Best Cruise for Alaska Glaciers: An Unforgettable Voyage

Alaska, the Last Frontier, is a land of breathtaking beauty, dramatic landscapes, and pristine wilderness. Among its many wonders, the glaciers stand out as colossal rivers of ice, carving their way through mountains and valleys over millennia. Witnessing these icy giants firsthand is an experience unlike any other, and what better way to do so than on an Alaska glacier cruise? This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the myriad options available and choose the best cruise for your Alaska glacier adventure.

Why Choose an Alaska Glacier Cruise?

Embarking on an Alaska glacier cruise offers a unique perspective on these natural wonders. Unlike viewing glaciers from land, a cruise allows you to get up close and personal with the ice, offering unparalleled views and opportunities for photography. The sheer scale of the glaciers is truly awe-inspiring when viewed from the deck of a ship. Furthermore, cruises often include expert commentary from naturalists who can provide valuable insights into the formation, movement, and ecological significance of these glaciers.

Beyond the glaciers themselves, Alaska cruises offer a chance to explore the Inside Passage, a network of waterways teeming with marine life, including whales, dolphins, seals, and sea otters. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit charming port towns like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway, each with its own unique history and culture.

Key Glaciers to See on Your Alaska Cruise

Alaska boasts a plethora of stunning glaciers, but some are particularly renowned for their size, beauty, and accessibility by cruise ship. Here are some of the most iconic glaciers you’ll want to include on your itinerary:

Hubbard Glacier: The Galloping Glacier

Hubbard Glacier is one of Alaska’s largest and most active tidewater glaciers. It’s known for its dramatic calving events, where massive chunks of ice break off from the glacier face and crash into the sea. These calving events are often accompanied by thunderous roars and towering splashes, creating a truly unforgettable spectacle. Hubbard Glacier is also remarkably wide, stretching over six miles across at its terminus. The vibrant blue ice and the surrounding snow-capped mountains make for stunning photographic opportunities.

Cruises that visit Hubbard Glacier often spend several hours in the vicinity, allowing passengers ample time to admire its grandeur from various vantage points on the ship. Naturalists onboard will provide commentary on the glacier’s history, its rate of movement, and the impact of climate change on its future. Keep an eye out for seals basking on ice floes and whales feeding in the nutrient-rich waters near the glacier.

Glacier Bay National Park: A Glacial Wonderland

Glacier Bay National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a true glacial wonderland. Home to over 1,000 glaciers, including seven tidewater glaciers that actively calve into the sea, Glacier Bay offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the power and beauty of ice. The park is also a haven for wildlife, including humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, bears, and eagles.

Only a limited number of cruise ships are permitted to enter Glacier Bay each day, ensuring a less crowded and more intimate experience. National Park Rangers often board the ships to provide expert commentary and answer questions about the park’s natural and cultural history. The rangers can help you identify different types of glaciers, explain the geological processes that shaped the landscape, and point out wildlife sightings. Cruising through Glacier Bay is a truly immersive experience that will leave you with a deep appreciation for the wonders of nature.

Notable glaciers within Glacier Bay include:

Margerie Glacier: A Majestic Blue Giant

Margerie Glacier is one of the most active and visually stunning glaciers in Glacier Bay. Its towering blue face rises over 250 feet above the waterline, and its dramatic calving events are a frequent occurrence. The glacier’s vibrant blue color is due to the dense, compressed ice that absorbs all colors of the light spectrum except blue. Margerie Glacier is a sight to behold and a highlight of any Glacier Bay cruise.

Johns Hopkins Glacier: A Tidewater Glacier on the Rise

Johns Hopkins Glacier is a rare example of a glacier that is actually advancing rather than retreating. This tidewater glacier calves into Johns Hopkins Inlet and is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. The inlet is often filled with icebergs of various shapes and sizes, creating a picturesque landscape. Due to its location and sensitivity, access to Johns Hopkins Inlet is sometimes restricted, but when conditions allow, it’s a truly remarkable sight.

Tracy Arm Fjord: A Narrow Passage to Twin Glaciers

Tracy Arm Fjord is a narrow, winding waterway that leads to two stunning tidewater glaciers: Sawyer Glacier and South Sawyer Glacier. Cruising through Tracy Arm is an adventure in itself, as the ship navigates through towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and ice-strewn waters. The fjord is also home to abundant wildlife, including harbor seals, bears, and eagles.

