Compare: 12 Cruise Ships in Alaska

It's hard not to revert to hyperbole with Alaska. Here lie more than enough towering snow-capped mountains, breathtaking calving glaciers, extraordinary wild animals and quirky (if over-trafficked) frontier towns to wow hundreds of thousands of cruisers annually. With more than two-dozen mainstream ships plying Alaska's island-filled southeast region from May to September, passengers certainly have options.

This chart features a representative from every major line, including Princess and Holland America (the biggest players in Alaska), Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Celebrity, Disney, Regent Seven Seas, Oceania Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Silversea and Seabourn. Each of the 12 ships -- which were handpicked based on their popularity among all cruise options in Alaska -- caters to a different type of traveler. Families on a budget might find the most "bang for their buck" onboard Carnival Legend, while couples looking to splurge can pamper themselves with Crystal Serenity's lavish suites and all-inclusive fine dining.

Familiarize yourself with the biggest contenders' itineraries, exclusive Alaska offerings and more to determine which one is best for you.

Note: Click on a ship name to get more info and read hundreds of cruise reviews.

Emerald Princess

Thanks to a dry dock that welcomed new features like the Salty Dog Gastropub, Princess Cruises' Luxury Bed Collection and the Voice of the Ocean show (a spinoff of NBC's "The Voice"), Emerald Princess offers a fresh take on "The Love Boat" line. Pair that with fleetwide staples such as a lavish adults-only sun deck and Movies Under the Stars (complete with popcorn and cozy fleece blankets), and a partnership with the Discovery Channel, which offers a slew of activities for adults and kids alike, and you've got something for everyone.

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Eurodam

You won't find any rock climbing walls or quirky pool games on Holland America's Eurodam, which prides itself on dining and a relaxed, traditional cruising experience. Service and food quality in the complimentary main dining room are top-notch, but for-fee restaurants like Pinnacle Grill (which now features a Sel de Mer pop-up venue once per week) and Tamarind make for splurge-worthy romantic dates. The ship tends to appeal to a more mature crowd, though you will see more families and multigenerational groups on Alaska cruises.

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Norwegian Pearl

Norwegian Pearl offers 16 free and for-fee eateries, 13 bars and lounges and a range of cabin options -- from 145-square-foot insides to suites in The Haven, the line's signature "gated community." The 2,394-passenger ship also has more modern flair than its regional competitors (e.g., the Marrakech-inspired Bliss Ultra Lounge, a sprawling O'Sheehan's Neighborhood Bar & Grill and big-screen Wii battles), so it's a decent pick for younger couples.

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Radiance of the Seas

With a variety of dining venues, great kids' programs and adrenaline-pumping activities, Radiance of the Seas offers Royal Caribbean's best in a more modest size. The 2,112-passenger ship features the line's much-loved Giovanni's Table and Izumi Japanese Cuisine, a 200-square-foot outdoor movie screen, rock climbing wall and a nursery for babies and toddlers. Passengers range from young couples and singles to families and active retirees.

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Celebrity Solstice

Celebrity Solstice has one of the best interior architecture designs at sea, and passenger flow is excellent. While the ship's passenger-to-space ratio is standard for the industry, the ship never feels crowded. Celebrity is known for its fabulous dining options and bars, but perhaps the most unique feature of this or any other ship is the Lawn Club. This full half-acre of real grass on the top deck offers some of the best views onboard in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. The space includes an alfresco dining venue serving up fresh barbecue, games like bocce ball and mini-golf, and lounge chairs perfect for soaking up sun when the weather permits. Celebrity typically attracts sophisticated young adult and middle-aged couples, though you'll notice more families during the summer holiday.

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Disney Wonder

The 1,754-passenger Disney Wonder is the pinnacle of family-friendly Alaska cruising. The line has tailored the experience onboard (kids' programming, dining) and off (unique if pricy shore tours) to appeal to cruisers of all ages. The ship, with its ocean-liner-style exterior and art nouveau interior, makes a statement: "elegance" and "family friendly" don't have to be mutually exclusive.

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Carnival Legend

Full of "Fun Ship" touches like the Camp Ocean kids club and the Green Thunder water slide (pray for warm, sunny weather), Carnival Legend is a great value for families on a budget. The 2,124-passenger ship offers a variety of free alternative restaurants, activities and entertainment. Munch on celebrity chef Guy Fieri's famous burgers or indulge in Caribbean fare at the Key West-inspired RedFrog Pub after a game of mini-golf. Competitive families also will enjoy Hasbro, the Game Show, during which groups can compete against each other in a series of games for a chance to win prizes. 

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Seven Seas Mariner

Every cabin on the 700-passenger Mariner is a suite with a balcony and at least 252 square feet of space. The upshot: This is an all-inclusive luxury ship attracting both mature couples and affluent families. Passengers shell out up front, but enjoy included amenities such as round trip airfare, a luxury hotel stay, shore excursions, specialty restaurants, alcoholic beverages and gratuities.

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Oceania Regatta

Oceania prides itself on fine dining and an upscale yet comfortable ambiance -- and Regatta is no exception. The 684-passenger ship features the creations of celebrity chef Jacques Pepin in the main dining room and two surcharge-free specialty restaurants. No formal nights mean the pressure to dress up for dinner is dictated by fellow passengers, not the cruise line. Regatta offers an experience that's close to luxury without being all inclusive or priced sky high. Passengers tend to be mature and well-traveled.

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Crystal Serenity

Carrying 1,070 passengers, Crystal Serenity is the largest cruise ship in the luxury sector. Its refined ambiance, exclusive-access excursions, and included perks such as wine, spirits and gratuities, attract a discerning crowd, mostly empty nesters and retirees. Crystal also stands out with its Creating Learning Institute, including classes ranging from language to filmmaking. When it's time to chow down, passengers can choose from a variety of dining options, such as molecular gastronomy creations in the main dining room to top-notch Japanese cuisine at Silk Road and the Sushi Bar, led by celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa.

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Silver Shadow

The 382-passenger Silver Shadow is an intimate, all-suite, all-inclusive luxury vessel with one of the most generous space-to-passenger ratios in the industry. There's also a crew member for every 1.3 passengers, who are accommodated in cabins ranging from 287 to 1,435 square feet. Suites are larger than the industry norm, and bathrooms include double-basin vanities, Bvlgari amenities and full bathtubs and separated showers. Cabins aside, the ship features high-quality dining and included extras like select wine and spirits that attract mostly older adults. 

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Seabourn Sojourn

Seabourn's first ship to sail Alaska in 15 years, Seabourn Sojourn offers an all-inclusive, luxury cruise experience and itineraries packed with scenic cruise areas and lesser-known ports. Even better, you don't have to worry about missing any of the views, as all the ship's cabins face the outside. Restaurants and public spaces are opulently designed, but the 462-passenger ship maintains a comfortable, country club vibe.

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