Full Answer
What is a small ship cruise to Alaska?
On a small ship cruise, Alaska is the focal point, not the ship. These ships are small, intimate and able to take guests up close to find Alaska's hidden treasures, where the big ships don't - and can't - reach. Small ship cruise lines do not offer online booking capability.
What is a small ship cruise?
Small ship cruises are for travelers who understand the difference between Mass Market and Expedition-Style cruising. On a small ship cruise, Alaska is the focal point, not the ship. These ships are small, intimate and able to take guests up close to find Alaska's hidden treasures, where the big ships don't - and can't - reach.
How many Alaskan cruise ships are there?
Each of the 12 ships, which were hand-picked based on their popularity among all cruise options in Alaska, caters to a different type of traveler.
How much does a small ship cruise vacation cost?
A Small Ship Cruise Vacation does cost more money. A 7 night Inside Passage cruise can start at $1,895 per person for an oceanview stateroom on an UnCruise Adventures ship, versus $449 for a 7 Night cruise on a large Princess ship.
Are there small ship cruises Alaska?
These Alaska small ship cruises range from 14 to 15 days and often represent a significant value. For two options, see Treasures of the Inside Passage aboard National Geographic vessels and Inside Passage & Glacier Bay Wilderness Cruise.
What small ships cruise to Alaska?
8 of the best small ship cruises to AlaskaUnCruise Adventures. ... Lindblad Expeditions. ... Silversea. ... Seabourn. ... Windstar Cruises. ... Regent Seven Seas Cruises. ... Ponant. ... Oceania Cruises.
Which cruise line is best to cruise Alaska?
Best Alaska Cruises of 2022Best Overall Cruise: Windstar Cruises.Best Ship Renovation: Celebrity Cruises.Best Small Ship: Oceania Cruises.Best All-Inclusive Ship: American Queen Voyages.Best Ultra-Luxury: Seabourn Cruises.Best Traditional Cruise: Holland America Line.Best New Ship: Princess Cruises.More items...•
How many passengers are on the smallest cruise ship?
Cruise lines: The "small yacht" category includes ships that accommodate no more than 110 passengers.
How much is a cruise to Alaska?
between $600 and $5,000 per personA typical Alaska Cruise can cost between $600 and $5,000 per person, depending on the length of your cruise, the type of cruise you choose, and your room choice.
How many people are on the Alaska cruise ships?
The 4,000-passenger ship boasts a handful of the features found on its sisters, Norwegian Escape and Norwegian Joy (which also offers Alaska cruises), as well as its own unique attractions. With a variety of dining, entertainment and recreational options, cruisers will never go bored or hungry.
What is the best month to take an Alaskan cruise?
Traditionally, July and August have been considered the best time to cruise to Alaska, as these months offer warm sun, long days, and abundant wildlife.
Which side of the ship is better for Alaska?
Northbound Alaska cruises sail up the coastline through the Inside Passage and along Hubbard Glacier, so your best view of Alaska's scenic landmasses are likely on the starboard side of the ship.
What months are best for Alaska?
The spring and fall months in Alaska offer unique opportunities and lower prices. In our opinion the best time to travel to Alaska is in June, July and August. The best month to visit Alaska is July, when travelers will experience the best combination of weather and wildlife.
Are smaller cruise ships more expensive?
Tip: While the price of sailing on both big and small cruise ships depends largely on the cabin type you choose, smaller ships are, generally speaking, significantly more expensive.
What is considered a small cruise ship?
While there's no standard definition of a “small ship” when it comes to the cruise industry, “technically, experts agree that small ocean-going ships are under 450-feet in length and usually carry an average of nearly 1,000 passengers,” says Ellen Bettridge, CEO and president of Uniworld River Cruises.
Which is the best cruise line in the world?
The best cruise lines in the world 2021MSC Cruises 84.43. Royal Caribbean International 87.68. ... Norwegian Cruise Line 82.77. Carnival Cruise Line 82.78. ... Royal Caribbean International 83.20. Carnival Cruise Line 83.58. ... Sea Cloud Cruises 87.14. Star Clippers 87.77. ... Delfin Amazon Cruises 90.33. Avalon Waterways 92.27.
