In August 2026, I had the honor of being a signature cruise host for Seabourn. If there is one thing I learned very quickly, it’s that Alaska is every bit as spectacular as you imagine — but experiencing it on a small luxury ship takes the entire adventure to another level.
Our journey actually began two nights before the cruise in Juneau, which turned out to be the perfect way to ease into Alaska before boarding our ship.
We arrived in Juneau quite late, and thankfully, getting into town was incredibly easy. We simply grabbed an Uber and headed to our hotel for the next two nights. We stayed at the Best Western Signature Collection Baranof Downtown, a hotel that I would describe as having a very strong sense of history — and perhaps an even stronger connection to the 1980s.
Let's just say the décor definitely made me feel like I had stepped into a time capsule. But here is the thing: location, location, location! The Baranof is right in the heart of downtown Juneau, and that made it incredibly convenient. Many of the cruise lines, including luxury cruise lines, use the hotel for their pre-cruise passengers, and there are shuttles available to take guests to the cruise terminal.
And technically, the cruise port is only about a ten-minute walk away. Technically.
For a normal person with a normal amount of luggage, I am sure it would have been a lovely little stroll downhill. For me — a chronic overpacker — that was absolutely not happening. So, naturally, I ordered another Uber.
Before leaving for Alaska, I made what I now consider to be one of my biggest travel mistakes. I listened to TikTok influencers. Apparently, I was supposed to pack for the Arctic. I packed as though I was preparing to spend August on the North Pole. Winter clothing. Layers. Heavy jackets. All the things.
And then we arrived. It was short-sleeve weather. Most days were absolutely beautiful, with comfortable temperatures and only a little rain sprinkled in during our stay. In fact, August in Alaska was much more pleasant than I expected.
So, a note to anyone planning an Alaska cruise: check the actual forecast before you fill your suitcase with winter clothing. Unless, of course, you are like me and enjoy paying extra baggage fees for clothes that never leave the suitcase.
One of the things I immediately loved about Juneau was how much personality the town has. There are so many little restaurants, bars and local spots tucked throughout downtown, and we decided that our first evening called for a little bar hopping and eating our way through town.
Right near our hotel was a fun little area with outdoor food trucks, and I discovered something I absolutely did not expect to become one of my favorite foods of the trip: Alaskan fish tacos.
I have eaten fish tacos all over the place, but I have to say, the Alaskan version may have been the best I've ever had. Fresh fish, beautiful surroundings and that casual Alaska atmosphere made the whole experience feel like the perfect introduction to the trip.
The following day, we headed out for a historic gold-panning and salmon-bake experience, and I have to admit, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. Sometimes tourist attractions that promise a historic experience can feel, well… touristy. I was fully prepared for a little bit of cheesy Alaska. Instead, I was completely charmed.
The salmon bake was set in a beautiful forested area alongside a little stream, and the setting was absolutely magical. They were grilling salmon to order, and there was an outdoor wine and beer stand where you could grab a drink and enjoy the surroundings. There was live music playing, a waterfall nearby, and the whole place had this wonderfully relaxed, old-school Alaska feeling.
It was one of those experiences that sounds somewhat corny when you describe it — "We went to a salmon bake in the woods!" — but once you're actually there, you understand why it works. It was beautiful.
And the salmon? Fantastic.
One of my favorite moments of the entire excursion happened when it was time to return to town. We climbed aboard an actual old-school yellow school bus.
Yes. A school bus.
This wasn't some fancy luxury transfer. We were riding back into town like a group of kids heading home after field day. And, naturally, I had to take a picture of the sign inside the bus because it was absolutely terrifying. Let's just say the rules posted inside were not exactly giving me the warm and fuzzy feeling of a luxury vacation.
But honestly? That's what made it fun.
There was something wonderfully authentic about the whole experience. It wasn't polished within an inch of its life. It felt like a little piece of old Alaska — and I loved it.
After two nights in Juneau, it was finally time for the part of the trip I had really been waiting for.
Seabourn Encore. And boarding a small luxury ship after experiencing the chaos of larger cruise terminals is a completely different experience. For anyone who hasn't sailed on a small ship before, the difference is almost comical. On a big cruise ship, you can spend what feels like hours navigating terminals, security lines, luggage drops and endless corridors before you finally make it aboard.
On Seabourn? You basically walk up a gangway and you're there.
That's it. You walk up the plank and — bam — you're on the ship. The entire boarding process took just a few minutes.
And then came one of my favorite parts! We were immediately handed a glass of champagne. Our rooms were ready.
Our vacation had officially begun.
