royal caribbean alaska cruise september 2023

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Royal Caribbean, Alaska Glacier Experience Cruise from Vancouver, 17 September, 2023

Cruising from: Vancouver, British Columbia ;

Departure Date: 17 September, 2023 ;

Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean ;

Cruise Ship: Enchantment of the Seas ;

Duration: 7 days ;

Ports of Call: Vancouver, Inside Passage, Sitka, Juneau, Haines, Ketchikan, Vancouver ;

7-day Alaska cruise on board Enchantment of the Seas.

Day 0 vancouver, british columbia.

Vancouver is located in British Columbia, and is considered one of the most beautiful and livable cities in the world, with a thriving cultural scene, stunning natural surroundings, and a diverse and welcoming population....

Day 1 Inside Passage, Alaska

A cruise through the Inside Passage is an unforgettable experience that offers visitors the chance to witness some of the most stunning natural scenery in the world. This iconic waterway runs along the southeastern coast of Alaska and offers breathtaking views of towering mountains,...

Day 2 Sitka, Alaska

Sitka, Alaska is a popular departure port for many Alaskan cruises, offering visitors a chance to explore the Last Frontier's stunning natural beauty, rich history, and culture....

Day 3 Juneau, Alaska

Juneau is a popular cruise port for Alaska cruises, located on the Inside Passage of Alaska. It is the capital city of Alaska and the third largest city in the state. ...

Day 4 Haines, Alaska

Haines, a small town in Southeast Alaska, is a popular cruise destination for cruise ships due to its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and unique cultural experiences. Visitors to Haines can expect to be mesmerized by the towering mountains, crystal-clear rivers, and abundant...

Day 5 Ketchikan, Alaska

An Alaskan cruise from Ketchikan is an unforgettable adventure that will take you through some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world....

Day 6 At Sea, At Sea

Wonderful day at Sea....

Day 7 Vancouver, British Columbia

Experience wildlife, wilderness, and native culture on this Alaska cruise with Royal Caribbean. Visit Vancouver, Inside Passage, Sitka, Juneau, Haines, Ketchikan, Vancouver. Enchantment of the Seas leaving Vancouver, British Columbia, for 7 days from 17 September, 2023.

Alaska cruise from Vancouver September 2023

Please note that port orders, dates, and itinerary details, including content, are subject to change. Verify specific details for your chosen sailing date on the Royal Caribbean website.

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Brilliance of the Seas - September 10, 2023

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September 10, 2023

September 10 - 17, 2023

Brilliance of the Seas

Royal Caribbean

7 Night Alaska Glacier Experience

from Vancouver, British Columbia

The September 10, 2023 cruise on the Brilliance of the Seas departs from Vancouver, British Columbia. On this 7 Night Alaska Glacier Experience sailing, the ship will visit a total of 7 different cruise port destinations, including its departure port. The Brilliance of the Seas sets sail on a Sunday (September 10, 2023) and returns on a Sunday (September 17, 2023).

The Brilliance of the Seas was built in 2002 and is amoung Royal Caribbean's 27 ships in it's fleet. The Brilliance of the Seas is included in the cruise line's Radiance Class. In the cruise ship stats below you'll find the Brilliance of the Seas vs all other Royal Caribbean ships.

All Itineraries

This metropolis is Canada's fastest growing city. Visit Gastown, a restored turn-of-the-century district where Vancouver's first saloon still stands. See trumpeter swans at Lost Lake, contemplate the ducks at Beaver Lagoon, or watch exotic aquatic creatures at the Stanley Park Aquarium. Climb the Lookout for a 360-degree view of the city.

This metropolis is Canada's fastest growing city. Visit Gastown, a restored turn-of-the-century district where Vancouver's first saloon still stands. See trumpeter swans at Lost Lake, contemplate the...

Cruise Inside Passage

Alaska's Inside Passage is awash with pristine water mountain views. A cruise among the fjords and islands takes you into prime habitat for bald eagles, sea lions, and whales. The Inside Passage is home to the totem poles of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian Indians, and Russian setters, as well as prospectors, lumberjacks, and fishermen. All have added to the tapestry of this area's history.

Alaska's Inside Passage is awash with pristine water mountain views. A cruise among the fjords and islands takes you into prime habitat for bald eagles, sea lions, and whales. The Inside Passage is...

