Is an Alaskan Cruise Worth It? (The Ultimate Guide)

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

Is an Alaskan Cruise Worth It?

The thought of an Alaskan cruise can conjure up images of soaring glaciers, towering mountains, and pristine wilderness. But is an Alaskan cruise really worth the money?

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the pros and cons of an Alaskan cruise, so you can decide if it’s the right vacation for you. We’ll cover everything from the cost of a cruise to the best time to go.

So whether you’re dreaming of an adventure in the Last Frontier or you’re just curious about what an Alaskan cruise is all about, read on for all the information you need to know.

| Is An Alaskan Cruise Worth It? | Pros | Cons |
|—|—|—|
| Pros |
| * Unparalleled scenery |
| * Wildlife viewing opportunities |
| * Cultural experiences |
| Cons |
| * Can be expensive |
| * Long travel times |
| * Weather can be unpredictable |

Is an Alaskan Cruise Worth It?

An Alaskan cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers stunning scenery, wildlife viewing, and cultural experiences. But with the high cost of airfare, cruise fare, and shore excursions, it’s understandable to wonder if an Alaskan cruise is worth it.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the costs of an Alaskan cruise, the benefits of an Alaskan cruise, and how to decide if an Alaskan cruise is right for you.

Costs of an Alaskan Cruise

The cost of an Alaskan cruise can vary significantly depending on the time of year you travel, the cruise line you choose, and the type of cabin you book.

  • Airfare to Alaska

The cost of airfare to Alaska can be significant, especially if you’re flying from a major city on the East Coast or West Coast. The average cost of a round-trip flight from New York City to Anchorage is around $600, but you can find flights for as low as $300 if you’re flexible with your travel dates.

  • Cruise fare

The cruise fare for an Alaskan cruise can range from $1,000 to $5,000 per person, depending on the time of year you travel, the cruise line you choose, and the type of cabin you book. The average cost of a seven-day Alaskan cruise is around $2,000 per person.

  • Shore excursions

Shore excursions are an important part of any Alaskan cruise, and they can add significantly to the cost of your trip. Shore excursions range in price from $20 to $200 per person, and the most popular excursions include glacier viewing, whale watching, and wildlife viewing.

  • Food and drinks

Food and drinks on an Alaskan cruise are generally included in the cruise fare, but there are some exceptions. Alcoholic beverages are typically not included in the cruise fare, and you can expect to pay around $8 per drink.

  • Other expenses

Other expenses you may incur on an Alaskan cruise include tips for your cruise staff, laundry, and souvenirs. Tips for your cruise staff typically range from $10 to $15 per day, and laundry can cost around $20 per load.

Benefits of an Alaskan Cruise

Despite the high cost, there are many benefits to taking an Alaskan cruise. Here are just a few of the benefits:

  • Natural beauty of Alaska

Alaska is one of the most beautiful places in the world, and an Alaskan cruise is the perfect way to see it. You’ll have the chance to see glaciers, mountains, forests, and wildlife that you won’t find anywhere else.

  • Wildlife viewing

Alaska is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including bears, whales, seals, and sea lions. An Alaskan cruise is the perfect way to see these animals in their natural habitat.

  • Cultural experiences

Alaska is home to a rich culture, and an Alaskan cruise is a great way to learn about it. You’ll have the chance to visit Native Alaskan villages and learn about their history, traditions, and way of life.

  • Active vacation options

An Alaskan cruise offers plenty of opportunities for active vacationers. You can go hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, and more.

  • Relaxing vacation options

An Alaskan cruise is also a great way to relax and enjoy the scenery. You can spend your days lounging on the deck, reading a book, or taking a dip in the pool.

How to Decide if an Alaskan Cruise is Right for You

An Alaskan cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but it’s not right for everyone. Before you book your cruise, take some time to consider the following factors:

  • Your budget

The cost of an Alaskan cruise can vary significantly, so it’s important to set a budget before you start planning your trip.

  • Your interests

What are you interested in seeing and doing on your Alaskan cruise? Do you want to see glaciers, whales, and other wildlife? Do you want to learn about Native Alaskan culture? Do you want to go hiking, biking, or kayaking?

  • Your travel dates

The time of year you travel will affect the cost of your cruise, as well as the weather conditions.

If you’re still not sure if an Alaskan cruise is right for you, there are a few ways to get a taste of Alaska without spending a lot of money. You can take a shorter cruise, fly to Alaska and explore on your own, or visit Alaska as part of a land and sea vacation.

3. Things to Consider Before Booking an Alaskan Cruise

When considering whether or not to book an Alaskan cruise, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

  • Time of year to travel. The best time to go on an Alaskan cruise is during the summer months, from May to September. This is when the weather is warmest and the days are longest. However, it is also the most popular time to travel, so prices will be higher. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons of April and October.
  • Type of cruise ship. There are a variety of different types of cruise ships that offer Alaskan cruises. Some of the most popular options include:
  • Traditional cruise ships. These ships offer a traditional cruise experience, with plenty of amenities and activities onboard.
  • Expedition cruise ships. These ships are smaller and more intimate than traditional cruise ships, and they offer a more adventurous experience. They often have Zodiacs and other small boats that allow you to explore the more remote areas of Alaska.
  • Polar cruise ships. These ships are designed for travel in the Arctic and Antarctica. They are equipped with reinforced hulls and stabilizers that allow them to withstand the harsh conditions of the polar regions.
  • Ports of call. The ports of call on an Alaskan cruise will vary depending on the length of your cruise and the type of ship you choose. Some of the most popular ports of call include:
  • Juneau. Juneau is the capital of Alaska and is located on the Gastineau Channel. It is a popular port of call for its stunning scenery and its many historical attractions.
  • Ketchikan. Ketchikan is located on the Tongass National Forest and is known for its totem poles and its salmon fishing.
  • Sitka. Sitka is located on Baranof Island and is home to the Russian Orthodox Church of St. Michael, which is the oldest Russian Orthodox church in Alaska.
  • Wrangell. Wrangell is located on the Stikine River and is known for its gold mining history.
  • Skagway. Skagway is located at the end of the White Pass and Yukon Route, which was built during the Klondike Gold Rush. It is a popular port of call for its historic charm and its many gold rush-themed attractions.
  • Activities to participate in. There are a variety of different activities to participate in on an Alaskan cruise. Some of the most popular activities include:
  • Scenic cruising. One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Alaska is by taking a scenic cruise. You’ll have the opportunity to see glaciers, mountains, and wildlife.
  • Hiking. There are many hiking trails in Alaska that offer stunning views of the wilderness.
  • Fishing. Alaska is a great place to go fishing for salmon, halibut, and other fish.
  • Glacier trekking. You can take a guided tour of a glacier and learn about its formation and history.
  • Bear viewing. Alaska is home to a large population of bears, and you can take a guided tour to see them in their natural habitat.

