Epic landscapes, check. Amazing creatures, check. Unique experiences, check. The list goes on and on, Alaska is a wish list destination for many travelers, and for good reason as the state, often referred to as “The Last Frontier,” is a place unlike anywhere else on earth. Making it easier for travelers to explore this far-away land in comfort are cruise lines, and these two beloved brands are rolling out impressive new Alaska itineraries starting in 2026.
Virgin Voyages
Today, Virgin Voyages announced its plans to conquer The Last Frontier with exciting new Alaska sailings beginning the summer of 2026. Set to take place aboard Brilliant Lady, the brand’s newest ship, travelers will love immersing themselves in the rugged wonder of Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes and sprawling vistas, dotted of course, by its famed wildlife. The new voyages will go on sale for the public starting Nov. 13, 2024, and will take place between May and September 2026.
According to the brand, the fresh seven- to 12-night itineraries will depart from Seattle and Vancouver with stops in coveted destinations like Ketchikan — a small village that neighbors Tongass National Forest — Sitka — the charming seaside town that inspired beloved rom com “the Proposal” — Tracy Arm Fjord and Prince Rupert — a scenic coastal town in British Columbia.
“We have incredibly high repeat rates, so our Sailors are always challenging us to seek new horizons; they always want to know ‘where else can we sail with Virgin?’” said Nirmal Saverimuttu, CEO of Virgin Voyages. “This brand is charting new paths, and the sold-out response to our Front(ier) of the Line passes earlier this year showed us just how sought after our Alaskan itineraries are. We continue to reach for the high seas with our itineraries, with Brilliant Lady being no exception. Soon our Sailors can visit one of the world’s most incredible destinations on the No. 1 cruise line, all while enjoying new and exciting artists, chefs and musicians that bring the Virgin vibe.”
Perfect for wildlife viewing with breezy balconies — fun fact: 86% of cabins aboard Brilliant Lady feature balconies with the brand’s iconic red hand-woven hammocks — floor-to-ceiling windows and open-air spaces, Brilliant Lady boasts no shortage of cozy spots for sailors to take in the magic of Alaska’s incredible sights. And if they feel a bit chilly? Virgin Voyages recommends wrapping up in their warm, knitted cabin blanket with a fresh cup of cocoa or a glass of Moët.
To learn more about Virgin Voyages’ Alaska itineraries visit the brand’s website.
MSC Cruises
Also in 2026, MSC Cruises is heading north with the recent announcement of new Alaska itineraries aboard the fabulous MSC Poesia, a mid-sized ship perfectly equipped to navigate the narrow channels of the state’s Inside Passage and breathtaking glaciers. MSC Poesia will set off on its inaugural sailing to The Last Frontier on May 11, 2026, and will tout a variety of seven-night itineraries in the months to follow with exciting stops in places like Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, Tracy Arm, Juneau and Victoria, British Columbia.
Making stops in these bucket list destinations even more memorable are the variety of shore excursions travelers can choose from. Whether they’re seeking adventure, culture or culinary delights, sailors will find MSC Cruises has a tour up its sleeve fit for every type of vacationer. From whizzing down the world’s largest zipline and marveling at gentle giants aboard a whale-watching vessel to exploring the state’s remote wilderness as never before on an exhilarating ATV expedition, each shore excursion is handpicked to showcase Alaska’s unmatched beauty, rich heritage and coveted animal encounters.
“Guests from all over the world tell us they want to see Alaska’s beauty firsthand, which makes these itineraries the perfect addition to MSC Cruises’ global portfolio of bucket-list destinations,” said Lynn Torrent, executive vice president and chief commercial officer for MSC Cruises USA. “Seattle will be our fifth U.S. homeport, bringing our signature mix of European style and American comforts to the west coast as we continue to expand our offerings in the North American market. We look forward to welcoming guests aboard MSC Poesia, which will spend the summer cruising Alaska and move to Miami for the winter, offering opportunities for travelers to enjoy the coveted experience of transiting the Panama Canal when the ship moves between the east and west coast.”
To learn more about MSC Cruises’ Alaska itineraries visit the brand’s website.
About the Author
comments