Hudson's By World Yacht: Dinner on the Hudson River 2024

Table Of Content

• PREMIERE SIGHTSEEING EXPERIENCE – DEPARTING FROM POUGHKEEPSIE – STARTING IN THE FALL OF 2022.
• Ready for a Hudson River Cruise?
• Private Events
• Dutch Apple Cruises
• Sunset Cocktail Cruise on Yacht Kingston

And if you go during the Fall or Spring bird migration season, be sure to bring your binoculars! The Hudson River (and all of New York City) is part of the Atlantic Flyway, so don’t miss this winged spectacle. Experience the Hudson Valley like never before aboard a Hudson River Cruise. A writer of diverse interests, Joanne Thomas has penned pieces about road trips for Hyundai, children's craft projects for Disney and wine cocktails for Robert Mondavi. She has lived on three continents and currently resides in Los Angeles, where she is co-owner and editor of a weekly newspaper. Thomas holds a BSc in politics from the University of Bristol, England.

PREMIERE SIGHTSEEING EXPERIENCE – DEPARTING FROM POUGHKEEPSIE – STARTING IN THE FALL OF 2022.

Be sure to explore the New York State Museum and the newly renovated State Capitol building, originally built in the late 1800s. After a day of discovery, relax in your spacious stateroom or in the company of fellow guests in one of the lounges. After dinner, enjoy the performance of local musicians who board for the evening entertainment. What could beat tucking into a buttery lobster roll while enjoying peaking sunsets over the Hudson?

Ready for a Hudson River Cruise?

Begin planning your U.S. cruise adventure with American Cruise Lines today. From the coast of Maine, to the mighty Mississippi and Pacific Northwest, our Free Cruise Guide provides detailed information about all of our more than 50 U.S. itinerary options. End your journey, where it began in the vibrant city of Manhattan. Reflect upon your wonderful adventure as you begin your travels home.

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Private Events

As you relax on the cool shaded deck of the Rip Van Winkle II, visit our beverage & snack bars for tasty refreshments. Experience a unique and sophisticated evening on the Louisa of the Seas. Enjoy an elegant dinner cruise like no other with the stunning backdrop of New York City. Immerse yourself in luxurious amenities and savor the special moments. Yes, there are various themed cruises on the Hudson River, including sunset cruises, historical tours, and holiday-themed excursions.

TripAdvisor's #1 Tour in Hudson, NY

Relax on the Hudson River and enjoy scenic Albany sunsets aboard the Dutch Apple II. Dutch Apple River Cruises offers dazzling evenings on a triple-decker boat. Do I need to book my Hudson River boat tour or cruise in advance? Yes, it is highly recommended to book in advance as these tours and cruises can get booked up quickly, especially during peak seasons. There are various options for your river cruise, depending on the time of day, year, what you’re celebrating, or if it’s just for a leisurely time on the water. But no matter when you go, you will see the magnificent NYC skyline from the west side and the Jersey City skyline from the east.

The Hudson River is a chameleon, changing its hues and moods with the seasons. Summer brings sparkling waters and lively shores, while fall transforms the riverbanks into a tapestry of oranges and reds. Winter coats the landscape in serene whites and silvers, offering a tranquil beauty. Each season on the Hudson has its own charm, making it a year-round destination for those seeking natural beauty and a touch of adventure. The beauty of the Hudson Valley by boat is a breathtaking experience.

Your guide to the people, places and activities that define the beautiful and ever-changing Hudson Valley region. With the ticket booking, you have the option to book an “all-inclusive” package. This includes a guaranteed window seat, as well as an open bar which means you’ll be able to drink as much as you like. In addition to being an excellent hiking destination, Breakneck Ridge also serves as part of the Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area. This organization works to protect beautiful natural areas throughout New York State.

Hudson Cruises, Inc.

What landmarks and sights can I expect to see on a Hudson River cruise? On a Hudson River cruise, you’ll likely see famous New York landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Manhattan skyline. The Hudson River, a defining feature of New York’s landscape, has played a pivotal role in shaping both the state and the nation’s history. This majestic river, stretching 315 miles from the Adirondack Mountains to the Battery in New York City, has witnessed centuries of transformative events. Due to Hyde Park’s natural beauty and proximity to the city, families such as the Astors and Vanderbilts built weekend homes nearby.

