What is the best time to cruise Alaska?

The best time to cruise Alaska is from mid-May through mid-September, when temperatures are warmer, daylight hours are longer, and wildlife is most active.

Embark on the Ultimate Small Ship Alaska Cruise in 2027 & 2028

Q: What should I pack for an Alaskan cruise?

When visiting Alaska in the summer, layers are essential. Temperatures typically range from the mid-60s to 80 degrees Fahrenheit but can change quickly. A waterproof windbreaker, comfortable walking shoes, and binoculars are recommended for excursions and wildlife viewing.

Q: How long are Alaska cruises?

Alaska cruises typically range from 9 to 19 days depending on the itinerary. Some are roundtrip cruises, while others travel between ports such as Juneau, Ketchikan, and Tacoma.

Q: Do I need a passport when traveling to Alaska?

A passport is not required for Alaska cruises that stay within the United States. However, a passport is needed if your itinerary includes excursions into Canada, such as stops in Skagway.

Q: What wildlife will we see on our Alaska cruise?

Guests may see harbor seals, humpback whales, salmon, moose, wolves, and black bears. Alaska is also home to brown bears, bald eagles, caribou, Dall sheep, and a wide variety of bird species.

Q: Why cruise Alaska on a small ship?

Small ship Alaska cruises offer access to remote ports, fewer crowds, and more personalized service. Guests can experience Glacier Bay National Park and other less-visited destinations while enjoying a more intimate onboard atmosphere.

Q: Where do Alaska cruises depart from?

Alaska cruises depart from Juneau, Ketchikan, and Tacoma, with additional land and cruise packages beginning in Fairbanks.

Aboard the newest small cruise ships in the Alaskan region, you'll experience the breathtaking scenery and inspiring wildlife of Alaska like never before. Enjoy one of the best Alaska cruises on a small ship, designed to bring you closer to glaciers, wildlife, and ports. Get up close and personal to the natural beauty surrounding our Alaska cruises as we sail to Endicott Arm, Glacier Bay National Park, and more.

Choose from seven unique and fascinating itineraries to experience the Great Land and all it offers. These Alaska cruise itineraries range from 9 to 19 days and include both roundtrip and point-to-point journeys. You will be amazed to witness Alaskan wildlife and waterfalls from the comfort of your private balcony. American Cruise Lines is also one of the only cruise lines to offer an overnight stay on board in Glacier Bay National Park.

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Alaskan Explorer Cruise

Ketchikan, AK to Juneau, AK

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12 Days / 11 Nights

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$9,425

$8,925

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Alaska Inside Passage Cruise

Juneau, AK to Tacoma, WA

Free Airfare* Plus Save up to $2,000

16 Days / 15 Nights

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$10,200

$9,200

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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.

American Experience

Proudly built, flagged, and crewed in the United States, our all-American experience is the backdrop and an ode to the breathtaking landscapes that this country has to offer. Our Alaskan cruises showcase the beauty of the United States in extraordinary places like Petersburg, Ketchikan, Skagway, and Haines.

Alaskan Adventures

There is no other place for adventure quite like the Great Land. From Glacier Bay National Park to Endicott Arm and Misty Fjord, guests will immerse themselves in Alaskan nature and beauty up close. Choose from a variety of enriching excursions, from wildlife kayak adventures and private fishing charters to visits to local museums that showcase the history and culture of this incredible region.

World-Class Cuisine

Our Master Chefs source local, fresh ingredients that bring the Alaskan flavors to life. Our menu includes savory salmon pasta, shrimp bisque, crab cakes, fresh oysters, and so much more. Enjoy exceptional personalized service, with all meals and beverages, including beer and wine, included throughout your cruise.

Onboard Enrichment

Enjoy traditional Alaskan song and dance as well as a narrated history of this incredible land from our onboard historians and entertainers. These experts offer a fascinating look into the culture and tradition of the places we visit, including information on Alaska's flora and fauna, geology, wildlife, and the people native to the region.

Spacious Staterooms

Enjoy the most spacious staterooms globally on our Alaskan voyage, thoughtfully designed to provide exceptional comfort and room to relax throughout your journey. Aboard our modern small coastal ships, each stateroom offers private balcony views, full-size bathrooms, and thoughtfully designed living spaces that allow you to take in Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes.

Alaska Cruises FAQs

What should I pack for an Alaskan cruise?

When visiting Alaska in the summer, the name of the game is layers. Traveling between mid-May and mid-September means you can enjoy temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, though temperatures are generally in the mid-60s, and can change in minutes.

In the early morning and into the evenings you may experience cooler weather. A windbreaker, preferably waterproof, is ideal for time spent on the sun deck whale watching or sailing along magnificent glaciers and fjords. Comfortable shoes are a must for daily excursions. Don’t forget to pack your binoculars as well for up-close viewing of wildlife.

Learn More About What to Pack for an Alaskan Cruise

When is the best time to cruise Alaska?

Summer in Alaska runs from mid-May through mid-September and is the ideal time for cruising. Sunlight is at its longest during these months and it is also the driest and warmest time to visit. It’s also a great time to admire nature in full bloom and be inspired by the native wildlife.

Learn More About the Best Time to Cruise Alaska

How long are Alaska cruises?

Alaska cruises typically range from 9 to 19 days depending upon the itinerary. Some cruises are roundtrip, while others travel between ports such as Juneau, Ketchikan, and Tacoma.

Do I need a passport when traveling to Alaska?

If you are planning to venture into Canada for excursions, perhaps when you are in Skagway, you will need your passport, otherwise you will not require a passport for itineraries that stay within the US.

What wildlife will we see on our Alaska cruise?

Alaska cruise guests can expect to see harbor seals, humpback whales, and salmon feeding in the areas’ coastal waters, rivers, and streams. Moose, wolves, and black bears can be spotted roaming freely along the shore.

Alaska is also home to the brown bear, the largest carnivorous land mammal in the world, as well as the blue whale, the world’s largest mammal.

Alaska is a delight for bird watchers, boasting 521 species of birds including the largest population of bald eagles. Other wildlife in the region include caribou, moose, Dall sheep, and wolves.

Learn More About Alaskan Wildlife

Why cruise Alaska on a small ship?

When it comes to exploring Alaska, small ship cruises offer a truly unique experience. Unlike larger vessels, our small ships can access remote and less-visited ports, giving you the opportunity to see hidden gems and untouched landscapes, including exclusive access to Glacier Bay National Park, featuring miles of pristine coastline. With personalized service on board, every detail of your journey is tailored to you, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout. Plus, the intimate size allows you to connect with fellow travelers, creating lasting memories together. Our Constellation Class with American Constitution and American Constellation are the best cruise ships to take to Alaska.

Where do Alaska cruises depart from?

Our Alaskan cruises depart from Juneau, AK, Ketchikan, AK, and Tacoma, WA, and we also offer Land and Cruise packages departing from Fairbanks, AK.