Here’s some of our thoughts on when to go, what you will see and top tips.

Alaska is one of the worlds’ most popular cruise destinations. People flock year after year to Alaska, for the wildlife, captivating scenery and to witness glaciers up close while we can.

As your expert cruise advisor, it’s a great idea to get in touch early so we can have our pick of the various different styles of cruise, and dates to suit you.  We start with some of the basics:

When to go?

What is the key element you are wanting to see or do on your cruise?

The Alaska season runs each year roughly April to October. This is because once winter sets in, the picturesque small towns close their doors and hunker down.

Looking for the Northern Lights? If you are happy to stay up to the early hours, the lights may put on a show, best months are April or August.

For whale watching, the Gray whales are the first to arrive, and often spotted off Seward. The Orca’s come in May, and the humpbacks round out the arrivals in June. For bears, July to early September is best. Don’t expect to see moose on your cruise.. for moose consider adding on a Denali National Park extension (Princess Cruises and Holland America Line do fabulous Cruise Tour options) to make the most of your adventure.

Our top tips for Alaska cruising

* Earlier or later in the season you will find cruise fares cheaper than peak summer months. Being so popular, regardless of actual dates, be prepared that many cruise ships will be in port on some days and the towns will be busy.

* Pack layers.. while its spring – autumn cruising, any weather can take place, so light, warm layers will be your friend. Don’t forget super comfy and strong walking shoes, especially for adventure shore excursions

* Add on Denali National Park for a more immersive Alaska experience. These include rail and usually an extra 4 – 5 nights on top of your 7 night cruise

* If sailing from Vancouver, pre/post accommodation can get expensive, so the key is to book early with us! Canada Place is where the majority of the cruises depart from, so downtown Vancouver is perfect for a quick cab ride away.   However now many options exist to sail from Seattle, which opens up a whole new adventure in Washington State.

* There are all different types of Alaska cruise lines to take.. Princess Cruises is very popular, as is Holland America Line for large ship options, that are generally cost effective.  If you are after something smaller, look towards Oceania Cruises, where exceptional onboard value includes drinks, shipboard credits and free WiFi.  For the more hands on, adventure style, talk to us about Un-Cruise. Like the name suggests, Un-Cruise provide a comfortable cruise experience, but this is one where going ashore on hikes and canoeing adventures is the key focus.  From Seattle, Norwegian Cruise Lines dominate here with a large ship, modern experience.

Many of the traditional luxury cruise ships share a similar profile: high space-to-guest ratios throughout the ship; and large cabins (which are usually referred to as suites) that include balconies, spacious marble bathrooms. Fine linens, brand name toiletries, fine china, crystal clear glassware, top ingredients… all part of the pleasure of sailing on a luxury cruise.

Common considerations when it comes to luxury cruise lines are:

Cost
We won’t lie.. they do cost more, but like so many things, you get what you pay for, and, with luxury cruises, this shows in the best possible way.  Most luxury brands will offer larger cabins and suites, personalised service and perhaps most important when looking at the spend, is all inclusivity.  The luxury cruise line model is based on inclusive fares, without the “nickel and diming” that mainstream lines can often feel like.  While each company defines ‘all inclusive’ a bit differently, we often show our clients how to compare.  For instance, shore excursions, drinks, specialty dining.. these can all add up to a substantial charge at the end of your cruise. With luxury lines, generally these are all included (some companies such as Regent Seven Seas include ALL their shore excursions), so while an upfront cruise fare may look high, delve deeper into the value you will receive.

Formal.. or informal onboard?
Upscale travel does not have to equate to a formal or stuffy atmosphere. Many cruisers wish to pair exquisite, top-notch service in an intimate setting with a comfortable and casual onboard vibe. Yacht cruises feel homey yet elegant; choose a yacht-style ship if you prefer to avoid stringent dress codes and scheduled dinner seatings. If you do prefer a formal cruise for your holiday, then look towards lines such as Silversea Cruises with their exquisite butler services for all suites.  If you prefer a more relaxed, at home feeling, we would recommend Viking, where there are no formal nights, and you can even BYO your favourite wine onboard should you wish.

Service onboard
Unquestioned is the fantastic level of service you will receive onboard. With a high staff to guest ratio, in simple terms there are less passengers for busy crew to attend to, so everyone is treated like a VIP. They will address you by name, or remember your favourite drink when you arrive at the bar, and will always go out of their way to make your holiday experience stress free.  If this is what you like on a holiday, you will not be disappointed.

So which cruise line should I pick?
We have listed some of the highlights for each brand below. This is not a full list, but it does highlight key features, and what may be important to you.

Silversea Cruises
* Ultra Luxury – a more formal luxury experience.
* All suite accommodation
* Free-flowing premium wines and spirits
* Full butler service for every suite
* Gratuities included

Ponant
* French owned, elegant style
* Fine wines, including French champagne included
* Modern, minimalist design
* Gratuities included

Seabourn
* We have nearly one staff member to each guest, staff will remember guest names
* Seabourn Moments – designed to surprise & delight guests
* Each suite includes a Personal Suite Host and Suite Attendant
* Welcome Champagne & complimentary in-suite bar stocked with your preferences
* Gratuities included

Regent Seven Seas Cruises
* All suite accommodation with walk in wardrobe and spacious bathrooms
* Free-flowing premium wines and spirits, complimentary stocked mini bar with your preferences
* All Shore Excursions included (some premium tours are still charged)
* Gratuities included
* All specialty dining included

Viking
* No children under 18 permitted
* You can BYO wine onboard, with no surcharge to take it to dinner
* Wine, beer, soft drinks served complimentary at lunch and dinner
* 1 Shore excursion included in every port
* Gratuities included

With our expertise in luxury brands, together we can pick the cruise line that will be perfect for you.