are cruises one way or round trip

What's Better for Alaska Cruises: Round-Trips or One-Way Voyages?

By Pauline Frommer

Let's get this out of the way first: No matter how you see Alaska, you're going to be blown away. Alaska was named for the Aleut word alyeska , which means "great land"—and the Aleuts weren't engaging in hyperbole.

But the type of journey you choose will affect how much you pay, how much time you get in the state, and what you get to see. 

Here are some of the issues you should take into account when looking at your Alaska cruise disembarkation options.

What your airfare costs On a per diem basis, there is virtually no difference between the daily cost of a looping route and a one-way cruise of Alaska. Both types of itinerary are offered by all of the major mainstream cruise lines (the luxury ships, with the exception of Oceania, usually only do one-way voyages), and price differences have more to do with your cabin category than your termination ports.

But what you spend on airfare will be very different, depending on the type of itinerary you choose.

Flights that bring you into one city to begin your cruise and out of a third city to return home (in industry terms, these are called "open jaw" flights) are almost always significantly pricier than round-trip fares between two airports.

That's doubly the case in Alaska, because one of the return legs will likely be from  Fairbanks  (which usually requires you to add a stop in Anchorage on the way home); or from Anchorage , which has fewer direct flights to the Lower 48 U.S. states than there were pre-pandemic, according to cruise agency owner Pat Webb of CruiseStar.com .

So if you end your cruise in Alaska, you're looking at additional air travel time—sometimes up to a full day in transit—and, Webb says, you might contend with odd schedules. Many flights from Anchorage tend to happen late at night, which adds to the inconvenience and may necessitate paying for a stay in a local hotel.

How much higher can the prices go than the cost of simply flying home from where you boarded the cruise? It will depend on your home gateway and the flexibility of the airline. In our price checks for summer 2022 airfares that went round-trip to Seattle from Chicago, we found that flights increased by $110 if we wanted to fly back to Chicago from Anchorage instead.

From Los Angeles, the price difference averaged $50, but from Philadelphia it was $152. Those numbers add up when you're transporting a family of four.

What you'll get to see There are exceptions, but in general, round-trip voyages from Seattle or Vancouver will take you to southeastern Alaska. That usually means Ketchikan , Juneau , and either Skagway  or a relatively new port called Icy Strait (it's a small island north of Skagway). For in-depth glacier gazing, you'll either visit Sawyer Glacier or Glacier Bay  (pictured above); there are limited numbers of permits for the latter, so not every cruise ship goes to that famed national park.

On one-way cruises, you'll usually see more Alaskan ports than you can on a round-trip sailing because instead of spending the last few days doubling back to your origin port, you spend that time sailing deeper into the state. So with one-way cruises, you'll usually see the same places as on a round-trip voyage, including either Sawyer or Glacier, but you'll also see more locations north of those, including the area around Anchorage and College Fjord near Whittier (though of course destinations will vary by itinerary). 

How much time you'll have People who choose one-way sailings do so, usually, so they can add a tour of the interior of Alaska either before or after the cruise. They can either buy a land package from the cruise line or simply tour around on their own by car or train. Independent travel is surprisingly easy in Alaska, as I wrote in this piece about the joys seeing Denali National Park on your own.

So which type of trip is better? Webb said he tells his clients to look at the bigger picture and at what they want out of the trip.

"I ask them: How many times are you going to get to Alaska in your life?" he says. "Usually, the answer is 'once,' and when that answer comes out, the choice [to do a tour as well as the cruise] becomes clearer. Alaska is such a spectacular state that you just don't want to give it short shrift."

• All Regions
• Australia & South Pacific
• Caribbean & Atlantic
• Central & South America
• Middle East & Africa
• North America
• Washington, D.C.
• San Francisco
• New York City
• Los Angeles
• Arts & Culture
• Beach & Water Sports
• Local Experiences
• Food & Drink
• Outdoor & Adventure
• National Parks
• Winter Sports
• Travelers with Disabilities
• Family & Kids
• All Slideshows
• Hotel Deals
• Car Rentals
• Flight Alerts
• Credit Cards & Loyalty Points
• Cruise News
• Entry Requirements & Customs
• Car, Bus, Rail News
• Money & Fees
• Health, Insurance, Security
• Packing & Luggage
• -Arthur Frommer Online
• -Passportable
• Road Trip Guides
• Alaska Made Easy
• Great Vacation Ideas in the U.S.A.
• Best of the Caribbean
• Best of Mexico
• Cruise Inspiration
• Best Places to Go 2024

One-way Alaska cruises vs. round-trip: Which is best?

Alaska’s incredible scenery, epic glaciers, and wildlife make it a popular choice for many cruisers. With cruise lines offering such a wide selection of itineraries, it can be tough to figure out which is the best choice for your Alaska cruise vacation. 

One-way and round-trip cruises are two major categories of Alaska cruises that offer different benefits. One-way cruises sail to the splendors of Alaska's far north, while round-trip cruises sail to the calmer waters of the Inside Passage.  

Which is best? The answer is somewhat subjective and depends on what's important for your cruise vacation. These two alternatives visit different ports, offer varied experiences, and can range significantly in price. 

With so many great options out there, here’s what to look for and how to decide whether a round-trip or one-way cruise is the best option for your cruise vacation.  

One-way cruises

One-way cruises sail either northbound from ports like Seattle or southbound across the Gulf of Alaska from ports such as Anchorage in Alaska. In addition to visiting the ports of the Inside Passage, they explore the more remote areas of Alaska, wonders such as the Hubbard Glacier and College Fjord, and its incredibly picturesque landscape. 

These cruises (also called open-jaw) can be an excellent alternative for those who want to explore Alaska in more depth. Many passengers like to add a pre or post-cruise land tour to visit places such as Denali National Preserve and Park or maybe spend time in Fairbanks to catch a glimpse at the Northern Lights. Some cruise lines, like Princess Cruises , have an extensive array of one-way itineraries, with options to include land-based excursions. Once guests are done with the cruise, they enjoy scenic rail travel from the ship to the lodge, where they spend three or more nights in exclusive Wilderness Lodges located riverside near legendary national parks, a truly unforgettable experience. 

One-way cruise itineraries can end up being more costly than Inside Passage cruises, as you need to fly in or out of Alaska for the cruise. Another point to consider for some is that the waters can be rougher in the Gulf Of Alaska, although weather is never a certainty in any cruise. But for those who want to spend more time in the Last Frontier , a one-way cruise can be a fantastic vacation.

Round-trip cruises 

Round-trip cruises to Alaska often sail the waters of Inside Passage, with hundreds of itineraries among the major cruise lines. Sailing along the coastal passage of the Pacific Northwest, round-trip itineraries are among the most popular Alaska cruises, and many are 7 days in length and leave from Seattle or Vancouver, British Columbia. These cruises head north, sailing around the thousands of islands that this region is famous for. A major benefit to cruising in the southern part of Alaska is that there tends to be calmer waters, thanks to protection from the islands. 

With so much demand for round-trip Alaska cruises, there are many choices, with all major cruise lines offering cruises from May through September. In addition to week-long cruises, there are also Alaska “sampler” cruises that can be 4 or 5 days, giving cruisers a taste of what Alaska has to offer. These shorter cruises are also more affordable while still providing an authentic northern cruise experience. It is a good option for cruises who want to try the Land of the Midnight Sun but are not quite sure if it is for them. 

Popular ports of call on this route include stops in places such as Ketchikan , Juneau, and Skagway . These ports are good options as they provide a wide range of activities, such as visiting glaciers, kayaking, exploring historic gold rush towns, and the chance to see plenty to see in terms of wildlife. These types of cruises offer scenic viewing of Tracy Arm Fjord and Glacier National Park, with spectacular views. 

One-way versus roundtrip cruises 

While both options provide excellent opportunities to see Alaska, there are some unique pros and cons to each alternative. 

One-way cruises pros/cons

• Cost is a major factor when considering a one-way cruise. These itineraries can end up being more costly than round-trip cruises, as you need to fly in or out of Alaska for the cruise. Flight prices in Alaska, are signifcnatly higher than southern embarkation ports like Seattle. 
• Although they can be more expensive, one-way cruises provide the opportunity to explore Alaska in more depth, visiting some hard-to-reach locations accessible only by water. They even provide an opportunity to see the Northern Lights during certain parts of the cruise season. 
• One-way cruises offer guests the option to add land tours to their cruise vacations, providing a more in-depth Alaska cruise experience. For those who want to spend more time in the Last Frontier, a Gulf of Alaska cruise can be a fantastic vacation. 
• The waters of the Gulf of Alaska can be rougher than round-trip cruises that sail further south. This can be off putting to some, especially those that suffer from seasickness. 
•  Most require a passport . 

Round-trip cruises pros/cons

• Roundtrip cruises, especially those leaving from Seattle, can be a great, affordable cruise to Alaska. Seattle in particular, is a major embarkation point for round-trip cruises, meaning there is a lot of choice in terms of budget and itinerary. This can be the best alternative for those looking for the cheapest cruise to Alaska. 
• There are many options available for round-trip cruisers, and most don’t require a passport unless they are needed or an excursion. However, a passport will be required for cruisers starting in Vancouver, Canada. 
• Another major benefit of a round-trip cruise is that the Inside Passage tends to have calmer waters, which can be a major bonus, especially for those who suffer from seasickness.  
• The main drawback of round-trip cruises is that you tend to visit the busiest places and do not get to explore some of the more remote and spectacular locations, including national parks. 
• These itineraries also lack the ability to do a land tour, which can be some of the most memorable parts of a cruise to Alaska.   

Join Our Newsletter!

Get all the latest Alaska travel updates delivered to your inbox!

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

How to choose an Alaskan cruise: Everything you need to know

Posted on Last updated: November 23, 2023

Discover everything you need to know before you choose an Alaskan cruise with this complete guide, which covers itineraries and ports of call, the best time to travel and which Alaska cruise line to pick.

* This site contains affiliate links , where I get a small commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

The thunderous crack of a calving glacier, snow-capped mountain peaks, bears fishing for salmon in clear meltwater streams, humpback whales swimming through turquoise waters. Alaska takes natural beauty to another level. This vast wilderness isn’t the easiest place to get around though, especially if you only have a week or two to spare.

Alaska’s coastal network of islands, fjords and glaciers make a cruise a great way of exploring the state. But if you’re planning an Alaskan cruise you’ll soon find out there are a baffling array of options – different departure ports, routes, stops and cruise lines.

Cruises can be expensive and you can’t exactly change your mind halfway round and get on a different ship if you decide it’s not what you wanted. So you want to make sure you pick the right one. But how do you decide which that is? We’ve broken down the options and show you what questions to ask to help you choose the best Alaska cruise for you.

Things to consider when you choose an Alaskan cruise

Do you want to do a one-way or round trip?

