What To Expect on an Alaskan Cruise: Weather and Wildlife
Table Of Content
These miscellaneous items can enhance your comfort, organization, and overall enjoyment during your Alaska cruise in July. While not essential, they can add convenience and make your journey even more memorable. Now that we’ve covered electronics and entertainment, let’s move on to discussing the necessary travel documents and money you should have in hand for your Alaska cruise in July. Now that we’ve covered toiletries and hygiene products, let’s move on to discussing medications and first aid kits that you should include in your packing list.
Personal Items
You’ll also have more hours to look for wildlife from your room window or veranda. Expect less activity and fewer shop openings in some smaller port towns in May since most summer workers are in college and won’t arrive until June. It’s advisable to consult with your healthcare provider before your trip to discuss any specific medical concerns, vaccinations, or travel advice pertaining to your health. Now that you’ve covered the essentials for your feet, let’s move on to discussing the accessories you should pack for your Alaska cruise in July. Now that we’ve covered clothing and outerwear, let’s move on to discussing the footwear and accessories you should bring along for your Alaska cruise in July. The city of Skagway, for instance, features authentic boardwalks throughout its main area, and wood is slippery when wet.
Tips for Traveling in Alaska in July
Keep an eye out for seabirds and songbirds, seals, Steller sea lions and humpback whales. Marine life is so prolific that some small-boat shore excursions guarantee you will see animals. Bears will be fishing; in late August, they will be looking for blueberries, which also become a featured item on restaurant menus. Summer is the height of the Alaska cruise season, which means crowds in port towns, especially when several ships are in port at the same time. You might have to wait hours for a table at Tracy's King Crab Shack in Juneau.
Types of Cruises
A packable rain jacket is always good to have on hand since you never know when you’ll get caught in a summer squall. For nature lovers, you’ll be glad to know that May marks the beginning of the salmon-fishing, whale-watching, and wildlife-viewing seasons. Many cruise lines also travel to additional locations such as Sitka, Hoonah/Icy Strait Point, and Haines.
There is a scenic cruising glacier day at Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier. Alaska cruise ports on the Discovery Princess are Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway. You can do a 7-day Alaska cruise round trip from Seattle on the Discovery Princess. For example, I noticed one big cruise ship itinerary going one-way southbound from Anchorage to Vancouver did not have a stop in Skagway.
Smaller ships are full of trip hazards and watertight door jambs and require bending and stepping up or down to access activities like kayaking or skiff rides. Summer visitor services are open in all of the national parks in July, and it’s a great month to explore trails in the parks. This period allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty and unique experiences that Alaska offers.
Final Thoughts on the Best Time of Year for an Alaskan Cruise
You won’t want to miss this indescribable sight, so watch for clear night skies and set an alarm to go on deck (or on your balcony) for potential middle-of-the-night Northern Lights shows. 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. 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. Although it is getting darker earlier, solar activity is not at its peak in the summer, so your chances of viewing the Northern Lights in July are slim to none.
August brings a gradual decrease in temperatures again, but it is still one of the hottest months of the year in this region. Temperatures during this month usually range from the mid-forties to the low sixties, and days are typically cool or chilly. July is known as the hottest month in this section of Alaska with the hottest day of the year falling on July 9th. Temperatures range on average between fifty and sixty degrees with mostly cool afternoons and evenings and chilly mornings and mid-day hours. October is one of the wettest months in Alaska, so prepare for low clouds and rain.
What to Do in Alaska: Top Things to Do in June
Cruising to Alaska: What I Did Right and Wrong - Royal Caribbean Blog
Cruising to Alaska: What I Did Right and Wrong.
Posted: Tue, 02 Nov 2021 07:00:00 GMT [source]
On dry land, bears are more common in May, though not as frequently spotted as they are in peak summer. You will want a backpack or daypack with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc…. The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for hiking and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack. A concealed travel pouch may be one of the most important items you bring along when finding the best things to do in Alaska in July. If you will be traveling, either by plane or by car to explore July in Alaska, here are some tips on how to pack lightly.
Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Alaska’s wilderness has something for everyone. Many of Alaska’s remote areas are accessible in July, including via the Dalton Highway to the Arctic Circle. However, always check road conditions, prepare for variable weather, and ensure you have emergency supplies and communication devices. July in Alaska provides a diverse climate across its regions, from balmy interior temperatures to the cooler, moist conditions of the Southeast and the unique, mild summer of the far North. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect weather-wise during your July visit to Alaska. July stands as the zenith of summer in Alaska, showcasing the state’s natural beauty under the glow of nearly continuous daylight.
Regardless of which month you choose to explore Alaska, you’ll encounter iconic marine life and embark on heart-stirring adventures when you set sail with Princess. With lows around 5 and highs around 18, allow the revitalising, crisp breeze to tickle your neck as you rejoice in the unforgettable climb. Temperatures can vary anywhere between 30 to 80 degrees throughout the summer travel months – inviting guests to layer on the sweaters and windbreakers as weather can be unpredictable. The Alaska cruise season is a little over six months long, but choosing the best time to cruise Alaska is surprisingly not that simple. Small ship cruises tend to offer more adventure-focused shore excursions alongside personalized service and luxurious accommodations and amenities. Smaller ships can reach ports of call and destinations that are inaccessible to larger cruise ships, allowing you to explore more remote settings and communities.
As the summer season reaches its July peak, so does the excitement around Alaska’s endless adventures. With extended daylight hours and abundant wildlife spotting opportunities, July is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of the 49th state. July’s warm weather and extended daylight hours in Alaska create the perfect conditions for a wide range of outdoor activities. While July generally brings more stable weather conditions compared to other months, it’s essential to be prepared for occasional rain showers. Alaska is known for its beautiful landscapes and lush forests, and this vibrant greenery is a result of the ample rainfall it receives. However, rainfall amounts can vary significantly depending on the region you visit.
You may encounter freezing rain or even snow on your April cruise and should expect to tread through mud. Some tourist facilities — including those at national parks — may still be shuttered for the winter. Furthermore, May and June bring competitive pricing for cruises compared to the peak season in July. You might need a fleece jacket in the morning but find yourself stripping down to a T-shirt by early afternoon.
These accessories will enhance your overall experience and allow you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Alaska. Remember to pack them in a secure and easily accessible bag or daypack so that they are readily available when needed. Regardless of the footwear you choose, make sure to break them in before your trip to avoid any discomfort or blisters. It’s also a good idea to pack a few pairs of moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet dry and prevent unpleasant odors. 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.
From witnessing towering glaciers calving into the sea to spotting humpback whales breaching, and exploring charming coastal towns, this is an adventure like no other. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery, encounter majestic wildlife, and engage with the rich Native American heritage that makes Alaska truly unique. An Alaskan cruise in July is an extraordinary journey that allows you to experience the wonders of Alaska’s landscapes, wildlife, and cultural heritage.
Comments
Post a Comment