Sawyer Glacier and South Sawyer Glacier: Twin Jewels

Sawyer Glacier and South Sawyer Glacier are twin tidewater glaciers that calve into the end of Tracy Arm Fjord. Both glaciers are known for their vibrant blue color and frequent calving events. The sheer scale of these glaciers, combined with the dramatic scenery of the fjord, makes Tracy Arm a truly unforgettable destination on an Alaska cruise. Smaller boats and excursions can often get closer to the glacier face, providing even more spectacular views.

College Fjord: A Showcase of Glacial Diversity

College Fjord is home to a remarkable collection of glaciers, each named after prestigious universities and colleges. This fjord offers a unique opportunity to see a variety of different types of glaciers, including tidewater glaciers, hanging glaciers, and valley glaciers. The scenery in College Fjord is also stunning, with snow-capped mountains and lush forests lining the shoreline.

Notable glaciers in College Fjord include:

Harvard Glacier: A Massive Tidewater Glacier

Harvard Glacier is one of the largest and most impressive glaciers in College Fjord. This massive tidewater glacier calves into the fjord with impressive force, creating dramatic calving events that can be heard and seen from a distance. The glacier’s size and activity make it a popular destination for cruise ships.

Vassar Glacier: A Scenic Valley Glacier

Vassar Glacier is a beautiful valley glacier that flows down from the mountains into College Fjord. While it doesn’t calve directly into the water, its scenic location and stunning views make it a worthwhile sight. The glacier is surrounded by lush vegetation and towering peaks, creating a picturesque landscape.

Types of Alaska Glacier Cruises

Alaska glacier cruises come in a variety of shapes and sizes, each offering a different experience. Here’s a breakdown of the main types of cruises you can choose from:

Inside Passage Cruises: A Scenic Coastal Journey

Inside Passage cruises are the most popular type of Alaska cruise. These cruises typically sail along the sheltered waterways of the Inside Passage, offering stunning views of the coastline, islands, and forests. They often include stops at charming port towns like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway, as well as visits to glaciers like Hubbard Glacier or Glacier Bay National Park. Inside Passage cruises are a great option for first-time Alaska cruisers, as they offer a good balance of scenery, wildlife viewing, and cultural experiences.

Gulf of Alaska Cruises: A More Comprehensive Experience

Gulf of Alaska cruises are longer and more comprehensive than Inside Passage cruises. These cruises typically start or end in Anchorage (Whittier or Seward) and sail across the Gulf of Alaska, offering opportunities to see glaciers like Hubbard Glacier, College Fjord, and Glacier Bay National Park. They also often include visits to remote areas like the Kenai Fjords National Park. Gulf of Alaska cruises are a good option for those who want to see more of Alaska’s wilderness and are willing to spend more time at sea.

Round-Trip Cruises: Convenience and Value

Round-trip cruises typically depart from and return to a major port city like Seattle or Vancouver. These cruises offer a convenient and often more affordable option for those who don’t want to deal with flights to and from Alaska. They usually focus on the Inside Passage and may include visits to glaciers like Hubbard Glacier or Glacier Bay National Park.

Small Ship Cruises: A More Intimate Experience

Small ship cruises offer a more intimate and personalized experience than large ship cruises. These cruises typically carry fewer than 200 passengers and can access smaller ports and waterways that are inaccessible to larger ships. Small ship cruises often focus on wildlife viewing and offer opportunities for activities like kayaking, hiking, and zodiac tours. They are a good option for those who want a more adventurous and immersive Alaska experience.

Luxury Cruises: Indulgence and Comfort

Luxury cruises offer the ultimate in comfort and indulgence. These cruises typically feature spacious suites, gourmet dining, personalized service, and a wide range of amenities. Luxury cruise lines often offer unique itineraries and excursions that are not available on other cruises. They are a good option for those who want to experience Alaska in style and comfort.

Choosing the Right Cruise Line

Several cruise lines offer Alaska glacier cruises, each with its own unique style and offerings. Here are some of the most popular cruise lines and what they are known for:

Holland America Line: A Classic Alaska Experience

Holland America Line has a long history of cruising in Alaska and is known for its classic style and focus on Alaskan culture and history. They offer a wide range of itineraries, including Inside Passage, Gulf of Alaska, and round-trip cruises. Holland America Line ships often feature onboard enrichment programs that focus on Alaskan wildlife, history, and culture.

