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Visiting Hubbard Glacier by Cruise Ship 🚢☀️ (What to Expect on a Sunny Day!)

Setting sail for Alaska and curious about Hubbard Glacier and Yakutat Bay? Explore with us as we cruise through Yakutat Bay, marveling at the grandeur of Hubbard Glacier, the majestic mountains surrounding it, and even spot playful seals basking on icebergs. Witnessing Hubbard Glacier, the largest tidewater glacier in North America, is a highlight of any Alaskan cruise, and our visit on a sunny day was truly breathtaking. Join us on this journey to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Alaska’s natural wonders.

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My Itchy Travel Feet

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Hubbard Glacier Cruise by Luxury Cruise Ship

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On a Hubbard Glacier cruise in Alaska , you’re likely to hear the thunderous noise of ice calving into Disenchantment Bay before you see it. In fact, watching ice calve from any glacier is a matter of looking at just the right spot at just the right time.

Glacier viewing is the highlight of any Alaska cruise. And for good reason. A cruise is one of the easiest, and most scenic, ways to explore these giant rivers of ice.

Plus it’s one Alaska cruise excursion that’s free. Well, except for the cost of the trip.

Table of Contents

How to visit Hubbard Glacier by cruise ship

On a cruise in Alaska, Glacier Bay National Park is the prime glacier watching destination. However not all cruise ships are lucky enough to secure a permit. Authorities limit cruise ship visits for conservation reasons and to control overcrowding.

Hubbard Glacier reflected in the waters of Disenchantment Bay, Alaska.

But don’t become bummed if your cruise visits Hubbard Glacier instead. Although there are 16 glaciers in Glacier Bay National Park, none of them compare to the size of Hubbard Glacier. This baby is a whopper.

Check out the statistics: 76 miles long, 6 miles wide where the glacier meets the ocean, and it stands 350′ above the water, with 250 ‘ lurking below the waterline. Plus the glacier calves several times an hour.

Hubbard Glacier Cruise in the spring

Man on a ship photographing a glacier.

Alan and I have been lucky enough to view this behemoth river of ice twice. On our most recent trip to Alaska with Seabourn on the Sojourn, the ship cruised into Disenchantment Bay for a 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. glacier viewing appointment before a Crystal ship had her turn.

Bald eagle perched on an in ice berg in Alaska.

On a brilliant early June day, Sojourn navigated through bergy bits (small pieces of ice from the glacier), until the ship could go no further. A bald eagle floated on a piece of ice near the ship offering guests their first view of wildlife.

In the distance, Hubbard Glacier stretched across the landscape but it was still many miles away, our progress blocked by an expansive ice debris field in the water.

Brown bear strolls near a beach with white bits of icebergs.

The pilot saw another possible route so Sojourn reversed course to try again. This brought us closer to shore where a naturalist onboard announced that he had spotted a grizzly bear roaming on the beach.

Straining our eyes, Alan and I spotted the bear as it wandered the shoreline. Like many others, we attempted photographs. Those with long lenses (that would be Alan) were rewarded.

Mist rises from the front of a glacier after a calving.

This new path through the ice brought us somewhat closer to the glacier’s edge (but still more than two miles away). When Sojourn could go no further, the ship paused for a while.

Standing out on deck, we listened to thunderous noises that announced one calving after another. Sometimes we could see the resulting splash into the water but mostly, the calving remained out of sight.

Cruising to Hubbard Glacier in the Fall

Jagged edge of Hubbard Glacier with light turning the ice to blue.

On a fall cruise in Alaska, Alan and I spent a sunny, September morning gawking at Hubbard Glacier from the deck of Regent Seven Seas Mariner. As the ship entered Disenchantment Bay, the Elias and Fairweather Mountain Ranges poked their glistening white peaks into a deep blue sky.

The bright, morning sun gave an eerie, blue glow to the glacier’s jagged ice formations. And since Mariner was the only ship in the bay, the view belonged totally to us as the captain pirouetted the ship round and round so that all passengers had a spectacular view.

Suddenly, the glacier calved sending a white spray of water high into the air. If there is a nature viewing heaven, we had arrived. And, lucky Alan, he clicked the photo shutter just in time.

Boomer Travel Tip

Looking for things to do on your Alaska cruise? Check out our Alaska shore excursion reviews .

Hubbard Glacier Facts

Snow capped mountains rise behind the ice face of Hubbard Glacier.

Hubbard Glacier is currently advancing rather than retreating like many of its Alaska glacial neighbors. According to the National Park Service, the advance is due to global warming which causes more precipitation to fall in the St. Elias Mountains. As the precipitation cools, it turns into snow—the reason for Hubbard Glacier’s advance.

And here’s another tidbit of information from the National Park Service that adds historical perspective to what visitor’s see: “The ice you see at the terminal face is approximately 450 years old and is over 2,000 feet thick at some locations.”

Wow! No, make that a double wow.

Where is Hubbard Glacier located?

hubbard glacier from cruise ship

You’ll find North America’s largest tidewater glacier about 200 miles northwest of Juneau, between Seward and Skagway . The closest Alaskan community to the glacier is Yakutat .

When is the best time to see Hubbard Glacier?

I don’t recommend a summer cruise to Alaska due to the number and size of ships plying Alaska’s waters during that time of year. Spring or fall are my choices for Alaska cruises, however they are usually associated with a crossing to or from Asia .

Of course long cruises  aren’t for everyone, either due to time constraints—they are usually month-long cruises or more—or a traveler’s preference for shorter cruises. If you must go during prime time, pick the first Alaska sailing of the season, usually first week of June, or the last cruise in September before ships reposition to other locations in the world.

What is Hubbard Glacier weather like?

