A cruise to Alaska allows you to explore the scenic coastline, visit charming ports of call, and enjoy the comfort and convenience of a modern ship. You can also choose from a variety of shore excursions that suit your interests and preferences, whether you want to hike, kayak, fish, dog sled, or simply admire the scenery. And if you want to extend your vacation, you can opt for a cruisetour that combines a cruise with a land tour of Alaska’s interior.
But with so many options and factors to consider, planning an Alaska cruise can be overwhelming. That’s why we have created this guide to help you find the best Alaska cruise for you in 2023. We will cover everything you need to know, from when and where to go, to what to see and do, to how to get the best deals and value. Whether you are a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, this guide will help you make the most of your Alaska cruise in 2023.
When is the best time to cruise to Alaska in 2023?
The Alaska cruise season typically runs from late April to late September, with peak season being from June to August. The best time to cruise to Alaska depends on your personal preferences and priorities, as each month has its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best time to cruise to Alaska in 2023:
- Weather: Alaska’s weather is unpredictable and can vary widely depending on the region and elevation. In general, the summer months are warmer and drier than the spring and fall months, but they can also be cloudy and rainy. The average high temperature in Juneau ranges from 44°F in April to 65°F in July, while the average low temperature ranges from 31°F in April to 50°F in July. The average rainfall in Juneau ranges from 2.9 inches in May to 8.6 inches in September.
- Daylight: Alaska is known for its long summer days and short winter nights, thanks to its high latitude. In Juneau, the longest day of the year is June 21, when the sun rises at 3:51 a.m. and sets at 10:07 p.m., giving 18 hours and 16 minutes of daylight. The shortest day of the year is December 21, when the sun rises at 8:44 a.m. and sets at 3:06 p.m., giving only 6 hours and 22 minutes of daylight. The amount of daylight affects not only your sightseeing opportunities but also your chances of seeing the northern lights (more on that later).
- Crowds: The summer months are the most popular and busiest time to cruise to Alaska, as they offer the best weather and daylight conditions. However, this also means that the ports of call, attractions, and excursions can be crowded and expensive. If you want to avoid the crowds and save some money, you may want to consider cruising in the shoulder seasons of May or September, when there are fewer ships and passengers, but still plenty of things to see and do.
- Wildlife: One of the main reasons why people cruise to Alaska is to see its amazing wildlife, such as whales, bears, moose, eagles, seals, otters, and more. The best time to see wildlife depends on the species and their migration or hibernation patterns. For example, if you want to see humpback whales, you have a good chance of spotting them from May to September, as they feed in Alaska’s waters before heading south for the winter. If you want to see bears catching salmon, you may want to go in July or August, when the fish are running upstream. If you want to see moose or caribou shedding their antlers, you may want to go in September or October.
- Glaciers: Another highlight of an Alaska cruise is seeing its stunning glaciers, which are rivers of ice that flow from the mountains into the sea. The best time to see glaciers is when they are most active and calving (breaking off chunks of ice into the water), which usually happens from June to August. However, you can still see glaciers throughout the cruise season, as they are always changing and moving.
As you can see, there is no definitive answer to when is the best time to cruise to Alaska in 2023, as it depends on what you want to see and do. The best advice is to do your research, compare your options, and book early to secure your preferred dates and rates.
Where can you cruise to Alaska from in 2023?
Alaska cruises depart from various ports in the United States and Canada, each offering different itineraries, durations, and experiences. The most common departure ports for Alaska cruises are Seattle, Vancouver, Seward, and Whittier, but you can also find cruises from San Francisco, Los Angeles, Anchorage, and other cities. Here are some of the pros and cons of each port:
| Port | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Seattle | - Convenient for US travelers who don’t need a passport - Offers round-trip cruises that return to the same port - Has a wide range of cruise lines and ships to choose from - Has many attractions and activities to enjoy before or after the cruise | - Requires an extra day at sea to reach Alaska - Does not include Glacier Bay National Park in most itineraries - Has higher taxes and fees than Canadian ports |
| Vancouver | - Offers both round-trip and one-way cruises to Alaska - Includes Glacier Bay National Park in most itineraries - Has lower taxes and fees than US ports - Has a beautiful and cosmopolitan city to explore before or after the cruise | - Requires a passport for US travelers - Has fewer cruise lines and ships to choose from than Seattle - Has a longer distance to travel to Alaska than Seward or Whittier |
| Seward | - Offers one-way cruises that start or end in Alaska - Includes Glacier Bay National Park in most itineraries - Has a shorter distance to travel to Alaska than Seattle or Vancouver - Allows you to combine your cruise with a land tour of Alaska’s interior | - Requires a flight to or from Anchorage, which can be expensive and time-consuming - Has fewer cruise lines and ships to choose from than Seattle or Vancouver - Has a small and remote town with limited attractions and activities |
| Whittier | - Offers one-way cruises that start or end in Alaska - Includes Glacier Bay National Park in most itineraries - Has a shorter distance to travel to Alaska than Seattle or Vancouver - Allows you to combine your cruise with a land tour of Alaska’s interior | - Requires a flight to or from Anchorage, which can be expensive and time-consuming - Has fewer cruise lines and ships to choose from than Seattle or Vancouver - Has a small and isolated town with limited attractions and activities |
As you can see, each port has its own advantages and disadvantages, so you need to weigh your options carefully and decide what is best for you. You may also want to consider the cost, availability, and convenience of flights, hotels, transfers, and tours when choosing your departure port.
