Should You Get Port Side Or Standard Alaskan Cruise?

The best side of the ship for an Alaska cruise depends on your itinerary and sailing direction. If traveling northbound, a starboard-side cabin will give you more views of the glaciers and ports. For southbound cruises, a portside cabin would be preferred. This choice can greatly impact your cruise experience, as it offers scenic views, closer proximity to land, and chances of spotting wildlife.

When sailing southbound, the port side of the cruise ship is the better option for scenic views, closer proximity to land, and chances of spotting wildlife. Many passengers prefer to book starboard accommodations when sailing northbound in Alaska, and portside cabins when sailing south as this offers views over the North American mainland, facing Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, Prince Rupert, and Vancouver.

Northbound Alaska cruises sail up the coastline through the Inside Passage and along Hubbard Glacier, so your best view of Alaska’s scenic landmasses are likely on the starboard side of the ship. Southbound Alaska cruises are the opposite, sailing down the coast, so the port side of the ship will face the coastline.

Choosing a cabin, port, or starboard based on its location within the ship that suits your preferences is crucial. For southbound cruises, it is suggested to choose mid-ship lower deck if you or your party are susceptible to motion or choose location based on proximity to the ship’s amenities over port. Generally, the port (or left) side of the ship will be facing the mainland most of the time. However, when going down the Inside Passage, there will be land on both sides anyways because there are lots of islands along the way.

If cruising southbound (e.g., Seward Whittier to Vancouver), the port (left) side is better. It is just my personal opinion, but for southbound cruises, it is generally recommended to go with the port (left) side. For all ports in Alaska, download the excursion book from HAL to find many options in various price ranges to cater to varied interests.

Sailing between ports in Alaska is not like leaving a Caribbean island and sailing off to the middle of the ocean. There is a lot of beautiful scenery on both sides, and public areas can get crowded. It is nice to be able to peek outside of your cabin and enjoy the beauty of Alaska.