforest with your naturalist guide, look for local wildlife like Sitka black-tailed deer, porcupines and birds of prey. Other complimentary excursions at this stop include a round of golf at Muskeg Meadows Golf Course; a canoe trip through Wrangell harbor and nearby islands, and a heritage tour about Tlingit culture and the history of the town.

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Recently relaunched Crystal offers just seven voyages in Alaska aboard Crystal Serenity in July and August 2024. The 740-guest luxury vessel was refurbished in 2023 and features the line's signature top-notch service, elegant interiors and suites, and personal butler service in every room category.

Other perks and amenities include plush bathrobes and Sicily's Ortigia bath products; an impressive passenger-to-crew ratio; prepaid gratuities; complimentary beverages; and outstanding cuisine, including Umi Uma (an exclusive Nobu restaurant at sea, available only on Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony ). Guests can also feast on Italian cuisine at Osteria d'Ovidio; book an exclusive dining experience at The Vintage Room; indulge in Parisian cafe-style fare at The Bistro; opt for American cuisine at Waterside Restaurant or take their pick of several other casual indoor and alfresco options.

Cruisers also have their selection of unique shore experiences curated by Crystal's parent company A&K Travel Group, such as a ride on the world's largest zip line in Hoonah (Icy Strait Point); dog sledding and glacier flightseeing in Skagway; fishing and wilderness dining in Ketchikan and the Wildlife Quest and Fin Island Lodge experience in Sitka, boasting a feast of Alaska king crab and wild salmon.

Crystal offers seven- and eight-night round-trip voyages from Vancouver , as well as one-way cruises from Vancouver or Seward, Alaska. Select itineraries – like the July 30, 2024, voyage from Vancouver to Seward – offer a scenic cruising day in the Seymour Narrows in British Columbia. On this sailing, you'll also enjoy a day at sea cruising Hubbard Glacier, as well as stops in Ketchikan, Sitka, Hoonah (Icy Strait), Skagway and Sitka in Alaska. Or, opt for the July 2, 2024, round-trip sailing from Vancouver for three scenic cruising days in the Inside Passage, Endicott Arm and the Seymour Narrows.

The line's Aug. 13, 2024, round-trip sailing from Vancouver features a special guest: Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio, the executive chairman of A&K Travel Group. As such, the cruise will include an exclusive gala dinner and other unique experiences. Other special voyages welcome marine biologist and National Geographic photographer Flip Nicklin, who will share personal stories from his extensive career and expert insights about humpback whale habitats and behaviors.

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Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking Ocean Cruises' 11-day Alaska & the Inside Passage cruise is available on 11 dates during the 2024 season. It sails from Vancouver to Seward (or the reverse) on the 930-passenger Viking Orion . In 2025, the line offers the same itinerary on 22 dates between May and September, split between Viking Orion and its sister ship, the 930-passenger Viking Sea .

Viking's destination-focused itineraries are curated for travelers who are interested in history, science, culture and cuisine, as they feature onboard enrichment like lectures by Viking's resident historians. You'll also find regionally inspired dishes in The Restaurant and special access to unique tours and excursions ashore.

The line's mostly all-inclusive fares cover accommodations in spacious all-veranda staterooms and suites; beer, wine and soft drinks at lunch and dinner; meals at all the dining venues; one shore excursion in every port; free Wi-Fi access; 24-hour specialty teas, coffees and bottled water; complimentary access to The Nordic Spa & Fitness Center; and other upscale amenities.

Voyages traveling northbound from Vancouver include one day of scenic cruising through the Inside Passage before stopping in Ketchikan, Sitka, Juneau, Skagway and Icy Strait Point in Alaska. The eighth day of the cruise sails through picturesque Yakutat Bay, which includes the Hubbard Glacier. The ship then calls on Valdez, Alaska, before the trip ends with two days in Seward.

While in Valdez, take an optional tour to explore the incredible scenery surrounding the small fishing town. Viking offers a kayaking trip to see the Valdez Glacier; a scenic cruise through picturesque Prince William Sound to view the Columbia Glacier; a wildlife cruise where you can look for humpback whales, orcas, porpoises, sea otters and bald eagles; a helicopter ride over the area's rugged, icy wilderness; or a UTV adventure through the Chugach Mountains to Mineral Creek Canyon.

