one day cruise from valdez

Day Cruises from Valdez

Sea life and glacier cruises.

Day cruises out of Valdez offer the opportunities to visit Columbia Glacier, one of the fastest retreating glaciers in the world. To learn more about Columbia Glacier's retreating Click Here . Another main attractions is Meares Glacier.

Wildlife include; Humpback whales, minke whales, orcas (killer whales), stellar sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters, puffins, and more.

Day Cruises are provided by Lulu Belle, and Stan Stephens Cruises.

Columbia Glacier Cruise

Explore the quieter corners of Alaska’s exceptional Prince William Sound.

• Things to Do Valdez
• Columbia Glacier Cruise from Valdez

More Details

Rates & dates, departure times, availability.

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Whether moody and grey, or clear and blue, the scenery around Valdez is stunning. This day cruise takes passengers deep into that beautiful landscape for six hours of glacier and wildlife viewing.

The largest tidewater glacier in southcentral Alaska.

The day tour starts in Port Valdez and slowly cruises into the Valdez Arm of Prince William Sound. The sound is surrounded by the Chugach Mountains and an intricate coastline of fjords, rock beaches, and craggy sea stacks. A trio of barrier islands protect from the more tumultuous water in the Gulf of Alaska. The sound's calm waters are home to a variety of marine wildlife. Passengers often see puffins and cormorants, sea lions and seals, Dall sheep and brown bear, and sometimes even orcas.

Rounding Heather Island, the catamaran soon enters Columbia Bay. Pouring from an elevation of 10,000 feet, the Columbia Glacier is the one of the largest tidewater glaciers in southcentral Alaska. It is also one of the most active glaciers in the world. This makes for exceptional glacier viewing, with guests routinely able to photograph huge chunks of ice breaking away and crashing dramatically into the otherwise still water. After a lunch of chowder and bagels, the tour returns into Valdez.

The Columbia Glacier Cruise is a great choice for guests staying at the Copper River Princess Lodge . Valdez is about 100 miles or two scenic hours away by car.

The tour boat has two levels with heated cabins on each, wrap-around exterior walkways, and viewing decks at the bow and stern. There are also power outlets for recharging cameras and phones. No smoking is allowed on the boat.

The onboard meal includes a hearty bowl of clam chowder, a bagel, cream cheese, and cookies. A vegetarian lunch option is available when requested in advance. Complimentary coffee, hot tea, lemonade, and water are available throughout the cruise.

What to Bring

It is important to dress in layers for this day tour. Bring a rain jacket, hat, and gloves. Wear rubber-soled shoes. Even on a sunny day the air coming off the glacier can be in the 40s. Be sure to bring a camera and binoculars. Seasickness is not generally a problem in the calm water of Prince William Sound, but if concerned, air on the side of caution and take preventatives before departing.

Special Instructions

Check in at the tour office on the west side of the Valdez Small Boat Harbor one hour prior to departure.

Transfers & Meeting Points

For independent travelers, Valdez is best reached by car. The tour operator will provide direction to free parking for self-drivers.

Here are the rates and operating dates for this product. Remember, we have a lowest price guarantee for nearly everything we sell.

Child rates apply to children under the age of 13. Infants under the age of 2 may travel for free but must sit on an adult's lap.

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Departure times and locations are listed below. Click on a link for an interactive map.

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Select a departure below to see current availability. If your desired date is sold out (red) we will do our best to find an alternative, but we may not be able to accommodate your request.

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Quick Facts

• Price $162 + Tax
• Duration 6 Hours
• Departures 10:30 AM, 2:30 PM
• Operating Dates Daily from 5/17/2024 to 9/15/2024
• Activity Level Less Active

What's Included

• 80-mile roundtrip day cruise.
• Hearty meal.
• Complimentary hot and cold drinks.
• Onboard narration.

Guest Feedback

"They were very helpful in accommodating my handicapped wife on and off the boat. The tour was very informative, and they did an excellent job getting us right up in front of the glacier."

~Mark from Texas~

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Book your Alaska Cruise!

Join us this summer for a day cruise through Prince William Sound in Valdez, Alaska. Our destination is the Columbia Glacier, the second-largest tidewater glacier in North America, but we will encounter all of unique sights along the way. Bring your family, friends and camera as you experience an exciting and memorable day aboard the Lu-Lu Belle, "Limousine of Prince William Sound".

For more information about our Alaskan glacier cruises please read Our Cruises page.

Travel agents: please contact our office at 1-800-411-0090 to reserve your client's spots.

2024 Prices: (tickets bought online include current fuel surcharge)

• 7+ hour tour: $176 (includes $15 fuel surcharge and all applicable taxes)
• Chapel of the Sea : Free
• Harbor Cruise: $4000 (3 hours)
• AM or PM Cruise: $7000
• All-Day Cruise: $9000 (12 hour max)
• Please call 1-800-411-0090 if you are interested in a private cruise.

Here's how it works:

• Choose the day you would like to have your cruise.
• Enter the number in your party and click "BUY" and continue the checkout process.
• You'll receive an email receipt and your boarding passes will be waiting for you at our office at 240 Kobuk Drive in Valdez .
• If you are booking a tour less than two days in advance, please call 1-800-411-0090 to guarantee a reservation!
• Please check-in at the office the morning of your trip or earlier to receive your boarding passes.
• Boarding begins 10:30am.

Refund Policy:

If you need to cancel a tour, you must call the Lu-Lu Belle at 1-800-411-0090 as soon as possible. Tours cannot be canceled via email. If the tour is canceled at least 14 days before your scheduled cruise date you will receive a full refund minus a 20% booking fee. Any tour that is canceled within 14 days from your scheduled cruise date will not receive a refund.

Book your Alaska's Columbia Glacier, Whale, and Wildlife Cruise online today!

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Deadman Lake Campground and Lakeview Campground (Two Incredible Free Campgrounds in Alaska)

Best Things to do in Valdez, Alaska and why it’s my favorite town in Alaska.

A Day out on the Lu-Lu Belle – The Best Valdez Glacier Cruise

• By [email protected] in Scenery , Unique Experiences , Wildlife

One of my best day trips ever was a Columbia Glacier tour with Lu-Lu Belle Glacier Wildlife Cruises out of the port town of Valdez, Alaska.  The tours are promised to be 7 or more hours, and our tour clocked in at over 9 hours!   For many tourists, this is the best Valdez glacier cruise, or maybe even the best wildlife and glacier cruise in the state of Alaska.

The Lu-Lu Belle

The Lu-Lu Belle is a beautiful custom-made wooden ship with only 40 passengers.  There’s lots of room to sprawl out – on the front, back, inside or on the upper deck or even in the comfortable and very warm Captain’s wheelhouse.  The boat is available for private booking but most days is used for a Valdez Glacier Cruise to Columbia Glacier.

