Dont Forget About Gratuities
The excellent service on cruise ships is almost always worth the extra cost. –
Unless youre sailing on one of the high-end lines that include everything in the fare, tipping on a cruise ship is expected and will set you back about $80 to $100 per person per week about $13 per person per day. On some cruise lines, the tip is required rather than optional, so read the fine print. Some lines discount this amount for children, but many of them don’t. In addition, 10 to 15 percent gratuity is typically added to bar bills for alcohol and soft drinks and gratuities are applied to spa treatments as well.
Estimated Cost: $100 – $150 per person
How Much Are Alaskan Cruises Shore Excursions
If all of these costs are making you feel a little stressed out, then the pricing of shore excursions might just put you over the edge. Unlike Caribbean cruises, which can include some relaxing beach breaks or island tours, Alaska offers so many unique and amazing experiences. With choices like zip lining through the national forest, bear watching and whale watching expeditions, Glacier treks, dog sledding camps, and more, you may feel compelled to try them all.
Helicopter Flight and Glacier Trek was Amazing but a Bit Costly
Sure, there are plenty of reasonably priced tours that give you the authentic Alaskan experience, or you can even explore some of the small Alaskan towns on your own. But, if you are looking for adventure and once in a lifetime experiences, then you have to be willing to pay up. Walking on glaciers, touring the Misty Fjords via sea plane, taking a ride on the White Pass and Yukon Railway, and many other uniquely Alaskan shore excursions are quite costly.
Ride on the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway
For our cruise, stopping at four ports, we averaged a total of $175, per person per port for our shore excursion costs. We splurged on the helicopter ride and glacier trek in Juneau but opted for other less expensive tours in other ports, saving a float plane ride for another time. That said, know that your total shore excursions could easily cost you $600-$1000 a person depending on your picks.
How Far In Advance Should You Book A Cruise
The further ahead the better. You can only book airfare about 330 days in advance and we think you should know the airfare cost or at least a ballpark. Some lines will have a price guarantee on fares under deposit, but more are introducing non refundable deposits which have varying rules on price protection before final payment. Earlier is better no question. If prices are lowered, they often do this on guaranteed categories as a way of protecting their existing bookings from price reductions.
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Lets Talk Essentials For Your Alaska Cruise Packing List
Let us face it. Pickpocketing and identity theft happen all over the world. It is always better to be prepared than sorry.
A concealed travel pouch may be one of the most important items to add to your Alaska cruise packing list. This unisex RFID blocking concealed travel pouch is lightweight and available in several colors.
With lots of organization, you have peace of mind that everything has its own place. You will be able to carry most of your valuable documents safe and secure next to your body.
You may be like me and already own a travel pouch, and you do not need or want to buy a new one. If it does not come with RFID Protection then these color-coded RFID sleeves will be handy to prevent identity theft.
This is the exact configuration my family and I use. The color coding keeps things organized. And there are enough for everyone.
I tend to keep my luggage locked when I travel. Even my carryon I store in the overhead bin I keep locked. These TSA compatible durable luggage locks have easy to read numbers. They are easy to use and come in a variety of colors.
If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone, you will definitely want to consider an external charging battery. This Anker high-speed phone charging battery is the exact one I carry with me on all of my trips.
It can be used on a variety of phones, not just an iPhone like I have. And it is really fast to charge. I really like that it holds its charging capabilities for several uses.
Where Should You Stay On A Ship To Avoid Seasickness
The date range of your cruise will have more impact on seasickness than the placement of your cabin. Mid ship lower decks experiences less rolling but in calm seas this is practically irrelevant. Some itineraries traverse open seas more than others, and certain times of year are more likely to have better weather. If you get motion sickness in a car or airplane, you will probably feel sea-sick, and that does not stop people from enjoying cruises you are better to speak to your doctor or pharmacist about motion sickness if you routinely get car sick.
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Cheap 2022 Alaskan Cruises
During the past few years, interest in sailing to Alaska has soared. Its not hard to see why.
Alaska is known at the last frontier, and like any frontier, it can be difficult to traverse. With a limited amount of roads and other transportation, the easiest way to get around the picturesque coastline is via boat or plane. Luckily, thats also the best way to view the natural scenery.
And as word spreads about the beauty of taking an Alaskan cruise and as the cruise industry grows in general more and more people are considering taking a trip.
The good news is that with increased interest in cruises to the region, cruise lines are sailing more ships to Alaska. Today, there is a staggering amount of Alaskan cruises to choose from across every budget, cruise line, and itinerary.
If youre looking for cheap Alaskan cruises, however, then you need to be prepared to shop around. Trips to this area are seasonal sailing from May through September. Since there is only a limited window of time to cruise, prices are considerably higher than similar Caribbean cruises you might be familiar with. As well, prices change frequently.