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Seabourn Cruise Line

Between May and August 2024, Seabourn Cruise Line will host 20 Alaska voyages aboard the Seabourn Odyssey , before the ship leaves the cruise line in the fall. In 2025, the line offers 27 Alaska sailings on Seabourn Quest. Both yacht-inspired ships accommodate up to 458 guests and feature Seabourn's signature all-inclusive amenities, including luxurious oceanfront suites with verandas; personalized service; complimentary fine wines and premium spirits; complimentary dining; and caviar served throughout the sailing. You'll also have a complimentary W-Fi package and an in-suite minibar stocked with your favorite beverages. Ashore, sign up for exclusive programs like shopping for fresh salmon, halibut and Alaska king crab alongside a Seabourn chef.

Guests booking Seabourn Quest for 2025 will be able to sample the line's new dining concept, Solis. Inspired by destinations in the Mediterranean, the menu features a fresh, modern take on traditional dishes and whimsical cocktails. The restaurant is a collaboration with master chef and culinary partner Anton Egger and senior corporate chef Franck Salein. In addition to dishes like salt-encrusted whole branzino and Tuscan-style steak, guests will also find a wide selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes.

The seven-day Alaska Fjords & Canadian Inside Passage itinerary on May 31, 2024, aboard Seabourn Odyssey, sails from Juneau to Vancouver and includes a day in either Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm, depending on the ice conditions. From there, you can take one of the optional guided excursions: Ventures by Seabourn. These tours are an additional cost but offer opportunities for up-close Zodiac, kayaking or catamaran experiences in the wilderness to see glaciers calving and view local wildlife, such as black bears, mountain goats, seals, wolves and seabirds.

You'll also enjoy many days of scenic cruising on this voyage, and have the opportunity for more optional adventures in Rudyerd Bay (Misty Fjords). The ship makes additional stops in Wrangell, Alaska, and Prince Rupert, British Columbia, before disembarking in Vancouver.

If you want to see stunning Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, then consider booking the seven-day Alaska Inside Passage & Glacier Bay sailing on May 10, 2024, from Vancouver to Juneau. This itinerary also includes the Seymour Narrows and Snow Pass, cruising Queen Island Sound and the Lynn Canal. There's a stop for Ventures by Seabourn activities like kayaking and Zodiac rides in the Inian Islands. The Alaska ports of call on this voyage are Ketchikan, Sitka, Icy Strait Point and Haines. You'll disembark in Juneau.

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French luxury expedition line PONANT offers 10 Alaska cruises in 2024; itineraries span between seven and 11 nights. Aboard the 264-guest yacht-style Le Soléal, you'll meet up to 10 naturalist experts and guides specializing in geology, history, ornithology or marine or land mammals. Guests can attend onboard lectures and embark on Zodiac landings with the guides.

The ship features elegant staterooms and suites, a library, a spa, a hair salon and a gym. Guests will be treated to movies in the theater, wine tastings and cooking demonstrations throughout the expedition. All fine dining meals, 24-hour room service, an open bar (including an in-room minibar) and complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi access are covered in the pricing.

Two of PONTANT's eight-night voyages from Vancouver to Sitka are in partnership with Smithsonian Journeys and are curated for English-speaking travelers. Fares for these expeditions include transfers to and from the ship and a shore excursion in each port. On board, you can attend talks and discussions hosted by two Smithsonian Journeys experts: geologist Scott Burns and natural history filmmaker John Grabowska.

On these voyages, there is a sea day after departing Vancouver. You'll cruise through the Johnstone Strait, where you'll have an excellent chance of seeing humpback whales and orcas. After a day spent in the Inside Passage, the ship will call on the village of Metlakatla, Alaska, on the western coast of Annette Island, which is home to the Tsimshians from British Columbia. Other unique Alaska ports of call in this itinerary include the commercial fishing town of Petersburg, the Tlingit village of Kake and the small fishing community of Alfin Cove.

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Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is a U.S. News & World Report contributor and an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times both by land and sea to explore the state's vast wilderness and abundant wildlife, and to chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. Pratesi used her extensive knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises
• The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska
• Alaska Cruise Packing List: Must-Have Items
• The Top Alaska Cruise Lines
• The Top Antarctica Cruises

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

I tried Holland America's 'Have It All' package. For just $55 a day, my cruise felt way more luxurious.

• I tried Holland America Line 's Have It All package on a recent cruise to Alaska.
• For $55 per person per day, we got complimentary drinks, special meals, and other perks.
• The price was so worth it we already booked this package for future cruises. 

Cruise bookings are predicted to reach record levels this year, and travelers are especially interested in luxurious sailings.

But as many of us know, luxury doesn't always equate to value, even when it comes to upgrades and special packages.

So, on our recent cruise to Alaska, my husband and I put one of many cruise packages to the test: Holland America Line's "Have It All" package, which costs $55 per person per day.

