Sunday, March 31, 2024

The best cruises to Alaska from Seattle for every type of traveler

best alaska cruise

Watch lumberjacks in action, learn from Glacier Bay National Park rangers and craft with a Native totem pole carver. Or listen to harrowing Tales from the Deadliest Catch fishermen and climbers who have summited Denali during your Alaska cruise. They groan, creak and shudder on their march to the sea, punctuated by the booms and crashes of "white thunder" — a sound that echoes across the water when ice calves into the ocean below. On an Alaska cruise, let us show you Glacier Bay National Park — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier, College Fjord or Hubbard Glacier.

day Alaska cruises

Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airlines, allow you to modify your flight up to 45 days prior with no penalty and protect you if your flight is late or canceled. Rush across the snow on a dog sled with a professional musher, fly fish for salmon in fresh rivers and soar over miles of glacial tundra in a helicopter. Watch migrating humpback whales from the deck of a catamaran or Native craftsman carve a traditional totem pole, and expand your Alaska cruise experience. With no roads connecting it to the rest of Alaska or North America, it is truly a protected destination. Founded as a gold mining town and now the state’s capital, Juneau has one foot in history and one in the future.

Best Alaska cruise ports

Each of the ships features an observation deck, library, science center, hot tub, pool and Explorer lounge, as well as a bar with floor-to-ceiling windows so you never miss a thing. An expedition team of Alaska experts join each voyage, hosting lectures about the areas the ships visit and guiding passengers on outings like nature walks through rainforests and kayaking trips around the foot of a glacier. Guests learn about the cultural heritage of remote communities and focus binoculars to spot bears, whales, caribou, moose, deer, wolves, birds and more. The MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen embark on 14- to 19-day Alaskan voyages between May and September. Make the most of your cruise by keeping an eye out for pop-up sales that can save you even more money—you can even use those savings to indulge in a pre- or post-cruise tour.

best alaska cruise

Alaska Cruise Onboard Experience

Like Holland America and Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess is among the few companies with permission to sail in Glacier Bay. Both ships are almost identical, but we give Discovery Princess the edge only because it's newer than Royal Princess. On each of the ships, the "studio" zones, as Norwegian calls them, are made up of 82 special solo cabins and a private Studio Lounge where solos can gather for happy hours and other events. Of particular note, given Alaska's weather, is that one of the two main pool areas on each of these Quantum-class ships is enclosed.

Ready to plan your next dream cruise? Put the Last Frontier on your wander list.

If you're intent on a Gulf of Alaska cruise, book a northbound route so you'll cruise the Gulf at the end of the trip when you have your sea legs. If you get seasick easily, also think twice about round-trip cruises from Seattle that spend days cruising in the open ocean. The Koningsdam boasts 912 balconied accommodations, which means 69% of the ship has rooms with a private veranda view. You’ll also find massage showerheads, magnifying mirrors, terry bathrobes, Egyptian cotton towels, Elemis luxury bath products, and fresh fruit (upon request) in your stateroom. Anglers will enjoy the cruise line’s Savor My Catch program, which brings ocean-to-table dining to a whole new level.

Oceania cruises introduce Alaska to guests by offering local experiences in partnership with native tribes for a more meaningful connection to the area beyond sightseeing. If you’re passionate about the finer things in life, Celebrity Cruises may very well speak to your soul. And onboard experiences range from Macallan and Jack Daniel’s tastings to Riedel crystal workshops that show how different shapes and qualities of a Riedel glass change the taste of wine. With so many unusual onboard amenities, you may find it hard to get off the ship. The tradeoff between lots of fun activities is sharing them with nearly 5,000 other people.

When do cruises go to Alaska?

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A hike on the Chilkoot Trail or ride on the White Pass Railway lets you follow in the footsteps of the miners who came to seek their fortunes. Floatplane and helicopter tours take you around scenic areas like Misty Fjords or land you on a glacier, perhaps for a dogsledding or hiking adventure on the ice. If you prefer to stay grounded, you can find informative trolley tours of ports like Skagway. Some lines also offer Alaska cruisetours that venture into Canada's Yukon, including a few Holland America tours that combine half a cruise with a cruisetour that starts or ends in Skagway.

