Sail on a lavish cruise from Alaska to Vancouver for over 50% off

Are you looking for a cheap cruise from Vancouver to Alaska to kick off the 2024 season? Try sailing in the opposite direction.

Trips from Vancouver to Alaska can cost a pretty penny, and sailings that visit Alaska's major tourist stops via a round-trip Vancouver itinerary are even pricier. But sailing down from Anchorage (Seward) can have hundreds of dollars off the total. Plus, you can spend some time in the bucket-list destination on a cruise tour or explore on your own. 

A seven-day, southbound Alaskan cruise that departs on Monday, April 22 takes passengers on an epic journey down the rugged coastline, starting with a cruise past the impressive, bright blue and white Hubbard Glacier, which is the largest tidewater glacier in North America. After that, they'll spend a day at Icy Straight Point, where NCL says they can watch for "humpback whales, porpoise and sea lions in the waters," from the shore. 

The "Alaska: Hubbard Glacier & Skagway" also makes other classic stops as it heads down the coast, including a day in the state's capital, Juneau. The city is also home to the sapphire Mendenhall Glacier, which is easily accessible from the city's downtown core. Alternatively, they could go on an excursion sailing through Glacier Bay National Park. 

Passengers can try their hand at dog-sledding in Skagway, or learn about the city's rich gold-mining history. 

Ketchikan, the fourth stop on the sailing, is considered the "salmon capital of the world," drawing thousands of massive bald eagles. It is also teeming with other wildlife, including carnivorous mammals like wolves and black bears.

Passengers will sail through the Inside Passage disembarking in Canada Place on Monday, April 29.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is a favourite among cruisers who enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere on board, without sacrificing quality and style. There's no dress code or scheduled dining times but guests can still enjoy elegant dinners in specialty restaurants onboard.

NCL also offers world-class entertainment, luxurious spa facilities, and areas designated for kids and teens. 

Price breakdown: Cruise from Alaska to Vancouver on Norwegian Cruise Line

NCL is offering the third and fourth passengers for free as part of its current promotion. While an interior cabin for two people costs just over $1,000, you'll pay hundreds less per person by taking advantage of the discount. This is a great option for families seeking an all-inclusive vacation with kids.

If you put four guests into your stateroom, the total cost for an interior stateroom is $3,272.80, which breaks down to $818.20 per person (divided by four people). This price works out to a per diem amount of $116.89. This price is less than half what you would pay without the promotion (see slide two for details).

Not only does that cost include your transportation on a beautiful five-star vessel, but it also includes meals, entertainment, snacks, and lodging.

While this price might seem steep, it is truly all-inclusive because Norwegian is throwing in the "Free at Sea" promotion. The promo offers significant value, including:

• Free, unlimited open bar: Enjoy all the spirits and cocktails, wines, draft beer, juice, and pop for all guests 21 years or older.

• Free specialty dining: Enjoy meals at the specialty dining venues for free 

• Free excursions: Receive US$50 for shore excursion credit per tour

• Free WIFI package: Stay connected to the internet you can use throughout the ship.

The "Free at Sea" promotion costs slightly more for two people, with the per-person price at roughly $1,025 based on current availability. 

Travellers must also book a one-way flight from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to Anchorage. There are several options available for under $350 but none of them are direct flights. However, they only involve one short stopover in Seattle. Always book at least one night in a hotel before the cruise (see slide four for details). 

Have a look at the refurbished Norwegian Jewel ship.