Top Picks for the Best Alaska Cruises of 2023
If you’re thinking of taking an Alaska cruise this year, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll discuss our top picks for the best Alaska cruises of 2023, as well as essential tips and tricks for planning the perfect Alaska cruise.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Alaska Cruise
Before booking an Alaska cruise, consider your cruise budget, departure point, itinerary, and the makeup of your travel party. In this article, we’ll focus on our top picks for the best Alaska cruises, but you can also check out our essential Alaska cruise planning tips and tricks video on YouTube for more information.
1. Princess Cruises: Royal Princess
Our top pick for Alaska cruises in 2023 is the Royal Princess by Princess Cruises. This massive ship sails the Inside Passage round-trip from Seattle, visiting popular stops like Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway, and Victoria, and cruising through Glacier Bay National Park. The Royal Princess offers a variety of amenities including excellent dining options, entertainment, and Medallion class technology for a personalized experience.
2. Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian Encore and Bliss
Norwegian’s Encore and Bliss are great choices for Alaska cruises in 2023. These large ships offer round-trip itineraries from Seattle, with stops in Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan and Victoria, and scenic cruising through Glacier Bay National Park. Norwegian’s Breakaway Plus Class ships have plenty to offer for all types of travelers, with a wide variety of dining and entertainment options.
3. Royal Caribbean: Ovation of the Seas
Another top pick for Alaska cruises in 2023 is Royal Caribbean‘s Ovation of the Seas. This innovative ship offers round-trip itineraries from Seattle, with stops in Sitka, Skagway, Juneau, and Victoria, along with scenic cruising in Endicott Arm. Ovation of the Seas is packed with thrilling amenities and entertainment options suitable for the whole family.
4. Holland America Line: Koningsdam and New Amsterdam
If you’re looking for a midsize ship experience, Holland America‘s Koningsdam and New Amsterdam offer excellent itineraries for Alaska cruises in 2023. Both ships visit popular ports like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway, with sailing options that include round-trip cruises from Vancouver or one-way itineraries between Vancouver and Whittier, Alaska. These ships also feature excellent dining and entertainment options.
5. Carnival Cruise Line: Carnival Luminosa and Spirit
Carnival Luminosa and Spirit offer great options for families looking to cruise Alaska in 2023. Both ships sail mostly seven-night cruises round-trip from Seattle, with itineraries that include Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and cruising through Tracy Arm Fjord. Carnival provides an excellent variety of bars, restaurants, and family-friendly activities to enjoy while cruising.
6. Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity Eclipse and Solstice
Another top pick for Alaska cruises in 2023 is Celebrity Cruises, with their ships Eclipse and Solstice offering round-trip itineraries from Vancouver and Seattle, respectively. These ships visit ports like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Icy Strait Point, as well as cruising through Hubbard Glacier. Celebrity’s ships boast upscale dining, entertainment, and amenities, providing a luxurious experience for cruisers.
7. Disney Cruise Line: Disney Wonder
For families looking for a magical Alaska cruise experience, Disney Wonder is an excellent choice. This ship sails round-trip from Vancouver, visiting popular ports like Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan. Disney Wonder offers unique Disney-themed entertainment, activities, and dining options for the whole family.
8. Windstar Cruises: Star Breeze
If you prefer a small ship experience, consider Windstar Cruises’ Star Breeze. This recently upgraded ship offers a variety of one-way Alaskan itineraries, with options for pre- or post-cruise land tours. Windstar offers a more intimate cruising experience, with fewer guests onboard and a focus on personalized service.
9. Viking Cruises: Viking Orion
For luxury travelers, Viking’s Orion offers an extraordinary Alaska cruise experience. This ship sails an 11-day Alaska and Inside Passage itinerary, with stops in Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, and more, offering unique excursions and cultural experiences. Viking’s inclusive approach to cruising means you won’t be nickel-and-dimed during your trip, providing a worry-free vacation experience.
Make the Most of Your Alaska Cruise Experience
Once you’ve chosen the best Alaska cruise for your needs, make sure to check out our top Alaska cruise tips and tricks video to help you plan a truly unforgettable trip. From pre-cruise planning to maximizing your time ashore, we’ll help you make the most of your journey to the Last Frontier.