Sitka is considered Alaska's most beautiful seaside town, with views of island-studded waters and stately spruce forests reaching to the water's edge. Sitka offers a combination of Native culture, Russian history, and Alaskan wilderness which provides a diverse and unequaled Alaskan experience. The mild climate and dense forests make Sitka one of the best places to view wildlife in Alaska.

Sitka is considered Alaska's most beautiful seaside town, with views of island-studded waters and stately spruce forests reaching to the water's edge. Sitka offers a combination of Native culture...

Cruise Tracy Arm Fjord

Tracy Arm, a classic fjord, has it all: snow capped peaks, shear rock palisades, rainbows and tidewater glaciers. Drift among icebergs and waterfalls that cascade 1,000's of feet for the most close-up view of Sawyer Glacier. You'll see incredible mountains and emerald green water, and be able to watch for whales, bear, eagles and mountain goats, and seals

Tracy Arm, a classic fjord, has it all: snow capped peaks, shear rock palisades, rainbows and tidewater glaciers. Drift among icebergs and waterfalls that cascade 1,000's of feet for the most close-up...

Alaska's capital city, Juneau, is located in Southeast Alaska. The Tongass Rain Forest climate provides Juneau with lush terrain and wildflowers. Visitors can find unparalleled glacier viewing from Tracy Arm Fjord, Mendenhall Glacier, the Juneau Icefield and Glacier Bay National Park, and outdoor enthusiasts will love Juneau's kayaking, dogsledding, rafting, biking, hiking and glacier hiking.

Alaska's capital city, Juneau, is located in Southeast Alaska. The Tongass Rain Forest climate provides Juneau with lush terrain and wildflowers. Visitors can find unparalleled glacier viewing from...

Haines, Alaska is located in northern Lynn Channel, and has a population of 1,260 people. Haines has the largest concentration of bald eagles in the world at the Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. Another popular attraction is the recreated gold rush town of "Dalton City." There are also native history performances by the Chilkat Indian Dancers at the Chilkat Center for the Arts.

Haines, Alaska is located in northern Lynn Channel, and has a population of 1,260 people. Haines has the largest concentration of bald eagles in the world at the Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve...

The first cruise ship appeared in Ketchikan 114 years ago, and it has been a favorite port ever since. You can tour the area by boat, bus, horse-drawn trolley, or even a restored 1955 Chevy. The most famous part of town is Creek Street. The homes once comprising the red light district are now filled with arts, crafts and gift shops. Totem poles are everywhere, with 24 at Saxman Native Totem Park.

The first cruise ship appeared in Ketchikan 114 years ago, and it has been a favorite port ever since. You can tour the area by boat, bus, horse-drawn trolley, or even a restored 1955 Chevy. The most...

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. Explore the Brilliance of the Seas Deck Maps and make sure to view our list of Ship Venues and Features. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

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All About Alaska Traditions, Holidays And Native Culture

Alaskan culture take many forms celebrate alaskan traditions no matter when you plan to visit..

By Robert Schrader | Published on September 29, 2023

Summer Fun Under The Midnight Sun

Many such celebrations, of course, are within families or groups of friends and don't have any official recognition. Think: late-night hikes or a camping trip that maybe turns into an all-night celebration because it never really gets dark enough to sleep. Another all-night tradition? Fishing trips that last until the morning. Note that although it's fun, this one isn't the slam-dunk you might think it is. Since fish are as sensitive to the extra light as humans are, they aren't sitting ducks! Other Alaskans stay closer to home, barbecuing in their backyards well past their typical bedtimes.

Other traditions lean more heavily on Alaska native culture. In Juneau , Alaska's state capital, members of the Haida, Tlingit and Tsimshian communities take to the streets every other June for the aptly named "Celebration." This festival, which is one of the most jubilant and rich Alaska holidays you've probably never heard of, sees participants wearing typical costumes of their peoples and performing generations-old songs and dances. If you're lucky enough to attend, you'll have the opportunity not only to enjoy performances but to sample foods and purchases handicrafts that might be difficult to find on your own as a traveler.

Dreaming of experiencing the Alaska summer solstice? While the entire warm season is a time of jubilance in Alaska, there is a formal summer solstice celebration as well. Once again, for some Alaskans, this simply entails making a point of taking part in summer traditions outdoors and in their own backyards on June 21, when even southern parts of the state enjoy around 22 hours of daylight. In larger cities, you may be able to partake in street festivals. For example, in Fairbanks — the main gateway to Denali National Park — the Midnight Sun Festival takes place every year on the Sunday closest to the solstice, when the city basks in light for 24 full hours.

