non cruise passenger ships

The Best Cruises for Non-Cruisers

“I am not a cruiser.” That's the phrase that Captain Dan Blanchard, CEO of UnCruise Adventures , says he hears often from passengers onboard his company’s nine small ships.

That works, because Blanchard doesn't see UnCruise as a traditional cruise line , either. Instead, he sees his 22- to 90-passenger ships more as providing a soft adventure experience that happens to be on water. In that floating vacation market, UnCruise is not alone. A bevy of cruise companies—some you may never have heard of—cater to a subset of seagoing travelers who don't love the idea of big cruise ships with casinos, show productions, and crowds. Yet they still want to travel to places most accessible by water.

Some are sailors who want to watch the sheets flapping in the wind, some are excited about beyond-the-norm experiences such as traveling on ships that also carry cargo. Others are looking for intimate cultural experiences or itineraries where you pretty much stay in the wilderness . These “non-cruisers” tend to put destination first, well ahead of modes of transportation. They aren’t looking for anything too fussy in terms of shipboard accoutrements—but they are willing to shell out for an extraordinary experience that happens to involve getting on a ship.

For those who want adventure—with a side of luxury

Luxury expedition ships are part of a growing trend that appeal to an adventurous set who also want the finer things in life, like suites with butler service. Lindblad Expeditions is something else entirely. “It’s not a cruise; we want to curate something,” says Sven Lindblad, CEO and founder of the line, which in partnership with National Geographic operates more than a dozen small ships in destinations including Antarctica and the Arctic, Galapagos , and the Mediterranean. “The ship is secondary, a place to shower, breathe, hang out," says Lindblad. "It is comfortable and the service is great. But the main show is outside of the ship.”

“You are closer to areas you want to see, whether it’s a wildlife area, natural history, or a cultural area,” says Lindblad fan Judy Pool of Denver. Her favorite itineraries include seeing the penguins and other animals in the Antarctic and South Georgia, and the culture and natural history in the British Isles. Then there was the time in Indonesia when the captain got word that a volcano was erupting. “We went off course and watched the volcano and the lava coming down into the ocean for at least two hours, and this was at 11 p.m. at night,” Pool says. “That kind of flexibility appeals to me.”

Small adventure ships tend to have a convivial atmosphere, partly because there are few public spaces to mingle in beyond an open-seating dining room, the outdoor deck, and a lounge where everyone gathers for cocktails. Passengers bond over shared experiences (excursions often are included in the cruise fare). Cabins are comfortable but may be sparse, the atmosphere casual . “You might bring a nice pair of pants or blouse or something, but other than that it’s khakis and shorts and hiking boots or tennis shoes, and layers, depending on where you are,” Pool says. “Most people carry cameras and binoculars. It’s part of the uniform.”

Blanchard of UnCruise says about 60 percent of his guests are the same folks who backpacked in Europe and are looking for that kind of experience at sea. “The rest tell us they just can’t handle the numbers on the big ships, and what is now being called ‘overtourism’ in the places where the big ships go,” he says.

The majority of UnCruise’s itineraries, in places such as Alaska , Latin America, the Sea of Cortez, and Hawaii, don’t visit big ports. After embarking you stay mostly in the wild, doing things like hiking and kayaking. “Our clients are well-heeled, have an adventuresome mindset, and want to stop in the forest and suck it in," says Blanchard. "Sit in a kayak and hear the distant whale blows. If you do stop, it is in very small villages and for cultural sights.”

Sailing ships such as the Sea Cloud allow passengers to feel closer to the water.

For those who want a truly nautical experience

Fans of sailing also tend to consider themselves non-cruisers, attracted to ships where they can feel at one with the sea. On the real sailing ships of lines such as Star Clippers and German-owned Sea Cloud , passengers help pull the lines and dive right off the ship to cool off in the sea, in between visiting small ports popular with the yachting set.

On the three Star Clippers ships, sailing in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, or Southeast Asia , you can put on a harness and climb a small mast or choose to lounge in the bowsprit netting. The original 64-passenger Sea Cloud, built in the early 1930s by cereal heiress Marjorie Merriweather Post, adds a touch of history. That ship is chartered part of the year by Lindblad in the Mediterranean and also sails in the Caribbean. There’s also a 94-passenger Sea Cloud II, and a third sailing ship debuts next year.

For those who want to visit the most remote locations

Sue Golding, a professor emeritus at the University of Queensland in Australia, took a big ship once while returning home from South Africa. It wasn’t her favorite trip. “I am not sure we actually detest large ships, but have no desire to travel on one unless absolutely necessary,” she says. Drawn by destination, she’s recently been sailing with casual Australian line Coral Expeditions to places such as remote West Papua, Indonesia —where an itinerary highlight was being greeted by bare-chested, grass-skirted “warriors” in dugout canoes.

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Among Golding’s favorite ship experiences were cruises along the coast of Norway with Hurtigruten . The Norwegian company’s 11 coastal ships (they also operate five expedition ships) carry international travelers as well as locals (using the ships as public transport), in addition to cars, freight, and mail. Year-round they visit 34 ports, from Bergen to Kirkenes in the far north. On six- or 12-day itineraries you stay in accommodations that may or may not have double beds, and leave the ship for excursions (for a fee) to see such sights as the sheer rock cliff-lined Geirangerfjord and the North Cape, far above the Arctic Circle. Since your ship may only be in port a few hours, you may re-board at a different place on the itinerary.