Ice clogs the way to Hubbard Glacier, Alaska.

You’re in the Gulf of Alaska where the weather can be sunny, cold, rainy or all of the above, depending on the time of year. Both of our visits happened on brisk but sunny days. I recommend packing lightweight layers .

Is Hubbard Glacier easy to see from the ship?

It’s a huge glacier. You will absolutely see it, unless the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Observation lounges are popular places for inside viewing. But you’ll need to get up early.

In my experience, by 7 a.m., the prime window seats will already be claimed as guests have saved seats using their cameras and coats (yes, even on luxury ships). Either arrive extra early to claim your place or find the best seat that you can to use as a warm-up spot after going out on deck for photos. If the weather is misty or rainy, that’s what Alan and I do.

hubbard glacier from cruise ship

But if the weather is remotely sunny, we put on layers, including a hat and gloves, then find a spot by the rail on one of the higher decks to enjoy two hours of spectacular scenery. And just when we need to warm up, the ship’s staff will pass by offering hot drinks and snacks.

How to take the best photos of Hubbard Glacier?

People in blue jackets standing at a cruise ship rail looking at mountains and Hubbard Glacier in Alaska.

  • Head out on deck early to claim your space by the rail.
  • Handhold your camera. It’s difficult to use tripods on a ship, especially when the deck is crowded with lots of glacier watchers.
  • Shoot in burst mode when photographing wildlife or glaciers calving.
  • Play with your camera’s auto settings. I use the athletics or action mode, when photographing movement such as wildlife or a glacier calving.
  • Zoom in to capture interesting textures created by the ice.
  • Overexpose when photographing large expanses of white surfaces like snow.
  • Use a flash to backfill shadows, when photographing travel companions posed against the glacier’s white background.

Is it possible to travel independently to Hubbard Glacier?

Water falls flow down the mountainside from melting snow.

You’ll still need a boat to visit Hubbard Glacier, but if you’d rather take an independent trip rather than a cruise, make Yakutat your headquarters.

Remote but easily accessible, Yakutat offers some of the best fishing in Alaska as well as hiking trails, surfing (yes, I said surfing), canoeing, kayaking and birdwatching. The community is surrounded by the majestic mountains of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve .

Arrive by airplane (car rentals are available at the airport) or as part of an Alaska Marine Highway itinerary. Guide services offer small boat tours of Hubbard Glacier or flightseeing excursions. Yakutat lodging choices consist of bed and breakfasts, lodges and inns.

What to wear on an Alaska cruise

Do you need help packing for your Alaska cruise? Check out my  Alaska cruise packing tips .

Here’s a packing list that should cover a 2-week cruise in Alaska. Feel free to print this out. One of these days, I’ll create a fancy downloadable for you (once I learn how) so stay tuned.

  • 1 pair water resistant safari pants . On 14-day Alaska cruises, make this 2 pair of safari pants.
  • 1 pair jeans for on the ship or walking around ports. Don’t wear jeans on active excursions, especially if you’ll be around water or where it might rain. Nothing is worse—or colder—than wearing soggy, wet jeans.
  • 2 safari shirts that go with safari pants or the jeans. On warm days, roll the sleeves up.
  • 2 long-sleeve crew-neck shirts (or turtlenecks) to layer underneath safari shirts or to wear with a quilted vest. Or make this one long-sleeve crew-neck shirt and one short-sleeve solid color tee, just in case the weather is warmer than you think it will be.
  • Quilted sleeveless vest for layering with a long-sleeve shirt over jeans or safari pants.
  • Fleece jacket , choose a colorful one for showing up against snow scenes in photos.
  • Water-resistant jacket , same advice as for the fleece jacket—color rules!
  • 1 set of thermal underwear. You probably won’t need these however they don’t take up much room so pack them anyway.
  • Gloves, glove liners, hat, neck warmer, warm socks
  • Shoe covers that have treads . Wear them on wet, muddy excursions or in port when it’s raining.
  • Lightweight hiking shoes that can also be used for walking laps on deck. You can also use these for the gym in a pinch. Wear these shoes on travel day. 
  • Comfortable pants/top for travel day (wear them to and from the cruise). This can double as an extra outfit for on the ship or port days.
  • Two pair of pants: black and another color. Gray is good. Or if you’re in a summery mood bring white ones.
  • Five tops—make one a cute summer sweater— that go with both pair of pants, which makes ten outfits. On a 14-day cruise, repeat 3 of your favorite looks. For 1-week Alaska cruises, three tops will do.
  • 1 pair of shoes that will go with all outfits. Pewter flats are a great choice if you can find them. And, if you do, let me know as my Cole-Hahn favorite pewter shoes are almost worn out.
  • Optional: 1 pair of fancier black pants and sparkly top with appropriate shoes for formal night.

Expedition cruisers might consider bringing a heavier jacket, but check with your cruise line, first. Many small ship luxury expeditions provide a jacket to passengers.

Of course you’ll need room in luggage to bring it home. Alan and I always forget that part, which is why you’ll see us wearing ours through the airport.

Don’t forget these must-have items for an Alaska cruise

  • Bathing suit for the hot tub, yes you’ll enjoy a soak while admiring the scenery. You’ll probably want to pack a coverup, or wear a t-shirt over your suit that can double as a workout top.
  • Flip-flops or sandals for walking to and from the hot tub (or pool). Make them cute enough to double as daywear or nightwear shoes, especially if the weather surprises you with a warm spell.
  • Baseball hat or sun hat for lounging on deck, on your balcony, or on a sunny wildlife watching excursion.
  • 1 pair pajamas. I cheat here by wearing a t-shirt and shorts that I can also use in the gym. If they become sweaty, hand wash with TSA-approved laundry packets. Using the ship’s laundromat is another option, if your ship has one. That’s Alan’s job.
  • Sunscreen to protect your skin from bright sun reflecting off snow. 
  • Insecticide repellent towelettes for those pesky gnats, flies and mosquitos. 
  • And don’t forget your underwear. I’m leaving the amount and type up to you.