If you envision sipping Champagne as you watch a glacier thunderously calve into the sea, consider booking an all-inclusive luxury cruise on a Seabourn ship. Big ships can only offer deckside viewing of the marvels of Glacier Bay, but UnCruise Adventures sends its ships to the rarely visited outback. In Fern Harbor, Dundas Bay or No Name Cove, passengers can get up close to the natural wonders with birding expeditions, paddleboarding, beach walks, and more hiking and kayaking. If adventure is what you crave on an Alaska cruise, you should seek out the small ships of UnCruise Adventures.

best alaska cruise

This World’s Best Award-winning cruise line combines the best of expedition-style and luxury cruising, making it a popular pick amongst well-heeled, adventure-seeking travelers. According to Goldring, both Seabourn Quest and Seabourn Odyssey offer similar Alaska itineraries in 2024; however, it will be the latter’s final sailing since it was sold. If you want to immerse yourself in the beauty of Alaska without the distraction of little kids, you’ll be in good company on Viking. Their gorgeous ocean ships sail with a maximum of 930 passengers, all over the age of 18, so you can indulge in adult conversation over a bottle of wine or a cocktail or two. One of the many features that makes Viking the best adult-only cruise is that every single room comes with a private veranda, so you can take in the views and feel that fresh Alaska air with no one else around—and without paying extra.

The waters are teeming with marine life, like king salmon, while the land is decorated by the colorful coats of Denali National Park’s “big five” – including grizzly bears, wolves, moose, Dall sheep and caribou. On an Alaska cruisetour, encounter wildlife in their natural habitats and experience their unique personalities for yourself. Situated within Denali State Park near the Chulitna River, the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge® offers unparalleled views of Denali from the treehouse as well as the Great Room and expansive deck in the main lodge. Tour a working Alaska homestead and learn how the Great Land’s residents have become so self-sufficient.

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Whale watching, farm-to-table meals, snowshoe and cross-country skiing, and heli-ski excursions are also on the schedule. It will come as no surprise that one of the top-rated cruise lines for families is…wait for it…Disney! On a Seabourn voyage, passengers share the journey with scientists, naturalists, and others who expand the Alaskan experience with history, culture, and the natural world. UnCruise Adventures is a sustainability-focused line traveling the waters of the Inside Passage.

Take an Inside Passage cruise and gaze upward at the sky that is as blue as the lakes below. Hop on the Alaskan Railroad near Anchorage and see the spruce-lined, mountainous landscape whir by from a new perspective. Check out our list of the 10 Must-Pack Items for an Alaska Cruise for more information on packing necessities on your Alaskan cruise. A waterproof backpack with bug spray, bear spray, bottled water and snacks is practically a necessity in the State. Come prepared, and always check trail conditions with locals or tourist information centers first before setting out.

Note that this itinerary is longer than most (and Seabourn also offers weeklong sailings), delivering a far deeper immersion into the state's pristine and less-visited allures. For instance, visiting the Inland Islands, Endicott or Tracy Arm and Wrangell are unbeatable. The same goes for scenic cruising in Misty Fjords, with nearly incomparable beauty. While not an expedition vessel, Seabourn Odyssey hosts about 14 experts on Alaska sailings, including academics, scientists and other wildlife experts. They guide the optional (extra fee) Ventures by Seabourn excursions, such as Zodiac, kayaking, hiking and catamaran tours.

Come discover the prettiest spots to take pictures with our travel photo guide. The sheer size of Alaska lends itself to a wide variety of terrain and travel experiences. This diversity means you need to be prepared for a lot of change while traveling. In the center of the state, Denali National Park is blanketed in wildflowers punctuated with mountains, raging rivers and serene lakes.

Port Baltimore Cruises and the Baltimore Cruise Terminal

baltimore maryland cruise port

These lots are located near the port and provide an alternative option for passengers who prefer not to park at the designated lot. Some of these off-site lots can accommodate up to 5,000 tons of cargo. Passengers embarking on a cruise from the Baltimore Cruise Port have several parking options to choose from. The port has a designated parking lot with a capacity of over 1,500 vehicles, located within walking distance of the passenger terminal.

FROM BALTIMORE TO THE BAHAMAS

Poplar Island is home to a variety of birds and other wildlife and is an important nesting ground for terrapins. Hart-Miller Island is a habitat for migratory birds, as well as a popular spot for recreational boaters. In January 2017, the Port's public terminals handled a record-setting 923,030 tons of cargo, a 14% increase from January 2016. This included 712,386 container tons, which was a new month record and an increase of 20% from January 2016. Port Baltimore cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month.

Cruises from/to Baltimore, Maryland

Baltimore’s port is quite small so check-in can be quite fast and simple. The cruise terminal parking lot is located right next door, within easy walking distance. There is plenty of staff both outside to collect your luggage and inside to check you in so that you are on the ship in no time.

