Queen Elizabeth Alaska Cruise Guide 2026
Norwegian Cruise Line
Quick Reference
| Cruise Line | Cunard |
| Ship Class | Vista |
| Gross Tonnage | 90,900 GT |
| Passenger Capacity | 2,081 (double occupancy) |
| Crew Size | 1,005 |
| Year Built / Last Refurbished | 2010 / 2018 |
| Number of Decks | 12 |
| Homeport (Alaska) | Vancouver |
| Typical Itinerary Length | 7-10 nights |
| 2026 Alaska Port Calls | 113 |
Why Choose Queen Elizabeth for Alaska
Choosing the Queen Elizabeth for your 2026 Alaska cruise is an entirely different experience compared to many other ships in the region. Cunard brings a distinct blend of British elegance, timeless sophistication, and a more refined pace to the rugged Alaskan wilderness. While other lines might focus on high-octane thrills, Queen Elizabeth offers classic ocean liner charm, making it perfect for those who appreciate the journey as much as the destination. It’s less about waterslides and more about white-glove service, enriching lectures, and enjoying a traditional afternoon tea as glaciers glide by.
Compared to her sister ships, Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria, Queen Elizabeth offers a slightly more contemporary take on Cunard's heritage, while still retaining all the signature hallmarks. For Alaska, her spacious decks and numerous indoor observation areas are particularly well-suited for viewing the dramatic landscapes, whether you're braving the crisp air on deck or enjoying a warm drink from inside. The ship, built in 2010 and last significantly refurbished in 2018, is meticulously maintained, feeling fresh and luxurious without being overtly modern. You won't find wear and tear here; Cunard prides itself on impeccable standards.
This ship is truly best for discerning couples, multi-generational families seeking a sophisticated experience, and solo travelers who enjoy a more cultured atmosphere. It's ideal for those who value attentive service, exceptional dining, and a focus on enrichment over constant activity. While children are welcome and have dedicated clubs, the overall ambiance leans towards a mature elegance, making it less suited for families primarily seeking a budget-friendly, high-energy thrill ride. If you appreciate the golden age of ocean travel with modern comforts, Queen Elizabeth to Alaska will exceed your expectations.
2026 Alaska Itineraries
For the 2026 Alaska season, Queen Elizabeth will primarily sail a series of captivating 7- to 10-night itineraries, predominantly roundtrip from Vancouver. These sailings are designed to immerse you in the stunning beauty of the Inside Passage and its iconic ports. Cunard has scheduled 113 port calls for Queen Elizabeth in Alaska during the 2026 season, giving you ample opportunities to explore.
A typical 7-night roundtrip Vancouver itinerary might look something like this, though exact timings can vary slightly by sailing:
- Day 1: Depart Vancouver (late afternoon)
- Day 2: Scenic Cruising the Inside Passage (all day)
- Day 3: Juneau (12:00 PM - 9:00 PM)
- Day 4: Skagway (7:00 AM - 5:00 PM)
- Day 5: Glacier Bay National Park or Hubbard Glacier (scenic cruising, all day) – Note: Glacier Bay sailings require a permit, so check your specific itinerary.
- Day 6: Ketchikan (8:00 AM - 4:00 PM)
- Day 7: Scenic Cruising the Inside Passage (all day)
- Day 8: Arrive Vancouver (early morning)
Some longer 9 or 10-night options may include additional ports like Sitka, offering a deeper dive into Alaska's history and culture, or an overnight stay in a port, though these are less common for Queen Elizabeth's Alaska routes. Regardless of the exact ports, every Cunard Alaska itinerary features significant scenic cruising days through the Inside Passage, and a dedicated glacier viewing day, ensuring you have plenty of opportunities to witness the region's breathtaking natural wonders. All sailings are roundtrip from Vancouver, simplifying travel logistics.
