Which Side of the Shipis Best for an Alaska Cuise?

This is one of the first questions I get from families planning Alaska, usually after they've spent a weekend in cruise forums reading twelve different opinions. So here's my straight answer, based on how I actually book cabins for my clients.

The short answer: it depends on which direction you're sailing.

Northbound (Vancouver to Whittier or Seward): book the starboard side, which is the right side of the ship facing forward. The coastline will be on your side more often.
Southbound (Whittier or Seward to Vancouver): book the port side, the left side.
Round-trip from Seattle or Vancouver: honestly, it matters a lot less. You'll go up and back along the same route, so each side gets its turn.
Why it matters less than you think at the glaciers

On scenic cruising days in places like Glacier Bay or Hubbard Glacier, the captain slowly turns the ship so both sides get time facing the ice. You won't miss the glacier because you picked the wrong side. Wildlife works the same way: whales and sea otters don't check your cabin number before they show up.

What matters more than the side

When I'm choosing a cabin for a family, the side of the ship is one piece of the puzzle. These usually matter more:

Balcony vs. ocean view. On a scenic cruising day, having your own balcony means you can step outside in your pajamas with a cup of coffee while the ship slides past the glacier. For Alaska, a balcony is the upgrade I recommend most.
Midship location. If anyone in your group gets motion sickness, a cabin in the middle of the ship on a lower deck moves the least. The Gulf of Alaska can get choppy.
What's above and below you. I avoid cabins directly under the pool deck, the buffet, or the theater, where you'll hear chairs scraping and shows running late.
Obstructed views. Some balcony cabins look straight into a lifeboat. I check the deck plans so you're not paying for a view of orange metal.
Family setup. Connecting cabins or a mini-suite with a sofa bed can make or break a trip with kids.
How I handle it for my clients

I look at your direction of travel, your scenic cruising days, who's in your group, and what you care about most. Then I hold the right cabin on the right side before I ever send you a quote. You don't have to become a deck-plan expert. That's my job.

If you're starting to plan, my free Alaska Guide  walks you through the big decisions in order. And when you're ready for someone to pick the cabin for you, start planning here.