The best time to cruise Alaska is during the summer, with June, July, and August offering mild weather, abundant wildlife, and unforgettable adventures.
However, some prefer the less busy shoulder seasons in April, May, September, and even October. This month-by-month guide covers everything you need to know.
In This Article:
- Cruising Alaska in April: Fewer Crowds, Stunning Scenery
- Cruising Alaska in May: Whale Watching Extravaganza
- Cruising Alaska in June: Long Days and Plenty of Adventures
- Cruising Alaska in July: Long Days, Warm Temperatures, and Plenty of Wildlife
- Cruising Alaska in August: Rainy Weather and Remarkable Beauty
- Cruising Alaska in September: Northern Lights at a Bargain Price
- Cruising Alaska in October: Peace and Solitude at Sea
- Final Say on When to Cruise to Alaska
Cruising Alaska in April: Fewer Crowds, Stunning Scenery
April marks the beginning of the Alaska cruise season, and it tends to be less busy than the summer months. For those looking to kick things off early, it is also a time of year that allows visitors to enjoy an unmatched sense of tranquility. Here is what you can expect if you book an Alaskan cruise that sets sail in April:
Weather
The start of the Alaskan cruise season offers somewhat chilly temperatures that range from 30ยฐF to 50ยฐF.
While there is no getting around the fact that Alaska is still chilly in the early spring, the snow-capped mountains and early spring blooms can offer some truly breathtaking scenery for those brave enough to face the cold. Sustained rainfall is also less common in April compared to the later spring and summer months.
It is also worth remembering that although these temperatures may seem cold to visiting cruise passengers, they are relatively warm compared to the ice-cold winter months.
This makes them a welcome reprieve for locals and many of Alaskaโs most iconic animals. This is just part of why April can be a rewarding month for animal lovers who cruise Alaska.
If you dress appropriately, the crisp air can even be refreshing and add to the sense of remote isolation that makes a trip to Alaska so unique.
Price
April is considered a shoulder month for the Alaskan cruise industry, meaning cruise lines like Holland America Line and Norwegian Cruise Line often offer discounted rates.
Not only do the colder temperatures keep some travelers away, but fewer families with children cruise this early because most kids are still in school, and spring break is usually in March.
Balcony cabins on ships such as NCLโs Norwegian Bliss may also be more affordable than during peak season, so booking an Alaskan voyage can be a good opportunity for more budget-conscious travelers to enjoy scenic views from a private balcony.
While prices vary depending on the cruise line, type of accommodations, itinerary, and more, a typical seven-day Alaskan cruise typically costs around $1,200 per person during April. Again, keeping an eye out for deals can help you score an even better deal, especially if you are flexible about departure dates.
Personally, Iโd recommend putting a bit of money aside for booking excursions, as the reduced crowds you get in April mean shore excursions are easier to book and more affordable.
What You Can Do in Alaska for the Month of April
As touched on, having the opportunity to spot the Last Frontierโs iconic wildlife is one of the main appeals of cruising Alaska in the spring. While there are no guarantees, you will always stand a good chance of seeing bald eagles, sea lions, sea otters, and walruses if you visit in April.
While bears are still hibernating, several whale species begin their migration in April, with both humpback whales and orcas traversing the waters of the Inside Passage during the spring.
You should also take advantage of the reduced crowds by exploring some of the quieter towns, like Sitka and Skagway. As mentioned, excursions are also cheaper and easier to book during this quiet month, so whale-watching tours, fishing trips, and helicopter tours of the glaciers are all great options.
Speaking of fishing, April is also when Alaskaโs halibut season is at its peak, so itโs a great time to test your angling skills or even just try some fresh-caught pan-seared halibut when youโre in port.
Tips for Visiting in April
Make sure you pack for the weather. I always recommend wearing layers and bringing a waterproof jacket to Alaska, no matter when you visit, but this is especially important in April. While rainfall is relatively low, the weather is always unpredictable in April.
If you plan on participating in any shore excursion, a good pair of water-resistant hiking boots and warm wool socks can make a huge difference.
Iโd also recommend bringing binoculars for viewing wildlife from the ship, especially if youโre sailing through the Inside Passage.
Cruising Alaska in May: Whale Watching Extravaganza
By May, Alaska’s weather and cruise season have started to heat up. While it is still less busy than the summer, May has one major draw that can bring some crowds: the incredible whale-watching opportunities. If you do choose to cruise Alaska in May, hereโs what you can anticipate:
Weather
Temperatures begin really warming up during May, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 40ยฐF to 60ยฐF. These sustained warmer temperatures also mean the snow starts to melt, revealing lush landscapes and opening up some hiking trails along Alaskaโs coastlines.
