best outfits for alaska cruise

What to Wear on an Alaska Cruise (outfit ideas with photos)

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Even if you’ve been on a cruise before, planning and packing for an Alaska cruise is quite different. If you’re anything like me, you’re probably wondering what to wear on an Alaska cruise.

I did a lot of research before my first Alaska cruise and wanted to make sure that I was prepared for the Alaska weather, the excursions and for days and evenings on the cruise ship. I can confirm that packing raingear and wearing layers is good advice! However, there’s a lot more to know.

Alaska temperatures range from the mid 40’s to the mid 70’s, depending on the month or your cruise. Plus, Alaska weather is unpredictable. It’s possible to have mild and sunny days, as well as rainy and cooler days during a 7 day Alaska cruise.

In this post I share what I wore during the day on Alaska excursions, as well as cruise outfits for casual and formal nights. You’ll find several photos as well as recommendations for clothing, accessories and other useful Alaska cruise essentials.

I’ve also shared an Alaska packing list of items you don’t want to forget!

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

What to Wear on an Alaskan Cruise – Day and Evening

What to Expect on an Alaska Cruise

Alaska cruises are more casual than Caribbean and Mediterranean cruises , both during the day and in the evening. Even though we cruised with Holland America, which is a more traditional cruise line, we still found this to be true.

Our Alaska cruise was in May, which is one of the cooler and drier months to cruise in Alaska. If you’re going to Alaska in the summer, there are some things I brought that you can likely leave at home.

I’ve included examples of Alaska cruise outfits for daytime, evening and formal nights.

Pro tip: Check the weather forecast for your ports of call starting about a week before your cruise to help you plan your outfits.

What to Wear on an Alaska Cruise During the Day

If you’ve been looking at Alaska cruise packing lists, you know that you should plan on layering your clothing. This is because the mornings in cruise ports like Juneau , Ketchikan and Skagway can be quite cool and warm up quite a bit in the mid to late afternoon.

You’ll want to pack short sleeve and long sleeve t-shirts, to wear under a fleece sweatshirt or hoodie. During my cruise, the temperature during the day was usually about 50F to 57F, so I almost always wore a lightweight puffer jacket as well.

When it got warm, we just removed our jackets, folded them up and put them in our water resistant backpack.

Sweatshirts, Jeans & Leggings

There’s no need to be fancy during the day on your Alaska cruise. I live in leggings when I’m at home, and this was great for days in Alaska too. I also wore blue jeans, which I found kept my legs warm even during a canoe excursion on Harriet Hunk Lake in Ketchikan.

I was really happy I brought these fleece sweatshirts . They were so comfortable and they kept me warm and cozy, even during our day in Glacier Bay!

Recommended: Amazon Essentials fleece sweatshirts (I bought these in blue & pink)

Hats & Gloves

I wondered if I’d wear my hat and gloves, and I sure did! Hats and gloves don’t take up a lot room to pack, and they’re worth bringing even if you’re cruising to Alaska in the summer or fall. Mornings and late nights can be frosty, especially on glacier viewing days.

I recommend bringing thin touch screen gloves, so that you can use your smart phone to take photos or look at emails, without freezing your hands.

Recommended: Hat with pom-poms (check price & reviews on Amazon here)

Recommended: Touch free gloves (love these!)

Puffer Jacket

Although I live in Canada and am used to winter weather, I hate being cold. I wasn’t sure if I needed a parka or a lighter lined jacket. I’m glad I decided on a lightweight puffer jacket.

This water resistant puffer jacket kept me warm, without feeling overheated, during my days in port. I could also unzip my jacket when I was in the bus on tours and excursions.

A puffer vest is also a popular choice for outer wear on an Alaska cruise.

Recommended: Puffer jacket (check price & see 3000+ 4.5* Amazon reviews here)

Pro tip: Wear your puffer jacket on your flight or pack it in your carry-on bag, to save room in your checked luggage.

If you’re going on an Alaska cruise, you need to pack some rain gear. Alaska is home to the Tongass National Forest, the largest temperate rainforest in the world. While you won’t always have heavy rain, Alaska can be drizzly or misty on any given day. In fact, Juneau experiences some form of precipitation approximately 230 days a year.

We were very lucky during our Inside Passage cruise as it only rained two days out of 7! We had some rain on our embarkation day in Vancouver and in the afternoon while we walked around Ketchikan’s Creek Street and the cruise port.

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What to Pack for Rain in Alaska

A poncho is light doesn’t take up much room and can be easily brought on a summer Alaska cruise.

Recommended: Poncho (check reviews & price on Amazon here)

Wind-proof Travel Umbrella

An umbrella is optional for an Alaska cruise. We rarely used it, but did find it handy while we explored Vancouver in the rain during our pre-cruise stay.

If you take photos and videos, an umbrella can be useful as well. Some cruise lines may provide an umbrella for use in your stateroom.

Rain Jacket

Depending on the time of the year, a rain jacket is a clothing item to pack for your Alaska cruise. If I was cruising to Alaska in June, July or August, I would have brought mine and layered it on top of a long or short sleeve shirt.

Since we were there in May, it made more sense to bring a warmer water repellant jacket.

Waterproof Shoes or Hiking Boots

Alaska is all about exploring the great outdoors. Waterproof hiking shoes will keep your feet dry and comfortable as you explore rugged terrains, trek through glaciers, and walk through trails in Alaska.

While you can wear sneakers, waterproof hiking shoes are better for wet and muddy weather that you might experience on some Alaska excursions . Good hiking shoes will also give you traction and support for uneven terrain.

Recommended: Waterproof hiking shoes (check options on price on Amazon here)

Thermal Wear

Thermal underwear (or Long John’s) will keep you warm during rainy and cool days in Alaska. We brought some as our philosophy was, we are going to visit Alaska, even if it’s cold and rainy!

Recommended: Thermal wear

Lucky for us, the weather was pretty good. However, it only about 50-55F most days and my husband and son found thermal underwear to be useful when worn under a pair of jeans.

I brought fleece lined leggings , and this was perfect for me.

Recommended: Fleece lined leggings (check price & 4.5* reviews on Amazon here)

What to Wear on an Alaska Cruise for the Evening

Planning your cruise vacation outfits for an Alaska cruise can be a bit of a challenge. While most cruise lines have dress code suggestions, in practice many cruise passengers dress more casually for the evening on Alaska cruises that on other itineraries.

If you’re on a 7 day cruise, you can expect to have mostly casual and smart casual evenings, with one or two dressy or formal evenings .

If you want don’t even want to think about what to wear, you can also eat in the cruise ship buffet or grab some pizza or a burger at a one of the casual restaurants.

Related: What To Wear on a Cruise Vacation (day, evening & formal night)

My Evening Cruise Outfits

My Alaska cruise a 7 day Inside Passage cruise on Holland America’s Koningsdam. I brought a few dresses and a pair of black pants that I could wear with different tops. I also brought a light crochet cardigan to wear my tops.

If you like to wear jeans, you can feel comfortable wearing nice jeans and a top to the main dining room, buffet and restaurants.

For the Dressy Night (like formal night) I wore a black dress and my husband and son wore a suit and dress shirt, without a tie.

What Shoes to Pack for an Alaska Cruise

There’s no need to pack too many shoes for an Alaska cruise . The shoes you’ll want to pack are:

• Sneakers, walking or running shoes
• Dress shoes (for evening)
• Casual shoes (for evening)
• Flip flops or slides (for the pool & hot tubs)
• Waterproof hiking shoes (optional)

Alaska Cruise Accessories

Here are a few “must-have” items and cruise essentials to pack for an Alaska cruise.

Travel Binoculars

You’ll see incredible scenery and wildlife from your balcony or cruise ship deck and binoculars are a must-bring! We even brought our binoculars for our whale watching excursion and we’re glad we did!

Recommended: Travel binoculars (check reviews & price on Amazon here)

Large Backpack

A good size water resistant back pack is great to bring on shore excursions. I like this one as it has a waterproof bag insert, good for potential Alaska downpours.

Recommended: 40 L Backpack (love this one on Amazon)

Waist Pouch or Cross Body Bag

One of the best things I brought on my Alaska cruise was a cross body style waist pouch. It was great to not bring a purse with me, so I could be hands free on my excursions.

These days, fanny packs or belt bags are in style for both women and men.

Alaska Cruise Packing: Frequently Asked Questions

Should You Pack Shorts for an Alaska Cruise?

Since Alaska weather can be unpredictable, it’s a good idea to pack at least one pair shorts for warmer days or to work out in the gym. If you’re taking an Alaska cruise during the summer, you may get weather into the 70’s and you’ll be happy you brought shorts and a t-shirt.

Is it Cold on an Alaska Cruise Ship?

I was surprised to find out that it wasn’t cold on the cruise ship in Alaska. In fact, the dining room was very comfortable and I never needed a sweater or shawl. The one day when it was cold on the cruise ship was our glacier viewing day in Glacier Bay. This was because the doors to the outdoor promenade and the ship’s bow were kept open for much of the time, allowing cool weather in.

Do You Need a Coat for an Alaskan Cruise?

If you get cold easily, you’ll probably want to pack a puffer jacket or lightweight coat for an Alaskan cruise. This is especially true if you’re cruising during the beginning, end or shoulder season.

A light jacket or puffer style vest worn over a fleece sweatshirt should be good for those cruising to Alaska during the late spring and summer months.

Should I Pack a Bathing Suit for an Alaskan Cruise?

You should pack at least one bathing suit and cover up for your Alaska cruise. Many cruise ships sailing in Alaska have a heated indoor pool. However, even if your cruise ship doesn’t have a covered pool area, you can still use the outdoor pool and hot tubs.

I was surprised to see a few people swimming in the outdoor pool on cool sea days during our cruise to Alaska. The hot tubs were used regularly, and were particularly appealing during our day in Glacier Bay (what a view!).

Video: Alaska Cruise Essentials & Packing Guide

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Final Thoughts on What to Wear on an Alaska Cruise

Packing for an Alaska cruise and knowing what to wear can be a challenge. However, since Alaska cruises are more casual than other cruise itineraries, planning your Alaska cruise outfits isn’t as hard as it seems.

For day, plan your outfits based on comfort. This means stay warm and dry, and wear layers to help do this. For evenings, you can pack lighter for your Alaska cruise by wearing pants or jeans, paired with different tops. Even formal nights on Alaskan cruises are less fancy than most cruises. Of course, dress how you enjoy, but don’t feel obligated to wear a formal evening dress and tuxedo.

Are you going on an Alaskan cruise? Please let me know your Alaska cruise wear questions in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

If you enjoy this post please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please feel free to share on Facebook or Pinterest (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

We watched several of your YouTube videos before our first cruise. We went to Alaska on the Eurodam. Your tips are spot on and greatly appreciated. The best one for us, magnet hooks. They are incredible and helped keep all of our layers off the floor and easy to retreive.

I’m so glad to hear that you had a great Alaska cruise & that these tips were helpful!

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• What to Wear on a Cruise
• >> Alaska Cruise Outfits – What to Wear on an Alaskan Cruise

Alaska Cruise Outfits – What to Wear on an Alaskan Cruise

If you’re looking for ideas on what to wear on an Alaskan cruise then look no further. We’ll show you the exact types of Alaska cruise outfits you’ll need for your trip so you can stay warm, feel comfortable and look good on board the ship.

When you’re going on an Alaska cruise what to wear is an important thing to consider. Having the right Alaska cruise wardrobe is essential. You will need several different types of outfits for daily life onboard the ship, relaxed excursions, more active excursions, managing cold weather and dressing up in the evening.

We’ll show you how to put together cute Alaskan cruise outfits for every occasion on your trip without having to pack a tonne of stuff by using different clothing in multiple outfits.

For our complete guide on what to pack for an Alaska cruise and a printable packing list PDF, read this post . It contains the quantities of clothes for Alaska cruise that you’ll need plus all the little extra items that are useful to have.

• 1.1 Embarkation / Disembarkation
• 1.2 Cruise Casual Day Wear
• 1.3 Relaxed Excursion Clothes
• 1.4 Active Excursion Clothes
• 1.5 Casual Evening Outfits
• 1.6 Formal Evening Outfits
• 2 Got questions on what to wear on an Alaskan cruise? Ask here!

Alaska Cruise Outfits

Embarkation / disembarkation.

On your embarkation and disembarkation day, go for an easy travel outfit. Joggers or jeans and a light jacket or hoodie with a t-shirt underneath are ideal If you’re cruising in July or August it might actually be quite warm at your departure port so pack a pair of shorts just in case. If you’re flying home straight after the cruise you’ll need a comfy airplane outfit. Pick items that you can use throughout your trip so you’re not doubling up on too much packing.

• Denim jacket
• Long sleeved t-sirt
• Black Jogger Pants
• Casual jeans
• Hooded sweatshirt (wine)
• Plaid scarf
• Black ankle boots

Need more tips on what to pack for an Alaskan cruise?

Check out our top 20 Alaska cruise essentials in this post!

Cruise Casual Day Wear

You can create some cute outfits for an Alaskan cruise. Tunics and leggings are great for lazy days on the ship. Jeans or joggers and a sweater or cardigan are great too. Depending on the weather that day you might need just a short sleeved tee or a longer one underneath layers on cooler days. Bring a nice plaid scarf for extra warmth on deck as it can be windy. It’s nice to have some soft comfortable slip on shoes like Toms to wear around the ship on sea days.

• Tunic top (teal)
• Striped Long Sleeve T-Shirt
• Mustard Open Front Cardigan with Pockets
• Short sleeved t-shirts
• Black leggings
• TOMS slip on shoe (burgundy)

Relaxed Excursion Clothes

When dressing for Alaska cruise one of the first things to look at are your planned excursions. Some excursions are more relaxed. You don’t need hiking or outdoor gear for activities like scenic flights, train rides and cultural tours. Relaxed outfits for Alaskan cruise excursions are similar to what you’d wear around the ship but with a bit of added warmth. A packable puffer jacket, scarf and beanie will add a tonne of warmth to your casual clothes. Dress in layers because weather can change on a dime in Alaska.

• Chambray shirt
• Plaid shirt
• Sweater (grey)
• Packable down jacket
• Slouchy beanie and scarf

What’s the best jacket for Alaska cruise travel?

We recommend bringing a couple different types of jackets that can be layered to suit all weather conditions. A fleece zip up jacket, a packable puffer jacket and a waterproof parka that fits over both of these will allow you layer up or down depending on the weather.

Active Excursion Clothes

Clothes for active excursions like hiking, glacier treks, dog sledding, rafting and fishing require a bit more planning. Get a good idea of the weather before you set out for the day. Again layers are a good idea. A fleece jacket, waterproof parka and a good pair of outdoor pants are the main items you’ll need. We recommend packing a merino base layer top and leggings for extra warmth. If you’re cruising in July or August you might need a pair of hiking shorts in case of warm weather. Depending on your excursion you may need proper hiking boots or your sneakers might be fine.

• Icebreaker merino long sleeved top (base layer)
• Icebreaker merino leggings (base layer)
• Columbia zip fleece jacket (wine)
• Columbia waterproof jacket
• Columbia women’s boot cut hiking pants
• Columbia women’s hiking short
• Smart gloves that work on touch screens so you can use your phone or camera
• Hiking boots

Casual Evening Outfits

Alaska cruise attire is usually a bit more relaxed in the evenings than on your typical Caribbean cruise. Many people won’t change for dinner. That’s totally up to you. It depends on how busy your day was in port and how active you were. If you do wish to change for dinner on the casual dining nights, wear an outfit you’d choose for a date night. Jeans and a nice top are ideal. You can always borrow your formal night accessories and shoes to jazz your outfit up.

• Batwing blouse (mustard)
• Short sleeved tie blouse (wine)
• Striped tunic top
• Slim dark wash jeans
• Slim white jeans
• Black heels

Formal Evening Outfits

Alaska cruise formal night wear is usually a bit more relaxed than on a typical Caribbean cruise. You won’t find many people super glammed up, although you can if you choose! A nice cocktail dress is the ideal formal dress for Alaskan cruise travel. Pack two dresses that can use the same shoes and clutch. A pashmina is a good idea for evening as it might be chilly getting from your cabin to the dining room.

• Off the shoulder dress (black)
• Wrap dress (wine)
• Statement necklace (white & gold)
• Statement earrings (wine)
• Pashmina (black)
• Velvet clutch (black)

Got questions on what to wear on an Alaskan cruise? Ask here!

Need more Alaska cruise packing tips? You can join our Facebook group on cruise packin g to ask questions or just leave them in the comments below.

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What to Wear on an Alaska Cruise + Alaska Cruise Outfit Photos

This post may contain affiliate links, view our disclosure policy .

Look no further for the most comprehensive guide on what to wear on an Alaksa cruise!

Having recently returned from an Alaska cruise, I’m here to tell you what you absolutely should ( and should not ) include on your Alaska cruise packing list!

Whether you’re enjoying a relaxing day on the ship, or venturing out on an outdoor land excursion, it can be very tricky figuring out what to wear on an Alaska cruise.

In this article, I explain the clothing and gear you’ll need, as well as include several other Alaska cruise essentials that you’ll be glad you learned about ahead of time. 

Stick around until the end where you’ll find a massive photo collage of my daily Alaska cruise outfits!

Table of Contents

Alaska Cruise Intro

Chances are, you’ve been dreaming of and saving up for an Alaska cruise for quite some time now.

If you’re like me, perhaps an Alaska cruise tops your family’s bucket list of places that you absolutely want to experience in your lifetime.

With that said, Alaska isn’t a typical place you probably travel to, and the thought of cold weather, rain, glaciers, and the backcountry wilderness might leave you wondering what to wear.

That too, was me.