Stateroom Guide for Alaska
Best Stateroom Categories for Alaska
When sailing Alaska, your stateroom choice significantly impacts your experience, especially for scenic viewing. For Queen Elizabeth, a Balcony stateroom is undeniably king. Having your private veranda allows you to step out, breathe the crisp Alaskan air, and take in the passing glaciers or wildlife without needing to jostle for space on public decks. This is particularly invaluable during scenic cruising days like Hubbard Glacier or the Inside Passage, or for those serene early mornings spotting wildlife from your own space.
Regarding port side vs. starboard side, it truly depends on your specific itinerary and which way the ship is sailing. For roundtrip Vancouver cruises heading north, the starboard side (right side of the ship when facing forward) generally offers views of the coastline and glaciers when sailing up the Inside Passage and towards Hubbard Glacier. On the return south, the port side would offer similar views. However, when navigating fjords or glaciers, the captain often rotates the ship 360 degrees to ensure both sides get a fantastic view, so don't stress too much if your preferred side isn't available. For Hubbard Glacier, the ship will always spend ample time allowing views from all angles. Specific cabin numbers aren't typically "best" as views vary, but generally, cabins mid-ship or slightly forward tend to have less vibration and offer a balanced perspective.
Stateroom Types & Pricing
Queen Elizabeth offers a range of stateroom options, each providing Cunard's signature comfort and service. Prices are approximate and fluctuate significantly based on sailing date, demand, and specific promotions, so always check with Cunard for current rates.
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Interior Staterooms: These cabins offer no window or balcony.
- Approximate Price Range: $1,200 - $2,000 per person for a 7-night cruise.
- Pros for Alaska: Most budget-friendly option, perfect for those who plan to spend most of their time exploring the ship or ashore. Great for sleeping in total darkness.
- Cons for Alaska: You'll miss out on private scenic viewing opportunities directly from your room. You'll need to head to public decks for every glacier or wildlife sighting.
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Ocean View Staterooms: Featuring a picture window, these rooms bring natural light and views.
- Approximate Price Range: $1,500 - $2,500 per person for a 7-night cruise.
- Pros for Alaska: Offers views of the outside world and natural light, a step up from an interior without the balcony price. You can see if it's raining or clear before heading out.
- Cons for Alaska: The window doesn't open, so you can't hear the glacier calving or smell the fresh Alaskan air. Viewing angles are fixed.
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Balcony Staterooms (Britannia Balcony): These are the most popular choice for Alaska, featuring a private veranda.
- Approximate Price Range: $2,000 - $4,000 per person for a 7-night cruise.
- Why this is the top pick for Alaska: Unrivaled private viewing of glaciers, fjords, and wildlife. Enjoy breakfast with a view, or a private moment with a warm drink as the scenery unfolds. Essential for photographers and those who value personal space.
- Note: Cunard offers Britannia Club Balcony staterooms which come with single-seating dining in the Britannia Club Restaurant, a step up in service and exclusivity.
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Suites (Princess Grill & Queens Grill): These are the pinnacle of luxury, offering expansive spaces, exclusive dining, and enhanced amenities.
- Approximate Price Range: $4,000 - $10,000+ per person for a 7-night cruise.
- What you get extra: Princess Grill Suites offer larger balconies, a dedicated Princess Grill restaurant, and a concierge. Queens Grill Suites are the largest, with butler service, exclusive Queens Grill restaurant access, priority embarkation/disembarkation, and more. For Alaska, the extra space and service elevate the entire experience, particularly for those who appreciate discretion and luxury.
Dining on Queen Elizabeth
Dining on Queen Elizabeth is a highlight, embodying Cunard's commitment to culinary excellence and traditional ocean liner service. You'll find a range of options from formal main dining rooms to casual buffets and exquisite specialty venues.
The ship's main dining structure is tied to your stateroom category.
- Britannia Restaurant: This elegant, two-deck main dining room is for guests in Britannia staterooms. It offers both fixed-time dining (early or late seating) and "open seating" options where you can dine whenever you wish during operational hours. The dress code here is typically "smart casual" for most evenings, with several "Gala Evenings" requiring formal attire.
- Britannia Club Restaurant: Exclusive to Britannia Club Balcony staterooms, this intimate venue offers single-seating, anytime dining with a slightly more refined menu than the main Britannia Restaurant.
