How to Dress for an Alaskan Cruise

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The main misconception about Alaskan cruises is that the weather is constantly frigid, which can be off-putting to travelers. Rest assured down parkas and thermal underwear are not required. It does rain at times and the ship's interior can get warm. Prepare to dress in layers. After packing basic garments, note your selected shore excursions. Hiking for a glacier view or soaring past Rainbow Glacier's waterfall requires special apparel. Ask for a check list and pack accordingly.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Waterproof jacket Warm hat Gloves Pants Shorts Swimwear Short and long sleeved shirts Sweaters, sweatshirts or fleece Warm socks Footwear Evening wear Backpack for excursions Sunglasses Sun protection
Waterproof jacket
Warm hat
Gloves
Pants
Shorts
Swimwear
Short and long sleeved shirts
Sweaters, sweatshirts or fleece
Warm socks
Footwear
Evening wear
Backpack for excursions
Sunglasses
Sun protection

Step 1

Start packing casual cruise wear. Bring a hooded rain coat or waterproof shell that is breathable for possible rain. This garment will function as a top layer to keep you warm when it's windy and dry when it's raining. Include two pairs of long pants and a pair of shorts.

Step 2

Select two multipurpose sweaters, fleece or sweatshirts to wear for cool mornings and evenings during the short intervals spent on deck. Bring along two or three short sleeve shirts to dress in while indoors. Gloves and a winter hat are a must when viewing the glaciers. If heading into the fjords, know that it will also be cool and cloudy.

Step 3

Ask before traveling if the ship has a pool or jacuzzi. Pack a bathing suit accordingly. Choose two pairs of low-heeled shoes that are skid-resistant for deck activities. Appropriate footwear is required for shore excursions. Consult the tour group regarding any special footwear for your particular activity.

Step 4

Be prepared for bright sunlight when traveling in the summer. It will be light for most of the day and night. Set aside a pair of sunglasses, lip balm and sunscreen. If you are sensitive to sunlight, pack a wide-brim nylon hat with UPF ratings.

Step 5

Arrange shore excursions beforehand to pack suitably. The activities that you will participate in will dictate the proper apparel needed. If climbing or hiking, consider lightweight yet rugged hiking boots, SmartWool hiking socks and a quick-drying micro fleece shirt. When rafting or boating, take along comfortable waterproof walking shoes, lightweight ripstop nylon pants with a water repellent finish and a wind and water repellent jacket with hood.

Step 6

Consult the cruise line for evening dress requirements. If casual, a woman needs a dress or dress pants and blouse. Men are required to wear button-down sports shirts and khakis or trousers. Appropriate formal evening wear may include a cocktail dress with heels, and suit and ties. On occasion, a tuxedo is required. Check with the cruise line to rent ahead of time.

Tips & Warnings

The further north you travel during summer months, the warmer it will be. The average temperature on a cruise ship is 60 degrees F. Weather from spring to early autumn ranges from 50 to 70 degrees with chances of rain.

The further north you travel during summer months, the warmer it will be.

The average temperature on a cruise ship is 60 degrees F.

Weather from spring to early autumn ranges from 50 to 70 degrees with chances of rain.

Ashore, mosquitoes are abundant. Bring insect repellent or have lightweight long sleeved shirts as options.

Resources

Alaska.org

Article Written By Dawn R. Levesque

Dawn Renée Levesque has been a writer for 32 years and has a B.F.A. in photography. Her photographs have been exhibited in Europe and the United States. As a SCBWI member, Levesque is the author of Women Who Walk With the Sky and co-author of Wisdom of Bear.

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