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Encounter wildlife in their natural habitat at the Fortress of the Bear. Or experience the culture of Russian Alaska on a visit to St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Church, and relive Native history at the Sheldon Jackson Museum. Sail 500 miles deeper into the Gulf of Alaska and Prince William Sound on our back-to-back Voyage of the Glaciers Alaska cruise. Spend 14 days roundtrip from Vancouver, B.C., stopping in historic port cities like Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway. Enjoy three glacier-viewing experiences on every itinerary — including Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier and College Fjord.
Zip Lining & Adventure Parks
For photo enthusiasts, an assortment of wide-angle lenses, x-factor lenses, multipurpose lenses, extra batteries, memory cards, and even a tripod can help you capture that perfect shot. The best time to book an Alaska cruise is when a cruise line first opens bookings on that sailing, often more than a year in advance. You'll have your pick of itineraries and cabins — balcony cabins are popular in this scenic destination — and often the best fares. The population of Haines remains less than 2,000, according to the United States Census Bureau, and it isn't yet as touristy as some of the other Alaskan ports, such as nearby Skagway.
Flaming Fall Colors
So, when shopping for the best Alaska cruise, consider one in the shoulder season if you want to save money and enjoy fewer crowds. Both May Alaska cruise itineraries and those in September are considered the shoulder season. Although since the pandemic, some lines offer cruises as early as late April, and Norwegian offers cruises from Seattle until almost November. If you’re trying to decide on the best month to cruise to Alaska and thought about taking an end of the season cruise, you’ve come to the right place. You can also look for a last-minute Alaska cruise deal, though keep in mind that with Alaska's cruise season growing longer, interest in Alaska September cruises is rising.
Alaska Travel in October
However, services at sea can be costly, so travel insurance with medical coverage is recommended. However, beyond the breathtaking landscapes and awe-inspiring wildlife encounters, it’s the intangibles that linger. Your choice of cruise line can significantly shape your Alaskan experience. Whether you’re leaning towards the grandiose amenities of major cruise lines or the intimate touch of smaller vessels, ensure that your choice aligns with your expectations and travel style. Between fall colors, bears gathering at salmon streams, and the possibility of seeing the northern lights, there's plenty to fill your lens.
Visiting Scenic Restaurants in Alaska
Alaska Cruises Are Getting Longer - TravelPulse
Alaska Cruises Are Getting Longer.
Posted: Sun, 03 Sep 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]
Pay airfare for one guest, and you'll automatically lock-in roundtrip flights for two. Secure these savings online by choosing your nearest airport in step one of your cruise booking, and enjoy air-to-sea made easy. We'll coordinate your roundtrip flights, and transportation between the airport and cruise port.
What to Do in Alaska: Top Things to Do in October
Some attractions and shops will be closed for winter, though your cruise line will still operate a full roster of shore excursions. On the plus side, you will experience southeast Alaska towns as they are most of the year, sans tourist crowds. Sit in a bar and talk to the locals as they prepare for the long winter ahead. Mid-to-late September is one of the best times to spot wildlife in Alaska. Bears will be hunting for the last of the berries and salmon, and caribou, deer and moose will be mating.
You’ll also be able to take the excursions you want without the risk of them closing down for the season (providing you book enough enough). If fjords are fog ladened, your vessel may not even attempt to cruise through the narrow passage. Endicott Arm and Tracy Arm Fjord often experience fog, even in warmer months. If your cruise skips the fjord, you’ll likely have a longer day in Juneau, the capital.
Experience the Great Land on a 7-day Alaska Inside Passage cruise from Seattle
A unique blend of Tlingit culture and Russian history, Sitka is a scenic beauty poised against the Pacific. Every cruise line offers its own flavor, making each journey distinct. For those looking to get closer to nature and enjoy a more personalized experience. We'll match you with a local itinerary expert to help you plan your trip.
Visit its most popular attractions, such as the Space Needle and Pike Place Market. Named for the Northern compass point, Noordam is fitting for a cruise to Alaska. Museum-quality art outfits this ship, from oils to photographs of music legends. Nieuw Amsterdam's exceptional onboard experience earned "Best Cruise Ship Overall" at the Travvy Awards.
Most ships offer laundry services for a fee, and some even have self-service laundrettes. Remember to pack enough clothing or budget for laundry, especially on longer voyages. Most cruise lines add a daily service charge to your account, which covers gratuities for the main service staff. Additional tipping is at your discretion for services like spa treatments or exceptional service.
Many cruise lines cater to families with kid clubs, activities, and family-friendly excursions. From buffets to fine dining, expect a mix of international cuisines with a spotlight on local Alaskan specialties like salmon, king crab, and wild berries. As such, when cruising these serene waters, it’s our collective responsibility to minimize our environmental footprint. Let’s explore how you can be an eco-conscious traveler during your Alaska September cruise.
Cruise lines will offer the opportunity to extend your cruise with land tours, which include accommodations, transportation and some meals. Starting in 2024, Uncruise Adventures will be offering a winter cruise, where winter sports and northern lights viewings are all part of the package! Running February through March, this is a great option for travelers looking to experience Alaska during the winter months. Some activities are included in the cost of the cruisetour; other outings can be booked like shore excursions, depending on your interest and budget.
Now, add the crimson and gold tapestry of fall foliage, and you’ve captured the essence of an Alaska September cruise. Imagine waking up to a panorama of misty fjords, snow-capped peaks, and pristine waters. Picture yourself sipping hot cocoa, wrapped in a cozy blanket, as humpback whales breach in the distance. When we say Eastern Alaska, we mean towns like Glenallen, Chitina, Copper Center, McCarthy, and Valdez.
Adventuring in Alaska is all about getting to know this state's stunning landscape. If wildlife sightings are high on your Alaska bucket list, forego a September Alaska cruise. By going a month earlier, you’ll have better opportunities for whale watching, seeing other marine life, and bear sightings.