There are two types of Alaskan cruise itineraries – one-way or round trip. Each has pros and cons, so the best choice will depend on what’s most important to you. Round trip itineraries tend to be seven days long, starting in Seattle or Vancouver.

These trips focus on Southern Alaska and normally sail up the Inside Passage (a coastal shipping route along the Pacific Northwest Coast) as far as Juneau before heading back.

The advantage of a round trip is that it makes travel planning easier. You can fly in and out of the same airport, with return flights usually cheaper than one-way or open jaw tickets. But having to loop around means you don’t cover as much ground, and although the stops are different on the way up and down, you’ll be retracing your steps part of the way.

One-way trips usually either start in Anchorage and head south or start in Seattle/ Vancouver and head north. They are often longer (10–14 days) and sail across the Gulf of Alaska as well as through the Inside Passage. So you get to see more of the Alaskan coast.

A longer itinerary means more stops and more chances to see wildlife and glaciers – a bonus if you get stung by Alaska’s unpredictable weather. And starting or finishing in Anchorage means it’s easy to add on a land-based tour to explore more of the state.

But the disadvantages of a one-way cruise are that travel planning is more complicated and often more expensive. And if you’re worried about seasickness, the Gulf of Alaska can be rough compared to the more sheltered waters of the Inside Passage.

Where does the ship depart from?

The three main departure points for Alaskan cruises are Seattle and Vancouver in the south and Anchorage in the north. Though some longer itineraries sail as far as San Francisco.

Seattle is popular with cruisers from the USA as they don’t need to go through immigration and can get cheaper internal flights. But you end up travelling through a large section of open sea which can be rough, some short trips miss out the Inside Passage and ships have to make a compulsory stop in Canada so there’s less time in Alaska.

Vancouver is the most popular departure point for Alaska cruises so you’ll have the biggest choice of cruise lines, itineraries and departures. If you’re travelling internationally there are plenty of flights, and routes mostly travel through the scenic Inside Passage.

Most departures from Anchorage actually leave from the ports of Seward or Whittier rather than Anchorage itself. So you need to allow time to get to the ship from the airport.

It’s 60 miles to Whittier and 125 miles to Seward, but it’s safer to stay overnight before your cruise, especially if you’re flying internationally. There’s some beautiful scenery along the way though, and one bonus is you can get there via the Alaska Railroad.

When’s the best time to cruise Alaska?

The cruise season in Alaska runs from late April/early May until early September, and can be broadly split into three different seasons: spring, summer and autumn. There’s not really a best time to cruise Alaska as each season has different advantages and disadvantages – which relate to the weather, the wildlife, the prices and the size of the crowds.

It’s important to remember weather in Alaska is unpredictable, so you’re never going to be guaranteed blue skies and sunshine, even in the middle of summer.

We travelled in late August and had beautiful weather, but the same cruise a week earlier had thick fog and rain, so there’s always a bit of luck involved. Be prepared for changing weather conditions – pack wet weather gear and warm layers at any time of year.

Spring (April–May)

Average daytime high temperatures lie around 8–11°C (45–52°F) at the start of the season. But they can get below freezing at night, and you might still see snow on the ground and mountaintops. Rainfall is fairly low but seas can sometimes be rough.

Spring’s a good time to see wildlife, with bears and lynx coming out of hibernation, and seabirds and humpback whales migrating. There are also plenty of wildflowers, and waterfalls are at their most impressive as the snow melts. As it’s low season, ships aren’t so busy and you’ll often find good deals on cruise packages and discounts on excursions.

Summer (June–early August)

Summer is peak Alaska cruise season, with warm temperatures of 13–16°C (55–65°F). Days are long, peaking around 20 hours of daylight at the summer solstice in June – or even longer in the far north. June tends to be fairly dry but rainfall starts to increase from July. And warm days mean glaciers are most active and you see them calving more.

Peak season means both ships and ports can be crowded. Prices rise and you’ll need to book earlier – particularly in the July/August school holidays when more families are travelling.

Wildlife tends to move inland in summer, but it’s a good time to spot marine wildlife, especially whales but also sea lions and porpoises. Bears also come out for the salmon runs at the end of the summer. Less welcome is an influx of mosquitoes, so pack repellent.

Autumn (late August–September)

Temperatures start to cool down towards the end of August, with autumn average highs around 10–12°C (50–55°F). It does start to get rainier though, with almost half of days each month seeing some precipitation on average. August is still fairly busy on board, but as you get into September ships get quieter, prices fall and more discounts are available.

In the autumn you can see bears fishing for salmon as they head upstream, moose and caribou move back to lower elevations, and you can also see migrating Beluga whales. The colourful autumn leaves make it a great time for photography. And if you’re really lucky the Northern Lights are visible in the north of Alaska towards the end of the season.

Which Alaska cruise line suits you best?

A search for Alaskan cruises comes up with a long list of different cruise lines and ships – even if you’ve narrowed down which route you want to do. The difference in ship sizes, facilities and even other travellers means you can have a completely different experience depending on which you choose. So how do you pick the best Alaska cruise line?

One of the first decisions to make is whether you want to travel on a large ship or a small ship . Do you want a mega-ship with tons of facilities and activities on board? Or something smaller and more low-key, which can reach places the giant ships can’t?

Pros and cons of small cruise ships

Smaller ‘Expedition’ cruise ships are sometimes described as cruises for people who don’t like the idea of cruises. They only carry 60–100 passengers and tend to be less formal, with more outdoor activities. Companies include National Geographic, Silversea and UnCruise.

These small ships can access narrow fjords and small islands, get up close to wildlife, glaciers and waterfalls, and are also more flexible in their itineraries in case of bad weather.

But they have much more limited facilities on board. And their smaller size means they can be bumpy in rough seas so aren’t so good if you’re worried about seasickness. Expedition cruises also tend to be more expensive, and you don’t often see discounted fares.

Pros and cons of large cruise ships

The large cruise ship industry is bigger and more competitive. These floating resorts come with tons of facilities, dining, entertainment and excursion options. Advanced stabilisation means a smoother ride and faster speeds mean they can cover a larger area.

But their size limits which ports they can visit, itineraries are fixed and ports can get overwhelmed with 2500 plus people arriving at once, making it hard to escape the crowds. Although they’re all pretty large, these ships do vary in size, with mid-size ships tending to be more adult-orientated and huge mega-ships attracting more of a family crowd.

Cruise lines often try to market themselves as being good for everyone, but certain lines tend to be better for certain groups of people. Also check their availability as some lines like Holland America and Princess Cruises run a larger number of cruises in Alaska so there will likely be a wider range of different departure dates and itineraries.

If you’re travelling as a family, Carnival, Disney, Princess, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian are good for family-friendly facilities like kids clubs, playrooms and babysitting. Carnival and Norwegian are more budget-friendly options with an unstuffy atmosphere. Or if for luxurious touches, try Celebrity Cruises , Holland America, Cunard or Silversea.

With Alaska being known for its natural beauty, one thing to bear in mind is the environmental impact of the cruise you choose. The cruise industry doesn’t have the best reputation for sustainability, but not all cruise lines and ships are equal.

The Cruise Ship Report Card ranks ships based on how they deal with sewage, air and water pollution – the methodology is a bit controversial but it does give some guidance.

What are the stops on an Alaska cruise itinerary? (And what can you do there?)

Each cruise line – and often individual itineraries within the same cruise line – makes different stops as they travel through Alaska. So one important thing to consider when you choose an Alaskan cruise is where you want to visit and what you want to do. Here’s what you can expect in the main Alaskan cruise ports of call (from south to north).

Normally a stop on itineraries from Seattle, Vancouver Island’s capital is a pretty, European style city. Victoria is popular for whale-watching but there’s lots to do on land too – take a walk around Beacon Hill Park, learn about local history at the Royal BC Museum, visit colourful Fisherman’s Wharf and have afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress.

Quirky Ketchikan is known as the ‘salmon capital of the world’ and you can buy it, eat it, catch it and watch it migrating upstream here. There’s also historic Creek Street district to explore and more totem poles than anywhere else in the world. Or you can head out to nearby Misty Fjords for floatplane, kayaking and even snorkelling trips.

Sitka’s unique Russian influence make it a bit different from other Alaskan cruise ports. The former capital of Russian America still has its onion-domed cathedral and other remnants of its Russian history. Sitka National Historical Park marks the site of a battle between the Russians and native Tlingit people and has a totem pole walking tour.

Icy Strait Point

Small Icy Strait Point lies on the edge of Glacier Bay – only one ship can dock at a time so it doesn’t get too busy. Icy Strait Point is home to the Tlingit people and you can learn about their culture and tour a 1930s salmon cannery. It’s a good place for wildlife-watching, with whales and porpoises offshore and bears in the surrounding rainforest.

Alaska’s state capital is the smallest in the US, and features on most Alaskan cruise itineraries. It’s surrounded by mountains and the Tongass National Forest , with some great hiking routes. You can also explore its Gold Rush history, take a trip on the Mount Roberts Tramway for panoramic views, or visit the nearby Mendenhall Glacier.

There are tons of excursions * available from Juneau too, including floatplane and helicopter sightseeing tours, husky dog sledding rides and whitewater rafting.

Surrounded by snowy mountains, Haines is one of the most beautiful Alaskan cruise ports – with the bonus that it’s one of the sunniest too. With less ships visiting than many of the other ports it’s kept its small-town charm, with a former army base and museums dedicated to both local history and hammers. It’s also a good place to see bald eagles in autumn.

The small city of Skagway is one of the most popular Alaskan cruise ports, which does mean it can get a bit overwhelmed in peak season. It’s home to the Klondike Gold Rush Historical Park with costumed guides, period buildings and exhibits. There’s also the ghost town of Dyea nearby and train trips on the scenic White Pass and Yukon Railroad.

Where do you see glaciers on an Alaskan cruise?

There’s usually at least one day of scenic cruising in an Alaska cruise itinerary, when you get up close to a glacier – or maybe two or more on one-way cruises. Normally the ship will spend half a day at the glacier, with a commentary from an on-board naturalist to explain what you’re seeing. The three main glaciers visited on Alaskan cruises are:

Hubbard Glacier

At six miles wide and 400 feet tall, the Hubbard Glacier is the biggest glacier visited by cruise ships. Ships can normally get to around half a mile away – though we had perfect conditions so got a bit closer. The glacier is fast moving (comparatively) so you can often see it calving. But sea ice can restrict access at the start and end of the season.

Glacier Bay

Glacier Bay is a remote US National Park which you can only reach by ship or plane. Cruise ships travel up through inlets along the coast so you get the chance to see a variety of different scenery and multiple glaciers. The park is known for its wildlife, with whales, seals and sea otters spotted ioffshore as well as brown bears and mountain goats on land.

