Embark on a memorable adventure on a small ship cruise in Alaska and immerse yourself in the region’s awe-inspiring wonders. Small ship Alaska cruises bring you up close to abundant wildlife, marine life, glaciers, and picturesque mountain landscapes in a way larger ships cannot. Imagine standing on the deck of a small cruise ship, invigorating crisp air filling your lungs as you witness the awe-inspiring sight of a humpback whale breaching against the backdrop of a pristine white glacier.
Small ship cruises offer intimate adventures, making every moment feel like a front-row seat to nature’s grand performance. Unlike large cruise ships, which can carry thousands of passengers, small ship cruises in Alaska typically accommodate between 12 and 400 passengers, creating a more personal and immersive experience.
The best time to book a small ship cruise in Alaska is the shoulder season months—May or September. During this time, the weather is mild, there are fewer bugs, more cabin availability, and cruise prices are more affordable. Cruise season in Alaska is from April through October when temperatures range from 26°F to 54°F (-3°C to 12°C).
Fancy cruising America’s Last Frontier? In this article, I’ve reviewed the best cruise lines with small ship expeditions and cruise adventures in Alaska.
Understanding Small Cruise Ships
A small ship cruise is a vessel with fewer than 400 guests. I’ve found that smaller ships provide an intimate, personalized experience that larger cruise ships cannot replicate. The experience is certainly more immersive as the boat navigates narrow waterways and visits remote locations inaccessible to larger vessels.
Like me, you’ll find the experience on board a small cruise ship is unparalleled compared to large cruise lines. Fewer passengers mean a more relaxed atmosphere where you can bond quickly with fellow passengers and the crew. I love the fact there is more access to expedition-style activities. For example, the thrill of walking off the gangway onto a glacier is out of this world.
Introducing Alaska as a Cruise Destination
Alaskan cruises offer unparalleled natural beauty and adventure. Picture yourself standing on the deck cruising the Misty Fjords or Inside Passage or spending a day or two in Glacier Bay National Park. Other adventurous activities on Alaskan cruises include whale watching on Zodiacs in Prince William Sound, viewing black and brown bears, and visiting glaciers at Tracy Arm or Endicott Arms.
In addition to its natural wonders, Alaska is home to a rich cultural heritage. Exclusive shore excursions to remote villages let you learn about the traditions of Indigenous communities, adding to your travel experience.
Expedition-Style Cruising in Alaska
Several Alaskan wildlife cruises are on expedition ships that let you explore Alaska’s vast wilderness. Expedition-style cruises focus on exploring rugged coastlines rather than onboard entertainment. They usually have kayaks, paddleboards, Zodiacs, and expert naturalists on board.
The enriching experience of expedition ship cruises is one reason I enjoy them so much. Before embarking on a shore excursion, listening to knowledgeable guides sharing their experiences helps me better understand the region’s landscape, wildlife, and glacier formation. They also lead expedition-style excursions, which allow for a more immersive and interactive experience.
The Best Luxury Small Cruise Ships in Alaska
Ready to explore Alaska’s stunning landscapes from the comfort of a luxurious small cruise ship. Interested in finding out what high-end amenities, luxury accommodations, and adventurous excursions await you on board?
Read on to discover the best luxury small cruise ships in the Last Frontier for an unforgettable Alaskan experience.
Ponant
Ponant Cruises offers an exquisite blend of adventure and luxury with their small ship Alaskan cruises. Explore Alaska’s rugged beauty, like its lakes, conifer forests, fjords, and glaciers. On the luxury yacht, you navigate narrow waterways, providing exclusive access to remote areas and stunning landscapes that larger vessels can’t reach.
Ponant offers spectacular cruise itineraries, including the awe-inspiring Glacier Bay National Park, the serene Tracy Arm Fjord, and the culturally rich town of Sitka. Shore excursions immerse you in Alaska’s natural and cultural wonders, like spotting humpback whales, grizzlies and black bears, and the majestic bald eagle.
On board, you can indulge in gourmet dining, relax in elegant lounges, and participate in enrichment programs led by experts in various fields.