Princess Cruises: A Family-Friendly Option

Princess Cruises is another popular cruise line that offers a wide range of Alaska cruises. They are known for their family-friendly atmosphere and offer a variety of activities for children and adults alike. Princess Cruises ships often feature onboard entertainment, dining options, and spa services.

Norwegian Cruise Line: A More Casual Atmosphere

Norwegian Cruise Line offers a more casual and relaxed atmosphere than some other cruise lines. They are known for their “freestyle cruising” concept, which allows passengers to dine and dress as they please. Norwegian Cruise Line offers a variety of Alaska itineraries, including Inside Passage and Gulf of Alaska cruises.

Royal Caribbean International: Adventure and Innovation

Royal Caribbean International is known for its innovative ships and adventurous itineraries. They offer a variety of Alaska cruises, including Inside Passage and Gulf of Alaska cruises. Royal Caribbean ships often feature onboard attractions like rock climbing walls, ice skating rinks, and surfing simulators.

Celebrity Cruises: Modern Luxury and Sophistication

Celebrity Cruises offers a more modern and sophisticated cruise experience than some other cruise lines. They are known for their stylish ships, gourmet dining, and excellent service. Celebrity Cruises offers a variety of Alaska itineraries, including Inside Passage and Gulf of Alaska cruises.

Silversea Cruises: Ultra-Luxury and Intimate Experiences

Silversea Cruises offers an ultra-luxury cruise experience with small ships that can access more remote areas of Alaska. Their cruises include all-inclusive amenities, personalized service, and unique excursions. Silversea is ideal for travelers seeking an intimate and upscale Alaska adventure.

UnCruise Adventures: Adventure and Exploration

UnCruise Adventures specializes in small-ship, adventure-focused cruises. They offer itineraries that emphasize wildlife viewing, hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor activities. UnCruise is a great option for travelers who want a more active and immersive Alaska experience.

Planning Your Alaska Glacier Cruise: Essential Tips

Planning an Alaska glacier cruise can be overwhelming, but with a little preparation, you can ensure a smooth and unforgettable experience. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

Book Early: Secure Your Spot and Get the Best Deals

Alaska cruises are very popular, especially during the peak season (June-August). To secure your preferred itinerary, cabin type, and departure date, it’s best to book your cruise well in advance, ideally 6-12 months prior to your travel date. Booking early also gives you a better chance of getting the best deals and promotions.

Choose the Right Time to Go: Consider Weather and Wildlife

The best time to go on an Alaska glacier cruise depends on your priorities. The peak season (June-August) offers the warmest weather and the best chance of seeing wildlife. However, it’s also the most crowded and expensive time to go. May and September offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, but you may also encounter more rain. Consider what is most important to you – wildlife viewing, pleasant weather, or lower prices – when choosing your travel dates.

Pack Appropriately: Prepare for All Types of Weather

Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to pack for all types of conditions. Even in the summer, temperatures can fluctuate significantly, and rain is common. Be sure to pack layers of clothing, including waterproof jackets, sweaters, long-sleeved shirts, and comfortable pants. Don’t forget to bring a hat, gloves, and a scarf, as well as sunscreen, sunglasses, and insect repellent.

Consider Shore Excursions: Enhance Your Experience

Shore excursions are a great way to enhance your Alaska cruise experience. They offer opportunities to explore port towns, see wildlife up close, and participate in activities like hiking, kayaking, and whale watching. Be sure to research the available shore excursions in advance and book them early, as they often sell out quickly.

Be Prepared for Sea Sickness: Pack Medication

Even on larger cruise ships, you may experience sea sickness, especially on cruises that sail across the Gulf of Alaska. It’s a good idea to pack sea sickness medication, such as Dramamine or Bonine, just in case. You can also try natural remedies like ginger or acupressure bands.

Take Advantage of Onboard Activities: Entertainment and Education

Cruise ships offer a wide range of onboard activities, including entertainment, dining options, and enrichment programs. Take advantage of these activities to enhance your cruise experience. Attend lectures on Alaskan wildlife, history, and culture, participate in onboard games and contests, and enjoy the live music and entertainment.

Bring Binoculars and a Camera: Capture the Memories

You’ll want to bring a good pair of binoculars to get a closer look at the glaciers, wildlife, and scenery. A camera is also essential for capturing the memories of your Alaska cruise. Consider bringing a zoom lens to get close-up shots of the glaciers and wildlife.

Respect the Environment: Leave No Trace

Alaska is a pristine wilderness, and it’s important to respect the environment. Follow Leave No Trace principles by packing out everything you pack in, staying on designated trails, and avoiding disturbing wildlife. Help keep Alaska beautiful for future generations.

