Cruising to Alaska is a great family vacation. With so many cruise ships, fantastic itineraries, fun shore excursions, and tons of onboard amenities and activities, kids will have a blast. =
Visiting bears in Sitka, whale watching in Juneau, dog sledding, or a family fishing trip are just a sampling of the extensive list of things to do on a cruise to Alaska. There are activities for every age and interest, meaning everyone in the family will get to do something they love.
Onboard, kids can enjoy thrill rides like roller coasters, battle in bumper cars, or meet new friends at complimentary kids' clubs. Relaxed family dining and a variety of food make for easy meals. In the evening, free shows, movies, and other activities make the days fly by, as there is so much to do.
Here are some of the top reasons why your kids will have an amazing time on a cruise to Alaska.
Family-friendly excursions
One of the best reasons to cruise to Alaska is to explore nature and see some of the region's abundant wildlife, including its famous Big 5 (bears, moose, caribou, Dall sheep, and wolves) not to mention a variety of whales. Vast open plains, snow-peeked mountains, massive glaciers, and sky-high fjords are all must-sees on an Alaska vacation. Cruise lines offer a multitude of excursions, as well as numerous local tour operators that cater to family-friendly activities at a variety of budgets.
Most ports of call on an Alaska cruise offer opportunities to interact and learn about the local animals. Many families love to visit the Fortress of the Bear in Sitka, a sanctuary for orphaned bears. A fantastic family excursion and a great way to see bears in a safe setting. Another top activity when going to Alaska is whale watching and dog sled tours, which are available in many ports of call. While cruise line-organized excursions can be convenient, it is also easy to explore many ports on your own and at your own pace.
Whether it's glacial viewing from the cruise ship or visiting one in port, these wonders of nature make for lasting family memories. Mendenhall Glacier, which is located just outside of Juneau, is one of the most accessible in all of Alaska, making it easy for families to visit. A welcoming visitor center and walking trails make it an easy excursion for beginners or younger cruisers. Also fun, The Alaska Zoo in Anchorage and Sealife Center in Seward are both well known for offering plenty of ways to see animals up close, as well as learn about the local wildlife that makes Alaska so unique.
Ship amenities – so much fun stuff to do onboard
Parents do not need to worry about how to keep their kids entertained on sea days; there is no chance they will be bored with so much onboard fun. Even though it’s not as hot as the Caribbean, there is an array of activities to choose from - something for everyone in the family. In fact, many of the cruise lines have ships specially designed for Alaska and its cooler weather, meaning there are lots of choices for kids of any age. Another bonus is that many activities, like pools, sports, family shows, and food, are included in the cruise fare cost. You won’t have to keep shelling out money for arcades to ensure your kids are having a good time.
There are many cruise line sailings to Alaska, providing a wide range of choices and price points. Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, and Disney Cruise Line sail throughout the cruise season with convenient departure ports like Seattle. Some highlights include:
- Known for its cruises to Alaska, Norwegian Cruise Line is a great option for families who want to make sure their kids have fun. Norwegian offers probably one of the most unique Alaska offerings, with the ability to race on its speedway while touring the region's epic glaciers. Norwegian Encore received the 2020 Best New Ship award from Porthole Cruise Magazine and is well known for their onboard offerings including activities like laser tag, mini golf, fun times at the waterpark, and kids programs.
- Carnival Cruise Line, which prides itself on its fun cruises, delivers when it comes to kids' activities. Carnival's ships give families plenty of activities and entertainment. Favorites include the Waterworks park, Seuss at Sea program, arcades, slides, and plenty of fun food options.
- Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas offers a lot for families with its SeaPlex, surf simulator, and many more activities, including the ever-popular bumper cars, pickleball, soccer, roller skating, and volleyball. The ship’s skydiving and surf simulators are also popular with guests.
- Another favorite with families is Disney Cruise Line. Sailing to Alaska, Disney Wonder will thrill kids with its Marvel Superhero Academy, Frozen musical, fantastic kids’ programs, theme dining, and a range of port excursions; families will have oodles of fun onboard Disney ships.
Alaska-focused programs and kids' clubs
Another benefit of cruising is the free kids' programs. This gives kids the opportunity to meet kids their own age, while parents can have some time in the spa, casino, or a nice meal. These complimentary programs are a great way for the lots to meet friends and have fun in a dedicated supervised space.
Some cruise lines, such as Princess Cruises, have unique programs that allow kids to have a more immersive experience. Their partnership with Discovery and Animal Planet channels provides exclusive kids' programming and excursions. One of the highlights is a visit from local animals, such as sled dogs, who come onboard to meet guests. There are lots of other fun events, such as stargazing and youth/teen clubs, in addition to a planetarium and movie nights.
Even the food is fun on a cruise to Alaska. Kids love options like 24-hour pizza, anytime dining with Norwegian Cruise Line, Sea Day brunches on Carnival Cruise Line, as well as Disney's rotational dining in its three main dining rooms that feature fun events such as Dine “under the sea” on mouthwatering American and French fare at Triton’s.
