Cruising Canada and Alaska - Everything you need to know
Cruises around Canada and Alaska, Rocky Mountaineer train journeys, and more
Cruises around Canada and Alaska, places known as The Great White North and The Last Frontier, respectively, are among the best ways to see some of the most sensational destinations in North America. Boasting an abundance of breathtaking scenery and sightseeing opportunities, adventurous shore excursions you won’t find anywhere else in the world, fascinating histories to uncover and unique cultures to explore, and the chance to spot some truly remarkable wildlife, there’s so much to look forward to when it comes to a cruise in Canada and Alaska. And, there’s even more to look forward to with Canada Rocky Mountaineer and Alaska cruise holidays, which couple sensational Rocky Mountaineer experiences with Canada and Alaska cruise itineraries, ensuring that your cruise getaway will be one to remember.
However, there are a few key things to know about cruises in Canada and Alaska. So, before you dive head-first into some of the exclusive Cruise and Stay Canada and Alaska getaways available with Iglu Cruise, and the latest cruise deals sailing to this stunning part of the world, you’ll find everything you need to know about cruising in Canada and Alaska below – with some additional comments from our Chief Commercial Officer Dave Mills, who recently embarked on an adventure to Alaska with Holland America Line.
Contents:
- Why choose a Canada and Alaska cruise?
- Cruise lines sailing to Canada and Alaska
- Top destinations in Canada
- Top destinations in Alaska
- Best time to cruise Canada and Alaska
- What to pack for a Canada and Alaska trip
- Top Canada and Alaska cruise deals
- Why choose Rocky Mountaineer
- What to pack for a Rocky Mountaineer trip
- Top Rocky Mountaineer cruise deals
Why choose a Canada and Alaska cruise?
Asking why you should choose a Canada and Alaska cruise as your next getaway is an important question, and one that might feel tricky to answer when there are so many sensational sailings to bucket-list destinations around the world available. But, that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to answer – far from it, in fact!
Cruising to Canada and Alaska is truly something that suits every type of traveller.
If you’re an adventurous person, someone after active shore excursions and any opportunity to embrace the great outdoors, you’ll find cruise destinations throughout Canada and Alaska boast incredible hiking trails through vibrant forests teeming with life, the chance to trek up mountainsides for once-in-a-lifetime vistas, and excursions like guided kayaking and canoeing tours that invite you to explore the dramatic coastlines here even more intimately.
However, if you’re someone who enjoys taking things a little easier when on holiday, you’ll find plenty of charming towns to meander through at your own pace, boutique shopping experiences boasting incredible local arts and crafts, stunning landscapes you won’t need to hike up a hill to appreciate, and serene spaces to stroll without a care in the world.
Similarly, foodies will find freshly caught fish dishes and flavourful farm-to-table food available throughout, along with indulgent regional cuisines and authentic meals that are hard to resist. History buffs will be met with plenty of places to learn more about Canada’s unique colonial history, the exciting gold rushes throughout the late 19th century, and the incredible Native American populations that hail from this rugged North American region. And, anyone who’s interested in wildlife spotting will have abundant opportunities to see everything from bears and bald eagles to whales and more while travelling through Canada and Alaska.
Cruises to this part of the world tick almost every box – some ports of call even boast sandy beaches you can lounge on, if you don’t mind the cooler weather!
Cruise lines sailing to Canada and Alaska
When it comes to cruising Canada and Alaska, you’ll be pleased to know that a variety of cruise lines offer sailings to these sensational North American destinations; so, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to picking the right itinerary for you. All of these cruise lines also offer a variety of onboard amenities, designed to ensure you have an unforgettable getaway, from fantastic dining options to theatres showcasing spectacular entertainment.
Of all the cruise lines offering sailings to ports of call in both Canada and Alaska, you’ll find the following among the most popular:
You’ll also find several luxury cruise lines, such as Seabourn and Oceania Cruises, boasting more bespoke cruise experiences to Canada and Alaska. With these smaller ships able to visit more remote ports of call, and a higher crew-to-guest ratio accompanying a more refined onboard experience, luxury cruises to Canada and Alaska can be a fantastic option for those seeking a more intimate exploration of these destinations.
