Are you considering an Alaska Cruise this year? This state might sound like a leftfield choice for a holiday, however, the region is packed with stunning sights and sounds. From witnessing the Northern Lights to exploring the tundra, there’s no shortage of amazing experiences to enjoy. Alaska cruising expeditions are a great way to tick off several list highlights in a shorter space of time. The state is over one-fifth the size of the 48 below it, which is why a cruise is such an effective way to see as much as you can in one brief trip.
But when’s the best time for Alaska cruise trips? This blog shares the best months to get on the ship, taking into account factors like weather, access to see wildlife and any other activities you might want to book in.
Summer is the best season for Alaska cruise trips
Predictably, because of the state’s temperatures, daylight hours and rain levels, summer is the best time to cruise Alaska. The summer months offer the warmest temperature and up to a stunning 22 hours of sunshine, making them by far the best possible period for out-of-towners to visit.
The Alaskan summer takes place between May and September, offering temperatures that range anywhere between 50° to as high as 90°F, making it a lot more comfortable for walks and sightseeing.
Lines that offer Alaska cruising experiences in these months include:
June to August | The sweet spot
While the whole of summer is very much in play, it can be confidently stated that June, July and August are the superior months to take Alaska cruises. These are the months during which you’re most likely to spot brown bears and moose feeding around the rivers and lakes, along with spotting sealife while on the ship!
And don’t worry about the extended hours of daylight – you can always get plenty of shuteye in your cabin!
Why cruise in May?
While the bulk of the summer is considered the best block for traversing the Alaskan landscape, May still has a lot to offer travellers. May is actually often the driest month of the year, with just a 25% chance of rain. It can also be cheaper to cruise and book activities at this time of year.
Why cruise in September?
September can also be a wonderful time to explore Alaska, being one of the prime times to witness the Northern Lights. Later September is also closer to the fall equinox, allowing cruisers to witness the change in foliage from rich greens to yellows, oranges, reds and browns.
Any time that can be vaguely considered summer is a perfectly viable option for taking an Alaska cruise. So if you’re eager to see an oft-disregarded part of America in all its natural glory, visit Supercruises.com today! We offer a range of different Alaskan expeditions from different lines, along with plenty of travel guides for new and experienced cruisers alike!