Alaska is one of the most breathtaking cruise destinations in the world, offering travelers an extraordinary mix of rugged landscapes, towering glaciers, and abundant wildlife. Having been on hundreds of cruises, I can confidently say that sailing through the icy waters of the Last Frontier with Royal Caribbean is an experience like no other. To bring you an insider’s perspective, I interviewed a Royal Caribbean captain and several crew members who have spent years navigating these majestic waters.
Why Choose an Alaskan Cruise with Royal Caribbean?
Royal Caribbean is known for its world-class service, innovative ships, and expertly curated itineraries. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, their Alaskan voyages offer something for everyone—from adventure seekers to nature lovers.
Captain Michael Reynolds, who has been commanding ships through the Alaskan Inside Passage for over a decade, shared, “Alaska is a destination that never gets old. Every sailing offers something different—whether it’s a surprise whale sighting or witnessing a massive glacier calving. It’s nature at its finest.”
Glacier Tours: Witnessing Nature’s Giants Up Close
One of the main highlights of an Alaskan cruise is visiting the spectacular glaciers. Royal Caribbean offers exclusive glacier tours that allow passengers to get closer to these icy marvels than they ever imagined.
Tracy Arm Fjord and Sawyer Glacier
Tracy Arm Fjord is home to the stunning Sawyer Glacier, a massive ice formation surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Guests can book an excursion on a smaller vessel to navigate through the icy waters for a closer look.
Crew member Sarah Thompson, a Shore Excursions Manager, explained, “Passengers are often in awe when they see a glacier up close. The colors, the sounds—it’s like watching a living, breathing force of nature. It’s even more special when they witness calving, where chunks of ice break off and crash into the sea.”
Hubbard Glacier: The Titan of Alaska
Hubbard Glacier is one of the most active and visually striking glaciers in Alaska. Spanning over six miles wide, this enormous sheet of ice advances and retreats, creating awe-inspiring sights and sounds.
Captain Reynolds added, “Sailing past Hubbard Glacier is an unforgettable moment. We slow the ship down, allowing passengers to take in every detail. The deep blue ice, the echoes of cracking ice—it’s nature’s grand performance.”
Glacier Bay National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
For those lucky enough to sail into Glacier Bay, this national park is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Home to multiple tidewater glaciers, this region offers the chance to witness diverse marine life while being surrounded by untouched wilderness.
Royal Caribbean partners with park rangers who board the ship to provide expert commentary, giving passengers a deeper understanding of the region’s ecology and history.
Wildlife Sightings: A Nature Lover’s Paradise
Alaska is teeming with wildlife, and a Royal Caribbean cruise provides unparalleled opportunities to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitats.
Whale Watching: Giants of the Sea
One of the most exciting moments on an Alaskan cruise is spotting whales. Humpback whales are frequently seen breaching the surface, and lucky passengers may even witness a pod of orcas swimming alongside the ship.
Sarah shared a thrilling moment from a recent voyage: “We had a pod of orcas follow us for nearly an hour. Guests were lined up along the deck, snapping photos and gasping in amazement. It’s moments like these that make an Alaskan cruise so special.”
Bald Eagles: The Kings of the Sky
Alaska is home to the largest concentration of bald eagles in North America. These majestic birds can often be seen soaring above the ship or perched on trees near the coastline.
Captain Reynolds noted, “There’s nothing quite like seeing a bald eagle swoop down to catch a fish. It’s a reminder of how wild and untamed Alaska truly is.”
Brown Bears and Coastal Wildlife
For those venturing on shore excursions, there’s a good chance of spotting brown bears fishing for salmon in the rivers. Other wildlife sightings may include sea otters, puffins, and harbor seals.
Sarah recommended, “If you want to see bears, book an excursion to places like Ketchikan or Icy Strait Point. These areas are known for their bear populations, and the guided tours provide a safe yet thrilling experience.”
Best Time to Cruise to Alaska
The Alaskan cruise season runs from May to September, with each month offering unique experiences:
- May & June: Best for wildlife sightings, including whales and baby animals.
- July & August: Warmest months with long daylight hours, perfect for outdoor activities.
- September: Fewer crowds, stunning fall foliage, and a higher chance of seeing the Northern Lights.
Excursions to Enhance Your Alaskan Adventure
While the onboard experience is incredible, the shore excursions truly make an Alaskan cruise unforgettable. Some must-try activities include:
- Dog Sledding on a Glacier: Take a helicopter ride to a glacier and experience an authentic Alaskan dog sled ride.
- Flightseeing Over the Fjords: Hop on a small plane for aerial views of the dramatic landscapes.
- Salmon Fishing in Ketchikan: Try your hand at catching one of Alaska’s most famous fish.
- Kayaking in Sitka: Paddle through serene waters surrounded by stunning mountain backdrops.
Final Thoughts: A Journey of a Lifetime
An Alaskan cruise with Royal Caribbean is more than just a vacation—it’s a journey into the heart of nature’s most spectacular creations. Whether you’re gazing at a massive glacier, spotting a breaching whale, or listening to a bald eagle’s call, every moment feels like a scene from a nature documentary.
As Captain Reynolds said, “No matter how many times I sail through Alaska, I always find something new and breathtaking. It’s a destination that speaks to the soul.”
If you’re ready for an unforgettable adventure, start planning your Royal Caribbean Alaskan cruise today. From glacier tours to thrilling wildlife encounters, it’s an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.