Discovering the Best Month for an Alaska Cruise
Wondering about the best month for an Alaskan Cruise?
Are you dreaming of a once-in-a-lifetime adventure through Alaska’s rugged wilderness, breathtaking glaciers, and incredible wildlife? If so, an Alaska cruise may be the perfect choice for you.
As a cruise-specialized Travel Advisor with extensive experience planning trips to Alaska, I can confidently say that it is one of the most unique and unforgettable destinations in the world.
Having taken numerous Alaska cruises myself, I am intimately familiar with the intricacies of planning a successful trip to this majestic destination.
In this blog post, I’ll share with you my expertise on the best month for Alaska Cruise, based on my personal experiences and knowledge of the region.
Whether you’re an avid adventurer or a leisure traveler looking to explore the beauty of Alaska, this blog post is for you.
Alaska is one of the most popular cruise destinations in the world, offering stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and unforgettable experiences.
But with so many different cruise lines, itineraries, and departure dates to choose from, it can be difficult to know when the best time to go is.
So sit back, relax, and let’s delve into the best month to set sail on an unforgettable Alaskan adventure.
When is the Best Month for Alaska Cruise?
The best month for Alaska Cruise depends on what you want to see and do during your trip. Generally, the Alaska cruise season runs from April to September, with each month offering its own unique advantages and disadvantages.
April
Alaska cruises in April offer travelers a unique experience of exploring the rugged landscapes and abundant wildlife of this remarkable state.
However, due to the early season, itineraries are limited and prices tend to be higher than in other months.
Popular activities during April cruises include viewing glaciers, whale watching, dog sledding, or soaking up the midnight sun.
Some local shops and restaurants may not be open, and some excursions may not be fully operational yet.
While the weather may not be as harsh as in the winter months, it’s important to know what to expect. Contrary to what many may think, April is not completely dry in Alaska.
Even though it is one of the driest months of the year, there are still light showers and fog to be found in the Southeast region, where most April cruises sail. Don’t forget to pack a raincoat and waterproof shoes to stay dry.
Temperatures are mild, with daytime highs ranging from the upper 40s to low 50s depending on your location and cloud cover.
You can still enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and wildlife viewing but don’t expect to see greenery and blooming flowers just yet.
Another thing to keep in mind is the number of daylight hours.
Alaska sees about 11 hours of daylight in April, with up to 13 hours towards the end of the month in Southeast Alaska.
May
May is the start of the Alaska cruise season for most lines, and it’s a great time to see the state’s famous wildflowers in bloom. Alaska cruises in May offer travelers a fantastic opportunity to explore this incredible state’s wild and beautiful scenery.
Some of the most popular things to do on an Alaska cruise in May are whale watching, observing glaciers and wildlife, and fjord cruising.
There are also plenty of opportunities for active adventurers, such as kayaking, zip-lining, rafting, and helicopter tours.
The weather during this time is usually mild and sunny with occasional rain showers. The long days provide extra time for sightseeing at some of Alaska’s many gorgeous stops.
In May, the temperatures begin to warm up with daytime highs ranging from the 40s to 60s. While there may still be some lingering snow on the ground, you can expect to see some greenery and wildlife starting to emerge. The days start to get longer in May, with up to 16 hours of daylight towards the end of the month.
June
June is a popular month for Alaska cruises, as the weather is generally warmer and drier than in May. It’s also a great time to see wildlife, as bears, eagles, and whales are active in the region.
June and July are considered the peak months for cruising in Alaska. The weather is generally mild with daytime temperatures in the 60s and 70s.
You can expect to see plenty of sunshine and clear skies during this time. The days are long, with up to 19 hours of daylight, giving you plenty of time to explore the beauty of Alaska.
However, June can also be crowded, especially during school holidays and summer vacations.
July
July is the peak of the Alaska cruise season, with long days and mild temperatures. It’s also the best time to see humpback whales, as they migrate to Alaska’s waters to feed during the summer.
July has the best weather during the cruising season. The days are usually sunny and long.
However, July can be busy and expensive, with many cruise lines offering premium itineraries during this time.
August
August is a great time to go on an Alaska cruise, as the weather is still mild and the crowds start to thin out. It’s also a good time to see the Northern Lights as the nights start to get longer.
The temperatures are still mild, with daytime highs in the 60s and 70s. While there may be some rain, it usually doesn’t last long and is often followed by sunshine.
The days start to get shorter in August, with up to 16 hours of daylight towards the beginning of the month.
However, August can also signify the end of the season, and some cruise lines may start to wind down their operations for the season.
September
September is the end of the Alaska cruise season, and it’s a great time to see fall foliage and the Aurora Borealis. The crowds are also smaller, and prices may be more affordable.
In September, the temperatures start to cool down, with daytime highs in the 50s and 60s.
The fall foliage begins to emerge, giving the landscape a beautiful array of colors. The days continue to get shorter, with up to 12 hours of daylight towards the end of the month.
September is a great time to see the Northern Lights, which can often be seen in the night sky.
However, September can be cold, with temperatures dropping rapidly towards the end of the month.
Alaska Cruise Tips
No matter when you decide to go on an Alaska cruise, there are a few tips to keep in mind to make the most of your trip:
- Dress in layers: Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
- Bring warm, waterproof clothing, as well as a hat and gloves for chilly mornings and evenings.
- Bring binoculars: Alaska’s wildlife is one of the main attractions of an Alaska cruise, so bring a pair of binoculars to get a closer look at bears, whales, and other animals.
- Book excursions in advance: Many popular excursions, such as helicopter tours and dog sledding, fill up quickly, so book in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Be prepared for sea sickness: Alaska’s waters can be rough, especially in the open ocean, so bring motion sickness medication if you’re prone to sea sickness.
- Plan for extra expenses: While most Alaska cruises include meals and accommodations, excursions, drinks, and other expenses can add up quickly, so budget accordingly.
Best Month for Alaksan Cruise FAQS
What is the best month to go to Alaska on a cruise?
The best month to go to Alaska on a cruise is July. The weather is great, and all services are open.
What is the best time to see the northern lights on an Alaskan cruise?
September is the best time to see Aurora Borealis on a cruise. The nights are darker, making the lights easier to see.
What is the warmest month to cruise to Alaska?
July is the warmest month to cruise to Alaska.
What is the best month to see wildlife on an Alaska cruise?
You will likely see wildlife any time you visit Alaska, July is great because the humpback whales are in the area.
Is a balcony worth it on an Alaskan cruise?
YES! Having a balcony room on an Alaskan Cruise allows you to view wildlife and incredible scenery from the comfort of your own space.
What is the average cost of a 7-day Alaska cruise?
This varies of course, but on average you can expect between 2,000-6,000 dollars per person.
Best Month for Alaska Cruise: Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the best month for Alaska Cruise depends on your preferences and interests. Whether you want to see glaciers, wildlife, or the Northern Lights, there is a month that is best suited for your needs.
No matter what month you plan to visit Alaska, you should pack layers and prepare for all types of weather. With its breathtaking scenery and unique wildlife, an Alaskan cruise is an experience you won’t soon forget.
