Small white yacht idles in front of a large blue & white glacier on a sunny day in Alaska, with iceberg floating beside the ship.
Alaska Railroad train travels through green lowlands amongst snowcapped peaks.
Bald eagle flaps its wings as it comes in for a landing on a rock, seen during the Prince William Sound Cruise & Rail Adventure.
A group of adventuriists hike through the Alaskan forest ressed from head to toe in hiking gear in front of bodys of water
View from behind woman paddling a red kayak in calm waters among rocky tree-lined shore in Alaska.
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North America Alaska Cruise

Prince William Sound Cruise & Rail Adventure

On this 5- or 7-day Prince William Sound cruise and rail adventure, experience the Last Frontier in secluded Southcentral Alaska. Round-trip Alaska Railroad trips via Anchorage bookend this Prince William Sound cruise out of Seward or Whittier. Both on land and by sea, extraordinary areas and scenic views leave lifelong memories. 

Watch for thunderous calving tidewater glaciers, leaping humpback whales and orcas, ambling black bears and myriad seabirds, among other wildlife. Explore sea caves and peaceful coves. Practice photography from the ship and on land, paddle a sea kayak, learn from the ship’s naturalist on guided hikes, or simply relax on board your classic yacht.

Passage is aboard the 8- to 12-guest Sea Star, a 1960s-era yacht kept in mint condition. Step back in time aboard this lovingly maintained ship and immerse in her private yacht feel during this intimate Prince William Sound cruise. Teak accents, cozy accommodations, gourmet food and a passionate crew add to the experience. Our Adventure Specialists can also arrange private Alaska yacht charters aboard Sea Star for your family or special group of 12 or fewer. With a shorter itinerary and child discounts, this trip makes our list of Alaska family cruises.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Alaska trips and Alaska small ship cruises.



Itinerary

Round-Trip Whittier Prince William Sound Cruise Itinerary

The round-trip Whittier Prince William Sound Cruise & Rail Adventure begins and ends with an Alaska Railroad train ride, connecting Whittier and Anchorage. Spend 5 or 7 unforgettable days exploring Southcentral Alaska.

Route map of round-trip Whittier itinerary for Prince William Sound Cruise & Rail Adventure.
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Day 1
Alaska Railroad Anchorage to Whittier & Embark

At the Alaska Railroad train depot in Anchorage, Alaska, board the world-famous Alaska Railroad train to Whittier. During this scenic train ride, experience picturesque coastal views of Turnagain Arm and maybe catch a glimpse of feeding beluga whales. As the train twists through the Chugach mountain range, look for moose, bear, bald eagles, mountain goats, glacial rivers, waterfalls and backcountry glaciers. Perhaps the staff will share insights into local history and wildlife along the way.

In Whittier, disembark the train and meet the Sea Star crew, who will assist with luggage on the short walk to the yacht. Embark the Sea Star, settle into your cabin and depart on an amazing Prince William Sound cruise.

Accommodations

Sea Star

Meals

lunch, dinner

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Days 2 - 4/6
Explore Prince William Sound

Each day after a hearty homestyle breakfast, explore the western seas and fjords of Prince William Sound. Visit places like Esther Passage, Kings Bay and Resurrection Bay. Take in Harriman Fjord’s calving Surprise Glacier, Nassau Fjord’s calving Chenega Glacier and Port Bainbridge’s massive Bainbridge Glacier.

Each day, choose sea kayaking, hiking, beachcombing, or simply relax on board. The ship’s flexible schedule enables easy wildlife viewing. Experience roaring waterfalls and an abundance of wildlife. Cap each day with an epicurean dinner and tuck into a secluded, quiet cove to anchor for the night.

Accommodations

Sea Star

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 5/7
Disembark Whittier, Alaska Railroad to Anchorage & Depart

Arrive back in Whittier during the last day of this Alaska glacier cruise. Take time to explore this small quaint town. Maybe tour the Prince William Sound Museum, walk the waterfront, or enjoy a coffee before boarding the evening train for a different scenic route back to Anchorage, where the trip comes to an end.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast, lunch

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Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Adventure Class round-trip train ticket between Anchorage and the port of call to embark and disembark the ship (Gold Star Service upgrade available $230 per person in 2025); all meals, snacks, beverages including wine and/or beer served with dinner; all bedding and linens; all guided activities including sea kayaking and shore excursions; all equipment including sea kayaking gear, hiking poles and binoculars; rubber boots used during land excursions.

