UnCruise Alaska Trip Report: How a Small-Ship Cruise Won Us Over in Alaska

When my partner and I decided to embark on a small-ship adventure in Alaska with UnCruise, I was excited, but he was skeptical. Having been in the US Marine Corps for 27 years, and spending time in cold weather training school, going to Alaska wasn’t on his bucket list. Plus, he’s not typically the cruising type. His interest piqued only when he discovered the open bar on board and that daily activities were included. For me, the allure of UnCruise lay in its promise of an intimate, eco-conscious exploration of Alaska’s breathtaking wilderness. Unlike traditional mega-cruises, this felt like a responsible way to explore one of the planet’s last great frontiers.

Our journey began in Juneau, where we arrived just in time to witness the Fourth of July fireworks from the comfort of our pre-cruise hotel, the Baranof Downtown. The celebratory explosions lit up the night sky, hinting at the wonders to come. The next morning, we explored the town’s charm before boarding Uncruise’s Safari Endeavour, our home for the next week.

From the moment we set sail, it was clear this was no ordinary cruise. With only a handful of fellow passengers—60 guests and 32 crew members — the experience felt personal and immersive. The ship’s smaller size allowed us to navigate into quiet coves and narrow passages that larger ships could never access. It also meant a smaller environmental footprint, which aligned with my values.

Image 1: Cabin ; Image 2: Seafood night in the dining room

The open bar quickly became my partner’s favorite spot, a cozy gathering place where we shared cocktails and stories with newfound friends. Meanwhile, I soaked in the ship’s outdoor hot tub, marveling at the towering fjords and glaciers that framed our view. The crew’s attention to detail — from thoughtfully prepared meals to expert naturalist guides — made every moment unforgettable.

Meals on board were a delightful ritual. Breakfast started at 6:30 am for early risers, with a special stretch session on deck before dining. Lunch and dinner orders were taken during breakfast to minimize food waste, with options for regular, half or double portions. And of course, no day was complete without the unofficial 3 pm cookie hour or 5:30 pm happy hour.

One of the highlights was cruising through Glacier Bay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The sheer magnitude of the glaciers, with their iridescent blues, left us speechless. We kayaked along serene waters, spotting sea otters and seals, though our kayaking adventure came with a twist. We had to be rescued by a guide when we struggled to operate our rudder. It became a humorous story we shared during the nightly talks in the ship’s lounge. Here we learned from the staff about local wildlife, the environment and sustainable practices, including UnCruise’s partnership with the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Another unforgettable experience was a skiff ride with the captain where we observed a brown bear feeding along the shoreline. Seeing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, without the barrier of a zoo or screen, was humbling. My partner, who had started the trip unsure about the whole venture, was converted by this point.

Each day brought something new: humpback whales breaching, orcas in the water, and the beauty of icebergs. The ship’s staff shared fascinating insights, deepening our appreciation for the interconnected ecosystems we were witnessing. One misty morning, we ventured out on skiffs, enveloped in an eerie fog that later gave way to clear skies, revealing seals lounging on the rocks.

We also explored coral orchards on George Island, bushwhacked through the Tongass Forest and visited Glacier Bay Lodge. On a memorable excursion, we boarded a National Park boat to get remarkably close to John’s Hopkins Glacier. A proximity that even the UnCruise ship couldn’t match.

The camaraderie on board was another highlight. Whether it was celebrating the bartender’s birthday or participating in the crew-organized talent show, the sense of community added warmth to the journey. We met so many interesting people. There was a multi-generation family celebrating their grandparents' 70 birthdays with the grandkids in their teens, a nice retired couple from the UK and two Australian ladies celebrating their 60th birthday, among many others. The crew, led by the delightful hotel manager Benjamin, went above and beyond to make us feel at home, learning passengers’ names and sharing smiles at every meal.

Our journey ended in Sitka, where we disembarked with full hearts and a newfound respect for Alaska’s wild grandeur. Before heading home, we explored Sitka’s charming streets, including two good options for post-cruise: the Raptor Center and Fortress of the Bear.

For those considering an Alaskan cruise but hesitant about the traditional model, UnCruise offers a perfect alternative. Its commitment to sustainability, coupled with an intimate and enriching itinerary, ensures that you leave not just with memories but with a deeper connection to the wilderness. And yes, the open bar doesn’t hurt either.

Pre & Post-Cruise: If you are departing from Juneau, centrally located in downtown Juneau, the historic Baranof Hotel, BW Signature Collection is a great option. It was built in 1939 and stands out among all hotels in Alaska's state capital. However, UnCruise also offers a pre-night option with transfers.

Essentials to bring: Rainjacket, comfortable shoes to wear on board the ship in the evenings (like Uggs), rubber boots for the land excursions (such as Hunter) and metal hooks to hang wet gear in your stateroom (I found some on Amazon).

The Ship: The UnCruise Safari Endeavour is a 232-foot expedition-style small ship designed for immersive adventures in some of the world’s most pristine waterways. Spanning four decks, the ship features 34 elegantly appointed cabins, accommodating up to 76 guests in spacious comfort. With a crew-to-guest ratio of almost 1:2, personalized service is a hallmark of every journey. The Safari Endeavour has several lounge areas, a dining room, a library and a wellness deck complete with two hot tubs and a fitness area. Designed for adventure, the ship includes a fleet of kayaks, paddleboards, skiffs and gear for snorkeling and hiking.

If you’re inspired to book this or any other UnCruise adventure, contact Lisa Verbeck at Verbeck Consulting FORA Travel. As an UnCruise Certified Adventurist, I can help plan your eco-friendly escape to Alaska.

I recommend unCruise for those who are looking to get off the ship and adventure in the water and on land. The ideal customer would be someone looking for an immersive experience and has a passion for nature and wildlife. The value of the small-group setting prioritizes authentic connections with the destination over a traditional luxury cruise.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Alaska page.