I've done two Alaskan cruises in my life. I think that if you have the time and the money to do it, booking an open jaw out of Anchorage is the best option - especially if you think that you might only do this once. We did a land tour prior to the cruise, and that really worked out well for us - very busy five days before the cruise, then a lot more relaxation on the cruise back to Vancouver. The only "wrong" answer really though, is to choose NOT to do an Alaskan cruise! It really is a must-do if you ever have the chance to do it!!
One of the main reasons I like the smaller (older) ships more is the fact that the ship offers so many more areas to view the outside from a warm (inside) area. LOTS more windows in public areas. One more reason, VIKING CROWN!! 12 stories up and a pretty darned good view of the areas with quick access to get outside for unobstructed photos. Ideal for whale watching if you ask me. If all else fails, head out back of the Windjammer as there is an open area out back to sit in a protected, yet outdoor area, and sip on a some coffee while watching the wildlife. I am a HUGE fan of going in May when everything is migrating into the area, mostly for viewing humpback whales. I have several photos of newborn calves on their first trip to Alaska after being born in Hawaii the year before. Having done cruises in May as well as a few months later, I will say that I saw way more wildlife in May. And much closer to the ship too. Just an FYI, Icy Strait Point (Hoonah) has much better whale watching and often times right near the ship while it is in port. Before the dock was added, we had to wait a lot for the whales to get away from the ship so the tenders could take us to shore. lol And in case you are wondering, I have done 11 Alaskan cruise, all but one were back to backs.
Since I live in Alaska, I would go for a cruise to places I haven’t been to or have not been to in awhile. Or I would go on a cruise that goes to my hometown and just chill at my hide all day. (Do laundry, walk the dog, eat food😂). Alaska is so beautiful no matter time of the year you are visiting.
I went in August of '19 and it was my first Alaska cruise. I am 100% on team open jaw sailing! Loved every port and loved the Radiance class ship design (so many windows!). We were so busy with the amazing excursions each day that we had very little time for any ship activities. Vancouver is a gorgeous city and we enjoyed our time there before boarding the ship after our Air Canada flight. An added bonus of the open jaw sailing is the train or bus ride from Seward down to Anchorage after the cruise. Gorgeous scenery!
I you are cruising the inside passage (highly recommended) the smaller ships can get MUCH closer to the glaciers. Amazing experience, totally worth the less amount of stuff on board. Smaller ship means fewer people too. Lol.
3 years ago we did a Land , Sea on the Star Princess , almost 2 full weeks and just waiting for this C-19 to ease up and we will do it again...What a Cruise of a Life Time... J&R Nags Head
I sailed on Serenade in Norway in 2019 and loved the ship so much we booked an Alaska specifically on the serenade. It’s not overwhelming and I never felt bored looking outside.
I recommend the open jaw sailings with a land tour either on your own or with the cruise line. We did a week in an RV prior to our cruise so we got to see even more than most people.
We did a 12 night soithbound cruise tour on the Radiance. Seeing Fairbanks, Denali, and Anchorage not to mention the beautiful country along the way added so much more than just the cruise.
Went to AK for the 1st time a few years ago on Radiance and had a blast. For 1st timers, would recommend Radiance class to save money and frankly didn't need all the amenities as I was off the ship at every port stop for the entire duration. Even on sea days, there was more than enough to do. Maybe splurge on Quantum class if you've been there before.
I sailed to Alaska from Vancouver on the Holland America there and back again, it was tons of fun! We did excursions at every port and this time I'm bringing my new family on Quantum of the Seas in 2022!! Ooooo can't wait!
I absolutely agree.. Caribbean cruises you have great weather and on sea days want things to do.. destination cruises, the destination is the things to do. Great info here about Alaska too.. really good info and great video.
We are booked on the Radiance starting May 23 beginning with a land tour in Anchorage. We have a 5 day land tour, cruise beginning in Seward ending in Vancouver. I hope it doesn't get canceled because we were booked for May of 2020 for our 45th wedding anniversary & rescheduled for 2021. Word is it will be canceled again☹️
Interior or balcony room for Alaska? Save money on the room and look at the scenery on deck or have the option to enjoy the views from your own balcony...What say you all?
Great video. Totally agree. I’ve done 4 Alaska cruises. Think it applies for most anywhere. Port intensive does not warrant a balcony. We had a nice midship balcony for Asia. It was too hot and humid to enjoy the balcony. 😳😟🔥 Thank you! lots to consider. ⚓️🌴
on the alaska cruise when you get to ports are you pretty much on your own to figure out what to do until its time for ship to leave? ive never been on cruise
@@Yoko.Kurama Since Alaska was my first cruise, I booked excursions with the cruise line for every port. Transfers as well. I went solo, twenty-five years ago. 😜 Book on their website. Prices may be a few dollars more than ones for sale at portside but it’s worth the money, in so many ways. Also consider cruise insurance. I’m doing my 5th Alaska cruise in June and have booked only one excursion for Victoria since my daughter hasn’t been. 👍🏼⚓️ You’ll get the hang of things the more you cruise! Bon voyage. ⚓️
For first timers on a cruise and to Alaska, what ports do you recommend? What month? I have in mind the month of May 2025 (we want to see wildlife and glaciers and SNOW, ICE!!!) Ports: Seattle, Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, Endicott & Dawes Glacier, Victoria... But I am not sure if instead do Ketchikan, Hubbard Glacier, or Glacier Bay National park?? Please help!!!