A Foggy Start

The morning was quite cloudy and foggy and I was hoping the fog would lift by our relatively late Valdez glacier cruise 11 am departure time.  But to my dismay, we sailed out of port with clouds and fog all around us and only occasional peeks at the various peaks around us.  The captain saw a group of Sea Otters sleeping in the distance and approached them, commenting “I better be careful, it’s foggy and I might be getting too close to the oil terminal”.

Hunted by the Coast Guard

Well, a few minutes later, a Coast Guard boat approached us with flashing lights going.  It seems that in the fog we drifted into the imaginary line that surrounds the Oil Pipeline Terminal in Valdez (this is the pipeline that starts in Prudhoe Bay.  The oil is stored in huge drums in Valdez and then loaded onto tanker ships).  We were let off with a warning but it added some excitement to our trip!

There are a couple beautiful waterfalls on the way from Valdez to Columbia Glacier.  We had nice views despite the fog.  But not much later, the clouds and fog began to lift…

Water Spout

Captain Fred told us to look for the white markings of a puffin as he inched us further and further into a cove.  But it was a trick!  Inside this cove was a natural waterspout.  He had us looking high when we should have been looking low.  His boat maneuvering skills are excellent.

Wildlife Galore

We saw so many Sea Otters and Stellar Sea Lions on this Columbia Glacier tour!  Sea Otters are such amazing creatures and so cute!  Fun fact: a group of Sea Otters is called a “raft” of Sea Otters.  We saw a few puffins, but not as many as I saw on my wildlife cruise from Seward. 

See Local Fishing Practices

We pulled over to a fishing boat to watch them pull in their net full of salmon (look carefully at this photo to see the fish). They utilize a method that uses a larger ship and a dinghy that expands the net. A pole is used to keep the fish from escaping the net. The captain thanked the fishing boat guys by giving them a ziploc bag of fresh brownies.

Dall’s Porpoise

They occasionally encounter Humpback whales or Orcas in the Prince William Sound, but we didn’t see either of these.  We did, however, see a group of Dall’s Porpoises.  As we approached, I was lucky to be standing on the bow of the ship, because one of the porpoises swam along with the front of the ship.

Approaching the Glacier – Icebergs Ahead!

There were icebergs everywhere as we crept up the fjord/valley towards the Columbia Glacier.  Some were the size of a loaf of bread, but others were the size of cars and larger (and consider 90% of an iceberg is below the surface). Lots of the flatter icebergs were inhabited by Sea Otters. Once the boat got too close, they jumped in the water. The captain would regularly announce the water depth and how close we were to the glacier – we seemed close but he was still announcing 3 or 4 miles away.

The Columbia Glacier

The Columbia Glacier is a tidewater type of glacier and is one of the fastest moving glaciers in the world.  Therefore, a high activity of calving, or having chunks fall off into the sea.   We heard several cracks and saw some new icebergs being formed. 

How Long will the Columbia Glacier Continue to Reach the Sea?

Captain Fred indicated where the Columbia Glacier reached when he first took tourists to the Columbia Glacier and it has retreated by MILES.  Looking at the Columbia Glacier today, you can see the mountains and valley behind, it may not be that many more years before Columbia no longer reaches the sea and is considered a hanging glacier.

Should You Book the Lu-Lu Belle in Advance?

If you want to guarantee a spot, you should book in advance.  When I arrived into Valdez, they only had room on the tour the next day, with the next four days after that being totally booked.   If Lu-Lu Belle is full, you can try at the larger Stan Stevens tours, an alternative Valdez Glacier Cruise which does up to two tours daily to the Columbia or Meares Glaciers on larger boats.

Lu-Lu Belle Review

Wow!  What can I say?  The Lu-Lu Belle was a true highlight on my trip to Alaska .  Captain Fred has been doing the trips for 20 years and clearly loves his job and loves giving the passengers a good time.   While Lu Lu Belle doesn’t provide lunch on their tour, they do have a reasonably priced snack bar with chili, nachos, hot dogs, popcorn, fresh baked muffins and brownies, and more.  I couldn’t pass up having a hot coffee for $1.25 after visiting the glacier.   At $145 for a 9 hour tour, this is one of the best valued wildlife and glacier tours in the state of Alaska. As a bonus, for free the crew will take your picture at the glacier and they have Santa Hats and “Merry Christmas” signs if you want to use your photo as your Christmas card.

Where to stay in Valdez

This post contains affiliate links.  This website earns a small commission for items purchased through these links with no additional cost to you. 

Most people camp in Valdez, there are several RV campgrounds and boondocking sights around.  But there are also a couple of nice hotels around town, I especially like near the harbor. ( Check Rates and Availability ).

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Valdez Day Cruises, Kayaking Day Trips & Outdoor Adventures

Home » Tours » City-Based Day Tours » Valdez

Valdez is a picturesque community located on Prince William Sound in Southcentral, Alaska . It is well known for its fishing heritage and as one of Alaska’s few ice-free ports. The surrounding coastal mountains have been compared to those of the Swiss Alps.

The original town of Valdez, founded in 1898, was created via a scam to lure prospectors off the Klondike Gold Rush trail. Steamship companies promoted the Valdez Glacier Trail as a better route than Skagway for miners to reach the Klondike gold fields and the Copper River fields in interior Alaska. With steep glacier trails, many miners died attempting the crossing, and Valdez only flourished after the construction of the Richardson Highway in 1899. The highway connected Valdez and Fairbanks and permanently established the town as the first overland supply station in the interior of Alaska.

Since its gold rush days, Valdez has evolved into an important shipping center because it is the most northerly year-round, ice-free port in the western hemisphere. Construction of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline was completed in 1977, and Valdez was chosen as the terminus for the 800-mile pipeline out of Prudhoe Bay. During the construction phase of the pipeline, Valdez’s population surged to 10,000. When it was completed, and the oil started flowing, the people settled to their current level of about 4,000 year-round residents.

