Bikinis or Parkas?

A current TV add running shows an Alaskan cruise passenger sunbathing on deck while a large glacier looms in the background.  Fact or Fantasy?  Actually, a little of both.  While there are times that the weather on an Alaska cruise may promote sunbathing, generally the temperature is more typical of fall in the lower 48. Many first time Alaska cruisers have an image of all ice and snow and are amazed at the abundant flora and fauna that they experience in Alaska.  The fact is that that the weather in Alaska is quite varied during the cruise season which lasts from May to September.  Here are the average temperatures for Alaskan cruise ports:

May   Jun     Jul     Aug   Sep

While the above temperatures are averages, it is easy to see the weather is very mild and extremes are unusual. The advantages of early season travel are numerous. The weather is consistently good in May and drier throughout much of the state. Warm spring days aided by long hours of daylight bring Alaska’s wildflowers out in full bloom. The wildlife viewing is also excellent in May since the larger animals are migrating and returning to lower elevations where the snow has disappeared.

September is also a prime time to visit Alaska. Fall comes early to Alaska and many of the deciduous trees are blazing yellow and red by Labor Day. Combine the bright yellow colors of the aspen and willow trees with the blazing red tundra plants and you have the best fall colors experience Alaska has to offer. You will see why Polychrome Pass in Denali National Park earns it name! As a backdrop, the tallest mountains will have fresh snow on their peaks while the lower elevations are still dry. Wildlife search opportunities also improve in late season, as the larger mammals begin feeding in the lower elevations in an attempt to pack on as much winter weight as possible. Weather is characterized by large temperature swings between warm days and chilly nights. In fact, it gets dark enough in the Interior of Alaska to see the Northern Lights!

Alaska Cruise Travel Trip:  Try one of our exclusive Alaska Cruise Packages for great prices and values. Book early for the best rates and choice of accommodations as they sell out quickly for the short travel season!