The Palisades are a geological wonder that dates back to 200 million years ago and was almost lost to industry, but luckily you can still appreciate their unique history and explore them today. Lunch and brunch cruises are usually two hours, while dinner cruises are typically three hours. Lunch cruises tend to be more casual than dinner cruises, making them ideal for a family or group outing. On the other hand, dinner cruises specialize in accommodating couples and friend groups looking for more of a night out. Hudson River Cruises offers a unique and memorable experience for passengers seeking to explore the historic shoreline of the Hudson River. Located in the heart of the Hudson River Valley in Kingston, NY, the Rip Van Winkle is the perfect vessel for exploring the region’s scenic beauty.

Join us aboard one of the smaller more intimate wooden yachts of the Classic Harbor Line fleet and departs from Chelsea Piers for a cruise in New York Harbor at Sunset. Yacht Full Moon is equipped with comfortable seating and excellent views of the city skyline and New York harbor. Occasionally this cruise will take place on her sister ship the classic Yacht Kingston. This charming plumb-bowed mini-yacht features wrap-around seating to take in all the amazing views this city has to offer. Each excursion will feature a slow pass by the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island.

Dress appropriately for the weather and bring a light jacket or sweater as the temperature can change on the water. A holiday harbor river cruise in New York City is a great way to see the city’s world-renowned landmarks, such as the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the Brooklyn Bridge, and Battery Park. There is something for everyone for all occasions, from Valentine’s Day and Easter to the 4th of July, New Year’s Eve, and Mother’s Day. Looking for the most relaxing, fun way to spend an afternoon in the Hudson Valley? Grab your friends and family and come aboard the Rip Van Winkle II for the ultimate sightseeing experience. For over 35 years, Hudson River Cruises has provided passengers a first-hand view of the historic shoreline from the decks of the Rip Van Winkle II.

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In addition, dine on classic snacks like mozzarella sticks, nachos, and burgers. The two-hour trip runs from Albany south to Castleton and showcases gorgeous golden hour views. Bring binoculars and try to spot bald eagles native to the region, and pay close attention to the rich narration provided by the Hudson River historian onboard.

Hudson River Boat Cruises NYC Cruise to Bear Mountain and more!

Table Of Content

• Dutch Apple Cruises' Dinner Cruise
• CAPTAIN JP CRUISE LINE
• Day By Day Itinerary
• Enjoy Live Music along the Scenic Hudson River
• Dutch Apple Cruises
• Captain J.P. Cruise Line's Dinner Dance Cruises

The cruise lasts approximately two hours and sets sail at 7 pm. Make your next private event or special occasion unique and memorable with a cruise on the Rip Van Winkle II. From corporate events to weddings and everything in between — a Hudson River Cruise is sure to exceed the expectations of any group gathering.

Dutch Apple Cruises' Dinner Cruise

You’ll have two climate-controlled decks to choose from, plus a covered roof deck, multiple dance floors if and a DJ to get the party moving. This isn't just a cocktail cruise, there's pasta, Tex-Mex and other food options depending on the admission level you choose. These elegant skyline dinner cruises in NYC turn yachts and steamboats into floating restaurants. Your list of top things to do in the Hudson Valley has to include a sightseeing cruise on the Hudson River! Enjoy clear views of historic Hudson River lighthouses, waterfront mansions, and other notable sites aboard the Rip Van Winkle II.

CAPTAIN JP CRUISE LINE

This Valentine’s Day Cruise is one of the best date ideas in the city of Manhattan. This romantic, intimate and breathtaking NYC Cruise is something that you will make a regular annual event on this special day. Running north for more than 150 miles from New York City, past dozens of riverfront towns and cities to Albany and beyond, the Hudson River Valley presents ample opportunities for river cruises. Head next door to get your hands on the banging street tacos aboard this one-of-a-kind three-level floating Mexican restaurant made for good times. Is there a guide on board during the Hudson River boat tour or cruise? Yes, most boat tours and cruises provide a knowledgeable guide who can provide information about the Hudson River, its history, and the surrounding landmarks.

