Cruising to Alaska is all about dramatic landscapes, wildlife, and natural wonders. But in 2025, travellers might get more drama than expected.

Mount Spurr, an active volcano located around 80 miles west of Anchorage, is showing signs it could erupt in the coming weeks or months. Still, experts and cruise lines agree there’s no reason to panic just yet.
Here’s what you need to know if you’re booked on an Alaskan cruise this year.
Experts Are Closely Watching the Volcano
Back in March, scientists noticed more volcanic activity at Mt. Spurr – including extra gas emissions and minor earthquakes. These signs suggest magma could be rising beneath the surface.
The last two major eruptions in 1953 and 1992 sent ash clouds spreading for hundreds of miles. The Alaska Volcano Observatory says if Mt. Spurr erupts again, it’ll likely resemble those past events.
However, a recent update from the US Geological Survey (USGS) reports that no major changes have been seen since then. According to their 5th May statement, the current signs don’t suggest the volcano is on the verge of erupting.
If a major eruption were on the way, scientists say we’d see stronger earthquakes, ground movement, and more intense gas emissions – all of which would give plenty of warning.
Most Alaska Cruises Don’t Start or End Near the Volcano
The main risk to travellers is volcanic ash, which can affect air quality and disrupt flights.
Cruises that start or finish in Anchorage (through the nearby ports of Seward or Whittier) are the ones most likely to be impacted, since these areas are roughly 125 miles from the volcano.

If you’re flying into or out of Anchorage for your cruise, there’s a chance flights could be delayed or cancelled if ash reaches the area.
That said, many Alaskan cruises sail round-trip from cities much farther away – such as Vancouver, Seattle, or ports in California. These are all over 1,000 miles from Mt. Spurr and are unlikely to be affected by an eruption.
Most travellers are taking a cautious but calm approach.
Cruise Lines Are Prepared to Make Changes If Needed
Even if your cruise begins or ends in Alaska, there’s no need to panic. Cruise lines are keeping a close eye on the situation and are ready to adjust their plans if necessary.
In a joint statement to Cruise Critic, Princess Cruises and Holland America Line said: “We constantly monitor the locations we visit, and the safety of our passengers and crew is always our top priority. Most of our itineraries focus on southeast Alaska, which is far from the Mount Spurr area. If any changes are needed, we’ll inform affected guests directly.”
Although several cruise lines operate in Alaska – including Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean and Cunard – Princess and Holland America dominate the region. Both companies also run their own land tours and lodges in areas like Denali National Park.
Most Alaskan cruises visit southeast ports like Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan, which are all hundreds of miles from the volcano.
What the Eyjafjallajökull Eruption Taught Us About Travel Disruption
When Iceland’s Eyjafjallajökull volcano erupted in April 2010, it caused a major disruption to global air travel.

Ash from the eruption spread across much of Europe’s airspace, grounding more than 100,000 flights and leaving millions of travellers stranded.
Despite the chaos in the skies, cruise ships themselves largely unaffected. Since the ash cloud drifted high in the atmosphere, it posed no threat to sea travel, and most cruise itineraries continued as planned.
However, the situation still caused headaches for cruise passengers who had flights cancelled, either on their way to join a cruise or when trying to fly home afterwards.
Cruise lines responded quickly, helping travellers with alternative arrangements and, in some cases, offering extended onboard stays for those unable to disembark. A few lines even adjusted itineraries or used ships to transport stranded guests back to mainland Europe.
The Eyjafjallajökull eruption proved that while volcanoes can severely disrupt air travel, cruises offer a more flexible form of transport. Ships can reroute, stay at sea, or adjust schedules without being grounded, making them a relatively stable option when natural disasters strike.
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Other Active Volcanoes You Can Visit on a Cruise
If the idea of seeing a volcano excites rather than worries you, there are plenty of cruise itineraries around the world that bring passengers up close to active – and often safely monitored – volcanoes. Here are a few notable ones:
Mount Etna, Sicily (Italy)
One of the most active volcanoes in the world, Mount Etna offers unforgettable views from ports like Catania or Messina, which are popular stops on Mediterranean cruises. You can take guided tours to the slopes or even ride a cable car partway up the mountain.

Stromboli, Aeolian Islands (Italy)
Known as the “Lighthouse of the Mediterranean,” Stromboli has been erupting continuously for over 2,000 years. Some smaller cruise lines and luxury yachts include Stromboli on itineraries, where passengers can watch its frequent eruptions – especially dramatic at night – from the sea.
Kilauea, Big Island (Hawaii)
Hawaiian cruises often include a stop at Hilo, from where you can visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, has erupted frequently in recent years. Lava flows, steam vents, and craters create a surreal, otherworldly landscape.
Mount Yasur, Vanuatu
This lesser-known gem in the South Pacific offers one of the most accessible active volcano experiences on Earth. Expedition and adventure cruise lines that call at Tanna Island often include evening visits to watch the spectacular lava eruptions up close.
White Island (Whakaari), New Zealand
Although currently closed to visitors due to a tragic eruption in 2019, White Island was once a popular cruise excursion from Tauranga. It’s a reminder that volcano tourism requires careful monitoring and respect for local safety guidance.
Sakurajima, Japan
Cruises to southern Japan sometimes stop in Kagoshima, where you can see the constantly smoking Sakurajima volcano. Ferries take visitors close to the volcano, and observation points around the city offer safe viewing spots.
How to Be Ready – Just in Case
It’s always wise to get travel insurance when booking a cruise, but be aware that coverage for natural disasters can vary.
If you’re worried about the risk of cancellation, look for a policy with a “cancel for any reason” option. This can offer more flexibility, even if you simply change your mind before travelling.
It’s also a good idea to pack a couple of N95 masks, just in case ash affects the air during your cruise.
If you’re flying to your departure port, consider arriving a few days early.
Booking your flight and hotel in advance gives you a buffer if anything changes. It’s also smart to make backup plans for your return – like childcare or pet sitters – in case your journey home is delayed.
Final Word
While the idea of a volcanic eruption near Anchorage may sound alarming, there’s little cause for concern if you’re heading to Alaska by cruise ship.
The chances of an eruption disrupting your plans are relatively low, and cruise lines are well-equipped to handle changes if needed.
With most Alaskan itineraries far from Mount Spurr, and ample warning likely before any major activity, you can look forward to your scenic voyage with confidence.
As always, a bit of preparation goes a long way – and who knows, a volcano sighting might even become the most unforgettable part of your adventure.
My Recommendation
My recommendation for cruise insurance depends on where you live.
- If you live the UK: Compare Your Cruise Insurance
- If you live the USA: InsureMyTrip
These are trusted price comparison sites that will quickly get you lots of quotes to match your exact needs.
Related Posts
- 11 Nightmare Stories from Cruise Ship Workers
- The 17 Must-Do Excursions In Alaska
- Guide to Alaska Cruise Ports (With Map)

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
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