Which Alaska Cruise Line Is Right For You?
We’re big fans of small ship cruising. But if you’re focused on a conventional cruise, know that each cruise line has its own policies, perks—and, truly, its own personality. Here’s the skinny on each major cruise line, so you can see which one might be the best fit for your personality.
Carnival Alaskan Cruises
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fun, upbeat atmosphere | Might be too much of a party atmosphere for some travelers, with lots announcements about activities |
| Good Value | Crowds, long lines for disembarking |
| Plenty of onboard activities, from pools to casinos and Vegas-style shows and kids programs | Cabins may be a little basic |
Celebrity Alaskan Cruises
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Elegant, colorful atmosphere without being stuffy | The nightlife scene is a little too quiet for some people |
| Plentiful verandas for Alaskan views and wildlife | Big ships still means long lines |
| Known for excellent food, great service | There is a kids program, but line generally less family-oriented |
Crystal Alaskan Cruises
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Luxury feel leaves guests feeling pampered and relaxed | Limited Alaska cruise option |
| On-board activities include gold clinics, music lessons, yoga | Can be pricey--from $6,300 to $34,000 per person |
| Most amenities included in overall price | Might be too quiet for some people |
Disney Alaskan Cruises
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Super family-friendly atmosphere, with lots to age-specific activities | No Casino |
| Great for multi-generation trips, with nice grown-up diversions, such as a good fitness center and spa | Can be crowded and noisy |
| Known for solid, friendly service | Might be too theme-park-like for some folk |
Holland America Line
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Most sailings include Glacier Bay National Park, the highlight of the Inside Passage | The nightlife scene ends a little too early for some people |
| Fewer guests than other "big ship" lines, giving a more intimate feel and uncrowded spaces | Lacks onboard extras like climbing walls, go-karts and laser tag found on bigger ships |
| Known for excellent food and extensive Alaska-themed programming on board |
Norwegian Alaskan Cruise
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Its "freestyle" policies mean relaxing price, without so many rules about when you eat | Long lines for dining, disembarking |
| Good food, including the late-night Chocoholic buffet | Have to pay extra for some dining options |
| Lots of sports activities, Vegas-style entertainment | Can be a little loud for some folk |
Oceania Alaskan Cruises
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Luxury atmosphere with emphasis on dining, service, cultural enrichment, and great libraries | No Cross-Gulf itineraries, difficult to add a land tour pre or post-cruise |
| Less than 700 passengers allows for a more intimate experience, and it's easier to disembark in port | Nightlife a little limited |
| Alaska Explorer Youth Program for kids aged 5-12 |
Princess Alaskan Cruises
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Floating resort offers Broadway shows, wide dining options, casinos, movie theaters | Big crowds, and long lines for disembarking |
| Great views: Lots of affordable balcony cabins | The food is fine, but tends not to get rave reviews |
| Has increased flexibility for dining seating options |
Regent Seven Seas Alaskan Cruises
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Elegant, upscale atmosphere with high level of service | There are no "formal nights," but vibe can still be a little too formal for some folk |
| Lots of onboard lectures and experts for enrichment | Subdued nightlife |
| Rates include alcohol | Pricey compared to other major lines |
Royal Caribbean Alaska
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Known for a wide array of onboard recreation, from water parks to trampolines and climbing walls | Lots of the fun activities carry extra costs |
| Vegas-level shows | Crowds and long lines |
| Casual atmosphere | Loud, ongoing announcements |
Silversea Alaskan Cruise
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Luxury atmosphere with an emphasis on cultural enrichment | Can be too dressy for some folks, though ties are no longer required on formal night |
| Lots of fine dining | No activities just for kids |
| Lots of cabins with private verandas | Not much nightlife |
Seattle Alaskan Cruises
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy airport hub from most U.S. cities | More time spent at sea, and not in Alaska |
| Lots of sea time for ship lovers | Some bumpy rides in open water |
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