Day By Day Itinerary

The riverside town of Sleepy Hollow is forever immortalized in the works of one of the country's first great writers, Washington Irving. The author found inspiration in the Hudson Valley, creating legendary stories like Rip Van Winkle. Today, Irving's country home, Sunnyside, is a National Historic Landmark and welcomes visitors with tales of the man himself. The United States Military Academy at West Point offers visitors the opportunity to walk on the hallowed grounds once traversed by some of the nation's greatest generals. Founded in 1802 by an act of Congress, the Academy has been of significant military importance to America. Tour the West Point Museum and Cadet Chapel, while viewing magnificent vistas of the Hudson Valley from atop the campus grounds.

More Hudson Experiences

When the steamboat debuted in 1807, the Hudson River became a waterway of leisurely travel. Kingston preserves the heritage of the region at the Hudson River Maritime Museum. After boarding your ship, enjoy a delightful afternoon cruising from this bustling metropolitan area to the idyllic Hudson River region.

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The scenic beauty of the Catskills has long been an inspiration to artists, writers, and naturalists who draw inspiration from its tranquil forests and expansive mountain landscapes. Walk the hallowed grounds of West Point Military Academy, while viewing the magnificent vistas of Hudson Valley. Take a guided exploration of Franklin D. Roosevelt’s childhood home, where he hosted Winston Churchill and Queen Elizabeth. Travel to Olana, the estate of 19th-century artist Frederic Edwin Church and admire unrivaled panoramic views of the Hudson Valley and Catskill Mountains.

Enjoy Live Music along the Scenic Hudson River

Bannerman Castle is one of the most recognizable sights along the Hudson line of the Metro-North train tracks. Munitions dealer and prominent businessman Francis Bannerman started construction on the simulated Scottish castle in 1901. Now, more than 120 years later, Hudson Valleyites continue to enjoy the island’s unique landscape and breathtaking views.

Observe New York’s most dramatic natural wonders and colorful foliage as the seasons change. All it takes to transport passengers from Beacon’s riverfront to the island’s wonderous shores is a charming 30-minute cruise. Volunteers of the Bannerman Castle Trust lead walking tours once on the island, showcasing a fascinating history of ingenuity and entrepreneurship.

Captain J.P. Cruise Line's Dinner Dance Cruises

From our location in the heart of the Hudson River Valley in Kingston NY, we provide a delightfully unique opportunity to explore this scenic shoreline. This tour is particularly suitable for couples, friends and a special occasion. It’s perfect for guests who want to spend three special hours on the Hudson River. However, we would definitely not recommend this tour with children.

The basic tour embarks from Kingston’s Rondout, while the premiere package leaves from Waryas Park in Poughkeepsie—perfect for day-trippers. Sunset cruises are especially romantic, and often feature deck-rocking live music and dancing. Stay tuned for special events like beer tastings, farm-to-table dinners, and more. Lovebirds looking to tie the knot on the water can book the Rip Van Winkle II for rehearsal dinners, ceremonies, and wedding receptions. Climb aboard the Kingston — our cozy, elegant, 1920s-style yacht — as we travel northbound on the Hudson River in style! Admire the last leaves of fall in all their splendor through the large windowed salon of our ship’s heated and enclosed observatory, or while catching the breeze on her bow.

The ship -- the Dutch Apple II -- sails rain or shine and features fully enclosed, heated decks. From public cruises to a private charter cruise, we offer it all. Enjoy a scenic trip or start a new tradition with old friends aboard our vessels.

Gift a luxurious day or evening cruise on the Hudson River aboard the Pride of the Hudson. Our gift certificates are the perfect solution for making any special event or occasion a truly unique and memorable experience. Among all this, guests will also get the chance to sit down to a carefully curated six-course dinner prepared by accomplished chefs and sip on fine wines and premium spirits. Gift the experience of a day or evening cruise on the Hudson River aboard the Rip Van Winkle II. Hudson River Cruises’ gift certificatesare the perfect solution for making any special event or occassion a truly unique and memorable experience. On the top level, sip cold craft beers like Wrench NEIPAs from Industrial Arts and Raspberry Blonde Ales from Fort Orange Brewing.

