The glacier was so huge and blue it looked unreal. Snow Dome Mountain. The parade of reindeer, whales, bears and seals never stops. All the spectacular things you see on an Alaska cruise will leave you in awe – but the price tag doesn’t have to be.
These voyages can be expensive, and the costs can add up to more than the cruise fare. However, with smart planning, you can experience all the heart-warming beauty Alaska has to offer without breaking the bank.
Entry-level cabins cost less than you think
Alaska cruises may seem luxurious, but entry-level cabins are surprisingly affordable. Interior cabins (cabins without windows) are the most cost-effective, priced around $500. For example, Princess Cruises’ seven-day Glacier Cruise in May 2026 starts at just $433 per person. If you value adventure over comfort, this is a smart move that leaves you with more cash for shore excursions, which can quickly cost more than the actual ticket price. While you’ll miss out on private views, you’ll find no shortage of viewing decks and lounges.
Ocean view cabins add windows and natural light, sometimes for just a few hundred dollars more. Prices vary by cruise line, ship and itinerary. Balcony cabins are once again more expensive, but offer the front-row seats and private viewing platforms that make Alaska cruises so amazing. Watching whales charge or a glacier calve from the privacy of your balcony is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that many travelers don’t mind paying for.
At the top end are the deluxe suites, with prices to match. These cost over $2,000 and come with perks like priority boarding, fine dining, and sometimes even shore excursions—making them the ultimate way to cruise Alaska in style.
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Additional costs can add up
Luxury cruises may seem expensive, but they often offer more value than you expect. Luxury Alaska cruises typically cost around $3,000 or $4,000 per person, but prices can rise to over $6,000 for the most exclusive routes and cabins. Fares on cruise lines such as Silversea Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line and Crystal Cruise Line often include premium drinks, gratuities, Wi-Fi and carefully planned shore excursions such as glacier hiking and dog sledding. If booked individually, these experiences could number in the hundreds. Add to that the convenience, attentive service and style that come with a high-end cruise, and the appeal becomes obvious.
In contrast, cheap cruise fares rarely tell the whole story. Taxes and hefty port fees are often added at checkout and can add up quickly once on board. Beverage packages, specialty meals, Wi-Fi, gratuities and even bottled water often come at an additional cost. Shore excursions are a highlight of all Alaska cruises and cost anywhere from $50 to several hundred dollars per person. Meals, souvenirs and disembarkation transportation can further stretch your budget. Factoring in cost, the difference between high-end and mainstream cruises may be smaller than you think.
Flights can make a one-way cruise more expensive than it seems
A one-way sail from Vancouver, BC to Seward, Alaska (or vice versa) looks cheap. However, it’s a good idea to check flight prices before booking your flight. Traveling to and from different ports, especially more remote Alaskan towns, can be expensive due to limited sailings and higher fares. Bad weather can also cause flight cancellations and delays, sometimes lasting several days.
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Round trip cruises from Seattle may seem more expensive, but are generally cheaper overall – this is because you are traveling to and from major airports. Whether you fly, drive, or train, getting to Seattle is often easier and more affordable than coordinating a one-way trip in and out of Alaska.
Related: How much does a cruise cost?
Cruising is sometimes the only way to explore Alaska
Juneau, Alaska, is the only U.S. state capital without roads, so you have to fly or cruise to get there. The same goes for Alaska’s remote towns and wild coastal areas, many of which rely on ships as their primary connection to the outside world.
Add in the cost of lodging, food, entertainment, and travel between ports, and an Alaska cruise suddenly becomes a steal. Additionally, it provides a seamless way to explore Alaska’s untamed frontier.
A cruise that combines a coastal cruise with a guided inland adventure is another great option. These offer an affordable way to experience Alaska’s stunning coastline and its vast interior without having to book multiple trips or face the hassle of hidden fees along the way.
Consider off-season for smaller crowds and better deals
Alaska’s low season (usually April to May and then September) is a great option for travelers who want to avoid peak season prices and crowds. The weather is getting cooler, the days are getting shorter, and rain is more likely. However, you can also enjoy spectacular autumn foliage, the chance to see the Northern Lights, and a quieter, more relaxing onboard experience outside of the school holidays. Additionally, lower demand often means better deals on cabins and excursions.
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Longer range offers better value
The price of a 10 or 11-night Alaska cruise may seem high, but don’t let the price put you off. Longer itineraries are generally better value per night than shorter itineraries, with more ports, more field time, a more relaxed pace, and fewer logistics to worry about once aboard.
And the savings don’t stop there. Cruise lines regularly run deals during tide season and other promotions, offering perks such as drink packages, Wi-Fi and gratuities. Bundle deals can lower the overall cost more than you expect, and sometimes a longer cruise becomes the smarter choice even if the upfront cost seems higher. More days in Alaska for less money per day? This is a victory.
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bottom line
Alaska cruises are not just for big spenders. With the right time and itinerary, and a little research, you can sail through glacier country without breaking your budget. When you depart is just as important as how long you stay, which ship you take and which cabin you choose. It’s worth shopping around to compare what’s included and look for bundled benefits that can save you money even further. With a little planning, your dream Alaska cruise can be accomplished on a budget and leave you with priceless memories.
