Discover the Best Time to Cruise Alaska with Your Extended Family

Alaska with its awe-inspiring landscapes, diverse wildlife, and captivating culture offers a truly unique family vacation experience. With a land mass, the size of four Californias, an Alaskan cruise can be the best way to explore and experience the beauty of this magnificent state.

If you’ve been considering taking your extended family here to Alaska, one of the most important questions you need to consider is “When is the best time to visit Alaska by cruise?“

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Imagine kayaking through crystal-clear waters, with glaciers glistening in the distance as you paddle alongside playful sea otters. Picture the excitement of witnessing majestic humpback whales breach the surface or spotting a family of brown bears fishing for salmon along the riverside. 

With the sun shining brightly and nature in full bloom, summer in Alaska promises a thrilling and magical experience for every member of your multigenerational clan.

This article is sponsored by Carnival Corporation brands, including Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Seabourn, and Cunard.

In this article, we’ll delve into the best time to visit Alaska for weather, budget-friendly options, and experiencing the best wildlife. We’ll also highlight the top things to see and do month by month between May and September. So, gather your loved ones, pack your sense of adventure, and let’s discover the best time to visit Alaska!

Best Time to Visit Alaska – Cruise Season

From May to September (Alaskan cruise season), you can find various departures from Vancouver and Seattle, Washington. You can also extend your trip with cruisetours—combining land excursions with a cruise. Cruisetour options include Princess and Holland America Line. 

You can travel across Alaska by land, but with over 600,000 square miles of land to explore, it’s best to see the state from the comfort of a cruise ship. Whether you’re visiting Alaska for the first time or returning for an encore, there are plenty of options available.

Be prepared for your cruise and use our Alaskan cruise packing list for assistance!

Best Time to Cruise to Alaska for Good Weather

During the peak summer months from late June to early August, there are 17 to 18 hours of daylight each day. In mid-June, on the Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year, the sun rises and sets at midnight, providing an astonishing 19 hours of daylight. With such long days, you can explore and experience more of the state’s beauty.

Here’s a look at the average temperatures (Fahrenheit) in Anchorage:

• May: high 55˚F, low  39˚F
• June: high 62˚F, low 47˚F
• July: (the warmest month) high 66˚F, low 52˚F
• August: high 63˚F, low 49˚F
• September: high 55˚F, low 41˚F

It should be said that the weather in Alaska can change rapidly and multiple times a day. If you want to see snow on the ground, May and September are the best months to visit. May and June are the driest months and the weather is warmer. July and August see higher levels of precipitation.

After Labor Day in early September, the weather and temperatures can start to cool off and the weather can be more unpredictable. So the best advice is to come prepared for anything and have multiple layers. When I visited in late August to early September, this is what I packed with temperatures as low as 32˚F.

Best Time to Visit Alaska for Budget-Friendly Options

If your family is looking for budget-friendly options, the shoulder season months of May and September are great choices. This goes for the Alaska Cruise 2023 and 2024 seasons. Weather during these months is still enjoyable and you’ll find great deals on accommodations and flights. Plus you can take advantage of last-minute deals for 2023 as well as advance booking specials next year.

If you are looking to travel with school-aged children or teenagers, then late May can be a great time to plan your trip. If they attend public or private school and get out before Memorial Day, check their calendar for their final day of classes and plan to depart on the following day. This way, you get the best of both worlds – budget-friendly rates with warmer weather and longer days.

Best Time For Alaska Cruise with Fewer Crowds

If you are looking for an Alaskan cruise with fewer crowds and more intimate experiences, then the shoulder seasons of early May and early September can be good choices. While popular destinations such as Denali and Kenai Fjords National Parks will still have a few visitors, this is typically less traffic compared to peak season.

Best Time to Cruise to Alaska for Wildlife Sightings

The best time of year for wildlife viewing really depends on the type of wildlife you want to see. If you are interested in seeing the largest variety of wildlife, May and June are the best time to cruise to Alaska. Seals, whales, sea lions, sea otters, dolphins, bald eagles, and more animals can all be spotted in the waterways of Southeast Alaska during this period.

