• Breathtaking scenery helps make Alaska a tourism hotspot.glacier bay, alaska image by Alan James from Fotolia.com
  
  Alaska cruises have become popular vacation options for seniors, as well as travelers of all ages. Alaska has stunning landscapes filled with clear blue lakes, jagged mountain ranges, open forests and a broad variety of flora and fauna rarely seen in other parts of the world. From whale-watching to spying on grizzly bears in their natural habitat, the excitement and diversity of the Alaskan experience makes it a "world's best."
  
  

Standard Cruises

• Alaska cruises usually sail in summer and various lines offer special discounts to tourists age 55 and older. As of March 2010, a regular ticket for an Alaska cruise averages between $1,500 and $3,000. Alaska cruises have a variety of itineraries that give you a wide choice of sights and experiences. Most Alaskan cruises depart either north from Vancouver or south from Anchorage. Along the way, you'll witness iconic Alaskan sights such as humpback whales, towering glaciers, bald eagles, seals, Orcas, dense primeval forests and wild landscapes.
  
  

Expedition Cruises

• Expedition cruises take place on smaller ships that can cross over inland waterways and canals, with the purpose of getting a closer and more intimate look at Alaskan landscapes and wildlife. These smaller cruises are also popular with travelers who want to avoid the mass-marketing-style entertainment and activities present on traditional cruise ships.
  
  

Luxury Cruises

• Luxury Alaska cruises are similar to standard cruises in their itineraries and large ship setting, but they take place aboard high-end ships replete with upscale facilities, amenities and services that include gourmet formal dining, luxury spas, butler services and expansive stateroom suites with special touches like whirlpools. Personalized shore excursions and special services like in-room massages are also among the offerings on a luxury cruise.