- Princess Grill Restaurant: Reserved for Princess Grill Suite guests, this is a more intimate and upscale dining experience with open seating and an à la carte menu that changes daily.
- Queens Grill Restaurant: The most exclusive dining venue, open only to Queens Grill Suite guests. Expect the highest level of service, a sophisticated menu, and the ultimate in flexible dining.
For specialty dining, you have a few excellent choices:
- The Verandah: This exquisite French-inspired restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. It’s an à la carte menu with an approximate cover charge of $30-$40 per person for dinner. Highly recommended for a special evening.
- Alternative Dining in the Lido: On select evenings, parts of the Lido buffet transform into themed dining experiences, sometimes with a small cover charge, offering cuisines like Asian or Indian. Check your daily program for details.
Casual dining options include:
- Lido Restaurant: The ship's expansive buffet, open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It offers a wide variety of international dishes in a relaxed setting.
- Golden Lion Pub: A traditional British pub serving classic pub fare like fish and chips, burgers, and pies for lunch and dinner. No cover charge, just pay for your drinks. It's a fantastic spot for a casual meal.
- Café Carinthia: For light bites, pastries, and specialty coffees throughout the day.
My "don't miss" dining experiences on Queen Elizabeth for Alaska would be:
- White-Glove Afternoon Tea in the Queens Room: This is a Cunard signature tradition and an absolute must. Served daily, it's a truly elegant affair with delicate sandwiches, pastries, and scones, accompanied by live music.
- Dinner in your designated Grill Restaurant (if applicable): If you're in a Princess or Queens Grill Suite, take full advantage of the personalized service and exceptional cuisine.
- The Golden Lion Pub: For a comforting, unpretentious meal, the pub is a delightful change of pace, especially after a chilly day exploring ashore.
While Cunard doesn't typically feature extensive Alaska-specific menus every night, you can often find local seafood like salmon or halibut incorporated into the main dining room menus, especially on evenings after visiting a fishing port. Room service is available 24/7, offering a selection of complimentary items and some premium options for a fee. Dietary accommodations are handled with Cunard's usual meticulous care; just notify them in advance and speak to the maître d'hôtel upon embarkation.
Entertainment & Activities
Signature Experiences
Queen Elizabeth is renowned for its classic ocean liner experiences, many of which are truly unique among Alaska cruise ships. These are the "wow" features that define a Cunard voyage:
- Queens Room: This magnificent, two-deck ballroom is the social heart of the ship. It's where you'll experience the famous white-glove afternoon tea, an elegant daily ritual complete with classical music, delicate finger sandwiches, and freshly baked scones. In the evenings, it transforms into a grand ballroom for themed balls and formal dancing, often with a live orchestra. Don't be shy – even if you don't dance, watching the spectacle is a treat.
- Royal Court Theatre: A stunning, two-deck venue reminiscent of a West End theater. It hosts full-scale production shows, musical revues, and even guest entertainers. The quality of the performances is consistently high. Practical tip: Arrive 15-20 minutes early for popular shows to secure good seats, especially on formal nights.
- The Garden Lounge (Wintergarden): This beautiful, conservatory-style space is a tranquil retreat inspired by the classic English gardens. With its retractable glass roof, it's perfect for both sunny and cooler days, allowing you to feel connected to the outside world while staying warm. It hosts live music, pre-dinner drinks, and sometimes themed parties. It's a fantastic alternative to outdoor decks for scenic cruising on a chilly Alaska day.
- Commodore Club: Located high up on Deck 10, this forward-facing observation lounge offers panoramic windows with breathtaking views. It's an ideal spot for enjoying a pre-dinner cocktail while watching the Alaskan landscape unfold. The ambiance is sophisticated and relaxed, often with live piano music. Practical tip: Head here early on glacier viewing days to snag one of the prime window seats.
Onboard Activities
Beyond the signature experiences, Queen Elizabeth offers a comprehensive range of activities to keep you engaged, whether you're relaxing or staying active.