If you’re worried about sweaty clothing or spilling food on clothing, bring a package of laundry packets for hand washing clothes. That’s what I do. Of course that means the clothing that you bring should wash easily by hand, dry quickly and require no ironing.

If you’re cruising on an Alaska expedition ship, reduce this list by one pair of pants and 2 tops. The relaxed style of expedition cruising means you will wear less. Some adventure cruises are so busy that you’ll find yourself wearing safari pants and a top to dinner because there isn’t time to change clothes

Scratch those itchy travel feet!

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How to choose the best Alaska cruise

Hubbard Glacier vs. Glacier Bay: Which is the better scenic cruising spot in Alaska?

Melinda Crow

Editor's Note

Glacier viewing, salmon fishing, whale watching, dog sledding — Alaska cruise bucket lists tend to be long.

Luckily, cruise lines devote time to cruising near some of Alaska's most scenic and famous rivers of ice, so passengers can have prime glacier viewing options. When it comes time to book your cruise, which of the top glacier cruising experiences should you pick? For most cruisers, it comes down to Hubbard Glacier versus Glacier Bay National Park .

Hubbard gets a nod for its sheer size, while the Glacier Bay option is prized for how many glaciers you can see in one day. For me, the best glacier cruise would include both Hubbard Glacier and Glacier Bay, but if forced to choose, it would be Glacier Bay. Before we dive into the reasons, let's cover the basics of what you can expect when it comes to glacier viewing in Alaska.

Tips to ensure you see a glacier on your cruise

Can you cruise to Alaska and not see glaciers? More importantly, would you still have fun? Sure. I did it recently and had a marvelous time.

My glacierless cruise was not a surprise. It was an early season, short cruise that only visited Ketchikan, Alaska, and Victoria, British Columbia. You should know, though, that almost any Alaska cruise can leave you without a glimpse of a glacier. Weather, ice in the water and onboard emergencies are the usual reasons ships must skip scheduled glacier visits.

If scenic cruising near a glacier is a priority for you, there are three things you can do to improve your chances.

First, book a midseason cruise because early and late cruises face more ice in the water and more challenging weather conditions. Second, book a cruise with more than one glacier cruising day to double your odds. Finally, add a glacier cruising excursion; these are often possible from the ports before or after the day your ship plans to do its scenic cruising near a glacier.

Tip: If your cruise offers a glacier viewing excursion on the day the ship is scheduled for scenic cruising near a glacier, take it. It indicates that the ship won't get as close as you might want.

Related: Best time to cruise Alaska

Hubbard Glacier

hubbard glacier from cruise ship

Details: It's the longest tidewater glacier in North America; the face is more than 400 feet high and almost 7 miles wide.

Cruise lines that visit Hubbard Glacier: Most cruise lines that visit Alaska include Hubbard Glacier on at least one itinerary — often on one-way sailings or longer round-trip cruises. The list includes small- and medium-ship cruise lines like Crystal and Silversea .

What makes Hubbard Glacier special: Hubbard Glacier's enormous face is its biggest draw. Its massive size means you can see it even on visits when the ship cannot get as close as you'd like. Ships typically get within a quarter- to a half-mile of the face of the glacier, but the amount of ice in the water can sometimes force ships to halt farther out in the fjord.

Hubbard is sometimes called "The Galloping Glacier" because it has been advancing into Disenchantment Bay for more than 100 years — sometimes in surges that cut off nearby Russell Fjord. It is currently considered stable in terms of overall size, but it's steadily moving forward into the bay.

That movement causes ice to break off and fall into the sea in a process known as calving, which is not related as much to temperature as it is to the physics of the glacier's thickness and the steepness of the land mass it crosses. Ice chunks the size of three-story buildings often fall into the water, creating a thunderous roar and waves that pound nearby shorelines.

The glacier is part of the 13.2 million-acre Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve — a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park encompasses the largest glacial system in the U.S., with 35% of the park covered by glaciers.

During the cruise into Yakutat Bay, which narrows into Disenchantment Bay, you may see humpback whales, orcas, bald eagles, seals, sea lions and even bears on shore. Some ships have naturalists on board to help with (and announce) wildlife sightings during the ship's visit to the bay.

Related: The 6 best Alaska cruise shore excursions — from heli-hiking to whale watching

Glacier Bay

hubbard glacier from cruise ship

Details: It's part of a national park and preserve covering over 3 million acres and encompassing more than 1,000 glaciers — seven of which are tidewater glaciers you can see from the ship.

Cruise lines that visit Glacier Bay : Cunard , Holland America , Norwegian , Princess , Seabourn , Viking , American Cruise Lines , Lindblad, UnCruise and Alaskan Dream Cruises.

What makes Glacier Bay special: The obvious wow is that you can see seven glaciers in one day here. Also cool is that the bay is part of a national park, and rangers will board the ship to answer your questions. They'll have maps, charts and all the information you could want about the park's glaciers and wildlife. Yes, you can get your national park passport stamped.

The ship will visit the park for nine to 10 hours, traveling more than 120 miles. We found itineraries that started as early as 6 a.m. and one on Holland America that arrived at 8:30 a.m. (It stayed until 6:30 p.m.) Ships stop in front of one of the tidewater glaciers for about an hour, rotating 360 degrees to give everyone on board a view.

