Explore Alaska’s Less Famous (But Still Amazing!) Glaciers

When you think of Alaska, images of Glacier Bay National Park’s majestic ice-blue glaciers may come to mind. However, the entire state is filled with incredible glaciers (even some hidden gems) that you can easily access on one of Holland America’s many cruise itineraries.

We’re highlighting some of the glaciers you may have never heard of that are well worth a spot on your 2026 vacation list.

Big and otherworldly, Hubbard Glacier has earned the nickname, “Galloping Glacier” as it is advancing rapidly at up to seven feet in one day! Hubbard Glacier is known for its frequent calving with three-story icebergs that plunge into pristine waters, along with stunning colors. It is also the longest tidewater glacier in North America.

On clear days, you’ll see Hubbard Glacier turn a deep blue, while cloudy days make the icebergs shimmer.

Roundtrip cruises from Seattle such as the 7-Day Alaska Explorer or the 14-Day Great Alaska Explorer offer Hubbard Glacier scenic cruising experiences. To get face-to-face with this awe-inspiring giant, book a shore excursion on your cruise.

Excursions by Catamaran: Hubbard Glacier & Enchanting Disenchantment Bay

• Board a day boat directly from the ship for a stunning, unmatched perspective of Hubbard Glacier. From the mouth of Disenchantment Bay, you will cruise in comfort amid glistening icebergs and dramatic wilderness.

Learn more about this excursion.

Glide past waterfalls from soaring mountain peaks until you reach the 600-foot-tall Dawes Glacier with its brilliant blue hue. Tucked away at the end of the 30-mile Endicott Arm Fjord, this active tidewater glacier regularly calves off chunks of ice with a thunderous splash — a truly unique experience.

A trip to Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier is unforgettable. Consider booking the 7-Day Alaska Explorer cruise or embark on a 28-Day Legendary Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice cruise. Then consider booking this shore excursion for an even closer view of the Dawes Glacier.

Endicott Arm Fjord & Glacier Explorer

• This high-speed catamaran cruise into the spectacular Endicott Arm Fjord sets out directly from your cruise ship. Relax in the warm, spacious cabin surrounded by large windows as your experienced skipper guides you past seals and otters resting on floating icebergs. You’ll make many stops and have opportunities to view and photograph the glacier, hundreds of icebergs or bergy bits, sheer cliffs, and wildlife.

Learn more about this excursion.

Even if you choose to stay on board to view these glaciers, you’ll experience four hours of up-close scenic cruising right from the ship! Find even more information about Alaska’s glaciers on our Interactive Glacier Map.

As part of Holland America’s “We 🧡 Alaska” onboard programming, you’ll experience a Glacier Day to foster a deeper connection to the people, history, and culture of the state. These offerings include:

• Glacier sighting times
• Scenic commentary
• Presentations
• Photo opportunities
• Informational viewing stations
• Dutch Pea Soup on deck
• Glacier ice cocktails
• And more!

We’ve been leading the way since 1947 sharing the wonders of this Great Land, which is why we established our Glacier Guarantee™ — if you do not visit a glacier during your Alaska journey, you’ll receive a Future Cruise Credit equal to 15% of your cruise fare.*

Set sail with confidence, knowing you’ll experience the jaw-dropping beauty of Alaska glaciers with Holland America, the Alaska experts.