Glaciers & Gulf Coast: 7-Night Explora Alaska Cruise

This seven-night Explora III sailing is a strong choice for travelers who want Alaska with fewer crowds and more space. It leaves Vancouver on July 2, 2027, heads up the Inside Passage region to Ketchikan and Icy Strait Point, cruises Hubbard Glacier, then continues into Prince William Sound and the Gulf of Alaska before arriving in Seward on July 9. Early July is the heart of the Alaska season, with long daylight and active wildlife.

Ward Cove, just north of Ketchikan, puts you close to the town’s famous totem poles and Creek Street, and to salmon streams that come alive in summer. Icy Strait Point near Hoonah is owned by a Native Alaskan corporation and is a well-regarded spot for whale watching and bear viewing. The day of scenic cruising at Hubbard Glacier, one of North America’s largest tidewater glaciers, is often the highlight of the week.

Valdez sits at the head of a deep fjord surrounded by the Chugach Mountains and is a gateway to glacier and wildlife cruises. Kodiak Island, rarely visited by cruise ships, is known for its giant Kodiak brown bears, its fishing fleet and its Alutiiq heritage. Disembarking in Seward sets you up for the Kenai Fjords or a scenic rail or road trip to Anchorage and Denali.

Explora Journeys is the MSC Group’s luxury line, and its ships carry far fewer guests than the big Alaska resort ships. Each suite is ocean-front with a private terrace, which is ideal for glacier viewing. Fares generally include beverages, Wi-Fi, gratuities and most dining, but the details vary, so check with us.

Because this is a one-way sailing, many of our clients add a land tour in Alaska afterward. Let us know your interests and we’ll put together fares and post-cruise options for this departure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a passport for an Alaska cruise from Vancouver?
Yes, plan on a valid passport, since the cruise starts in Canada and ends in the United States. Requirements depend on your citizenship, and we’ll confirm what applies to you.

How do I get from Seward to Anchorage after the cruise?
Seward is roughly 125 miles south of Anchorage, connected by a scenic highway and the Alaska Railroad. Most travelers fly home from Anchorage, and we can arrange the transfer or a longer land extension.

What wildlife might I see in Alaska in July?
July is a good month for humpback whales, sea otters, bald eagles and, in places such as Kodiak and Icy Strait Point, brown bears. Sightings are never guaranteed, so bring binoculars.