Yes, people swim on Alaskan cruises, but not the way you might expect
Most Alaskan cruise ships have pools and hot tubs on deck, and passengers use them regularly during the voyage. However, swimming in Alaska's ocean waters during a typical cruise itinerary is rare and usually not offered as a standard activity. The water temperature in Southeast Alaska ranges from the mid-40s to low 50s Fahrenheit, even in summer, which makes unprotected swimming dangerous. If you want to swim during an Alaskan cruise, you will be swimming in the ship's heated pools, not in the glacial waters outside.
Some cruise lines do offer cold-water swimming experiences as optional excursions, but these are specialized activities that require a wetsuit and cost extra. They are not part of the standard cruise package, and they are not available at every port.
Key Takeaways
- All major cruise ships visiting Alaska have heated swimming pools and hot tubs that passengers can use throughout the voyage.
- Ocean swimming in Alaska's waters is dangerous without a wetsuit because water temperatures stay in the 40s and 50s Fahrenheit year-round.
- Some cruise lines offer optional cold-water swimming excursions at certain ports, but these cost extra and require advance booking.
- Hot tubs on deck are popular during cooler weather because the contrast between warm water and cold air creates a comfortable experience.
What pools and hot tubs are available on Alaskan cruise ships
Every major cruise line operating in Alaska—Carnival, Disney, Holland America, Norwegian, Princess, and Royal Caribbean—includes at least one swimming pool and multiple hot tubs on each ship. The pools are typically located on upper decks and are heated year-round. Most ships also have indoor pools or aquatic centers for days when weather is poor or when you want to avoid the cold air.
Hot tubs are scattered across the ship's exterior decks and are especially popular on Alaskan cruises. Soaking in a 104-degree hot tub while watching glaciers or mountains pass by is one of the most common activities passengers mention after their trip. These are included in your cruise fare and do not require separate payment.
Pool hours vary by ship and cruise line, but they typically operate from early morning until late evening. Some ships reserve certain hours for adults only, while other times are open to families with children. Check your ship's daily program or the cruise line's website before you board to see the specific schedule for your vessel.
Why ocean swimming in Alaska is not practical during a cruise
Alaska's ocean water is cold because it comes from glacial melt and deep ocean currents. Even in July and August, the warmest months, water temperatures in Southeast Alaska—where most cruise ships travel—stay between 48 and 54 degrees Fahrenheit. Hypothermia can set in within 15 minutes in water that cold, even for people in good health.
Cruise ships do not stop to allow passengers to swim in the ocean during regular itineraries. The ship is moving between ports on a fixed schedule, and stopping in open water for swimming would delay the entire voyage. Additionally, the waters around Alaska's Inside Passage have strong currents, tidal changes, and marine traffic that make unplanned swimming unsafe.
If you fall overboard or attempt to swim from the ship, rescue becomes extremely difficult. The ship cannot turn around quickly, and the water temperature means you have only minutes before hypothermia affects your ability to stay afloat. This is why cruise lines have strict policies against swimming outside the ship in Alaska.
Cold-water swimming excursions: what they are and how to book them
Some cruise lines offer organized cold-water swimming experiences at specific ports, usually in Southeast Alaska. These excursions typically take place at locations like Juneau, Ketchikan, or smaller ports where the cruise line has arranged access to a safe swimming area. You wear a full-body wetsuit provided by the tour operator, which insulates you and keeps your core temperature stable enough for a 10- to 20-minute swim.
These excursions are optional and cost between $150 and $300 per person, depending on the cruise line and the specific activity. They are not included in your cruise fare. You book them through your cruise line's website or onboard excursion desk, usually when you purchase your cruise ticket or during the first day of your voyage.
Not every Alaskan cruise includes a port where these excursions are offered, and availability changes based on the ship's itinerary. If cold-water swimming interests you, check the specific ports your cruise will visit and contact the cruise line to confirm whether the experience is available on your sailing dates.
What to expect if you book a cold-water swimming activity
A typical cold-water swimming excursion lasts two to three hours total, including travel time from the ship to the swimming location. You will meet a guide at the designated meeting point on the ship, travel by small boat or bus to the swimming site, and receive a safety briefing before entering the water. The guide will explain how to move in the wetsuit, what to expect from the water temperature, and what to do if you feel uncomfortable.
Most excursions limit the group to 15 to 25 people so guides can monitor everyone closely. You will spend 10 to 20 minutes actually in the water, swimming in a designated area while guides watch from boats or the shore. The rest of the time covers getting to the location, changing into and out of the wetsuit, and returning to the ship.
These activities are designed for people in reasonable health, but they are not strenuous. You do not need to be a strong swimmer because the wetsuit provides flotation, and guides are present the entire time. However, if you have heart conditions, severe claustrophobia, or other health concerns, discuss them with the tour operator before booking.
Hot tubs and pools: the realistic swimming experience on an Alaskan cruise
For most passengers, the ship's pools and hot tubs are where swimming actually happens. The heated pools stay between 80 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, which is comfortable for lap swimming or casual play. If you are traveling with children, the ship's pool area usually has a shallow section designed for younger swimmers and water play.
The hot tubs are the standout feature of an Alaskan cruise. Sitting in 104-degree water while watching snow-capped mountains, glaciers, or wildlife pass by creates a unique experience you cannot get anywhere else. Many passengers spend more time in the hot tubs than in the pools because the contrast between the warm water and the cool Alaska air is pleasant and relaxing.
Pools and hot tubs are busiest during sea days—days when the ship is traveling between ports and not docked. On port days, when passengers are off the ship exploring towns or on excursions, the pools are much quieter. If you prefer a less crowded experience, plan your pool time for when the ship is docked.
Bringing your own swimsuit and what to pack
Bring at least two swimsuits so you always have a dry one while the other is being washed or dried. The ship's laundry service can wash swimsuits, but it takes 24 hours and costs extra. Having a backup means you can use the pool or hot tub every day without waiting.
Pack a lightweight robe or cover-up for moving between your cabin and the pool deck. The air temperature in Alaska is cool even in summer, and you will be more comfortable with something to throw on between swimming and returning to your room. A pair of water shoes or flip-flops is also useful because pool decks can be slippery.
If you are interested in a cold-water swimming excursion, the tour operator provides the wetsuit, so you do not need to bring one. However, bring a towel and a change of clothes to wear after the activity, since you will be wet and cold when you return to the ship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I swim in the ocean if I wear a wetsuit?
Not during the regular cruise itinerary. The ship does not stop for ocean swimming, and jumping in from a moving ship is dangerous. If you want to swim in the ocean, book an organized cold-water swimming excursion at a port, where guides and safety equipment are present.
Are the ship's pools heated?
Yes. All pools on Alaskan cruise ships are heated to between 80 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Hot tubs are heated to around 104 degrees. Both are comfortable for swimming and soaking even though the outside air is cool.
What if I do not know how to swim well?
The ship's pools have shallow sections, and you can use them without worry. If you are interested in a cold-water swimming excursion, the wetsuit provides flotation, and guides are present the entire time. You do not need to be a strong swimmer to participate safely.
Do I need to bring my own wetsuit for cold-water swimming?
No. Tour operators provide wetsuits as part of the excursion package. They are sized to fit you and are included in the activity cost. You only need to bring a towel and dry clothes to change into afterward.
How much does a cold-water swimming excursion cost?
Prices range from $150 to $300 per person, depending on the cruise line and the specific activity. The cost is separate from your cruise fare and must be paid when you book the excursion.