Exclusions

Lodging in Anchorage; hard liquor; recreational fishing licenses; gratuities; airfare unless specified; airport and other travel taxes and/or fees; airport transfers; fees for possible required COVID-19 testing prior to entry into Alaska (Alaska Safe Travels: https://covid19.alaska.gov/travelers) or in any other state or country; baggage fees; failure of any transportation system; travel, medical or insurance of any kind; passports and visa fees; medical costs; illness and/or hospitalization costs; immunizations; purchase or loss of personal items; additional expenses arising from the delay or extension of a cruise due to weather or any third party services; political disputes; or any other causes or conditions beyond operator’s control; float plane transfer to/from the vessel Sea Star due to late arrival or early departure.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 50% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date or by March 1 of the same year, whichever date comes first. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 181 days – full refund
181 to 91 days (or before March 1 of cruise year) – 20% of total trip cost cancellation fee + 3rd party costs
90 to 0 days (or on/after March 1 of cruise year) – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The round-trip Whittier itinerary begins and ends in Anchorage, Alaska (ANC). Plan flights to arrive to Anchorage prior to Day 1 of the itinerary, as the train ride on Day 1 begins early. Plan to depart Anchorage anytime after the final day of the itinerary, as the return train ride arrives late in the evening.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include hiking, kayaking, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, photography, land treks, glacier viewing, whale watching and wildlife observation.

Room Configuration

Single travelers wishing to book the Sandpiper, Kittiwake or Osprey cabins may do so at 1.5x the per-person listed rate based upon availability.

Families & Children

Kids 10 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates. Children of any age are welcome aboard full boat charters. A parent or a legal guardian must accompany anyone under the age of 18. Save 20% per child aged 10 to 17. 

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s/expedition leader’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising and land tours unique.

Seward/Whittier Prince William Sound Cruise Itinerary

The Seward/Whittier Prince William Sound Cruise & Rail Adventure begins with an Alaska Railroad train ride from Anchorage to Seward, and ends with a different scenic train route from Whittier to Anchorage, or reverse. Spend 7 unforgettable days exploring Southcentral Alaska.

Route map of Seward-Whittier alternative itinerary for Prince William Sound Cruise & Rail Adventure.
Read More
Day 1
Alaska Railroad Anchorage to Seward & Embark

At the Alaska Railroad train depot in Anchorage, Alaska, board the world-famous Alaska Railroad train to Whittier. During this scenic train ride, experience picturesque coastal views of Turnagain Arm and maybe catch a glimpse of feeding beluga whales. As the train twists through the Chugach mountain range, look for moose, bear, bald eagles, mountain goats, glacial rivers, waterfalls and backcountry glaciers. Perhaps the staff will share insights into local history and wildlife along the way.

In Seward, disembark the train and meet the Sea Star crew, who will assist with luggage on the short walk to the yacht. Embark the Sea Star, settle into your cabin and depart on an amazing Prince William Sound cruise.

Accommodations

Sea Star

Meals

lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 2 - 6
Explore Prince William Sound

Each day after a hearty homestyle breakfast, explore the western seas and fjords of Prince William Sound. Visit places like Esther Passage, Kings Bay and Resurrection Bay. Take in Harriman Fjord’s calving Surprise Glacier, Nassau Fjord’s calving Chenega Glacier and Port Bainbridge’s massive Bainbridge Glacier. Travel the outer coast of Blying Sound between Cape Cleare and Cape Resurrection for a chance to see feeding whales, orcas, porpoises, sea lions, seals, sea otters and a variety of nesting marine birds including puffins, kittiwakes and murres.

Each day, choose sea kayaking, hiking, beachcombing, or simply relax on board. The ship’s flexible schedule enables easy wildlife viewing. Experience roaring waterfalls and an abundance of wildlife. Cap each day with an epicurean dinner and tuck into a secluded, quiet cove to anchor for the night.

