Holland America Alaska Cruise: Unpack Once, Explore a Lifetime of Glaciers & Gold

There is a place where mountains pierce the sky, where rivers of ancient ice carve their way to the sea, and where the echoes of a frantic Gold Rush still whisper on the wind. This is Alaska, The Last Frontier. It’s a destination that calls to the adventurer in all of us, a vast, untamed wilderness that promises not just a vacation, but a genuine transformation. And there is no more civilized, comfortable, or immersive way to experience its grandeur than from the deck of a Holland America Line ship.

Imagine this: you unpack your bags just once, settling into a beautifully appointed stateroom that becomes your floating sanctuary for the week. Each morning, you draw back the curtains to a new, breathtaking vista—a misty fjord, a charming seaside town, or the electric-blue face of a colossal glacier. There’s no need to navigate unfamiliar roads or coordinate a dozen different hotels. Your only task is to immerse yourself, to breathe in the crisp, clean air, and to witness the spectacle of nature at its most raw and powerful. This is the profound promise of a Holland America Alaska cruise.

For over 75 years, Holland America Line has been guiding travelers through these pristine waters, longer than Alaska has even been a state. This isn’t just a route for them; it’s their legacy. As you read on and picture yourself on this incredible journey, feel free to use the Cruise Booking Toolbar at the top of this page to explore specific dates, ships, and pricing. Your adventure is closer than you think.

The Holland America Difference: Why Sail with the Alaska Experts?

Choosing a cruise line for a destination as significant as Alaska is a critical decision. While many lines sail the Inside Passage, Holland America Line offers a unique blend of experience, access, and enrichment that elevates the journey from a simple trip to a deeply felt experience.

A Legacy of Unmatched Experience

With three-quarters of a century of Alaskan voyages, Holland America’s expertise is woven into the very fabric of their itineraries. Their captains know these waters intimately, navigating fjords and positioning the ship for the most spectacular glacier views. This experience also translates into coveted permits. Holland America offers more sailings into the magnificent, UNESCO-protected Glacier Bay National Park than any other cruise line, giving you the absolute best opportunity to witness its icy wonders.

Perfectly Sized Ships for a Personal Experience

Holland America’s fleet of mid-sized ships strikes the perfect balance. They are spacious enough to offer a wealth of amenities, dining options, and entertainment, yet intimate enough to avoid the feeling of being in a crowd. You’ll find uncrowded decks for wildlife viewing and a relaxed, sophisticated atmosphere onboard. This size advantage also allows them to navigate into narrower passages and visit ports that larger mega-ships simply cannot access, providing a more authentic Alaskan experience.

Enrichment for the Curious Traveler

A Holland America cruise is a journey for the mind as well as the soul. Onboard every Alaska sailing, you’ll find:

• Onboard Naturalists: Passionate experts are on hand to help you spot whales, eagles, and bears, providing fascinating commentary on the local geology, flora, and fauna you’re witnessing.
• National Park Rangers: When sailing through Glacier Bay, National Park Rangers come aboard to share their deep knowledge and answer your questions, adding an invaluable layer of context to the stunning scenery.
• BBC Earth in Concert: Witness the world’s most spectacular nature footage come to life as a live orchestra plays a moving score. It’s a powerful and unforgettable evening that deepens your connection to the wild.

A Journey Through the Inside Passage: Your Floating Front-Row Seat

While itineraries can vary, a classic 7-day roundtrip voyage through the Inside Passage offers a perfect tapestry of Alaska’s most iconic sights. Here is a glimpse of what your week could look like.

Ketchikan: The Salmon Capital of the World

Your first port of call is often the vibrant town of Ketchikan, clinging to the lush hillsides of Revillagigedo Island. Stroll down historic Creek Street, a colorful boardwalk built on stilts over the rushing creek, where you can still see salmon fighting their way upstream in season. This is the place to immerse yourself in the rich Native Alaskan culture by visiting the Totem Heritage Center or Saxman Native Village to witness the world’s largest collection of standing totem poles, each telling a powerful ancestral story.

Juneau: Glaciers and Whales

Nestled at the foot of towering mountains, Juneau is a capital city with a wild heart. The star attraction here is the magnificent Mendenhall Glacier, a 13-mile-long river of ice that is both accessible and awe-inspiring. You can take a shuttle to the visitor center for stunning views or get more adventurous with a guided hike or even a helicopter tour that lands you directly on the glacier itself. Juneau is also a hub for some of the world’s most incredible whale watching. Taking a small-boat excursion into the nutrient-rich waters of Auke Bay almost guarantees close encounters with humpback whales as they breach, slap their tails, and feed. Our Alaska specialists can help you choose the perfect excursions to match your interests and activity level. Give them a call at 1 (888) 883‑0460 for personalized, expert advice.

Skagway: Echoes of the Klondike Gold Rush

Step back in time in Skagway, a town so perfectly preserved it feels like a living museum of the 1898 Klondike Gold Rush. The false-front buildings and wooden sidewalks transport you to an era of hopeful prospectors and legendary characters. The must-do experience here is a journey on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad. This narrow-gauge railway, a marvel of engineering, climbs nearly 3,000 feet in just 20 miles, clinging to the sides of mountains and crossing trestle bridges while offering breathtaking views of the valleys and gorges below.

