When most people think of cruising, images of sun-drenched beaches in the Caribbean or the Bahamas typically come to mind. After all, who wouldn’t want to spend their days lounging on golden sands, sipping tropical cocktails, and indulging in soft-serve ice cream by the pool? Sounds like a dreamy vacation!
But if you're someone who craves a bit more adventure and natural beauty from your cruise vacation, an Alaska cruise might be exactly what you’re looking for.
I recently embarked on my first Alaskan cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line in July, and it quickly became one of my favorite cruise experiences. The stunning landscapes, wildlife sightings, and unique history of Alaska made this journey unforgettable. From the towering glaciers to the pristine fjords, Alaska is unlike anywhere else, and I was lucky enough to see it up close.
That said, as with any travel experience, there were a few things I would’ve done differently after the fact. Here are 15 things I learned from my cruise that could have made the trip even better, whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned cruiser.
15. Book Non-Cruise Line Excursions
One of the first surprises I encountered when planning my Alaskan cruise was the high cost of shore excursions. Many of the excursions offered by Norwegian Cruise Line were priced above $100 per person, with some costing as much as $300 per person.
While I understand that these experiences are often worth the investment, it was a bit of a shock to see such high prices, especially when planning a family trip or a more budget-conscious vacation.
We decided to book only one shore excursion through the cruise line to keep costs under control. While this worked for our budget, we quickly realized there were plenty of opportunities to book excursions with local tour operators at each port of call.
Some of these independent operators offered similar experiences at a lower cost, or even a more personalized touch, which made me wish I had explored this option more thoroughly before booking our trip.
For example, during our stop in Juneau, we were intrigued by a floatplane tour offered by a local operator. The weather that day wasn’t ideal, so we decided against it, but had conditions been better, it might have been the highlight of our trip. The price tag of $375 per person was steep, but for the right excursion, it would have been worth every penny.
In hindsight, I would consider booking excursions through local tour operators for a more customized and often more affordable experience. Many companies offer unique adventures that larger cruise line-operated tours can’t match. It’s something I would research thoroughly for my next trip.
Some smaller, independent tours even offer experiences off the beaten path, such as private wildlife spotting or hiking tours through pristine, untouched wilderness.
Read: I took an Alaskan cruise without booking excursions
14. Pack Layers & Rain Gear
It may sound like a no-brainer, but I cannot emphasize enough how important it is to pack for Alaska’s unpredictable weather. Even though we were cruising in the summer, the weather was anything but predictable. Temperatures can range anywhere from a chilly 40°F to a pleasant 75°F, depending on the region and time of day. The key to staying comfortable is layering.
During our trip, we experienced everything from sunny afternoons to freezing temperatures with rain and wind. I quickly learned that a good rain jacket, an umbrella, a warm hat, and sturdy waterproof boots are non-negotiable for an Alaskan cruise.
Even on sunny days, rain showers can come out of nowhere, and if you’re out in nature—whether hiking, whale-watching, or just strolling the quaint streets of the port towns—you’ll be thankful for your rain gear.
In addition to the essentials, I recommend packing an extra layer or two, especially if you plan to venture out on excursions that involve hiking or being out on the water for an extended period.
Warm, breathable clothing that you can easily add or remove is key. A high-quality thermal vest or jacket is perfect for those chilly mornings when you’re out on the deck watching the sunrise over the fjords.
Read: Everything I packed for my Alaska cruise
13. Consider the Alaska Railway for Airport Transfers
Another tip I learned toward the end of our trip was how scenic—and affordable—the Alaska Railway service is. It’s an excellent option for getting from Anchorage to Seward (a popular cruise port) or vice versa, with some tickets priced at less than $100 per person.
This is much cheaper than hiring a car and navigating the often winding roads between Anchorage and Seward, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
We took the train from Seward back to Anchorage after disembarking, and it was a great way to unwind and reflect on our trip. The views along the route are spectacular, with endless stretches of mountainous terrain, glaciers, and occasional wildlife.
The ride was smooth, and the service was fantastic—making for a stress-free and scenic conclusion to our Alaskan adventure. You can even order breakfast or lunch on the train!