On land, you can expect to see mountain goats, moose, caribou, and other animals. In addition, bird migration occurs throughout the summer months.

If you want to see Humpback whales in Alaska, the best months are June and July when they make their way through the Inside passage. This is also a great time to see orcas and other species of marine life.

Viewing Black Bears and Brown Bears is best during the late summer months, from July to August. During this time, you can find bears fishing for salmon in many of Alaska’s rivers and streams.

Things to Do on An Alaskan Cruise – Month by Month

Now that we’ve covered the best times to go to Alaska Cruise for budget, weather, and wildlife viewing, let’s look at the things to do month-by-month when you visit Alaska.

May: Witness the Awakening of Alaska’s Wilderness

May marks the beginning of Alaska’s cruise season when the landscape awakens from its winter slumber. The snow-capped mountains and glaciers are replaced with lush evergreen forests, majestic waterfalls, and glacial rivers. The wildlife viewing is incredible during this time of year.

Wildlife is also in abundance, as newborn animals venture into the world. Get ready to capture adorable seal pups or glimpse a bear cub taking its first steps alongside its protective mother. You can spot also bald eagles soaring in the sky and whales out in the ocean.

If you are cruising at the beginning of May, there’s a chance you’ll see the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights in Alaska’s interior. These lights put on a spectacular show in the night sky and are sure to take your breath away.

You can also explore historic mining sites in Juneau or Palmer. In Palmer, you can also visit a Musk Ox farm, where you’ll observe long-haired animals native to Alaska whose ancestors date make to prehistoric times.

 If you’re taking a Carnival cruise to Alaska, local naturalists swing by Camp Ocean to fill you in on all the amazing Alaskan wildlife you’ll encounter. For the teenage shutterbugs out there, at Club O2 and Circle C they’ll learn how to capture the breathtaking Alaskan landscape and get their burning questions about native critters answered by experts. 

And for the whole family, you can channel your inner ice fisherman/woman with the Family Ice Fishing Challenge (minus the trout, sorry) and earn some serious points. Feeling extra adventurous? See if you have what it takes to be a lumberjack in the Family Lumberjack Challenge. 

June: Soak in the Midnight Sun and Glacier Spectacles

In June, the Summer Solstice brings about the phenomenon of the midnight sun, where the sun barely sets, casting a mesmerizing glow on the landscape. Imagine standing on the deck of your cruise ship, surrounded by stunning fjords, as the sun bathes everything in its golden embrace.

As temperatures begin to rise and the days grow longer, outdoor activities such as rock climbing, mountain biking, and rafting become available. In Anchorage, the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating cycle. From the port in Ketchikan, bike or hike in the nearby Tongas National Forest which covers nearly 17 million acres, roughly 90% of Southeast Alaska.

You can also take a flightseeing tour to see spectacular glaciers, such as the Mendenhall Glacier near Juneau or the Hubbard Glacier in Yakutat Bay.

June is the perfect time to witness the dazzling calving of glaciers, as chunks of ice crash into the sea, creating a spectacle unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Depending on your cruise route, you may see the glaciers Hubbard and Yakutat in Alaska’s southeast region, or take a day trip to Glacier Bay National Park.

July: Explore Bustling Coastal Towns and Exploring the Wilderness

July is the month of bustling activity in Alaska’s coastal towns, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture. Stroll through charming streets lined with quaint shops, art galleries, and seafood restaurants offering the freshest catch of the day.

The month of July is the best time to witness whales breaching in Alaskan waters. Humpback whales can often be seen frolicking with their newborns in the pristine waters of Southeast Alaska. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of sea otters, orcas, and seals. You should take a whale-watching excursion or enjoy an unforgettable helicopter ride over glaciers with wild bears fishing this month.

Salmon runs make July an exciting time in Alaska’s rivers and streams, as bears flock for their annual catch. You can also spot brown bears feeding on the shoreline or bald eagles fishing with their talons.

If bear viewing is high on your priority list, Carnival introduced two new excursions for Carnival Miracle cruises visiting Prince Rupert, B.C., which include: Khutzeymatten Grizzly Bear Expedition. Guests will board a 72-foot catamaran designed for wildlife viewing for a full-day adventure through towering cliffs, dense forests and a thriving estuary ecosystem. They will gently glide through Canada’s only grizzly bear sanctuary, which is home to more than 50 grizzly bears, for an excellent chance at sightings. 

