Anchorage, Alaska, serves as a key gateway for Alaska cruises- offering easy access to the states interior, stunning wilderness, and seamless connections to cruise embarkation ports like Seward and Whittier. Cruise lines such as Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Royal Caribbean offer itineraries that combine Anchorage stays with unforgettable Alaska-at-Sea experiences.
Choosing an Alaska cruise that begins in Anchorage opens the door to a more immersive journey, pairing scenic cruising with time spent exploring Alaska's interior. Anchorage serves as the ideal starting point for sailings departing from nearby ports like Seward and Whittier, where travelers can transition easily from land adventures to unforgettable days at sea.
These itineraries showcase Alaska's most celebrated highlights, from towering glaciers and wildlife-rich waterways to ports like Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan. Whether you're planning an active adventure, a relaxed escape, or a memorable family vacation, starting your Alaska cruise from Anchorage delivers dramatic scenery, enriching shore experiences, and the comfort of cruising?enhanced by the chance to see more of Alaska along the way.
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All Sailings By Month | $629 | $699 | $798 | $679 | $717 | $714 | $774 | $864 | $787 | $786 | $5,999 | $5,999 | $5,999 | $5,999 | $5,999 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Alaska - Cruises | $629 | $699 | $798 | $679 | $717 | $714 | $774 | $864 | $787 | $786 | $5,999 | $5,999 | $5,999 | $5,999 | $5,999 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Alaska - Cruisetours | $1,304 | $2,024 | $2,084 | $1,654 | $1,694 | $2,084 | $2,434 | $2,394 | $2,284 | $2,295 |
Alaska cruisetours let you experience the destination beyond the coastline, combining time at sea with guided journeys deep into the state's wild interior. These thoughtfully planned trips connect iconic cruise routes with overland travel by glass-domed train or comfortable motor coach, taking you to unforgettable destinations.
View Alaska CruisetoursNorthbound Alaska cruises are ideal for travelers who want their journey to continue beyond the final port. These one-way sailings conclude in Anchorage or Seward, creating a natural transition from coastal cruising to inland adventures, with opportunities to explore destinations like Denali National Park. It's a great choice for those who want to experience more of Alaska?s vast landscapes in a single trip.
View Northbound Cruises
Round-trip Alaska cruises paired with Anchorage travel offer a streamlined way to explore the state while starting and ending your journey in the same region. These itineraries typically connect Anchorage with nearby cruise ports like Seward or Whittier and feature visits to stunning destinations, along with scenic glacier cruising. Round-trip sailings deliver a balanced experience that combines iconic sights, time ashore, and the comfort of returning to your original starting point.
View Roundtrip CruisesBefore or after your Alaska cruise, take time to explore Anchorage-a city where dramatic wilderness and local culture meet. Set against the Chugach Mountains and Cook Inlet, Anchorage offers easy access to scenic trails, wildlife encounters, and sweeping views just minutes from downtown. Travelers can also save at nearby hotels while enjoying the city's relaxed pace and natural surroundings.
Stroll along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, explore Alaska Native heritage at local museums, or enjoy fresh-caught seafood at waterfront restaurants and neighborhood favorites. From spotting moose in city parks to browsing local art and shops, Anchorage offers a memorable beginning or end to your Alaska cruise experience.
One of Anchorage's most beloved outdoor experiences, the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail winds along Cook Inlet with sweeping views of the water, surrounding mountains, and downtown skyline. Whether you walk, bike, or just explore a short section, it's a great way to spot wildlife like moose, bald eagles, and beluga whales while enjoying Alaska's fresh air and open space.
The Anchorage Museum offers a fascinating introduction to Alaska's art, history, and Indigenous cultures all in one place. Exhibits explore everything from Alaska Native heritage and contemporary art to science, climate, and the state's unique role in the world - making it a rewarding stop for visitors who want deeper context before or after their cruise.
For a meaningful cultural experience, the Alaska Native Heritage Center provides insight into the traditions, languages, and lifestyles of Alaska's Indigenous peoples. Visitors can explore authentic village sites, watch live cultural demonstrations, and learn how Native cultures continue to shape Alaska today in an engaging, educational setting.
Anchorage's downtown core is compact and easy to explore, filled with local shops, galleries, and restaurants along 4th Avenue. Browse Alaskan-made art and souvenirs, stop into cozy cafes, or enjoy views of the surrounding mountains as you get a feel for the city's laid-back yet adventurous personality.
Anchorage's dining scene highlights Alaska's fresh, regional flavors, from wild-caught seafood to locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy king crab, halibut, or salmon at popular downtown restaurants, or sample casual eateries and breweries that reflect the city's creative, independent food culture.
For travelers eager to experience the Last Frontier in a more immersive way, an Alaska cruise connected to Anchorage offers an unforgettable starting point. From dramatic coastal scenery to inland landscapes rich with wildlife and history, these itineraries highlight Alaska's diversity. With iconic cruise routes and opportunities to explore both on land and at sea, your journey delivers memorable moments from the very first day.
Travelers cruising in connection with Anchorage have access to many of the same top Alaska cruise lines, but the experience often differs from Seattle sailings due to itinerary design. Princess Cruise Line and Celebrity are especially popular for Anchorage-based itineraries thanks to their strong presence in Seward and Whittier and their well-developed Alaska cruisetour programs. These lines are ideal for travelers who want to combine scenic cruising with time in Denali National Park and Alaska's interior.