- Pools, Hot Tubs, Spa: The ship features two main outdoor pools (the Pavilion Pool on Deck 9 and the Lido Pool on Deck 9), along with several hot tubs. The Mareel Wellness & Beauty (Canyon Ranch SpaClub at Sea) offers a thermal suite with hydrotherapy pool, saunas, and steam rooms (access often requires a pass or spa treatment), plus a full menu of treatments.
- Fitness Center, Sports Courts: The state-of-the-art gym on Deck 9 is well-equipped with cardio and weight machines, and offers fitness classes (some complimentary, some for a fee). Outdoor sports courts on Deck 11 include paddle tennis and deck games.
- Casino, Games, Trivia: The Empire Casino on Deck 2 offers slot machines, blackjack, roulette, and poker. Throughout the day, you'll find trivia contests, board games, bridge, and various workshops in lounges like the Card Room or Library.
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Kids/Teens Programs: Cunard's "The Play Zone" provides supervised activities for children across various age groups:
- The Nursery (1-2 years): Dedicated space for the youngest cruisers.
- The Kids Zone (2-7 years): Arts, crafts, games, and themed parties.
- The Teens Zone (8-12 years & 13-17 years): Age-appropriate activities, sports tournaments, video games, and social events.
- Alaska Enrichment: Cunard often brings on local naturalists, historians, or park rangers for informative talks about Alaska's wildlife, geology, and culture. These lectures are invaluable for enhancing your understanding of the region. Keep an eye on your daily program for wildlife spotting tips and specific ranger programs, especially on Glacier Bay days.
Evening Entertainment
As night falls, Queen Elizabeth truly shines with its sophisticated evening entertainment.
- Shows, Theater Productions: The Royal Court Theatre hosts dazzling musical revues, West End-style productions, and guest headliners. Expect polished performances with elaborate costumes and sets.
- Live Music Venues: You'll find live music throughout the ship. The Queens Room hosts big band orchestras for dancing. The Commodore Club and Garden Lounge often feature pianists or classical ensembles. The Golden Lion Pub has sing-alongs and a lively atmosphere.
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Bars and Lounges:
- Commodore Club (Deck 10): Sophisticated observation lounge with panoramic views and classic cocktails.
- Hemisphere (Deck 10): A vibrant nightclub and lounge, often with a DJ or live band later in the evening.
- Churchill's Cigar Lounge (Deck 10): For connoisseurs of fine cigars and spirits.
- The Golden Lion Pub (Deck 2): A relaxed British pub atmosphere for a pint and conversation.
- Midships Bar (Deck 3): A central, elegant bar perfect for pre-dinner drinks.
- Late-Night Options: Hemisphere keeps the party going late with dancing and music. For a quieter evening, the casino remains open, or you can enjoy a nightcap in one of the many lounges.
Best Spots for Alaska Viewing
Maximizing your Alaska viewing experience on Queen Elizabeth means knowing where to go, especially on those breathtaking scenic cruising days. Here are my top spots:
- Commodore Club (Deck 10, Forward): This is hands down one of the best spots. Its expansive, forward-facing windows offer unparalleled panoramic views of glaciers and fjords. It's warm, comfortable, and often has live piano music, making it a luxurious viewing platform. Early morning strategy: On glacier viewing days, head here before breakfast to secure a prime window seat. It fills up quickly!
- The Garden Lounge (Deck 9, Midship/Aft): With its retractable glass roof, the Garden Lounge is a fantastic indoor/outdoor option. When the roof is open on a nice day, you get fresh air and unobstructed views. If it's chilly or rainy, the roof closes, providing a warm, bright conservatory feel with great sightlines. It’s perfect for those who want to be "outside" without being fully exposed to the elements.
- Outdoor Promenade Deck (Deck 3, Wraparound): For a classic ocean liner experience, bundle up and take a stroll on the wide, unobstructed wraparound promenade. You can walk the entire circumference of the ship, offering 360-degree views. This is excellent for spotting wildlife along the coastline or getting different perspectives of glaciers.
