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Alaska’s Inside Passage
Shaped by glacier action millions of years ago, Alaska’s Inside Passage boasts extraordinary scenery, ranging from thickly forested mountains and islands to gleaming fjords, with a spectacular array of wildlife to be witnessed, including whales, orcas, bald eagles, porpoises and sea lions.
As the longest sheltered inland waterway in the world, the Inside Passage stretches for more than 1000 miles from Seattle (Washington, US) to Skagway in Alaska. Because some of the coves and bays in Southeast Alaska are so small, this route is popularly taken on smaller cruise ships, which can access places that larger vessels can’t.
Inside Passage Stops
Stops on an Inside Passage cruise typically include Gold Rush towns such as Skagway or Ketchikan, as well, of course, as Juneau. The influences of early Russian pioneers are seen along this route, with churches topped with distinctive onion-bulb domes, such as in Sitka, which was the seat of Alaskan government before it relocated to Juneau and is a regular stop on this route. Haines, located along the edge of North America’s longest and deepest fjord, is another popular attraction: billed as the adventure capital of Alaska, it features majestic mountain peaks soaring above dense coastal rainforest and a slew of opportunities for authentic adventure. Glacier Bay often also forms a part of this itinerary.
The smaller ships used on this route generally mean a more luxury experience – as well as a more up close and personal encounter with the glaciers. You’re also likely to have a more all-inclusive fare, which will reduce the worry of extra costs – and, because there’s a high crew to passenger ratio, the level of service you can expect is bound to be exceptional, with on board concierges making extra requests completely feasible. Fancy chartering a private helicopter to land you on a glacier? Consider it done.
Crystal Cruises’ Crystal Symphony is an 848-passenger capacity vessel which, despite its small size, boasts plenty of amenities more frequently seen on a larger ship, including a selection of restaurants and entertainment. There’s an optional voluntourism opportunity built in to every itinerary, and the onboard expedition team includes a National Geographic expert.
A 10 night itinerary sets out from Anchorage, ending in Vancouver and along the way takes in Sitka, Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, and Prince Rupert, as well as cruising the narrow Tracy Arm Fjord, which extends along the wild landscape of the Tongass National Forest. Here, you’ll see some of Alaska’s most staggering scenery, with towering mountain peaks and crashing waterfalls, as well as enormous ice floes gliding lazily past the ship. The Hubbard Glacier is another highlight; a dazzling blue formation, this glacier is known for its rapid advancement, which frequently results in ‘calving,’ – so if you’re lucky, you may witness the spectacle of a huge chunk of ice breaking off at the edge.
On board attractions include:
● Enrichment opportunities, with lessons in art activities, ballroom dancing and cinematography
● Paddle tennis court
● Fitness programs
● Stunning pool deck
● Luxury on board shopping
● Fast WiFi
● Open seating dining
● Magic shows
● The Resorts World at Sea casino
Add ons
Many cruise lines offer additional packages to enhance your Alaska cruise experience, with opportunities to visit inland sites such as Denali National Park, where Mt McKinley is located. You might also wish to extend your trip with a stay in Fairbanks, or by exploring the Yukon territory of Canada.
Alaska Cruise Ship options
Although Princess and Crystal have been mentioned above, there are several other cruise ships that explore Alaska’s wild and untamed landscape from the water. Be sure to also check out:
- Norwegian Bliss – features a 20,000 foot observation lounge and holds up to 4,000 passengers
- Seabourn Sojourn – perfect for exploring esser known ports, this vessel holds 462 passengers, with all cabins facing outwards for maximum viewing opportunities.
- Oceania Regatta – unique itineraries and off the beaten track ports are a specialty of this upscale vessel, with a decadent spa on board and guest speakers delivering fascinating talks on a variety of location-relevant subjects.
- Carnival Legend – offering great value for families, there’s mini golf and a slew of other activities and entertainment, with kids’ programs as well as adults-only hot tubs.
- Disney Wonder – as family friendly as the name suggests, this 1754-passenger vessel will dazzle youngsters with its ‘Frozen’ deck party and educational programs. Adults aren’t neglected, with several adults-only spaces both by day and night.
- Radiance of the Seas – with an outdoor movie screen and climbing wall, plus an all-weather, adults-only pool and exterior glass elevators for jaw dropping views.
- Celebrity Solstice – real grass on the top deck, award winning bars and luxe dining options, with local performers bringing Alaskan culture on deck.
- Seven Seas Mariner – with a 1:1.6 crew to passenger ratio, you’re assured an incredible level of personal service on board this all-inclusive luxury cruise ship.
- Nieuw Amsterdam – popular with more mature cruisers, although a Junior Rangers program teaches kids about local wildlife.
- Silver Shadow – with capacity for just 382 passengers, this vessel provides an intimate cruising experience with larger than average suites and butler service included in every suite category. Local Alaskan seafood is woven into every evening menu and the on-board experts are highly esteemed conservationists and historians.