The tropical equivalent to Hurtigruten is the Aranui 5, part cargo ship, part passenger vessel, which does a regular two-week circuit between Papeete, Tahiti, and the Marquesas —serving as a lifeline to the small, remote islands. The French-flagged ship has accommodations ranging from cabins with private balconies to small dormitories for the budget-conscious. The 254 passengers hear lectures about Polynesian culture and learn to make leis when not hanging out at the pool, dining on French-influenced and Polynesian cuisine, or explore on shore (excursions included). At the 19 stops, the muscular crew uses cranes and brawn to download the cargo. Half the village might come out to collect kitchen appliances, food, bikes, even coffins. It’s as much a real-life experience as cruise vacation.

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Passengers on a round-the-world cruise now stuck at port have to get off every evening and stay at hotels while the cruise company tries to 'reactivate' the vessel

Villa Vie Residences' Odyssey cruise ship was set to embark on a round-the-world voyage in May.
But the vessel has been undergoing repair work at a shipyard in Belfast, Northern Ireland.
Villa Vie Residences said the ship could start sailing again this week.

Passengers looking to embark on a 3 ½-year round-the-world voyage on Villa Vie Residences' Odyssey cruise ship have been left hanging for the past three months.

In December, the company announced it had bought Fred Olsen Cruise Lines' Braemar vessel, which it later named Odyssey.

The ship, which is more than 30 years old, was meant to set sail in May.

On the planned 1301-day journey, the cruise liner is set to visit 147 countries across seven continents, including destinations such as France, Mexico, and Japan, according to Villa Vie Residences' itinerary.

But mechanical problems have left the Odyssey stuck in Belfast, Northern Ireland, instead.

Sebastian Stokkendal, a marketing manager for Villa Vie Residences, told the Associated Press that the company was "humbled by the scale of what it takes to reactivate a 30-year-old vessel from a four-year layup."

According to a Villa Vie Residences' webpage on the Odyssey, the cruise ship was lengthened in 2009 and refurbished in 2019.

The vessel is now docked at Belfast's Harland & Wolff shipyard, which is best known for being where the ill-fated Titanic ocean liner , was built.

The need for repairs means the Odyssey's passengers have also been stuck in Belfast.

The AP reported that roughly 200 passengers had been residing in the city, with Villa Vie Residences paying for their living expenses.

Watch: Cruise ship captain breaks down 8 cruise ship disasters in movies and TV

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cruise ship

Passengers bought berths on a 3-year cruise. Months on, the ship is still stuck in Belfast

BELFAST, Northern Ireland -- Lanette Canen and Johan Bodin gave up life on land to become seaborne nomads on a years-long cruise.

Months later, the couple has yet to spend a night at sea. Their ship, the Odyssey, is stuck in Belfast undergoing repair work that has postponed its scheduled May departure for a 3 -year round-the-world voyage.

Bodin said Friday that they have enjoyed their pit stop in the Northern Ireland capital, but "when we'd visited every pub and tried and every fish and chips place and listened to all the places that have Irish music, then we were ready to go elsewhere."

"We're ready to set sail, for sure," added Canen.

Villa Vie Residences' Odyssey is the latest venture in the tempest-tossed world of continuous cruising.

It offers travelers the chance to buy a cabin and live at sea on a ship circumnavigating the globe. On its maiden voyage, it is scheduled to visit 425 ports in 147 countries on seven continents. Cabins - billed as "villas" - start at $99,999, plus a monthly fee, for the operational life of the vessel, at least 15 years. Passengers can also sign up for segments of the voyage lasting weeks or months.

Marketing material, aimed at adventurous retirees and restless digital nomads, touts "the incredible opportunity to own a home on a floating paradise," complete with a gym, spa, putting green, entertainment facilities, a business center and an "experiential culinary center."

But first, the Odyssey has to get out of the dock.

It's now at Belfast's Harland & Wolff shipyard, where the doomed RMS Titanic was built more than a century ago.

Villa Vie Residences' marketing manager Sebastian Stokkendal said the company had been "humbled by the scale of what it takes to reactivate a 30-year-old vessel from a four-year layup."

He said that after work on the rudder shafts, steel work and engine overhauls, the ship is almost ready to depart.

"We expect a very anticipated successful launch next week where we will head to Bremerhaven, Amsterdam, Lisbon, then across the Atlantic for our Caribbean segment," he said in an email to The Associated Press.

In the meantime, the company has been paying living expenses for about 200 passengers. They are allowed onto the ship during the day and provided with meals and entertainment, but can't stay overnight. The cruise line has paid for hotels in Belfast and in other European cities for those who want to explore more of Europe while they wait.

Passenger Holly Hennessey from Florida told the BBC she can't leave Northern Ireland because of her shipmate - her cat, Captain.

She said that at first "I thought I'd go home, or the ship sent some people to the Canary Islands. And then I found out that because I have my cat with me, I can't even leave."

"I want to thank Belfast for being so welcoming to all of us," she said.

Bodin and Canen - a Swede and an American who met when both lived in Hawaii -- have used the time to travel to Italy, Croatia and Bodin's hometown in Sweden, where they are awaiting news of the Odyssey.

Canen plans to run her Arizona-based auto-glass business from the ship. Bodin, a carpenter, is running a YouTube channel documenting the couple's temporarily stalled journey.

Built in 1993 and operated under different names by several cruise lines over the years before being becalmed by the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, the Odyssey was bought by Villa Vie Residences in 2023.

The residential cruising business has proved a troubled one. MS The World, launched in 2002, is currently the only vessel of the type in operation. Another venture, Life at Sea, canceled its planned 3-year voyage late last year after failing to secure a ship.

Canen and Bodin put down a deposit on Life at Sea - they got their money back - and also gambled on Victoria Cruises, another stalled venture from which they are still seeking a refund.