Browsing 5 Day Tours in Valdez

Columbia Glacier Cruise

Length: 6 hours

Starting at: $167 / pp

This Valdez day tour with a glacier and wildlife cruise through Prince William Sound features a visit to Columbia Glacier. On board, you can view Prince Williams Sound’s diverse wildlife, including sea lions, sea otters, and whales. Learn... Browse itinerary

Duck Flats Kayaking Tour from Valdez

Length: 3 hours

Starting at: $89 / pp

On this guided Alaska kayaking tour from Valdez, you will kayak into the calm protected waters of the Valdez “duck flats.” This kayaking day trip will follow a chain of small islands recognized for their nesting birds and... Browse itinerary

Shoup Glacier Kayaking Tour

Length: 8 hours

Starting at: $244 / pp

This Valdez kayaking tour to Shoup Glacier offers an intimate experience at one of Prince William Sounds’ many calving tidewater glaciers. This day trip is perfect for both beginner and experienced kayakers. Climb aboard a motor boat for... Browse itinerary

Columbia Glacier Kayaking Tour

Length: 10 hours

Starting at: $349 / pp

On this Valdez day tour, search for wildlife such as whales, sea otters, and sea lions as you cruise for two hours to the Columbia Glacier by water taxi. This is Alaska’s second-largest tidewater glacier. Since the early... Browse itinerary

Meares Glacier Cruise from Valdez

Length: 7.5 hours

Starting at: $190 / pp

This Valdez day tour takes you on a 110-mile glacier cruise through the majestic waters of Prince William Sound to Meares Glacier. On board, you can spot and photograph Prince William Sound wildlife, including sea otters, harbor seals,... Browse itinerary

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Columbia Glacier Cruise

Amazing glaciers, exciting wildlife, and a rich history

$162 Adult / Child $81 + $4 per person*

10:30 a.m. departure, 5/17/2024 – 9/15/2024, 6-hour columbia glacier cruise.

• Crew’s Favorites

If your time is more limited, our Columbia Glacier Cruise is the perfect option. This 6-hour journey through Prince William Sound features a visit to the Columbia Glacier area, where you will view the historic catastrophic retreat of Columbia Glacier. In addition to the amazing ice in Columbia Bay, you will have the opportunity to see the wildlife that lives in Prince William Sound including seals, sea otters, sea lions, humpback whales, orca, Dall’s porpoise, bald eagles or puffins. While on board you will learn about the mining, oil shipping, earthquakes and fishing history of the area.

On board a light meal is served. Complimentary water, tea, coffee, and lemonade are available, along with additional snacks for purchase.

Departure Time: 10:30 AM *** Length: 6 hours Dates of Operation: May 17 – September 15, 2024 Rates: $162.00 Adult + $4 Fees; $81.00 Child + $4 Fees

*** Departure time is modified for the following dates: 7:30 AM on June 14, July 3, 4 and 24, August 7, 21 and 23 2:30 PM on June 15, July 1, 3, 4, 5, 21, 24 and 25, August 7, 10, 14, 21, 23 and 30.

Captain Amanda looks forward to visiting Columbia Glacier to see its amazing blue ice. “Growing up, I had heard of the color glacier blue, but really had no idea what it truly was until I went to Columbia Glacier. There is nothing I love more at Columbia Glacier than being able to cruise up to a huge, blue iceberg and letting people experience it firsthand.”

Captain Alan believes Columbia Glacier is one of the more unique tidewater glaciers in Alaska that one can visit. “No matter how close you are, you are getting to witness its retreat and geologic history.”  

Captain Chris enjoys sharing the story of Columbia Glacier’s retreat and how “it’s the first time a retreat such as this has been documented from start to finish (whenever that may be).”

Captain Caleb’s favorite part of Columbia Glacier is “cruising among the massive glacial ice chunks and being surrounded by the ice and mountains.”

We are fascinated by the ice in Columbia Bay, and Marketing & Reservations Manager Selah agrees!  “Seeing the massive glacial ice in Columbia Glacier Bay is my favorite part of going on our Columbia Glacier cruise.”

Welcome to Valdez and Prince William Sound 

Stan Stephens Glacier & Wildlife Cruises respectfully acknowledges that we live, work, and operate on the traditional land of the Alaska Native Alutiiq/Sugpiaq peoples. It is because of their stewardship that we are able to share the wonders of Prince William Sound today.

The traditional name of this area in Sugt’stun, the language of the Sugpiaq, is Suacit, which means, “the people of the place that rises into view.” Suacit and the surrounding Prince William Sound villages provided a bountiful harvest for the Alutiiq/Sugpiaq people. We strive to respect the traditional lands and waterways as we operate. We encourage our guests to take time to learn about the history of our region’s Alaska Native people and their living culture.

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Alaska (AK) » 15 Best Things to Do in Valdez (Alaska)

15 Best Things to Do in Valdez (Alaska)

Valdez is found at the head of Port Valdez which is a natural fjord that reaches inland for around 11 miles from Prince William Sound.

Originally home to the Chugach and Ahtna native peoples the area was previously used for fishing and trading the likes of copper, jade and furs. Only one of the previous villages named Tatitlek remains today.

With an interesting past involving English and Russian exploration and the goldrush and eventually the mass building of the railroads across the US. Today the population of Valdez is mostly involved in the oil industry, seasonal tourism, fishing, and the transportation and shipping industries.

The main reason tourists visit Valdez is for the amazing wildlife and beautiful scenery. Whale watching, skiing, and glacier climbing are just some of the things you can expect to do if you are the adventurous type.

Here are some of the top things to do on your next visit to Valdez, Alaska.

1. Columbia Glacier

This is the largest tidewater glacier in Alaska, you can get up close to this amazing natural phenomenon by taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide. You really need to see this to believe it, the enormity of the glacier stretching 10,000 feet above sea level.

There are many different ways to explore the ice fields and glacier face. You can take a cruise or a boat tour, an air tour to see the area from above, or if you are really adventurous take a kayak out and get really close to the ice.

You will also get the opportunity to see local wildlife as well as enjoy the natural scenery.

2. The Valdez Museum and Historical Archive

There are two museums in one here at Egan Drive in Valdez. Learn much about the history of the area as well as recent events. The museum was initially founded by Joseph Bourke in 1901, a prospector showing a few curiosities from the local area.

After 1964 the collection grew with artefacts and historic documents and was relocated with the help of local residents to the site it is found today.

See the exhibits showing scenes from the past and different aspects of the area’s history. There is even a children’s section for interactive learning fun.

3. Keystone Canyon

The drive to this area is spectacular, but when you reach the canyon you will be astounded by the beauty. The deep gorge is surrounded by waterfalls and there are plenty of places to pull in and take photographs.

It is best to visit early before the crowds and get the best views, but you can also visit by tour if you don’t want to drive yourself. You can also see the Keystone Canyon Tunnel. This is an abandoned rail road tunnel constructed was in the early 1900s as part of the Yukon-Valdez Railroad.

The drive from Valdez is around twenty minutes to the Canyon and there are lots of sights to see along the way. So, if you are planning to stop off for photos it might take just a bit longer!

4. The Solomon Gulch Hatchery

This hatchery is part of the fishing program strictly controlled by the State of Alaska. A visit to the hatchery can consist of a walking tour which can be guided or self-guided. Whichever you choose, you’ll learn a lot about what goes on here.

During the summer months is the best time to see the salmon returning making their way up the river. It is also a great place to see the local wildlife. You may spot sea lions and black and brown bears coming to feed on the salmon.

There is a viewing platform for visitors, but you should check the tide schedule before you go. It is best to visit just before high tide for the best views.

5. Maxine & Jesse Whitney Museum

This Museum showcases one of the largest collections of Native Alaskan art and artefacts in the world. After assimilating the collections over a number of years a new purpose-built facility was opened in 2008.

Today you will find a wide range of exhibits including the Natural History of Alaska, wildlife mounts which include polar bears, Ivory and baleen items and lastly an exhibit of masks, dolls and fur clothing. All interesting in their own right and together telling the story of the history of Alaska.

You’ll find the museum on Lowe Street in Valdez.

6. River rafting and tubing tours

You can take half, full or several day tours exploring this beautiful and remote part of Alaska. Think of icy waters, glaciers and fast flowing rivers.

Choose from exploring the icebergs of Prince William Sound whilst sea kayaking or white-water rafting in the canyons of the Chugach Mountains. Or perhaps combine both with some ice climbing and hiking for an extra adventurous trip.

Booking with a reputable company such as Pangaea Adventures will ensure you have the expert guides to keep you safe and tailor your trip to suit your needs.

7. Valdez Convention & Visitors Bureau

The visitor centre has plenty of information for tourists and visitors in this area. There are comprehensive lists of guides and things to do in Valdez. You can find out what is happening whilst you are here including any community festivals, markets or events.

You’ll find the centre on Fairbanks Drive and it’s a good idea to start here if you need information and advice about your visit.

8. Dock Point Park & Trail

If you are looking for a short easy hike whilst in Valdez, the dock point park and trail is a great place to start. Begin your walk straight from town and enjoy harbour views and boards that jut out for a better view over the water.

You may even spot eagles and other wildlife during your walk. Moose and bears can be found here so it is advised to make noise and never hike alone to keep yourself safe.

The whole trail will only take about thirty minutes and is less than a mile in length on a small incline.

9. Dolphin & Whale Watching tours

In Prince William Sound you are able to see both humpback whales and orca pods as well as dolphins and porpoises. Humpbacks frequent the area, diving for fish and are most likely seen on their own. Whereas Orcas will hunt in pods for the plentiful salmon.

From Valdez, the cruises to Columbia and Meares glaciers will most likely give you the chance to see whales and porpoises, whilst on a sightseeing tour. But you can also take tours that are specific to the wildlife you are looking to view and photograph.

Most tours begin at the Small Boat Harbour, Valdez. Don’t worry if you haven’t booked ahead, you can book a tour whilst in the area at short notice if need be.

10. Skiing and snowboarding tours

Heli skiing and snowboarding tours are not uncommon in Valdez and there are daily drops to runs by way of helicopter. Booking in advance is essential for the experience, whether you are planning on just a day trip or a longer ski or snowboarding adventure.

Valdez’s Church mountains are the place you will be dropped and here there are many different runs to try. From easy warm up routes to some difficult exhilarating runs you will never forget.

11. Worthington Glacier

This glacier is very accessible, and the park has restroom and picnic facilities for visitors to use. Just park up and take a short hike to enjoy the spectacular views the glacier has to offer.

Glacier hiking is not easy though so before you set out on the trip, make sure you are fit enough to take it on.

Be sure to bring your camera and make the most of the stops and view points that are well located and signposted on the trail.

12. Shoup Bay State Marine Park

A great place to camp and stay if you are looking for a great outdoor experience. There are plenty of facilities for campers and RVs to stop and stay for a few days. This includes tent pitches, picnic tables, a grill, water facilities, toilets, the opportunity to fish and many hiking trails.

It is a hit with families as there is no elevation and the campsite is family friendly. Further into the park there are three cabins that are available to rent, and it is the only state marine park with access by foot into Prince William Sound.

13. Fishing tours

Fishing is one of the staple past times of Alaskan life and where better to go fishing than with a tour from Valdez. It may be a long day with most tours lasting around twelve hours, but the experience is definitely worth it.

Expect to ride for a couple of hours to the fishing spot. But during this time, it is not uncommon to spot whales and other marine life. So, you are kept occupied along the way!

Once you have found your spot, types of fish you can catch here include halibut, ling cod, rockfish and salmon. Then once you are back, you can clean and prepare your fish ready to take home.

14. The Fat Mermaid Club

If you are looking for a place to relax, get a bite to eat and maybe enjoy a beer then The Fat Mermaid is a good choice in Valdez.

The pizzas come highly recommended and due to the location, it is nice to be able to sit outside on the terrace. It is also a place where people gather for an after-dinner beer.

You can find The Fat Mermaid on Harbour drive, a popular location in town.

15. The Roadside Potato head

This is a great place to grab a bite for the road, whether it is a quick sit-down lunch, or something made to take away. They are popular for their different kinds of fries, wraps and general fast food. An excellent place to fill up for an adventure filled day on the water or hiking in the glacier.

The Roadside Potato Head is located on North Harbour Drive, near to the boat docks so an excellent location for boat tours and visiting tourists.

15 Best Things to Do in Valdez (Alaska):

• Columbia Glacier
• The Valdez Museum and Historical Archive
• Keystone Canyon
• The Solomon Gulch Hatchery
• Maxine & Jesse Whitney Museum
• River rafting and tubing tours
• Valdez Convention & Visitors Bureau
• Dock Point Park & Trail
• Dolphin & Whale Watching tours
• Skiing and snowboarding tours
• Worthington Glacier
• Shoup Bay State Marine Park
• Fishing tours
• The Fat Mermaid Club
• The Roadside Potato head

Protect Your Trip »

The 9 best northern lights alaska cruises for 2024 & beyond.

Consider one of these trips for a chance to see this mesmerizing natural wonder.

The Best Northern Lights Alaska Cruises

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There's no other experience on Earth quite like witnessing the northern lights. Also known as the aurora borealis, this spellbinding phenomenon – when brilliant hues of green, yellow and purple dance across the night sky – is visible in Alaska from late August to late April. Clear, dark evenings away from the ambient light of cities provide prime viewing opportunities.

Alaska is one of the best places in the world to see the aurora borealis – especially locations in the Interior and Arctic regions, such as Coldfoot, Wiseman, Utqiagvik (Barrow) and Nome. Fairbanks is regarded as a top location due to its position directly under the auroral oval, a ring-shaped area in the far north where aurora activity is generally concentrated. The Southcentral region of Alaska, where you'll find Anchorage, Talkeetna and the Mat-Su Valley, also offers basecamps for northern lights viewing.