4. Tips for Planning an Alaskan Cruise

Once you’ve decided that an Alaskan cruise is right for you, it’s time to start planning your trip. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

  • Book your cruise early. Alaskan cruises are popular, so it’s important to book your cruise early to get the best rates.
  • Do your research. There are a lot of different cruise lines and ships that offer Alaskan cruises, so it’s important to do your research and find the one that’s right for you.
  • Pack appropriately. The weather in Alaska can be unpredictable, so it’s important to pack for a variety of conditions. Be sure to pack warm clothes, rain gear, and comfortable shoes.
  • Get travel insurance. Alaska is a remote destination, so it’s important to have travel insurance in case of an emergency.

An Alaskan cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s an opportunity to see some of the most beautiful and rugged scenery in the world. With its stunning glaciers, towering mountains, and abundant wildlife, Alaska is a truly unforgettable destination.

Is an Alaskan cruise worth it?

Answer:

Whether or not an Alaskan cruise is worth it depends on your individual interests and budget. However, for many people, an Alaskan cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers stunning scenery, wildlife viewing, and cultural immersion.

What are the pros and cons of taking an Alaskan cruise?

Answer:

The pros of taking an Alaskan cruise include:

  • Stunning scenery: Alaska is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, including glaciers, mountains, forests, and fjords.
  • Wildlife viewing: Alaska is home to a variety of wildlife, including whales, bears, seals, and eagles.
  • Cultural immersion: Alaska is home to a variety of cultures, including Native Alaskan, Russian, and American.

The cons of taking an Alaskan cruise include:

  • Cost: Alaskan cruises can be expensive, especially if you choose a luxury cruise line.
  • Length: Alaskan cruises typically last for 7-14 days, which may be too long for some people.
  • Weather: The weather in Alaska can be unpredictable, and it is important to be prepared for rain, snow, and fog.

What is the best time to go on an Alaskan cruise?

Answer:

The best time to go on an Alaskan cruise is during the summer months, from May to September. During this time, the weather is mild and the days are long, which allows for more time to explore.

What are the different types of Alaskan cruises?

Answer:

There are a variety of different types of Alaskan cruises to choose from, including:

  • Inside Passage cruises: These cruises travel through the Inside Passage, a scenic waterway that winds through the mountains and glaciers of Alaska.
  • Glacier Bay cruises: These cruises visit Glacier Bay National Park, which is home to some of the largest glaciers in North America.
  • Whale watching cruises: These cruises offer the opportunity to see whales, seals, and other marine wildlife.

What are the best ports of call in Alaska?

Answer:

Some of the best ports of call in Alaska include:

  • Juneau: Juneau is the capital of Alaska and is located on the Gastineau Channel. The city is home to a variety of attractions, including the Alaska State Museum and the Mount Roberts Tramway.
  • Skagway: Skagway is a historic town that was once a major stop on the Klondike Gold Rush trail. The town is home to a variety of museums and shops.
  • Ketchikan: Ketchikan is located on the Tongass Narrows and is home to a variety of totem poles. The city is also a popular spot for whale watching.

What is the best way to get around Alaska?

Answer:

The best way to get around Alaska depends on your interests and budget. Some of the options include:

  • Cruise ship: A cruise ship is a great way to see a variety of different ports of call in Alaska.
  • Plane: Flying is a quick and convenient way to travel between different cities in Alaska.
  • Car: Renting a car is a great way to explore the wilderness of Alaska.

What are some things to keep in mind when planning an Alaskan cruise?

Answer:

Here are some things to keep in mind when planning an Alaskan cruise:

  • Budget: Alaskan cruises can be expensive, so it is important to set a budget before you start planning.
  • Timeframe: Alaskan cruises typically last for 7-14 days, so it is important to make sure you have enough time to enjoy your trip.
  • Weather: The weather in Alaska can be unpredictable, so it is important to be prepared for rain, snow, and fog.

What are some tips for enjoying an Alaskan cruise?

Answer:

Here are some tips for enjoying an Alaskan cruise:

  • Dress in layers: The weather in Alaska can be unpredictable, so it is important to dress in layers.
  • Bring a camera: There are so many beautiful things to see in Alaska, so be sure to bring a camera to capture the memories.
  • Explore the wilderness: Alaska is home to a variety of wilderness areas, so be sure to take some time to explore.

    whether or not an Alaskan cruise is worth it depends on your individual travel goals and budget. If youre looking for an unforgettable wilderness experience, a chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat, and the opportunity to learn about Alaskas rich history and culture, then an Alaskan cruise is definitely worth considering. However, if youre looking for a relaxing vacation with plenty of amenities and shore excursions, you may be better off choosing a different destination.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.