May Offers The Cheapest Prices
Travelers can score great deals on May itineraries if youre cruising to Alaska on a budget. North American cruises always offer the lowest prices in shoulder season. Alaskan cruises are generally the cheapest in May, followed by September sailings.
However, travelers couldnt book an Alaskan cruise for almost two years during the pandemic. Recently, the Vancouver cruise port reopened, welcoming the HAL Koningsdam as the first cruise ship post-pandemic.
As 2022 welcomed an entire Alaska season, cruise lines are lowering prices to encourage bookings. I saw 7-day cruises in May for under USD 100, all roundtrip sailings from Seattle, Washington.
While these deals are lost leaders, cruise companies want to sail with fewer empty cabins. Looking ahead to 2023, some lines have offered 7-day itineraries at USD 300. These prices double when cruising two months later.
Recent price drops allow me to cruise for less than I paid ten years ago. Carnival, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean offer the best deals. Although, dont expect to get bargain pricing with top lines line Disney and Celebrity Cruises.
Cruising before the children are out of school means you can score better pricing on airfare too. Its no secret that summer holidays command the highest prices when flying.
Cruising In Alaska In Early October
cruise with Ncl in early October. Are we better off to cruiseAlaska in September.
Yes, early September for preference.
Frommy is right but Im more curious about what itinerary is offered. Can you provide a link to the
Scott, I think it’s the Bliss: Cruise Schedule: Seattle, Washington Skagway, Alaska Glacier Bay, Alaska Ketchikan, Alaska Victoria, British Columbia Seattle, Washington
Rachelle, October is winter in Alaska. Many of the excursions will not be available, and your chance of getting rough waters/storms is increased, especially with a Seattle departure that heads west of Vancouver Island out into open ocean. Personally I wouldn’t cruise past the first week or so of September.
Are you willing to consider another cruise line, such as Holland America, that heads east of Vancouver Island ? What were you hoping to see and do?
The last HAL sailing round trip Vancouver is 23 September.
October 3 leaving Vancouver/at sea//Skagway/Glacier bay/icy stair/Sitka/Ketchikan/at sea/Seattle/Seattle/Victoria BC/Astoria Georgia/at sea/st sea:/San Diego.
September 4 leaving Seattle/at sea/Sitka/Endicott Arms Dawes Glacier/cruiseHubbard Glacier/Skagway/icy Stait/Juneau:Glacier Bay/Ketchican/Victoria/Seattle.
If you can give me some insight I would appreciate it. We are from Ontario Canada and in our 60s. Both cruises are with Norwegian Sun
Hubbard Glacier on the cruise iof September 4th.
cruise AK in October. I prefer June through August.
When To Cruise The Inside Passage
Stretching from Puget Sound in Washington into the Gulf of Alaska, the Inside Passage offers over 500 miles of jaw-dropping scenery teeming with wildlife. Shaped by huge glaciers, this passage is over 100 miles wide in parts, encompassing more than 1000 islands.
Cruise there and you can enjoy everything from towering mountains to deep fjords, remote island visits and, of course, glaciers. This haven for wildlife is a must-do for fans of wildlife spotting and bird watching, plus active cruisers who want to try a variety of outdoors pursuits.
You can spot migrating animals and enjoy blooming wildflowers in the forests during spring. Summer is the main mating season, when you can spot seals lazing on the ice and watch young birds learning to fly. Youll also have the best chance of seeing whales during summer. If you want to go hiking, visit from mid-summer onwards once the terrain has thawed.
Bear in mind the Inside Passage is known for its high rainfall all year and pack accordingly.
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Summer Sailings Offer Celebratory Surprises
The Silver Anniversary at Sea celebration will be featured on summer cruises aboard all five Disney Cruise Line ships. Guests will encounter new entertainment, limited-time enhancements, eye-catching decor, whimsical merchandise and other delightful surprises, all imbued with the magical spirit of this once-in-a- lifetime event.
Even more magic lies in store for guests aboard sailings that include Silver Anniversary at Sea offerings. Additional details about new entertainment, merchandise and other celebratory experiences will be announced at a later date.
Where Should You Go In Alaska In October When It Comes To The Weather
Remember:The climate in Alaska in october is very bad across the board.
warning in october the weather is not the same depending on the city and regions of the country.October is not the best month to spend holidays in Alaska. The climate in Ketchikan, Kodiak, Sitka, Dutch Harbor and Sand Point is bad. It’s cold, the sun is not there all the time and you take the risk of being you soak in the rain very frequently.It’s worse around the cities of Ketchikan, Kodiak, Sitka, Dutch Harbor and Sand Point and surrounding areas where the climate is very bad. It is not recommended to go to these areas in october.
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Advantages Of Visiting Alaska In September
- Pack warm clothes and enjoy Septembers cool temperatures that vary between 35-55 degrees. If youre on an arctic tour, pack winter coats, as youll experience daytime temperatures of 28-33 degrees.
- Looking for a bargain? September increases your odds of finding low-cost tours and other Alaska cruise deals.