What are the best Alaska cruise itineraries in 2023?
Alaska cruise itineraries vary in length, destinations, and experiences, depending on the departure port, cruise line, and ship. The most common Alaska cruise itineraries are 7-day cruises that visit the Inside Passage and Glacier Bay National Park, but you can also find shorter or longer cruises that include other regions and attractions. Here are some of the best Alaska cruise itineraries in 2023:
- 7-day round-trip from Seattle: This is one of the most popular and convenient Alaska cruise itineraries, as it allows you to start and end your cruise in the same port, without needing a passport or a flight. You will visit four ports of call in Alaska: Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and either Sitka or Victoria (Canada). You will also cruise along the scenic Tracy Arm Fjord or Endicott Arm, where you can see the Sawyer Glacier. Some cruise lines also offer a stop at Icy Strait Point, a native-owned port that offers authentic cultural and wildlife experiences.
- 7-day round-trip from Vancouver: This is another popular and convenient Alaska cruise itinerary, as it also allows you to start and end your cruise in the same port, with lower taxes and fees than Seattle. You will visit the same four ports of call in Alaska as the Seattle itinerary, but you will also have the opportunity to visit Glacier Bay National Park, one of the most spectacular and protected areas in Alaska. Glacier Bay is home to several tidewater glaciers, such as Margerie Glacier and Johns Hopkins Glacier, as well as abundant wildlife, such as whales, seals, otters, bears, and eagles.
- 7-day one-way from Vancouver to Seward (or vice versa): This is one of the best Alaska cruise itineraries for those who want to see more of Alaska’s coastline and interior. You will visit the same four ports of call in Alaska as the Vancouver round-trip itinerary, plus Glacier Bay National Park. However, instead of returning to Vancouver, you will end your cruise in Seward, a small town on the Kenai Peninsula. From there, you can take a train or a bus to Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city, where you can catch a flight home or continue your vacation with a land tour.
- 7-day one-way from Vancouver to Whittier (or vice versa): This is another great Alaska cruise itinerary for those who want to see more of Alaska’s coastline and interior. You will visit the same four ports of call in Alaska as the Vancouver round-trip itinerary, plus Glacier Bay National Park. However, instead of returning to Vancouver, you will end your cruise in Whittier, a small town on Prince William Sound. From there, you can take a train or a bus to Anchorage, where you can catch a flight home or continue your vacation with a land tour.
- 10-day round-trip from San Francisco: This is one of the longest and most comprehensive Alaska cruise itineraries, as it allows you to see more of Alaska’s regions and attractions. You will visit six ports of call in Alaska: Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Sitka, Icy Strait Point, and Haines. You will also visit Glacier Bay National Park and Hubbard Glacier, the largest tidewater glacier in North America. In addition, you will enjoy four days at sea along the Pacific Coast, where you can relax and enjoy the ship’s amenities.
As you can see, there are many options and variations for Alaska cruise itineraries in 2023. The best way to choose the best itinerary for you is to compare your preferences, budget, availability, and expectations. You may also want to consult with a travel agent or a cruise expert who can help you find the best deals and value for your Alaska cruise.
What are the best Alaska cruise lines and ships in 2023?
Alaska cruises are offered by many cruise lines and ships, each with its own style, features, and amenities. The best Alaska cruise line and ship for you depends on your personal preferences and expectations, as well as your budget and availability. Here are some of the best Alaska cruise lines and ships in 2023, based on customer reviews, ratings, awards, and reputation:
- Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line is known for its freestyle cruising concept, which gives you more flexibility and choice in your dining, entertainment, and activities. You can choose from several dining options, ranging from casual buffets to specialty restaurants, without having to follow a fixed schedule or dress code. You can also enjoy a variety of shows, bars, clubs, casinos, and other entertainment venues, as well as a wide range of activities, such as rock climbing, mini golf, water slides, spa treatments, and more. Norwegian Cruise Line offers Alaska cruises from Seattle and Vancouver on three ships: Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Encore, and Norwegian Jewel. These ships feature spacious and comfortable cabins, some with balconies or private hot tubs. They also have observation lounges that offer panoramic views of the scenery, as well as racetracks and laser tag arenas for some fun and excitement.
