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Often there is at least one day when the ship stays in a breathtaking place, like Glacier Bay. While you can surely enjoy the scenery from the main decks, it’s really a big bonus to have your own private space to become aware of that magnificence. The cruise lines often offer education programs to teach guests about Alaska’s wildlife, glaciers, and native cultures. Alaska cruises can range from 7 to 30 days, depending on how much you want to do and see, how much time you have, and how much you want to spend. Most Alaska cruises are at least 7 days and either sail roundtrip from Seattle or Vancouver or are Alaska Glacier cruises sailing south from Anchorage or north from Vancouver.
Tours & Activities
In August, the wildlife can sense that winter is on its way, and activity picks up to prepare for the months of cold, snow, and darkness. The loss of daylight does mean you could see the Aurora Borealis while cruising to Alaska in late August. The best time to see the Northern Lights is between late August and April, typically peaking in March. With lows in the 50s, you don’t need to pack a winter coat and hat, but be sure to include warm, wicking layers to keep your temperature steady. If you cruise to Alaska this month, you can enjoy more shop and restaurant options in port towns but expect things to be slightly more crowded.
Stan Stephens Glacier & Wildlife Cruises
June is also one of the driest months of the year in Alaska.The average high temperature in Anchorage is around 65°F (18°C), while the average low is around 47°F (8°C). However, temperatures can vary widely depending on where you are in the state. Alaska’s glaciers are a highlight of any cruise, and June offers optimal conditions for experiencing these icy wonders.
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What to Pack
There are also unofficial midnight hikes, like the popular one to Flattop where there’s usually drinks and sometimes even a band. Parking can be scarce, so I recommend taking an Uber or getting there early. Either way, it’s really a cool experience and something you need to do while here. If you plan to fish, be sure to get all the different licenses you’ll need. If you sign up with a charter (which I recommend), they’ll likely walk you through the process so you’re prepared to go out when you arrive.
In April, mountains will still be snowy, and high temperatures will max out in the upper 40s for most cruise ports. Choosing the best time of year for an Alaskan cruise can be challenging. From month to month, the weather, wildlife, and your chances of viewing the mesmerizing Northern Lights vary greatly.
Juneau Glacier Dog Sledding & Helicopter Tour
All parts of the Inside Passage require medium-weight, rain-and-wind-resistant clothing, although rain will be far less common in the northern part of the Inside Passage. Juneau is the best port for whale watching, because seeing whales is 100% guaranteed. Icy Strait is also a good choice for whale watching, because whales are abundant (though not guaranteed). September is also an excellent time to witness a towering Alaskan moose.
If you’re going on an Alaska cruise, you need a passport, even if you’re an American or Canadian citizen. For cruises starting or ending in Vancouver, BC, you’ll definitely need a passport. On an Alaska cruise, you will see wildlife, wilderness, mountains, and glaciers, as well as experience Native American culture and Gold Rush history unique to the area. The sights you see will depend on the cruise and tour you choose, of course. We know that many people say, a balcony cabin is a waste of money. This may be true for other cruises, but having a balcony is definitely worth the extra money on most Alaska cruises.
In Seward, you can have a similar experience that takes you to Godwin Glacier, which would also provide fantastic views and dog sledding high up on a glacier. Girdwood, about an hour south of Anchorage, offers a fantastic sled dog tour with Alpine Air. We’ve taken guided helicopter tours with them and they are simply the best.
With shoulder heights at 6 foot 9 inches and over 1,400 pounds, these massive animals are as dangerous as impressive, so you’ll want to view them from a distance. If you have an exterior room and are sensitive to light while sleeping, a sleeping mask will help you rest during these long days. You’ll also have more hours to look for wildlife from your room window or veranda. There is also potential for viewing orcas, gray whales, and walruses. Both September and October are ideal times to see the stunning Northern Lights, otherwise known as aurora borealis displays. For clothing recommendations on a cruise, read our complete guide to Alaska Cruise Outfits and for a complete guide, our tips for an Alaska Cruise in June.
We are proud to offer the best tours Alaska has to offer with Alaska shore excursions at wholesale prices. 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. There is a chance you will see some snow, so a winter coat, gloves, and a hat are a smart addition to your packing list. Not only is the cracking sound shocking, but the calving also produces a giant wave of water and captivating icebergs. July and August are prime time for viewing glacier calving on an Alaskan cruise.
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From the mild weather and abundant wildlife to the stunning scenery, June offers a remarkable Alaskan cruise experience that you won’t want to miss. June also marks the beginning of the peak wildlife season in Alaska. The return of migratory birds, as well as plenty of humpback whales and orcas that make the Inside Passage home during the summer months. June cruises are likely to see other Alaskan wildlife such as seals, sea lions and otters. June is an excellent time for wildlife viewing in Glacier Bay National Park. The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, harbor seals, Steller sea lions, bald eagles, and a variety of bird species.
When the salmon runs enter the streams and rivers in Alaska, the bears come to life. With all the fish activity in June, this means that June is one of the best times for bear watching. Greatland does an 8 hour tour with roundtrip transportation from Anchorage. This way you can ‘glamp’ with conveniences like water and heat while still experiencing more of an authentic Alaska experience. I’ve watched humpback whales breech from the beach in Seward (at Lowell Point) and Orcas hunt sea lions at the same beach (although the locals said this was a rare sight!).
Fishing enthusiasts will do their best cruising in July since most types of salmon are running during this month. As with June, it’s an ideal month for wildlife viewing, whether you seek out bears, moose, or Humpback whales. The warmer Alaska weather makes June (and July) the best times to see calving glaciers during scenic cruise days. You might need a fleece jacket in the morning but find yourself stripping down to a T-shirt by early afternoon. A packable rain jacket is always good to have on hand since you never know when you’ll get caught in a summer squall. However, daylight hours in May are a few hours shorter than what you’ll experience if you travel around the spring equinox in late June.
I will also answer any questions you may have about June, including the best places to visit this time of year. Anchorage is not a coastal city or cruise port, but cruise passengers usually fly into or out of Anchorage at the beginning or end of their cruises. Finally, consider bringing a sun hat or a baseball cap to protect your face and eyes from the sun. Sunglasses with UV protection are also essential to shield your eyes from the strong sunlight, even on cloudy days. Remember, Alaska’s climate can change rapidly, so layering and having versatile clothing options are key. Let’s dive into the details and make sure you’re equipped with the right gear for an unforgettable Alaska cruise in June.
The warmer temperatures lead to increased glacial activity, with calving events more frequent during this time. You’ll have the opportunity to witness massive chunks of ice breaking off glaciers and crashing into the water, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Alaska’s natural beauty is truly awe-inspiring, and June showcases the state at its finest. Snow-capped mountains, lush forests, pristine glaciers, and sparkling fjords create a stunning backdrop for your cruise. The landscape is vibrant and lush with blooming wildflowers and cascading waterfalls, offering breathtaking vistas without ever leaving the deck of your cruise ship. For a more immersive experience, consider a guided kayaking tour in the park’s pristine waters.
While Alaska is known for its ice and glaciers, it’s not too cold during the cruise season from May to September for most passengers. Overall, our Alaskan cruises were a fantastic experience every time, and we felt well-prepared with our packing list and outfit choices. By following these tips and bringing the right items, you can enjoy your Alaskan cruise to the fullest and create lasting memories.
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