Directions & Location

However, if you arrive hungry and thirsty, there are only a few vending machines, so you are advised to shop and eat before arriving at the terminal. Gift shops, fast food outlets, a pharmacy, and a grocery store are all outside Baltimore Port. The area took its name from Lord Baltimore of the Irish House of Lords. Though constantly growing since its inception, considerable time elapsed before the Port had a State agency to oversee operations. The Maryland Port Authority assumed that role in 1956 (Chapter 2, Acts of Special Session of 1956).

Convenient Baltimore “Park and Cruise” Hotels

Whatever you choose to experience during your cruise from Baltimore, you'll surely come to understand why so many return to Charm City. The Baltimore Museum of Industry (BMI) is a great place for anyone interested in the history of commerce and industry in the Baltimore region. Located on a historic waterfront site just minutes away from the Baltimore cruise port, the museum offers visitors a chance to explore the city’s 19th-century industrial past.

Bunnys Buckets & Bubbles offers mouthwatering seafood, and Ekiben is perfect for mixing it up with Asian-inspired fares. Experience the thrill of summer with Baltimore Orioles fans as they cheer on their team at the iconic Oriole Park at Camden Yards, nestled in the vibrant Inner Harbor of Baltimore. In addition to attending games in person, fans can also participate in Orioles-themed cruises departing from the nearby Baltimore Cruise Port. From the north, the terminal can be reached via I-95 South through Ft. Sticking to the right lane, you should take Exit 55 on Key Highway and turn left when you reach the traffic light on the corner of East McComas Street. From there, you will see signs that will direct you to the entrance of the terminal on the right.

baltimore maryland cruise port

Why Choosing Baltimore Cruise Port is a Great Idea

By booking early, you can take advantage of these offers and save money on your overall trip expenses. Sailing from Baltimore allows easy access to popular destinations in the Bahamas, Caribbean, and Bermuda. With its location on the East Coast of the USA, sailing distances are shorter compared to other ports. The Maryland Cruise Terminal has a spacious parking area for passengers who wish to park their vehicles during their trip. The terminal also offers free Wi-Fi access so that passengers can stay connected with their loved ones throughout their journey. For those who want to grab a bite before boarding their ship, there are several restaurants nearby.

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Parking at the terminal, whether you live in the area or are using a rental car agency, is $15 per night. Federal Hill Park could provide you with a quiet alternative to the museums. This historic park used to be a lookout in the days of the War of 1812 and the Civil War. The Harbor Place and Gallery nearby is home to many historic restaurants. The Light Rail Service is a provision of the Maryland Department of Transit Administration and services passengers disembarking at BWI.

You will then head to immigration to show your documents before heading outside for your pre-arranged transportation. If you are being picked up, you should walk to the Pick-Up Lot where they can park and wait without charge. Inside the Baltimore Cruise Terminal building, there are limited services, but there is free Wi-Fi throughout. When you’re ready to take a cruise out of the Port of Baltimore, Cruise Maryland Terminal is the way to go. As Baltimore grew into a city during the Revolutionary War, the Port of Baltimore became a center for the trade with the West Indies that supported the war effort. To protect the Port, an earthwork fort, known as Fort Whetstone, was erected in 1776 on Whetstone Point, the narrow peninsula between branches of the Patapsco River.

In addition to cruising, there are many shore excursions and tours available in Baltimore City that allow visitors to explore some of the area’s most fascinating sights. From ghost tours and foodie experiences to historical walks and museum visits, there’s no shortage of things to do in this bustling metropolis. The Maryland Cruise Terminal is situated at 2001 E McComas St, Baltimore, MD 21230, while the South Locust Point Cruise Terminal is located at the same address.

baltimore maryland cruise port

The Port first drew attention for its ships in 1670 and was designated a port of entry by the General Assembly in 1706. Fells Point, the deepest part of the harbor, was home to numerous shipbuilders, and later would gain renown for its Baltimore clippers, as well as the Continental Navy. Its natural depth made Fells Point a center for trade and shipping, and, in 1773, it was incorporated into Baltimore City. In 2022, the Port exported 1,000 tons of aircraft and parts, with a value of $890 million. Also in 2022, the Port imported a record 793,695 tons of paper and handled over 41,000 tons of books with a value of 124.5 million.

That same year, the Port handled 24,900 tons of chocolate worth over $114 million, as well as $59.4 million worth of ice cream. The top export commodities by weight in 2022 were coal, liquefied natural gas (LNG), wastepaper, ferrous scrap, and automobiles/light trucks. The top imports were automobiles/light trucks, salt, paper/paperboard, gypsum, and plywood/veneer/particle board. For security reasons, lockers are not available at the Port of Baltimore cruise terminal.

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