Alaska's Coolest Winter Traditions

When it comes to cold weather customs in Alaska, the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race is the example most people are familiar with. One fact that surprises many non-Alaskans? The race actually takes place in early March, during the late part of winter. However, it's still quite cold along the route — which leads from Anchorage to Nome in Alaska's far north — so observers from the Lower 48 are none the wiser. The 10-day race (which originally lasted for 20 days when it began in 1973) started not only as a celebration of Alaska's sled dog tradition but also as a way to keep the tradition alive as snowmobiles threatened to kill it. Even the husky itself was in danger of dying off. As cute as they are, they've always served a utilitarian purpose in Alaska. With that gone, it was unclear as to whether local people would still breed them.

Appropriately, organizers and participants have taken measures in recent years to make sure the dogs who participate receive the most humane treatment. In addition to the fact that only dogs in peak physical condition are allowed to race, they receive top-of-the-line training that would make most professional athletes jealous. They eat nutritious food and get plenty of sleep at night, and while they're expected to perform at a certain level, they are never subjected to abuse or mistreatment, any instance of which results in severe punishment for the offending party. Once the race is finished, the dogs (winner and losers alike) enjoy some much-needed R&R, and of course, they get plenty of love and affection all 365 days of the year!

A lesser-known but equally interesting winter tradition is the Nenana Ice Classic, which — as its name suggests — takes place in Nenana, a small city in the center of the state. Every year since 1906, local residents (and eventually, people throughout the state) place bets on which date the ice of the Tanana River that flows through the city will start to break. While the methods for determining precisely when this happens have become increasingly complex and precise over the years, the basic idea has not changed: The people who guess the correct date win big! And the prize can be very big — with more than $300,000 paid out in 2014 alone.

While November is not technically a winter month, it is extremely cold in much of Alaska. As a result, the fact that it's been designated as the state's annual Alaska Native Heritage Month is relevant. Like many of the months Americans in the rest of the country used to celebrate the contribution of various groups to the broader culture, Alaska Native Heritage Month takes many forms. Some communities have festivals or other performances, while the local media often takes the opportunity to tell stories of important individuals or families, which may go unnoticed at other times of years. November isn't an extremely popular month to visit Alaska, so if you happen to be there then, make sure to pay attention!

Honor Alaska's History

Although many non-Alaskan Americans know the U.S. purchased Alaska from Russia during the 19th century, few understand how important this remains to be to the modern people of Alaska. In fact, many of Alaska's state holidays commemorate this event, without which the state literally wouldn't exist as you know it. If your cruise (or other travel to Alaska) happens to take place concurrently with one of them, you'll have a unique opportunity to grasp the significance of Alaska's birth for yourself.

The most well-known of these holidays, not surprisingly, is called Alaska Day. It takes place every year on October 18, which was the date in 1867 when the U.S. Senate finalized the transfer of Alaska to the U.S. from what was then known as the Russian Empire. Although it's observed everywhere throughout the state, the official celebration takes place in the southern city of Sitka , where a parade marches through town and other pageantry like flag raising takes place. It's important to recognize that while many native Alaskans celebrate this holiday in the same ways non-natives do, many others protest it, since they view both Russia and the U.S. as having stolen the land from their ancestors.

What is Seward's Day? Seward's Day is one of the most important "official" Alaska traditions that takes place every year. Celebrated on March 30, this holiday simply celebrates the signing of the purchase order on the same day in 1867 by William H. Seward, the U.S. Secretary of State at the time (though this is not the date of the transfer of the land itself). While it's not celebrated with as much fanfare as Alaska Day, it seems more important if you consider it during the context of the time. Many of Seward's contemporaries considered Alaska as a frozen wasteland and accused him of wasting funds that could've been put to better use in order to acquire it. Obviously, if you've ever been to Alaska, whether or not you've had a chance to participate in Alaskan traditions, you know that Seward had the last laugh!

Sharing The Wealth

Have you ever heard the rumor that Alaska pays people to live there? Well, it's not a rumor — it's true! The Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend, as it's officially known, is what you might call a profit-sharing system. The state invests proceeds from its rich mineral and oil resources and evenly splits the proceeds among all its citizens. While in the past this was sometimes split into several payments per year, it's recently taken the form of a single lump sum. While it isn't "free money" — the payment is taxable income — it does greatly assist local Alaskans with their cost of living and has become an important cultural tradition as a result.

