For many travelers, an Alaska cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime journey. While convenient roundtrip sailings from Seattle offer a fantastic taste of the 49th state, the one-way northbound itinerary from Vancouver, British Columbia, to Anchorage (Whittier/Seward) is widely considered the premium Alaska cruise experience. This route across the Gulf of Alaska unlocks a deeper, more immersive adventure, revealing glaciers and ports that roundtrip itineraries simply can’t reach.
This guide is for the traveler who wants to see more, do more, and experience the absolute best of coastal Alaska. It’s ideal for first-timers seeking maximum depth, seasoned cruisers who have already done the Inside Passage loop, and especially for anyone planning to extend their vacation with a land-based “cruisetour” into Alaska’s interior.
The Northbound Advantage: A Superior Itinerary
What sets the one-way “Voyage of the Glaciers” itinerary apart? It’s all about access. By sailing across the Gulf of Alaska instead of turning back in the Inside Passage, these cruises add spectacular scenic cruising days and unique ports of call. Experiences often exclusive to this route include the monumental Hubbard Glacier, the dozens of glaciers in College Fjord, and historic ports like Sitka or the less-visited Wrangell.
While itineraries vary by cruise line, a classic 7-night northbound sailing typically follows this route:
- Day 1: Depart Vancouver, BC. A stunning sailaway framed by the city skyline and Stanley Park.
- Day 2: Inside Passage (Scenic Cruising). A relaxing day at sea navigating the protected, wildlife-rich waterways of the Inside Passage.
- Day 3: Ketchikan. Known for its rich Native Alaskan culture, colorful totem poles, and salmon fishing heritage.
- Day 4: Juneau. Alaska’s capital city, accessible only by air or sea, is famous for the nearby Mendenhall Glacier.
- Day 5: Skagway. Step back in time to the Klondike Gold Rush in this impeccably preserved historic town.
- Day 6: Glacier Bay National Park (Scenic Cruising). A highlight of any Alaska cruise, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers a full day of majestic tidewater glaciers and potential wildlife sightings.
- Day 7: Hubbard Glacier or College Fjord (Scenic Cruising). Your second incredible glacier experience. Northbound cruises often feature College Fjord’s sixteen named glaciers, while southbound itineraries may visit the massive Hubbard Glacier.
- Day 8: Arrive in Whittier, AK. The cruise concludes in this small port town, the gateway to Anchorage and beyond.
Glacier Gazing: The Main Event
The primary draw of a one-way itinerary is the opportunity for more and varied glacier viewing. While roundtrip cruises typically include one glacier day, northbound sailings often feature two.
Hubbard Glacier: This is North America’s largest tidewater glacier, a true giant with a face that’s over six miles wide and 400 feet tall. Its immense size and active calving (when huge chunks of ice break off into the sea) make it a uniquely spectacular sight.
Glacier Bay National Park: A day spent cruising this 3.3-million-acre park is unforgettable. Park Rangers board the ship to provide expert narration as you glide past multiple tidewater glaciers, such as the famous Margerie Glacier. It’s a sanctuary for wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for humpback whales, sea otters, brown bears, and puffins.
Key Cruise Lines and Cost Considerations
Princess Cruises and Holland America Line are the most prominent operators of one-way “Voyage of the Glaciers” itineraries, and both are renowned for their seamless cruisetour packages that extend your trip to destinations like Denali National Park. Other lines like Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean also offer one-way sailings.
Expect to pay a premium for this more comprehensive itinerary. A one-way cruise typically costs $200-$500 more per person than a comparable roundtrip sailing from Seattle. However, many travelers find the added value in scenery and experience well worth the investment.
The Logistics of a One-Way Cruise
The biggest difference from a roundtrip cruise is the travel logistics. A one-way sailing requires “open-jaw” flights—flying into your departure city and out of your arrival city.
-
Flights: You will need to book a flight into Vancouver (YVR) and a flight home from Anchorage (ANC). These multi-city tickets can be more expensive than simple roundtrip fares. It’s wise to price out flights before booking your cruise. Note that some airlines, like Southwest, do not serve Vancouver.
-
Disembarkation in Whittier: Your cruise ship will dock in the small port of Whittier. From here, Anchorage is approximately 60 miles away. The easiest and most popular option is to take the cruise line’s pre-arranged motorcoach transfer directly to the Anchorage airport or your hotel. This scenic 1.5 to 2-hour drive is a tour in itself, passing through a mountain tunnel and along the beautiful Turnagain Arm.
This northbound journey from Vancouver to Anchorage is more than just a cruise; it’s a comprehensive Alaskan expedition. It offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the grandeur of the state’s glaciers, explore historic ports, and serve as the perfect launchpad for an even grander adventure into the wild heart of Alaska.
Traveling as a group?
Make your Alaska cruise memorable with matching group shirts. Dozens of Alaska cruise designs — from glacier teal to midnight navy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, a northbound or southbound Alaska cruise?
There's very little difference in the ports of call between northbound (Vancouver to Anchorage) and southbound (Anchorage to Vancouver) itineraries. The choice often comes down to personal preference regarding travel plans. Some cruisers prefer the northbound route for the scenic crescendo, with the scenery becoming progressively more dramatic as the ship sails north. Others prefer to get the longer flight to Anchorage out of the way first and relax on the southbound cruise.
What is the best month to take a one-way Alaska cruise?
The Alaska cruise season runs from late April through September. May and September are considered 'shoulder seasons' and often have lower prices. These months offer unique advantages, such as spring wildflowers and fall foliage. The summer months of June, July, and August offer the warmest weather and longest daylight hours.
How do I get from the Whittier cruise port to Anchorage?
Whittier is about 60 miles from Anchorage. Most cruise lines offer direct motorcoach transfers to the Anchorage airport (ANC) or downtown hotels, which is the easiest option. Independent shuttle bus services and the Alaska Railroad also provide transportation. The journey itself is scenic, traveling through the 2.5-mile Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel and along the Turnagain Arm.