But they are undeterred.

"We might be crazy, stupid, naive or resilient," Bodin said. "I don't know, you can put any label on it that you want."

Lawless reported from London.

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Passengers bought berths on a three-year cruise. Months on, the ship is still stuck in Belfast

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Passengers bought berths on a 3-year cruise. months on, the ship is still stuck in belfast.

Jill Lawless And Peter Morrison

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The Odyssey, a US cruise liner operated by Villa Vie Residences docked at Harland & Wolf ship repair facility in Belfast Harbour, Northern Ireland, Friday, Aug. 30, 2024. (AP Photo/Peter Morrison)

BELFAST – Lanette Canen and Johan Bodin gave up life on land to become seaborne nomads on a years-long cruise.

Months later, the couple has yet to spend a night at sea. Their ship, the Odyssey, is stuck in Belfast undergoing repair work that has postponed its scheduled May departure for a 3 ½-year round-the-world voyage.

Three months into their global cruise, they've not left Belfast

Passengers on a round-the-world cruise have been left stranded in Belfast for three months after their voyage was beset by delays.

Villa Vie Residences' Odyssey arrived at Queen’s Island in the Northern Ireland capital to be outfitted before it was scheduled to leave on 30 May for the first leg of a three-year cruise.

But the ship has still not left yet thanks to problems with its rudders and gearbox.

Florida resident Holly Hennessey is among those on board to have "hunkered down" and made the city their unexpected home.

Travelling with her cat, Captain, has meant the self-proclaimed "cruise addict" has been unable to leave Belfast while waiting for the ship to be ready.

Passengers are allowed to spend time on the ship during the day, but must disembark in the evenings.

"We can spend all day aboard the ship, and they provide shuttle buses to get on and off," Ms Hennessey said.

"We can have all of our meals and they even have movies and trivia entertainment, almost like cruising except we're at the dock."

Holly Hennessy Brown and black cat with blue eyes wearing a white sailors costume.

Despite enjoying the sights, the damp weather has been a shock for the US native.

"I've never had so much use for my umbrella in my life, and I carry my raincoat everywhere I go."

Passengers on the cruise were given the option of buying their cabin outright rather than paying a daily rate for their room like a traditional hotel.

It allows them to remain onboard beyond the Villa Vie Residences' Odyssey's initial three-year tour.

"I want to stay just as long as I am able,” she said. “I have always wanted to live on a ship, and it will be a dream come true for me."

On the left, a long haired blonde woman wearing a stripy blouse. On the right a tall dark haired man wearing a black puffy coat and black t-shirt with white writing.

Villa Vie Residences' website states that the cost of buying a cabin can range from $99,999 to $899,000.

Ms Hennessey’s cabin has space for a double bed, small living area with room for the cat and a balcony.

"Villa Vie is a community and a real community has pets,” she said.

The company says they are trying to do everything they can to "relieve the anxiety" of passengers by planning trips and other cruises or putting them up in hotels.

Angela and Stephen Theriac lived in Nicaragua and have made the most of their wait.

Since May they have travelled by train around Spain, taken weekend trips to England, and visited Greenland.

"We are travellers, and we want to make the most of the place we are in,” said Ms Theriac.

“We keep teasing we will apply for residency here in Belfast."

Her husband Stephen says they have settled in with the locals.

"We have eaten in every restaurant and had a Guinness in every pub,” he said.

“It is just all part of our adventure."

7 Times Cruise Ships Made (Big) Waves

David Austin MD Man wearing bright red shirt with surf boards and flowers on it, wearing sunglasses. Standing in front of icebergs and the sea.

Dr David Austin, from Georgia in the United States, says he has "stopped counting down" the days until the ship launches.

"The payoff of seeing the world in this fashion is too great to feel too disappointed with each delay announcement," he said.

“I was committed, having sold my house right before my arrival, and I’ve stayed committed to this adventure with every delay."

White cruise ship, surrounded by yellow cranes in the docks.

CEO Mike Petterson said that he expects the ship to launch by the end of next week.

"We're not focused on the next days or weeks, we are focused on the rest of our lives and what this company will do for the residents and the industry," he said.

Mr Petterson explained that Villa Vie Residences' Odyssey is the first "affordable" residential cruise ship.

"When you're the first at doing something, you will run into hiccups, but we're definitely getting there, and although we are late, we will launch," he added.

5 Non-Ship Excursions You Should Consider Booking For Your 2024 Alaska Cruise

by Prof. Cruise · February 14, 2024

A photo of an eagle, a photo of the Yukon suspension bridge, a photo of Creek Street, and a photo of a breeching humpback whale with text that reads: 5 Non-Ship Excursions to Book For Your 2024 Alaska Cruise

Introduction

I have no way to confirm this, but I suspect I hold the record for most cruises to Alaska. And if I don’t, I might have to leave my husband for the person who does, because we’re clearly soulmates (I kid, of course, but sometimes I do think Mr. Cruise gets a little jealous – I go on more dates with Alaska each summer than I do with him). In any case, I’ve cruise there a lot. Like, a lot, lot – dozens and dozens of times on every non-luxury line and on itineraries ranging from 3 nights to 14 nights.

As such, I’m viewed as a bit of an expert on cruising to Alaska and receive hundreds of questions each year from newbies. One question I hear pretty often is, “why are Alaska excursions so expensive?” followed by, “how can I save money on excursions?” While I can’t really answer the first question with anything more than speculation, I can answer the second question with confidence. Do not, I repeat, do not book excursions through your cruise ship. Instead, book independent excursions with local tour companies. Here’s why…

Why You Should Book Independent Excursions In Alaska

The cruise lines don’t want you to know this, because they want you to spend money on their overpriced excursions, but Alaska is an easy place to book tours independently or explore on your own. Why?

