Departure
Saturday, May 1, 2027
Arrival
Tuesday, May 11, 2027
Duration
10 nights
Departing from
San Francisco, USArriving at
San Francisco, USShip
Ruby Princess
Cruise Line
Princess Cruises
Saturday, May 1, 2027
Pier 27 cruise terminal. Departure port for longer Alaska cruises via the Pacific coast.
Live webcamTuesday, May 4, 2027
The 'Salmon Capital of the World' and first port of call for northbound ships. Known for totem poles and Creek Street.
Ships
Alaska's 2026 Cruise Newcomers: Virgin Voyages and Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
Two cruise lines launch their first-ever Alaska season in 2026 — Virgin Voyages with Brilliant Lady (adults-only resort), Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection with Luminara (452-guest ultra-luxury). Same season, opposite ends.
Seasons
The 2026 Alaska Cruise Season Opens: First-Week Tracker Recap
Three ships, three stories. Noordam first into Ketchikan, Volendam off-script at Kodiak, Coral Princess opening Whittier. Week one of the 2026 Alaska cruise season.
Explainers
Inside Passage vs Gulf of Alaska: Which Cruise Route Should You Take?
Inside Passage and Gulf of Alaska are the two main Alaska cruise routes. Inside Passage is calmer and shorter; Gulf of Alaska adds Hubbard Glacier and routes you to Anchorage. Here's how to choose.
Ports
Ketchikan's Two Cruise Ports: Downtown vs Ward Cove
Ketchikan has two cruise berths — downtown and Ward Cove, seven miles north. Which one your ship calls at materially changes your day, and not always for the better.
Wednesday, May 5, 2027
Alaska's capital city, accessible only by sea or air. Famous for Mendenhall Glacier and whale watching.
Live webcamThursday, May 6, 2027
Gateway to the Klondike Gold Rush. Home to the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway.
Live webcamTuesday, May 11, 2027
Pier 27 cruise terminal. Departure port for longer Alaska cruises via the Pacific coast.
Live webcam