Only two large cruise ships are allowed per day; luckily, the park classifies smaller lines — including UnCruise, Lindblad and American Cruise Lines — as tour vessels rather than cruise ships, so the big-ship limits don't apply.

Throughout the day of cruising, you can expect to see harbor seals, Steller sea lions, sea otters and bald eagles. You may also see brown bears (coastal grizzlies), black bears, humpback whales, harbor porpoises, mountain goats, orcas and puffins.

Related: Best Alaska cruise tips to help you make the most of your time aboard and ashore

Which is better: Hubbard Glacier or Glacier Bay?

For length of time spent scenic cruising : Glacier Bay wins this one. The limited number of ships allowed each day means it is an all-day event for the lucky few who cruise these waters. Cruises to Hubbard Glacier typically spend a few hours near the glacier.

For dramatic presentation: Hubbard Glacier is the drama queen of all Alaskan glaciers. Between its brilliant blue colors, thunderous calving and monumental size, Hubbard puts on quite a show. The glaciers in Glacier Bay are quieter, far less flashy and less likely to exhibit calving of large ice chunks.

For wildlife viewing : Both scenic glacier cruises put you in ideal spots to see Alaskan wildlife and sea life throughout the visit; however, Glacier Bay is the winner because ships stay in the bay longer. It's like having an extended wildlife viewing excursion — except you never have to leave the ship.

Better for children or those with short attention spans: Hubbard wins here because it's a shorter visit. A visit to Glacier Bay is a long, slow affair, often beginning early in the morning and requiring warm clothing and lots of patience. The one plus for kids at Glacier Bay is interaction with the park rangers on board the ship.

For choice of cruise lines : Hubbard for the win here also. I tracked down 13 different cruise lines offering Hubbard stops in their itineraries. Glacier Bay does earn bonus points, though, for having the greatest number of small-ship options. Imagine the thrill of cruising here onboard an UnCruise, Lindblad or American Cruise Lines vessel.

For cost of the cruise: Both glacier stops are likely to require a one-way itinerary, which can add to your airfare costs, but Glacier Bay edges out Hubbard on this one. This is primarily because we did find a handful of seven-night round-trip itineraries that included stops here. Also, for the best viewing at Hubbard, you may still need a shore excursion on a smaller boat, which will add to your total costs.

Most likely to succeed: This one is also a win for Glacier Bay. With seven glaciers, the odds are stacked in your favor. It would take severe weather, dense fog or a ship emergency to keep you from seeing at least one glacier with this park on your itinerary.

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler

Other glaciers in Alaska to see by cruise ship

hubbard glacier from cruise ship

While Hubbard and Glacier Bay are the two most famous glacier choices on Alaska cruises, don't forget the smaller options. Here's what to look for and what to expect.

If your itinerary says you'll be cruising in Tracy Arm Fjord, you are there to see the twin Sawyer glaciers. The narrow fjord is stunning in its beauty. Plus, you'll get closer to land here than in the big open bays, offering a better view of waterfalls and wildlife. Look for bears and mountain goats.

Endicott Arm is a fjord that branches off Tracy Arm and might be used as a backup for Tracy Arm if the weather or ice prevents your ship from reaching the Sawyer glaciers. Because Endicott Arm is a bit straighter than Tracy Arm, larger ships (such as Quantum of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas) will schedule visits here. The glacier you'll see at Endicott Arm is Dawes Glacier. Ships may offer boat excursions to see these glaciers close-up, both on the day of scenic cruising and in Juneau.

College Fjord is a more northerly option near Whittier, so you'll typically find it on itineraries that sail to or from Whittier or Seward. This is a bonus glacier viewing spot because most itineraries that include it also include either Hubbard Glacier or Glacier Bay. The real bonus, though, is that the fjord is home to five tidewater glaciers.

Disney Cruise Line often does its scenic cruising in the Stikine Icecap, the most southerly ice field in Alaska. The icy fjord is home to waterfalls, floating icebergs and wildlife such as whales, eagles, brown bears and mountain goats.

Bottom line

You can enjoy an Alaska cruise without seeing glaciers. However, if that's an important part of your dream Alaska experience, you should book a cruise with more than one opportunity to see glaciers because things can (and do) go wrong.

As for choosing Hubbard Glacier or Glacier Bay, our vote goes to Glacier Bay for ease of viewing, time spent in front of the glaciers and cost to visit — but you won't be disappointed with either option.

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Catamaran and view of Hubbard Glacier seen on Alaska cruise excursion

Excursions by Catamaran: Hubbard Glacier & Enchanting Disenchantment Bay

Cruising Hubbard Glacier

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Meals Included

Meals not included

Board an Alaskan-built expedition vessel for stunning, unmatched perspective of Hubbard Glacier -- one of Alaska's most famous landmarks.

From the mouth of Disenchantment Bay , you will cruise in comfort amid shimmering icebergs and dramatic wilderness.

You will board a day-boat directly from the ship. Relax in the warm, comfortable cabin, surrounded by large windows, as the naturalist and crew orient you to the stunning scenery and prolific wildlife. You'll cruise near the rocky shoreline and weave through a maze of icebergs that have fallen from the face of the glacier -- the perspective from the smaller vessel is astounding.

Ice conditions permitting, the captain will navigate the narrow cut between Haenke Island and the mainland en route to Hubbard Glacier. Offering a variety of viewing angles for photos and video, this "river of ice" is often very active, calving icebergs with an almighty crash. Unlike many other glaciers, Hubbard Glacier is advancing. At times, this advance has been up to 7 feet a day, earning it the nickname, 'the Galloping Glacier.'

Along the glacially-carved coastlines, an endless expanse of spruce and hemlock trees, snowcapped mountains, and glaciers are the subject of the naturalist's compelling narration. On a clear day, you may see Mount St Elias -- the second tallest peak in the United States.

