Part 3: Believe it or not, I’m constantly asked “What’s the best glacier cruise in Alaska?” Especially by those that have already seen the southern part of Alaska while trapped on a cruise ship. If you’re one of them, I understand your disappointment of not being able to get up close and personal with the glaciers. That’s the wonder of staying on-land when you visit. So, if you’re planning a trip to this stunning state, taking a glacier cruise is a must-do activity. Not only will you get to witness some of the most incredible natural beauty in the world, but you’ll also have the chance to spot wildlife, learn about local history and culture, and connect with nature in a truly unforgettable way.
Hi there, fellow travelers! I’m Kenn Dodson, wanderer and writer. I’ve travelled the world seeking to draw closer to God’s Creation so I can better both it and the one who made it. And I’ve found Alaska to be the best opportunity in the Western Hemisphere to do that. Especialy via a glacier cruise.
So, without further ado, here is my answer to the oft-asked question “What’s the best glacier cruise in Alaska?” And please, don’t ask me again!
Kenai fjords national park cruise
Ok, I’ll make this simple. This is the best glacier cruise in Alaska! The Kenai Fjords are impossible to describe in words. So I won’t try. But I will say that this national park and this specific cruise through it remain my most cherished memory of Alaska. Located just a short drive from Anchorage, the Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise is one of the best glacier cruises in Alaska. This cruise takes you through the stunning Kenai Fjords, where you’ll see towering glaciers, towering peaks, and abundant wildlife, including whales, otters, and sea lions. You’ll also learn about the history and culture of the region from your knowledgeable onboard naturalist. We lost count on the numbers of sea and wildlife we encountered. Our most cherished moment was when we came upon a pod of whales dining. More on that here. And the Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise seems to have the magic touch when it comes to spotting them.
Glacier Bay National Park Cruise
If you want to witness the stunning beauty of Glacier Bay National Park, taking a cruise is the way to do it. This park is home to some of the most impressive glaciers in Alaska, as well as abundant wildlife, including bears, eagles, and humpback whales. On this cruise, you’ll have the chance to see glaciers calving, spot wildlife, and learn about the history and culture of the Tlingit people.
Prince William Sound Glacier Cruise
The Prince William Sound Glacier Cruise is another must-do activity in Alaska. This cruise takes you through the serene waters of Prince William Sound, where you’ll see glaciers up close and personal, as well as spot wildlife, including sea otters and bald eagles. You’ll also have the chance to learn about the history of the region, including the devastating 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill.
Hubbard Glacier Cruise
The Hubbard Glacier Cruise is one of the most impressive glacier cruises in Alaska. This massive glacier is over 6 miles wide and towers over 300 feet above the water, making for an incredible sight. On this cruise, you’ll have the chance to get up close and personal with the glacier, as well as spot wildlife, including whales and sea lions.
Tracy Arm Fjord Cruise
The Tracy Arm Fjord Cruise is another stunning glacier cruise in Alaska. This fjord is home to two towering glaciers, Sawyer Glacier and South Sawyer Glacier, as well as abundant wildlife, including harbor seals and brown bears. On this cruise, you’ll have the chance to witness the stunning beauty of the fjord, as well as learn about the history and culture of the Tlingit people.
Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watching Tour
If you’re looking for a glacier cruise that also includes whale watching, the Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watching Tour is the perfect choice. This tour takes you through the serene waters of Juneau’s Inside Passage, where you’ll witness the stunning beauty of the Mendenhall Glacier and spot humpback whales in their natural habitat.
Columbia Glacier Cruise
The Columbia Glacier Cruise is another impressive glacier cruise in Alaska. This cruise takes you through Prince William Sound to the massive Columbia Glacier, where you’ll witness the stunning beauty of the glacier up close and personal. You’ll also have the chance to spot wildlife, including sea otters and bald eagles.
So there you have it, my answer to the most asked question I receive, what’s the best glacier cruise in Alaska. No matter which one you choose, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. From towering glaciers to abundant wildlife, Alaska truly is a nature lover’s paradise.
Be sure to check out Part 2 where I take a look at the best Alaskan destinations to visit and basecamping, the approach that will save you money and time while getting you closer to the real Alaska. Plus, discover how you can mentally prepare for your big trip to Alaska, it is afterall the “Last Frontier”.
One response to “What’s the best glacier cruise in Alaska?”
[…] will save you money and time while getting you closer to the real Alaska.And in Part 3 we reveal the best Alaskan day-cruises that get you up close adventure with glaciers, whales, otters, and […]