Alaska is among the most popular summer vacation destinations since its (pretty much) the only time of year the state offers warm, sunny weather and hours of extra daylight (on my summer 2022 trip here, I remember looking at my iPhone and being surprised that the sun still hadnt set by 9pm!). In my opinion, cruising is, by far, the best way to experience the massive state and all the beauty it has to offer since you wont need to drive or hop on a handful of flights; plus, youll only need to unpack once! (The views, of course, are just the icing on the proverbial cake.)

　　As you scroll through our top picks for the best Alaska cruises, its worth noting that most options include scenic cruising through Alaskas Inside Passage, a 500-mile-long coastal route world-renowned for its wildlife, glaciers and postcard-worthy scenery. (Ill never forget the awe I felt when watching a whale breach from the 11th deck of my cruise ship or the glacier-studded views I ogled from the comfort of my private balcony.)

　　Below, Ive broken down the best Alaska cruises for every type of traveler, including budget-conscious cruisers, adventure-seekers and luxury lovers alike.

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