Ponant Cruises offers Alaskan adventures on these two ships:
Le Soléal
Le Soléal is a stunning, well-appointed yacht combining a sleek design with luxurious comfort. Ideal for exploring Alaska’s wild beauty, the ship cruises from Southeast Alaska through Frederick Sound to Seward. It features two gourmet restaurants—L’Éclipse and Le Pythéas—a theater and spacious lounges. Observation decks offer panoramic views of the Alaskan wilderness and lakes.
- Passenger capacity: 264
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 1.8:1
- Cabins: 132 staterooms and suites featuring private balconies, en-suite bathrooms, and luxurious Diptyque Paris products, such as lush bedding, 24-hour room service, and a coffee maker
- Luxury features: Elegant lounges, gourmet dining options, a spa, fitness center, and a heated swimming pool
- Best for: Couples, solo travelers, and adventurers seeking a blend of luxury and exploration.
Le Commandant Charcot
Le Commandant Charcot is an icebreaking luxury yacht designed for polar exploration. The state-of-the-art ship combines opulence with advanced technology, allowing you to experience remote and pristine arctic environments in comfort and style. It features two gourmet restaurants and an open-air bar.
Ponant’s Alaskan cruise itinerary travels from Reykjavik through the Northwest Passage to Nome in northern Alaska. While navigating polar regions, guests can relax in the swimming pool, enjoy spa treatments, and listen to lectures from scientists. Up to 23 expedition experts are on hand to conduct unique shore excursions.
- Passenger capacity: 245
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 1.1:1
- Cabins: 123 staterooms and suites with private balconies, en-suite bathrooms, Diptyque Paris toiletries, a minibar, concierge service
- Luxury features: Multiple lounges and bars, a gourmet restaurant, a theater, a panoramic salon, a spa, a fitness center, heated swimming pool, and expedition rooms
- Best for: Luxury travelers seeking an extraordinary polar expedition in comfort and style
Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic
Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic offers immersive and educational small ship cruises in Alaska. These expeditions focus on exploring Alaska’s pristine wilderness and diverse ecosystems, providing guests with a deep understanding of the natural world. With expert guides, including naturalists, historians, and photographers, each voyage is enlightening and adventurous.
The expedition cruise itineraries feature iconic Alaskan destinations such as Glacier Bay National Park, the Inside Passage, and the remote Tongass National Forest in Southeast Alaska. Imagine hiking through lush rainforests, kayaking among icebergs, and watching orcas from Zodiacs. These hands-on experiences connect you intimately with Alaska’s majestic landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Onboard, you can expect top-notch amenities and a welcoming atmosphere. The ships are equipped with comfortable cabins, open dining areas to share stories with fellow travelers, panoramic views of dramatic scenery, and dedicated spaces for lectures and workshops. National Geographic (NG) expedition teams enrich the journey, offering insights and photography tips to help you capture the beauty of Alaska.
National Geographic Quest and NG Adventure
National Geographic Quest is an ultra-modern expedition ship designed for exploring remote regions of Alaska. It combines modern amenities with advanced exploration capabilities, making it ideal for adventurous travelers.
- Passenger capacity: 100
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 2.5:1
- Cabins: 50 cabins with ocean views (four cabins have balconies), en-suite bathrooms, WiFi, and climate control
- Luxury features: Observation deck, a lounge with panoramic views, a fitness center, and gourmet dining with locally sourced ingredients
- Best for: Adventurous travelers, nature enthusiasts, and photography buffs seeking an educational and immersive Alaskan experience
National Geographic Sea Bird and NG Sea Lion
National Geographic Sea Bird is an agile and versatile expedition ship offering an intimate setting for exploring Alaska’s hidden gems. Its small size and shallow draft allow access to narrow channels and secluded coves for spectacular, unique, up-close experiences. It also has a range of expedition tools like Zodiacs, kayaks, underwater video cameras, and snorkeling gear.
