As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. A base layer is a good idea, along with some outerwear in case of weather. Related: Guide to Planning a trip to Alaska, Alaska on a Budget, Related: The best hike in every Alaska cruise port. This varies based on the length of the trip and the choices you make (especially about shore excursions) as well as the specific cruise company you plan to travel with. Youll also want to make sure you have sunscreen because when the sun does come out its INTENSE during Alaskas long summer days. Many excursions run into the hundreds of dollars, compared to offerings on Caribbean cruises that are typically much cheaper. Think: snorkeling through coral reefs, exploring ancient Roman ruins, hiking on glaciers and . These apps are full guides to the ship and everything on board. The town has less than 2,000 residents and isnt as touristy as other Alaska cruise ports. You wont leave the ship on a scenic day, but youll have an incredible view of Alaskas scenery. You can only reach Juneau by plane or boat. Season: May 15 - Sep 10 $939+ per person 8 hrs. Dont let that on its own stop you from booking. With outstanding views wherever you look, you By clicking Accept, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. Another potential decision point is the ports that are available on different itineraries, that could also be a reason to choose either cross gulf or inside passage only over the other. Ketchikan Alaska Cruise Port Guide - Shore Excursions & Things to Do 11 Things to Do in Icy Strait Point, Alaska | Alaska cruise ports If you've dreamed of seeing brown bears in the wild in one of Alaska's best spots for brown bear viewing as well as experiencing flightseeing and kayaking, this trip is for you. Icy Strait Point Alaska: Best Things to Do in One Day - Cruise Maven The Alaska cruise season runs from May to late September, with some sailings in April and October. Explore the Beach and Nature Trails 8. Heres some advice on how much cash to bring on a cruise. Expedition cruise lines often include complimentary shore excursions and provide zodiacs, kayaks, and bikes for you to use. The three to seven-night land tour allows passengers to explore destinations not accessible to cruise ships. In your pocket you can have a full map of every deck, a complete list of every activity, opening and closing times, port information, and can even check the summary of your onboard spending account. If you find yourself in this small town, here are some suggestions to make the most of your trip. Ill also talk about how to decide between a cross gulf cruise or inside passage only (and what that means), a big ship or small ship and options for scenic cruising around glaciers. We also saw a whale out there in Prince William sound. This will allow you to get stunning pictures of the beauty of Alaska, even if you are quite a distance from your subject. No one would argue that some cruise lines offer more luxury or nicer ships than others. Our policy is here: https://www.ordinary-adventures.com/privacy-policy/. Head on a Caribbean cruise, and the schedule is familiar show up to the port of call early in the morning and youll depart in the evening. Here are the best things to do while in Cruise College Fjord, Alaska Cruise Port! But if you want to see wildlife, you should take an Alaska cruise during July or August. Sure any cruise ship you select is going to have hot tubs for passengers. While on your way, scan the shoreline and skies for wildlife. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Once youve decided whether to take a big ship or small ship, youll need to decide if youre going to do a one way cross gulf cruise (named because it crosses the Gulf of Alaska) or round trip from Seattle or Vancouver BC, which goes through the Inside Passage and returns to Seattle or Vancouver. Also, be sure to book as early as possible for the most choice. Ketchikan also has excellent shore excursions, particularly to Misty Fjords National Monument, and its a great place for fishing trips. Most importantly you should bring a lightweight rain jacket and waterproof shoes. The most popular scenic cruising destinations include Glacier Bay National Park, Tracy Arm Fjord, Hubbard Glacier, Endicott Arm, and College Fjord. Above & Beyond Alaska: Fortress of the Bears Kayak Adventure. Some of our favorite things to do on an Alaska cruise include: Youll have a different experience at Alaska cruise ports compared to Caribbean cities. One way cruises to Alaska will always either start or end in Vancouver. High Seas Cruising is for those who love to cruise. August and September are much rainier, but you can get some good deals at this time of year. Located approximately 15 minutes drive from Juneau cruise port, Macaulay Salmon Hatchery is the largest Salmon Hatchery in Southeast Alaska raising over 130 million chum, king, and coho salmon annually. Jun 29, 2023, 10:43 PM. 12 Things You Absolutely Need to Do on an Alaskan Cruise Haines is best known for its fishing, golf, wildlife, and Chilkoot Lake. Yeah, having some travel insurance can give you peace on mind. To be sure youre prepared for anything, layering your clothes can give you options for when it warms up or it cools down. Early season is the least rainy time of year in Southeast Alaska