Skip the Souvenirs, Keep the Memories: A Royal Caribbean Alaska Review

There’s a moment on an Alaskan cruise when the world quiets down. It happens when you’re standing on your balcony, a warm mug cradled in your hands, as the ship glides silently through a fjord. The air, crisp and tasting of pine and sea salt, fills your lungs. Towering cliffs draped in emerald forests rise on either side, their peaks shrouded in ancient mist. And then you see it—a colossal river of blue-white ice, the glacier, groaning and creaking like a living thing. In that moment, the trivialities of daily life dissolve. You’re not thinking about emails or errands. You’re simply present, a witness to nature’s raw, untamed masterpiece. This is the Alaska you’ve dreamed of. It’s a feeling, not a trinket. It’s a memory etched so deeply it becomes a part of you.

For years, I’ve traversed the globe, but Alaska remains a destination that continually redefines my sense of scale and wonder. And when it comes to experiencing this majestic wilderness without sacrificing comfort and a touch of thrill, Royal Caribbean International presents a compelling proposition. It’s a journey that masterfully blends the rugged spirit of the Last Frontier with the innovative, resort-style experience the cruise line is renowned for. This isn’t just a trip; it’s a fully-curated expedition into the wild, and I’m here to guide you through it.

Why Royal Caribbean for the Great Land?

Choosing a cruise line for Alaska is about matching the vessel to the voyage. You want a ship that complements the destination, not one that distracts from it. Royal Caribbean strikes this balance with uncanny precision. They understand that while the destination is the star, the journey itself should be exceptional. This is for the traveler who wants to watch for whales from a soaring observation pod, sip a perfectly crafted cocktail after a day of glacier hiking, and entertain the entire family with world-class amenities.

Think of their ships, like the groundbreaking Quantum of the Seas or Ovation of the Seas, as floating adventure lodges. They offer:

• Unparalleled Viewing Opportunities: These ships were designed with vistas in mind. From the two-story walls of glass in the aft Esplanade to the revolutionary North Star—a glass observation capsule that lifts you 300 feet above sea level—you’re guaranteed a front-row seat to the spectacle.
• Adventure for All Ages: Royal Caribbean excels at multi-generational travel. While you’re mesmerized by the Hubbard Glacier, the kids can be conquering the rock-climbing wall or catching a wave on the FlowRider surf simulator. It’s a vacation where no one has to compromise.
• A Touch of Indulgence: After a day exploring rugged port towns, returning to the ship feels like a warm embrace. Unwind in the adults-only Solarium, a glass-canopied oasis, or indulge in a culinary journey at one of the many specialty restaurants.

Finding the perfect sailing date and ship is your first step. We’ve made it easy—the Cruise Booking Toolbar at the top of this page is your gateway to exploring current itineraries and exclusive offers. See for yourself how adventure and comfort align.

The Ship: Your Floating Lodge in the Last Frontier

Your Royal Caribbean ship is more than just transportation; it’s an integral part of your Alaskan experience. It’s your basecamp, your gourmet restaurant, and your cozy retreat after a day of profound discovery.

Accommodations: A Room with a Glacial View

Let me be unequivocal: if your budget allows, book a balcony stateroom. In Alaska, your room is not just a place to sleep; it’s your private viewing platform. Imagine waking up, sliding open the door, and stepping out into the crisp morning air to see a bald eagle soaring over a misty inlet. Or enjoying a quiet room-service breakfast while watching waterfalls cascade down mountainsides. This is an experience that transforms a great trip into an unforgettable one. The gentle rocking of the ship, the panoramic views, the solitude—it’s worth every penny.

Have a question about which side of the ship is best or what stateroom category fits your family? Our experts are standing by. Simply click the 'Chat with us' button in the lower right corner for instant advice.

Dining: A Culinary Expedition

Royal Caribbean has shattered the old clichés of cruise dining. The culinary landscape onboard is vast and varied. The Main Dining Room offers a classic, elegant experience with a rotating menu. For a more casual bite, the Windjammer Marketplace is a global buffet with something for every palate. But the specialty dining is where the experience is truly elevated.

• Chops Grille: A classic American steakhouse, perfect for a celebratory dinner after spotting your first bear.
• Izumi Sushi & Hibachi: Fresh, expertly prepared Japanese cuisine—a surprisingly delightful contrast to the rugged scenery outside.
• Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver: Rustic, family-style Italian dishes that are perfect for sharing stories of your day's adventures.

Onboard Adventures: Beyond the Scenery

What do you do during a day at sea, cruising through the Inside Passage? On a Royal Caribbean ship, the options are as vast as the landscape.

• The North Star: This is the showstopper. This jewel-like capsule gently ascends, offering 360-degree views that are simply breathtaking. You’ll see the ship as a tiny speck in a world of immense mountains and water. It’s a perspective you cannot get anywhere else.
• RipCord by iFly: Experience the exhilaration of skydiving in a safe, controlled simulator. It’s a wild thrill against a backdrop of pristine wilderness.
• The Solarium: This adults-only, glass-enclosed sanctuary at the front of the ship features cascading pools, whirlpools, and comfortable loungers. It's the perfect place to relax with a book and watch the world go by, no matter the weather.

The Itinerary: A Symphony of Ice and Evergreens

A typical 7-night Royal Caribbean Alaska cruise is a carefully orchestrated journey into the heart of its most iconic coastal regions. While itineraries vary, most will introduce you to a tapestry of Gold Rush history, Native culture, and jaw-dropping natural wonders.

