A cruise ship travels through the Glacier Bay's wilderness
Most visitors to Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve spend a day in Glacier Bay on large cruise ships as part of a longer cruise originating at a major west coast city.
What to Expect
Cruise ships typically spend a full day (9-10 hours) in Glacier Bay including a stop at a major tidewater glacier.
National Park Service park rangers board to provide a narrative about important aspects of the visit, give a presentation about the park, and answer passengers' questions.
Cruise ships do not dock anywhere in Glacier Bay National Park.
Park rangers set up a information desk while on board ship in a large lounge. At the desk you can find:
A park ranger that will answer all of your Glacier Bay questions
A national park service passport book cancellation stamp
Alaska Geographic bookstore with park publications, maps and other media
A variety of exhibits/hands-on materials to enhance your visit
See also:
To make reservations on a cruise ship, see your travel agent.
The National Park Service manages vessel traffic (including cruise ships) in Glacier Bay to protect natural and cultural resources, provide for a range of visitor experiences, and promote visitor satisfaction and understanding. To learn more, and view a list of authorized cruise lines, see Cruise Ship Services.
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Did You Know?
Red-backed voles are a keystone species. Many forest trees rely on mycorrhizal fungi to help them grow. Red-backed voles are one of few animals that eat these fungi and are important in their dispersal.