Another big advantage of visiting in May over April is that this month also brings longer daylight hours, allowing cruise passengers to view more of Alaskaโs stunning landscapes as they travel.
In fact, most of the stateโs coastal areas get between 16 and 18 hours of daylight and a sunrise that starts between 4:00 AM and 5:00 AM during May, making it a great time for early risers to visit.
Price
While itโs busier than April, May still remains part of Alaskaโs shoulder season, which helps to keep prices relatively low.
During this month, plenty of Alaska-bound cruise ships depart from Seattle Cruise Port and Vancouver Cruise Port, making it possible to secure your preferred itinerary at a reasonable price point.
Average costs still sit around $1,200, but you may be able to secure a deal if you have flexibility with departure dates and are willing to book at the last minute.
What You Can Do in Alaska During May
As mentioned, May is prime time for whale watching. Humpbacks, gray whales, and orcas migrate through Alaskan waters on their way north from California to the Arctic.
Many of these whales will be traveling with calves, so they tend to surface more often than when traveling alone. Again, this makes whale-watching trips even more fruitful.
If youโre hugging the coast, you may even see bears near the waterline as they emerge from their winter hibernation.
If whale watching isnโt your thing, Iโd also recommend visiting Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve or taking a scenic train ride in Skagway, which both offer stunning views in May.
Tips for Visiting in May
Like April, it can be chilly in May, so make sure you dress in layers. Even if it feels fairly warm during the day, the temperatures can drop substantially in the evening, so having the option to add more layers really helps.
If you are booking your cruise in May in hopes of seeing the migrating whales, I highly recommend booking a whale-watching tour early. You wonโt be the only person in Alaska planning to do so at this time!
Cruising Alaska in June: Long Days and Plenty of Adventures
Not only does June bring warmer weather to Alaska, but it also marks the beginning of peak cruise season. Itโs also known for long daylight hours, with June 21st being the longest day of the year.
This is also when Alaskans celebrate โthe Midnight Sun,โ a culturally significant time when most of the state experiences over 22 hours of daylight per day. In places like Anchorage, Alaska, the streetlights donโt even turn on, and locals celebrate with block parties and festivals.
Beyond the lengthy daylight hours, hereโs what you can expect if you cruise Alaska in June:
Weather
June ushers in relatively comfortable temperatures, with daytime highs ranging from 50ยฐF to 70ยฐF. When combined with the much longer days, these pleasant temperatures allow visitors to enjoy extended excursions, far more photography opportunities, and truly unique late-night sunsets.
Rainfall is also minimal by Alaskan standards during June, contributing to it being such a busy month for tourism.
Price
Since June is the beginning of peak tourism season, prices for Alaskan cruises begin to rise noticeably. While prices are usually higher than during the spring months, cruise lines like Princess Cruises and Celebrity Cruises begin offering more voyages, as well as more elaborate itineraries to destinations like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Denali National Park.
Due to the high demand, you can expect to pay nearly double the price of a similar cruise in April. If you include a few shore excursions, I would budget around $3,500 for a seven-day cruise in June.
While rates are definitely higher, I think itโs justified when you consider how great the weather can be and how unique the short nights are.
What You Can Do in Alaska During June
The warmer June weather tends to result in more active wildlife. Land-based animals are usually more visible when the weather warms up, but June is also a time where you can spot humpbacks and pods of orcas in their natural habitats.
Plenty of excursion operators offer guided hikes, fishing trips, and even kayak tours in June. If your budget allows it and you visit Juneau, Iโd recommend booking a helicopter tour of Glacier Bay. June is also a great time to explore the totem poles in Sitka National Park.
Tips for Visiting in June
If you can afford it, try to book a cabin or suite with a balcony. This will allow you to take advantage of the extra daylight. Go to bed and wake up to the stunning views Alaskaโs coastline has to offer.
It may sound odd to visit somewhere most people associate with being cold, but pack sunscreen! All of that sunlight exposure can easily cause painful burns to exposed skin.
Itโs also important to remember that the temperature in Alaska can be unpredictable, so itโs important to make sure that you pack layers that you can quickly add or shed depending on the conditions.
