These days Alaska cruises are a hot ticket. With its untamed wilderness, snow-capped mountaintops, immense glaciers and abundant wildlife, an Alaska cruise tends to be a bucket list item. There are many great choices, but for those seeking a smaller ship that offers a more intimate luxury feel with impeccable service, here are some of our top choices from some of the most prestigious names in the cruise industry.
By: Travel Anne Staff Writers
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We've lost count of the number of Cruise Lines that sail Alaskan waters. In our opinion there are too many choices and nothing can ruin a bucket list trip more than making the wrong choice. It's been said that "you get what you paid for." Remember that when making the choice.
For purposes of this post we focus on the top names in the industry: Seabourn, Silversea, Oceania, Regent, and Lindblad. It's worth exploring options with us because even these luxury lines run specials. That said, these options tend to have higher price-points. That's because they also offer a better experience. They have better food, better accommodations, better activities, better expeditions, and better service.
Got that? Better! Let's start.
Seabourn: Sailing in Style
Seabourn is one of our favorite cruise lines. They are synonymous with luxury at sea and brings its renowned elegance to the Alaskan waters. Imagine waking up in a suite adorned with hand-picked furnishings, sipping champagne on your private veranda as you witness towering glaciers calving into the ocean.
Dining Delights: Seabourn takes culinary excellence to new heights with its gourmet offerings. From fine dining at The Restaurant to casual delights at The Colonnade, every meal is an experience. The Grill by Thomas Keller, an exclusive partnership, elevates the steakhouse concept to a new level.
Accommodations: Seabourn's all-suite accommodations redefine luxury. Spacious and meticulously designed, each suite is a sanctuary of comfort, with personalized service ensuring your every need is met.
Signature Service: What sets Seabourn apart is its intuitive service. Crew members anticipate your desires, ensuring a seamless and personalized experience. Whether it's arranging a private shore excursion or curating a bespoke dining experience, Seabourn pampers you with unparalleled attention.
Side Expeditions: Seabourn's Ventures by Seabourn™ program offers adventurous excursions led by expert guides. Helicopter flightseeing, kayaking in pristine fjords, and wildlife encounters with naturalists are just a glimpse of the immersive experiences awaiting you. If you're not sold yet, watch the video below.
Silversea: Unveiling the Extraordinary
Silversea is another great choice. Their focus is on intimate luxury and inviting you to embark on a journey where the extraordinary is a daily affair. Sailing through Alaska's Inside Passage, you'll discover a world where nature's grandeur meets refined elegance.
Culinary Excellence: Silversea's culinary prowess is showcased in its diverse dining venues. From the intimate La Dame to the open-air Hot Rocks, each restaurant presents a culinary journey reflecting the regions visited.
Sumptuous Suites: Silversea's all-suite accommodations redefine elegance. Each suite boasts a personal butler, ensuring your preferences are catered to. Spacious verandas offer front-row seats to Alaska's breathtaking landscapes.
White Glove Service: Silversea's commitment to attentive service is evident in its white-glove approach. With a high staff-to-guest ratio, you're assured personalized attention throughout your voyage.
Exquisite Exploration: Silversea's enrichment programs bring Alaska's wonders to life. Expert naturalists and guest lecturers provide insights into the region's ecology and culture. Zodiac excursions and kayak adventures promise up-close encounters with Alaska's wildlife.
Another great video. This one from Silversea!
Oceania: Cruising the Last Frontier
Oceania Cruises, renowned for its culinary excellence and immersive experiences, beckons you to explore Alaska's Last Frontier in unparalleled comfort. Immerse yourself in the splendors of the wilderness while relishing the sophistication of Oceania's onboard offerings.
Epicurean Excellence: Oceania's culinary scene is a symphony of flavors. The Grand Dining Room, inspired by European grandeur, and specialty restaurants like Polo Grill and Toscana ensure a gastronomic journey of epic proportions.
Stylish Staterooms: Oceania's staterooms and suites are elegantly appointed, offering a retreat of sophistication. Plush furnishings, luxurious amenities, and private verandas create an ambiance of refined indulgence.
Personalized Service: Oceania's commitment to personalized service means your every wish is attended to. The dedicated staff ensures you feel at home while experiencing the grandeur of the Alaskan landscape.
Destination Immersion: Oceania's unique Culinary Discovery Tours take you beyond the typical shore excursion. Embark on a culinary exploration, visiting local markets and partaking in cooking classes with renowned chefs.
Regent: A Symphony of Six-Star Luxury
Regent Seven Seas Cruises, synonymous with all-inclusive luxury, invites you to experience Alaska in a league of its own. With uncompromising standards and a commitment to excellence, Regent promises a voyage where every desire is not just met but exceeded.
Gourmet Delights: Regent's commitment to culinary excellence is showcased in its diverse dining options. Indulge in prime steaks at Prime 7, savor French cuisine at Chartreuse, and embrace casual elegance at the Pool Grill.
Sumptuous Suites: Regent's spacious suites, each with a private balcony, redefine luxury. With all-inclusive amenities like shore excursions, gratuities, and premium beverages, every moment is designed for your pleasure.
Exceptional Service: Regent's six-star service is more than a promise; it's a commitment. The attentive staff ensures your every need is anticipated, creating a seamless and indulgent experience.
Enrichment Experiences: Regent offers exclusive shore excursions, providing immersive experiences that go beyond the ordinary. Whether it's a helicopter tour over glaciers or a guided nature walk, Regent's excursions reveal the heart of Alaska.
Here's an Alaska promotional video from Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
Lindblad Expeditions: Where Adventure Meets Luxury
Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic, a pioneer in expedition cruising, invites you to experience Alaska's wonders with a touch of adventure and a commitment to environmental stewardship. Sail with purpose as you explore the last frontier.
Culinary Exploration: Lindblad's approach to dining is a celebration of sustainability and local flavors. Enjoy thoughtfully crafted menus that highlight the best of Alaskan cuisine while overlooking the breathtaking landscapes.
Comfort in the Wild: Lindblad's accommodations combine comfort with a sense of adventure. From cozy cabins to spacious suites, each room is a haven of tranquility after a day of exploration.
Expert Guided Expeditions: Lindblad's alliance with National Geographic brings a team of naturalists, scientists, and photographers aboard. Learn about Alaska's ecosystems, wildlife, and conservation efforts from experts dedicated to the region's preservation.
Sustainable Exploration: Lindblad is committed to responsible tourism. Their small ships allow access to remote areas while minimizing environmental impact. Travel with Lindblad is not just a luxury; it's a pledge to preserve Alaska's pristine beauty.
Embarking on Your Alaskan Odyssey
As we said at the beginning of this piece, there are many good options when booking a cruise to Alaska. Much of that depends on budget. But in the realm of luxury cruises to Alaska, Seabourn, Silversea, Oceania, Regent, and Lindblad are among the finest. Whether you seek culinary indulgence, impeccable service, or an eco-conscious expedition, these cruise lines invite you to embark on a journey where every moment is a testament to the majesty of the Last Frontier… wrapped in the lap of luxury.
Whether it's a 2-week escape or a 2-day weekend getaway, TravelAnne is here to make it happen.