and the Inside Passage (its still quite rainy so be prepared for that!). Want to sail with fewer crowds and ships? There are cruise lines of all price ranges sailing in Alaska, with budget-friendly lines like Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean and luxury cruise lines like Seabourn and Silversea Cruises. Juneau has a bus system that you can use to get around. Only a few ships have them, but covered pools are a great spot to be able to relax and swim while staying out of the chilly air that can accompany a cruise to Alaska. Small ships generally run between towns in Southeast Alaska, usually Juneau, Sitka or Ketchikan. If you think of Alaska, you might think of the cold but youd be surprised. Thinking about setting sail for Alaska? If youre interested in taking the ferry to or within Alaska, its an amazing experience, but its very different from a cruise! You can expect to pay a higher price if you book a balcony. If youre doing a shorter trip, or want to focus on seeing more in a smaller area, then a round trip cruise will be best for you. Because we are! When youre out and about in Alaska, be sure to layer the clothes that you wear. That makes it hard to charge devices. Planning an Alaskan cruise? Cruises to Alaska can vary greatly, but even a good deal will typically be $500-$700 per person as a minimum for an interior cabin. Immerse yourself in Native American culture at the Totem Heritage Center, embark on a wildlife-watching adventure, or indulge in fresh salmon at a local seafood joint. So, if youre f youre adding some time before or after your cruise in Vancouver, check out my top recommendations for Vancouver here. The best way to explore Alaska is by cruise ship. You may find rougher seas at the beginning and end of the cruise until your cruise ship reaches the Inside Passage, where the waters are calmer. Its best to have a passport, but if your cruise starts and ends in the same port you can travel with a government-issued birth certificate. From the pools on the ship (hopefully covered) to hot tubs that are nice and warm during a cool Alaskan night, youll definitely want to pack that swimsuit. If youre sailing in an interior cabin, then do yourself a favor and pack a nightlight right now. You asked your most pressing Alaska cruise questions, and today, we're answering each and every one. I've been a tour guide for many years in both Alaska and Washington and am a field editor for the Milepost. Its well-heeled tourists had to shimmy into small . The Alaska ferry is absolutely wonderful, but its public transportation and that is how its used by Alaskans. Head over there for all the details, but the MOST important things to have and bring from home are an excellent rain jacket and waterproof comfortable walking shoes or boots! Nearly every cruise calls at Juneau, so look for a cruise that gives you the maximum amount of time there to see as much of this wonderful town as possible. 20 Amazing Things To Do In Icy Strait Point - Forever Karen July is the most popular time for cruising in Alaska and it is still the height of summer with long days. If youre embarking or disembarking in Whittier or Seward, youll be flying in or out of Anchorage. There are so many bald eagles in Sitka that youd have to try not to see one. Here are some of our favorite spots that you can visit without joining a group outing. Plus, the ship travels internationally, making it an even worse idea to bring marijuana or even CBD products. The glacier is home to many wildlife species and was founded by John Muir in the 1880s. Im a fourth generation Seattleite who lived in Alaska for 7 years and I still spend lots of time there every year. Summer also provides the best weather, with warmer temperatures, lower rainfall, and more hours of sunlight. You can expect long lineups and higher prices at popular attractions if youre sailing during peak season. Take a Whale Watching Cruise 2. Things To Do in Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier Seals Sunbathing on Ice, Endicott Arm & Glacier Dawes WILD WONDERS Endicott Arm is one of the largest breeding grounds for harbor seals on the planet. The ports of call in Alaska have different atmospheres and personalities. A Creek Street visit is one of the things to do in Ketchikan Alaksa. Consider that a moderate bottle of wine in a grocery store can cost $10-12. Bring just as much as you would for the Caribbean and put it on just as often on exposed areas. The glacier is a popular destination for hiking and kayaking tours. This is a wonderful place to try kayaking for the first time! 10 Spectacular Things to Do in Juneau Cruise Port (+ Insider Port Guide) If youre the type of person who has to have white noise and/or some airflow to help you sleep, then you should know that cruise cabins dont have fans or vents. Its inevitable that youll think of something that you forgot to pack while on the ship. If youre unsure what to pack for your Alaska cruise, check out our printable Alaska cruise packing list. And its essential to keep in mind that you wont be able to book round-trip airfare, which means youll have to pay more for flights. Some people wouldnt consider Alaska a family-friendly cruise destination. Guide to Cell Phone Access on an Alaskan Cruise, 29 Must-Have Things to Pack for an Alaskan Cruise (11 Youd Never Think Of), Are Alaskan Cruises Worth It? When planning an Alaska cruise, you have many things to consider: when to go for the experience you're anticipating, which cruise line is best suited to your travel style, the best Alaska cruise ports to visit and which shoreside activities you want to prioritize. This is not because the others are not fantastic, because they are! No enduring evidence of man's existence whatsoever. Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier: The 32-mile-long fjord is home to the beautiful Dawes Glacier. Nothing about Juneau is small. Rates are $30 per night to park at the ports. Add in things like elegant night and youve got something else to pack for. You can stay at a hotel offering a parking package, but other than that there arent many ways to get around the parking fee if youve got to leave your car somewhere. They have a long history of offering trips around Alaska and provide the largest selection of itineraries and cruise tours. Trips during the peak months can start higher than that. . We got some spectacular photos even though it was cloudy most of the time. No roads to travel on or telephone masts to connect to. You wont leave the ship on scenic days, but its a chance to witness some truly incredible scenery. Cruise tours allow you to extend your vacation and explore further inland. Theres no doubt that different ships will have different experiences, so do your research before booking to find the line that best fits your style. The two main piers are Pier 66 and Pier 91. Round-trip cruises are the most popular, typically beginning and ending in Seattle, Washington, or Vancouver, Canada. Due to their popularity, balcony cabins on Alaskan cruises are more expensive than traditional Caribbean sailings. Fairbanks. I love using independent operators but I don't leave it to chance upon disembarking, so I book excursions in advance. Thats why we suggest packing several of those inexpensive plastic ponchos. Skagway - best shore excursion. Subscribe to receive travel tips delivered straight to your inbox. You can find an affordable pair on Amazon that wont take up a ton of space in your luggage. 18 Top Things to Do in Alaska - U.S. News Travel They're found outside of the towns where ships stop. Whats the Earliest You Should Schedule a Flight After a Cruise? In addition to shore excursions organized by your ship, you can also easily explore Juneau on your own by going for a hike, shopping around town or taking the wonderful Juneau food tour to get an insider and local perspective on Juneaus delicious food scene. From hiking and biking trails to kayaking and fishing, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Its essential to dress in layers. Fly in the morning of your trip, and a delay could mean you miss the entire cruise. If sailing from Seattle to Alaska, its a bit different. Alaska is one of the most scenic destinations in the world, offering an escape into Americas Last Frontier. When you think of a cruise vacation, Alaska might not be the first destination that comes to mind. Wake up early to see wildlife When you take a cruise to the Caribbean to the Bahamas, there might be a chance to swim with a trained dolphin or a group of stingrays. In particular, weve found in the past that Holland America has fares that are often inexpensive compared to rivals. It is also a bit less busy and crowded in ports. With kids still in school, theres less demand for cruise vacations. The weather in Alaska changes rapidly throughout the day. Alaska salmon season back on after court halts closure that sought to Haines is a newer cruise port of call. Juneau has the most options for literally every traveler and this is why I put it right at the top of the list. Many cities are inaccessible by land. The cruise tours visit places like Denali National Park, Kenai Fjords National Park, the city of Fairbanks, and the Kenai Peninsula. Round trip cruises may go from either Seattle or Vancouver. If cruising from Pier 66, then you can take a train from the airport station to Westlake Center. One thing thats very different from a Caribbean cruise is the scenery on an Alaskan trip. 39 reviews. Just keep in mind that the vibe on an Alaskan cruise may not lend itself as much to drinking as it would on a Caribbean trip. Cruise Guide: 15 Tips and Things to Do in Skagway, Alaska Theres nothing we love more than sipping a coffee on our balcony while admiring the picturesque views. While phone cameras are great for most shots, they often lack in the zoom capability. Cruise fares are often the cheapest when first released to the public. 