The Best Time to Cruise Alaska Month by Month

Table Of Content

• Alaska Inside Passage Cruises: Calmer Waters and Big-Ticket Destinations
• Alaska Cruise in October: Chilly Weather and Cruise Deals When You Cruise Alaska in October
• Alaska Cruise in August: Wet, Summer Days When You Cruise Alaska in August
• Alaska Folk Festival (April, Juneau)
• Off-Season (Late September onwards)

Traditionally, July and August have been considered the best time to cruise to Alaska, as these months offer warm sun, long days, and abundant wildlife. However, the shoulder seasons (April–May and September–October) are growing in popularity, thanks to fewer crowds, lower-priced cruises and seasonal attractions like the northern lights. That said, the routing of cruise ships away from shore and the light pollution of major cities affords some of the best conditions for northern lights spotting.

Alaska Inside Passage Cruises: Calmer Waters and Big-Ticket Destinations

Less travelers might sound appealing, but many port towns aren’t fully “tourist operational” until late June when summer workers start to arrive. Arguably, the biggest draw is the marine animals, with opportunities to see pods of humpback whales, gray whales, orcas, sea lions, sea otters, and more. Since the skies do still get dark during this month, there is a slight chance that you’ll be able to view the Northern Lights on an Alaskan cruise in April.

The best time to cruise Alaska - The Points Guy

The best time to cruise Alaska.

Posted: Wed, 11 Oct 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

Alaska Cruise in October: Chilly Weather and Cruise Deals When You Cruise Alaska in October

With the warmth of summer breathing new life into the outdoors, May through September continues to be the most popular season to travel to the Land of the Midnight Sun. That said, the best time for an Alaska cruise during these months depends on what experiences you’re looking to have. On any of our cruises to Alaska, embrace the beauty of life in the Great Land and leave craving more.

Alaska Cruise in August: Wet, Summer Days When You Cruise Alaska in August

Also, certain sections of the access road to Denali National Park may close in September due to snow, so check your itinerary if that's your preferred Northern Lights viewing spot. Due to unpredictable weather, though, there’s a risk of shore excursions being cancelled -- especially boat and helicopter tours. There are numerous factors you need to consider for a cruise to Alaska, including the best time of year, costs, itineraries, which line to choose and which destinations matter most to you.

Another thing to keep in mind when deciding the best month for your Alaskan cruise is wildlife viewing opportunities. Alaska is still gaining sunlight as the Summer Solstice approaches, so you’ll experience longer days during your May cruise. While prices in the early season are generally less expensive, your experience during a May cruise will look different from during the high season in July and August. The benefits of cruising in April include less expensive pricing, fewer tourists, and less crowded ports.

Dive into The Points Guy's Alaska cruise guide for all the planning tips you need for your dream cruise up north. The best month to visit Alaska depends on what you hope to experience during your trip. Gray whales, humpback whales, orca, beluga whales — Alaska has them all. Here are some quick tips to help you increase the odds of seeing whales during your cruise. As August winds down, fall colors explode across the mountains, giving you gorgeous landscapes to explore by ship, train and foot.

I’m so happy you’re here!

The best time to see the Northern Lights is between late August and April, typically peaking in March. If you cruise to Alaska this month, you can enjoy more shop and restaurant options in port towns but expect things to be slightly more crowded. If you cruise to Alaska in June, you can expect warmer and drier temperatures, fewer children onboard, increased wildlife sightings, and more cruise offerings. May is a practical choice for Alaskan cruisers who are on a limited budget but want to have slightly warmer and drier weather and more chances to see wildlife. Your views will likely include snowy mountains, but they are gorgeous nonetheless.

Thinking About an Alaskan Cruise? Experience Worth the Time & Money? • Instinct Magazine - Instinct Magazine

Thinking About an Alaskan Cruise? Experience Worth the Time & Money? • Instinct Magazine.

Posted: Thu, 16 Nov 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Alaska Folk Festival (April, Juneau)

Alaska’s cruise ports, each with its own distinctive charm, serve as gateways to the state’s unparalleled wilderness and rich history. Here’s a seasonal snapshot of the top ports to help you decide when and where to dock. Alright, so you’ve got a grasp on the seasons, wildlife patterns, and special events. But when crafting the perfect Alaskan cruise experience, there are other factors to weigh in. While these festivals are mere highlights of Alaska’s vibrant cultural calendar, they offer cruisers a glimpse into the heart and soul of the region. If your travel dates are flexible, aligning your cruise with one of these events can truly elevate your Alaskan experience.