Cruising Alaska in July: Long Days, Warm Temperatures, and Plenty of Wildlife
The long days and rising temperatures continue in July, making it the absolute peak of Alaskaโs cruise and tourism seasons. If youโre willing to brave the crowds, hereโs what you can expect if you book an Alaskan cruise in July:
Weather
July usually brings the warmest temperatures to Alaska, with daily averages the 55ยฐF to 75ยฐF range. Unfortunately, this warmer weather also tends to bring periods of rain and heavy cloud cover, but itโs definitely manageable if you pack the right clothing.
Keep in mind that the further north your cruise takes you, the colder the weather will be. Places like Ketchikan are considerably warmer than Anchorage throughout the year, but this difference tends to be the most pronounced during the summer.
Price
Since July is considered to be the very height of peak cruise season, you should expect higher rates, especially if you are hoping to book a lengthy voyage.
Since cruise ships are almost guaranteed to fill up quickly for July voyages, itโs essential that you book early if you want to secure a good price, or even just make sure that you are able to enjoy your preferred itinerary.
Worth Reading: Whatโs the Best Cruise Line for Alaska?
As with any month, prices vary depending on the accommodations and cruise you book, but you can expect to pay between $3,000 and $5,000 for a 7-day Alaskan cruise in July.
What You Can Do in Alaska During July
July is when Alaskaโs summer is in full swing, so itโs a great time to view wildlife, including the 49th stateโs big five land-based animals: bears, moose, caribou, horned sheep, and wolves. Bald eagles are also abundant this time of year, as well as various bear species, which can be seen fishing the rivers for salmon.
Itโs also a great time to see humpback whales, so whale-watching tours are still popular. Since the snow and ice has receded even at high elevations by July, itโs a good month for hiking.
Like any other state, Alaska’s towns celebrate the 4th of July with parades and festivals, so booking early in the month can allow you to enjoy a truly unique Independence Day.
Make sure you try some of the fresh seafood when you visit the various ports of Alaska.
Tips for Visiting in July
While this could be said of any month, make time to try some of the fresh seafood dishes on offer in Alaskaโs ports if you visit in July. In July, fishing season is in full swing, so the seafood is incredibly fresh.
Iโd also recommend packing a waterproof jacket and even some water-resistant hiking shoes and socks. While the temperatures are relatively warm, you can still experience sudden, heavy rain outdoors in July. Even though the temperatures are reasonable, they wonโt feel like it if you are soaking wet.
As with traveling anywhere during peak tourism season, Iโd also highly recommend booking excursions in advance. With so many people booking, they can book up surprisingly quickly.
Cruising Alaska in August: Rainy Weather and Remarkable Beauty
Temperatures continue to be mild in August, but rainfall also increases substantially. With that said, August is one of the busiest months for Alaska cruises, as it offers visitors ample opportunities to view the stateโs lush landscapes and iconic wildlife. If you decide to book in August, you can expect the following:
Weather
August continues the pleasant summer warmth, with temperatures dropping slightly to an average between 50ยฐF and 70ยฐF. Rain showers become much more frequent but usually donโt last long.
While it can be a bit disruptive when planning outdoor activities, the August showers also enhance the vibrant greenery along Alaskaโs coast, so all of this precipitation does have its upside.
Price
As the peak season wraps up, late August may offer slight discounts compared to July, but itโs still pricier than visiting during the spring and fall months. If you want to secure a deal, try to book later in the month; prices usually fall closer to the start of the school year.
If you can score a deal, you can pay as little as $1,500 for a 7-day August Alaskan cruise, but most will find prices for a similar package closer to $3,500.
What You Can Do in Alaska During August
Bears really start to ramp up activity in August, as they can sense the days getting shorter and the temperatures beginning to cool.
Not only are bears more active as they begin their hibernation preparations, their search for fatty foods also tends to bring them closer to the waterlines, making them more visible from cruise ship decks.
Humpbacks and orcas are also still active in August, and Alaskaโs world-famous salmon run is in full swing. Not only is this great for those hoping to spot hungry bears feeding along the river banks, but it also makes it a great time for human anglers to try their hand at reeling in a big catch.
If you get rained out during a port-of-call visit, you will find that most local businesses are trying to get the last few weeks of heavy sales out of the busy season.
This means shops offer great deals on souvenirs, restaurants and breweries have plenty of specials, and even some excursion operators offer discounts for various activities.
Tips for Visiting in August
If you plan to spend any time outdoors in August, bring high-quality rain gear and quick-dry clothing. Even if the skies look perfectly clear, Iโd still recommend bringing at least a rain jacket in a backpack, as the weather can turn fast.
As mentioned above, Iโd also recommend booking your voyage for late August. Not only can this help you score a deal, youโll encounter fewer crowds, which can make for a much more peaceful experience in some of the smaller towns and cruise ports.
