Most visitors to Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve spend a day in Glacier Bay on large cruise ships as part of a longer cruise originating at a major west coast city. The spectacular scenery and wildlife of Glacier Bay make it a highlight of any Alaska cruise.
What to Expect
Cruise ships typically spend a full day (9-10 hours) in Glacier Bay including a stop at a major tidewater glacier.
National Park Service park rangers board to provide a narrative about important aspects of the visit, give a presentation about the park, and answer passengers' questions.
Cruise ships do not dock anywhere in Glacier Bay National Park.
Park rangers set up a information desk while on board ship in a large lounge. At the desk you can find:
A park ranger that will answer all of your Glacier Bay questions
A national park service passport book cancellation stamp
Alaska Geographic bookstore with park publications, maps and other media
A variety of exhibits/hands-on materials to enhance your visit
See also:
To make reservations on a cruise ship, see your travel agent.
The National Park Service manages vessel traffic (including cruise ships) in Glacier Bay to protect natural and cultural resources, provide for a range of visitor experiences, and promote visitor satisfaction and understanding. To learn more, and view a list of authorized cruise lines, see Cruise Ship Services.
Visiting Glacier Bay on a cruise ship has always been an exciting adventure. Join Ranger Fay for a fun glimpse of Glacier Bay 100 years ago during the heyday of Alaska steamships. 9 min
Did You Know? In 1899, an earthquake measuring 8.4 on the Richter Scale so shook the glaciers in Glacier Bay, the budding tourism industry nearly died. There was so much ice in the water from the shattered glaciers, visitors to Glacier Bay did not return to for over ten years. more...