12 Best Things to Do in Ketchikan, Alaska- Cruise Maven ANCHORAGE, Alaska -- The cruise ship with about 1,000 passengers anchored off Nome, too big to squeeze into into the tundra city's tiny port. The short cruise season owes itself to the weather. Hop-on, hop-off shuttle: There's a free hop-on, hop-off shuttle between cruise ship berths 1-4 and to several locations in town every 20 minutes. You might use it more than you realize. Grab Lunch at the Alaska Crepe Co. 5. The best time to book an Alaskan cruise is as early as possible. Shore excursions are cruise activities that take place while your cruise ship is in port. The land is visible throughout most of the sailing, and you can often spot whales, eagles, and other wildlife from the ship. Like many of the ports in the vast open space that is . You might have heard someone refer to the Alaska ferry (Alaska Marine Highway) as a locals cruise or a cheaper cruise and I want you to know that is not accurate! Walking tours and hikes: Pick up a free map of the . Re: Alaskan Cruise excursions. That can mean fewer people in ports of call. Alaska Shore Excursions | Local Picks for Each Port | ALASKA.ORG And an Alaska cruise is unlike any other. If sailing to Alaska, there is at least a chance (depending on your carrier) that youll have your normal cell service when in port. While sailing along the bay, keep your eye out for bears, mountain goats, eagles, and grizzly bears. Some cruise tours bring travelers into Canadas Yukon territory, and there are even some round-trip cruise tours. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Are you a cruise addict? 5. by Indy1. However, its a bad idea to bring it on the ship, and it is against the rules. Again, you might be surprised at times by the sun in Alaska. Many people are, which leaves the question of how to get to the port. As you might expect, the best Alaskan cruise ports are also the busiest. At Icy Strait Point you can explore the museum in a historic cannery, walk the nature trails, eat delicious seafood and book one of the many tours offered. One annoying habit is that many cruisers like to crowd around the doors to get on. That means you technically leave the U.S., sail to a foreign country, and then re-enter. Temperatures can range 40 degrees in a day, as well as dealing with different elevations, rain, clouds, and sun. Whether selecting a ship or planning your time in port, you don't want to miss out on all of the outdoor and cultural activities Alaska has to offer. There are several reasons why people cruise Alaska, but one way or another, people are drawn to the state for its incredible scenic beauty. It helps to take a backpack or waterproof bag to put extra layers if you dont need them. The peak season for Alaska cruises is July and August. More: https://highseascruising.com/things-to-do-in-haines-alaska/. That means those trying to get off the elevators are stuck while those wanting to get on move out of the way. If youre doing a lot of shore excursions, a small ship cruise may not be as much more expensive as you think so look into that. If you can, do this. In general you can find a lot more to do on the bigger and newer ships say those built in the past 10-15 years. (Getty Images) Fairbanks is known as the "Golden Heart of Alaska" and one of the top places in the world to view the northern lights: Aurora chasers may want to visit the city during . Head to the Caribbean for a few days and you might find a fare as little as $200 per person. In other words, you can see the same sites as someone paying double or triple what you paid by going with a cheaper line. Sign up for a Birdwatching Tour 4. It might be warm in the morning, then cold and rainy in the afternoon. Now it doesnt take a genius to know that any time you gamble the edge always goes to the house. Check with your provider for a current map, or see our article here. Theres still no guarantee youll get to see them, but it will increase your odds. But Alaskan cruises? Im so glad to have you along on the journey to experience your best adventure in Washington, Alaska and Western Canada! Expect a ride to run about $50-60 each way. Both Seattle and Vancouver are wonderful cities to sail from and spend an extra couple days if you have it. We care about privacy. Many of the original buildings remain, as are the towns wooden boardwalks. During your trip there will be plenty of time to try your luck in the ships casino. Haines is best known for its fishing, golf, wildlife, and Chilkoot Lake. While there can be some overcast days, those sunny days can hit hard. The Alaska cruise season runs from early May through late September. For smaller crowds and lower cruise fares, youll want to sail at the beginning or end of the cruise season (May, June, or September). Its best to grab it before you head to the ship. Have Lunch at the Cookhouse Restaurant 4. East of Ketchikan, this national monument is Alaska's second largest wilderness destination. If the weather conditions arent perfect, the captain may cancel the scenic sailing or sail to an alternative destination. Still not convinced. If cruising from Pier 66, then you can take a train from the airport station to Westlake Center. Hubbard Glacier: The largest glacier visited by cruise ships. You can find sunscreen everywhere, but if you like a particular brand definitely bring it with you. While cruising through the Inside Passage, the islands create a natural break from the open ocean, calming the water. Youll save money and have a wider selection if you wait until the ship ports. A cruise-by of Hubbard Glacier offers the perfect opportunity to slow down, forget the outside world, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Alaska's unspoiled scenery. This is one of the questions I get frequently from my readers and clients. 