Deciding when to go on your Alaskan Cruise

Let's face it, an Alaskan cruise is not cheap and for many is a bucket list vacation. However, there are so many factors at play when deciding when to go -- from vacation schedules to kids school, budget and weather. Alaskan cruise season is short, and it's well worth it to do a little research in advance to weigh the pros and cons of which month so that you know what to expect prior to booking!

Alaskan cruise season runs in the summer months, from May to September. During this time, the weather is more mild, and the days are long, with up to 18 hours of daylight. We went in June, and were there on the first day of summer -- it didn't even get dark until well after 10PM, and the sun started to rise between 3-4AM!

• May: Since May is when the season starts (and many kids are still in school!) it tends to be quieter, and often times you can find cheaper cruises. However, the weather may be quite chilly, and excursions and attractions may not be fully operational as they staff up for the season, and with the weather. You will likely still see wildlife, but if whale watching and salmon fishing are a priority for you they are not in the area yet.

• June: We chose to go mid-June, which is the start of peak cruise season, with longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures. Humpback whales had migrated into the area, which was absolutely magical! Salmon season had started but they were not plentiful yet when we were there. June can still be relatively busy, with increased tourist activity and higher prices. Popular ports may have more crowds, and you'll want to make sure you book excursions, rental cars, etc. in advance.

• July + August: July and August are the peak of the summer season in Alaska, with the warmest temperatures and the most daylight hours. The landscapes are in full bloom, with vibrant colors and an abundance of wildlife. The chances of witnessing breaching whales and sea otters are high, and the weather is generally pleasant for outdoor activities. Prices also tend to be at their highest, and popular shore excursions may fill up quickly. It's advisable to book activities well in advance. It's worth noting that towards the end of August, some wildlife, such as salmon runs, begin to wind down.

• September: September is the end of peak season, so things will be quieter, not as crowded. However, this does mean that some attractions, shops, and restaurants may start to close or have reduced hours. While the crowds are significantly smaller, certain shore excursions may not be available. The weather can become more unpredictable, so flexibility in plans is essential.

And no matter what month you're taking your Alaska cruise, keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable. We had weather ranging from 80 degrees and sunny (I was shocked!) in Juneau, to 40 degrees when we cruised through Glacier Bay National Park! You should pack for both warm and cool weather and be prepared for rain and wind. Dressing in layers is recommended so you can adjust to the changing temperatures throughout the day.

No matter what time of year you choose to go to Alaska, you'll have a memorable vacation but an understanding of the weather will help you with planning and managing expectations! Thinking about booking your Alaskan cruise? Reach out to me for your complementary quote!