Hot beverages are included; a selection of food is available for purchase (at your own expense).

This tour departs directly from the cruise ship in a remote wilderness area. Little walking is required; however, participants must be able to walk across a narrow, moderately-steep gangway to (dis)embark the vessel with only minor assistance. Wheelchairs, walkers and strollers are not allowed to be used on gangway. Weather, sea and ice conditions may alter both the duration and route of the journey, including shipside (dis)embarkation areas. The cruise ship also stops within view of Hubbard Glacier and will be in sight from the excursion boat during the excursion. Binoculars are available for use on board. It is essential that you wear warm, layered clothing in order to fully enjoy and participate in this excursion. Outer layer should be waterproof and windproof. Bring gloves, a warm hat and a scarf. USD cash and credit cards accepted for onboard purchases.

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hubbard glacier from cruise ship

Hubbard Glacier & Wilderness Explorer

Hubbard glacier, alaska.

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hubbard glacier from cruise ship

Duration 2 hrs

Cruise remarkably close to Hubbard Glacier for the ultimate look at this huge river of ice that has the distinction of being North America’s largest tidewater glacier. After boarding the boat directly from the cruise ship in the mouth of Disenchantment Bay, you will settle into the heated cabin with large windows that provide excellent viewing. The vessel also features a shallow draft, allowing it to easily cruise around the icebergs near the face of the glacier, which is hundreds of feet high above the waterline. Hubbard Glacier is nicknamed the Galloping Glacier because at times it advances several feet a day. Few natural sights are quite so spectacular as when large chunks of ice calve – or break off – from the glacier with a thundering roar. The naturalist guide will describe the glacier’s characteristics in fascinating detail.

• See Hubbard Glacier up close from the comfort of a heated, expedition-style boat. • Behold the sheer face of the glacier, which soars hundreds of feet above the waterline. • Hear compelling commentary about Hubbard Glacier from the naturalist guide.

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• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.

  • Adult from: € 361,15 EUR
  • Child from: € 270,64 EUR

*Prices vary by ship and sail date. See Terms & Conditions

NCL makes arrangements for Guests for shore excursions solely for the convenience of the Guest; NCL does not act on behalf of or supervise the parties or persons who own, furnish, or operate such excursions, and the same are provided by independent contractors. NCL assumes no responsibility for, nor guarantees the performance of, any such excursion provider, and Guests acknowledge that NCL shall not be liable for losses or injuries arising from the acts or omissions of such provider.

Participation in activities and excursions may involve physical exertion, and may be potentially hazardous or dangerous. It is the responsibility of each individual to determine whether you are capable of engaging in any activity. Participation in any activity or excursion is at your own risk.

Photographs are for illustration purposes only used to represent the excursion experience and may not accurately depict the excursion, location, or activity indicated.

Die Teilnahme an Aktivitäten und Exkursionen kann körperlich anstrengend sein und unter Umständen Risiken und Gefahren beinhalten. Jeder einzelne Gast trägt die Verantwortung dafür, einzuschätzen, ob er/sie in der Lage ist, an entsprechenden Aktivitäten teilzunehmen. Die Teilnahme an Aktivitäten und Exkursionen erfolgt auf eigene Gefahr.

Die Fotos dienen ausschließlich zur Veranschaulichung der Exkursionserfahrung und bilden möglicherweise die entsprechende Exkursion, den Ort oder die Aktivität nicht akkurat ab.

A participação em atividades e excursões pode envolver esforço físico e pode ser perigosa. É sua responsabilidade determinar se você é capaz de participar das atividades. A participação em qualquer atividade ou excursão é por sua conta e risco.

As fotos são apenas para fins ilustrativos, usadas para representar a experiência da excursão e podem não retratar com precisão a localização ou atividade indicada.

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Hubbard Glacier cruise port

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Hubbard glacier. Anyone getting close?

By jskinsd , June 1, 2022 in Alaska

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500+ Club

I did Tracy Arm (Sawyer glacier) two weeks ago and unless you took a private tour you saw nothing.  Anyone getting close to Hubbard?  Will be there in three weeks. ✌️

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Hubbard is a much larger glacier and is not located in a (Tracy Arm) fjord that is frequently

blocked by ice chunks. Also near the point of viewing the Sawyer glacier is Sawyer Island

which is a navigation issue when the ice is caving blocking passage. Hubbard does not

have this issue.

Hubbard and Glacier Bay are outstanding glaciers that the cruise ships can get rather

close and rotate to afford viewing for all on board. You will get close enough to hear

the crack of caving ice chunks off the face of glacier. 

3,000+ Club

Of 6 trips to Hubbard we've only gotten close twice and that was years ago. We only got to about 9 miles from the face this month.

1,000+ Club

Dancing Shoes

9 minutes ago, Glaciers said: Of 6 trips to Hubbard we've only gotten close twice and that was years ago. We only got to about 9 miles from the face this month.

What can you see 9 miles away? 

4 minutes ago, Dancing Shoes said: What can you see 9 miles away? 

This was 9 miles away.

Hubbard Glacier.jpg

Thanks.  Looks small. 😉   Glad I have seen Glacier Bay. Different day, different experience.  

Have you done the small boat excursion?

CruiserBruce

CruiserBruce

We have gotten within a mile or so of Hubbard in June. Hubbard is huge...much taller than most ships. Sizes of that magnitude can be very deceptive. 

9 minutes ago, Dancing Shoes said: Thanks.  Looks small. 😉   Glad I have seen Glacier Bay. Different day, different experience.   Have you done the small boat excursion?

