Alaska Small-Ship Cruises: 7 Options for Up-Close Adventures

Table Of Content

• Destination Alaska: M/V Peregrine Ultimate Alaska Adventure
• American Cruise Lines
• Best for multigenerational groups: Discovery Princess
• Day Alaska Inside Passage & Glacier Bay
• Best Value Alaska Cruise: Royal Caribbean, Radiance Of The Seas

This deciding factor can sometimes dictate what region is best to cruise. Design your exclu­sive itin­er­ary then set sail into the vast open waters and wildlife-rich shore­lines of Prince William Sound aboard your own spa­cious and pri­vate yacht. Up to six pas­sen­gers can sit back, relax, and expe­ri­ence an inti­mate tour. Most guests enjoy the 5‑day/​4‑night trips, but you can book longer 10-day/9‑night expeditions.

Destination Alaska: M/V Peregrine Ultimate Alaska Adventure

The next important consideration is off vessel exploration and activity program logistics. Among the small cruise lines to Alaska, there are further comparisons. Some are more active than others with itineraries designed for maximum activity and wilderness, with the adventure gear onboard to take advantage of it all.

American Cruise Lines

Save up to 20% on select 2024 departures of your Alaskan Dream cruise aboard Alaskan Dream, Admiralty Dream, Baranof Dream, or Chichagof Dream. Read some history like Muir's Travels in Alaska, history of decimation of tribes by European exposure and books on Northwest art. We would recommend AdventureSmith to friends and family without hesitation. Divers, Jim and Lynn, added a whole different dimension to our experience.

The best time to cruise Alaska - The Points Guy

The best time to cruise Alaska.

Posted: Wed, 11 Oct 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

Best for multigenerational groups: Discovery Princess

If a more independent style of exploration is your thing, feel free to do your own research ahead of time or visit each port of call’s visitor bureau upon arrival. Onshore activities differ depending on the size and style of the cruise. Traditional excursions are created to fit a specific number of people, all of whom come from the ships and are expected to be in port for a specific time. They provide an overview of Alaska's history, culture, recreation and industry, and don't offer much of a personal touch. Learn about the rich history of the area, visit Glacier Bay, the world’s largest biosphere to see whales, seals, eagles and bears and visit local tribes of the Inside Passage.

of the best luxury cruise lines for excursions

Local guides were essential to understanding Haida and Kwakwaka wakaw cultures. AdventureSmith helped us know what to expect and what we needed (and didn't need) to bring. Great trip and overall experience, I would recommend AdventureSmith to anyone looking for a vacation. The bar had good beer, liquor and wine and the bartender was always ready with some kind of treat when we came back from our adventures. We loved our cabin on the lower level of the Wilderness Discoverer.

You will travel in comfortable sea-view accommodation, and enjoygourmet cuisine. Pick from expedition-style itineraries in remote territorieswith extraordinary landscapes and varied wildlife, or cruise-styleoperations on the captivating Inside Passage route between Juneauand Vancouver. Excursions are included in the fare on thoseitineraries designated as 'Expeditions'. In Glacier Bay National Park, I remember going ashore through a bow ramp for an impromptu hike led by a park service ranger. Another time, I recall the excitement onboard when we came upon a humpback whale “lobtailing” — slapping its fluke against the surface of the water to create a big splash.

Whale Watching Expedition

Although the cabins were small, we had what we needed and the public spaces were sized to handle the passengers comfortably, and there were so many activities we didn't spend much time in our rooms. The ship cruised smoothly in the inland passages, and even an overnight relocation cruise didn't interrupt sleep. The launch/retrieve platform is an awesome modification, and probably what makes launching kayaks in a short time possible. We greatly appreciated being able to rent the slogging boots on the boat. These reviews can not only help you plan the perfect small ship Alaska cruise but also inspire you for the journey ahead. Get a feel for what it’s really like on the ship and off on shore excursions by hike and kayak.