Top destinations in Canada
Wondering where you can explore when cruising to Canada? While there are many fantastic places to see, here are a few highlights.
Vancouver, British Columbia
A vibrant city on Canada’s west coast, Vancouver is often featured as the starting or ending point for Canada and Alaska cruises. So, if you’re cruising to this part of North America, there’s a high chance you’ll be afforded some time in this remarkable city. Overflowing with arts and culture, and all the modern comforts of a major city, Vancouver boasts an abundance of fascinating landmarks and interesting places to visit.
Vancouver, British Columbia - Capilano Suspension Bridge Park - Grouse Mountain Gondola
You’ll also find a wide variety of cuisines to indulge in, and plenty of hidden gems to stumble across when exploring, all set against a jaw-dropping mountainous backdrop. It’s somewhere where you can always find something fresh and exciting to experience, and the perfect complement to any cruise through this region. With some cruise packages offering an optional overnight stay in Vancouver, either before or after the cruise itself, you’ll be able to give yourself enough time to explore everything this incredible destination has to offer. You can find the latest deals on upcoming Vancouver Cruise and Stay packages right here.
Top destination highlights include:
- Capilano Suspension Bridge Park - a jaw-dropping experience with stunning views across the Capilano River
- Granville Island Public Market - this popular indoor market is overflowing with gourmet food stalls, artisan boutiques, restaurants, and more
- Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre - a fascinating destination that explores the history and heritage of Japanese-Canadians and Japanese culture in Canada
- Grouse Mountain - a short distance from downtown Vancouver, this attraction boasts stunning panoramic views, the World Famous Lumberjack Show, Mountain Zipline Tours, and so much more
If you’re interested in spending some time in Vancouver, you can check out the latest cruises from Vancouver right here.
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Provincial capital of Canada’s Nova Scotia, Halifax is a fascinating destination to visit on a cruise to Canada and Alaska. Somewhere with a rich maritime history to uncover, you’ll find Halifax strikes the perfect balance between offering trendy urban adventures and outdoor activities that explorers and thrill-seekers can sink their teeth into.
Halifax, Nova Scotia - Citadel Hill National Historic Site - Halifax Waterfront
It’s quaint, with a vibrant waterfront area overflowing with restaurants and retail opportunities, yet it also boasts an abundance of public parks perfect for strolling in the sunshine. Halifax is also within touching distance of other interesting destinations in Nova Scotia, such as Peggy’s Cove and the Crystal Crescent Beach Provincial Park, so those who want to venture further afield will have no trouble doing so.
Top destination highlights include:
- Citadel Hill - this strategic hilltop fort is a national historic site boasting impressive views of Halifax Harbour and fascinating histories to explore
- Halifax Public Gardens - these sprawling Victorian-era gardens boast stunning horticulture and make for a wonderful place to walk while exploring the city
- Halifax Seaport Farmer’s Market - the oldest continuously-operating farmer’s market in North America, this is the go-to place for fantastic food and drinks here
For cruises to Halifax, check out the latest deals and offers right here.
Victoria, British Columbia
The capital of Canada’s British Columbia, Victoria, is a city unlike any other. Not only does it boast a sensational culinary scene, with fresh farm-to-table food worth taking the time to indulge in, and an abundance of impressive Victorian-era architecture, but it’s also home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the region.
Victoria, British Columbia - Malahat Skywalk - Butchart Gardens
Where you’ll be admiring flourishing flower-filled gardens and majestic manor houses one minute, you’ll be met with jaw-dropping mountainous backdrops and wonderful waterfront areas the next. Couple all of this with the chance to explore the city’s intriguing past through historic sites and museums, while also taking into account that Victoria is home to all the modern amenities and attractions you’d expect from a major Canadian city, and it’s safe to say that this is one Canadian cruise destination worth looking forward to.
Top destination highlights include:
- Butchart Gardens - just north of Victoria city centre, the vibrant floral displays here are breathtaking, making this a perfect place to spend some time when the sun is shining
- British Columbia Parliament Buildings - this impressive collection of neo-Baroque buildings can be found in the heart of the city on sprawling, well-kept grounds
- Malahat Skywalk - a short distance from the centre of Victoria, this spiralling elevated walkway boasts jaw-dropping views of the surrounding scenery
If you’d like to learn more about cruises to Victoria, you’ll find the latest deals and offers on these sailings here.