Glacier Safety: Maintaining a Safe Distance

While witnessing glaciers up close is an awe-inspiring experience, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and maintain a respectful distance. Glaciers are dynamic and unpredictable environments, and calving events can pose significant risks.

Always heed the warnings and guidelines provided by the cruise line staff and naturalists. They are trained to assess the safety of viewing areas and will provide instructions on maintaining a safe distance. Avoid approaching the glacier face too closely, as calving events can generate powerful waves and icefalls that can be hazardous.

Be aware of your surroundings and watch for signs of instability, such as cracks or fissures in the ice. If you hear loud cracking or rumbling sounds, it could indicate an impending calving event. In such cases, move away from the glacier face immediately and seek higher ground if possible.

When viewing glaciers from a boat or kayak, maintain a safe distance from the ice and be aware of the potential for icebergs to capsize or break apart. Dress warmly and wear appropriate safety gear, such as life jackets or flotation devices.

Sustainable Cruising: Protecting Alaska’s Glaciers

As tourism to Alaska continues to grow, it’s important to consider the environmental impact of cruising and choose sustainable options that minimize harm to the glaciers and the surrounding ecosystem. Here are some ways to support sustainable cruising in Alaska:

• Choose cruise lines that have strong environmental policies and practices. Look for cruise lines that invest in energy-efficient ships, reduce waste, and support local conservation efforts.
• Support local businesses and tour operators that are committed to sustainability. Choose excursions that are eco-friendly and minimize their impact on the environment.
• Reduce your own environmental footprint by packing lightly, using reusable water bottles, and avoiding single-use plastics.
• Respect the environment by following Leave No Trace principles and avoiding disturbing wildlife.
• Educate yourself about the challenges facing Alaska’s glaciers and support organizations that are working to protect them.

Beyond the Glaciers: Exploring Alaska’s Other Wonders

While the glaciers are undoubtedly a highlight of any Alaska cruise, there’s so much more to see and do in this vast and beautiful state. Here are some other attractions and activities to consider:

Wildlife Viewing: Spotting Bears, Whales, and Eagles

Alaska is a haven for wildlife, and a cruise offers numerous opportunities to spot bears, whales, eagles, and other amazing creatures. Keep an eye out for humpback whales breaching in the Inside Passage, bears foraging along the shoreline, and eagles soaring overhead. Many cruise lines offer specialized wildlife viewing excursions that can increase your chances of seeing these animals up close.

Visiting Charming Port Towns: Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway

Alaska’s port towns are full of history, culture, and charm. Juneau, the state capital, offers opportunities to explore historic sites, hike to Mendenhall Glacier, and ride the Mount Roberts Tramway for stunning views. Ketchikan is known for its colorful totem poles and its vibrant arts scene. Skagway is a historic Gold Rush town that offers opportunities to ride the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad and explore the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park.

Hiking and Kayaking: Exploring the Wilderness

For those who want a more active Alaska experience, hiking and kayaking are great options. Many cruise lines offer guided hiking and kayaking excursions that allow you to explore the wilderness and get closer to nature. Hike through lush rainforests, paddle along pristine shorelines, and discover hidden waterfalls and coves.

Flightseeing Tours: A Bird’s-Eye View of the Landscape

A flightseeing tour is a truly unforgettable way to see Alaska’s dramatic landscapes. Soar over glaciers, mountains, and fjords in a small plane or helicopter, and get a bird’s-eye view of the breathtaking scenery. Flightseeing tours are often available from port towns like Juneau and Skagway.

Cultural Experiences: Learning About Alaska’s History and Traditions

Alaska has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, and a cruise offers opportunities to learn about the state’s history and traditions. Visit museums and cultural centers to learn about Alaska Native cultures, explore historic sites from the Gold Rush era, and attend cultural performances that showcase Alaska’s unique heritage.

Conclusion: An Alaska Glacier Cruise – A Journey of a Lifetime

An Alaska glacier cruise is an unforgettable journey that will take you to some of the most breathtaking and pristine landscapes on Earth. From the towering blue glaciers to the abundant wildlife and the charming port towns, Alaska offers a unique and enriching experience that will stay with you long after you return home. By carefully planning your cruise, choosing the right cruise line, and following these essential tips, you can ensure a safe, enjoyable, and sustainable Alaska glacier adventure. So, pack your bags, grab your binoculars, and get ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime!