There are three different routes for cruising Alaska. And two of them are the most popular itineraries with the various cruise lines.
Inside Passage
This is the most popular path taken by cruise lines to explore Alaska's coastline with a final view of the Glacier Bay. Most of the cruise lines will visit Ketchikan, Juneau, and a variation of a 3rd stop followed with the Glacier Bay National Park.
As you can see from the above itinerary from Princess, they show the stops of the inside passage with the embarkation point from Seattle.
This is a great route for anyone that can potentially get sea sick. Because of the protected water, the ships do not encounter too much movements.
Gulf of Alaska
For a more adventurous cruiser, the outside passage / Gulf of Alaska is another itinerary to go forward with. Just note that there are limited number of cruise lines that offer this route as an option.
These routes are one way from Vancouver or Seattle, and will require one way air fare back to your home base. Most cruises with this itinerary will be 7 days with a few that will be longer (10 Days).
This route will encounter rough waters around end of Alaska season (August and September).
One of the highlights of this itinerary is the Hubbard Glacier
Bering Sea Cruises
There are only a few cruises that will part of this itinerary, and they are expedition ships moving between North America to Asia.
These cruises will provide greater view of the beauty of Alaska and may include add on experiences for land adventures including the Denali National Park.
Here is a sample view of a route that some of the cruises follow.