Lady of the Sea Adventures

Getting on and off during a port day was a breeze because tour groups were small and left at staggered times. The only time I had to wait to get on or off the ship was when the crew had to change the gangplank to a different level due to the rising tide. Choose Sea Wolf Adventures if you are seeking an in-depth exploration of Glacier Bay National Park. We consider Kimber the guru of Glacier Bay National history, and it’s through her unique local permits that allow Sea Wolf to visit areas others can’t and spend more time inside the park than any other small Alaskan cruise line. You may even join a departure where Kimber herself will be your naturalist guide or captain. It’s safe to say you wouldn’t want to get THIS close to Alaska’s grizzlies with anyone else.

Ted & Heidi are long-time travel writers with a penchant for small ship cruising. Between them they've traveled all over the world aboard hundreds and hundreds of small cruise ships of all kinds, from river boats to expedition vessels and sailing ships. The storied Cunard cruise line, with more than 180 years of seafaring history, returned to Alaska after nearly 30 years when it arrived back in the Great Land in 2019. In addition to more than 140 shore experiences that immerse guests into this magical destination, Cunard invites explorers, travel writers and locals onboard to share their passions and knowledge. The cruise line takes inspiration from Alaska with special local dishes served in its onboard restaurants, and the return of the Ice White Ball, a formal gala affair with a glacial twist. The Last Frontier boasts miles of untouched wilderness inhabited by rare arctic wildlife.

With reviews, articles and destination overviews, we’ve got you covered. Headquartered in Washington state, Pacific Catalyst II has two historic wooden vessels. The older of the pair, the Westward, was built in 1924 and has four cabins with en suite shower/toilet.

Discovery Voyages is one of Alaska’s oldest and most respected local choices in Prince William Sound. The crew is friendly and knowledgeable, and grew up in Whittier, the gateway community to this region. If you want a genuine and intimate cruise in Prince William Sound, they are a sound choice. At AdventureSmith Explorations, how we compare cruise lines to Alaska comes down to a one-on-one conversation with each traveler. We aim to find the best small Alaskan cruise lines for your travel considerations by talking through your needs.

On the flip side, you avoid the up-charges and scrambles to secure reservations that go along with additional onboard restaurant options. Interior staterooms are budget-friendly options with plenty of space and thoughtful touches, or you can upgrade to ocean view, balcony, or suite categories for some extra perks (like marble bathrooms with a tub and two sinks). And there’s no better spot for taking in Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier than the North Star observation deck. Best cabin for familiesCabins in categories 1, 2, and 4 aboard the National Geographic Quest interconnect, keeping your family together while accommodating different bed times. Mary Curry is another T+L A-List advisor who specializes in small-ship cruises to Polar regions and the Galapagos.

Whether you’re planning ahead, or seeking to get aboard last minute, let us help you save. We have cruised aboard or personally inspected every small ship to Alaska listed on our website, and we are here to make sure you find the best Alaska small ship cruise. View all our Alaska ships for detailed information, reviews, cabin descriptions, photo galleries and deck plans. Or take a look at our comparison of the small Alaskan cruise lines sailing today. Or maybe you are seeking the highest level of education and guides?

Best Small Alaskan Cruise Lines Compare & Book

Table Of Content

• Here’s a Run-down of 7 Lines Offering Alaska Small Ship Cruises
• Best for multigenerational groups: Discovery Princess
• A Focus on Exploration and Adventure
• Alaska Small-Ship Cruises: 7 Options for Up-Close Adventures
• What kinds of activities can we experience?

The UK's most authoritative magazine about the world of luxury cruising. Edwina Lonsdale is Managing Director and together with husband Matthew, owner of Mundy Cruising. Most recently she's cruised on Windstar and has also sailed with Silversea, Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas, Crystal, SeaDream, Ponant, AmaWaterways and Aqua Expeditions. Founded by the father of ecotourism, Lars-Eric Lindblad, thisthoughtful company has been in alliance with National Geographicsince 2004, and offers an unparalleled opportunity to travel withthe finest expedition teams in travel. But if you want to feel like an intrepid explorer, go insteadfor one of the expedition ships offered by our sister companyMundyAdventures.