Tracy Arm Fjord

Tracy Arm Fjord, south of Juneau, is home to the twin Sawyer glaciers. It has the most spectacular setting, with a 30-mile-long narrow fjord surrounded by 3000-foot cliffs. The glaciers aren’t as big as the others but are a stunning bright blue as they extend deep underwater, and the area is home to humpback whales and harbour seals.

What excursions do you want to do?

Each cruise port has a range of different excursions available – at an extra cost. Some activities like floatplane sightseeing, bear-watching, whale-watching and dog sledding you can do in multiple location, but others like glacier boat trips are only available in one place.

It’s worth doing a bit of research in advance to work out what you want to do as the most popular excursions book up fast, especially in peak season. If there’s something you really want to do then it’s a good idea to reserve a spot when booking your cruise.

The pros of official cruise line excursions is that you’re usually allowed off the ship first and it’ll wait if there are delays, but they can be pricey and sometimes have big group sizes.

You can also book excursions independently, either through places like Get Your Guide * or Viator * who work with lots of different companies, or directly with local operators.

There are also often tour desks at cruise ports where you can book excursions at the last minute if you don’t want to book ahead – we did a last-minute trip to the Mendenhall Glacier from Juneau when we saw it was going to be a sunny day. Though make sure you allow plenty of time as the ship won’t wait for you if you’re late back.

Which cabin should you book?

Cruisers tend to be split into two camps – those who don’t spend much time in their cabins and are happy to go without a window to save money, and those who’ll pay a bit extra to have a balcony to soak up the views from. As Alaska is such a scenic area, particularly when sailing the Inside Passage, we decided it was worth the cost to have a balcony.

Turns out we had fog on the way up and didn’t see a lot, but the balcony came into its own at the glacier. It can help to be able to see the horizon and get some fresh air if you’re worried about seasickness. You can also choose a cabin on as low a deck as possible, and one in the middle of the ship rather than forward or aft as they move less.

It can cost more to reserve a specific cabin rather than a generic category but we managed to bag a room with a bigger balcony by choosing a cabin where the ship widened out.

Ready to choose an Alaskan cruise?

So what makes up your ideal Alaska cruise? Would you prefer a small expedition ship with lots of adventurous activities included? Or would you prefer a larger ship with more facilities and to do a longer trip to see more of the Alaskan scenery?

I travelled with my parents in late August, wanted a round trip from Vancouver on a mid-size ship with a bit of luxury, and didn’t mind what stops we made. We chose a Celebrity Cruises seven-night Hubbard Glacier cruise (£1200/$1500 per person in a balcony cabin) and really enjoyed it, but there are tons of options to create your perfect Alaska cruise.

Save for later

You might also like

Clueless about cruising? First-time cruise questions answered

How to minimise your environmental impact on a cruise

Vancouver to Jasper by train: The Canadian Rockies on a budget with VIA Rail

Lorna Mansell

Wednesday 1st of December 2021

The most helpful advice I've read after about 3 hours of searching the internet - thank you

Laura Pedlar

Sunday 12th of April 2020

I loving cruising and would like to do a cruise to Alaska one day. A Canadian lady once told me to 'do it when I'm old' but others have told me not to wait until then as there's lots of active things to do. The scenery looks so beautiful and I'd love to see the wildlife. I'm glad I came across your article as choosing the right cruise to Alaska can be a bit of a minefield!

Sunday 26th of April 2020

Yes there's a lot of active things to do around Alaska (though prices do start to add up so we ended up doing lots of free walks and things too) – either way it's a gorgeous place for a cruise!

Darlene Foster

Thursday 6th of February 2020

I've done this cruise twice, once with Royal Caribbean and once with Princess Cruise lines. Both were fabulous. I highly recommend an Alaskan cruise. A great article.

Monday 10th of February 2020

Thanks, I really enjoyed the trip and fell in love with Alaska – will definitely be back!

I’ll be going on a cruise in May! Round trip from Seattle doing the inside passage. :) I hope the weather will cooperate for us as it’s our honeymoon.

Hope you have a wonderful time!

• Cruise Tips
• Travel Guides

Alaska Cruises: Benefits and Drawbacks of Round-Trip vs. One-Way

No matter which cruise company passengers choose to go with, Alaska’s untamed fjords, snow-capped mountains, and rocky shoreline provide a beautiful background for travelers. Every Alaskan trip includes a minimum of one day of breathtaking sailing in a fjord or by a glacier, as well as stops to Skagway, Juneau, and Ketchikan.

However, how can you decide between an itinerary that starts or finishes in Alaska on a one-way cruise and a standard round-trip Alaska cruise? We provide a summary of benefits and drawbacks for both round-trip and one-way cruises to Alaska to assist you in selecting the ideal vacation if you’re narrowing down your selections.

Alaskan One-Way Cruises: Benefits

Since sailing only shows you a tiny portion of America’s largest state, the main advantage of beginning or finishing your cruise in Alaska is that guests may combine their voyage with independent travel or land-based activities before or after the cruise.

A greater section of Alaska’s coastline is often covered by one-way cruises. As they move into less-traveled regions where wildlife is more numerous and less disturbed by human activity, they could provide greater opportunity to watch animals.

Alaskan one-way itineraries usually consist of two days of picturesque cruise and more time spent in Alaskan ports, with very few stops in Canada. They usually contain many embarkation and disembarkation ports, offering chances to explore a greater variety of locations and take in a variety of cultures, animals, and sights.

If you don’t mind sailing early or late in the season, several companies now offer one-way repositioning cruises to Alaska. This means that you may pick from lengthier itineraries or locate one-ways from ships that typically only provide round trips.

Many cruise companies, including Holland America Line, Princess voyages, Royal Caribbean, Silversea, Crystal, Regent Seven Seas, and Ponant, provide one-way voyages to Alaska, giving travelers a wide range of alternatives.

Seasonal one-way cruises depart from Vancouver, British Columbia, heading north, or from Seward or Whittier in Alaska, heading south. Travelers taking one-way cruises from Alaska or Vancouver have the option of arriving early at the destination and spending your own time touring before the cruise.

Remember that departing from Seattle gives American tourists an easy (and less expensive) place to fly into, but Vancouver offers more chances to sail the breathtaking Inside Passage.

Alaskan One-Way Cruises: Drawbacks

The need to reserve separate one-way flights, which results in extra costs, is one disadvantage of choosing a one-way cruise to Alaska, especially because one leg of the trip usually requires flying from Alaska.

Getting to or from Anchorage may include a stopover instead of a direct flight, depending on where you are. Moreover, a lot of one-way cruises skip Victoria, British Columbia, one of western Canada’s most beautiful ports of call. Furthermore, the waters in the Gulf of Alaska may be choppy, especially in the latter half of the cruise season.

Alaskan Round-Trip Cruise: Benefits

The simplicity of leaving from and returning to the same port is the primary advantage of round-trip Alaska cruises, which might be helpful for those who would rather not bother with one-way transit arrangements.

In addition to being more convenient for those arriving by car, this alternative is often less expensive for those traveling by air. If you would want to stay in your departure city before or after the trip, Seattle and Vancouver are attractive, energetic, and less expensive than Alaska. Victoria, British Columbia is another stunning coastline city that is often featured as a port of stop on round-trip cruises rather than one-way ones.

Keep in mind that round-trip Princess Cruises operates certain Alaska cruises out of San Francisco, however most Alaska cruises depart from Vancouver and Seattle.

Cons of a Round-Trip Alaskan Cruise

Although the majority of popular cruise lines, such as Disney, Carnival, Royal, and Norwegian, provide round-trip sailings, not all of them do. That isn’t the case, however, with premium labels. The other luxury lines only provide one-way cruises in Alaska; only Oceania offers round-trip cruises.

The fact that you often have less time in Alaska on a round-trip cruise is another significant disadvantage. Round-trip sailings often only visit three ports in Alaska and provide one day of picturesque cruising since Seattle routes must stop in Canada in order to comply with U.S. rules.

On the other hand, one-way cruises may cover four Alaskan ports in a single week and/or provide two days of breathtaking cruising among glaciers like as Hubbard, Sawyer, or College, as well as Glacier Bay and the Inside Passage. There won’t be a port of embarkation or disembarkation in Alaska, therefore you won’t have any time before or after the voyage to visit other Alaskan locations. Finally, if you’re traveling across the broad Pacific Ocean to get to Alaska, you may run across some choppy waves.

In Alaska, One-Way vs. Round-Trip: The Final Say

No Alaskan cruise itinerary will lead you astray, but if you’re still unsure, here’s what we suggest. If price is your first consideration, you want to see Alaska briefly and don’t need or have the time to go further into the state, you’d like to spend a little more time in Canada or Seattle, or all three, then go for a round-trip cruise.

If you’re not on a strict budget, want to see as much as you can, appreciate picturesque traveling, and/or want to take a pre- or post-cruise tour, go for a one-way cruise to Alaska.

Whatever cruise you go on, Alaska offers a unique opportunity to see the region’s natural features, abundant wildlife, and rich cultural legacy.

Sign in to your account

Username or Email Address

Remember Me

8 Things to Consider When Booking an Alaska Cruise

Alaska is a dream destination for many travelers, and a majority of the state’s annual visitors arrive on a cruise ship. Those who cruise Alaska’s Inside Passage marvel at calm waters and spectacular scenery as the ship glides through protected waterways. Along the way, you may see whales, orcas, dolphins, and a host of other marine life from the comfort of your deck chair.

The ships come in a dizzying array of sizes and price points, and the itineraries can combine innumerable ways so that the planning can appear daunting. To help make things easier, here are a few things to know ahead of planning your journey.

The Best Time to Take an Alaskan Cruise

The best time to go depends on whether you're aiming for ideal weather or smaller crowds.

Alaska’s tourism season is short, starting in mid-to-late May and typically buttoning up by the end of September. Volume peaks in June and July, with most destinations seeing the fewest crowds before Memorial Day or later in August.

The weather in Alaska is always unpredictable, but is generally at its warmest and sunniest during the peak months. May can be cool to mild, and chances of rain increase from mid-August onward; as the days begin to rapidly shorten this time of year, temps also begin to cool.

The Best Time to Book an Alaskan Cruise

Book ahead for selection, wait for bargains.

Conventional wisdom for Alaska cruises is to book a year in advance—particularly for travelers who want the best selection of sailing dates and cabins during the June/July peak season. Bargain hunters who are more flexible can often snag deals during the “Wave” booking season in January and February, when cruise bookings for all destinations peak; last-minute deals can also be found as late as June.

Cruise lines tend to price higher for early bookings, with included add-ons like onboard credits or prepaid gratuities to entice buyers. Last-minute offers, on the other hand, are typically cruise-only. It also pays to monitor fares after the initial deposit—many cruise lines will honor lower fares after the initial booking as long as the final payment hasn’t been made. However, lower fares may not come with the same included amenities originally applied.

