re: Has anyone been on an Alaskan cruise?

Any cruise leaving and returning to the US requires a birth certificate and ID at the minimum. This is called a “closed loop circuit” within the Western Hemisphere, so there are a couple of proofs of citizenship that meet the requirement.

I always bring my passport. It just makes life easier.

If your trip starts or ends in Vancouver, then you’ll need a passport to get into Canada.

Despite what people say, always bring your passport with you when off the ship in a foreign country.