Alaska Cruise - Dream Trip or Disappointment? Our Honest Take!

Whether you’re seasoned cruisers or first-timers, you’ve probably heard a lot about tropical cruises. But Alaska? It’s a whole different vibe. Is an Alaska cruise really worth it, especially for couples like us who love a mix of luxury and adventure?
Let’s be honest—when you think ‘cruise,’ Alaska probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. You’re more likely to picture sunny skies and warm beaches and crystal clear waters, right? That’s exactly what we thought, too!

But then we started hearing stories about Alaska’s rugged beauty, the incredible wildlife, and experiences you just can’t get anywhere else. And that got us thinking—maybe we’ve been missing out on something epic. So we booked our first Alaska cruise and dove headfirst into this icy adventure. Taylor and I have completed over 25 different cruises. If you have questions about cruising or Alaska make sure to leave them in the comments, but more importantly we want to hear from you! Have you sailed to Alaska before? What do you remember most from that trip. If you haven’t sailed to Alaska, let us know why? Maybe we can change your mind today! 

So, what’s the deal? Is Alaska the hidden gem of cruising? We’re going to break it all down—everything from the incredible scenery to the activities you have to try, plus some real talk about the challenges that come with this type of trip.
Let’s start with the biggest draw of any Alaska cruise—those jaw-dropping views!

Alaska’s scenery is unlike anything we’ve ever seen. You’re sailing through narrow fjords, surrounded by towering mountains and ice-blue glaciers. We’re talking landscapes that look like they’re straight out of a nature documentary.
And it’s not just the landscape—it’s the wildlife. We’ve seen dozens of bald eagles, whales, sea otters, and even orcas! The Orcas we saw from our balcony when we were leaving glacier national park. I mean, these are memories we’ll never forget.

It’s perfect for couples who love nature and want those once-in-a-lifetime moments. Trust me, there’s something really special about standing on the deck with a hot cup of coffee or tea, bundled up, while watching these massive creatures in their natural habitat.
Now let’s talk excursions—because this is where Alaska cruises really stand out. We’re not just talking about typical walking tours. You can go dog-sledding on a glacier! I mean, how cool is that?

We did one where we boarded a smaller boat that docked right up against our ship, and took us up really close to the glacier, this was on our second group cruise that we hosted. Many of our friends came out with us and we still talk about it to this day, especially, this guy. (Inside joke).  We watched the glacier crack and drank glacier Ritas, taking in the landscape, the crisp cool air, and enjoying each other’s company. Absolutely Unforgettable and a true CORE Memory.

There’s something for everyone, whether you want a hardcore adventure like hiking on Mendenhall Glacier or something more relaxed, like taking a scenic train ride through the mountains.

For us, the whale watching experience was a highlight. We cruised out on a small boat into the icy waters, and watched humpback whales bubble net feed. It felt surreal—like we were in this untouched part of the world that not many people get to see.

And the best part? You can customize your experience. If you’re into nature and wildlife, there’s whale watching, bear tours, and scenic flights. Or if you’re more about soaking up the local culture, you can visit historic gold rush towns, taste fresh Alaskan seafood, or explore local art galleries.

It’s the perfect mix for couples who want that blend of adventure and relaxation. We spent some days going all out, hiking and exploring, and others just relaxing on board, enjoying the views from the comfort of the ship.

So, let’s talk about life on board—because you’re not just out in the wilderness all the time. Alaska cruises are known for having some of the most luxurious ships, and ours was no exception.

Even though you’re sailing through the rugged wilderness, the ship is a five-star experience. Think hot tubs overlooking the glaciers, incredible fine dining, and, of course, cozy lounges with floor-to-ceiling windows where you can just sit back and watch the world go by.

And let’s not forget the food! Fresh seafood is a given, but the variety of dining options onboard means you can have anything from casual breakfasts to gourmet dinners. There’s really something for everyone.

The ships also have plenty of entertainment options, from live shows to educational talks about Alaska’s wildlife and history. So whether you’re relaxing or learning something new, there’s always something to do.

Now, let’s be real for a second. The weather in Alaska can be unpredictable. One day it’s sunny, and the next, you’re walking through misty rain. But honestly? We think it just adds to the charm.

Yeah, we came prepared with layers, and even though it was cold, the ship has plenty of cozy spots where you can warm up after a day of exploring. And honestly, there’s something about being all bundled up and seeing the mist roll over the mountains that feels really peaceful.

Now, we also have to talk about budget. Alaska cruises tend to be more expensive than your typical Caribbean or Mediterranean ones, especially when you factor in excursions like glacier hikes, dog sledding  or helicopter tours."

But for us, the extra cost was worth it. This isn’t just a cruise; it’s an experience you can’t replicate anywhere else. If you’re on the fence about the price, our advice is to save up and go for it—it’s totally worth the splurge.

So, after all that, here’s our verdict: Is an Alaska cruise worth it?

Absolutely. For us, it was an unforgettable experience. It’s the perfect mix of adventure and luxury, with the kind of scenery that makes you feel like you’re seeing something truly special.

Whether you’re a couple looking for a unique, romantic getaway or you’re adventure lovers wanting to explore the great outdoors, Alaska has something for everyone.

And even though it’s not your typical beach vacation, that’s what makes it so special. It’s one of those trips where you’ll come back with stories you’ll be telling for years.

Look at us, we can stop thinking about when the next one will be! 

If you’re thinking about an Alaska cruise, our advice is simple: Go for it. And if you have any questions or need tips on planning your own Alaskan adventure, drop us a comment below! Or you can work one on one with Taylor, she’s an experienced travel planner! taylor@goldgellgetaways.com