Planning a Family Trip? Here Are the Best Alaska Cruises for Families

Alaska is one of the most breathtaking cruise destinations in the world. Massive glaciers, stunning wildlife, and endless adventures make it a dream for travelers. But when it comes to the best Alaska cruise for families, choosing the right one is key. Not all cruises are designed for kids, and some offer better experiences for multi-generational trips.

Cruising in Alaska has been popular for decades, but the demand has surged recently. In 2023, Alaska welcomed over 1.6 million cruise passengers, which broke all previous records. Families now look for more than just scenic views. They want wildlife encounters, hands-on activities, and entertainment for all ages. The best cruise line for an Alaska cruise has further established kid-friendly excursions, educational programs, and even youth clubs onboard. All these efforts have increased the interest of the public.

What makes an Alaska cruise with kids so special? Imagine watching humpback whales from your balcony, dog sledding on a glacier, or spotting grizzly bears along the shore. You do not get to experience all these visuals at the same location anywhere else in the world.

Some cruise lines, like Princess Cruises Alaska, offer onboard naturalists who teach kids about the environment. Others have adventure camps and ice-skating rinks to keep little travelers entertained.

But which is the best family cruise to Alaska? The answer depends on your needs. Some families prefer luxury, and many others want budget-friendly options. Some ships have water parks, while others focus on outdoor exploration. I have experienced more than 10 cruise journeys with family to Alaska, and in this guide, I will help you find the best Alaskan cruise line for families with all the details about departure, cost, number of days, and much more.

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Best Alaska Cruise for Families

Planning an Alaska cruise with kids was one of the best decisions we made as a family. Right after the moment we stepped on board, it was clear that this was not just a trip; it was going to be an adventure for sure. However, to experience the same, knowledge of cruises is very important. The right cruise line makes all the difference.

You get different experiences on different cruises. Some offer kids’ clubs and interactive nature programs. And many offer onboard scavenger hunts and mainly focus on thrilling shore excursions like dog sledding and glacier hikes. Every cruise has its charm, but the best ones balance relaxation and excitement perfectly. If you are wondering what will be the best Alaska cruise for families, I have got all the details you need. Let’s dive in!

1. Princess Cruises Alaska

Departure: Vancouver, British Columbia

Princess Cruises has been a leading name in Alaska travel for 65 years. They offer unforgettable experiences across more than 150 sailings between April and September 2025. The Voyage of the Glaciers itinerary remains a favorite. It takes passengers from Vancouver to Anchorage (Whittier) with stops at Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway. Along the way, guests witness breathtaking sights like Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve and the College Fjord. It is home to some of the most spectacular glaciers in the region.

Families can choose from several ships to match their preferences. The Grand Princess and Sapphire Princess offer a more intimate setting with capacities of 2,610 and 2,680 passengers. However, the Royal Princess provides a larger experience, accommodating 3,560 guests. Each ship is designed to balance adventure with comfort. Most of these cruises offer the same spots to witness, the difference comes in the size and capacities. Some people like small cruises with less crowd, and others want crowded cruises. So, it all depends on you.

A highlight of Princess Cruises Alaska is the North to Alaska program. This cruise brings the region’s history and culture onboard. Guests can enjoy live demonstrations, local cuisine, and interactive experiences like meeting Libby Riddles. She was the first woman to win the 1,100-mile Iditarod sled dog race.

In addition to this, kids can also interact with sled dogs and their handlers in Skagway. It gives kids a chance to learn about Alaska’s iconic racing culture. The Alaska Explorers Youth Program, developed in partnership with Discovery and Animal Planet, keeps young travelers engaged through hands-on activities and interactive learning sessions.

Several age-specific clubs provide fun and educational activities onboard, such as:

• Discovery’s Treehouse: For ages 3 to 7
• Lodge: Ages 8 to 12
• Beach House: Ages 13 to 17

They might even spot Stanley the Bear, Princess Cruises’ beloved mascot. He always appears in themed outfits to entertain younger guests. All these qualities make it the best Alaska cruise for families.

