Alaska Cruises Are Selling Out Fast — Here's How to Plan Yours
The Alaska cruise market has been booming in recent years. In response to the growing demand for cruises to the 49th state, more cruise lines are launching sailings to this remote part of the country this year. Here is a look at what new Alaska voyages will set sail in 2026, as well as some tips to help you plan your dream cruise.
More Cruise Lines Adding Sailings to Alaska in 2026
There are more options than ever if a cruise to Alaska is on your travel bucket list. At least three cruise lines have announced that they are adding sailings to Alaska in 2026. Visitors can now choose between large ships perfect for families or smaller and more intimate adults-only sailings.
Traveling to Alaska via cruise ship is the most common way to tour the state during the summer season. According to Cruise Lines International Association Alaska, approximately 65% of summer visitors to the state arrive by cruise ship. The remote locations of the most popular spots in Alaska make seeing them on a cruise ship an easy and practical option.
The increasing popularity of Alaska cruises has meant that many sailings sell out well in advance. As such, more and more cruise lines are adding voyages to Alaska to their itineraries.
MSC Cruises will travel to Alaska for the first time when it sets sail on May 11. The MSC Poesia will come out of dry dock refreshed and ready to welcome customers on board with new features and amenities, including the luxury MSC Yacht Club addition.
Virgin Voyages is sending its newest ship, Brilliant Lady, to the Last Frontier. The adults-only cruise will launch on May 21. Lastly, the upscale Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection will send the Luminara vessel on the line's first Alaska cruise beginning on May 28.
In addition to the new lines set to explore Alaska this year, travelers will also see options from Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Holland America Line, American Cruise Lines, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and more.
ABCs of Cruising Alaska
One of the biggest draws of an Alaskan cruise as opposed to a more traditional sailing to the Caribbean is the chance to sail by stunning glaciers. A cruise is also one of the best ways to see these glaciers when touring Alaska, as they get you right on the water in Glacier Bay.
The chance to get up close and personal with wildlife is another reason that travelers choose Alaska cruise itineraries. It is not uncommon to see hordes of bears, moose, and whales in their natural habitats when sailing through Alaska.
Unlike Caribbean cruise itineraries that run year-round, there is a much smaller window to set sail to Alaska. The cruise season to this part of the world typically runs from late April through October. The best time to see wildlife falls between the end of June and August.
However, this peak season is also when you will run into more crowds. Those looking for a less chaotic experience should consider booking a cruise earlier or later in the season. One of the benefits of a May sailing is the likelihood of seeing more snow to amplify the natural beauty of the landscape. Conversely, cruisers in September or October may be treated to a viewing of the famous northern lights.
Most cruises to Alaska journey through the Inside Passage, delivering sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. The majority of the cruises set sail on round-trip voyages from Seattle or Vancouver. Popular ports of call include Skagway, Ketchikan, and Juneau.
It is also possible to book one-way cruises between either Seattle or Vancouver to Anchorage. This is a good option for travelers who want to spend more time on the back or front end of their cruise exploring this part of Alaska. Some of these cruises may even offer train rides through the rugged terrain or tours of Denali National Park and Preserve as an add-on option.
Tips for Booking an Alaska Cruise
With the rising popularity of Alaska cruises, it is more important than ever to book your trip early. In addition to the sailings booking up quickly, many of the most popular shore excursions are also prone to selling out. You do not want to set sail on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to miss your chance to participate in a dog sledding event or whale watching excursion.
Balcony cabins are also in high demand when sailing in Alaska. This is because so much of the draw of an Alaskan cruise is simply watching the scenery as you sail by. Having your own private viewing spot will enhance the overall experience.
It is also challenging to pack for an Alaskan cruise compared to warm-weather itineraries. With so many potential weather scenarios, cruisers will need to focus on packing layers. Other must-have items to put in your suitcase include bug spray and a waterproof jacket.
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