Debra , We have only be to Alaska once but from our thinking there is no bad itinerary ..There are so many its a matter of how long and what you want to do.. J&R Nags Head
Haven't gone on an Alaskan cruise but really want to see the aurora borealis (the Northern Lights) are you able to see that from the cruise ship more than likely because it's our first time we would do to Seattle round trip
The northern lights are not usually viewable in the summer months. The best time to see them would be October and beyond, which is typically when there are no cruises.
my husband and i are planning to do Alaskan cruise and thinking the same thing. I would love to see the Northern Lights and hoping we see it when we go on a cruise!
Great video! We did the round trip Seattle 7 day inside cruise on the Radiance a few years ago. So much fun! How safe is Seattle right now ? We have stayed in Seattle before and had alot of fun in the past. I was looking at a 9 day Alaska Intensive round trip Vancouver, but that one isn't on the site anymore! Is there any particular month that is best? My TA said that you'll see more wildlife in May, but it's colder. We went in Aug before. Are any of the ships going into Glacier Bay? I can't wait to go again!
We are going to Alaska on Ovation of the Seas in May 2022. Are there any special nights where we can dress up? For example, disco nights, white nights, etc. Thanks.
Hey everyone, I am getting married this summer and my fiance wants to book and alaskan cruise. She loved seeing the outdoors and being able to hike and see nature. Do you have any cruise you would personally choose from? I've never been on a cruise in my life. Would going in 2021 be a good idea?
My family is planning on cruising to Alaska in June 2022. This will be several of them their 1st time ever cruising. What is the weather like around that time of the year?
It goes from about May to October. It'll rain more earlier and later, and if you're into bears waiting for salmon, you'll have to wait til about june. Source: Been watching a LOT of cruise videos.
I'm guessing you know the answer to this by now but I believe it means starting at one port and finishing at another as opposed to starting and ending at the same port.
Because that’s happened so many times since 1912, right? You should look at how many airplanes have crashed over the last 100 years for a more likely tragic scenario
Yeah dude, it is just like a Sampler platter of what Alaska is really like I am sure. I just booked my trip for 2022 and would like to find the BEST things to do while I am there. After these crazy years I am looking forward for an AMAZING GET AWAY!i!i! Best Wishes
I've done two Alaskan cruises in my life. I think that if you have the time and the money to do it, booking an open jaw out of Anchorage is the best option - especially if you think that you might only do this once. We did a land tour prior to the cruise, and that really worked out well for us - very busy five days before the cruise, then a lot more relaxation on the cruise back to Vancouver. The only "wrong" answer really though, is to choose NOT to do an Alaskan cruise! It really is a must-do if you ever have the chance to do it!!
One of the main reasons I like the smaller (older) ships more is the fact that the ship offers so many more areas to view the outside from a warm (inside) area. LOTS more windows in public areas. One more reason, VIKING CROWN!! 12 stories up and a pretty darned good view of the areas with quick access to get outside for unobstructed photos. Ideal for whale watching if you ask me. If all else fails, head out back of the Windjammer as there is an open area out back to sit in a protected, yet outdoor area, and sip on a some coffee while watching the wildlife. I am a HUGE fan of going in May when everything is migrating into the area, mostly for viewing humpback whales. I have several photos of newborn calves on their first trip to Alaska after being born in Hawaii the year before. Having done cruises in May as well as a few months later, I will say that I saw way more wildlife in May. And much closer to the ship too. Just an FYI, Icy Strait Point (Hoonah) has much better whale watching and often times right near the ship while it is in port. Before the dock was added, we had to wait a lot for the whales to get away from the ship so the tenders could take us to shore. lol And in case you are wondering, I have done 11 Alaskan cruise, all but one were back to backs.
Since I live in Alaska, I would go for a cruise to places I haven’t been to or have not been to in awhile. Or I would go on a cruise that goes to my hometown and just chill at my hide all day. (Do laundry, walk the dog, eat food😂). Alaska is so beautiful no matter time of the year you are visiting.
