Questions are organized by sections:
- Planning your Alasa Cruise
- Weather
- Packing
- Wildlife
- Excursions
- Ports
- Seasickness
- Documents
- Money
- Food
- Photography
- Additional
Planning Your Alaska Cruise Questions
1. When is the best month to take an Alaska cruise?
Honestly, each month offers something a little different. May is the driest month, June has the most hours of daylight, July and August are the warmest months, and September is the coldest but definitely has fewer tourists. If your priority is seeing whales and bears, I’d recommend booking a cruise in late June through late August.
2. Is May or September better?
May and September are considered the “shoulder season” for Alaska cruises. Both months offer mild weather with fewer crowds and cheaper prices! May is drier and warmer, and many mountains still have snow capped peaks. September is very wet, but has the smallest number of tourists and is still a great month to see bears! May you have a lesser chance of seeing bears since the salmon don’t come back until late June/early July. I’d personally still book a cruise for May.
3. Is Alaska worth visiting in the rain?
Yes, it does rain A LOT in southeast Alaska, but you shouldn’t fear the rain! In Ketchikan, where it gets 300 days of rain a year, we call rain “liquid sunshine”. If it’s raining when you pull into port, just know you’re getting the true local experience. Plus, I think it helps contribute to the moody, beautiful scenery.
4. Should I choose a 7-day or 10-day cruise?
You’ll always experience and see more on a longer vacation, so I’d recommend a 10-day cruise. But if timelines are tight, I do think 7 days is more than enough time to get a great Alaskan experience!
5. Is Alaska expensive?
Yes, Alaska is one of the more expensive destinations in the U.S., mostly because almost everything has to be shipped or flown in. Excursions can range from around $100 to $500+ for helicopter or floatplane adventures. But the good news is that you don’t have to spend a fortune to have an amazing trip. Many ports are easy to explore on foot, and some of my favorite experiences, like walking Creek Street in Ketchikan or watching bald eagles soar overhead, are completely free!
6. How far in advance should I book?
I recommend booking your cruise 6–12 months in advance if you want the best cabin choices and pricing. Popular excursions, especially helicopter tours, dog sledding, and Misty Fjords floatplane tours, can sell out months ahead, so try to reserve those about 3–6 months before your trip.
7. Is Alaska a good honeymoon destination?
Absolutely. Alaska has a magical, mystical feel, almost like you’re stepping into an untouched paradise. The wildlife you can see here is unique, and the views are breathtaking. Plus, there’s an abundance of fun and exciting excursions to take part in, ports and spas, and relaxing scenery to see on the cruise ship. I’d recommend checking out my Alaska Bucket List to make sure you make the most out of your vacation!
8. Is Alaska good for families?
Yes! Many cruises cater to families (like Disney), and many excursions are kid-friendly. Check out my guide on Epic Ketchikan Excursions You Will Never Forget and 10 Alaska Excursions You Need to Book Today for some ideas.
9. Can you do Alaska on a budget?
Yes! In many ports like Ketchikan, there are amazing free and cheap things to do. While cruises offer the easiest option, there’s alternatives that can be cheaper. I’d also recommend looking into Alaska Marine Highway ferries for a more budget-friendly and customizable experience. The ferries are car ferries, so you can bring your own car and explore every port. They also stop at the smaller towns that don’t see tourists, if you want a more unique, true Alaska experience. Ferries start in Bellingham, Washington, and go all the way to Dutch Harbor, Alaska. Reach out if you have questions!
Weather Questions
10. Is Alaska cold in the summer?
It’s probably warmer than you would think! September is the coldest cruise month with daytime temperatures are around 45–55°F (7–13°C), while August is the warmest month, with daytime temperatures around 50–65°F (10–18°C).
11. What is the weather like in May?
It’s one of the driest months in Southeast Alaska, but mornings and evenings can feel especially chilly, especially out on deck during glacier viewing. Expect daytime temperatures around 40–55°F (4–13°C).
