Why a Cruise Is the Best Way to See Alaska

Where else can you spy an eagle nesting along a coastal forest or a 30-ton whale gliding under your catamaran? Or, view millions-of-years-old glaciers jutting out from the water or visit charming small towns that let you step back in time? Alaska is the place for incredible—and memorable—travel experiences. Book a cruise on one of Norwegian’s newest, most luxurious ships to make the most of your time in Alaska.

Alaska is expansive. Each region has different sections, affording you an opportunity to discover something new—from the lakes and mountains of Southcentral and the volcanic terrain of the Southwest to the diverse landscape of the Arctic and glaciers, fjords, and coastal mountains of the Inside Passage—all of which can only be explored via a cruise.

Norwegian is a world-class cruise line featuring a fleet of three opulent vessels: Norwegian Joy, Norwegian Bliss, and Norwegian Jewel. And as the ships’ names imply, a voyage on any one of these vessels is one that is designed to bring happiness to all who partake.

Norwegian ships have superior amenities like numerous gourmet dining and entertainment options like the two-level racetrack where you can go for a thrilling ride in the middle of the ocean, as well as some of the largest suites, which epitomize cruising in luxury. Hidden away at the top of the ship is an exclusive enclave of well-appointed accommodations, The Haven. If you stay in one of these suites, you not only get access to all the ship has to offer but you will enjoy the personal service of a 24-hour butler for the duration of your voyage. In the Concierge collection of suites on Norwegian Joy, you will also be pampered with spacious accommodations, concierge service, and private dining. No matter where you stay, the service is second to none.

Norwegian offers several Alaska cruises that will bring you to places where beauty is standard, and always awe-inspiring. In 2019, Norwegian will offer cruises on Norwegian Joy, its newest ship to sail Alaska, including the 7-Day Awe of Alaska: Inside Passage and Glacier Bay from Seattle sailing. On board you will be treated to luxuries like the Observation Lounge, where you can sip a cocktail while you enjoy 180-degree views of the stunning natural beauty that surrounds you. It leaves from Seattle and travels to Juneau first, a small town known for its charm and grandiose landscape. You can kayak up one of the protected waterways, go flightseeing, or tour the historic downtown. Or, if you are really adventurous, you can explore the majestic Mendenhall Glacier, which is 12 miles outside of town but worth the trek. Also on this voyage, you will explore one of the United Nations World Heritage Sites, Glacier Bay National Park, which is comprised of 3.3 million acres that are home to glaciers, snowcapped mountains, and more.

From any one of these cruises, you can book onshore excursions that will give you the chance to really experience Alaska at a more intimate and enriching level. Norwegian offers hands down the best whale-watching experiences. The adventure begins with a boat ride to Auke Bay, where you are put on a waterjet-powered catamaran specially designed for wildlife viewing. While you are warm inside with great views of the outside, a guide takes you through the island-rich Stephens Passage and provides real-time information on the whales, Dall’s porpoises, bald eagles, bears, and deer that you may encounter.

On the Exit Glacier & Alaska Sealife Center excursion, you have the opportunity to explore the base of a massive glacier and visit the state’s only public aquarium and rehabilitation center. The first stop is at Kenai Fjords National Park, where you will join a walking tour of Exit Glacier, one of the dozens of glaciers of the impressive Harding Icefield. From there, you will head to Seward for a tour of the Alaska Sealife Center, for a look at a wide variety of native species that are being rehabilitated in the hopes of returning them to the wild.

Best of Skagway and White Pass Rail is an expedition that will not disappoint. From your antique rail car you will ride by scenery that will amaze you, and a guide will share the history and the stories of the Klondike Gold Rush before you embark on a gold-finding mission on Liarsville gold fields. This is followed by a lively night of food and drink at some of the area’s most authentic establishments.

These are just some of the amazing places you will see on a Norwegian cruise to Alaska. It’s time to book your cruise vacation now.