Consider an Inside Passage cruise if you want to travel to and from the same city. Most of these cruises are round trip and leave from either Seattle, Washington, or Vancouver, British Columbia. In addition to seeing the Inside Passage, you'll have a chance to visit some famous places like the picturesque city of Haines or Glacier Bay National Park.
Expect to see magnificent scenery on a glacier cruise, also known as a Gulf of Alaska cruise. These cruises are usually one-way trips, northbound or southbound, and many stop in College Fjord, which is known for its glaciers. Pick a glacier cruise for a chance to see more Alaskan scenery and to spend additional time in port; it can be a perfect combination of cruise and land-based travel.
If you're looking for a more intimate cruise, a small ship may be for you. These vessels can more easily maneuver through narrow passages, giving guests opportunities to see things they wouldn't have seen from a larger ship. These ships don't offer the same number of amenities as their larger counterparts, so carefully consider the features you want on board before you book.
It's often difficult to figure out what to bring on a cruise. Most Alaskan cruises take place between April and September, and the weather and temperature can fluctuate. Dressing in layers in a good idea, and include a jacket and a raincoat. Make sure you have sturdy shoes that are broken in for hiking. You'll want a bathing suit as most cruise ships have a pool. Don't forget your camera, and if you have them, binoculars. Check with your cruise line to see what they recommend for dinner attire.
Another possibility to consider is a day cruise, which are offered by several companies. Take a day cruise to go whale watching or get up close to a glacier. There are plentiful opportunities to see wildlife and the scenic beauty of Alaska. Many people like day cruises because they can be a part of a land-based vacation.
