Dinner Or Smart Casual Clothes
Aside from the comfortable and sports clothing youll wear during the day and on excursions, youll also want to pack dressier attire, too. During dinner in the ships main restaurant, cruisers will dress according to Celebrity Cruises dress code.
Women can wear a smart dress, skirt, pants, or jeans with a casual top, and men can dress in pants or jeans with a short-sleeve sport shirt.
As for shoewear, the only rule is that flip flops are never allowed during evenings on the ship.
Backpack Or Large Purse
A large bag, backpack, or purse is a key part of almost any cruise. Even in walking around on the ship, there are probably a few items that you would like to carry with you such as a laptop, or a book.
Buy a durable Travel Backpack right here.
A bag would give you a place to keep your hat, gloves, and jacket to stay warm throughout the cruise. Best yet, a stylish backpack could double as a hiking bag to carry all the outdoor essentials such as sunscreen, bug spray, water, and snacks.
Top Shoes For Your Alaska Cruise Packing List
Waterproof Walking Shoes
Sturdy closed-toe shoes are a must to put on your Alaska Cruise packing list.
Your cruise will offer you an abundance of opportunities to hike forests and up to and on to glaciers. And numerous other options of things to do out in nature.
Supportive shoes should top your packing list for a cruise to Alaska. And it is a good idea to invest a bit more if you can and make sure they are waterproof as well.
This waterproof trail shoe is an excellent choice to add to your Alaska cruise packing list. It is waterproof and has enough support and structure to keep your feet comfortable, even when the days are long.
If you have selected a more rigorous itinerary these waterproof hiking boots may be a better choice for you.
Athletic Shoes/Walking Shoes
I never leave home withoutmy Asics running shoes.You might consider adding a pair of athletic shoes to your Alaskan cruise packing list too.
They can also be worn when shopping or dining. You can purchase them in many interesting colors to match your outfits.
Another popular brand, Skechers, offers many options, such as these Air Run High Fashion sneakers. They are way more affordable, are a good-looking walking shoe with great support. They would make an excellent addition to your packing list for your cruise to Alaska.
In Alaska, wearing my Asics kicks.
Comfortable Sandals For Warmer Weather
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Miscellaneous Alaska Cruise Packing List Items
- Socks
- Travel documents
- Wallet
Alaskas cruise season begins in May and ends in September, and though those summer months are the warmest, the weather can still vary from month to monthtemperatures are known to drop drastically even on a daily basis.
Always consider layering items when packing for an Alaska cruise, regardless of the time of year youll be sailing. If you have already booked your cruise and know what dates youll be traveling, here are some extra tips on what to wear on an Alaska cruise during specific months of the year.
Read: Alaska Cruise Tips to Make the Most of Your Vacation
Special Tips For An Alaska Cruise
Here are a few more tips to make your Alaska cruise more epic:
1. Go for a cabin with a balcony– Essential when you have toddlers or kids with you! A cabin with a balcony allows you to enjoy the Alaskan scenery in your own privacy . Going on a one-way Alaskan cruise? Choose the starboard side when going from south to north and the port side when going from north to south. For a round trip, either side is fine!
2. Peak tourist season is still the best time to visit – Cruises to Alaska are available from May to September only. However, the best months for cruising are June and July . If you want to see wildlife or adventure activities, go for any of these months! Want to save money or avoid the busy peak season? You can go for May or September, but you might not be able to see as much wildlife or enjoy all adventures.
3. One way Alaskan cruise trip is worth it – Sure you might spend more money on flights and hotels but you can explore Alaska more with a one-way trip. You can spend more time on excursions. Or even add in a few places to explore .
4. Splurge on excursions – Chances are, your trip to Alaska is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! So why not splurge on the activities that would make your trip even more exciting? The two “cant miss” excursions are whale watching and glacier hiking . There are also more adrenaline-pumping ones like zip-lining or dog sledding. Take your pick and add them in your itinerary!
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Summer June July August:
Plan for mosquitoes, though, as they can be quite voracious! A good mosquito repellent should do the trick, and mosquito wristbands are easy to use and last all day.
Regardless, always bring a rain jacket that is light on its own but can be layered for warmth on chillier days.
Temperature averages vary based on region, but are generally around 50°F to 60°F . Southern areas tend to be less extreme, and the interior regions are the most extreme.
Alaska Cruise Packing List + Disney Alaska Excursions
Sharing our packing list + the must-haves for our Disney cruise to Alaska, along with the excursions we chose.
Hi friends! Dont worry, this is my last cruise recap post haha. I feel like Ill be living vicariously through these posts for a while. So many times since weve been back the girls have said they miss being on the cruise. I wish I was on the cruise right now. You and me both, sister.
