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Bald eagles are a common sight, especially in areas like Haines, known as the “Valley of the Eagles.” Puffins, with their colorful beaks, are often seen near cliffs and rocky islands. Other species include the Arctic tern, the common murre, and the red-faced cormorant. One of the most awe-inspiring experiences of cruising the Inside Passage is the opportunity to witness marine life in their natural habitat. Humpback whales are commonly seen breaching and tail-slapping, especially in areas like Juneau, Glacier Bay National Park, and Icy Strait Point.
Ports of Call on This Cruise
Given the region’s challenging geography—many ports are inaccessible by road—a cruise offers a cost-effective and convenient way to explore these hidden gems. Originally home to indigenous communities like the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian, the Inside Passage has a history that stretches back thousands of years. It later became a vital route for explorers, traders, and settlers during the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, it is a globally renowned cruise destination where natural splendor meets rich cultural heritage.
Popular Inside Passage cruise ships Explore all cruise ships
Norwegian and Princess both offer a flexible approach to dining and activities. Celebrity cruise ships tend to be somewhat quieter at night, and Holland America is known to attract a slightly older crowd. For nearly 30 years, UnCruise Adventures has embarked on voyages with a mission to provide its guests with an enriching adventure travel experience that inspires an appreciation of local cultures and the natural world.
Best Value Alaska Cruise: Royal Caribbean, Radiance Of The Seas
When you want to go will depend on which activities you want to do, how you feel about cool weather and rain, and the price. Cruises at the beginning (April and May) and end (September and October) of Alaska's cruise season are generally a bit cheaper than those in June, July and August. Instead of taking a long and expensive flight to Anchorage or Fairbanks, you can choose a cruise that sails round-trip from Seattle or Vancouver (note, you won't be able to tack on a post-cruise land trip to Denali if you do this).
On the downside, cruise ships tend to be booked to capacity, and Alaskan cruise prices are at their highest. 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. A trip to Alaska is at the top of many travelers’ bucket lists, and for good reason. Most Alaska itineraries include some "scenic cruising," where your ship sails past incredible natural sights.
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However, even Alaska cruises that depart early in the season can offer surprising wildlife sightings. The hike takes you through gorgeous maritime forest and pristine rainforest, which has thankfully been protected from deforestation. Along the way you’ll find stunning river reflections; wildlife such as birds, Sitka Deer, and Black Bears (during Salmon season); and several great fishing spots.
Brief History of the Inside Passage
Glacier Bay National Park - A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Glacier Bay National Park is one of Alaska’s real gems. Stretching for 105 kilometers (65 miles), the many beautiful glaciers are a wondrous sight. Small ship cruises of the Inside Passage let you observe a range of wildlife from close quarters, including whales, seals, sea lions, otters, moose, bears, wolves, deer, and a host of smaller land-living creatures and birds. With an expedition heritage that dates back to 1896, it’s no wonder Hurtigruten Expeditions found its way to Alaska. The cruise line with a keen focus on exploration, adventure and science has two of its hybrid technology ships—MS Roald Amundsen, built in 2019, and MS Fridtjof Nansen, built in 2020—sailing the waters that surround The Great Land. Each of the ships features an observation deck, library, science center, hot tub, pool and Explorer lounge, as well as a bar with floor-to-ceiling windows so you never miss a thing.
Inside Passage with Glacier Bay
In Fern Harbor, Dundas Bay or No Name Cove, passengers can get up close to the natural wonders with birding expeditions, paddleboarding, beach walks, and more hiking and kayaking. Some travelers demand luxury Alaska cruises, while others don't mind going less fancy if it means close encounters with bears and other creatures in the wilderness. Some look for romance, while others want to introduce the kids or grandkids to glaciers and eagles, gold panning and sled dogs. We also liked that this Alaska cruise itinerary covered more of the Inside Passage territory than any of the other cruise holidays we compared it to. With prices around the same as those offered by UnCruise, and their ships’ cabins all offering full windows (some of UnCruise’s only had portholes), we ultimately felt that the Last Frontier Adventure was a better fit for us.