It’s English speaking.
It’s an America state, so (assuming you’re an American) you can pay using the currency you already have or your credit card without incurring any international fees.
Your cell phone will likely work.
It’s generally very safe (taking ordinary precautions you’d take anywhere, of course).
Towns are small and easy to navigate by car or foot (meaning, for example, that a traffic jam would be very unlikely to cause you to miss your ship if you rented a car or booked a private excursion).
Alaskan port towns rely on tourism as a major part of their economy and most of it comes from cruise ship passengers. If you book through the cruise line, they take a cut. Book directly and help out the local community.
Directly related to the point above, most tour operators in Alaska will offer free cancellation in case your cruise ship itinerary changes or your cruise gets cancelled and guarantee to get you back to your ship on time (be sure to verify this before you book and only book with operators who offer it). Because they rely so heavily on cruise ship passengers to survive, they have built in policies, procedures, and time buffers to make sure they don’t badly tarnish their reputation by causing someone to eat a large deposit due to circumstances out of their control or miss their ship.
Absolute worst case (which may have happened, but in all my years of cruising to Alaska I’ve never heard of a single case first hand), you miss your ship, ports are close together and flights between them aren’t super expensive (some ports in Alaska are actually only accessible by plane or boat, so small float planes from town to town are commonplace).

In addition to being a relatively easy and safe thing to book in Alaska, independent excursions are generally less expensive than those you book directly through your cruise line and you’ll have a much better experience (smaller groups, longer stays, etc) . Cruise ship excursions are often crowded and you spend a lot of time waiting around on the ship for your group to be called, loading and unloading giant buses, etc. Once you experience independent tours versus cruise line excursions, you’ll probably never go back. You might feel a bit nervous doing it the first time (totally normal), but I bet you’ll be happy you did!

So, to get you started, here are five tours I would recommend, one at each of the common Alaska ports. You can also search on Viator and Shore Excursions Group for others that may better suit your needs and interests.

1- Photo Safari in Ketchikan

Why book the “Photo Safari in Ketchikan?” It’s highly rated, the price is excellent, it’s a small group (maximum of 9), you’ll see more of Ketchikan than you would on almost any other “highlights” tour, it comes with free gourmet local coffee and cookies, you’ll capture some fabulous photos (in addition to getting some tips on how to take them), and it’s covered by Viator’s worry-free policy (guaranteed on-time return to your ship).

Cost Adults: $134.03 Children: $92.47

Duration 3 hours

Pickup Location This tour is specifically for cruise ship passengers and will pick up from near the cruise ship berths in downtown Ketchikan (for non-NCL ships) and right at Ward Cove (for NCL ships). See your ticket for the specific location.

Tour Description (provided by the tour operator): Create beautiful memories of Ketchikan with this small-group photography tour. Your guide will lead you to all of the best photo spots in the area, including historical, cultural and natural attractions, and provide helpful tips and instruction on composition, exposure and more for all types of camera, from a DSLR to a point and shoot or cell phone.

What You’ll See

Creek Street
Flowing Waters Wilderness
Totem Heritage Center
Ketchikan Harbor
Green Bean Coffee Company
Potlatch Totem Park
Ocean Panorama Sight
Carlanna Creek Waterfalls

Go HERE to read more about this tour or to book.

2. juneau wildlife whale watching & mendenhall glacier.

Why book the “Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier” excursion? It’s highly rated, includes the two most popular tourist attractions in Juneau (whales and the Mendenhall Glacier), offers a 100% guarantee to see whales, provides a complimentary snack and beverage, and it’s covered by Viator’s worry-free policy (guaranteed on-time return to your ship).

Cost Adults: $229.95 Children: $208.95 Infants: Free

Duration 4 hours 30 minutes

Pickup Location Juneau’s main cruise ship terminal. See your ticket for the specific location.

Tour Description (provided by the tour operator): The Mendenhall Glacier is one of Juneau’s most impressive natural wonders, stretching over 13 miles (21 kilometers). On this half-day tour, enjoy spectacular views of the glacier from the viewing platforms and walkways, and learn more about the mighty glacier at the Visitor Center. Then, set sail on a thrilling whale-watching cruise along the coast and look out for humpback whales, as well as other wildlife such as bald eagles and blue heron.

Magnificent views of the Mendenhall Glacier
Mendenhall Glacier Visitor’s Center
Humpback whales in their natural environment

3. Skagway Half-Day Tour to the Yukon Border and Suspension Bridge

Why book the “Half-Day Tour to the Yukon Border and Suspension Bridge” excursion in Skagway? It’s highly rated, you’ll be treated to breathtaking scenery, it’s less expensive than the White Pass train and just as beautiful (plus you’re able to get off at more stops to take photos and stretch your legs), you can snap a photo at the “welcome to the Yukon sign,” you’ll get to cross the Yukon Suspension Bridge, and it’s covered by Viator’s worry-free policy (guaranteed on-time return to your ship).

Cost Adults: $118.47 Children: $102.32

Duration 4 hours

Pickup Location Cruise Terminal (See your ticket for the specific location).

Tour Description (provided by the tour operator): While in Skagway port, spend half a day discovering the wild beauty of Canada’s Yukon territory via a mini-bus. This tour travels along the Klondike Highway, with mountain and waterfall scenery that will take your breath away. Wind your way up to White Pass summit and feast eyes on the dramatic landscape of Tormented Valley. Spot wildlife along the way, and don’t forget to take a commemorative shot at the Yukon border sign. Note: bring a current, valid passport .

