What to Expect on an Alaskan Cruise: The Ultimate Guide

What Do You Do On An Alaskan Cruise?

An Alaskan cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers stunning scenery, wildlife viewing, and endless adventure. With so much to see and do, it can be hard to know where to start planning your trip. To help you get started, we’ve put together a list of some of the most popular activities and attractions that you can enjoy on an Alaskan cruise.

Glaciers

One of the highlights of any Alaskan cruise is the opportunity to see glaciers up close. There are dozens of glaciers to choose from, each with its own unique beauty. Some of the most popular glaciers include the Hubbard Glacier, the Mendenhall Glacier, and the Tracy Arm Glacier.

Wildlife

Alaska is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including bears, whales, seals, and sea lions. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to see these animals in their natural habitat on an Alaskan cruise. Some of the best places to spot wildlife include the Kenai Fjords National Park, the Glacier Bay National Park, and the Inside Passage.

Hiking

If you’re looking for an active vacation, there are plenty of hiking trails to explore on an Alaskan cruise. You can hike through forests, past glaciers, and along the coast. Some of the most popular hiking trails include the Chilkoot Trail, the Mount Marathon Trail, and the Eagle Glacier Trail.

Fishing

Alaska is a great place to go fishing, and you can catch a variety of fish, including salmon, halibut, and trout. There are plenty of fishing charters available in Alaska, so you can easily book a trip and head out to sea.

Other Activities

In addition to the activities listed above, there are a number of other things to do on an Alaskan cruise. You can visit historical sites, take a boat tour, go kayaking, or even go rafting. With so much to see and do, an Alaskan cruise is the perfect way to experience the beauty and wilderness of Alaska.

Activity Description Cost
Scenic Cruising Take in the stunning scenery of Alaska’s glaciers, mountains, and wildlife $100-$200 per day
Hiking Explore Alaska’s national parks and wilderness areas on foot $50-$100 per day
Fishing Catch salmon, halibut, and other fish in Alaska’s pristine waters $50-$100 per day
Jogging Get some exercise while enjoying the views $0
Shopping Find souvenirs and gifts for friends and family $20-$50 per day

An Alaskan cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and endless opportunities for adventure. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed vacation, there’s something for everyone on an Alaskan cruise.

This guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan your perfect Alaskan cruise, from choosing the right activities to finding the best deals.

Activities

There are endless things to do on an Alaskan cruise, from wildlife viewing to hiking and trekking. Here are some of the most popular activities:

  • Wildlife viewing: Alaska is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including bears, whales, seals, and sea lions. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to see these animals up close on a cruise.
  • Hiking and trekking: Alaska’s wilderness is a hiker’s paradise. There are trails for every skill level, from easy strolls to challenging treks.
  • Fishing: Alaska is a world-renowned fishing destination. You can fish for salmon, halibut, trout, and more.
  • Boating and kayaking: There are plenty of opportunities to explore Alaska’s waterways by boat or kayak. You can take a leisurely cruise through the fjords or go white-water rafting on a river.
  • Glacier viewing: Alaska is home to some of the largest glaciers in the world. You can take a boat tour to see these glaciers up close or go hiking on a glacier.
  • Shopping and dining: Alaska’s ports of call offer a variety of shopping and dining options. You can find everything from souvenirs to fine art.
  • Cultural experiences: Alaska is home to a rich cultural heritage. You can learn about the history and culture of the Native Alaskan people through museums, tours, and events.

Cruises

There are a variety of different types of Alaskan cruises to choose from, each with its own unique set of features. Here are some of the most popular types of cruises:

  • Inside passage cruises: These cruises take you through the Inside Passage, a scenic waterway that winds its way through the mountains and glaciers of Alaska.
  • Glacier cruises: These cruises focus on exploring the glaciers of Alaska. You’ll get up close and personal with these massive ice formations.
  • Cruises to Alaska’s national parks: These cruises visit some of Alaska’s most popular national parks, including Denali National Park and Glacier Bay National Park.
  • Cruises to Alaska’s cities: These cruises visit Alaska’s major cities, including Anchorage, Juneau, and Ketchikan.

