How to Make the Most of a Day in Glacier Bay National Park

Alaska wouldn’t be Alaska without its glaciers, especially those in Glacier Bay. It’s a journey back to the Little Ice Age – one that is only accessible by air or sea. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Here’s how to make the most of a day in Glacier Bay National Park on an Alaska cruise:

Enjoy getting up close to glaciers.

Whether it’s from your own balcony or up on deck, you can enjoy mesmerizing views of icy-blue giants framing Glacier Bay. You may even experience “white thunder” as ice splits and falls into the sea. Also enjoy a cup of Dutch Pea Soup on deck to warm up as you marvel at the natural wonders around you.

Watch wildlife play as you cruise through the bay.

Whales. Bears. Eagles. Oh my! There’s nothing quite like seeing Alaska wildlife in their own habitat as they go about their day. Whales breach the surface and engage in bubble-net feeding. Bears walk along the shore or swim in shallow waters for a fresh catch. Harbor seals kick back and relax on floating ice while eagles soar in the sky above.

Learn from National Park Service Rangers, wildlife experts and members of the local Huna Tlingit tribe.

Listen to National Park Service Rangers and wildlife experts as they point out areas of interest and answer questions throughout the journey. Members of the local Huna Tlingit tribe also share stories about Glacier Bay, which is their ancestral homeland. Learn more at our Alaska Up Close presentations onboard.

Popular Glaciers in Glacier Bay

Some of the most popular glaciers include Johns Hopkins Glacier, named in 1893 by Harry Feilding Reid, a glaciologist, seismologist and professor at Johns Hopkins University; and Margerie Glacier, named after French geographer Emmanuel de Margerie, who visited in 1913.

Tips for Your Day 

• Bring binoculars and a camera on your Alaska cruise. They’ll make wildlife viewing even better.
  Check out these two blog posts to help you choose the right equipment for you:
  How to Find the Best Binoculars for Wildlife Viewing in Alaska
  How to Choose the Best Camera for Your Cruise
• Plan ahead by familiarizing yourself with the schedule for Glacier Bay using the Navigator App. You don’t want to miss awe-inspiring sights or Alaska Up Close presentations.
• Dress warm. Even during summer months, a day in Glacier Bay can be chilly. Bring your beanie, gloves and jacket with you when taking in the sights.
• Be patient. You may be waiting for the perfect picture of a whale tail or other wildlife as they splash around in Glacier Bay. Take your time enjoying the sights and being present while you document the journey.
• Get your Glacier Bay National Park passport stamp by visiting the mobile visitor center set up by National Park Service Rangers onboard.
• Learn more with our Guide to Glacier Bay National Park.

A day in Glacier Bay is one of the most unforgettable experiences on an Alaska cruise. By using our guides and tips, you can make the most of a visit to this breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Great Land.