Sunday, March 31, 2024

How Much Does an Alaskan Cruise Cost? A Budget Guide 2024

cost of alaska cruise

Although, when cruising in Alaska you should check with your mobile provider. If you have coverage when docked at the ports of call, you might not need to purchase internet for the few sea days. Also referred to as “service charges”, these additional daily costs go to your room attendant, dining staff, and other crew members who work hard to make your cruise a special vacation. Don’t forget to factor in luggage fees and other related costs, like airport parking, and transport to and from the cruise port. A good rule of thumb is to budget between $500 to $1000 per person for airfare for an Alaska cruise.

Alaska Cruise Ports of Call

Watch migrating humpback whales from the deck of a catamaran or Native craftsman carve a traditional totem pole, and expand your Alaska cruise experience. We have a 50-year legacy of sharing the best places and experiences with our guests. On an Alaska cruise, unpack once and explore glaciers, wildlife and national parks.

Travel Is Our Tradition

cost of alaska cruise

While many activities on the ship are included in your ticket price, some come with an additional fee. For example, amenities like spa treatments, specialty fitness classes, and certain onboard activities like laser tag or go-kart racing can add to your Alaskan cruise prices. While some cruise lines include gratuities in the overall cost, many do not. You’ll need to budget for tips, ranging from $13 to $20 per person daily.

Alaska Cruises: Everything You Need to Know for a Perfect Bucket-List Adventure

Explore Alaska’s most remote coastal areasConsider a luxury midsize (or smaller) cruise to places like Dutch Harbor in the Aleutian Islands or to the northwestern city of Nome. Both combine a look at the rugged, raw coastlines with time spent on shore in towns with few frills. Weather can often be cold, rainy and windy, but if you want a unique adventure in Alaska, check out the itineraries from Hurtigruten. What can really set a cruise to Alaska apart from any other cruise you’ll take are the shore excursions. It’s no exaggeration to say that excursions in Alaska allow you to do things that you simply can’t do anywhere else. Since most of the country lives far from these ports, you’ll have to consider airfare and transportation to the port.

THE 20 BEST 3 Day Cruises to Alaska (Prices & Itineraries) on Cruise Critic - Cruise Critic

THE 20 BEST 3 Day Cruises to Alaska (Prices & Itineraries) on Cruise Critic.

Posted: Thu, 18 Apr 2024 20:08:52 GMT [source]

Don’t forget to indulge in delicious fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants. An Inside Passage cruise is a seven-night journey that typically departs from Seattle, Vancouver, or Juneau. This itinerary takes you through the scenic passages and fjords of the Inside Passage, offering picturesque ports of call along the way. Look to shoulder season sailingsNot only will you often receive a significant discount, you’ll also be able to witness Alaska’s seasonal transitions and fewer crowds at ports of call. But even if you don’t get one (they are more expensive), you will have plenty of opportunity to see the scenery. Ships have lots of open deck space for you to watch the mountains and water go by, so it’s not a huge loss if you don’t have your own private balcony.

Our journey aboard the Norwegian Sun is a testament to the importance of thorough planning and budgeting. We opted for a budget-friendly cabin and avoided extra onboard costs, but we didn’t compromise on the experiences that make Alaska unique. From whale watching to scenic train rides, each shore excursion added a layer of depth to our trip, making it unforgettable. While cruise fare and cabins are obvious factors in booking a cruise, there are always extras. Pay special attention to what is included in your itinerary and what you would like to do so that you don’t get caught short-handed on cash. While travelers frequently go over budget, you want to make sure that you have enough money to really enjoy the trip.

Specialty Dining

The nearby Spasski River Valley holds one of the world’s largest populations of brown bears, who are often found hunting for salmon in the rivers. Zipline over the wilderness, watch a tribal dance or kayak in coastal waters to see the wildlife up close during your Alaska cruise vacation. Alaska cruisetours combine our top-rated Voyage of the Glaciers cruise with three to ten nights on land exploring Denali National Park. Travel aboard our exclusive Direct-to-the-Wilderness® train and unwind at Princess Wilderness Lodges®. Every year Princess introduces more people to Denali National Park than any other cruise line. Embark on a thrilling journey with young explorers through breathtaking landscapes.

