American Cruise Lines launching Northwest National Parks cruises in 2026
Launching in September 2026 from Tacoma, the 15-day Northwest National Parks cruise of American Cruise Lines will feature seven days of guided exploration through all three of Washington’s National Parks and eight days of cruising through the Puget Sound, Friday Harbor, and the San Juan Islands. The journey also includes visits to iconic Washington destinations such as Hurricane Ridge and Deception Pass State Park.
Circuit itinerary
In detail, the 2026 Northwest National Parks cruise adventures will begin by a 7-Days of guided exploration, first showcasing the natural wonders of Mount Rainier National Park. Highlights will include visits to Paradise and Reflection Lake, renowned for their panoramic vistas highlighting snow-capped Mount Rainer. Guests will also enjoy visits to Inspiration Point, Myrtle and Narada Falls, as well as experiences from bird watching at Nisqually Wildlife Refuge to a ride on Mount Rainier’s Scenic Railroad.
In Olympic National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site with three distinct ecosystems) guests will enjoy scenic views of Lake Crescent, explore the park’s Hoh Rainforest, and travel to Ruby Beach, overlooking the area’s Pacific coastal landscape. While exploring the Olympic Peninsula’s many treasures, guests will also tour the capital city of Olympia, Washington, and enjoy a stay at the Olympic Lodge.
In North Cascades National Park, often called the “American Alps,” guests will discover dramatic peaks, crystal-clear alpine lakes, thundering waterfalls, and over 300 glaciers. They will have the opportunity to take unforgettable hikes like The Trail of the Cedars or The Ladder Creek Falls. Guests will also enjoy views of Gorge Creek Falls and the park’s crown jewel, Diablo Lake, from Diablo Lake Vista Point.
In addition to the three main parks, the itinerary also includes an excursion to Hurricane Ridge and a visit to Deception Pass State Park, offering breathtaking views of the iconic Deception Pass Bridge linking Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands.
Cruise itinerary
The cruise portion of the itinerary begins in Tacoma, Washington. Guests will enjoy private balcony accommodations aboard American’s new small ships as they cruise Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands.
Port highlights include Tacoma, Anacortes, Port Angeles, Port Townsend, and Poulsbo, WA. Shoreside excursions feature Jet Boat rides, walking tours, hiking, kayaking, marine wildlife expeditions, wine tastings and vineyard visits, seaplane rides, and an opportunity to experience the famous Butchart Gardens in Victoria, British Columbia.
Port stops include Anacortes, Port Angeles, Port Townsend, and Poulsbo. Additional excursions include Jet Boat rides, walking tours, hiking, kayaking, whale watching, wine tastings, and more.
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