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Waiting to see if the price drops almost always results in paying more for your flight, so it’s important to get your flights booked to avoid wasting money. In Sitka, for instance, you can enjoy a leisurely walk through the Sitka National Historic Park, which comes at no extra cost and is within walking distance from the town center. Likewise, you could take a shuttle bus to Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau for $45 roundtrip, which is much cheaper than excursions booked through the cruise line.
When is the Best Time to Cruise Alaska to see Whales?
The warmer the weather, the better your chance to view a once-in-a-lifetime occurrence called “calving.” This is when a large chunk of the glacier separates in a giant icy landslide. Just expect cooler weather, fewer wildlife viewing opportunities, and less active ports with some shops that are still shuttered. Arguably, the biggest draw is the marine animals, with opportunities to see pods of humpback whales, gray whales, orcas, sea lions, sea otters, and more.
September Alaska Cruises
If you made it to the end of this article, chances are you’re already following our final tip on this list, and that is to read as many tips as you can about Alaska cruises before you set sail. While it could be tempting to sleep in, we advise starting your port day earlier rather than later. Instead of getting upset over a cold, rainy day in port, maintain a positive attitude. Find a cozy saloon to enjoy a warm Irish coffee, or bundle up in your rain gear and make the most of the day. Should your cruise encounter rough seas, an itinerary change, or another unforeseen circumstance, there’s a chance a showtime could get canceled or rescheduled.
Don’t forget to pack short sleeve shirts and sunscreen
Locals typically call the months of April and May “break-up” because the snow and ice begin to break apart and melt after the long winter. In April, mountains will still be snowy, and high temperatures will max out in the upper 40s for most cruise ports. Many cruise lines also have limited early cruise ships departing for Alaska in April. Norwegian Cruise Lines has the first departures of the season in early April from Seattle. July and August are the most active cruise months, followed by June, according to scheduled cruises on major travel booking websites. Luckily, when it comes to Alaska cruises, there is truly something for everyone.
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]
The extended daylight allows for more time to explore and take part in various activities. It’s an excellent month for those looking to maximize their adventure time. It’s also a great time to explore Alaska by land and sea and hit Denali National Park.
Imagine being able to enjoy Alaska’s incredible natural beauty during days of near-continuous sunlight. With so much daylight, you can enjoy all the best Alaska shore excursions, from biking alongside the Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau to hiking in the Tongass National Forest. For these peak season Alaska cruise routes, it’s advisable to book early so you get the best stateroom. Booking a veranda stateroom ensures that you’ll have your own private space to see glaciers during your cruise. Schools are still in session in May and September, so fewer families are traveling.
If a cruise with fewer crowds is important to you, it might be a good idea to avoid Alaska cruises in June, July, and August. Not only will there likely be more guests onboard during the summer, but in the ports you are visiting as well. If you are looking for a more quiet experience onboard and on shore, consider cruising to Alaska in May or September. While gray whales are active in Alaskan waters during the early spring, most species, including belugas, orcas, humpback whales, and blue whales, peak between May and September.
When is the best time to cruise to Alaska for maximum daylight?
Temperature is relative, so don’t be shocked if you see an Alaskan sporting shorts and a tank top in June. The 60s can feel downright tropical after winter temperatures in the 20s and 30s. A hat, gloves, and a winter coat would be a good idea to pack for an Alaskan cruise, especially if you depart in April, May, or September.
Fortunately, there are plenty of opportunities to spot these majestic creatures throughout the cruising season. When it comes to cruising Alaska, whale watching is at the top of many people’s wish lists. Stephanie Yrungaray grew up in gorgeous Eagle River, Alaska and now calls Utah her beUtahful home. She enjoys traveling and exploring with her husband and five kids any way she can, from cruising to RV camping and everything in-between!
September marks the end of the peak Alaska cruise season and offers the first opportunities to see the Northern Lights. The weather starts to cool, and the landscapes begin their transition into fall, offering a different kind of beauty. The cruising window in Alaska is notably brief, usually extending from May to September. While a few cruise lines venture out in April and October, these sailings are more the exception than the rule. The high season, characterized by the warmest weather and longest days, typically occurs from late June to August.
If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a bear, eagle, moose, fox, whale, or otter as your ship sails through Alaska’s inside passage. If you have your heart set on seeing these magnificent creatures, you can increase your odds by booking a small boat tour at one of the ports of call. During the month of February, whales begin their migration from the warm waters of Mexico to Alaska. After a long migration along the pacific coast, these magnificent creatures can be first spotted in April – albeit in small numbers. Every season in Alaska has its own charms, and depending on what you’re looking to see and do, some months might be better than others.
If you choose to cruise Alaska during this time, bring water-resistant clothing and plenty of warm layers. While it may seem counterintuitive that a popular time to travel would mean that cruise fares are lower, the reason is that there are more ships operating at this time. With more options to choose from, you can typically find a good deal if you are booking for the period that stretches between May and June. If you’re an adventure enthusiast seeking an active cruise experience, the Glacier Bay National Park Adventure Cruise and the Alaska Fjords and Glaciers Cruise, are ideal choices. These cruises allow you to explore Glacier Bay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its glaciers, wildlife, and unspoiled wilderness.
Aim for the week right after school ends or the week before school begins if you’d like to get there just ahead of the most crowded part of peak season. A cruise to Alaska is an unforgettable summer family vacation experience your kids will cherish forever. If you have a flexible travel schedule and don’t have a specific stateroom in mind, consider visiting Alaska during shoulder season.
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