Ocean Cruises in Canada

What our customers ask about Ocean Cruises in Canada

• When is the best time to take an Ocean Cruise in Canada?

  Canada Ocean Cruises run from May to September with July and August offering the most reliable weather conditions. During these months the Alaska Inside Passage and British Columbia coast come alive with wildlife. Travelers regularly spot whales seals and bald eagles along the route. The summer months provide clear views of the glaciers at Glacier Bay National Park while ports like Victoria and Vancouver have pleasant temperatures ideal for shore excursions. As one TourRadar traveler noted: "We saw so much wildlife in August - whales breaching right next to our ship and bears fishing along the shoreline."

• What are the main highlights on a Canada Ocean Cruise itinerary?

  The Inside Passage serves as the centerpiece of most Canada Ocean Cruises leading travelers past Glacier Bay National Park's calving glaciers and through historic ports like Victoria Skagway and Ketchikan. The route brings passengers close to wildlife including whales seals and eagles. Popular stops include Vancouver's Stanley Park Juneau and Tracy Arm Fjord. Many itineraries feature stays at premium hotels like the Fairmont properties during land portions. As one TourRadar traveler shared: "The Inside Passage scenery was absolutely breathtaking - massive glaciers pristine wilderness and whales breaching right from our balcony."

• What type of ships and cabin accommodations are available?

  Canada Ocean Cruises operate on well-appointed ships like Holland America Line's MS Koningsdam and MS Zaandam or Hurtigruten's MS Roald Amundsen. Accommodations range from Polar Outside staterooms to Verandah Suites with private balconies. The ships provide restaurants panoramic lounges hot tubs and wellness centers. The MS Roald Amundsen offers Arctic Superior Staterooms and Expedition Suites while land portions often include stays at properties like the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. As one TourRadar traveler noted: "Our Verandah stateroom on Holland America was spacious and perfectly positioned for wildlife viewing."

• How long are typical Canada Ocean Cruise itineraries?

  Most Canada Ocean Cruise routes run between 7 and 26 days with popular options lasting 14-22 days combining land and sea experiences. Holland America provides 7-day Inside Passage trips while Scenic's "Icons of Western Canada & Alaskan Cruise" extends to 22 days including Rocky Mountain exploration. For extended journeys Hurtigruten offers a 26-day Northwest Passage expedition. As one TourRadar traveler recommended: "The 15-day itinerary was perfect - enough time to see highlights while maintaining a relaxed pace."

• What's included in the dining experience on Canada Ocean Cruises?

  Cruise packages include all meals with multiple dining venues on board. The MS Roald Amundsen features the upscale Lindstrøm Restaurant for suite guests plus casual options at Aune and Fredheim restaurants. Basic beverages including tea and coffee come with the fare. Ships accommodate special diets with advance notice. Land-based meals at hotels like the Fairmont Banff Springs range from casual to fine dining. As a TourRadar traveler noted: "The food quality was excellent throughout - from casual buffets to fine dining experiences with local specialties."

• What unique cultural experiences are available on Canada Ocean Cruises?

  These cruises connect travelers with indigenous communities gold rush history and local traditions. Stops include the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre in Whistler Fort Ross and Klondike Gold Rush National Park. Passengers often meet retired Royal Canadian Mounted Police officers and local craftspeople. The itineraries blend urban experiences in Victoria and Quebec City with traditional cultural visits. As one TourRadar traveler shared: "Learning about First Nations culture and meeting local community members was a highlight - it added such depth to the natural beauty we experienced."