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Last updated: November 16, 2023

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Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve PO Box 140 Gustavus, AK 99826

907 697-2230

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Cruise to Glacier Bay (Cruising), Alaska

Glacier bay (cruising) shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in glacier bay.

Witness the Wild

From the land to the seas and skies, Glacier Bay is home to a wide array of wildlife. Keep your binoculars handy and your eyes peeled for seals floating on ice flows, whales splashing in the water and bears trolling the shores.

Grab the Camera

Because you'll be surrounded by towering icy blue glacial walls and roaming wildlife, you may not know where to point your camera in Glacier Bay. Be on the lookout for Margerie Glacier, with its icy-blue appearance as it reflects the waters of the inlet, and Johns Hopkins Glacier, backdropped by impressive, ice-capped mountain ridges. Be sure to catch a shot of the gray skies surrounding the glaciers, as they can really make the ice pop.

A Birder's Paradise

If you're a birdwatcher, be sure to keep your field guide and lists handy. Glacier Bay is home to more than 274 species birds, so you'll be sure to spot some fantastic flyers. As you pass by Bartlett Cove, keep and eye out for cute tufted puffins and ruby-crowned kinglets — although they're small, you can spot them by the bright-red feathers that top their heads.

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Glacier Bay

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It's apparent that the Glacier Bay region was made to be experienced by ship. For starters, Glacier Bay itself is 1,300 square miles of icy-cool waters bordered by amazing views of snow-capped mountains, fjords, coastlines… not to mention the namesake frozen-in-time glaciers. Bring a light jacket and enjoy panoramic views of Alaska’s Glacier Bay from the comfort of your ship. However, this vacation doesn’t end there — you’ll also stroll the streets of perennial Alaskan favorites like Skagway, Ketchikan, plus fan-fave (and state capital) Juneau.

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Cruise Tracy Arm Fjord

Best Alaska Glacier Cruises Explained: All You Need To Know

Nancy Schretter

• August 19, 2023

Alaska cruises are filled with spectacular scenery and memorable experiences. Sought-after views of Alaska’s icy blue glaciers are always some of the most anticipated sights. Determining which voyages have the best glacier views is often a key factor in choosing a cruise to America’s 49th state. 

Since several Alaska cruise destinations include the word “glacier” in their description, deciding which Alaska itinerary is the best option can often be tough .

Suppose you’re trying to decide which cruise itinerary is the best Alaska glacier cruise for your trip to the Last Frontier.

In that case, we have the information you need to help sort through your choices and pick the Alaska glacier voyage for you.  

Best Alaska Glacier Cruises

Ask many Alaska cruise aficionados how to select the best Alaska glacier cruise, and they’ll tell you to pick an Alaska voyage that includes Glacier Bay National Park. Since access to Glacier Bay is tightly controlled, only a limited number of cruise ships can visit Glacier Bay National Park each season. 

Spending a day in Glacier Bay is a must for an Alaska cruise, whether it’s your first time visiting Alaska or your tenth voyage there.  

Glacier Bay itineraries are always one of the most popular Alaska cruise routes. Glacier Bay National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its magnificent glaciers and incredible wilderness scenery. Cruise ships visiting Glacier Bay typically spend nearly a full day there. 

The 3.3 million-acre park is home to many glaciers enveloping close to a third of its land. Cruise guests can see multiple glaciers sailing through Glacier Bay National Park.

In addition to glaciers, visitors to Glacier Bay will marvel at the area’s snow-covered mountain peaks, fjords, waterfalls, forests, and wildlife.  

Glacier Bay cruises are often considered the best Alaska glacier itineraries because they offer views of multiple glaciers, spectacular mountain vistas, and frequent wildlife sightings.

Marine wildlife is plentiful in Glacier Bay, so cruise visitors often see humpback whales, orca whales, harbor seals, porpoises, otters, and sea lions. 

It’s also possible to spot bears, moose, mountain goats, and deer on land. Interpretive park rangers come onboard each cruise ship while vessels are in Glacier Bay National Park , and they often point out wildlife and other interesting sights during their talks.

You might see bald eagles flying overhead or a brown bear swimming across the bay.

In Glacier Bay, the glaciers are typically the stars of the show. Cruise ships spend much of their time sailing past several of the park’s active tidewater glaciers — the kind of glacier that breaks off massive icebergs that plunge into the sea.

This “calving” action is what many cruise passengers hope to see when they spend time in front of Alaska’s glaciers. The thunderous cracking sound of a calving glacier followed by the colossal crash as the iceberg splashes into the sea is something that Alaska cruise passengers remember forever.

Ships generally cruise through Glacier Bay, exploring its inlets and sailing past various glaciers. These include Johns Hopkins Glacier, Lamplugh Glacier, Grand Pacific Glacier, and Margerie Glacier. 

It’s common for ships to spend an hour or so in front of one of the glaciers so guests can possibly see multiple calvings. Many sailings visit  the mile-wide Margerie Glacier, an advancing tidewater glacier that frequently calves. 

You’ll want to look into your ship’s schedule for your day in Glacier Bay and check out the best spots for unobstructed glacier views. Determining which ships go to Glacier Bay is important in choosing the best Alaska glacier cruise. 

Holland America Line and Princess Cruises have many Alaska sailings that go to Glacier Bay, offering various itineraries, including ports such as Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and Sitka.

Other cruise lines such as Alaskan Dream Cruises, American Cruise Lines, Cunard Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and UnCruise Adventures also offer cruises that visit Glacier Bay . 

While most of these cruises generally include close to a full day in Glacier Bay National Park, several UnCruise Adventures Alaska itineraries feature two full days in Glacier Bay.

To sum up, here are some of the many advantages of sailing through Glacier Bay on your Alaska cruise:

• C ruise ships ty pically spend 9-10 hours  in  Glacier Bay National Park  
• Glacier Bay National Pa rk includes eleven glaciers — eight can be seen on clear days  
• Sailing through Glacier Bay includes traveling through inlets and beautiful scenery  
• More wildlife is often seen in Glacier Bay National Park
• Park rangers come onboard to offer insights and narrate the trip while in Glacier Bay
• Kids can earn Glacier Bay Junior Ranger badges while sailing in the National Park
• Weather can be a safe bet, particularly early and late in the season 

READ MORE: Alaska Inside Passage Cruises: What You Need to Know

Hubbard Glacier vs. Glacier Bay

For those searching for the best Alaska glacier cruise, one of the most common questions is, “Which one is best — Hubbard Glacier or Glacier Bay?”

Hubbard Glacier and Glacier Bay are both beautiful but have different experiences. Hubbard Glacier is not in Glacier Bay National Park. The glacier is located north of Glacier Bay National Park at the tip of Disenchantment Bay, inside Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve.

Cruise itineraries that do not include Glacier Bay often include Hubbard Glacier instead. Reaching the height of more than a 30-story building above the waterline, Hubbard Glacier is the largest tidewater glacier in North America. 

This glacier’s massive size dwarfs cruise ships . Hubbard Glacier is also known to be one of the most rapidly advancing glaciers, moving as much as multiple feet per day. Unlike many other glaciers, Hubbard Glacier continues to thicken. 

With a terminal face that’s about seven miles wide, Hubbard Glacier has been nicknamed the “Galloping Glacier” due to the rapid forward movement of this river of ice. Hubbard Glacier is also renowned for its strong blue color on clear days .

Since Hubbard Glacier is advancing quickly, its movement results in plenty of calving. Cruise guests watch in awe as huge multi-story chunks of ice fall into the sea with a thunderous boom. Some have reported seeing this happen three to four times in an hour. 

Visitors cruising through Disenchantment Bay can also view nine of North America’s sixteen tallest mountain peaks on their way to Hubbard Glacier if the weather is favorable. Some cruise lines also offer optional small boat excursions that can get you closer to Hubbard Glacier.  

While Hubbard Glacier is magnificent, there can be some downsides to  choosing this itinerary. Since Hubbard Glacier can be the only major glacier on some Alaska cruises, if the weather isn’t favorable, there is a chance that passengers won’t get close-up views of any glaciers at all on their cruise.

Hubbard Glacier can be difficult to reach at certain times due to ice, fog, or other bad weather conditions. Weather in Glacier Bay tends to be more reliable, although it can sometimes be rainy .

Finding a cruise itinerary that visits Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier would be the best of both worlds, but typically, Alaska cruisers have to choose between the two. Here are some comparisons between visiting Hubbard Glacier and Glacier Bay.

Hubbard Glacier vs. Glacier Bay Advantages: 

• Hubbard Glacier is taller and more massive than the glaciers in Glacier Bay  
• Calving occurs  more frequently  at Hubbard Glacier  than  at  glaciers in Glacier Bay  
• Hubbard Glacier’s calving tends to be more spectacular, with huge multi-story icebergs
• Ships can sometimes get slightly closer to Hubbard Glacier than those in Glacier Bay
• Sailing to Hubbard Glacier includes views of some of North America’s tallest mountains 
• On clear days, the color of Hubbard Glacier is very blue 

Hubbard Glacier vs. Glacier Bay Disadvantages:

• Ships typically spend most of the day in Glacier Bay — Hubbard Glacier is a shorter visit  
• Glacier Bay  includes multiple glaciers , while Hubbard Glacier itineraries include only one    
• More wildlife is often seen in Glacier Bay National Park  
• Glacier Bay’s spectacular scenery is more varied
• Park rangers come onboard to offer insights and narrate the trip while in Glacier Bay  
• Weather in Glacier Bay can be a safer bet, particularly early and late in the season 

Glacier Bay National Park vs. Tracy Arm Fjord

Tracy Arm Fjord is another breathtakingly beautiful area that’s often included on Alaska cruise itineraries. Tracy Arm Fjord is part of the Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness, including nearby Endicott Arm Fjord. 

Located south of Juneau, Tracy Arm is a long, relatively narrow fjord ending at the two stunning faces of Sawyer Glacier — North Sawyer Glacier and South Sawyer Glacier.

These twin glaciers often produce deep blue icebergs, and sometimes well over a hundred seals can be seen hauled out on the large glacial ice floes — particularly in June.

Sawyer Glacier is an active tidewater glacier. Ships travel up Tracy Arm Fjord, navigating the long channel and tight turns . On the scenic journey through Tracy Arm Fjord, cruise guests will marvel at the sheer, steep walls of the deep fjord and the area’s scenic beauty.

Tracy Arm Fjord is less than a half-mile wide, and waterfalls often cascade down the fjord’s craggy cliffs. Mountain goats can sometimes be seen near Sawyer Glacier, and bears are occasionally spotted near the water’s edge.  

Sailing through Tracy Arm Fjord is one of the highlights of this experience, particularly on a smaller ship. Large cruise ships often offer small boat tours of Tracy Arm Fjord on itineraries featuring a full day in the port in Juneau.

These tours are highly recommended, as the smaller excursion boats can get much closer at Sawyer Glacier, and calving can be more easily seen.

With these Tracy Arm Fjord excursions, avid glacier seekers may have the option of visiting this stunning area in addition to Hubbard Glacier or Glacier National Park. 

If weather or sailing conditions make it difficult to navigate Tracy Arm, ships and excursion boats sometimes choose to go up Endicott Arm to visit Dawes Glacier instead.  

If you’re trying to decide between an Alaska cruise that visits Glacier Bay and one that only includes Tracy Arm Fjord, here are some pros and cons.

Tracy Arm Fjord vs. Glacier Bay Advantages: 

• It was a spectacularly memorable sailing experience navigating through Tracy Arm’s narrow fjord
• Plenty of  strikingly  blue icebergs  and stunning waterfalls
• Can have more  seals hauled out on ice floes, depending upon the time of year
• You can sometimes get closer to Sawyer Glacier if on a smaller excursion boat 

Tracy Arm Fjord vs. Glacier Bay Disadvantages: 

• Tracy Arm is smaller  than Glacier Bay, with only one fjord to explore  
• Not as many glaciers as Glacier Bay
• I ce may  sometimes  block  large  ships from getting far enough in  to see the twin glaciers
• Glacier Bay is  a full-day  experience, while Tracy Arm is generally 4-5 hours
• Weather in Glacier Bay is often more favorable than in Tracy Arm Fjord 

READ MORE: When is the Best Time To Cruise Alaska?