2. Royal Caribbean

Departure: Seattle, Washington

Departure: Seattle, Washington

Once, I sailed with Royal Caribbean to Alaska, and I still remember the excitement of that trip. It was one of the most thrilling experiences my family has ever had. We boarded Quantum of the Seas in Seattle, and we all were eager for a seven-night adventure. The excitement was real, especially for my second son, who was experiencing his first cruise. It was literally like a dream when you see the endless ocean and snow-capped mountains during your journey. Everything was white and spectacular.

They stop at different spots during the journey, and each stop offers something incredible to witness. In Juneau, we took a boat ride and spotted humpback whales surfacing right in front of us. I still get flashbacks of that giant creature. The stop in Sitka was also a great one. It teaches about the historical facts of the area.

At this point, you think the trip cannot get any better, and then there comes another amazing turn in the journey. The ship sailed through Endicott Arm, where massive glaciers stretched as far as the eye could see. The kids gasped as a giant chunk of ice broke off and crashed into the water.

Onboard, there was never a dull moment. The skydiving simulator was a thrilling experience, and the FlowRider surf simulator gave us plenty of laughs. We even had a little family challenge at the rock climbing wall to see who could reach the top first. Bumper cars, arcade games, and an escape room kept the kids entertained for hours, while my partner and I enjoyed the breathtaking views from the deck.

Food is never a concern on this cruise. They have many options available at any time of the day. Sorrento’s Pizza quickly became our go-to spot. Café Promenade is perfect for late-night snacks. The kids loved grabbing hot dogs from the Dog House. The best part? The cruise had dedicated clubs for different age groups, so the kids had their own space to make new friends and enjoy fun activities. Here are some quick facts and information about the capacity and activity options on the cruise.

• Double occupancy: 4,180 passengers
• Maximum capacity: 4,905 passengers
• Adventure Ocean (ages 3-12) – Supervised games and activities
• Hideout Hangout (ages 13-17) – A social space for teens
• Thrilling onboard experiences – Skydiving simulator, bumper cars, rock climbing
• Scenic highlights – Endicott Arm, Dawes Glacier, breathtaking whale sightings
• Dining options – Sorrento’s Pizza, Dog House, Café Promenade for quick bites
• Unique entertainment – Escape room, arcade, and a silent disco party

3. Carnival Cruise

Departure: Seattle, Washington

I have also experienced sailing to Alaska with Carnival Cruise and found it as one of the Best Alaskan cruise lines for families. Most trips move between May to September, so mark your dates if you are thinking of this trip. Let us dive into what I experienced on this cruise.

We boarded the Carnival Luminosa in Seattle, looking for an exciting 7-day journey ahead. I could not wait to see the breathtaking views of glaciers and wildlife once again.

Not only the journey, but the stops on the way make it an unforgettable trip. They stop at the following spots during the journey:

• Juneau
• Skagway
• Ketchikan
• Alaska
• Victoria
• Tracky Arm Fjord

 In Juneau, we took a seaplane ride over five massive glaciers, a sight that felt straight out of a nature documentary. At Taku Lodge, you get to enjoy a fresh-cooked Alaskan meal with views of the towering Taku Glacier. Skagway was an adventure of its own. It has historic Gold Rush-era streets and scenic train rides through the mountains. Ketchikan is famous for its Native Alaskan culture and stunning totem poles. It was another highlight of the journey.

Back on the ship, there was never a dull moment. My youngest loved Camp Ocean. There, they played games and learned about the ocean. My teenager spent hours at Club O2. They made new friends and watched movies and played games with them

The best part? A full day at sea. You get a full day at sea where you can relax and enjoy the views. By the time we returned to Seattle, we knew one thing for sure: that this was one of the best Alaska cruises for families with kids.