I went in August of '19 and it was my first Alaska cruise. I am 100% on team open jaw sailing! Loved every port and loved the Radiance class ship design (so many windows!). We were so busy with the amazing excursions each day that we had very little time for any ship activities. Vancouver is a gorgeous city and we enjoyed our time there before boarding the ship after our Air Canada flight. An added bonus of the open jaw sailing is the train or bus ride from Seward down to Anchorage after the cruise. Gorgeous scenery!
That's very nice to hear my dear
I you are cruising the inside passage (highly recommended) the smaller ships can get MUCH closer to the glaciers. Amazing experience, totally worth the less amount of stuff on board. Smaller ship means fewer people too. Lol.
3 years ago we did a Land , Sea on the Star Princess , almost
2 full weeks and just waiting for this C-19 to ease up and we
will do it again...What a Cruise of a Life Time...
J&R Nags Head
I sailed on Serenade in Norway in 2019 and loved the ship so much we booked an Alaska specifically on the serenade. It’s not overwhelming and I never felt bored looking outside.
That's very nice to hear
I recommend the open jaw sailings with a land tour either on your own or with the cruise line. We did a week in an RV prior to our cruise so we got to see even more than most people.
We did a 12 night soithbound cruise tour on the Radiance. Seeing Fairbanks, Denali, and Anchorage not to mention the beautiful country along the way added so much more than just the cruise.
Went to AK for the 1st time a few years ago on Radiance and had a blast. For 1st timers, would recommend Radiance class to save money and frankly didn't need all the amenities as I was off the ship at every port stop for the entire duration. Even on sea days, there was more than enough to do. Maybe splurge on Quantum class if you've been there before.
I sailed to Alaska from Vancouver on the Holland America there and back again, it was tons of fun! We did excursions at every port and this time I'm bringing my new family on Quantum of the Seas in 2022!! Ooooo can't wait!
In 2021 I have planned my 4th Alaskan cruise. There is no cruise equal to an Alaskan cruise. My grandchildren want to go in 2022, gosh I'm ready.
I absolutely agree.. Caribbean cruises you have great weather and on sea days want things to do.. destination cruises, the destination is the things to do. Great info here about Alaska too.. really good info and great video.
Thanks for this one!!! Detailed & Informative!!
Thanks so much for the explanation of size of ships and how and where they go. First time Alaska cruise researcher, so many options to look at. Wow.
Check out this for much more Alaska info: www.royalcaribbeanblog.com/alaska
My wife and I are on the quantum off the sea in August 21. First time to do Alaska cruise.
You will love it!
I am doing a pair of 7 day back to back Alaskan cruise this September.
This is my second time doing the Alaskan cruise thing.
That's very nice to hear
How did it go that is the ship we will do I believe
Great info, thank you so much. I was struggling with choosing a ship and this makes it so much easier.
Planning a trip to Alaska in Aug 23 for my husband birthday... so excited.
And this video was SUPER helpful thank you!!
Fantastic!
But really, is there such a thing as a “wrong” Alaska cruise? So beautiful... I’m booked on Quantum for this summer’s visit and really hope it sails!
Did you go on your Alaskan cruise this summer if so how was it?
How was it?
I cruise for the SHIP. If I wanted to see the interior of Alaska I would just fly there and find a tour company.
That's very nice my dear
Just booked an Alaskan cruise on Ovation for July 21, enjoyed the video
You will love Ovation! Lots to do.. bumper cars, North Star, sky diving just to name a few
WE love Sitka but it's only available if you cruise out of Vancouver or Anchorage. But Matt is right all of them are special!
We are booked on the Radiance starting May 23 beginning with a land tour in Anchorage. We have a 5 day land tour, cruise beginning in Seward ending in Vancouver. I hope it doesn't get canceled because we were booked for May of 2020 for our 45th wedding anniversary & rescheduled for 2021. Word is it will be canceled again☹️
Starting to plan a cruise to Alaska
This really helped
I’m am from Washington state so leaving from Seattle would be perfect.
Seward is a must see. That's why we booked the Radiance out of Seward. Planning to do a land trip that goes there if our cruise is cancelled.
Interior or balcony room for Alaska? Save money on the room and look at the scenery on deck or have the option to enjoy the views from your own balcony...What say you all?
Great info. Thank you!
Planning a cruise to Alaska in 2022
That's very nice to hear my dear
Great video. Totally agree. I’ve done 4 Alaska cruises. Think it applies for most anywhere. Port intensive does not warrant a balcony. We had a nice midship balcony for Asia. It was too hot and humid to enjoy the balcony. 😳😟🔥 Thank you! lots to consider. ⚓️🌴
on the alaska cruise when you get to ports are you pretty much on your own to figure out what to do until its time for ship to leave? ive never been on cruise
@@Yoko.Kurama Since Alaska was my first cruise, I booked excursions with the cruise line for every port. Transfers as well. I went solo, twenty-five years ago. 😜
Book on their website. Prices may be a few dollars more than ones for sale at portside but it’s worth the money, in so many ways. Also consider cruise insurance. I’m doing my 5th Alaska cruise in June and have booked only one excursion for Victoria since my daughter hasn’t been. 👍🏼⚓️
You’ll get the hang of things the more you cruise! Bon voyage. ⚓️
@@belindan4974 thanks. ill be traveling solo too lol. i definitely will be booking a excursion for every port
We just rebooked our 14nt B2B cruise this morning for 2022. Fingers crossed.