How big are Alaska cruise ships?
1,000 feetThe average size of a cruise ship is 1,000 feet in length, or roughly three football fields. Ships are measured by gross tonnage (GT).
Who owns Ocean Victory cruise ship?
To AQSC's fleet was also added the newbuild Ocean Victory - Sunstone-owned and operated by AQSC under charter. All the 3 vessels are in a separate fleet - under the "Victory Cruise Line" brand. The announcement was officially made by AQSC's CEO John Waggoner.
Are there river cruises in Alaska?
Alaska river cruises range from three hours to a full day, and the boats are typically equipped with heated indoor viewing areas where you can take shelter from the elements. Explore Alaska river cruises below.
Are there cruises out of Alaska?
The best time for cruising is from June through September, and a few sailings are also available during the shoulder season in May and October. Along the way, Alaska cruise passengers are offered a dizzying range of tour options in Inside Passage port communities including Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway, Sitka, and more.
What is an Alaska cruise?
This Southeast Alaska-based tour operator will leave you with a new definition of what it means to have a once-in-a-lifetime Alaska cruise: You sail on an intimate vessel — often getting to steer yourself, under the supervision of an experienced licensed captain — while exploring away from the crowds, and getting a wonderfully up-close view of the wildlife and scenery. Sailings from Juneau and Sitka.
How long is the Alaska fjord tour?
Explore Alaska’s Resurrection Bay and Kenai Fjords National Park fully with a three-day/two-night custom adventure perfect for families or couples. Alaska Fjord Charters guides you to the best mix of kayaking, glacier viewing, whale watching, and fishing, all in one leisurely tour.
How long is the Prince William Sound cruise?
Up to six passengers can sit back, relax, and experience an intimate tour. Most guests enjoy the 5 ‑day/ 4 ‑night trips, but you can book longer 10 -day/ 9 ‑night expeditions.
What ship is in Prince William Sound?
Explore the landscape and wildlife of Prince William Sound Alaska from the small ship M/V Discovery, with plenty of…
What to do on a cruise ship?
Take a small ship cruise to immerse yourself in your adventure and maximize your learning. Evening programs include naturalists and speakers who enlighten you about the wildlife, history and culture you’re exploring. During the day, instead of disembarking to, say, go shopping, you may take bikes or kayaks ashore.
Where to see bears in Alaska?
Immerse yourself in a multi-day Alaskan adventure that promises incredible views and jaw-dropping bear viewing in Katmai National Park, along with a warm camaraderie that only a small group expedition can create. Explore from your home base on the Island C, a research vessel that gets you close to the action while providing comfortable lodging and delicious meals.
Where to go in Alaska for bird watching?
In between, visit Glacier Bay National Park, go bird watching on South Marble Island, look for whales in Icy Strait, hike along intertidal zones, and when your captain sets the course for adventure, slip into your kayak or skiff for a day of guided exploration. (Itinerary also ...more
How many passengers does the Alaskan Dream have?
The 40-passenger Alaskan Dream carriers guests on a variety of cruises exploring narrow channels, stunning landscapes, spotting wildlife and experiencing traditional cultures of Alaska. All cabins have extra large windows for spotting wildlife, while top-notch cuisine and knowledgeable naturalist guides help you understand Alaska's wilderness.
What is the new ship in 2021?
New in 2021, cruise the polar regions in style on the Sylvia Earle. Designed for low-impact voyages featuring a fuel-efficient Ulstein X-Bow®, reduced air emissions and light pollution, and virtual anchoring for protection of the sea floor. The ship honors the highly accomplished marine biologist, oceanographer and explorer, Sylvia Earle. This ship will channel her marine-conservation ethos into a fully immersive on-board guest experience, not only in the Polar regions but in other destinations as the ship sails between the Arctic and the Antarctic.
How many passengers does the National Geographic Venture have?
National Geographic Venture is perfectly designed to explore Alaska’s Inside Passage and beyond accommodating 100 passengers and providing a new standard of comfort and style while sailing through Alaska's remote locations.
Where to cruise on Baranof Dream?
Embark on adventure cruises from the ports of Juneau, Sitka and Ketchikan through Alaska's Inside Passage.
