Highlights of a 7-Day Alaska Cruise

The 7-day cruise sailed from Seattle and docked in the Alaskan ports of Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan. Princess Cruises is one of the few cruise lines allowed to sail in Glacier Bay. The last port of call was Victoria, British Columbia before returning to Seattle. I chose to travel at the end of August into early September as the ports are less busy and there are fewer children. Although the cruise was fully booked, there were not many younger passengers! However, Alaska is suitable for everyone: multi-generational families, couples including honeymooners, groups, and solo travelers. There are many child-friendly food options and the award-winning Junior Park Ranger and Teen Park Ranger Programs get rave reviews.

The capital building in Victoria, BC

Juneau is the capital of Alaska and is only accessible by air or sea. Two not-to-be-missed food stops here are Tracy’s King Crab Shack for crab and crab bisque. And the halibut tacos at Deckhand Dave’s are simply outstanding! However, the whale-watching tour in pristine Auke Bay will forever be etched in my memory. A humpback whale and a pod of killer whales were the stars here.

Humpback whale spouting in Auke Bay, Juneau

The White Pass Yukon Route railroad was built in 1900 to connect Skagway with the Gold Rush towns in the Klondike in Canada. Today, the vintage train is used by tourists on the same thrilling route, rising from sea level in Skagway to almost 3,000 feet at the summit in just 20 miles. The train passes through tunnels in the mountains, alongside picturesque rivers and lakes and ends in Carcross in the Yukon. The return to Skagway is a scenic bus journey.

The town of Carcross in Yukon Territory, Canada

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve is a stunning national park which is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features spectacular tidewater glaciers. Park Rangers join the cruise in the early morning and share their knowledge about the glaciers and wildlife. It was an awesome spectacle to see a glacier “calve” as a massive chunk of ice falls into the water with a roar and causes a wave. There were many sea otters, and these playful animals are so entertaining.

The pristine beauty of Glacier Bay

Ketchikan is known as the Salmon Capital of the World. An incredible phenomenon, salmon swim upstream to their place of birth to spawn, often with a bright red hue. The downtown area is highly walkable from the pier with gorgeous harbor views, and many shops and restaurants.

Private seaplane landing in Ketchikan

The ship itself was beautiful and immaculately maintained. Food was delicious and of a very high quality: with a mind-boggling variety to choose from whether in casual or more formal settings. From Alaskan seafood platters, sushi to steak, Italian and Indian, and much more, all dietary requirements are catered for. Service was faultless and accommodating.

Tracy’s King Crab Shack in Juneau

The entertainment and activities offered ranged from Broadway-style shows in the Princess theatre, to comedy and fantastic musical performances. There were live quiz shows, shopping and spa events, and sporting activities. Princess certainly rates very highly for food and entertainment.

Fantastic entertainment on board every evening

The Princess Medallion is a smart device that you wear and serves as your cabin key, Wi-Fi hub, account charge, and much more. Through the Princess App, you can order food or drink to be delivered anywhere on the ship using Ocean Now. You can also locate and communicate with other members of your family and navigate your way around the ship. This was an amazing feature!

For an Alaska cruise, a cabin with a balcony is highly recommended! This allows you to enjoy the dramatic scenery from the comfort of your room. This was especially true for our day in Glacier Bay. I also recommend bringing a pair of binoculars for wildlife spotting—I saw a few humpbacks while sailing as I spotted them spouting.

Princess’ North to Alaska program immerses guests in the culture, food, and way of life in the Great Land. From having fresh wild-caught salmon and other seafood brought in daily, to fascinating lectures about whales or glaciers by the on-board naturalist. The winner of last year’s Iditarod race was on board with adorable husky puppies while we were in port in Juneau. Many more enriching experiences like these make Princess a great choice for your Alaskan adventure!

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our cruises page.