And for that reason, I kept track of and photographed literally every article of clothing and accessory that we used during our recent Alaska cruise – to help future travelers know what to pack.

For perspective, our Alaska cruise took place June 11th – 18th when temperatures were in the low to mid-50s. Be sure to check the forecast for when you’re planning to visit.

We were on the Norwegian Encore and stopped in ports in Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan in southeast Alaska, and Victoria, B.C.

Best Time To Go To Alaska

Yes, its notoriously chilly climate, frequent rainfall, and various weather patterns make it tricky to determine what to wear in Alaska to have an enjoyable trip.

Before deciding what to wear on an Alaska cruise, however, you need to first decide when you’re going to visit.

The best time to visit Alaska is mostly based on your priorities.

Do you want warmer weather to explore outdoors, or is your goal to get better views of the Northern Lights?

The most popular time to go on an Alaksa cruise is during the months of June, July, and August as they offer both the warmest weather and longest hours of daylight.

The shoulder seasons of April–May and September–October are growing in popularity, however, as they boast of fewer crowds, lower prices, and seasonal attractions like the Northern Lights.

Alaska Weather By the Month

It’s very important to consider the temperatures and precipitation levels depending on when you’re traveling to Alaska.

While I recommend warm, waterproof layers on Alaskan cruises year-round , you’ll need much heavier coats if cruising during October and April versus in July or August.

In addition, though Alaska can experience frequent rain showers, you’ll want to prepare for the most significant precipitation from July – October.

In summary:

• June, July, and August have the warmest temperatures, with lows of 47°F and highs of 70°F, making this the most popular time to take an Alaska cruise
• May & September temperatures range between 39°F and 55°F. 
• October – April experiences the coldest weather, with lows ranging between 9-29°F and highs between 22-44°F. 
• Rain comes fairly evenly throughout the year throughout Alaska. Expect, almost daily rain, in Ketchikan , however.

When in doubt, assume it’ll be colder and wetter than predicted. My #1 tip when packing for an Alaska cruise is to pack plenty of waterproof LAYERS . 

What to Wear on an Alaska Cruise: Top 8

For quick reference, here are links to my “Top 8” recommendations of what to wear on an Alaska cruise. (Keep reading, as much more specific information and my photo collage follow this list.)

These are some of the exact items that I purchased and actually wore on our Alaska cruise in June. You’ll see them frequently in the photos below.

What to wear in Alaska: Top 8

• Warm, waterproof jacket with layers
• Warm beanie hat (I own the black and honey mustard color)
• Waterproof gloves – with touchscreen technology for taking photos!
• Packable rain jacket
• Waterproof footwear (and these ones for men )
• Disposable rain ponchos (to have on hand for quick rain showers during excursions)
• Comfortable cruise attire for sea days (my husband brought 2 pairs of these pants, and I own 3 different colors of these pants – we love them!)
• Travel binoculars – have them with you at all times for wildlife sightings!

Items that I bought and did not end up using were a Merino wool base layer and waterproof rain pants. I also brought a portable shoe dryer which we did not need to use.

If you’re visiting during times of colder weather or larger amounts of rainfall, these may come in handy, however.

Alaska Cruise Packing List

The following Alaska cruise packing list includes both what to wear, as well as other various items that we always bring with us when we cruise.

1. Clothing

When choosing what to wear on an Alaskan cruise, you need to keep in mind both the clothes you’ll be wearing on the cruise ship as well as during onshore excursions. 

In general, you’ll want to pack comfortable layers that are easy to move in, whether it be for lounging or an active experience. 

Rainy weather clothes 

Alaska’s weather is generally dry, though the state receives the most precipitation between June and September, with August being the rainiest month.  

To be safe, I recommend packing waterproof clothing year-round to prepare for the potential of rainy days.

Alaska packing list for rain:

• Packable waterproof jacket
• Waterproof pants
• Waterproof footwear (these are the waterproof Sperry boots that I wore; these are the waterproof HUK boots that my husband wore)
• Waterproof backpack or dry bag 

*We packed but did not use an umbrella while in Alaska. We did, however, use our travel umbrellas when we were walking around Seattle before our cruise .

Cold weather clothes 

You should prepare to get a little chilly on your Alaskan cruise.

Even the warmest months will have cold days!

Alaska packing list for cold weather:

• Long underwear or Merino wool base layers
• Insulated gloves (prefer ones with touchscreen technology for taking photos)
• Fleece jackets (for layering)
• Warm, waterproof jacket (with appropriate temperature rating)
• Puffer vest
• Thick wool socks 

*We packed but did not use , thick puffer-type winter coats while visiting Alaska in June. The weather wasn’t as cold as we had anticipated.

Sunny weather

Regardless of temperatures, Alaska gets plenty of sun throughout the summer months. 

While it may not be shorts and t-shirt weather, you’ll want to pack a few lighter layers if you’re traveling during this time. 

Alaska packing list for sunny weather:

• Tee shirts (for layering)
• Lightweight pants or leggings 
• Sunglasses 
• Baseball cap
• Cotton socks 
• (We did not wear shorts on our Alaska cruise except for on embarkation day.)

Formal wear 

Depending on the cruise line you choose, there will likely be formal nights where you’re expected to dress in formal wear for dinner. 

If traveling with Princess Cruises, they have a fairly strict dress code for these nights. On Norwegian Cruises, you’ll want to dress up when dining at specialty restaurants.

Alaska packing list for formal nights:

• Dress shirt and pants
• Dinner jacket/blazer
• Closed-toe shoes

*For our 8-day, 7-night cruise I packed 2 dress-up outfits.

Whether you’re going into town at one of the Alaska cruise ports or relaxing on board, you’ll want some comfortable basics to get you through the day.

Your cruise ship should also come equipped with a hot tub to warm up in, so a bathing suit is also good to bring along!

Alaska packing list for days on the ship:

• Bathing suit (for the pool or hot tub)
• Shirts with long sleeves
• Comfortable pants and jeans
• Sweatshirt and sweatpants
• Pajamas 
• Cross-body purse
• (Again, we did not need shorts on our Alaska cruise)

*For our 8-day, 7-night cruise I packed 4 pairs of pants, 2 t-shirts, 2 long-sleeve shirts, 1 sweater, and 1 sweatshirt. I packed 8 pairs each of socks and underwear.

You’ll need various types of footwear when considering what to wear on an Alaskan cruise.

Shoes take up a lot of room in a suitcase, however, so limit yourself accordingly.

I recommend bringing only 1 pair of the following:

• Flip flops (for hot tub use)
• Waterproof boots – these ones were perfect (for excursions)
• Sneakers/tennis shoes (for boat wear and excursions)
• Closed-toe shoes (for formal nights)

2. Personal Items 

Beyond your weather-curated clothing, there are some essential packing items that you should bring with you on your Alaskan cruise. 

Remember to include your wallet along with: 

• Credit card
• Identification 
• Travel insurance card 
• Passport 

You may also want to print out confirmation and trip details to have a paper copy; you never know when technology will fail!

Personal care

To have the best trip possible, make sure you come prepared with all the personal care items you could need. 

This includes basic toiletries, everyday medication, and other emergency items. 

While your cruise will likely have some of these items available for purchase, you never want to be caught without them!

Personal care items to pack include:

• Feminine hygiene products
• Prescription medication 
• Pain reliever & cold meds
• Vitamins 
• Anti-nausea meds
• Digestion aids 

Electronics

Keep in mind that WiFii can be very spotty on an Alaska cruise due to its remote location.

In addition, most cruise lines charge an additional fee for either a set amount or an unlimited number of WiFii minutes – so this may, or may not be something that you want to invest your money in.

Electronics to pack include:

• Camera 
• Extra memory cards
• Smartphone wall charger 
• Portable charger

3. Comfort Items

Whether you’re a creature of comfort or always up for something new and exciting, bringing a little bit of home along the way is always nice. 

Here are a few comfort items I recommend adding to your Alaska cruise packing list. 

From helpful extras to entertainment options, these items will help round off your packing list and ensure you have everything you could ever need. 

While not essential by any means, a journal is a great item to bring along with you on a cruise.

Journaling at the end of a long day can help you unpack your experiences and remember them in the days to come. 

At the end of your trip, you’ll have a working keepsake as a reminder of your cruise. You’ll also have some great travel writing inspiration! 

Entertainment

There is bound to be a bit of downtime on a cruise as you travel from port to port.

I recommend bringing a couple of versatile entertainment options to keep you from getting stir-crazy. 

An e-reader is a great option because you can pre-download endless books to read and enjoy. This is especially great if you’re dealing with spotty wifi. 

And when in doubt, things like a classic deck of cards and cribbage board can provide endless game options for the whole family.

Sleeping in unusual quarters can be difficult.

Pack a couple of sleep aids to get the best night’s sleep possible, including:

• Eye mask 
• Warm fuzzy socks 
• Ear plugs 

4. Cruise Essentials

Finally, here are the basic cruise essentials that we bring along with us every time we cruise!

Clicking on these links will take you to the exact items that we use and love!

• Packing cubes
• Lanyards (for each person/for keycards)
• Travel hamper
• Magnetic hooks
• Cruise ship door magnets ( for FUN! )
• Multi-plug outlet splitter
• Collapsible water bottle
• Hanger with clips (for hanging up wet swimsuits to dry)

Alaska Cruise Outfits

Here is a photo collage of my daily Alaska cruise outfits that may help with your planning.

Port locations and links to shop are included in the photos’ captions where applicable.

Conclusion: What to Wear on an Alaska Cruise 

The best way to enjoy your Alaskan cruise is to be prepared for any and every adventure offered to you – in any kind of weather.

I hope you’ve found our Alaskan cruise packing list useful in determining both what to bring, and what to wear on an Alaska cruise.

If you’ve been on an Alaskan cruise and have any additional packing tips, we’d love to hear them in the comments below.

Happy travels!

*Before leaving, be sure to check our  Travel Resources Page  to find our exclusive travel discounts and to book hotels, rental cars, and guided tours.*

Jen Brommer is a family travel expert. She has been featured as an authority on several notable travel websites and is a member of the Family Travel Association (FTA), Midwest Travel Network, and TravMedia global media network.

A prominent content creator and influencer on Instagram, Jen has over 150K unique monthly blog readers from countries all over the world. She has spent the last 16 years planning fun, and hassle-free family vacations for her family of 5.

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Great tips. Thank you very much. The links for packing lists are very helpful too. We are first time cruiser, family of 4 (2 teen boys), booked for Aug 2024 Encore 7 day cruise from Seattle. We are very excited.

Hello! You are so welcome! You are going to love your Alaska cruise! I hope that you have a wonderful time!

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Alaska cruise packing list: 36 must-have items.

Your cruise packing list for Alaska will look a little bit different than the one you'd use for the Caribbean.

Alaska Cruise Packing List

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Stay warm and dry in Alaska by ensuring you've packed the right gear.

Alaska is one of the most stunning places to visit on Earth. The vast pristine wilderness, ever-changing landscapes and opportunity to view wildlife – including bear, moose, Dall sheep, caribou, wolves, and marine mammals such as orcas and humpback whales – are just a few of the reasons it's one of the most popular cruise destinations.

An Alaska cruise , however, can be difficult to pack for with big swings in temperatures, rainy days in the forecast and even experiencing four seasons in one day ashore. You'll need a strategic plan to pack for your trip especially if you're cruising during the colder months of April and October at the tail ends of the Alaska cruising season . U.S. News has compiled a list of essential items and ones you'll be glad you brought to round out your cruise packing list.

• For the cabin
• For the ship and onshore excursions
• For the journey

(Note: Any mentioned prices were accurate at the time this article was published; they may fluctuate.)

For the cabin  

Portable humidifier.

It gets cold in Alaska, especially at nighttime, so you may need to turn on the heat in your stateroom. If you've traveled in the winter on a cruise ship, you'll know that the dry warm air combined with the airtight seal in the cabin can cause several issues, including difficulty sleeping and dry skin. The MOVTIP Portable Mini Humidifier ( less than $30 on Amazon ) is compact and lightweight at 9.5 ounces, so you can easily pack it into your carry-on or checked luggage . It has two mist modes, acts as a nightlight in your cabin and has an automatic shut-off when the water level is too low.

Magnetic hooks

A fun fact: The walls of a cruise ship are made of metal, so you can use them for extra hanging space when you bring along magnetic hooks for the trip. There are plenty of plain silver magnets on Amazon to choose from, but DIYMAG heavy-duty magnetic hooks are available in bold colors like green, red and purple. That way, each person can have their own color-coded hook. The extra hanging space will come in handy with all the layers you'll need for your cruise. You'll also appreciate having the hooks for wet gear after shore excursions .

Motion sickness remedies

Courtesy of Sea-Bands

Sea-Bands, which you can find on Amazon for less than $15 , are a must-have item if you're prone to motion sickness. A drug-free alternative to medicines like Dramamine, they use an acupressure point to minimize nausea and vomiting. You never know when you'll encounter rough seas, especially if you're on a small vessel . You can even get motion sickness riding in one of the whale watching boats, so it's best to come prepared. Be sure to start wearing the bands before you get on the ship.

If you need something stronger than the Sea-Bands to quell the nausea, Dramamine has a less drowsy version that's recommended by pharmacists. Another motion sickness alternative is to wear the prescription scopolamine transdermal patch, which lasts up to three days, behind your ear. Ginger chews are an option for mild cases of upset stomach; you can purchase a pack of them on Amazon for $5 .

Read: The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises

It's a good idea to keep moisturizing eye drops in your toiletry bag , backpack or handbag, especially if you're prone to dry eye. The cabins on the ship can get warm and arid, as mentioned above, particularly when you need to turn on the heat. Systane on-the-go vials are an excellent choice for hydration. Lumify is another option if your eyes have a problem with redness.

Courtesy of Rifle Paper Co.

Alaskan cruises are a once-in-a-lifetime trip for many travelers, so you'll want to record every moment of your adventure. Rifle Paper Co. sells sets of three stitched notebooks with beautiful floral and nature designs. Each book has 64 ruled pages and gold foil accents. There's even a Bon Voyage-themed set that's perfect for journaling your cruise travels.

Read: The Top Travel Accessories, Chosen by Our Editors

Wrinkle release spray

Travel irons are not permitted on cruise ships, so a travel-size bottle of Downy's Wrinkle Release Plus spray comes in handy for getting rid of wrinkles. It also acts as an odor eliminator and static remover. To remove wrinkles, it works best if you spritz the garment first and then hang it in the shower so the steam can work its magic, too. For tougher wrinkles in fabrics like linen, you might need to send the garment out for pressing. If you do, be sure to give it at least a 24-hour turnaround time if you're planning to wear the item on a specific evening.

Travel-size bathroom sprays

There are several companies that make travel-size bathroom sprays, including Poo-Pourri, Fresh Wave and Flushie. They are all available on Amazon. If you prefer aromas beyond the traditional lavender vanilla and citrus scents, Poo-Pourri sells its 2-ounce packable sprays in pumpkin spice, apple, coconut and more.

Over-the-door organizer

It's best to stay organized when you're on a cruise, especially if you're not traveling solo . Storage space is limited in the closet and in the bathroom, so you'll want to keep your items separate. An over-the-door organizer, such as Bagsmart's hanging toiletry bag ( less than $30 on Amazon ), is an excellent choice for securing smaller items, such as jewelry, lip balm and travel-size sunscreen. The clear, zippered pockets are also large enough to accommodate full-size moisturizers and other makeup items.

Electronics organizer

Courtesy of Bagsmart

Keep your cords, battery chargers and any items for your camera – like SD cards – in one place with this electronics organizer from Bagsmart . It's easy to pack in your carry-on and even carry in your backpack or daypack if you'll need access to some of the items during the day. Everything is visible, zipped up and secure so you won't lose anything either in the room or in transit.

Flip-flops are great to have to walk around the stateroom, especially if your accommodations don't come with a plush robe and slippers. It's nice to shed heavier boots and shoes after exploring outside and have something easy to slip on your feet. Reef makes all types of flip-flops, and you can purchase the basic styles on Amazon for less than $35 a pair .

For the ship and onshore excursions  

Disinfecting wipes.

If you don't like the tacky feeling that hand sanitizers can leave on your hands, consider packing antibacterial wipes such as Wet Ones . They kill 99.99% of the germs, so they're also useful for wiping down surfaces (think tables in the buffet restaurant). These wipes are perfect to pack for an excursion or to use while enjoying the ship if you want a quick refresh.

It doesn't have to be sunny outside for you to need protection from the sun. You'll be outdoors a lot in Alaska and will want to use sunscreen with at least an SPF 15, as recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation. Reef-safe sunscreen is better for you, the environment and the wildlife as it eliminates the use of certain chemicals and ingredients. Save the Reef's website has a list of reef-safe and ocean-friendly brands that include: All Good ( available in travel-size tubes on Amazon ), Mama Kuleana and Badger ( also sold on Amazon ).

Read: Sustainable Travel: Ways to Be an Eco-Conscious Traveler

Insect repellent

Courtesy of Badger

The height of mosquito season runs from the second week of June to the end of July. Pesky bugs are not typically as bad in the places where most tourists visit, but that will depend on the type of cruise you take. DEET-based sprays, like Cutter Backwoods Repellent are the most effective against mosquitoes, but there are alternatives. Badger makes an organic DEET-free repellent with lemongrass and citronella, and it comes in a travel-size.

Hiking poles

Lightweight collapsible hiking poles are important to pack, especially if you're going on adventurous treks looking for wildlife in the woods. Covacure's set of two trekking poles costs about $35 on Amazon . They're made of aircraft-grade 7075 aluminum, so they're strong, and they fold down to less than 14 inches each. They also have foam handles, three types of rubber tips for the poles and adjustable wrists straps. The set comes with a carry bag.

