Trouble deciding on line to Alaska

[pollyspockets]

Hello cruise critic- 

 

I find myself in a bit of a conundrum. I would like to travel to Alaska this July but I am at a loss on which line to use. I have previously sailed Carnival (will not be considering), RCL, and Celebrity. I would say I prefer celebrity, but I understand there is not much of a presence in Alaska. I am looking between NCL (would plan to travel in the Haven- likely on Encore), Princess, and would consider a more luxury line as well. How important is Glacier Bay? We are planning on leaving from Seattle as we have some family there and we are overdue for a visit. Please let me know any recommendations. 

[Alex618]

You have highlighted the difference. I would think it is still in effect, Alaska controls the ship traffic in Glacier Bay.  Alaska awards this privilege to companies for 10 years.  I would suggest you doing your research on Glacier Bay and see if you feel it is important to you to see.  We did Princess in 2009 and sailed into Glacier Bay. This year we will do Celebrity.  I choose Celebrity due to status and wanted to sail Vancouver to Vancouver. I love Vancouver it’s a beautiful city.  Whatever line you choose enjoy!

[Hllb]

I really wanted to hit Glacier Bay when we go, but ultimately, decided on Celebrity because it was significantly cheaper for my family of 5. If money isn't an issue, I liked the itineraries of NCL, but dang, since they are all inclusive rates are they expensive! I got two cabins on Celebrity plus my flights, for the cost of just the cabins on NCL. I am also looking forward to a smaller ship. We have only cruised on Carnival before (and really enjoyed it) so I'm sure this trip will be great.

Edited February 8, 2023 by Hllb

[Bostonjetset]

Glacier Bay is, IMO, important especially if it’s your first visit rot Alaska. It’s really stunning and an almost guaranteed glacier day.  
 

Princess and Holland America Line have long been seen as the leaders in Alaska so those are what I’d look at first after choosing your itinerary. 

Edited February 8, 2023 by Bostonjetset

[Coral]

5 hours ago, Alex618 said:

You have highlighted the difference. I would think it is still in effect, Alaska controls the ship traffic in Glacier Bay.  Alaska awards this privilege to companies for 10 years.  I would suggest you doing your research on Glacier Bay and see if you feel it is important to you to see.  We did Princess in 2009 and sailed into Glacier Bay. This year we will do Celebrity.  I choose Celebrity due to status and wanted to sail Vancouver to Vancouver. I love Vancouver it’s a beautiful city.  Whatever line you choose enjoy!

The National Park service controls Glacier Bay and only allows 2 ships per day there.

 

I actually do recommend Glacier Bay for a first cruise. Hubbard can be blocked and often ships don't get close (I have been 9 miles from it a few times) and Tracy Arm can get blocked also. Glacier Bay is a gorgeous all day sailing and is rarely missed. I think I have heard it was missed once.

 

This year Princess does do RT Vancouver but they are 10-11 night trips.

Edited February 8, 2023 by Coral

[Alex618]

I”THINK” the only lines are Holland, Princess, Norwegian, and one other small one.  If someone know for sure please advise!

[naturelovergirl]

2 hours ago, Alex618 said:

I”THINK” the only lines are Holland, Princess, Norwegian, and one other small one.  If someone know for sure please advise!

Cunard goes to Glacier Bay

[Ferry_Watcher]

9 hours ago, pollyspockets said:

. I am looking between NCL (would plan to travel in the Haven- likely on Encore)

 

The Encore is an awfully big ship... 

[Coral]

4 hours ago, Ferry_Watcher said:

 

The Encore is an awfully big ship... 

I agree!!! Too big.