Hubbard Glacier vs. Sawyer Glacier

Comparing Hubbard Glacier with Sawyer Glacier is easy when it comes to size. As the largest tidewater glacier in North America, Hubbard Glacier’s towering height and mammoth overall size are much more impressive than Sawyer Glacier. Calving at Hubbard Glacier can be more astounding and frequent as well.

Visits to Sawyer Glacier are memorable in their own right, however. Sailing through narrow Tracy Arm Fjord is truly spectacular, particularly when the weather is clear. Wildlife, including harbor seals, mountain goats, bears, and bald eagles, are often seen during the trip. 

Since Sawyer Glacier is an active tidewater glacier, calving does occur regularly. Since the glacier extends hundreds of feet under the water, underwater calving also occurs with giant blue icebergs the size of submarines shooting to the surface.

Suppose your Hubbard Glacier Alaska cruise itinerary includes a full port day in Juneau. In that case, it may be possible to visit Tracy Arm Fjord and Sawyer Glacier on a small boat excursion. If that’s not the case and you must choose between Hubbard Glacier or Sawyer Glacier, here are some pros and cons.  

Sawyer Glacier vs. Hubbard Glacier Advantages:  

• Sailing  through Tracy Arm’s narrow   fjord  is particularly memorable  
• Can have more seals hauled out on ice floes, depending upon the time of year  
• Breathtaking  scenery in Tracy Arm can include snowy peaks and  stunning waterfalls  
• Often, more wildlife is seen  in Tracy Arm,  including mountain goats, bears, and bald eagles 

Sawyer Glacier vs. Hubbard Glacier Disadvantages: 

• Hubbard Glacier is  significantly  larger and more impressive  than Sawyer Glacier  
• Ca lving is particularly awe-inspiring  at Hubbard Glacier and can occur more frequently  
• Ships may have trouble reaching Sawyer Glacier due to weather and ice conditions 

Additional Alaska Glacier Cruises

In addition to all these choices, additional glacier viewing options exist for travelers seeking the best Alaska glacier cruise. Some cruise lines  include Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier on their Alaska cruise itineraries.

Located southeast of Juneau, Endicott Arm Fjord is part of the Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness area. Sailing through Endicott Arm Fjord to Dawes Glacier is a somewhat similar experience to navigating up Tracy Arm Fjord.

While sailing through Endicott Arm Fjord, waterfalls and various wildlife, including harbor seals, mountain goats, and bears, can often be seen.

College Fjord is another spectacular area that’s sometimes included on northbound Alaska cruise itineraries. Located in the northern area of Prince William Sound, College Fjord contains five tidewater glaciers, five valley glaciers, and several smaller glaciers.

Many of these glaciers are named after well-known East Coast colleges and universities, including Harvard Glacier, Yale Glacier, Amherst Glacier, Wellesley Glacier, and Williams Glacier. Additional glaciers are also located nearby.

Visiting Mendenhall Glacier is a popular excursion for Alaska cruise guests spending the day in Juneau. These Mendenhall Glacier tours can also include other active adventures such as kayaking, canoeing, and glacier hikes.

Flightseeing trips and glacier dogsledding tours are other exciting ways to experience Alaska’s glaciers . Some of the best Alaska glacier cruises sail from Seattle or Vancouver or start in North Alaska and sail south.

READ MORE: What To Pack For An Alaska Cruise: Top 12 Things You’ll Need

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2024 Alaska’s Glacier Bay & Island Adventure

$4,895* per person

Journey through Southeast Alaska’s most abundant wildlife areas and stunning glacial fjords on our 7-night, 8-day Alaska’s Glacier Bay and Island Adventure. Kayak, hike, and explore by skiff in wilderness bays, Frederick Sound, and other remote destinations. Experience local Southeast Alaska culture in a rarely visited Alaska Native village and charming fishing town. You’ll disembark having explored the True Alaska few travelers get to experience.

7-night | 8-day

• Dates & Prices 2024
• Accommodations

Owner's Suite

• Departure Aug 25, 2024 Low Inventory

• Route Juneau to Sitka
• Owner's Suite $6,895
• Vista View $6,995
• Departure Sep 1, 2024 Low Inventory
• Route Sitka to Juneau
• Departure Sep 8, 2024

Explore beautiful Sitka—the only community in Southeast Alaska that faces the open ocean waters of the Gulf of Alaska. Visit sites that highlight the community’s rich culture, history, and biodiversity. Embark for the winding narrows north of town while searching for bald eagles, sea otters, bears, whales, and other wildlife.

View the world’s tallest totem pole, a carving demonstration, and experience the inspiring culture of the Tlingit in the Alaska Native village of Kake. Later, explore the Alaska wilderness in picturesque Frederick Sound—an area humpback whales and other wildlife frequent. Humpbacks are famous for behavior that lends itself to incredible viewing and photography, such as tail lobbing, lunge feeding, pectoral slapping, breaching, and graceful dives that showcase their massive flukes. Other opportunities for in-depth exploration may include the protected waters or shores of Security Bay, Skanax Bay, Pybus Bay, and The Brothers islands.

Home to a little over 2,000 permanent residents, Wrangell is the only town in Alaska to have been under the jurisdiction of three flags and ruled by four nations- the Tlingit, Russia, England, and the United States. Enjoy several options to explore this colorful history, including a guided tour and a trip to the Wrangell Museum. Visit the intriguing state historic park, Petroglyph Beach, which contains the highest concentration of petroglyphs in Southeast Alaska.

There is also an optional opportunity to board a high-speed jet boat and navigate through a maze of glistening icebergs en route to the LeConte Glacier. This excursion is available at an additional cost and is dependent on space/permits.

Discover the charming Mitkof Island fishing town of Petersburg. Founded by Norwegian fishermen in the late 1800s, Petersburg is nicknamed Alaska’s “Little Norway.” Experience this Scandinavian culture with a folk-dance show by local youth at the iconic Sons of Norway Hall.

Later, explore the Alaska wilderness on the eastern side of Frederick Sound. Your Captain and expedition team will choose an exciting activity based on the day’s circumstances and weather. Options may include trekking ashore, kayaking, or wildlife viewing in the sound.

Journey through Tracy or Endicott Arm in the Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness, a place the famous naturalist, John Muir, referred to as, “A wild, unfinished Yosemite.” Renowned for its glaciers, pristine waterfalls, towering icebergs, abundant harbor seals, and granite cliffs that rise from sea level to 4,000 feet, this wilderness is often referred to by locals as one of the most scenic areas in the state.

End the day’s adventure with a relaxing evening at Orca Point Lodge—our own exclusive day-lodge on Colt Island. Enjoy the beautiful grounds, beach, and marine life touch-tank. Dine on wild Alaska salmon, Alaska crab*, or prime rib from the warmth of the lodge, or nestled next to a beachside bonfire.

*Subject to local processor availability

This remarkable national park fjord extends 65 miles, contains tidewater glaciers, and provides pristine habitat for a wide array of wildlife, including both brown and black bears, wolves, mountain goats, Steller sea lions, and humpback whales. The highlight for many is Margerie Glacier or John Hopkins Glacier, which have been known for their dramatic calving displays. Enjoy a stop at Bartlett Cove for an evening rainforest walk and Huna Tribal House visit or kayak paddle.

Transit Lisianski Inlet, a narrow body of water between Yakobi Island and Chichagof Island. These islands are home to dense populations of coastal brown bears and other Alaska wildlife species. Explore the unique boardwalk “road” of Pelican, Alaska during a port call to this small fishing community of just 60 to 70 year-round residents.

Disembark in Alaska’s capital city of Juneau. Transfer to your hotel or the airport is complimentary.

Reverse Juneau to Sitka Itinerary: Day 1: Juneau, Day 2: Lisianski Inlet & Pelican, Day 3: Glacier Bay National Park, Day 4: Orca Point Lodge & Tracy Arm-Fords Terror, Day 5: Thomas Bay, Day 6: Petersburg & Wrangell, Day 7: Kake & Wilderness Bay, Day 8: Sitka (transportation to the airport or your lodging is complimentary).

Note: Cruise information is subject to change without notice based on navigating conditions. Itinerary order is also subject to rearrangement based on permit allocations. Alaskan Dream Cruises is authorized by Special Use Permit to provide guiding & outfitting services in the Tongass National Forest.

Alaskan Dream

At 104 feet in length, the Alaskan Dream’s innovative, streamlined catamaran design allows the vessel to easily navigate narrow channels and passages. All cabins feature extra-large viewing windows. The Vista View lounge faces forward with the same view as the captain, affording spectacular views of the scenery, ports, and wildlife along the way.

• Passengers: 40*
• Length: 104 feet
• Staterooms: 19
• Cruising Speed: 13 knots

Alcohol is included with Owner's Suite and Vista View bookings *Select cabins can accommodate a 3rd or 4th guest

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Check out our NEW 2024-2025 brochure here!

Glacier Bay Adventure Cruise with 2 Days in Glacier Bay

Roundtrip juneau from $4,400 on board wilderness discoverer.

Explore Glaciers, Native Cultures, and Scenic Beauty.

Two days in Glacier Bay National Park offer an up-close look at glaciers, old-growth forests, and sea life. Hike remote coastlines and take in diverse birding at South Marble Island.

Included Highlights:

• TWO full days in Glacier Bay National Park
• Tidewater glaciers: Margerie, Grand Pacific, Lamplugh, Reid Glaciers, and the twin Sawyer Glaciers
• Explore the shores and fjords of Tongass National Forest and Tracy Arm Fjord
• Kayaking and tide pooling in Keku Islands Park
• Bushwhack and hike in old-growth forest and glacial outwash fields
• Visit Neka Bay on Chichagof Island. Known for great bushwacks and kayaking
• Visit Glacier Bay Headquarters and Lodge at Bartlett Cove
• Whale watching in Frederick Sound, Stephens Passage, and Icy Strait
• Search for wildlife—bears, sea lions, seals, porpoises, eagles, and more
• Birding at South Marble Island—puffins, oystercatchers, cormorants, and kittiwakes
• Natural history narration from expert onboard guides
• More exploring at Hobart Bay

NAV = Navigator Cabin, TRB = Trailblazer Cabin, PAT = Pathfinder Cabin, ADM = Admiral Cabin, SGL = Single Cabin

Day-by-Day Details

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

Day 1: Juneau Embarkation

Arriving in Juneau, you will be transferred from the airport to our check-in area. Upon boarding, your crew greets you with champagne and smiles. Set sail for a week of scenic channels and secluded wilderness. (D)

Day 2: Icy Strait & Neka Bay

Kick start the morning with on-deck yoga stretches and a strong cup of coffee. Energized and snug in your kayak, glide around in remote bays off of Icy Strait through giant bullwhip kelp that can grow to over 100 feet long. Join the gang in a skiff to a rocky outcropping to watch sea lions play. Or, step into mud boots for a forest hike with your top-notch, naturalist guides who have plenty to share about everything Alaska—marine biology, plants, and even geology. Neka Bay is also known for terrific bushwhacks and enjoyable Kayak adventures. On board, soak it all in as you soak in the hot tub. (BLD)

Day 3: Glacier Bay National Park

This national park covers 3.3 million acres ( t hat’s a tad smaller than the state of Connecticut). Let that sink in. Most visitors see the same sliver of the park as everyone else. Not you. Y ou’re going the furthest and exploring parts that 99% of visitors never go to. And you have two days to do it. Hike the outwash field of glaciers winding down the Fairweather Mountain Range. The cool breeze off the nearby snow and icefields is energizing. If you motor over to Dundas Bay, keep your eye out for bears, humpbacks, and if y ou’re lucky, a wolf sighting. Kayak the bay. Bushwhack into the forest .   D iscover Glacier Bay. (BLD)

Day 4: Glacier Bay National Park Continued

Before you do anything, look out the window. From kelp-lined channels to hemlock and spruce forests, every inch of this far northwest corner is worth exploring. And today’s adventures promise to be as big as the water is deep! Whatever you do— wilderness trekking, s kiffing , or paddling—your expedition team guides the way. (BLD)

