Your Complete Guide to 7-Night Alaskan Cruises with Airfare
Dreaming of an Alaskan adventure complete with towering glaciers, breathtaking landscapes, and the convenience of a single booking? You’re in the right place. A 7-night Inside Passage cruise with airfare included is one of the best ways to experience Alaska’s majesty. This guide will show you exactly what to expect.
What is an Alaskan Inside Passage Cruise?
The Inside Passage is a protected network of waterways that winds through the islands of the Pacific Northwest Coast. It stretches from Puget Sound in Washington, up through British Columbia, and into the stunning panhandle of Alaska. For cruisers, this route is famous for its calm waters and non-stop scenery.
Unlike open-ocean cruising, an Inside Passage itinerary means you are almost always surrounded by land. You will sail through narrow channels, past lush green forests, and alongside towering, snow-capped mountains. This constant proximity to the coastline makes it an ideal route for wildlife spotting right from your ship’s deck. Keep an eye out for bald eagles, sea lions, and even whales.
A typical 7-night cruise focuses on this spectacular region, offering a perfect blend of scenic sailing and fascinating port stops.
The Perfect Week: A Typical 7-Night Itinerary
A 7-night cruise is the most popular duration for an Alaskan voyage because it provides a comprehensive experience without requiring a huge time commitment. While exact routes vary by cruise line, most round-trip itineraries departing from Seattle, Washington, or Vancouver, British Columbia, follow a similar pattern.
Here are some of the classic ports of call you can expect to visit:
- Ketchikan: Often the first Alaskan port, Ketchikan is known as the “Salmon Capital of the World.” You can explore its famous Creek Street, a historic boardwalk built on pilings over the water, or take an excursion to see the stunning Misty Fjords National Monument.
- Juneau: As Alaska’s capital city, Juneau is uniquely accessible only by air or sea. The top attraction here is the Mendenhall Glacier, a massive river of ice located just a short drive from the port. Whale watching tours are also incredibly popular and successful from Juneau.
- Skagway: Step back in time in this small town that perfectly preserves its Gold Rush past. You can ride the historic White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, which climbs nearly 3,000 feet over 20 miles of steep grades and cliff-hanging turns, offering some of the most dramatic views of the entire trip.
In addition to these ports, your itinerary will include at least one full day dedicated to “scenic cruising,” which is where the icy wonders truly come to life.
Exploring the Promised "Icy Wonders"
The ad’s promise of “Icy Wonders and Scenic Skies” is the heart of the Alaskan cruise experience. This refers to the magnificent glaciers and the dramatic landscapes you will witness.
Glacier Viewing Days
Your 7-night cruise will almost certainly include a visit to one of Alaska’s premier glacier destinations. The ship will navigate slowly through ice-filled waters, allowing you to get remarkably close to these ancient rivers of ice. The two most common destinations are:
- Glacier Bay National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Glacier Bay is a pristine wilderness accessible to a limited number of cruise ships per day. You will spend hours sailing through the bay, watching as house-sized chunks of ice calve, or break off, from the face of glaciers like the Margerie Glacier and crash into the sea. Park Rangers will often board the ship to provide expert commentary.
- Hubbard Glacier: This is the largest tidewater glacier in North America. It is known for being incredibly active, making for a dramatic and thunderous calving display. Its sheer size, over six miles wide at its face, is a sight you will never forget.
Scenic Skies and Wildlife
The “scenic skies” refer to the vast, unspoiled vistas of Alaska. Whether it’s the low-hanging clouds weaving through mountain peaks, a brilliant sunset over the water, or the crisp, clear air of the north, the views are constant and spectacular. This is the perfect backdrop for spotting some of North America’s most iconic wildlife, including humpback whales, orcas, bears, and mountain goats.
Finding Deals "With Airfare" Included
The “With Airfare” promise is a major draw for travelers seeking convenience and value. Several major cruise lines frequently offer promotions that bundle airfare with your cruise fare, simplifying the booking process significantly.
Cruise lines that often feature these “fly and cruise” packages include:
- Princess Cruises: A leader in Alaskan cruising, Princess often runs “Princess Plus” or “Princess Premier” fare packages that can include flights, Wi-Fi, and drink packages.
- Holland America Line: With a long history in Alaska, Holland America frequently offers “Have It All” packages. These promotions often include airfare credits or special fixed-price airfare from major gateways.
- Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): NCL’s “Free at Sea” promotion is famous for its flexibility. One of the perks you can often choose is a “Free Airfare” offer for the second guest, which can represent a significant saving.
When looking at these deals, it’s important to read the details. Check which airports are included, if the price covers taxes and fees, and whether airport-to-port transfers are part of the package. Even with these considerations, bundling airfare can offer peace of mind and excellent value.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to take an Alaskan cruise? The Alaskan cruise season runs from late April to September. The most popular and warmest months are June, July, and August. May and September are considered “shoulder season” months and often have lower prices and fewer crowds, but with cooler weather.
What should I pack for a 7-night Alaskan cruise? Layering is key. Pack a mix of short and long-sleeved shirts, sweaters or fleece jackets, and a waterproof and windproof outer layer. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for ports. Don’t forget binoculars for wildlife viewing, a camera, and sunglasses.
Are “airfare included” deals always the best value? Often, they are very competitive and offer great convenience. However, it’s always wise to do a quick price check. Look at the cost of the cruise alone and then search for flights separately to see which option works best for your budget and preferred airline.