• Double occupancy: 2,260 passengers
• Maximum capacity: 2,826 passengers
• Camp Ocean (ages 2-11) – Ocean-themed games and activities
•  See the World (ages 12-17) – Destination-focused events
• Club O2 (ages 15-17) – Movies, sports, and video games
• Dive-In Movies – Outdoor cinema under the stars
• Playlist Productions – Live musical performances
• Pizzeria del Capitano, The Carnival Deli, Lido Marketplace, Swirls
• The Steakhouse – Discounted prices for kids 11 and under

4. Holland America Line

Departure: Vancouver, British Columbia

Holland America Line has been sailing to Alaska for more than 75 years, and that makes it one of the most experienced cruise lines for exploring the region. The seven-day Inside Passage itinerary on the Koningsdam offers a well-balanced mix of scenic cruising and adventure-filled port stops. This round-trip voyage from Vancouver includes two days of sailing through the Inside Passage, a visit to Tracy Arm Inlet, and a day in Glacier Bay. Along the way, guests get a front-row seat to towering glaciers and rugged fjords.

The best part of this cruise is the Junior Ranger Program in Glacier Bay. It is an activity where kids can earn badges while learning about Alaska’s unique ecosystem. A wildlife expert on board provides insights and helps spot animals like humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, and brown bears. Tracy Arm Fjord offers a chance for a closer look at massive ice formations and towering cliffs, with a high-speed catamaran excursion bringing guests right up to the face of the Sawyer Glaciers.

Spacious accommodations cater to families, with staterooms designed for up to five guests, extra storage, and two bathrooms for added convenience. The ship welcomes 2,650 guests at double occupancy and up to 3,194 at full capacity. For younger travelers, the supervised kids’ club provides age-appropriate activities for children and teens. It ensures entertainment throughout the journey.

Dining options include Lido Market, New York Pizza, and the Dive-In grill by the pool, with special Alaska-themed menus that feature fresh and locally sourced seafood. One standout experience is the Alaska brunch in the main dining room, where dishes highlight flavors from the Pacific Northwest. Holland America Line is known for its commitment to sustainable seafood.

• Double occupancy: 2,650 passengers
• Maximum capacity: 3,194 passengers
• Family staterooms – Extra space, two bathrooms, and beds for up to five
• Wildlife experts on board – Announcements and daily programs
• Junior Ranger Program – Kids earn badges while learning about Alaska
• Tracy Arm Fjord & Glacier Explorer – Up-close views of Sawyer Glaciers
• Kids club (ages 3-17) – Supervised age-appropriate activities
• Dining options – Lido Market, New York Pizza, Dive In Grill
• Themed nights – Salmon bakes, seafood boil pop-ups, and Alaska brunch

5. Celebrity Cruises

Departure: Vancouver, British Columbia

Celebrity Cruises offers an exciting and family-friendly way to explore Alaska. The seven-night Alaska Hubbard Glacier cruise on the Celebrity Solstice is a great option for multi-generational trips. This round trip starts in Vancouver and includes stops in Icy Strait Point, Juneau, and Ketchikan. In addition to this, it also offers two days of scenic cruising through the Inside Passage and past Hubbard Glacier. The ship accommodates 2,852 guests at double occupancy.

At Icy Strait Point, families can take a guided nature walk along the Trail of the Bears. During this walk, you pass through the Spasski River Valley. This valley is famous for its wildlife. Here, you get a chance to spot coastal brown bears, deer, and bald eagles. In addition to this, you also learn about the indigenous Tlingit culture. That is why I consider it a great Alaska cruise with kids.

The fun does not end here; kids and teens are encouraged to participate in the Celebrity’s Camp at Sea program, which offers age-specific activities. The program is divided into four groups

• Shipmates (3-5)
• Cadets (6-9)
• Captains (10-12)
• Teens (13-17)
• Autism-friendly services are also available.