If you're hoping to see the magic aboard an Alaska cruise in 2024 or 2025, then you just might be in luck. Experts predict the next few seasons will be particularly good for northern lights sightings, due to increased solar activity. While seeing the northern lights is never guaranteed, your best chance of seeing them is during these high-activity solar cycles, which occur about every 11 years.

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When to take a cruise to view the northern lights

The Alaska cruise season falls between May and September, with a few cruise lines extending the season from April to October.

Holland America Line recommends booking a cruise or cruisetour (a combined sea and land package) during the autumnal equinox, or the official start of autumn, which falls around Sept. 22 in the Northern Hemisphere. Disturbances in the Earth's magnetic field are more likely around the autumn and spring equinoxes, which could increase your chances of seeing the aurora. For the best views, Holland America advises heading to higher ground in Anchorage , to vantage points like Glen Alps, the Knit River Valley and Point Woronzof.

Princess Cruises also suggests booking your vacation in the fall. September is an ideal month to watch for the spectacle in the sky as the nights start getting longer and darker. The elusive display is most likely to appear on crystal-clear evenings between midnight and 4 a.m. While you can see incredible light shows in Anchorage, consider an extended tour of Fairbanks or the Interior that takes you away from light pollution (such as to Denali National Park & Preserve).

U.S. News has compiled a list of the nine best cruises and cruisetours to give you the optimal chance of viewing these whimsical lights in the sky, with a focus on sailings around the autumnal equinox in 2024 and later dates in September 2025. We've also included an early sailing in April, before the end of the aurora season. (Keep in mind: Many of these trips and itineraries are also available on other dates during the season. Cruise fares were accurate at the time of publication.)

Holland America Line

Princess cruises, celebrity cruises, norwegian cruise line, royal caribbean international.

Thierry Guenez | Courtesy of Holland America Line

9-Day Denali: Tour D8l

This nine-day land and sea tour on Nieuw Amsterdam includes an opportunity to search for the northern lights in Fairbanks, one of the best places to see them in Alaska (and in the world). Holland America offers a four-hour aurora borealis viewing tour outside the city in a yurt; it operates between the last week of August and mid-September.

If you'd like more options, there's no shortage of tour operators in town that can take you on a northern lights adventure in Fairbanks. You can even fly into town early to stay in the wilderness in an igloo with clear views of the night sky at Borealis Basecamp, located less than 30 miles from Fairbanks. Be sure to notify your hotel that you'd like a wake-up call or a knock on the door if the northern lights are on display.

You'll have more opportunities to see the aurora when you head to Denali National Park & Preserve for a stay at Holland America 's exclusive 60-acre McKinley Chalet Resort, located near the entrance to the park. After a full day exploring the park by ATV or a bucket list flightseeing adventure over Denali, you'll have another chance to see the colorful light display in Alaska's wilderness after midnight. The rest of the cruisetour itinerary includes scenic cruising days, with one spent in beautiful Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve. You'll also call on Juneau , Skagway and Ketchikan before disembarking in Vancouver .

14-Day Denali: Tour D3c

This 14-day adventure includes scenic cruising of the Inside Passage, Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve and College Fjord, with stops in the ports of Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Whittier and Seward. You'll then have nearly a week on land in Anchorage, Denali National Park & Preserve and Fairbanks to go aurora hunting. If you spend an extra night or two in Fairbanks at the end of the trip, you'll be in town for the autumnal equinox, maximizing your northern lights viewing opportunities.

With the extra time in town, plan to book the Arctic Circle Air Adventure with Northern Alaska Tour Company. This unforgettable journey takes you on a flight over the Yukon River and Brooks Range, just east of the Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve. You'll then land 60 miles north of the Arctic Circle in the community of Coldfoot and receive an Arctic Circle Adventure Certificate before your return flight to Fairbanks.

7-Day Glacier Discovery Northbound

If you're interested in a cruise-only option and would prefer to arrange the land portion independently, consider this seven-day voyage on Nieuw Amsterdam. The itinerary includes three scenic cruising days, with one day in Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, and calls on the ports of Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway before disembarking in Whittier, which sits roughly 60 miles south of Anchorage.

From Whittier, there are many options to transfer to Anchorage (by rail or by road), including the iconic Glacier Discovery Train. Plan to stay a few evenings in Anchorage with a multiday guided aurora tour, or reserve a spot on an evening outing in search of the northern lights.

Read: The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

11-Day Denali Explorer – Tour DA4

This 11-day cruisetour begins with a seven-night voyage embarking from Vancouver on Royal Princess or Sapphire Princess . The itinerary includes three sea days, two of which are dedicated to scenic cruising through Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve and College Fjord. You'll make stops in the coastal towns of Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway and Anchorage (Whittier) before disembarking to depart for the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge via the line's direct-to-the-wilderness rail service.

Spending three nights at the lodge – located just outside the entrance to the park – in mid-September will offer excellent opportunities for aurora viewing. Keep your fingers crossed for high solar activity and clear, dark skies. Throughout your trip, learn photography tips to capture the mesmerizing display through Princess' North to Alaska Program. After your stay in Denali, you'll take a motor coach to Anchorage and stay overnight in a hotel there to finish up your voyage.

10-Day On Your Own – Tour BBX

The 10-Day On Your Own cruisetour with Princess Cruises begins with three nights on land, including overnights in Fairbanks, the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge and the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge. While at the Mt. McKinley resort, be sure to check out the lodge's treehouse. Designed by Pete Nelson of Animal Planet's "Treehouse Masters," this vantage point offers impressive views of Denali – the highest peak in North America at 20,310 feet above sea level.

Before heading off to bed, get an update on aurora activity from the tracker on your smartphone, especially if you have clear skies that night; the app My Aurora Forecast & Alerts has excellent reviews. Request a wake-up call to have the Princess lodge staff call your room if the dazzling bands of light begin to dance in the sky. The next day, after traveling to Whittier by motor coach, you'll embark on your cruise to Vancouver aboard Royal Princess or Sapphire Princess.

The voyage from Whittier includes three sea days for relaxing activities on board the ship, with two days of scenic cruising around Hubbard Glacier and in Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve. During your time in Glacier Bay, park rangers will board the ship to offer commentary about this captivating wilderness area's pristine glaciers and abundant wildlife. Younger cruisers and teens will also appreciate learning about this spectacular place through the Junior Ranger program, which features interactive games, activities and presentations. (All cruise ships visiting the park participate in this program with the National Park Service.) Ports of call for the rest of the journey include Icy Strait Point or Skagway (depending on the cruise), then Juneau and Ketchikan. The voyage ends in Vancouver.

