d America and Princess Cruises are the top choices—and whether a 7-day Alaska cruise or an extended cruise tour with Denali and Fairbanks is the best way to see Alaska’s glaciers, wildlife, and culture.

In this episode of RTE Travel Talk – Ask a Real Travel Expert, Ken sits down with Tim Hersh of Cruise Holidays and Tours of Topeka to break down the differences, the costs, and what you can truly expect from each option.

A 7-day Alaska cruise with Holland America or Princess Cruises offers breathtaking views of the Inside Passage, iconic ports like Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway, and glacier encounters that rival any destination on earth. You unpack once, enjoy life onboard, and take in the scenery from the ship’s perspective.

But if you want to immerse yourself deeper into Alaska’s culture, wildlife, and wilderness, a cruise tour is the way to go. Tim explains how extending your journey to Denali, Fairbanks, or even the Yukon adds a completely new dimension—think dome train rides, journey hosts, wilderness excursions, and unique overland adventures.

We also cover:

When to go for the best experience (and best pricing).

Whether you should splurge on a balcony or save with an inside cabin.

How costs differ between a cruise and cruise tour.

Why Holland America and Princess Cruises are the leaders in Alaska.

Insider tips on meals, luggage transfers, and what surprises travelers the most.

Bucket list moments like midnight golf in Fairbanks and experiencing 20 hours of daylight in June!

If you’ve ever wondered which Alaska option is right for you—or if you’re planning that “once-in-a-lifetime” trip—you won’t want to miss Tim’s expert insights.