Below, we highlight some of the cheapest 2022 Alaskan cruises. The prices for these trips start at just $339 per person. But before we get too far, here are some tips on how to find the most affordable trips to this region
How Much Does A One Week Alaskan Cruise Cost
An Alaska cruise can cost as little as $350 per person for a seven-night cruise in an inside cabin on a mainstream line. Or, it can cost upwards of $10,000 per person for a week in a suite on a luxury cruise ship. The price varies greatly depending on the cruise line and ship, departure date, and itinerary.
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Luxury Alaska Cruise Lines All Inclusive Luxury Alaska Cruise Lines
Every cruise line offers a great experience to its passengers, but a true luxury cruise experience is head and shoulders above the rest of the cruise industry. These cruises appeal to the traveler who demands the finest quality available and luxury cruise ships offer services and amenities that rival the best resorts worldwide.
Luxury cruises are characterized by a refined onboard atmosphere, a wide variety of exotic destinations, spacious accommodations and the highest level of personalized service. In other words, the finest of everything. Luxury vessels have opulent public areas and offer fabulous art collections, gourmet cuisine, fine wine, fresh flowers and attention to detail. Although the style differs from conventional ships to yachts to sailing vessels, the common denominator is quality.
Choose Where To Cruise In Alaska
Another key step in deciding how to pick a small Alaskan cruise is where you would like to cruise. Coming to our specialists with a good idea of which Alaska region youd like to visit allows us to determine which cruises are best for you. Then you can consider and hone in on which itineraries and ships offer the level of activity, comfort and amenities that fit your travel style. Heres a primer on some key cruise regions to consider when choosing an Alaska small ship cruise:
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How Much Should An Alaskan Cruise Cost
Alaska CruisecostcruiseAlaskacost
. Regarding this, how much does the average trip to Alaska cost?
Estimates are for a one-week trip for two with airfare from the continental U.S. to Alaska. Even the cheapskates will need to spend nearly $1,000 each. We ended up paying $3,829, which breaks down to $1,914.50 each. It wasn’t the cheapest vacation I’ve ever taken, but it might have been the most memorable.
Also, which cruise line is best for an Alaskan cruise?
- #1. Viking Orion. Viking Ocean Cruises.
- #2. Crystal Symphony. Crystal Cruises.
- #2. Silver Muse. Silversea Cruises.
- #2. Seabourn Sojourn. Seabourn Cruise Line.
- #5. Celebrity Eclipse. Celebrity Cruises.
- #5. Disney Wonder. Disney Cruise Line.
- #7. Celebrity Millennium. Celebrity Cruises.
- #7. Celebrity Solstice. Celebrity Cruises.
Correspondingly, what is the best month to take an Alaskan cruise?
Best Time To Cruise Alaska. Cruise season in Alaska runs from mid-May to mid-but within that time frame, is one time better than another to book your cruise? For a lot of cruisers, mid- through mid- is the peak season, because of optimum weather and daylight.
Are Alaskan cruises expensive?
Alaska cruises normally sell for a higher price than the Caribbean. The Alaska cruise season only runs from April through September, and demand is high. Even though Alaska cruises can be more expensive, the joy of seeing this exciting American wilderness is well worth the extra dollars.
Factors Affecting Cost Of Alaskan Cruise
- Cruise ship/line Different cruise ships offer different Alaskan cruise prices. Be sure to compare rates to get the best deal.
- Season Around July through August is the peak season for the Alaskan cruise. Avoid booking for during this period if you want to save a lot on your trip.
- Type of Cabin Cabin categories have different rates. Comfort has a price.
- Number of persons traveling traveling in groups can be cheaper than being alone as solo traveler tends to get the same rate room rate intended for two. Also, educational trips sometimes get a special rate.
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How Much Are Alaskan Cruises Onboard Purchases
If you cruise on a Contemporary or Premium cruise line, your base fare will not include additional onboard purchases . Besides the typical souvenirs and gambling money for the casino, other things you will want to factor in when creating your Alaskan cruise budget are alcoholic beverages and specialty dining.
Many cruise lines now offer beverage packages and specialty dining packages, so you do not have to worry about paying a la carte prices. If you cruise on a luxury line, those will most likely be included in that already steep cruise fare price.
Drink packages run between $45-$90 a day, per person, depending on the category and cruise line. Each line has slightly different packages and inclusions, but if you do like to enjoy a few cocktails while on vacation, investigating these packages could save you money in the long term. Some cruise lines offer package deals that include drink packages for certain room categories. So, upgrading your room could pay for itself if you get one of these free perks.
Norwegian Cruise Line Offers Many Specialty Restaurants on Their Ships
Cruising For 7 Nights In Alaska
Alaska is difficult to comprehend for people unfamiliar with cold climates. Doubters believe that everywhere in Alaska is the same covered in snow and cold. This misconception is soon dispelled, as the natural beauty of Alaska, carved in stone by massive glaciers, showcases deep harbours and passages that cut far into the interior. Alaska in summer is breathtaking and can actually be quite temperate, although it is changeable and bringing a change of warm clothing is advisable.
