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Dive into the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of Alaska as you explore these top destinations during your cruise. The cruise season in Alaska typically runs from late April to early October, with the high season falling between June and August. It’s during this time that you’ll have the best chances of experiencing the warmest weather and spotting incredible wildlife like humpback whales and orcas. However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider booking during the shoulder season months of April, May, or September. I recommend choosing the cruise line that has the itinerary you like best or the type of experience you’re looking for.
Glacier Bay or Tracy Arm Fjord
I always recommend traveling to your embarkation port a day early to avoid snafus from travel delays. Spend your extra day in Seattle checking out iconic attractions such as the Space Needle and savor some fresh seafood from Pike Place Market. While itineraries vary, I’ve got information on the most popular ports on an Alaska cruise, from Ketchikan to Juneau. Juneau has the most options for literally every traveler and this is why I put it right at the top of the list. August and September are much rainier, but you can get some good deals at this time of year.
Q: What are some popular Alaska Cruise Ports of Call?
And, for most cruisers, it’s more cost-effective to choose Seattle as your embarkation port. Skagway was a pivotal town during the Gold Rush era and has maintained much of its historic character to this day. Visiting Skagway, you can stroll through the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park and imagine the bustling streets filled with gold-seekers. If you’re embarking or disembarking in Whittier or Seward, you’ll be flying in or out of Anchorage.
Alaska Cruises: Everything You Need to Know for a Perfect Bucket-List Adventure
Ketchikan, Alaska is one of the best spots along Alaska's Inside Passage to explore the rich cultural sights of the Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian. Amble historic Creek Street, a boardwalk over a wide creek that fills with salmon during certain times of year. An elegant and spacious Alaska cruise ship with fresh floral arrangements and garden-inspired décor. Fluid lines, light-filled spaces and a blend of modern elegance and nautical tradition make Koningsdam a sublime ship for Alaska cruises.
Juneau – Gateway to Glaciers and Gold Rush History
Expedition cruise lines often include complimentary shore excursions and provide zodiacs, kayaks, and bikes for you to use. An Alaska cruise allows guests to explore multiple ports of call and experience the state through hands-on shore excursions. Alaska is one of the most scenic destinations in the world, offering an escape into America’s Last Frontier. The lush rainforest, snow-capped mountains, abundant wildlife, and blue glaciers provide an experience unlike any other.
Since Skagway is located more south than some of Alaska’s other towns and cities, temperatures are relatively mild. Pack light, comfortable clothing, but make sure you bring a rain jacket just in case. As mentioned, Skagway Cruise Port features three distinct docks, each with several terminals. The terminals across the entire port feature relatively limited facilities, but you can find several public restrooms and vending machines. Unfortunately, the port does not offer free Wi-Fi as of yet, but due to the port’s proximity to downtown Skagway, you shouldn’t have any problem finding an Internet connection if you need it.
Cross Alaska’s massive ice shelves, crystal fjords, and fascinating marine wildlife off your bucket list with itineraries that conveniently depart from Seattle and Vancouver. Enjoy perks such as privileged access to Glacier Bay National Park and prime docking locations that give you a head start on sightseeing. Skagway sits on the Lynn Canal, North America’s longest and deepest fjord. Numerous tour operators can provide safe and guided rafting experiences. This 200-foot suspension bridge sits above the rapids of the Tutshi River, offering stunning views of the surrounding scenery. Since the bridge crosses into Canada, you will need a passport or passport ID card.
Cruise season in Seattle starts with a rally against pollution - The Seattle Times
Cruise season in Seattle starts with a rally against pollution.
Posted: Sun, 07 Apr 2024 07:00:00 GMT [source]
Q: Is it possible to book a cruise to Alaska without a land tour?
Take a wildlife tour to spot humpback whales, sea otters, and other marine life in their natural habitat. Immerse yourself in Sitka’s history by visiting the National Historic Park, home to one of the largest collections of totem poles in Alaska. Ketchikan also has excellent shore excursions, particularly to Misty Fjords National Monument, and it’s a great place for fishing trips. Ketchikan also has lots of opportunity to learn about and experience Alaska Native Culture, including the many totem poles around town and nearby. In addition to visiting Alaska’s small, scenic towns, most Alaska cruise itineraries also include visits to the state’s colossal glaciers. On glacier viewing days, Royal Caribbean ships sail slowly near a glacier, completing a 360 degree turn to ensure everyone onboard can view the glacier.
Plus, it’s located just outside the cruise port, so it couldn’t be easier to get to. Many popular attractions are just a short walk from the town’s cruise port. The town’s historic streets are also pedestrian-friendly, so you can simply stroll the town on foot. For those with more time to work with, hopping aboard the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad is an incredible experience. The historic train can even pick up passengers at their cruise ship terminal.
The many places to explore on a glacier route cruise through Alaska’s Inside Passage. Or maybe you want to explore the wilderness of the region by trying snorkeling, taking a float plane to Misty Fjords National Monument or booking a hiking, fishing or kayaking outing. I love to set up in a hot tub and order up an Alaskan Brewing Co. craft beer to soak in the surroundings that include snowcapped peaks, steep valley walls, waterfalls and glaciers, of course. When you visit Alaska, you’ll want to pack very differently than you would for a Caribbean cruise. You can increase your chances by visiting Denali National Park, where there’s less population and light pollution. The Gulf of Alaska itinerary brings you the furthest north, and sailing in September provides more hours of darkness.
Skagway is one of the best Alaska cruise ports on many of the lines’ itineraries, including a stop at this Klondike Gold Rush town with over 20 restored historic buildings. There are a core set of ports that most of the major cruise lines always visit, but if you want to get off the beaten track then smaller ships and luxury cruise lines are the way to go. Metlakatla is the port town for Annette Island, home of the sole remaining Alaskan Indian reservation. Silversea is the primary cruise line visiting, offering float plane excursions to the Misty Fjords and guided tours showcasing the local Tsimshian culture.
There’s no shortage of iconic attractions in Seattle, among them the waterfront, the Space Needle, Pike Place Market and Chihuly Garden and Glass. Read on to plan your cruise, and discover places in Seattle to visit before or after your voyage. Hike the Horsetail Falls Trail for the coveted experience of seeing this and other small waterfalls along the way. Travel to the Portage side of the tunnel to the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center. Here you can explore a simulated ice cave, touch an actual iceberg and see the miraculous creatures known as ice worms. Grab a bite to eat at this end-of-the-road location and enjoy waterfront views from your table at The Wheelhouse and the Fat Mermaid.
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