Pitchfork Falls
Bridal Veil Falls
Captain William Moore Bridge, Alaska
Summit Lake
Tutshi Lake
Yukon Larger than Life Sign
Yukon Suspension Bridge

*Note: There is also a full-day, 6.5 hour tour which includes a dog sled camp and lunch. You can check out that tour, HERE .

4. Icy Strait Point Whale & Wildlife Endeavor

Why book the “Whale & Wildlife Endeavor” in Icy Strait Point? It’s highly rated, you can sometimes see humpback whales bubble net feeding near Icy Strait Point, opportunities to see additional wildlife, max 6 passengers on the boat, guarantee whale sightings or you will receive a full refund, and it’s covered by Viator’s worry-free policy (guaranteed on-time return to your ship).

Cost Adults: $228.45 Children: $228.45

Pickup Location Excursion Hub (See your ticket for the specific location).

Tour Description (provided by the tour operator): We spend over 3.25 hours on the water! Our trip is designed to be one of the longest whale watching tours offered in Icy Strait. This extra time allows us to make multiple stops while not feeling rushed. We limit our vessel to 6 passengers max (whether private or mixed) to provide our guests with an uncrowded, relaxed, and intimate wildlife experience. On the day of your tour, we will pick you up from your cruise ship port – Icy Strait Point and return you via van. While on the water, you’ll be cruising in style aboard our custom built Twin Vee Catamaran with an enclosed heated cabin, restroom, comfortable indoor seating, outdoor seating, & 360 degree walk around viewing deck.

Beautiful views of Port Frederick and the surrounding landscape
Humpback whales
Additional wildlife

*Note: If this tour is sold out on your date in port (it’s very popular), here’s another one to consider: Alternative whale watching tour in Icy Strait Point

5. Sitka Scenic Tour

Why book the “Sitka Scenic Tour? It’s highly rated, it visits all the top attractions in Sitka, it’s reasonably priced, groups are limited to 10 people, and it’s covered by Viator’s worry-free policy (guaranteed on-time return to your ship).

Cost Adults: $99 Children: $99

Duration 2 hours 30 minutes

Pickup Location Harrigan Centennial Hall (this is where your free cruise ship shuttle into Sitka will drop you off).

Tour Description (provided by the tour operator): Skip the impersonal, large-group bus tour and explore Sitka on a small-group day trip to the city’s top landmarks, with a range of departure times offered to fit your schedule. Your guide, who navigates for you, brings you to four highly-rated attractions, including Fortress of the Bear, the Alaska Raptor Center, and the Sitka National Historic Park. All entrance fees are included for your convenience.

Fortress of the Bear
Alaska Raptor Center
Sitka National Historical Park
Indian River

Whatever you end up doing on your cruise to Alaska, I hope you love this awe-inspiring place as much as I do and that you’ll return over and over (and over) again! And with that…

Class Dismissed!

Homework (10 points): Please share your favorite independent Alaska excursions to the comments (and how you booked them). Let’s learn from each other!

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Cruise Alaska: 10 Things to Love About Icy Strait Point

April 6, 2019

by Prof. Cruise · Published April 6, 2019 · Last modified December 15, 2019

Lower Dewey Lake: The Best Hike In Skagway On Your Cruise To Alaska

July 1, 2019

by Prof. Cruise · Published July 1, 2019 · Last modified September 27, 2019

Best Excursions For Your First Cruise To Alaska

June 30, 2021

by Prof. Cruise · Published June 30, 2021

9 Responses

Pingbacks 0

Thank you. makes me feel better about booking a non cruise line tour. We’ve always been worried about something causing us to miss the boat.

I’m also in love with Alaska having lived there for a few years decades ago (Anchorage area). Like you, I go back as often as I can, though I don’t have the luxury of living across the street from a cruise port. And yes, my family doesn’t quite get it. But they all know if anything happened to my wife and Dad disappears, they can find me in Homer, Alaska.

I agree wholeheartedly with booking with local independents. You will meet real Alaskans. (As someone who “gets it”, you need to understand that “Alaskan guide” on your mass market tour is likely a college student from Iowa who has never spent a winter there.)

Of your 5, the only one I personally have done is the Premium Sitka Tour I booked directly with Sitka Wildlife Tours. Bruce and Rhonda run a great business that I highly recommend to anyone in Sitka. Their guides are all long time Sitka residents whose insights on Sitka you won’t get on that “big bus”.

One I’d add to your list is the Chilkoot Trail Hike and Float trip by Skagway Float Tours. I’ve long been fascinated with the Gold Rush and hiking part of the Chilkoot trail was a bucket list thing for me. A (relatively) easy 2 mile uphill hike followed by a raft trip back to our pickup point made this a fantastic day in the Alaska outdoors (which is why you should come to Alaska in the first place). I heard the trail was closed in 2023 due to a washed out bridge. Hopefully, it will be open this season.

In 2021 we booked some excursions through Alaska shoreexcursions.com, and they were great. You enter the ship and date of departure, and you get a list of available excursions for the time you’ll be in port. We went to Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau, and a half-day tour in Skagway. But a favorite tour is one we booked directly from a local provider in Sitka after our arrival. It was a bus tour to Alaska Raptor Center and to the bear preserve. It was only $20 apiece.

Thanks to Professor Cruise, we booked a tour with Viator for our upcoming trip and got the worry free guarantee. The cruise was almost half the cost of the cruise line and went to the same places.

I’m so happy to hear that! What’s the tour?

