The Alaska cruise season is short, with advantages to picking a sailing during one month over another.
Most cruise ships are in Alaska between May and September because of the warmer temperatures. While it can still be a cold at certain times, it's still far more comfortable being outdoors than other months and the risk of snow is non-existent. Plus, it's when the salmon begin their upriver swimming, bears come out, and much more.
You may find a few ships offering Alaska cruises in April or October, but they tend to be outlier and this is far from a popular time to take an Alaska cruise.
Most experts say July and August are the best time to cruise to Alaska because of the warm temperatures, lots of sunshine, and plentiful wildlife. That isn't to say going during the other months of the year is a mistake by any means. In fact, you will find better prices during other months.
Here's a month-by-month guide so you can decide the best month to take an Alaska cruise.
May
The very beginning of the Alaska cruise season begins in May and one of the best reasons to take an Alaska cruise in May is the price.
Alaska cruises in May tend to be significantly cheaper than cruises during the rest of the season, and there's lots of wildlife out too. You'll find spring migrations beginning and newborn wildlife.
Of course, May is at the very beginning of the summer season in Alaska and tail end of winter. That means it can be downright chilly.
Expect coastal temperatures in May to be around 40-55 degrees and about 16 hours of sunlight per day.
Another advantage of May is it is one of the driest months in terms of rain.
June
June is a tail of two sides: early and late June.
Early June is a lot like May, with less demand for Alaska cruises, cooler temperatures, and lower prices for an Alaska cruise typically.
As the month progresses, temperatures warm up and school is out of session, which means demand and crowds start to build for the summer push.
You can expect temperatures in June to be between 40-60 degrees, with around 18 to 20 hours of daylight, giving you lots of time to enjoy the Alaskan wilderness and wildlife.
July & August
The summer months of July and August are when you will see the peak of the Alaska cruise season, with ships sailing full and plenty of crowds in the ports you visit.
July is Alaska’s hottest month, with daytime temperatures ranging between 50-70 degrees. August is a bit cooler, but these are the two best months to enjoy comfortable outdoor temperatures.
Unlike May and June, July and August see an increased chance of rain.
The price for a cruise may also be as high as the temperatures, as demand is the highest. If you're thinking of booking an Alaska cruise in July or August, book early because choices can be very limited if you wait to the last minute.
July is spawning season for salmon, making it perfect for fishing trips. You may spot grizzlies and brown bears near rivers and streams. Mosquitos enjoy the summer too, so pack bug spray.
September
This is when the Alaska cruise season starts to slow down, as temperatures begin to drop and school is back in session.
Some of the best last-minute Alaska cruise prices tend to occur in September, so if you're flexible, a September Alaska cruise is the way to go.
September’s cool temperatures that vary between 35-55 degrees.
You can also expect lower crowds in the towns you visit during a September cruise.