The Alaska Railway is more than just a mode of transportation—it’s an experience in itself. You’ll pass through pristine wilderness, vast forests, and towering mountains, all while sipping a hot coffee and watching the landscape unfold before your eyes.
If you have the time to spare, I’d highly recommend this route for getting to or from the Seward cruise port from Anchorage. The railway has just two stops, one attached to the Anchorage International Airport and one attached to the Seward cruise port.
12. Book More Shore Excursions
Before our cruise, I did a lot of research on what Alaska’s ports had to offer. However, when we arrived in port, I realized just how important shore excursions are for truly experiencing the destination.
We ended up booking just one excursion—the White Pass Railroad Summit trip in Skagway—which was amazing, but after seeing all the available options at the ports, I wished we had booked more in other port towns.
While some of Alaska’s towns, like Skagway, are charming and walkable, many smaller ports—like Icy Strait Point—are better explored with a guided tour or excursion to see the wilderness.
These small towns are beautiful, but they can be limited in terms of activities available on your own. If you want to see the Alaskan wilderness up close, track down some excursions that involve wildlife viewing, glacier walks, or even dog sledding, which are incredible opportunities to immerse yourself in the region.
Independent tour operators can offer tours at a lower cost than the cruise line’s official excursions, which is an important consideration if you’re traveling with a family or trying to stick to a budget. Additionally, the local guides often have insider knowledge that can enhance the experience, whether offering historical context or sharing stories of the region’s past.
11. Stay in a Balcony Stateroom
When it comes to staterooms on a cruise, there’s often a trade-off between price and comfort. On our Alaskan voyage, we opted for a standard interior cabin, mainly to save money.
However, what we quickly realized was that the lack of windows and natural light in our cabin made the experience a little less enjoyable, especially when sailing through such visually stunning landscapes.
For an Alaska cruise, I strongly recommend splurging on a balcony cabin. With the breathtaking scenery of glaciers, mountains, and possibly wildlife like whales and seals visible from the ship, having a private balcony would allow you to make the most of your trip.
Imagine sipping hot chocolate or a glass of wine while enjoying the vastness of the ocean, watching as glaciers drift past, and spotting wildlife in the distance. It would enhance the entire experience!
A balcony also gives you the flexibility to enjoy the views in privacy. Whether watching the ship glide through a narrow fjord or spotting a bear on the shore from a distance, having that personal space to relax and take it all in is invaluable.
Read: Cruise ship cabins: Everything you need to know
10. Choose Your Itinerary Carefully
When booking my Alaskan cruise, our priorities were the sailing dates, budget, and cruising with NCL. This meant that our options were somewhat limited, and we settled on an itinerary that didn’t necessarily align with everything I wanted to see. For instance, while I thoroughly enjoyed our stop in Skagway, I felt that the port of Icy Strait Point was underwhelming.
The takeaway here is that Alaska offers such a wide variety of ports that it's important to think carefully about which ones appeal to you. Glacier Bay, for instance, is a must-see for many travelers but wasn’t on our itinerary. Next time, I would focus on choosing the ports and then aligning the sailing dates.
In addition to iconic destinations like Glacier Bay, I’d also encourage you to think about the experiences you want—whether it’s hiking through the Tongass National Forest, taking a scenic flight over Denali, or even visiting remote towns like Kodiak, which are less frequented by large cruise ships but offer incredible wildlife experiences.
9. Pack Binoculars for Wildlife Viewing
Whether you’re onboard the ship or on a shore excursion, there’s a good chance you’ll see some incredible wildlife during your Alaskan cruise. During our journey, we spotted several pods of whales, seals, sea otters, and bald eagles, and it was always an exhilarating experience. However, I realized too late that a pair of binoculars would have really enhanced our wildlife viewing.
Binoculars allow you to get a closer look at animals in the distance—whether it's a pod of humpback whales breaching in the distance, a bear grazing along the shore, or a bald eagle soaring high above. You don’t want to miss any of these opportunities, and a pair of good binoculars will ensure you can enjoy the sights without straining your eyes.