For guests seeking more onboard entertainment and modern ship amenities, Royal Caribbean and Holland America Line offer select itineraries that connect with Anchorage travel. Luxury travelers may prefer Silversea or Oceania, which provide smaller ships, personalized service, and immersive shore excursions designed to showcase Alaska's remote landscapes.
Alaska cruises connected to Anchorage typically visit many of the state's most iconic ports and natural wonders. Common ports of call include Juneau, where travelers can visit Mendenhall Glacier or join a whale-watching excursion; Skagway, known for its Gold Rush history and the scenic White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad; and Ketchikan, famous for its rich Alaska Native heritage and colorful Creek Street.
Many itineraries also feature scenic cruising through Glacier Bay National Park or other glacier-filled waterways, offering opportunities to see massive tidewater glaciers and abundant wildlife. Travelers extending their trip with a land tour may also visit Denali National Park, Fairbanks, or Talkeetna, making Anchorage-based cruises ideal for experiencing both coastal and inland Alaska.
Alaska cruises tied to Anchorage typically range from 7 to 14 days, depending on whether the itinerary includes a land tour. Seven-night sailings are common for one-way cruises between Alaska and the Pacific Northwest, while longer itineraries often combine cruising with multiple days exploring Alaska's interior.
Cruise tours that begin or end in Anchorage may extend the total trip length to 10, 12, or even 14 nights, allowing travelers time to explore Denali National Park, ride scenic railways, and experience smaller Alaskan communities. These longer itineraries are well suited for travelers who want a deeper, more comprehensive Alaska experience.
The cost of an Alaska cruise connected to Anchorage can vary based on cruise line, itinerary length, cabin category, and whether a land tour is included. Entry-level pricing for a 7-night one-way cruise may start around $700-$1,000 per person, while cruise tours that include hotels, rail travel, and guided excursions can range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more per person.
Balcony staterooms and premium accommodations generally cost more but are popular for Alaska's scenery. Traveling in May or September, booking early, or choosing value-focused cruise lines can help reduce overall costs while still delivering an unforgettable experience.
The Alaska cruise season typically runs from May through September, and cruises connected to Anchorage follow the same timeframe. June, July, and August offer the warmest temperatures, long daylight hours, and peak wildlife viewing, making them popular months for travelers who want ideal weather conditions.
May and September are excellent alternatives for those seeking fewer crowds and potential savings. These shoulder-season months may be cooler, but they still offer beautiful scenery and the chance to experience Alaska with a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.
Packing for an Alaska cruise connected to Anchorage requires preparation for changing weather conditions. Layered clothing is essential, including a waterproof jacket, warm mid-layers, and moisture-wicking base layers. Comfortable walking shoes are important for both shore excursions and potential land tour activities.
Travelers should also pack binoculars for wildlife viewing, a camera, and casual resort wear for onboard activities. If your cruise includes formal dining nights or upscale restaurants, a dressier outfit may be appropriate depending on your cruise line.
Wildlife viewing is a major highlight of Alaska cruises, especially those paired with Anchorage travel. From the ship, travelers may spot humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, and porpoises, particularly in glacier-rich waters. Bald eagles and seabirds are commonly seen along the coastline.
On land tours and shore excursions, guests may encounter bears, moose, caribou, and Dall sheep, especially when visiting Denali National Park or more remote regions. Every itinerary offers unique wildlife opportunities depending on the route and time of year.
While some Alaska cruises allow U.S. citizens to travel with a birth certificate and government-issued ID, a valid passport is strongly recommended?especially for one-way itineraries connected to Anchorage. Many cruises stop in Canada, and a passport provides the most flexibility in case of unexpected travel changes.
If your itinerary includes international ports or requires flights through Canada, a passport may be required. Bringing one ensures a smoother experience and added peace of mind throughout your journey.
Alaska shore excursions offer a wide range of unforgettable experiences. In Juneau, whale-watching tours and visits to Mendenhall Glacier are top choices. Skagway is known for its historic railway excursions and Gold Rush landmarks, while Ketchikan offers cultural tours highlighting Alaska Native traditions and local history.
Travelers participating in land tours may also enjoy guided hikes, wildlife safaris, scenic rail journeys, and glacier viewing in Alaska's interior. These excursions add depth and context to the cruise experience.
Many travelers find that a balcony stateroom significantly enhances an Alaska cruise, especially on itineraries featuring glacier cruising and scenic waterways. Having private access to fresh air and unobstructed views allows guests to enjoy Alaska's landscapes at their own pace.
While interior and oceanview cabins are excellent budget-friendly options, a balcony provides added comfort and flexibility-particularly during early-morning glacier viewing or wildlife sightings. For travelers prioritizing scenery, it is often considered a worthwhile upgrade.
AlaskaCruises is located in Scottsdale, Arizona. You may book online or contact us directly. Our business hours and toll-free phone numbers from the following countries are listed below:
Please note that all prices on our website are in US dollars, and travel purchases must be completed with a major credit card.Unless you are considering one of our custom cruise itineraries, certain cruise lines prohibit US-based travel agencies from selling to non-US residents.
All passengers regardless of their home country, citizenship or country of residency are responsible for obtaining the proper documentation for travel. This includes passports and visas for any country they may visit during their trip.