- Passenger capacity: 62
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 2.5:1
- Cabins: 31 cabins with windows, en-suite bathrooms, WiFi, and air conditioning
- Luxury features: A cozy lounge, an open bow for wildlife viewing, a library, and informal dining, wellness center with fitness equipment with regional specialties
- Best for: Nature lovers, solo travelers, and small groups looking for a close-knit, immersive expedition experience
National Geographic Resolution
National Geographic Resolution is a cutting-edge polar expedition ship equipped to explore Alaska’s most remote regions. It’s also one of the most luxurious expedition ships you’ll find. Large windows, a panoramic viewing deck, and a unique geodesic glass igloo ensure you don’t miss Alaska’s fantastic wildlife and stunning scenery.
The NG Resolution features advanced technology to ensure comfort when cruising from Greenland through the Northwest Passage, along Alaska’s northern coast, and the Bering Sea. It’s an ideal cruise ship for active exploration in Alaska and the polar regions.
- Passenger capacity: 148
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 1.6:1
- Cabins: 71 spacious cabins or suites with large windows or balconies, en-suite bathrooms, WiFi, premium bedding, and a minibar
- Luxury features: Multiple dining venues, a spa, a fitness center, an observation lounge, infinity pools, a bow deck for wildlife viewing, and a library
- Best for: Luxury travelers, adventure seekers, and those looking for an in-depth exploration of polar regions in ultimate comfort
Silversea Cruises
Silversea Cruises is a world-renowned luxury cruise line offering small-ship cruises to Alaska. Stepping on board, the ship’s luxury and elegance are immediately apparent. The cruise itineraries take you on a luxurious adventure to Glacier Bay, the Inside Passage, the Aleutian Chain, Elfin Cove, Behm Canal, and Misty Fjords.
Shore excursions on Silversea Alaskan cruises include Zodiac trips, hiking, and kayaking. In the evenings, relaxing in your luxury stateroom with butler service is fantastic. Other luxury features on the ship are all-inclusive gourmet dining options, swimming in the heated pool, getting pampered in the Zagara Spa, or taking in some evening entertainment.
Silver Wind
With just 274 guests, the Silver Wind cruise ship fits my list of “Best Luxury Small Cruise Ships Under 300 passengers.” The ship offers one of the most luxurious expedition cruises in Alaska.
- Passenger capacity: 274
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 1.2:1
- Cabins: 143 luxury suites featuring ocean views, private verandas, en-suite bathrooms with full-size baths, walk-in wardrobes, and luxury amenities
- Luxury features: Multiple gourmet dining options, a spa, a fitness center, a pool deck, a theater, an observation library, and several lounges and bars
- Best for: Luxury travelers, couples, and solo adventurers seeking an opulent and intimate exploration of Alaska’s wilderness
American Cruise Lines
American Cruise Lines offers an intimate and immersive Alaskan experience with their fleet of two small cruise ships.
Imagine cruising along Alaska’s breathtaking coastline, navigating the Inside Passage, Glacier Bay National Park, Sawyer Glacier, and Misty Fjords. Stopping at tiny ports at Juneau, Haines, and Petersburg, you’ll be awestruck by the majestic glaciers, serene fjords, and diverse wildlife. Each moment on this journey feels personal and unforgettable, bringing you closer to Alaska’s stunning natural beauty.
It’s a memorable experience standing on the 270-degree observation deck and spotting humpback whales. The sight of sea otters and sea lions playing on rocks and eagles soaring overhead is fantastic. Excursions to villages in Southeastern Alaska will enrich your cultural experience.
Ships in American Cruise Lines Alask fleet include:
American Constellation and American Constitution
American Constellation is a modern coastal cruise ship designed to explore Alaska’s scenic beauty. The vessel features spacious lounges, a sun deck, and a well-stocked library. With large staterooms and private balconies, you can enjoy the stunning views of Alaska’s landscapes from the comfort of your room.
