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Considering everything stated above, we advise travelers that June 15 through August 15 is the best time to go to Alaska. But not everyone can schedule their trip during this time and as we’ve noted, each season has its benefits. If you plan your trip during the peak season, then plan ahead and book early as these are the dates that sell out first. Use the Alaska climate and weather tables below to determine the average temperature, rainfall and daylight. Learn more about Alaska’s climate and find the best month to visit Alaska. The first humpbacks begin to arrive in Alaska about late April and early May.
Benefits of Alaska Travel in May:
If we had to choose one, the best month for an Alaska cruise is July. Though weather can be hard to predict, especially in Alaska, there are trends that’ll help you know what to expect during your summer cruise. So, check the weather before you pack, but these will give you a guesstimate. Some adventurous cruisers will board ships when they arrive in Alaska in April to see the remnants of winter. A few big ships cruise into mid-October for those who want a peek at what life is like in Alaska towns when all the other tourists have returned home.
May Is A Transitional Month
Although it is getting darker earlier, solar activity is not at its peak in the summer, so your chances of viewing the Northern Lights in July are slim to none. They begin migrating from Hawaiian waters in the springtime to feed in the nutrient-rich Alaskan waters. While temperatures are warmer and the snow is typically gone at lower elevations, the highs in Juneau average in the low 60s, with lows in the upper 40s. May is an excellent cruising month for birdwatchers as migratory songbirds start to arrive in Alaska and seabirds gather in their nesting spots or rookeries. Keep an eye out for my favorite, the ever-adorable puffins, Arctic terns, cormorants, and bald eagles.
Alaska Cruise Weather: June
While humpbacks are seen on almost every tour, travelers can view sea lions, bald eagles, orcas, and gray whales too. Lucky tour goers may even witness the incredible activity of bubble-net feeding. When packing for your May cruise in Alaska, it’s crucial to consider the varied weather conditions. Include a mix of short-sleeved shirts, long-sleeved shirts or thermal tops, sweaters or fleeces, and waterproof jackets or parkas. Don’t forget to pack comfortable pants or jeans, along with a few pairs of shorts for warmer days.
Princess Ship Skips Scenic Cruising for Safer Route - Cruise Hive
Princess Ship Skips Scenic Cruising for Safer Route.
Posted: Sun, 24 Sep 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]
If you want to cruise Alaska via the Inside Passage, tours begin in late April. Most motorcoach and rail transportation options are available by May 15, and it’s a good time to find discounts. If you visit the first or second week of May, opt for a rental car to get around. If you need a map of Alaska, you can order one or view it online.
What to Pack for Alaska in May
Alaskan cruises are generally the cheapest in May, followed by September sailings. July and August Alaska cruises command the highest prices due to warmer weather and kids being out of school. Before heading out on any excursions or outdoor activities in Alaska, it's always advisable to research the specific location and check the weather forecast.
Tourist attractions are in full swing, salmon swim upriver and bears (and humans) have access to fishing. Cruise ships arrive in southeast Alaska in spring, stay the summer and linger only into early fall. The 49th state's snowy, cold and dark winters are not conducive to cruising. When it comes to clothing, most cruise ships have dress codes for certain areas of the ship, such as the dining room or formal nights. It is important to pack appropriate attire for these occasions.
What is the best time to cruise Alaska?
Cruise Radio prioritizes well-balanced cruise news coverage and accurate reporting, paired with ship reviews and tips. The Alaska cruise temperature is warmer in June, with lows of 45 and highs in the low 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure to pack insect repellant when you visit Alaska in June, as mosquitos and other insects can become a nuisance. May is one of the best times to visit Alaska for dry weather, fewer crowds, and lots of wildlife. It’s not uncommon to wake up to a hot sunny day, only to find it cold and raining 10 minutes later. The only down side is that some of your Glacier days may be hampered by too much ice.
July in Alaska
The trip on the east side of Vanvouver island is so much nicer than leaving from the USA and going up the west side of the island where you don’t even see the shore. The guide below is one piece of the puzzle to help you determine the best month to visit Alaska. We outline Alaska weather by month and answer questions such as “When is summer in Alaska?
However, some cruise lines may allow you to bring a limited amount of wine or champagne on board for special occasions such as birthdays or anniversaries. Alaska’s stunning landscapes make it an ideal destination for hiking enthusiasts. In May, hiking trails start opening up, offering breathtaking views of mountains, forests, and meandering rivers.
The late nights and early mornings can be very cold, but these are also the hours when most people are asleep in their cabins. I think the captain had announced that our cruise ship was the first of the Alaska cruise season to go to Hubbard Glacier, so there were no ice reports. When traveling from Vancouver in the Inside Passage of Southeast Alaska, the waters are mostly protected and provide smooth sailing. If ports include Anchorage, Seward, or Whittier, cruise ships must cross the Gulf of Alaska, which has notoriously rougher waters. Every Alaskan cruise includes at least one glacier viewing stop.
It brings together locals and visitors for a day of nautical-themed festivities. You can participate in boat races, tug-of-war, harbor tours, and seafood tastings. The event also organizes interactive exhibits so you can learn about the maritime history of the region and family-friendly activities for those coming with little ones. As May signifies the end of spring and the beginning of summer, it’s the month where most of the big summer activities and events kick off. Tours begin, hotels re-open, and restaurants shift to summer hours by no later than the Memorial Day weekend (May 25th-29th in 2024).
As whales return to Alaskan waters to feed and breed, you may have the chance to witness their majestic presence firsthand. Many cruise ships offer whale-watching excursions, allowing you to get up close and personal with these gentle giants. Don’t forget to bring your camera and binoculars to capture the unforgettable moments.
Specialty lodges offer comfortable accommodations for hearty travelers willing to brave cold long nights to witness this spectacle of nature. What’s the best time to cruise Alaska to see the northern lights? Look to our dedicated page on northern lights cruises for tips and best places to spot the aurora. June is when the Alaska travel season comes into full swing, especially in the latter part of the month, and marks the beginning of the best time to visit Alaska. The beginning of September is much like August, but after the kids go back to school and the family crowd departs, it's shoulder season for cruising and pricing drops.
Alaska itineraries in September also benefit from fewer crowds, lower prices, and a chance to see the northern lights. However, September brings lots of rain so you’ll need to pack for wet weather. After the Alaska cruise season has been closed for seven months, tour operators are eager to sell shore excursions again. If vessels are cruising with fewer passengers, guests can often negotiate discounts on port tours. For a cruise to Alaska in May, it's important to pack clothing that can be layered.
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