“Best” depends on what kind of Alaska trip you want (glaciers, wildlife, ports, ship vibe, kids, luxury, etc.).
1) Do you want Glacier Bay National Park?
Glacier Bay is one of the most sought-after scenic days in Alaska, and only certain cruise lines are authorized to operate there (permits are limited). The National Park Service lists the authorized lines as Princess, Holland America, Norwegian, Seabourn, Cunard, and Viking.
If Glacier Bay is a “must,” you’ve already narrowed your shortlist a lot.
Best Alaska cruise lines by travel style
Best overall for a classic Alaska experience: Holland America Line
If your goal is “I want Alaska done right” (scenic cruising, strong itineraries, nature-forward vibe), Holland America is a top pick. Travel + Leisure notes Holland America has more Glacier Bay permits than any other line and even highlights a “glacier guarantee” claim.
Choose HAL if you care most about: glaciers + Alaska focus + “classic” cruising.
Best for first-timers and land + sea combos: Princess
Princess is also among the select lines with Glacier Bay access (per NPS and Princess’ own statement about limited permits).
It’s a strong all-around option, especially for travelers who want an Alaska cruise experience that’s straightforward to plan and packed with Alaska-forward itineraries.
Choose Princess if you care most about: Glacier Bay + easy planning + traditional Alaska routes.
Best for families (kids + adults both happy): Disney Cruise Line
If you’re traveling with kids (or multigenerational), Disney tends to be the most family-friendly Alaska option, with strong youth programming and onboard entertainment—while still offering adult spaces and experiences.
Choose Disney if you care most about: family logistics + onboard activities + “everyone’s entertained.”
Best “modern premium” mainstream: Celebrity
Celebrity is a great pick if you want a more contemporary ship vibe (design, dining, lounges) while still doing Alaska well. Travel + Leisure includes Celebrity among its expert-approved Alaska choices.
Choose Celebrity if you care most about: modern ship feel + premium experience.
Best for flexibility and solo travelers: Norwegian (NCL)
NCL is popular for its more casual style and flexibility; it’s also on the Glacier Bay authorized list (limited sailings) and shows up in expert “best Alaska cruises” roundups.
Choose NCL if you care most about: casual vibe + flexible dining/entertainment + solo-friendly options.
Best luxury (small-ship feel, elevated service): Seabourn / Viking
Both Seabourn and Viking are authorized for Glacier Bay per NPS.
These are better fits if you want fewer crowds, upscale service, and a more relaxed onboard atmosphere (often fewer kids, more enrichment).
Choose Seabourn/Viking if you care most about: upscale + quieter ships + enrichment.