- Passenger capacity: 170
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 3:1
- Cabins: 88 spacious staterooms and suites, private balconies with outdoor seating, en-suite bathrooms, 24-hour room service, and flat-screen TVs
- Luxury features: Elegant lounges, a sun deck, gourmet dining options, putting green, and a fitness center
- Best for: Older couples, solo travelers, and families seeking a comfortable and immersive Alaskan adventure
Seabourn Cruises
Seabourn Cruises combines luxury and adventure on its small-ship Alaskan cruises. The smaller ships can navigate narrow waterways along Alaska’s southeastern shoreline. Cruise destinations like Tracy Arm Fjord, Katmai National Park, the historic town of Sitka, Haines, and the breathtaking Glacier Bay National Park offer thrilling kayaking, fishing, wildlife safaris, and whale spotting opportunities.
Onboard naturalists and expert guides add to the cultural experience. Additionally, gourmet dining from world-class chefs, glacier hikes, Zodiac excursions, and an intimate, private, yacht-like atmosphere make the cruise experience unforgettable. Seabourn offers a luxurious way to experience the innate beauty of Alaska while enjoying world-class service and amenities.
Seabourn has two similar ships with Alaska cruise itineraries:
Seabourn Odyssey and Seabourn Quest
Seabourn’s Odyssey and Quest small cruise ships offer luxurious, spacious staterooms with private balconies and outdoor living space. On board, you can enjoy fine dining at multiple restaurants, relax in the wellness spa, or take a dip in the indoor pool. In the evening, relax on the upper observation deck or enjoy entertainment. The ship combines large-cruise features with small-ship cruising.
- Passenger capacity: 458
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 1.3:1
- Cabins: 229 cabins and suites featuring ocean views (suites have private verandas), en-suite bathrooms, luxurious toiletries, and 24-hour room service
- Luxury features: Multiple gourmet dining venues, a world-class spa, a pool, discovery center, onboard marina, and several lounges and bars
- Best for: Couples and solo travelers seeking a luxurious and intimate cruising experience with a focus on personalized service
North Pacific Expeditions
North Pacific Expeditions immerses you in the beauty of Alaska and remote regions of North America. This small ship cruise takes you through the stunning Inside Passage, exploring the Kenai Fjords National Park, Kenai Peninsula, and Prince William Sound. Along the way, you will make unforgettable stops in picturesque towns like Petersburg, Ketchikan, and Sitka.
Adventure seekers will have an incredible time kayaking, spotting whales, and hiking alongside like-minded travelers. Highlights of North Pacific Expeditions cruises include spotting various species of whales and sea birds, getting close to glaciers, sea kayaking, hiking, and gourmet dining with locally sourced ingredients.
The small ship cruise line only has one vessel in its fleet—the Yacht Sea Star.
Yacht Sea Star
Step aboard the Yacht Sea Star and indulge in the ultimate private yacht experience. With only four cabins, you’ll enjoy an exclusive, tailored cruise experience on exciting excursions, including kayaking and hiking adventures. The luxury yacht features spacious interiors, large viewing windows, and an intimate dining room. Meals are prepared by a private chef using local ingredients.
- Passenger capacity: 8 to 12
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 1:1
- Cabins: 4 staterooms featuring queen beds, en-suite bathrooms with showers, plush bedding, and ample storage space
- Luxury features: Gourmet meals prepared by a private chef, a spacious salon and dining area, outdoor lounging spaces, and a sundeck with panoramic views
- Best for: Small groups, families, and couples seeking an exclusive and personalized adventure through Alaska’s untouched wilderness
Alaskan Luxury Cruises
The Sea Mist luxury yacht in Alaskan Luxury Cruises’ fleet offers a stunning way to explore Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes in comfort and style. Highlights on the cruise include the Prince William Sound and the coastal towns of Juneau, Whittier, and Ketchikan. Shore excursions include hiking, walking on glaciers, and whale watching, and
Onboard, the atmosphere is one of casual elegance. Guests rave about the delicious gourmet menu with fresh, local ingredients. Also, comfortable accommodations in the staterooms are the perfect place to unwind after a day of activities. You can relax and enjoy the stunning views from spacious decks.
