View of Thompson Pass near Valdez, Alaska with forested hills in the foreground, green mountains streaked with snow and low-hanging clouds beneath a bright blue sky.

Thompson Pass, Valdez

Cruises to Valdez

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Things to do in Valdez

Close your eyes and picture what you think Alaska looks like. If you’re picturing glaciers, whales, soaring seabirds, jagged peaks and lush forests, you’re visualizing Valdez. This little town is the gateway to classic Alaska scenery and fantastic adventures that the whole family will love. From breathtaking glaciers to historical landmarks, Valdez offers a true Alaska experience.

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Shore excursions to explore Valdez

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  • Massive glacier flowing between dark, rocky mountains near Valdez, Alaska with chunks of ice floating in the cold gray water below.

    Columbia Glacier

    See one of earth’s true giants: Columbia Glacier. This massive glacier covers 400 square miles, and you can witness this rapidly retreating tidewater glacier. If you’re lucky, you can see the glacier calve where a giant chunk of ice will crash into the sea.

  • View of Keystone Canyon near Valdez, Alaska with steep green cliffs, a rocky riverbank and snow-capped mountains in the background under a clear blue sky.

    Keystone Canyon

    Keystone Canyon is a winding canyon road with dramatic 600-feet cliffs on both sides. You can hike the Pack Trail that the US Army created for the Klondike miners where you can see glimpses of the original telegraph line and stunning waterfalls. Don’t miss Bridal Veil Falls because it’s a photography must-see.

  • A black-and-white photograph of Bishop Gordon and the "Flying Blue Box" at Valdez, Alaska, with snow-capped mountains in the background.

    Valdez Museum

    Step into history at the Valdez Museum. As you wander the museum, you’ll discover the fascinating history of Valdez, including the gold rush era and the 1964 earthquake that caused a 30-foot tsunami. You can see a 19th-century lighthouse lens, a fire engine and a re-created prospector's cabin that will help history come to life.

  • Expansive glacier spilling into the calm waters of Prince William Sound, surrounded by steep cliffs and snow-covered mountains under a partly cloudy sky.

    Prince William Sound

    Fjords, glaciers and waterfalls, oh my! Prince William Sound is one of the most beautiful spots in Alaska with perfect scenery and plentiful wildlife. Humpback whales breach these bright blue waters, and you can see hundreds of seabirds perched on the cliffs. Whether you take a day cruise or kayak out, this place is quintessential Alaska.

  • Row of freshly caught halibut hanging on metal hooks at a dock in Valdez, Alaska with parts of fishing boats and wooden beams visible in the background.

    Savor the Flavors of Valdez

    There’s no better way to experience Valdez than by sampling the local cuisine. Enjoy fresh Alaskan seafood, including world-famous halibut and salmon. Try local specialties like salmon and rockfish at waterfront restaurants like the Fat Mermaid while taking in stunning mountain and harbor views.

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Experience the Valdez port on your next cruise

During an Alaska cruise, see the beautiful Valdez on these unforgettable cruises:

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20-Day Ultimate Alaska Solstice (with Glacier Bay National Park)

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Alaska College Fjord

Explore the Scenic Wonders of Valdez with Princess Cruises

Sail to Valdez, Alaska, a breathtaking destination known for its glaciers, wildlife and rich gold rush history. Nestled at the head of a deep fjord in Prince William Sound, Valdez offers dramatic landscapes and incredible opportunities to witness Alaska’s rugged beauty. Think: 400 square mile glaciers, sea lions on icebergs and stunning canyons.

 

Cruises to Valdez
View of the wooden dock and port area in Valdez, Alaska on a cloudy day, with snow-capped mountains and low-hanging clouds in the background.

Stroll the scenic Valdez dock as misty mountains rise beyond calm coastal waters.

A sea lion resting with its flippers on a dock beside blue-green water in Valdez, Alaska, surrounded by scattered ropes and dock equipment.

Spot a curious sea lion lounging on the dock, soaking up the sights of Valdez Harbor.

Ship sailing to College Fjord

Ruby Princess

Visit Alaska in style on this beautiful ship where you can dine anywhere from an award-winning steakhouse to a casual seafood stop and delicious pub. Spend your nights catching a film at Movies Under the Stars® or catch a unique show at the theater. Relax at the Lotus Spa® to get some much needed R&R.

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Ruby Princess

Let Princess get you there with travel, airfare & hotels

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  • Princess EZair

    Princess EZAir® Flights

    Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time, and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair® flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airline, allow you to book early and pay later with no penalty, and protect you if your flight is late or canceled. Princess EZair flight quotes are available on our cruise search result details pages. Please note: Princess EZair® is only available in certain markets.

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    Airplane to Ship Transfer

    Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

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  • Cruise Plus hotel packages

    Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

    Extend your cruise vacation and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling and the representative’s services.

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Cruise deals and promotions

Find our top sales, deals, partnerships and promotions for our destinations all in one place. We run promotions throughout the year and sometimes run sweepstakes where you can win prizes.

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