Read: The Top Alaska Tours

A dry bag is essential – particularly for water-based shore excursions – if you're carrying a camera, a cellphone or other items that can't get wet. HEETA's 5-liter waterproof dry bag ( on Amazon for about $15 ) comes in a wide selection of colors. There are also larger sizes, depending on your needs. The clear plastic allows you to see what's inside, and you can carry the bag over the shoulder or as a backpack.

Rain jacket and pants

Courtesy of Columbia

The weather can be unpredictable in Alaska, with rain occurring at any time. In the Inside Passage, August and September are typically the rainiest months. In the Southwest part of the state, which includes Katmai National Park, it rains nearly half the month from May to September. If you want to go, travelers during those months especially will want to pack some rain protection for the outdoors; to stay dry, invest in fabric that is water-repellent and not just water-resistant. Columbia has a selection of rain jackets and rain pants with everything from lightweight packable shells to pieces with fleece lining for colder weather.

Silk thermal long underwear

Silk thermals are a great base layer for the weather in Alaska when you need extra warmth. The 100% silk interlock fabric is lightweight, breathable and thin enough to fit under other layers. It also naturally wicks moisture. L.L.Bean's collection of silk thermals includes tops and bottoms for both men and women.

Mid-layers are also known as insulating layers, which include fleece and windproof or insulated jackets. These garments should be breathable, quick-drying and able to keep you warm by trapping body heat without making you feel cold or clammy. Helly Hansen makes a lightweight, zippered Polartec Daybreaker Fleece Jacket for women and men that comes in a variety of colors. If you would rather wear a jacket for a mid-layer, the Gore-Tex website has a large selection of windproof and insulated jackets in collaboration with brands like Marmot, Patagonia and Quicksilver.

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Waterproof shoes and boots

Courtesy of Merrell

Merrell's comfortable shoes and boots are ideal to pack for your Alaskan adventure. If you want a shoe for walking, the Moab Speed Gore-Tex shoe is lightweight, durable, waterproof and made with FloatPro Foam to cushion your feet. It's also available in wider sizes. The Moab 3 Mid Waterproof offers more stability as a hiking boot. It also has extra features for better traction on rugged terrain and an air cushion for maximum shock absorption. Waterproof boots from XTRATUF are another option to consider if you're going to be fishing on small boats on a pre- or post-cruisetour in Alaska.

Read: The Top Walking Shoes for Travel

You'll want several T-shirts for relaxing in your stateroom and layering under your clothes. An old favorite are the Pima cotton, short-sleeved crewnecks from L.L. Bean . They're super soft and wash well. They also make a long-sleeve version that is mostly made of Supima cotton but features modal and spandex for additional comfort.

Bathing suit

While you may not go swimming ashore in Alaska, there's a good chance that you'll want to check out the pools or spa while you're on the ship. In that case, you'll be glad you brought a swimsuit to fully experience the thermal suites available on lines like Celebrity Cruises , Princess Cruises , Viking and Holland America Line .

Warm hat and gloves

Be sure to bring a hat and gloves for the chilly mornings ashore. For a lightweight and packable option, consider Lands End microfleece gloves for men and women , as well as a beanie . Or, if you prefer a natural fiber, a wool beanie and gloves from Smartwool will keep you toasty warm.

Fleece-lined pants

Courtesy of REI

Packing a pair of warm-lined pants for cooler days is essential. The REI Co-Op Sahara Pants are U.S. News' top travel pants pick . There's also a wide selection of fleece-lined leggings and pants on Amazon, including Baleaf fleece-lined leggings . These pants essentially include a base layer, so you won't need silk thermals on days when you wear them.

Packable jacket

A packable lightweight travel jacket is another essential item when traveling to Alaska. You can layer clothes underneath in the morning as you head outdoors, then remove the jacket as it gets warmer throughout the day. The Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket is a top pick based on thousands of reviews – and it's windproof and water-resistant. It also comes in a wide selection of colors.

Read: The Top Packable Jackets

Casual clothes

You'll want to bring lightweight layers for daytime excursions off the ship. Columbia has a great selection of nearly wrinkle-free travel pants and bottoms , along with a variety of tops and hoodies . You can mix and match these pieces throughout the week to keep packing at a minimum. In the evenings, you'll want to dress up a bit more in smart casual attire. It's best to check with your cruise line to see what's permitted in the evenings (for example, if men need a jacket to dine in a specialty restaurant), especially if you're on a luxury cruise ship .

Read: What to Wear on a Cruise

Formal clothes and themed evening attire

Some cruise lines, such as Holland America Line, still have formal evenings. It's not required to dress up, but many women wear cocktail attire and men don their suits for the evening. You'll also want to check with your cruise line to see if there are any theme parties on your voyage. If you're on a family-friendly voyage with Disney Cruise Line , you may have a "Freezing the Night Away" theme party with Anna and Elsa and the other characters from "Frozen." Look online or check with your cruise company to see what clothes you need to bring to join in the fun on your cruise.

Read: The Top Themed Cruises

Reusable water bottle

Courtesy of Ello Products

Ditch the plastic and pack a reusable water bottle that you can fill up at onboard water stations before heading off the ship. Amazon has plenty of options to choose from, including colorful soft silicone stainless steel bottles from Ello Cooper in three sizes that come with a straw, a handle and a leakproof locking lid.

Lightweight folding daypack

The Zomake folding daypack will become a regular item in your suitcase, no matter where you go. The 30-liter size weighs about 12 ounces and folds up into a compact pouch. The nylon construction is durable and there are plenty of exterior pockets – there's even an interior pocket with deep storage for items like a wallet or phone. Two mesh side pockets accommodate reusable water bottles. The bag is available in a variety of bold colors for less than $25 on Amazon.

Read: The Top Carry-on Backpacks

Lightweight mirrorless camera and lens

Today's smartphones have impressive cameras, but most phone cameras won't have the same clarity and quality as a regular camera. If you don't want to carry a heavy DSLR camera and lens around on your Alaskan adventure, there are other options. The Canon EOS R10 is an excellent choice for a lightweight mirrorless camera along with the EF-M 18-150 mm lens. You can also purchase a mount adaptor for the camera that will allow you to use your other EF and EF-S Canon lenses.

Read: The Top Northern Lights Alaska Cruises

While you may have some up-close encounters with wildlife – such as whales coming alongside your boat on a whale watching excursion – most of the wildlife viewing will be at a distance. A good pair of lightweight binoculars is key if you don't want to miss views like bears fishing for salmon along a river or a moose wading through a faraway lake. Bushnell's H20 8X42 binoculars are waterproof and fog-free.

For the journey  

Carry-on bag.

Courtesy of Travelpro

The type of carry-on you use will depend on how you pack. If you're a minimalist and able to stow everything you need for a week in Alaska in a carry-on, then a larger carry-on, such as the Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Expandable Spinner , is a great choice. If you're checking a bag and don't need as much space in a carry-on, consider bringing a smaller option like the 21.5-inch Cargo Hauler XT from Eagle Creek . This water-repellent wheeled duffel bag comes in four colors including charcoal and red.

Read: The Top Carry-on Luggage Pieces

Garment bag

Delsey makes a checked-size rolling garment bag that will keep your hanging clothes organized and wrinkle-free. It has seven pockets (one exterior and six interior) for storing folded clothes and other items. There are also two compartments that will fit smaller pairs of shoes. You can hang the bag in the stateroom with the door hook if you prefer to leave the items in the bag. Another trick to ensuring wrinkle-free items is to cover your clothes on the hanger with plastic bags like those you'd get at the dry cleaner.

Read: The Top Garment Bags for Travel

Packing cubes

Packing cubes keep clothes neat and organized and mostly wrinkle-free. Luggage brands like Ricardo Beverly Hills and Eagle Creek make well-rated packing cubes and organizers. You can also purchase sets of packing cubes on Amazon, such as the Veken Set 8-piece set , a U.S. News top packing cube pick .

Travel pillow and quilted wrap

Courtesy of Trtl

You'll want a travel pillow to take a nap on your flight en route to your Alaskan cruise. The unique design of the Trtl Travel Pillow supports your head so you don't wake up with neck pain, and the fabric is super soft. It comes in a travel pouch with a hook so you can attach it to your carry-on bag. If you get chilly on flights, Trtl also makes a new packable quilted mini wrap that weighs less than 13 ounces. It comes in a pouch and even has pockets to keep your hands warm or to stash your valuables (such as a passport, wallet or phone) while you nod off.

Read: The Top Neck Pillows for Travel

Medications

Keep your medications with you in a carry-on bag or personal item (such as a handbag) just in case your checked bag is lost or delayed. Request smaller bottles for prescriptions from your pharmacist, so they're easier to pack, and make sure they're clearly labeled should you be questioned by TSA. You'll also want to bring any over-the-counter items you may need, such as antacids or antibiotic ointments. It's possible to buy these items on the ship, but they are expensive.

Read: What to Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

Collapsible duffel

If you're a shopper and plan to bring home souvenirs to friends and family, you might want an extra bag to pack up the items for the return trip home. Look for a collapsible duffel bag that will fit into your suitcase. There are many options on Amazon, including the Gonex Foldable Duffel . At the end of the cruise, you can offload your dirty clothes to the duffel bag so you'll have space in your suitcase for T-shirts, moose stuffed animals, Alaskan specialties like Captain Jim's Alaska smoked salmon and other memorabilia from your adventure.

Book an Alaska cruise on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

What not to pack for your cruise

Small appliances.

Travel irons and steamers are not permitted on cruise ships due to the fire hazard. As mentioned above, there are several other ways to prevent wrinkles in your clothes. You're also not allowed to bring coffee makers and other small electrical items. In addition, don't bring a hair dryer as they are usually provided in your stateroom.

Alcohol and spirits

Some cruise lines permit guests to bring one or two bottles of wine or Champagne on board the ship, but hard alcohol is almost always not allowed. If you have a beverage package or are sailing on an all-inclusive line , alcoholic beverages will be covered. Check with your cruise line before you sail to see what you can bring on board the ship.

CBD and marijuana

Cannabis is illegal in the U.S., and many cruise ships do not allow any form of CBD, including gummies, oils and lotions. It's best to play it safe and leave these items at home. You don't want to risk having the items thrown away or, in the worst case, not being allowed to board the ship.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has cruised to Alaska and traveled through the state in every season on several land tours. She used her personal experience and extensive research to compile this list of what to pack to cruise to The Great Land.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Alaska Cruise Lines

How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

• How to See the Northern Lights in Alaska
• The Top Things to Do in Alaska
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Travel Tips

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What to Wear on an Alaskan Cruise: Your Style Guide

Getting ready for your Alaskan cruise ? Before you start daydreaming about those stunning landscapes and cool ocean breezes, let’s focus on packing. You see, Alaska’s beauty is as vast as its weather is unpredictable.

I learned the hard way that dressing right is key to enjoying everything from those stunning glacier views to wildlife sightings. Think layers. Seriously, the weather can change in a blink. From my personal experience, the right clothes really do make all the difference on an Alaskan cruise.

So, what exactly should you bring? We’ll dive into the details in this guide, making sure you’re ready for whatever Alaska throws your way.

What to Consider Before Packing for an Alaskan Cruise

Climate and weather variability.

Alaska, with its vast expanse, boasts a myriad of climates ranging from coastal rainforests to icy fjords . You might wake up to a misty morning and find yourself basking under a sunlit sky by noon. Alaska’s climate varies greatly, with coastal areas experiencing milder temperatures and more precipitation, while inland regions can be significantly colder.

Due to the fluctuating temperatures and ever-changing weather, layering is crucial. Opt for a system of clothing that includes moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof, windproof outer layers. This allows you to adapt to temperature shifts throughout the day.

Activities You Will Participate In

When charting out your Alaska cruise outfits, it’s pivotal to consider the activities you’ve penned down for your journey.

• On-board Activities: These might include elegant dinners, themed nights, or casual lounging. While a pair of heels and a cocktail dress might be apt for a formal night, you’d want more relaxed attire, like a long-sleeved t-shirt and khaki pants, for the days you plan to unwind.
• Off-board Activities: Stepping off the cruise ship offers an array of experiences. Whether it’s a glacier hike in Skagway ,  visiting a museum in Sitka , or a stroll through the quaint towns of Ketchikan , your attire needs to match the adventure. Special gear like waterproof hiking shoes for those treks or a chic rain jacket for unexpected drizzles will ensure you’re both stylish and prepared.

What to Wear on an Alaskan Cruise

Fashion meets function when you’re sailing through Alaska’s captivating landscapes. Packing for this journey isn’t just about throwing clothes into a suitcase. It’s about curating a wardrobe that ensures comfort while reflecting the elegance of your surroundings.

Basics: Your Daily Casual Outfits

Unlike tropical cruises where swimwear and flip-flops suffice, cruising Alaska’s icy waters and rugged terrains calls for a multifaceted wardrobe. Here’s a breakdown of some outfit basics you shouldn’t overlook:

Thermal Underwear

While Alaska’s beauty is breathtaking, the chill can sometimes be equally gasp-worthy. Thermal Underwear acts as your cozy secret weapon. Layer it beneath your outfits to keep the cold at bay.

Fashion tip: Opt for sleek, snug-fitting thermals that can be concealed effortlessly under jeans or dress pants.

Casual Wear for Days at Sea

Comfort is key. Picture this: a Soft Cashmere Sweater paired with black pants, or perhaps a laid-back Long-Sleeve T-shirt combined with water-resistant khaki pants. Don’t forget comfortable walking shoes for those deck strolls.

Then, add a pop of color with scarves or accessories, turning even your casual days into stylish affairs.

Alaska’s climate is as unpredictable as it is enchanting. One minute you’re sailing beneath a tranquil sky, and suddenly, you find yourself in an unexpected light rain.

This is why you need some cozy insulation. A stylish Insulated Jacket or a Snug Fleece not only keeps you warm but also adds texture and layering to your look.

Fashion tip: Choose jackets with cinched waists or unique collar designs to add a touch of flair to your functional outerwear.

Casual Footwear

Shoes have the power to either enhance or ruin both your ensemble and, crucially, your overall experience. Onboard, comfort is paramount.

Be sure to bring Plush Loafers , Ballet Flats , or even Stylish Sneakers that let you wander the ship’s decks with ease. It’d be much better if they were waterproof. If you intend to use the ship’s spa or pool, don’t forget a pair of Flip-Flops .

Fashion tip: Metallic finishes or embellishments can elevate your casual shoes, adding a dash of glam to your relaxed days.

Accessories

In the world of fashion, accessories are the cherries on top. Alaska’s cool breeze calls for warm Gloves, Hats, and Scarves . They’re perfect for keeping you warm through those days and nights at sea.

While it might not always feel scorching, its rays can be harsh. This is why I always tell people that the Alaskan sun can be deceptive.

Keep Sunscreen readily available to safeguard your skin. Complement it with a pair of chic Sunglasses , ensuring your eyes are protected while you’re making a fashion statement.

Adventure-Ready Attire: For Excursions and Other Activities

As we discussed earlier, you’ll need attire that stands up to the elements while complementing your personal style. Let’s break it down:

• Active Wear : Opt for moisture-wicking, Quick-Drying Fabrics when choosing your base layers for outdoor activities. This keeps you comfortable, whether you’re hiking up a glacier or kayaking through fjords.
• Footwear : A pair of Water Resistant Hiking Boots are a must-have for any outdoor excursion. Look for options with solid traction to handle various terrains.
• Accessories : A hat, preferably with a Wide Brim , and a Scarf serves dual purposes of protecting against both the sun and unexpected rain showers.
• Backpack : A sturdy, Water-Resistant Backpack is essential to carry essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit.

Optional Items to Consider on an Alaskan Cruise

Not every item is a must-have, but some can significantly enhance your cruise experience, adding layers of comfort and style.

For Onboard Pools and Saunas

Even in chilly Alaska, cruise ships offer the luxury of warm pools and relaxing saunas. Don’t forget to pack a Stylish Swimsuit . Whether you prefer a one-piece, bikini, or trunks, ensure it reflects your personal style.

Lounging Outfits

There will be days when you just want to relax, read a book, or enjoy a cup of coffee on the deck. For these moments, have a set of leisurewear. Think Soft Joggers , Relaxed Tees , or even Elegant Kaftans .

Packing Tips for an Alaskan Cruise

Undertaking an Alaskan cruise is an unparalleled travel experience that surpasses all others. The majestic glaciers, pristine waters, and the allure of the northern lights make it a once-in-a-lifetime journey.

Here are some tips to make your Alaska cruise packing list efficient and stylish.

• Use Packing Cubes. Packing Cubes can help segregate your cruise outfits, from casual wear for the ship to the formal wear needed for those special formal nights in the main dining room.
• As you prepare your Alaska cruise packing list, it’s essential to be aware of Luggage restrictions. Streamline your wardrobe, prioritizing pieces like rain jackets for rainy days and comfortable hiking pants for active excursions in ports like Southeast Alaska.
• Focus on essentials like thermal underwear for colder days and versatile pieces that can be paired differently.

In essence, when you’re determining what to wear on an Alaskan cruise, it’s all about blending function with style. By being thoughtful about your choices, you’ll be ready to enjoy everything from the breathtaking glaciers to the vibrant onboard activities.

Remember, the right outfit can enhance your experiences, whether you’re capturing the beauty of the northern lights, participating in active excursions, or simply soaking in the views from the deck. So, as you plan what to wear on an Alaskan cruise, prioritize both practicality and personal style. After all, every moment on this cruise deserves to be both memorable and fashionable. Safe travels and happy packing!

What is the dress code for an Alaskan cruise?

