Alaska Cruise Ports: Current & Historic Weather

Table Of Content

• How far in advance should you book an Alaskan cruise?
• Wildlife
• Can I still see glaciers during an Alaska cruise from May to July?
• The Best Time to Cruise Alaska: A Month-by-Month Guide
• Alaska Cruise in July: Alaska in July Is the Best Month to Spot Wildlife
• What to Do in Alaska: Top Things to Do in September

Cruising in September will give you the highest chance of viewing the Aurora Borealis on an Alaskan cruise. There is a chance you will see some snow, so a winter coat, gloves, and a hat are a smart addition to your packing list. Not only is the cracking sound shocking, but the calving also produces a giant wave of water and captivating icebergs. July and August are prime time for viewing glacier calving on an Alaskan cruise. By the end of August, the sunrise and sunset times in Alaska are pretty close to “normal” times for most states in the USA.

How far in advance should you book an Alaskan cruise?

Whales may also be spotted in coastal waters as they migrate north. As the snow begins to melt and daylight hours extend, May offers a unique opportunity to experience the awakening of the Alaskan wilderness. Flightseeing tours operate year-round, so scenic flight tours are definitely an option for an early May visit. It’s one of the first summer activities available to visitors. Expect highs in the 40s and possibly 50s, with lows in the 30s. October is one of the wettest months in Alaska, so prepare for low clouds and rain.

Wildlife

There are better chances to see the Nothern Lights in the shoulder season. However, the Aurora Borealis is unpredictable, and you never know when you'll witness its beauty. I've been to Alaska several times in May and haven't seen them yet.

Can I still see glaciers during an Alaska cruise from May to July?

The warming weather allows cruise ships to travel through the Arctic waters providing unique opportunities for passengers. 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. The Alaska cruise season is a little over six months long, but choosing the best time to cruise Alaska is surprisingly not that simple. A limited number of cruises in October (predominantly on Norwegian Cruise Line) make it possible for cruisers to experience a taste of Alaska in winter without sub-zero temperatures. You will want to bundle up; the average temperature in Juneau in October is 39 degrees.

The Best Time to Cruise Alaska: A Month-by-Month Guide

It’s also the best month to witness the migration, as herring, humpbacks whales, and birds move to Alaska for the warmer months. Alaska, however, brings globetrotters to experience its vast undeveloped landscapes with stunning tidewater glaciers. Those traveling to Alaska in May, won’t experience the high daytime temperatures, but the chance of rain along the coastal areas is minimal.

What to Expect on an Alaskan Cruise in May

Because the temperatures are not as high and school is still in session, prices tend to be lower for the first few weeks of the season. Royal Caribbean’s Alaska cruise season runs from May to September each year. And while there is no best time to go on an Alaska cruise, cruising to Alaska in May or early June is considered the early season. We are proud to offer the best tours Alaska has to offer with Alaska shore excursions at wholesale prices. Cruise season in Alaska is just five months long, running from May to September, although Holland America Line offers Alaska cruises in late April and early October.

Alaska Cruise in July: Alaska in July Is the Best Month to Spot Wildlife

However, we’ve broken down the weather in Alaska by season and area, with advice on what to expect, so you can choose the best time to cruise to Alaska. Cruisers can typically enjoy Alaska in October at lower rates than the Alaska summer cruise season prices. You’ll also have a chance to visit the incredible Butchart Gardens, witness glaciers, pan for gold, hike through temperate rainforests, and much more.

Alaska Cruises

With new life come the bald eagles who swoop down to feed on the afterbirth. However, travelers can score great deals on May itineraries if they’re trying to cruise to Alaska on the cheap. Cruises to the Last Frontier offers some unique Alaska tours. So, those booked to go helicopter dog sledding and trekking tours need a thick winter coat. Here’s an overview of what to expect on an Alaska cruise in the early season. Mosquitoes begin to emerge in May, particularly in wet and wooded areas.