Juneau: Glaciers, Whales, and Capital Charm

Accessible only by air or sea, Alaska’s capital city feels both remote and vibrant. The star attraction is the magnificent Mendenhall Glacier, a 13-mile-long river of ice that terminates in a serene, iceberg-dotted lake. You can take a helicopter and land directly on the glacier, an experience that will recalibrate your understanding of time and scale. The other must-do is a whale-watching tour. The waters here are rich feeding grounds for humpback whales, and the thrill of seeing a 40-ton creature breach the surface is a memory that will last a lifetime. If you prefer to talk through the incredible shore excursion options with a seasoned expert, our dedicated cruise line is 1 (888) 883‑0460. We can help you book these popular tours in advance.

Skagway: Echoes of the Gold Rush

Stepping off the ship in Skagway is like stepping into a time machine. The town’s wooden boardwalks and false-front buildings are perfectly preserved, remnants of the Klondike Gold Rush of 1898. The quintessential Skagway experience is a ride 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 dizzying trestles. As you ascend through Bridal Veil Falls and Inspiration Point, you’re tracing the same arduous path the prospectors took, a journey of hope and hardship set against a backdrop of staggering beauty.

Ketchikan: The Salmon Capital and Totem Poles

Ketchikan is a town built on water and steeped in culture. Your first stop should be historic Creek Street, a colorful boardwalk built on stilts over the rushing creek where salmon fight their way upstream. This is the “Salmon Capital of the World,” and the town’s lifeblood is palpable. But Ketchikan’s deeper story is told through its totem poles. Visit the Totem Heritage Center or Saxman Native Village to see the world’s largest collection of these magnificent storytellers, each pole a rich narrative of family, legend, and history carved from cedar. It’s a powerful connection to the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples who have called this land home for millennia.

A Day with Giants: Cruising Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier

This is the day your camera’s memory card will be tested. Scenic cruising days are the soul of an Alaska cruise. Your ship will navigate through a narrow, 30-mile-long fjord, a canyon of granite carved by ice. You’ll pass sheer cliffs, thunderous waterfalls, and floating icebergs that range in color from pristine white to a deep, ethereal blue. The journey culminates at the face of the Dawes Glacier, a 600-foot-tall wall of compressed ice. The captain will slowly rotate the ship, allowing everyone a spectacular view. You’ll hear the ice crackle and pop—a sound locals call “white thunder”—and if you’re lucky, you’ll witness calving, where massive chunks of ice break off and crash into the sea with a deafening roar. It’s a humbling, primal, and utterly magnificent experience.

Feeling inspired to witness this for yourself? The first step is to Plan Your Alaska Adventure. Our specialists can craft an itinerary that includes these unforgettable moments.

The Vibe: Who is This Cruise For?

A Royal Caribbean Alaska cruise is for the traveler who believes a vacation can be both adventurous and relaxing, educational and exhilarating. It’s for:

• Multi-Generational Families: Grandparents, parents, and kids will all find their bliss. There’s shared wonder during a whale watch and individual fun back on the ship.
• Active Couples: Those who want to hike a temperate rainforest in the morning, kayak a glacial lake in the afternoon, and enjoy a fine dining experience in the evening.
• First-Time Cruisers: Royal Caribbean’s seamless organization, incredible service, and endless options make it an easy and unintimidating way to experience both cruising and the complexities of Alaska.

Your Alaskan Dream is Closer Than You Think

The pictures and words can only convey a fraction of the magic. The true impact of Alaska—the sheer scale of the glaciers, the deep silence of the fjords, the thrill of seeing wildlife in its natural habitat—must be experienced to be understood. It’s a trip that changes you, leaving you with memories that are far more valuable than any souvenir you could buy.

This is not a vacation you just book; it’s one you thoughtfully plan. Our team of travel experts specializes in crafting perfect Alaskan voyages. We know the ships, the ports, and the secrets to making your journey extraordinary. We can help you select the ideal stateroom, book the most sought-after excursions, and handle every detail so all you have to do is pack your sense of wonder.

Ready to see what your personalized itinerary could look like? Get a Custom Quote from our Alaska specialists. There’s no obligation, only possibilities. If this sailing through the Last Frontier is calling your name, don't hesitate to Inquire About This Sailing and let us help you turn this dream into a reality.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to cruise to Alaska?

The Alaska cruise season runs from late April to September. May and June offer drier weather and fewer crowds. July and August are the warmest months and the peak season for wildlife viewing. September brings beautiful autumn colors and a higher chance of seeing the Northern Lights, though with cooler, wetter weather.

What should I pack for an Alaska cruise?

Layers are key! Pack a mix of short- and long-sleeved shirts, sweaters or fleece jackets, and a waterproof and windproof outer layer. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for port days. Don't forget binoculars for wildlife spotting, a camera with extra batteries, insect repellent, and sunscreen—the sun can be strong reflecting off the water and ice.

Is a balcony cabin worth it in Alaska?

In our expert opinion, absolutely. More than any other destination, Alaska’s scenery is a primary part of the experience. A balcony provides a private, front-row seat to the glaciers, wildlife, and stunning landscapes you'll be sailing past, often at times when you might be in your stateroom.

Are shore excursions included?

Shore excursions are typically not included in the cruise fare. We highly recommend booking them in advance, as popular tours like helicopter glacier landings, whale watching, and the White Pass Railroad can sell out quickly. Our travel advisors can help you select and book the best excursions for your interests and budget.

Is Royal Caribbean good for families in Alaska?

Royal Caribbean is an excellent choice for families. Their ships offer a wide array of onboard activities that appeal to all ages, from kids' clubs and teen lounges to rock climbing walls and surf simulators. This allows families to enjoy adventure-filled days in port and have plenty of entertainment options during sea days.