It includes perks like a beverage package, ship credit for shore excursions, onboard WiFi, and dinner at specialty restaurants.

Here's why we found it to be such a great value we're going to add it to future cruises.

The beverage package was great, and it included special drinks without alcohol

The biggest perk of the "Have It All" package was the ability to order drinks without worrying about the bill at the end of the cruise.

Our previous cruises had us drinking only tap water, drip coffee, tea, and an occasional glass of wine with dinner to avoid any sticker shock at the end of the trip. We felt restricted in enjoying our vacation.

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But this time, we had the freedom to enjoy ourselves. The "Have It All" package we booked came with 15 drinks a day under $11. If you want a drink over $11, you only pay the difference.

The beverage package also covers non-alcoholic drinks. It was perfect for when we wanted espresso drinks for cold Alaska days or a bottle of water for a shore excursion.

The shore-excursion credit helped push us to have more fun

We knew we had to do a whale-watching excursion in Alaska, but didn't consider booking other excursions due to price. Many of the ones we were interested in cost over $100 per person.

But with the package, we each got credits to use toward shore excursions during our cruise. The value of the credit varies depending on the duration of your cruise — ours was less than 10 days, so we each got a $100 credit.

The $200 worth of credits made us feel more comfortable booking an incredible excursion to kayak the wild waters of Sitka.

We probably would've hesitated to book an excursion and missed an incredible experience if we hadn't felt compelled to use the credits in the package.

Specialty dining helped us celebrate our anniversary

Our "Have it All" packages each included at least one dinner at one of the ship's specialty restaurants. If you're on a longer cruise, this package would get you access to more dinners.

We used our credits to eat at the Pinnacle Grill, known for its premium steaks and intimate dining experience. Our anniversary dinner was extra special because of the access to premium dishes unavailable in the main dining room, five-star service, and a luxurious setting.

WiFi kept us connected

The package included WiFi, which really came in handy as we shared photos with friends and family throughout our trip.

We were able to use the internet to search for whatever we needed and research the highlights to visit at the next port of call.

We've already booked the package for future cruises

For less than what a few drinks cost per day, the package helped us relax, have fun, and enjoy each port of call with a shore excursion. Plus, we got to indulge in the ship's specialty restaurants.

We loved it so much we've already purchased this same package for three future cruises.

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Frugal Traveler

Standby Cruising: A New Option for Bargain Seekers

Are you a flexible traveler? Holland America’s standby cruises may be for you. The cost: $49 a day, excluding fees, taxes and extras. The catch: It might be a hair-raising, last-minute scramble.

By Elaine Glusac

Elaine Glusac is the Frugal Traveler columnist, focusing on budget-friendly tips and journeys.

In February, Barb McGowan took a seven-day cruise on Holland America Line, visiting the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, and the Dominican Republic for just $343, or $49 a day, excluding taxes, port fees and extras. By comparison, Holland America currently lists a seven-day Caribbean itinerary in October from about $700.

The catch: She had just 48 hours’ notice.

Ms. McGown, a 64-year-old from Naples, Fla., who runs a restaurant franchise, took one of the line’s new standby cruises , which are aimed at travelers who live near departure ports and intended to fill ship vacancies.

“I look for deals, and this was an especially good experience,” Ms. McGowan said, praising the food and entertainment. “I was impressed enough to put down a deposit on a future cruise.”

A way to keep ships full

Holland America introduced its standby program last August to maximize ship occupancy, knowing that cancellations are inevitable. So far, the rest of the cruise industry has not followed its lead.

“If cancellations are within a week or two of sailing, it’s difficult to resell that space in the open market,” said Dan Rough, the vice president of revenue management at Holland America.

In the same way that airlines oversell seats, cruise lines may compensate for cancellations by overselling staterooms. Filling in with standbys, however, reduces Holland America’s reliance on overselling, which runs the risk of bumping passengers to distant departures or potentially offering generous cash incentives to coax volunteers to cancel.

Though the company does not heavily promote the new practice, it has attracted a following among the thrifty by dangling a bargain rate — $49 a person, whether sharing a cabin or traveling solo, before taxes and fees — on a web page that lists available departure dates to attract flexible travelers. Standbys should expect an inside cabin, according to the company, though ocean-view and veranda cabins have been assigned. (The company declined to say how many standby cabins it has offered.)

“Forty-nine dollars per person, per day is pretty exceptional,” said Colleen McDaniel, the editor of CruiseCritic.com , a website that reviews cruises, noting that the price covers all meals and entertainment. “You can’t find a cheaper rate at a land resort for what’s included.” (In 2023, the average nightly rate for a hotel room in the United States was nearly $156, according to STR, a data analytics firm that monitors the hospitality industry.)