On an Alaskan cruise, the dress code typically ranges from casual to semi-formal. Daytime attire is casual with cruise outfits like jeans, t-shirts, and sweaters. Evenings might require smart-casual or semi-formal wear, especially for special events or formal nights. However, specific dress codes can vary based on the cruise line. So, while you’re planning your Alaska cruise itinerary , it’s important to include layers and outdoor gear to fully enjoy the scenic excursions and diverse weather conditions you may encounter.

What do I wear to dinner on an Alaskan Princess cruise?

For dinner on an Alaskan Princess cruise, smart-casual is the norm. This can include dresses, skirts, or slacks for women and khaki pants with collared shirts for men. On formal nights, cocktail dresses, suits, or tuxedos are recommended. Always check your specific cruise itinerary for themed or special event nights.

Can you wear jeans to dinner on an Alaskan cruise?

While daytime attire is relaxed and jeans are acceptable, evening dinners, especially in the main dining room, often require a more polished look. Jeans might be accepted in some casual dining areas, but for formal dining settings and special events, it’s best to opt for dressier alternatives.

Should I bring a bathing suit on an Alaskan cruise?

Absolutely! While Alaskan cruises sail through cooler climates, most cruise ships are equipped with heated pools, hot tubs, and spas. Adding a bathing suit to your packing list for Alaska ensures you’re ready to relax and unwind in these amenities, especially after a day of exploring.

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I’m Bobby Pham, but you can call me “Bobby on Cruise.” I’ve been cruising the high seas and exploring the world for years, and I’m thrilled to share my passion and expertise with you. When not cruising, I spend my time on growing my marketing agency.

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What to Pack For an Alaskan Cruise in 2024: Your Complete Guide

What to Wear On An Alaskan Cruise – Cute Outfit Ideas!

Everywhere you look, you’re told to “wear layers” for your Alaskan Cruise. But what layers… how many… and WHY? All the mixed advice out there can make it difficult trying to figure out what to wear on an Alaskan Cruise.

When we recently took a 7-day Alaskan Cruise , the weather ranged everywhere from freezing our butts off, to 88 degrees and sunny. No wonder it’s hard to decide what to pack for an Alaskan Cruise!

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Not sure what to pack for your Alaskan Cruise?

My complete guide to what to wear on your Alaskan Cruise will make planning your cruise so much easier. So you can concentrate on what excursions to do and how much food you plan to eat! 

Our 7-Day Alaskan Cruise on the Ruby Princess looked a little like this:

• Day 1: Seattle
• Day 2: At Sea
• Day 3: Ketchikan
• Day 4: Juneau
• Day 5: Skagway
• Day 6: At Sea
• Day 7: At sea and Victoria

So you’re looking at about 2 and half days at sea, and 3 full days of excursions. Even those two can vary quite a bit on your Alaskan Cruise. 

Get more tips for your 7-day Alaskan Cruise by following me on Pinterest !

What’s the Weather Like on an Alaskan Cruise?

We started our Alaskan Cruise at 88 degrees and sunny in Seattle and spent the day lounging by the pool with drinks in our bathing suits. The next day at sea, we froze! So we ended up bundling up the whole day.

TIP: Don’t forget your bathing suits! It can be warm your first day, plus there are plenty of hot tubs to relax in after a full day hiking around Alaska! This cover-up was perfect for my cruise! It still looks cute and kept me warm enough to get from the hot tub to my room. Even appropriate enough to wear to the buffet.

Our day in Skagway was also in the mid 80’s and very sunny. I ended up in a tee shirt for the majority of the day. But the locals said it was only a high of 50 and cold the week prior. So really, you just never know what kind of weather you’ll have on an Alaskan Cruise.

Excursions on your Alaskan Cruise can vary a great deal too.  Some popular examples of Alaskan Cruise Excursions can include:

• Kayaking/Canoeing
• Dog Sledding
• Helicopter Tours

And SO much more!

Is this your first time on a cruise? Don’t miss my great Tips for First-Time Cruisers: Things You Need to Know Before Your First Cruise!

What to Wear on Your Days at Sea on an Alaskan Cruise

If you board out of Seattle, it’s impossible to say what the weather will be like. Seattle can be cold and rainy or warm and sunny. You may not know until a few days before travel. Either way, definitely plan to bring a bathing suit.

Skip the colorful bikinis, just a good one-piece or something comfortable is fine. You’ll mostly be using it for the hot tubs on the rest of the trip, not to sunbathe in. Oh, and a pair of slip-resistant flip-flops … you’ll thank me later!

This cover-up was perfect for my cruise! It still looks cute and kept me warm enough to get from the hot tub to my room. Even appropriate enough to wear to the buffet.

During the Day at Sea

As soon as your ship heads out to sea, it gets colder and colder. On our first day at sea, we woke up and were FREEZING. I put multiple layers on to go to the buffet for breakfast.

So pack lots of comfortable and warm clothing for the days you are at sea. Everything you do on the ship can be very casual. I brought a good pair of fleece-lined leggings and some casual joggers and pretty much lived in those while I was on the cruise.

The fleece-lined leggings are also great to have on hand to layer under jeans and other pants for extra warmth.

I also recommend having some tee shirts, long-sleeved shirts, and hooded sweatshirts for walking around the ship during the day. I practically lived in this North Face Pullover when we were on the ship. It comes in a bunch of different colors too!

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What to Wear at Night while at Sea

Nighttime on the ship falls into 2 categories, formal nights and non-formal nights. You typically have 2 formal nights while on a 7-day cruise. Formal nights are pretty basic. No jeans or gym shoes, no shorts.

TIP: You are NOT required to participate in the formal night. Formal night is limited to the dining rooms and restaurants but you can still eat at the buffet if you don’t feel like getting dressed up.

A simple black wrap dress is perfect for a formal night, or even a Black Jumpsuit would look great and can be layered with any jacket or sweater. You can even go with a nice pair of black jeans and heels with a dressy top . I love traveling with these simple black heels because they go with everything from dresses to dress pants to jeans.

(Here is another great option for a great black wrap dress for any occasion)

This top was easy to pair with jeans for a casual day look or black pants for a nighttime look.

I loved this long-sleeved top that was both super soft and warm and stylish. It paired great with black jeans and heels .

Every other night at sea is the same. Think business casual (no jeans or sandals) for the dining rooms, but anything goes for the buffet. We ate at the buffet for dinner one night simply because we were too tired from our excursions to get out of our sweatpants!

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What to Wear for Excursions on an Alaskan Cruise

Your Alaskan Cruise Excursions are really where it gets tricky. You want to be well prepared because you can’t just run back to your room to change clothes like you can while you are on the ship.

This is why I recommend bringing a small backpack on all your excursions. Not only for snacks and souvenirs but for any layers you may need to take off.

Traveling in Alaska is all about comfort. You are going to be out and exploring so make sure your outfit fits your day planned. But… it’s totally ok to look cute too! Here are some of my suggestions that work for both!

Lighter Clothing

For the more active days, I bought these Columbia Trail Pants and they were one of my BEST BUYS. They are super comfy, flexible, and wind and water-resistant. They also come in dozens of colors.

Otherwise, try to pack just a few of each of the following basic layering pieces:

• Long-sleeved shirts
• Flannel shirts
• Sweatshirts or hoodies

My day in Skagway started with a short-sleeved tee shirt, flannel shirt, and light jacket. By the end of the day, I was just in the tee shirt!

Alaskan Cruise Outerwear

Outerwear was where I really struggled and was unsure of what to pack. I didn’t want to be caught freezing my butt off if it was cold out. But then again, I only had so much room in my suitcase and outerwear takes up a lot of space!

Fortunately, I made the perfect choices for my Alaskan Cruise when it came to outerwear and I recommend you bring these selected items on your cruise too…

A light jacket – I found this great jacket from The North Face and LOVED it. It was perfect for the cruise and perfect for any other travel I do that involves cold weather. It’s light and form-fitting and super comfortable.

It’s also wind and water-resistant and even though it looks thin, it’s insulated so you stay pretty warm without needing a super big winter coat.

A Rain Coat – Believe it or not, the places you visit on your Alaskan Cruise is actually a rain forest. So it can be very wet and rainy. You may also visit waterfalls and a light rain jacket comes in very handy!

This great foldable rain jacket was great for traveling since it folds up to almost nothing. It’s easy to pack and even easy to carry around in your backpack on any excursion. It also fits nicely over any other sweater or light jacket.

A Winter Coat – Even though our weather was pretty nice and sunny most of the time. I’m still really glad I had a good winter coat. You will definitely need one if you plan to do any excursions that involve glaciers or snow in any way.

I purchased this winter coat and it was SUPER warm. But if you are traveling on a budget, try this more affordable version .

The days you are at sea are COLD! I often wore my winter coat just sitting on my balcony. But mostly, you will need it for the morning your ship sails around glaciers ( the morning of your Juneau port day). Being up on deck while glacier viewing was the coldest part of our whole trip.

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Alaskan Cruise Footwear

Ok, so when I travel, I tend to bring a lot of shoes. Almost one for each outfit. But you really won’t need that in Alaska. I totally understand the desire to want to look cute but still have functional clothes for your trip.

In order to minimize the amount of footwear you pack in your suitcase, but still, bring exactly what you need (and want!) this is what I recommend:

One pair of heels – I brought these black heels because they go with everything. I wore them with my dresses for formal nights and they even look great with jeans or black pants for non-formal nights for dinner. This one pair was all I needed!

One pair of casual walking shoes – I own a basic pair of black and white Nikes and they usually go with me on any trip. These are great for airports, and even walking around the ship with your joggers and a hooded sweatshirt.

Hiking Shoes – Because we decided to go on a hike in Ketchikan, I wanted a good pair of hiking shoes that were also comfortable enough to walk around town in. These great hiking shoes are light, comfy, and even water-resistant. Perfect for hiking or just exploring the towns of Alaska.

Boots – I packed a red pair of Hunter Boots and was SO GLAD I did! Hunter boots are well worth the price. They have great tread on them, making them easy to hike and climb. They are also fully waterproof (I splashed around a waterfall in Juneau with them) and they are actually very comfortable. Not to mention SUPER cute!

TIP: Pair your Hunter Boots with some wool socks and you have the warmest and driest boots you could ever need.

Snow Boots – I do think Hunter Boots could have gotten me through rain or snow, but if you are doing a true glacier expedition or excursion, then you might want to consider bringing a pair of snow boots . I never ended up needing mine, but you might if your excursion calls for it.

I really love these Sorel Boots … they are comfy and I love the style with the fake fur and colors they come in!

Don’t forget the accessories!

Bringing a good baseball cap helps with keeping hair under control on super windy days (aka every day at sea!) and with those light drizzle days.

Don’t forget to pack a pair of gloves, you will need some for sure! These smartphone gloves are a great way to keep your hands warm and still be able to take photos with your phone or camera.

Otherwise, maybe a scarf would be a good idea. Or a knitted hat or two.

Being prepared for your Alaskan Cruise

What to wear on an Alaskan cruise…

Going on a cruise can be tough because you can’t just run to the store and buy the stuff you forgot. You’re stuck in the middle of the ocean!

But hopefully, this lis t of w hat to wear on an Alaskan Cruise will be helpful in your planning!

Don’t forget to grab a FREE copy of my travel packing list!

Enjoy your cruise!

P.S. – Be extra prepared with my list of 25 Essentials you NEED to Pack for a Cruise .

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15 Items That Should Be on Your Alaska Cruise Packing List, According to an Expert

Repeat after me: waterproof layers.

If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Travel + Leisure / Reese Herrington

Over the last decade of my career as a cruise journalist, I’ve set sail on more than 50 cruises — so you could say I know how to pack a suitcase for any voyage. But of all those sailings, one destination stands out among the rest: Alaska.

I’ve cruised to the Last Frontier multiple times, including on big ships like Norwegian Encore . It’s one of my favorite destinations in the world and one of the top cruise itinerary recommendations I make when people ask me where to sail. There’s a freshness in the air, a staggering amount of wildlife to watch, and as for the beer and seafood... let’s just say it’s worth making the journey. But with an Alaska cruise comes unique packing challenges. While Alaska cruise season is primarily during the summer months (from late May through early September), visions of glaciers and icebergs might have you wondering how to make sense of the weather — which can range from an average of 55 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit in summer, with temps dipping into the 40s at night.

Wondering what on Earth to pack? There are just two things you must keep in mind to succeed: Waterproof. Layers. Repeat after me. The common thread in this packing list is staying dry no matter the forecast, and layering up or down depending on how many seasons the 49th State will try to squeeze into a single day. Of course, you might want to toss in a few nicer things for dinner onboard, but casual cruisers will luxuriate in the laidback atmosphere of an Alaska voyage, where it’s not unusual to wear casual pants , your Merrell hiking boots , and a fleece to the dining room. 

I’m positive that the majestic, untamed beauty of Alaska will fill you with wonder and awe quite unlike any place you’ve been before. Here is a list of how to fill your suitcase so you can spend every last moment soaking up the memories — and not the weather — of your Alaska cruise. 

Travel + Leisure / Brittany Chrusciel

REI Co-op Rainier Long Line Rain Jacket

It might seem instinctive to pack a big winter coat to bring to Alaska but don’t — beware of bulky, overly warm outer layers. A much better plan of attack is to layer a shirt with a fleece and throw a light, waterproof layer like this over top so you can be prepared for any weather. Case in point: this rain jacket from REI employs a recycled nylon shell to keep you dry, while also remaining breathable — handy if you’re hiking through the forested trails or kayaking out near some glaciers and work up a sweat. 

What I like about this design in particular is its length. Coverage past your hips keeps more of you protected from the elements, including up to 60 mph winds. I also like all the customizable details put into this jacket, from an adjustable waist and vented hem to zippered pockets and a stowable, three-piece hood. Beyond black and beige, this women’s rain jacket comes in pretty shades of light blue, pink, and purple. Best of all, these light layers fold down to almost nothing when you pack them or roll them into a backpack.

To buy:   rei.com , $129

NOCS Provisions 8x25 Waterproof Binoculars

Is that a bear or a blob? If you’re interested in seeing elusive Alaskan animals with any clarity, having a pair of binoculars on hand will greatly assist. And oh the animals you’ll see: puffins, eagles, whales… it’s an animal lover’s dream trip. Sure, some cruise lines offer the use of binoculars in your room or around the ship, but rarely are you allowed to take them with you in port. These binocs from NOCS are reasonably priced, waterproof, and best of all, they come in five bright shades that are hard to miss — and to misplace. 

The numbers (8x25) refer to the field of view, which for this pair is about 357 feet away. There are binoculars with a much farther range, but they begin to double in price. For less than $100, I like that this pair is not only weather-resistant but entirely waterproof (in about three feet of water for 30 minutes); fog-proof; has a grippy, rubber coating; and compact so they’re easy to carry around. The lenses are fully multicoated which protects them from glare, and a cool feature is that the eyepieces are designed to be used in tandem with a phone camera so you can “hack” that faraway photo. 

To buy:   rei.com , $95

Merrell Moab 3 Midi Waterproof Hiking Boot

Years ago, on my first trip to Alaska, I remember visiting a sporting goods store and being shocked to find that the selection of women’s hiking boots was a sad fraction of the men’s — and most of them were pink. Then I found Merrell, and I never looked back. I’m not alone in swearing by the brand. The comfort, support, and weatherproofing of these boots are hard to match. Merrell is so confident in this design that they named them the “mother of all boots” (Moab). 

Even if you’re not an avid hiker, having grippy and waterproof footwear in Alaska will come in handy. An over-the-ankle fit provides more overall support to your foot and soles are designed with advanced materials for shock absorption and stability. A sturdy pair of hiking boots typically does not come cheap, but they make up for it with durability and reliability. And praise be, they come in more color combinations than pink.

To buy:   rei.com , $145

Smartwool Classic Full Cushion Crew Socks

Wool is the preferred fabric of choice for Alaskans, known for its insulating and moisture-wicking properties. (Pro tip: Cotton actually retains water, so don’t pack your average socks!) Spending more than $20 for a pair of socks might seem steep, but this integral layer will keep your feet warm and dry when it matters. With cushioned bottoms, these socks are ideal for all-day wear whether you’re circling the shops of Ketchikan or cycling down the White Pass Summit of Skagway. 

Recycled nylon is added into the blend for stretch, while Smartwool ensures that its wool content is certified to environmental, social, and economic sustainability standards as well as protecting the welfare of the Merino sheep providing the wool. What’s so special about these sheep ? Their wool is softer and thinner, making it easier to regulate body temperature and keep your tootsies warm. The fibers also magically wick away sweat and moisture, keeping your feet not only dry but less likely to smell like you were walking around all day. Trust me, these socks are a worthy investment.  

To buy:   rei.com , $22

SealLine Skylake Dry Pack Backpack

I highly recommend carrying a daypack with you when you disembark the ship and venture into Alaska’s ports. Whether you signed up for a hiking, kayaking, or walking tour excursion, you’ll need to carry your extra layers, water bottles, cameras, and gear with you — and keep it dry. With a roomy 18 liters of storage, this dry bag backpack hybrid has enough space for all that and more without needing a secondary dry bag. And it’s a relief when it starts to drizzle, and you know everything in your bag will stay completely dry. 

If you already have a trusty backpack on hand but want to make sure it doesn’t get soaked through on your various Alaskan adventures, consider a rain cover like this one from Osprey . For $45, this large cover will seal over your backpack (from 50 to 75 L). When you’re not using it, the rain cover packs into itself and weighs 4.4 ounces. 

To buy:   rei.com , $125

Coal Yukon Brim Beanie

Why choose between a warm hat and a cap with a visor, when you can have both? This beanie will not only keep your ears toasty on chilly days, but the brim is helpful to shield you from the elements and your eyes from the sun. Alaska can be both cold and sunny on any given day, so this fleece-lined brimmed beanie in a wool knit will certainly see some action on your cruise.

