The Shortest Alaska Cruises: Which One Is Right for You?

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

The Shortest Alaska Cruise: The Perfect Way to Experience the Last Frontier

Alaska is a land of beauty and wonder, with towering mountains, lush forests, and sparkling glaciers. It’s also a land of adventure, with opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. But if you’re short on time, you may be wondering if it’s possible to experience all that Alaska has to offer on a short cruise.

The good news is that it is! There are a number of short Alaska cruises that can take you to some of the most popular destinations in the state, including Juneau, Ketchikan, and Glacier Bay. These cruises typically last between three and seven days, so you can get a taste of Alaska without having to commit to a longer trip.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the shortest Alaska cruises, what they offer, and how to choose the right one for you. We’ll also provide tips for planning your trip and making the most of your time in Alaska.

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Ship Itinerary Duration
Norwegian Bliss Seattle to Vancouver 7 days
Holland America Nieuw Amsterdam Vancouver to Seward 7 days
Princess Cruises Ruby Princess Seattle to San Francisco 7 days

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Alaska is a popular destination for cruise vacations, and for good reason. The state offers stunning scenery, including snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and lush rainforests. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, whales, and eagles.

If you are short on time, but still want to experience the best of Alaska, a short Alaska cruise may be the perfect option for you. Short Alaska cruises typically last between 7 and 9 days, and they offer a variety of itineraries to choose from.

In this article, we will discuss the length, itineraries, and costs of short Alaska cruises. We will also provide tips for choosing the right cruise for you.

The Length of a Short Alaska Cruise

The shortest Alaska cruise is typically 7 days long. Cruises shorter than 7 days are not considered to be Alaska cruises by most cruise lines.

The length of a short Alaska cruise can vary depending on the cruise line, the itinerary, and the time of year. For example, cruises that depart from Seattle or Vancouver typically take longer than cruises that depart from Alaska. Cruises that visit more ports of call also typically take longer. And cruises that depart during the peak summer season typically take longer than cruises that depart during the shoulder seasons.

The Itineraries of Short Alaska Cruises

Short Alaska cruises typically visit a limited number of ports of call. The most common ports of call on short Alaska cruises include Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway.

Some short Alaska cruises also include stops in Glacier Bay National Park and/or Hubbard Glacier.

The Costs of Short Alaska Cruises

The cost of a short Alaska cruise can vary depending on the cruise line, the itinerary, and the time of year. For example, cruises that depart from Seattle or Vancouver typically cost more than cruises that depart from Alaska. Cruises that visit more ports of call also typically cost more. And cruises that depart during the peak summer season typically cost more than cruises that depart during the shoulder seasons.

Tips for Choosing the Right Short Alaska Cruise

When choosing the right short Alaska cruise, there are a few factors to consider.

  • Your budget: The cost of a short Alaska cruise can vary significantly, so it is important to set a budget before you start shopping.
  • Your time constraints: Short Alaska cruises typically last between 7 and 9 days, so it is important to choose a cruise that fits your schedule.
  • Your interests: There are a variety of short Alaska cruises to choose from, so it is important to choose a cruise that interests you. If you are interested in seeing glaciers, for example, you should choose a cruise that includes a stop in Glacier Bay National Park.

Short Alaska cruises are a great way to experience the best of Alaska without having to commit to a long vacation. With a variety of itineraries to choose from, there is sure to be a short Alaska cruise that is perfect for you.

Here are a few additional tips for planning your short Alaska cruise:

  • Book your cruise early to get the best rates.
  • Consider purchasing travel insurance in case of cancellations or delays.
  • Pack light and comfortable clothing for all types of weather.
  • Be prepared for long days and lots of walking.
  • Enjoy the stunning scenery and wildlife that Alaska has to offer!

What Is The Shortest Alaska Cruise?

The shortest Alaska cruise is a 7-day cruise that departs from Seattle and returns to Seattle. The cruise typically visits Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway.

The Pros and Cons of Taking a Short Alaska Cruise

There are both pros and cons to taking a short Alaska cruise.

Pros:

  • They are a more affordable option than longer Alaska cruises. A 7-day Alaska cruise typically costs around $1,000 per person, while a 14-day Alaska cruise can cost upwards of $2,000 per person.
  • They are a good way to get a taste of Alaska without having to commit to a long cruise. If you’re not sure if you’ll enjoy an Alaska cruise, a short cruise is a great way to try it out.
  • They are a good option for people who have limited time to travel. If you only have a week or two to spare, a short Alaska cruise is a great way to see the highlights of the state.

Cons:

  • They offer less time to explore each port of call. A 7-day Alaska cruise typically only has one or two days at each port of call, which isn’t enough time to fully explore the city.
  • They may not include all of the popular ports of call in Alaska. Some short Alaska cruises only visit a few ports of call, while others may skip some of the more popular destinations, such as Denali National Park.
  • They may be more crowded than longer Alaska cruises. Short Alaska cruises are often more popular than longer cruises, which can lead to more crowded ports of call and less personal service.

