Royal Caribbean Alaska Cruise Reviews (2024 UPDATED): Ratings of Royal Caribbean Cruises to Alaska (2024)

FAQs

Which cruise line is rated best for Alaska? ›

The itineraries that sail the Inside Passage from Seattle, on the other hand, travel two full days on the open Pacific Ocean, which can be rough. Choosing the right cabin can make a difference too. Midship moves less than forward or aft cabins.

Northbound Alaska cruises sail up the coastline through the Inside Passage and along Hubbard Glacier, so your best view of Alaska's scenic landmasses are likely on the starboard side of the ship. Southbound Alaska cruises are the opposite.

For the warmest temperatures, cruise between mid-June and mid-August. For the most Midnight Sun, come 3 weeks before or after the summer solstice and longest day of the year, June 21. Want to see the northern lights? That's a long shot during cruising season.

“If ever there was a cruise itinerary built for a balcony, it's an Alaskan cruise. The landscapes are incredible and there's a high probability you'll see whales. We recommend you find a room with a balcony and avoid the inside staterooms.

The best cruise lines in 2023. Norwegian Cruise Line ranked as the best cruise line in the world, according to Condé Nast Traveler. Norwegian Cruise Line ranked as the top cruise line this year. It is the third-largest cruise line in the world by passengers, according to Cruise Market Watch.

The dark and cold winters are not ideal for cruises because travelers aren't able to enjoy the wonders of the state of Alaska. To truly enjoy an Alaskan cruise, cruisers can visit from April to October when daylight hours, weather and wildlife are better.

Alaska Cruises Can Be Bumpy in the Gulf of Alaska

Rough Waters: The majority of sailing on an Alaska cruise is done in the protected waters of the Inside Passage, but ships sailing to Seward, Whittier or Anchorage must cross the Gulf of Alaska, which is much rougher.

Don't be surprised if you feel seasick in Alaska's waters, even if no other cruise has made you feel that way. Cruising through the Inside Passage is generally calm, but the open waters of the Pacific Ocean can be choppy. Even the bays can churn up quickly during summer storms.

The most stable part of the ship is its lowest point of gravity, so on a lower deck, at the center. You'd feel a lot less motion here than, say, in a stateroom on the upper decks a long way forward or aft (towards the back of the ship).

Is it better to be on a higher deck on an Alaska cruise? ›

The higher the deck, the better and, often, more panoramic the view. Cabins on top decks aren't always the best on the ship, but many suites and specialty cabin categories are typically located on upper decks. Like to be near all the action? Most mega-ships place their lido (pool) areas on higher decks.

If you worry about seasickness, an Inside Passage trip is the best Alaska cruise itinerary versus a sailing where your ship transits rougher, open waters.

Holland America Line (HAL) — which recently snapped up a 2023 World's Best Award in the large-ship ocean cruise line category — has been cruising Alaska for over 75 years. HAL prides itself on having more permits for Glacier Bay National Park visits than any other cruise line.

Alaska is a cruise destination unlike any other, showcasing a rarely seen side of the United States: still truly wild, practically untouched and open to endless adventure. But with such a hefty price tag, you may be wondering, “Are Alaska cruises worth it?” Our answer is undeniably yes.

Think about going on a cruise around April or May if you want to save the most. In these months, Alaska has its shoulder season when costs often decrease, and there are fewer visitors. Despite the potential for a little bit of a chill, you'll see nature's breathtaking springtime blossoming.

Seattle and Vancouver are two of the most popular embarkation ports for Alaska cruises. Both are incredible cities with major airports and plenty to explore on pre- or post-cruise stays.