I thought Id share our packing list along with our must-haves for the trip because I had such a hard time packing for this one. I didnt find a lot of info online, and those in our Facebook group vaguely said to pack layers. I didnt want to overpack, but also wanted to make sure we had everything we needed for the weather. We traveled at the beginning of the season , so it was a little more cold that it will be later in the season.
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What To Pack For A Cruise To Alaska In July
July enjoys the warmest average temperatures of the summer , which is why its one of the best times to cruise to Alaska. Be sure to pack a mix of short and long-sleeved T-shirts and waterproof pants that can convert into shorts, in case you get extra sunny and warm days during your cruise.
Chances of rain also increase as the summer months go by, so dont forget to bring all of your rain-related gear, including a light roll-up waterproof jacket, when you cruise in July.
Short And Long Sleeved T
Since the weather can change drastically in the same day, especially during the Alaska cruise seasons summer months, bringing a mix of short and long-sleeved T-shirts will allow you to adapt to the days forecast easily. Those traveling during the shoulder seasons will want to bring a few more long-sleeved tees than short.
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Getting To Alaska For Your Dream Alaska Cruise
There are many kinds of Alaskan cruises. Many sized cruise ships set sail from all over the Pacific Northwest with a variety of itineraries.
Likely, you will fly into either Seattle, Washington, or Vancouver, British Columbia. These are the most popular origination destinations. Departing from Seattle will not require a passport.
However, if you wish to plan an add-on segment in conjunction with your Alaskan cruise, then you most likely may need a passport to show the Canadian officials.
Be sure to check with your cruise line to verify if a passport is required.
And check how long it will take to obtain one if you do not already have a current passport.
Some cruises leave out of Anchorage as well, and if you fly directly into Anchorage, you will not need a passport.
If you are looking for Alaska accommodations here are 12 best Airbnbs in Alaska that everyone will love.
This Alaska packing list contains the basics of what you should bring to Alaska for your cruise.
You may need to modify it depending on the length of time you will be in Alaska, and the time of year you will be visiting Alaska. Have a great trip!!!
If you have already cruised Alaska, what is your fave packing tip!!?
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Packing For A Cruise To Alaska: The Checklist
So you did it. You booked a cruise to Alaska! Youre beyond excited to see the white-capped mountains and rocky terrain, glimpsing grizzly bears and bald-headed eagles, but then panic sets in. Why? Because packing for a cruise to Alaska is no easy feat!
What are you going to bring with you for all of the different activities and climates you will experience?!
Pssst: If youre still doing research about which Alaska cruise to book, check out this post: Alaska Cruise Tips 7 essentials you need to know before you book.
Packing for a cruise to Alaska is challenging because the climate is so unpredictable. During the summer months, the temperature ranges from 70° Fahrenheit to 40°F . The day can start out beautiful and sunny and end cold and rainy. On top of that, cruises typically have one or two formal nights, which means packing two more outfits that you wouldnt ordinarily need on vacation.
To help you with packing for a cruise to Alaska, I put together an essential list of must-haves for your trip. These are the pieces of clothing and items I was grateful I brought with me on my 7 day Princess cruise. And this list also includes things we didnt pack but wish we had.
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Top Alaska Cruise Itineraries
Most Alaskan cruise lines stop at multiple port cities, giving you an opportunity to connect with local culture. Here are some popular port destinations to choose from:
- Denali: View the sharp peaks of Denali , the highest mountain peak in North America. Hike through the arctic tundra in Denali National Park or tour the park by bus.
- Sitka: This national treasure sits just outside of Alaskas capital city, Juneau. Kids will love to see the sea otters and whales. Classical music fans should attend Sitka Summer Music Festival, which hosts lunch and dinner events through the month of June.
- Glacier Bay: Glacier Bay National Park and Reserve is home to a number of wildlife and seven tidewater glaciers. Those looking for family vacation ideas should check out boat tours of Sebree Island.
- Tracy Arm: Known for its rugged landscape, Tracy Arm Fjord has stunning waterfalls and cliffside views. Dont miss a chance to view the famous harbor seals.
- Ketchikan: For those looking to explore local culture, Ketchikan is known for its totem poles including a number of parks that house the massive artwork.
- Haines: Adventure travelers flock to Haines to explore activities like hiking and fishing. The moderate weather combined with gorgeous views make for the perfect spot to kayak. In less than an hour, the ferry can transport you from Haines to nearby Skagway
The Ultimate Alaska Cruise Packing List
I recently wrote about what to wear on on Alaskan cruise, but then I realized that putting together an Alaska cruise packing list isnt just about what to wear, it is also what to bring along for the trip.