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Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

The Great National Parks Expedition Cruisetour

Celebrity's pre-cruise national parks adventure takes guests on a wildlife viewing quest to destinations in the north and the Interior where you can watch for the aurora. The 12-night trip begins in Fairbanks with a free day to explore.

Consider a trip to the University of Alaska Museum of the North, which features exhibits on Arctic dinosaurs, diverse wildlife, Alaska Native cultures and 2,000 years of Alaska art. You could also visit the impressive collection of antique cars and clothing at the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum, or take a walk with the reindeer into the woods at Running Reindeer Ranch. The second day in town includes a Riverboat Discovery ride and a tour of the city, as part of the cruisetour.

On the third day, you'll board the Wilderness Express (a glass-domed railcar) for the ride to Denali. Then, you'll embark on the Tundra Wilderness Tour in search of the park's grizzly bears, moose, Dall sheep and other wildlife. Be sure to put your name on the list before bedtime to get a wake-up call for aurora activity. You'll also have one evening in Anchorage, where you can arrange for a northern lights tour, and one night in Seward before setting sail on Celebrity Summit the next morning. Highlights of the voyage include cruising Hubbard Glacier and the Inside Passage as well as stopping in Juneau, Icy Strait Point and Ketchikan. You'll disembark in Vancouver.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

13-Day Denali Explorer – Pre-Cruise Cruisetour

Norwegian Cruise Line's six-day pre-cruise adventure begins with overnights in Fairbanks, Denali and Anchorage, where you'll have the best chances to view the northern lights. Other highlights for the first part of the trip include a deluxe dome car rail journey from Talkeetna to Anchorage on the Alaska Railroad and a private tour to an Iditarod sled dog musher's kennel. You'll also have plenty of time in Denali National Park to book a flightseeing tour, go whitewater rafting, or take a hike with a park ranger to look for bears, moose, Dall sheep, wolves and other local wildlife before starting your cruise in Seattle .

Norwegian Encore will call on Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay and Ketchikan (Ward Cove) in Alaska. The Mill at Ward Cove near Ketchikan is a newly built cruise ship port that serves as a jumping-off point for outdoor activities in the Tongass National Forest, from hiking and biking to kayaking and sea cycling. You can even pick up souvenirs, grab a bite to eat and sample a cold Alaska brew at the mill. The cruise itinerary also includes one day at sea and a stop in Victoria, British Columbia, before you disembark in Seattle.

7-Night Alaska: Dawes Glacier, Juneau & Ketchikan

Consider this seven-day cruise on Norwegian Bliss if you prefer to travel early in the spring and take your chances at catching the northern lights toward the end of aurora season, which falls around April 21. This round-trip itinerary from Seattle is one of the earliest sailings of the year to visit the Great Land and features two sea days, with one day of scenic cruising in Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier. You'll also visit Sitka, Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan (Ward Cove) and Victoria before disembarking in Seattle.

Juneau will offer one of the best opportunities during the cruise for seeing the northern lights, although chances are dependent on the weather and solar activity. There are several apps and websites with real-time updates for aurora tracking, including My Aurora Forecast & Alerts. If the skies are clear in the evening and the forecast looks promising, ask guest relations if there's a sign-up sheet to get a call or a knock on the door in the event of aurora activity.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

12 Night Mountain Panorama Adventure Cruisetour 5B (Pre Tour)

This 12-night cruisetour with Royal Caribbean International begins with an overnight in Anchorage before boarding the Wilderness Express, where you'll have a glass-domed rail car for the journey to Talkeetna. The quirky community of Talkeetna is said to be the inspiration for the fictional Alaska town of Cicely in the 1990s show "Northern Exposure." It's also an excellent base for chasing the aurora – especially at the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge, where you'll be staying.

After an overnight at the lodge, your tour moves on to Denali, where you can search for wildlife by day and look for the aurora at night. Another evening on land at Hotel Alyeska in the remote town of Girdwood affords more opportunities to chase the finnicky lights before heading to Seward to board your ship, Radiance of the Seas .

Ports of call on this voyage include Juneau, Skagway, Icy Strait Point and Ketchikan. There are also two days of scenic cruising through Hubbard Glacier and the Inside Passage before disembarking in Vancouver. While there are plenty of activities, dining venues, bars and lounges on board to keep you entertained all night long, be sure to save up enough energy to wake up in the middle of the night should you get a call to see the magical natural wonder that is the northern lights.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is a U.S. News & World Report contributor and an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times both by land and sea to view wildlife and chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. She's even considered moving to The Great Land as a full-time resident. Pratesi used her deep knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• Alaska Cruise Packing List: Must-Have Items
• How Much Does an Alaska Cruise Cost?
• The Best Luxury Alaska Cruises
• The Best Alaska Cruises for Families
• The Best Alaska Shore Excursions

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Alaska Vacations

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Caribbean vs. Alaska cruises: Which itinerary will I like more?

The appeals of Caribbean cruises and Alaska cruises are night and day. One offers relaxation and fun in the sun — with plenty of time splashing in the surf, snorkeling and feeling the sand squish between your toes. The other provides a glacier-filled, animal-packed adventure in what can be a chilly, if green, environment.

So which cruise is best for your next vacation? Read on for our evaluation on how these two very different routes compare.

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Caribbean vs. Alaska embarkation ports

You can sail to the Caribbean from several different ports in Florida – including Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Port Canaveral (Orlando's port) — as well as eastern seaboard home ports and southern ports such as Galveston, Texas; Mobile, Alabama; and New Orleans. Whether that requires a flight before your cruise or a long drive, depends on where you live.

Alaska cruises embark in Seattle; Vancouver, B.C.; and Anchorage, Alaska (via the ports of Seward or Whittier), so most Americans outside those in the Pacific Northwest need to book a flight.

Caribbean vs. Alaska itineraries

There are really five Caribbean cruise routes – Eastern, Western and Southern, as well as the adjacent Bahamas and Bermuda routes – calling on more than three dozen regional cruise ports. Whether they're on large ships that sail to big, crowded ports (such as St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Cancun and Cozumel in Mexico, San Juan in Puerto Rico, and Nassau in the Bahamas) or small ports headed to sleepier isles (such as Mayreau and Bequia in the Grenadines or Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke in the British Virgin Islands), Caribbean cruises are all about the beaches.

Related: The best Caribbean cruises for every type of traveler

Most Alaska cruises sail the Inside Passage, roundtrip from Seattle or Vancouver, to rustic northern ports including Juneau, Sitka, Ketchikan, Victoria and Skagway. Each port has its own personality: Ketchikan, for example, is home to Native American totem poles as well as bald eagles. Skagway is steeped in Gold Rush history. Juneau – the state capital – is a great port for wildlife. (The trash cans that line the streets there are specially designed to keep the bears from diving in for a snack.) That said, it's best known for being a city that you can't reach from the roads.

