Taking a cruise on a small ship to Alaska is an alternative to cruises on larger ships that allows for a more active and hands-on experience.
This can be ideal for anyone from young adults to active seniors who is more interested in an up-close look at the natural wonders of Alaska than the diverse amenities of a large cruise ship.
Small ships can navigate much more closely to the glaciers.
Small ships can navigate much more closely to the glaciers. The small cruise ships also have far fewer passengers, and thus when you arrive at a port, it can be much less crowded.
Small ships are also able to make more frequent stops, as when wildlife is spotted on the shores or in the water.
Of course the down side is that these ships lack many of the amenities of the larger ships, which have in effect become small, mobile cities, with everything from movie theaters to skating rinks.
Companies currently offering Alaska cruises on small ships include:
Abercrombie & Kent
Clipper Cruise Line
Cruise West
Discovery Voyages
Maple Leaf Adventures
Radisson Seven Seas
In trying to decide whether to take an Alaskan cruise on a small ship or a large vessel, one thing to consider is pricing. If you are on a tight budget, you are more likely to find better deals on the larger ships.
But if you are looking to get away from the crowds and are willing to sacrifice amenities for intimacy, then taking a cruise on a small ship to Alaska could be the perfect alternative for you.
