-
Cruises
All Cruises
Cruise deals
From Australia
International
Don't Miss OutHot Offers
The best-selling holidays right now, at prices that won't last.
Browse Hot Offers -
Tours
All Tours
By region
Curated lists
Travel With CompanySocial Getaways
Small-group trips designed for over 60s who love good company on the road — new friends, shared adventures, no single supplements.
Browse Over-60 Getaways -
Destinations
All Destinations
Australia & Pacific
America
Not Sure Where to Start?Book a Call
Speak with one of our friendly travel specialists — no pressure, just honest advice to help you find the right holiday.
Browse Request a call with a travel expert - Social Getaways
- Solo Holidays
- Hot Offers
- Wishlist 0
An 8-day southbound cruise from Whittier to Vancouver, tracing glaciers, fjords and historic Alaskan frontier towns
- Scenic southbound sailing from Whittier to Vancouver
- Cruise past Hubbard Glacier & Glacier Bay National Park
- Explore Skagway, Juneau & Ketchikan
Trip Details
- Departs
- 16 May 2027
- Returns
- 29 August 2027
- Ship
- Westerdam
- Operator
- Holland America Line
Trace Alaska’s rugged coastline from Whittier to Vancouver on an unforgettable southbound journey through towering peaks, deep fjords, and untouched wilderness. Along the way, enjoy spectacular scenic cruising past Hubbard Glacier and through Glacier Bay National Park, where massive ice walls and dramatic calving glaciers create unforgettable moments. Explore the historic frontier towns of Skagway, Juneau, and Ketchikan, each offering a mix of rich culture, scenic beauty, and exciting shore adventures. This voyage blends breathtaking natural wonders, wildlife encounters, and charming coastal experiences into one extraordinary Alaskan escape.
Departures & Pricing
Cruise departs Whittier on 16 May 2027 for 7 nights aboard Westerdam
- Interior from $1,389 pp twin share / $2,239 sole use*
- Ocean View from $2,569 pp twin share / $4,599 sole use*
Cruise departs Whittier on 30 May 2027 for 7 nights aboard Westerdam
- Interior from $1,679 pp twin share / $2,839 sole use*
- Ocean View from $2,859 pp twin share / $5,199 sole use*
Cruise departs Whittier on 13 Jun 2027 for 7 nights aboard Westerdam
- Interior from $1,799 pp twin share / $3,089 sole use*
- Ocean View from $2,839 pp twin share / $5,169 sole use*
Cruise departs Whittier on 27 Jun & 25 Jul 2027 for 7 nights aboard Westerdam
- Interior from $1,909 pp twin share / $3,299 sole use*
- Ocean View from $2,989 pp twin share / $5,469 sole use*
Cruise departs Whittier on 11 Jul 2027 for 7 nights aboard Westerdam
- Interior from $1,909 pp twin share / $3,299 sole use*
- Ocean View from $3,159 pp twin share / $5,809 sole use*
Cruise departs Whittier on 8 Aug 2027 for 7 nights aboard Westerdam
- Interior from $1,909 pp twin share / $3,309 sole use*
- Ocean View from $2,999 pp twin share / $5,479 sole use*
Cruise departs Whittier on 22 Aug 2027 for 7 nights aboard Westerdam
- Interior from $1,659 pp twin share / $2,789 sole use*
* Please note: prices are subject to availability at the time of booking and may change or be withdrawn at any time without notice.
Cabin grades, balcony upgrades and pre-cruise hotel options are quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.
Westerdam
Westerdam is a Holland America Line Vista-class ship that entered service in 2004, carrying around 1,960 guests. She combines the line's mid-size classic cruising — wraparound promenade, notable art collection and Pinnacle Grill — with seasons across Asia, Alaska and the Pacific.
- Staterooms
- 1001
- Deck plans
- 11
Deck 11 — Sports Deck
Source: Holland America Line, captured 5 August 2026. Deck plans are provided by the cruise line and are subject to change at any time.
Itinerary
- 1
Whittier, Alaska, US
A small Alaskan port town linked to Anchorage by a scenic rail route running alongside Turnagain Arm.
- 2
Cruising Hubbard Glacier
Hubbard Glacier lies within a vast wilderness of some 3.3 million acres, framed by snow-capped mountains and rich birdlife.