One consideration is this hat is a unisex, one-size-fits-all design, so make sure to try it on before you sail away if you have a particularly small or large head. It also only comes in coal black. But when packing for a cruise, you’ll find that less is more; if you can get away with one item pulling double-duty, it leaves more room for souvenirs. With an 88 percent five-star rating, this is an easy “go-to beanie” for a reason. 

To buy:   rei.com , $40

REI Co-op Merino Wool Liner Gloves

On brisk, cool days, especially out on the water when kayaking, you might be surprised to find your hands snug in your pockets. However, if you’re committed to taking photos with your giant camera, a warm and functional pair of gloves is probably a worthwhile item to have. These wool-lined gloves are touchscreen compatible, meaning you should still be able to tap away at your phone or other smart devices without having to expose your mitts. 

The gloves have a small loop for hanging to dry or attaching to a belt or pack. A convenient little clip keeps the pair together when not in use. These gloves are only available in unisex sizing but feature spandex at the wrist for an improved fit. As we’ve learned, Merino wool will wick away any moisture from your digits, keeping them warm and dry — two all-important things during a day in port. 

To buy:   rei.com , $30

Maui Jim Kanaio Coast Polarized Sunglasses

Guess what? Ice is especially reflective. If you’re planning to stare down some glaciers, you’ll be glad to have these polarized sunglasses in your possession. While a brand like Maui Jim might be more likely to conjure visions of Hawaii or Key West, the quality of their lenses applies to any place with sun. Long a Ray-Bans type of girl, I wouldn’t have normally considered these sportier frames, but my dad was so obsessed with them that I had to see what the hype was about — and they delivered. 

Style preferences aside, the lenses stand out for their clarity, detail, and of course UV protection. Polarization cuts glare from the water and the ice in addition to pavement, reducing eye strain. These Maui Jims are considered unisex, but you can choose your lens tint in bronze or blue. 

To buy:   rei.com , $279

Hydro Flask All Around Tumbler 

Bring a steaming cup of coffee with you while you head out on deck during a scenic sail day, or keep your water frosty during a warm, afternoon tour in port: This 28-ounce tumbler from Hydro Flask keeps hot liquids hot and cold drinks cold. With so many water bottle brands floating around these days (and of course we stan reusable drink vessels), it can be hard to narrow down the differences in each. This is especially true when some bottles retail for $50 to $100.

Keep it simple with this $24 BPA-free tumbler, available in five shades and featuring a snug sipping lid that will keep sloshing at bay. The lid can also fit a reusable straw if desired. Hydro Flask guarantees that with its double-wall vacuum insulation, cold liquids will stay cold for up to 24 hours, while your hot chocolate will stay hot for up to six hours. The powder coat exterior is dishwasher safe and promises to remain grippy without chipping. Once you’re back home and dreaming about that time you went dogsledding in Alaska, the tapered tumbler should fit into the cup holder in your car. 

To buy:   rei.com , $24 (originally $33)

REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants

Speaking from experience, you’re going to need some functional, hiking-type all-terrain pants and shorts for an Alaska cruise. Better yet is one pair that can be both . Go from pants to shorts to pants again with these convertible, quick-drying bottoms (and take up less room in your suitcase, too). Taking a page from our “less is more” cruise packing manual, these pants pull double wardrobe duty. The zip-off bottoms might seem a bit dorky at first, but function over fashion is where it’s at when you’re gallivanting around the Great Outdoors.

Available in shades like army green, asphalt, and farro (khaki), these pants pull out all the stops with UPF 50 rating, breathable recycled nylon, vents, six functional pockets, and an elastic drawstring waistband. I like that they come in a variety of women’s sizes from petite and long to wide. (The men’s version is sized by waist and inseam.) No matter the size, the fabric is thin, so it packs down to nothing in your suitcase. If only they gave out prizes for the most efficient packer.

To buy:   rei.com , $80

Vissla Twisted Long-Sleeved Hoodie, UPF 50

This stylish hoodie is not only handy as an underlayer but will also protect you from unsuspecting sunburn under those sneaky Alaskan rays. Standup paddleboarders swear by these light and long-sleeved shirts with high UV protection. And I think you will too when you’re sightseeing for hours under the Midnight Sun. 

Available for men in sizes small through XXL, each colorway has its own logo so you can buy all three without looking like you’re repeating styles. Similar for the ladies are these tees from Columbia (but alas, no hood). 

To buy:   rei.com , $65

Canon EF 75-300 mm Telephoto Zoom Lens

Smartphone cameras are astonishingly advanced these days. However, when it comes to capturing faraway images — say, that bald eagle in the tree — your phone won’t do it justice. The only realistic way to catch that whale breaching on digital film is a DSLR camera with a zoom lens. 

Camera lenses are historically expensive, which is why this refurbished Canon telephoto lens for $175 is a great price. Of course, if you already own a camera from another company, like Sony, you might have to find one of their lenses, depending on what’s compatible. But if this Canon EF lens is the right fit — literally — you can expect it to be in excellent condition, boasting a smooth zoom and a way better shot of those eagles.

Alaska is the kind of place you’ll want to photograph, or document, endlessly. If you’re in the market for some gadgetry, you might also want to consider a GoPro , which is essentially a mini waterproof video camera. Plan on ziplining? Some operators (not all) allow you to strap a GoPro to yourself if it does not interfere with your harness and you remain hands-free. Talk about a vacation video!

To buy:   amazon.com , $175 (originally $199)

Sawyer Products Picaridin Insect Repellent

Mosquitos aren’t colloquially known as Alaska’s state bird for nothing. I’ve been to parts of Alaska where the mosquitos were nowhere to be found, and others where they swarm and poke you through your pants. Don’t risk it; buy the bug repellent. To me, there is almost nothing worse than being itchy.

The major ingredient in this, Picaridin , is considered much safer than DEET and is a synthetic compound derived from the same plant genus that produces table pepper. Unlike DEET, picaridin is also odorless and non-greasy. Australians have sworn by this insect repellent for years before it came on the market in the U.S. — and that country knows its insects. This 4-ounce bottle is just over the TSA liquid limit if you’re packing carry-on only (and bravo for that), but you can transfer it to a smaller bottle.

To buy:   amazon.com , $19 for a two-pack (originally $30)

Columbia Steens Mountain Full-Zip Fleece Jacket

A surefire way to keep your core warm without overheating is a classic fleece jacket. This fitted, hip-length jacket is made of a polyester filament fleece that hits our two Alaska-packing keywords of “warm” and “dry” (a.k.a. “water-resistant” and a “layer). I like the two-tone color scheme of these men’s fleece jackets, as well as zippered pockets that ensure your phone won’t fall overboard. 

Another way to achieve the same effect with less material is a vest. If you’re more of a vest person and are already thinking of all the outfits you can layer with it, then consider purchasing a style like this sweater-knot Patagonia fleece vest . Fairtrade certified and no doubt a high-quality item, this vest is still more than double the price of the full fleece jacket. Make sure to choose something you know you’ll wear throughout your cruise and not just for one day. 

To buy:   rei.com , $45

Dramamine Ginger Chews

Up-close glacier-viewing cruises, whale-watching boats, fishing trips… with so much time out on the water, motion sickness is a lurking liability. While the waters in the Gulf of Alaska are fairly calm during the summer cruise season, a smaller boat won’t absorb choppy waters as well. During one recent day cruise on the stunning Kenai Fjords from Seward, I popped a Bonine before departing, and I was among the only passengers who could enjoy the complimentary chocolate chip cookies without hurling. 

While Bonine is a considerably less drowsy formula than traditional Dramamine, it’s still not recommended for children under 12 — and it can still make you sleepy. An all-natural alternative that we always have in our bag is ginger. Ginger lozenges and tea can all help reduce nausea, but the chews and pills sold by Dramamine contain medicinal-strength levels of ginger to knock it out. Clinically tested, these ginger chews should not only save you from seasickness, but with a lemon-honey flavor, you also might be able to convince gullible kiddos it’s only candy. 

To buy:   amazon.com , $19 for 40 chews

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What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise Capsule Wardrobe

I’ve talked at length about how I like to pack light for a cruise . But packing light is less challenging for a weekend cruise to Baja than it is for, say, a seven-night cruise to Alaska’s Inside Passage.

For starters, the weather in Alaska is highly unpredictable. One day, there’s a downpour; the next, it’s sunny and 75°F. Furthermore, you’ll be in so many different situations: active outdoorsy excursions, casual days at sea, formal meals in the main dining room. With such a wide variety of clothing necessities, how is anyone supposed to pack everything in a carry-on?

The answer: by using a capsule wardrobe.

That’s exactly what I did for my cruise to Alaska earlier this summer. If you’re not sure what to pack for your Alaska cruise capsule wardrobe, or you don’t know how to create an effective capsule wardrobe for cruising, allow me to show you exactly what I packed.

My Seven-Night Alaska Cruise Itinerary

My capsule wardrobe packing strategy, casual wear, outdoor gear, evening wear, need help planning your cruise to alaska.

Here’s the itinerary I was planning my capsule wardrobe for:

June 27th – July 4th

• Day 1: Seattle
• Day 2: At Sea
• Day 3: Icy Strait Point
• Day 4: Skagway
• Day 5: Juneau
• Day 6: At Sea
• Day 7: Victoria, B.C.
• Day 8: Seattle

We planned to go hiking and whale watching in Icy Strait Point, ride the White Pass Railroad in Skagway , go dog sledding in Juneau , and have an afternoon tea at the Abkhazi Garden in Victoria. We also planned to spend an entire day sightseeing in Seattle after the cruise was over, since our flight home wasn’t until very late that evening.

I decided to break my capsule wardrobe into three major categories:

• Casual Wear . This would be for onboard activities during sea days, or excursions that were more laidback and less active, like the train ride or the tea.
• Outdoor Gear. Odds were, we’d experience some rain on our journey, especially on outdoorsy excursions, so it was important to include some outerwear to keep me warm and dry.
• Evening Wear. I wanted to dress up a little for dinner. I wasn’t going for full-on formal nights; the feel on Alaska cruises isn’t quite black tie, plus it’s becoming less popular these days on cruises in general. But I still wanted to feel fancy. (Side note: there were people who opted to stick to super formal attire, and they were awesome. So if you feel like packing the sequins and tuxedos, go for it! It’s your vacation. You do you!)

An important note when you’re planning your Alaska cruise capsule wardrobe: Cruise itineraries in Alaska are as varied as the region’s daily weather forecast, so it’s important to plan your outfits around your specific cruise itinerary.

For example, a longer trip might mean you bring more clothes, and if you’re going earlier or later in the season, you might want to pack a super warm coat. But hopefully this information will give you a jumping-off point for your own Alaska cruise wardrobe ideas.

The Alaska Cruise Capsule Wardrobe

So, here’s what I eventually packed.

• Five t-shirts. Simple, no-frills, lightweight t-shirts . They were perfect for walking around town on sunny days, but also provided a great base for layering during colder weather. (I wore these during my active excursions, too.)
• Three pairs of pants. I settled for a pair of gray jeans, a pair of light pink jeans, and a pair of pull-on elastic-waisted brown pant s. I could mix-and-match them with pretty much any shirt.
• A chambray button down . This is so versatile, it should be a staple of any capsule wardrobe. Great for layering over t-shirts or wearing on its own.
• A cardigan . A must-have for chilly nights (or days!) on the ship.
• White Converse sneakers. These are a classic, comfy, go-with-everything choice .

• A fleece vest . Fleece vests are perfect for layering. Loved wearing this in the chilly early mornings, then taking it off and packing it in my excursion bag when the sun came out.
• A light packable rain jacket . I was so happy to have packed this while we were in Victoria; it rained the whole evening, and this kept me dry.
• Water-resistant hiking pants. I got these Little Donkey Andy convertible pants . The legs zipped off to become shorts, just in case I needed shorts on my trip. (I didn’t, but it was nice to have that option.)
• Waterproof hiking shoes. These La Sportiva waterproof shoes were so great and so comfy. I wore them on air travel days, on our dog sledding tour, and on a long sightseeing day in Seattle.

• Three casual dresses. I opted for casual dresses because they packed well; I could roll them without worrying too much about wrinkles. The Aviana Dress and the Niccola Crochet Dress from XCVI are the perfect little black dresses for a trip to Alaska. To dress them up, I used nice accessories, like jewelry and…
• A chunky gold belt. This turned my simple casual dresses into something much snazzier.
• Two pairs of flats. Flats took up so little space in my carry on. Plus, they were so much easier to walk around in than heels. My favorite go-to flats are Rothy’s; I packed them in two colors: gold and black. (Want your own pair of Rothy’s? Use my discount code here to get $20 off your first purchase !)

When my clients book their Alaska cruises with me, they get all sorts of great tips like this – and so much more. Send me a message to start planning your next cruise.

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What to Wear on an Alaskan Cruise (and what to leave at home)

Are you planning an Alaskan cruise vacation this summer? Congratulations, you are in for a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Chances are this is something you have been planning for a while and you want to make sure everything goes perfectly by picking the right cruise excursions and figuring out what to wear on an Alaskan cruise to be prepared for activities and events both onboard and on land. I get it, I felt the same way before we went on our Alaska cruise.

Alaska weather tends to be wet and rainy in the summer and temperatures along the southern coast, home to many cruise ports, can range from the 40s to the 60s. You may have a few sunny, warm days, but I’d be surprised if you didn’t encounter at least some rainy days as well. All of these variants make it tricky to figure out what to wear on an Alaskan cruise. Particularly when you need to balance the chilly, wet outdoors with the climate-controlled ship’s interior.

My recommendations on what to wear on an Alaska cruise are based on our trip on the Norwegian Bliss in August. On our journey, we cruised the Inside Passage and stopped in ports in Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan in southeast Alaska, and Victoria, B.C.

Of course, what you wear is also dependent on what shore excursions you choose. If you are visiting Alaska, I’ll assume that you are doing more than just shopping in the cruise port or staying on the boat, and therefore need to be properly outfitted for excursions.

Alaska cruise excursions usually include activities such as hiking, kayaking, glacier hikes, visiting dog musher camps, and wildlife viewing. On our cruise we did a mix of activities on board and off the boat including:

• Sea kayaking
• Sea plane + hiking to see bears
• Train ride + 3-hour hike
• Exploring port towns
• Running at the fitness center
• Soaking at the spa and the hot tubs

Luckily, an Alaskan cruise is a bit more casual than a Caribbean cruise or other cruises. Our cruise on the Norwegian Bliss did not include a formal night, but I’m pretty sure other cruise lines like Princess Cruises and others do have at least an optional formal night.

If you plan your Alaskan cruise packing list carefully, you can easily fit everything into one suitcase (for each person) and while those small cruise cabins don’t seem to have much room, they are designed to fit a surprising amount in all their nooks and crannies. After you unpack, you can shove those suitcases under the bed for the rest of the trip.

How Should I Dress on an Alaskan Cruise?

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

So what should you wear on an Alaskan cruise? That was something I stressed about a lot when planning our Alaskan cruise. After all, if you forget something you are kind of out of luck, at least until you get to the first port. If you are having similar worries, hopefully, this guide will help.

I have also created a printable Alaskan cruise packing list and guide to what to pack for Alaska that includes things for the cabin, toiletries, and things like a good camera, zoom lens, cell phone chargers, battery packs, extra storage cards, plastic bags or Ziploc bags, bug spray, motion sickness meds, and more. Make sure to check out that article too for all of those extras that you might otherwise forget.

What to Wear on Days at Sea

During days at sea, you will spend time enjoying the ship’s facilities. Be prepared for the outside decks and balconies to be windy and chilly, unless you get lucky with a burst of sunshine.

Attire on board is pretty casual during the day: jeans or leggings, hiking pants, or exercise clothes are all appropriate. On top, you probably want to dress in layers with a long-sleeve t-shirt topped with a sweater, light fleece jacket, or a down vest. I would still bring one or two short-sleeve t-shirts and a pair of shorts just in case it is warm enough to enjoy the sun deck or your balcony.

Since you don’t want to have to pack too many shoes, stick with either sneakers, flip flops, hiking boots, or flats which can be interchanged between the gym, spa/pool, outdoors, and dinner.

Whether you are sitting outside in the cold wind or in the observation lounge, you will probably want to have something cozy to snuggle up in. If you have room to pack a thin blanket, you will enjoy having that to curl up in while you are relaxing outside (or in the lounge.)

What to wear:

• Pair of jeans / hiking pants / exercise pants / leggings
• Sweat pants to lounge in or to throw over your bathing suit or exercise clothes as you walk back to your room
• Long sleeve t shirts / base layer
• Flannel shirt
• Fleece / sweater / down vest / sweatshirt
• Warm PJs / lounge wear
• Bathing suit + something warm to cover up to walk from the hot tub / spa to your room
• Sneakers / comfortable walking shoes
• Slippers — you will enjoy having these in the cabin
• Blanket scarf or wrap
• Possibly: short sleeve t-shirt and shorts (to save room if you plan to use the fitness center just bring exercise shorts/t-shirts and use those if you have a warm day. You can always use one of the laundry rooms if you need during your cruise.)

See my complete Alaska cruise packing guide and printable Alaska cruise packing list !

What to Wear on Nights at Sea

You can leave your cocktail dresses at home if your cruise ship doesn’t have a formal night. However, many restaurants do have a “no jeans or shorts” dress code policy in the evenings, although I’m not sure how tightly enforced these are, so you will need some dress pants or skirts and nicer tops and button-down shirts. If you really don’t like dressing for dinner, most ships will have a more casual option. On our cruise, with the exception of the embarkation night, most people did dress a bit for dinner.