- Your Balcony Stateroom (Decks 4-8): As mentioned, a private balcony is invaluable. It offers personal, uninterrupted viewing without crowds. You can enjoy a hot coffee or a glass of wine while watching the scenery from the comfort of your room.
- Open Decks (Decks 9, 10, 11, and 12): Various open deck spaces provide excellent vantage points. Decks 9 and 10, particularly around the Lido Pool and Pavilion Pool areas, offer good forward and side views. Deck 11 and 12 also have open areas for elevated perspectives. These are great for photography, especially if you move around to avoid railings.
For rainy or particularly cold days, the Commodore Club and The Garden Lounge are your best bets for comfortable indoor viewing. Remember, the captain will make announcements over the public address system as you approach significant glaciers or wildlife hotbeds, often indicating which side of the ship offers the best views. Be ready to move!
What to Pack for Queen Elizabeth Alaska Cruise
Packing for an Alaska cruise on Queen Elizabeth requires a balance between preparing for the wilderness and embracing Cunard's elegant onboard lifestyle. Layers are your best friend!
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Layers, Layers, Layers: This is the absolute essential for Alaska. Temperatures can swing from chilly mornings to mild afternoons, and change quickly between sunny and overcast skies.
- Base layers: Moisture-wicking t-shirts or long-sleeve shirts (a good long-sleeve shirt works perfectly as a base layer on deck).
- Mid-layers: Fleece jackets, sweaters, or a warm vest. An Alaska cruise hoodie or an Alaska cruise sweatshirt is a must-have for early morning glacier viewing and provides comfortable warmth around the ship.
- Outer layer: A waterproof and windproof jacket. A good Alaska cruise jacket is essential for staying dry during port excursions, even if it's just a light drizzle.
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Formal Nights: Cunard is known for its traditional Gala Evenings. Expect 2-3 formal nights on a 7-night cruise.
- For gentlemen: A dark suit, tuxedo, or dinner jacket with trousers, shirt, and tie.
- For ladies: An evening gown, cocktail dress, or elegant pantsuit.
- Smart Casual: For other evenings, men should wear collared shirts and trousers (no shorts), and ladies should opt for stylish separates or dresses.
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Shore Excursion Gear:
- Comfortable walking shoes: Waterproof is a bonus.
- Hiking boots: If you plan on more strenuous excursions.
- Small backpack: To carry water, snacks, extra layers, and souvenirs.
- Rain pants: If you're doing serious outdoor activities like kayaking or intense hiking.
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Glacier Viewing Essentials:
- Binoculars: Absolutely crucial for spotting wildlife and details on distant glaciers.
- Warm hat, gloves, scarf: Even on a sunny day, the air near glaciers can be surprisingly cold.
- Camera with extra batteries: You'll be taking a lot of photos!
- Sunscreen and sunglasses: Glare off the water and ice can be intense.
- What NOT to Bring (Items the ship provides): Hair dryers, basic toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, soap), towels (pool and bath). Leave large coolers and irons at home.
- Carry-on Bag: Pack essentials like medications, important documents, a change of clothes, and swimwear in your carry-on. Your checked luggage might take a few hours to arrive at your stateroom on embarkation day.
Tips for First-Time Queen Elizabeth Cruisers
Sailing Queen Elizabeth to Alaska is a unique experience. Here are some actionable tips to make your first Cunard Alaska cruise truly memorable:
- Book Early, Especially for 2026: Alaska cruises, particularly on popular ships like Queen Elizabeth, sell out quickly. Booking 12-18 months in advance secures your preferred stateroom (especially balconies) and often the best fares.
- Download the My Cunard App: Before you sail, download the official Cunard app. It allows you to view your booking, access the daily program, make reservations, chat with other guests, and manage your onboard account once connected to the ship's Wi-Fi.
- Pre-Book Specialty Dining: If you plan to dine at The Verandah, make reservations online well in advance. These popular venues fill up, especially on preferred evenings.