Not to confuse anybody more than I got confused when I looked up the blog, but it’s not an Alaskan tour. It’s actually a tour in Iceland. Lake Myvatn, Hot-Springs & Godafoss Waterfall Tour from Akureyri

That sounds AMAZING! I can’t wait to hear about it!

I’m dying to see some orcas, I’ll be visiting Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan in mid September. What are the chances in your opinion and where’s my best location if there is a possibility? This is my first trip to Alaska!

I’ll be honest with you, it’s very unlikely you’ll see orcas in Alaska in September. It’s possible and your best shot will be in Juneau or Ketchikan on a whale watching tour, but again, very unlikely. Even in peak orca spotting season (May and June), I’ve never seen them on a cruise to Alaska. Maybe you’ll get lucky though! Fingers crossed! Be sure to report back if you see them and have a wonderful cruise – Alaska is magical and there are so many other things you’ll love about it!

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About Prof. Cruise

Given name Sarah, but also answers to Prof. Cruise. Retired after 10 years as a college professor to focus full-time on her primary research interest: travel. With a concentration in cruising. Home port: Seattle. Mom of a shaggy-haired dog and a shaggy-haired human. Lover of books and dessert. Fancies herself a bit of a comedian – you’ve been warned.

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Special Notes for Cuba Travel:

Ensure shore excursions and purchases comply with U.S. regulations .
U.S. credit and debit cards do NOT work in Cuba . Bring enough cash to cover your stay. This includes payment for hotels, restaurants, taxis, souvenir shops, etc.

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Make sure you review the latest  CDC guidance on cruise ship travel .
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Check with your doctor to make sure that traveling abroad to your destinations is medically safe for you and whether you need any vaccinations and/or assistive devices on your trip.
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What Cruise Lines Allow Unvaccinated Guests to Sail?

Sarah Bretz, Contributor

February 7, 2023

At long last, cruise lines are finally starting to drop their vaccine mandates and allow all passengers — inoculated or not — to sail on their ships.

The big question is, what cruise lines allow unvaccinated guests to sail?

In this article, we’ve compiled all cruise lines that allow unvaccinated guests to sail.

Aerial view of COZUMEL CRUISE SHIPS PRINCESS CARNIVAL

(Note: This information is accurate as of February 7, 2023. Check the cruise lines’ websites for the most up-to-date information.)

American Queen Voyages

Unvaccinated guests are welcome to sail on American Queen Voyages .

Vaccination for sailings in the U.S. is not required. Beginning March 11, 2023, proof of vaccination for sailings to or from Europe will no longer be required.

Carnival Cruise Line

Unvaccinated guests are welcome to sail on all voyages except those in Australia and people traveling 16 nights or longer. Check with Carnival for specific cruise requirements.

RELATED: Carnival Drops Pre-Cruise Testing & Vaccination Requirements

Carnival Legend, Carnival Liberty, Disney Dream in a port in Nassau

Celebrity Cruises

Unvaccinated passengers are welcome to sail on all cruises departing from Europe and the U.S. Vaccination continues to be required on voyages to or from Australia, New Zealand, and the Galapagos Islands.

Cunard Line

All guests 18 and older must be vaccinated to sail. On most sailings, kids and teens aged 17 and under do not have a vaccine requirement. Check with Cunard for information on your specific sailing.

Disney Cruise Line

Unvaccinated guests are welcome to sail on all voyages.

Holland America Line

Unvaccinated guests are welcome on most voyages. This doesn’t apply to select destinations where local regulations vary, including Australia.

MSC Cruises

Unvaccinated guests are permitted to sail on most MSC voyages.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Oceania cruises.

Unvaccinated guests are welcome to sail on all voyages except for itineraries sailing in destinations that require vaccinations.

Princess Cruises

Regent seven seas cruises.

Unvaccinated guests are welcome to sail on all voyages except for destinations that require vaccinations.

RELATED: NCLH Drops COVID-19 Vaccine Requirements, Welcomes Everyone to Sail

View of Seven Seas Explorer, considered one of the impressive cruise ships.

Royal Caribbean

Unvaccinated guests are welcome to sail on all voyages except those from Australia and on transatlantic and transpacific cruises.

Unvaccinated guests are welcome on most voyages, except those visiting destinations where local regulations vary, including Australia. Check with Seabourn for protocols on your specific sailing.

Silversea Cruises

Unvaccinated guests are welcome to sail on most voyages, except for itineraries that feature destinations with local regulations that may continue to require vaccination, including Australia.

All guests must be vaccinated to sail with Viking . Booster shots are not required.

Aerial view of Viking Dubrovnik in croatia

Virgin Voyages

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Travel Documentation: Non-U.S. Citizens

Carnival requires guests to provide proper travel documentation in order to travel. The documentation is required at embarkation and throughout the cruise and is the responsibility of the guest. Our policy states that any guest traveling without proper documentation will be denied boarding the ship and will be under full penalty, and therefore, will not be offered a refund or a replacement cruise. Guests must contact the appropriate embassy or consulate of the countries they will be visiting for specific travel documentation requirements. Carnival assumes no responsibility for advising guests of Immigration requirements.

On occasion, Non-U.S. Citizens may be asked to surrender their passport at time of check-in. It will be returned upon completion of the immigration inspection at the time of debarkation.

Carnival highly recommends that all guests travel with a passport valid for at least six months beyond the completion of travel unless otherwise noted differently.