Now, while the concept of the PFD (to which its name is often abbreviated) is pretty simple, some aspects of the implementation are a bit more complex. Most importantly, beneficiaries need to reside in Alaska for at least 180 days out of each calendar year. So, if you really take a liking to the state after taking a cruise there, make sure you spend at least half your time there if you plan to apply for PFD payments.

For Alaskans who can legitimately draw on this benefit, the rules beyond that are pretty relaxed. They can spend it on almost anything they want — although not surprisingly, many use it to bring down the cost of daily necessities, particularly ones that aren't locally farmed or caught. Like other distant parts of the U.S., many goods in Alaska are imported, which means their cost is significantly higher than what you're probably used to paying. Given that the payment has spiked to over $3,000 per person in recent years, this can really make a massive difference in the lives of Alaskan families.

This is especially true for many members of native Alaskan tribes, whose economic opportunities often ebb and flow according to the climate and other natural realities of the remote places they call home. Of course, it's not entirely accurate to say that the PFD has become a part of Alaska native culture. With this being said, the payments do help to level the playing field for people who, in spite of being the original owners of Alaska, have over the past couple of centuries not always benefitted from the wealth the land has generated, which has sometimes polluted that land in the process.

See Alaska's Cultural Side For Yourself

Written By ROBERT SCHRADER

Robert Schrader is a writer, photographer and one of the web's original travel bloggers. In 2009 he launched his blog   Leave Your Daily Hell , which has taken him to nearly 100 countries, and has since spun off niche sites focused on Japan, Thailand, Taiwan and Italy. Robert seeks to inform, inspire, entertain and empower travelers through his work, which has been featured in in-flight magazines and digital media outlets around the world. He's excited about travel's post-pandemic rebirth, and in particular the cruise industry's comeback!

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Alaska Cruisetours

Alaska Cruisetours Overview

View the charts below to help you select the Cruisetour land package that best fits your individual interests and vacation plans. Each chart shows the duration of each Cruisetour, the activities included and cities visited. Tour packages are numbered and lettered with “A” for Cruisetours that occur after the cruise or “B” for tours that occur before the cruise.

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Alaska Wildlife Express 1A

7-night Northbound Alaska and Hubbard Glacier Cruise onboard Radiance of the Seas followed by a 3-night, post-cruise escorted land tour to Talkeetna, Denali and Anchorage.

Included Experiences — Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, Denali Natural History Tour

2025 Departures — May 16 & 30, June 13 & 27, July 11 & 25, August 8 & 22

Alaska Wildlife Express 1B

2025 Departures — May 20, June 3 & 17, July 1, 15 & 29, August 12 & 26, September 9

Alaska Interior Express 2A

7-night Northbound Alaska and Hubbard Glacier cruise onboard Radiance of the Seas followed by a 3-night, post-cruise, escorted land tour to Denali and Fairbanks (2 nights).

Included Experiences — Denali Natural History Tour, Fairbanks City Tour, Gold Dredge 8

Alaska Interior Express 2B

Mountain valley explorer 3a.

7-night Northbound Alaska and Hubbard Glacier cruise onboard Radiance of the Seas followed by a 4-night, post-cruise, escorted land tour to Alyeska (Girdwood), Talkeetna, Denali and Anchorage.

Included Experiences — Alaska Sealife Center, Denali Natural History Tour, Wildlife Conservation Center

Mountain Valley Explorer 3B

This itinerary is conducted in reverse order of Tour 3A and offered as a pre-cruise option.

2025 Departures — May 19, June 2, 16 & 30 July 14 & 28, August 11 & 25, September 8

Wilderness Frontier Explorer 4A

7-night Northbound Alaska and Hubbard Glacier cruise onboard Radiance of the Seas followed by a 4-night, post-cruise, escorted land tour to Denali (2 nights) and Fairbanks (2 nights).

Included Experiences — Tundra Wilderness Tour, Fairbanks City Tour, Riverboat Discovery Cruise

Wilderness Frontier Explorer 4B

This itinerary is conducted in reverse order of Tour 4A and offered as a pre-cruise option.