- Princess Cruises: Princess Cruises is one of the most experienced and recognized cruise lines in Alaska, having been sailing there for over 50 years. Princess Cruises offers Alaska cruises from Seattle, Vancouver, Whittier, and San Francisco on six ships: Coral Princess, Emerald Princess, Grand Princess, Majestic Princess, Ruby Princess, and Sapphire Princess. These ships feature elegant and cozy cabins, some with balconies or mini suites. They also have theaters that show movies and live performances, casinos that offer gaming and gambling, lounges that host music and comedy acts, and pools and hot tubs that let you relax and unwind. Princess Cruises also offers cruisetours that combine a cruise with a land tour of Alaska’s interior, where you can visit Denali National Park, Fairbanks, Anchorage, and other destinations. You can also enjoy the exclusive Princess Wilderness Lodges that offer comfortable accommodations and scenic views.
- Holland America Line: Holland America Line is another veteran and reputable cruise line in Alaska, having been sailing there for over 70 years. Holland America Line offers Alaska cruises from Seattle, Vancouver, Seward, and Whittier on seven ships: Eurodam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Nieuw Statendam, Noordam, Oosterdam, and Volendam. These ships feature classic and refined cabins, some with balconies or verandahs. They also have restaurants that serve gourmet cuisine from around the world, bars that offer fine wines and cocktails, galleries that display art and antiques, and libraries that provide books and games. Holland America Line also offers cruisetours that combine a cruise with a land tour of Alaska’s interior, where you can visit Denali National Park, Fairbanks, Anchorage, and other destinations. You can also enjoy the exclusive McKinley Chalet Resort that offers deluxe accommodations and stunning views.
As you can see, there are many options and differences for Alaska cruise lines and ships in 2023. The best way to choose the best cruise line and ship for you is to compare your preferences and expectations, as well as your budget and availability. You may also want to consult with a travel agent or a cruise expert who can help you find the best deals and value for your Alaska cruise.
What are the best Alaska cruise shore excursions in 2023?
Alaska cruise shore excursions are the activities and tours that you can do when you visit the ports of call in Alaska. They are a great way to enhance your Alaska cruise experience, as they allow you to see and do more than what you can on the ship. You can choose from a variety of shore excursions that suit your interests and preferences, whether you want to explore the nature, culture, history, or adventure of Alaska. Here are some of the best Alaska cruise shore excursions in 2023, based on customer reviews, ratings, awards, and popularity:
- Juneau: Juneau is the capital of Alaska and one of the most scenic and diverse ports of call. You can choose from many shore excursions that showcase Juneau’s natural beauty and wildlife, such as whale watching, glacier hiking, dog sledding, helicopter tours, ziplining, kayaking, fishing, and more. You can also visit some of Juneau’s cultural and historical attractions, such as the Alaska State Museum, the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, the Mount Roberts Tramway, the Macaulay Salmon Hatchery, and the Red Dog Saloon.
- Skagway: Skagway is a historic town that was once the gateway to the Klondike Gold Rush in the late 1800s. You can choose from many shore excursions that recreate Skagway’s gold rush era and adventure, such as the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad, the Klondike Gold Fields, the Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp, the Chilkoot Trail Hike and Float, and the Yukon Suspension Bridge. You can also visit some of Skagway’s cultural and historical attractions, such as the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, the Skagway Museum and Archives, the Red Onion Saloon, and the Days of '98 Show.
- Ketchikan: Ketchikan is a colorful town that is known as the “Salmon Capital of the World” and the “Cultural Capital of Alaska”. You can choose from many shore excursions that highlight Ketchikan’s fishing and cultural heritage, such as salmon fishing, crab feasting, totem pole carving, native dance shows, lumberjack shows, and more. You can also visit some of Ketchikan’s natural and historical attractions, such as the Misty Fjords National Monument, the Tongass National Forest, the Totem Heritage Center, the Saxman Native Village, and Creek Street.