Even if you are a pro at packing for a Caribbean cruise, an Alaska cruise is a different experience and you may have trouble deciding what to pack. It starts with trading the shorts for rain pants and the sundresses for sweaters. But dont worry, this packing list includes everything you should need for an Alaskan cruise based on our experience aboard the Norwegian Bliss last summer.
Of course, some of what you pack will depend on which Alaska cruise excursions you choose, and your ports of call. It always pays to check the weather for your ports ahead of time, but the secret is to be prepared and this packing list will help!
The other thing to keep in mind is that the weather in Alaska can vary greatly day-by-day. We cruised in late August, and it was pretty cool, windy, and rainy the entire time. I have a friend that cruised a few weeks earlier and they had some days where it was warm enough to need shorts and t-shirts.
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Best Time Of Year To Visit Alaska
If youre looking for the best weather conditions, its undeniable that summer is the best time of year to visit Alaska. During the season of the midnight sun, youll experience long days, warmer temperatures, clearer skies, and the lowest chance of snow .
The best months to visit Alaska are June through August. These are the months with the best weather most sun and least rain and warmest temperatures. Unfortunately, this short peak season means youll be visiting at the same time as every other traveler, so consider whether shoulder or off-season travel might be a better option for you. Youll still experience mild temperatures in the shoulder season.
Ive written about the best time to visit Alaska, as well as a breakdown of what makes each season special: spring, summer, autumn, and winter.
Best Time Of Year For Your Alaska Cruise
There are a lot of variables to consider when selecting the best time to take an Alaskan Cruise.
First off, the price. If you choose your Alaska cruise in July, know that it is the busy season and will be more expensive. Attractions will also be more crowded if you choose your Alaska cruise during the high season.
Secondly, the weather. While the shoulder seasons of early spring to late fall will offer the most affordable prices, the weather will undoubtedly be chillier.
If you refer to my Alaskan cruise packing list and suggestions, you will not have to worry about the weather!
Thirdly, your family and friends traveling with you will probably need to arrange time off work, and this is certainly a huge consideration in the early planning stages of an Alaskan cruise.
What is most important is that everyone is able to accompany you on your dream Alaskan cruise, so giving credence to others schedules is of paramount importance!
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What Are The Best Months For Wildlife & Activities
Spotting wildlife is always unpredictable in Alaska, but your best bet of getting pics of wildlife ashore is probably late May and early June, when mothers and their calves or cubs tend to be out and about. One exception: If you want to do a bear-watching shore excursion, prime bear season is not until late June or early July.
Denali: If you want to do a land tour that includes the national park, dont come during the May shoulder season. Denali National Park doesnt open up until early June.
Want to fish ashore? Fishing is good during any monththere are just different species of salmon that peak as the weeks go by.
Summer berry-picking on shore is best late in August or early September.
If you want to see fall foliage ashore, wait until the first week of September. It remains good through the third week of September.
Hate mosquitoes? If youre doing a land tour, come during either shoulder season
See a full calendar of Alaskas natural events.
Dresses For An Alaska Cruise
If youre simply more comfortable wearing a dress on formal night, by all means bring one. If so, you might want to bring a pair of stockings or tights for a bit of warmth on your stroll around the deck.
Bring a couple of dressy lightweight scarves to spruce up and change up your look, especially if youre only bringing one black dress. Or buy a $12 neutral shade pashmina if your dress is sleeveless. You can roll it up, it doubles as an outdoor scarf and it wont take up much room in the suitcase.
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My Overall Packing List:
- Sunscreen
- Corkscrew
- Basic medications. We learned this one the hard way. My sister was recovering from a bee sting she got a few days before the cruise, and her finger swelled up on our second day of the cruise. We went to the ships infirmary and she was charged $90 for Benadryl and prednisone. So bring any meds you think you might need, including Tylenol, Advil, Imodium, and a basic antibiotic like Cipro or a Z-Pack.
Different Cruise Lines And Their Types
There are many different cruise lines around the world with various ships. The most common type is the mainstream cruise ship. This cruise type appeals to the masses because of the numerous activities and amenities onboard. A luxury cruise is more spacious and has upscale cabins or suites. It also has more sophisticated amenities and dining options.
River cruise ships sail on smaller waterways and canals. These types of cruise appeal to couples, not so much families. And finally, theres the expedition cruise ships which sail to more remote regions of the world. These ships are smaller than the mainstream or luxury cruise ships. This last type of cruise is perfect for explorers and nature lovers.
Heres a list of the most popular cruise lines around the world:
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