Mountain Panorama Adventure 5A

7-night Northbound Alaska and Hubbard Glacier cruise onboard Radiance of the Seas followed by a 5-night, post-cruise, escorted land tour to Alyeska (Girdwood), Denali (2 nights), Talkeetna and Anchorage

Included Experiences — Alaska SeaLife Center, Denali Natural History Tour, Rail from Talkeetna to Anchorage, and more.

Mountain Panorama Adventure 5B

This itinerary is conducted in reverse order of Tour 5A and offered as a pre-cruise option.

2025 Departures — May 18, June 1, 15 & 29, July 13 & 27, August 10 & 24, September 7

Fjord & Tundra National Parks Explorer 6A

7-night Northbound Alaska and Hubbard Glacier Cruise onboard Radiance of the Seas followed by a 5-night, post-cruise, escorted land tour to Seward, Anchorage, Denali and Fairbanks (2 nights).

Included Experiences — Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise, Alaska Native Heritage Center, Tundra Wilderness Tour, and more.

Fjord & Tundra National Parks Explorer 6B

Grand mountain marvels 7a.

7-night Northbound Alaska and Hubbard Glacier Cruise onboard Radiance of the Seas followed by a 6-night, post-cruise, escorted land tour to Seward, Anchorage, Talkeetna, Denali (2 nights) and Fairbanks.

Included Experiences — Resurrection Bay Wildlife Cruise, Anchorage City Tour, Anchorage Museum, and more.

Grand Mountain Marvels 7B

2025 Departures — May 17 & 31, June 14 & 28, July 12 & 26, August 9 & 23, September 6

Alaska Wilderness Spectacular 8A

7-night Northbound Alaska and Hubbard Glacier Cruise onboard Radiance of the Seas followed by a 6-night, post-cruise, escorted land tour to Anchorage, Talkeetna, Denali (2 nights) and Fairbanks (2 nights).

Included Experiences — Alaska Native Heritage Center, Tundra Wilderness Tour, Riverboat Discovery Cruise, and more.

Alaska Wilderness Spectacular 8B

Family tundra express 9a.

7-night Northbound Alaska and Hubbard Glacier cruise onboard Radiance of the Seas followed by a 3-night, post-cruise, escorted land tour to Talkeetna, Denali and Anchorage.

Included Experiences — Anchorage Museum & Imaginarium Discovery Center, Murie Science & Learning Center, Dog Kennel Tour, and ...

Family Tundra Express 9B

Destination denali 11a.

7-night Northbound Alaska and Hubbard Glacier cruise onboard Radiance of the Seas followed by a 2-night, post-cruise, escorted land tour to Talkeetna, Denali and Anchorage.

Included Experiences — Denali Natural History Tour

Departures — May 17 & 31, June 14 & 28, July 12 & 26, August 9 & 23

Departures — May 21, June 4 & 18, July 2, 16 & 30, August 13 & 27, September 10

Departures — May 20, June 3 & 17, July 1, 15 & 29, August 12 & 26 September 9

Departures — May 19, June 2, 16 & 30, July 14 & 28, August 11 & 25 September 8

Departures — May 18, June 1, 15 & 29, July 13 & 27, August 10 & 24 September 7

Included Experiences — Anchorage Museum & Imaginarium Discovery Center, Murie Science & Learning Center, Dog Kennel Tour

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September 10, 2023 Alaska

By lonelybob , February 9, 2023 in Royal Caribbean International

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Can't seem to find this sailing and am confused by a Ravenna, Italy September 18, 2023 sailing. Anyhow, we are a Dad (96), and three young ones  in a 2 bedroom Grand Suite. We have friends in Sitka but are having our first look at Haines.Just got off the Wonder of the Seas in an Aqua theater 2 bedroom spacious suite that was indeed sweet. It was an upgrade which was unbelievable.

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There is a September 8th sailing on Ovation out of Seattle.  Have you checked the Roll Calls for RCL.

13 hours ago, lonelybob said: Can't seem to find this sailing and am confused by a Ravenna, Italy September 18, 2023 sailing. Anyhow, we are a Dad (96), and three young ones  in a 2 bedroom Grand Suite. We have friends in Sitka but are having our first look at Haines.Just got off the Wonder of the Seas in an Aqua theater 2 bedroom spacious suite that was indeed sweet. It was an upgrade which was unbelievable.

