The Best Cruises to Alaska

Alaskan cruise ship image by MAXFX from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>

Alaska is known for its majestic mountain ranges, spectacular glaciers and abundance of wildlife. Adventurers can kayak with whales, hike endless trails, climb glaciers and ride in a traditional dogsled. Since it is such a vast state, cruising is a popular way to see Alaska. A cruise ship acts as both hotel and transportation and allows guests to experience many different Alaskan coastal cities and villages. Many cruises to Alaska start in Seattle or Vancouver and sail Alaska's inside passage, allowing spectacular views of glaciers and marine life.

Holland America

Holland America's MS Ryndam departs Vancouver, BC, weekly, cruising Alaska's famous Inside Passage on its way to Seward, Alaska. Cruise ports include Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway. Holland America's mid-sized ships allow for a more formal and intimate setting than larger megaclass ships. The ship features several dining rooms, the Crow's Nest lounge, a fitness center, a full-service spa and nightly entertainment. Guests can choose inside or outside staterooms or suites with verandas.

Holland America
300 Elliott Ave West
Seattle, WA 98119
(877) 932-4259
hollandamerica.com

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean's fleet are among the newest and largest in the cruise industry. Large liners cater to families with plenty of dining and activity choices to please everyone in the group. Radiance of the Seas cruises from Seattle, Washington, to Seward, Alaska. Highlights of the cruise include Icy Strait Point and Hubbard Glacier, where you can see the glacier "calving." The ship features a rock-climbing wall, day spa and fitness center, casino, nightly live entertainment and several dining choices.

Royal Caribbean
1050 Caribbean Way
Miami, FL 33132
(800) 398-9819
royalcaribbean.com

Cruise West

Cruise West offers Alaska cruises on small ships that can visit waterways and ports that the larger ships can't access. Ships carry 78 to 140 passengers, and naturalists are on board to provide wildlife information and help with sightings. The Glaciers of Prince William Sound cruise offers passengers the opportunity to see Prince William Sound, Denali National Park and the Columbia Glacier. Deluxe cabins feature private baths, double bed or two twin beds and viewing window.

Cruise West
2301 Fifth Avenue, Suite 401
Seattle, WA 98121
(888) 851-8133
cruisewest.com

Article Written By Laine Doss

Laine Doss has been writing for years with an emphasis on fitness, travel and lifestyle issues. Doss has written for "Buzz" magazine, Examiner.com, Liberalwonk.com, Fashify.com and Laine Doss Green Travels. Doss has co-hosted a lifestyles-themed radio show and is a graduate of the Connecticut School of Broadcasting.

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