How many passengers does a mid size ship carry?
Mid-Size Ships ships carry fewer than 1500 passengers, and are most similar to bigger ships. Here's what they offer: Sometimes, a more “grown-up” ambiance, since these ships aren't as likely to cater to families and some fall into the luxury category. Good value.
What ships can get into the tiniest nook?
Great access. These ships, such as the M/V Discovery with Discovery Voyages, can get into the tiniest nook, allowing you an unequalled view of nature and wildlife.
What to do on a private yacht charter?
Yacht, Sailboat & Private Charters 1 Activities launch from the boat. Kayak, paddeleboard, head ashore for a hike along the coast, pause to view spawning salmon and bears waiting to catch them. Or relax on the ship playing games, reading a book, and sharing stories with your fellow travelers. The choice is yours. 2 Casual & intimate. If you've booked the boat, it's just you your family / friends and the crew. If you're on a shared trip, you'll get to know the other few travelers on board. 3 Maximum Flexibility. Yes, there's a schedule, but it's typically centered around exactly what you'd like to do. 4 Fine Cuisine. The food is a point of pride for these smaller vessels, and it often centers on locally sourced products. Most trips also include beer and wine. 5 Great for families. Chartering a boat is a fantastic multi-generational family trip where everyone will have the opportunity to do things they enjoy. 6 #N#Possible Downsides: Smaller boats are more prone to the elements, but cruises in Prince William Sound are generally very well protected.
How many people can you take on a small ship cruise?
Too few people know about the option of Small Ship Cruises --and it's one we highly recommend. If your dream is to see Alaska up close, without having to battle the crowds, then you'll want to set sail on a small ship, which holds as few as a dozen or up to 80 guests. Here’s what you get:
What to do on a cruise ship?
Activities launch from the boat. Kayak, paddeleboard, head ashore for a hike along the coast, pause to view spawning salmon and bears waiting to catch them. Or relax on the ship playing games, reading a book, and sharing stories with your fellow travelers. The choice is yours.
How many people can be on a small ship in Alaska?
Our favourite 'small' ships in Alaska range from the tiny 22-guest Safari Quest of UnCruise Adventures to the spacious indulgence of Regent's Seven Seas Mariner, carrying 700 lucky guests. Whichever you choose, it's still a far cry from those giant vessels you may have seen plying the waters off Alaska, with passenger capacities higher than the number of residents in some of their ports of call.
What is an uncruise cruise?
Adventure specialist UnCruise Adventures operates small ship expeditions in Alaska with a focus on local culture, active participation and wildlife viewing. Every day you will be out and about, exploring by kayak or on a stand-up paddleboard, or hiking ashore with an expert naturalist guide. UnCruise's fleet of small ships range from tiny (the 22-passenger Safari Quest) to very small (the 84-passenger Safari Endeavour). Itineraries are completely different to those of conventional cruise ships in the area, and excursions are included in the fare.
How many excursions are there on Seven Seas Mariner?
This is one destination where you're going to want to take loads of organised trips, so with up to 43 excursions on offer on a 7-day itinerary, you can really get your money's worth. There will also be guest lecturers and a great family programme.
How many people are on the little Star Breeze?
The little Star Breeze, with just over 300 passengers, operates a bit of a hybrid classic/expedition cruise. She carries several zodiacs and kayaks for up-close exploration, with a five-person expedition team running the Windstar Signature Expeditions programme with lectures and guided tours, sometimes directly from the ship, to some of the most remote areas of the Alaskan frontier. The Windstar style is relaxed, easy going and laid back whatever destination you choose, and fellow guests are interested, engaged and active travellers. Excursions are at an additional cost.
What to expect on a small cruise?
On board a small ship cruise you can expect charming and attentive service, great food, fellow passengers of a similar mindset, and comfortable accommodations. Ashore, what you experience will definitely depend on the ship you choose.
Who owns Mundy Cruising?
Edwina Lonsdale is Managing Director and, together with husband Matthew, owner of Mundy Cruising.
Can you cruise Alaska by ship?