The Sea Mist
The Sea Mist is a luxurious yacht that provides an exclusive and intimate way to discover Alaska’s wonders. With only six guests, you can enjoy the perfect combination of intimacy, personalized service, and breathtaking scenery. Relax in the spacious staterooms as you take in the stunning views of Alaska’s glaciers, fjords, and wildlife.
- Passenger capacity: 6
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 2:1
- Cabins: 3 staterooms featuring queen beds, en-suite bathrooms, plush bedding, ample storage space
- Luxury features: Gourmet meals prepared by a private chef, a spacious salon and dining area, outdoor lounging spaces, kayaks, and paddleboards
- Best for: Small groups, families, and couples seeking an exclusive and personalized adventure through Alaska’s untouched wilderness
UnCruise Adventures
UnCruise Adventures is one of the most popular expedition-style Alaskan cruises for active and adventurous travelers. Their small ship cruises feature fantastic excursions with intimate encounters in remote and wild regions in Alaska. The super immersive experiences include whale breaching, hiking in untouched forests, bear spotting, the Northern Lights, and birdlife watching.
The fleet of small expedition ships easily navigates scenic fjords, sleepy inlets, and rugged coastlines. You also get up close to the most famous glaciers in the world—close enough to hear them creaking. UnCruise Adventures’ itineraries cover some of Alaska’s most awe-inspiring destinations, including:
- Katmai National Park
- Glacier Bay National Park
- Akutan Island
- The Inside Passage
- The Aleutian islands
- Prince William Sound
- San Juan Islands
- Denali National Park
Shore excursions are action-packed and include activities such as kayaking through icy waters, hiking in lush rainforests, and wildlife spotting from Zodiacs. Each cruise is led by knowledgeable guides who share their expertise on Alaska’s natural history and ecology. On board, enjoy a relaxed, friendly atmosphere and a strong camaraderie with fellow passengers and crew.
Safari Endeavour
Safari Endeavour is an upscale expedition ship for active exploration in Alaska’s rugged wilderness. With comfortable amenities and a focus on adventure, this ship provides an ideal setting for intrepid travelers.
- Passenger capacity: 84
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 2.5:1
- Cabins: 42 staterooms, including suites and singles, featuring en-suite bathrooms, heated floors, and luxury linens
- Luxury features: Two hot tubs, a sauna, a fitness center, a wine bar, gourmet dining with locally sourced ingredients, a Zodiac launch platform, paddleboards, and sun deck
- Best for: Active travelers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a blend of adventure and comfort
Safari Explorer
Safari Explorer is a luxurious expedition yacht offering an intimate and exclusive way to explore Alaska’s remote areas.
- Passenger capacity: 36
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 2:1
- Cabins: 18 luxurious cabins, en-suite bathrooms, heated floors, and high-end amenities such as premium bedding and eco-friendly toiletries
- Luxury features: A hot tub, a sauna, swim step, inflatable skiffs, hiking poles, a fitness center, a wine library, and gourmet dining with regional specialties
- Best for: Small groups, couples, and solo travelers looking for a high-end, adventurous experience
Wilderness Explorer and Wilderness Discoverer
Wilderness Explorer is a rugged and versatile expedition ship designed for exploring Alaska’s remotest regions. Its casual and adventurous atmosphere makes it perfect for active travelers with a spirited sense of adventure.
- Passenger capacity: 74
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 2.7:1
- Cabins: 37 cabins with ocean views, with en-suite bathrooms, basic amenities, and ample storage space
- Luxury features: Hot tubs, a sauna, a bar and lounge, and casual dining with a focus on local cuisine, underwater camera, kayaks, skiffs, wetsuits, fitness room
- Best for: Adventure seekers, solo travelers, and small groups who enjoy active excursions and a casual onboard environment
Wilderness Legacy
Wilderness Legacy is a classic, spacious exploration ship with comfortable accommodations and a wide range of adventure activities. This vessel is ideal for those looking to explore Alaska’s wilderness with a touch of nostalgia and charm.
