Date: June 20, 2025
Ports of Call: Juneau, Icy Strait, Glacier Bay, Admiralty Island, Frederick Sound, Windham Bay/Stephens Passage, Endicott Arm/Dawes Glacier, Juneau; View Itinerary
ALASKA CRUISES
Cruises to Admiralty Island
Take a memorable Alaska cruise adventure to Admiralty Island, Alaska. Admiralty Island, located in Alaska's Inside Passage, is a stunning wilderness destination celebrated for its dense forests, pristine landscapes, and abundant wildlife. This untouched haven is often a highlight for scenic cruises, offering passengers a glimpse into Alaska's natural beauty and serenity. Known locally as “Kootznoowoo,†meaning “Fortress of the Bears†in Tlingit, the island is home to one of the highest concentrations of brown bears in North America. The rugged coastline, interspersed with serene bays and coves, offers breathtaking views of old-growth rainforests, misty fjords, and vibrant ecosystems. Cruising along Admiralty Island provides a rare opportunity to witness Alaska's wilderness from the comfort of your ship.
x
Admiralty Island
Admiralty Island's landscape is characterized by lush temperate rainforests, rocky shores, and a network of waterways that make it an ideal location for scenic cruising. From the ship, passengers can marvel at the towering Sitka spruce and western hemlock trees that cover much of the island. The island's picturesque shores often reveal glimpses of brown bears foraging along the coastline, a sight that adds to the island's allure. Famed for its wilderness, Admiralty Island is also part of the Tongass National Forest, which encompasses a large portion of Alaska's coastal rainforests. The natural environment here is pristine, providing visitors with an immersive view of unspoiled Alaskan scenery.
Admiralty Island holds significant cultural value for the Tlingit people, who have inhabited the region for thousands of years. The name "Kootznoowoo" reflects the Tlingit reverence for the brown bears that roam the island, and this respect is woven deeply into their cultural heritage. Onboard educational lectures often introduce passengers to Tlingit customs, stories, and the rich cultural history associated with the island. Learning about the Tlingit's deep connection to the land and their respect for wildlife offers a profound cultural perspective on this natural paradise. Additionally, the island has historical significance as a protected area, with conservation efforts aimed at preserving its ecosystems and cultural heritage.
Attractions and Activities
While Admiralty Island is a scenic cruise destination with limited opportunities for direct excursions, certain cruise lines offer zodiac tours or small boat expeditions around its coves and inlets. These off-board activities allow passengers to get closer to the shoreline, providing opportunities to observe brown bears, sea otters, and other wildlife in their natural habitats. Some cruises may also organize guided kayaking excursions, offering a serene way to explore the island's tranquil bays and estuaries. For those interested in birdwatching, Admiralty Island is home to bald eagles, ravens, and other seabirds that nest along the coast. These activities offer an intimate exploration of Admiralty Island's wilderness.
Local Speciality
x
x
Best time to visit Admiralty Island
The ideal time to cruise past Admiralty Island is between May and September, when Alaska's weather is mild, and wildlife activity is at its peak. Early summer is particularly favorable for bear viewing, as the island's brown bears emerge from hibernation and forage along the coastlines. July and August are excellent for observing salmon runs, which attract bears to the streams and rivers, creating incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. This period also offers long daylight hours, enhancing the scenic experience and providing more time to take in the beauty of the island. The calm seas during this season make it ideal for enjoying a smooth and uninterrupted scenic cruise.
Admiralty Island, Alaska Cruise Schedule 2025
Admiralty Island offers a truly wild and unfiltered Alaskan experience, making it an exceptional scenic cruise destination. The island's untouched landscapes, thriving wildlife, and cultural significance create a unique opportunity to witness the beauty and spirit of Alaska. Cruising around Admiralty Island allows travelers to connect with the natural world and observe the ecosystems that make this region so special. From bear sightings to serene coastal vistas, every moment spent near Admiralty Island enhances the allure of an Alaska cruise. This breathtaking destination remains a testament to Alaska's commitment to preserving its wilderness and cultural heritage.
Date: July 4, 2025
Ports of Call: Juneau, Icy Strait, Glacier Bay, Admiralty Island, Frederick Sound, Windham Bay/Stephens Passage, Endicott Arm/Dawes Glacier, Juneau; View Itinerary
Date: July 11, 2025
Ports of Call: Juneau, Icy Strait, Glacier Bay, Admiralty Island, Frederick Sound, Windham Bay/Stephens Passage, Endicott Arm/Dawes Glacier, Juneau; View Itinerary
Date: July 18, 2025
Ports of Call: Juneau, Icy Strait, Glacier Bay, Admiralty Island, Frederick Sound, Windham Bay/Stephens Passage, Endicott Arm/Dawes Glacier, Juneau; View Itinerary
Date: July 25, 2025
Ports of Call: Juneau, Icy Strait, Glacier Bay, Admiralty Island, Frederick Sound, Windham Bay/Stephens Passage, Endicott Arm/Dawes Glacier, Juneau; View Itinerary
Date: August 1, 2025
Ports of Call: Juneau, Icy Strait, Glacier Bay, Admiralty Island, Frederick Sound, Windham Bay/Stephens Passage, Endicott Arm/Dawes Glacier, Juneau; View Itinerary
Date: August 8, 2025
Ports of Call: Juneau, Icy Strait, Glacier Bay, Admiralty Island, Frederick Sound, Windham Bay/Stephens Passage, Endicott Arm/Dawes Glacier, Juneau; View Itinerary
Date: August 15, 2025
Ports of Call: Juneau, Icy Strait, Glacier Bay, Admiralty Island, Frederick Sound, Windham Bay/Stephens Passage, Endicott Arm/Dawes Glacier, Juneau; View Itinerary
Date: August 22, 2025
Ports of Call: Juneau, Icy Strait, Glacier Bay, Admiralty Island, Frederick Sound, Windham Bay/Stephens Passage, Endicott Arm/Dawes Glacier, Juneau; View Itinerary
Date: August 29, 2025
Ports of Call: Juneau, Icy Strait, Glacier Bay, Admiralty Island, Frederick Sound, Windham Bay/Stephens Passage, Endicott Arm/Dawes Glacier, Juneau; View Itinerary
Date: May 15, 2026
Ports of Call: Juneau, Icy Strait, Glacier Bay, Admiralty Island, Frederick Sound, Windham Bay/Stephens Passage, Endicott Arm/Dawes Glacier, Juneau; View Itinerary
Date: May 22, 2026
Ports of Call: Juneau, Icy Strait, Glacier Bay, Admiralty Island, Frederick Sound, Windham Bay/Stephens Passage, Endicott Arm/Dawes Glacier, Juneau; View Itinerary
Date: May 29, 2026
Ports of Call: Juneau, Icy Strait, Glacier Bay, Admiralty Island, Frederick Sound, Windham Bay/Stephens Passage, Endicott Arm/Dawes Glacier, Juneau; View Itinerary
Date: June 5, 2026
Ports of Call: Juneau, Icy Strait, Glacier Bay, Admiralty Island, Frederick Sound, Windham Bay/Stephens Passage, Endicott Arm/Dawes Glacier, Juneau; View Itinerary
Date: June 12, 2026
Ports of Call: Juneau, Icy Strait, Glacier Bay, Admiralty Island, Frederick Sound, Windham Bay/Stephens Passage, Endicott Arm/Dawes Glacier, Juneau; View Itinerary