If you’ve ever wondered, “where do Alaskan cruises go?” the answer is simple: they go to some of the most incredible places on Earth.
From stunning glaciers to charming coastal towns, an Alaskan cruise is packed with adventure and breathtaking sights.
Each itinerary offers a mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities that make for an unforgettable journey.
Here are some of the amazing destinations you can visit on an Alaskan cruise.
Diving Into the Inside Passage
The Inside Passage is the most popular coastal route for Alaskan cruises.
This path extends all the way from southeastern Alaska to northwestern Washington state.
It even passes through British Columbia, Canada!
The Inside Passage weaves through islands and fjords, treating cruise passengers to stunning coastal views and abundant wildlife.
Many cruises that follow the Inside Passage depart from Seattle or Vancouver, so if any of these locations are your departure port, you’re in for a great ride.
Juneau: The Capital of Adventure
Juneau, Alaska’s capital city, is a must-visit stop on an Alaskan cruise.
One of the highlights here is the Mendenhall Glacier, which you can explore by hiking, kayaking, or taking a guided tour.
Downtown Juneau offers a chance to stroll through historic streets, visit the Sealaska Heritage Institute, or enjoy a meal at the iconic Red Dog Saloon.
For wildlife lovers, Juneau’s whale-watching tours are an unforgettable experience, with chances to see humpback whales and orcas.
Ketchikan: A Cultural Treasure
Known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” Ketchikan is famous for its rich Native heritage.
You can enjoy the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show or take a scenic flight over the Misty Fjords National Monument.
Art enthusiasts will love exploring local galleries and learning about the town’s totem poles — of which the town has plenty.
In fact, Ketchikan currently holds the record for the world’s largest collection of standing totem poles.
Skagway: A Step Back in Time
Skagway is a historic town often included in answers to “where do Alaskan cruises go?”
It transports you back to the Gold Rush era with its charming streets and rich history.
A highlight is the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway, offering breathtaking views of mountains and valleys.
For something unique, you can try gold panning.
Or take a thrilling dog sledding adventure through breathtaking Alaskan landscapes.
Skagway’s rich history and outdoor activities make it a must-visit destination for cruise travelers seeking unforgettable.
Exploring the Gulf of Alaska
Another common route for Alaskan cruises is the Gulf of Alaska.
These cruises usually run between Seattle or Vancouver and Seward or Whittier, allowing travelers to see both the coast and Alaska’s interior.
College Fjord and Hubbard Glacier
College Fjord and Hubbard Glacier are two iconic stops on this route.
These areas offer jaw-dropping views of glaciers, with opportunities to watch ice calving and capture amazing photos.
Valdez: Adventure Awaits
Valdez is known for its dramatic scenery and outdoor activities.
Visitors can kayak through Prince William Sound — a sound (or small body of water) located on the east side of the Kenai Peninsula.
You can also go fishing or hiking along scenic trails surrounded by towering mountains and cascading waterfalls.
Ports of Departure
Most Alaskan cruises depart from Seattle or Vancouver, making it easy to access the Inside Passage and Gulf of Alaska routes.
Other departure ports include Seward and Whittier.
San Francisco and Los Angeles are less common ports, but they do sometimes serve as departure points (just not as frequently as the others).
Things to Do on an Alaskan Cruise
An Alaskan cruise isn’t just about where you go—it’s also about what you do along the way.
See Amazing Wildlife
Alaska is home to incredible wildlife, including whales, bears, and eagles.
Many cruises include excursions where you can see these animals up close, whether by boat, kayak, or guided hike.
Explore Glaciers
Few things are as awe-inspiring as seeing a glacier in person.
Excursions often include glacier hiking, scenic boat tours, or even helicopter rides that land on glaciers.
Dive Into Local Culture
Alaska’s rich Native heritage offers plenty of cultural experiences.
From gold panning to salmon bakes and museum visits, there are many ways to connect with the history of the area.
Cruise Tours: Go Beyond the Coast
For travelers looking to extend their adventure, many cruise lines offer “Cruise Tours.”
These packages combine the cruise with land tours to destinations like Denali National Park and Fairbanks.
They’re a great way to experience more of Alaska’s stunning landscapes and unique wildlife.
Ready to Plan Your Alaskan Adventure?
Now that you know the answer to “where do Alaskan cruises go?” it’s time to start planning your trip.
At Team Thompson Travel, we specialize in creating unforgettable travel experiences.
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly itinerary or a romantic getaway, we’ll help you craft the perfect Alaskan cruise.
Best of all, our services come at no extra cost to you!
Contact us today to make your dream Alaskan venture a reality!