Day 5: Chichagof Island

Enjoy the top deck for a sunrise or morning stretch. Meander through glacier-carved fjords along the Chichagof coast. Then anchor. I t’s a prime time to lower the kayaks and skiffs. Camera in hand, set off on land and sea explorations. Closer inspection by skiff, moss-dripping trees run right down to the water. Any bears in there? With one of the world’s largest populations of bears, i t’s possible. Go searching for giant trees and tidal pools. Hiking in the Tongass, it w on’t take long to find them. Your eagle-eyed guides lead the pack—and pull up the rear. (BLD)

Day 7: Tracy Arm & Sawyer Glaciers

Take an early peek out your window. Fjord cliffs reach skyward. Floating ice. And deep u-shaped valleys. T here’s no abracadabra here. Mother Nature’s magic is real. Cruise past harbor seals and their pups lounging on chunks of ice. Tides permitting, your skiff driver knows the ropes and guides you along. I t’s a mashup of towering walls, temperamental currents, and the Coastal Mountains. So many waterfalls. Mountain goats show off fancy footwork on the cliffs, so keep your eyes open. Finish your week with Captain's dinner and post-dinner cocktails watching the week's “photo journal” by your crew. (BLD)

Day 6: Frederick Sound  

Hang out and enjoy the show. You may find yourself in 'whale soup' surrounded by feeding humpbacks swimming these abundant glacial waters. Based on wind and weather, your expedition team has the lineup of adventures all mapped out. Cruise past Five Fingers Lighthouse, Alaska’s oldest light station and The Brothers Islands, w here sea lions nap on rocky nobs. Paddle into the deeps of Port Houghton or Windham Bay or head ashore for a hike. Tonight, toast another big day in Alaska. (BLD)

Day 8: Juneau Disembarkation

Linger over breakfast this morning cruising into Juneau. W ish your crew and new friends goodbye. Then i t’s off to the airport or begin your U nCruise hotel stay or land tour. (B)

Passport required (non USA citizens). Itineraries are guidelines; variations in itinerary and the order of days may occur to maximize your experience.

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Glacier Bay Small Ship Cruises

Glacier Bay is the crown jewel of Alaska’s national parks. The large concentration of dramatic tidewater glaciers combined with whales, wildlife and a newborn landscape emerging from under the ice make Glacier Bay a top destination for anyone seeking an Alaska cruise . View our selection of the best Glacier Bay cruises .

Our experts share everything you need to know to find the right Glacier Bay National Park cruise at the best price. Below find our favorite small ship cruises to Glacier Bay, Alaska.

ON THIS PAGE – Glacier Bay Cruises & Tours: Where is Glacier Bay? Why Cruise Glacier Bay National Park 5 Reasons You Should Visit Glacier Bay Glacier Bay Cruise or Land Tour? Best Glacier Bay Cruises Glacier Bay Tours The Best Time to Visit Glacier Bay Glacier Bay Cruise Permits Best Small Ship Cruise Lines View All Glacier Bay Cruises & Tours

WHERE IS GLACIER BAY?

Glacier Bay National Park is located 60 miles northwest of Juneau, Alaska at the northern end of Alaska’s Inside Passage. The park is massive, about the size of Connecticut, covering 3.3 million acres of Southeast Alaska. The town of Gustavus is located at the bay’s entrance and is known as the gateway to Glacier Bay National Park. Gustavus and Glacier Bay are accessible only by boat or by plane. Our president and founder, Todd Smith started his career as a guide aboard small ships in Glacier Bay.

WHY CRUISE GLACIER BAY NATIONAL PARK

Why is Glacier Bay so special? Two hundred years ago Glacier Bay did not exist. The entire bay was filled with a massive glacier one hundred miles long and thousands of feet thick. Since that time the glacier has retreated nearly 70 miles, leaving the many smaller tidewater glaciers that we see today. In the process a new landscape was born.  

5 REASONS YOU SHOULD CRUISE GLACIER BAY

• Glaciers – Glacier Bay contains a high concentration of tidewater glaciers. A tidewater glacier is one that reaches the sea and calves icebergs into the water. Experiencing a tidewater glacier up close from a small ship, kayak or skiff is a powerful experience and a highlight of any visit.
• Natural History – In Glacier Bay you’ll go back in time. At the bay’s entrance you’ll walk among towering old growth temperate rainforest. As you sail toward the glaciers the green old growth gives way to younger forest and then dense alder and willow thickets. Near the glaciers hike in a newly uncovered landscape of barren rock pioneered by moss, lichen and hardy flowers. You’ve gone back in time and witnessed 200 years of the succession of life in just one day. 
• Wildlife – Glacier Bay is home to a diverse array of terrestrial and marine animals. You’ll find coastal brown bears, black bears, moose, mountain goats, wolves, bald eagles and more. The newly uncovered landscape in the upper bay is not covered in forest, making wildlife viewing easy. In the water you’ll find Humpback whales, orca whales (also known as killer whales), sea lions, sea otters, harbor seals, porpoise and more. Over 280 species of birds have been recorded in Glacier Bay. 
• History – From George Vancouver to John Muir, Glacier Bay has a rich history of exploration, science and discovery. Declared a National Monument in 1925, Glacier Bay became a National Park in 1980. Throughout that time many characters have contributed to its fascinating history.
• Culture – Glacier Bay is the traditional home of the Huna Tlingit people. They lived in the bay since time immemorial, even before the last advance and retreat of the ice. The story of Glacier Bay is not complete without acknowledging the past and present of its original inhabitants. 

CONNECT WITH A GLACIER BAY SPECIALIST

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GLACIER BAY CRUISE OR LAND TOUR?

We are often asked what is the best way to visit Glacier Bay? The best way to experience Glacier Bay, Alaska is aboard a small ship cruise. The vast nature of the bay and surrounding regions, full of glacial fjords, small bays and rugged coastline are perfectly suited to small ship cruising. Small ships cruise close to shore scanning for wildlife and linger longer when animals are spotted. Learn the difference between small ship cruises and big ships .

IN DEPTH GLACIER BAY SMALL SHIP CRUISES

Most of the cruises listed at the bottom of this page will spend one full day exploring Glacier Bay. It takes a full day to just get into the park, sail up bay to the glaciers and return. However, a handful of unique small ship cruises spend more time in Glacier Bay for the ultimate experience. Check out the cruises below for the most in depth exploration of Glacier Bay National Park.

Sea Wolf Glacier Bay Adventure

An intimate 12-guest historic yacht spends a full week exploring Glacier Bay. The Sea Wolf is Alaskan owned and operated by Glacier Bay’s most knowledgeable naturalists. Embarks and disembarks in Gustavus.

Discover Glacier Bay

Discover Glacier Bay aboard the 12-guest Catalyst or the 8-guest Westward . 8- or 10-day cruises begin and end in Juneau, spending 6-8 days exploring Glacier Bay. Food is sacred aboard these vessels and this philosophy fosters the sense of community and adventure on board.

Glacier Bay Adventure Cruise with 2 Days in Glacier Bay

A small ship expedition cruise covering the highlights of Alaska’s Inside Passage with 2 full days actively exploring and cruising in Glacier Bay. Begins and ends in Juneau aboard the 76-guest Wilderness Discoverer or the 84-guest Safari Endeavour . 

VIEW ALL GLACIER BAY CRUISES & TOURS

See the full list of trips to Glacier Bay Alaska

GLACIER BAY TOURS

Travelers not interested in a cruise can consider visiting Glacier Bay on a land-based tour. Glacier Bay tours rely on day boats to access the heart of the bay and the glaciers themselves.

Land tours are based from hotels and upscale lodges in Juneau and Glacier Bay. Guided day tours mimic the experience of a small ship cruise. Explore the national park on a day cruise with a ranger. Sea kayak with expert guides in search of eagles and bears. Experience Alaska’s best whale watching at Point Adolphus. Fishing and flight seeing are popular add ons. 

Glacier Bay Backcountry Explorer

Visit Glacier Bay National Park from the Bear Track Inn in Gustavus. Three full days are devoted to cruising Glacier Bay, kayaking and whale watching, with a helicopter-accessed glacier adventure. This is the perfect land-based alternative to a small ship cruise.

Our private Glacier Bay tours include accommodations, internal flights, transfers, guided tours, most meals and park fees. View our Glacier Bay Backcountry Explorer or contact us to customize your own private tour to Glacier Bay. 

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT GLACIER BAY NATIONAL PARK

The best time to visit Glacier Bay is June, July and August. The Glacier Bay cruising season begins in April and runs through September. Find more detail on the best time to visit Alaska . 

Spring in Glacier Bay

May is the month with the least amount of rain in Glacier Bay. Early season is characterized by snow-covered mountains which can drive animals toward the water, making them uniquely viewable from small ships. Seals give birth, seabirds and migratory humpback whales are starting to arrive in the early summer. 

Summer in Glacier Bay

Summer high season runs mid-June through mid-August and is characterized by long days, lots of wildlife, whales and a better chance for clear skies. Seabirds have arrived and are nesting. Whales have migrated and are furiously feeding. Book early if you plan to travel in mid-summer.

Fall in Glacier Bay

Fall comes early and by mid-August the weather is getting wetter. Bears are feeding on salmon. Whales are desperate to fatten up before migration. Seabirds are leaving their nests. The fall colors in August and early September are incredible. Days are getting cooler and shorter and northern lights may be spotted at night. 

GLACIER BAY CRUISE PERMITS

A permit is required for a ship to cruise into Glacier Bay National Park. During the summer season only two large cruise ships (carrying over 100 guests) and three small ships (carrying under 100 guests) are allowed to enter the national park each day. This system protects wildlife and the environment, while preserving a wilderness experience for visitors.

BEST GLACIER BAY SMALL SHIP CRUISE LINES

Since permits are required and limited, not all cruise lines visit Glacier Bay. We’ve been cruising Alaska since 1995 and are proud to work with the best Glacier Bay small ship cruise lines:

Sea Wolf Adventures – With permits to operate weeklong cruises inside the national park, the Sea Wolf offers the most in depth cruise of Glacier Bay.

UnCruise Adventures – A large fleet of small ships and the most adventurous programs with fully guided off-vessel hiking, kayaking and small craft excursions for an active exploration.

Lindblad Expeditions – Cutting-edge expedition ships and a partnership with National Geographic offer an intellectual and educational experience.

Alaskan Dream Cruises – With Alaska small ship cruise history dating back to 1970, Alaskan Dream is a local pioneer and offers true Alaskan hospitality.    

Pacific Catalyst – Family owned and operated with two highly celebrated historic yachts offering an authentic small ship adventure. 

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ALL GLACIER BAY CRUISES & TOURS

Roughly half of our  Alaska trips  now feature a visit to Glacier Bay National Park. Find and filter them below. Use itineraries below to start planning, then  contact our experts  to narrow down your options and get a free quote. Our experts have been helping travelers experience Glacier Bay National Park for decades. Let us translate our experience living and working in Alaska into the best Glacier Bay trip for your interests, budget and timeline..

Call now 1-877-620-2875 to talk to a Specialist

Enjoy 2 days venturing farther than 99% of visitors into Glacier Bay National Park. Plus, Tracy Arm, Frederick Sound, Icy Strait and Chatham Strait. Choose between two 76- & 84-guest Wilderness expedition ships as your home base.

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Hear It From Glacier Bay Alaska Cruise Travelers

Spending 3 days in Glacier Bay was a great perk. Enjoyed a loose sailing itinerary so that wildlife viewing was for long periods of time. My husband and I are adventure enthusiasts. Highly recommend this trip for anyone that has the love for the outdoors.

Most enjoyed Glacier Bay National Park with gorgeous mountain views, lots of wildlife, and glaciers. Liked the variety of activities available from strenuous hikes for the super fit to easy ambles for the less ambitious.

This was one of my most memorable travel experience because of what I saw, what I learned, the people I met and the staff who were involved. The accommodations on the ship were excellent, the food was outstanding and the staff unbelievable not just for their knowledge but also their professional demeanor and friendliness. I cannot decide which experience was the most memorable.

The overall trip was a memorable experience. AdventureSmith did a good job of preparing us so that we could have maximum enjoyment of the trip and its activities.

The flexibility of the small boat, the sense of community both among passengers and between passengers and crew, was extraordinary.