Here’s a Run-down of 7 Lines Offering Alaska Small Ship Cruises

If you're after comfort rather than luxury on your Alaskacruise, adventure specialist UnCruise Adventures operates small ship expeditions in Alaskawith a focus on local culture, active participation and wildlifeviewing. On these cruises you will meet wildlife on deserted beaches,watch glaciers calve in a timeless and ancient landscape, and hikethrough untouched rainforest in the footsteps of the Tlingitpeople. So if you are choosing a classic cruise ship, it's all about theshore excursions (although of course food, service and levels ofcomfort are going to be important to you too). Here, withoutfurther ado, are 8 of the best small ship cruise lines operating inAlaska.

Best for multigenerational groups: Discovery Princess

The Alaska cruise ship size you choose will have a profound impact on your experience. Smaller vessels go where the big ships can’t thanks to shallow drafts that allow them to sail closer to shore. They also have more flexible itineraries and can anchor overnight in remote coves instead of busy ports. On big ships, the daily agenda is watching Alaska pass by through a set of binoculars, walking around the casino and eating at buffets. Small cruise ships to Alaska bring your experience to a whole new level—namely, eye level, by encouraging active adventures off the ship. Instead of just sailing between ports, small cruise ships in Alaska offer expedition days.

A Focus on Exploration and Adventure

And 99% of the staterooms on Celebrity Edge have king-size beds, featuring Celebrity eXhale bedding and Cashmere mattresses. The Celebrity Millennium, launched in 2000, has recently undergone complete modernization, which includes luxury staterooms, enhanced technology, and renovated restaurants and lounges. Haines is nestled on the Lynn Canal, the deepest and longest fjord in North America; it sits before a backdrop of majestic snow-capped mountains, which are mirrored on the still waterway most days. For a travel solution tailored to your trip goals and preferences, click this green box. Save up to 20% on the remaining available 2024 departures of the below-linked Alaska cruises. Enjoy 15% off per person on select May 2024 departures of the below-linked Alaska cruises.

Adults can enjoy themselves on an Alaskan Disney Cruise, too, with adult-exclusive dining; an adult-only pool and hot tub; fitness center; and Senses Spa & Salon. Holland America Line (HAL) — which recently snapped up a 2023 World’s Best Award in the large-ship ocean cruise line category — has been cruising Alaska for over 75 years. HAL prides itself on having more permits for Glacier Bay National Park visits than any other cruise line. The cruise line also offers beloved live music programming, which I got to experience firsthand on a summer 2023 Alaska sailing. Most ships boast a “Music Walk,” a section home to venues like B.B.

The best Alaska cruises for couples - The Points Guy

The best Alaska cruises for couples.

Posted: Fri, 26 May 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

Expect historical walking tours and cultural experiences in towns, while hiking and wildlife viewing are on offer in more natural ports. Big boats tend to stick to large, popular ports and are extremely rigid in their itinerary. Small ship cruises in Alaska, on the other hand, are able to adjust schedules for unexpected sightseeing opportunities. Even better, while large boats are forced to sail far out from land in the deep ocean, small cruise boats can hug the shore during their trip.

Alaska Small-Ship Cruises: 7 Options for Up-Close Adventures

Find your Alaska family cruise with our selection of top family-friendly small ship cruises. Plus discover planning tips, extensions and insight into charters and deals, from the Alaska family cruise experts. By this we mean, considering your group size, ages of travelers, if you plan to also travel by land, your activity interests, how customized you like to travel, and so on. These considerations can strongly focus your Alaska cruise comparison to help you hone in on the perfect match. Even if you’ve narrowed down where you want to cruise, it can still be overwhelming.