- Consider a Drink Package: Cunard offers various drink packages. Do the math based on your expected consumption. If you enjoy wine with dinner, specialty coffees, and cocktails, a package can be a money-saver.
- Strategize Shore Excursions: Research excursions for each port before you sail. Book popular tours directly through Cunard for convenience and peace of mind (they guarantee you won't miss the ship), or with independent local operators for potentially lower prices or more unique experiences. Balance adventurous activities with cultural exploration.
- Embarkation Day Hacks: Arrive at the Vancouver terminal during your assigned embarkation window to avoid long queues. Once onboard, head straight to the Lido for lunch, then explore the ship's public areas before your stateroom is ready.
- Wi-Fi Package Advice: The ship's Wi-Fi is generally reliable but can be slow and expensive. If you need to stay connected, purchase a package. Otherwise, plan to use free Wi-Fi ashore in ports where available.
- Understand Gratuity Expectations: Cunard has an automatic daily gratuity charge per person. You can adjust this at the Purser's Desk. Exceptional service can always be rewarded with additional cash tips.
- Join the Cunard World Club: Even after your first cruise, you'll be enrolled in Cunard's loyalty program, offering benefits like discounts, onboard credits, and priority services on future sailings.
- Pack Smart for Port Days: While formal wear is for evenings, pack practical, comfortable clothing for port days. Many passengers find Alaska cruise t-shirts or funny Alaska cruise shirts are perfect for casual wear, or even as easy souvenir alternatives. If traveling with a group, matching cruise shirts or Alaska cruise family shirts are a fun way to identify each other during busy port excursions or for memorable group photos.
Who Is Queen Elizabeth Best For?
Queen Elizabeth offers a very distinct cruise experience, and it's important to align your expectations with what the ship delivers, especially for an Alaska itinerary.
- Families with young kids: While Queen Elizabeth has excellent kids' clubs and programs, it's not a ship designed primarily for families seeking constant, high-energy entertainment like waterslides or climbing walls. The ambiance is more subdued and refined. Families who appreciate a more traditional, educational, and elegant vacation, and whose children enjoy structured activities and a slightly calmer pace, will find it suitable.
- Couples/Honeymooners: This ship is absolutely ideal for couples looking for a romantic, sophisticated getaway. The elegant dining, beautiful lounges, opportunities for dancing, and white-glove service create a perfect environment for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying each other's company amidst stunning scenery.
- Multi-generational groups: Queen Elizabeth shines for multi-generational groups where adults and grandparents appreciate the classic cruise experience, and younger family members can enjoy the kids' clubs or simply the shared experience of Alaska. There are activities to cater to a wide range of interests, from enrichment lectures to formal balls.
- Solo travelers: Cunard is known for being welcoming to solo travelers, offering dedicated events and a comfortable, safe environment. The emphasis on enrichment and social activities in lounges makes it easy to meet fellow passengers.
- Budget-conscious cruisers: Queen Elizabeth is generally not a budget-friendly option. Cunard positions itself as a premium cruise line, and while you get exceptional value for the service and experience, the initial price point is higher than many contemporary lines.
- Luxury seekers: For those seeking a blend of classic luxury, attentive service, and an elegant atmosphere without the ultra-luxury price tag of some smaller expedition ships, Queen Elizabeth is an excellent choice. The Grill Suites offer a truly luxurious experience within a larger ship setting.
In essence, Queen Elizabeth is best for cruisers who value tradition, impeccable service, elegant surroundings, and a focus on enrichment and relaxation. If your ideal Alaska cruise involves dressing up for dinner, enjoying a formal afternoon tea, and appreciating the journey itself as much as the destination, this ship will be a perfect match. If you prioritize non-stop adrenaline, casual dining every night, or the lowest possible price, you might find other ships more aligned with your preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Queen Elizabeth good for an Alaska cruise?
Yes, Queen Elizabeth is an excellent choice for an Alaska cruise, offering a unique blend of British elegance and traditional ocean liner charm. Its spacious decks, numerous indoor observation lounges like the Commodore Club, and refined ambiance provide a sophisticated way to experience the rugged Alaskan wilderness. It's ideal for those who appreciate enrichment, formal dining, and attentive service.