Sorry but really confused by your post. You are referring to Italy and Alaska on the same cruise and Haines. Sorry but does not make any sense.

neverbeenhere

3 minutes ago, Spurschick said: Sorry but really confused by your post. You are referring to Italy and Alaska on the same cruise and Haines. Sorry but does not make any sense.

chicken in the bread pan pecking out dough, daddy does you dog bite…

confused??? Me too!!!

2 minutes ago, neverbeenhere said: chicken in the bread pan pecking out dough, daddy does you dog bite…   confused??? Me too!!!

Agreed no idea what ship they are going on only that they got off the wonder????????.?

Does this happen to all guests when they leave Wonder?

Funky Fusion FoodsJ

Something else for which to blame medical marijuana..........

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The best time to cruise to alaska in 2024.

Plan your bucket list adventure to explore the extraordinary beauty of the 49th state.

The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska

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Alaska's astounding beauty and vast wilderness are unlike any other destination in the U.S. – and even in the world. While you can plan land-based trips to the state, many of Alaska's majestic snowcapped mountains, pristine forests, glacial waterways and abundant wildlife are in remote locations, only reachable by plane or by boat. That's just one of the many reasons why Alaska is one of the most popular cruise destinations in the world.

If you're ready to stop dreaming and start planning a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to The Great Land, here are tips on the best times to cruise Alaska.

Best Overall Time: Shoulder Seasons

Best time for warmer weather, best time for wildlife viewing, best time for salmon fishing, best time for the northern lights, best time for shore excursions.

If you want to score a deal and have fewer crowds, travel during the shoulder seasons: May and September. In these months, cruise fares are typically lower and ships are not as full, offering more cabin availability. However, with changes in the global climate bringing more moderate temperatures to Alaska, and the cruise season now extending into April and October, cruisers can also expect to find deals in April and October. There will be fewer sailings to choose from, but you may find lower pricing and avoid the peak-season crowds on the ship and in the ports.

In addition, select shore excursions may be available at a discount in the spring and fall. If you're planning on exploring Alaska on your own before or after your cruise, you'll also find cheaper hotel rates at the beginning or end of the cruise season.

Alaska's weather can change dramatically, especially the further north you go, no matter the month or season. While the weather may not be as predictable in April as in the middle of summer, Alaska can be beautiful in springtime with temperatures in the mid-40s, according to Tyler Hickman, senior vice president of Icy Strait Point, an Alaska Native-owned port in Hoonah and a port of call in Southeast Alaska. Hickman says there are long stretches of sunny days and crisp, clear evenings, offering the opportunity for late-season viewing of the northern lights . He also adds that April is one of the favorite times of year for local Alaskans.

If you're interested in cruising to Alaska in April, Norwegian Cruise Line has a few options, including weekly sailings on Norwegian Bliss beginning April 6. The line also offers Alaska itineraries through the end of October. Other lines sailing the extended season in Alaska in late April include Princess Cruises , Holland America Line , Royal Caribbean International , Carnival Cruise Line , UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions.

If you prefer to travel in the fall, early October temperatures are usually in the 50s, while the end of the month brings snow in the higher elevations. The days are longer and there are no crowds, so it may be an ideal time to visit if you're not interested in the summer outdoor experiences. Norwegian, Holland America and Seabourn Cruise Line offer sailings in October.

Read: The Best Alaska Cruise Deals

If you'd prefer warmer weather for your cruise, the summer season in Alaska runs from mid-May to mid-September. During that period, daytime temperatures typically range from 60 to 80 degrees, though they can drop into the 40s overnight. You can expect to have between 16 to 24 hours of daylight in the warmer season. May is considered the driest month, with around a 25% chance of precipitation, but the rain becomes more frequent throughout the summer.

Alaska.org, a website run by local Alaskans that provides travel information and recommendations, advises that the best time to visit in summer is from June 15 to July 15. This 30-day period is regarded as the peak season for warm, dry weather – and it's the perfect time for outdoor activities such as wildlife viewing, fishing and hiking. If you want to experience the most "midnight sun," plan to cruise a few weeks before or after the summer solstice – the longest day of the year – which falls on June 20 in 2024.

Come September, the days are generally shorter, rainier and cooler – but not always. You might get lucky with some unseasonably warm days amid the beautiful fall foliage ; as a bonus, September also means no bugs and fewer crowds.

