Alaskan Cruise with a 3.5 years old

Question

We're planning to take an Alaskan cruise with our 3.5-year-old on May 31st. This will be our first-ever cruise, and our main priority is visiting Glacier National Park. Based on our research, we have three options: Norwegian, Holland America, and Princess. From what I’ve gathered, Princess seems like the best option due to the amount of time spent in ports, which would allow for more excursions.

However, I’m a bit hesitant because I’ve read that these cruises may not be very well-equipped to entertain toddlers. Has anyone here cruised with a toddler on any of these lines? Is booking a balcony room worth it, or is it too risky with a young child? Lastly, what excursions would be feasible and enjoyable for us as a family?

Any suggestions or advice would be greatly appreciated!

Answer

Cruising to Alaska with a toddler can be a wonderful experience, but it does require some planning to ensure your 3.5-year-old is comfortable and entertained. Each of the cruise lines you mentioned—Norwegian, Holland America, and Princess—has its strengths and weaknesses when it comes to family travel.

Princess Cruises is indeed often recommended for Alaska itineraries because they tend to have longer port stays and a schedule that allows for more time on excursions, which is ideal if your main goal is to experience Glacier National Park and other scenic areas.

Here are some considerations for cruising with a toddler:

Onboard activities: Norwegian is known for family-friendly amenities, including kids’ clubs and activities, but some Alaska itineraries are less intensive for young children. Princess and Holland America focus more on scenic cruising and excursions, so onboard entertainment for toddlers may be limited. That said, many families bring tablets, books, and small toys to keep toddlers occupied during longer stretches at sea.
Balcony room considerations: Booking a balcony can enhance your experience, giving you private space and fresh air with spectacular views of glaciers. However, toddlers can be curious and mobile, so safety is paramount. Make sure the balcony door has a secure lock, never leave your child unattended on the balcony, and consider bringing a portable gate if needed. Many families do enjoy balcony rooms, but supervision is essential.
Feasible excursions with a toddler: Not all excursions are toddler-friendly. Gentle and scenic options are preferable:

Glacier viewing by boat or small cruise: This allows the family to enjoy the scenery without strenuous activity.
Scenic train rides, like the Alaska Railroad or local excursions near port towns.
Short nature walks or easy hikes with boardwalks or stroller-friendly paths.
Wildlife tours from the shore or harbor areas, such as whale watching or bear viewing from a safe distance.
Interactive cultural experiences, like visiting native heritage centers or small museums, where toddlers can move around safely.

Tips for a smooth cruise experience:

Plan downtime onboard: Young children can get overwhelmed by excitement, so schedule quiet periods in the cabin or at a calm part of the ship.
Pack snacks, familiar toys, and comfort items to help your toddler feel secure.
Check for child-friendly dining options and flexible meal times.
Consider shorter excursions first to see how your child adapts, then gradually try longer or more involved trips.

In summary, Princess Cruises is a solid choice for Alaska due to longer port stays and scenic itineraries. Balcony rooms can be enjoyable if safety precautions are taken. Focus on gentle, scenic excursions that allow your toddler to enjoy the sights without fatigue or overstimulation. Preparation and realistic expectations will make your first Alaskan cruise a memorable experience for the whole family.