Accommodations

Sea Star

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 7
Disembark Whittier, Alaska Railroad to Anchorage & Depart

Arrive in Whittier during the last day of this Alaska glacier cruise. Take time to explore this small quaint town. Maybe tour the Prince William Sound Museum, walk the waterfront, or enjoy a coffee before boarding the evening train for a different scenic route back to Anchorage, where the trip comes to an end.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast, lunch

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Adventure Class round-trip train ticket between Anchorage and the port of call to embark and disembark the ship (Gold Star Service upgrade available $230 per person in 2025); all meals, snacks, beverages including wine and/or beer served with dinner; all bedding and linens; all guided activities including sea kayaking and shore excursions; all equipment including sea kayaking gear, hiking poles and binoculars; rubber boots used during land excursions.

Exclusions

Lodging in Anchorage; hard liquor; recreational fishing licenses; gratuities; airfare unless specified; airport and other travel taxes and/or fees; airport transfers; fees for possible required COVID-19 testing prior to entry into Alaska (Alaska Safe Travels: https://covid19.alaska.gov/travelers) or in any other state or country; baggage fees; failure of any transportation system; travel, medical or insurance of any kind; passports and visa fees; medical costs; illness and/or hospitalization costs; immunizations; purchase or loss of personal items; additional expenses arising from the delay or extension of a cruise due to weather or any third party services; political disputes; or any other causes or conditions beyond operator’s control; float plane transfer to/from the vessel Sea Star due to late arrival or early departure.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 50% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date or by March 1 of the same year, whichever date comes first. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 181 days – full refund
181 to 91 days (or before March 1 of cruise year) – 20% of total trip cost cancellation fee + 3rd party costs
90 to 0 days (or on/after March 1 of cruise year) – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The round-trip Whittier itinerary begins and ends in Anchorage, Alaska (ANC). Plan flights to arrive to Anchorage prior to Day 1 of the itinerary, as the train ride on Day 1 begins early. Plan to depart Anchorage anytime after the final day of the itinerary, as the return train ride arrives late in the evening.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include hiking, kayaking, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, photography, land treks, glacier viewing, whale watching and wildlife observation.

Room Configuration

Single travelers wishing to book the Sandpiper, Kittiwake or Osprey cabins may do so at 1.5x the per-person listed rate based upon availability.

Families & Children

Kids 10 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates. Children of any age are welcome aboard full boat charters. A parent or a legal guardian must accompany anyone under the age of 18. Save 20% per child aged 10 to 17. 

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s/expedition leader’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising and land tours unique.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

This ship is an AdventureSmith favorite for private charter. Contact us for charter pricing and details.

Jun 21 - Jun 27, 2025
Sea Star • 7 days
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From $7650USD
Per Person
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Jun 29 - Jul 03, 2025
Sea Star • 5 days
From $5990USD
Per Person
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Jul 05 - Jul 09, 2025
Sea Star • 5 days
From $5990USD
Per Person
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Jul 11 - Jul 17, 2025
Sea Star • 7 days
From $7650USD
Per Person
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Jul 19 - Jul 23, 2025
Sea Star • 5 days
From $5990USD
Per Person
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Jul 25 - Jul 29, 2025
Sea Star • 5 days
From $5990USD
Per Person
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Jul 31 - Aug 06, 2025
Sea Star • 7 days
From $7650USD
Per Person
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Aug 08 - Aug 12, 2025
Sea Star • 5 days
From $5990USD
Per Person
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Aug 14 - Aug 18, 2025
Sea Star • 5 days
From $5990USD
Per Person
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Aug 20 - Aug 26, 2025
Sea Star • 7 days
From $7650USD
Per Person
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Aug 28 - Sep 01, 2025
Sea Star • 5 days
From $5990USD
Per Person
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Accommodation

Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary

Yacht
Sea Star

Step back in time aboard the classic 8- to 12-guest Sea Star, a 1965-built private yacht that treats her guests to itineraries along Alaska's Kenai Peninsula, Prince William Sound and Inside Passage.

Deal

Current Deals on This Trip

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Offer expires December 31st, 2024
Groups Save 5% On Select 2024 & 2025 Nat Geo Fleet Worldwide

Save 5% when traveling as a group of 8 or more on a variety of 2024 or 2025 National Geographic expeditions worldwide.

Testimonial

Hear It From Travelers Who Have Explored With Us Before

"Best Vacation Of My Life!"

Best vacation of my life! I will not forget the whales, glaciers, waterfalls, birds, and hiking briefly in the wilderness...I like the small-boat idea and focus on nature.

Overall
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Meals
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Book with the confidence that comes from experience.

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

Extend Your Trip

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Prince William Sound Cruise & Rail Adventure

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