Cruise Ships in Glacier Bay

A cruise ship in glacier bay is dwarfed by mount fairweather rising thousands of feet above the ship.
A cruise ship dwarfed by the mountains of Glacier Bay
 

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. It is an amazing day cruising through the best of Alaska. The spectacular scenery and wildlife of Glacier Bay make it a highlight of any Alaska cruise. The ship travels into the heart of the Fairweather Mountains for a trip into the ice ages. Watch for icebergs and calving glaciers. Scan the shorelines for wildlife...brown bears, mountain goats, sea otters, sea lions, harbor seals, bald eagles, and a variety of seabirds are regularly seen.

What to Expect

  • You will receive a copy of the park map/guide in your stateroom the evening before your arrival in Glacier Bay.

  • 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 the ship to provide a narrative about important aspects of the visit, give special presentations about the park, kid's activities, staff an information desk, and answer all of your questions.
  • Note: Cruise ships do not dock anywhere in Glacier Bay National Park.
  • Check out our Glacier Bay cruise ship visitor "insider's guide" to learn more and get the most out of your park visit.
 
Cruise ship map

Cruise Ship Routes
Map highlighting the typical routes taken in Glacier Bay by cruise ships.

 

Park rangers set up a information desk while on board ship in a primary viewing lounge. Plan to stop by and see us to learn more about your park. At the desk you can find:

  • A park ranger that will answer all of your Glacier Bay questions
  • Yes, we bring the national park service passport book cancellation stamp on board with us!
  • An Alaska Geographic bookstore with park publications, maps and other media
  • A variety of displays, and hands-on materials to enhance your visit and connect to the amazing world of Glacier Bay.
 
cruise ship

Arriving by Cruise Ship?
Our "insider's guide" for cruise ship passengers will help you get the most out of your Glacier Bay day.

 

Planning a Cruise to Glacier Bay

Interested in visiting Glacier Bay on a cruise ship?

Cruise ship bookings change from year to year. Start by contacting a travel agent or researching various Alaska cruises to see what appeals to you. For a full listing of cruise and tour boat operators, check our Area Visitor Services Listing.

*Make note of where each of these cruises travel to, cruises have many destinations, ports and options. Many Alaskan cruise offerings do not visit Glacier Bay National Park.

See also:

 
 
 
 
Glacier Bay rangers
Become a Glacier Bay expert!

Glacier Bay Ranger Audio Series
Get the most out of your cruise visit!
Enjoy these exclusive interviews with park employees on a wide range of fascinating topics. Bears, birds, glaciers, whales, wilderness, science, etc.

 
 
 
 
 

Last updated: November 16, 2023

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve
PO Box 140

Gustavus, AK 99826

Phone:

907 697-2230

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