What's the Best Cruise Line for Alaska? - Cruise Hive
What's the Best Cruise Line for Alaska?.
Posted: Thu, 29 Jun 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]
But do step lightly on the rocks in order to preserve this unique cultural treasure. Still, the simple knowledge that these 40+ rock etchings (which are only visible during low tide) date back around 8,000 years is fascinating. Especially when you consider that these images of salmon, whales, birds, human faces, and circular patterns represent the oldest native art in southeast Alaska. But that only made hiking the Cascade Falls Trail that much more of an adventure. The roaring waterfalls created a crazy mist that gave the entire trek a haunting feel. And my daughter loved using the rope to climb a steep, slippery section as I stayed back to photograph the surreal scene.
This type of fare discount is not unique to Royal Caribbean, but on larger or older ships like Radiance of the Seas, you may find better luck scoring a deal. All-inclusive lines like Silversea or Seabourn are sure to price higher for the number of inclusions they offer. Alternatively, a one-way cruise in June for two people in an inside cabin (including taxes and fees) on the 22-year-old Radiance of the Seas would come to $1,126. That’s substantial savings for choosing a one-way cruise on an older ship over a roundtrip itinerary. Most seven-night Alaska Inside Passage cruises stop at three of the mentioned ports.
Many cruisers tack on a land portion option, allowing travelers to head into Denali National Park or stay in local land resorts to learn more about the culture. Whether hiking a glacier, kayaking through the water, dog sledding, panning for gold or taking a panoramic helicopter ride, there is plenty to do. Most Inside Passage cruises will stop at one of these locations for passengers to get up close with glaciers and watch them calve. Some people refer to these routes as an “Outside Passage” cruise, but that’s not really an accurate description.
Longer cruises and special itineraries will visit more ports and smaller, remote destinations. One day might involve kayaking in Patterson Bay followed by a brisk snorkeling session. Another could see guests hiking to a glacial lake or going for a skiff tour among icebergs. And another could involve biking in an area known for its healthy population of brown bears (if you dare). Many of the sailings to Alaska center on the state’s major ports of call, like Juneau and Sitka. There’s nothing wrong with those itineraries, but they do tend to focus more on touristy downtowns and less on the great outdoors.
Our Alaska cruise cost was more budget-friendly than planning an independent trip to the Inside Passage. We went on a 10-day cruise on the Inside Passage – you can read our Alaska cruise review. Whether you opt for a large, amenity-packed cruise ship or a smaller, more intimate vessel, the experience is nothing short of magical. Discover Southeast Alaska’s natural wonders aboard a chartered sailboat with Sailing Alaska.
Do be aware though that, although the rainiest months are generally October and November, the area is known for lots of rainfall all throughout the year. A range of Activities - Climb into a skiff (small one-person rowing boat) or kayak to feel completely free on the waters, soaking up the air of tranquility as you lose yourself in the many magical sights. Join a guided hike to learn more about the magnificent landscapes and how they were formed over the years and discover more about the cultural groups and animals that occupy the remote areas. Discover the traditions and customs of different groups, including the Tlingit and the Haida, see intricate totem poles, visit cultural centers and much more.
No matter your budget, age or travel interest, plenty of cruise options ply the waters around Alaska. • Book with your card to get trip delay reimbursement, trip cancellation coverage and other travel assistance services. Norwegian Encore has almost 4,000 passengers; Norwegian Bliss has just over 4,000. Norwegian also makes some cabins available for solo occupancy on select cruises if a single studio is unavailable. The best Alaska cruises are great for multigenerational trips with grandparents, their children and their grandchildren. A cruise to Alaska, “America’s final frontier,” is a glorious way to explore this enormous state.
It was an invigorating way to wind down our 8-day adventure with Alaskan Dream Cruises. Designated a State Historic Park in 2000, this Wrangell attraction has a ramp to provide easy beach accessibility. There are also replicas of some petroglyphs on the deck overlook, on which visitors can make rubbings.
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