If you have school-age children, you'll probably need to travel midsummer, during peak season. However, if you're flexible on dates, there's really no bad time to visit this magical destination. Mountain peaks shrouded in clouds or misty days cruising Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve in late April are as beautiful as sunny days hiking through Tongass National Forest or whale watching on an excursion out of Icy Strait Point in July.

Read: The Best Places to Visit in Alaska

According to Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, one of the top destinations on the Inside Passage itinerary, wildlife viewing is possible year-round, especially if you have your binoculars at hand. When you're not watching for turquoise ice calving in the bay from the glaciers, you might see humpback whales as long as 65 feet or black and brown bears up to 10 feet tall – as well as orcas, harbor and Dall's porpoises, sea otters, harbor seals, mountain goats, sea lions, seabirds, and bald eagles soaring overhead. And that's just what you can view from the ship.

During cruises through the park, rangers board the ships to offer commentary and information about the marine and terrestrial wildlife. They also help spot whales or other animals along the way. One of the highlights while cruising slowly through the park is to go outside on the bow of the ship – or even out onto your veranda – to listen to the incredible silence of this otherworldly place. You may hear nothing at all, or perhaps you'll be treated to the sounds of birds in the distance or the swoosh from a whale's blowhole before it dives down below the water's surface.

It's possible to view certain animals and marine life throughout the year, according to Hickman. "Whale sightings are consistent from May through September, with fewer occurring in April and October as they migrate from or to Hawaii for the winter," he says, adding: "Even on a foggy day when you can't see the whales, you can still hear them and feel their presence – and that's almost as incredible as seeing them from a ship or along the coastline."

If you're interested in spotting brown bears, here is Hickman's advice: "Bear sightings in the spring will depend on the snowpack and when they are leaving hibernation. This year we had very good bear viewing along the Spasski River starting in May when the coastal brown bears emerged from hibernation."

He adds, "They feed on the grass of the valley and eat skunk cabbage roots in May and early June. As the berries start to emerge in June, it holds many of the same bears, and as we get into mid-July, the salmon start heading upstream. There is a constant food source from May through September at Spasski. Many of the other bear viewing areas do not have the same features we have, and it leads to people thinking that bears are only around when fish are in the rivers."

Chichagof Island – the location of Hoonah and Icy Strait Point – was given the nickname "Bear Island" by National Geographic. The island boasts one to two brown bears per square mile, making it one of the largest brown bear populations in the world. Hickman says you're nearly guaranteed to see bears on one of Icy Strait Point's bear-watching tours. Icy Point Strait also offers whale watching adventures and other treks into the wilderness.

Alaska.org points to May through September as the best time for wildlife viewing, though you can spot some animals year-round, like moose or orcas. The website also advises that fly-in bear viewing starts in May but is at its best in July.

Looking to book a cruise to see Alaska's wildlife? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

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If you are an avid angler – or just want to watch the bears fish for their supper – then visit Alaska during the peak salmon runs, from May to September. King salmon season begins in May and goes through the end of July. The silver salmon run lasts from July up until the end of November. Red salmon are available between mid-June and mid-August, while you can catch pink and chum salmon in the brief window from mid-July to mid-August.

If you prefer halibut or just want to get out on the ocean, the best time for this wild Pacific species is from May to September. You can also seek out many other river and ocean species, such as rainbow trout, arctic char and northern pike. Cruise lines offer fishing excursions, or you can arrange for a private or group charter in an Alaskan town like Ketchikan.

If you want to see brown bears during the salmon run, book a bear-viewing excursion in one of the ports, such as Icy Strait Point. Or, extend your trip by combining a visit to Katmai National Park and Preserve and the renowned Brooks River with a stay at Brooks Lodge. Brooks Falls is the site for iconic photos of bears catching salmon that are jumping over the falls, and you may be able to view the bears feasting in salmon season when the property is open, from June through mid-September. The lodge is accessible by floatplane from King Salmon. You can also add a flyover tour during your stay to see the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, an area in southern Alaska transformed by ash from the 1912 Novarupta-Katmai volcanic eruption.

Aurora season – the best time to see the northern lights in Alaska – runs from mid-August to mid-April. While some passengers cruising the Inside Passage may catch a glimpse of the phenomenon in late summer and early fall, it's not guaranteed. As southeast Alaska typically has more precipitation and clouds since it's a temperate rainforest, you likely won't find optimal conditions for aurora viewing here.