12. What is the weather like in June?
June has some of Alaska’s longest days, with nearly 18 hours of daylight around the summer solstice. Temperatures become warmer, generally ranging from 50–60°F (10–16°C), and it’s typically the driest month, but you’ll still likely enjoy a mix of sunshine and passing showers.
13. What is the weather like in July?
July is typically the warmest month for Alaska cruises, with average daytime temperatures around 55–65°F (13–18°C). Some unusually warm days can even reach the 70s, but rain is still common.
14. What is the weather like in August?
August stays on the warmer side, but rainfall usually becomes more frequent as summer winds down. Temperatures generally range from 50–65°F (10–18°C).
15. What is the weather like in September?
September marks the beginning of fall in Alaska. Temperatures cool to around 45–55°F (7–13°C), daylight hours become noticeably shorter, and rainy weather becomes more common. It’s still a beautiful time to cruise, with fewer crowds.
16. Does it rain every day?
Southeast Alaska is very rainy! In the summer, it’s common for it to rain 15 – 20 days per month!
17. Do I need a winter coat?
Honestly, no. I’d bring a quality rain jacket over a heavy winter coat. Check out my guide on How to Pack for an Alaska Cruise for more details.
Packing Questions
18. What should I pack for an Alaska cruise?
Glad you asked! Check out my What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise for the full breakdown. I also have a printable packing list so you can check off every item.
19. How many layers do I need?
Three. You need a base layer (Merino Wool or Synthetic), a mid layer like a Sweater, Cardigan, or fleece vest, and then you should have a true waterproof jacket (not just “Water-Resistant”).
20. Do I need waterproof shoes?
YES! Nothing will ruin a day in port faster than having cold and wet feet 15 minutes off the cruise ship.
21. Should I bring hiking boots?
Depends. If you plan on doing a bit of hiking, then yes. If you plan on excursions like floatplane rides, whale watching, or you just plan on walking around town, then no.
22. Do I need binoculars?
YES! If you hope to see wildlife on your cruise, I HIGHLY recommend packing a pair of binoculars. While you’re cruising along the Inside Passage, whales may be visible off in the distance, or there may be a bear feasting on some salmon in a stream. You’ll have major regret if you miss the whale breaching or the bear on the shoreline because you didn’t have binoculars handy.
23. Should I pack gloves and a hat?
YES! When you cruise by the glaciers, it’ll be cold on deck. Stay warm by packing gloves and a hat.
24. Do I need formal clothes?
If you plan on going to one of the fancier restaurants onboard, yes. Otherwise, you can skip it.
25. What kind of jacket is best?
A true waterproof jacket. If you had to pack one jacket, skip the fur and the heavy ski jacket and opt for a rain jacket. Popular brands like North Face and Patagonia are good options!
26. Can I wear jeans?
Yes, especially if you bring a rain jacket that is a bit on the longer end. In fact, jeans are all the pants my Dad owns, and he’s lived in Ketchikan for over 20 years. There is a chance that it will be raining sideways, so bring a pair of waterproof pants if you have some, just in case.
27. Do I need bug spray?
Yes! We joke that Alaska’s state bird is the mosquito. I grew up hearing that saying every summer, and while Southeast Alaska isn’t as bad as Interior Alaska, you’ll definitely appreciate having bug spray for hikes and evenings outdoors!
Wildlife Questions
28. What animals will I see?
Check out my post 10 Wildlife Species to See on an Alaska Cruise and Exactly Where to Spot Them.
29. When is the best time to see whales?
June – August is the peak time to see humpback whales. There are an estimated 10,000 – 12,000 humpbacks that come to Southeast Alaska during these times for summer feedings. About 2,500 Orcas are in the waters during the summer as well. They’re a bit harder to spot compared to humpbacks, but the best time to see Orcas is May – September, which lines up with the cruise season.
30. Where can I see bears?
Check out my post 10 Wildlife Species to See on an Alaska Cruise and Exactly Where to Spot Them. They can also be seen at the Fortress of the Bear in Sitka. This is a sanctuary for orphaned bear cubs.