What it's like to go on an Alaskan cruise at the end of the season - Royal Caribbean Blog

What it's like to go on an Alaskan cruise at the end of the season.

Posted: Tue, 16 Nov 2021 08:00:00 GMT [source]

In May, guests have a better chance of spotting killer whales in the Alaskan waters compared to other months. Cruise passengers can expect to see lows of around 40 degrees fahrenheit and highs in the mid-50s. May is considered part of the shoulder season in Alaska, meaning it’s less busy compared to the peak summer months of June, July, and August. However, tourist activity begins to increase as the weather improves, so it’s still advisable to book accommodations and tours in advance, especially in popular destinations. Yes, May is a great time to visit Alaska for those looking to experience the state’s transition from winter to early summer.

It’s no coincidence that most summer activity companies pick May 15 as their start date. First, May is one of the driest months, so you may experience less rain than later in the season. And, because travel to Alaska hasn’t really geared up yet, tours won’t be as crowded as in June or July. Just know that if you come before May 15, many of the tours and activities you want to enjoy aren’t yet available. The abundant cloud cover and frequent rain make the landscape all the more beautiful, but visitors should dress properly for a better overall experience. The temperatures in September are slightly cooler, with highs of 55 and lows around 40 degrees fair height.

With over 18 hours of golden sun each day, Alaska landscapes kiss the snowy surfaces goodbye and welcome the lush green meadows that bear the fruits of winter’s labor. As you venture into the depths of Alaska’s wilderness, reach new heights where you can enjoy unparalleled views of staggering glaciers and roaming hillside wildlife. With lows in the upper 40s and highs in the mid-60s, allow the revitalizing, crisp breeze to tickle your neck as you rejoice in the unforgettable climb. Early June is when the Alaska cruise season kicks into high gear.

Here's a rundown of typical high/low summer temperatures in some of the most-visited cruise ports and cruise tour destinations. Temperatures are in degrees Fahrenheit, representing mid-month low and high averages. While all travel has environmental and cultural impacts, cruising leaves its mark to varying degrees on Alaska's fragile ecosystems. The average large cruise ship can have a carbon footprint greater than 12,000 cars and produce up to a ton of trash each day. While there can be a positive economic impact on ports of call, a small community visited by 15,000 people per day during sailing season can intrinsically change.

By the time Summer Solstice occurs (June 20,21, or 22), travelers to Juneau, Alaska, a common port, will experience a day with 19 hours of sunlight. Be sure to pack high-quality rain gear for excursions along with warm, layered clothing and a hat and gloves. Because of the fine Alaska weather in late June, it’s an excellent time to plan a cruise tour to Denali. The roads are open, days long and dry, and there’s an increased chance of seeing active wildlife. While winter months carry a certain magical allure, most opt for spring or summer trips due to vibrant landscapes, extended daylight hours, and milder temperatures. The weather conditions can change several times throughout the day, which is why it’s best to pack plenty of layers and a lightweight raincoat.

Waterfalls are impressive in May, as melting snow creates gushing torrents. I took the Misty Fjords boat excursion in May, which gave closer access to the cascades. Near the mouth of the fords, the hungry orcas wait in anticipation of an easy meal. It’s a brutal beginning for a newborn harbor seal in the north.

Alaska State Parks has a page you can check for open statuses. September weather in Alaska may be unpredictable but with the right preparation you can enjoy all the exciting events. That's especially true in Skagway, where snow can keep the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad only traveling a few miles due to snowed-in tracks. Juneau is an exception, as it's the state capital and always buzzes. If you have an exterior room and are sensitive to light while sleeping, a sleeping mask will help you rest during these long days.

Birds also haven’t started their migration, so you can spot both songbirds and seabirds as you cruise along the coast. Juneau gets about 17 days of rain in August, so a high-quality raincoat is essential. Temperature is relative, so don’t be shocked if you see an Alaskan sporting shorts and a tank top in June. The 60s can feel downright tropical after winter temperatures in the 20s and 30s.