Your chances to see the lights are better the further north you go, so you may want to look at booking a cruisetour: a land and sea package that's usually offered by some of the major cruise lines from May through September. These combined trips generally include the cruise, overnight accommodations in lodges, railway journeys and motorcoach travel between destinations.

With these tours, you'll be able to visit the vast landscape of Alaska, where you can explore cities like Anchorage and Fairbanks or spend time in Denali National Park and Preserve – and you'll have a better chance to view the northern lights. Lines that offer cruisetours include Norwegian, Celebrity Cruises , Holland America, Princess and Royal Caribbean.

Since 2024 is projected to be one of the best years to view the aurora borealis in Alaska, you might want to extend your trip to venture above the Arctic Circle or into Alaska's interior for a prime viewing opportunity. Fairbanks and the Arctic region are under the auroral oval, which is where the northern lights activity is concentrated. You can watch the forecast for the aurora borealis online at Explore Fairbanks' Aurora Tracker and the Geophysical Institute's Aurora Forecast .

Read: The Top Places to See the Northern Lights

Some of the excursions offered on an Alaskan cruise may be the most expensive tours you've seen on a ship, but they're also probably some of the coolest things you've ever thought about doing while on vacation.

Note that the probability of a tour being canceled for weather is almost the same for all tours offered between April and October, as the weather in Alaska can be unpredictable. Some of the more extreme tours, however, may not be available early or late in the season. If you want the best chance for optimal weather, consider the advice from Alaska.org and book your cruise between mid-June and mid-July.

If you're looking at splurging on a bucket list adventure while in Skagway – like Alaska Shore Tours' flightseeing helicopter adventure, which includes a dog-sledding experience on a glacier – you should check to make sure it's available the month you'll be cruising. This particular tour may not be open for booking before May or after September due to the conditions for the sled dogs.

Another over-the-top excursion dependent on optimal weather conditions is the Heli-Hike and Rail Adventure that begins in Skagway. This tour includes a helicopter ride from town that flies over glaciers and mountains, then drops you off for a roughly 5-mile guided hike to view Laughton Glacier and learn about the natural history of the area. After the hike, you'll board the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad at Glacier Station for the scenic journey through the mountains back to Skagway.

If you're interested in the Misty Fjords Flightseeing tour in Ketchikan, this thrilling ride is also best on a clear day. This Alaskan bush plane tour soars over the Misty Fjords National Monument, which has more than 2 million acres of pristine lakes, waterfalls, ancient forests and snowcapped mountains.

Tours that include activities like mountain climbing or navigating suspension bridges might also be best when done on a sunny day. The prime time for wildlife viewing and fishing, as mentioned above, will depend on what animals you're interested in seeing and which species of fish you want to catch.

The ship's excursion desk, local guides or tour providers can offer the best advice on how to plan your activities. No matter which tours you opt to take, be prepared for the ever-changing weather patterns by wearing layers – and make sure to bring a waterproof rain jacket. Before booking, you should check the individual tour operator's cancellation and refund policy.

Read: The Best Alaska Tours

The Bottom Line

If you're flexible as to when you can travel to Alaska, you may be able to take advantage of lower pricing, travel incentives and added perks in the shoulder seasons – and you'll have fewer crowds than in the busy summer months.

If your goal is to view wildlife, then most of the cruise season, especially from May to September, will offer ample opportunities to see bears, humpbacks whales, bald eagles and other amazing animals – depending on the itinerary and excursions you choose. You'll also be able to catch Alaska's prized salmon throughout much of the cruise season.

And if extreme adventures are going to be the highlight of your vacation, then be sure to check with the tour providers to make sure your top picks are offered when you're planning to travel. Not all tour providers operate the full seven months of the season.

No matter when you decide to visit, a cruise to The Great Land will be one of the most memorable vacations of your lifetime.

Planning a cruise to see Alaska? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is a U.S. News contributor and an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times on land trips and by ship to seek year-round outdoor adventure, view wildlife and chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. She's even considered moving to The Great Land as a full-time resident. Pratesi used her deep knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• Alaska Cruise Packing List
• The Top Alaska Cruise Lines
• The Top Luxury Alaska Cruises
• The Top Things to Do in Alaska
• Do You Need a Passport to Go on a Cruise?

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Tags: Travel , Cruises , Alaska Vacations

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