Set off on a two-hour cruise headed to the Statue of Liberty, while enjoying a menu featuring a raw bar and fresh New England seafood like Maine lobster, fish tacos and clam chowder. Pair your meal with red and white wine selections, bottled beers and summery signature cocktails served by the glass or pitcher. Whether celebrating a class reunion, birthday party, anniversary, graduation party or any other special occasion, a cruise down the historic Hudson River makes it truly unforgettable. It was a mixed crowd, but it mostly consisted of couples and smaller groups of girls. In good weather, the outdoor portion of the yacht is equipped with a bar and can be a lot of fun. Our evening was relatively quiet and there was no real party mood, which did not bother us.

During the duration of the trip, you can be both inside and outside. And if you check the water periodically, you may see seals and the occasional dolphin playing with a kayaker, just a few of the over seventy creatures that call the Hudson River home. As one news report recently noted, “The many creatures of the Hudson River may surprise you.” For the full eco-experience, go paddling on the Hudson!

Once a month, boogie down to live music from local bands and tribute acts. Find a full schedule of events online, where tickets can be reserved. Can I bring my own food and drinks on the Hudson River boat tour or cruise?

Dinner cruises on the Spirit on Hudson are available from April to October. Passengers enjoy a choice of a roast beef of stuffed chicken breast entree with salad, pasta or potatoes and a vegetable side dish. Hudson Cruises' murder mystery cruises also include dinner with crime-solving fun. Albany, New York-based Dutch Apple Cruises offer several cruises on the Hudson River. The dinner cruise lasts three hours and includes a buffet meal and entertainment provided by a DJ. The buffet features barbecued chicken, Memphis-style smoked ribs and flank steak entrees, various side dishes and brownies for desert, as well as rolls and coffee service.

First Timers Guide to Cruising in Alaska

Table Of Content

• Seabourn Cruises
• The 9 best Alaska cruises for every type of traveler in 2024
• Major Cruise lines
• Bug Spray Is a Must for Anyone on a Cruise to Alaska
• You are unable to access familyvacationist.com
• The Best Time to Cruise Alaska: Crowds, Weather and Cost Are All Factors

Princess has been cruising to Alaska for more than half a century, and they continue to lead the industry by bringing more guests to the state than any other cruise line. In fact, they introduced a generation to the idea of cruising via the hit TV show The Love Boat, which was set on a Princess ship and featured many episodes in Alaska! Because of their deep ties to the state, the cruise line is able to offer a variety of itineraries and shore excursions, and they even own a number of Princess Wilderness Lodges near national parks, so you can add a land extension to your trip.

Seabourn Cruises

In terms of clothing for an Alaska Cruise, definitely bring warm items and most importantly a windbreaker jacket. Even when the sun is shining and warm (which we were lucky enough to have through the week), the wind on the upper decks can be chilly. One of the best parts of an Alaskan cruise is that there is usually a beautiful landscape to enjoy as you sail so you will want to be on deck for most of it. And is when a group of humpback whales work together (teamwork, guys!) to blow a net of bubbles to surround and confuse their prey. It looks a little like peak hours at the buffet on a cruise ship, actually, and is a fascinating thing to see. And I’m here to assure you that, unless you never leave the casino because you feel like luck is on your side due to the great weather you’re getting in Alaska this week (wait…), you will!

The 9 best Alaska cruises for every type of traveler in 2024

Juneau is the seat of government and very scenic with possible small boat excursion to Tracy Arm (may have transfer from cruise ship option). Mt Roberts Tram has scenic views, Mendenhall Glacier will be crowded but opportunity for short hikes. Juneau is also boarding for floatplanes out to Taku Glacier Lodge for Salmon lunch. Most regular cruisers will tell you that it's all about the ports of call - which ones, how long in port, how many other ships present - that makes the biggest difference.

