DESTINATION

Pacific

From the dramatic glaciers of Alaska to the tropical paradise of Hawaii, the ancient temples of the South Pacific, and the stunning coastlines of Australia and New Zealand, discover why the Pacific offers some of the most breathtaking cruise experiences on Earth.

Set Sail Across the Pacific

The Pacific Ocean is the world’s largest and most diverse cruising destination—a vast expanse of wonder stretching from the icy fjords of Alaska to the coral atolls of the South Pacific. Whether you’re watching humpback whales breach against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains, snorkeling in Bora Bora’s crystal lagoon, or exploring Sydney’s iconic harbour, a Pacific cruise delivers awe-inspiring moments at every turn. With itineraries ranging from quick coastal getaways to grand transoceanic voyages, there’s a Pacific cruise perfectly suited to every traveler.

Silversea Silver Endeavour
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Norwegian Fjords
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A serene overwater villa with an infinity pool overlooking a turquoise ocean at sunset, with a silhouetted figure raising their arms in celebration. The thatched-roof bungalow offers a luxurious view of the dramatic sky and calm waters.
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A pristine swimming pool on a luxurious cruise ship with white lounge chairs and a modern design, featuring a smiling passenger in a red floral dress standing with outstretched arms
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Dramatic Landscapes

From towering glaciers and volcanic peaks to pristine coral atolls, the Pacific delivers nature’s grandest spectacles at every turn.

Incredible Wildlife

Witness humpback whales, sea turtles, dolphins, bald eagles, and exotic marine life in some of the world’s most pristine ecosystems.

Diverse Cultures

Experience Polynesian traditions, Maori heritage, Hawaiian aloha spirit, and indigenous cultures that have shaped the Pacific for millennia.

Explore Pacific Cruise Regions

The Pacific encompasses a remarkable range of cruising regions, each offering a completely different experience. Our expert cruise advisors have sailed these waters and will help you choose the perfect Pacific itinerary for your dream vacation.

Amazon Pink Dolphin
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Alaska

Key Ports: Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Sitka, Glacier Bay, Icy Strait Point, Hubbard Glacier

Known For: Massive tidewater glaciers, whale watching, gold rush history, stunning fjords, wildlife encounters

Ideal For: Nature lovers and adventure seekers looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience

Duration: 7-14 nights

A large group of emperor penguins gathered on a snowy landscape with a massive white ice shelf in the background under a cloudy gray sky. The penguins are densely clustered across the frozen terrain, showcasing the harsh Antarctic environment.
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Hawaii

Key Ports: Honolulu (Oahu), Maui (Lahaina/Kahului), Kona (Big Island), Kauai (Nawiliwili), Hilo

Known For: Active volcanoes, the Napali Coast, luaus, world-class snorkeling, aloha spirit

Ideal For: Couples, families, and anyone seeking tropical beauty with American convenience

Duration: 7-15 nights

A picturesque view of a colorful Alaskan fishing harbor with vibrant boats docked along wooden piers, backed by snow-capped mountains and a distant glacier at sunset.
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South Pacific & Australia/New Zealand

Key Ports: Sydney, Auckland, Fiji (Suva/Lautoka), Bora Bora, Tahiti, Moorea, New Caledonia, Vanuatu

Known For: Polynesian culture, Great Barrier Reef, Milford Sound, overwater bungalows, remote island paradise

Ideal For: Experienced cruisers and bucket-list travelers seeking exotic, off-the-beaten-path destinations

Duration: 10-21+ nights

Compare Pacific Cruise Regions

Feature Alaska Hawaii South Pacific & Australia/NZ
Typical Duration 7–14 nights 7–15 nights 10–21+ nights
Main Departure Ports Seattle, Vancouver, Seward/Whittier Honolulu, Los Angeles, San Francisco Sydney, Auckland, Los Angeles
Best For Nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, adventure seekers Couples, families, tropical getaway lovers Experienced cruisers, bucket-list travelers
Highlights Glaciers, whale watching, gold rush towns, fjords Volcanoes, Napali Coast, luaus, snorkeling Great Barrier Reef, Polynesian culture, Milford Sound
A picturesque harbor view of Ketchikan, Alaska, featuring colorful waterfront buildings, fishing boats, and mountains at golden hour, showcasing the town's maritime character.
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Our Pacific cruise advisors will help you navigate the possibilities.

The Pacific is the world’s largest ocean—and it’s packed with incredible cruising options. You might explore the glaciers of Alaska’s Inside Passage from ports like Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan. Or island-hop across Hawaii, from the active volcanoes of the Big Island to the lush valleys of Kauai. Venture further to the South Pacific and you’ll find yourself in Tahiti, Fiji, and Bora Bora—places most people only dream about. Continue south to experience the cosmopolitan cities and natural wonders of Australia and New Zealand, from Sydney Harbour to Milford Sound. You could even embark on a transpacific voyage, crossing the world’s mightiest ocean with stops in some of its most remote and fascinating ports. If all of those options sound overwhelming, that’s exactly why we’re here. Our team of 23+ expert advisors has sailed these waters—we’ve been there—and we’ll help you find the perfect Pacific cruise. Talk to a cruise expert today!

Beyond the Pacific Islands

Many Pacific itineraries can be extended or combined with nearby destinations for an even more unforgettable voyage.

  • Pacific Coastal – San Francisco, wine country, and the stunning California coastline
  • Transpacific Crossings – Epic voyages connecting North America with Asia or Australasia
  • Japan & Asia – Ancient temples, vibrant cities, and extraordinary cuisine
  • Mexican Riviera – Resort towns, whale watching, and Pacific sunsets
A large MSC cruise ship docked at the pristine Ocean Cay marine reserve in the Bahamas, with a white lighthouse and turquoise waters surrounding a white sandy beach.
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Find your specialty cruise today!