Visiting Alaska by ship is an extraordinary experience, and whilst certain ports might be very busy indeed - Juneau for example - it is comparatively easy to find yourself in a remote wilderness which feels as if it has never been visited before. So if you are choosing a classic cruise ship, it's all about the shore excursions (although of course food, service and levels of comfort are going to be important to you too).
How much does a small ship cruise cost?
A Small Ship Cruise Vacation does cost more money. A 7 night Inside Passage cruise can start at $1,895 per person for an oceanview stateroom on an UnCruise Adventures ship, versus $449 for a 7 Night cruise on a large Princess ship. The small ship cruise will give you more ports, more scenery, more history, more culture, more glaciers, more wildlife, more intimate surroundings and a more memories than a big ship ever will. And since there is a shore excursion or highlight in almost every port of call, it's virtually all-inclusive as well.
What is a small cruise?
A cruise on a small ship is not filled with elaborate distractions, sleek resorts and packaged tours. Rather, small ships are perfect for intimate exploration of off-the-beaten track waterways, narrow channels and tiny ports that passengers on large ships will never see.
How many people does a Princess cruise ship carry?
Small ships carry less than 100 guests. The average Princess cruise ship carries over 2,400 guests in Alaska.
Do small ship captains have the flexibility?
Your time is spent wisely, too. Rather than making a beeline from port to port, small ship Captains have the flexibility - and the inclination - to linger when whales are putting on a show, a glacier is calving spectacularly, or to seek out sea otters when a nearby fisherman radios the word.
Is a small ship cruise for everyone?
Small Ship Cruises Are Not For Everyone. Small ship cruises are for travelers who understand the difference between Mass Market and Expedition-Style cruising. On a small ship cruise, Alaska is the focal point, not the ship. These ships are small, intimate and able to take guests up close to find Alaska's hidden treasures, ...
Can a cruise ship follow its own schedule?
Absolutely. Unlike the massive 100,000 ton cruise ships, a small ship can follow its own schedule to maximize wildlife sightings.
Can you book a small ship cruise online?
Small ship cruise lines do not offer online booking capability. Since small ships depart from more remote Alaska ports and there are so many different vacation extension options, we highly recommend you speak with an AlaskaCruises.com cruise expert to help you plan your small ship vacation.
How long is the Alaska cruise?
Explore Southeast Alaska aboard National Geographic Venture on its 8-day Alaska cruise from Juneau to Sitka. Hike over the spongy earth and float past massive icebergs, glaciers, and, with some luck, bears , humpback wales, wolves, moose, sea otters, orcas, sea lions, and mountain goats.
What is Alaska cruise?
An Alaska cruise takes travelers through some of the world's most remote, untamed wilderness and allows up-close experiences with wildlife such as brown bears whale watching, and much more . Nome is a big port city that is usually part of the Northwest Passage, British Columbia, and the Bering Sea. Choosing a small-ship Alaskan cruise instead of a massive cruise ship is critical as you'll be able to discover isolated inlets only accessible by small ships and explore further in zodiacs and sea kayaks that take you through a labyrinth of glaciers, icebergs, fjords, and rivers inaccessible by large cruise ships. Adventure Life's Alaska cruise experts will help you craft the perfect trip crafted to your precise interests, budget, and schedule.
What is the southeasternmost city in Alaska?
Ketchikan: The southeasternmost city in Alaska is the embarkation and disembarkation point for many small Alaska cruises. The city borders the Misty Fjords National Monument where you sail through rocky fjords, snow capped mountains, waterfalls and salmon spawning streams.
Where to cruise on Baranof Dream?
Embark on adventure cruises from the ports of Juneau, Sitka and Ketchikan through Alaska's Inside Passage.
Where to stay in Alaska for 3 nights?
Spend three nights in the Alaska wilderness with stays at Kenai Riverside Lodge and Kenai Backcountry Lodge.
How long is the Safari Explorer cruise?
Embark on the Safari Explorer for an 8-day cruise to Glacier Bay National Park, Chichagof Island, and Peril Strait as you cruise from Juneau to Sitka, Alaska. Explore this majestic region and its wildlife by skiff, kayak, and paddle board. Hike in Glacier Bay National Park and Chichagof Island’s waterfall coast. 0.
What are the most common birds in Alaska?