Glacier Bay National Park: A Symphony of Ice and Water

This is the day that will be etched in your memory forever. There are no ports here, no towns, just 3.3 million acres of raw, protected wilderness. As your ship glides silently through the turquoise waters of Glacier Bay, you enter a different world. You’ll spend the day in the company of tidewater glaciers, massive walls of compressed ice that spill down from the mountains. You’ll hear the ice popping and groaning, a sound known as "bergy seltzer." And then, you'll experience the thunderous crack and roar as a house-sized chunk of ice calves from the glacier's face and crashes into the sea. It’s a humbling, primal spectacle. Keep your binoculars ready for seals lounging on ice floes, mountain goats on the cliffs, and perhaps even a brown bear foraging on the shore. Ready to see these incredible ports for yourself? Plan Your Alaska Adventure and let our experts craft the perfect journey for you.

Life Aboard: Your Refined Alaskan Basecamp

While Alaska is the star of the show, your time on the ship is an integral part of the experience. Holland America Line cultivates an atmosphere of relaxed elegance and exceptional service, ensuring your floating basecamp is a destination in itself.

Staterooms with a View: Your Private Sanctuary

There is arguably no destination where a Verandah Stateroom is more essential than Alaska. Imagine waking up, brewing a fresh cup of coffee, and stepping out onto your private balcony to watch the mist rise over a quiet fjord. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet moment of reflection or for spotting a pod of orcas passing by. The staterooms are thoughtfully designed with plush bedding and ample storage, providing a comfortable and serene retreat after a day of exploration. Have a quick question about stateroom categories or ship layouts? Our team is standing by. Click the 'Chat with us' button in the lower right corner for an instant answer.

A Culinary Expedition

Holland America Line is renowned for its culinary programs, and on an Alaska cruise, this takes on a delicious local flavor. From freshly caught salmon and halibut prepared in the main dining room to the ultimate steakhouse experience at the Pinnacle Grill, the quality is exceptional. You can participate in live cooking demonstrations, learn new skills at a hands-on workshop, or simply indulge in the diverse offerings, from the casual Lido Market to the exquisite Pan-Asian cuisine at Tamarind. The journey for your palate is as exciting as the one outside your window.

Enrichment Beyond the Scenery

In the evenings, or during a relaxing day at sea, the ship comes alive with possibilities. You might find yourself engrossed in a lecture on the Northern Lights, enjoying a blues performance at B.B. King's Blues Club, or trying your luck in the casino. The Greenhouse Spa & Salon® offers a haven of tranquility with thermal pools and rejuvenating treatments—the perfect way to unwind while still enjoying the passing scenery. Imagine waking up to these views from your private verandah. Get a Custom Quote for your preferred stateroom and start planning your escape.

Making Your Alaskan Dream a Reality

An Alaskan cruise with Holland America Line is more than a vacation; it's an investment in memories that will last a lifetime. It’s the shared gasp as a whale breaches beside the ship, the quiet awe of a glacier’s power, the shared laughter over a delicious meal as you recount the day’s adventures. It’s a journey that connects you—to nature, to history, and to the people you travel with.

The Last Frontier is calling. It’s a call to witness something truly epic, to explore a land of unparalleled beauty from a vantage point of unparalleled comfort and class. Let us help you answer that call. Our expert travel advisors specialize in crafting seamless cruise vacations, handling every detail so you can focus on the excitement of the journey ahead. The Last Frontier is calling. Inquire About This Sailing today and lock in the best availability and offers for an adventure you will never forget.

Frequently Asked Questions about Holland America Alaska Cruises

What is the best month to cruise to Alaska?

The Alaska cruise season runs from May to September. May and June offer longer daylight hours and fewer crowds. July and August are the warmest months and the peak season for salmon runs and bear sightings. September brings cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and the beautiful colors of autumn, plus a chance to see the Northern Lights.

What should I pack for an Alaska cruise?

Layers are key! The weather can change quickly. Pack waterproof and windproof outerwear, warm fleeces or sweaters, comfortable walking shoes, and long-sleeved shirts. Don't forget binoculars for wildlife viewing, a camera with extra batteries, sunscreen, and insect repellent. It's also wise to pack something a bit dressier for the formal nights onboard.

Will I see wildlife?

While never guaranteed, wildlife sightings are a highlight of any Alaska cruise. You have excellent chances of seeing humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, harbor seals, and bald eagles. From the ship or on shore excursions, you may also spot bears, moose, mountain goats, and sea otters. Your onboard naturalist will be an invaluable resource for spotting and identifying animals.

Are shore excursions included?

Shore excursions are not typically included in the cruise fare, allowing you to customize your experience in each port. Holland America offers a wide variety of tours for every interest and activity level, from gentle sightseeing tours to active adventures like kayaking, zip-lining, and glacier hiking. We highly recommend booking these in advance as popular tours sell out quickly.

What is the onboard atmosphere like?

The atmosphere on a Holland America Line ship is often described as "classic" or "premium." It's relaxed, refined, and sophisticated without being stuffy. The focus is on enrichment, fine dining, and exceptional service. It attracts curious, well-traveled guests of all ages, including many multi-generational families, who appreciate the comfortable and engaging environment.