If you’re planning a cruise to Alaska, choosing the right time of year can greatly impact your experience. Alaska’s climate can vary greatly by season, with some months offering better weather and more opportunities for wildlife viewing than others. In this article, we’ll explore the best month to cruise to Alaska.
May
May is the beginning of Alaska’s cruise season and offers a unique opportunity for travelers seeking fewer crowds and lower prices. You’ll also have a higher chance of spotting wildlife, such as whales and bears, as they come out of hibernation during this time.
However, May can also be a bit unpredictable in terms of weather. While you may experience sunny days with temperatures in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit (10-15 Celsius), it’s not uncommon to encounter rain or even snow.
June
June is one of the most popular months for cruising to Alaska due to its warmer temperatures and longer days. You’ll have up to 18 hours of daylight to explore ports like Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway.
In June, you’ll likely experience temperatures in the upper 60s Fahrenheit (around 20 Celsius) as well as drier weather than earlier in the season. However, keep in mind that June can still bring occasional rain showers.
July
July is another popular month for cruising to Alaska thanks to its consistently mild weather and long days. You can expect daytime temperatures in the low 70s Fahrenheit (around 22 Celsius) with only occasional rainfall.
One thing to note about July is that it’s peak tourist season in Alaska, so you may encounter larger crowds at ports and on excursions. However, many travelers find that the spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife sightings make up for any crowds.
August
August is another great month for cruising to Alaska, offering similar weather and daylight hours as July. However, as the month progresses, you may begin to notice cooler temperatures and shorter days.
August can also be a good time to take advantage of end-of-season sales on Alaska cruises and excursions. Just keep in mind that some businesses may start to close down for the winter towards the end of the month.
September
September is the end of Alaska’s cruise season, but it can still be a great time to visit. You’ll have lower prices and fewer crowds than earlier in the season, and you may even spot the Northern Lights if you’re lucky.
However, September can bring cooler temperatures and more rain than earlier in the summer. It’s also important to note that some businesses may already be closed for the season by this time.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the best month to cruise to Alaska, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It really depends on your individual preferences and priorities.
If you’re looking for lower prices and fewer crowds, consider cruising in May or September. If you want warmer temperatures and longer days with a higher chance of spotting wildlife, June through August may be your best bet.
No matter which month you choose, be sure to pack layers and rain gear as Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable. With its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife sightings, a cruise to Alaska is sure to be an unforgettable experience.