Best Glacier Cruise In Alaska: Top Picks For Scenic Views And Wildlife Encounters

by | Aug 28, 2023 | Cruise Lines & Cruise Types

I think that a glacier cruise in Alaska is one of the most memorable cruise experiences.

Alaska is home to some of the world's most magnificent glaciers, and the best way to experience them is by taking a glacier cruise. A glacier cruise is a unique experience that offers stunning views of glaciers, wildlife, and the natural beauty of Alaska.

There are several options for glacier cruises in Alaska, with some of the most popular destinations being Glacier Bay, Hubbard Glacier, Prince William Sound, and Tracy Arm. Each location offers a unique experience, and it's important to research the itinerary before booking to ensure that it meets your expectations. Some cruises combine the Inside Passage with an Interior land tour, while others visit multiple locations.

Whether you're a nature lover, adventure seeker, or simply looking for a relaxing vacation, a glacier cruise in Alaska is an experience that should not be missed. With so many options to choose from, it's important to do your research and find the best cruise that suits your needs and budget. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable journey to the land of glaciers and beyond.

Understanding Alaska Glacier Cruises

Alaska Glacier Cruises are one of the most popular attractions in Alaska. They offer a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Alaska's glaciers, fjords, and wildlife from the comfort of a cruise ship. Alaska Glacier Cruises can vary in length from a day cruise to a multi-day itinerary.

Day cruises are a popular option for those who want to experience the beauty of Alaska's glaciers but have limited time. These cruises typically last between 5 to 8 hours and offer a chance to see several glaciers and wildlife such as whales, seals, and eagles. Popular day cruise destinations include Glacier Bay, Prince William Sound, and Tracy Arm.

Multi-day Alaska glacier cruise itineraries offer a more in-depth experience of Alaska's glaciers and wildlife. These itineraries can last anywhere from 7 to 14 days and offer a chance to explore several glaciers, fjords, and ports of call. Popular multi-day Alaska glacier cruise itineraries include Inside Passage, Hubbard Glacier, and Glacier Bay.

When planning an Alaska glacier cruise, it is important to consider the time of year. The Alaska cruise season typically runs from May to September, with the peak season being June to August. During this time, the weather is generally mild, and the days are long, providing ample time for sightseeing.

Alaska glacier cruises offer a variety of activities to enhance the experience, including kayaking, hiking, and wildlife watching. Many cruise lines also offer onboard lectures and presentations on Alaska's history, culture, and wildlife.

Overall, Alaska glacier cruises offer a unique and unforgettable experience to explore the natural beauty of Alaska's glaciers, fjords, and wildlife. Whether it's a day cruise or a multi-day itinerary, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Top Glacier Destinations in Alaska

Alaska is home to some of the most breathtaking glaciers in the world. Here are some of the top glacier destinations in Alaska that you should consider visiting when planning your glacier cruise.

Glacier Bay

Glacier Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular glacier destinations in Alaska. It is home to several tidewater glaciers, including the Margerie Glacier and the Grand Pacific Glacier. Visitors can witness the awe-inspiring sight of calving glaciers, where large chunks of ice break off and fall into the water, creating a thunderous sound. The park also offers opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing.

Hubbard Glacier

Hubbard Glacier is the largest tidewater glacier in North America and one of the most active glaciers in Alaska. Visitors can witness the glacier's s-turns and blue ice, which are created by the compression of snow over time. The glacier is also known for its impressive calving events, which can create icebergs as large as a ten-story building.

Sawyer Glaciers

The Sawyer Glaciers are located in Tracy Arm, a fjord located south of Juneau. Visitors can witness the spectacular sight of the glaciers calving and creating icebergs. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including harbor seals, humpback whales, and bald eagles.

College Fjord

College Fjord is home to several tidewater glaciers, including the Harvard Glacier and the Yale Glacier. Visitors can witness the glaciers calving and creating icebergs. The area is also known for its stunning scenery, with snow-capped mountains and fjords.