August: Capture the Majestic Wildlife of Alaska

August presents a fantastic opportunity to witness Alaska’s diverse wildlife up close. As you sail through the Inside Passage, keep your eyes peeled for orcas gracefully gliding through the water, their sleek black fins piercing the surface. Spot bald eagles soaring above, and if you’re lucky, catch a glimpse of elusive wolves traversing the rugged terrain.

Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or a nature enthusiast, August is the month that promises unforgettable encounters with Alaska’s magnificent creatures. An excursion to Denali National Park is highly recommended, where you can spot caribou, moose, Dall sheep, and even bears.

Holland America has been sailing in Alaska for 75 years and is the only cruise line to take cruisers beyond the ship to the Yukon as well as to Denali. There are some cruises where kids sail free with Club HAL Youth Programs for children ages 3 to 17. 

Related: Read more about my Resurrection Bay Cruise here. 

September: Awe-Inspiring Fall Foliage and Northern Lights

As summer comes to a close, September in Alaska is adorned with breathtaking fall foliage. The landscape transforms into a stunning tapestry of crimson, gold, and amber hues. Explore the trails lined with colorful trees, and capture photos that will leave your friends envious.

As the nights grow longer, you might be lucky enough to witness nature’s greatest light show—the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights. Imagine standing on the deck of your cruise ship, gazing up at the vibrant ribbons of green, purple, and pink as they swirl and twirl across the night sky, creating a truly awe-inspiring spectacle.

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Why Now Is the Time to Book A Cruise to Experience Alaska

Create Lifelong Memories and Bond with Your Loved Ones

Perhaps the most valuable aspect of embarking on a multigeneration cruise to Alaska is the opportunity to create lasting memories and strengthen the bonds with your loved ones. Whether it’s witnessing a breaching whale together, marveling at the beauty of a glacier, or sharing laughter over a delicious seafood feast, these shared experiences will become cherished stories that you’ll reminisce about for years to come.

Cruising Alaska allows for quality time with your family, away from the distractions of everyday life, and offers a chance to reconnect, have fun, and forge deeper connections that will endure.

Carnival, with organized programs for kids as young as two, is introducing a new ship, Luminosa, to Alaska this summer, for the first time in US waters. 

Cunard has put a special Alaska spin on its famous English Tea and has partnered with the Royal Canadian Geographical Society to feature experts on board every cruise. All-inclusive Seabourn is designed for those who want an intimate luxury experience with a dose of adventure with the Ventures by Seabourn Program. 

Whatever experience you are looking for, Carnival Brands offers a cruise for you. Best of all, Alaska is an easier – and more affordable – trip than many other bucket list destinations. It is appropriate for all ages, including those with mobility issues.

There still are appealing deals for this season but it isn’t too early to plan for 2024. I recommend working with a travel advisor who is a cruise expert who can not only help you sort through the many options but get you some extra perks on board too.

Engage in Exciting Outdoor Adventures for All Ages

One of the best things about cruising Alaska with your multigenerational family is the wide array of outdoor adventures that await you. From exhilarating zipline tours through lush rainforests to thrilling wildlife safaris where you can spot bears and whales, there’s something to suit everyone’s taste for adventure.

If you’re looking for the ultimate Alaskan cruise experience, look no further than Holland America. They’ve got more visits to Glacier Bay than any other cruise line, with tons of exciting shore excursions to choose from.

Want to hike on a glacier? Go for it. Crave some fresh crab? Take the Bering Sea Crab Fishing Tour, made famous by “The Deadliest Catch.” And for a touch of history and breathtaking views, hop aboard the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad. It’s the same route that gold-seekers took back in the day, but now it’s a much safer and scenic way to explore Alaska.

