10 tips for first-time cruisers to Alaska

By Chantal

Many people want to take a cruise to Alaska, a bucket-list destination that offers stunning views and one-of-a-kind excursions, unlike any other cruise vacation. This northern region is home to incredible wildlife and natural wonders, with big appeal for first-timers. 

There are lots of considerations when sailing to Alaska for the first time. What are the best excursions? How to pack for Alaska weather? Which ship and cabin are the best to book? These are just some of the popular topics for discussion. 

Best time to cruise Alaska

By Chantal

Cruising to Alaska is becoming increasingly popular, thanks to its scenic landscape, charming coastal towns, and abundance of wildlife.

 

But when is the best time to cruise to Alaska? That depends on a few things, including price, weather, crowds, excursions, and wildlife. 

8 things that surprised me about going on my first Alaska cruise, from how much sunlight to how warm it was sometimes

By Mollie

An Alaska cruise sounded like the kind of vacation I always wanted to take, because I wanted to take my first trip to Alaska and easily get between many different ports.

My family took a cruise to Alaska on Royal Caribbean's Ovation of the Seas, which took us to Sitka, Skagway, Juneau and a glacier viewing.

I had taken Caribbean cruises before, but I heard so many good things about an Alaska cruise that I wanted to try it myself. Frankly, I wasn't sure what to expect and how different it would be from a warm weather cruise.

How many days in Alaska is enough?

By Mollie

Ready to visit Alaska but not sure how many days you need to "see it all"?

It's debatable how much time, but seven to ten days is a good amount of time for a land trip to Alaska.  A seven day land tour will take you from Kenai Fjords National Park all the way up to Denali National Park, with plenty of time to explore and take part in guided excursions. Alternatively, a ten day cruise might include seven days sailing and three days on a pre-cruise or post-cruise land package. 

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