Top destinations in Alaska
What about Alaska? Below, you’ll find a few highlights among the Alaskan ports of call on cruises to Canada and Alaska. While there are so many to look forward to, the following are among the most exciting.
Juneau
Alaska’s state capital and the perfect port of call to experience everything excellent about this remarkable region, Juneau is a must-visit destination for everyone cruising to Canada and Alaska. Here, you’ll find everything from museums on Alaskan history and authentic Alaskan cuisine to jaw-dropping landscapes and active excursions ideal for the adventurous.
Juneau, Alaska - Mendenhall Glacier - Mount Roberts Tramway
This is also a sensational destination for wildlife spotting, with whale-watching particularly incredible here. Beyond this, you’ll find hiking routes of all activity levels to explore, mountains to venture up for breathtaking views, and so much more. A city without road access, cruising really is among the best ways to visit this fantastic place.
Top destination highlights include:
- Mendenhall Glacier - just north of Juneau, this is one of the most accessible and picturesque glaciers in North America, and a must-visit landmark for anyone exploring the region
- Mount Roberts - easily accessible via the Mount Roberts Tramway, this breathtaking mountain boasts impressive views of the rugged landscape surrounding Juneau
- Alaska State Museum - officially established in 1900, this impressive museum features exhibits and intriguing collections on Alaska’s human and natural history
If Juneau sounds like the type of place you want to visit on a cruise to Canada and Alaska, you’ll find more on upcoming cruises to Juneau and beyond here.
Skagway
Found along Alaska’s Inside Passage, Skagway is a slice of history you won’t want to miss when embarking on cruises to Canada and Alaska. Boasting an impressive amount of well-preserved gold rush-era architecture and surrounded by jaw-dropping landscapes, there’s a lot to admire when you arrive in Skagway.
Skagway, Alaska - Skagway Museum - White Pass Railway
However, there’s also a fascinating history to uncover, alongside the chance to explore local crafts and curios. So, whether you’re looking for a leisurely exploration of Alaskan culture and local history, or adventurous excursions into the rugged wilderness this region is known for, Skagway will have something to suit you.
Top destination highlights include:
- Skagway Museum - housed in a stunning late 19th-century building, this interesting museum explores the region’s fascinating history
- Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp - this immersive experience invites you to enjoy authentic Alaskan cuisine and fresh Alaskan salmon cooked over a wood fire before exploring the historic trail camp and surrounding scenery
- Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park Visitor Center - commemorating the historic Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1890s, you’ll find an array of interactive exhibits and ranger-led presentations here
Interested? Check out the latest deals and offers on upcoming cruises to Skagway and beyond right here.
Ketchikan
A charming Alaskan city with a rich Native American history to uncover, Ketchikan is a wonderfully unique port of call you’ll often find on cruises to Canada and Alaska. When wandering the city, you’ll find an abundance of Native American totem poles on display and be little more than a breath away from jaw-dropping rugged wilderness and inspiring mountainous landscapes.
Ketchikan, Alaska - 'The Rock' Sculpture - Carved Totem Pole
This region is also rich in wildlife, making Ketchikan particularly great for bear sightings and salmon fishing alike. With plenty of active shore excursions to get stuck into when you arrive, and fresh, flavourful seafood you won’t want to miss out on, this destination really is perfect for every type of traveller.
Top destination highlights include:
- Ketchikan’s Creek Street - formerly the town’s red light district, this iconic boardwalk boasts a variety of restaurants, boutique retail opportunities, and interesting museums
- Carlanna Lake Trail - this is a breathtakingly beautiful hiking area where you’ll have a chance to embrace the wilderness Alaska is famous for
- Wildlife spotting - from leaping salmon and wild wolves to majestic bald eagles and black bears, Ketchikan is a fantastic place to spot some of Alaska’s most iconic animals
For more information on cruises to Ketchikan, check out the latest deals on upcoming sailings here.
Best time to cruise Canada and Alaska
Working out the best time to cruise can be tricky, regardless of where in the world you’re travelling, but this is especially true for Canada and Alaska, both places known for their rugged wilderness and potential for adverse weather conditions.
