Alaska Inside Passage Cruise

Passengers viewing Glacier Bay National Park on an Alaska cruise throughthe Inside Passage

1. What is the Inside Passage?
2. Things to do in Alaska’s Inside Passage
3. History of the Inside Passage

Alaska Inside Passage cruises

Barrier islands, towering forested walls and narrow fjords — these are just a few of the Inside Passage's unique qualities. And the scenery throughout the passage is constantly changing, offering views of both picturesque shores and friendly coastal towns.

A picturesque sunset illuminates the mountains and Hubbard Glacier, with the Inside Passage in the foreground — A stunning sunset over the mountains, highlighting Hubbard Glacier and the serene Inside Passage

1. What is the Inside Passage?

Stretching hundreds of miles from Puget Sound, Washington, through the British Columbia coast and into the Gulf of Alaska, the Inside Passage includes more than 1,000 islands, seemingly endless shoreline and thousands of idyllic coves and bays. Aboard with Princess, you’ll marvel at the breathtaking scenery and encounter ports of call like Gold Rush-era Skagway, Salmon Capital of the World Ketchikan, the capital city of Juneau and British-flavored Victoria.

2. Things to do in Alaska’s Inside Passage

During an Alaska Inside Passage sailing, guests will have the chance to visit a Native village, learn about the triumphs and tragedies of Alaska’s Gold Rush heyday or go dog sledding with a real musher. Touring the Inside Passage on an Alaska cruise is your gateway to the fascinating and colorful culture, history and sights of the Great Land.

Glacier Bay National Park, just west of Juneau, is home to some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in North America. Towering snow-capped mountains plunge into deep, serene fjords, while ancient glaciers stretch across the horizon, slowly carving their way through the rugged terrain. This pristine wilderness is not only a sight to behold but also a place rich in history. The nearby village of Hoonah serves as the homeland for the Huna Tlingit Tribe, whose deep cultural roots have shaped the region for centuries. An Inside Passage cruise provides an up-close look at Glacier Bay’s stunning glaciers, tranquil waters, and untamed wilderness, offering an unforgettable experience of Alaska’s natural beauty and heritage.

An old black and white photo depicting a bustling street during the Klondike Gold Rush, filled with people and flag — This vintage black and white photograph showcases a street reflects the Klondike Gold Rush, in August, 1900

3. History of the Inside Passage

From 1792 to 1794, captain George Vancouver set sail on an expedition through uncharted territory. The 1,000 miles of still waters and luminous glaciers he charted during this time came to be known as the Inside Passage.

From the towering spruce trees lining the borders of Ketchikan to the majestic mountains cradling the heart of Skagway, mariners documented every inch of this winter wonderland — inviting others to set sail in their same path and revel in the magic for themselves.

In 1881, the first cruise sailed into Alaska’s Inside Passage, but these seafarers didn't experience the luxury and comfort of modern-day cruises — they were making history during the height of the Klondike Gold Rush.

Since then, journeys through the Inside Passage have become more exhilarating. In Juneau, you can venture underground into historical gold mines to see how treasure was extracted from its rugged walls. Or, take a scenic railway tour up snowcapped mountains to retrace the footsteps of early explorers in Skagway.

History awaits you in the enchanting enclaves of the Inside Passage. Cruise past archaic, granite glaciers and step into protected lands. With exclusive access to some of the most famous glaciers — including Glacier Bay National Park — Princess offers a close-up, undisturbed view to spectacular scenery and adored wildlife.

Sail into sheer serenity amidst the Inside Passage on an Alaska cruise from Princess.

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