Many people want to take a cruise to Alaska, a bucket-list destination that offers stunning views and one-of-a-kind excursions, unlike any other cruise vacation. This northern region is home to incredible wildlife and natural wonders, with big appeal for first-timers.
There are lots of considerations when sailing to Alaska for the first time. What are the best excursions? How to pack for Alaska weather? Which ship and cabin are the best to book? These are just some of the popular topics for discussion.
Budget is another topic of concern, as many people want to make the most of their Alaska cruise vacation without breaking the bank. Pre-cruise flights, pricey excursions, and cold-weather gear can add up.
Don’t know where to start? Here are our top tips for cruisers heading to the Land of the Midnight Sun.
Save money by booking a cruise in shoulder season
If you want to have a great vacation without breaking your budget, there are a number of ways to save money on an Alaska cruise. One of the best tips is to sail during shoulder season, which is spring (May) and fall. Not only will you get better deals, but there tend to be fewer crowds as kids and families head back to school.
Another way to stretch your vacation budget is to sail on an older ship. If you don't care about the latest bells and whistles but rather the ports and itineraries, this can be a great way to save money. Another option is to select a guaranteed or interior cabin, which can cost hundreds if not thousands of dollars less.
Don’t limit yourself to cruise line excursions
Many cruisers are shocked by how much cruise line excursions can cost in Alaska. It is not the same as hopping in a taxi and heading to the beach in the Caribbean. Whale watching, dog sledding, and glaciers are pricey excursions that can add up.
Luckily, there are tons of tour operators located in popular Alaska ports. Research the ports you are going to and book early, to make sure you get the excursion you want, they can sell out fast.
Use a good travel agent
A good travel agent can be incredibly helpful for any cruise, especially for a new region like Alaska. They can help you pick the right ship and cruise line, as well as a cabin that is best suited to your style of travel. If you have any questions, they call the cruise line, which saves you time. They can also suggest hotels for a pre- or post-cruise stay and offer excursion ideas for each port.
The key is to get recommendations from family and friends to make sure the person is skilled and is knowledgeable.
Binoculars are a nice bonus on an Alaska cruise
Something you may not think to pack, but a pair of binoculars might be your go-to accessory for an Alaska cruise. Whether you want to sit on your balcony and take in some of Alaska's incredible glaciers or try to spot some whales, they can be extremely helpful.
There is a huge array of options when picking binoculars with varying price and quality. But even a basic pair, including some fun ones for kids, can be a great addition to your Alaska cruise.
Don’t fly in the day of the cruise
Unless you live near an embarkation port like Seattle or Vancouver, you are probably flying to catch your cruise. In recent years there have been more and more airline delays, not to mention weather delays due to the famous West Coast rain and fog. It is best to give yourself adequate time when traveling to your destination.
The internet is littered with stories of cruisers whose flights were delayed and missed the ship. No one needs the added stress of getting to the ship on time. Flying in a day early is the best way to avoid this.
Consider splurging on a balcony cabin
A balcony cabin can be a great option to spend more time taking in the majestic views of Alaska in your own private space. It is a good idea to make the most of your time onboard, seeing glaciers or maybe spotting a whale while sipping coffee in your own tranquil space.
Given the natural beauty of the majestic landscape of Alaska, this may be the cruise to splurge on a nice cabin. It is generally more expensive than an interior or oceanview cabin but well worth it for many.
You may need a passport
A number of Alaska cruises depart from Vancouver, Canada, in which case you will need a passport if you need to cross the border to get to the port. Additionally, there are a few train excursions, such as some leaving from Skagway, that require a passport. So, if you want to try any of these out, make sure you know what you need in advance of your cruise.
Most round-trip cruises from Seattle do not require a passport, but it is always best to check with the cruise line or your travel agent.
Packing is different on an Alaska cruise
The weather can vary a lot in Alaska. Early or later in the season can mean cooler temperatures, especially early in the morning or later in the day. It is best to bring layers to adjust to the changing temperatures. Also, be ready for rain, which can come at any time. A waterproof jacket and shoes are key to staying comfortable and dry.
Make sure to pack bug spray, seasickness meds, and sunscreen. Although you can buy some things on the ship, they are limited in supply and are often more expensive.
Buy travel insurance
No one plans to get hurt or be delayed when traveling, but it is the reality of life. Travel medical insurance and trip cancellation are highly advisable when cruising. This is something a travel agent can help with or can easily be purchased online.
Make sure to compare plans carefully to understand what’s included, deductibles, etc. Insurance plans are not created equal.
Check out the Alaska-specific programs onboard
Some cruise lines offer special programs to help you have a more immersive cruise experience. In particular, cruise lines like Princess Cruises offer specialized activities that feature a number of Alaska-focused experiences. Thanks to their partnership with Discover and Animal Planet they have a number of activities, including meeting self dogs onboard or expect guest lecturers.
There is also the opportunity to indulge in some of Alaska’s famous cuisine, which is highlighted onboard. The region is famed for its crab, salmon and other tasty seafood.