Cruising Alaska in September: Northern Lights at a Bargain Price
While the crowds certainly drop noticeably by the time the cruise season reaches September, there is still plenty to do and see as the fall months begin. Hereโs what you should expect:
Weather
Alaska really begins to cool down in September, with daytime temperatures dropping to an average of 40ยฐF to 60ยฐF. These cooler temperatures are also accompanied by shorter days, which adds to the sense that winter is on its way.
With that said, the crisp air and fall foliage can make it the perfect fall trip. Whether youโre an experienced photographer or just want a few snaps for your Instagram page, itโs a perfect time to take pictures of Alaskaโs colorful coastlines.
Price
September is the end of the Alaska cruise season, so prices drop substantially compared to the summer months. Iโve even found that you can score even better deals on the more luxury accommodations, like balcony cabins and suites. This makes September a great month to visit if youโre looking to keep costs down, but still enjoy a more luxurious travel experience.
As with any month, prices vary, but booking a 7-day September Alaskan cruise for as low as $1,300 is easily possible.
What You Can Do in Alaska During September
By September, bears are fully preparing for winter, bulking up on fish, berries, and any scavenged remains they can get their paws on. September is also a good time to spot moose and bald eagles, which remain plentiful.
While the wildlife is active and plentiful, the main draw of an Alaska cruise in September is the opportunity to see the dazzling northern lights. While seeing them is never guaranteed, late September is one of the best times of the cruise season to spot them in all their glory.
If you want to guarantee your chances of seeing the northern lights, even if theyโre a simulation, all Princess Cruises to Alaska offer a โNorthern Lightsโ presentation, an enriching experience shown in each shipโs Princess Theater. The ships also announce when the real northern lights are visible so no passengers sleep through them.
Tips for Visiting in September
Even if you have a high tolerance for cold temperatures, dress warmly! In September, the temperature can drop to uncomfortable and even dangerous levels, especially if you are outside in the evenings.
As mentioned above, September is also a good month to try and secure a deal on a more luxurious cruise package. Look for discounted suites, food packages, and more.
Cruising Alaska in October: Peace and Solitude at Sea
October is the coldest month of the Alaskan cruise season, but it can also be one of the most beautiful times to visit. Hereโs what you can expect:
Weather
In October, temperatures drop quite a bit, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 30ยฐF to 50ยฐF. This is also when snow becomes a more common sight.
While the snow can be somewhat disruptive for certain shore excursions, it can make for an incredibly beautiful cruise and a sense of solitude that is difficult to find on any other type of cruise.
Price
While far fewer cruises sail the Alaskan coastline in October, plenty of cruise lines offer voyages at deeply discounted rates. For more adventurous travelers who are not afraid of cold temperatures and the potential for harsh weather, booking a trip in October can be a way to see this rugged state at a budget-friendly price.
Some cruise lines will even offer 7-day cruises for less than $1,000, so itโs definitely a good idea to keep an eye on prices if you are on a tight budget but still want to check Alaska off your bucket list.
What You Can Do in Alaska During October
While far fewer animals are visible in October, seals and sea lions are still relatively easy to spot on the shorelines. Whales also begin migrating from their Alaskan feeding areas in October, so whale-spotting opportunities exist, although spotting one is far from guaranteed.
Honestly, one of the best things about cruising Alaska in the fall is just enjoying the snow-covered views and strolling the towns. For a more relaxed experience, take in the views with a warm beverage. Oh, and make sure you bring a good camera!
Tips for Visiting in October
Make sure you pack for cold weather, no matter what the forecast says. October in Alaska is cold and often feels colder than the posted temperature due to the windchill and bone-chilling moisture in the air.
Donโt forget to bring warm gloves and a hat. It may sound disappointing, but another tip Iโd recommend is being mentally prepared for limited excursion opportunities and even cancellations. Alaska is a wild place, and the closer you get to winter, the more pronounced that becomes.
Final Say on When to Cruise to Alaska
Choosing the best time to cruise Alaska depends on your priorities and budget.
Aim to book for June, July, or August to spot Alaska’s famed wildlife and comfortably enjoy outdoor activities. If youโre looking for deals and fewer crowds, consider the shoulder months, like April, May, and September.
Read Also: How Much Does an Alaska Cruise Cost?
No matter when you go, an Alaskan should be seen as an incredible opportunity to view incredible scenery and make memories that will last a lifetime. Thereโs a reason an Alaskan cruise is often included on bucket lists!