The other, less common option is a Gulf of Alaska cruise from Seattle or Vancouver one way to Anchorage (via the ports of Seward or Whittier). These cruises add in Hubbard Glacier or College Fjord, as well as possibly Valdez.

The majority of Alaska cruises also sail through Glacier Bay National Park or Misty Fjords National Monument for a peek at the glaciers calving, the whales breaching and adorable sea otters swimming the back stroke. The largest lines in these parts — Princess Cruises , Holland America , Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises — will also give you the option of extending your trip on a train ride into Denali National Park or all the way to Fairbanks.

Related: The ultimate guide to Royal Caribbean

It's also important to note that while you can cruise the Caribbean year-round, Alaska cruises tend to begin in late spring and end in early fall.

Caribbean vs. Alaska beaches and water sports

If your fantasy is stretching out in the sun and splashing in the surf, you'll want to pick a Caribbean itinerary. If you're fantasizing about sunshine, frozen drinks with tiny umbrellas and lounge chairs sinking into the sand right next to the frothy waves, then this is the itinerary for you. The cruise line private islands are especially low-effort places to try a new water sport, but across the region you'll find that water sports include everything from snorkeling and diving to parasailing and dolphin encounters. Some ships even carry with them their own water sports platforms they can open up when in calm waters.

In Alaska, the water is chilled and surrounded by calving glaciers, but there are still water sports to choose from. We've done everything from kayaking – with salmon leaping right over the kayak – to whale watching and even king and coho salmon fishing (with the catch shipped home on ice to be enjoyed for months to come).

Caribbean vs. Alaska shore excursions

Our best days in the Caribbean have always been on beaches, and some of the most unforgettable shore excursions have been boat rides to smaller islands with sleepy beaches the group has had all to themselves. That said, you can also sign up to swim in cenotes or explore caves, hike to waterfalls, zipline through rainforests and see what remains of ancient Mayan cities. In some islands, such as Jamaica , you can make a point of seeking out the local music — such as reggae — and the unforgettable cuisine. (If you've never had proper jerk chicken or beef patties, you'll be blown away by the real thing.)

Related: The ultimate Alaska cruise guide

If what you want is adventure, you'll find it on an Alaska cruise. There's also heli-hiking, ATV tours, glacier tours, float planes, husky dog sledding and mountain-top barbecues where salmon are thrown on the grills – and fingers are crossed that bears don't get to dinner before the chefs do. You may also be able to sign up to see the northern lights .

Caribbean vs. Alaska shopping

For our money, there's no better souvenir in the Caribbean – as well as Bermuda and the Bahamas – than a couple of bottles from a rum distillery as well as the other accompaniments needed to make your favorite regional drinks when you get back home. If you fall in love with the Dark 'N Stormy, you'll want to bring back Goslings; Rum Swizzles call for both grenadine and falernum. You can also shop for hammocks in Mexico, hot pepper sauce from across the islands, straw hats and bags and locally grown spices and spice mixes.

Alaska is a great place to shop for native Alaskan handicrafts and art as well as ulu knives, plus smoked salmon and sweets made with wild berries. While you probably won't bring these libations home, the microbreweries in Alaska are also worth seeking out at lunchtime in port.

Bottom line

Comparing these two vacations is very much apples and oranges. With sandy beaches, fish-filled reefs and lush rainforests studded with waterfalls, the Caribbean itineraries offer a taste of sunshine all year-'round. And Alaska, with its glaciers, fjords, whales and snow-capped mountains filled with brown beers and totem poles, is very much a rugged, outdoorsy vacation that calls for hiking boots and a rain jacket – as well as a sense of adventure. When it comes to a lifetime, we recommend eventually cruising in both regions.

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Where can I cruise without a passport?

At TPG, we always recommend cruising with a passport, but there are many reasons why you might want to set sail without one.

What if an opportunity pops up on short notice, and you don't have a passport yet? Or what if you forgot to renew yours when it expired? What if it's only a three-night cruise to the Bahamas, and the passport application fee is almost as much as the cruise fare? Or, maybe you have children nearing age 16 and can't justify paying for passports that will only be good for five years.

First of all, do you even need a passport to cruise ? The answer is often but not always. You have options to cruise without a passport because not every sailing requires them. Thanks to an international agreement called the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative , U.S. citizens can cruise on certain itineraries within North American countries using government-issued identification (like a valid driver's license) and proof of citizenship (like a government-issued birth certificate).

The cruises that you don't need a passport for are closed-loop sailings, which depart from and return to the same port within the U.S. One-way sailings from one U.S. port to another or from a U.S. port to a foreign one would require a passport.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Before we go further, let's clarify that when we talk about cruising without a passport, we're referring to pricey passport books that some travelers do not wish to purchase. Passport cards can also be used for identification when cruising in all the places we are about to discuss; these cards are a low-cost alternative to traveling with your driver's license and birth certificate.

Let's look at the options for where you can cruise without a passport.

Cruising to Alaska is one of the easiest ways to experience all the state offers. You'll have opportunities to see glaciers and wildlife; stroll the streets of charming coastal towns; eat your fill of local crab legs and salmon; and enjoy nature on a kayak, zip line or hike.

If you're interested in cruising to Alaska without a passport, look for itineraries that begin (and end) in Seattle , San Francisco or southern California ports, such as Los Angeles or Long Beach, California. The most common length for these closed-loop Alaska cruises operated by the major cruise lines is seven nights. Cruises early or late in the season might be only four or five nights, and trips departing from LA are usually 14 nights.

What if you really want to cruise one-way from Canada to Alaska (or vice versa)? Although Canada prefers U.S. citizens who arrive by sea or land to have a passport book, it is not required as long as they have proper identification and proof of citizenship. The U.S., however, requires one of the following WHTI-approved forms of identification for entries by land or sea: passport card, enhanced driver's license, I-872 American Indian card or trusted traveler program IDs like Nexus, Sentri and Fast.

Technically, if you have one of those forms of ID but not a passport book, you can take a one-way Alaska cruise — as long as you don't have to fly to or from Canada.

More complications arise for non-passport holders who book shore excursions that involve crossing from Alaska to Canada. White Pass and Yukon Route train rides are good examples. White Pass and Yukon Route allows cruise passengers to go on the three-hour train excursion without a passport but doesn't allow them to take any longer routes. That's their policy, not a legal requirement.

This means that Alaska cruises are one instance when the passport card would be a handy alternative to traveling with both an ID card and a birth certificate. It opens up one-way itineraries.