- Elk, caribou, bears, moose and deer can be spotted across the wilderness. Above, raptors and gulls migrate south and bald eagles hunt for prey. Below, harbor seals and sea lions dot the beach, and pods of gray whales pass your cruise ship.
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Is May Too Early For Alaska Cruise
Theres a misconception that the best time to cruise Alaska is summer. The Caribbean and Hawaii bring travelers for beach time, snorkeling, and lazy days in the sun.
Alaska, however, brings globetrotters to experience its vast undeveloped landscapes with stunning tidewater glaciers. If you travel to Alaska in May, you wont experience high daytime temperatures, but the chance of rain is minimal.
Northern Alaska experiences the coldest temperatures. Since most people visit by road or cruise ship, you wont hit the coldest spot much further south.
Princess Cruises and Holland America have the longest relationships with Alaska. If you book a one-way cruise with a land itinerary, youll enjoy the changing of the season in Denali. At the beginning of May, theres a chance to see the Northern Lights in Alaskas interior.
Not all cruise ships have repositioned for the Alaska season in the early weeks. So, these weeks offer fewer crowds in ports, vessels sailing at lower capacity, and less chance of shore excursions selling out. With fewer cruise passengers boarding ships, the process of embarkation can be much quicker.
And with fewer ships sailing Alaskan waters, guests could find a better itinerary which could include Glacier Bay National Park. In fact, I prefer to cruise in May for this and other reasons.
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What Is The Best Cruise To See The Northern Lights
Watch: Iceland Cruises Aboard Celebrity Cruises
On Celebrity, cruises to Alaska and Iceland just might yield sightings of Aurora Borealis. That said, even if you dont see the Northern Lights during your cruise, theres plenty to fall in love with in these exciting destinations, from incredible dog-sledding competitions to hiking along stunning fjords.
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Alaska Cruise In September
Alaska Weather in September: Temperatures in Alaska start to drop in September, with averages in the mid-50s and lows in the low 40s. On top of that it can be even rainier than August, with up to 20 days ofprecipitation. That could put a few of your excursions at risk of being rained out.
Alaska Cruise Prices in September: Prices for average around $1,000 for a seven-night itinerary. Cruise season starts to wind down in September and children head back to school, leading to less demand. 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.
Hours of Daylight in September: Expect 12 hours of daylight during September in Alaska.
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The Best Time To Cruise Alaska
Alaska is a cruise destination with a limited season. Cruise ships arrive in Southeast Alaska in spring, stay the summer and linger only into the early fall. The 49th states snowy, cold and dark winters are not conducive to cruising.
Most cruise passengers will head to Alaska between Memorial Day in late May and Labor Day in early September, when temperatures range from slightly chilly to warm during the long daylight hours. Tourist attractions are in full swing, salmon swim upriver and bears have access to fishing.
Some adventurous cruisers will board ships when they arrive in Alaska in April to see the remnants of winter. A few big ships cruise into mid-October for those who want a peek at what life is like in Alaska towns when all the other tourists have returned home.
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Each month has its advantages, not the least of which is discounted pricing in the spring and fall shoulder seasons. Here is a guide to help you decide when to cruise in Alaska.
Alaska Cruise In October
Alaska Weather in October: Alaska’s October temperatures aren’t the coldest of the year, but you should expect a chill in the air. Temperatures in Southeast Alaska, where most October itineraries will sail, are similar to late April and May. Expect highs in the 40s and possibly 50s, with lows in the 30s. , so prepare for low clouds and rain.
Alaska Cruise Prices in October: Depending on your cruise style, prices will range widely, though than summer months for cruising to Alaska. A 7-night cruise averages around $1,000 without inclusions or extras.
Hours of Daylight in Alaska in October: You can expect an average of 10 to 11 hours of daylight in Southeast Alaska during October, though that will vary depending on how far north you travel. Later in the year, the majority of the day passes in darkness.
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Things To Do And See In Alaska In June
Alaska Events in June: If you’re an avid angler, consider a June Alaska itinerary that visits Seward, when the town hosts the Seward Halibut Tournament. For good times on dry land, check out the Sitka Music Festival, which spans almost the entire month in this popular cruise port.
Alaska Wildlife in June: Moose, caribou, and shorebirds are visible across Alaska in June. Moose also give birth to their young in June . If you want to spot herds of caribou, book an Alaska cruise that puts you in range of Denali National Park. And with salmon runs in full force, you can catch fishing bears in the southeast.
Alaska Fishing in June: King, silver and sockeye salmon can be found in Alaska during June. Northern pike also run from June through September, while halibut fishing kicks into full gear in mid-June.
What to Eat in June: Alaska’s herbs and greens begin coming into season in June, along with delicious pie fillings like cherries, boysenberries and rhubarb. Look for local specialties in cafes around your port.
Things To Do And See In Alaska In July
Alaska Events in July: Many events around the state mark the Fourth of July. If you’re the active type, or just want to cheer on those who are, check out the Mount Marathon Race in Seward. As the name suggests, the race goes directly up the steep slopes of Mount Marathon . The mountain is over 3,000 feet high. If you’d like something more relaxed, Anchorage, Juneau and Homer all have great Independence Day parades and events.