Expect to see a mix of dresses, dress pants, dress shirts, and blouses. Get as fancy as you would like, but to minimize your packing list, you can get away with just a couple of pairs of nice pants, a few nice tops/sweaters, and one pair of dress shoes that go with everything.

We found the restaurants and main dining room to be chilly and it is a good idea to bring a sweater or wrap in the evenings. Keep in mind that the ship photographers are available to take family photos so you may want to coordinate one nice outfit for each.

Some cruises do have theme nights or themed dance parties. On our cruise, we weren’t aware of these in any of the pre-cruise information we received but those “in the know” on board came prepared.

There was a country and western night in the BBQ restaurant and bar one evening. I was surprised to see people decked out in cowboy boots, hats, and western gear. Even more surprised that they bothered to pack all of that just for one event. But if you love a good theme party, find out in advance what is happening during your sailing.

What to wear at night:

• Nice dress pants or a skirt that can be worn multiple times or casual dresses (black pants are great because they go with so much)
• Guys can wear dress pants or khaki pants
• A few sweaters or nice tops (long sleeves are preferable) with button-down shirts for guys
• A jacket or wrap
• Comfortable dress shoes (you can bring a pair of heels but I prefer flats for walking around the ship and climbing all the stairs)
• A small evening bag to fit your phone, key card, and necessities

What to Wear for Excursions

If you are doing anything adventurous, check with the outfitter to see what gear they provide. For example, when we went sea kayaking it was raining pretty hard when we arrived and they provided everyone with rain boots, rain slickers, and a waterproof kayak “skirt.” Likewise, our hiking tour guides provided everyone with a hiking pole, but rain gear was up to us.

Most importantly, you want to be prepared for cold weather and rain. Of course, the weather is fickle and you may end up warm so dress in layers that can be added or shedded as needed. I know sometimes people are reluctant to invest in gear that they may not use again. I felt that way when we went to Iceland and everyone suggested that we buy rain pants. We were so thankful we had made that purchase and we have since appreciated having them on this trip and many others. The difference between warm and dry and wet and cold is the difference between happy and miserable.

If you are doing any active excursions, make sure you bring along a waterproof jacket and a good pair of waterproof hiking shoes, plus another pair of sneakers or casual slip on shoes to wear around the ship when you return in case your day shoes get wet or muddy.

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What to wear on excursions:

• Waterproof shoes or waterproof hiking boots with good traction
• Hiking pants (don’t wear jeans — those take forever to dry!)
• Rain pants to slip over your hiking pants
• Wool or synthetic hiking socks
• Rain jacket or waterproof shell
• Puffer coat (something small and packable that doesn’t take up much space is ideal)
• Long-sleeved t-shirt or thermal base layer
• Flannel shirt or second layer
• Baseball hat (waterproof if you can) or a warm hat
• Day pack / waterproof backpack / dry bag to fit your essential items, camera, water bottle, wallet, portable chargers, and other necessities
• Refillable water bottle
• Thin gloves
• Bug spray / insect repellent

What to Leave at Home

So with all that stuff that you have to bring, what can you leave at home on a cruise to Alaska?

• Black tie attire — double check with your ship but many Alaska cruise ships don’t have a formal night and if they do, it is optional. So you can leave the cocktail dress, tuxedo, and heels at home, unless you want to get dressed up.
• Shorts — ok, maybe bring a couple of pairs of easy-to-pack exercise or hiking shorts in case it is warm, but unless you get lucky with a warm week, you probably won’t need them. And if you are brave enough to jump into the hot tub out on the deck or use the pool and waterslides, you will probably want to cover up and duck inside as soon as you get out of the water.
• Straightening iron / curling iron / hair dryer — unless you really want to get dressed up for dinner, I would suggest leaving your straightening and curling iron at home. When you walk on deck, your hair is going to whip around in the wind. Also when you are outside, the rain or humidity will bring on the frizz. Plus you are likely going to have a hat on for part of the day. So do yourself a favor and just put your hair up and leave the products at home. If you really like to have your hair looking nice, go ahead and bring them or book an appointment at the salon, just be prepared to fight the mist, wind, and rain to keep your do looking fresh.

What do I pack for an Alaskan Cruise?

Looking for a full Alaska cruise packing list? Check out my full guide on what to pack for an Alaskan cruise and download a printable packing list! I hope you have a great trip and I’d love to hear if you found something to suggest or add to this list!

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Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

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Publish Date: February 11, 2022

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Best Alaska Cruise Outfits & Packing List For Your Voyage

Alaska is one of the frosty metropolises; you will still feel cold even when you visit Alaska in August. 

So if you’re planning an Alaska cruise, don’t forget to pack your outfit according to Alaska’s weather.

We took the Alaska cruise last year in August, and the temperature was still less than ten °C, and our bodies started shivering. 

We have learned a lot from our deliberate mistake, so I will share what essential Alaska cruise outfits you should pack. So let’s dive into it. 

Check Out: Essentials To Pack In Cruise Carry-On

Table of Contents

Essential Clothing for Alaska Cruises

First, talk about some essential clothing and items you must pack for the Alaska cruise . As Alaska has an unpredictable climate, suddenly it starts raining there, or sometimes freezing air hits your face. 

Due to the mercurial weather of Alaska that changes like a chameleon, you must pack layers, insulation layers, warm footwear, waterproof pants, sweaters, Poncho for rainy weather, warm tops, and other warm wear.

1- Base Layers

Starting from internal protection, you must pack a base layer for your Alaska cruise voyage . The base layers keep you warm and provide insulation akin to a cozy cocoon. 

So whenever the weather turns to the colder side, you can take advantage of base layers and wear any kind of outfit on them. 

You can also use base layers as a night dress; it keeps you warm and comfortable on a bed. 

Here is my top recommendation for the base layers.  

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European Travel Plug Adapter 3 Pack

2- outerwear.

The outwears are a must-have item if you’re packing for an Alaska cruise. The late evening and early morning in Alaska are always cold, and you will start shivering if you don’t have outerwear. 

You can wear outerwear with skirts, maxi, formal attire, and other formal dresses.  

A l ong sleeve acrylic sweater  is the perfect layer for fall that fits perfectly with jeans, maxi, leggings, boots, sneakers, and other outfits. 

MEROKEETY Women’s 2024 Fall Long Sleeve Cable Knit Sweater

Or if you feel colder like me, a  Shacket long jacket  is the best outerwear you can use while hiking the glacier. 

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VICHYIE Womens Corduroy Shacket Blouses 

If you don’t like long outerwear, this  classic zip polar soft fleece  jacket is the best bet to keep you warm on cold Alaskan nights. You can also wear these shorts jackets on jeans or leggings. 

Women’s Classic-Fit Full-Zip Polar Soft Fleece Jacket 

3- waterproof and windproof jackets.

The winds of Alaska feel like a shape blade, especially if you love to wake up mid-night to enjoy the peaceful sound of ocean waves; you must pack windproof jackets. 

I love wearing a

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MOERDENG Men’s Waterproof Ski Jacket Warm Winter Snow Coat 

You can also opt for  a polyester jacket , which is affordable and warm too. 

CAMEL CROWN Women’s Waterproof Ski Jacket 

Check Out: Smart Cruise Packing Tips

4- Warm Jeans & Pants

Traveling to Alaska cruise in August or onwards is akin to stepping into an icy panorama, so wear jeans and leggings to protect your legs. 

I love these winter jeans with thick fleece, which is the best option for frozen nights, or the best cruise wear for hiking on glaciers . These starchy jeans give a feel of warmth and coziness throughout your Alaska cruise voyage. 

 Womens Winter Jeans Thick Skinny Pants 

Or, if you want more durable and waterproof jeans, you can consider  my favorite outdoor snow fleece hiking pant.  These are comfortable pants with pockets, best for morning walks or night walks after dinner.

Camii Mia Women’s Winter Warm Outdoor Slim Pants

You can also pack these warm fleece legging for nights and casual attire for your Alaska cruise venture. This premium legging   will elevate your look and make you look more sexy. 

5- Top And Blouse For Winter

Lightweight wears are also essential; we often feel irritated after wearing more warm clothes. You should consider lightweight tops and blouses for your Alaska cruise packing. 

Especially a  loose close wam t-shirt  is worth considering for moderate temperatures. If you’re traveling during August or September, loose blouses are the best option to pack. You can wear them with jeans or leggings. 

Neineiwu Womens Loose Blouse Long Sleeve T Shirts

I love this  long sleeve V-neck tunic top , the best option for casual moments. This tunic top is made of polyester and cotton that feels comfortable. Due to its lightweight design, it takes up less space in your bag. 

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Bebonnie Womens Long Sleeve Casual V Neck Sweatshirts

6- scarves and gloves for warmth.

Don’t forget to put the gloves and scarves in the bag. Alaska is a cold region, and your finger becomes numb. 

With a cold and numb finger, it’s even become impossible to grab the things. To avoid such a situation, you need high-quality gloves. 

I personnel like  soft-lining gloves  that also helps me to text on the phone. If you want dense fleece lining gloves, you can opt for  Ihuan winter gloves.  

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Achiou Winter Gloves for Men Women

Ihuan winter gloves waterproof windproof mens women.

Scarves are also an essential item on the Alaska cruise packing list; it provides an extra layer of insulation around your neck and chest. 

C.C Women’s Ultra Soft Chenille Ribbed Thick Warm Scarf

7- backpacks or tote bags for carrying essentials.

Backpacks are like a loyal companion during long Alaska Voyages. A waterproof backpack can carry many essential items, like mobile phones, cameras, power banks, glasses, wallets, gloves, and other essentials. 

I like  this one as it has USB charging port  and is small in size to carry essentials for the Alaska journey. 

MATEIN Mini Backpack for Women Waterproof And USB Charging Port

8- winter hat.

 I always remember my hat when I travel to frigid zones. This  winter fur pom hat  provides comfort and warmth and protects your head against the frozen Alaska breeze. 

FURTALK Winter Beanie Hat for Women 

9- umbrella .

Alaskan weather is unpredictable, so if you feel annoyed indoors and want to explore nature even in the rain, don’t forget to pack umbrellas. 

Standing on a cruise deck in the rain and enjoying the peaceful sound of waves and nature is a next-level experience, and you can also experience the same if you have an umbrella. 

LANBRELLA Compact Reverse Folding Umbrella

10- travel binoculars.

The sights alongside the Alaskan Sea are incredible; you will see a lot of heart-touching scenery and wildlife from the balcony. With a binoculars, you can experience the wonders of nature more clearly. 

I got  Adorrgon 12×42 HD Binoculars  for my last Alaska cruise voyage; the additional tripod lets you also capture the scene on a smartphone. 

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Adorrgon 12×42 HD Binoculars

Best daytime alaska cruise outfits, 1- full sleeve maxi dresses .

I remember one of the maxi dresses I wore on my last Alaska cruise voyage. This dress makes you so elegant and sophisticated. The one that I love is a  long sleeve loose plain Maxi dress . You can also wear this dress on casual nights and parties. 

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AUSELILY Women Long Sleeve Loose Plain Maxi 

2- v neck swing midi dress.

Want to try some breathable and comfortable stuff? Nothing is more comfortable than this V Neck Swing Midi dress; the polyester makes it feel like soft cotton. 

ULTRANICE Women’s Fall Casual Long Sleeve Dresses V Neck

Also, the dress is warm and best for the Alaskan climate. You can wear this dress on casual night parties or other activities.  

3- Fuzzy Fleece Long Hooded Jacket

For Alaskan weather, this long hooded jacket is the best bet. You will thank me later because this thing feels like a blanket. Due to the lightweight stuff, it’s easy to pack.

PRETTYGARDEN Women’s Fashion Winter Coats

You can wear it on jeans or lagging and short sleeve blouse. It’s available in different colors, but black and gray are my favorite. 

4- Casual Blazer Jackets

Blazer jackets are the best outfit to look professional on an Alaska cruise. These jackets provide an extra layer of warmth while still looking stylish. 

This open-front casual blazer jacket  is the best option to wear on semi-formal evenings to make yourself a sophisticated personality. 

Women’s Casual Blazer Jackets Suit

I love blazers due to the look and the pockets; you can put small essentials like a smartphone, room key, or lipstick in the pockets. 

5- Button Down Long Sleeve Shirts

On my last Alaska cruise venture, I packed several long t-shirts and only one-half shirts because I knew the weather of Alaska. 

And if you’re going on an Alaska cruise in August or onwards, don’t forget to pack long sleeve shirts. 

This  beautiful long casual check shirt  is made of Nylon and Spandex, keeping you warm during Alaska’s cold weather. 

Foot Wears To Pack For Alaska Cruise

1- waterproof boots.

Regarding packing for an Alaska cruise, your packing list will be incomplete without waterproof boots. 

Alaska has a lot of wonderful places to explore; specially for hiking, you need comfortable and waterproof shoes that can support your feet. 

If you want more durable shoes,  check out these lightweight waterproof shoes for hiking. 

You can also consider  Ankle rain boots  with rubber soles for comfort. These boots are available in different colors, but the Navy one is my favorite. 

2- Jogging or Sports Shoes

Don’t forget to pack extra jogging shoes. On the Alaskan cruise, you can use a treadmill to continue your fitness journey, or take a morning walk on the cruise running trail. 

Thes e lightweight yet durable running shoes  are the best option for running in cold climates. Later, you can also use these shoes for running and other activities. 

3- Warm Slippers 

From the last Alaska cruise experience, I can bet that warm slippers are an absolute must. The Alaskan cold weather during the night is harsh, and keeping feet warm is a top priority. 

During evenings and mornings, the cold floor of the cruise feels like ice, but this  classic microsuede memory foam slipper  provides extra protection against cold floors. 

Moreover, these slippers kept feet snug and toasty when I had to step out onto my cabin’s balcony to take in the breathtaking Alaskan scenery.

Warm slippers meant relaxing in your cabin after a day of excursions without putting on socks or shoes.

4- Warm Socks

It will be worthless if you have solid upper protection against the cold Alaskan breeze but don’t have foot insulation. 

That’s why you must pack these  thermal winter socks; they  provide comfort and an extra layer of insulation against the cold. 

Best Camera Gear For Alaska Cruise Adventure 

Do you love to capture nature? If yes, don’t skip this section.

The amazing scenes of Alaska and nature will insist you capture them. So you must have a camera, drone, and other equipments. Later, you can also post your adventure stories on social media platforms. 

1- Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera 

With  Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera,  you can capture vibrant photos of Alaska’s landscapes, wildlife, and your partner. The 24.1 Mp CMOS sensor ensures you can share high-resolution images with anyone. 

2- Action Camera 

The Alaska cruise voyage is all about action, so don’t forget to pack an action camera into your bag. 

The new  Go Pro Hero11  is the best option to capture high-resolution 4k video and landscapes. You can also make an incredibly cinematics and slow motion videos that makes your trip unforgettable. 

If you have a tight budget, you can opt for  GoPro HERO10,  a less expensive yet powerful action camera with a bundle pack. 

If you’re a travel enthusiast, you should have a drone; the nifty capturing device makes your Alaska cruise journey more memorable. 

The   DJI Air 2S  is the best drone giving 93 minutes of light time; with this, you can film your cruise, beautiful glaciers, and the Alaskan Sea from the sky. But before the first flight, you must understand the basic remote operations to avoid loss. 

If you want a good drone without breaking your bank account, the  DJI Mini 2 SE  is the best go-to choice. 

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I am Zoe Grace, a passionate enthusiast of cruise ships. With a decade of firsthand experience in the cruising industry, I have developed a deep understanding of the intricacies and wonders that these majestic vessels hold.

Now, I am excited to embark on a new journey as an author, sharing my knowledge and insights with readers who share my fascination for the world of cruising.

Join me as we explore the captivating world of cruise ships together.

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Alaska Cruise Outfits For Men And Women

So, you’re booked your cruise, and now you want to know what to wear on an Alaskan cruise . Don’t fret; you are not alone. In this article, I’ll share some great cruise outfit ideas for both men and women.

If you’re flying to your embarkation port, your cruise packing list should include a waterproof jacket, rain boots, sweat pants, and a wide range of clothing for every weather condition.

Like many of you reading this, I did not know what to expect on my first Alaskan cruise , so I made some huge packing errors. However, after five trips to Alaska, I know the best things to wear and pack without taking the kitchen sink. If you’re looking for ideas on Alaska cruise outfits, read on.

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It’s important to note that Alaska weather can be unpredictable regardless of what month you are sailing. While I have cruised to Alaska in May, July, and August, my first July cruise experienced rain every day. I experienced a heatwave with almost no rain on the other three vacations.

To be prepared, select water-resistant or waterproof items for port days. But remember your bathing suit, a pair of shorts, t-shirts, and sunglasses for warm days.

Casual Clothes To Wear Onboard

Alaska itineraries are more casual than warmer destinations further south. When choosing your Alaska cruise outfits, the essential factor is having layers and lots of them. Just remember, cruise ships are air-conditioned, and if it’s chilly outside, it’s still going to be cool or even colder inside.

So, forget the flip-flops and sandals in favor of a pair of sneakers. Instead, your cruise wear should include a flannel shirt, fleece jacket, long-sleeve shirts, and long pants to stay warm. If you don’t want to break your gym routine, remember your workout clothes too.

Cruise wear for women and men have similarities. For the men, bring a couple of pairs of fleece pants  or jeans to keep you warm.

Accessorize with some t-shirts or polo shirts, and layer with cozy sweaters and a hoodie or a zip-up fleece jacket. It’s acceptable to wear dark jeans or casual pants and a sweater at dinnertime.