- Passenger capacity: 86
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 3:1
- Cabins: 43 cabins with sea views, private bathrooms, vintage decor, modern comforts, and premium bedding
- Luxury features: A hot tub, a sauna, a fitness center, multiple lounges, and gourmet dining with a focus on fresh, local ingredients, a launch platform, skiffs, and an elevator
- Best for: Families, couples, and history enthusiasts who appreciate a blend of adventure and classic cruising
The Top Expedition Small Cruise Ships for Alaska Adventures
Are you an intrepid explorer who prefers adventure, thrills, and up-close encounters with nature rather than cruising in luxury? The best expedition small cruise ships offer unparalleled access to Alaska’s remotest and wildest regions. Many small expedition ships have expert guides and advanced equipment to enjoy an enriching voyage in the Last Frontier.
Alaskan Dream Cruises
Alaskan Dream Cruises offers some of the most exciting immersive experiences for Alaskan adventurers. Owned by an Alaska native family, this cruise line’s fleet navigates some of the narrowest waterways in the Last Frontier. Adventure excursions include kayaking, whale watching, sailing in glacial fjords, and visiting Alaska native villages.
Don’t worry about formal nights onboard one of the Alaskan Dream Cruise ships. The casual and welcoming atmosphere allows you to bond with fellow travelers. All ships in the cruise fleet have comfortable cabins, open viewing decks, and dining areas with panoramic windows.
Chichagof Dream
Chichagof Dream is a comfortable, well-appointed ship perfect for exploring Alaska’s pristine waters. This vessel offers a blend of modern amenities and Alaskan charm, providing an ideal setting for your adventure.
- Passenger capacity: 80
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 3:1
- Cabins: 40 staterooms featuring ocean views, en-suite bathrooms, and premium bedding and climate control
- Luxury features: Spacious observation lounges, a dining room with panoramic views, a sauna, and a bar and lounge area
- Best for: Couples, solo travelers, and small groups seeking a comfortable and intimate Alaskan experience
Baranof Dream and Admiralty Dream
Baranof Dream is a sleek and comfortable expedition vessel designed for navigating Alaska’s narrow fjords and secluded coves. This ship combines adventure with comfort and has a spacious bow deck for the ultimate wildlife viewing experience.
- Passenger capacity: 49
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 2.5:1
- Cabins: 25 staterooms with private bathrooms, large windows, plush bedding and climate control
- Luxury features: A cozy lounge, an open-seating dining area, an expansive observation deck, inflatable boats, kayaks, dining on deck
- Best for: Adventurous travelers, small groups, nature enthusiasts, and those looking for an intimate and active exploration of the Alaska wilderness
Alaskan Dream
Alaskan Dream is a spacious and comfortable catamaran offering a variety of amenities to enhance your Alaskan adventure. Its shallow draft allows the ship to navigate the tightest waterways in the narrow fjords and inlets along the Alaskan rugged coastline. The front-facing Vista View lounge gives unparalleled views of Alaska’s landscape.
- Passenger capacity: 40
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 2:1
- Cabins: 19 staterooms with private bathrooms, extra-large ocean-view windows, en-suite shower, and amenities including premium bedding and climate control
- Luxury features: A spacious lounge, an open-seating dining area, a gourmet menu, Kayaks, and expansive decks for wildlife viewing
- Best for: Small groups, couples, and solo travelers seeking an intimate and comfortable exploration of Alaska
The Boat Company
The Boat Company offers unique and eco-friendly small ship cruises in Alaska. With around 20 passengers, you can expect an immersive, personalized Alaskan cruise experience. The voyages explore remote regions of Alaska’s pristine wilderness. Getting close to wildlife-rich habitats, culturally significant sites, and stunning glaciers is an experience you’ll never forget.
The Boat Company is a nonprofit organization dedicated to sustainable tourism and conservation efforts. Cruise itineraries include the Inside Passage, Tongass National Forest, and various secluded bays and fjords. Disembarking in picturesque locations lets you experience kayaking, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing—all guided by experienced naturalists.