Off-Season (Late September onwards)

Witnessing bears catch (or try to catch) slippery salmon from a river is one of the most incredible Alaska experiences you can have. The best time to view this dramatic display is mid-July to mid-August, though you can take wildlife excursions to bear hangouts at any time during cruise season. The fact that the Alaska cruise season is just five months long, from May to September, makes it important for you to know all the ins and outs of Alaska cruising so you can choose the best time to sail.

Book a fishing trip to try your hand at catching salmon or halibut, or go out crab fishing for a glimpse into that type of work. A mythic journey along the scenic St. Lawrence River and out to the Atlantic, this Concierge Cruise is a cultural immersion into Québec, Newfoundland and the Maritimes. September also increases your wildlife sighting opportunities, as animals across the state begin migrating, foraging for hibernation and engaging in courtship rituals.

More hours of daylight on an Alaska cruise means more time to sightsee, whether in port or when sailing through the Inside Passage. Juneau, for example, sees around 18 hours of daylight in June compared to just 12 in September. If a cruise with fewer crowds is important to you, it might be a good idea to avoid Alaska cruises in June, July, and August. Not only will there likely be more guests onboard during the summer, but in the ports you are visiting as well. If you are looking for a more quiet experience onboard and on shore, consider cruising to Alaska in May or September.

While the days are still longer than those in the Lower 48, they are getting slightly shorter throughout July. This is also the time of year when King Salmon runs both begin and end. If you are an angler, there is nothing like hooking and reeling in a King. With an average size of 24 to 36 inches and weighing pounds, you’ll finally have a true fishing story worth telling.

Witness bears feasting on salmon, then dive into your own delicious lunch at Guy’s Burger Joint or the BlueIguana Cantina™, all fresh new features on Carnival Legend. In this guide, we’ll explore why the summer months, from early May to late September, are the best time of the year for an Alaska cruise. Get ready to discover the beauty, wildlife, and adventures that await during your summer cruise to Alaska. McDaniel said the most popular ports to leave from are Seattle and Vancouver, but cruises can depart from as far south as San Francisco or even from places like Seward, Alaska. Keep in mind, the closer your starting port is to Alaska, the fewer days you will spend at sea. If you’re ready to book your Alaska cruise, browse itineraries, view stateroom and suite categories, choose which shore excursions you want to do, and even book your airfare all in one convenient place.

The Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise and the Spring Wildlife Alaska Whale Watching Cruise in Ressurection Bay provide an excellent overview of Alaska’s breathtaking scenery and wildlife. These cruises are perfect for travelers looking to make the most of their limited time in Alaska. So pack your bags and get ready to spot humpback whales and get up close and personal with a glacier from a kayak because "The Last Frontier" is waiting. I was visiting in August, and while much has changed since then, this month remains one of the most popular times to go to Alaska, Colleen McDaniel, the editor-in-chief of Cruise Critic, told Travel + Leisure. Experience the wonders of Endicott Arm Fjord and Dawes Glacier on the gorgeous Celebrity Solstice on a June cruise to Alaska. For all your Alaska shore excursions, you’ll want to dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly.

Weather can get fairly warm in June, July, and August, which can make port days more comfortable. It’s not uncommon for the weather to be nice enough for t-shirts in the summer as opposed to the raincoats and down jackets you may have to wear in early spring or fall. There are advantages of cruising in each of the summer months, including when prices will be higher or lower. It is hard to top the majestic beauty of rugged glaciers, plethora of unique animal sightings, or huge mountains. Going on a cruise to Alaska is an extremely popular kind of cruise, because it offers an easy way to see so much in a compact amount of time. The Alaska cruise season runs between May and September, which happen to be the most temperate times of the year in the 49th state.

As the most discerning, up-to-the-minute voice in all things travel, Condé Nast Traveler is the global citizen’s bible and muse, offering both inspiration and vital intel. We understand that time is the greatest luxury, which is why Condé Nast Traveler mines its network of experts and influencers so that you never waste a meal, a drink, or a hotel stay wherever you are in the world. While the weather in Alaska in June brings out the flowers and even greener scenery, expect mosquitoes to be biting. Alaska temperatures can be unpredictable, so come prepared with the proper wardrobe.