If you’re looking for snowfall, and you don’t mind the potential disruptions that this might cause when heading ashore, then you’ll want to consider cruising Canada and Alaska during the winter months at both the start and the end of the cruise season here. Snow can arrive as early as mid-October and last until April, so you’ll have a few options when it comes to choosing the perfect itinerary for you. However, with the cruise season for these destinations generally running from May to September, you’re unlikely to find sailings available during the off-season, particularly from November to March. This, however, is when the weather is at its coldest, and temperatures can drop even more dramatically when it’s windy.
Peggy's Cove, which is easy to visit when in Halifax
Beyond this, autumn (or fall, if you want to use the local lingo) is the best time to travel to Canada and Alaska. So, sailings available throughout September and October are ideal.
During these months following the busy summer season, the cruises themselves will be quieter, and you won’t need to contend with as many crowds when heading ashore. On top of this, the weather will be cooler but mild enough, and you may find that cruise fares are more affordable. If that wasn’t enough to convince you, this transitional season will mean a lot of the vibrant foliage you’ll come across while admiring the dramatic landscapes in both Canada and Alaska will be a gorgeous golden brown. It doesn’t get more picturesque than that.
Ultimately, though, there isn’t really a bad time to cruise to Canada and Alaska, and you’ll find sailings typically available throughout April to October.
What to pack for a Canada and Alaska trip
When it comes to considering what to pack for a cruise to Canada and Alaska, it’s important to take into account the time of year you’re travelling and the sorts of activities you’ll be taking part in when you head ashore.
Generally, when travelling to Canada and Alaska, it’s always a good idea to pack layers, as even the milder weather in these destinations can be pretty cold in comparison to what you might be used to at home. It’s also always worth packing a waterproof of some kind; there’s nothing worse than being caught in unexpected rain while exploring ashore and having to spend the rest of your time damp, something that’s only more uncomfortable if it’s already a cold day.
It’s also worth packing comfortable walking shoes when cruising to Canada and Alaska, particularly sturdier footwear that can handle uneven surfaces. Regardless of where in the world you’re travelling, a cruise holiday can come with long days where you’ll be spending a lot of time on your feet; so, having a pair of shoes that you’re able to wear for long periods of time is vital. The shore excursions and onshore activities you can enjoy on a Canada and Alaska cruise can be a little more adventurous than those you might come across when cruising the Mediterranean, or island-hopping in the Caribbean. Where cruises to these destinations might result in you spending your days ashore soaking up the sunshine on a white-sand beach with a colourful cocktail, cruises to Canada and Alaska can involve hiking through national parks to viewpoints with jaw-dropping vistas and exploring rural communities through authentic cultural experiences. In these cases, you’ll want to ensure your shoes are both comfortable and protective for your feet.
Hubbard Glacier, which you may see when cruising Canada and Alaska
However, that isn’t the be-all and end-all of a cruise adventure to Canada and Alaska; you’ll still have the opportunity to explore some of the region’s major cities, with plenty of chances to put your feet up and unwind along the way.
Outside of ensuring you’re packing the right attire for your adventure, there’s a whole host of essential items worth packing when cruising to Canada and Alaska, and beyond. Power adaptors for mobile devices and portable chargers you can bring on a shore excursion are always a fantastic idea.
With both Canada and Alaska often stunningly beautiful, you’ll want to make sure you have enough battery power to capture the sensational sights you’ll stumble across when exploring. Packing sun protection, like sun cream and sunglasses, is also a good idea. The weather may not be particularly warm when you’re visiting Canada and Alaska, but there’s still a risk of sunburn when spending long days outside without shade or cloud cover. So, even though you might not think you need to worry about that, it’s better to be prepared and safe than sorry and sunburnt.
Top Canada and Alaska cruise deals
We don’t know about you, but we’re about ready to pack our bags and embark on an adventure to Canada and Alaska. If you’re itching to embrace the rugged wilderness of these stunning North American destinations and enjoy all the comforts of an incredible cruise on one of the world’s leading cruise lines, you’ll find a fantastic selection of Canada and Alaska cruise deals below:
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If you don’t see anything you like or that suits your holiday plans, be sure to keep an eye on Iglu Cruise in the coming weeks and months. More cruises to Canada and Alaska are always being made available, and unmissable offers are continuously introduced.
