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Add high-powered binoculars to your Alaska packing list to ensure that you get to see all of the wildlife possible. My advice is to pack plenty of warm (and waterproof) layers, expect the unexpected, and find joy in whatever experience you get. If you have an exterior room and are sensitive to light while sleeping, a sleeping mask will help you rest during these long days. You’ll also have more hours to look for wildlife from your room window or veranda. In the Lower 48, temperatures in June start to heat up, not so much in Alaska.
The Best Time to Cruise Alaska
Winter, when nights are long, dark, and clear, is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Alaska. That said, it is possible but not guaranteed to see them on an Alaska cruise. An Alaska cruise in early April, or late September, close to the fall equinox (September 21), will increase your chances. Because Alaska has such a short season with a limited number of ships and is a dream trip for many, cruises are in high demand and people plan early. The best time to book an Alaska cruise is when a cruise line first opens bookings on that sailing, often more than a year in advance. You'll have your pick of itineraries and cabins — balcony cabins are popular in this scenic destination — and often the best fares.
Best Time to Cruise
The only issue with a July Alaska cruise is the rain, as the state averages around 12 inches of rain in the month of July. The weather in June is usually warmer and more stable than May, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-70s. The longer days allow for more time to explore the state's natural beauty, and the scenery is simply stunning. The warm temperatures also make it an ideal time to participate in outdoor activities. You will see plenty of wildlife during your Alaska cruise throughout the cruise season, including whale watching, sea lions, bears, & birds. Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Edge sets sail for the first time in Alaska this year and has four six- and seven-night itineraries in September, starting at $599 per person.
What to Pack for An Alaskan Cruise: A Complete Checklist - Travel + Leisure
What to Pack for An Alaskan Cruise: A Complete Checklist.
Posted: Thu, 18 Apr 2024 21:11:15 GMT [source]
Alaskan Cruise Month-By-Month Guide
The Best Time to Cruise Alaska 2024: A Month-by-Month Guide - Condé Nast Traveler
The Best Time to Cruise Alaska 2024: A Month-by-Month Guide.
Posted: Thu, 29 Feb 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]
Ultimately, there is no perfect time to sail to Alaska, as each month offers its own advantages and disadvantages, and choosing when to cruise to Alaska comes down to your preferences. The weather in Alaska can, and will, change multiple times per day, but you will find the warmest months to be June, July and August. There are definite ebbs and flows to demand and crowds in the ports you will visit depending on which month you sail. You can also look for a last-minute Alaska cruise deal, though keep in mind that with Alaska's cruise season growing longer, interest in Alaska September cruises is rising.
Best for solo travelers
Most cruise ships will have repositioned out of the state by the end of the month. You will experience a change of season, with cooler temperatures (in the 50s or lower) and some rain. Attractions and shops will switch to peak-season hours at the end of the month; Denali National Park & Preserve switches into summer mode in May.
What to Expect on an Alaskan Cruise in August
If you're eager to spot bald eagles in the wild, ride a dogsled atop an ice field or pan for gold after a hearty salmon feast, an Alaska cruise is calling your name. Dive into The Points Guy's Alaska cruise guide for all the planning tips you need for your dream cruise up north. Each type offers a unique way to explore the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Alaska, tailored to different cruising desires. On the other hand, large ship cruises come with a variety of amenities, including multiple dining options, diverse entertainment, and expansive fitness centers, making them a bustling hub of activity. These ships are more stable in rough waters, providing a smoother journey.
Best Shore Excursions On An Alaskan Cruise
Cruise ship passengers can comfortably explore in T-shirts and shorts, taking in Alaska’s stunning scenery with its vibrant natural colors. You’ll witness lush green forests, snow-capped mountains, and fields of wildflowers in every hue, from pink and purple to yellow. McDaniel said the most popular ports to leave from are Seattle and Vancouver, but cruises can depart from as far south as San Francisco or even from places like Seward, Alaska.
How To Pick The Best Time of Year to Cruise to Alaska
And if you’re up for a little exercise, hop in a kayak and paddle into the icy waters of Glacier Bay National Park to watch as mother seals drop their babies off at floating icebergs while they hunt for lunch. Check out our quick tips for picking the best time to cruise Alaska, then read on for more details. If having the highest chance of warm temperatures and sunny days is important to you, cruising to Alaska in the peak summer months is your best bet. Additionally, May is an ideal time to take advantage of the extended daylight hours and enjoy some outdoor activities. Alaska is known for its outdoor adventure opportunities, and the springtime weather is perfect for hiking, fishing, and kayaking.
What to Do in Alaska: Top Things to Do in April
Try to book or reserve your onshore activities as far in advance as possible. A suite that costs $2000 per person in May may cost upwards of $3300 per person in mid-July. Such a large price difference allows you to enhance your Alaska cruise experience in other ways, whether booking a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter tour or kayaking through fjords.
There are only a few places in the world where you can see the aurora borealis. Fairbanks, Alaska happens to be one of the greatest spots to catch them. The best time to see the Northern Lights in Alaska is in September when the sun sets earlier, yielding darker skies that are ideal for witnessing the aerial lightshow. Temperatures start to drop around this time of year, but it’s a small price to pay to cross this awe-inspiring natural wonder off your bucket list. In addition to having the warmest temperatures, June and July are the best months to see the humpback whales when they migrate to Alaska’s Inside Passage. But as long as nature parks and trails are on your itinerary, you can pretty much count on spotting wildlife from late May through mid-September.
Due to the cooler weather, some port destinations may be inaccessible because of ice; however, May is one of the driest months for visiting Alaska. Make sure to bring sunglasses and sunscreen, as the extended hours of sunlight can be intense. While layering is advisable for port visits, consider lightweight clothing for active shore excursions like hiking or glacier walking. The best time to cruise Alaska really depends on what you’re hoping to see and do! If you’re eager to spot whales, aim for mid-June through mid-August, when these majestic creatures are most active. In the popular cities of Anchorage, Seward and Healy (near Denali National Park), the most expensive times to book lodging are the second week in June through the third week in August.
Norwegian Cruise Line kicks off the 2024 Alaska cruise season when Norwegian Bliss sets sail on a weeklong, roundtrip itinerary from Seattle; she will be the only ship sailing in Alaska the first two weeks of spring. Balcony cabins are still available on the season’s inaugural sailing at a discounted fare of $1,029 per person. We sailed roundtrip from Juneau, and while I’ve visited the capital city during the busy summer months, I found the restaurants, bars, and shops much less crowded, reliably filled with locals for the most part. On the water, we rarely passed any other ships or boats, aside from fishermen out for their catches. Alaska is a special place to cruise because it’s very different from standard tropical cruise destinations. Cruises to Alaska don’t occur during the months of January, February, March, November and December.
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