Tracy Arm

Tracy Arm is a fjord located south of Juneau and is home to the Sawyer Glaciers. Visitors can witness the stunning scenery of the fjord, with its steep cliffs and waterfalls. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including harbor seals, humpback whales, and bald eagles.

Prince William Sound

Prince William Sound is home to several tidewater glaciers, including the Columbia Glacier and the Meares Glacier. Visitors can witness the glaciers calving and creating icebergs. The area is also known for its stunning scenery, with snow-capped mountains and fjords.

In conclusion, Alaska is home to some of the most spectacular glaciers in the world. Visitors can witness the awe-inspiring sight of calving glaciers and the stunning scenery of the fjords. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast or a nature lover, a glacier cruise in Alaska is an experience you will never forget.

Wildlife Encounters

Alaska is known for its diverse wildlife, and a glacier cruise is the perfect opportunity to witness some of the state's most iconic animals in their natural habitat. From grizzly bears to mountain goats, the possibilities for wildlife sightings are endless.

One of the most common wildlife sightings on an Alaska glacier cruise is the seal. These playful creatures can often be seen lounging on ice floes or swimming through the frigid waters. Keep an eye out for their distinctive heads popping up out of the water as they search for fish to eat.

Another animal that is frequently spotted on glacier cruises is the grizzly bear. These massive creatures can often be seen fishing for salmon in the streams that flow into the ocean. Make sure to keep a safe distance and respect their space if you do encounter one.

For those looking for a more unique wildlife encounter, keep an eye out for the elusive mountain goat. These sure-footed creatures can often be seen scaling the steep cliffs that line the fjords. With their distinctive white coats, they are easy to spot against the rocky terrain.

Overall, a glacier cruise in Alaska is a must-do for wildlife enthusiasts. With the chance to see everything from seals to grizzly bears, it's an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.

Departure Cities

When planning a glacier cruise in Alaska, choosing the right departure city is an important decision. There are several cities to choose from, each with its own unique advantages.

Anchorage

Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska and is located in the south-central region of the state. It is a popular departure point for many glacier cruises and is easily accessible by air. Visitors can take a shuttle or taxi from the airport to the port. Anchorage also offers a variety of accommodations and dining options, making it a convenient choice for travelers.

Juneau

Juneau is the capital city of Alaska and is located in the southeastern part of the state. It is a popular departure point for glacier cruises that visit the Inside Passage. Juneau is only accessible by air or sea, making it a unique and remote destination. Visitors can take a shuttle or taxi from the airport to the port. Juneau also offers a variety of attractions, including the Mendenhall Glacier and the Alaska State Museum.

Seward

Seward is a small town located on the Kenai Peninsula in south-central Alaska. It is a popular departure point for glacier cruises that visit the Kenai Fjords National Park. Seward is accessible by car or train from Anchorage. Visitors can also fly into the nearby Kenai Municipal Airport. Seward offers a variety of accommodations and dining options, as well as attractions such as the Alaska SeaLife Center.

Whittier

Whittier is a small town located on the Prince William Sound in south-central Alaska. It is a popular departure point for glacier cruises that visit the Sound. Whittier is accessible by car or train from Anchorage. Visitors can also take a shuttle or taxi from the airport. Whittier offers a variety of accommodations and dining options, as well as attractions such as the Whittier Tunnel.

Valdez

Valdez is a small town located on the Prince William Sound in south-central Alaska. It is a popular departure point for glacier cruises that visit the Sound. Valdez is accessible by car or plane from Anchorage. Visitors can also take a shuttle or taxi from the airport. Valdez offers a variety of accommodations and dining options, as well as attractions such as the Valdez Museum.

Overall, each departure city has its own unique advantages and visitors should choose the one that best suits their needs. Transportation options vary depending on the city, so visitors should plan accordingly.

Exploring National Parks

Alaska is home to some of the most stunning national parks in the world, and a glacier cruise is a great way to explore them. Here are some of the top national parks to visit on an Alaska glacier cruise:

Glacier Bay National Park

Glacier Bay National Park is a highlight of any Alaska glacier cruise. This park is home to over 50 named glaciers and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can witness calving glaciers, humpback whales, and a variety of other wildlife. Park rangers are on board to provide interpretive talks and answer questions.