Dining options include buffet-style meals at Ocean View Café and quick bites at the Mast Grill. The cruise also offers healthier selections at the Spa Café. Families can also enjoy kid-friendly options in the main dining room or order from the in-room menu. These are quick facts about this cruise:

• Double occupancy: 2,852 passengers
• Scenic cruising through the Inside Passage and Hubbard Glacier
• Guided wildlife walks at Icy Strait Point
• Camp at Sea program with age-based activities
• Autism-friendly services available
• Multiple dining options, including healthy choices

6. Norwegian Cruise Line

Departure: Seattle, Washington

Norwegian Cruise Line offers an exciting seven-day Alaska adventure. It is one of the best Alaska cruises for families. Like most Alaskan cruises, the Norwegian Bliss also departs from Seattle. They stop at Sitka, Juneau, Icy Strait Point, and Ketchikan (Ward Cove). The itinerary also includes scenic cruising through Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier, plus an evening visit to Victoria, British Columbia. The ship carries 4,004 guests at double occupancy and up to 4,266 passengers at full capacity.

If your kids love close exposure to wildlife, then it is the best family cruise to Alaska. Activities like whale watching and bear spotting in Icy Strait Point make it worth trying. In Ketchikan, you hike through Tongass National Forest. This hike creates an opportunity to see bald eagles and black bears. To extend the learning and fun, board the Aleutian Ballad. It is a famous crab fishing vessel that helps you understand the local marine life.

The fun does not stop at any second onboard. The Bliss Speedway offers a two-level racetrack at sea, while the interactive aqua park features waterslides that extend over the ship’s side. Fun activities like Laser tag, mini-golf, and a video arcade provide even more entertainment. Kids and teens can enjoy age-specific clubs, while parents can relax at Vibe Beach Club or Spice H2O; these two are adult-only spaces.

Dining is just as flexible, with family-friendly options at the Garden Café buffet, American Diner, and The Local Bar & Grill. Here are the quick facts about this best Alaskan cruise line for families.

• Double occupancy: 4,004 passengers
• Maximum capacity: 4,266 passengers
• Scenic cruising through Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier
• Wildlife excursions, including whale watching and bear spotting
• Unique crab fishing experience on the Aleutian Ballad
• Onboard activities: racetrack, waterslides, laser tag, mini-golf, arcade
• Age-specific kids and teen clubs
• Adults-only retreats for relaxation
• Multiple casual dining options

7. Disney Family Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line creates a magical Alaska experience that blends adventure with classic Disney fun. The seven-night round-trip journey from Vancouver includes stops in Skagway, Juneau, and Ketchikan. Families can enjoy breathtaking views of glaciers and wildlife while experiencing Disney’s signature service and entertainment. In 2025, Disney has scheduled 19 Alaskan departures that will ensure plenty of opportunities to sail.                                  

Onboard, kids have endless options for entertainment. Age-specific clubs offer themed activities with beloved Disney characters. Water slides, movie nights, and interactive games keep young travelers engaged throughout the journey. While children are busy, adults can enjoy spa treatments, fine dining, and exclusive lounges at adults-only spaces.

Themed dining experiences bring the magic of Disney to every meal. Restaurants serve a mix of family-friendly and gourmet cuisine. You can enjoy interactive shows while enjoying your dinner. It makes the dinner unforgettable.

The ship’s attention to detail ensures every member of the family has something special to enjoy, making this cruise stand among the best Alaska cruise for families with these services and activities:

• Seven-night round-trip from Vancouver
• Stops in Skagway, Juneau, and Ketchikan
• 19 Alaska departures in 2025
• Age-specific kids’ clubs with Disney character experiences
• Waterslides, movies, and interactive family entertainment
• Exclusive spa, dining, and lounges for adults
• Themed dining with immersive experiences
• Cost ranges, May departure, £4,791 (2 adults and 2 children)
• July departure costs £7,269.

8. Private Alaskan Charter

For those who prefer a more private and customized experience, an exclusive Alaska charter is the perfect way to explore without the crowds. Instead of following a fixed route with thousands of passengers, a small expedition vessel offers the flexibility to design a journey that fits your family’s interests. From kayaking past icebergs to fishing in remote waters, every day is full of adventure and according to your requirements.

