The best way to see majestic Alaska is by cruise ship between May and September, with an itinerary that includes historic towns, native port stops and breaking glaciers. The summer season brings thousands of passengers from around the world, but mostly from the United States. Cruise ships offer a good value for the accommodations, dining options, entertainment and amenities included in the base fare. Port stops allow visitors to take land tours and explore communities, museums, art galleries, landmark buildings and shop for local crafts.
Factscruises are usually 7 to 14 days. Ships can be large or small, with some accommodating as many as 2,200 or as few as 125 passengers. The main port stops through the Inside Passage include Ketchikan, Skagway, Sitka and Juneau. Passengers can purchase land tours offered by the cruise line or opt to explore on their own. Each port has a Visitor Center that offers assistance with finding local attractions. There are cruise lines that combine sea with land tours into Alaska’s interior, Denali National Park or extended stays at wilderness lodges.
SignificanceA cruise to Alaska can be almost overwhelming from a visual and emotional point of view, especially for first-time visitors who may have underestimated Alaska’s grandeur. On-board lectures and destination presentations are very helpful, and are usually given by naturalists, biologists, native Alaskans or professional guides.
FeaturesCruise schedules move fairly quickly. Port stops can leave passengers wanting more. Land tours can limit the time left over to for exploring local towns. The best feature of cruises gives visitors a “taste” of the many activities, sights and cultural arts that abound; it leaves many ready to return to explore what they weren’t able to while on the cruise.
Expert InsightCruise choices are many. Those planning an Alaskan cruise would do well to research cruise lines, itineraries, prices, upgrade options, land tours and port guide books. Talk with an experienced travel agent. Collect brochures and information. Plan well in advance, though bargains can be found even at the last minute. Another consideration is the distance passengers must travel to the port of embarkation. Most cruises leave from Seattle, Washington, or Vancouver, Canada. A cruise is more enjoyable if passengers are able to first spend a day or two in the city of embarkation, and then board the ship.
BenefitsThe benefits of an Alaskan cruise include a personal experience through one of America’s most beautiful natural landscapes, with all of its majestic mountains and abundant wildlife. It’s also entertaining, educational and inspiring, making one appreciate the magnitude of this rich land, its history and cultural diversity.
ResourcesConsult cruise lines for their Rules of Proper Attire:
Celebrity Cruise Lines
Crystal Cruise Lines
Royal Caribbean Cruise Line
Princess Cruise Line
Empress of the North
Cruise West
By: Natasha Lawrence
Natasha Lawrence is a service journalist and photographer with over 20 years of writing experience for Internet destination companies such as Gayot.com, Wcities.com, Citysearch.com and SouthernTravelNews.com. She’s been a contributor to magazines like "Savannah Magazine," "Alaska Business Magazine," "Northern Virginia Magazine" and "Florida Woman." Her photographs have been on the cover of "Traveler of Charleston" and "Florida Artists."
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