Major Cruise lines

The personalized service and all-inclusive nature of luxury voyages may also be attractive to anyone celebrating a milestone, such as an anniversary, big birthday or retirement. Typically, the big ships will open up all the outer decks for passengers to crowd the railings to watch the glaciers calve and scan the area for wildlife. If you want to get out on a kayak or small boat to get closer to the glacier or the marine life, you’ll need to book an expedition cruise.

Why cruise to Alaska?

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Of course people have their favorites, and there are lots of anecdotal stories about which line is more kid-friendly, or which one tends to attract an older crowd, blah blah. The fact is that Alaska cruises are very port-intensive, and many cruisers really use the ship as a comfortable hotel and that's about it. To prepare for all conditions, you should plan for temperatures ranging from the 40s to 70s, both on and off ship.

Bug Spray Is a Must for Anyone on a Cruise to Alaska

With a well-crafted Alaskan cruise itinerary, you can look forward to a remarkable journey that takes you beyond the expected and reveals the true essence of this awe-inspiring destination. When it comes to selecting a cruise line for your Alaskan voyage, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Several reputable cruise lines operate in Alaska, each offering unique experiences. Consider Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line, or Princess Cruises for a remarkable journey through the Last Frontier. The best cruise for couples, both straight and gay, Celebrity offers lots of opportunities for romantic experiences in Alaska, from hiking through a rainforest in Juneau to cuddling up during a ride back in time on the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway. On the ship itself, there are lots of spots where you can take some Instagrammable selfies with the majestic Alaska scenery behind you.

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The Best Time to Cruise Alaska 2024: A Month-by-Month Guide - Condé Nast Traveler

The Best Time to Cruise Alaska 2024: A Month-by-Month Guide.

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A handful of cruise lines -- mostly small ship and luxury lines like Cunard, Seabourn and Windstar -- offer Alaska cruises ranging from nine to 14 days in length (generally departing from Vancouver). Mainstream lines have also started offering longer cruises to Alaska from southern West Coast ports like San Francisco and Los Angeles. I’ve also seen them outside of that window though, so don’t distress if you’re not cruising during that time. I’ve only ever seen bears from buses, boats, or on a tour where we were seeking them out with an experienced bear tracker. If you’re on one of the last sailings in late September or early October, you’ll see fewer whales and if you want the best shot at seeing them bubble-net feeding, cruise in June or July. If you want a near guarantee (in fact, most tours offer a guarantee) that you’ll see humpbacks up close, book a whale watching tour.

From the summit, you’ll be treated to incredible panoramas of the Chugach Mountain range. Hoonah is an Alaskan community on Chichagof Island predominantly inhabited by the Tlingit people. A visit here will give you a chance to surround yourself with the vibrant culture of the community living here. A visit to this park will give you a taste of the “gold fever” that brought so many hopeful souls to the region in search of fortune. The nearby Southeast Alaska Discovery Center, which focuses on the region’s history, indigenous cultures, and natural ecosystems, is worth a visit as well. Once upon a time, at the height of the fish canning era, Creek Street was a fairly notorious red-light district.

As you sail through the stunning Inside Passage, be prepared to be enchanted by the majestic glaciers, lush forests, and abundant wildlife that define this region. Aside from partaking in boat trips, you can also experience kayaking in Alaska for more wildlife and glacier viewing opportunities, offering you intimate encounters with the park’s local fauna and pristine habitats. Inside Kenai Fjords National Park, you can go for trail hikes to check out the imposing fjords and lofty glaciers, spot diverse marine wildlife like dolphins, sea otters, humpback whales, and orcas, and of course gaze in awe at the exquisite ice formations.

You’ll find three main dining rooms, plus a pizzeria, gastropub, Italian restaurant, chop house, and Mediterranean bistro. Or, kick things up a notch with a Chef’s Table Lumiere experience of multiple courses with wine pairings. Spend your time listening to live music in the Crooners Bar, exploring cocktails from around the world at Good Spirits, and relaxing at the jazz club. Be sure to check out SeaWalk, a walkway that cantilevers off the side of the ship and has a glass bottom so guests can see below and above. If you’re passionate about the finer things in life, Celebrity Cruises may very well speak to your soul. And onboard experiences range from Macallan and Jack Daniel’s tastings to Riedel crystal workshops that show how different shapes and qualities of a Riedel glass change the taste of wine.

