How to Plan a Cruise to Alaska

Planning a cruise to Alaska takes time and attention to details to ensure you choose the right cruise line for you and your traveling companions. More than 13 cruise lines offer Alaska cruises on more than 30 ships ranging in size from small to extravagantly large. Your time, budget and activity preferences will determine which ship and cruise is for you. Think about what you want most out of your cruise, whether it's enjoying the wildlife, hiking, fishing or whatever your favorite outdoor activity is.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Step 1

Determine your budget and which travel dates you're available or the season that best fits your desired activities. Narrow down the cruises that fit your availability with the port you'd like to travel to and from.

Step 2

Choose the size of cruise ship you'd like to travel on. Consider the on-board features of each ship, such as rock climbing walls, pools or other activities you wish to participate in. Larger ships offer some on-board activities and luxurious pampering services as well. Smaller cruise ships might appeal to you more if you'd like more adventure during your cruise. Most of your time during the cruise will be spent on the ship, so it's important to plan out what you want to do while cruising the ocean. Land-and-sea cruise packages are also available, which can include stops in places such as Denali National Park.

Step 3

Research the ports of calls where the cruises stop, and which land excursions are available. Choose hiking on glaciers, climbing up waterfalls, bicycling down volcanoes, fishing or nature hikes where you can see and learn about the local wildlife. If your Alaska trip already includes a physical adventure such as backpacking, decide whether you want more adventure during your cruise or a relaxing, pampered experience to reward yourself.

Step 4

Decide which cruise fits your needs and lifestyle best, then book your cruise. Ask your booking agent if there are any deals for particular land excursions, or what he or she recommends for you based on your hobbies.

Step 5

Sign up for any land excursions or tours you definitely want to take part in through your cruise line, if available, ahead of time to benefit from any package deals and from any services the cruise ship provides for getting you back on the ship.

Tips & Warnings

Try cruising Alaska during different seasons as each season has something different to offer. Pack any special gear you'll need for your land excursions if it won't be available for rent or purchase on-site. Leave valuables locked in your room when partaking in land excursions, and carry a minimal amount of cash.

Try cruising Alaska during different seasons as each season has something different to offer.

Pack any special gear you'll need for your land excursions if it won't be available for rent or purchase on-site.

Leave valuables locked in your room when partaking in land excursions, and carry a minimal amount of cash.

Travel insurance should be considered in case there are unforeseen circumstances that occur.

Resources

Travel Alaska

Article Written By Janece Bass

Janece Bass is a freelance writer specializing in weddings, family, health, parenting, relationships, dating, decorating, travel, music and sports. She has been writing for more than 15 years and has numerous published pieces on various websites and blogs. Bass has also ghostwritten various fiction-based novels.

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