Ketchikan Trolley: Private Totem Park, City & Herring Cove Wildlife Tour

She loves to get active while at port, whether cycling through mountains in the Caribbean or scuba diving under the sea. My Alaska cruise was significantly cheaper than most passengers will encounter due to the fact that it was at the very end of the season and that I was traveling solo. However, even if my cruise fare had been a more “normal” price, such as around $1500, my cruise still would have been relatively budget friendly. On my Alaska cruise I was able to find shore excursion opportunities that fit my budget while still providing wonderful insights into Alaska’s culture, history, and nature. Stateroom selection can also have a huge impact on the price of an Alaska cruise. Interior, ocean view, balcony cabins, and suites all come with varying price points.

If you are looking to experience some of the local restaurants you should budget $12-$30 per meal depending on the type of dining experience you are looking for. Our Alaska cruise departure ports have big personalities and loads of attractions. An elegant and spacious Alaska cruise ship with fresh floral arrangements and garden-inspired décor. Master frontier flavor with regional cooking demonstrations on board. Fluid lines, light-filled spaces and a blend of modern elegance and nautical tradition make Koningsdam a sublime ship for Alaska cruises.

Booking a hotel room, short-term rental, hostel or other accommodation is key because you won't be able to stay on the cruise ship during this time. While many travelers assume that Alaska is cold year-round, that isn't necessarily true. Travelers may enjoy warm sunshine one minute, then chilly rain the next.

Dive into the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of Alaska as you explore these top destinations during your cruise. Don’t Miss the Scenery Between PortsSail to the Caribbean and the schedule is typically stop in a port, enjoy the day, and then get back on the ship. Once the ship departs, there’s not much to see as you sail to the next port of call. In Alaska, there’s always something to see… and it shouldn’t be missed. Whether it’s sailing next to mountains or doing some whale-spotting as the ship cruises, there’s quite a bit to experience even between ports.

An Alaska Inside Passage cruise typically lasts seven nights, embarking and returning to Seattle or Vancouver. It's one of the most popular and common itineraries for Alaska cruising. Holland America and Princess are the biggest mainstream lines for an Alaska cruise. But you'll also see Alaska itineraries from Carnival, Disney, Norwegian (NCL) and Royal Caribbean, which gives you an array of price points to consider. Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airlines, allow you to modify your flight up to 45 days prior with no penalty and protect you if your flight is late or canceled.

So, it might be better to begin your budget around the type of cabin. Getting to and from the port will incur some costs, whether a taxi, Uber, a shuttle, or public transportation. Budget at least $20 to $70 for this, depending on the distance and mode of transportation. Also, consider that when shopping in Alaska, prices will be higher. This is to compensate for shipping the items to the remote location of Alaska. If you travel to Southeast Alaska, you will encounter many gift shops.

How Much to Budget for an Alaskan Cruise

cost of alaska cruise

These cruise lines provide a higher level of service, elegant accommodations, gourmet dining options, and exclusive shore excursions. If you value comfort and indulgence, luxury cruise lines are a great choice for exploring the beauty of Alaska. If you're happy with a couple of historic tours and a guided hike, you could likely budget $500 or less per person for shore excursions in Alaska. But if once-in-a-lifetime Alaska experiences like helicopter rides and flightseeing in Ketchikan are more your speed, you'll need to triple that amount -- or more. To find the best deals, try weighing the value of the deal against your actual needs (more on that below).

The Top Things to Do Onboard Brilliance of the Seas Royal Caribbean Cruises

Whether you choose an Inside Passage cruise or a Gulf of Alaska cruise, you will be treated to unforgettable experiences in this awe-inspiring destination. When choosing the right Alaska cruise line for you, consider your budget, preferences, and desired level of luxury. Whether you opt for a mainstream or luxury experience, you’re sure to have a memorable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Alaska’s cruise ports. Ketchikan is known as the Totem Pole Capital of the World, so a visit here wouldn’t be complete without exploring its famous collection of totem poles.

Review: Is the Norwegian Sun a Good Ship to Cruise Alaska?

cost of alaska cruise

Prices for a Cruise Tour vary depending on how many days the tour runs and the tour’s location. Some ships, like Quantum of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas, have more balcony staterooms available than smaller ships like Enchantment or Radiance of the Seas. Therefore you may find balcony staterooms more affordable on a Quantum-class ship than on smaller ships. This is especially true if you are traveling from far away to get to the departure point. Or, if you opt for an upgraded shore excursion or two while traveling.

Does an Alaska Cruise Cost More for Certain Itineraries?

Many travelers dream of taking an Alaska cruise with friends or family. Alaskan cruise prices vary widely depending on many factors, but you can expect to pay at least $600 before taxes for a 7-night cruise to Alaska. Factors that will increase the cost include the cruise line selected, cabin type, the time of year and how long your trip is. As the capital of Alaska, Juneau offers a wide range of attractions. Get up close and personal with glaciers by taking a helicopter tour or boarding a boat excursion to the magnificent Mendenhall Glacier. Pan for gold and learn about the gold rush era at the Last Chance Mining Museum, and take a scenic tram ride up Mount Roberts for panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.

