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The dark and cold winters are not ideal for cruises because travelers aren’t able to enjoy the wonders of the state of Alaska. Most cruise ships offer a variety of entertainment options, from Broadway-style shows and live music to trivia nights, dance classes, and lectures about Alaskan culture and wildlife. September offers a unique blend of cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and the possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights. However, it’s also the tail end of the cruising season, so expect some variable weather. You’ve packed perfectly and are now aboard the ship, setting sail for the adventure of a lifetime.
Wildlife viewing during Alaska cruise in May
On Norwegian Cruise Lines, there are plenty of non-alcoholic drink options available. They offer a variety of specialty mocktails that are delicious and refreshing. These mocktails are a great choice for those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages. Additionally, the tea selection on Norwegian Cruise Lines is equally impressive. Whether you prefer a classic black tea, a soothing herbal infusion, or a fragrant green tea, you can find it all on board. The tea menu is carefully curated to offer a range of flavors and aromas, ensuring that there is a tea to suit every taste.
Understanding the Alaskan Cruising Season
The coastal regions, such as Juneau and Ketchikan, tend to receive higher levels of rainfall compared to the interior regions like Fairbanks. This is due to the influence of the Pacific Ocean and the coastal mountains. As a meteorologist, I can provide you with objective information about the rainfall distribution and its impact on outdoor activities. Some attractions and shops will be closed for winter, though your cruise line will still operate a full roster of shore excursions.
Are there any special events or festivals in Alaska in September?
If it’s your only time to Alaska, you want to pick a time to enjoy that bucket list shore excursion. Also, you might want to try to “do it all,” if that’s even possible. Helicopter tours close shop early as bad weather affects their ability to take off and fly safely. Large boat tours such as the Misty Fjords Explorer and the Bering Sea Crab Fishermen’s Tours also stop offering excursions by mid-September. So, think about comfort and warmth when packing for this itinerary. Although, since the Norwegian Sun offers a 10-day itinerary, it completes the last Alaska cruise on October 30th.
What to Expect on an Alaskan Cruise in May
You’ll want to pack for all kinds of weather and wear a lightweight rain jacket. June is one of the best months for wildlife sightings, with caribou, black bears, mountain goats, moose calves, and even polar bears out and about. May is one of the best times to visit Alaska for dry weather, fewer crowds, and lots of wildlife. It’s not uncommon to wake up to a hot sunny day, only to find it cold and raining 10 minutes later. You’re not alone if you’re worried about how cold it gets in Alaska or which month is best to avoid the rain. The weather in Alaska is unpredictable and can change at a moment’s notice.
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With the popularity of July cruising, cruise prices are at their highest. Cruises are typically offered in three-night, seven-night, and even up to 28-night cruises. On average, a seven-night cruise ranges from $500 to $5,000, depending on the cruise line and state room of your choice. The price typically includes all on-board expenses such as food, room, and on-ship activities. By September, most intense storm systems have dissipated, leaving you with chilly mist and light to moderate rains. While rain can be inconvenient for travelers, it rarely shuts down attractions or impedes sightseeing or enjoyment of the local wildlife.
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The best locations to spot wildlife vary depending on the cruise route, but popular sightings include dolphins, whales, and seabirds. In conclusion, an ocean view cabin on a cruise ship is more than just a window or porthole. So, if you have the opportunity to choose an ocean view cabin, I highly recommend it. The sights and sounds of the ocean will create lasting memories and make your cruise vacation truly unforgettable. In the grand tapestry of maritime adventures, an ocean view on a cruise ship unveils a captivating realm of endless horizons and boundless possibilities.
Alaska Cruise in June: See the Sights on an Alaska Summer Cruise
National park facilities and some tourist businesses will switch to winter hours. September is also a great time to get deals on souvenirs, as merchants sell off this year's goods at the end of Alaska's tourist season. Big-ship cruise lines such as Holland America Line, Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean ramp up their operations in May, as do Disney Cruise Line and small-ship and luxury lines. Each month has its advantages, not the least of which is discounted pricing in the spring and fall shoulder seasons. Road conditions in September are generally good, but you should be prepared for anything. Early snowfall can occur, especially in northern and interior regions.
Whether you prefer a glass of bubbly to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy the effervescence, Norwegian Cruise Lines has champagne options to satisfy your desires. Moving on from the wide range of wine options and prices, let’s now explore the champagne offerings and costs on Norwegian Cruise Lines. You can check out the prices for non-alcoholic beverages on Norwegian Cruise Lines.
For the sake of logistics, I’ve left below a brief description of the weather you can expect in different regions of Alaska. In this post, I promote travel to destinations that is the traditional lands of many Alaska Native groups, including the Aleut, Athabascan, Haida, Inupiat, Tlingit, and Yuit peoples. With respect, I make a formal land acknowledgment, extending my appreciation and respect to the past and present people of these lands. To learn more about the peoples who call these lands home, I invite you to explore Native Land.
Running February through March, this is a great option for travelers looking to experience Alaska during the winter months. The cruise season beefs up in June, with the number of ships growing and the season in full swing by the end of the month. The midnight sun means many hours of daylight, especially on June 20, the longest day of the year — when you'll have to stay up late to see any darkness at all. For most travelers, Southeast Alaska means cruising—and cruising in September offers just as much of a gamble as a land tour.
If you have an exterior room and are sensitive to light while sleeping, a sleeping mask will help you rest during these long days. You’ll also have more hours to look for wildlife from your room window or veranda. In the Lower 48, temperatures in June start to heat up, not so much in Alaska. Expect less activity and fewer shop openings in some smaller port towns in May since most summer workers are in college and won’t arrive until June. If you’re looking for a unique Alaskan experience, you’ll find plenty of them in October.
With nearly endless summer days and coastal breezes, you’ll want to make sure to dress with flexibility in mind. These cruises offer the benefits of a wider range of itineraries, shore excursions, departure dates, and availability and take you to all of the must-see stops along the way. When it comes to cruising in Alaska, you’ll be spoiled for choice as no other state has more coastline to explore. The best cruises in Alaska offer unparalleled experiences that will bring you up close to some of the most unique and awe-inspiring places in the world.