- Sitka: Sitka is a picturesque town that was once the capital of Russian America and a center of Tlingit culture. You can choose from many shore excursions that reflect Sitka’s unique history and culture, such as Russian folk dance shows, Tlingit storytelling sessions, Russian Orthodox church tours, native art workshops, and more. You can also visit some of Sitka’s natural and wildlife attractions, such as the Sitka National Historical Park, the Alaska Raptor Center, the Fortress of the Bear, the Sitka Sound Science Center, and the Sea Otter and Wildlife Quest.
- Icy Strait Point: Icy Strait Point is a native-owned port that offers authentic Alaskan experiences and adventures. You can choose from many shore excursions that showcase Icy Strait Point’s wildlife and wilderness, such as whale watching, bear viewing, zodiac tours, kayaking, fishing, and more. You can also visit some of Icy Strait Point’s cultural and historical attractions, such as the Hoonah Native Heritage Center, the Cannery Museum, the Adventure Center, and the ZipRider. Icy Strait Point also boasts the world’s longest zip line, which spans over a mile and reaches speeds of up to 60 mph.
As you can see, there are many options and variations for Alaska cruise shore excursions in 2023. The best way to choose the best shore excursions for you is to compare your preferences, budget, availability, and expectations. You may also want to consult with a travel agent or a cruise expert who can help you find the best deals and value for your Alaska cruise shore excursions.
Q: How much does an Alaska cruise cost in 2023?
A: The cost of an Alaska cruise in 2023 depends on many factors, such as the departure port, the cruise line, the ship, the itinerary, the cabin type, the season, the availability, and the demand. In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $5,000 per person for a 7-day Alaska cruise, excluding airfare, taxes, fees, gratuities, shore excursions, and other expenses. The best way to find the best price for your Alaska cruise is to compare your options, book early, and look for discounts and deals.
Q: What should I pack for an Alaska cruise in 2023?
A: Packing for an Alaska cruise in 2023 can be challenging, as you need to be prepared for various weather conditions and activities. In general, you should pack layers of clothing that can keep you warm, dry, and comfortable. You should also pack a waterproof jacket, a hat, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, a camera, and a backpack. You should also pack some formal or semi-formal attire for the dining and entertainment venues on the ship. You should also pack your passport, travel documents, medications, and valuables in your carry-on bag.
Q: What are the best tips and tricks for an Alaska cruise in 2023?
A: Here are some of the best tips and tricks for an Alaska cruise in 2023:
- Do your research: Before you book your Alaska cruise, do some research on the different ports of call, shore excursions, cruise lines, ships, itineraries, and prices. You can use online resources such as websites, blogs, forums, reviews, ratings,awards, and videos. You can also consult with a travel agent or a cruise expert who can give you professional advice and recommendations.
- Book early: Booking your Alaska cruise early can help you secure your preferred dates, rates, cabins, and shore excursions. You can also take advantage of early-bird discounts and deals that can save you money and add value to your cruise. Booking early can also give you more time to plan and prepare for your trip.
- Look for discounts and deals: Even if you book your Alaska cruise early, you can still look for discounts and deals that can lower your cost or enhance your experience. You can look for discounts and deals from various sources, such as cruise lines, travel agents, online travel agencies, websites, newsletters, loyalty programs, credit cards, and more. You can also look for discounts and deals for airfare, hotels, transfers, tours, and other expenses.
- Choose a balcony cabin: Choosing a balcony cabin for your Alaska cruise can make a big difference in your enjoyment and satisfaction. A balcony cabin gives you a private and spacious space where you can relax and enjoy the breathtaking views of the scenery and wildlife. A balcony cabin also gives you more fresh air and natural light than an inside or oceanview cabin. A balcony cabin may cost more than other cabin types, but it is worth the splurge for an Alaska cruise.
- Make the most of your time on board: While the main attraction of an Alaska cruise is the ports of call and shore excursions, you should not neglect the time you spend on board the ship. The ship offers many amenities and activities that can keep you entertained and engaged, such as dining, entertainment, spa, fitness, casino, shopping, and more. You should also take advantage of the educational and enrichment programs that the ship offers, such as lectures, workshops, demonstrations, and trivia. These programs can help you learn more about Alaska’s history, culture, nature, and wildlife.
- Make the most of your time on shore: When you visit the ports of call in Alaska, you should make the most of your time on shore by choosing the shore excursions that interest you and suit your budget. You should also explore the towns and villages that you visit by walking around, talking to the locals, visiting the shops and markets, sampling the food and drinks, and soaking up the atmosphere. You should also respect the environment and the culture of the places that you visit by following the rules and regulations, disposing of your trash properly, and being courteous and friendly.
We hope these tips and tricks will help you have an amazing Alaska cruise in 2023. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact us. We would love to hear from you and assist you with your Alaska cruise booking.
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