Small Ship Alaska Cruises 2027

What's New for 2027 Small Alaska Cruises

We continue to see increased demand for small ship Alaska cruises, particularly in lesser-traveled regions. Look for more departures and more new itineraries to choose from among this round-up of what's new for small Alaska cruises in 2027 (and a sneak peek for 2028).

Greg Mortimer Expedition Ship Debuts in Alaska in 2027

The biggest news in 2027 small Alaska cruising comes with the retirement of two longstanding National Geographic branded ships that have been sailing the region for decades: the National Geographic Sea Lion and Sea Bird. These twin 62-guest vessels will be replaced with the Greg Mortimer expedition vessel holding 154 guests. Not only will this new vessel bring a more comfortable experience, its larger capacity represents a shift in available active small cruise ships, which previously capped at 100 guests in Alaska. No other small expedition ship in Alaska has a spa, sauna and other experience upgrades typically found only on larger vessels in this region.

Starting in May of 2027, the ship will sail a new 8-day Alaska's Inside Passage route for Lindblad Expeditions, north- and southbound between Vancouver, Canada, and Sitka, Alaska. The northbound route uniquely visits Hubbard Glacier, a six-mile-wide expanse of ice within Wrangell–St. Elias National Park, while the southbound variation explores the adventure mecca of Haines in the Inside Passage.

This season-long model of sailing up and down the coast between Vancouver and Sitka has typically only been offered by larger cruise ships. Smaller expedition ships sailed this long stretch only during the shoulder seasons, and took at least 11 or 12 days. Now small ship travelers will be able to experience this route over a more compact 8 days' time.

Aleutian Islands Cruise Gets More Capacity in 2028

The hottest Alaska expedition cruise of the past few years has been off the traditional map. It's not in the Inside Passage or Prince William Sound but along a string of rarely visited islands. The Aleutian Islands Cruise has been a consistent sell-out since it first launched in 2025. Due to this continued demand, in 2028 it will shift from being aboard the 36-guest Safari Explorer to the 74-guest Wilderness Explorer. The route and per-person starting rate remains the same.

For travelers who want to take it farther, trace the full ring of fire on this Alaska to Japan Cruise aboard the 138-guest National Geographic Resolution.

The Best Small Ship Alaska Cruises of 2027: Our Top Pick

What's our pick of the best small ship Alaska cruises in 2027? The top-selling Northern Passages with Glacier Bay & Sitka.

Save up to $500 +4

Northern Passages with Glacier Bay & Sitka

Value-driven, active Inside Passage with Glacier Bay National Park

FROM $6,300 USD

8 DAYS MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP 74–84 GUESTS

★ 4.9/5

Year after year, by popular demand, Alaska travelers have chosen this 8-day itinerary as their overwhelming favorite. The lengthy route offers far-reaching exploration and the itinerary's long tenure ensures a well-tuned experience. The 84-guest Safari Endeavour raises the bar for comfort along the way. She's been described by our travelers as "comfortable and welcoming" and "well appointed" with "superb food" and "plenty of storage."

Want more insights? Read our Expert Aboard: Safari Endeavour Review, learn more from our expert's firsthand experience in Alaska with UnCruise or hear it direct from travelers in testimonials of this cruise:

What is the best small ship Alaska cruise in 2027 for you? Every Alaska traveler has different goals and priorities. Maybe you want the smallest ship? A departure during the best time to visit Alaska? The best naturalist guides? An Alaska National Park cruise, or a focused Glacier Bay National Park cruise? Perhaps a luxury Alaska cruise is what you seek? Let our experts help you find your ideal trip based on interests, budget and timeline. See all our top picks in our Best Small Alaska Cruises & Cruise Lines recap.

Saving on 2027 Small Ship Alaska Cruises

Due to our longstanding business relationships and volume-driven buying power, you will never pay more for your cruise. Our Alaskan cruise deals page can help you find and filter what's available. A few timely tips:

• Wave season deals for what's left each season typically can be found each January through April at the latest.
• 2027 & 2028 solo Alaska cruise pricing got better for single travelers with rare pricing reductions on single "Compass" cabins within a popular fleet this year
• We're also seeing 2028 and even some 2029 dates being released sooner than ever, so early-booking deals are available now if you want to plan ahead.

Talk direct to one of our Alaska specialists, who can offer the most up-to-date incentives available plus keep you apprised of all opportunities to save.

Book Charters Now for 2027 & 2028

Private Alaska yacht charters are increasing in popularity as travelers seek smaller, more exclusive experiences aboard Alaska small cruise ships. For 2027, our experts are excited about the Sikumi Custom Alaska Cruise and Golden Eagle Custom Alaska Cruise. Both boats garnered great feedback from travelers and recently got new, convenient round-trip Juneau itineraries. We are also newly offering the Alaskan Story Charter Cruise for 8 guests.

Want your experience to be private? Charters book up early, so whether you want an exclusive charter or semi-private experience aboard ships carrying 4-36 guests, contact us now to secure space for your small ship Alaska cruise in 2027 or 2028.