This means you’ll want to include a trip to Denali National Park when visiting Alaska for the first time. To find the best Alaska cruises, we followed expert recommendations and read hundreds of user reviews and ratings. Because I’ve been on several Alaska cruises alone, with my family and with my husband, I also based my choices on my own personal experiences.

The Alaska cruise season is short, running mainly from May to September, with a few lines offering sailings in April and October. Among the big-ship lines, Holland America and Princess are known as the Alaska experts. These lines typically base the most ships in this region every summer, and offer the largest selection of cruises and cruise tours. Perhaps you’re drawn to the gorgeous scenery, the area’s cultural and historic riches, or its abundant wildlife. With a variety of itineraries, cruise ships, destinations, and activities to consider, no two cruises to Alaska will be the same.

You can even order room service breakfast, so you can sip your coffee and nibble on a pastry while watching nature's splendor. Many cruise cabins have metal walls or ceilings that can serve as a perfect spot to hang items such as hats, jackets, or small bags. Magnetic hooks can be easily attached and removed, providing additional storage options without taking up any floor space. Additionally, consider using an over-the-door shoe organizer to keep accessories and toiletries organized and easily accessible.

First Time Cruisers

Table Of Content

• Seabourn Cruises
• Subscribe to We Are Travel Girls
• The Best Private & Small Group Shore Excursions for Your Alaska Cruise
• North America Travel Guide
• The 1-item upgrade you need for a better cruise ship cabin experience (it’s already in your house)

Fortunately, there are several space-saving hacks that can help optimize your cabin's layout. One useful tip is to store your luggage under the bed, freeing up valuable floor space. Most cruise cabins have ample space under the bed for suitcases or bags, allowing you to keep them out of sight while maximizing your living area.

Seabourn Cruises

Nearly every major cruise line has a presence in Alaska from May through mid-September, with some offering sailings as early as April or as late as October. Cold temperatures, icy waters and a long snowy season are not conducive to early spring and late fall cruises. Alaska may be one of the most beautiful places in the world, but it's rugged and can be tricky to get around. Explore the Last Frontier by cruise ship, and you can travel to Gold Rush towns, glaciers, Alaska Native heritage sites and natural areas brimming with wildlife in comfort, even luxury.

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If you've got active teens who have an interest in nature and the environment, an expedition voyage could be exactly what will keep them engaged and off their devices. Check out our list of the 10 Must-Pack Items for an Alaska Cruise for more information on packing necessities on your Alaskan cruise. Dress in layers of clothing so that you can peel off (or add on) slowly as the thermometer dictates. You will want to pack a bathing suit and a very warm fleece jacket -- and you'll likely wear both at different times. Connect with other travel lovers, gain valuable travel advice, and make unforgettable memories through our events, meet-ups, and luxury getaways. If you have any questions about the destination, please leave these in the comments below.

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The surprising takeaway from a recent study on the best time to cruise to Alaska.

Posted: Tue, 02 Apr 2024 07:00:00 GMT [source]

The Best Private & Small Group Shore Excursions for Your Alaska Cruise

In fact, it's the gateway to the Klondike and Dawson's mining district in Canada's Yukon territory, where prospectors searched for gold in the late 1890s. The historic district still has a Wild West feel, though that's been a bit commercialized for the modern era. This port can get crowded in summer when several ships can call on the same day. For a view of the city and cruise port, take a ride in the sky on the Mount Roberts Tramway.

North America Travel Guide

Royal Caribbean's 20-year-old ship Radiance of the Seas mainly sails weeklong, one-way cruises between Vancouver and Seward, Alaska, with prices below $100 per person, per night, for inside and outside cabins on many departures. If you're traveling with young kids in Alaska and want an activity- and entertainment-packed experience, make a beeline for Disney Cruise Line and its Alaska-based Disney Wonder. The ship has an extensive children's program, high-quality entertainment, and such activities as water slides and play areas. If you want to see some of Alaska's most rustic and charming villages or stick to wild places, book a voyage with a line like Alaskan Dream Cruises and UnCruise that visits destinations like Baranof Island, Chichagof Island, Petersburg and Wrangell. Gulf of Alaska sailings — especially those in late August and September — can encounter rough seas in the gulf portion of the voyage. For these itineraries, you'll need to fly into or out of Anchorage and take a train or bus to/from the cruise departure ports, which can take an hour or two.