This was, for our trio, a true once-in-a-lifetime experience. We saw amazing sights (the endless coastline devoid of signs of habitation; the wildlife; the glaciers; the enormous sky fringed by epic peaks and clouds), and we experienced them together. We are already planning our return!

I enjoyed the humpback whales bubble-net feeding and orca whales mating the most. Spending 3 days in Glacier Bay was a great perk. Enjoyed a loose sailing itinerary so that wildlife viewing was for long periods of time. My husband and I are adventure enthusiasts. Highly recommend this trip for anyone that has the love for the outdoors.

Accommodations Review

Comfy bed, spacious room, and relaxing lounge area upstairs by the bar.

Meals Review

I'm a vegan and Chef Jeff was truly astounding at accommodating my vegan lifestyle.

Crew & Guides Review

Jeremy had a wealth of knowledge of Southeast Alaska and shared a true passion for the outdoors. Sarah was outgoing and had a great personality, which made spending excursions with her enjoyable. Flora had a great spirit about her and led great kayaking tours.

Traveler Advice

Pack a hat and gloves even in the summer time, it was COLD!

Featured in this Traveler Review

• Northern Passages with Glacier Bay & Sitka

Had the best humpback whale watching of my three trips to SE Alaska. Liked the variety of activities available from strenuous hikes for the super fit to easy ambles for the less ambitious. Lots of kayaking too. 

Most enjoyed Glacier Bay National Park with gorgeous mountain views, lots of wildlife, and glaciers. The weather was great as a bonus. Enjoyed the river trip at Haines with the chance to see lots of bald eagles. Olympic National Park was another highlight, just wish the weather had been better when we went to Hurricane Ridge where we really couldn't see any distance. Least enjoyed the stop in Ketchikan, maybe because I've been there twice before and it always rains hard, not just the misty rain which is to be expected in Alaska and adds an appropriate atmosphere.

I had sailed on Wilderness Discoverer before, so it was like coming home again.

The breakfast bacon on UnCruise ships is the best in the world, and I always eat more on my trips than I do all year at home. A big plate of perfectly ripe fruit available at the pre-breakfast made it easier to resist the two baked offerings that were there too. The variety and imaginative combinations of ingredients--who knew you could do so much with kale! Impressive how the single gluten intolerant guest had her requirements met at every meal.

Kelly was enthusiastic beyond words, and very knowledgeable. Our guide at Glacier Bay National Park who spent two days with us was a pleasure to have along, and I think she enjoyed us as much as we did her (sorry don't have her name) because we were a very receptive audience for all the information she had to share.

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

Adventure Specialist Andrew has arranged all my trips over the years, and he is as good as it gets. He even advised on which side of the ship was a better choice of cabin on this trip, and he was spot on.

• Inside Passage with Olympic National Park & 2 Days in Glacier Bay
• Wilderness Discoverer
• UnCruise Adventures

This was one of my most memorable travel experience because of what I saw, what I learned, the people I met and the staff who were involved. The accommodations on the ship were excellent, the food was outstanding and the staff unbelievable not just for their knowledge but also their professional demeanor and friendliness. I cannot decide which experience was the most memorable. The experience meeting with native Tlingits either on board or at the port stops was so interesting. The visit to the totem carver on Kake was superb. The experience at Glacier Bay was superb, the view of the glacier was awesome. The trip in Glacier Bay was breathless. I enjoyed the tours in Sitka and learned much about the history of this town through the visits to various key places. There is not place I did not enjoy but think Glacier Bay is simply a scenic delight. This was an awesome adventure trip, nothing I have experienced before and it was partially because the scenery 24-7 was unbelievable but also what I learned about Alaska natives, history and culture.

Accommodations aboard the Admiralty Dream were great and totally in keeping with what one expects on a small ship. It was not glamorous but well done. I believe totally appropriate for someone who is interested in the adventure.

The food was gourmet, no question about it. I was amazed at the quality of the meals, the diversity and the range of choices.

The staff for the cruise line were outstanding, very knowledgeable and accessible at all times. They are superb.

I think we were advised correctly with regards to preparations for clothing and other items. Superb arrangements. I was very impressed with the transportation from my hotel to the ship both on embarking and disembarking. The arrangements for me to get to the airport the day of disembarkation were wonderful and not expected. Your company was superb with handling my reservations and providing information. Andrew was always available to help and I found that to be extraordinary.

This is an adventure of a lifetime.

• Glacier Bay & Island Adventure
• Admiralty Dream

The overall trip was a memorable experience. AdventureSmith did a good job of preparing us so that we could have maximum enjoyment of the trip and its activities. The ship was well kept, the crew was excited to be there and service on all levels was very good. Glacier Bay National Park was the highlight of the trip. Seeing the glaciers, kayaking in the ice fields and seeing the wildlife in that area - all were outstanding! 

Rooms were clean, vessel had plenty of activity gear for guests, ship was well maintained.  Kayak rudders were always problematic but I guess that comes with the salt water environment.

They offered plenty of variety each day.  I appreciated the choice of fresh salads, hot soups and varied entrees.  The desserts were especially good!  I was disappointed in the lack of fresh fish.  We had fish but it was definitely not fresh.  An Alaskan cruise should include more of the local offerings, not fish bought in bulk from a Costco type store.

Kent and JP were our favorite guides because of their extensive knowledge of the subjects and their passion for the area.  They were tireless - led many trips each day with the same enthusiasm each time!  Other guides put the same energy into their activities but their knowledge was not as complete. The evening presentations were a good addition but they need to be more interactive or fun.  They were too intellectual to keep attention after a long day.

The information provided was very complete and detailed.

Bring plenty of clothing layers. 

Pretty much over the moon. It didn't hurt that the weather gods gave us three sunny days at the beginning and two at the end (esp. in Glacier Bay!). But the scenery, critters (we saw the works), and calving glaciers aside, the flexibility of the small boat, the sense of community both among passengers and between passengers and crew, was extraordinary. And I'm an introvert! 

We loved staying in Ketchikan before the trip started, loved the whole town. The Alaska Dream's only shortcoming was the small lounge and lack of a place to read or write undisturbed--except, of course, the stateroom, which was fine.

Chef B's cooking was very fine, and her imagination made for zero gustatory boredom. The only problem was the high-sugar desserts twice a day. Made for over-stress on the self-control muscles. I gained six (right, 6) pounds!

Be sure to bring your own good binoculars and enough warm clothes to bear up under the KATABATIC WINDS!

Transportation Review

Captain Erik Morrow was magnificent--steady, laid-back, warm, yet instilled great confidence. Emily Herman was terrific in every way: enthusiastic, knowledgeable, responsive, experienced, imaginative in her presentations. Everyone on the boat fell in love with her. Ranger Nicole Schaub was equally engaging: really knows her stuff, very articulate, sensitive, and more than anything else, smart about the larger environmental and political issues while still being appropriately politic. We have nominated her for Secretary of the Interior in 2020. We trust she is preparing for that position now. Also, Victoria was a marvelous introduction in Ketchikan. She is grounded, genuine, ironic, and fun.

Nick was great--fun to talk with, quick to respond, clear with materials and information.

• Inside Passage Sojourn
• Alaskan Dream

This was, for our trio, a true once-in-a-lifetime experience. We saw amazing sights (the endless coastline devoid of signs of habitation; the wildlife; the glaciers; the enormous sky fringed by epic peaks and clouds), and we experienced them together. My 91-year-old father-in-law was the inspiration for the trip and he came away with his expectations blown out of the water. While he'd done small ship cruises in the past, he'd never done one in Alaska. My husband and I (we're in our 50s) had never done either a cruise or Alaska, so it was an ideal introduction for us. We are already planning our return!

We went early in the season and it was soggy and sometimes cold, but we had plenty of gear and places to retreat to when we needed to get out of the elements. The crew was exceptional--they were friendly, knowledgeable, skillful, companionable, and very down-to-earth. We only had 35 people aboard the Chichagof Dream and with a crew of 25, we got to know everyone and felt very at home. The crew was quickly devoted to my independent and social father-in-law and made sure he was comfortable, heard, and cared for. They were just such great company. What a remarkable week it was for us!

We were lucky to wake up to sunny skies for the fjords of the Tracy Arm. Seeing a pretty big glacier calving soon after arrival was exciting and amazing, but just sitting in a day boat in front of the glacier for an hour or so was amazing for its serenity. A seal or two left its floe to swim nearby. And the Tracy Arm itself, with its soaring cliffs and roaring waterfalls was spectacular! The open bridge policy was a big hit with all of us; it was a kick to be able to stand with Captain Michael B. (who's a terrifically experienced master seaman, author, and cut-up) and look at charts and the passing view.

Very comfortable room in the AA cabins. Cozy, clean, unfussy, perfect. We dipped into the ship library many times; the resources enhanced our experiences for sure. The open bridge policy was a big hit with all of us; it was a kick to be able to stand with Captain Michael B. (who's a terrifically experienced master seaman, author, and cut-up) and look at charts and the passing view.

Our naturalists on board, Maggy and Kam, were informed, upbeat, and as excited about wildlife and the natural beauty around us as any of the passengers. Their enthusiasm stoked our own! Our cultural guide, Kelli, was likewise fantastic and easy to talk to. On shore in Kake, we loved Fallen and could've listened to her stories all day long (even though it was pouring down rain most of that day). We came away with a real appreciation for Alaska's landscape, history, and the Tlingit culture.

Andrew B. was responsive to my questions before and after booking. This trip was an investment, for sure, and I appreciated Andrew's help with finding something as affordable as possible. AdventureSmith was the go-between for us and Alaskan Dream Cruises. It was great to have someone to talk to about arrival and departure times.

Take packing advice seriously (my father-in-law didn't). Definitely take advantage of the rain gear on board. 

The baker on board was some sort of savant--breads, cookies, and desserts were irresistible. The main chef was also outstanding. All the food was made to order and the stewards were happy to accommodate any and all requests (even those off the menu).

• Alaskan Dream Cruises

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

Need Help Finding Your Glacier Bay Cruise?

Our team is adept at personalizing recommendations for Glacier Bay National Park cruises & tours to fit your timing, budget, activity level and travel style. Let us know what you are thinking, and we’ll reach out with personalized recommendations for you.

All we need are a few details like how many travelers are in your group and some basic interests to get started on a custom travel recommendation for Glacier Bay tours. Or if you have time to browse, consider taking a trip we’ve recently experienced and reviewed.

Compare and contrast the various Lindblad Alaska cruises and ships from an expert who's been aboard. Learn what stands out about Lindblad's Alaska programming, guides and crew.

All you need to know before you take an Alaska UnCruise. Read this review to hear from an expert’s eye what sets this operator's cruises apart from others in Alaska.

What are the benefits of cruising expedition style through Alaska? Travel through Glacier Bay National Park in Alaska aboard the 60-guest Wilderness Adventurer.

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Alaska’s Glacier Wilderness with Glacier Bay Cruise

Explore islands, glaciers and forests on a small-ship adventure through southeast alaska..

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Home » Tours » Alaska Cruises » Adventure Cruises » Alaska’s Glacier Wilderness with Glacier Bay Cruise

Tour Overview

Cruise Alaska’s Inside Passage in Southeast Alaska in comfort and style aboard one of Un-Cruise Adventures’ small ships. Thanks to their small size, these smaller Alaska cruise ships can travel into areas in Alaska’s waterways that most larger cruise ships cannot reach. You’ll explore seacoast islands, go whale watching for humpbacks, watch glaciers calving, and explore wilderness forests. You can also kayak, paddleboard, or take skiffs into remote inlets that bring you closer to Alaska wildlife, birds, and marine life, including eagles, sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions, and seabirds. You’ll travel into Frederick Sound, a playground for whales, harbor seals, and sea lions, Icy Strait, a favorite summer stopping point for whales, and Glacier Bay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Get close to glaciers, hike through the Tongass National Forest, and explore scenic waterways with local guides on this incredible Southeast Alaska adventure.

What's Included

• Local transfers & baggage handling on day one and day eight
• Seven nights accommodations in a private cabin
• All meals and most alcohol while onboard
• From-the-boat adventure activities, including kayaking, paddle-boarding, skiff excursions, and hiking
• Onboard professional naturalist
• Entry fees to national parks/preserves

What's Not Included

Airfare from/to Juneau; port fees and taxes; pre-night hotel in Juneau; super-premium wine, beer, and liquor; and gratuities (approx. 10-15% of cruise fare).

