Secret Inside Tips on the Best Alaska Cruises
- Adventure seekers take-off for thrills and chills atop glaciers.
If you want to pack as many different activities into your day as you pack shoes in your suitcase, turn to the big ships. Carnival, Princess and Royal Caribbean offer a full itinerary of games, classes and contests onboard, along with a wide range of shore excursions and Cruisetours into the Interior of Alaska (Holland America is also highly recommended for its three to four night cruise combined with an exclusive entry into the Yukon). - Nature lovers are overwhelmed by Alaska's abundant wildlife.
Many passengers spot whales and other wildlife from their balconies, but if you're an adventurous traveler who wants to go where no ship has gone before, try a small-sized Expedition line such as American Safari Cruises. These luxury yachts carry 12 to 26 passengers, and are considered the best in this category by both Frommer's and Howard Hillman for providing "the ultimate Alaska experience" with a wilderness focus. - Families create picture-perfect memories with breathtaking backdrops.
There's nothing worse than being stuck on a ship for seven days with the wrong crowd. For the best family-friendly Alaska cruises, look for well-established kids' programs like those offered by Royal Caribbean, Carnival and particularly Princess cruise lines, named the "favorite Alaska cruise line" in a passenger poll. For the biggest stars on stage, entertain yourself on Carnival or Royal Caribbean (the latter is preferred if you like to party, but not excessively). To wine and dine in the lap of luxury, pamper yourself on Regent Seven Seas, Silversea or Celebrity (all rated 4 out of 5 stars overall by consumers). And the best inside tip of all? Do your own research and choose the cruise that suits your style.