Denali National Park

Denali National Park is home to the tallest peak in North America, Denali, which stands at 20,310 feet. Visitors can take a land tour from the port to the park to witness breathtaking views of the mountain and its surrounding wilderness. Park rangers provide interpretive talks on the park's history, geology, and wildlife.

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is the largest national park in the United States, covering over 13 million acres. Visitors can witness glaciers, mountains, and wildlife, including brown bears and moose. Park rangers provide interpretive talks on the park's history and geology.

Kenai Fjords National Park

Kenai Fjords National Park is home to the Harding Icefield, which feeds over 30 glaciers. Visitors can witness calving glaciers, sea otters, and humpback whales. Park rangers are on board to provide interpretive talks and answer questions.

In conclusion, exploring national parks on an Alaska glacier cruise is an unforgettable experience. Visitors can witness some of the most stunning landscapes and wildlife in the world while learning from knowledgeable park rangers.

Additional Activities

Aside from glacier viewing, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy during an Alaska cruise. Here are some of the most popular:

Land Tours

Many cruise lines offer land tours as an add-on to their cruise packages. These tours allow passengers to explore Alaska's interior, visiting places like Denali National Park and the town of Talkeetna. These tours typically include transportation, lodging, and sightseeing activities.

Fishing

Alaska is known for its world-class fishing, and many cruise lines offer fishing excursions as part of their cruise packages. These excursions can range from half-day trips to multi-day expeditions, and can be tailored to suit both novice and experienced anglers.

Winter Activities

While most Alaska cruises take place during the summer months, there are some that operate during the winter as well. These cruises offer a unique opportunity to see Alaska's winter wonderland, with activities like dog sledding, snowmobiling, and ice fishing.

Hiking

Alaska is home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the world, and many cruise lines offer hiking excursions as part of their cruise packages. These excursions can range from easy nature walks to strenuous hikes up mountains and glaciers.

Flightseeing

Flightseeing tours are a popular activity in Alaska, allowing passengers to see the state's stunning scenery from above. Many cruise lines offer flightseeing tours as an add-on to their cruise packages, with options ranging from short sightseeing flights to full-day excursions.

Overall, there are plenty of additional activities to enjoy during an Alaska cruise, from land tours to fishing to winter activities. Passengers should check with their cruise line to see what options are available and to book in advance to ensure availability.

Best Time for Glacier Cruises

Glacier cruises in Alaska are a popular and exciting way to explore the state's natural beauty. However, choosing the best time to go on a glacier cruise can be tricky. The best time for glacier cruises in Alaska is between May and September, when the weather is mild and the days are long.

May is an excellent time to go on a glacier cruise in Alaska. The weather is usually dry, and the locals are emerging from their winter cocoons, embracing the sunshine. The wildlife is also active during this time, and you may spot bears with their cubs, moose with their calves, and humpback whales returning from their winter home in Hawaii.

September is also a great time for glacier cruises in Alaska. The weather is still mild, and the crowds are smaller than during the peak summer months. September is also the best time to see the northern lights, although it's not a guarantee that you will see them during cruising season.

For the warmest temperatures, it's best to cruise between mid-June and mid-August. For the most Midnight Sun, come three weeks before or after the summer solstice and longest day of the year, June 21. However, keep in mind that these peak summer months are also the busiest, and prices may be higher.

Overall, the best time for glacier cruises in Alaska is between May and September. May is an excellent time to see wildlife, while September is perfect for smaller crowds and the chance to see the northern lights. Mid-June to mid-August is best for warm temperatures and the most Midnight Sun, but it's also the busiest time.

Budgeting for Your Trip

When planning a glacier cruise in Alaska, it's important to consider the cost of the trip. Prices can vary depending on the season, the length of the cruise, and the amenities offered on board. However, with a little bit of planning, it's possible to find a budget-friendly option that still offers a memorable experience.

