Cheapest cruise lines for Alaskan cruises – 7 lines ranked by price
Often referred to as the last frontier, Alaska is an outdoor lover’s dream that’s dotted with sky high mountains, lush wilderness, glaciers, wildlife galore, and a unique way of life that celebrates self sufficiency. But because Alaska is so very large, it can sometimes be hard to view a sizable amount of it in a short amount of time. That’s where cruises come in and save the day.
Each cruise line that visits Alaska, much like hotels and resorts around the world, tends to fit into a particular price category and because of that, have a different overall cruise atmosphere and personality to offer for your vacation. There are 7 main cruise companies (including a very nice luxury ship) that venture out of Seattle and up and around the Alaskan coast. The information that’s listed below should help you narrow down your choices to only one or two of the cruise lines available.
Each cruise line tends to attract a different crowd
When reading each cruise line summary down below, you’ll find out very quickly that they each differ from each other, which helps each to attract a different crowd of passengers. Because of this, you’ll want to be picky and select a cruise line that caters to your individual preferences. Generally speaking, cruise lines ranging on the cheaper side attract families and the younger crowd.
Then there are other cruise lines that are suited more for couples and/or older individuals who enjoy more of a formal or traditional style of cruise. Each of the cruises listed below is provided with a description, which should help to narrow your choices down.
How we compared the cruise lines
The below list details the best available rates for 7-night cruises in June 2023, which is one of the best months to visit Alaska because of day length and pleasant daily weather. When reading below, you’ll find the below rates are listed from the cheapest cruise line to the most expensive, departing from Seattle, Washington. Though the same cruise lines operate from several other cities, more often than not, travelers will depart from Seattle, which is home to a very big international airport.
With that said, we decided to also research two other popular departure cities- Vancouver, Canada and Seward, Alaska. Coming in as the next two popular departure points for cruises in Alaska, these two cities are great for those who wish to stay a few days exploring before venturing out on your cruise. It must be noted that not all of the below cruise lines have these two departure cities, some only leave from Seattle.
You’ll also want to keep in mind that these particular departure cities (Vancouver and Seward) are not ranked cheapest to most expensive and instead are simply used as a price comparison to Seattle. Due to the difference in airline fares to the three cities, we felt it would be helpful to include them all. With the listings of all three departure cities, you should be able to make a more informed decision on which city to start your cruise from based on both cruise price and airfare to your starting point.
When selecting your cruise, you may find that prices move around a bit, up or down, but generally they move together, which helps to keep the ranking the same.
This article was last updated in April, 2023
Alaskan cruise lines ranked by price
The fares below are detailed as per person and are based on double occupancy. Government taxes, fees, and port expenses are extra for cruise guests.
1- Princess Cruises (cheapest)
7 nights from: $498
(Seattle, Washington → At Sea → Ketchikan, Alaska → Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier, Alaska → Juneau, Alaska → Skagway, Alaska → At Sea → Vancouver, Canada)
From Vancouver: $329
Sailing around the world with multiple ships and ports, Princess Cruises is a very established and popular cruise line that caters with large ships, fantastic amenities, picturesque destinations, and more all at very affordable prices. For your Alaskan trip you’ll find yourself on either the Emerald Princess or the Grand Princess, both of which offer memories for a lifetime.
Each of these ships offer guests rooms with balconies, restaurants, star glazing, swimming pools, duty free shopping, fitness and yoga classes, and night after night of entertainment options that range from live theater to casinos. For those of you traveling with young adults or kids, you’ll find lots of activities for them, including a fun zone, teen center, video arcade, and their own kids swimming pool.
2- Celebrity Cruises
7 nights from: $598
(Seattle, Washington → Day At Sea → Ketchikan, Alaska → Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier, Alaska → Juneau, Alaska → Skagway, Alaska → Alaskan Inside Passage → Day At Sea → Victoria, British Columbia → Seattle, Washington)
Looking to cruise in style? Then Celebrity Cruises is just the cruise line for you. On this Alaskan cruise you’ll be sailing on the ship Celebrity Solstice, which is a redesigned and redecorated ship with many new ‘firsts’ that include a Lawn Club, Hot Glass Show, and a variety of specialty restaurants.
You’ll also find amenities designed for spa and fitness lovers that include a large fitness center and the Canyon Ranch SpaClub. Another plus you’ll find onboard is the Sky Observation Lounge that comes complete with full length glass windows that look out over the sea. This cruise is great for couples (young and old) as well as families with young adults.
3- Norwegian Cruises
7 nights from: $629
(Seattle, Washington → Day At Sea → Sitka, Alaska → Juneau, Alaska → Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier, Alaska → Icy Strait Point, Alaska → Ketchikan (Ward Cove), Alaska → Victoria, British Columbia → Seattle Washington)
From Vancouver: $329
From Seward: $379
If you’re looking for a great, fun filled cruise at the best price possible, then Norwegian Cruises is going to most likely be your best bet. This 7 night cruise is on the Norwegian Bliss, and is part of the youngest fleet that is currently cruising to Alaska.
