Sunday, March 31, 2024

Alaska Cruise Weather: May-July Overview

alaska weather may cruise

Just expect the majority of your shipmates to be older adults. We'll match you with a local itinerary expert to help you plan your trip. Most campgrounds are open by Memorial Day weekend – but open dates are really determined by much snow fell over the winter.

Best time to go on a cruise - The Points Guy

Best time to go on a cruise.

Posted: Tue, 02 May 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

Day Alaska Round-Trip Seattle: Glacier Bay, Skagway & Juneau

The weather conditions can change several times throughout the day, which is why it’s best to pack plenty of layers and a lightweight raincoat. During this month, you can expect the weather begins to cool, higher rainfall, and gorgeous fall landscapes. July is an ideal month to visit for salmon fishing, cultural festivals, bear viewing, and small-town exploring. With the popularity of July cruising, cruise prices are at their highest. Many cruise ships begin their summer deployments to Alaska in May before peak season begins in June.

Best Time to Visit Florida

If you're eager to spot bald eagles in the wild, ride a dog sled atop an ice field or pan for gold after a hearty salmon feast, an Alaska cruise is calling your name. Dive into The Points Guy's Alaska cruise guide for all the planning tips you need for your dream cruise up north. Roads that are not maintained during the winter, like the Denali Highway and McCarthy Road, are generally declared open by the middle of May. But it’s still worth checking the DOT 511 website on road conditions.

What to Expect on an Alaskan Cruise in April

These are the months when all good things combine to create the optimal Alaskan experience. June is a smart choice for cruisers who don’t want to travel during peak season but want more opportunities. May is a practical choice for Alaskan cruisers who are on a limited budget but want to have slightly warmer and drier weather and more chances to see wildlife. Your views will likely include snowy mountains, but they are gorgeous nonetheless. Cruising to Alaska in May is still considered early in the season.

I lived for 15 years in Alaska, as well as four years each in California and Washington. I share travel resources and stories based on my personal experience and knowledge. There’ll be numerous workshops where writers can hone their skills and panels with prominent figures discussing various literary topics.

Roads Less Traveled

The weather in Alaska can be quite unpredictable, so you'll want to be prepared for a range of temperatures. It's recommended to bring items such as a waterproof jacket, sweater or fleece, long-sleeve shirts, and comfortable pants or jeans. Don't forget to pack a hat and gloves as well, as it can get chilly, especially when you're out on the deck of the ship. Before heading out on any excursions or outdoor activities in Alaska, it's always advisable to research the specific location and check the weather forecast. This will help you better prepare and pack for the conditions you may encounter. Additionally, consider consulting with local guides or outfitters who can provide valuable insights and recommendations based on their experience and knowledge of the area.

Alaska Cruise Weather in June

For the fishing aficionado, consider May when king salmon reach their greatest appearance. If you prefer to explore the lush scenery by foot, wait until June when the sun has overcome the frosty terrain of the Inside Passage and trails are primed for adventures. Regardless of which month you choose to explore Alaska, you’ll encounter iconic marine life and embark on heart-stirring adventures when you set sail with Princess. Cast your line into the marvels of an Alaska summer by cruising in August.

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Alaskan Cruise Costs: What You Can Expect to Pay - NerdWallet

Alaskan Cruise Costs: What You Can Expect to Pay.

Posted: Sat, 09 Dec 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Cruises to the Last Frontier offers some unique Alaska tours. So, those booked to go helicopter dog sledding and trekking tours need a thick winter coat. Ships are air-conditioned, and while that’s refreshing in the Caribbean, I needed to pass on my shorts in favor of long pants. So, pack sweats, fleece, wool socks, and base layers, especially those from a warmer area. With an itinerary to Glacier Bay, Hubbard Glacier, or one of the fjords. The outside temperature can feel a lot colder than what the thermometer reads.

alaska weather may cruise

Alaska in May: How to Plan a Shoulder Season Visit

alaska weather may cruise

As such, you’ll want to pack waterproof hiking boots and warm, waterproof layers (don’t forget gloves and hats) to handle any wet or chilly spring weather. Ketchikan averages 16 hours of daylight in May; you’ll get even longer days as you travel north to Anchorage and still more if you take a cruise tour up to Fairbanks. Ketchikan, a popular stop for cruise ships, is one of the rainiest places in North America. So if you’re cruise includes a visit to Ketchikan, it wouldn’t hurt to pack your rain gear. The recommended inner layers are usually sufficient from mid-May.

I would lean towards the late summer cruise in September when the weather is more likely to be welcoming. I understand that’s all a matter of opinion and it’s easy enough to put on sweaters and jackets. I suppose if you’re interested in views of mountains still covered in snow and that sort of thing...

In late May, the chances of seeing moms with their young increase as they forage for food. However, travelers couldn’t book an Alaskan cruise for almost two years during the pandemic. When the  Vancouver cruise port reopened, it welcomed the HAL Koningsdam as the first cruise ship post-pandemic. North American cruises always offer the lowest prices in shoulder season. Alaskan cruises are generally the cheapest in May, followed by September sailings.

We did an August sailing the following year and it was a bit disappointing. However, most people prefer the later sailings, so something for everyone. I took a positioning cruise from California to Alaska, late April, early May, weather was awesome, luck of the draw. We were 1st ship of the season, no other ships, it was great. I bought short sleeved tees as I wasn't prepared for warmer than normal.

If you are found to be carrying illegal drugs or using them on board, you may face legal consequences and could be removed from the ship at the next port of call. Firearms and other weapons are also generally not allowed on cruise ships. This is for the safety and security of all passengers and crew members. It is important to remember that cruise ships are enclosed environments and any incident involving a weapon could have serious consequences.

Because of its latitude, Alaska experiences extremes in daylight in the summer and darkness in the winter. April marks the beginning of the dry season for Southeast Alaska. However, it’s important to remember that this area is part of the world’s largest temperate rainforest. Holland America Princess, and Royal Caribbean have Alaskan Inside Passage cruises departing from Vancouver at the end of April. Carnival has 14-day Alaskan cruises departing from Seattle and Long Beach in late April. That’s okay, because I had managed my expectations since May wasn’t prime whale watching season in Alaska.

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