Embark on the Ultimate Small Ship Alaska Cruise in 2027 & 2028
Alaskan Explorer Cruise
Ketchikan, AK to Juneau, AK
Southeast Alaska Cruise
Juneau, AK to Juneau, AK
Discover the Wild Beauty of Alaska with American Cruise Lines
Experience Alaska’s breathtaking wilderness aboard our small, modern ships—designed to bring you closer to majestic glaciers, iconic wildlife, and coastal towns. Small ship Alaska cruises allow access to less-traveled waterways and provide a more immersive experience compared to larger cruise ships. Cruise through Glacier Bay National Park with expert rangers, spot whales and bald eagles from May through September, and step back in time in historic gold rush towns like Skagway and Wrangell.
Denali National Park
Enhance your cruise with a luxury land package to Denali, home to North America’s highest peak. Spot moose, bears, and caribou as you explore this vast and awe-inspiring landscape.
Endicott Arm
Sail into Endicott Arm, a breathtaking fjord sculpted by ancient glaciers. Cruise through narrow, ice-carved waterways framed by granite cliffs and cascading waterfalls.
Icy Strait Point
This Indigenous-owned destination offers authentic cultural experiences, wilderness trails, and some of Alaska’s best whale-watching—just steps from your ship.
Mendenhall Glacier
One of Alaska’s most accessible glaciers, Mendenhall Glacier provides a stunning look at nature in motion with blue ice, thundering meltwater, and dramatic crevasses.
Explore Alaska’s Most Iconic Ports
Juneau, AK
Nestled between the Gastineau Channel and snow-capped mountains, Juneau has been the capital of Alaska since 1906. Once a bustling gold mining town after the discovery of gold in the late 1800s, its history is deeply intertwined with the Klondike Gold Rush era. Today, Juneau is known for its blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Juneau is a central hub for many Alaska cruise itineraries and offers easy access to glaciers, wildlife excursions, and historic sites.
Anchorage, AK
Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska, was founded in 1915 as a railroad town supporting the Alaska Railroad project. The city grew rapidly after World War II and the discovery of oil in the 1960s, becoming a major hub for commerce and transportation. Its unique mix of urban life and proximity to wilderness has made it a gateway to Alaska’s rugged interior and sprawling natural parks. While not always a cruise port, Anchorage often serves as a gateway for Alaska cruise land packages and interior exploration.
Glacier Bay, AK
Glacier Bay is a pristine natural sanctuary that became a National Park in 1980. It is renowned for its dramatic tidewater glaciers and deep fjords, shaped by centuries of glacial activity. The area was largely ice-covered until 200 years ago, and today, visitors can experience a glimpse into the ever-changing landscape and witness abundant marine and bird life within its protected waters. Many Alaska cruises feature Glacier Bay National Park as a highlight due to its protected waters and active glaciers.
Sitka, AK
Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and rugged mountain landscapes, Sitka traces its origins to the early 19th century when it was the capital of Russian America and a vital fur trade hub. Today, the town blends its rich Russian and Tlingit heritage with a vibrant arts scene and deep ties to nature. Sitka is a popular stop on Alaska cruises, known for its blend of history, Tlingit culture, and coastal scenery.
What Sets Us Apart
Experience Alaska with American Cruise Lines, where small ship cruising brings you closer to the landscapes, stories, and traditions that make the Great Land so extraordinary. From meaningful encounters with local culture to unforgettable moments surrounded by nature, every voyage offers a deeper connection to one of America's most remarkable destinations.