31. Will I see bald eagles?
This is basically a 100% guarantee! Growing up, I thought Bald Eagles were like pigeons because there were always sooo many everywhere you look!
32. Can you see moose on a cruise?
Chances are slim. Moose are typically found more in the interior of Alaska. If you are flying in and out of Anchorage, you’re more likely to see a moose than in Southeast Alaska.
33. When are salmon running?
While salmon start running in mid-May and end in October, the peak run happens between the middle of June and August.
34. Can you see glaciers and whales on the same cruise?
Yes, it’s very possible! Most cruise ships sail past either Glacier Bay or the 6-mile-wide Hubbard Glacier, depending on the cruise line company. Whales are never a guarantee, but the peak season for whales is June – August.
35. Are whales guaranteed?
No wildlife sightings are ever a guarantee but the chances increase if you take a cruise during June – August!
Excursion Questions
36. Which excursions are worth the money?
Oh man, this depends a lot on what type of cruiser you are (adventurer, couple, family), but I give a breakdown on the best excursions for all the ports and for Ketchikan. Check out 10 Alaska Excursions You Need to Book Today and then Epic Ketchikan Excursions You Will Never Forget.
37. Can I book independently?
Absolutely! Many local tour companies offer the exact same excursions you’ll find through the cruise line, sometimes at a lower price. Just make sure your tour operator guarantees you’ll return to the ship on time, or leave yourself a generous time buffer before the all-aboard.
38. Is whale watching worth it?
If I were to do one excursion, I wouldn’t book whale watching. On your cruise, you’ll have plenty of time at sea to spot humpback whales and orcas as your sailing between port cities. However, if whales are your number one thing you want to see on your Alaska cruise, then book a whale watching tour in Juneau. Juneau is the best place to see Humpback whales, in my opinion.
39. Should I visit Mendenhall Glacier?
Yes. If I were to do one thing in Juneau, I would make it a priority to go to Mendenhall Glacier. Either take a bus and do a self-guided tour or book an excursion, Mendenhall Glacier is a must-see in Juneau in my opinion.
40. Are floatplane tours safe?
I’ll be very honest here. Floatplane accidents occur more often than commercial flights. In the last 10 years (2016 – 2026) there have unfortunately been 4 fatal commercial floatplane crashes in Southeast Alaska. That being said, there have also been tens of thousands of incident-free flights as well. I have personally done the Misty Fjords floatplane tour, and it was incredible and I still recommend doing it. If you’re still nervous, look at the NTSB Aviation Investigation Search to find formal accident reports. You can search by the operator’s name.
Port Questions
41. Which Alaska port is the best?
I’m very biased because I grew up in Ketchikan 😉 but each port has a unique charm and offers unique experiences. Ketchikan is the gateway to Misty Fjords National Monument (unbelievable scenery) and also has Saxman Totem Park (the largest collection of standing totem poles in the world). Juneau has the Mendenhall Glacier (the only port where you can do excursions with a glacier). Sitka has a bear sanctuary for orphaned bear cubs, and Skagway has the most iconic excursion in all of Southeast Alaska, the Yukon Railroad.
42. Can you walk around without an excursion?
The perks of towns in Southeast Alaska are that they are all very walkable. I’m working on a blog post that features Free Things to do in Ketchikan Guide. Stay tuned! I also have a Ketchikan Port Guide with all the local insider knowledge on the best things to. do and see.
43. Which ports have free things to do?
All of them! Blog posts coming soon!
44. Which ports are easiest to explore?
Skagway is the smallest town, so it is the easiest to walk completely, but Juneau, Ketchikan and Sitka are all very walkable and easy to explore.
45. How much cash should I bring?
Almost all places you’ll be shopping at will have a credit card reader, but cash is always king 😉 so I’d recommend $50 in smaller bills for tips and food from street vendors.
Seasickness
46. Will I get seasick?
Chances are low, especially since cruise ship season has some of the most favorable weather Southeast Alaska experiences. But pack some sea sickness medicine just in case!