To participate, travelers choose an itinerary from the standby list on the website — current embarkation ports include Boston; Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; Montreal; Quebec City; San Diego; Seattle; Vancouver, British Columbia; and Whittier, Alaska — and pay for the trip in advance by calling Holland America or booking through a travel adviser.

There are no refunds for standby cruisers who want to back out. However, if the gamble fails to pay off, and the cruise line cannot offer a cabin to someone on the standby list, it issues a refund.

The company says standby offerings are added on a rolling basis and usually lists itineraries within two to three months of departure. Current offerings include seven-day sailings in Alaska’s Inside Passage from April through September and seven-to-11-day trips cruising the coast of New England and Canada’s Maritime Provinces between May and October.

Proximity is a bonus

Standby cruisers don’t learn of their acceptance or denial until a week to two days before departure, complicating transportation arrangements.

“Last-minute airfare could offset the savings on a cruise,” wrote Crystal Seaton, the owner of Road to Relaxation Travel , a travel agency based in Raleigh, N.C., in an email. Though she has not booked a client on a standby sailing yet, she surmised that it is intended for travelers who can drive to a port.

“We were lucky; we found out Tuesday we were going on a Friday 3 p.m. sailing,” said Sheila Valloney, 66, of Clermont, Fla., who with her husband spent nine days aboard a Holland America ship in the southern Caribbean in February by going standby.

Before being cleared, she reserved a parking spot near the ship dock in Fort Lauderdale, which would have set her back about $6 if she canceled. She also kept their vacation clothes ready to go at the last minute for the three-and-a-half-hour drive to port.

Booking a refundable airline ticket — or at least one that guarantees a credit in loyalty points or cash in the event of cancellation — is one way travelers who must fly can take advantage of the deal.

For her standby sailing, Ms. McGowan drove 90 minutes from her home to the ship in Fort Lauderdale. But her travel companion was coming from Indiana, so when she joined the standby list a few months before the departure date, she booked her friend a Southwest Airlines flight using frequent flier points that would be refunded if the last-minute cruise didn’t come through.

Avoiding extra charges

Once on board, charges for extras like cabin upgrades, Wi-Fi, alcohol and shore excursions can inflate the bill, though the thriftiest travelers try to avoid them.

Ms. McGowan sprang for the $17.50-a-day charge for an upgraded drink package (basic nonalcoholic drinks are included in the cruise) and took one shore excursion, focused on coffee growing, which she deemed a good value at $89.

On their Caribbean cruise, the Valloneys asked around for recommendations for good beaches, where they went to relax on port days, and waited until they were on land to check emails, in order to avoid paying for Wi-Fi on the ship.

“We didn’t miss it at all,” Ms. Valloney said. “For beverages, we would wait until happy hour, when it was buy one, get one free.”

Will other companies follow suit?

To date, no other cruise lines have adopted standby programs.

Princess Cruises said it did not plan to offer cabins on a standby basis, but noted that it already offers last-minute deals , which tend to run about $50 to $60 per passenger per day. For example, a seven-day Alaska sailing from Vancouver to Anchorage departing on May 8 is listed at $399 a person in a double-occupancy cabin.

Several other major cruise lines did not respond to inquiries about potentially adopting standby programs, though operators like Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line also offer last-minute deals on their websites.

“We would be surprised to see many mainstream cruise lines begin to adopt a similar model” to the standby system, wrote Kimberly Coyne, the head of sales and content strategy for Cruiseline.com , a cruise review site, in an email. She said the standby fares might be financially unsustainable for cruise lines and cited the potential that travelers might become too accustomed to late-booking deals.

More ways to save

With the recent surge in cruise bookings, companies are discounting less, said Ms. McDaniel of CruiseCritic.com.

She identified more reliable ways to get a deal compared with going standby, such as booking during “ wave season ,” a sales period that generally runs January through March, or taking a repositioning cruise, in which a ship relocates from one region to another seasonally. A repositioning itinerary might sail in the fall from Alaska to the Caribbean via the Panama Canal.

“It’s not unusual to see a repositioning cruise at less than $75 per night,” Ms. McDaniel, said, noting that other expenses such as an airline itinerary into one city and returning from another may cost more than a standard round-trip ticket.

Repositioning cruises tend to stop at fewer ports and add more shipboard enrichment programs, such as lectures and activities like cake decorating classes and craft spirits tastings.

“For a lot of people the ship is the destination and this is the perfect activity for people who like to be on the ship,” she said.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

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