Alaska Wildlife in July: in Alaska for spotting much of the state’s incredible wildlife. Salmon runs plus amazing birding are almost everywhere and you can spot the pups of fur seals and Steller sea lions at the beginning of the month, according to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.
Alaska Fishing in July:King salmon can still be caught in early July sockeye run through the month. Silver or coho salmon also begin their run in July, while pink salmon appear in the middle of the month.
What to Eat in July: July is when Alaska’s growing season kicks into high gear. Strawberries, tomatoes, cabbage, gooseberries and tons more will begin to find their ways onto your plate if you eat in port.
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What Clothes Do I Take To Alaska In May
Since temperatures can fall to the 30s at night, your cruise wardrobe should include warm and cozy items instead of fashionable and trendy. Although May brings the least rain, I still recommend waterproof shoes and jackets.
If youre cruising to Glacier Bay, Hubbard Glacier, or one of the fjords, dress warmly in layers and winter accessories. The outside temperature can feel a lot colder than what the thermometer reads.
Ships are air-conditioned, and while thats refreshing in the Caribbean, youll want to pass on those shorts in favor of long pants. Alaska itineraries are less formal than warmer destinations. So, pack sweats, fleece, wool socks, and base layers, especially if youre from a warmer area.
For formal nights, dark jeans and a sweater or nice blouse is acceptable by some cruise lines. Others, like Cunard, have a strict dress code. If you prefer to go all out on chic nights, men can wear suits and women long dresses.
Cruises to the Last Frontier offers some unique Alaska tours. So, those booked to go dog sledding on a glacier on a helicopter and trekking tours, need a thick winter coat.
Coupled with a cozy hat, gloves, and a neck warmer, youre guaranteed to leave Alaska with some incredible memories. The Alaska weather is unpredictable, so expect the unexpected.
So, here are some great reasons to cruise to Alaska in May.
Alaska Cruise Weather: July
Pack your sunglasses and sunscreen, and your bathing suit for a top-deck dip after your shore tour. Despite the positive forecast, youll still want to pack light layers and rain gear that you can don for glacier viewing or visits, forested hikes, or the always-possible rain shower.
Fishing enthusiasts will do best cruising in July since the most types of salmon are running during this month. As with June, its an ideal month for wildlife viewing, whether you seek out bears, moose, or Humpback whales. The glaciers along your route will be cracking like mad, so make sure your July cruise swings by Hubbard Glacier, Glacier Bay, or other scenic cruising destinations.
Youll have the full range of cruise tour destinations open to you if you travel in July. But be warned: Cruise fares average the highest this month because the Alaska cruise weather in July is so nice, and more families are traveling because school is out for the summer.
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Whens The Best Time To See The Northern Lights On An Alaska Cruise
Seeing the northern lights from the cruise ship is a rare occurrence, but if youd like to catch a glimpse of the aurora borealis from the balcony on your stateroom, then you need to book a trip in late September or early October.
To maximize your chance of witnessing the northern lights, get off the boat and join a land excursion to Fairbanks. The aurora season in Fairbanks lasts from the end of August to April and the lights can be seen four out of five nights if the sky is clear.
Things To Do In Alaska In October:
Alaska Events in October: Alaska’s October calendar isn’t as full as other months, but you’ll find Oktoberfest in Anchorage if you’re a fan of brats and beers. , when the state became part of the United States. Head to Sitka to join in the multi-day revelry.
Alaska Wildlife in October: Bear sightings will be less likely in October as one of the state’s must-see animals begins the process of hibernating for the winter. Mating season for animals like caribou and moose continues into October as well, but you’ll likely have to be far north for those sightings. It should be easy to spot bald eagles in the fall and whale watching is possible .
Alaska Fishing in October: You’ll still be able to catch rainbow trout and silver salmon during October in Alaska. Don’t expect the same bounty or diversity of catches that you might find earlier in the year, though.
What to Eat in October: Winter squash and rhubarb are the must-eats if you’re after local Alaska food in October, and you’ll find beets, cabbage, and sprouts as well. Keep your eye out for mom-and-pop shops selling various jams, pies and other delicious creations as well.
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Waterproof Rain Jacket Or Windbreaker
Alaskas summers can see their fair amount of rain. Dont get caught unprepared during a rainshower and make sure to bring along a waterproof jacket or windbreaker in your suitcase. Also, look for rain jackets that can easily be rolled up and tossed into a backpack so you can bring them along to all of your outdoor excursions.
Winter In Alaskadecember Through March
Winters in Alaska can be harsh and beautiful. Weather is extremely cold and storms are severe. Winter activities such as dog sledding, snow shoeing and skiing are possible. A popular attraction during Alaskas winter is viewing the northern lights . Specialty lodges offer comfortable accommodations for hearty travelers willing to brave cold long nights to witness this spectacle of nature.
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