One-Way or Round Trip?

With a few exceptions, large-ship Alaska cruises typically operate one-way from Whittier or Seward to Vancouver, or round trip from the West Coast ports of Vancouver, Seattle, San Francisco, or Los Angeles.

Round-trip itineraries are a great way to avoid the often higher airfares associated with flying to different airports to embark and disembark the ship, but that convenience often comes with a higher cruise fare.

Round-trip itineraries are also geographically limited to the Inside Passage, while one-way itineraries cross the Gulf of Alaska and offer additional scenic cruising in College Fjord or Hubbard Glacier. Travelers who are interested in touring Southcentral and Interior Alaska by land before or after their cruise should book a one-way itinerary.  

Cruise or Cruisetour?

Many large-ship lines—including Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, and Royal Caribbean—have significant land operations in Alaska and offer cruisetours, a combination cruise and land tour for a single price.

Specifics vary by company, but in general, cruisetour guests will seamlessly transition between their cruise ship and land, traveling via narrated rail or motorcoach to company-owned lodges. At the lodges, guests can continue booking excursions and activities, similarly to how they would during their cruise. The one major difference is that unlike the more all-inclusive pricing onboard the ship, the land portion of most cruisetours generally doesn't include meals (although some “deluxe” or “fully escorted” itineraries do).

Cruisetours are ideal for travelers who don’t mind a set itinerary and prefer not to deal with the logistics of booking transportation and accommodations (which can be scarce and expensive during peak season) on their own. It’s also worth noting that the cruisetour experience can be difficult to duplicate for individual travelers, as the large cruise companies tend to dominate the landscape for transportation and lodging options, particularly in Denali National Park .

Cruisetours are not the best choice for travelers who prefer to travel away from groups or want flexibility with their schedules. Itineraries often run at a vigorous pace, with some early morning starts and evening arrivals when traveling between cities. It’s also worth noting that the accommodation options at or near Denali National Park are not luxury resorts—they’re wilderness lodges providing what is best described as a “better-than-modest” standard of accommodation.

Travelers wishing to continue their land tours in Alaska should strongly consider purchasing cruise line transfers between Anchorage and Whittier or Seward; cruise passengers comprise virtually all of the traffic between those cities, and alternative options for transfers are extremely limited. Outside of cruisetour packages designed to funnel cruise ship passengers directly to top attractions, most individual touring in Alaska will begin and end in Anchorage—not in the smaller cruise ports.

What Sights Should I Hold Out For?

Most of the top scenic attractions on cruises are capacity limited. Glacier Bay National Park , the banner destination for scenic glacier cruising, cannot accommodate all the large cruise ships each season. So, if Glacier Bay is a must, be sure to select a cruise that features it.

That said, the limited number of Glacier Bay entrance passes means that cruise lines have started calling at Hubbard Glacier and Tracy Arm for scenic cruising, and port calls at gems like Sitka are growing in popularity after years of downturn.

Denali National Park is a major draw for many visitors, but it’s also worth exploring alternative options such as the Kenai Peninsula, Copper River Center (both available on many cruise tours) or Katmai National Park (often booked as a separate add-on from Anchorage).

Should I Book an Outside Cabin or Balcony?

That’s a never-ending debate among veteran cruisers, but if there’s any destination that seems tailor-made for balcony staterooms, it’s Alaska. A significant portion of the time spent cruising in Alaskan waters is incredibly scenic. Book on the starboard (right) side of the ship for northbound itineraries, and on the port (left) side of the ship for southbound itineraries.

Another benefit to balcony staterooms is that travelers can step outside to gauge the weather when dressing for their day. Alaskan weather patterns can be deceptive—viewed through a window, a crisp sunny day can appear warmer than it really is, or a stiff breeze requiring a windbreaker may not be readily apparent.

Big Ship or Small Ship?

Ships sailing in Alaskan waters range from the newest megaships from the world's largest cruise lines to intimate expedition ships that can squeeze through narrower passages and transport passengers to deserted island beaches. On these smaller ships, the destination (and conversation about it) is front-and-center in the onboard experience; however, expedition vessels, while comfortable, lack many of the amenities of large cruise ships. Travelers who simply can’t live without an onboard casino or that chic wine bar are better off booking the larger ship.

An added benefit of small-ship cruises is that cruisers can usually leave their passports at home—the ships are often American-built and flagged, meaning they’ll depart from Alaskan ports and aren’t required to make foreign port calls.

Is a Pre- or Post-Cruise Hotel Room Necessary?

For travelers arriving or departing from Anchorage, almost always. Northbound sailings dock early in the morning, and passengers headed directly for the airport can often get there within a few hours. However, most flight departures from Anchorage for destinations further than the U.S. West Coast are in the early morning (too early for cruise ship arrivals) or around midnight, leaving a full room-less day in the city.

Even the post-arrival excursions that many cruises offer don’t eat up much time, so guests are often stuck in the ticketing lobby at the airport hours before their flight with all their checked luggage in tow (airlines can’t accept checked bags more than a few hours prior to departure, for security reasons).

Hotel rooms in Anchorage are expensive in the summer, but cruisers with more than a few hours to kill may appreciate overnighting in Anchorage (which has much to see and do) and departing at their preferred time the next day.

For departures from West Coast gateways, it’s easier to arrive the day of departure and go straight to the ship, but it’s almost always a good idea to fly in the night before to account for the possibility of delays. Arriving in West Coast ports is much easier than arriving in Anchorage, as there are typically flights available throughout the day.

Your Trip to Alaska: The Complete Guide

The Best Alaska Cruises

Alaska Cruise Pictures

3 Types of Alaska Cruise Itineraries

The Best Time to Cruise Alaska

13 New Ocean Cruise Ships in 2018

Should You Visit Alaska by Land or on a Cruise?

12 Best Things to Do in Juneau During an Alaska Cruise

Holland America Eurodam's Best Shore Excursions

25 Best Things to Do in Alaska

The Top 5 Cruise Destinations For Summer

10 Questions to Answer When Planning a Cruise

Two Cruise Lines Are Offering Land-Only Alaska Itineraries This Summer

The Best Time to Visit Alaska

10 Things to Do on an Alaska Cruise

18 Things You Didn't Know About Cruising to Antarctica

• Ask a Cruise Question

Do you prefer roundtrip or one-way cruises?

By Gig103 , June 6, 2015 in Ask a Cruise Question

Recommended Posts

I know r/t are the most common, especially out of Florida with all the ports in the Caribbean. But DW and I love the one-way cruises - One reposition under our belt, another booked, and even in Alaska we went from Vancouver to Seward! I'm not sure if it's because they feel like a voyage, or if it's because the itineraries are more unique. But I was just wondering if other folks have a preference when planning their vacations?

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

Krazy Kruizers

We love repositioning cruises. Have done quite a few them in Europe -- Istanbul to Barcelona -- several other med ones, Baltic ones.

Transatlantic ones.

Have done Ft Lauderdale to Montreal, Ft to Seattle, Seward to Vancouver, Seattle to Ft Lauderdale.

And the list can go on.

calliopecruiser

I love lots of sea days, so trans-oceanic cruises are my favourite. I've done one transatlantic and one transpacific, and I've got another transpacific booked, Tokyo to LA.

We love the one way cruises. We have taken them all over the world.

We use one-way re positioning cruises as a means to get to and from many parts of the world. When you have the time (we are retired) these cruises are great alternatives to flying (and sometimes actually cheaper). We have used one way cruises to get to and from Europe more then a dozen times (several times we have used another one-way cruise to go the other way on the same trip) where we then spend some time (often at least a month) doing driving trips. Last fall we used a 38 day HAL repo cruise to get from the US to New Zealand. If we didn't have to be home for Thanksgiving we could have taken a different ship back to the US (this would have been a really neat trip) like a few others we met.

For folks wanting to cruise in Europe we often recommend one-way cruises (such as from Civitavecchia to Istanbul) and suggest spending some land time at both ends. So-called "Open Jaw" air fares usually work fine for these type trips allowing folks to get round trip air (to and from different cities) with no real penalty.

navybankerteacher

Repositionings are a great way to cross oceans - often as inexpensively as flying - and generally much less expensive than business class. Of course you need the time. Most cruisers, certainly those who do not want passports, are limited to shorter, round-trip cruises to/from the same port.

Velvetwater

One way cruises as the ports are almost always a little more unusual and less touristy. We did our first one last year and got another booked this year.

We have plans to do a Asia/Oz or Oz/Asia cruise as our best open one yet at some point as well as a TA.

One way cruises often have a special feeling on board too with passengers and crew. Its not just the same old route and same old ports.

cruiseapril

We prefer round trip as they are more relaxing for us.

Most of my cruises have been one-way and that's the format I prefer. The down side (if there is one) is that you have to work out the travel arrangements to/from both ends of the cruise...and sometimes that's a challenge.

I have never had the opportunity to try a one-way cruise, but I sure would like to try. I really think trans ocean and re positioning cruises offer a great value for those that have both time and enjoy sea days.

Now that many airlines allow you to price and book segments separately, it seems that the higher pricing of open jaw tickets has evaporated. On our last trip, pricing varied by time of day of the flight. As a result we look at the itinerary rather than the start/end ports.

Two great ports at start and end so you can have extended land tours at each end make for a great cruise. But then when we cruise, it is for the ports and not the ship.

For us it's easy Drs won't let DW fly so Round Trip every time.

That's true now if only there wre more that would let us do one way there a few weeks land tour and then one way back.

You could probably arrange that with Cunard to and from England, since they cross the Atlantic so frequently.

In Europe, I love one way cruises but in the Caribbean, round-trip is my choice.

There are many one way cruises that aren't for repositioning. We have taken several, including our last two, one this past January from Singapore to Hong Kong, and the one before from Barcelona to Venice. In both cases, the next cruise was a return to the first port.

We much prefer these one way cruises. We take advantage of being in a different city before and after the cruise, spending a few days in each. With the cost of international airfare forever increasing, it's one way to get time in more cities with just one set of flights. We get to spend time in one more city for the same travel cost.

One way or round trip is irrelevant to me, I just prefer longer over shorter and I want to visit new ports.

Yeah but I'm in Australia

In the Caribbean ROUNDTRIPS are our choice! :)

Depends on the itinerary. We book the cruises we're interested in, don't really pay attention to whether they are one way or round trip.

Round trips - 9 (67 nights total)

1 way trips - 5 (52 nights total)

Roundtrip means cheaper airfare. But we look for long cruises of any sort, more than 14 days.

So we often do back-to-back that have different itineraries. Those are rarely roundtrip.

We do both types. Usually the one way are a fun alternative to flying. I wish there were more one ways to Africa.

