Im planning to visit Alaska this summer- Ive heard that cruising is a good way to see the place- however Ive never been on a cruise and Im not sure I would like it- all the cruises seem to be at least 7 days, but I would prefer maybe 3 days- has anyone heard of any companies offering this? Or do you think Ferries might be a better way to do this?

If you post under cruises you might get more responses.

I did the ferry last year and am taking it again this year. It was perfect for me.

Shazza:

Click on my name for my Alaska Trip Report...I too took the Ferry and LOVED it!

BTW: I too love cruising on the commercial lines but, this was the best way to see it and do it in abundance.

Happy Research,
Oaktown Traveler

The ferry is a great way to get to know the coastal communities and their people; however they only go to towns and don't bother with such scenic wonders as glaciers or wildlife unless they're encountered en route to some human destination or other.

There are a couple of "small ship" cruise lines that offer tourism cruises of 3 or 4 nights. Cruise West - http://www.cruisewest.com - is probably the best-known of these. Not especially cheap (but neither is the ferry when you add everything up) but they may be what you're looking for.

Gardyloo is correct, but there are plenty of excursions for glaciers and wildlife that you can take in the port cities if you decide to ferry.

On the ferry can you lock your cabin when you go out on deck or to dinner?How expensive is the food and beer?

duh:

Yes, you can and do lock your cabin door.

Food is up to you. I wanted the dinner table with a window seat so I got friendly with the folks to get that when I wanted it.

There are options...you can even bring your own food like many of the back-packers do.

Drink is the same range of options.

Oaktown Traveler

thank you oaktown.
i read your trip report and plan on again...you know it was good!!!

duh:

Many thanks!

Oaktown Traveler