Birds: Bald eagles & golden eagles are the most famous, but you'll also find ptarmigans, loons, owls, swans, and puffins. Fish: There are five species of salmon that thrive in these cold northern waters, making up an important part of the food chain. Best Alaska Small Ship Cruise Lines for 2021.
Which cruise ship has the best view of the Last Frontier?
Norwegian Bliss. An Alaska-themed hull design, alfresco restaurants and a 20,000-square-foot observation lounge are just a few of the reasons Norwegian Bliss is one of the best cruise ships to sail The Last Frontier.
How many ships are there on Carnival Spirit?
Each of the 12 ships, which were hand-picked based on their popularity among all cruise options in Alaska, caters to a different type of traveler. Families on a budget might find the most "bang for their buck" onboard Carnival Spirit, while couples looking to splurge can pamper themselves with Seven Seas Mariner's lavish suites and all-inclusive fine dining.
Which is the best cruise ship in Alaska?
U.S. News ranks 45 Best Cruises to Alaska based on an analysis of reviews and health ratings. Viking Orion is the top-ranked ship overall. But you can filter your search based on price, region, traveler type and brand to find the best ship and itinerary for you.
What is the newest Viking ship?
One of Viking's newest ocean ships, the 930-passenger Viking Orion set sail in 2018. All staterooms on the Viking Orion are equipped with balconies, flat-screen LCD TVs and minibars. Cabins also feature bathrooms with glass-enclosed showers and heated floors.
How many passengers does Silversea have?
Muse offers nearly a 1-to-1 crew-to-guest ratio, with 411 crew members and space for 596 passengers.
What can you do on a cruise ship?
Those interested in soaking up the sun can snag a spot by one of two swimming pools or enjoy one of six hot tubs. Cruisers can also fuel their competitive juices with a round of shuffleboard or golf on the nine-hole putting green. When anchored, vacationers in select destinations can take advantage of the ship's water sports equipment, such as kayaks and paddle boats.
Where does the Celebrity Solstice sail?
In 2019-20, Celebrity Solstice sails to Australia and New Zealand, Alaska and Hawaiian ports in Oahu , Maui and the Big Island. Find a Cruise.
Where does Disney Wonder sail?
It sails to destinations in Canada, the Caribbean, the Panama Canal and more.
Where is Celebrity Millennium sailing?
In 2019-20, Celebrity Millennium sails to destinations in Alaska and Asia .
The Super-Yacht Emerald Azzurra
This 100-passenger super-yacht has 88 percent balcony cabins including suites with some incredible terraces, a marina platform for water sports and an infinity pool.
Janssonius from Oceanwide Expeditions
One of the most experienced polar operators, Netherlands-based Oceanwide Expeditions will be introducing a twin of 2019’s Hondius.
Sylvia Earle & Ocean Odyssey
These are the fourth and fifth Infinity-class expedition vessels designed in Europe and built in China for Miami-based SunStone Ships, which customizes and charters them to different lines on a long-term basis.
Seabourn Venture is one of New Small Cruise Ships for 2022
Seabourn’s first expedition ship sports interiors by hospitality design icon Adam Tihany. They’re decked out in tactile materials like wood, stone and textured fabrics. The fabulous suites, led by the two-story Grand Wintergarden pair with double-height views, also feature Tihany’s bespoke furniture.
SH Vega & Vega Class 3
The newly revived Swan Hellenic brand follows up its first expedition ship, 2021’s SH Minerva, with a sister, SH Vega, and a third (still unnamed ship) that measures 12,000 gross tons, larger than the first two 10,500-gross-ton vessels, and with capacity for 192 passengers, up from 152.
Viking Polaris
After building a massive flotilla of river vessels and branching into ocean cruising with a fleet of 930-passenger ships, Viking is branching into expedition cruising. Having just introduced Viking Octantis in Antarctica this season, the company will bring out sister vessel Viking Polaris in August in the Arctic.
World Traveller & World Seeker
Another pair of new small oceangoing cruise ships include the 196-passenger, Polar Category C/Ice Class 1B ships that are the sisters of 2021 “luxe-adventure” vessel World Navigator for the new Atlas Ocean Voyages brand.