What deck is best for Alaska views on Queen Elizabeth?
For Alaska views, Deck 10, particularly the forward-facing Commodore Club, offers panoramic vistas. Decks 9 (Garden Lounge) and 3 (wraparound Promenade Deck) are also fantastic. A balcony stateroom on Decks 4-8 provides private viewing. The ship's captain often rotates the vessel during glacier viewing to ensure good views from both port and starboard sides.
Do I need a balcony on Queen Elizabeth for Alaska?
While not strictly necessary, a balcony stateroom is highly recommended for an Alaska cruise on Queen Elizabeth. It allows for private, unobstructed viewing of glaciers, fjords, and wildlife from the comfort of your room, enhancing the overall experience significantly. It's especially valuable on scenic cruising days or for quiet mornings spotting wildlife.
How many sea days are on a Queen Elizabeth Alaska cruise?
A typical 7-night Queen Elizabeth Alaska cruise from Vancouver will include approximately 2-3 full sea days, primarily for scenic cruising through the Inside Passage, plus an additional full day for glacier viewing (Hubbard Glacier or Glacier Bay). Longer itineraries may have more sea days, offering ample time to enjoy the ship's amenities.
What is the dress code on Queen Elizabeth?
Queen Elizabeth operates with a traditional dress code. Evenings typically alternate between "Smart Casual" (collared shirts and trousers for men, dresses or stylish separates for women) and "Gala Evenings" (dark suits/tuxedos for men, evening gowns/cocktail dresses for women). Daytime attire is generally casual, but swimwear should be confined to pool areas.
Does Queen Elizabeth have a kids club?
Yes, Queen Elizabeth has dedicated kids' clubs as part of "The Play Zone." These supervised programs cater to various age groups, including The Nursery (1-2 years), The Kids Zone (2-7 years), and The Teens Zone (8-12 years & 13-17 years), offering age-appropriate activities and entertainment throughout the cruise.
Is Wi-Fi included on Queen Elizabeth?
Wi-Fi is generally not included in the base cruise fare on Queen Elizabeth. Passengers typically need to purchase a Wi-Fi package for internet access onboard. Various packages are available, offering different levels of data or unlimited access, which can be purchased pre-cruise or once onboard. Speeds can vary, especially at sea.
What time does Queen Elizabeth arrive in port?
Queen Elizabeth's arrival times in Alaska ports typically range from early morning (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM) to late morning (11:00 AM - 12:00 PM). Departure times are usually in the late afternoon or early evening (4:00 PM - 9:00 PM), providing ample time for shore excursions and exploring each destination. Exact times are listed in your daily program.
Can I book shore excursions through Cunard?
Yes, you can absolutely book shore excursions directly through Cunard. This is a convenient option that guarantees you won't miss the ship if an excursion runs late. Cunard offers a wide variety of excursions for each Alaska port, ranging from wildlife viewing and glacier tours to cultural experiences and adventurous activities. Booking can be done online in advance or onboard.
How old is Queen Elizabeth and has it been refurbished?
The Queen Elizabeth was built in 2010, making it a relatively modern ship in the Cunard fleet. It underwent a significant refurbishment in 2018, which included updates to staterooms, public areas, and the addition of new venues. The ship is meticulously maintained to Cunard's high standards, ensuring a fresh and elegant experience for guests.
Gear Up for Your Queen Elizabeth Cruise
Sailing on the Queen Elizabeth? Browse our collection of Alaska cruise shirts, hoodies, and outerwear — designed for cruise travelers who want comfort and style at every port of call.
Gear Up for Your Queen Elizabeth Cruise
Sailing on the Queen Elizabeth? Browse our collection of Alaska cruise shirts, hoodies, and outerwear — designed for cruise travelers who want comfort and style at every port of call.
Browse our Alaska cruise shirts designed for glacier viewing, port days, and onboard adventures.
Shop Alaska Cruise Shirts