47. Is the Inside Passage rough?
Luckily no! Most of the Inside Passage is protected from the full force of the Pacific Ocean by islands. Sitka is the least protected and can experience larger waves than most of the other parts of Southeast Alaska, but summer usually has the calmest waters, and the cruise ships are massive, helping to lessen the rocking motion from the weather.
48. What’s the best medicine for seasickness?
In my experience, Dramamine Less Drowsy is a lifesaver, but make sure to take it about an hour before you anticipate rough weather. I’d avoid regular Dramamine because it makes you super sleepy!
Money Questions
49. How much spending money do I need?
This varies depending on your travel style. If you’ve already prepaid for your excursions, meals, and drinks, you could comfortably explore each port with $20–50 per day for souvenirs, coffee, snacks, and tips. If you plan to shop for local art, jewelry, or Alaska-made gifts, budget a bit more.
50. Are excursions expensive?
Yes, most excursions are $150 per person and up. There are a few exceptions, but if money is tight, I’d recommend picking one or two excursions you really want to do and then plan on cheaper or free activities in the other ports.
51. Can I use US dollars?
Yes! Alaska uses US dollars exclusively. Almost every place will NOT accept foreign currency.
52. Should I bring cash?
While most places will have credit card readers, cash is always a good idea! I’d recommend $50 minimum in small bills for tips and the random street vendor.
Documents
53. Do I need a passport?
If you are stopping in Vancouver, then YES! Otherwise, you don’t have to.
Food Questions
54. Is the seafood really better?
There’s a reason why Alaska seafood is marketed as “Alaska Seafood” and is often more pricey. All the salmon in Alaska is 100% wild, meaning the fish grew up eating nutrient dense fod in the cold waters of Southeast Alaska, as opposed to Atlantic Salmon, which almost 100% of them is farmed, so they eat grains and live in crowded conditions, and often get sick. Alaska salmon is one of the highest omega-3 fish and has the lowest levels of heavy metals in the entire world. So I’d say yes, always eat wild Salmon and seafood from Alaska if possible. We have a saying in Ketchikan that “Friends don’t let friends eat farmed salmon!”
55. What Alaskan food should I try?
Check out my blog post 8 Must-Try Alaskan Foods on Your Alaska Cruise and Exactly Where to Find Them!
56. What’s the best salmon?
There are 5 types. of salmon found in Alaska. Pink Salmon, Silver Salmon, King Salmon, Sockeye Salmon, and Chum Salmon. Each has a very slight different flavor, but I think King Salmon is the richest, best-tasting salmon.
Photography
57. What’s the best camera for an Alaska cruise?
Honestly, today’s smartphones take incredible photos, especially in daylight. Most of my photos on this blog are shot on my iPhone 14. But if you’re planning on doing any kind of wildlife photography, a camera with a telephoto lens makes a huge difference because whales, bears, mountain goats, and eagles are often farther away than they appear. Even a small travel camera with a zoom lens can dramatically improve your wildlife photos. The Ultimate Alaska Bucket List: 100+ Things to See & Do has a giant list of Alaska wildlife and scenery to photograph if you need inspiration.
58. Do I need a zoom lens?
If wildlife is one of the main reasons you’re taking an Alaska cruise, then yes. A telephoto lens (something in the 200–400mm range or longer) allows you to photograph whales, bears, seals, and bald eagles without cropping heavily later. For landscapes and glaciers, a standard lens or even your phone works beautifully.
59. Should I bring binoculars?
YES this is a must bring item!
60. How do I photograph whales?
Keep your camera or phone ready anytime you’re on deck, especially while cruising through the Inside Passage. Use burst mode to capture breaching whales, and resist the urge to zoom digitally on your phone. If you’re using a camera, a fast shutter speed (1/1000 second or faster) helps freeze the action.
61. Best glacier photography tips?
Don’t only photograph the glacier itself. Include part of the ship, people on deck, or nearby mountains to show the incredible scale. Glacier ice can appear brightest on cloudy days, and a polarizing filter can help reduce the glare if you’re shooting with a camera.
