Alaska Cruise Packing Tips

Posted on Monday, April 27, 2009

When traveling to Alaska, there are no assumptions as to what to pack.  The weather is unpredictable, so they key is, to be prepared for anything. The weather varies greatly in the summer and can go from warm and sunny to overcast and chilly within hours.   From May through September, temperatures range from 40°F to 70° F during the day and drop into the 30’s and 40’s at night.

Slacks/jeans, a sweater or fleece, a lightweight jacket and a raincoat are versatile clothes for touring in Alaska, and comfortable walking shoes that have already been broken-in are a must! If you plan to spend a lot of time on deck viewing glaciers and wildlife you should consider packing a pair of long johns, gloves, and a scarf. A warm coat and heavy socks are essential if your itinerary includes a visit to a glacier.

Dressing in layers will prepare you for both cool and warm weather.  In the mornings, you may start off wearing an undershirt, sweater, and rain jacket. Throughout the day you can add or subtract layers as the weather permits. 

Alaska is a more “relaxed” destination so casual and comfortable are the style preferences. Even in the best restaurants you will find people dressed in jeans.  Tennis shoes are a must but you may also want to bring climbing and hiking shoes for nature walks, hiking trails and to participate in rugged adventures.  Don't forget the rain gear because rain is common in Alaska during the summer months and it has the extra benefit of holding in body heat to keep you warm.

Following is a list of recommended items to pack:

• Flat, rubber-soled walking shoes for on board
• Sturdy but comfortable walking shoes that have already been broken, or hiking boots for onshore
• Short and long-sleeved cotton shirts
• Shorts, slacks and jeans
• Tee shirts
• Thick socks
• Sweater or fleece
• Light and heavy-weight jackets
• Long johns, gloves, scarf and hat
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Camera, lenses, batteries and plenty of film
• Telephoto lens
• Copies of your travel documents that should be safely secured in your in-room safe while traveling

By packing properly you will enjoy a variety of seasons all wrapped up in one great vacation! Of course by checking with www.weather.com about a week before you go on your trip can help you determine what you need to take with you as well, but still take a few extra warm clothes just in case it rains or the temperature drops unexpectedly.

Alaska Whale Watching

Posted on Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Last year I went on an Alaska cruise, and although most of family was able to see wildlife throughout the trip, I always seemed to just miss the whale jumping out of the water or the bear eating on the side of the road. Very disappointing to go all that way and not see wildlife.

The ship usually has a naturalist throughout the cruise spotting wildlife, so make sure and listen out for this, and go on deck - don't try to see everything from inside the ship. It is warm, but you tend to miss all of the action. 

Here's a list of list of popular whale watching tips to keep in mind to improve your odds of seeing whale while in Alaska.