We prefer 1 way, though always get better deals on round trip

SPacificbound

I like to put a few cruises together that either begins or ends with a repositioning cruise. I only want to fly one way. :)

Please sign in to comment

You will be able to leave a comment after signing in

• Welcome to Cruise Critic
• Hurricane Zone 2024
• Cruise Insurance Q&A w/ Steve Dasseos of Tripinsurancestore.com June 2024
• New Cruisers
• Cruise Lines “A – O”
• Cruise Lines “P – Z”
• River Cruising
• Cruise Critic News & Features
• Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
• Special Interest Cruising
• Cruise Discussion Topics
• UK Cruising
• Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
• Canadian Cruisers
• North American Homeports
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Conversations

Announcements

• New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!

Write Your Own Amazing Review !

Click this gorgeous photo by member SUPERstar777 to share your review!

Features & News

LauraS · Started 1 hour ago

LauraS · Started Yesterday at 03:59 PM

LauraS · Started Tuesday at 05:03 PM

LauraS · Started Tuesday at 04:09 PM

LauraS · Started Tuesday at 07:58 AM

• Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
• Find Your Roll Call
• Meet & Mingle
• Community Help Center
• All Activity
• Member Photo Albums
• Meet & Mingle Photos
• Favorite Cruise Memories
• Cruise Food Photos
• Cruise Ship Photos
• Ports of Call Photos
• Towel Animal Photos
• Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
• Write a Review
• Live Cruise Reports
• Member Cruise Reviews
• Create New...

Round Trip or One Way?

By Qwltngcruiser , June 29, 2021 in Alaska

Recommended Posts

Qwltngcruiser

My husband and I are looking to book an Alaskan cruise for next May. We’re trying to decide between a round trip that doesn’t hit Hubbard Glacier, a round trip that does hit Hubbard Glacier, and then a one way trip that hits Hubbard and ends in Seward.  The one way trip and the round trip with Hubbard are both on an older smaller ship. The other round trip is on a relatively newer larger ship. Is the trip between Hubbard Glacier and Seward something that shouldn’t be missed? What about Hubbard itself?   I’ve seen pics and it looks amazing.  Should we not even consider the one without Hubbard in the itinerary?

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

CruiserBruce

We don't know you, so can't say if the "older smaller ship" is a problem...you seem to be implying it is.

I would definitely take Hubbard Glacier...it is amazing. Where does the cruise that misses Hubbard Glacier go?

Know that the travel to or from Seward will be more complicated and take more time. But it is still worthwhile.

I have done round trip and one way.  Either was fine for me but if one way I recommend starting by flying into Anchorage (for Seward).  Look at the flight schedules from our part of the world and you will see why.  I can fly from DFW to Anchorage direct in 6 hours departing at 10 am and arriving in the afternoon.  However the way back is always miserable.  The flights will leave late, you will have a layover somewhere, likely Seattle, and won't get home until 1 AM.  We are going next year and we are flying to Anchorage. 

I would pick a cruise that does Glacier Bay for sure.  While Hubbard is amazingly beautiful and huge, Glacier Bay is spectacular.  There’s a reason it’s a national park.  I don’t think I would pick a cruise if it didn’t go to Glacier Bay.  If you can find a cruise that does both that would be the one I book.  I think the NCL Jewel does both on a one way to Seward from Vancouver.

The trip from Hubbard to Seward is mostly open ocean as I recall so no, you are not missing much.

@Mary229 your flight is direct, or non-stop? There is a difference. 

I wish there was a non-stop from LAX-YVR.

6 minutes ago, Ashland said: I wish there was a non-stop from LAX-YVR.

There haver been and will be, once the US-Canada Covid restrictions are lifted.  

2 hours ago, CruiserBruce said: @Mary229 your flight is direct, or non-stop? There is a difference. 

Going you can get non-stop, returning non stop flights are close non-existent.  Some actually have 2 or 3 layovers.  I don't understand why but it has been like that for years.  Actually last year I booked the trip in reverse and realized my folly so when I rebooked I started in Anchorage.  The OP is in Tennessee so they likely will face the same predicament.  

Anyway if you live out east it is worth considering your flights prior to booking.

The trip between Seward and Hubbard Glacier is largely overnight so not much to see.  It's only on Day 2 when the ship heads into Disenchantment Bay does the scenery get special.

For me, the reason to start in Seward is to spend a day (or at least 6 hours) on a small boat excursion in Kenai Fjords National Park.  My favorite day begins in Anchorage.  Then the 6:45 a.m. train to Seward.  Then the 11:30 a.m., 6 hour Resurrection Bay cruise.  Then returning to Seward and boarding my cruise ship for a 7-day trip into Vancouver.  But that's me.

It will be harder to do this itinerary in the future, as fewer ships are departing from Seward, opting instead for Whittier.  May have to spend an extra day in order to get from Seward to Whittier to start the cruise.

7 hours ago, Qwltngcruiser said: a round trip that does hit Hubbard Glacier, 

If you have no/little interest in seeing more of Alaska than along the coast, I would choose the round trip that includes Hubbard as well as Glacier Bay.  That way, you will experience two of the best glacier areas that cruises visit.

If time in Seward, spending the turnaround day on a Kenai Fjords cruise would be a good idea.  

9 hours ago, Qwltngcruiser said: My husband and I are looking to book an Alaskan cruise for next May. We’re trying to decide between a round trip that doesn’t hit Hubbard Glacier, a round trip that does hit Hubbard Glacier, and then a one way trip that hits Hubbard and ends in Seward.  The one way trip and the round trip with Hubbard are both on an older smaller ship. The other round trip is on a relatively newer larger ship. Is the trip between Hubbard Glacier and Seward something that shouldn’t be missed? What about Hubbard itself?   I’ve seen pics and it looks amazing.  Should we not even consider the one without Hubbard in the itinerary?

If viewing glaciers is a key determination, then I'll suggest Glacier Bay is a must. Having worked 2 full Alaska seasons and many additional cruises as a pax, I have never failed to get into Glacier Bay, seeing at least 2 glaciers. You also have the excellent commentary from local Park Rangers, who board the vessel.

Hubbard is a large glacier, but ships do miss some calls due to ice blocking the channel. I believe I have missed Hubbard on 2 occassions. However, it is definitely impressive and worth seeing.

If going up to Seward, I would only pick a cruise line that also spends the day cruising within Prince William Sound, especially College Fjord. Ships that sail directly from Hubbard to Seward are basically in open ocean, similar to the transit up the Pacific Ocean by the Seattle based ships.

One way if you have time to extend your trip by several days to see more of Alaska.  If you only have 7 days do a round trip.  If possible choose an itinerary that includes Glacier Bay.

9 hours ago, Gardyloo said: There haver been and will be, once the US-Canada Covid restrictions are lifted.  

Which airlines ? We seem to always have to connect in PDX.

2 hours ago, Ashland said: Which airlines ? We seem to always have to connect in PDX.

At least pre-COVID, we have flown direct with Air Canada, Westjet & United.

2 hours ago, Heidi13 said:   At least pre-COVID, we have flown direct with Air Canada, Westjet & United.

LAX-YVR was my question. 

8 hours ago, Ashland said: LAX-YVR was my question. 

Affirmative, over the years we have flown direct on that route with Air Canada, Westjet and United.

2 hours ago, Heidi13 said:   Affirmative, over the years we have flown direct on that route with Air Canada, Westjet and United.

Thanks...Will be looking into that for our Sept 2022 cruise out of Vancouver.

Please sign in to comment

You will be able to leave a comment after signing in

• Welcome to Cruise Critic
• Hurricane Zone 2024
• Cruise Insurance Q&A w/ Steve Dasseos of Tripinsurancestore.com June 2024
• New Cruisers
• Cruise Lines “A – O”
• Cruise Lines “P – Z”
• River Cruising
• Cruise Critic News & Features
• Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
• Special Interest Cruising
• Cruise Discussion Topics
• UK Cruising
• Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
• Canadian Cruisers
• North American Homeports
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Conversations

Announcements

• New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!

Write Your Own Amazing Review !

Click this gorgeous photo by member SUPERstar777 to share your review!

Features & News

LauraS · Started 1 hour ago

LauraS · Started Yesterday at 03:59 PM

LauraS · Started Tuesday at 05:03 PM

LauraS · Started Tuesday at 04:09 PM

LauraS · Started Tuesday at 07:58 AM

• Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
• Find Your Roll Call
• Meet & Mingle
• Community Help Center
• All Activity
• Member Photo Albums
• Meet & Mingle Photos
• Favorite Cruise Memories
• Cruise Food Photos
• Cruise Ship Photos
• Ports of Call Photos
• Towel Animal Photos
• Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
• Write a Review
• Live Cruise Reports
• Member Cruise Reviews
• Create New...

Agent Information

← Return to Blog

Book One of These Types of Cruises That Aren't Ocean Liners

Becky Hart | Jun 4, 2024

Share Twitter   share

Regular cruisers know how it works. You make your way to Miami or Barcelona and join the throngs of other travelers aboard a massive ocean liner. Over the course of the next few days or weeks, you move from one port to the next, see the tourist hotspots, indulge in decadent meals, maybe play a game of pickleball on deck.

But what if you want more than the average cruise ? If you’re looking for something different, these lesser-known types of cruises will give you a fresh outlook on sailing.

Repositioning Cruises

Perhaps the closest on our list to a typical ocean cruise is the repositioning cruise. If you have the extra time and think the best thing about sailing is the days at sea, this could be for you.

What is a repositioning cruise?

This usually happens at the end or beginning of the season as the cruise line moves the ship toward warmer weather. The sailings are longer — usually two weeks or more — and they’re one-way journeys.

A repositioning cruise usually follows a transatlantic route. Don’t expect a typical itinerary, though. Most of your days will be filled with on-ship activities rather than exploring at ports. This is a big positive for some cruisers; it gives you more time to relax, unwind, and spend quality time with family.

While the cruise line will do everything it can to make your trip incredible, the company's ultimate goal really is to get the ship from Point A to Point B.

Transatlantic repositioning cruise

These routes are typically between Europe and the U.S., following either a northern route or southern route. They vary by cruise line and where that company’s ports of embarkation are.

Common transatlantic repositioning cruises go from Florida to Europe (Portugal, Spain, or France, for example) and vice versa. The usual ports of call on these routes include Bermuda and other points in the Caribbean.

Alternatively, you could find a repositioning cruise between Europe and New York. These sometimes make stops at less common ports farther north like Greenland.

Transpacific repositioning cruise

You might need to block off a month on your calendar for a transpacific repositioning cruise, but you won’t regret the time spent on board. One common route takes you between Australia and Hawaii, visiting ports in New Zealand or Polynesian islands like Tahiti along the way.

You’ll often find transpacific repositioning cruises between Japan and the U.S. West Coast as well.