Why choose Rocky Mountaineer
Cruising to Canada and Alaska is always exciting, but embarking on a Rocky Mountaineer and Alaska cruise package elevates your holiday experience to another level. It transforms an incredible adventure across North America into a truly unforgettable experience.
A unique train journey that cuts through some of Canada’s most stunning scenery, boasting breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies alongside sprawling forests and serene lakes, Rocky Mountaineer is a fantastic way to extend your Canada and Alaska cruise. With custom-built train carriages featuring glass-domed ceilings and comfortable seating, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy unparalleled panoramic views while onboard; a journey on Rocky Mountaineer also boasts attentive service, the benefit of travelling with a knowledgeable tour guide, and an à la carte food menu featuring gourmet cuisine. To say that this beats flying, whether you’re embarking on a Rocky Mountaineer train journey before your cruise or after your cruise, is an understatement.
We know that all sounds incredible, but why actually should you choose to travel on Rocky Mountaineer alongside your cruise to Canada and Alaska? Well, in this case, the images speak for themselves.
Rocky Mountaineer
Rocky Mountaineer is undoubtedly among the best ways to admire the rugged wilderness of Alberta and British Columbia, with this relaxing train journey affording you the opportunity to see an abundance of wildlife in its natural habitat alongside iconic landmarks like Kinbasket Lake and Cisco Crossing – things you simply won’t be able to see when just cruising.
What to pack for a Rocky Mountaineer trip
Packing for a cruise to Canada and Alaska is one thing, but what should you pack for a Rocky Mountaineer experience? This is far from a traditional train journey, but you’ll be pleased to know that you won’t need to take any dramatic measures when it comes to preparing for this part of your getaway.
The dress code on Rocky Mountaineer is casual, and it’s important to ensure you’re comfortable for the duration of the train journey, as, depending on where you’re travelling between, these can be quite long.
With this in mind, and considering that Rocky Mountaineer train carriages feature expansive windows, comfortable and cool layers are recommended. There is air conditioning, but this may feel just right for some and a tad chilly for others. Similarly, when the sun is bright and shining, you might find yourself a little warm while onboard. It’s also worth wearing comfortable, flat-soled shoes; Rocky Mountaineer journeys are steady, but this will help you handle the natural movement of the train when in motion.
Top Rocky Mountaineer cruise deals
If you want to enhance your Canada and Alaska cruise with a Rocky Mountaineer experience, you’ll find a fantastic selection of cruise deals featuring Rocky Mountaineer train journeys below:
- Alaska Inside Passage from Vancouver & Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver to Banff, May 2026 - Serenade of the Seas (12 nights)
- Rocky Mountaineer from Banff to Vancouver & Alaska with Dawes Glacier, July 2026 - Emerald Princess (12 nights)
- Rocky Mountaineer from Banff to Vancouver & Alaska with Glacier Bay National Park, August 2026 - Emerald Princess (12 nights)
- Alaska with Hubbard Glacier from Vancouver & Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver to Banff, September 2026 - Celebrity Solstice (12 nights)
- Rocky Mountaineer from Banff to Vancouver, the Cascades & Alaska Discovery from Seattle, September 2026 - Queen Elizabeth (14 nights)
- Toronto, Niagara Falls & Rocky Mountaineer from Banff to Vancouver & Alaska Inside Passage from Vancouver, May 2027 - Koningsdam (15 nights)
This is just a small selection of the cruises available, and you’ll find more dates and more hand-crafted cruise packages available on our Rocky Mountaineer and Alaska cruise deals page right here. With flexibility regarding dates and whether you want to enjoy a Rocky Mountaineer journey at the start or the end of your cruise, there’s an option for everyone available.
Book your next Canada cruise and adventure to Alaska with Iglu Cruise today
From all-inclusive packages and luxury getaways to fun family cruises and solo adventures, Iglu Cruise is home to an abundance of cruise deals with sailings to Canada and Alaska alongside Caribbean cruises, getaways to the Mediterranean, and so much more. Be sure to check the latest offers for more once-in-a-lifetime adventures; you're bound to find something to suit you!
And, for more travel inspiration (and information), check out this selection of blogs from the Iglu Cruise team: