Alaska Inside Passage Cruise
Juneau, AK to Tacoma, WA
*Offer Valid Only on New Bookings on Select Dates
Discover the Wild Beauty of Alaska with American Cruise Lines
Experience Alaska’s breathtaking wilderness aboard our small, modern ships—designed to bring you closer to majestic glaciers, iconic wildlife, and coastal towns. Small ship Alaska cruises allow access to less-traveled waterways and provide a more immersive experience compared to larger cruise ships. Cruise through Glacier Bay National Park with expert rangers, spot whales and bald eagles from May through September, and step back in time in historic gold rush towns like Skagway and Wrangell.
Denali National Park
Enhance your cruise with a luxury land package to Denali, home to North America’s highest peak. Spot moose, bears, and caribou as you explore this vast and awe-inspiring landscape.
Endicott Arm
Sail into Endicott Arm, a breathtaking fjord sculpted by ancient glaciers. Cruise through narrow, ice-carved waterways framed by granite cliffs and cascading waterfalls.
Icy Strait Point
This Indigenous-owned destination offers authentic cultural experiences, wilderness trails, and some of Alaska’s best whale-watching—just steps from your ship.
Mendenhall Glacier
One of Alaska’s most accessible glaciers, Mendenhall Glacier provides a stunning look at nature in motion with blue ice, thundering meltwater, and dramatic crevasses.
Explore Alaska’s Most Iconic Ports
Juneau, AK
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. Juneau is a central hub for many Alaska cruise itineraries and offers easy access to glaciers, wildlife excursions, and historic sites.
Anchorage, AK
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. While not always a cruise port, Anchorage often serves as a gateway for Alaska cruise land packages and interior exploration.
Glacier Bay, AK
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. Many Alaska cruises feature Glacier Bay National Park as a highlight due to its protected waters and active glaciers.
Sitka, AK
Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and rugged mountain landscapes, Sitka traces its origins to the early 19th century when it was the capital of Russian America and a vital fur trade hub. Today, the town blends its rich Russian and Tlingit heritage with a vibrant arts scene and deep ties to nature. Sitka is a popular stop on Alaska cruises, known for its blend of history, Tlingit culture, and coastal scenery.
What Sets Us Apart
Experience Alaska with American Cruise Lines, where small ship cruising brings you closer to the landscapes, stories, and traditions that make the Great Land so extraordinary. From meaningful encounters with local culture to unforgettable moments surrounded by nature, every voyage offers a deeper connection to one of America's most remarkable destinations.
Alaska Cruises FAQs
What should I pack for an Alaskan cruise?
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.
When is the best time to cruise Alaska?
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.
How long are Alaska cruises?
Alaska cruises typically range from 9 to 19 days depending upon the itinerary. Some cruises are roundtrip, while others travel between ports such as Juneau, Ketchikan, and Tacoma.
Do I need a passport when traveling to Alaska?
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.
What wildlife will we see on our Alaska cruise?
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.
Why cruise Alaska on a small ship?
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.
Where do Alaska cruises depart from?
Our Alaskan cruises depart from Juneau, AK, Ketchikan, AK, and Tacoma, WA, and we also offer Land and Cruise packages departing from Fairbanks, AK.
Book Your 2026 & 2027 Alaska Cruise Today – Adventure Awaits