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler

A cruise to the Caribbean transports you to tropical islands bathed in turquoise waters. Whether you seek warm beaches, cool drinks, water sports or cultural education, you can find a Caribbean cruise to fit the bill.

It's easy to cruise without a passport in the Caribbean: Just book one of the many closed-loop, round-trip sailings departing from a U.S. port. Most major cruise lines offer sailings that range between three and 15 nights from ports like Galveston, Texas; New Orleans; multiple ports in Florida (including Miami and Fort Lauderdale); Charleston, South Carolina; Baltimore; Bayonne, New Jersey; and New York City.

Most Caribbean islands participate in the WHTI, but it's always best to check the details specific to the ports of call included in your itinerary. Don't forget that islands such as Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix are U.S. territories, so visits never require passports for U.S. citizens.

Related: The best Caribbean cruises for every type of traveler

Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory, lying 643 miles off the coast of North Carolina. Hop on a cruise ship for a direct route to the island's famous beaches and golf courses. Spring and summer are the prime seasons to visit, but cruises are possible throughout the year.

Cruising without a passport to Bermuda is also easy. Apart from a few isolated cruises stopping in Bermuda as they come or go from other destinations, there are no one-way Bermuda cruises to confuse the situation. If you plan to sail without a passport, be wary of any Bermuda cruise longer than 10 nights. Those are likely to be point-to-point cruises that happen to include Bermuda.

Passport-free cruises to Bermuda include ample five- to 10-night sailings from the East Coast ports of Baltimore, Bayonne, Boston and Manhattan. Occasional itineraries also pop up throughout the Bermuda season departing from Norfolk, Virginia; Charleston; and the Florida ports of Miami, Port Canaveral (near Orlando) and Jacksonville.

Related: Does it make sense to take a short cruise to Bermuda?

Long known for delightful strands of beach and access to every imaginable form of water fun under the subtropical sun, the Bahamas are the ideal destination for easy and quick cruise vacations.

Skip the passport on three- to five-night Bahamas cruises sailing round-trip on most major cruise lines from the eastern Florida ports of Jacksonville, Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades and Miami.

A few longer, seven- to 15-night itineraries stop in the Bahamas on their way into the Caribbean. Departures from Bayonne, Manhattan, Baltimore and Charleston will often get you weeklong Bahamas itineraries, as will sailings from Tampa, Galveston and New Orleans.

Related: Best Bahamas cruise tips for first-timers and repeat visitors alike

Our southern neighbor boasts two coastlines of cruise fun. Like most tropical cruise destinations, the top draws are the beaches and the ocean; however, cruise ports in Mexico also give you access to ancient Mayan ruins, delicious cuisine and an abundance of land activities.

Mexico's Caribbean and Pacific coasts are both accessible to cruisers who do not hold passports. If you want to visit Mexico's eastern shores, you can find three- to 15-night cruises to Costa Maya, Cozumel and Progreso. Sailings depart Florida from Miami, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale and Port Canaveral; you can also find itineraries from New Orleans, Galveston and Mobile, Alabama.

Western Mexico, often referred to as the Mexican Riviera, includes the ports of Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Ensenada, among others. Cruises with several major lines depart San Diego, San Pedro port in LA and Long Beach for voyages lasting anywhere from three to 10 nights.

Related: The best Mexico cruises for every type of traveler

From water sports to American history and Hawaiian culture, there's a lot to experience on a Hawaii cruise . The best part might be the ability to hop from island to island, sampling the flavors of each as you go.

Closed-loop Hawaii cruises that don't require passports come in two varieties. The short option is to fly to Honolulu and take a seven- or 10-night cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line 's Pride of America. This is the only large cruise ship allowed to operate entirely within the Hawaiian Islands without visiting a foreign port.

Small-ship cruise operator UnCruise Adventures also offers seven-night, inter-island Hawaiian sailings. The American-flagged ships only cruise to and from U.S. ports, so no passport is needed, as would be the case on any domestic trip.

The long-cruise options consist of 14- to 18-night round-trip sailings from San Diego, LA (Long Beach and San Pedro) and San Francisco. You won't need a passport for these closed-loop sailings, but you do need to be prepared for multiple days at sea as you cross the Pacific from California to Hawaii.

Beware of 20-plus-night cruises that are round-trip sailings from the West Coast and would seem to fit the bill for closed-loop cruises that don't require passports. Most of these cruises don't work because they also include stops in French Polynesia, which is outside of the WHTI agreement. Passports are required for the islands in the South Pacific, which means they're required for the entire cruise.

Related: The best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler

Canada and New England

Cruises up North America's East Coast allow you to take in historical sights of early Americana, stand atop rugged cliffs on the coast of Nova Scotia or revel in the French culture of Quebec.

Mainstream cruise lines operate numerous cruises along the U.S. and Canadian coasts that don't require passports. These depart from the ports of Bayonne, Baltimore, Boston, Manhattan, Brooklyn and occasionally Norfolk. The majority of these New England and Canada cruises are weeklong fall sailings; however, a handful depart at other times of the year or are a touch longer, ranging from eight to 10 nights.

Related: The best cruises to Canada and New England

Some cruise lines also offer one-way cruises in both directions between Canada and New England. These itineraries, like Alaska cruises, might be possible without a passport book. This is the case as long as your plans don't include flying into or out of Canada and your cruise line allows you to cruise with either a passport card or other acceptable form of identification and proof of citizenship.

We checked with a few lines for you. Princess, Holland America and Celebrity all strongly recommend passport books, but they allow one of the WHTI forms of identification. Again, the passport card opens up one-way possibilities, assuming you aren't flying and your cruise only includes Canada and the U.S.

Bottom line

While cruising with a passport is always recommended, it's not required by law in certain circumstances. Closed-loop cruises from U.S. ports that visit Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean and Mexico are part of an international agreement that allows U.S. citizens to cruise without a passport. In these cases, government-issued identification and proof of U.S. citizenship are acceptable alternatives to a passport book.

Passport cards are an affordable and unquestionable alternative to carrying an ID and birth certificate. If you want to go this route, know they are not valid for travel by air into or out of any foreign country, including Canada, Mexico, Bermuda or Caribbean countries — which is the primary reason most travel advisers urge cruisers to have a passport book.

As we've shown, you have plenty of options for where to cruise without a passport, and many travelers do so without incident. However, anything from engine trouble on your cruise ship to bad weather or an accident in port might necessitate a flight home from a foreign country. This would put you in an awkward position if you didn't have a passport.

Plus, as much fun as simple round-trip cruises are, passports open up additional vacation possibilities in the form of longer, point-to-point and overseas trips. Don't dismiss registering for a passport, even as you consider where you can cruise without one.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.