Alaska Cruises - Your Questions Answered

Where will I board my Alaska cruise?

Celebrity, Holland America, Silversea, Princess Cruises depart from Vancouver at Canada Place.

Address: 999 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 3T4, Canada

Cunard sails from Seattle from either Smith Cove Cruise Terminal at Pier 91 and Bell Street Cruise Terminal at Pier 66. Details on departure pier will be in your final documentation.

How do I get to Canada Place from my Vancouver hotel?

Canada Place is a short taxi ride away from majority of downtown hotels in Vancouver.

Is there bag storage at Canada Place?

Yes, you can store your bag at Canada Place pier for approx. $20 per bag. You can store your bag between 8am to 5pm.

Do I require a visa for my Alaska Cruise?

Yes, all guests will require to apply for a USA ESTA. For details on how to apply for an ESTA please visit our dedicated ESTA page: USA ESTA Helpful Information

What should I pack for my Alaska cruise?

For your Alaska cruise, pack layered clothing to suit changing weather, think warm base layers, a waterproof jacket, jumpers or fleeces, and comfortable walking shoes. Bring a hat, gloves, and scarf for cooler days, plus smart-casual outfits for evenings. Don’t forget swimwear, binoculars for wildlife, a daypack for excursions, and essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and motion sickness remedies.

What is the dress code on an Alaska Cruise?

There is not a set answer as each cruise line has their own dress code. Visit our dedicated FAQs page for more information on specific cruise lines.

When is the best time to go on an Alaska cruise?

July and August are considered the best months to cruise to Alaska, offering warmer temperatures, extended daylight, and excellent wildlife viewing. However, the shoulder seasons April to May and September to October are becoming increasingly popular, thanks to fewer crowds, lower cruise fares, and seasonal highlights such as the chance to see the northern lights.

Will I see wildlife on my Alaska cruise?

Yes, you may see whales, bears, eagles, sea lions, and more. Make sure to bring your camera!

Will it be cold on the Alaska cruise?

Not always. Coastal towns like Ketchikan and Juneau can reach 15–20°C in summer, but it’s cooler at sea or near glaciers.

Can I see the Northern Lights on my Alaska cruise?

It’s not guaranteed you will see northern lights during your cruise as they are more likely to be seen more north. August to September provides a higher chance of seeing the northern lights.

Which cruises go to Glacier Bay?

Many cruise lines offer itineraries which visit Glacier Bay including Holland America, Cunard and Princess. This is subject to change as Glacier Bay National Park is a protected area.

Is seasickness common on an Alaska cruise?

Not usually. Most cruises sail the Inside Passage, which is relatively sheltered. If you’re prone to motion sickness, bring remedies just in case.

Which Alaska cruise line is best for families?

If you're planning a family cruise to Alaska, you'll find plenty of options, as most major cruise lines offer activities tailored for children. Princess, Royal Caribbean, Disney, and Celebrity Cruises are particularly popular with families, thanks to their excellent kids' clubs, youth programmes, and a wide range of entertainment and activities designed for both children and adults.

Are Alaska Cruises wheelchair friendly?

All of the major cruise lines we work with that sail to Alaska are equipped to accommodate guests who use wheelchairs or mobility aids. They have the necessary equipment and procedures in place to assist with boarding and disembarkation, ensuring that even less accessible ports can be navigated safely. While there are a number of accessible shore excursions available in Alaska, please note that some tours may have limited accessibility.

What is the must-do Alaska cruise excursions?

When you arrive at each port you will have the opportunity to explore more of Alaska on a range of shore excursions. Below is some of the experiences you can enjoy!

• Kayaking at Icy Strait Point
• The Mendenhall Glacier Canoe Paddle & Trek
• Whale-watching tours and boat rides to Alaska’s glaciers
• Helicopter & Dogsled Excursions
• Hiking and rafting tours at Chilkoot
• Misty Fjords Flightseeing Tour from Ketchikan