I am doing a 14 nt b2b this September. Fingers crossed.
For first timers on a cruise and to Alaska, what ports do you recommend? What month? I have in mind the month of May 2025 (we want to see wildlife and glaciers and SNOW, ICE!!!) Ports: Seattle, Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, Endicott & Dawes Glacier, Victoria... But I am not sure if instead do Ketchikan, Hubbard Glacier, or Glacier Bay National park?? Please help!!!
Yes! Thank you!!! I'm so confused as to which itinerary is best for us.
Debra , We have only be to Alaska once
but from our thinking there is no bad
itinerary ..There are so many its a matter
of how long and what you want to do..
J&R Nags Head
Great info... I've never cruised before.. would like to do an Alaskan cruise as my first sometime in near future, round-trip from Seattle.
Glad it was helpful!
Haven't gone on an Alaskan cruise but really want to see the aurora borealis (the Northern Lights) are you able to see that from the cruise ship more than likely because it's our first time we would do to Seattle round trip
The northern lights are not usually viewable in the summer months. The best time to see them would be October and beyond, which is typically when there are no cruises.
my husband and i are planning to do Alaskan cruise and thinking the same thing. I would love to see the Northern Lights and hoping we see it when we go on a cruise!
First Alaska cruise first quantum class - Ovation Sept/22. Begins Seattle ends Vancouver. Which i found interesting.
I only want to stay on the ship and I don't want to do anything but stay in room. I want a nice spacious room, comfort and a view.
Why?!
Great video! We did the round trip Seattle 7 day inside cruise on the Radiance a few years ago. So much fun! How safe is Seattle right now ? We have stayed in Seattle before and had alot of fun in the past. I was looking at a 9 day Alaska Intensive round trip Vancouver, but that one isn't on the site anymore! Is there any particular month that is best? My TA said that you'll see more wildlife in May, but it's colder. We went in Aug before. Are any of the ships going into Glacier Bay? I can't wait to go again!
That's very nice to hear my dear
Viking river cruise
We are going to Alaska on Ovation of the Seas in May 2022. Are there any special nights where we can dress up? For example, disco nights, white nights, etc. Thanks.
Viking river cruises
I was told Glacier Bay National Park was a must if going on a cruise. Does Royal go there? In the itinerary is it called something different? THANKS!
They don’t, unfortunately
Hey everyone, I am getting married this summer and my fiance wants to book and alaskan cruise. She loved seeing the outdoors and being able to hike and see nature. Do you have any cruise you would personally choose from? I've never been on a cruise in my life. Would going in 2021 be a good idea?
My family is planning on cruising to Alaska in June 2022. This will be several of them their 1st time ever cruising. What is the weather like around that time of the year?
Great video...Just wondering what time of the year is the best time to do an Alaska Cruise....This Cruise is on my bucket List 😁
It goes from about May to October. It'll rain more earlier and later, and if you're into bears waiting for salmon, you'll have to wait til about june. Source: Been watching a LOT of cruise videos.
Hey ive never been on a cruise. On port days are you pretty much on your own to figure out what to do until the ship leaves?
Hi I like go there in allure of the seas
What do you mean “open jaw cruising “ I’m thinking about booking our first Alaskan cruise and need all the help I can get !
I'm guessing you know the answer to this by now but I believe it means starting at one port and finishing at another as opposed to starting and ending at the same port.
Hey there, Are you allowed t fly drone in alaska or on the ship? Thank you 🙏🏻
Not on the ship. You can fly in Alaska, subject to local laws
Are cruises sailing?
Some 2021 are still going (hopefully) and there are a lot of 2022 itineraries for all the cruise lines
@@anakerose Thanks for the reply!
Will have Alaska cruise in May 2021 ?
do you have to dress for dinner
its all fun and games till the ship hits an iceberg..
Because that’s happened so many times since 1912, right? You should look at how many airplanes have crashed over the last 100 years for a more likely tragic scenario
You talk so fast it isn't even enjoyable to listen!!! slow down!!
He is one of the few people I don't have to speed up when I listen it! You can always slow it down in the menu. I love how fast he speaks 😊
If you want to experience "authentic Alaska" don't come on a cruise.
Yeah dude, it is just like a Sampler platter of what Alaska is really like I am sure. I just booked my trip for 2022 and would like to find the BEST things to do while I am there. After these crazy years I am looking forward for an AMAZING GET AWAY!i!i!
Best Wishes