8. Opt for a Smaller Ship or Expedition Cruise
While larger cruise ships are great for onboard amenities and entertainment, they can also make some of the popular Alaskan ports feel crowded. Ports like Juneau can get overwhelmed with multiple cruise ships in port at once, and the lines at popular attractions or excursions, shops, or restaurants can get long.
If I were to do it again, I would consider sailing on a smaller cruise ship, such as a Viking Cruises vessel, or perhaps even an expedition cruise. Smaller ships have the advantage of being able to dock in more remote areas, giving you access to ports that larger ships can’t reach. These ships also tend to offer a more intimate experience with fewer passengers, allowing for a more relaxed and personalized atmosphere.
7. Choose an Itinerary with Fewer Sea Days
One aspect of our cruise I didn’t fully consider when booking was the number of sea days. During our 7-night voyage, we had three sea days (including our embarkation day). While this was nice for relaxing, I felt like it was too much time at sea when there’s so much to see on land.
If I could do it again, I would opt for an itinerary with fewer sea days, especially since Alaska is brimming with activities and natural wonders. The more time you can spend on land exploring the ports, the better.
Read: 15 things that surprised me about Alaska cruising
6. Research Alaska’s History Before You Go
Alaska has such a rich and diverse history—whether it’s the Klondike Gold Rush, the Russian influence, or the indigenous cultures that have lived there for centuries—that it pays to do some research before you go. This can enhance your experience and make the sights, museums, and cultural excursions more meaningful.
In addition to reading up on Alaska’s history, I recommend checking out movies, documentaries, or podcasts related to the area. For example, a documentary on the Gold Rush or the history of the Alaska Native tribes can offer new insights into the places you’ll visit and the stories you’ll hear on your excursions, making your Alaskan experience more rewarding.
5. Dive Into the Local Culture
Alaska is rich with unique culture and history, and one of the best ways to explore this is through local excursions. Whether learning about the Gold Rush in Skagway, participating in a traditional salmon bake, or enjoying a local performance, these activities give you a deeper understanding of the region. I highly recommend seeking culturally immersive experiences to truly appreciate Alaska beyond the landscape.
There are so many types of culturally rich shore excursions that cruise passengers can take when visiting Alaska. Guests can try a traditional salmon cookout, a local singing and dancing performance, a lumberjack presentation, a local town tour, and more.
Perhaps you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option. Why not visit a local museum? There are several museums in popular stops such as Juneau and Skagway. This is a great way to learn more about the local area, and the great part is you can stay or leave whenever you and your group want, making it an easy stop during your afternoon of activities!
4. Spend a Night Pre- or Post-Cruise in Anchorage
One of my biggest regrets was not taking the time to explore Anchorage more thoroughly. While we spent a night in Vancouver before our cruise, we didn’t extend our stay in Anchorage after our cruise ended.
Anchorage is a vibrant city with plenty to offer—from museums and galleries to hiking and wildlife viewing—so why not stay an extra night to explore? If you're already in Alaska, it makes sense to take the opportunity to explore more of what this unique state offers.
3. Pack an External Power Bank
During your Alaska cruise, you’ll likely spend a lot of time outdoors. A portable power bank can ensure your phone and camera are always charged, so you never miss a chance to capture a beautiful moment.
2. Cruise During the Off Season and Be Rewarded
When planning a cruise to Alaska, one of the best strategies for maximizing your experience while keeping costs in check is to consider cruising during the off-season. While summer is the peak season for Alaska cruises, cruising earlier in the spring or later in the fall (particularly in May or September) can offer several advantages.
First and foremost, one of the biggest draws of cruising in the off-season is the cost. Prices for cruise fares, excursions, and even flights to Alaska tend to be significantly lower when you book during the shoulder season.
In May and September, you can often find discounted rates on both the cruise itself and on the cost of flights, which can make the whole experience much more budget-friendly.
Additionally, the off-season often brings fewer crowds, which can be a real blessing in Alaska. Many of the most popular ports—like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway—tend to get packed with cruise ship tourists during the summer months.
