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HOLLAND AMERICA
ALASKA CRUISE TOURS
Your Questions Answered
Planning an Alaska cruise can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be! Here are answers to the questions we hear most often about Holland America's Alaska cruise and CruiseTour options.
Q: What exactly is a Holland America Alaska CruiseTour?
A: Great question! A CruiseTour is the best of both worlds, you get a classic Alaska cruise along the stunning coastline PLUS an overland adventure into Alaska's interior. Think glaciers AND Denali. Think Inside Passage AND Fairbanks. It's typically 9 to 17 days total and is honestly one of the most complete ways to experience Alaska.
Want a deeper explanation? Read The Ultimate Guide to Alaska Cruise Tours: Which Cruise Line Has the Best Land and Sea Journey?
Q: What's the difference between a Cruise Only and a CruiseTour?
A: A Cruise Only trip (usually 7 days) keeps you on the ship exploring Alaska's coastal highlights: glaciers, Inside Passage, and charming port towns like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway. A Cruise Tour adds a multi-day land journey through Alaska's interior, including Denali National Park, Anchorage, and sometimes even the Yukon. Cruise Only is simpler and more affordable; a CruiseTour is the ultimate deep-dive into Alaska.
Want a deeper explanation? Read 7-Day Alaska Cruise vs. Alaska Cruise Tour: Which Should You Choose?
Q: Why should I choose Holland America for my Alaska cruise?
A: Holland America has been sailing Alaska for nearly 80 years, so they really know it like no one else. They were named Best Alaska Cruise Overall by Forbes Vetted, and their exclusive Alaska Up Close programming, onboard wildlife experts, and Glacier Bay access set them apart. Plus, they have their own private lodges and railcars, which makes for a seamlessly connected experience.
Want a deeper explanation? Read Why Holland America Is the Best Cruise Line for Alaska: Demystifying Y5L vs. D6L.
Q: Which ports will I visit on a Holland America Alaska cruise?
A: Depending on your itinerary, you'll likely visit iconic ports like Juneau (Alaska's capital), Ketchikan (famous for totem poles and rainforests), and Skagway (a gold rush town frozen in time). Many sailings also stop at Sitka and Haines — a bit off the beaten path and absolutely gorgeous. One-way sailings between Vancouver and Whittier/Anchorage open up even more coastal ports.
Q: What glaciers will I get to see?
A: Oh, this is the part everyone loves! Holland America offers more glacier viewing than any other cruise line. You may visit Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier, College Fjord, Dawes Glacier, and the Twin Sawyer Glaciers of Tracy Arm, often getting incredibly close. During Glacier Bay cruising, a National Park Ranger actually boards the ship for the day to share the history and science of the glaciers.
Q: What is Holland America's Glacier Guarantee?
A: Holland America is so confident in their glacier experiences that they back it up with a Glacier Guarantee. If your sailing doesn't include a glacier visit, you'll receive a Future Cruise Credit equal to 15% of your cruise fare. That's how seriously they take this part of the Alaska experience!
Q: What wildlife might I see on an Alaska cruise or CruiseTour?
A: Alaska is a wildlife lover's dream! On the water, keep your eyes peeled for humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, Steller sea lions, and bald eagles. On a CruiseTour, you'll have the chance to spot Alaska's Big 5: bears, moose, Dall sheep, caribou, and gray wolves. Especially on complimentary park tours included in Cruise Tour itineraries. Holland America also offers exclusive access to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.
Q: What is the McKinley Explorer and why is everyone raving about it?
A: The McKinley Explorer is Holland America's privately owned, glass-domed railcar that takes CruiseTour guests on a breathtaking journey through Alaska's unspoiled interior. With panoramic views from two levels of glass, it's one of those experiences that stops you mid-sentence. Every CruiseTour includes a ride on the McKinley Explorer, and past guests consistently say it's a trip highlight.
Q: What is the Holland America Denali Lodge?
A: It's Holland America's own private lodge sitting right at the edge of Denali National Park, with panoramic views, a stunning river setting, and 60 acres of wilderness to explore. CruiseTour guests typically stay 1 to 3 nights here. Waking up with Denali in the background is something people talk about for years.
Read my guide: How Many Nights Do You Need in Denali on an Alaska Cruise Tour?
Q: Can I visit the Yukon on a Holland America trip?
A: Yes — and here's something really cool: Holland America is the only cruise line that offers a Yukon experience as part of a CruiseTour. If you've ever dreamed of following the gold rush trail or exploring Dawson City, their Denali and Yukon CruiseTour makes that possible. It's a genuinely unique itinerary you won't find anywhere else.
Want a deeper explanation? Read Denali vs. Denali + Yukon: Which Alaska Cruise Tour Is Worth It?
Q: Where do Holland America Alaska cruises depart from?
A: Most Alaska sailings depart from Seattle, Washington or Vancouver, British Columbia. Roundtrip sailings return to the same port, convenient if you want to keep things simple with just one flight. One-way sailings go between Vancouver and Whittier (near Anchorage), which is especially popular for CruiseTour guests combining the cruise with an overland journey.
Want a deeper explanation? Read Roundtrip Seattle vs. Vancouver vs. One-Way Alaska Cruises: Which Is Best?
Q: How long are Holland America Alaska cruises?
A: A standard Alaska cruise is typically 7 days. CruiseTours range from 9 to 17 days depending on the itinerary, whether you're adding Denali, Fairbanks, the Yukon, or all three. There's really something for every schedule and travel style.
Q: Is a Holland America Alaska cruise good for first-time cruisers?
A: Absolutely! Holland America is known for a warm, comfortable, and approachable experience. Not too stuffy, not too party heavy. Their ships are a wonderful size: large enough to have great amenities, but not so massive that you feel lost. Alaska also happens to be one of the most spectacular destinations for a first cruise, because the scenery does so much of the wow work for you!
Q: I'm ready to start planning, where do I begin?
A: That's the most exciting part! The best first step is to connect with a knowledgeable travel advisor who specializes in Alaska cruises. They can help you choose the right itinerary, cabin category, and shore excursions.... and often have access to promotions you won't find on your own. Feel free to reach out. I'd love to help you plan your dream Alaska adventure!
Q: Should I choose a northbound or southbound Alaska Cruise Tour?
A: The best choice depends on how you want your Alaska vacation to flow. Northbound cruises let you cruise first and save Denali, Fairbanks or the Yukon for the end, while southbound itineraries allow you to complete the more active land portion first and then relax on the ship. I personally prefer southbound because I like finishing the trip with the cruise, but flights, cabin availability, glacier viewing, budget and your travel style should all be considered before choosing.
Want a deeper explanation? Read Northbound vs. Southbound Alaska Cruises: Which Direction Is Best?
Q: What is the best month for an Alaska cruise or Cruise Tour?
A: The best time to visit Alaska depends on what you want to experience, and there really isn’t a bad choice between May and September. Late May is Michelle’s personal favorite for cooler temperatures, snow-covered mountains, spring scenery and wildlife, while June offers very long days, July is peak summer, August is still a great option if you’re prepared for rain, and early September can bring beautiful fall colors and even early snow in Denali. The key is choosing the Alaska cruise or Cruise Tour itinerary that best matches your priorities, schedule and budget, rather than selecting a month based on weather alone.
Want a deeper explanation? Read When Is the Best Time to Visit Alaska? May vs. June vs. July vs. August vs. September
READY TO PLAN YOUR ALASKA ADVENTURE?
I'd love to help you find the perfect Alaska cruise or Cruise Tour. Reach out today and let's start planning the trip of a lifetime!
Let's Get Started!