When planning a cruise to Alaska, there are several important factors to consider to ensure you have a memorable and enjoyable experience. Here are five key aspects to keep in mind:
- Pricing: Booking early can often result in great deals for Alaska cruises. However, if you’re flexible with your travel plans, you may be able to take advantage of enticing last-minute offers. Keep an eye out for promotions and discounts that cruise lines may offer closer to the departure date. Let us know when you’re available so we can give let you know when a good deal shows up and that you’re looking to travel to Alaska this season.
- Timing: Consider whether you prefer to travel during the shoulder season or the high season. The shoulder season generally refers to the period just before or after the peak tourist season. While the high season offers more consistent weather and a livelier atmosphere, the shoulder season may provide more affordable prices and fewer crowds. Keep in mind that the high season is also where you stand the best chance of seeing wildlife in Alaska, especially during the annual salmon run that occurs around the first week of August.
- Visiting Ports: With numerous cruise lines operating in Alaska, it’s essential to determine how much time you want to spend at specific ports. Due to the popularity of Alaska cruises, the time allocated for onshore activities can be limited. Consider which ports and attractions are most important to you, and research the itineraries of different cruise lines to find the one that suits your preferences.
- Calving Experiences: Calving is what naturalists call ice falling off of a glacier. If witnessing glaciers and their calving process is a priority, make sure to choose a cruise line that visits glacier-rich areas. While not all cruise lines go to Glacier Bay National Park, for example, many offer opportunities to explore other stunning glaciers along the Alaskan coastline. Research the cruise itineraries and destinations to ensure you’ll have the chance to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of these natural wonders.
- Sightseeing: While an Alaskan cruise offers breathtaking views from the ship, consider whether you’d like to explore more of Alaska’s natural wonders beyond the coastline. Denali National Park, with its majestic mountains and diverse wildlife, is a popular addition to an Alaskan itinerary. If you have the time and interest, consider extending your trip to include a visit to this renowned national park. HINT: We suggest doing the land portion of your cruise tour first and staying a minimum of three nights. It can be a bit hectic, packing and unpacking, taking a bus or train each day of the land portion, and staying in different hotels. Saving the cruise till last means unpacking once and enjoying Alaska at a bit slower pace.
These are just five factors—pricing, timing, visiting ports, calving experiences, and additional sightseeing options—you can use to help plan a well-rounded and fulfilling Alaskan cruise or cruise tour. When you’re ready to go, we’ll help you research various cruise lines, compare itineraries, and with some flexibility we can help you make the most of your adventure in the Last Frontier.