Domestic Cruises

Non-U.S. Citizens are required to carry a valid, unexpired passport and a Multiple Entry Visa, if applicable. In addition , guests must contact the appropriate embassy or consulate of the countries they will be visiting for specific travel documentation requirements. Carnival assumes no responsibility for advising guests of Immigration requirements.
Visa Waiver Program (VWP) : Non-U.S. citizens that are eligible to apply for admission under the Visa Waiver Program must have a valid, unexpired machine readable passport that includes specified security features (biometric identifiers). In addition , travelers are required to have an electronic travel authorization via the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). Details on this program as well as the participating VWP countries can be found below.
Mexican citizens who are traveling with a Border Crossing Card must also present a valid, unexpired Mexican passport. Please click here for more details.

Cruises that Visit Canada or Transit in Canada

Non-U.S. Citizens must carry a passport valid for at least three months beyond the date of their visit to Canada, from their country of citizenship.
Non-U.S. Citizens may require a Canadian Visa depending on their nationality.
Guests who are not citizens of the United States, Canada, U.K., Australia or New Zealand, may require a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to visit or transit Canada.
As of March 16, 2016, visa-exempt foreign nationals are expected to have an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to or transit through Canada. Exceptions include travelers with a valid Canadian visa.
If guests are required to have a visa, it must be obtained in advance regardless of whether they choose to remain onboard or go ashore. Processing times vary by citizenship and may take up to 45 days. For more information, regarding travel documentation requirements, please contact your local Canadian consulate or visit http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/apply-who.asp .
Entry into Canada: Guests who have committed or been convicted of a crime may not be allowed into Canada - for more information, click here .

Visa Waiver Program (VWP) The Visa Waiver Program allows foreign nationals from certain countries to travel to the United States for business or pleasure, for stays of 90 days or less without obtaining a visa.

All Visa Waiver Program countries are required to issue passports that include specified security features (biometric identifiers) in order to enter the United States. A biometric identifier is an electronic scan of a physical feature, such as an eye, hand, fingerprint, or face. It allows an immigration inspector to know for certain that the person appearing before them is the same person to whom a passport or visa was issued.

Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) Electronic System for Travel Authorization is an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. ESTA applications may be submitted any time prior to travel. However, it is recommended that guests apply when they begin preparing their travel plans. We suggest that guests visit www.cbp.gov/travel/international-visitors/esta for additional information regarding ESTA.

Guests will need to print and carry their Electronic System for Travel Authorization as it will need to be presented at cruise check-in along with their passport. An ESTA needs to be completed for each family member traveling on the cruise.

Citizens of the following countries (excluding U.S. Permanent Residents) that participate in the Visa Waiver Program must possess an ESTA for entry into the United States: Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Chile, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, The Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan and United Kingdom *

* United Kingdom - only British citizens with the unrestricted right of permanent residence in England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man are eligible to enter the United States with ESTA.

Note: Citizens of Curacao, Bonaire, St. Eustatius, Saba and St. Maarten (from the former Netherland Antilles) are not eligible to travel to the United States under the Visas Waiver Program, if they are applying for admission with passports from these countries.

Europe and Transatlantic Cruises Non-U.S. Citizens must contact the appropriate embassy or consulate of the countries they will be visiting for specific travel documentation requirements. Carnival assumes no responsibility for advising guests of Immigration requirements.

Non-U.S. Citizens must carry a passport valid for at least three months beyond the date of their visit to a Schengen country (see list of countries below).
Non-U.S. Citizens may require a Schengen Visa.
For itineraries that include countries (such as Turkey and Croatia) which are not part of the Schengen agreement, additional visas may be required for citizens of certain countries.

Schengen Visa Requirements Under the Schengen regulations, citizens of certain countries will need a valid visa to visit or transit through any country in the Schengen area. There are currently 26 European countries that participate in the Schengen Agreement. The agreement eliminates all internal border controls between the participating countries. Once you enter a Schengen country, you may travel continuously for up to 90 days within the member countries.

The following countries are party to the Schengen Agreement: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, (including Monaco), Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. Visa requirements vary depending on the passport under which you are traveling and the countries being visited. Proper travel documentation is required at embarkation and throughout the cruise. We strongly suggest that guests visit www.schengenvisa.cc for additional Schengen Visa information and check with the appropriate embassy or consulate of the countries they will be visiting for specific travel documentation requirements. Be sure to provide the complete itinerary of the cruise so the embassy or consulate can provide the correct information. Guests may also contact a visa service agency for assistance. Names on Travel Documentation It is important that the guest’s full name (first name and last name) on the cruise and airline tickets be the same as the guest’s non-expired government-issued photo I.D. they plan to use for travel identification. In the event of a different name on the cruise/airline ticket and the guest’s photo I.D. as a result of a marriage, divorce or a legal name change, documentation (original or clear, legible copy) supporting this change is required (at embarkation), such as a marriage certificate, marriage license or legal name change court document. Failure to bring documentation bridging the name differences could result in denial of boarding.

Please Note: For those about to or recently have been married, we strongly recommend that if the non-expired government-issued photo I.D. is in the maiden name, the cruise booking be made in the maiden name (do not include the married name); If the reservation was made in the married name, but the non-expired government-issued photo I.D. is in the maiden name, documentation (original or clear, legible copy) supporting this change is required (at embarkation), such as a marriage certificate or marriage license. Failure to bring documentation bridging the name differences could result in denial of boarding.

Traveling with Minors When traveling with a minor where one parent or both parents or legal guardians are not cruising, we strongly recommend bringing an original signed letter from the absent parent(s) or legal guardians authorizing the minor to travel with you. If there is no second parent with legal claims to the minor (due to sole custody, deceased, etc.) other relevant paperwork, such as a court decision, death certificate, birth certificate naming only one parent, would be useful to bring in place of a signed letter. This will expedite processing by the Department of Homeland Security.