When to go

The best time to go on an Alaskan cruise depends on what you’re looking for. The peak season for Alaskan cruises is from May to September, when the weather is warm and the days are long. However, you can also find good deals on cruises during the shoulder seasons of April and October.

Where to go

There are a number of different ports of call in Alaska, each with its own unique attractions. Here are some of the most popular ports of call:

  • Anchorage: Anchorage is Alaska’s largest city and the gateway to the state. It’s home to a variety of museums, restaurants, and shops.
  • Juneau: Juneau is the capital of Alaska and is located in the heart of the Inside Passage. It’s known for its stunning scenery, including mountains, glaciers, and rainforests.
  • Ketchikan: Ketchikan is a small town located on the southern coast of Alaska. It’s known for its totem poles, fishing, and hiking.
  • Skagway: Skagway is a historic town located at the end of the Klondike Gold Rush Trail. It’s home to a variety of museums and historical sites.

Cruise lines

There are a number of different cruise lines that offer Alaskan cruises. Each line has its own unique offerings, so it’s important to do your research to find the best line for you.

Some of the most popular cruise lines for Alaskan cruises include:

  • Princess Cruises
  • Holland America Line
  • Royal Caribbean International
  • Norwegian Cruise Line
  • Carnival Cruise Line

Costs

The cost of an Alaskan cruise can vary significantly depending on the type of cruise, the time of year, and the cruise line. However, you can find good deals on Alaskan cruises if you book your cruise in advance.

An Alaskan cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and endless opportunities for adventure. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed vacation,

What Do You Do On An Alaskan Cruise?

An Alaskan cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers stunning scenery, wildlife viewing, and cultural immersion. With so much to see and do, it can be hard to know where to start planning your trip.

Here is a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your Alaskan cruise:

1. Choosing a Cruise Line

There are many different cruise lines that offer cruises to Alaska, each with its own unique offerings. Some of the most popular cruise lines include:

  • Royal Caribbean offers a variety of cruises to Alaska, including both Inside Passage and Glacier Bay cruises. Their ships are known for their large size and extensive amenities, including multiple pools, spas, and restaurants.
  • Norwegian Cruise Line offers a more casual and relaxed cruise experience than Royal Caribbean. Their ships are smaller and more intimate, and they offer a variety of activities and dining options.
  • Holland America Line is known for its classic and elegant cruises. Their ships offer a wide range of amenities and activities, and they are particularly popular with older travelers.
  • Princess Cruises offers a variety of cruises to Alaska, including both Inside Passage and Glacier Bay cruises. Their ships are known for their comfortable and spacious cabins.

2. Choosing a Cruise Ship

Once you have chosen a cruise line, you will need to choose a cruise ship. The size and type of ship will affect the overall experience of your cruise.

  • Small ships typically have fewer than 1,000 passengers and offer a more intimate and personal experience. They are also more likely to visit smaller ports and secluded destinations.
  • Medium ships typically have between 1,000 and 2,000 passengers and offer a good balance of amenities and activities. They are also able to visit a wider range of ports.
  • Large ships typically have more than 2,000 passengers and offer a wide range of amenities and activities. They are also able to visit a wider range of ports.

3. Choosing a Cruise Itinerary

The most popular cruise itineraries to Alaska include:

  • Inside Passage: This itinerary takes you through the Inside Passage, a narrow waterway that winds its way through the mountains of British Columbia and Alaska. This itinerary is ideal for those who want to see the stunning scenery of the Inside Passage and visit some of the smaller ports in Alaska.
  • Glacier Bay: This itinerary takes you to Glacier Bay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This itinerary is ideal for those who want to see the glaciers and wildlife of Glacier Bay.
  • Circle Tour: This itinerary takes you around the entire state of Alaska, visiting both the Inside Passage and the Gulf of Alaska. This itinerary is ideal for those who want to see as much of Alaska as possible.

4. Choosing a Cruise Cabin

The type of cruise cabin you choose will depend on your budget and preferences.

  • Inside cabins are the most affordable option and do not have any windows. They are typically located in the interior of the ship.
  • Oceanview cabins have windows that offer views of the ocean. They are typically located on the lower decks of the ship.
  • Balcony cabins have private balconies that offer stunning views of the ocean. They are typically located on the upper decks of the ship.

