Hi! I’m Brittany Paige, World Cruise Travel Consultant, and its a real treat to be on Travel Smart Cruises and share one of my very best cruise experiences ever!
Cruising is my favorite way to travel. There’s something magical about watching the world pass by from the deck of a ship, knowing adventure is waiting at every port. But my recent cruise from Hawaii to Alaska? That was next-level incredible. It felt like two vacations in one: starting in the warm, tropical embrace of Hawaii and ending in the awe-inspiring wilderness of Alaska. If you’ve ever considered this unique itinerary, let me take you along on my unforgettable journey.
Setting Sail from Hawaii
My adventure began in Honolulu, where I spent two glorious days soaking up the Hawaiian sunshine before boarding the ship. Waikiki Beach was buzzing with energy, and I couldn’t resist a visit to Pearl Harbor, which was deeply moving. By the time I stepped aboard the cruise ship, I was already in vacation mode.
The departure from Honolulu was stunning. As the ship pulled away, the Hawaiian skyline glowed under a golden sunset. I sipped a tropical cocktail on the top deck, the warm ocean breeze setting the perfect tone for the journey ahead.
Life at Sea
The first few days at sea were pure relaxation. Crossing the Pacific from Hawaii to Alaska means plenty of time onboard, but I never felt bored. The ship had it all:
- Food: Oh, the food! The Hawaiian-inspired dishes during the first part of the cruise were amazing—poke bowls, fresh pineapple, and a melt-in-your-mouth macadamia nut-crusted fish. As we sailed north, the menu shifted to hearty Alaskan fare, like wild salmon and king crab legs. Every meal was a feast, and the specialty restaurants were worth every penny.
- Entertainment: From Polynesian dance performances to wildlife lectures, the ship’s programming reflected the journey’s diverse destinations. My favorite was an astronomy night where we stargazed under the pristine Pacific sky.
- Activities: Sea days gave me time to explore the ship’s amenities. I lounged by the pool, treated myself to a massage in the spa, and even joined a trivia contest. The wine tastings and cooking classes were a hit, too!
Arriving in Alaska
After days of endless ocean views, the first sight of Alaska was breathtaking. Snow-capped mountains appeared on the horizon, a dramatic contrast to the tropical landscapes we’d left behind.
Juneau was our first stop, and I immediately fell in love with its charm. I opted for a shore excursion to the Mendenhall Glacier and couldn’t believe how blue and massive it was. We also spotted a few humpback whales during a boat tour, which was one of the trip’s highlights. The air felt so fresh, it was almost intoxicating.
Skagway was like stepping back in time. This little gold rush town had wooden boardwalks and historic buildings that made me feel like I was in an old Western. I took the White Pass and Yukon Route train ride, which offered jaw-dropping views of the mountains and valleys. It was relaxing yet exhilarating.
Ketchikan was all about the totem poles and wildlife. I joined a kayaking excursion in the Misty Fjords National Monument, where I felt completely immersed in nature. Eagles soared above, seals bobbed in the water, and I was even lucky enough to spot a bear along the shore.
The Glaciers: A Natural Wonder
No Alaska cruise would be complete without glaciers, and this one delivered. Sailing through Glacier Bay National Park felt like entering another world. Massive walls of ice loomed ahead, their blue hues shimmering in the sunlight. Every so often, you’d hear a thunderous crack as a chunk of ice broke off and plunged into the water below.
Hubbard Glacier was equally stunning. Standing on the deck wrapped in a cozy blanket, I sipped hot cocoa while marveling at the sheer scale of it. It’s hard to describe the feeling—it’s humbling, awe-inspiring, and peaceful all at once.
Best Time to Cruise
I traveled in late June, and it was the perfect choice. The weather in Alaska was mild (50-65°F), and the long daylight hours gave us more time to explore. Wildlife was abundant, and the scenery was at its greenest. If you’re looking for the best time, aim for June through August for ideal weather, but May and September offer fewer crowds and lower prices.
Tips for a Great Cruise
- Pack Smart: Layered clothing is essential. I started in sundresses and swimsuits in Hawaii but needed a waterproof jacket, warm layers, and sturdy shoes in Alaska. Don’t forget binoculars for wildlife spotting!
- Book Excursions Early: Popular tours like glacier helicopter rides and whale-watching fill up fast. Plan ahead to secure your spot.
- Enjoy the Ship: Embrace the sea days! From spa treatments to deck parties, there’s so much to do onboard.
- Keep an Open Mind: Alaska’s weather can change on a dime, so be ready to adapt. A little rain won’t ruin the experience—it just adds to the adventure.
Overall Review
This cruise was everything I’d hoped for and more. The transition from Hawaii’s tropical warmth to Alaska’s icy wilderness felt like an epic journey, each day bringing new sights and experiences. The ship’s service, food, and amenities were outstanding, and the destinations left me in awe.
If you’re someone who loves variety and wants to combine relaxation with exploration, a Hawaii-to-Alaska cruise is a bucket-list-worthy adventure. I’m already dreaming about my next voyage, but this one will be hard to top!
Would I recommend it? Absolutely. And if you’re thinking about booking one, stop thinking and start packing!