On board the newest small cruise ships in the Alaskan region, you'll experience the breathtaking scenery and inspiring wildlife of Alaska like never before. Get up close and personal to the natural beauty surrounding our Alaska cruises as we sail to Tracy Arm, Glacier Bay National Park, and more. Choose from five unique and fascinating itineraries to experience the Great Land and all it offers. You will be amazed to witness Alaskan wildlife and waterfalls up close on your private balcony. American Cruise Lines is also one of the only cruise lines to offer an overnight stay on board in Glacier Bay National Park.
Juneau, AK to Juneau, AK
Seattle, WA to Juneau, AK
Juneau, AK to Juneau, AK
*Offer Valid Only on New Bookings on Select Dates
Nestled between the Gastineau Channel and snow-capped mountains, Juneau has been the capital of Alaska since 1906. Once a bustling gold mining town after the discovery of gold in the late 1800s, its history is deeply intertwined with the Klondike Gold Rush era. Today, Juneau is known for its blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska, was founded in 1915 as a railroad town supporting the Alaska Railroad project. The city grew rapidly after World War II and the discovery of oil in the 1960s, becoming a major hub for commerce and transportation. Its unique mix of urban life and proximity to wilderness has made it a gateway to Alaska’s rugged interior and sprawling natural parks.
Glacier Bay is a pristine natural sanctuary that became a National Park in 1980. It is renowned for its dramatic tidewater glaciers and deep fjords, shaped by centuries of glacial activity. The area was largely ice-covered until 200 years ago, and today, visitors can experience a glimpse into the ever-changing landscape and witness abundant marine and bird life within its protected waters.
Seattle’s origins date back to the mid-19th century, when it served as a logging and shipbuilding center. Its waterfront location made it an essential hub for trade and industry in the Pacific Northwest. Now, Seattle blends its historic roots with a unique cultural scene, highlighted by historic landmarks like the iconic Space Needle and Pike Place Market.
When visiting Alaska in the summer, the name of the game is layers. Traveling between mid-May and mid-September means you can enjoy temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, though temperatures are generally in the mid-60s, and can change in minutes.
In the early morning and into the evenings you may experience cooler weather. A windbreaker, preferably waterproof, is ideal for time spent on the sun deck whale watching or sailing along magnificent glaciers and fjords. Comfortable shoes are a must for daily excursions. Don’t forget to pack your binoculars as well for up-close viewing of wildlife.
Summer in Alaska runs from mid-May through mid-September and is the ideal time for cruising. Sunlight is at its longest during these months and it is also the driest and warmest time to visit. It’s also a great time to admire nature in full bloom and be inspired by the native wildlife.
If you are planning to venture into Canada for excursions, perhaps when you are in Skagway, you will need your passport, otherwise you will not require a passport for itineraries that stay within the US.
Alaska cruise guests can expect to see harbor seals, humpback whales, and salmon feeding in the areas’ coastal waters, rivers, and streams. Moose, wolves, and black bears can be spotted roaming freely along the shore.
Alaska is also home to the brown bear, the largest carnivorous land mammal in the world, as well as the blue whale, the world’s largest mammal.
Alaska is a delight for bird watchers, boasting 521 species of birds including the largest population of bald eagles. Other wildlife in the region include caribou, moose, Dall sheep, and wolves.
When it comes to exploring Alaska, small ship cruises offer a truly unique experience. Unlike larger vessels, our small ships can access remote and less-visited ports, giving you the opportunity to see hidden gems and untouched landscapes, including exclusive access to Glacier Bay National Park, featuring miles of pristine coastline. With personalized service on board, every detail of your journey is tailored to you, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout. Plus, the intimate size allows you to connect with fellow travelers, creating lasting memories together. Our Constellation Class with American Constitution and American Constellation are the best cruise ships to take to Alaska.
Our Alaskan cruises depart from Juneau, AK and Seattle, WA, and we also offer Land and Cruise packages departing from Fairbanks, AK.
We build, flag, and crew our ships right here in the United States. Our pride in the All-American experience we provide is the backdrop and an ode to the incredible, breathtaking landscapes that this country has to offer. Our Alaskan cruises showcase the beauty of the United States in places like Mendenhall Glacier, Skagway, and Haines.
There is no other place for adventure quite like the Great Land. From Glacier Bay to Ketchikan to wildlife kayak excursions, guests will immerse themselves in Alaskan nature and beauty up-close. You can enjoy a private fishing charter or check out the local museums that showcase the history and culture of this incredible region.
Our master chef source locally fresh ingredients that bring to life the Alaska region. Our menu includes scrumptious salmon pasta, shrimp bisque, crab cakes, fresh oysters, and so much more. Our complimentary meals come with beer and wine, and as always, exceptional personalized service.
Enjoy traditional Alaskan song and dance as well as a narrated history of this incredible land. Our onboard experts and entertainers offer a fascinating look into the culture and tradition of the places we visit, including information on Alaska's flora, fauna, geology, wildlife, and more about the native people.