U.S. West Coast repositioning cruise

Less common although possibly more accessible to travelers who don’t have several weeks to dedicate to a single vacation is an Alaskan repositioning cruise.

These tend to be just a few days with an itinerary that takes you between Southern California and Vancouver (heading north toward Alaska in the spring and south toward warmer weather in the fall).

Expedition Cruises

An expedition cruise is more about the destination and less about just cruising. If you’re someone who thinks lounging on the deck and stuffing yourself at the buffet is a boring way to spend a vacation, you might consider an expedition cruise.

Ships are smaller and outfitted to take passengers to more remote places. You’ll have highly trained guides at your disposal, helping you on kayaking excursions or hiking through mountains at a port of call.

Some consider this type of cruise the answer for those who want to sail in luxury but with more adventure.

Alaska expedition cruises

Itineraries for the Inside Passage might take you to see glaciers and whales, through hidden coves, and deep into national park land.

Other routes might keep you more along the coast where you have more towns to explore. These often focus on Native Alaskan culture and heritage, while also giving you a chance to meander through fjords full of wildlife.

Yet another option is a one-way cruise starting in Alaska and ending in Japan. Your itinerary is filled with natural wonders and national parks on either end, and in between are several days at sea where you can take advantage of activities like naturalist talks and photography workshops, or relax on your own.

Because you’re so far north for these trips, the season for an expedition cruise in Alaska is somewhat short. Aim to go in the spring or early summer. The weather is warmest — and sunniest — in July and August. This is peak travel season for Alaska, but your smaller expedition ship might be able to get you away from the worst of the crowds.

The biggest player in expedition cruises, especially in this region, is Linblad Expeditions . The cruise line has combined with National Geographic to offer memorable adventures off the main tourist path.

Antarctica expedition cruises

Antarctica is another popular expedition cruise destination for many of the same reasons they’re popular in Alaska. You can get in amongst glaciers and over terrain that’s not easily accessible over land.

Antarctic expedition cruises might be combined with other locales like Patagonia or the Falkland Islands. Not surprisingly, these routes are all about frozen landscapes and wildlife you’re unlikely to find anywhere else. Think penguins, whales, and seals in their natural habitat.

It’s important (at least for us) to note that many travel insurance plans do not cover you in Antarctica. So while this is an exceptional destination, it does come with higher risk than many other locations. Consider that in your plans.

Pacific islands expedition cruises

Not all expedition cruises are cold. One on our bucket list takes you to the Pacific islands like French Polynesia, Samoa, and Fiji.

These routes typically include multiple island groups. You’ll snorkel, visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites that protect the cultural heritage of the islands, and enjoy all things marine.

European River Cruises

Many companies have updated their offerings, adding themed cruises and land excursions to appeal to younger passengers as well as combining itineraries to create longer journeys that allow travelers to see more on a single sailing.

With these updated offerings, you have more opportunity to experience Europe on a low-key cruise, letting others handle the travel logistics while you enjoy a home away from home aboard a ship.

River cruise ships are smaller than ocean liners, often accommodating 100 to 300 passengers. They tend to be about 400 feet long, give or take a few depending on the cruise line, which is about the length of an American football field. They’re also much narrower.

The compactness of a river cruise ship allows it to navigate smaller waterways and make its way through locks that ocean liners can’t even begin to attempt.

Whereas amenities such as a spa or fitness facility are a given on ocean liners, you can’t make the same assumption on a river cruise ship. Your river cruise ship will have restaurants, but perhaps only one or two compared to multiple on large ships.

While there are slightly fewer options, the tradeoff is that you can visit different locales and do it amongst fewer crowds.

Viking River Cruises

One of pros of taking a river cruise with Viking is its many itineraries throughout Europe. In addition to popular French routes on the Seine or Central European sailings on the Danube, you’ll also find itineraries that include Switzerland, Portugal, and more.

If you want to combine your river cruise with an ocean cruise , you can do that, too. This incredible two-week trip takes you from Switzerland and north through Germany and the Netherlands until you reach the North Sea. From there, you continue on your northward route toward Scandinavia.

Viking is hardly the only river cruise line out there. It does set a high standard for other companies, but you’ll also pay for that high standard. If you’re traveling on a budget, keep an eye out for special deals, as that’s probably your best bet for saving money on a Viking River Cruise.

Seine River cruises

If you’re less particular about the cruise line and want a classic river cruise destination, look no farther than the Seine. Running through Paris , a cruise on the Seine River shows off some of the highlights of the City of Light.

This is one of the more crowded itineraries for a river cruise, but only because it’s popular. And for good reason. You get all the benefits of a river cruise with excursions to the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Champs-Élysées, and more iconic sites.

If you’re looking for a river cruise in France but want to get away from the busy capital, try Burgundy and Provence (especially if you love wine) or one of many Rhine river cruises.

Danube River cruises

At 2,000 miles, the Danube is one of the longest rivers in Europe, so cruises along this waterway take many forms. Some of the best Danube river cruises include Budapest. The Hungarian city is steeped in history that’s on display through its architecture, food, and museums.

Also on many Danube itineraries are the Black Forest in Germany, where the river begins, Vienna, and Prague. In between visiting these metropolitan gems, you can take in plenty of natural scenic beauty along the riverbanks.

U.S. River Cruises

With our love of driving and the ease of flying, Americans often forget that rivers used to be a main mode of transportation. Our massive network of rivers gives us a wide range of cruising options and a different perspective from which to see the U.S.

What is the best river cruise in the USA?

U.S. cruise lines know how to do a themed trip, and some of the best river cruises in the USA cater to specific interests. You’ll find bourbon cruises on the Mississippi River, music cruises to Nashville , culinary cruises around New Orleans, and wine cruises in Napa Valley.

Other lines focus on the character of the location. Cruises in Martha’s Vineyard and the Northeast showcase postcard-worthy scenes of lighthouses and plates full of lobster. Itineraries throughout the Midwest highlight the region’s history where early settlers explored.

The best cruise is one that piques your own interests.

Mississippi River cruises

The Mississippi River is the second-longest in the U.S. (it’s true; the Missouri River is a teensy bit longer), but it’s also the most famous.

Most Mississippi River cruises explore only a portion of the river, either the upper or the lower. Upper Mississippi itineraries typically run between Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Memphis, Tennessee. You’ll find several departures in St. Louis, too.

Stops on these routes include historic towns filled with legends of pioneer days. Don’t be surprised if there’s a port of call at Hannibal, Missouri, too. It’s the hometown of Mark Twain after all.

Lower Mississippi river cruise routes typically run between Memphis and New Orleans. These really double down on Southern culture. Itineraries tend to focus on food — po'boys, soul food, beignets — Black history, Civil War battlefields, and music.

Hudson River cruises

Combine your dreams of cruising with leaf peeping by taking a cruise on the Hudson River in the fall. It’s typically an out-and-back route, sailing between New York City or New Jersey and upstate New York.

You’ll travel through the Hudson River Valley by West Point, home of the U.S. Military Academy; Hyde Park, once the residence of Franklin D. Roosevelt; and further north toward Albany. It’s an area not only renowned for its natural beauty, but also as the seat of countless industrialists, politicians, and others on the list of who’s who for shaping our nation.

For a fall foliage cruise, book your trip for September or October (although some cruise lines run as late as November). Just remember that it’s hard to predict exactly when the leaves will be at their brightest. Even if you miss peak season, you’re sure to enjoy a beautiful journey.

Barge Cruises

Don’t let this fool you into thinking they’re dull, though. Because of the barge’s slower speeds, you have more opportunity to hop on and hop off. While your barge is going through one lock — and depending on where you’re cruising, there could be a lot of them — you can go on shore, walk around, and even ride a bike to the next lock where you’ll meet up with your vessel again.

Whereas a typical ocean liner is usually described as a “floating city,” barge cruises are more of a “floating hotel.” They’re smaller, allowing them to fit through narrow waterways. That means there are also fewer people aboard, sometimes as few as four passengers and rarely more than 30. All of this might appeal to you if you aren’t a fan of crowds, either on the ship or on shore.

Luxury barging

You’ll still get fine dining, including buffets, which is always a perk of taking a cruise. One of the upsides of a luxury barge compared to a more traditional river cruise, however, is that more meals are taken on shore. This gives you the opportunity to sample local cuisine at the source.

What you won’t find are some of the entertainment and amenities common on large ships. Some barges might have laundry service, but that tends to be the exception rather than the rule. You also won’t find water parks, bowling alleys, and large theaters.

Rather than extravagant floor shows, you’re more likely to be entertained by intimate gatherings about the local culture, wine and cheese tastings from local businesses, and daytime excursions to remote villages.

You’ll have a dedicated crew on board with cruise directors and cabin stewards. You might even find that there are as many crew members as there are passengers, giving you personalized service.

Who should take a barge cruise?

Because of their small size, barge cruises are a unique way to travel with a family or small group and make it feel like a private or charter cruise. Imagine booking a six-passenger luxury barge cruise with a few friends for the week. Or maybe you’re part of a couples group looking for an easy, relaxing getaway together.

Barge cruises may also be ideal for someone who doesn’t want to feel trapped by crowds and the overrun ports visited by typical cruises.

Barge cruises in France

Yes, you can take a river cruise on the Seine. Or you can get away from Paris and explore France’s other rivers and canals. Passengers often say a French barge cruise is the perfect way to see the countryside at a leisurely pace.

Barge cruises in France can take you to regions most famous for their scenic countryside. This includes places like Burgundy, the Loire Valley, and Canal du Midi. Or head to the Champagne region or Alsace and Lorraine instead.

Being in the French countryside puts you in a prime location for exploring chateaux, visiting vineyards and sampling local wines, discovering cheeses you’ve never heard of, and cycling along canals where the towpath was carved by livestock during an earlier era.

Barge cruises in Europe

France doesn’t have a monopoly on luxury barging. Scotland has some stunning routes through lochs and mountains. The Netherlands , known for its canals, is another great option.

Although less common, you’ll find some barge cruise itineraries in Italy and Germany as well.

Travel Insurance for Cruises

These types of cruises might be unique, but you still need to protect your trip just like any other vacation. Seven Corners Cruise Insurance covers medical and trip expenses, whether you’re on a repositioning cruise on the Pacific Ocean or drifting along a Dutch canal on a luxury barge.

Our cruise insurance includes protection for trip cancellation, interruption, and delay as well as missed tour or cruise connection benefits. It can also pay your medical expenses if you get sick or hurt during your trip, something your domestic health insurance typically won’t do when you’re abroad.

Get a quick quote for Seven Corners Cruise Insurance or talk to one of our licensed agents about protecting your unique getaway.

Travel Like a Pro with The Wayfinder

Did you enjoy this blog? Get more articles like it before anyone else when you subscribe to our monthly newsletter, The Wayfinder.

