Alaska Cruise Destination Guide, Norwegian Encore's 7-Night Journey to Glacier Bay, Skagway, Juneau & Ketchikan
An Alaska cruise is more than just a vacation - it's a front-row seat to some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on Earth. Towering glaciers, humpback whales breaching in icy waters, bald eagles soaring overhead, and charming frontier towns create a once-in-a-lifetime journey.
One of the best ways to explore Alaska's rugged coastline is aboard the Norwegian Encore, which sails a 7-night round-trip itinerary from Seattle on August 9, 2026.
The Ship: Norwegian Encore
The Norwegian Encore is a modern Breakaway-Plus class ship designed to impress. With a guest capacity of nearly 4,000, it's packed with entertainment, dining, and relaxation options.
Highlights for Alaska Cruising:
Observation Lounge: Floor-to-ceiling windows for glacier viewing.
The Waterfront: A quarter-mile outdoor promenade for strolling with ocean views.
Dining Variety: From complimentary buffets to specialty dining like Cagney's Steakhouse.
Entertainment: Broadway hits, comedy clubs, live music, and more.
Cabin Pricing:
Interior: $1,559 + taxes & fees
Oceanview: $2,259 + taxes & fees
Balcony: $2,819 + taxes & fees
Suite: $2,869 + taxes & fees
7-Night Alaska Itinerary Overview
Day 1 - Seattle, Washington (Embarkation)
Seattle sets the stage for your adventure. Arrive at least one day early to explore Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, and Chihuly Garden and Glass.
Day 2 - Juneau, Alaska
Alaska's capital, accessible only by boat or plane.
Best Things to Do:
Mendenhall Glacier & Nugget Falls: Accessible by shuttle or guided tour.
Whale-Watching Cruise in Auke Bay: Humpbacks, orcas, and sea lions.
Mount Roberts Tramway: Cable car ride to trails and breathtaking viewpoints.
Day 3 - Skagway, Alaska
Skagway feels like stepping back into the Gold Rush era.
Top Excursions:
White Pass & Yukon Route Railway: A 3-hour scenic ride past mountains, gorges, and waterfalls.
Dog Sledding on a Glacier: Helicopter ride plus a sledding experience with huskies.
Historic Walking Tour: Learn Skagway's colorful past with local guides.
Day 4 - Ketchikan (Ward Cove), Alaska
Known as the "Salmon Capital of the World."
Best Things to Do:
Misty Fjords Flightseeing: Aerial tour of dramatic fjords and waterfalls.
Totem Bight State Park: Native culture through towering totem poles.
Salmon Fishing Charter: Try your luck catching king or coho salmon.
Day 5 - Glacier Bay National Park (Scenic Cruising)
The crown jewel of this itinerary. A UNESCO World Heritage Site with tidewater glaciers, fjords, and abundant wildlife.
Glacier Viewing: Margerie and Grand Pacific Glaciers are highlights.
Wildlife: Spot seals, whales, sea otters, and mountain goats.
Park Rangers Onboard: Rangers join the ship to narrate history, ecology, and geology.
Day 6 - Victoria, British Columbia
This charming Canadian city combines history, gardens, and coastal beauty.
Butchart Gardens: World-famous gardens bursting with color.
Victoria Inner Harbour: Walkable area with Parliament Buildings, cafes, and shops.
Day 7 - Return to Seattle
Budget Breakdown
Extra Costs to Budget For:
Taxes & Port Fees: $200-$300
Excursions: $30-$500+ depending on type
Drinks & Dining: $20-$80 per day
Tips/Gratuities: ~$20 per person per day
Sample All-In Costs:
Budget Traveler: $2,200-$2,500
Mid-Range: $3,000-$3,500
Luxury: $4,000+
Practical Alaska Cruise Tips
Pack Layers: August temperatures range from 50-65 F; bring waterproof jackets.
Binoculars Are a Must: For spotting wildlife from the ship.
Book Excursions Early: Popular tours sell out fast.
Bring U.S. Dollars & Canadian Dollars.
Stay Connected Offline: Download maps and entertainment; Wi-Fi is expensive at sea.
Conclusion
A Norwegian Encore Alaska cruise offers the perfect mix of wilderness, culture, and comfort. If Alaska has been on your bucket list, August 2026 is the time to go.