The noted slogan of Norwegian cruises is“souvenirs are great, but stories are even better” and that definitely rings true on their Alaskan cruises. With lots of different activities to select from and enjoy, some of which are on the ship while others at ports, guests will never run out of things to do and see. This cruise line is great for gregarious and high energy passengers.
4- Holland America Line
7 nights from: $679
(Seattle, Washington → Puget Sound, Washington → Day At Sea → Scenic Cruising Stephens Passage → Juneau, Alaska → Glacier Bay, Alaska → Icy Strait Point, Alaska → Ketchikan, Alaska→ Victoria, British Columbia, Canada → Seattle, Washington)
From Vancouver: $499
A signature cruise line in the cruising industry, the Holland America Line offers luxury at an affordable price. When traveling on this cruise, guests will find themselves on the Westerdam, which is a mid sized ship with all the bells and whistles you could ask for. You’ll find lots to do while on board, including lots of entertainment venues like the Lincoln Center Stage and Billboard Onboard.
You’ll also want to note that onboard, weddings are common, making this cruise line a match made in heaven for those looking to grow or rekindle their relationship. Couples will have a plethora of activities to choose from that include culinary cooking classes and salon activities. Though there are youth programs available for the littles, this line is considered much more couple friendly than family friendly.
5- Royal Caribbean
7 nights from: $1,026
(Seattle, Washington → Day At Sea → Alaska Inside Passage, Alaska → Juneau, Alaska → Skagway, Alaska → Sitka, Alaska → Day At Sea → Victoria, British Columbia → Seattle, Washington)
From Seward: $417
A very well known and established cruise line with lots of voyages under their belt, Royal Caribbean is a great choice of all guest types. On this Alaskan voyage you’ll find yourself on the Ovation of the Seas, a ship perfect for viewing the vast Alaskan coastline.
If you’re looking for a bit of fun and excitement alongside some relaxation, you’ll find lots of choices that offer the best of both worlds. From on-board rock climbing to nightlife and shows to a casino, fun is around everywhere. However, if you’d just rather just sit back and relax, you’ll feel at home with a spa massage and a few drinks. Families will also find lots to do with a youth program that’s packed with daily activities suited for different age groups.
6- Carnival Cruise Lines
7 nights from: $1,089
(Seattle, Washington → Day At Sea → Juneau, Alaska → Skagway, Alaska → Tracy Arm Fjord, Alaska → Ketchikan, Alaska → Victoria, BC, Canada → Seattle Alaska)
With everything that a stay back on land would offer, Carnival Cruise Lines is made for guests who want to do it, see it all, and eat it all in one single trip. Aboard the Carnival Spirit, guests will get to do exactly that with lots of different dining options, a few bars and clubs, a casino and gaming opportunities, entertainment, a spa, and fitness activities.
You’ll even find a personalized touch you can dive into with hair and beauty services (hair styling and makeup) available, special men services that include hair cuts, dyes, shaves, and more. If you’re a fitness enthusiast who would rather not break out of their fitness routine, you’ll be happy to know that there is a jogging track, a yoga and Pilates studio, and a fitness center on-board.
7- Oceania
7 nights from: $1,699
(Seattle, Washington → Inside Passage, Alaska → Ketchikan, Alaska → Icy Strait Point, Alaska → Sitka, Alaska → Outside Passage, Alaska → Victoria, British Columbia, Canada → Seattle, Washington)
Your world, your way. That’s the motto that Oceania lives by. Noted as being more expensive than most other cruise lines, guests are treated to the utmost of luxury. Feeling as if the ship is their own private vessel, the Regatta sails the waters surrounding the Alaskan coastline while offering postcard perfect views and bragging rights.
Perfect for retirees, couples, and singles that are looking for a break from reality, Oceania cruises offer on-board activities that foster learning with a hands on approach. While onboard, guests will have the opportunity to attend cooking lessons and artist lessons ranging from painting to needlepoint. There’s also a wonderful onsite spa that offers a relaxing afternoon after your lessons. An impressive guest to staff ratio allows the best sea service around with added personal touches in rooms, activities, and dining.
Thank you for this. Very insightful. I have never cruised before but am planning one and this is really handy.
Comment* no Alaska cruises from California
Wilma,
You are correct. Thanks for the insight! -Roger
Is it better
To book an alaskan cruise in australia,as i am from there
Or
Wait untill i fly to vancour and book there
Mic,
The cheapest times to book a cruise are usually right when it goes on sale, and just before it sails, but that’s only if they still have many available cabins. I think it’s better and safer to book from home, and those cruises do sell out frequently. -Roger