One affordable option is the $189 glacier cruise offered by Insider. This cruise comes with a no-seasickness guarantee and visits a tidewater glacier, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Another budget-friendly option is to book a day trip to a glacier rather than a multi-day cruise. There are many companies that offer day trips to glaciers, such as Prince William Sound and the Kenai Fjords.

For families traveling with children, it's important to consider the cost of bringing kids on board. Many cruise lines offer discounted rates for children, and some even offer free or reduced fares for kids under a certain age. It's also worth considering the amenities offered on board, such as children's programs and activities, to ensure that the whole family has a memorable experience.

When budgeting for a glacier cruise in Alaska, it's important to consider additional expenses such as transportation to and from the port, meals, and excursions. Some cruise lines offer all-inclusive packages that include these expenses, while others require additional fees for certain activities or amenities.

Overall, it's possible to find a budget-friendly glacier cruise in Alaska with a little bit of research and planning. By considering factors such as season, length of the cruise, and amenities offered on board, travelers can find an option that fits their budget and offers a memorable experience.

Unique Features of Alaska Glacier Cruises

Alaska glacier cruises offer a unique experience that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Here are some of the unique features that make Alaska glacier cruises stand out:

  • Waterfalls: One of the most unique features of Alaska glacier cruises is the opportunity to witness stunning waterfalls. As the glaciers melt and calve, they create waterfalls that cascade down the mountainsides and into the fjords. The sight of these waterfalls is truly breathtaking and is sure to leave a lasting impression.
  • Inside Passage: Alaska glacier cruises take you through the Inside Passage, a protected waterway that stretches from Puget Sound in Washington State to the Gulf of Alaska. The Inside Passage is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including whales, dolphins, sea lions, and otters. It is also home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, with towering mountains, pristine forests, and sparkling blue waters.
  • UNESCO World Heritage Site: Glacier Bay National Park, located in southeast Alaska, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see destination on any Alaska glacier cruise. The park is home to 16 glaciers, including the massive Margerie Glacier, which is over a mile wide and 250 feet tall. Visitors to the park can witness the dramatic calving of the glaciers, where massive chunks of ice break off and crash into the water below.
  • Mendenhall Glacier: Another popular destination on Alaska glacier cruises is the Mendenhall Glacier, located just outside the city of Juneau. This glacier is over 12 miles long and is a stunning sight to behold. Visitors can take a guided tour of the glacier or hike to one of the many viewpoints for a closer look.
  • Northern Lights: While not exclusive to Alaska glacier cruises, the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon that can be seen from many parts of Alaska. The best time to see the Northern Lights is during the winter months, when the nights are long and dark. Many Alaska glacier cruises offer Northern Lights viewing excursions, where you can witness this incredible display of nature's beauty.
  • Lakes: Alaska is home to many beautiful lakes, including the stunning Lake Clark. This lake is located in south-central Alaska and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and pristine forests. Visitors to Lake Clark can take a boat tour or hike to one of the many viewpoints for a breathtaking view of the lake and surrounding landscape.
  • Matanuska Glacier: The Matanuska Glacier is located in south-central Alaska and is one of the most accessible glaciers in the state. Visitors can take a guided tour of the glacier or hike to one of the many viewpoints for a closer look. The glacier is over 26 miles long and is a stunning sight to behold.
  • Exit Glacier: The Exit Glacier is located in Kenai Fjords National Park and is a popular destination on many Alaska glacier cruises. Visitors can hike to the glacier or take a guided tour for a closer look. The glacier is over 3 miles long and is a stunning sight to behold.
  • Calving Glacier: One of the most dramatic sights on any Alaska glacier cruise is the calving of a glacier. As the glaciers melt and break apart, massive chunks of ice can break off and crash into the water below. This creates a spectacular display of nature's power and is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who witnesses it.

In conclusion, Alaska glacier cruises offer a unique and unforgettable experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression. From stunning waterfalls to massive glaciers and everything in between, there is something for everyone on an Alaska glacier cruise.

I will be researching the best glacier cruise in Alaska for a sailing in 2025.