• Infographics
• Study Abroad
• Testimonials
• Travel Destinations
• Travel Insurance Advice
• Travel Tips

Search Posts

Newsletter alert

Receive our monthly inspiration and travel tips from the travel insurance experts.

303 Congressional Blvd.

Carmel, Indiana 46032

Our Markets

• Consumer Insurance
• Government Solutions
• Trip Protection
• Trip Protection Annual Multi-Trip
• Trip Protection USA
• Travel Medical
• Travel Medical USA Visitor
• Cruise Insurance
• Medical Evacuation and Repatriation
• Partnerships
• 24 Hour Urgent Travel Assistance
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Developer Portal
• System Status

[email protected]

Copyright © 2024 Seven Corners Inc. All rights reserved.

Privacy   |   Cookies   |   Terms of Use   |   Security

One-Way Hawaii Cruises

One-way cruises to Hawaii are available from Los Angeles, Vancouver, Australia and Tahiti. Most Hawaiian cruises are round-trip (either from the mainland or around the islands) but a few are one-way. The schedule of departures is below.

A one-way trip is shorter than a roundtrip, because it doesn't include the days back to the starting port. An advantage is that you can spend extra time in Hawaii at the end of the cruise.

15-night cruise to Hawaii on Disney Cruise Line . One-way from Sydney (Australia) to Honolulu (Hawaii). Visit Noumea (New Caledonia), Lautoka (Fiji), Pago Pago (American Samoa) and Kahului (Maui). • 2024 departure: February 16.

17-night cruise to Hawaii on Celebrity Cruises . One-way from Sydney (Australia) to Honolulu (Hawaii). Visit Isle of Pines (New Caledonia), Mystery Island (Vanuatu), Suva (Fiji), Lautoka (Fiji), Apia (Samoa), Pago Pago (American Samoa) and Maui (Hawaii). • 2024 departure: April 9.

17-night cruise to Hawaii on Celebrity Cruises . One-way from Sydney (Australia) to Honolulu (Hawaii). Visit Bay of Islands (New Zealand), Auckland (New Zealand), Raitea, Tahiti, Moorea and Maui (Hawaii). • 2024 departure: April 14.

16-night cruise to Hawaii on Norwegian Cruise Line . One-way from Vancouver (Canada) to Honolulu (Hawaii). Visit Ketchikan (Alaska), Juneau (Alaska), Skagway (Alaska), Icy Strait Point (Alaska), Kauai (Hawaii), Maui (Hawaii) and Hilo (Hawaii). • 2024 departure: May 8.

12-night cruise to Hawaii on Celebrity Cruises . One-way from Vancouver (Canada) to Honolulu (Hawaii). Visit Hilo (Hawaii), Kailua Kona (Hawaii) and Maui (Hawaii). • 2024 departure: September 20.

9-night cruise to Hawaii on Celebrity Cruises . One-way from Vancouver (Canada) to Honolulu (Hawaii). Visit Kailua Kona (Hawaii), Hilo (Hawaii) and Maui (Hawaii). • 2024 departure: September 22.

10-night cruise to Hawaii on Royal Caribbean . One-way from Vancouver (Canada) to Honolulu (Hawaii). Visit Hilo (Hawaii), Kauai (Hawaii), Kona (Hawaii) and Maui (Hawaii). • 2024 departure: September 22.

10-night cruise to Hawaii on Disney Cruise Line . One-way from Vancouver (Canada) to Honolulu (Hawaii). Visit Kauai (Hawaii), Maui (Hawaii) and Hilo (Hawaii). • 2024 departure: September 23.

16-night cruise to Hawaii on Norwegian Cruise Line . One-way from Vancouver (Canada) to Honolulu (Hawaii). Visit Ketchikan (Alaska), Juneau (Alaska), Skagway (Alaska), Icy Strait Point (Alaska), Kauai (Hawaii), Maui (Hawaii) and Hilo (Hawaii). • 2024 departure: September 25.

13-night cruise to Hawaii on Royal Caribbean . One-way from Vancouver (Canada) to Honolulu (Hawaii). Visit Victoria (Canada), Seattle (Washington), San Francisco (California) and Maui (Hawaii). • 2024 departure: October 1.

9-night cruise to Hawaii on Royal Caribbean . One-way from Vancouver (Canada) to Honolulu (Hawaii). Visit Maui (Hawaii) and Napali coast (Hawaii)(cruising). • 2024 departure: October 4.

• 00800 0310 21 21 1-855-577-9489 1-877-288-3037 1-877-288-3037 1-877-474-2969
• | NCL Travel Blog">11-Reasons to Cruise to Alaska this Summer | NCL Travel Blog
• | Norwegian Cruise Line">14-Day Authentic Alaska - Northbound Cruise Tour | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | Deck Plans | Norwegian Cruise Line">14-Day Authentic Alaska - Southbound Cruise Tour | Deck Plans | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | Norwegian Cruise Line">20-Day Transpacific from Tokyo (Yokohama) & Alaska | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | NCL Travel Blog">11 Reasons to Cruise to Alaska this Summer | NCL Travel Blog
• View All Results
• Preferences
• Latitudes Rewards
• Special Offers
• Personalised Recommendations
• Make reservations before you cruise
• 1 (current)

* Terms & Conditions Package not available on sailings less than 5 days or charter sailings.

5 Amazing One-Way Cruises for Summer & Fall

Every summer has a story. And some of the best stories begin with a journey. A journey to someplace new, someplace full of wonder and excitement, of corners and trails begging to be explored. As summer begins to beckon with its usual wanderlust, let’s go beyond the basics. Here, we’ll explore one-way cruises , itineraries for summer and fall that begin in one port and open up to so much possibility.

These summer and fall cruise vacations are a great way to extend your time away for a unique vacation you’ll remember for decades. Vacation on your terms. Begin your journey with Norwegian and explore beyond. Go off the beaten path. Stay a little longer. The choices are all yours.

Alaska Cruises

7-Day Alaska Cruise from Seward – Your adventure begins in Seward, Alaska where you’ll embark in the evening, giving you plenty of time to explore before your cruise vacation even begins. This journey onboard Norwegian Jewel stops in some of Alaska’s most scenic destinations, making for plenty of photo ops of famous glaciers and wildlife. Explore Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan, plus bear witness to the Inside Passage, before concluding your cruise vacation in Vancouver.

Canada & New England Cruises

11-Day Canada Cruise from New York - Few things are as visually stunning as the turning of the leaves along the Canada and New England coastline. This 11-day voyage offers cruisers the opportunity to experience some of the most romantic cruise ports in the Northeast. Embark in New York and make your way to eight stunning ports, including Newport, Rhode Island; Halifax and Sydney, Nova Scotia; and Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, before arriving in Quebec City, one of the highest rated ports in the western hemisphere.

7-Day Canada Cruise from Boston – Board Norwegian Dawn for a week’s worth of sweeping views along a picturesque coastline. Begin your cruise itinerary in Boston before sailing toward Maine. Your journey will take you along Halifax and Sydney, Nova Scotia; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, and Saguenay, Quebec before concluding in Quebec City. Once there, you’ll want to make time to explore the fascinating history of Quebec’s legacy, the first French City in North America.

Europe Cruises

19-Day Transatlantic Cruise from Copenhagen - This is one for the books. Enjoy fourteen days of stunning ocean views and exotic port stops along the way as you cross the Atlantic Ocean and make way for New York. Your journey begins in Copenhagen with one of the most colorful skylines in Denmark. Stops in Sweden, England, France, and Azores make for bucket list photo ops before arriving in New Orleans.

15-Day Transatlantic Cruise from Miami - Explore Miami's exciting nightlife and colorful Art-Deco architecture before embarking on this transatlantic cruise to Spain. Arrive in Ponte Delgada for the first port stop on your voyage where you can admire Gothic architecture in the capital of the Azores. Continue to Madeira and Spain, with port stops in Seville, Granada, Cartagena, and Palma before concluding your itinerary in Barcelona for a truly visually stunning journey.

Where are you cruising this summer ? Have you decided to make fall your new vacation favorite? Share with us in the comments!

Click OK to log in and restart your reservation. Click Cancel to continue with your reservation without logging in.

• Skip to global navigation
• Skip to content
• Skip to footer
• Travel alerts Travel alerts

We'll redirect you to the home page of the country / region site you choose.

• Search AA.com® Submit search

Book flights

( Required dot indicates required )

Select booking type

Cities and dates.

• Search flights round trip Round trip
• Search flights one way One way
• Search flights multiple cities Multi city

• Unaccompanied minors , Opens in a new window.
• Traveling with infants , Opens in a new window.
• For groups of 10 or more, contact Group & Meeting Travel , Opens in a new window.

Our system is having trouble

Please try again or come back later.

Please tell us where the airport is located.

Any searches or unfinished transactions will be lost.

Do you want to continue your session?

My 7 Favorite Cruises In And Around Europe

W hat I love most about cruising around Europe is the huge choice in types of cruises you can go on. Because Europe includes hot and sunny destinations like Spain and Italy, and cold and interesting places like Scandinavia and Scotland, you can take a very different cruise each time around Europe. You can pull up in pretty ports in Greece and swim from the boat and you can sail around the shores of Scotland and take a cold water plunge — if you’re brave enough. 

The coastlines of Europe are vastly different to one another and the types of cruises you can take are too. River cruises, yachts, island cruises, and large fun-packed cruise lines all sail around these shores. Plus, you can start your cruise in Europe and sail off beyond the continent, and then return after an adventure. 

Here are my 7 favorite cruises in and around Europe.

1. Starclippers

Rome round trip .

This seven-night cruise begins and ends in Rome, visiting Lipari, Sicily, Amalfi, Sorrento, and Ponza. What I love about the Starclipper cruises is they are informal and casual — you dine with other guests or by yourself, you don’t have a set table for meals, and you can wear what you like as there’s no dress code. But at the same time, the interior of the ship and the cabins are sophisticated and semi luxurious, so it feels casual and chic all in one go. 

This particular cruise is on the Starflyer , which has two pools and a sun deck. There’s no entertainment on board, though there might be some games in the evening, but children are welcome over the age of 6 months. I love these small-yacht ships that can get you into ports the larger cruise ships can’t, and this one is a beautiful ship with an atmosphere of relaxation and easygoingness. You can even join with the crew and help to sail the ship if you like.

2. French Waterways

Hotel barge prospérité: côte d’or.

If you like things really intimate, you can book a six- or eight-person cruise with French Waterways and have the barge to yourselves. This one is a canal cruise in France, but they also offer river cruises. The rooms on the barge are hotel standard and there’s a sun deck and a hot tub on board. The cruise ambles along the canals in the Côte d’Or, stopping off for a walking tour in Dijon, shopping and markets, and wine tasting at a vineyard. 