Imagine arriving at Glacier Bay or Denali National Park and having more space to explore, with fewer people jockeying for the same view. The smaller crowds also mean shorter lines for popular shore excursions and fewer tourists to contend with when exploring on your own.
But beyond the practical considerations, there’s something magical about visiting Alaska when fewer tourists are around. The serenity and tranquility of the Alaskan wilderness are magnified when you’re not fighting for space with other travelers.
You can sit on the deck of the ship and watch whales without being distracted by the noise or bustle of other passengers. Or, you can venture off the ship to a smaller port and have a more intimate experience with local culture, wildlife, and nature.
One thing to keep in mind when cruising in the off-season is that the weather can be a bit more unpredictable. While Alaska’s summer months tend to be relatively mild, the shoulder months—May and September—can still bring cooler temperatures, especially in the mornings and evenings.
You may also encounter more rainfall, as Alaska is known for its wet weather, particularly along the coast. However, this should not deter you. As long as you're prepared with warm layers and waterproof gear, the slightly cooler, wetter weather won't detract from the experience—in fact, it can often enhance it, offering a more rugged and authentic Alaskan atmosphere.
There are also certain wildlife sightings that are more likely in the shoulder season. For example, September marks the tail end of the salmon run, which is a peak time for bear sightings as they gather at the rivers to fish. Early-season cruises in May can offer the chance to spot migrating whales, as well as fresh blooms in the wildflowers and fewer tourists at popular scenic spots.
Overall, I highly recommend considering an off-season cruise to Alaska. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also enjoy the beauty of the Alaskan wilderness with fewer crowds and more tranquility. If you're looking for a quieter, more personal experience, cruising in the shoulder season might be just what you're looking for.
1. Bring a Journal for Memories
Alaska is one of those places that stays with you long after you’ve left. The stunning vistas, wildlife encounters, towering glaciers, and the midnight sun are the kinds of moments that beg to be remembered. While photos are a great way to capture those memories, there’s something deeply personal about writing your thoughts down in a journal. That’s why I highly recommend bringing a journal on your Alaskan cruise.
Writing in a journal also offers a way to reflect on your experience more greatly. In a place as vast and awe-inspiring as Alaska, you might find yourself overwhelmed by the beauty and grandeur of it all. Journaling allows you to slow down and process those feelings, helping you to appreciate the small, fleeting moments amid the majesty.
Whether sitting on the deck watching the sun dip below the horizon at 11:00 p.m. or having a quiet moment on a scenic shore excursion, writing can deepen your connection to the place and your experience.
I wish I’d brought a journal with me on my Alaska cruise. Not only would it have helped me capture the essence of the trip, but it would also have given me something to look back on when reminiscing years down the line.
Imagine being able to pull out a journal years later, reliving the memories as if you were back there, watching the tide come in, hearing the call of a bald eagle overhead, and feeling the cool wind on your face as you navigate the fjords.
A travel journal also makes for a wonderful keepsake. When you return home, you’ll have a personal record of your adventures—one that’s much more meaningful than a souvenir trinket or a pile of photos. It’s a tangible reminder of your journey and the experiences that shaped it.
From the moment we set sail, the natural beauty of Alaska left me in awe
The snow-capped mountains, the vast glaciers, and the misty fjords are sights that can’t be replicated anywhere else. That being said, like any trip, there are always ways to improve upon the experience. While my time in Alaska was fantastic, there were certain things I wish I had known or had done differently. These 15 tips are not just my reflections on the trip, but advice that I hope will help future cruisers make the most of their own Alaskan adventures.
Cruising to Alaska is about more than just seeing beautiful landscapes; it’s about immersing yourself in nature, history, and culture. It’s about experiencing the wildness of the frontier, learning about the region’s rich history, and connecting with its unique wildlife.
For anyone considering an Alaska cruise, take the time to plan ahead, pack wisely, and be open to new experiences. Do your research, book excursions, and, most importantly, take the time to truly appreciate the magic of Alaska—both its wild beauty and its vibrant culture.
Hayley Phillips
Hayley Phillips is a military spouse currently living in Florida and loves all things travel and travel planning.