The MV Sikumi, a 12-passenger vessel, is one of the best options for an intimate Alaskan cruise. It is not like the large ships; it navigates and takes you to the untouched landscapes that bring you closer to Alaska’s raw beauty. The trip begins in Juneau and passes the diverse waters of the Inside Passage. Wildlife sightings are frequent during this trip. Imagine humpback whales breaching in the distance, sea otters floating nearby, and bald eagles soaring overhead. Excursions can be fully customized, whether it is glacier hikes, bear watching, or fishing for fresh Alaskan salmon.

Life onboard feels like a floating lodge. It has cozy staterooms, a welcoming crew, and gourmet meals that feature fresh local ingredients. Every meal is part of the experience. Unlike the other cruises, dining on the deck with glacier views is an experience of its kind. Here, you can enjoy an Alaskan seafood feast prepared by a private chef. The best part? There is no strict schedule, just the freedom to explore at your own pace. It is the best Alaska cruise for families with a good budget.

• Capacity: 12 guests for a fully private experience
• Departure: Juneau, with customizable routes through the Inside Passage
• Excursions: Glacier trekking, kayaking, fishing, and wildlife viewing
• Dining: Fresh, locally sourced meals with flexible menu options
• Crew: Experienced guides providing personalized service
• Price: $49,950 for a private charter or $9,500 per double cabin

9. Rockies & Alaska Grand Adventure

Some journeys offer more than just a cruise. They turn into a grand adventure. A trip through the Canadian Rockies before sailing through Alaska’s waters is one of them. The towering mountains, deep blue lakes, and endless forests of Canada make the perfect start before heading into the icy wilderness of Alaska.

The journey begins in Banff. It is a town surrounded by some of the most stunning peaks in the world. Not far away, Lake Louise awaits with its picture-perfect waters. The scene looks straight out of a postcard.

From there, the adventure continues on the Icefields Parkway. It is a highway famous for its incredible scenery. Along the way, there is a chance to stop at the Columbia Ice field, where families can step onto a real glacier and feel the crunch of ancient ice beneath their feet. Jasper National Park offers even more wild beauty, with waterfalls, deep canyons, and plenty of chances to spot bears, elk, and mountain goats.

Then comes the grand finale: a seven-night cruise through Alaska. Setting sail from Vancouver, the ship glides past forests, fjords, and snow-covered peaks. Along the way, they stop at Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway, which allows for exciting shore excursions. Families can explore Gold Rush towns or watch lumberjack shows. They can even take a helicopter to a glacier. The cruise also sails through Glacier Bay. It is a place where massive ice walls tower above the water, and the sounds of cracking ice echo through the air.

Sail through Glacier Bay and witness towering ice formations.

Price: Starts from £4,295 per person, including flights and most meals.

How to Choose the Best Alaska Cruise for Your Family?

1. Consider the Best Time to Sail

Alaska’s cruise season runs from May to September. Each month offers unique experiences. May and September are budget-friendly with fewer crowds, but the weather can be cooler. June, July, and August have the warmest temperatures and the best chances for wildlife encounters. You may be lucky enough to witness whales and bears. Families with school-aged children often prefer summer departures that ensure comfortable weather and longer daylight hours for excursions.

2. Pick the Right Cruise Line for Your Family

Every cruise line offers a different experience. For me, Disney Cruise Line is a top choice for younger kids. It features character meet-and-greets and family-focused entertainment. It is the best Alaska cruise for families. Norwegian and Carnival provide budget-friendly options with fun activities like water slides and kids’ clubs. Holland America and Princess Cruises Alaska cater to multi-generational families. These cruises offer scenic routes and educational programs. Choosing the best cruise line depends on your family’s interests, budget, and what you are looking to explore.

