Best time to go to Alaska cruise (What to expect)
Alaska is a land of stunning natural beauty, with its vast tundra, glaciers, and abundant wildlife. If you’re planning to go on an Alaskan cruise, you might be wondering when is the best time to go.
Traditionally, July and August have been considered the best months to cruise to Alaska, as they 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.
May is a great time to join a cruise if you’re looking for dry weather and lots of wildlife. It’s one of the state’s driest months and features spring migrations and lots of newborn wildlife.
June brings summer and fleets of cruise ships to Alaska, with warming weather that even allows cruise ships to penetrate Arctic waters, giving you the opportunity to see polar bears on Wrangel Island.
July is the warmest month of the year, with the longest hours of daylight and the largest number of tourists.
It’s ideal for salmon fishing, culture festivals like the Girdwood Forest Fair, bear viewing, and memorable trips into the interior.
No matter which month you choose to go, you’ll be able to enjoy high-quality excursions, breathtaking scenery, and memorable tourist events and cultural festivals.
The best time to visit Alaska looks different for each person, as your personal trip preferences are what determine the best month for you.
So, plan your trip according to your preferences and enjoy the last American frontier.
What to Expect in Every Month of Alaska Cruise Season
April: Expect to pay around $1,200 per person for a seven-day Alaska cruise. The season doesn’t really kick off until late in the month, and you’ll have to deal with colder temperatures and fewer daylight hours. However, April is a great time to see the Northern Lights and take advantage of lower prices and fewer crowds.
May: May is a great time to join a cruise if you’re looking for dry weather and lots of wildlife. It’s one of the state’s driest months and features spring migrations and lots of newborn wildlife.
June: June brings summer and fleets of cruise ships to Alaska, with warming weather that even allows cruise ships to penetrate Arctic waters, giving you the opportunity to see polar bears on Wrangel Island.
July: July is the warmest month of the year, with the longest hours of daylight and the largest number of tourists. It’s ideal for salmon fishing, culture festivals like the Girdwood Forest Fair, bear viewing, and memorable trips into the interior.
August: August is another popular month for cruising in Alaska, with warm weather, long days, and lots of wildlife. You can expect to see humpback whales, orcas, and other marine life.
September: September is a great time to visit Alaska if you’re looking for fall foliage and fewer crowds. You can also take advantage of lower prices and see the Northern Lights.
October: October marks the end of the Alaska cruise season, with colder temperatures and shorter daylight hours. However, it’s a great time to see the Northern Lights and take advantage of lower prices and fewer crowds.
Keep in mind that weather and wildlife sightings can vary from year to year, so it’s always a good idea to check the forecast and do some research before booking your cruise.