And honestly, if someone wants to greet me with champagne and tell me my room is ready, I am pretty much willing to follow them anywhere. That is a very good way to begin an all-inclusive luxury cruise.
The Seabourn Encore is a five-star luxury small ship, and from the moment we stepped aboard, the atmosphere was completely different from the traditional cruise experience.
It felt intimate, elegant and personal. There were far fewer passengers than you would find on one of the enormous cruise ships, and that immediately changed the pace of everything.
No massive crowds.
No feeling like you were standing in line with thousands of other people.
No spending half your day trying to figure out where you were supposed to go.
Instead, there was champagne, attentive service, and the feeling that the vacation had already begun before we had even unpacked. And for someone who had just spent two days dragging around an absurd amount of luggage in Juneau, I was more than ready to hand those bags over and let someone else take care of them.
Alaska had already exceeded my expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cruising Alaska
What is the best month to cruise Alaska?
The best month to visit Alaska really depends on what you want to see and do. But if you are cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage, the main cruise season runs from May through September. June through August generally offer the longest daylight hours, warmer temperatures, the widest selection of excursions, and excellent wildlife-viewing opportunities. May and September can be wonderful for travelers who prefer shoulder-season travel.
What should I pack for an Alaska cruise?
Layers are the key! Bring lightweight base layers, a sweater or fleece, a waterproof outer layer, and comfortable walking shoes. (We say dress like an onion and peel the layers away) Temperatures can change considerably during the day, especially when you’re near glaciers or out on the water. And don’t forget to check the forecast before packing your entire winter wardrobe—Alaska’s summer temperatures can be surprisingly comfortable.
Will I see whales and wildlife on an Alaska cruise?
Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but Alaska’s coastal waters are home to humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, seals, sea lions, and porpoises. You may also spot bears, mountain goats, bald eagles, and other wildlife along the shoreline. Binoculars are definitely worth packing!
What is the difference between a small-ship and large-ship Alaska cruise?
Small ships can access coves, fjords, and wilderness areas that larger vessels may not be able to reach. Depending on the cruise line, they may also offer kayaking, Zodiac excursions, naturalist-led exploration, and more flexibility around wildlife and weather. Large ships generally offer more onboard entertainment, restaurants, activities, and resort-style amenities.
Is a small-ship Alaska cruise only for adventurous travelers?
Not at all. If you ever meet Leatta, the author of this blog, you’ll quickly discover that while she is certainly an intrepid traveler, even she would tell you she’s not exactly an adventure traveler! Alaska’s small ships range from expedition vessels focused on hiking, kayaking, and active exploration to luxury ships offering fine dining, upscale accommodations, and highly personalized service. The key is choosing the right ship and experience for your travel style—which can be just as important as choosing the itinerary.
Do I need a balcony cabin for an Alaska cruise?
A balcony cabin is highly recommended for an Alaska cruise. The magnificent scenery is a major part of the experience, and there is nothing quite like sitting on your own balcony with a hot cup of coffee or hot chocolate—or a glass of champagne—while glaciers, mountains, waterfalls, and Alaska’s spectacular coastline pass by. For Alaska, your balcony can become one of your favorite places on the ship.
Should I add extra days before or after my Alaska cruise?
Absolutely. A pre- or post-cruise stay allows you to experience more of Alaska rather than simply flying in and boarding your ship. Depending on your itinerary, you can combine your cruise with a land experience, scenic rail journey, Denali National Park, or other parts of Alaska’s interior.
Is Alaska a good destination if I’ve already cruised there before?
Absolutely! Alaska can feel completely different depending on your ship size, itinerary, season, and excursions. A traveler who previously experienced Alaska aboard a large ship may find that a small luxury or expedition ship provides an entirely different perspective. Alaska is definitely a destination worth experiencing more than once. But cruising is not the only way to see Alaska; there are all-inclusive lodges, guided vacations, and fishing trips. Share your favorite travel style, and we will help you plan the perfect Alaska vacation
Can you see the Northern Lights on an Alaska cruise?
Possibly, particularly later in the cruise season when the nights become darker, but the Northern Lights shouldn’t be the primary reason for choosing a summer Alaska cruise. Alaska’s prime aurora-viewing season generally begins in late August and continues through the winter and early spring.
How far in advance should I book an Alaska cruise?
Earlier is generally better if you want a particular ship, itinerary, cabin category, or sought-after excursion. This is especially important for small ships under 500 passengers, where there are far fewer cabins available. Planning also gives you more choices for balcony cabins and pre- and post-cruise arrangements. Remember the ship may carry 500 or 3000 passengers, but each rail car only carries 50.
