An Alaskan cruise is a chance to get away from it all and into a world where nature is in charge. You get to see some of the most incredible landscapes and wildlife on the planet. The key to making this experience truly amazing is to choose the right time for your trip. Whether you want to see glaciers under the midnight sun or the Northern Lights do their ghostly dance, timing is everything. Here is a brief guide about the best time to cruise alaska for Northern Lights.
Alaska’s Cruise Season
Alaska’s cruise season is short, from May to September, and each month has its own highlights. In this section, we have listed the best month for Alaska cruise.
May:
The start of the season means Alaska’s landscape is waking up. Fewer tourists mean more space and fewer crowds at popular attractions like Glacier Bay National Park and the historic streets of Skagway. May is also great for birders as migratory species return and are easy to spot in the lush environment.
June to August:
These summer months are the peak of the season, with the warmest weather and longest days (up to 19 hours of daylight). This is the time for hiking, fishing, and kayaking, full days of adventure, and wildlife viewing. Salmon runs start in June, fishers and bears show up, and it’s great wildlife viewing.
September:
As the season winds down, the crowds disappear, and the landscape turns into a beautiful display of fall colors. September is one of the best times for scenic cruising. Clear days mean great visibility for photographing the changing foliage and snow-capped peaks. Cooler nights set the stage for the Northern Lights, which start to appear in the northern skies.
Also Read: 5 Best Places to Visit in Alaska While Cruising
Best Month for Alaska Cruise for First-Timers
First-time Alaska cruise? There’s so much to see and do, and it can be overwhelming. July is the best month for first-timers for several reasons:
The weather is usually at its best, warm and low precipitation, so on-deck and shore excursions are more enjoyable.
Wildlife is plentiful in July. From brown bears to sea otters, the environment is teeming with opportunities for up-close encounters.
Many cultural festivals and events take place in July, providing cruisers with a chance to experience local traditions and festivities, enriching their travel experience.
Also Read: What is the Most Affordable Month to Travel to Alaska Cruise?
Best Time to See Northern Lights on an Alaskan Cruise
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are the number one natural spectacle on an Alaskan cruise. Here’s how to make sure you don’t miss out:
Late September:
This is your best chance during the cruise season. The equinox is in September, which means more solar activity and more Aurora.
Stay Informed:
Many cruise ships offer aurora alerts so you don’t miss a sudden appearance. A balcony stateroom or a cabin on an upper deck will give you a private light show.
Dress for the Cold:
Nighttime viewing can be cold, especially in the fall. Pack your thermal wear, and you’ll be more comfortable and happier.
Also Read: What month is best to see the Northern Lights in Alaska?
Planning and Booking Tips
The way you book your Alaskan cruise makes a big difference. So book your alaska cruise with the help of these booking tips.
Early Booking:
Booking a year in advance not only gets you the best prices but also the most cabin choices. Suites and balconies are the most popular for their views and extra space.
Look for Deals:
Watch for deals right after the summer season. Many cruise lines offer sales and discounts to fill the ships in the last weeks of the season.
Shoulder Seasons:
Early May and late September are shoulder seasons. These times offer lower prices and smaller crowds with the bonus of seasonal highlights like spring blooms or the Northern Lights.
So, there you have it.
Alaska is a top cruise destination for everyone. By choosing the right time, you can have the best of everything: summer’s lush and green or autumn’s aurora magic.
Ready to cruise the wilds of Alaska? Check out our reviews and latest deals on Alaskan cruises. Comment below and share your experiences or ask questions. Let’s make your Alaskan dream happen!
Also Read: How much does an Alaskan cruise Cost usually?
Frequently Asked Questions for Cruise to Alaska
1. What’s the best time to go on an Alaskan cruise to see wildlife?
The best time for wildlife viewing is during the summer months of June to August. That’s when you’ll see the most animals, including bears, whales, seals, and eagles, especially when the salmon are spawning.
2. Can I see the Northern Lights on an Alaskan cruise?
Yes, you can see the Northern Lights on an Alaskan cruise, but your chances are better at the end of the cruise season in late September. The nights are darker and longer, so you have a better chance of seeing the Aurora Borealis.
3. What to pack for an Alaskan cruise?
Pack layers for different weather conditions, waterproof outerwear, comfortable walking shoes, binoculars for wildlife and scenic views, a good camera, and sunglasses. Don’t forget to bring a thermal layer and hat if you’re going to try to see the Northern Lights.
4. Are there any health precautions I should take before going on an Alaskan cruise?
Compared to other destinations, Alaska does not require special health precautions. But always check with your doctor about vaccinations and make sure you have adequate health insurance. Be prepared for different weather and bring what you need.
5. What are the must-do’s on an Alaskan cruise?
Must-do’s on an Alaskan cruise are glacier tours, wildlife excursions, visiting historic sites like Skagway or Ketchikan, native Alaskan cultural tours, and on-deck viewing of the scenery. Kayaking and fishing are also popular.
6. How far in advance should I book an Alaskan cruise?
It’s recommended to book an Alaskan cruise at least a year in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season or want specific cabin types, like balconies. Last-minute deals are available, but they may have limited cabin choices and amenities.
Also Read:
1. What to Wear on an Alaska Cruise?
2. How much is a cruise from Vancouver to Alaska?
3. Which are the top 7 cruise ships to Alaska?
Photo by tongpatong at Freepik