Women can start with a couple of pairs of thicker leggings. Pair them with some t-shirts, and layer with lightweight cardigans and a hoodie or fleece layer.

While most travel with a pair of jeans, I find these to be colder than fleece leggings or fleece pants. However, you can create some cute outfits with black leggings, layered with a casual top and cardigan, accessorized with a trendy scarf.

If you’re a frigid person like myself, a thermal top and a puffer jacket or down vest  might be a blessing. Down layers roll into a tiny pouch and take virtually no space in your luggage.

I did not pack enough layers to stay warm on my first trip to Alaska. Many other passengers made the same mistake and rushed to the onboard shops to buy Alaska-themed sweats and hoodies to sustain them for the seven-day trip.

Also, remember to pack a bathing suit and cover-up. If it’s cold for seven days, you can still use the indoor pool and hot tubs. On glacier viewing days, I quite enjoyed the steam rooms and saunas to warm my achy bones. If Alaska experiences a heatwave, you can use the outdoor pool instead.

Cruise Outfits To Wear In Alaska Port

When walking off your cruise ship, it’s crucial to have a good pair of waterproof shoes or boots. After all, you’re in a rainforest, and liquid sunshine can shower you at any moment. There’s nothing worse than returning to the ship with wet feet and nowhere to dry your shoes.

Most visitors opt for long casual pants, t-shirts, polo shirts, and a waterproof rain jacket unless you’re visiting in a heatwave. If you have a 3-in-1 jacket,  wear the outer layer to keep you dry and comfortable.

It’s best to carry a compact umbrella with you on port days just in case it rains. While all those sweats and fleece layers might seem a tad boring, consider jazzing up your outfit with a colorful scarf or hat.

If you plan any active excursions and need to pack extra layers. A Mendenhall Glacier helicopter excursion or a dog sled tour requires your warmest layers.

While dog sledding tour operators provide snow boots and waterproof pants, you’ll need to wear a winter jacket, hat, gloves, and a neck warmer. You may already own those merino wool base layers or wicking shirts if you’re a skier or snowboarder.

Even if the sun is out, you’ll also want to dress warmly for a whale-watching excursion. The breeze off the water can be chilling, and the boat’s floor quite cold. 

The best Alaska cruise tip is to pack for three season because you never know what to expect of the weather.

What To Wear Hiking?

If you plan to hike near the cruise ports ,  that abundance of rain brings the mosquitoes. So, if the sun is out and you prefer shorts and a t-shirt, you might want to forego those in favor of a wicking long-sleeved shirt and long pants instead.

Mosquito repellent and suitable footwear are your must-have items. If you’re looking for a low-rise walking shoe for women, these Ecco Aspina hiking shoes  are ideal for keeping you dry. I love the Ecco brand because they are well-made and stand the test of time.

If you plan to do some hiking and need some ankle support, these Columbia Newton Ridge hiking shoes   are waterproof, breathable, and very comfortable.

For the men, these Keen waterproof shoes will do the trick. Keen are a well known brand that their customers consistently rave about. Alternatively, these Columbia Newton Ridge hiking boots are a high top if you require ankle support.

Partner your shoes with Merino wool blended socks which have a significant amount of warmth and loft even when wet.

Carry a lightweight, water-repellent jacket and bring a water bottle whatever the weather forecast.

Now bear in mind, what to wear on a July Alaskan cruise can differ to one in the shoulder season. April, early May, late September, and Oct will be much colder and require more layer.

Outfits For Glacier Viewing

Whether you have warm weather or colder temperatures in town, one thing is for sure; it’s going to be cold next to a glacier. Even if the sun is shining, the winds off the ice can make for a bitterly cold glacier viewing.

While you might be tempted to view the glaciers from inside your cabin, the best place for observation is outside. Why? Because there is nothing more spectacular than hearing the cracking of a glacier as it readies to calve.

The cracking sounds like thunder amidst the almost silent surroundings. You can only get this experience from being outside on the deck. I still remember  sailing through Glacier Bay  for hours and seeing Margerie Glacier for the first time. Its drop-dead gorgeous scenery left me speechless.

When selecting outfits for your Alaska cruise, be prepared for the cold. Bring a 3-in-1 jacket, hat, scarf, gloves, and hand warmers. You want to be comfortable and warm. 

Wear all three pieces of your coat next to the glacier, the outside waterproof shell on port days, and the fleece liner on board to keep you warm.

Also, having a multipurpose jacket helps cut down on the amount you pack for your vacation. The must-have hand warmers are inexpensive, take little room in your luggage, and stay hot for 10 to 12 hours after activation.

Wearing your wool socks will keep your toes warm and cozy. For added warmth, pop a pair of toe warmers into your shoes.

Formal Nights

Alaska cruise formal wear isn’t what it used to be. Most cruise lines have moved away from formal nights and call them something else instead. Say hello to “evening chic” on Celebrity, “wear your best” on Royal Caribbean, and “Norwegian Night Out.”

Those opposed to “dressing up” opt to eat in the buffet. However, you’ll be missing out on lobster and baked Alaska. As cruise lines have moved to more casual dining, guests can wear dark jeans to dinner as long as they are void of tears and holes.

Men can wear dress pants and a button shirt without a tie and a jacket for a smarter look. If you prefer to go all out in a suit and tie, by all means, do so.

Cruise clothes for women can include elegant pants with a stylish blouse. Remember, it’s your vacation. So, if you choose to take cocktail dresses or wear a princess ball gown, do so. Should you be low on luggage space, purchase an infinity dress that you can wear multiple ways.

They are available in long and short versions, in a variety of colors. By styling it differently, fellow cruisers will think you have more than one dress. Alternatively, a reversible dress provides two different looks.

Do I Need Boots For An Alaska Cruise?

The hardest part about packing for any cruise is deciding on footwear. Do I need boots? What about duck shoes? I know many people who take five pairs of shoes on a 7-day cruise.

If you’re traveling as a couple, that’s ten pairs, enough to fill a suitcase. I like to think if you have the right shoes, you need less selection.

Unless you plan to walk on a glacier, you don’t really need boots. A good pair of waterproof shoes will suffice. I recently discovered the Vessi brand , and these have become my everyday shoes at home (I live in rainy Vancouver) and in Alaska.

The footwear is waterproof, comfortable, and inexpensive compared to name brands. I’ve worn them in a downpour in Sitka, and on a 3-1/2 hour outdoor excursion to Mendenhall Glacier and salmon bake barbeque, and came away with dry feet.

So, I pack my Vessi runners, a pair of shoes for “chic” nights, and a pair of flats for casual dinners. My husband brings his Vessi runners, a black pair of shoes for formal nights, and a casual pair for around the ship.

If you feel the need to bring boots, wear them on embarkation and disembarkation day to avoid taking up precious space in the luggage.

Want dry feet in Alaska?

Find your perfect waterproof shoes here. Check out the newest colors, styles and trends for both adults and children.

Packing For More Than A 7-Day Cruise

The majority of Alaska cruises sail for seven days. However, California roundtrip cruises and cruise and land tours last 9 to 18 days. Packing for an extended itinerary gets a little more complicated if you want to avoid the pricey onboard laundry fees. So, here are some tips for these longer cruises.

Carnival Cruise, Cunard, and Princess Cruises have self-serve laundromats. So, if you book with one of these lines, you can pack for fewer days and do laundry halfway through your cruise. The Cunard Queen Elizabeth and Discovery Princess offers FREE self-service and they even supply the soap.

I once did a back-to-back 14-days with Princess and did laundry while the ship was in port on the seventh day. Cruise lines without self-serve laundry charge high fees for wash and press.

However, they usually offer a “whole bag” deal on the first or second day. While it doesn’t benefit you when boarding, wait until day 8 or 9 of your back-to-back. That day will be the first or second day for those beginning their journey.

Final Thoughts

While cruises to Alaska are more casual, dressing for this itinerary doesn’t have to be boring. Women can add color with accessories like scarves and jewelry.

Overall, Alaska sailings require comfortable clothing over something trendy. If you’ve booked an Alaska in May or September, expect cooler days and colder nights.

Wear your bulkiest items on embarkation and disembarkation days to save on luggage space. And should you forget something, your ship, and shops in Alaska will happily sell you something cozy?

Happy travels ~ Karen

Amy Roberts

Sunday 7th of May 2023

Holland America has not had self serve laundry mats for years.

Privacy Overview

30 Top Alaskan Cruise Packing List Items for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

Alaska is one of the most beautiful locations on the planet, no matter the time of year. With a population of approximately 700,000, you’ll find yourself amongst stunning natural landscapes and local wildlife. Crystal-clear lakes, glaciers, fjords, towering mountain peaks, and various national parks await you.

One of the easiest (and most beautiful!) ways to experience Alaska is by following the coast on an Alaskan cruise. However, to make the most of your cruise, it’s important to bring along the essentials and know what to wear on any Alaskan Cruise . We have all of them right here for you, so you can focus on having fun and enjoying all this jaw-dropping state has to offer.

What to Pack for an Alaskan Cruise - 30 Essentials

1. water-resistant jacket.

An insulated jacket is key while visiting the arctic climate of Alaska. As you stand out on the ship’s deck in the morning or hike through the trails of Mount Roberts near Juneau’s port – days will be much easier with a lightweight coat. This one is perfect for Alaska since it’s designed to keep you warm with a heat-reflective lining. Columbia is one of our favorite outdoor brands because their products are affordable and truly last.

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Motion Sickness Patches

If you’re prone to seasickness, bring these motion sickness patches as a preventative measure. My wife bought countless brands and quality-tested them – this one came out on top by far as the most effective. The ship will have strong stabilizers, and you may not feel it moving after day one. But you will likely end up on smaller buoy boats for transfers or whale-watching tours, where smooth sailing may not be as common.

3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

Cybersecurity attacks are increasing in Alaska and all over the world. In fact, public networks at cafes, airports, and hotels are obligated to share your information (due to the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance). I learned this personally when my credit card number was stolen at our Airbnb on vacation. Now, I realize that cyber thieves are working overtime to drain your bank account when you least expect it.

The last thing you want after a beautiful day in Alaska is to return to your ship and discover your PayPal account has been hacked or your identity has been sold on the dark web. Keep all of your devices protected onboard and at port stops by using a VPN service. No one will be able to see your passwords, credit card numbers, or sensitive, private data through the added layer of encryption and security. While many VPNs slow down internet connection, NordVPN keeps things quick – perfect for streaming or downloading.

View NordVPN.com Options ➜

4. Wildlife Binoculars with Phone Adapter

Trust us when we say you’re going to want a pair of binoculars while exploring the Alaskan wilderness. From birds and fish to moose and bears, there are critters all around and this is one of the biggest perks to visiting Alaska! Prepare for your cruise investment with a pair of binoculars that are high-quality yet affordable. Cool twist – these have a phone adapter so you can easily photograph what you’re viewing.

5. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

Sure, the cruise line will offer plenty of towels. However, if you’re going out on a third-party excursion or your own adventure, you’ll need something else. This microfiber towel is the cream of the crop and ideal for hiking, camping, fishing, and just about any other outdoor sport. It dries 10x faster than cotton and is light as a feather, which is way easier to carry than big, fluffy cruise ship towels.

6. Travel Insurance

Being airlifted from the mountains of Alaska would not be cheap… especially if paying out-of-pocket! And being airlifted from a cruise ship to the mainland generally starts at $25K. You’re already investing in your cruise and flight, so why not protect your investment for a small fraction of the trip cost? Many people don’t realize the importance of insurance until it’s too late, especially since your domestic provider does not cover you overseas.

It offers peace of mind against common travel issues like flight delays, cancelations, baggage loss, theft, and expensive medical emergencies. Since hospitals are few and far between in Alaska, treatment can be more expensive (about 56% higher than the national average, according to BCBS ).

We always use Faye Travel Insurance because they are revolutionizing the insurance game! With payments sent through their mobile app, you don’t have to wait months or fill out piles of paperwork to receive your reimbursement. They even have the option to “cancel for any reason,” which will effectively make a non-refundable trip – refundable !

Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye ➜

7. Universal Waterproof Phone Pouch

When you’re out on the water, you’re surely going to want to take photos of the aquatic wildlife and beautiful scenery you come across. However, there’s a good chance it may get wet or dropped in the water (with all the glaciers, snow, and bodies of water around). Thanks to this waterproof pouch, you won’t have to worry about your phone getting damaged. Not to mention, you can even take photos and videos underwater!

8. Flotation Strap

If your phone does fall in somewhere, you’ll be thankful you strapped a flotation wristlet around it. Whether your phone drops into the Pacific Ocean or the ship’s pool – these will ensure that your device floats and doesn’t sink out of reach. We’ve lost things in foggy lakes or deep oceans where we couldn’t find it. Better safe than sorry!

9. Luggage Straps

We never travel without these TSA-approved, adjustable luggage straps. They are multi-purpose and add an extra layer of security, taking the weight off of your zippers so your bag doesn’t bust open at the first rough toss. Many people also use them purely for identification purposes (knowing that the vibrant colors will make it easier to spot their bags in the sea of black cases at the arrivals carousel).

Zippers are actually quite flimsy and not meant to withstand the force of overpacking or rough handling. On a cruise, you’re hit with a double-wammy because you’ll likely need to check suitcases at the airport, and then pass them off to the cruise staff who have aggressive deadlines to meet with thousands of bags to deliver. These straps will ensure everything stays in-tact, and there’s a built-in ID tag in case anything gets lost.

10. Hanging Toiletry Bag

One thing about cruises is they are typically skimpy on the bathroom storage. Averaging 25-square feet for the bathroom with a shower, toilet, and sink – you may not have room to spin around in the shower, let alone lay out tons of loose skincare and haircare bottles! Even if you do have countertop space, it’s not the best place to leave out loose bottles and delicate perfumes that could crash to the floor with just a bit of ship movement. After all, you are on a moving vessel.

I highly recommend bringing a hanging toiletry bag to hold all of your haircare, skincare, makeup, personal hygiene items, and travel towels. This one by Eco Sun is the best! You’ll be absolutely obsessed with it since it has 4 internal and 3 external pockets that display everything at eye-level so you’re not fussing to find what you need. The elastic bands hold the bottles in place, and you can hang it on any door, pole, or hook to create a built-in shelving system wherever you may roam!

11. Packing Cubes

Alaska is a place that requires you to be prepared for any type of climate. From tank tops and flip-flops to waterproof jackets and boots – you may need them all. Quickly locate your warmest socks or that specific old t-shirt you love, thanks to these durable organizers. They even come with an index card label on the back of each cube so you don’t have to go opening and closing each one to find out where everything is.

12. Neck Wallet

You’ll be able to fully relax and have peace of mind knowing all of your important documents are safe with a Neck Wallet. This hands-free pouch holds passports, IDs, cards, cash, all models of iPhones, tickets, notes, and more. Not only does it hold all of your essentials safely, it even includes multi-RFID layers which protect credit cards and passports from e-theft.

13. Snow Boots

A pair of snow boots will serve you well in Alaska. Water shoes or boots may be warm enough onboard, but if you’re hiking in areas like Kenai Fjords National Park, almost half of it is covered in ice. While some trails may not be completely covered in snow, it’s still nice to have a waterproof pair of boots that are insulated and slip-resistant.

14. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

Instead of sitting back in your cruise cabin waiting for your phone to charge up – get out and explore Mother Nature with a portable power bank! It can fully charge smartphones and tablets and includes a Micro-USB cable. With the small, cylindrical shape, you can easily stow it away in a jacket pocket for an emergency like needing GPS or a ride back to the ship.

15. Windproof Travel Umbrella

No matter the time of year, you are probably going to see some rain on your Alaska adventure. It can get pretty windy – especially if you’re out on a boat or hiking the trails. This windproof travel umbrella is nice and compact but capable of shielding 2 people from the elements once opened.

16. Travel Backpack

To explore on land, there is nothing more convenient than a backpack that is specifically made for travel. This one has a waterproof pocket on the inside and is more spacious than most of its size. It’s kind of a unicorn backpack since it’s large, lightweight, has pockets, is affordable, and easy to carry. You can also use the side straps to strap around your suitcase for easy handling.

17. TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

Whether I’m traveling across the world or the country, I always use luggage locks to secure my bags. You’ll be handing your bag off to the cruise line, checking it for any flights, and unable to keep an eye on your things for long stretches of time. Carrying a couple of these for backpacks, lockers, and bags gives us peace of mind. They’re also TSA-approved, so you won’t run into any trouble with airport security.

18. Hangover Relief Supplements

While an Alaskan cruise isn’t the rowdiest of routes, there will likely still be some wining and dining. Mimosas at breakfast and champagne at dinner can catch up to you quickly, so don’t let those all-inclusive drink packages slow you down. Cheers is a hangover prevention supplement that will help your body detoxify the alcohol more quickly. We don’t drink, but we’ve heard from friends that these really work!

19. Discounted Tickets on Alaska Cruise Attractions

Excursions and daily activities are a huge part of what makes getting off the ship exciting! We use Get Your Guide because they have unique excursions and a flexible cancelation policy.

While along the coast of Alaska, you can cruise through the Kenai Fjords National Park in Seward , whale-watch in Juneau , visit the brown bears in Sitka , and hike through the Tongass Forest of Ketchikan .

Some Alaskan cruises offer 2-night stops or half cruise/half land excursions to go more inland. If you have the extra time, consider heading to the iconic Denali National Park for a helicopter tour, river rafting tour, or wilderness hike .

See all Alaskan Cruise attractions at GetYourGuide.com ➜

20. Mosquito-Repellent Wristbands

Locals are (kind of) joking when they say mosquitos are the Alaskan state bird, but they can be voracious in Alaska, especially in the summertime. Since the marshlands, ponds, and lakes are great environments for these pests, you’ll want an extra layer of defense. These wristbands are more natural than respraying toxic chemicals all day and convenient to wear for hiking.