We’ll help find the perfect specialty cruise—whether you’re crossing oceans, transiting canals, or exploring the ends of the Earth.

Best Time to Cruise the Pacific

The Pacific’s vast size means the best time to cruise depends on which region you’re exploring. Our advisors will help you plan around the ideal season for your chosen destination.

Alaska (May – September): The Alaska cruise season runs from late spring through early fall. June through August offers the warmest temperatures and longest daylight hours, while May and September provide excellent value and fewer crowds.

Hawaii (Year-Round): Hawaii enjoys pleasant weather throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 75-85°F. Winter months (December – March) bring prime whale-watching season, while summer is ideal for families.

South Pacific & Australia/New Zealand (October – April): The Southern Hemisphere summer offers warm, dry conditions perfect for island hopping. Australia and New Zealand are at their best from November through March.

Transpacific & Pacific Coastal (Spring & Fall): Repositioning cruises and transpacific voyages typically run in spring and fall, offering exceptional value and unique itineraries.

A sleek and modern retail space within a cruise ship, featuring merchandise displays with blue and white branding, branded clothing, and souvenirs in glass cabinets with mood lighting.
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Why Book with Cruise Help

Expert Advisors

Specialty cruise specialists who understand the unique requirements of expedition and world voyages.

Exclusive Perks

Access to special deals, onboard credits, and amenities not available when booking direct.

Personalised Planning

Custom recommendations for ships, itineraries, and cabin selection on complex voyages.

Full Support

Assistance from booking through disembarkation and beyond—we’re with you every step.

Pacific Cruise FAQs

It depends on the region! Alaska cruises run May through September, with peak season in June through August. Hawaii is wonderful year-round, though winter brings whale-watching season. South Pacific and Australia/New Zealand are best from October through April (their summer). Our cruise advisors will help you pick the ideal timing for your preferred destination.

Alaska and Hawaii are excellent choices for first-time Pacific cruisers. Alaska offers convenient round-trip departures from Seattle or Vancouver with a perfect blend of scenic cruising and port calls. Hawaii cruises from the U.S. mainland require no passport (for U.S. citizens) and offer familiar comforts with an exotic feel. Your cruise advisor can recommend the best fit based on your interests and travel style.

Alaska cruises focus on glaciers, wildlife, and frontier adventure with cool temperatures and dramatic scenery. Hawaii cruises deliver tropical island-hopping with volcanic landscapes, beaches, and cultural experiences. South Pacific cruises venture to remote island paradises like Fiji, Tahiti, and Bora Bora, often combined with Australia and New Zealand for a grand voyage experience.

Pacific cruise durations vary significantly by region. Alaska cruises typically run 7-14 nights, Hawaii itineraries range from 7-15 nights depending on departure port, and South Pacific/Australia/New Zealand voyages often last 10-21+ nights. Transpacific crossings can be 14-21 nights. Our expert advisors can help you find the perfect length for your vacation time and budget.

For Alaska cruises departing and returning to the same U.S. port (like Seattle round-trip), U.S. citizens can travel with a birth certificate and government-issued ID, though we strongly recommend a passport. Hawaii cruises from and to U.S. ports are domestic voyages and don’t require a passport for U.S. citizens. South Pacific, Australia, and New Zealand itineraries require a valid passport. Our advisors will guide you on all documentation requirements for your specific itinerary.

Packing depends heavily on your destination. Alaska cruises require layered clothing, waterproof jackets, and binoculars for wildlife viewing. Hawaii and South Pacific cruises call for lightweight tropical clothing, swimsuits, reef-safe sunscreen, and water shoes. For any Pacific cruise, pack comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions and a light jacket for onboard air conditioning. Your cruise advisor can provide a tailored packing list for your specific itinerary.

Many cruise lines offer Pacific sailings. For Alaska, popular options include Holland America, Princess, Norwegian, Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, and Disney. Hawaii is uniquely served by Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America (the only ship sailing year-round inter-island), plus seasonal sailings from other major lines. South Pacific and Australia/New Zealand are covered by Princess, Holland America, Celebrity, Paul Gauguin Cruises, and luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas and Silversea. Our team of 23+ advisors will match you with the ideal cruise line for your preferences.

Many Pacific cruises are wonderful for families. Alaska offers incredible educational experiences with wildlife, glaciers, and gold rush history that kids love. Hawaii is naturally family-friendly with beaches, snorkeling, and cultural activities. South Pacific voyages tend to be longer and may be better suited for older children or multi-generational groups. We’ll help you select the right ship, itinerary, and cabin arrangement for your family’s needs.

In Alaska, top excursions include helicopter glacier treks, whale watching, salmon fishing, and visiting sled dog camps. Hawaii highlights include volcano tours, snorkeling at Molokini Crater, luaus, and Napali Coast boat tours. In the South Pacific, you might swim with manta rays, explore ancient temples, or enjoy a private beach island day. Australia and New Zealand offer Great Barrier Reef snorkeling, Milford Sound cruises, and wine country tours.

Yes! Repositioning cruises and grand voyage itineraries often combine multiple Pacific regions. You might sail from Alaska to Hawaii in the fall, or from Hawaii to the South Pacific and Australia. Some cruise lines offer extended world cruise segments that cover the entire Pacific. Ask your Cruise Help advisor about combining regions for the ultimate Pacific adventure—with no fees for our expert planning services.