Haven’t done the small boat excursion. A bit over our heads at $250+pp for the fairly short excursion. I’d rather do 2 whale watches for the same price which is what I did this month in Juneau.   Priorities.

3 minutes ago, CruiserBruce said: We have gotten within a mile or so of Hubbard in June.

Was that on Princess?

51 minutes ago, Glaciers said: Was that on Princess?

Nope. HAL, June 2019.

DogLover

On our Celebrity Eclipse cruise in August 2019, we got within a half mile of Hubbard Glacier. Yes, you read that correctly .... it was UNBELIEVABLE! Captain Leo said it was the closest he had EVER been able to get. Conditions were optimal and rare.

Leonardos Palaiokrassas (@captainl3o) • Instagram photos and videos

50+ Club

Am I correct in assuming you are more likely to get closer to Hubbard the later in the season you are? 

10,000+ Club

48 minutes ago, RussNJodi said: Am I correct in assuming you are more likely to get closer to Hubbard the later in the season you are? 

Correct.  One time we did a late Sept sailing and got very close, and then the following May on the same ship we were far away from it and many people were disappointed and upset.

50 minutes ago, RussNJodi said: Am I correct in assuming you are more likely to get closer to Hubbard the later in the season you are? 

There can sometimes be less ice blocking the way later in the season.   Although, of our 6 trips, this is the least ice I’ve ever seen. The two times we made it to the face were Celebrity & Oceania, never Princess.

If you do AK on a small expedition type ship you will almost certainly get close.  One time that we did that when the glacier calved our boat rocked.  There was another smallish sailboat that was even closer than we were.  I will bet that they had a glorious time.

kimberlydrzymala

kimberlydrzymala

We were on the Eclipse as someone mentioned earlier in Aug 2019 and we got within a 1/2 mile of the glacier. It was the most amazing trip ever. We are going back again in August 2022 and hoping for a another close visit.

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3rdGenCunarder

On 6/1/2022 at 12:12 AM, DogLover said: On our Celebrity Eclipse cruise in August 2019, we got within a half mile of Hubbard Glacier. Yes, you read that correctly .... it was UNBELIEVABLE! Captain Leo said it was the closest he had EVER been able to get. Conditions were optimal and rare.   Leonardos Palaiokrassas (@captainl3o) • Instagram photos and videos

We got very close on QE in June 2019. As you say, optimal conditions. I hadn't been to Hubbard before so I didn't realize how lucky we were. That same trip, our time in Tracy Arm was a joke. The ship turned into the large area where Tracy and Endicott branch off and then turned and continued on to Juneau. No explanation. 

The cool thing about Tracy Arm is, if you get far enough in to see the glacier, as we did on our first cruise to Alaska (September), not only do you get the crack sound of the ice breaking, but it echoes down the fjord like thunder. I hadn't expected that.

Coral

On 6/1/2022 at 7:12 AM, RussNJodi said: Am I correct in assuming you are more likely to get closer to Hubbard the later in the season you are? 

One season - no one got even close. 

Not at all unusual not to see the face of Sawyer Glacier from the cruise ship.  That's why the small boat excursion is nice.  They can get closer.

On 5/31/2022 at 6:26 PM, Glaciers said: This was 9 miles away.
12 minutes ago, jskinsd said:  

Thank you.  Yours is the only current 2022 report on Hubbard.  All other responses are more than two years old are just guesses.  And the Alaskan season is two months old.  I have been to Hubbard Glacier over 10 times and ideal viewing was been less that 50%.  And on one special time was able to see multiple glacier calving.  Fog, ice field, captains knowledge of the area are all factors for poor viewing.  Hopefully the NCL Sun will get close later this month.

And what are these tours of Hubbard glacier that people are talking about?  Where do they start from? ✌️

8 hours ago, jskinsd said: Thank you.  Yours is the only current 2022 report on Hubbard.  All other responses are more than two years old are just guesses.  And the Alaskan season is two months old.  I have been to Hubbard Glacier over 10 times and ideal viewing was been less that 50%.  And on one special time was able to see multiple glacier calving.  Fog, ice field, captains knowledge of the area are all factors for poor viewing.  Hopefully the NCL Sun will get close later this month. And what are these tours of Hubbard glacier that people are talking about?  Where do they start from? ✌️

Your ship may offer a tour to get closer to the glacier. A boat will tie up to your ship so passengers can get on the boat. Passengers return to the ship the same way. This is only through your ship. There are no other companies that you can book with because they wouldn't get permission to get close to your ship. Because you're a "captive audence," it's likely to be expensive.

Google Map for reference:

Google Maps

Map can be zooomed in or out for greater lessor detail

Top center of image is Hubbard glacier melting into Disenchantment Bay

The nearest port for tours is Yakutat - some distance away and not in the

shelter of an Inside Passage.

Still yet there may be excursions of the small vessel type getting closer to

the calving action - check for what is offered with your ship (shore) excursions.

No tours offered by the Sun. 🙁

On 6/4/2022 at 10:35 AM, jskinsd said: No tours offered by the Sun. 🙁

When is your cruise? They might arrange it last-minute when they have a good idea of the weather. IIRC, on my 2019 cruise, that tour was not offered online in advance. 

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Spirit Kicks Off Series of Carnival Journeys Cruises

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The Carnival Spirit is sailing from Seattle today for the first of a series of three consecutive Carnival Journeys voyages.

Described by Carnival Cruise Line as special cruises the product features longer itineraries that sail to less-traveled routes .

With a set of enriching experiences onboard, the voyages feature a “classic cruising feel,” the company added, and sail to unique destinations.

The Carnival Spirit starts its series of journeys with a 14-night cruise to Alaska and Canada.