The two ships in The Boat Company’s fleet, M/V Mist Cove and M/V Liseron, are comfortable with spacious cabins and ample viewing decks. The ship’s small size fosters a close-knit community among guests and crew. And after a 7-night cruise, you’ll feel like you’re leaving best friends, not just traveling companions.
M/V Mist Cove
M/V Mist Cove is a beautifully crafted expedition vessel built for intimate and immersive explorations of Alaska’s wild landscapes.
- Passenger capacity: 24
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 1.8:1
- Cabins: 12 staterooms featuring private bathrooms, large windows, doors open onto the perimeter deck
- Luxury features: A spacious salon and dining area, a well-stocked bar, outdoor lounging spaces, and kayaks and skiffs for shore excursions
- Best for: Families, couples, and small groups seeking an intimate, eco-friendly, and adventure-filled Alaskan cruise
M/V Liseron
M/V Liseron is a historic and elegant ship that uniquely blends classic charm and modern comfort. This vessel is ideal for experiencing the nostalgia of traditional maritime design and the adventure of exploring Alaska’s untouched wilderness.
- Passenger capacity: 20
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 1.6:1
- Cabins: 10 staterooms with en-suite bathrooms, large windows, built-in wardrobe, plush bedding, climate control, and binoculars
- Luxury features: A cozy lounge, a dining room with panoramic views, open-air decks, kayaks, skiffs, fishing equipment, naturalist guides
- Best for: History enthusiasts, adventure travelers, and small groups looking for a classic, intimate, and eco-conscious cruising experience
Maple Leaf Adventures
Maple Leaf Adventures offers intimate, eco-friendly small ship cruises to explore Alaska’s stunning natural landscapes. Their adventure cruises navigate fjords and narrow inlets along Southeastern Alaska. Each voyage takes you on an immersive adventure to connect with Alaska’s rich wildlife, stunning scenery, and cultural heritage.
Expert guides conduct shore excursions on diverse activities like kayaking among icebergs, hiking through ancient forests, and wildlife watching, including bears, whales, and eagles. Enjoy the casual and friendly atmosphere on board as you build camaraderie with fellow travelers.
Swell
Swell is a beautifully restored classic wooden tugboat offering one of the most unique small-ship cruise experiences in Alaska. This vessel combines historic charm with modern comforts. Enjoy the authentic atmosphere in the wood-paneled salon, marvel at panoramic views from the protected aft deck, and unwind in the hot tub.
- Passenger capacity: 12
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 1:1
- Cabins: 6 compact cabins featuring private bathrooms (heads), porthole windows, premium bedding
- Luxury features: A cozy salon and dining area, outdoor lounging spaces, a hot tub, and kayaks and skiffs for shore excursions
- Best for: Adventure travelers, history enthusiasts, and small groups seeking an intimate, eco-friendly, and luxurious cruising experience
Discovery Voyages
Discovery Voyages offers immersive small-ship voyages through Alaska’s stunning landscapes. The sea adventures include stopping in secluded bays beside stunning waterfalls, tidewater glaciers, and icebergs. Shore excursions include kayaking among icebergs, hiking in undisturbed forests or on glacial outcroppings, and time in the remote village of Cordova—only accessible by boat or plane.
M/V Discovery
The Discovery offers an unforgettable expedition through Alaska’s remotest regions. With a maximum capacity of 12 guests, this comfortable and spacious yacht creates an intimate environment for adventure and relaxation. Its compact size allows access to secluded bays, remote waterways, and narrow passages, providing unique opportunities to explore Alaska’s most beautiful and untouched areas.
- Passenger capacity: 12
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 1:1
- Cabins: 6 cabins featuring comfortable beds (it has shared bathrooms)
- Luxury features: Gourmet meals prepared by an onboard chef, a cozy salon and dining area, outdoor lounging spaces, and panoramic views from the bow deck
- Best for: Small groups, families, and couples seeking an exclusive and personalized adventure through Alaska’s pristine wilderness
Other Luxury Small Ship Cruise Lines in Alaska to Consider
Depending on the level of luxury you want on your Alaskan cruise, some cruise lines have small to mid-sized cruise ships accommodating 600 to 1,000 passengers. Here are two popular luxury cruise lines with voyages in Alaska:
Regents Seven Seas: The Seven Seas Explorer is a luxury cruise ship accommodating 746 guests. Ports of call include Kodiak, Dutch Harbor, Homer, Icy Strait, and Wrangell.