Tour Itinerary

Juneau arrival.

Upon arrival you will be transferred from the airport or hospitality area to board the ship (please arrange an arrival no later than 2:30pm today). Toast to the riches of Alaska as you sail west toward Icy Strait.

Start your morning with on-deck yoga and a strong cup of coffee. Explore the remote bays off of Icy Strait in your kayak, gliding through giant bullwhip kelp that can grow to over 100 feet long. Take a skiff to a rocky outcropping to watch sea lions play. Or, step into mud boots for a forest hike with your top-notch, naturalist guides who have plenty to share about everything Alaska – marine biology, plants, and even geology. On board, soak it all in as you soak in the hot tub.

Glacier Bay National Park

Have your binoculars handy – South Marble Island is a birder’s slice of heaven. Puffins scoot through the water, guillemots and gulls chatter, and sea lions sleep through it all. Cruise to the far end of John Hopkins Inlet or Tarr Inlet where glaciers calve into the water. Look for bears and mountain goats along the shoreline. Back at Bartlett Cove, if time and daylight allow, take a forest hike around the park’s HQ.

Admiralty Island National Monument

At Admiralty Island National Monument kayak, skiff, and weave in and out of the bays and islets keeping your eyes out for Alaska brown bears and nesting bald eagles. Tlingit call the island Kootznoowoo, meaning “Fortress of the Bear”, and Admiralty Island has a higher density of bald eagles than all the other states combined. After another big day, pop up to the bridge to look over charts with your captain and mates.

Frederick Sound

Humpback whales come to Frederick Sound every season to feed on krill, zooplankton and herring. Watch for whales feasting in these abundant glacial waters. Based on wind and weather conditions, your expedition team has a lineup of adventures all mapped out. Cruise past Five Fingers Lighthouse, Alaska’s oldest light station and the Brothers Islands, where sea lions nap on rocks. Tonight, toast to another spectacular day in Alaska.

Windham Bay & Stephens Passage

Humpback and orca are frequent visitors of this Southeast passage. Your captain navigates Wyndham Bay and Stephens Passage. Explore by kayak as little or much as you want. Or, hike into the Tongass. It is a landscape of hanging waterfalls and shades of green.

Endicott Arm / Dawes Glacier

Skiffing up Endicott Arm, keep your eyes out for harbor seals lazing around on icebergs. If the tides are right, slip into Fords Terror and marvel at the steep walls of this narrow opening streaked with waterfalls. Back in Endicott Arm, admire the deep glacier carved valleys before arriving at Dawes Glacier where blue ice descends from the Coast Mountains. Listen for the sharp crack of glacier calving. Tonight, celebrate a week of adventure with a festive Farewell Dinner.

Juneau Departure

After breakfast, disembark in Juneau at about 9:00am. A transfer to the airport or your hotel is provided. (Please arrange a departure no earlier than 11:30am today)

Listed itinerary is a guideline only! Variations in itinerary and the order of days may occur to maximize your experience!

Dates & Rates

Two ships with multiple room configurations sail this itinerary. Please contact us to find your best option.

*** 2024 Special! Save $500 per person on all departures June 7, 2024 and later ***

The listed prices are per person based on double occupancy. Additional taxes/port fees/fees are $375 per person and are not included in these rates.

Safari Quest:  22 guests / 11 cabins. 120 feet in length / 29 feet wide.

Special Payment Policy: Deposit of 50% is due at time of booking. Final payment is due 90 days prior.

Special Cancellation Policy: Any time after confirmation up to 91 days prior to cruise date:  $250 per person cancellation fee 90 to 61 days prior to cruise date: 70% cancellation fee 60 to 0 days prior to cruise date: 100% cancellation fee

Contact us to book this Tour.

Thank you for your interest in this tour! At this time, it is not currently available to book online. Please feel free to continue to peruse our website for more Alaska travel ideas. If you would like options and information from our team of Alaska experts, please call 1-866-317-3325 or fill out the form below.

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Thank you for the beautiful trip you organized. The route was beautifully thought out, the suggested itinerary worked well, all the hotels and reservations were expertly handled. We were grateful for your expertise and for helping us select different activities for different members of our group.

Moshe | Facebook

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View Biography

• Tour Overview
• Tour Highlights

Tour Dates & Pricing

Day itinerary, departure cities, alaska & glacier bay cruise.

Explore the best of Alaska with a captivating four-night cruise, rail journey, and iconic national parks. Begin with a flight into Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city, and explore dramatic landscapes along Turnagain Arm. Travel to Wasilla and visit the Iditarod Trail Headquarters, then arrive at Denali National Park for an intriguing tour into one of Alaska’s most unspoiled regions. Pan for gold and glide along the Chena River on a classic sternwheeler in Fairbanks before taking a scenic journey along the Alaska Highway into the Yukon Territory. Ride the historic White Pass & Yukon Route Railway for breathtaking views to Skagway, where our cruise ship awaits. For the next four nights, we cruise the Inside Passage in style with a day of getting up close to tidewater glaciers and wildlife in Glacier Bay National Park and a port of call in Ketchikan. All staterooms have floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking private walk-out verandahs and all meals are included aboard the ship.

The Holiday Advantage

Additional tour information, your holiday vacations experience includes:, all accommodations featuring.

• 2 nights at Hilton Anchorage
• 1 night near Denali National Park
• 2 nights in Fairbanks
• 1 night in Tok
• 1 night in Whitehorse
• 1 night at DoubleTree by Hilton Seattle Airport

Attractions & Highlights

• Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
• Alyeska's Aerial Tram
• Iditarod Trail Headquarters
• Alaska Veterans Memorial
• Denali National Park guided tour
• Trans-Alaska Pipeline
• Gold Dredge 8 & gold panning
• Riverboat Discovery III cruise feat. floatplane, sled dogs & Athabascan village
• Alaska Highway feat. the Yukon Territory
• Museum of the North
• Santa Claus House
• Kluane National Park & Preserve
• Ports of Call: Skagway, Alaska; Ketchikan, Alaska; Vancouver, British Columbia
• Included Shore Excursion: White Pass & Yukon Route Railway

23 Excellent Meals Featuring

• Welcome Lunch in Anchorage
• Dinner at the Alaska Salmon Bake
• All meals included aboard ship with As You Wish Dining
• Farewell Dinner in Seattle

Exclusive Cruise Ship Benefits

• 4 nights aboard Holland America Line's Koningsdam

Highest Elevation: 3,895 feet.

June 24th, 2025 - July 6th, 2025

Price Per Person

Final Payment Date: 03/21/2025

Day 1 : Fly to Alaska

We begin with a flight to Anchorage, our home for the next two nights.

Day 2 : Alaskan Scenery

Our adventure starts with traveling along fjord-like Turnagain Arm, on one of the most beautiful stretches of highway in Alaska. Enjoy picturesque views as we head for the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, a sanctuary dedicated to preserving Alaska’s extraordinary animals. We also take a scenic tram ride at Alyeska Resort for views of hanging glaciers and mountain peaks within the Chugach Mountains. On our way back to Anchorage, keep watch for eagles and moose. Following our Welcome Lunch, enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Day 3 : The Iditarod Trail

A lovely morning drive takes us to Wasilla in the Matanuska Valley, an agricultural and supply center for Alaska’s remote Interior. Here, we visit the Iditarod Trail Headquarters to learn about the extraordinary sled dogs and famous Anchorage-to-Nome race. We then enjoy a photo stop at the Alaska Veterans Memorial, dedicated to each branch of service. En route to our accommodations in the Denali area, we watch for views of soaring Mount Denali, the tallest mountain in North America.

Day 4 : Denali National Park and Preserve

We kick off our morning by joining a naturalist guide for a thrilling journey into the tundra of Denali National Park and Preserve. At six million acres, it is one of the largest unspoiled regions in the world. Our sightseeing may include grizzly bear, moose, caribou, and Dall sheep. Later, we cross the Alaska Range with sweeping vistas of untouched wilderness. Upon arrival in Fairbanks, we dine at the Alaska Salmon Bake, a true Alaskan experience with dinner prepared over a wood fire.

Day 5 : Fairbanks

Today, we’re introduced to Fairbanks’ history as we trace its development from the gold rush to the discovery of "black gold." Gaze upon the famed Trans-Alaska Pipeline and learn to pan for gold at historic Gold Dredge 8, where we keep what we find! Afterwards, enjoy a delicious all-you-can-eat lunch at Steamboat Landing, then board the Riverboat Discovery lll sternwheeler. Relax during this narrated excursion on the Chena River, featuring a floatplane and sled dog demonstration, before we go ashore to a recreated Athabascan Native camp. The evening is at your leisure.

Day 6 : The Alaska Highway

Following a delicious breakfast, browse amazing collections that preserve this region’s history at the Museum of the North. A short drive to North Pole, Alaska brings us to the Santa Claus House for a chance to relive childhood memories with the spirit of Christmas present year-round. We then travel the renowned Alaska Highway that links Alaska to Canada, originally built as a military supply road during World War II, and stay overnight in Tok.

Day 7 : Yukon Territory

Today, we traverse the spectacular Yukon Territory, an untouched region of astounding beauty and the most remote part of our journey. Enjoy views of Kluane Lake’s crystal-clear waters and stop at Kluane National Park and Reserve Visitor Center to learn about this preserved area. Later, we arrive in Whitehorse, the Yukon’s capital, and settle into our comfortable accommodations.

Day 8 : Scenic Rail Journey and the Koningsdam

This morning, we board the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway for awe-inspiring views of mountains, valleys, and waterfalls that can only be seen by train. This historic route follows the path of the legendary Klondike gold seekers. We arrive in Skagway and board the Koningsdam to begin our incredible four-night cruise. The ship stays docked in Skagway into the evening, allowing us to go ashore and explore this 1890s gold rush boomtown.

Day 9 : Glacier Bay National Park Cruise

Today, our ship provides front-row seats for one of nature‘s most breathtaking sights, Glacier Bay! We maneuver easily along these pristine shores for close views of glaciers, lush forests, and mountains. A National Park Ranger and an Alaskan Native provide insight into this wild and historically significant corner of Alaska with interesting commentary and special programming. In addition to watching for captivating wildlife, keep an eye out for tidewater glaciers calving, or breaking off, and crashing into the sea. Delightful shows, music, and dancing light up our evening.

Day 10 : Ketchikan

Our port of call today is Ketchikan, the Salmon Capital of the World, and we conveniently dock right in town. Enjoy time on your own to discover this charming port’s rich culture and history. Visit the carving shed, go salmon fishing, learn about Tongass National Forest at the Southeast Discovery Center, or explore the colorful houses and quaint shops along Creek Street in the old red light district. You may also book an excursion offered by Holland America.

Day 11 : The Inside Passage

We cruise the beautiful Inside Passage today, where protected passageways allow for a relaxing experience. Take in breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and hundreds of islands and coastal inlets as we make our way through this astonishing waterway. Our ship traces the southeastern hook of Alaska and Canada's Pacific Coast as we witness firsthand how this vital ocean route still links communities today.

Day 12 : Vancouver to Seattle

Our cruise concludes today in Vancouver, British Columbia. We board our comfortable motorcoach for a scenic drive to Seattle, known as The Emerald City. Tonight, we toast to our amazing journey at a Farewell Dinner.

Day 13 : Fly Home

We return home today with incredible memories from our Alaskan adventure.

Heather Burnside

Heather Burnside has had many stops in radio, and is thrilled to be talking sports on The Drive with Heather Burnside and Sean Roberts afternoons from 3 – 6 pm on KXNO!

Her broadcasting career has been based in Des Moines for almost 30 years in both music radio and as a TV sports anchor and reporter, and now Heather combines her love of sports, radio, and music with iHeart Media Des Moines.

Join Heather and her husband Paul, Des Moines’ Police Sgt. Parizek, on this amazing tour with Holiday Vacations. They can’t wait to share this adventure with you!

Activity Levels

Tour days tend to be shorter in length, at a relaxed pace, and include lots of unscheduled time for leisure. Expect standing and walking for extended periods of time on flat surfaces, mostly low altitudes, and consistent temperatures.