A Cruise to the Exotic Southern Caribbean

Onboard the all-suite ships, there’s butler service in every suite, fine dining, and select shore excursions included. The largest Silversea ship sailing to Alaska also carries just under 600 guests, allowing for port calls at lesser-visited stops like Wrangell, Haines, and Valdez. One of the most magical ways to explore Alaska’s expansive coastline, stunning snow-capped mountains, mystic fjords, lush rainforests, awe-inspiring glaciers, and protected wildlife is by sea. Plus, it’s the best way to experience the iconic Inside Passage, the most popular route for cruise ships departing from Seattle and Vancouver from May through September.

The 1-item upgrade you need for a better cruise ship cabin experience (it’s already in your house)

If you get seasick easily, also think twice about round-trip cruises from Seattle that spend days cruising in the open ocean. 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. Due to unpredictable weather, though, there’s a risk of shore excursions being cancelled -- especially boat and helicopter tours. When you go on holiday you probably don’t picture yourself sitting in a lecture theater, but on an Alaskan cruise you absolutely should!

Holland America Line

For your on-shore day excursions, be sure to pack layers of clothing and rain gear so that you can be comfortable. Proper footwear is also important and be sure to bring hiking shoes if you plan to enjoy outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for an all-inclusive multi-day Alaska cruise package or simply a day cruise to see wildlife and glaciers, there are many options to choose from. Closer afield, but no less secluded is the Prince William Sound Explorer from Uncruise, where guests will depart Whittier and wake up among the glaciers of little-visited Icy Bay on the Kenai Peninsula. Much of the itinerary is “Captain’s choice” based on conditions and sealife movements, but the massive Columbia and Meares glaciers and the Sound communities of Cordova and Valdez—also off the big ship routes—hold prized spots on the itinerary.

The benefit of a roundtrip cruise is that it is much simpler -- and cheaper -- to get to the departure ports. You won’t have to bother with one-way flights and the longer transit time to/from Anchorage. It's much easier to plan roundtrip airfare to Seattle than a one-way flight into Anchorage and out of Vancouver. The best Alaska cruise itinerary for you depends on what you want to prioritize for your vacation. In general, most people want to try to see as much of Alaska as they can in one sailing. After all, it's a long distance to reach Alaska and not the cheapest cruise, either.

However, first-timers can easily become overwhelmed choosing the best Alaska cruise itinerary or picking the perfect cruise line or cruise tour. One-way Gulf of Alaska itineraries are the best option for Alaska touring, as they begin or end in Alaska. An Alaska cruise from Seattle will visit the Inside Passage but tends to favor the open (and frequently bumpier) Pacific Ocean. Sailings from Vancouver tend to traverse more of the Inside Passage and spend a full day sailing this scenic region.

We’ve gathered cruises in all size categories (from a couple of hundred passengers to nearly 5,000), as ship size is often one of the biggest factors when selecting a cruise. We’ve also called attention to cruise options that do an impressive job of showcasing nature, offering local experiences, providing endless onboard entertainment, or catering to foodies or luxury travelers. Holland America Line has offered Alaska cruises for 75 years and is clearly a market leader. The line tops the list in terms of cruises, as well as cruise tours, which combine time sailing with overnight stays on land. The company operates its own lodges, rail cars and motorcoaches for exploration of Alaska's interior and beyond.

Our room was on a corner in the middle of the ship where the next section of cabin rooms and balconies jutted out farther than ours to one side. This meant we had a large wall next to our balcony completely obscuring the view to the left and front of the boat so could not see anything ahead of us when we were sailing. The bottom line here is that your phone will probably work on land in towns and cities in Alaska, but won’t work at sea unless you purchase a special plan from your carrier.