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Though weather can be hard to predict, especially in Alaska, there are trends that’ll help you know what to expect during your summer cruise. So, check the weather before you pack, but these will give you a guesstimate. Rita, Holland America and Princess offer the best options for cruise and land tours.
The 9 Roughest Seas In The World For Cruise Ships - Cruise Blog
The 9 Roughest Seas In The World For Cruise Ships.
Posted: Thu, 14 Dec 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]
Are the seas rough on an Alaskan cruise?
Peak cruising months, July and August, are the best time of year to cruise to Alaska. During these months you will have the warmest weather and the greatest chance to see wildlife. Cruising to Alaska in September has many benefits of the peak season (milder weather and good wildlife viewing) with less expensive prices and fewer tourists. April, May, and September are considered shoulder seasons for cruising to Alaska. Shoulder season is the time between peak season and off-season when there are fewer cruisers and lower prices.
What to Do in Alaska: Top Things to Do in June
Small-ship Alaska cruise lines like American Queen Voyages and Uncruise can go further into narrow passages and get closer to shoreline wildlife like Dall sheep and bears. Packing-wise, you’ll still want to bring a raincoat, but you can probably leave your winter coat home if you are cruising in June. Rainfall slows down a bit in June, with about 13 days of the month having some precipitation.
Is August The Best Time For An Alaska Cruise?
If ports include Anchorage, Seward, or Whittier, cruise ships must cross the Gulf of Alaska, which has notoriously rougher waters. A September cruise has its benefits, including less crowding and cheaper prices. However, a cruise this time of year will also slightly decrease your chance of viewing wildlife and make for sleepier ports of call because most summer workers return home for college. The warmer the weather, the better your chance to view a once-in-a-lifetime occurrence called “calving.” This is when a large chunk of the glacier separates in a giant icy landslide. Just remember our earlier reminder that you are visiting the world’s largest temperate rainforest and enjoy the lush greenery.
Rain Days in August
During this best time to see humpback whales in Alaska, sightings are almost guaranteed. Alaska’s interior is colder than the coast so the land-based travel season can be shorter than the cruising season. Keep this in mind if you are planning an Alaska small ship cruise and an Alaska land tour combination.
Typically, there are no scheduled cruises from mid-October through February, but special Alaska charter cruises can be arranged during this time with advanced notice. See our monthly Alaska weather tips and travel advice above to find your best time to take an Alaskan cruise. If you’re visiting Alaska in August, you’ll still enjoy pleasant weather to get around. August is the last month of summer in Alaska, and the weather remains sunny and mild though a bit rainier.
As the month progresses, temperatures rise slightly, and daylight hours increase. Be sure to pack high-quality rain gear for excursions along with warm, layered clothing and a hat and gloves. Many cruise lines also have limited early cruise ships departing for Alaska in April. Norwegian Cruise Lines has the first departures of the season in early April from Seattle. For major cruise lines, the Alaska cruise season runs between May and late September, including Viking and Disney. Choosing the best time of year for an Alaskan cruise can be challenging.
Weather In Alaska By Season
Additionally, packing a lightweight, packable down jacket is advisable for added warmth during cooler excursions or evenings on deck. While coastal areas may experience more rain and fog, the interior typically enjoys warmer and drier conditions, making it ideal for hiking and sightseeing. Whether you want to go for a day hike or plan a multi-day backpacking trip, the extended daylight in August makes it a great time to go.
Royal Caribbean cruises in August 2023: What to expect - Royal Caribbean Blog
Royal Caribbean cruises in August 2023: What to expect.
Posted: Fri, 02 Jun 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]
August brings prime conditions for spotting humpback whales as they feed on abundant krill and small fish. The sight of these majestic creatures breaching and slapping their tails against the water's surface is a truly awe-inspiring experience. Additionally, orcas, also known as killer whales, are frequently sighted during this time, captivating onlookers with their distinctive black and white markings and impressive hunting prowess. These activities offer a mere glimpse into the myriad of experiences awaiting travelers on an Alaska cruise in August. Whether you seek adventure, natural beauty, cultural enrichment, or simply relaxation, the options are as diverse as the Alaskan landscape itself. Early August brings warm summer temperatures in Alaska before the weather starts to cool down toward the end of the month.
From month to month, the weather, wildlife, and your chances of viewing the mesmerizing Northern Lights vary greatly. If you want to spot herds of caribou, book an Alaska cruise that puts you in range of Denali National Park. And with salmon runs in full force, you can catch fishing bears in the southeast.
September is one of the last months of the cruise season in Alaska and it is also one of the coldest, with temperatures staying in the low to high forties on average. As the month advances, the temperatures drop lower and lower, and the nights and early mornings can be bitterly cold. May brings warmer weather within the cities and towns of the Alaskan inside passage.
With lows around 5 and highs around 18, allow the revitalising, crisp breeze to tickle your neck as you rejoice in the unforgettable climb. July is the peak season for Alaska cruises and provides the best Alaska cruise weather and wildlife opportunities. This month has some of the warmest weather, longest daylight hours, and the largest number of tourists. Overall, packing for a cruise to Alaska in August requires preparation for unpredictable weather conditions. By layering your clothing, bringing rain gear, and packing warm accessories, you can ensure that you are prepared for varying temperatures and possible rain showers. Sturdy footwear, insect repellent, sun protection, binoculars, and a camera will enhance your overall experience.
Additionally, the chance to savor locally crafted beers, spirits, and wines adds a delightful dimension to the culinary exploration. Accessories can significantly enhance your comfort and convenience during the cruise. Packing a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection, sunglasses with UV protection, and a compact travel umbrella can be invaluable.
The lows can be as low as forty-three degrees Fahrenheit, and the highs can get up to the sixties on average. This isn’t to say you won’t see glaciers and snow capped peaks, but rather you’ll see so much more! Our team provides some insights on what you can expect to see and what to pack for your voyage to The Last Frontier. While the weather in Alaska in June brings out the flowers and even greener scenery, expect mosquitoes to be biting. Alaska temperatures can be unpredictable, so come prepared with the proper wardrobe.
If you have a low tolerance for cold weather, cruising Alaska during the warmest months of July and August is a better choice. June is a smart choice for cruisers who don’t want to travel during peak season but want more opportunities. Another thing to keep in mind when deciding the best month for your Alaskan cruise is wildlife viewing opportunities.
This festival celebrates the fall migration as thousands of Sandhill Cranes begin their journey south for the winter. August is blueberry season in Alaska – and if you can believe it, Alaska hosts not one but two blueberry festivals during this month! First up is the Blueberry Arts Festival in Ketchikan from August 4-6.
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