Tour days usually move at a leisurely pace. Some days’ scheduled activities last longer than others. Expect standing and walking for long periods of time on occasionally uneven terrain. You may experience changes in altitude or temperature.

Tour days tend to be long, move at a consistent pace, and may include long travel days. Expect standing and walking for long periods of time on uneven surfaces. Some destinations may have changes in altitude and/or temperature.

Tour days tend to be long, move at a brisk pace, and may include lengthy travel days. Expect long periods of walking and standing on uneven surfaces. Scheduled activities may require physical effort or have distinct changes in altitude or temperature.

Very Active

Tour days tend to be long, move at a vigorous pace, and may include lengthy travel days. Expect long periods of walking and standing on rough surfaces. Scheduled activities may require physical effort or have distinct changes in altitude or temperature.

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Alaska Cruise Tours:

A cruise tour is a voyage and land tour combination, with the land tour occurring before or after the voyage. Unless otherwise noted, optional services such as airfare, airport transfers, shore excursions, land tour excursions, etc. are not included and are available for an additional cost.

Alaska: Inside Passage with Glacier Bay National Park Cruise

7-night royal princess cruise.

From $1,237 per person* Includes government taxes, fees and port expenses of $192 per person

Princess Cruises

This 7-day itinerary includes an epic glacier-viewing experience in Glacier Bay National Park. Visit the Gold Rush-era towns of Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan. Plus, enjoy a stop in Victoria, B.C.

  Executive Member Benefit

Executive Members receive an annual 2% Reward, up to $1,000, on qualified Costco Travel purchases

  Digital Costco Shop Card

Member Exclusive: Digital Costco Shop Card with every Princess Cruises® sailing†

Sailing Itinerary

Note: Cruise itineraries are subject to change. Please verify ports and times directly with the cruise line.

Port of Call Port of Call (Arrival, Departure)

Seattle, a city on Puget Sound in the Pacific Northwest, is surrounded by water, mountains and evergreen forests, and contains thousands of acres of parkland. Washington State’s largest city, it’s home to a large tech industry, with Microsoft and Amazon headquartered in its metropolitan area. The futuristic Space Needle, a 1962 World’s Fair legacy, is its most iconic landmark.

Considered the "gem" of Southeast Alaska, the city is nestled against the ocean, tucked tight against the mountains and back-dropped by the lush green of the largest national forest in the United States, the Tongass. Visitors will find that Juneau is not only the state's capital, but it's also a melting pot of history, unique topography and jaw-dropping scenery that is found nowhere else on the planet. Whether it's wildlife viewing, glacier trekking, ziplining or just shopping for locally created artwork, visitors to this remote yet extraordinary region will certainly find a bit of "Alaska" to take home.

Skagway, with a population of 862, is located in the Upper Lynn Canal at the northernmost point on the Inside Passage in Southeast Alaska, 100 air miles north of Juneau and 110 road miles south of Whitehorse, Yukon Territory. The City of Skagway is geographically the largest city in Alaska with 455 square land miles. Skagway's history and spectacular natural setting combine to create unparalleled sightseeing and recreation opportunities. Poke around on your own, or select from a variety of commercial tours. Either way, you will be amply rewarded with the sights and activities in and around Skagway.

Glacier Bay

It grinds, cracks and moans as massive pieces of ice split off and crash down. This is not your automatic icemaker on the blink. This is Glacier Bay doing what it's been doing for two centuries. The bay, once covered by sheets of glacial ice, is now a bay revealed. As the glaciers continue to recede, the bay enlarges. Back in 1879, naturalist John Muir was the first to note the glacial movement. Comparing charts from European explorers made 85 years earlier, he determined that the glacial ice had receded by more than 30 miles. Designated a National Park in 1910, today Glacier Bay is a 3.3 million-acre expanse that was buried under a mile-wide wall of ice only 200 years ago. Its natural environment includes five major land ecosystems including wet tundra, coastal western hemlock and spruce forest, alpine tundra, glaciers and icefields, and post-glacial meadows. Each week, dozens of ships traveling the Inside Passage spend the day cruising the 65-mile long bay. As each ship arrives, a National Park Service ranger boards the cruise vessel to provide a running commentary of the treeless mountains, icy fjords, hidden inlets and glacial landscapes as the ship passes by. Glacier Bay isn't just about ice. The ranger will also point out the killer and gray whales, sea otters, porpoises, moose, coyotes, wolves and bears visible in the sea or on the land. Leave your ice pick at home. But don't forget your binoculars.

A city of southeast Alaska on an island in the Alexander Archipelago. A supply point for miners during the gold rush of the 1890s, it is now a major port and tourist center on the Inside Passage. Population: 7,450.

Victoria/Canada

Victoria, capital of British Columbia, sits on the craggy southern end of Vancouver Island. With abundant parkland, it’s known for outdoor activities. The city's British colonial past shows in its Victorian architecture, including stately Craigdarroch Castle mansion. Butchart Gardens, with 55 acres of vivid floral displays, plus statuary, water features and a carousel, is one of many formal gardens in the city.

Onboard the Royal Princess

Royal Princess

Costco member reviews.

• Year Built: 2012
• Year Refurbished: 2018

Double Occupancy Capacity: 3560

From its breathtaking piazza-style Atrium to the dramatic views from the glass-floored SeaWalk®, Royal Princess® is sure to delight. Relax at The Sanctuary, a tranquil haven reserved for adults, watch the mesmerizing Princess WaterColor Fantasy light and water show, or dine on tantalizing cuisine at venues like Crown Grill and more.

Member reviews become available after at least 5 are received in order to provide you with an accurate picture of this travel product.

Onboard Activities

Activities & services (included in cruise).

• Disco/Nightclub
• Movies Under the Stars®
• Theater/Show Lounge
• Beauty Salon
• Fitness Center
• Fitness Classes
• Pool - Outdoor
• Sports Facilities
• Whirlpool/Jacuzzi
• Art Gallery
• Bars/Lounges
• Children's Indoor Play Area
• Educational Classes
• Organized Age Specific Activities
• Teen Center or Disco
• Teen Programs
• Duty-Free Shops/Boutiques
• Infirmary/Medical Center
• Religious Services
• Self-Service Laundromat
• Wedding/Vow Renewal

Activities & Services (available for an extra fee)

The Sanctuary

• Full-Service Spa
• Spa Services/Massage
• Sauna/Steam Room
• Educational Programs
• Internet Center
• Babysitting
• Dry Cleaning/ Laundry Service

Dining Room

Main Dining

Concerto Dining Room:  After final payment, through the MedallionClass® app, you may request your dining preference with Dine My Way℠. Customize your dining experiences nightly by choosing your seating time, dining companions and dietary needs.

Allegro Dining Room:  After final payment, through the MedallionClass® app, you may request your dining preference with Dine My Way℠. Customize your dining experiences nightly by choosing your seating time, dining companions and dietary needs.

Symphony Dining Room:  After final payment, through the MedallionClass® app, you may request your dining preference with Dine My Way℠. Customize your dining experiences nightly by choosing your seating time, dining companions and dietary needs.

Chef's Table Lumiere

Specialty Dining

Sabatini's℠:  An upscale authentic Italian dining experience in a remarkable eight-course meal. The menu features both local seafood specialties and other regional favorites. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Crown Grill℠:  Featuring premium aged beef and fresh seafood items, the Crown Grill℠ offers a truly special dining experience with an open, theater-style kitchen where chefs custom-prepare fresh seafood; such as lobster, scallops, clams and mussels, and cooked-to-order steaks. Set in opulent, rich wood surroundings, this classic steakhouse restaurant offers a warm and personal setting where Princess chefs make dining in the showplace environment something to talk about. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Crab Shack:  Seafood lovers won’t want to miss this full crab shack experience. An intriguing bistro option housed within the Horizon Court buffet, Crab Shack diners can savor Bayou-style boiled crawfish and spicy sausage, popcorn shrimp, steaming clam chowder and a tantalizing mixed steamer pot filled with snow crab, jumbo shrimp, clams and mussels. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Chef’s Table Lumiere:  A private dining experience that surrounds guests in a curtain of light. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Ocean Terrace:  The Ocean Terrace seafood bar is ideal for those who love to feast on the bounty from the sea. This stylish bar offers an array of ocean treasures, including a flight of oyster shooters, sushi and sashimi, ahi tuna poke, king crab cocktail, chili and lime crab margarita, a royal lobster dish, and the world-renowned smoked Balik salmon, the salmon of the tsars. A la carte pricing makes it easy to pick and choose. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Vines:  Vines boasts an extensive collection of wines, like Opus One, Super Tuscans, fine sparkling wines and regional offerings for purchase. The menu also includes wine flights and a selection of wines by the glass.

Gelato:  It’s a gelateria and a creperie all in one. Indulge in delicious, Italian-style ice cream creations, including homemade waffle cones, creamy fruit smoothies, frosty shakes, banana and pineapple splits, as well as designer sundaes with and without alcohol. Choose from 20 toppings and sauces, including homemade fudge. And don’t miss the sweet crespelle (Italian crepes), with nutty banana or spiced Washington Apple filling.

Alfredo's Pizzeria

Casual Dining

Horizon Court:  Features top-deck buffet dining at its finest, boasting multiple live stations.

International Café:  Open 24 hours a day, the International Café located in the Piazza is the place for an ever-changing array of small bite meals, treats and gourmet beverages. Grab a freshly baked croissant to start your day, snack on pies and quiche or choose from a wide variety of salads and sandwiches at lunchtime, and indulge in decadent desserts in the evening. Coffee and tea fans will love the New Grounds Crafted Coffee menu featuring a variety of specialty espresso-based drinks made from a custom blend of coffee beans, as well as iced tea fusions.

Alfredo's Pizzeria:  Featuring hand-tossed Neapolitan-style pizza, hot out of the oven.

Trident Grill:  Follow your nose to the Trident Grill where the burgers are flipping and the hotdogs roasting, served with a variety of fixin’s and crisp fries. Veggie burgers, bratwurst and grilled chicken breast are also served and all are sure to hit the spot when you are relaxing out on deck.

Afternoon Tea:  Afternoon tea with finger sandwiches, pastries, scones, cookies, music and white-glove service.

Room Service:  Call for room service delivery or order through OceanNow® in the Princess® MedallionClass® app at any time of the day or night. Guests with the latest Princess Plus and Princess Premier packages enjoy OceanNow® and room service delivery with no charge. Otherwise, a one-time access fee of $14.99 per person per voyage will apply for OceanNow® delivery and a $5 room service fee will apply for each order placed by stateroom phone. To order, guests can press the "Room Service" button on their stateroom phone, or order through OceanNow®.

Disclaimer regarding ship dining

• > Inside Stateroom
• > Balcony Stateroom
• > Suite Stateroom

Staterooms feature refrigerator, closet and bathroom with shower.

Interior (Category: IA)

Category: IA Approximately 175 sq. ft., this well-appointed interior stateroom provides fine amenities.

Interior (Category: IB)

Category: IB Approximately 166 to 175 sq.ft, this well-appointed interior stateroom provides fine amenities.

Interior (Category: IC)

Category: IC Approximately 166 to 175 sq. ft., this well-appointed interior stateroom provides fine amenities.

Interior (Category: ID)

Category: ID Approximately 166 sq. ft., this well-appointed interior stateroom provides fine amenities.

Interior (Category: IE)

Category: IE Approximately 166 sq. ft., this well-appointed interior stateroom provides fine amenities.

Interior (Category: IF)

Category: IF Approximately 166 sq. ft., this well-appointed interior stateroom provides fine amenities.

Features a private balcony with patio furniture, refrigerator, spacious closet, desk and bathroom with shower.

Balcony (Category: BA)

Category: BA Approximately 222 sq. ft. including balcony, this stateroom provides outstanding views from a private balcony.

Balcony (Category: BB)

Category: BB Approximately 222 sq. ft. including balcony, this stateroom provides outstanding views from a private balcony.

Balcony (Category: BC)

Category: BC Approximately 222 sq. ft. including balcony, this stateroom provides outstanding views from a private balcony.

Balcony (Category: BD)

Category: BD Approximately 222 sq. ft. including balcony, this stateroom provides outstanding views from a private balcony.