3. Choose Between a Round-Trip or One-Way Itinerary

Round-trip cruises typically depart from Seattle or Vancouver and return to the same port. It makes travel planning easier. They often include stops in Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan, along with scenic cruising near glaciers. One-way cruises between Vancouver and Anchorage allow families to explore Alaska’s interior, such as Denali National Park. These cruises provide deeper exploration but may require additional flights or land-based travel arrangements. These are some of the best Alaska cruise for families.

4. Select Family-Friendly Shore Excursions

Alaska offers unforgettable shore excursions specially designed for families. In Juneau, take a whale-watching tour or visit the famous Mendenhall Glacier. Skagway is perfect for a scenic train ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route. Ketchikan offers the chance to explore rainforests and spot bald eagles. If you love adventure, you can also enjoy activities such as dog sledding, glacier trekking, and zip-line.

5. Look for the Best Deals and Perks

Booking early often leads to better cabin selection and promotional offers like kids sail free deals, onboard credits, or free excursions. Many cruise lines offer discounts for families traveling together, and some travel agencies provide additional perks. To save money, consider traveling during the shoulder season (May or September) or taking advantage of wave season sales (December–March). Comparing different cruise lines and booking at the right time can make an Alaskan adventure exciting and affordable.

7 Essential Tips for an Unforgettable Alaska Cruise with Kids

1. Let Kids Help Choose Shore Excursions

Giving kids a say in the adventure makes the trip more exciting for them. Show them a list of excursions and let them pick between spotting whales, hiking through the rainforest, or exploring a glacier. When they feel involved, they will be more engaged and eager to experience every stop.      

2. Pack for All Types of Weather

Weather in Alaska can be unpredictable. The day might start sunny but turn chilly by afternoon. Pack layers, waterproof jackets, and comfortable shoes so you and your kids can enjoy every excursion without worrying about the cold or rain.

3. Encourage Kids to Record Memories

Give kids a travel journal or a camera to capture their favorite moments. Encourage them to be creative. Whether they draw pictures or film videos of a glacier calving, recording these memories will make the trip more meaningful and fun to look back on later.

4. Consider a Cruise Tour

A cruise is just the beginning. A cruise tour extends the adventure with land explorations to places like Denali National Park. It is a great way to mix shipboard luxury with wilderness experiences. It ensures you enjoy both land and water.

5. Do Not Over Plan

It is good to pack the schedule with activities, but downtime is just as important. Leave space for spontaneous fun activities like watching sea otters from the deck or having a family meal with a view of white snowy mountains.

6. Spend Time with Animals

Alaska is a wildlife paradise. Plan excursions where kids can see bald eagles, sea lions, or even sled dog puppies. Some tours allow families to visit a musk ox farm and a bear sanctuary. It offers a unique encounter with these wild animals which they will never forget.

7. Arrive Early and Stay Late

Extending your trip beyond the cruise lets you explore even more. Arriving a day early in cities like Seattle or Vancouver helps avoid travel stress, and staying a little longer after the cruise gives time to explore local sights at a relaxed pace.

Final Thoughts

An Alaska cruise with your family is more than just a vacation. It is an opportunity to create lifelong memories with your loved ones. Each day on the cruise brings a new adventure. Choosing the best cruise line for an Alaska cruise depends on your family’s interests. Preferences vary from onboard entertainment, educational programs, or flexible dining options.

Planning, selecting family-friendly excursions, and preparing for Alaska’s ever-changing weather will help make your journey smooth and enjoyable. Whether your kids are excited about spotting whales, trying new foods, or making new friends on board, the right cruise can turn this trip into a magical experience for everyone.

With so many options available, finding the best family cruise to Alaska may seem overwhelming. But the key is to focus on what matters most to your family. Whether you prefer an action-packed itinerary or a relaxed voyage through the Inside Passage, the best Alaska cruise for families offers something for all ages. Take the time to research, book the right stateroom, and embrace the adventure. Your family will cherish these moments for years to come.

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