Cruising to Alaska

Alaska cruise tips, including the best time to visit Alaska

Alaska covers an area approximately 586,000 square miles in size, and it's by far the largest state in America. It's also home to North America's tallest mountain – the majestic Mt. McKinley, rising an incredible 20,320 feet into the sky. Alaska boasts 34,000 miles of coastline – more than all of the other states combined – and a total of 3 million lakes dot the Last Frontier's wilderness. Alaska's famed Inside Passage is a web of quiet fjords and peaceful islands forested with hemlock and spruce. Shaped by glaciers millions of years ago, it's the traditional home of Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian Indians.

The Alaskan cruise season begins in May and ends in September. Not surprisingly, the peak travel period occurs during the warmest part of the year - mid-June through mid-August. Many travelers, however, consider the fall and spring to be Alaska's most beautiful seasons - and these months generally offer more opportunities for big cruise savings.

Alaska Weather
It's a good idea to plan for four types of weather - warm, cool, cold, and (occasionally) wet. Alaska's vast size, varied topography, and geographical location can result in a wide range of conditions.

During the summer months, high temperatures in the inland town of Fairbanks can reach 80°F. Cruising among the Inside Passage's glaciers generally means cooler temps (with more sea breezes blowing on deck). Further along the coast in Anchorage and Denali, the weather is normally pleasant and sunny but slightly cooler. Average temperatures across the state hover in the mid-60s during peak season and the mid-50s in the spring and fall.

Families who want to experience Alaska's beauty on land can choose from more than 60 organized shore excursions (in three activity levels - easy, moderate, and adventure/considerable). Excursions range from exciting glacial flight-seeing tours and mountain biking expeditions to more leisurely pursuits like nature walks and city tours.

Dressing For An Alaska Cruise
Cruising the Inside Passage and planning to do a little sightseeing on deck? Keep a waterproof windbreaker (or a light jacket) and an umbrella handy - the region is cool year-round and subject to sporadic (but gentle) showers. Rubber-soled shoes are a good idea, too. Touring Alaska's coastal towns? An umbrella may be cumbersome. A raincoat, however, frees up your hands - perfect if you'll be carrying around a camera or a shopping bag filled with souvenirs in a port like Ketchikan, which receives up to 100 inches of rainfall annually. Dressing in layers is the way to go if you'll be exploring the Alaskan wilderness. Pack some short-sleeved shirts (though it's doubtful you'll have much need for a pair of shorts), sweaters, and sturdy, comfortable hiking boots or rubber-soled shoes.

Packing For An Alaska Cruise
The biggest factor to consider is Alaska's weather, of course. But activities at sea and ashore may also require special packing. The following checklist includes some additional suggestions to help you get started - it's by no means comprehensive, but it's a good place to begin.

• Binoculars (one pair per passenger)
• Camera (with extra film and batteries)
• Video Camera
• Sunglasses
• Hiking Boots
• Thermal Socks
• Hat
• Gloves
• Heavy jacket
• Light Jacket/Windbreaker
• Raincoat/Umbrella
• Sweaters, Sweatshirts & Long-Sleeved Shirts
• Short-Sleeved Shirts
• Long Underwear
• Formalwear (for dining and cocktails)
• Jeans
• Swimsuit (for the swimming pool/whirlpool)
• Exercise Clothes (for the fitness center)
• Comfortable Walking Shoes
• Overnight Bag (for the train)
• Government-Issued Photo I.D. (driver's license/military I.D.)
• Proof of U.S. Citizenship (valid passport/notarized copy of birth certificate with photo I.D. - Canadian ports of call only)

Alaska Land and Cruise Tours
The most popular way to see Alaska, cruise tours combine the best of the sea and land - a top-brand cruise plus a scenic land tour with deluxe hotel accommodations - to create the ultimate Alaskan adventure. Cruising gives you the chance to get close to the region's magnificent glaciers and marine life, and provides passengers with the opportunity to sample a variety of coastal ports. Land tours feature lodging in one or more destinations and take you deep into the heart of Alaska's mountain wilderness and myriad cultures. Select packages include transportation in the famed domed cars of the Alaska Railroad, offering incredible views en route to Denali National Park or Mt. McKinley. Many cruise tours also include premium motorcoach service, plus fully escorted sightseeing tours of city centers, national parks, and museums.

Cruise tours run anywhere from 9 to 21 nights. For the most variety, choose a one-way northbound or southbound cruise, since any pre- or post-cruise hotel stay allows for extended sightseeing in two different cities. When you choose a Northbound Cruise Tour, you'll cruise first and conclude your journey with a land tour. Southbound Cruise Tours are a popular choice with travelers looking to treat themselves to a relaxing voyage at sea after experiencing the excitement of a land tour. You can't go wrong either way.