How to Compare Alaskan Cruises

One of the best ways to see the great Alaskan wilderness, full of wildlife and scenic vistas and perhaps the most rugged and remote coastline anywhere in the world, is by cruise. There are several cruise ship lines that voyage to Alaska, and sifting through the options can be overwhelming.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step 1

Compare itineraries. Longer cruises have the more extensive itineraries. Depending on what you want to see and your budget, your cruise can last from six to 30 days. The typical Alaskan cruise is seven days and navigates the Inside Passage, sailing round trip from either Seattle or Vancouver, or follows the path of glaciers, sailing south from Anchorage or north from Vancouver.

Step 2

Determine the ideal departure date based on what you hope to accomplish during your trip to Alaska. Most Alaska cruise ships travel between mid-May and mid-September. If you are looking for smaller crowds and a cheaper fare, May and September are your best bets to enjoy a quieter cruise and better deals. Wildlife viewing is exceptional in May, a month when larger animals are migrating and in lower elevations where the snow has melted. In September, autumn is in full force, and you can witness foliage colors as early as Labor Day. If you are hoping to catch a glimpse of orca, however, you should plan a cruise that visits in July or August.

Step 3

Don't forget about optional shore excursions. An organized shore excursion can maximize your time ashore and eliminate the need for making time-consuming arrangements while in port. Even though you will spend a good bit of time on your ship, most cruises to Alaska feature opportunities for hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, bird watching, cave exploration and guided tours of Alaskan fishing villages and national parks. Most cruises offer excursions to Mount McKinley in Denali National Park, as well as a city trip to Fairbanks. Depending on how physically active and adventurous you like to be on a vacation, select a cruise with shore excursions that keep pace with your tastes.

Step 4

Look for matching vibes. Every cruise line has it's own unique style, and choosing a ship that matches your tastes and personality is an important consideration. If you are looking for an upscale sophisticated vacation on a large vessel then the Celebrity Mercury, Infinity or Millennium ship may be to your liking. If you prefer a more more intimate ship whose size can navigate the small nooks and crannies of the waterways, taking you close enough to touch a glacier, check out CruiseWest's four ships that accommodate only 100 passengers.

Step 5

Look for a ship that can accommodate your travel partners. While Alaska provides a fabulous education and serves as a memorable destination for active kids who love adventure, make sure the cruise you choose welcomes families. Several cruise lines, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Holland America and Carnival, feature child and teen programs and babysitting. If adults-only is more your style, check out the Celebrity Escape Cruises to Alaska for adults older than 21.

Tips & Warnings

If you can afford it, get a room with a private balcony. The longer daylight hours that exist during the Alaskan summer provide you with extra hours to see wildlife at almost any time of the day. Without a balcony there, is a good chance you'll miss some memorable sights.

On most days, daytime highs reach into the 60s and low 70s, but Alaska can be unpredictable so be prepared for both cold and warm weather. Plan your wardrobe so you can dress in comfortable layers to enjoy the trip no matter what the weather brings.

Resources

Article Written By Virginia Franco

Based in Charlotte, N.C., Virginia Franco has more than 15 years experience freelance writing. Her work has appeared in various print and online publications, including the education magazine "My School Rocks" and Work.com. Franco has a master's degree in social work with an emphasis in health care from the University of Maryland and a journalism degree from the University of Richmond.

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