What is the Best Alaska Cruise Line from Seattle?
If you love nature, embarking on a cruise to Alaska from Seattle would be an ideal adventure before your cruise vacation.
Seattle has a lot to offer in terms of city life, with amazing restaurants, bars, plenty of shopping options, and numerous trendy coffee shops.
But let’s go into why choosing an Alaska Cruise from Seattle is a great option, what ports you’ll visit on the round-trip journey, and which month and cruise line are best for exploring Alaska.
Why Choose Cruise to Alaska from Seattle
Seattle, which is a place of the city amid nature, is well known for its rich urban lifestyle that is influenced by the closeness of the wilderness.
Enclosed in rich forests, spacious parks, and the mysterious Puget Sound, this is a great place for nature enthusiasts.
Here’s why you might want to consider taking a cruise to Alaska from Seattle:
1. Convenient Departures
Weekend trips are a perfect way to give yourself a taste of adventure in Alaska, and it is super convenient to work it into your routine.
2. Glacial Wonders
In seven days, you will have the priceless opportunity to gaze at awe-inspiring wonders like Margerie Glacier and Dawes Glacier which are situated within Glacier Bay National Park and Endicott Arm Fjord.
3. Fascinating Ports of Call
Walk through historic towns including Skagway, Ketchikan, Juneau, and Victoria to feel the diverse culture and history of Alaska in the air.
4. Stress-Free Travel
Having a roundtrip cruise from Seattle in mind will let you spare yourself the trouble of making a flight reservation on your own. There is no more need to worry about the road’s hardships. You can now concentrate on the fun part.
5. Exploring the “Emerald City”
If you have a look at the pre and post-tour of Seattle, you will be able to get a closer look at the area, see the city’s beauty up close, and learn the story behind its nickname, the “Emerald City”.
What Ports Will You Visit on a Round-trip Alaska Cruise?
While you are on the round-trip cruise from Seattle to Alaska, you will have an adventurous seven days to discover the multiple ports and the wide variety of nature’s beauty.
Here’s what you can expect:
1. Ketchikan
Your first spot (place) familiarizes you with the Tlingit through their expressive totem carvings. You can fish here and even take a tour of a hatchery.
2. Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier
Travel the fjord of Endicott Arm, struck by icebergs, waterfalls, and fauna like bears or eagles. Closer is the Dawes Glacier and hear the calving that is also beautiful from a distance.
3. Juneau
Juneau’s astounding Mendenhall Glacier is easily reachable by foot, plane, or even by climbing on its very top. For instance, dog sledging lessons, culinary tours, and much more are on offer.
4. Skagway
Journey through gold rush times in the White Pass & Yukon Railroad by taking a ride. Discover the Tongass National Forest with wildlife watch and hiking tours.
5. Inside Passage
Immerse yourself in the pristine nature of forested islands, mountains, or glaciers. Make sure to keep a lookout for the whales, the bears, and the bald eagles in their natural habitats.
6. Victoria, British Columbia
Chinatown and the Royal British Columbia Museum are just a few attractions that make your final stop buzzing with life. Make sure to not miss the afternoon tea at the Fairmont Hotel which is the most authentic.
Which Month is Ideal for a Seattle-to-Alaska Cruise?
Traditionally, the months of July and August are seen as the ideal time to take an Alaska cruise because of the warm weather, long daylight hours, and abundant wildlife sightings.
When it comes to choosing the best cruise line for Alaska, travel experts and cruise critics often recommend Holland America Line.
They’ve consistently received awards for their Alaska itineraries, cruises, and overall experience.
During a round-trip cruise from Seattle to Alaska, you’ll enjoy a seven-day journey visiting picturesque ports like Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway.
You’ll also sail through breathtaking sights like Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier, as well as the scenic Inside Passage in Alaska, before making a stop in Victoria, British Columbia, and returning to Seattle.
Do I Need a Passport to Go to Alaska from Seattle?
If you’re a U.S. citizen and your Alaska cruise starts and ends in a U.S. port like Seattle, San Francisco, or Los Angeles, you’re not currently required to bring a passport, but both cruise lines and travel experts highly recommend it.
May and September are considered the shoulder seasons in Alaska, offering better deals and fewer crowds for both cruises and land tours. You might find lower cruise prices during these times, potentially saving a couple of hundred dollars per person.
On average, a 7-day Alaskan cruise can cost between $1,300 to $3,500 per person, depending on factors like the cruise line, cabin type, and when you book.
While meals are usually covered on the cruise, you’ll need to budget for meals once you’re off the ship. Even if your shore excursions include food, it might not be to your liking.
If you have around 10 days to spare, you can combine a cruise with a land tour to get a comprehensive Alaska experience.
These trips normally include visits to popular destinations in Alaska’s interior and Southcentral regions, along with a 7-day cruise.
Is the Cost of a Balcony on a Cruise Justified?
Even on petite and luxurious ships, where there is no space limit, the balcony is a desired attribute.
The thing about a home office is that you can think of it as another room, especially if the weather cooperates and you can spend a lot of time outside.
For instance, the lowest price for a seven-night cruise to Alaska in June with Disney Cruise Line is around $3,472 for two guests, in an inside cabin, with the taxes, fees, and port fees included.
Almost all Alaska cruises start from ports like Seattle, Vancouver, San Francisco, and Anchorage, with departure from Seward and Whittier also possible.
Cruise costs might differ significantly, averaging between 600 USD to 5,000 USD per person when you consider the type of cruise and accommodation.
Besides, I would also advise you to reserve another $1,000 to $1,500 per person for the excursions to explore every attraction of Alaska.
A cruise to Alaska from Seattle is the most amazing adventure that will guarantee sensational views, marvellous animals, and exceptional memories.
Even if you are exploring charming ports, admiring majestic glaciers, or diving deep into the culture of the land, this tour is sure to make you feel like you are having the most special experience of your life.
With departures at your convenience, various itinerary plans, and the combination of cruises and land tours, it’s no wonder that the Alaska cruise from Seattle is a great choice for tourists interested in an inimitable journey to the Last Frontier.