- 3
Glacier Bay
Glacier Bay National Park stretches over 76 miles and shelters diverse wildlife, including seals, sea lions and numerous bird species.
- 4
Skagway, Alaska, US
Skagway grew up as the main gateway during the Klondike gold rush, and its false-front buildings still recall that era.
- 5
Juneau, Alaska, US
Juneau, Alaska's capital, sits at the foot of towering peaks along the Gastineau Channel, with the vast Mendenhall Glacier close behind.
- 6
Ketchikan, Alaska, US
Built out over the water and climbing weathered stairways, Ketchikan drapes itself across the mountains above Tongass Narrows with a cheerful air.
- 7
Scenic Cruising The Inside Passage
The Inside Passage is a protected network of waterways winding through glacier-cut fjords along the rugged coast of Southeast Alaska.
- 8
Vancouver, B.C., CA
Vancouver's neighbourhoods offer a lively food scene, with world-class farm-to-table cuisine reflecting the city's coastal, multicultural character.
*Please note: cruise itineraries are not guaranteed and are subject to change at any time by the cruise company.*
Inclusions & exclusions
What’s included
- Accommodation onboard MS Westerdam
- Main meals & casual dining
- 24-hr room service
- Live entertainment
- Pools & fitness centre
- Onboard activities & enrichment
- Youth programs
Not included
- Travel Insurance
- Airfares
- Shore Excursions
Accommodation
Interior Staterooms (approx. 13–26 sqm):
Comfortable, thoughtfully designed retreats featuring plush bedding, a sitting area, and all essential amenities—perfect for relaxing after a day ashore
Ocean View Staterooms (approx. 16–27 sqm):
Bright and airy rooms with large picture windows, offering natural light and ever-changing ocean vistas
Verandah Staterooms (approx. 20–33 sqm including balcony):
Enjoy your own private balcony, floor-to-ceiling doors, a cosy seating area, and stunning sea views
Signature Suites (approx. 35–37 sqm including balcony):
Spacious suites with a separate seating area, enhanced amenities, and a private verandah for a more indulgent stay
Neptune Suites (approx. 46–66 sqm including balcony):
Premium accommodation featuring expansive living space, large private verandah, priority services, and exclusive access to the Neptune Lounge
Common questions about this voyage
What is the route of this cruise?
This southbound journey travels from Whittier to Vancouver, showcasing Alaska’s dramatic coastline.
Which glaciers will we see?
Guests will enjoy scenic cruising through Hubbard Glacier and Glacier Bay National Park, two of Alaska’s most iconic glacier destinations.
What ports are included?
The itinerary typically includes stops in Skagway, Juneau, and Ketchikan.
What wildlife might I see?
Common sightings include whales, seals, sea lions, bald eagles, sea otters, and sometimes bears along the coastline.
What is the weather like?
Temperatures generally range from 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 15°C). Weather can be cool and change quickly, so layers are recommended.
Is this cruise suitable for first-time cruisers?
Yes, it’s a great introduction to Alaska cruising with a mix of scenic cruising and easy-to-explore ports.
Are shore excursions available?
Yes, optional excursions include wildlife tours, glacier experiences, scenic rail journeys, and cultural sightseeing.
What should I pack?
Bring warm layers, waterproof clothing, comfortable walking shoes, gloves, and a camera for scenery and wildlife.
How much time is spent on scenic cruising?
Several days include dedicated scenic cruising through glaciers and fjords, offering extended viewing opportunities.
Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
Yes, Wi-Fi packages are typically available, though connectivity may be limited in remote glacier regions.
Book this cruise
Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.
You might also like
Alaska Glacier Southbound Explorer
- Seven nights onboard the Nieuw Statendam with staterooms and suites included
- Three meals a day included throughout the cruise fare
- Nightly onboard entertainment and activities included throughout your voyage
Northbound Glacier Escape
- Three meals a day included throughout your onboard voyage
- Nightly entertainment and onboard activities included every evening
- Comfortable staterooms feature signature Mariner's Dream beds and premium bedding
Alaska’s Glacier Discovery – Southbound (August 2028)
- Includes main meals, snacks and casual dining venues onboard
- Enjoy nightly Broadway-style entertainment and open-air movies under the stars
- Relax with room service, pools, heated spas and a gym