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Cruise to Hubbard Glacier (Cruising)

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Hubbard Glacier Cruise Guide

Hubbard Glacier is by far one of Alaska’s most exciting natural treasures. On a Hubbard Glacier cruise, you’ll experience picture-perfect views of this glorious mount of ice from every angle on board one of our cruise ships.

On an Alaska cruise to Hubbard Glacier, witness stunning icy landscapes as your ship makes its way through frigid waters, turning from Yakutat Bay into the narrow Disenchantment Bay to come face-to-face with the towering Hubbard Glacier. The strong currents and riptides that flow between Gilbert Point and the face of the glacier cause calving to occur on a daily basis, sending massive chunks of ice crashing into Disenchantment Bay.

Witness this awe-inspiring phenomenon through the misty, chilled air of the Gulf of Alaska. Our dedicated onboard naturalist narrates the experience and helps you spot the whales, harbor seals, and otters that hunt and play in the waters of Disenchantment Bay. It’s an adventure of a lifetime.

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Hubbard glacier.

Dramatically massive at about 7 miles wide, 76 miles long and as tall as a 30-story building above the waterline, it’s the largest tidewater glacier in North America. While most of the world’s glaciers are retreating, Hubbard Glacier has continued to thicken over the years.

Glacier Calving

Hubbard Glacier is a calving glacier, meaning large chunks of ice break off from the side and fall into the water below, thus creating icebergs. It is a spectacular and powerful sight to see, with some of the pieces being as tall as a three-story building.

Alaskan Wildlife

Spotting wildlife is a thrilling possibility while at Hubbard Glacier. You might see whales breaching in the waters around the glacier, or view sea lions lounging on icebergs. Sea birds often circle the glacier, looking for fish.

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Top things to do at hubbard glacier, embark on a wilderness exploration tour.

While you’ll experience incredible views of Hubbard Glacier from your cruise ship, you can get even closer to this natural wonder on a shallow-draft vessel. Navigate through an icy labyrinth of towering icebergs, and marvel at the glacier’s extraordinary calving displays and native wildlife.

Wake up Early

Enjoy both the journey to the glacier and your time near it by getting up early on your Hubbard Glacier cruising day. If you won’t be admiring the view from your own private veranda, you’ll get to choose a prime viewing spot on one of the decks or lounges by getting there early.

Listen to the Naturalist

While at Hubbard Glacier, spend some of your time indoors so you can listen to the onboard naturalist describe what you’re seeing. The narration will be broadcast over the speakers in common areas, and you can turn on a channel to hear it through your stateroom’s TV.

Get a Veranda Stateroom

To take full advantage of all the views and wildlife you can see from the ship during your day sailing alongside Hubbard Glacier (and the rest of Alaska), book one of the coveted veranda staterooms or suites so you’re always just a couple of steps away from incredible views.

History of Hubbard Glacier

Named after Gardiner Hubbard, the founder and president of the National Geographic Society, Hubbard Glacier is the longest tidewater glacier in the world. It’s located about 200 miles northwest of Alaska’s capital city of Juneau. Unlike most glaciers, which are receding, Hubbard Glacier is advancing into Disenchantment Bay, giving it the nickname of the galloping glacier. This constant movement (which is extremely slow and not noticeable to the human eye) is what contributes to the regular calving of Hubbard Glacier.

Before it calves, the ice can be more than 400 years old! Keep that in mind as you’re marveling at the face of the glacier and witnessing part of its journey.

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  4. 7 Nights Alaska Hubbard Glacier from Vancouver, British Columbia

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COMMENTS

  1. Hubbard Glacier

    Hubbard Glacier - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go ...

  2. Hubbard Glacier Cruise: Best Cruises to Hubbard Glacier

    Hubbard Glacier Cruise Guide

  3. Cruises to Hubbard Glacier, Alaska

    Cruises to Hubbard Glacier, Alaska

  4. What To Expect On A Hubbard Glacier Cruise

    As the warmer weather approaches, the glacier calves more. So, by July, you will see much more ice in the water. The amount of ice can affect how close a cruise ship can get to the terminal face. Lots of ice near Hubbard Glacier. The captain's experience will also factor into how close they are willing to go.

  5. 8 Great Reasons To Cruise To Hubbard Glacier, Alaska

    So, if you're undecided on a itinerary to Alaska, here are 8 reasons to take a Hubbard Glacier cruise. 1. Experience North America's Largest Tidewater Glacier. At 76 miles long and 7 miles wide, photographs don't do this glacier justice. Renowned for being the largest tidewater glacier in North America, I only realized its immense size ...

  6. Hubbard Glacier Excursions

    Embarking on a journey to Hubbard Glacier in Alaska is an adventure that captivates the hearts of nature lovers of all ages. This excursion offers a rare opportunity to explore one of the most impressive natural wonders of the North. From the awe-inspiring ice formations of the glacier to the pristine landscapes and abundant wildlife ...

  7. Hubbard Glacier & Wilderness Explorer

    Cruise remarkably close to Hubbard Glacier for the ultimate look at this huge river of ice that has the distinction of being North America's largest tidewater glacier. After boarding the boat directly from the cruise ship in the mouth of Disenchantment Bay, you will settle into the heated cabin with large windows that provide excellent ...

  8. Cruises to Hubbard Glacier, Alaska

    The Hubbard Glacier is the largest tidewater glacier in North America. Its awe-inspiring, turquoise-colored face towers nearly 400 feet tall — 250 feet of which are underwater — while its icebergs are often three or four stories high. At nearly six miles wide where the ice meets the ocean and 76 miles long, viewing this massive glacial mass ...