Balcony (Category: BE)

Category: BE Approximately 222 sq. ft. including balcony, this stateroom provides outstanding views from a private balcony.

Balcony (Category: BF)

Category: BF Approximately 222 sq. ft. including balcony, this stateroom provides outstanding views from a private balcony.

Balcony (obstructed view) (Category: BW)

Category: BW Approximately 222 sq. ft. including balcony, this stateroom provides a partial or obstructed view from a private balcony.

Premium Deluxe Balcony (Category: D4)

Category: D4 Approximately 242 to 312 sq. ft. including balcony, this aft-facing stateroom provides dramatic wake views. Includes sofa bed.

Deluxe Balcony (Category: DA)

Category: DA Approximately 233 sq. ft. including balcony, this larger than standard balcony stateroom provides outstanding views from a private balcony. Includes sofa bed.

Deluxe Balcony (Category: DB)

Category: DB Approximately 233 sq. ft. including balcony, this larger than standard balcony stateroom provides outstanding views from a private balcony. Includes sofa bed.

Deluxe Balcony (Category: DC)

Category: DC Approximately 233 sq. ft. including balcony, this larger than standard balcony stateroom provides outstanding views from a private balcony. Includes sofa bed.

Deluxe Balcony (Category: DD)

Category: DD Approximately 233 sq. ft. including balcony, this larger than standard balcony stateroom provides outstanding views from a private balcony. Includes sofa bed.

Deluxe Balcony (Category: DE)

Category: DE Approximately 233 - 303 sq. ft. including balcony, this larger than standard balcony stateroom provides outstanding views from a private balcony. Includes sofa bed.

Deluxe Balcony (Category: DF)

Category: DF Approximately 233 sq. ft. including balcony, this larger than standard balcony stateroom provides outstanding views from a private balcony. Includes sofa bed.

Deluxe Balcony (obstructed view) (Category: DW)

Category: DW Approximately 233 sq. ft. including balcony, this larger than standard balcony stateroom provides a partial or obstructed view from a private balcony.

Suites feature balcony, separate sitting area, desk, spacious closet and bathroom with tub and shower.

Premium Club Class Mini-Suite with Balcony (Category: M1)

Category: M1 Approximately 314 sq. ft. including balcony, this spacious stateroom provides a seating area with sofa bed, and full bath with tub and shower.

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Category: M6 Approximately 340 sq. ft. including balcony, this extra-large stateroom provides outstanding views with seating area and sofa bed, and full bath with tub and shower.

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Category: MA Approximately 299 to 329 sq. ft. including balcony, this spacious stateroom provides a seating area with sofa bed, and full bath with tub and shower.

Mini-Suite with Balcony (Category: MB)

Category: MB Approximately 299 sq. ft. including balcony, this spacious stateroom provides a seating area with sofa bed, and full bath with tub and shower.

Mini-Suite with Balcony (Category: MC)

Category: MC Approximately 299 sq. ft. including balcony, this spacious stateroom provides a seating area with sofa bed, and full bath with tub and shower.

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Category: ME Approximately 299 sq. ft. including balcony, this spacious stateroom provides a seating area with sofa bed, and full bath with tub and shower.

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Category: S5 Approximately 554 sq. ft. including balcony, the Premium Suite features a large stateroom with seating area and sofa bed. Enjoy suite-only upgrades and benefits.

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Full-time RV Travel Adventure

An Unforgettable Cruise through Glacier Bay National Park

We didn’t take our cruise to Alaska to visit the cities; instead, we took our cruise to Alaska to visit Glacier Bay National Park. The glaciers in Glacier Bay National Park are impressive. There are two ways to tour Glacier Bay National Park. Like we did, you can take a cruise ship we chose, Holland America, more about that later, or take a private tour on a much smaller ship.

The closest city to Glacier Bay National Park is Glacier Bay is Juneau. The closest town to Glacier Bay National Park is Gustavas. Like Juneau, Gustavus can only be reached by plane or boat. Glacier Bay National Park headquarters is in Gustavas.

One of our most memorable experiences in 2023 was taking a tour boat from Valdeze to the Columbia Glacier. Our trip on the LuLu Belle was terrific. Here is a link to that story.  Deep into the ice flows at the Columbia Glacier .

Cruising to Glacier Bay National Park

You will need a boat to go to Glacier Bay National Park. The most luxurious way to visit is on a cruise ship. For our cruise, I wanted to repeat our Columbia Glacier Visit by visiting Glacier Bay National Park. The easiest way to visit Glacier Bay National Park is by taking a cruise to Alaska. However, be careful: not all cruises to Alaska include a visit to Glacier Bay National Park.

This visit to Glacier Bay National Park is why we chose to cruise on Holland America and chose to make our trip on the Eurodam. Everything about our cruise was associated with our visit to Glacier Bay. I have written two other articles about our cruise to Alaska in 2024. The first article is about how we like our cruise. Here is a link to that one. Our cruise to Alaska

The second article is about the places we visited on our cruise to Alaska. Here is a link to that article. Exploring Alaska’s Coastline

What is a Glacier?

It takes more than lots of snow to make a glacier. One common characteristic is that glaciers are all snow turned into ice; thus, they are freshwater ice instead of sea ice.

There are no glaciers in the Arctic Ocean.

Much of the Arctic Ocean is covered with sea ice year-round. The ice at the North Pole is frozen seawater; thus, the polar ice cap is not a glacier.

All glaciers move downhill.

Glaciers are found in high mountains in addition to Antarctica and Greenland. The ice sheets covering Antarctica and Greenland are not glaciers but ice sheets. Many glaciers are at the edges of the ice sheets in Antarctica and Greenland. Glaciers all move slowly downhill. Some glaciers terminate on land and a few flow into lakes or the ocean. Glaciers that terminate in the sea are tidewater glaciers. The glaciers we visited on our cruise were impressive; the best were tidewater glaciers.

Many glaciers come from Ice Fields.

When ice covers a mountain range, it is called an Ice Cap or Ice Field. Ice Fields are often the source of many glaciers. Glaciers spill over the edges of the ice fields and carve valleys below the ice fields. Glaciers on the west side of Glacier National Park come from the Brady Ice Field.

We first started seeing glaciers last year as we worked north through Canada. Denali was also covered with glaciers, which was not far from where we traveled. The first glacier we walked up to see was the Portage Glacier, which is at the head of the Turnagain Arm of the Cook Inlet. The first giant glacier we visited was the Matanuska Glacier, which once carved its way for hundreds of miles—covering Palmer, Anchorage, and creating the Knik Arm of the Cook Inlet. Here is a link to that story. Going up to the Matanuska Glacier

Rocks cover some glaciers.

Not all glaciers are white; most have gathered rocks that cover the ice as they move. These are called rock glaciers, and the rocks protect the ice from melting. Under the stones is ice, which once was snow. The one place we saw this, which was so obvious, was when we visited the Kennecott mine. In case you missed it, here is a link to the story. Kennecott died

On tidewater glaciers like the John Hopkins Glacier, there is an exposed icy cliff face and a submerged cliff face above the water. When the ice breaks off from the glacier’s face, it can be from above the waterline crashing into the water or from below shooting to the surface without warning. Meltwater from the glacier is discharged from submarine tunnels under the glacier’s face or from meltwater creeks next to the glacier’s edge.

History of Glacier Bay

Early explorers probably visited the glacier at Glacier Bay, but at that time, it was a small bay at the terminus of a vast glacier. Neither explorer would have called it Glacier Bay, and in fact, it may not have been a bay but rather just an ice wall. We now call the glacier that these explorers saw the Grand Pacific Glacier, and the Grand Pacific Glacier carved glacier bay over the previous 20,000 years.

There are more than 1,000 glaciers in Glacier Bay National Park, including the tidewater glaciers and other alpine glaciers high in the mountains.

Grand Pacific Glacier

I can’t remember anyone even mentioning the words Grand Pacific Glacier during our visit. The Grand Pacific Glacier carved Glacier Bay. It wasn’t named until John Muir decided to name it. By the time Muir saw it, it had already retreated at least 65 miles, which had been the case since it was first seen by explorers less than a hundred years before Muir’s naming.

As we were sailing to the head of Glacier Bay, we were heading directly towards the Grand Pacific Glacier. Still, the splendor of the Margerie Glacier had already stolen the show. Margerie Glacier was still a tidewater glacier, and the Grand Pacific Glacier had retreated far enough to have its terminus on land. The Margerie Glacier has a brilliant white tidewater terminus, and the Grand Pacific Glacier is covered by rock.

The Grand Pacific Glacier was the combined glacier of numerous glaciers and carved Glacier Bay. The Grand Pacific Glacier included every glacier pictured in this article. As the Grand Pacific Glacier retreated, it left Glacier Bay as it melted. The glaciers we now see in Glacier Bay are the remnants of the Grand Pacific Glacier. According to satellite data, Grand Pacific Glacier’s flow rate is approximately 0.5-1 foot per day.

The Grand Pacific Glacier now terminates on land at the head of Glacier Bay. The ice is still there, but it is entirely covered by rock. The closest glacier to the Grand Pacific Glacier, which still has exposed ice, is the Margerie Glacier.

Margerie Glacier

Johns Hopkins Glacier

The Johns Hopkins Glacier is now the biggest tidewater glacier in Glacier Bay. Two hundred years ago, it was one of the glaciers that fed the Grand Pacific Glacier. The Johns Hopkins Glacier is about 1 mile wide and 225-300 feet high at the terminus.

The Lamplugh Glacier

Lamplugh Glacier is on the inlet to John Hopkins inlet. It is 0.9 miles wide, 165 feet high at the face, and over 19 miles long. Its flow rate is approximately 0.75 – 1 foot per day. The terminus is now grounded on the Lamplugh Glacier, and saltwater only reaches the ice face at high tides. 

Advancing glaciers

As global temperatures increase, most glaciers are getting smaller, retreating, and thinner. Glaciers have been melting since the end of the last ice age (about 10,000 years ), and the melting seems to have accelerated in the previous hundred years.

Most, but not all, glaciers are retreating, but some are advancing and getting thicker. Tidewater glaciers melt due to a combination of water temperatures and exposure. Glaciers with a land terminus only melt due to exposure. Rock glaciers like the Grand Pacific Glacier are insulated from exposure due to the covering of rocks and melt slower than exposed glaciers.

How do glaciers advance?

Glaciers advance because of gravity and additional snowfall at the ice field above the glacier. All glaciers move downhill. Unlike liquid water, glaciers also advance because the weight of the snowpack above the glacier pushes the ice flow downhill. Sometimes, if the slope isn’t sufficient to cause the glacier’s advance, it will spread out over a large area after it flows downhill. This kind of glacier is called a Piedmont Glacier.

During the last two hundred years, the Grand Pacific Glacier has retreated to the point that it is no longer a tidewater glacier. If the Grand Pacific Glacier had remained at the Sitakday Narrows, Glacier Bay would have been solid ice. The fact is, however, that not all the glaciers in Glacier Bay National Park are retreating. For the last fifty years, the Grand Pacific Glacier has been advancing toward the ocean at the head of Glacier Bay.

The John Hopkins Glacier retreated from 1909 to 1929 but has advanced from 1929 to its present location today.

Lituya Glacier, starting at the Brady Icefield, terminates on dry land before it reaches Lituya Bay and has been advancing for decades.

In Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve (north of Glacier Bay and near Valdez), the Hubbard Glacier is advancing towards the ocean. It is the biggest tidewater glacier in North America. It calves enormous icebergs into the Pacific Ocean, and with a terminus that is 6 miles wide, it is growing and advancing into the ocean. 

Wildlife at Glacier Bay

Harbor seals were the most common wildlife we saw at glaciers. However, their numbers have declined rapidly inside the park. Although no active pods of Killer Whales live in the park, they have been seen frequently and are one reason for the decline in Harbor Seal populations. Since 1992, the seal population in Glacier Bay has dropped by 75%.

Harbor Seals haul out of the water to rest and give birth on the small icebergs. Another theory is that the icebergs are smaller, and fast boats create large waves, disturbing the seals. Our cruise ship had to maintain a slow speed, and only two cruise ships could visit the park deep in the day.