5. Planning Your Cruise

Once you have chosen a cruise line, ship, itinerary, and cabin, it is time to start planning your cruise. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • What to pack: You will need to pack for a variety of climates, as the weather can change quickly in Alaska. Be sure to pack layers, waterproof clothing, and comfortable shoes.
  • Getting ready for your cruise: You will need to make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date. You may also need to obtain a visa if you are from a country that requires one.
  • What to expect on your cruise: An Alaskan cruise is a unique experience that offers something for everyone. You can expect to see stunning scenery, wildlife viewing, and cultural immersion.
  • After your cruise: After your cruise, you will have the opportunity to explore Alaska further by land. There are many different things to see and do in Alaska, including hiking, fishing, and camping.

6. Resources

Here are some resources that can help you plan your Alaskan cruise:

  • Websites:
  • [Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA)](https://www.cruising.org/)
  • [Alaskan Travel Industry Association (ATIA)](https://www.alaskatravel.com/)
  • [Visit Alaska](https://www

    What are some of the most popular things to do on an Alaskan cruise?

  • Explore the natural beauty of Alaska’s wilderness. Take a hike in the rainforest, go kayaking in a glacier-fed lake, or take a flightseeing tour of the mountains.
  • Learn about Alaska’s Native culture. Visit a Native village, learn about their history and traditions, and try some of their traditional foods.
  • See wildlife in their natural habitat. Keep an eye out for whales, bears, moose, and other animals while you’re on your cruise.
  • Visit historic sites. See the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, learn about the history of Alaska’s gold rush, and pan for gold in a river.
  • Enjoy the onboard amenities. Relax in the spa, swim in the pool, or enjoy a show in the theater.

What is the best time of year to go on an Alaskan cruise?

The best time to go on an Alaskan cruise is between May and September. During this time, the weather is mild and there are plenty of opportunities to see wildlife.

What is the weather like in Alaska?

The weather in Alaska can vary depending on the time of year. In the summer, the average temperature is around 50 degrees Fahrenheit, while in the winter, the average temperature is around 20 degrees Fahrenheit.

What should I pack for an Alaskan cruise?

You should pack a variety of clothing for an Alaskan cruise, including warm layers for the winter and cooler weather, as well as lighter clothing for the summer. You should also pack waterproof shoes, a raincoat, and sunglasses.

**What is the cost of an Alaskan cruise?

The cost of an Alaskan cruise can vary depending on the length of the cruise, the time of year, and the type of cabin you choose. A typical 7-day cruise from Seattle to Vancouver starts at around $1,000 per person.

**What are some of the best cruise lines for an Alaskan cruise?

Some of the best cruise lines for an Alaskan cruise include Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line. These cruise lines offer a variety of cruises to Alaska, including both short and long cruises.

**What are some of the most popular ports of call on an Alaskan cruise?

Some of the most popular ports of call on an Alaskan cruise include Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway. These ports offer a variety of attractions, including historical sites, museums, and shopping.

**Is it possible to see the Northern Lights on an Alaskan cruise?

Yes, it is possible to see the Northern Lights on an Alaskan cruise. The best time to see the Northern Lights is from September to April. However, you need to be in a dark area with clear skies to see them.

An Alaskan cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers stunning scenery, wildlife viewing, and cultural immersion. There are many different things to do on an Alaskan cruise, from exploring glaciers and icebergs to hiking in national parks. No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something to enjoy on an Alaskan cruise.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable vacation, an Alaskan cruise is the perfect choice. You’ll see some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, learn about the rich culture of Alaska’s indigenous people, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Here are some key takeaways from this article:

  • Alaskan cruises offer a variety of activities, including glacier viewing, wildlife viewing, hiking, and fishing.
  • The best time to go on an Alaskan cruise is between May and September.
  • There are many different types of Alaskan cruises to choose from, so you can find one that fits your budget and interests.
  • Alaskan cruises are a great way to see some of the most beautiful scenery in the world and learn about the rich culture of Alaska’s indigenous people.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.