Alaska has long been one of the most popular cruise destinations, and for good reasons. There are thousands of miles of stunning coastline, from acres of northern rainforest to massive calving glaciers, set against majestic mountain peaks. Alaska has a rich history and pockets of diverse cultural interest, including the native Tlingit traditions of Ketchikan and the Gold Rush stories of Skagway.
For example, Celebrity Cruises has announced that it
will expand its Alaska cruise fleet in 2023, when the Millennium will
join the Eclipse and Solstice in the
Inside Passage, sometimes sailing as far north as Seward. Princess Cruises will
have six ships in Alaska for 2023, including the new Discovery
Princess, with a variety of cruise-only or cruise-plus-land-tour
options.
Many Alaska cruises are seven or eight days,
traveling north or south through the Inside Passage between Seattle or
Vancouver and Hubbard Glacier. Some longer itineraries venture into
the Gulf of Alaska to visit College Fjord, the Kenai Peninsula, and
Anchorage.
Because so many cruise lines sail in Alaska, you
can choose your experience; whether you’re looking for luxury, rugged
adventure, or family-oriented activities, your professional travel advisor can
help you find what you seek.
There is one unknown that
may influence some future Alaskan itineraries: U.S.
cabotage regulations, which require cruise ships that sail between U.S. ports
to call on at least one foreign port, were waived for large cruise ships
sailing Alaska during 2021. We don’t know yet if this waiver will
continue; if it does, it may mean that more Alaska itineraries will skip Canadian
ports like Vancouver and Victoria, giving you more time in Alaska itself.
Whatever cruise you choose, know that Alaskan weather
is rarely predictable. Pack layers of clothing that you
can adapt easily for warmer and cooler days. Rain
is always possible, so a waterproof jacket and shoes are helpful.
The scenery and the wildlife – whales, seals, eagles,
seabirds, moose, mountain goats, and bears – are the
greatest attractions of an Alaskan cruise. To
enjoy them fully reserve an outside cabin if your budget allows;
when you wake each morning to another stunning vista, you’ll be glad you
did.
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