Crystal Cruises: The Crystal Serenity has a guest capacity of 740 passengers who stay in luxury suites and cabins. The cruise itinerary includes Hubbard Glacier, Skagway, Juneau, and Ketchikan, with cruises departing or arriving at Seward or Vancouver.
Pros and Cons of Small-Ship Cruising in Alaska
Small-ship cruising in Alaska offers a unique and intimate way to explore the stunning Last Frontier. Alaska is known for its astonishing natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and diverse marine life. The obvious benefit of a small ship cruise is better access to remote areas.
Here is my experience of the pros and cons of cruising Alaska in small ships:
Pros
- Intimate experience: Fewer passengers create a more personalized and less crowded experience.
- Access to remote areas: Smaller ships can navigate narrow waterways and channels and reach secluded coves and tiny ports.
- Enhanced wildlife viewing: Closer proximity to shorelines and quieter operations increase wildlife sightings like eagles, humpback whales, orcas, and sea lions.
- Flexible itineraries: More adaptable to changes, offering spontaneous wildlife spotting or weather adjustments.
- Personalized service: Higher crew-to-passenger ratios often mean more attentive service and customized experiences.
Cons
- Limited amenities: Smaller ships may lack some of the amenities and entertainment options of larger vessels.
- Not child-friendly: Although children are usually welcome on board, there are few activities to keep them occupied throughout the day and evening. In my experience, small cruise ships rarely have family rooms.
- Higher cost: Often, small-ship cruises are more expensive per person due to the personalized and exclusive nature of the experience.
- Limited onboard activities: Fewer onboard activities and entertainment options compared to larger ships.
- Weather dependency: Smaller ships are more affected by weather conditions, which can impact the itinerary.
Read More: Alaska Cruise Mistakes: Lessons Learned from Experienced Cruisers
Small Ship Cruise in Alaska: FAQs
How much does a small ship cruise in Alaska cost?
The cost of a small ship cruise in Alaska can vary widely depending on the cruise line, duration, and time of year. Prices typically range from 3,000 to 10,000 USD per person for a week-long cruise. Luxury options and longer itineraries can cost upwards of 15,000 USD per person.
What should I pack for a small ship cruise in Alaska?
I recommend packing layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, sturdy hiking boots, binoculars for wildlife viewing, a camera, and any necessary medications. Remember, the weather can change rapidly, even in late spring and summer. Don’t forget sunscreen, insect repellent, and a swimsuit for onboard hot tubs or swimming pools.
Are small ship cruises in Alaska suitable for families?
Although it is an immersive experience, I don’t recommend taking young children on a small ship cruise in Alaska. The onboard atmosphere is quieter, with limited entertainment options. Most shore excursions are geared towards adults and older children. Before booking, thoroughly research what the cruise itinerary offers for children. Sometimes, a large cruise line with Alaskan voyages may be a better option.
How do I choose the right small ship cruise in Alaska?
Choosing the right small ship cruise in Alaska depends on your interests and preferences. Consider factors such as the ship’s size, excursion types, luxury, and comfort level you expect.
When is the best time to book a cruise in Alaska?
Here’s some helpful advice from experienced travelers on the best times to visit Alaska on a cruise:
- Whale watching: The best time for whale watching is from May to September, with peak sightings in June and July.
- Northern Lights: For the best chance to see the Northern Lights, consider cruises between late August and late April. Peak time is in March.
- Bears: Black bear sightings are most common from May to July; brown bears, July to September; polar bears in arctic cruises from late May through early June.
- Hiking: For optimal hiking conditions, plan your trip between June and August when trails are most accessible and free from snow and ice.
- Temperatures: The warmest temperatures in Alaska are typically in June and July, making these months ideal for comfortable outdoor activities.
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