Breathtaking scenery, gleaming glaciers, abundant wildlife, and Native American culture are only a few of the spectacular attractions that draw cruise vacationers to Alaska. With so much to see and do in Alaska, it's no wonder the state's official flower is the alpine forget-me-not!

Known as America's last, true frontier, Alaska will dazzle you with it's unspoiled wilderness and dramatic, panoramic views. You will feel as if you've gone back in time to a simpler life where exploration and determination could bring untold riches and where living off the land was not only possible, it was your key to survival.

Alaska cruises are really the only way to experience the rugged expanse of the Alaska coastline taking you where roads and rails simply can't. Of course, we're talking about the Inside Passage with its historic towns, deep blue fjords and glacier-filled gulf where you will witness the thunderous power of a calving glacier.

The most difficult decision is how you choose to explore Alaska. There are literally hundreds of Alaska cruises to choose from. The best place to start is to determine how much time you have. Alaska cruise vacations can range from seven to 23 days. The cruise itself is generally seven days with the remaining time being spent discovering Alaska's interior.

There are three types of Alaska cruise vacations. Which one you choose depends upon the amount of time you have, how adventurous you would like to be, and your budget. You typically have the option of taking the following itineraries:

• Alaska Inside Passage Cruises (Roundtrip Cruises): Inside Passage cruises usually begin and end at the same port of call. These Alaska cruises are typically seven nights long and set sail from Vancouver or Seattle. more details >>
  
  

• Alaska Glacier Cruises (Gulf of Alaska Cruises): These Alaska cruises are typically seven night, one way cruises that sail North from Vancouver or South from Anchorage. They not only visit the same ports as Inside Passage Cruises, but they are the best way to see glaciers, mountains, wildlife and scenery. more details >>
  
  

• Alaska - Cruise and Land: If you have the time and a true sense of exploration, a cruise and land vacation is the only way to go. These cruise tours give you the opportunity to combine an Alaska Cruise with a scenic land tour that takes you deep into the heart of Alaska. Some tours offer beautiful, domed rail cars, motor coaches or both and all will let you experience the sheer awe of Denali National Park and Mt. McKinley. more details >>

An Alaska cruise can be a significant investment, and choosing the right Alaska cruise line is as important as your Alaska cruise itinerary itself. Each Alaska cruise Line and cruise ship has its own personality and there can be a remarkable difference between their itineraries and amenities; therefore it's important to do your research and ask questions before making your deposit.

AlaskaCruises.com represents all major cruise lines to Alaska and whether you're travelling with children, seeking small ship adventure or looking for a luxurious getaway for two, we will make sure you feel comfortable with the Alaska cruise line you select.

This year, the Alaska cruise lines are: Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Cruise West, Crystal Cruises, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Radisson Seven Seas and Royal Caribbean. Your TravelDep cruise specialist will gladly assist in helping you choose the cruise line and ship that best meets your needs.