  9. Visiting Hubbard Glacier by Cruise Ship

    Explore with us as we cruise through Yakutat Bay, marveling at the grandeur of Hubbard Glacier, the majestic mountains surrounding it, and even spot playful seals basking on icebergs. Witnessing Hubbard Glacier, the largest tidewater glacier in North America, is a highlight of any Alaskan cruise, and our visit on a sunny day was truly breathtaking.

  10. 7 Night Southbound Alaska & Hubbard Glacier

    7 Night Southbound Alaska & Hubbard Glacier - Cruises

  11. Hubbard Glacier Cruise by Luxury Cruise Ship

    Authorities limit cruise ship visits for conservation reasons and to control overcrowding. Hubbard Glacier stretches for 6 miles across Disenchantment Bay. But don't become bummed if your cruise visits Hubbard Glacier instead. Although there are 16 glaciers in Glacier Bay National Park, none of them compare to the size of Hubbard Glacier.

  12. Hubbard Glacier vs Glacier Bay: Which is the better scenic cruising

    The limited number of ships allowed each day means it is an all-day event for the lucky few who cruise these waters. Cruises to Hubbard Glacier typically spend a few hours near the glacier. For dramatic presentation: Hubbard Glacier is the drama queen of all Alaskan glaciers. Between its brilliant blue colors, thunderous calving and monumental ...

  13. Excursions by Catamaran: Hubbard Glacier & Enchanting Disenchantment Bay

    Excursions by Catamaran: Hubbard Glacier & Enchanting ...

  14. Hubbard Glacier Tour via Cruise Ship in Alaska (4K)

    One of the absolute highlights of our Alaska cruise was visiting the Hubbard Glacier. The captain of our cruise ship, the Holland America Amsterdam, did a n...

  15. Hubbard Glacier, Alaska Shore Excursions

    Cruise remarkably close to Hubbard Glacier for the ultimate look at this huge river of ice that has the distinction of being North America's largest tidewater glacier. After boarding the boat directly from the cruise ship in the mouth of Disenchantment Bay, you will settle into the heated cabin with large windows that provide excellent ...

  16. Hubbard Glacier vs. Glacier Bay: which glacier is better to see on a

    That's what you'll experience from a cruise ship visiting Hubbard Glacier, and you're sure to be awe-inspired. Hubbard Glacier is located in Wrangell-St.Elias National Park and Preserve. It starts in Canada's Yukon Territory at Mt. Logan, the second tallest peak in North America at 19,850 feet. The glacier flows over 75 miles to reach ...

  17. Hubbard Glacier vs. Glacier Bay: Alaskan Cruising

    Hubbard Glacier vs. Glacier Bay: Alaskan Cruising

  18. Hubbard Glacier (Alaska) cruise port schedule

    The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Hubbard Glacier, Alaska. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates - just follow the corresponding ship-link. Hubbard Glacier is located in eastern Alaska (USA) and partially of Yukon (Canada).

  19. HUBBARD GLACIER Port Map and Cruise Schedule

    HUBBARD GLACIER cruise port map with cruise ship locations and cruise schedule arrivals/departures. READ MORE... CruiseMapper provides free cruise tracking, current ship positions, itinerary schedules, deck plans, cabins, accidents and incidents ('cruise minus') reports, cruise news ... Hubbard Glacier cruise ship schedule . Ship. Arrival ...

  20. Hubbard Glacier Cruise: Best Cruises to Hubbard Glacier

    On a Hubbard Glacier cruise, you'll experience picture-perfect views of this glorious mount of ice from every angle on board one of our cruise ships. to Hubbard Glacier, witness stunning icy landscapes as your ship makes its way through frigid waters, turning from Yakutat Bay into the narrow Disenchantment Bay to come face-to-face with the ...

  21. 7 Night Northbound Alaska & Hubbard Glacier

    The 7 Night Northbound Alaska & Hubbard Glacier visits Vancouver Cruise Port, (British Columbia); Juneau, Alaska; Icy Strait Point, Alaska; Sitka, Alaska; Skagway, Alaska; Seward, Alaska. Explore our cruise itineraries and choose from a variety of rooms depending on your needs and budget. Start planning your next cruise vacation by selecting a destination and departure port.

  22. Hubbard glacier. Anyone getting close?

    blocked by ice chunks. Also near the point of viewing the Sawyer glacier is Sawyer Island. which is a navigation issue when the ice is caving blocking passage. Hubbard does not. have this issue. Hubbard and Glacier Bay are outstanding glaciers that the cruise ships can get rather. close and rotate to afford viewing for all on board.

  23. Celebrity Summit Review

    Verified cruise reviews from all types of cruisers! ... Hubbard Glacier. Took the excursion which got us closer to the glacier. Booked on sale so 45% off.

  24. Carnival cruise ship hits drifting ice in Alaska

    In June 2022, Norwegian Sun hit an iceberg while navigating to Hubbard Glacier, North America's largest tidewater glacier. The damages were more severe than those on Carnival Spirit, with the 78,309 gross registered ton ship having to return to Seattle for repairs.

  25. Spirit Kicks Off Series of Carnival Journeys Cruises

    In addition to scenic cruising at the Tracy Arm Fjord and the Hubbard Glacier, the two-week cruise is also highlighted by less usual ports of call, such as Sitka, Valdez and Seward. ... 2024, the Carnival Spirit sets sail on a 15-night cruise to the Hawaiian Islands. During the voyage, the 2001-built ship is scheduled to make visits to Honolulu ...

  26. Cruise to Hubbard Glacier (Cruising)

    Hubbard Glacier is by far one of Alaska's most exciting natural treasures. On a Hubbard Glacier cruise, you'll experience picture-perfect views of this glorious mount of ice from every angle on board one of our cruise ships. to Hubbard Glacier, witness stunning icy landscapes as your ship makes its way through frigid waters, turning from ...