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USA to England Cruises

There are cruises from the United States to England, including regularly scheduled Transatlantic voyages between New York and Southampton. A cruise is the comfortable and luxurious way to get to the UK. See the full schedule of departures below.

US to England cruises depart from New York, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale and Miami. Large cruise ships cannot fit up the river to London, so the trips go to Southampton or Dover, England. Southampton is 80 miles south-west of London. Harwich is 85 miles north-east of London.

January 3, 2024: 8-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

January 11, 2024: 10-day cruise to England on Norwegian Cruise Line . One-way from Miami (Florida) to Southampton (England). Non-stop cruise.

March 9, 2024: 16-day cruise to England on Princess Cruises . One-way from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Southampton (England). Visit Ponta Delgada (Azores), Funchal (Madeira), Casablanca (Morocco), Cadiz (Spain) and Lisbon (Portugal).

April 5, 2024: 15-night cruise to England on Royal Caribbean . One-way from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Southampton (England). Visit CocoCay (Bahamas), Tenerife (Canary Islands), Cadiz (Spain), Lisbon (Portugal) and Vigo (Spain).

April 5, 2024: 16-day cruise to England on Princess Cruises . One-way from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Southampton (England). Visit Ponta Delgada (Azores), Lisbon (Portugal), Bilbao (Spain) and Cherbourg (France).

April 25, 2024: 14-day cruise to England on Norwegian Cruise Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England). Visit Halifax (Canada), Reykjavik (Iceland), Belfast (Northern Ireland), Dublin (Ireland) and Le Havre (France).

April 28, 2024: 12-night cruise to England on Royal Caribbean . One-way from Cape Liberty (New Jersey) to Southampton (England). Visit Funchal (Madeira), La Coruna (Spain) and Le Havre (France).

April 29, 2024: 14-day cruise to England on Norwegian Cruise Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England). Visit Halifax (Canada), Dublin (Ireland), Belfast (Northern Ireland), Amsterdam (Netherlands), Zeebrugge (Belgium) and Le Havre (France).

April 30, 2024: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

May 2, 2024: 13-night cruise to England on Celebrity Cruises . One-way from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Southampton (England). Visit Ponta Delgada (Azores), Cork (Ireland), Dorset (England) and Bruges (Belgium).

May 4, 2024: 15-day cruise to England on Princess Cruises . One-way from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Southampton (England). Visit Ponta Delgada (Azores), Cork (Ireland), Falmouth (England), Portland (England) and Le Havre (France).

May 26, 2024: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

July 5, 2024: 21-day cruise to England on Princess Cruises . One-way from New York to Southampton (England). Visit Halifax (Canada), Corner Brook (Canada), St Anthony (Canada), Qaqortoq (Greenland), Nanortalik (Greenland), Reykjavik (Iceland), Stornoway (England), Glasgow (Scotland) and Portland (England).

July 7, 2024: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

July 21, 2024: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

August 18, 2024: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

September 11, 2024: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

October 13, 2024: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

December 8, 2024: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

January 3, 2025: 8-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

January 4, 2025: 13-day cruise to England on Norwegian Cruise Line . One-way from Miami (Florida) to Southampton (England). Visit Ponta Delgada (Azores), Lisbon (Portugal), Vigo (Spain) and Le Havre (France).

February 7, 2025: 12-day cruise to England on Norwegian Cruise Line . One-way from Miami (Florida) to Southampton (England). Visit Ponta Delgada (Azores).

March 9, 2025: 15-day cruise to England on Princess Cruises . One-way from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Southampton (England). Visit Funchal (Madeira), Casablanca (Morocco) and La Coruna (Spain).

March 14, 2025: 14-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Southampton (England) on the Queen Victoria. Visit Port Canaveral (Florida), Hamilton (Bermuda) and Ponta Delgada (Azores).

March 22, 2025: 12-night cruise to England on Celebrity Cruises . One-way from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Southampton (England). Visit Royal Naval Dockyard (Bermuda) and Ponta Delgada (Azores).

March 29, 2025: 8-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

April 4, 2025: 14-day cruise to England on Princess Cruises . One-way from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Southampton (England). Visit Ponta Delgada (Azores), Brest (France), Rotterdam (Netherlands) and Brussels (Belgium).

April 12, 2025: 15-night cruise to England on Royal Caribbean . One-way from Miami (Florida) to Portsmouth (England). Visit Grand Bahama Island (Bahamas), Royal Naval Dockyard (Bermuda), Ponta Delgada (Azores), Porto (Portugal) and La Coruna (Spain).

April 24, 2025: 14-day cruise to England on Norwegian Cruise Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England). Visit Halifax (Canada), St John's (Newfoundland), Reykjavik (Iceland), Belfast (Northern Ireland), Dublin (Ireland) and Le Havre (France).

April 27, 2025: 14-day cruise to England on Norwegian Cruise Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England). Visit Halifax (Canada), St John's (Canada), Reykjavik (Iceland), Belfast (Northern Ireland), Liverpool (England) and Le Havre (France).

April 28, 2025: 14-night cruise to England on Royal Caribbean . One-way from Miami (Florida) to Southampton (England). Visit Royal Naval Dockyard (Bermuda), Ponta Delgada (Azores), Lisbon (Portugal) and Vigo (Spain).

May 5, 2025: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

May 23, 2025: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

June 13, 2025: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

July 8, 2025: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

August 8, 2025: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

September 3, 2025: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

October 17, 2025: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

October 31, 2025: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

December 8, 2025: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

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