102 helpful votes. If the weather is an issue, its always warm and dry in this spot. The city is home to Fort William H. Seward and the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park. Find travel tips, news, and advice to make your next cruise your best vacation yet! If youre looking for longer Alaska sailings of 12 or more nights, youll want to stick with Holland America or Princess Cruises. Then it is a 15-minute walk over to the cruise terminal. Theres no question that Glacier Bay National Park is absolutely stunning. Book a shore excursion or cruise tour if you want to explore Alaskas wilderness or venture beyond the town center. 20 Nov 2021 By: Jenna DeLaurentis Preparing for a cruise to Alaska can seem a bit overwhelming. If you find this situation, it can be much cheaper to book the flight to Seattle and then take one of the many services between the two cities. There will be a small store or two where you can pick up sundries. Sitka National Historical Park is the oldest national park in Alaska. Charges of $6 to get out cash are normal. These days between weather, mechanical issues, and even computer shutdowns, there are way too many instances of flights getting delayed. Learn more in my complete guide to riding the Alaska ferry here. The Northern Lights are most visible further north during darker nights. 12 Things You Absolutely Need to Do on an Alaskan Cruise Amanda Sadlowski | January 27, 2018 Travel News Cruises & Crossings Outdoorsman | Dreamstime.com The ultimate checklist for. Because the tours venture farther north than most cruise itineraries, they provide the best opportunity to see the northern lights. But that couldnt be further from the truth. There are also plenty of opportunities . (We were also entertained by an otter playing on an iceberg.). Things to Do in Ketchikan - an Alaska Cruise Port Guide - Albom Adventures You can make your head spin by searching site after site for the best cruise deal. Be sure to use the safe whenever you leave the cabin. Visitors can explore the area's stunning natural beauty, including glaciers, mountains, and forests. Sitka isn't the most popular destination for Alaskan cruises, but the town is full of history and character. Prepare for wet and cold weather, and dress accordingly so you can enjoy your hike. If youre looking at a cruise itinerary that does not include Glacier Bay, you can be confident that you will have an amazing experience! The town is full of museums, shops, and small restaurants. These are all wonderful and intimate ports with lots to see and do. If you get warm or simply like having some airflow, its a great thing to pack with you. When applying for an ETSA for a cruise from Vancouver to Alaska and then back to Vancouver for a return flight to UK, how do i fill in 1. Related: DIY travelers guide to having a blast on a cruise. Cross Gulf (one way) or Inside Passage (roundtrip) only? From the weather youll experience to what you do on shore, there are a lot of differences from your typical cruise. New! From packing to selecting the right ship to when to sail, weve got everything covered. If you purchase your cruise fare early and later find a lower price, you can take advantage of price protection and ask the cruise line to honor the lower price. In addition, I highly recommend the Captains Lady, with lots of locally made items as well as Ray Trolls studio. Sitka is the best town to visit if youre hoping to spot bald eagles. You can also link up with Sitkas bus system (called The Ride) to get to trailheads and other areas. When you sail to Alaska, shore excursions are a must. Updated June 29, 2021 Alaska itineraries are often port heavy, with few sea days to relax and unwind, so sometimes it's nice to have a few "play it by ear ports." These days almost all of us use our phone as our camera. Just about everyone will tell you to spring for the balcony cabin on an Alaskan cruise, and for good reason the views can be spectacular. Everything You Need to Know About Shore Excursions - Cruise Critic Im not sure about that. Photo by Scott Johnson Alaska can throw a lot of different weather at you in a short period of time, meaning different clothing is needed. The cruise lines provide a slightly upscale atmosphere with fewer kids and affordable cruise fares. Take a look at a recent schedule to get an idea of what you can expect: Flying in for your cruise? Inside Passage, itineraries are best for nature lovers, outdoorsy, and active-minded people. One of the first things youll need to decide when looking at itineraries and best Alaska cruise ports is whether you are going to travel on a big ship or a small ship. One site that can be a little different is CostcoTravel.com if youre a Costco member. An Alaska cruise allows guests to explore multiple ports of call and experience the state through hands-on shore excursions. Ketchikan, Alaska is a popular cruise port destination for visitors looking to explore the natural beauty of the area. Small ships do not generally have programming specifically for kids. In short, the apps are extremely valuable to passengers. Cruising While Pregnant: What to Know Before You Book. This is the best Alaska cruise port for shopping, with delightful Creek Street and the streets surrounding it offering up more local art and gifts than many other ports (Juneau is also good for this, ask a local where to go!). Excursions include activities such as whale watching, kayaking .
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