If you have any other questions about Alaska cruises or planning your Alaska travel, please fill out this form and we will be happy to answer you:
Most cruise lines start operating cruises to Alaska in May, and operate through September. However, the most popular times to visit are during peak season in June, July and August. The weather is warmer at this time, and the prices are a little higher, but it is well worth the sights seen. May and September are the shoulder season, prices are a bit cheaper, but you still get to see all the wonders of Alaska (plus fewer bugs!).
Alaska cruises depart from various ports in the west coast; typically they leave from Seattle, Vancouver, Anchorage, Seward or Whittier. There are also cruises that leave from San Francisco or Los Angeles. These cruises tend to be 11 to 12 day cruises. The most popular way of taking an Alaska Cruise is one way, either south bound or north bound, usually taking 7 days. Travelers do have the opportunity to take the cruise ship round trip, though depending on your stay on land the sights may seem repetitive on the way back. We recommend making the most of your Alaska vacation with one of our pre- or post-cruise tours. We can customize your land package at a savings to you.
Gulf of Alaska cruises are 7 days long. They cruise between Seattle, Vancouver, British Columbia, Whittier and Seward (both south of Anchorage). The Gulf of Alaska cruise is taken either northbound or southbound. Along the way travelers stop in the ports of Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan. While taking Gulf of Alaska cruise, one can enjoy the sights of Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier and the College Fjord in Prince William Sound. Cruises ending or starting from Seward also go through Kenai Fjords National Park.
This cruise sails from either Seattle or Vancouver, and navigates just the southeast corner of Alaska. Unlike Gulf of Alaska itineraries, this cruise does not go as far north, but travelers do get to see Glacier Bay National Park. The Inside Passage Alaska cruise itinerary is priced less than The Gulf of Alaska cruise itineraries, a reason why these cruises are popular. To get a real insight on Alaska we recommend Alaska land tours as well.
A trip to Alaska is once in a lifetime opportunity. Typically just staying on the water won’t satisfy your need for adventure. We offer tours that can pick you up from port and bring you inland to various locations. If Denali National Park is one of your desired tour locations we offer a tour to and inside the park. If you want to travel the park, see its abundant wildlife, or stay deep inside the park in an exclusive Denali Backcountry Lodge, you should have 3 to 4 days in hand to plan for this tour. You can plan to fly in early to make this your pre-cruise tour, or you can schedule this tour after your cruise and let us end your Alaskan Vacation on an outstanding note.
Big ship cruises tend to be aboard large vessels that host large number of passengers. In essence they are almost like a floating city. They contain casinos, health clubs, theaters, restaurants, lounges and lots of live entertainment, not to mention the sheer luxury of their cabins. Princess Cruises and Holland America Lines operate big ship Alaska cruises. Holland America Cruise Lines operate big ships with traditional feel to it and are liked by older travelers. Carnival Cruise Lines, and Royal Caribbean Cruises also operate their cruises to Alaska.
Just like big ship cruises in Alaska, we can also book Small Ship Alaska Cruises. The experience aboard these ships tends to be much more intimate. Because of the smaller numbers of passengers, small ship cruises are specialized. Some cruises specialize in bird watching, others in glaciers or wildlife. One of many advantages of small ship cruising is that they can go into places where big ships cannot go. With flexibility in their schedule, small ship cruises are customized to best suit individual travelers’ interest. Small ship cruises are priced higher than big ship cruises and at the same time they also have fewer amenities. If intimate experience and getting close to nature of Alaska trumps over pump and luxury, small ship Alaska cruises would best fit your need.
The key word for dressing for an Alaska Cruise is "Layering." Casual sportswear including windbreakers, pants and jogging suits are well suited at both sea and ashore in Alaska. Remember to bring a sweater or jacket for cool evenings. The weather is unpredictable and you should plan on bringing a rain resistant jacket for shore side activities. Light gloves, a hat or visor and sunglasses are also recommended. You’ll also want comfortable walking shoes and sandals with a rubber sole as you explore the shores of Alaska.
Alaska Cruises tend to be more casual than other destination. However, many of the contemporary cruise lines still observe formal nights and resort-casual nights Alaska cruises. Smart Casual is similar to what you would wear at home going out to dine at nice restaurant and can include skirts/dresses, slacks, sweaters and blouses for ladies and pants and open neck shirts for men. A jacket and tie are optional. In the dining area, items such as cutoff t-shirts, halter tops and torn jeans are not permitted.
In the evening, ships vary as to dress. As on shore, attire is dictated by occasion. For the Captain's Gala, for example, you'll probably want to wear something more formal, such as a dark suit, or cocktail dress; perhaps even a dinner jacket or gown.
If you are going to be loading or unloading in Canada or any other foreign country, then yes. You do not need a passport for most small ship cruises.
My wife and I honeymooned in Alaska and had the most breathtaking experience on the Prince William Sound cruise. The water was incredibly calm, and the glaciers magnificent. Dinner was also fantastic.
Stephen Z. from Montreal, QB - March, 2009
Everyone was very friendly and made you feel welcome. Excellent Hospitality!
-Kim and Jared Gaty - Cabin: #24
Really enjoyed the stay here, and would recommend to friends. Staff was pleasant, surroundings were outstanding and the guides/naturalists were fantastic!
Anon.- Cabin #14
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