Planning an Alaska cruise? Those eye-catching deals starting in the hundreds may grab your attention, but they only tell part of the story. The full cost of an Alaska cruise includes more than just your cabin fare — and understanding the extras can help you plan your dream vacation without surprises.
What’s Included (and What’s Not)?
Low advertised fares often refer to inside cabins (with no windows), and many exclude essentials like taxes, port fees, and gratuities. Once you factor in onboard extras — specialty dining, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, Wi-Fi, shore excursions, and tips — your total cost can climb quickly. And with Alaska’s jaw-dropping views, many travelers opt for a balcony room to soak in the scenery right from their stateroom.
When’s the Best Time to Cruise Alaska?
The Alaska cruise season typically runs May through September. The most popular time is summer, especially from mid-May to mid-July when you’ll experience nearly 24 hours of daylight and abundant wildlife, including bears, moose calves, whales, and bald eagles. For the best deals, look for early or late-season sailings — but deals can pop up even in peak summer.
Cost Comparison: 8 Cruise Lines in June 2025
We’ve compiled sample fares for interior and balcony cabins, including extras, across eight major cruise lines. Prices are based on double occupancy and were accurate at the time of publication.
Holland America Line
7-Day Glacier Discovery Southbound – Noordam
- Departure: June 1, 2025, from Whittier
- Interior Cabin: From $659 per person
- Balcony (Verandah): From $1,599
- “Have It All” Package (includes drinks, Wi-Fi, excursion credit): From $2,089
- Mid-ship Balcony with Package: $2,479 per person
- Extras: Additional specialty dining, excursions not covered in package
Includes $100 onboard credit & free fare for 3rd/4th guests
Total Cost: From $2,479 per person
Princess Cruises
7-Day Voyage of the Glaciers – Sapphire or Coral Princess
- Departure: June 7, 2025 (Sapphire, interior only); July 2, 2025 (Coral)
- Interior Cabin: From $628 – $798
- Balcony (Non-obstructed): From $2,517 – $2,663
- Premier Package (drinks, Wi-Fi, gratuities, dining): Adds $90/day
- With Premier Package: $3,293 per person
Total Cost: From $3,293 per person
Norwegian Cruise Line
7-Day Alaska: Glaciers & Ports – Norwegian Jade
- Departure: June 9, 2025, from Whittier
- Interior Cabin: From $642
- Balcony Cabin: From $1,492 per person
- “More at Sea” Bundle (bar, Wi-Fi, excursions): Adds $540
- With Bundle: $1,742.15 per person
Total Cost: From $1,742.15 per person
Royal Caribbean International
7-Night Northbound Alaska – Radiance of the Seas
- Departure: June 6, 2025, Vancouver to Seward
- Interior Cabin: From $737
- Balcony (July 25 sailing): From $2,131
- Full fare with fees (no extras): $2,898 per person
- Upgraded Balcony (based on location): $2,873 – $4,852
Total Cost: From $2,898 per person
Disney Cruise Line
7-Night Alaska Cruise – Disney Wonder
- Departure: June 16, 2025, round-trip from Vancouver
- Interior Cabin (2 guests): From $3,806 total
- Balcony Cabin: From $7,656 total
- With Gratuities (~$16/person/night): About $7,880 total ($3,940 per person)
- Extras: Wi-Fi, specialty dining (e.g., Palo), alcoholic drinks
Total Cost: From $3,940 per person (balcony)
Carnival Cruise Line
7-Day Alaska Cruise – Carnival Spirit or Luminosa
- Departure: June 3 or 5, 2025, round-trip from Seattle
- Interior Cabin (Spirit): From $1,181
- Balcony Cabin (Luminosa): From $1,851
- Gratuities (optional pre-paid): ~$224 per cabin
- Wi-Fi Plan: From $19/day per person
Total Cost: From $1,851 per person (balcony)
Alaska Cruise Booking Tips
- Always compare total cost, not just base fare.
- Balcony cabins are worth it in Alaska for the views.
- Bundles like “Have It All” or “Premier” often save money if you want more amenities.
- Plan for excursions and Wi-Fi, which can cost hundreds extra.
- Book early for the best stateroom locations and to avoid sold-out cabins.
Ready to Set Sail?
Explore your options and secure your Alaska adventure through trusted cruise booking sites like GoToSea, or directly through your preferred cruise line. With the right planning, your journey through The Great Land can be the trip of a lifetime — without blowing your budget.