Tips for Choosing the Right Short Alaska Cruise

When choosing a short Alaska cruise, consider the following factors:

  • Your budget: The cost of a short Alaska cruise can vary significantly, so it’s important to set a budget before you start shopping.
  • Your time constraints: Short Alaska cruises typically last between 7 and 10 days, so you’ll need to decide how much time you have to travel.
  • Your interests: There are many different types of short Alaska cruises to choose from, so it’s important to choose one that interests you. Some cruises focus on wildlife viewing, while others focus on exploring the state’s history and culture.
  • The ports of call you want to visit: Some short Alaska cruises only visit a few ports of call, while others may visit a dozen or more. Make sure to choose a cruise that visits the ports of call that you want to see.

Short Alaska cruises are a great way to experience the beauty and wonder of the Last Frontier. If you’re looking for an affordable, quick, and easy way to see Alaska, a short cruise is a great option.

What Is The Shortest Alaska Cruise?

The shortest Alaska cruise is a 7-day cruise from Vancouver to Seattle. This cruise takes you through the Inside Passage, a scenic route that winds through the protected waters of the Pacific Northwest. You’ll see glaciers, mountains, and wildlife, and have plenty of time to explore the ports of call along the way.

What are the pros and cons of taking a short Alaska cruise?

There are a few pros and cons to consider when choosing a short Alaska cruise.

Pros:

  • Shorter cruises are more affordable than longer cruises.
  • You can pack more into a shorter cruise, as you won’t have as much time to spend on the ship.
  • You’ll have more time to explore the ports of call.

Cons:

  • You won’t have as much time to see the sights in Alaska.
  • You may not have as much time to relax on the ship.
  • You may have to make some sacrifices, such as choosing a less popular cruise line or a smaller ship.

What are the different types of Alaska cruises?

There are a few different types of Alaska cruises to choose from, each with its own unique advantages and disadvantages.

  • Inside Passage cruises: These cruises take you through the Inside Passage, a scenic route that winds through the protected waters of the Pacific Northwest. You’ll see glaciers, mountains, and wildlife, and have plenty of time to explore the ports of call along the way.
  • Glacier Bay cruises: These cruises focus on exploring Glacier Bay National Park, one of the most popular destinations in Alaska. You’ll have the chance to see glaciers up close, go kayaking in the bay, and hike in the park.
  • Cruises to Denali National Park: These cruises take you to Denali National Park, home to the tallest mountain in North America. You’ll have the chance to go hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the park’s many trails.

What should I pack for an Alaska cruise?

When packing for an Alaska cruise, you’ll need to take into account the weather, the activities you plan on doing, and the ports of call you’ll be visiting.

  • Weather: The weather in Alaska can be unpredictable, so it’s important to pack for a variety of conditions. You’ll need to pack warm clothes, such as sweaters, jackets, and pants, as well as waterproof gear, such as raincoats and boots.
  • Activities: The activities you plan on doing will also affect what you need to pack. If you plan on hiking or going kayaking, you’ll need to pack appropriate gear.
  • Ports of call: The ports of call you’ll be visiting will also affect what you need to pack. If you’re visiting a city, you’ll need to pack different clothes than if you’re visiting a national park.

What are some of the best Alaska cruise ports of call?

There are many great Alaska cruise ports of call to choose from, each with its own unique attractions.

  • Juneau: Juneau is the capital of Alaska and is located on the Gastineau Channel. It’s a popular port of call for its stunning scenery, including mountains, glaciers, and wildlife.
  • Ketchikan: Ketchikan is located on the Tongass National Forest and is known for its totem poles. It’s also a great place to go fishing, hiking, and kayaking.
  • Sitka: Sitka is located on Baranof Island and is home to the Russian Orthodox Church of St. Michael. It’s a great place to learn about Alaska’s history and culture.
  • Whittier: Whittier is located on Prince William Sound and is known for its glaciers. It’s also a great place to go hiking, fishing, and kayaking.

What are some tips for planning an Alaska cruise?

When planning an Alaska cruise, there are a few things you can do to make your trip more enjoyable.

  • Start planning early: Alaska cruises are popular, so it’s important to book your cruise early, especially if you have specific dates or ports of call in mind.
  • Do your research: There are many different Alaska cruises to choose from, so it’s important to do your research and find the one that’s right for you. Consider the length of the cruise, the type of activities you want to do, and the ports of call you want to visit.
  • Budget accordingly: Alaska cruises can be expensive, so it’s important to budget accordingly. Be sure to factor in the cost

    the shortest Alaska cruise is a 7-day trip that departs from Seattle and returns to the same city. This cruise takes you to some of the most popular destinations in Alaska, including Ketchikan, Juneau, and Glacier Bay. It’s a great way to experience the beauty of Alaska without having to commit to a longer trip.

If you’re looking for a shorter cruise, there are also a few 5-day options available. These cruises typically depart from Vancouver and visit Victoria, British Columbia, and either Ketchikan or Juneau. They’re a great way to get a taste of Alaska without having to spend too much time on the ship.

No matter which cruise you choose, you’re sure to have a memorable experience in Alaska. This is a beautiful state with something to offer everyone, from stunning scenery to fascinating wildlife. So what are you waiting for? Book your Alaska cruise today!

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.