See More with A CruiseTour Package

It’s impossible to do all the things you want to in just one week, which is why many families choose a cruisetour package that combines a seven-day cruise and an escorted land tour. This way, your family can explore the greatest wildlife and nature spots Alaska has to offer without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Princess offers seamless cruise tours to Denali National Park with its Princess Wilderness Lodges. Every cruisetour itinerary includes Denali National Park, a picturesque six million acres, home to North America’s tallest peak. In 2023, they are sailing seven ships in Alaska.

Back by popular demand, the 17-night Ultimate Princess Connoisseur cruisetour features 10 nights on land that includes two nights at each of the five Princess Wilderness Lodges and cruise itineraries featuring visits to five national parks. 

Thanks to a partnership between Princess and the Discovery Channel there are special Discovery and Animal Planet shore excursions and on-board activities. The special September 6-13 Alaska Nature & Adventure Cruise features Wildlife biologist and TV personality Jeff Corwin aboard.

The Alaska Railroad, celebrating its centennial this year, also offers cruise tours. These include rail and land tour packages that connect with cruises allowing for extended exploration of Alaska’s wondrous inland beauty.

Immerse Yourself in Alaska’s Native Culture and Heritage

Alaska is home to a rich indigenous culture, and cruising allows you the opportunity to learn and engage with the local heritage. Visit native villages and cultural centers to gain insights into their traditions, art, and storytelling.

Experience the rhythmic beats of traditional dances and be captivated by the vibrant regalia worn by the performers. Participate in workshops where you can create your own unique piece of Alaskan artwork or learn to weave intricate baskets. By immersing yourself in the native culture, you’ll deepen your understanding and appreciation for the land and its people.

Indulge in Delectable Alaskan Cuisine and Fresh Seafood

Cruises are a great way to broaden your child’s palate while enjoying an unforgettable family vacation. Indulge your taste buds with locally sourced delicacies such as succulent crab legs, freshly caught salmon, flavorful reindeer sausages, and hearty chowders that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Holland America has become the first cruise line certified sustainable for Alaska Seafood by Responsible Fisheries Management.  Cunard’s Alaska Afternoon Tea offers special menus featuring delectable treats like butter-poached snow crab, maple-cured salmon on Alaskan beer soda bread, and Halibut and cream cheese wontons, you won’t be disappointed.

Princess’s Wild for Alaska Seafood menu is an industry-first seafood initiative that is all about fresh, location-based seafood offerings. You can try a variety of mouthwatering Alaska salmon dishes, hook and line caught wild Alaska cod, juicy Dungeness crabs, sizzling prawns, razor clams, and more. Top off your experience by pairing your dish with destination-inspired cocktails featuring Alaska spirits sourced from local distilleries. Trust me, this menu is a must-try!

Cook My Catch offers guests the chance to reel in a fish during a fishing shore excursion and have chefs cook it for their dinner that night.

While ashore, seek out your next culinary adventure at one of the ports. Take a stroll through local seafood markets and indulge in some freshly shucked oysters. Or, treat yourself to a charming waterfront restaurant with breathtaking views of majestic mountains and shimmering waters. And let’s not forget the delightful berry desserts made from wild berries found all over Alaska. Trust us, your taste buds will be in love.

In Conclusion:

A multigeneration cruise to Alaska is an adventure that promises thrills, natural wonders, and cultural experiences for the whole family. By choosing the best time to visit Alaska (cruise vacation), such as the summer months, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the awakening of Alaska’s wilderness, soak in the midnight sun, capture majestic wildlife, and explore bustling towns and remote landscapes.

Engaging in outdoor adventures, immersing yourself in native culture, and savoring the delectable cuisine of Alaska are just some of the incredible experiences that await you. But beyond the sights and activities, the true value lies in the memories created and the bonds strengthened with your loved ones.

So, gather your family, young and old, and embark on a multigeneration cruise to Alaska this summer or next. From the moment you set sail, you’ll be greeted by awe-inspiring landscapes, fascinating wildlife, and a culture deeply rooted in the history of the land.

Remember, Alaska is calling, and the best time to answer that call is during the summer months. So, pack your sense of adventure, bring your loved ones along, and get ready for an unforgettable journey to the Last Frontier.

Get started planning your cruise here on:

• Princess Cruises
• Holland America Line
• Carnival Cruise Line
• Seabourn
• Cunard

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