This is a really relaxing way to cruise in France with family or friends, but you can’t book onto this cruise as a single person or a couple. This is a chartered barge that is priced for the maximum number of people it sleeps — six or eight. If you’re experienced, you can also choose to pilot the boat yourself.

3. G Adventures

Sailing from split to dubrovnik.

Sailing along the Dalmatian Coast is a unique experience and visiting Croatia is a trip full of historical sites and exploration. The yachts you’ll travel on with G Adventures give you a truly small-boat experience. If you want a luxurious cabin and lush interiors, this isn’t for you, but if you want a sense of adventure and an authentic sailing experience, this is definitely it. 

The yacht accommodates a maximum of eight people, but you don’t have to be a part of the group, you can book onto this as a single person or couple. Note: If you book a solo trip, you will be sharing your cabin with someone else. It’s also worth noting that you’ll need a medium level of physical fitness to take part in the activities on this tour, which can include kayaking and hiking. 

This is a self-catering trip, and while there’s plenty of opportunities to eat at the destinations, there aren’t any meals offered on board. This also means that when you eat your own food on the ship and/or cook for yourself in the kitchen, you are expected to tidy up after.

4. Hebridean Adventures

Hebridean island odyssey.

Sailing on board the MV Hjalmar Bjørge with the Northern Light Cruising Company, Hebridean Adventures brings you a trip like no other around the Hebrides Islands in Scotland. This nine-night cruise stops at Mull, Coll & Tiree, the Small Isles, and the Isle of Skye. Most people who take this cruise are wildlife enthusiasts and are sailing with the hope of spotting dolphins, puffins, eagles, and more. But even if you only have a passing interest in wildlife, this is a stunning way to get a bit closer to it. 

Facilities are limited on board and the cabins are no-frills, with some only including bunk beds. You do have to share bathroom facilities, which is a challenge for some people, but guests are all aware of this and are very considerate. The onboard chef is a real plus on this cruise and they cater for any dietary requirements, cooking all meals fresh every day. The boat might be basic, but the scenery is breathtaking and it’s a unique type of cruise.

5. Celebrity Cruises

Egypt & israel.

Beginning in Athens, Greece, this 10-night cruise with Celebrity Cruises will stop off at Israel and Egypt before returning to Athens. There are 3 days at sea on this cruise, and on board the Celebrity Infinity , there’s a casino, an art gallery, a sun deck, indoor and outdoor pool areas, a spa, tennis, nightlife, and restaurants and bars. 

This is a large cruise ship experience with capacity for 2,170 people. Rooms are hotel standard, some with verandas, and the experience of being on the ship is as much a part of the trip as exploring the stop-off destinations. The cruise gives you the perfect mix between Europe and a little further afield. For anyone who hasn’t strayed beyond Europe before, it’s a great way to get a taste of Egypt and Israel.

6. Variety Cruises

Italy & malta.

Beginning in Naples and sailing along the coast of Italy and around its islands, this small boat intimate cruise with Variety Cruises ends on the 8th day in Malta. At first, I thought it was unusual to end in a totally different place than where the cruise began, but actually, I loved the chance to get to know somewhere separate from the starting point. 

The ship has capacity for 44 people and is a laid-back experience with just a sundeck, informal restaurant, bar, and swim platform. Most of your time is spent off the boat, exploring parts of Italy tourists don’t usually visit, and that’s the real draw with these small-boat cruises. These are ports large cruise ships can’t enter, so you feel like you’re on a voyage of discovery. Rooms are comfortable and pleasantly decorated and designed, but you won’t be spending much time in them. The Italian islands and Malta are beautiful places to explore.

7. Princess Cruises

Grand 11-day mediterranean.

This big cruise ship experience with Princess Cruises begins in Rome and travels to Greece, Turkey, Sicily, and Mallorca, ending in Barcelona, Spain. Aboard the Sun Princess ship, it’s all about fun on a large scale, with climbing walls, swimming pools, a spa, bars, cafés, restaurants, evening entertainment, and kids clubs. 

It is aimed at families and there’s lots for all ages to do, but it’s also a great cruise to take as a couple or by yourself. There’s something going on all the time, but you can still find some quiet time on the sun deck. There’s 3 days at sea on this 11-day cruise and you’ll certainly never get bored. I love the stop-offs and visits to four different countries, with some really diverse excursions offered at every stop.

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits

7 Best Cruises for Singles in 2024

Updated : May 29, 2024

AAA Travel Editors

Table of contents.

• Celebrity Millennium: Bali, Malaysia and Thailand
• Celebrity Apex: Norwegian Fjords
• Celebrity Summit: Grand Heartland Adventure
• Celebrity Edge: Taste of Luxury
• Disney Wish: Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral
• Oceania Cruises: In the Path of Cartier — Boston to Montreal
• Oceania Riviera: Ancient World Wonders — Athens to Istanbul

Plan Your Cruise With AAA

With many cruise lines now catering to the single crowd, going on a cruise as a single adult can be a great way to meet interesting people to make new friends, new connections and lifelong memories.

No matter what you envision from your dream singles cruise, you can find a ship and a series of destinations that will create unforgettable memories. There are a lot of options to explore, however and the sheer range of choices can quickly feel overwhelming. To help, we've highlighted several of the best cruises for singles. Keep reading to learn what, exactly, sets these expeditions apart. 

1. Celebrity Millennium: Bali, Malaysia and Thailand

Many singles gravitate towards exciting adventures in exotic destinations such as Bali, Malaysia and Thailand, which hold appeal simply because they provide such distinct scenery and such powerful cultural experiences.

Not all singles are willing or prepared to navigate these destinations on their own, however and this is where the Celebrity Millennium comes into play: an upscale cruise removes the hassle of planning and, instead, encourages you to relax in style.

This particular Celebrity Millennium adventure spans nearly two weeks, incorporating a unique blend of serene island adventures, cosmopolitan exploration and meaningful temple visits. Onboard, globally inspired menus and resort-style lounges are to be expected, along with plenty of adults-only spaces that will appeal to singles. 

2. Celebrity Apex: Norwegian Fjords

If Norway's iconic fjords are on your bucket list, you can't afford to miss this awe-inspiring Celebrity Apex trip . Departing from Southampton, the eight-night cruise meanders along the coast of Norway, hitting pleasant spots such as Geiranger or Kristiansand for spectacular scenery and outdoor adventures. Side trips are available and, with up to ten hours docked, there is plenty of time to explore at your own pace.

Accommodation options abound and, when traveling alone, the staterooms' king-size mattresses feel extra spacious. An adults-only solarium will appeal to relaxation-oriented solo travelers, while abundant dining and entertainment options make it easy to find and connect with new friends. 

3. Celebrity Summit: Grand Heartland Adventure

If you're struggling to choose between glamorous onboard experiences and outdoorsy experiences on land, you're in luck: Celebrity Summit provides the best of both worlds with its various Cruisetour offerings. There are many excellent options that depart from Vancouver, Anchorage or Fairbanks — but the Grand Heartland Adventure is worth considering if you crave something new.

During the Grand Heartland Cruisetour, you'll explore the stunning Inside Passage by cruise ship, before docking in adventure-oriented destinations such as Juneau and Sitka. From there, you'll continue to observe national treasures such as the Hubbard Glacier. Further exploration takes place aboard a glass-domed railcar and even a riverboat.

There's also a lot to experience onboard. The AquaClass stateroom represents a true oasis for single travelers, but the exclusive cocktail lounge and martini bar also warrant a visit. With nearly two weeks of cruising and exploration, you'll have plenty of time to unwind on your own but can also form fast friendships with similarly adventurous travelers. 

4. Celebrity Edge: Taste of Luxury

Cruises for singles over 50 often emphasize the finer things in life, like elevated cuisine or exquisite wines. These sophisticated details are in abundant supply aboard the Celebrity Edge, which offers a decidedly elegant experience with its Taste of Luxury tour. Although often frequented by retired couples, Celebrity Edge's trips work well as singles cruises.

Available for three or four nights, this remarkable journey begins in Sydney and primarily emphasizes curated on-board experiences. That being said, there are enticing opportunities to explore while docked in Tasmania. With such glamorous suites, restaurants and clubs on board, however, the best attractions can be enjoyed without ever leaving this luxury cruise ship. 

5. Disney Wish: Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

Don't assume that Disney cruise adventures are only for kids or families. If you are a proud Disney adult, you can make amazing memories aboard a thematic cruise for singles. This is a popular vacation among theme park enthusiasts, who enjoy a dose of Disney magic while also finding valuable opportunities to indulge and relax.

Disney Wish's three-night Bahamian cruise is also an excellent option for singles who crave a sea-based experience but only have a few days to spare. Yes, young travelers will be around, but there are plenty of adult-only spaces, including sports bars, dance clubs, dedicated pools and even an onboard spa and salon. Musicals, 3D films and fireworks encourage you to embrace your inner child. 

6. Oceania Cruises: In the Path of Cartier — Boston to Montreal

As we've mentioned, smaller ships provide some of the best cruises for singles over 50. Not everyone desires a river-based trip, however and with Oceania Cruises , there is no need to choose between exclusivity and ocean liner grandeur.

A signature experience can be found aboard Oceania Cruises' iconic Nautica ship, which is calming, yet elegant. Echoing the journey of the famed explorer Jacques Cartier, this tour provides a powerful introduction to Quebec, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and New Brunswick.

The land-based excursions are highly educational and, of course, beautiful to behold, but there's also a lot to love on board. Belgian chocolate, Bulgari amenities and turndown service await, with many accommodations also providing spectacular views. Open-seating dining makes it easy to interact with other vacationers while wine-tasting and guest lectures promise plenty of onboard enrichment. 

7. Oceania Riviera: Ancient World Wonders — Athens to Istanbul

Another appealing option for singles who prefer slightly smaller ships, Oceania Cruises' Ancient World Wonders tour provides stops at some of the world's most iconic locations, such as Santorini and Corfu. Adventures in Dubrovnik and Istanbul can also be expected. On board this remarkable vessel, you'll gaze in awe at the Lalique Grand Staircase and, in general, enjoy a refined ambiance.

Be prepared to try new flavors and forms of expression as you explore unique offerings such as the Artist Loft and Culinary Center. Deep relaxation awaits at the Aquamar Spa or within your luxuriously contemporary stateroom or suite. This ten-night voyage provides plenty of time to lose yourself in the grandeur of the ship and the treasures of Greece, Montenegro, Croatia and Turkey.

Join the over a million people who are AAA members and start planning your cruise today. Dream up the perfect trip with our Trip Canvas research tool and use your membership to get the best discounts on hotels , rental cars and entertainment tickets.

More Articles

Travel like an expert with aaa and trip canvas, get ideas from the pros.

As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.

Build and Research Your Options

Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.

Book Everything in One Place

From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!