Alaska is the perfect destination for cruising, even for non-cruisers! The advantage is a continuous view of nature at its finest. There are opportunities to be adventurous on land at every stop. You can book the ship tours, or if you are really independent, do you research before you go, decide what you want to see and do and plan it yourself. There are plenty of independent guides that can take you around if you do not feel like being with your cruise mates. Personally, for Alaska, I would always recommend an outside cabin if not a balcony. This is a personal choice, but there is something spectacular about awakening and peering out your window to see these magnificent glaciers.

Before you go, make sure to research the time of year and the destinations/ports visited carefully. There are roundtrip "inner passage" cruises, which usually are the least expensive, they are 7 days and begin and end at the same port. This sounds easy and great especially for a first timer, but understand, you will not see as much as you would if you decide to start at one port and go either southbound or northbound ending at a different port. Families tend to prefer these cruises, as they are simpler travelling wise. A typical Alaska Roundtrip cruise departs from Seattle or Vancouver and spends the first day cruising the Inside Passage. They will then visit 3 or 4 of the following places such as Juneau, Glacier Bay and Ketchikan, Hubbard Glacier, Sitka depending upon the ship and departure.

When to Go: The cruises are going to be least expensive when it is a bit colder. Alaska will be 60-70 degrees in July & August, while it may be a bit chillier, yet less expensive in May & September where it will be in the 50’s and 60’s. A perfect example of a great deal in the chillier months, is one we found for $699, 7 nights which includes a cabin with a window. This particular departure is in May.

Specialty Cruises: If you are interested in good food and wine during your Alaska adventure, we found a Culinary and Wine cruise at the height of the season (July 27), which is still available. This cruise starts at $1475, but it includes 2 culinary sessions, special wine tasting, Private cocktail parties and special dining, etc. This is a roundtrip cruise from Seattle.

When booking these cruises, it is easy to only look at price, however, it is important to research the ports and see what is included in the rates quoted - are there port taxes included? Is there onboard credit? What are the extras?

Another company known to have some of the best deals in the business for Alaska is Vacations To Go.

Source: Dunhill Vacation News