Sea Otters were also common in the park. They eat and sleep while lying on their backs, making them easy prey for Killer Whales when sleeping.

We were looking for but didn’t spot any bears or mountain goats during our visit to Glacier Bay. They are there, but the bigger ships spend time further away from shore, so spotting them is difficult.

We didn’t see any whales at Glacier Bay National Park, but they are also frequent visitors, especially in the spring. The ocean water in the bay mixes with the fresh water from the glaciers, feeding a perfect food chain for whales. We saw a few whales outside the park, and like most visitors, this next photo was what we had hoped to see. This next photo was from a National Geographic Magazine website and looks nothing like the photos of the whales I took on our cruise.

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Glacier Bay National Park

FoxRVTravel link Deep into the ice flows at the Columbia Glacier .

FoxRVTravel link Going up to the Matanuska Glacier

FoxRVTravel link Kennecott died

Holland America Cruise Lines

Visiting Glacier Bay National Park on a cruise ship

What’s So Special About Glacier Bay?

Sitakaday Narrows

Piedmont Glacier

Mount Bertha

Mount Crillon

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Princess' top picks for the best Alaska glaciers

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Must-see Alaska glaciers

Start your alaska adventure, inspiring glacier facts, need-to-know for hiking alaska’s glaciers, experience the magic of alaska’s glaciers.

Alaska is home to some of the Earth’s most awe-inspiring glaciers. These natural ice formations have been shaped over thousands of years, defining Alaska’s rugged beauty. Seeing these glaciers up close is an experience you don’t want to miss.

One of the best ways to experience these incredible views is with Princess Cruises. All Princess Alaska cruises include at least one glacier-viewing experience, offering you the chance to see the massive ice and hear the white thunder of ice calving into the water below.

Cruising through Alaska isn’t just about the scenery and wildlife — it’s about witnessing the beauty of nature up close. So hop on a cruise, and let’s explore Alaska’s glaciers in an adventure you’ll never forget.  

Take your exploration to the next level with some of the most iconic glaciers in Alaska. Whether you take an excursion to one of the more remote glaciers or those close to the coast, they all serve as a testament to the wild beauty of Alaska. Glacier viewing is a great way to spend a day on shore during your Alaska cruise .

Matanuska Glacier

Matanuska Glacier, Alaska.

Just a couple hours northeast of Anchorage, the Matanuska Glacier stands as one of the most accessible — and breathtaking — glaciers in Alaska. This massive river of ice stretches over 27 miles long and 4 miles wide , making it a prominent feature in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley. 

Visitors can drive up to the glacier’s terminus, or end, making it an excellent choice for those who want to experience a glacier without venturing too far into the wilderness. 

John Hopkins Glacier

Located in Glacier Bay National Park, John Hopkins Glacier is accessible primarily by boat, providing visitors with a safe vantage point to watch chunks of ice break off and fall into the water. The glacier's face is immense, and the surrounding icy waters are often dotted with icebergs that have freshly calved.

This glacier is also an essential habitat for wildlife, especially during the summer months when seals are frequently seen resting on the floating ice. The protected waters near the glacier provide a safe haven for these animals, adding an extra layer to the glacier viewing experience. 

College Fjord

College Fjord in Prince William Sound offers a unique experience with its collection of glaciers, many of which are named after prestigious eastern colleges. This fjord has a mix of hanging and tidewater glaciers, making it a must-see for both its beauty and the remarkable stories behind them.

The fjord's glaciers bear the names of famous Ivy League schools, with women’s colleges represented on the northwest side and men's colleges on the southeast. Notable among these are the Harvard Glacier, which is one of the largest and most active in the fjord, and the Yale Glacier, known for its dramatic retreats.

Hubbard Glacier

Hubbard Glacier is North America’s largest tidewater glacier, offering a view that is both awe-inspiring and humbling. Situated in eastern Alaska and part of the Yukon, it is easily one of the most dramatic and actively advancing glaciers in the world. Unlike many glaciers that are receding, Hubbard is known for its significant growth and frequent calving activity.

The sheer scale of the Hubbard Glacier is breathtaking, with its face towering over 350 feet above the waterline and stretching 76 miles to its source in the Canadian Yukon . Visitors often experience Hubbard Glacier from the water, as it is best viewed by cruise ship or boat tours that navigate the icy waters of Disenchantment Bay.

Mendenhall Glacier

Just 12 miles from downtown Juneau, Mendenhall Glacier is one of Alaska’s most famous and accessible glaciers. This particular glacier is part of the larger Mendenhall Icefield. It extends over 13 miles in length , offering an eye-catching array of blue ice and deep crevasses that are visible from many viewing points around the area. 

One of the key attractions here is the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, which provides panoramic views of the glacier and the surrounding Tongass National Forest. The center includes educational displays and interactive exhibits that delve into the natural history of the region and the impact of climate change on these frozen glaciers. 

Prince William Sound

Prince William Sound is a spectacular region, enclosed by steep mountains and dense forests. It also has a collection of imposing, tidewater glaciers. These glaciers, which flow directly into the sea, create dramatic scenes as chunks of ice calve off and crash into the ocean. 

Among the most visited glaciers in Prince William Sound is the Columbia Glacier. It is one of the fastest-moving glaciers in the world, and it has been rapidly retreating over the past decades. Boat tours from Valdez provide a front-row seat to this natural spectacle, allowing visitors to experience the thunderous sound of ice breaking and the quiet that follows. 

Knik Glacier

Sitting at the head of the Knik River, you can easily reach this glacier from Anchorage. This makes it a favorite among those looking to immerse themselves in Alaska’s landscapes without leaving the city too far behind. The Knik Glacier sprawls approximately 25 miles long and 5 miles across, surrounded by rugged mountains and acting as a picturesque backdrop that is typical of Alaska. 

Visitors can enjoy the Knik Glacier in a few different ways. One of the most popular is via airboat tours that zip along the Knik River, offering up-close views of the glacier’s blue ice and the large ice field. Those that who want a more hands-on adventure can opt for guided hiking and ice climbing excursions. 

Exit Glacier

Exit Glacier, one of the most accessible parts of the Kenai Fjords National Park, offers a direct and personal view of how glaciers reshape the landscape and respond to the changing climate. Located just outside Seward, this glacier is unique because it provides an opportunity for visitors to walk up to an active ice mass easily.

Exit Glacier Road leads to several trails that visitors can explore. Among these, the Exit Glacier Nature Trail is particularly popular for its ease and informative signs that chronicle the glacier’s retreat over the years. Throughout the year, park rangers offer guided walks full of insights into the glacier's geology.

When you cruise with Princess, you get more than just stunning views. Our North to Alaska program lets you hear first-hand from mountain climbers who have conquered Denali and learn how to photograph glaciers from professional photographers. Start your learning early with these glacier facts.

How do glaciers form? 

Think of glaciers as nature’s ultimate snow cones. They start as layers of snow piling up over the years, gradually being squeezed into dense, crystalline ice.  This process can take decades or even centuries, squeezing out air pockets and forming tightly packed ice that flows under the force of gravity and its massive weight.

How many glaciers are in Alaska?

Alaska is home to over 100,000 glaciers, which cover approximately 5% of the state . From small cirque glaciers to enormous ice fields, Alaska has some of the most spectacular glaciers in the world. 

How can you see if glaciers are moving and at what speed?

Although they might look like they’re standing still, glaciers move at varying speeds, ranging from a few inches to several feet per day. Scientists track glacier movement using GPS and satellite imagery, providing ongoing monitoring of these incredible features. When you’re on a cruise, you might even spot the slow but steady march of these giants.

What are all the cracks on glaciers?

The cracks you see on glaciers are called crevasses, and they form due to the glacier's movement over uneven terrain. As the glacier flows, tension builds in the ice and eventually causes it to crack, which creates deep fissures you might be able to see from the cruise ship.

Why is the ice blue?

Glacier ice often appears blue because it absorbs all colors of the visible light spectrum except blue, which it reflects. This blue light is especially noticeable when looking into crevasses or newly calved ice faces where the dense, compressed ice has fewer air bubbles.

What are the different types of glaciers?

There are a few different types of glaciers, including valley, handing, tidewater, dry, and wet. Here’s how they differ: 

Valley glaciers flow down valleys and are often nestled within mountainous terrain. 

Hanging glaciers appear to hang on steeper slopes or cliffs. They are typically smaller than valley glaciers. 

Tidewater glaciers flow directly into the sea, calving to create icebergs. 

Dry glaciers are covered with snow in the winter but bare ice in the summer. 

Wet glaciers remain snow-covered all year. 

What are the linear piles of dirt?

Ever noticed those dirt lines on glaciers? Those are called moraines, and there are three different types.

Lateral moraines form at the sides of the glacier, where debris accumulates. 

Medial moraines appear as dark lines of debris down the center of a glacier. They form from the merging of lateral moraines when two glaciers meet. 

Terminal moraines are found at a glacier’s terminus, marking the furthest advance of the glacier. 

Embarking on a glacier hike in Alaska is an unforgettable experience. But before you lace up your boots, here are some tips to keep in mind when you add a hike to your cruise itinerary. 

Read: What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise: a Comprehensive List

What types of clothing should I wear? 

Layer up! You’ll want clothes that can handle the cold and wet. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add something warm and insulating, and top it off with a waterproof jacket. Don’t forget a hat and some sturdy, waterproof hiking boots. If you’re heading onto the ice, crampons or spikes are necessary for traction.

What are some of the safety precautions I should know about?

Glacier hiking is an excellent addition to your cruise, but it can be dangerous without the proper precautions. Always hike with a guide if you are inexperienced. They can provide essential gear like ropes and ice axes, as well as first-hand knowledge about glacier-specific hazards. Let someone know your plans and never hike alone.

How much time should I allow for a glacier visit?

You’ll want to give yourself plenty of time to return to your cruise ship if you visit a glacier during a shore excursion. Generally, plan for at least half a day to a full day. Some tours offer short, guided walks that last a few hours, while others might include full-day treks with more extensive exploration.

Can I see wildlife during a glacier visit? 

While glaciers themselves are not typically rich in wildlife, the areas around them can be. During your adventure, keep an eye out for birds, mountain goats, and perhaps even bears at a safe distance. Remember, you should never approach or feed the wildlife.

Are there any age or physical limitations to seeing glaciers? 

Glacier hikes can be challenging and are usually best for those in good shape. They’re not recommended for very young kids or those with limited mobility. But don’t worry — there are plenty of tour options for different fitness levels, and you can always visit a glacier that doesn’t require hiking. 

How cold is it on an Alaska glacier?

Temperatures on the glaciers are often lower than in surrounding areas, so be prepared to get a little chilly. Even in summer, temperatures can be near or below freezing, especially in shaded areas or during unexpected weather changes. Don’t forget to bundle up before your excursion.

When to visit a glacier

The best time to cruise Alaska , especially for glacier hikes, is during the late spring to early fall. You’ll get more stable weather and longer daylight hours, making it more enjoyable for hiking.

Watch: North To Alaska with Princess Cruises' Enrichment Program

Alaska’s glaciers are like nature’s own ice sculptures, and seeing them up close is an experience you’ll never forget. With Princess Cruises, you can experience these breathtaking ice formations both on board and on Alaska shore excursions . 

Imagine sipping your morning coffee on your private veranda while taking in the glacier views, or stepping ashore to get up close and personal with these icy giants on one of our cruisetours . Whether you’re onboard or exploring on land, you’ll be surrounded by the natural beauty of Alaska’s glaciers.

Learn more about how to experience the wonders of Alaska or book an Alaska Cruise today.

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7-Day Alaskan Explorer Cruise

Our 7-day Alaska cruise from Seattle balances natural beauty with historic intrigue. Glide steel-gray waters past rugged cliffs and forested isles. Discover Victoria’s countless charms. Take thrilling excursions ashore in Juneau, Ketchikan and Sitka. Linger at the face of frozen giants in Glacier Bay National Park. Or sidle up to Hubbard Glacier and watch house-sized icebergs cannon into the sea. Glaciers, wildlife and frontier towns are yours on these voyages.

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Discover Great Land splendors from an award-winning ship that impresses with understated elegance. Named "Best for Great Dining & Diverse Destinations," you will enjoy a vast entertainment selection on board.

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