Exploring Alaska by cruise is one of the most breathtaking and memorable ways to see "The Last Frontier." The Norwegian Encore offers travelers an ideal blend of adventure, relaxation, and luxury, all while cruising through Alaska’s majestic fjords, glaciers, and wildlife. If you're considering a voyage to Alaska on the Norwegian Encore, this guide will help you understand what to expect and provide essential tips for a smooth and enjoyable journey.
About the Norwegian Encore
We boarded our 7 day cruise ship in Seattle, Washington. The Norwegian Encore is a modern, state-of-the-art cruise ship designed to provide both relaxation and entertainment. Known for its sleek design and cutting-edge amenities, the Encore includes multiple restaurants, theaters, pools, and recreational areas. The ship’s Norwegian-exclusive "Freestyle Cruising" allows passengers to dine, explore, and relax on their own schedule, offering a flexible way to experience cruising (which we love).
Features of the Encore:
Observation Lounge: Enjoy panoramic views of Alaska’s stunning landscapes. This area can be VERY busy especially on Glacier Bay day.
Thermal Spa: Ideal for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Vibe Beach Club: (Adults ONLY) Breathing views, way less crowded then other areas, Private Pools & Hot Tubs, Full Bar
Go-Kart Track: Race against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains and glaciers.
Broadway-Style Shows: Watch world-class entertainment while sailing through the wilderness. We saw the Choir of Man. It was SO GOOD!! The show is complementary but you do need to make a reservation. I would recommend doing that prior to sailing.
Ports on the Alaska Cruise Encore
Juneau: Alaska’s capital city is accessible only by air or sea, making it a must-see stop on your cruise. Take a ride on the Mount Roberts Tramway for panoramic views, or visit Mendenhall Glacier, one of the most accessible glaciers in the state. Whale watching tours are also popular here, with humpback whales and orcas commonly spotted in the summer.
We did a private fishing excursion that we booked through NCL for this port. Unfortunately, we didn’t have the best experience. Our guide was not the best and after reading reviews after the excursion we found out they had terrible reviews. No one on the boat even had a bite. This was a really expensive excursion so that was quite disappointing.
Skagway: This charming town takes you back to the Gold Rush era with its preserved historic buildings. Explore the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway for a scenic journey through the mountains or take a hiking tour to get even closer to nature. Skagway also offers great opportunities for kayaking and wildlife spotting.
We booked two excursions at this port because we were here all day. In the morning we did the “Famous” Yukon Route Railway & the Yukon Suspension Bridge. In the afternoon we did Musher Camp/Smore’s Adventure. We really enjoyed both of these excursions. They’re both great for all ages.
Yukon Suspension Bridge
Yukon Route Railway
Musher Camp/Smore’s Adventure
Glacier Bay National Park: One of the most famous stops on an Alaska cruise, Glacier Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is known for its towering glaciers, abundant wildlife, and dramatic fjords. The ship usually sails through this area, giving passengers an up-close view of calving glaciers, where massive chunks of ice crash into the water. This was probably our FAVORITE day!!
Ketchikan: Known for its totem poles and vibrant native culture, Ketchikan is a fantastic place to learn about Alaska’s indigenous history. The Misty Fjords National Monument, a nearby wilderness area, offers opportunities for flightseeing, fishing, and scenic boat rides. Explore Creek Street and go see the Salmon Ladder.
IMPORTANT: Norwegian cruise line doesn’t dock right at the Ketchikan dock. You MUST take a shuttle bus to town. The lines for buses are VERY long. We actually had booked our on tour not with Norwegian and missed it due to the long shuttle lines. If you’re booking excusions with NCL you won’t have any issues but if you plan on doing things on your own be aware of this shuttle to town.
We ended taking a trolley tour that we jumped on right at the cruise pier. They brought us on a city tour and then to see the Native Village of Saxman & Herring Cove!
Victoria, British Columbia, Canada: Victoria, British Columbia, is the picturesque capital city of the province, located on Vancouver Island. Known for its historic architecture, lush gardens, and scenic harbor, Victoria blends old-world charm with modern amenities. Key attractions include the stunning Butchart Gardens, the Royal BC Museum, and the iconic Fairmont Empress Hotel. The city offers a mild climate, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as whale watching, hiking, and exploring coastal paths. With its vibrant arts scene, waterfront dining, and rich cultural heritage, Victoria is a popular destination for travelers seeking beauty and tranquility.
We LOVED Victoria! This was a really quick stop for us so we just got off the ship and took a cab to town to explore the sites. We walked around Chinatown, explored Government Street & had a drink and appetizer at the “FAMOUS” Empress.
Sailing: The Inside Passage is a stunning coastal route that winds through fjords, islands, and coastal mountains. You’ll pass remote islands, snow-capped mountains, and see a variety of wildlife including sea lions, bald eagles, and maybe even a bear or two from the deck of the Encore. It’s absolutely gorgeous.
Cruising Tips for Alaska
To make the most of your Alaska cruise on the Norwegian Encore, keep the following tips in mind:
1.) Pack for All Weather: Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable, even in the summer months. Make sure you pack layers that can be easily added or removed. A good mix of long-sleeve shirts, warm sweaters, waterproof jackets, and comfortable walking shoes is essential. Don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen, as the sun’s reflection off the water and ice can be intense. (See previous post for detailed packing list.)
2.) Book Shore Excursions in Advance: Alaska is all about outdoor adventures, from hiking and whale watching to helicopter rides over glaciers. Shore excursions tend to fill up fast, especially the popular ones like dog sledding in Juneau or helicopter tours over the glaciers. Book these excursions well in advance to secure your spot.
3.) Take Advantage of the Observation Lounge:
The Norwegian Encore’s Observation Lounge is one of the best places to sit back and enjoy Alaska’s incredible landscapes. Try to secure a seat early in the day, as this prime viewing spot tends to fill up, especially when sailing through places like Glacier Bay or the Inside Passage.
4.) Consider a Balcony Room: Alaska cruises are all about the scenery, and while there are plenty of public spaces to enjoy the views, there’s something magical about having a private balcony. Whether it’s watching a pod of orcas swim by or simply sipping coffee while passing glaciers, a balcony room enhances the overall experience. HIGHLY RECOMMEND if it’s within your budget.
5.) Wake Up Early: To catch the best wildlife sightings, it's worth waking up early. Mornings tend to be quieter on the ship, and you might catch glimpses of whales, seals, and bald eagles while enjoying the calm morning seas.
6.) Plan Your Dining: The Encore’s Freestyle Dining allows you to eat at your leisure, but it’s worth making reservations for specialty restaurants, especially on sea days. Le Bistro (French cuisine) and Cagney's Steakhouse are popular choices, so plan ahead for a seamless dining experience.
7.) Download the NCL App: Norwegian Cruise Line offers an app that allows you to book dining, spa treatments, shore excursions, and more, directly from your phone. It also has daily schedules and ship maps, making it easy to navigate your way around the ship.
OVERALL REVIEW
Our Alaska cruise on the Norwegian Encore is an unforgettable way to explore one of the most beautiful and remote regions in the world. From the ship’s top-tier amenities to the breathtaking sights and unique wildlife of Alaska, this journey offers an unparalleled adventure.
Follow these cruising tips, so you’ll be well-prepared for an amazing Alaskan adventure, whether you’re exploring Glacier Bay, learning about native culture in Ketchikan, or simply relaxing on your balcony watching the world drift by.
Alaska awaits—get ready to set sail!
Comments