Packing for Alaska; Or, How's the Weather Up There?

Table Of Content

• Alaska cruise in May can be perfect! (pics!) + things to do 🏔 early May and mid-May weather and wildlife?!
• Day Alaska from Vancouver to Honolulu: Dawes Glacier & Skagway
• Cruises
• for Alaska Cruise Ports
• Expert Tips for Photographing Alaska's Wildlife
• What is the best time of year to see the northern lights in Alaska cruise?
• Why Alaska Shore Excursions?

That's particularly true with May and September - early May and late September have much in common with April and October respectively, for example. When your departure date is getting close, don't look at Alaska weather forecasts - they are extremely inaccurate even the day before - 10-day forecasts are absolutely meaningless. It might surprise many, but July and especially August are rainy, so don't expect endless sunshine.

Alaska cruise in May can be perfect! (pics!) + things to do 🏔 early May and mid-May weather and wildlife?!

The worst months to cruise to Alaska - Royal Caribbean Blog

The worst months to cruise to Alaska.

Posted: Mon, 18 Mar 2024 07:00:00 GMT [source]

Unless you booked early, cabin choice could be limited — especially if you are looking for a fancy suite or cheap inside cabin, which tend to be the first categories to sell out. Early Sept is my favorite time to go and we've always had great luck in terms of weather and if you are a shopper, there are so many deals to be had. Don't forget to take your sunscreen and layers with one waterproof layer in the event of rain.

Day Alaska from Vancouver to Honolulu: Dawes Glacier & Skagway

In early May, you’ll find very few mosquitos, but the number Increases as the month progresses. Invest in bug spray if you’re hitting the trails, especially if you’re hiking near ponds or standing water. Here are the most popular topics travelers ask us when it comes to an Alaska visit in May. The difference between early and late May could not be more different. As April finishes, the trees are bare, maybe just starting to bud, and temperatures might reach only the upper 40s/low 50s. While the weather in Alaska in June brings out the flowers and even greener scenery, expect mosquitoes to be biting.

Cruises

We've cruised up to Alaska a dozen times (yes, it's our favorite itinerary). So far, we've gone once in early May, once in mid-May, once in mid to late August, once in mid to late Sept and the rest in the first week of Sept. I have been to Alaska more than a dozen times in May and have received sunburns. Days are longer (for example, sunset in Juneau is around 9 pm in early May vs. 8 pm in late August). There is more snow in the mountains in May, so the scenery is even more spectacular. There are fewer bugs in May than there are later in the summer.

That said, you are in Alaska at a time for festivals and other special events, and frontier towns really come alive. The only down side is that some of your Glacier days may be hampered by too much ice. If they are coming from UK - they probably want to see Alaska.

Shorter days mean there is an excellent chance of seeing the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) in the late evenings. You’ll enjoy wildlife viewing, warmer temperatures, and daylight returns to more typical hours. However, the dry season has ended, so rainfall will begin to increase as the month progresses. Feel the warm embrace of the summer sun throughout June when the Land of the Midnight Sun experiences the height of its daylight.

At the beginning of the month, you might still be able to find some early season pricing; the peak season for Alaska cruising begins in late June. May is a bit cooler than later in the summer, but the difference is not huge. We always pack a pair of binoculars as we often see whales from our stateroom balcony.

What is the best time of year to see the northern lights in Alaska cruise?

Alaska temperatures can be unpredictable, so come prepared with the proper wardrobe. Both September and October are ideal times to see the stunning Northern Lights, otherwise known as aurora borealis displays. If your itinerary includes stops in Anchorage, Seward, or Whittier, you might experience rougher seas as you cross the Gulf of Alaska in September.

The weather is milder, wildlife is becoming more active, and daylight hours are increasing, providing ample opportunities for outdoor exploration. To truly enjoy an Alaskan cruise, cruisers can visit from April to October when daylight hours, weather and wildlife are better. Explore Alaskan cruises and learn more about each fun-filled trip to the 49th state. Alaska’s cruise season is seven months long, from April to October.

Alaska itineraries in September also benefit from fewer crowds, lower prices, and a chance to see the northern lights. However, September brings lots of rain so you’ll need to pack for wet weather. Shore excursions may be priced slightly lower during the early season, and onboard capacity can be lower as well.

May is a practical choice for Alaskan cruisers who are on a limited budget but want to have slightly warmer and drier weather and more chances to see wildlife. Your views will likely include snowy mountains, but they are gorgeous nonetheless. Cruising to Alaska in May is still considered early in the season. As the month progresses, temperatures rise slightly, and daylight hours increase. An April sail date is one way to save money on your Alaskan cruise.

A poncho can work if you're used to cold weather and not cruising in the early weeks of May. May is a drier month, and the weather warms up significantly in the later weeks. The Tracy Arm Tour and Glacier Explorer get guests closer to the ice than a cruise ship for an unforgettable glacier tour. The small vessels can navigate through the ice-filled waters allowing passengers to feel the mist of nearby waterfalls. Alaska whale watching tours are popular, and they never disappoint.

Whether on your own or with a guide, be sure to pack appropriate gear, such as backpacks with bear bells, water bottles, snacks, and—most importantly—bug spray. June is tied with July as the least rainy month, with Ketchikan receiving an average rainfall of less than 7.5 inches. Despite having the best weather, Alaska’s weather in July is very unpredictable. You’ll want to pack for all kinds of weather and wear a lightweight rain jacket. Finally, Glacier Bay National Park is truly IMHO the main event. We’re more swayed towards May because we’re familiar with Sapphire Princess.

The best time to cruise Alaska - The Points Guy

The best time to cruise Alaska.

Posted: Wed, 11 Oct 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

May in Alaska marks the transition from spring to early summer, bringing about significant changes in the weather, wildlife activity, and natural landscapes. May in Alaska is a time of awakening, where longer days and milder temperatures beckon adventurers to its vast landscapes. Most motorcoach and rail transportation options are available by May 15, and it’s a good time to find discounts. If you visit the first or second week of May, opt for a rental car to get around. If you need a map of Alaska, you can order one or view it online.