I took my first cruise to Alaska in 1988 aboard the old Noordam — an ocean-liner-type ship with over 1,200 passengers aboard, which was considered big back in those days. The next year, I boarded my first small-ship cruise with the venerable but long departed small-ship operator Cruise West. The ship's captain has the flexibility to seek out the best remote islands and bays for beachcombing, tide pooling, hiking and kayaking adventures. The 450-passenger Seabourn Odyssey throws a dash of adventure into its luxurious surroundings. If you're looking for other surefire ways to save, inside and ocean-view cabins are often much cheaper than balcony cabins on Alaska cruises. Those private verandas are highly desirable, with everyone seeking views of the wilderness, snow-capped peaks and glaciers.

Princess Cruises

Lindblad wrote the book on adventurous small-ship cruising worldwide, so it’s no surprise the company has four ships in Alaska this summer—two carrying 100 passengers apiece and the other two vessels carrying just 62 passengers apiece. Offer valid on new bookings only, subject to availability, and may be combined with select offers. See all Arctic cruise deals for a comprehensive list of current savings on these and other Arctic cruises. It was definitely "unrushed, uncrowded, unbelievable" as their logo suggests.

In 2022, the cruise line was the first to receive Responsible Fisheries Management (RFM) certification, meaning its Alaska-bound ships serve only fresh, certified sustainable and traceable wild Alaska seafood. The 7-Day Glacier Discovery itinerary is offered both northbound and southbound, both of which include cruising the Inside Passage and Glacier Bay, and calling upon Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway. Since 1986, Maple Leaf has been operating sailing cruises in British Columbia, Haida Gwaii (the former Queen Charlotte Islands) and the Inside Passage. On Maple Leaf's fleet of three vessels, expect an even more intimate experience than on a regular small ship, and a program that is full of First Nations history.

Betty Lou and Linda were particularly outstanding but all were great. James added his diving and photography expertise as did Drew and Brian. Rab really set the tone and having the experience of Linda, Betty Lou, Eryn, and the others enhanced the experience. The handling of bear confrontation on shore showed exceptional knowledge, training and leadership. The spontaneous whale watching, nearly every day at some point, made the trip memorable.

There is also a focus on respecting the cultural traditions of destinations through cooperative regenerative tourism that preserves a community's unique history, culture and values. My family truely enjoyed this uncruise and have been recommending it to all our friends and family. Sitka - With links from Seattle, Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, and Ketchikan, Alaska Airlines offers daily flights to Sitka. There is also the option to go via ferry, which can take 3-4 days. Alaska hosts magnificent wildlife encounters and spectacular glaciers.

Plus, guests can catch their own fish during shore excursions and have it prepared and served on board. Eleven days exploring the Inside Passage and Alaskan fjords with only 400-ish other passengers aboard a luxurious ship with plenty of onboard activities? Enjoy the magical moments spent exploring the far end of the Misty Fjords on Zodiac, learn more about the local wildlife and geology during lectures with the Expedition Team, and kayak along Hubbard Glacier. When it comes to experiencing the splendor of Alaska, your cruise is only as good as the direct access it offers to this region’s beauty—and Windstar Cruises delivers access like no other. Because of its dainty size, guests are treated to unique experiences, like anchoring right in Misty Fjords and Kenai Fjords, which is something you’d have to do on a shore excursion if you were on a larger ship with another cruise line. For an even closer look at Mother Nature’s impressive work, from icebergs to whales, book a kayak or Zodiac Signature Expedition with their incredibly knowledgeable guides.

Watch whales, hike, fish, vis­it local com­mu­ni­ties, and more. Michael McIntosh started The Boat Company in 1979 as a nonprofit educational organization. A portion of the fare is tax deductible, and your trip will have a strong emphasis on conservation, as all after-cost proceeds go to supporting conservation efforts in Southeast Alaska. With the exception of the smaller vessels, each ship has lounges for happy hours, as well as post-dinner lectures and programs.

See our Alaska land tours for a full selection of trip extensions and land-based tours. Interested in the most active Alaska adventure cruise with kayaking and hiking? Seeking an intimate small boat Alaska cruise with a focus on fresh cuisine? Our specialists know the logistics to make finding your own best small ship Alaska cruise a breeze. View them all or dive into our tips on how to choose the best Alaska cruise.