When trying to figure out your Alaskan cruise cost, there are many things to factor in that you may not have initially realized. There may be airfare and hotel costs in addition to the cruise fare, depending on where you live. Be sure that you plan well as sometimes there are delays on cruise ships. The cruise season in Alaska typically runs from late April to early October, with the high season falling between June and August. It’s during this time that you’ll have the best chances of experiencing the warmest weather and spotting incredible wildlife like humpback whales and orcas. However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider booking during the shoulder season months of April, May, or September.

For those looking to save money, booking during shoulder season months of April, May, and September can offer more affordable fares. However, keep in mind that weather conditions during these months can be less predictable, and some excursions may be canceled due to unfavorable conditions. May, in particular, is known for being one of the driest months in the Inside Passage, while September offers the possibility of witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider cruising in the shoulder seasons of April, May, and September. Although the weather may be cooler and there is a higher chance of excursions being canceled due to unpredictable conditions, these months offer lower prices and fewer crowds. May, in particular, is known for being one of the driest months in the Inside Passage, while September presents the opportunity to catch the mesmerizing Northern Lights.

Many expedition cruises to Alaska also employ Zodiac rafts and offer kayaks and hiking trips to bring passengers closer to glaciers and creatures. You'll need to set aside a good chunk of money to spend on shore excursions when you're in Alaska. They can be incredibly expensive when compared to experiences in the Caribbean or Mexico. Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us.

Read Next: Park & Cruise Hotels for Every Port in America

THE 25 BEST Holland America Line Cruises to Alaska (with Prices) 2024 & 2025 on Cruise Critic - Cruise Critic

THE 25 BEST Holland America Line Cruises to Alaska (with Prices) 2024 & 2025 on Cruise Critic.

Posted: Fri, 19 Apr 2024 11:31:17 GMT [source]

The price of an Alaska cruise can vary greatly based on which month you sail. You can visit Alaska without a passport on a closed-loop sailing (one that begins and ends in the same U.S. port). Be sure to bring your passport if you plan on crossing the border from Skagway into Canada's Yukon Territory -- or exploring any Canadian port of call. Many travelers use vacations as an excuse to update their wardrobes. When traveling to different climates, you may also need to buy new clothes to be comfortable in varying conditions.

What is the best time to cruise to Alaska?

You'll want to shop for cruise deals that include onboard credit you can apply to your excursions. These are abundant during wave season, though Cruise Critic's Deal Score also clearly shows you what inclusions and offers are part of Alaska cruise deals as well. If you don’t plan on booking excursions, you may choose to explore Alaska’s ports on your own.

In Seattle, the average daily hotel price ranges from $230 in May to $192 in August. If you are looking to stay closer to the port, you can expect to pay more. Sometimes, these hotels can cost upwards of $400 or more per night. Mainstream lines have also started offering longer cruises to Alaska from southern West Coast ports like San Francisco and Los Angeles. Rush across the snow on a dog sled with a professional musher, fly fish for salmon in fresh rivers and soar over miles of glacial tundra in a helicopter.

Here, you can check our Alaska cruise review to see which port of calls we visited. Longer cruises often offer a more comprehensive experience, allowing you to explore more destinations. A reasonable budget for a 7-day Alaskan cruise, including some shore excursions and extra amenities, could range from $3,000 to $5,000 per person.

They provide an overview of Alaska's history, culture, recreation and industry, and don't offer much of a personal touch. While all travel has environmental and cultural impacts, cruising leaves its mark to varying degrees on Alaska's fragile ecosystems. The average large cruise ship can have a carbon footprint greater than 12,000 cars and produce up to a ton of trash each day.

From exploring Denali National Park to fishing for salmon in Anchorage, discover the top Alaska destinations on a Princess cruise. Alaskans are inviting people who love to share what makes their state unique. Watch lumberjacks in action, learn from Glacier Bay National Park rangers and craft with a Native totem pole carver. Or listen to harrowing Tales from the Deadliest Catch fishermen and climbers who have summited Denali during your Alaska cruise.

6 Ways to Lighten Your Hair Naturally

Table Of Content My Enzyme Bath Experience at Hasstha Wellness Centre in Petaling Jaya Health Benefits Of Lemon Juice, Backed By Science Hai...