Alaskan culture is very diverse, another surprise for first-timers. Thousands of kilometres of coastline has been settled at various times, resulting in unique ports displaying the culture of settlers from Norway, Russia, gold-rush era USA, and native Indian peoples. Cruise ships visit Alaska from May to September when the weather is warm and the wildlife is on the move. Wildlife sightings cant be guaranteed on a cruise, but the chances of success are high.
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Alaska Cruise Packing List Extras
Hat Or Beanie
You lose the majority of your body heat through your head, so you will want to put a hat like this chunky beanie haton your Alaska cruise packing list.
When you are on a glacier calving or marine mammal sighting boat excursion when you are in port, you will be glad you thought to bring a hat to keep your head warm. Its much colder when you are on the water!
This unisex chunky slouch beanie is fashionable. It is lined to keep you warm!
If the weather is scheduled to be warmer, when you are packing for your Alaskan cruise, you can include this unisex breathable mesh quick-dry baseball sun cap.
Just about everyone in your family can wear this baseball cap, it comes in oodles of colors and is very affordable.
This wide-brimmed waterproof unisex hat would be great to protect you from the suns harmful rays. It is waterproof, packable, and comes in several colors. Not only that it is pretty cheap!
Ear Mitts
If your waterproof jacket has a comfortable hood, you might want to put ear mitts on your Alaska cruise packing list, instead of a hat. These earmuffs are affordable and come in a very wide variety of colors. Space is a premium when packing and these can substitute for a beanie.
These unisex foldable earmuffs are another option. They are affordable, adjustable and come in a variety of colors.
Thermal Headband
Even another additional item to consider to wear is a thermal headband.
Gloves
Hand And Toe Warmers
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Motion Sickness Options
Umbrella
How To Find The Cheapest Alaskan Cruise Deals
Sail Early in the SeasonThe Alaskan cruising season is short usually only five months long. Running from May through September, your opportunities to sail are limited, although there are a number of ships sailing at any given time.
If you want to save the most, look for cruises that sail in May. These trips early in the season are before the busier summer travel season. That means the pool of available passengers is smaller. In order to fill the ships, cruise lines slash prices. A cruise departing in May can be hundreds of dollars less than the same trip leaving in July.
Sail Late in the SeasonDidnt we just say to sail early in the season to save? Well, the same logic applies to sailing late. If you can wait until September, cruise fares to Alaska are much cheaper. With school back in session, the summer season largely over, and the bulk of the sailing season already past, you can find deals that are hundreds of dollars less than sailing just a few weeks earlier.
Sail One-Way or from Different PortsMost cruises sail round-trip, departing ports like Vancouver or Seattle. But if you look around, you can find one-way trips or that that depart from one port and let passengers off in another . Since these cruises are less convenient for most passengers, they tend to be cheaper.
Sites like AvoyaTravel.com or Orbitz allow you to search by cruise lines, destination, dates, and more to find the trip that matches your schedule and budget.
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What To Pack For An Alaska Cruise: 10 Must
Alaska cruises certainly arent anything like a day at the beach. So when it comes to packing, what ends up in your luggage likely wont resemble the bikinis and Hawaiian shirts youd choose for a tropical getaway. We were curious about what our members thought were the most essential items to pack for the unpredictable weather conditions and rugged terrain found on an Alaska cruise.
In a poll on the Cruise Critic Message Boards, we asked members many whove already experienced a sailing in the scenic state to vote for the most important things to remember to take for a cruise to Alaska. The results are in, and weve compiled a list of the top 10 things you cant leave home without.
How Much Is A 7 Day Alaska Cruise
A 7 night Alaska Cruise can cost anywhere from $500 per person to $5000+ per person, depending on the type of cruise ship and your choice of stateroom. Alaska land tours with 3-star hotels, train travel, and popular day tours generally cost around $300 per person per day , based on double occupancy.
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Alaska Cruise Formal Nights
Although Alan and I love dressing up for formal nights, we leave the dinner jacket and long gown at home when cruising to Alaska. In fact, wed do the same on any 7 to 14-day cruise. During port-intensive cruises, theres not enough time on ship to make bringing the formal wear worth it.
Ill pack a pair of dressy black pants, sparkly top and shoes, especially if Ive adhered to the two pants/five top/1 par of shoes list I mentioned for casual nights in the packing list that follows. If you really want to cut down on clothing, wear the black pants from elegant casual night in place of an additional pair of dressy pants.
For an Alaska formal night, Alan wears a sport coat and dress pants or khakis, perhaps without a tie as they are usually optional. Hell bring one, though, just in case he changes his mind.
No need to worry about formal nights on an expedition cruise because there arent any.
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