Additional Questions
62. Is Alaska still worth visiting if it rains all week?
Absolutely. We have a saying in Southeast Alaska that rain is just “liquid sunshine”. Plus, the mist and rain give Alaska a mystical feel unlike any other place in the world.
63. What surprised visitors most about Alaska?
Most people are surprised by how green Southeast Alaska is. Many imagine Alaska as snow-covered mountains and frozen landscapes, but the Inside Passage is actually part of the world’s largest temperate rainforest. During summer, everything is lush, vibrant, and unbelievably green.
64. What should you NOT do in Alaska?
Don’t underestimate the weather! Even on sunny mornings, weather conditions can change quickly, so always pack layers and a waterproof jacket. Don’t feed wildlife, don’t get too close to bears or moose, and if you’re exploring independently, always make sure you’re back to the ship well before all-aboard time.
65. Is Alaska mosquito season really that bad?
It depends where you go. In Southeast Alaska, mosquitoes can be annoying during the summer, especially on hikes and in wooded areas, but they’re much worse in Interior Alaska around places like Fairbanks and Denali. For cruise visitors staying mostly in port towns, they’re usually more of an annoyance than a trip-ruiner.
66. What’s one excursion you shouldn’t skip?
Tough question because it depends on if you have kids, if you’re looking for adventure etc., but my top three favorite excursions are the Misty Fjord Floatplane Tour in Ketchikan, Mendehnall Glaceir Helicopter Tour, in Juneau, and the Zodiac Tour in Ketchikan. Check out 10 Alaska Excursions You Need to Book Today and Epic Ketchikan Excursions You Will Never Forget for more info.
67. What’s underrated?
Simply walking around the towns. Some visitors feel pressured to book expensive excursions in every port, but some of my favorite Alaska memories come from wandering local streets, watching fishing boats come and go, grabbing fresh seafood, and soaking in the view of the heavy rain clouds rolling over the mountains.
68. What’s the biggest mistake first-time Alaska cruisers make?
Packing for winter instead of rain. Many first-time visitors bring bulky winter coats but forget the waterproof layers. Staying dry is way more important than staying extra warm. A lightweight rain jacket with layers underneath will usually keep you much more comfortable than a heavy parka.
69. Can you see the Northern Lights on an Alaska cruise?
Yes, Northern Lights have been seen as far south as Ketchikan, but they’re uncommon during the Alaska cruise season because summer has very short nights and too much daylight. If seeing the Northern Lights is your main goal, I’d plan a separate trip to Alaska between late fall and early spring instead.
70. Is an Alaska cruise physically demanding?
It can be, but there have been plenty of cruisers who use an Alaska cruise for relaxation and wonder.
71. Can seniors enjoy Alaska without strenuous excursions?
Absolutely. I’ve seen MANY seniors enjoy Alaska. You don’t need to go on intense hikes or hop on a deep snorkeling dive to have a fantastic experience. Some of the most beautiful, awe-inspiring sights and experiences are FREE and easily accessible by walking around the towns and on the decks of cruise ships while cruising by.
Plan Your Alaska Cruise
If you’re still in the planning phase for your cruise, check out these guides to help you get everything ready:
- Best Alaska Cruise Excursions – 10 tours you’ll be talking about for years to come.
- What to Eat on an Alaska Cruise – 8 must-try Alaska foods and exactly where to order them!
- What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise – advice from me, a girl who grew up in Ketchikan!
- Wildlife Species you can see on an Alaska Cruise – 10 species and exactly where to spot them
- Epic Ketchikan Excursions You’ll Never Forget – all my favorite tours in Ketchikan
If you’re stopping in Ketchikan, my Ketchikan Cruise Port Guide is packed with local tips (I grew up there!) to help you make the most of your vacation.
Is there a question you had that I didn’t answer? If so, drop it in the comments below, and I’ll respond with my honest answer.
