Alaska Cruise Tips: What to Pack, Book, and Skip
For Alaska cruises, sail late May through mid-September, book a starboard cabin on northbound itineraries (port side on southbound) for the best glacier views, pack waterproof layers not heavy coats, and prioritize Glacier Bay, Tracy Arm, and Endicott Arm itineraries.
Key takeaways
- Sail late May through mid-September
- Starboard cabin = best views northbound
- Pack waterproof layers, not heavy coats
- Glacier Bay & Tracy Arm are the can't-miss itineraries
Best months to cruise Alaska
- Late May / early June: cheaper, wildlife-active, occasional snow on summits - Mid-June through August: peak season, warmest, most expensive - September: shoulder pricing, fall colors, increasing rain
Alaska packing essentials
- Waterproof rain shell (not a heavy coat) - Fleece mid-layer - Waterproof hiking shoes - Beanie + light gloves - Polarized sunglasses (glaciers are blinding) - Binoculars
Frequently asked questions
What's the best month to cruise Alaska?
Late June through July balances weather (60s-70s F), wildlife activity, and 18+ hours of daylight. Late May and September are cheaper but cooler and wetter.
Which side of the ship is best for Alaska?
Northbound: starboard (right). Southbound: port (left). Both give you coastline-side views of the Inside Passage.