21. Water Bottle with Built-in Filter

The cruise ship will have plenty of filtered water, but for land excursions, it’s nice to have autonomy over your water supply. This one will improve the taste and filter your water for extra pureness. We never travel without one!

22. Packable “Just in Case” Bag

If you do any shopping for locally-made goods, bringing a “just in case” bag is a thoughtful idea. It’s made of a duffle-bag material so it takes up virtually no space on the way to your cruise, but on the way home, you can fill it with handmade gifts from artisan shops.

23. Universal Travel Adapter

While most modern ships include more than enough outlets for charging devices, older ships are more limited. We always travel with a universal power adapter to prevent any issues. This one has two built-in USB plugs, so you to charge three devices simultaneously. And, of course, it will be handy if you’re coming from outside of the U.S. and need a plug adapter for your appliances.

24. Clothes Line Hanger

With hot tub nights under the starry sky, a clothes hanger is nice for drying the bundles of wet towels and swimsuits that you’ll gather. This one is awesome because it comes with its own clothes pins and can easily be hung on the balcony outdoors or inside if you want to stretch your items across the bathroom.

25. Cabin Fan

We swear by these cabin fans. Although it may reach frosty temperatures outside of the ship, your cabin can get a little stuffy and warm. Nothing is worse than staying in a hot room and not being able to sleep. This portable fan is great for keeping a little airflow in your quarters. It’s quiet but powerful!

26. Mineral Sunscreen

No matter the season, sunscreen is important to wear up here. Between the sun’s rays reflecting off of the snow and water, there’s a good chance of you getting sunburnt without proper protection. The Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral formula offers SPF 50+ broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection and is eco-friendly to boot.

27. Dry Bag

You often need a smaller boat to transfer from the ship to tiny ports. After watching our backpack slosh on the deck and get completely soaked, we always use a dry bag. You don’t want to watch your cash disintegrate into a ball of worthlessness, so use this to hold all of your electronics, money, books, medicine, and anything else you’d want to keep dry.

28. Waterproof Gloves & Hand Warmers

Gloves are an item you will not regret having on an Alaskan cruise. I found myself wanting to spend most of my time on the outdoor balcony and top deck for the best views of nearby glaciers. You’ll be able to withstand the cold a lot more by investing in a good pair of waterproof gloves. Add some hand and foot warmers , and you’ll be in absolute heaven.

29. Magnetic Hooks

Did you know that the doors of cruise cabins are magnetic? Maximize your storage space and keep your nice dinner jacket looking crisp with heavy-duty magnetic hooks. These can hold up to 22 pounds, so when you’re at home, you can use them to organize everything from pots and pans to grill accessories.

30. Gorgeous Outfit

For nights of dining, wining, dancing, and shows – you’ll want a gorgeous look that makes you feel super confident. My wife has this jumpsuit in a few colors and frankly, it’s a showstopper. With a slimming fit, she says it’s very flatting on many body types . Plus, dressing up on vacation is a no-brainer.

Other Alaskan Cruise Packing List Items

• Hand & Foot Warmers
• Cruise Luggage Tags
• Luggage with Spinner Wheels
• Portable Luggage Scale
• Keycard Holder and Lanyard
• Insulated Coffee Mug
• Thermal Layers
• Cruise Cabin Light
• Travel Laundry Hamper
• Wrinkle Release Spray
• Water Shoes
• Toothbrush Cover
• UV Sterilizer Box
• Mini hairbrush
• Hand Sanitizer Wipes
• Activated Charcoal
• First-Aid Kit
• Hydration Packets
• Hydration Backpack
• Water Resistant Watch
• Action Camera
• Quick-Dry Socks
• Flash Drive
• Swimsuit Cover
• LifeStraw Water Bottle
• Noise-Canceling Headphones
• Compression Flight Socks
• Travel Blanket

What to Wear on an Alaskan Cruise

As mentioned previously, when in Alaska, prepare for any kind of weather. While there’s a lot of overlapping in clothing, there are still trends in seasons. Summer in Alaska can be cool and even a bit warm, but never “hot”. If you are going more north, however, it could easily require you to bring a warm jacket.

Below is a sample women’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Below is a sample men’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

You’ll typically find men wearing jeans in Alaska, too. Outside, strolling around town, out for a nice dinner – they’re a great article of clothing to bring along. A button-down or sweater for more formal settings with some loafers are just fine, too. For more casual settings, a t-shirt and shorts are more appropriate for warmer weather. Sneakers or flip-flops are equally as popular.

Packing for the Seasons for an Alaskan Cruise

Spring  – march, april, may.

SUMMER  – June, July, August

Summer is the most enjoyable season for most people. Temperatures tend to stay around 65 to 75 degrees, making it perfect for heading outdoors to see wildlife in full splendor. While it doesn’t really get hot, you’ll definitely need to bring bug repellent.

Bring plenty of pants and a rain jacket , along with shorts, tank tops, and other lightweight clothing . You’ll see a lot of locals wearing jeans, which are great on dry days.

FALL  – September, October, November

WINTER  – December, January, February

Winter in Alaska looks fairytale-like, but the weather is not to be taken lightly. Even if you think you’ll be warm enough in a regular winter coat and typical winter accessories like a hat and insulated shoes , you’ll want to go further than this.

The winter jacket ideally will have multiple layers, so you can remove or add them as weather conditions change. Thermal underwear or other warm base layers are essential, and some kind of eye protection is a good idea as that snow and ice can really reflect sunlight!

Snow Sports: For snow sports, you’ll obviously want to wear more layers. The base layer is crucial to keeping warm and dry, along with some breathable socks . Due to the sunlight reflecting off the snow, it can get pretty bright while participating in snow sports. Not only that, but you need some sunglasses or goggles to protect your eyes from debris. A winter coat , hat, and gloves are also necessary!

Water Sports: Remaining comfortable during watersports requires quick-drying clothing that isn’t going to leave you soggy all day long. Fabrics should be lightweight, like a quality pair of board shorts and an athletic top aside from a bathing suit. You can wear either water shoes or snug sandals, but you probably don’t want to go barefoot. Don’t forget a good sunblock!

Hiking: For hiking, you need comfortable, stretchy or loose-fitting clothes. Hiking pants are the way to go, as they’re made of non-chafing materials that are oftentimes waterproof and very breathable. Opt for a quick-drying athletic top as well, that isn’t going to be sweaty and hot. Depending on the time of year, you’ll either need hiking shoes or boots.

Horseback Riding: Horseback riding is an activity many people engage in while in Alaska. Make sure you have on jeans , which offer protection and durability. Fitted clothing is ideal for safety purposes, but will also end up being more comfortable. Closed-toe shoes are an absolute must – after all, you’re going to be around horse hooves.

What NOT to Bring on an Alaskan Cruise

1. don’t bring books.

Rather, go for a Kindle instead. These are more compact, and you can bring a lot more reading material than if you were to bring physical books.

2. DON’T Bring Unnecessary Valuables

The more you can avoid valuables getting stolen or lost, the better. When it comes to valuables, just bring the essentials.

3. DON’T Bring Too Many Clothes

Don’t bring a lot of clothes, but do bring the necessary layers. At least one set of thermal underwear/warm base layers is important.

4. DON’T Bring Gear You Won’t Use

Most gear you’re likely to be able to rent in Alaska – especially if they’re outdoor sports/activity gear.

5. DON’T Bring a Bath Towel

Smaller microfiber towels are great, but a bath towel just takes up unnecessary space and holds a lot of water.

6. DON’T Bring Lots of Cash

Relating back to the unnecessary valuables, if you get cash stolen from you, there’s not much recourse to get it back.

While in Alaska, we recommend the vast majority of your clothing to be stretchy. Jeans we know are a bit more rigid and are great for activities that require less range-of-motion, lots of walking, or moving of your legs. As you’re likely going to be moving around quite a bit, you need clothes that will move with your natural movements. Heels are not the best idea, due to the wetness and iciness throughout the better part of the year. Always wear layers, as the weather can change so suddenly, that you’ll need to remove and add layers regularly.

Travel FAQs and Alaskan Cruise Tips

1. what is the weather like in alaska.

There’s never really a time of year when Alaska is hot. Even in the summertime, it’s relatively cool and enjoyable with a light jacket. The weather is the most enjoyable during this time of year. There’s plenty of sunlight, clear skies, and warm weather. It’s also an excellent time to see wildlife. Winters, on the other hand, are long, frigid, and snowy. They can be great if you’re interested in snow sports like skiing, snowboarding, or dog sledding.

2. When is the best time of year to visit Alaska?

July is the best time of year. The wildlife are out in all their glory, all the best trails are accessible, days are longer, and this tends to be the warmest month.

3. How can I get around Alaska?

You can travel within Alaska by various modes of transportation: plane, cruise, ferry, train, car, motorcycle, or bus. If traveling between major cities like Fairbanks, Anchorage, or Juneau, you can go by air. A cruise is many people’s way to see Alaska as you get to see a little bit of everything and cover large distances comfortably. You’ll get to experience wildlife and tour quaint towns.

4. What are the best places to go in Alaska?

The aforementioned cities are all great options. Seward, Kenai Fjords, Ketchikan, Glacier Bay National Park, Homer, Katmai National Park, and Denali are all top selections, too. They’re absolutely beautiful with their impressive flora and fauna.

5. What are the best things to do around Anchorage?

The options are endless! Check out glaciers, learn about native Alaskan cultures, ride the railroad, try biking down the coastal trail, go flightseeing over the natural scenery, fish Ship Creek, go whale watching, check out old gold mining/panning areas, hunt for the Northern Lights, try dog sledding, watch the midnight sun sunsets/sunrises, try the local fare (king crab, halibut, salmon), and visit national parks!

6. What national parks are in Alaska?

Denali, Kenai Fjords, Katmai, Lake Clark, Wrangell-St. Elias, Gates of the Arctic, Glacier Bay, and Kobuk Valley.

7. How can I save money when visiting Alaska?

First, select the right season. In summer almost everything is more expensive. However, May and September aren’t too frigid and you can still save some cash. Avoiding hotels in the city may save you some money, too. Plan activities that are close to one another. Try public transportation or try taking a bus instead of renting a car.

8. What kinds of wildlife does Alaska have?

Bears, moose, whales, birds, caribou, red fox, grey wolves, musk oxen, mountain goats, lynx, and much more.

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What To Wear on an Alaska Cruise

Finding what to wear on an Alaska cruise can be a challenging endeavor. You might encounter varying climates and need different shoes and clothing items depending on the shore excursions you plan to book. When you sail with Norwegian, you don't need to worry about formal attire on top of all the cold-weather clothing you need to bring.

Deciding what to wear also depends on the locations and time of year you're cruising in Alaska. Are you booking an inside passage cruise or a cruise and land combo tour? You might pack differently if you're spending extra days on land.

Weather can change quickly in Alaska. Juneau can get down to 30° Fahrenheit in March, with a high of 65° Fahrenheit in July. High temperatures in Ketchikan range from the high 40s in April to the high 50s in September. Fairbanks is often warmer during the summer, with July temperatures in the low 70s.

Here's what you need to know about what to wear on an Alaska cruise vacation so you can start planning.

Ready to start planning? Explore all Norwegian Alaska cruises .

Cruise Casual on Norwegian

Norwegian ships call for "cruise casual" attire on board during the day. A warm-weather itinerary might include shorts and flip-flops by the pool. However, an Alaska cruise can get chilly, even during the summer. Rather than wearing shorts and sundresses, you might opt for long pants and long-sleeved dresses. Examples of cruise casual attire include:

• Capris or long pants.
• Trousers or khakis.
• Tops and sweaters.
• Polo shirts.

You aren't likely to be wearing shorts or beachwear much, if it all. However, you should still consider thin clothing items you can layer in the event the weather warms. We still recommending packing bathing suits so you can enjoy the onboard hot tubs or get in the pool at the Spa Thermal Suite ( on select ships ).

Remember, nights on board will be even colder, so you'll also want plenty of cold-weather items. You can minimize your luggage by trying to pack apparel you can mix and match, such as tops and bottoms in the same color family. Bring clothing items you can use for multiple occasions. For example, a loose pair of black jeans could work over thermals for an excursion and then pair with a nice top for evening dining.

Specialty Restaurants Attire

If you plan to dine at the upscale specialty restaurants, you'll want to follow the smart casual dress code. Appropriate attire can include:

• Nice pants or capris.
• Sweaters and long-sleeved shirts.
• Blouses and skirts.
• Boots, dress sandals, or heels.
• Collared shirts or polo shirts.
• Closed-toe shoes.

Children 12 years old and younger can wear nice shorts to any of Norwegian's onboard restaurants.

RELATED CRUISES: 7-Day Alaska: Glacier Bay, Skagway & Juneau 9-Day Cruise Alaska: Hubbard Glacier, Skagway & Juneau 7-Day Cruise Alaska: Hubbard Glacier & Skagway to Vancouver

What Can't You Wear in the Dining Rooms?

Norwegian has very few rules on what you must wear, but some clothing items are prohibited in the dining rooms and specialty restaurants. These items include swimwear, baseball caps, sun visors, flip-flops, and men's tank tops. You cannot wear faded, ripped, or holey jeans. Swimwear (with a cover-up or shirt) and footwear are only allowed in the buffet and outdoor casual dining spots.

Norwegian's Themed Nights

You'll likely have one or more themed nights on your Alaskan cruise. Norwegian's Night Out is the perfect night to dress up if you want to bring evening or formal attire. This event is our version of a "formal night" but more fun! Don't forget we have the portrait studio on board. If you're dressing up, why not schedule a session with our photographers?

What To Wear on Alaska Shore Excursions

Packing for Alaska cruise shore excursions can be the most daunting. If you book your desired excursions prior to your cruise, the listings will tell you if you need specific equipment or clothes. Don't forget about proper footwear. Having the appropriate shoes for the adventures you book is crucial. You can't wear flip-flops to walk on a glacier, for example.

Layering is crucial when visiting Alaska. You need clothes that allow you to adapt should the weather take a sudden turn. Items you should always consider on a cold-weather destination such as an Alaska cruise include:

• Long- and short-sleeved T-shirts.
• A puffer vest you can layer over a long-sleeved T-shirt.
• A lightweight, insulated jacket.
• A waterproof rain jacket.
• Mock turtlenecks.
• A lightweight scarf and a heavier one should the temperatures drop.
• Base layers made with insulating fabric.
• A beanie and gloves (consider ones that allow you to operate a smartphone).
• Comfortable and loose-fitting pants you can put base layers under.
• Zip pants that can transform into shorts, particularly if they're waterproof.
• Wool socks.
• Wicking socks for excursions, which will help keep your feet dry.
• Waterproof boots or shoes.

Bring one or more hats for your Alaska cruise shore excursions. While the weather might be chilly, it's likely going to be very sunny too. You might find your scalp sunburned after a day out, which can make for an uncomfortable rest of your cruise. Don't forget good sunglasses either! Polarized types can help cut down the glare from the sun or snow.

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Have you decided which Alaska cruise itinerary is best for you and your travel companions? If not, be sure to sign up for emails to get the latest cruise deals and special offers delivered right to your inbox.

Where are you cruising next? Let us know in the comments!

EDITOR'S NOTE: This article was originally published on June 6, 2022. It has been updated to show related content and itineraries.

What to Pack for Alaska Cruise in August: Ten Days, One Suitcase

Cruise , North America Packing Lists , Travel Packing Lists

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An Alaska Cruise is the trip of a lifetime; In fact, it’s like two trips! I discovered that the only way I could make sure I had everything I needed for the variety of things we had planned was to create two small capsule wardrobes: one for the shipboard activities and one for the onshore adventures.

Read my tips on what to pack for Alaska Cruise in August and find out how to be glamorous aboard, an outdoors-woman ashore, and comfortable the whole time (in just one suitcase)!

What to Pack for Alaska Cruise in August

Written by: Wendy Craig

Packing for a cruise can be confusing and tricky. Perhaps when you learned there would be formal nights onboard, you had nightmarish flashbacks to ill-fitting prom tuxes and figure skater-style sequin dresses.

Don’t worry–being ultra-casual won’t be a hindrance on your cruise, and you can fit in with the formal dining nights with ease. While people certainly rock formal wear, my goal is to pack carryon only for the flights to and from the cruise terminals and to make sure my clothes are versatile as possible.

Creating an  interchangeable capsule wardrobe is the key to simplified packing, which can easily fit into a carryon suitcase with the help of packing cubes to compress your clothing!   

Start by reading these general tips for packing for a cruise:

• 10-Step Guide to Packing for Any Trip
• What to Pack for a Cruise Vacation
• What’s in My Carry-on Bag for a 2-week Cruise
• What to Pack on a Cruise: 7 Things to Bring and What to Leave Behind
• Understanding the Cruise Dress Code
• 10 Unexpected Things You’ll Experience on a Cruise

The key to planning   what to pack for Alaska Cruise was bringing tops and bottoms that could (almost) all be worn together. (The yoga pants get a pass because, hey, they are yoga pants; perfect for lounging about, hitting the climbing wall, and sleeping in!)

In two parts:  15 total clothes pieces, 4 shoes, 1 rain coat, 1 hat, 5 accessories

CASUAL CAPSULE WARDROBE

4 TOPS: 1  Wicking T-shirt , 2 T-Shirts , and 1 Yoga Tank 3 BOTTOMS: 2 Jeans and 1 Yoga Pants 2 LAYERS:   Fleece Jacket and Sweater  (similar) 2 OUTERWEAR: Raincoat and Wool Hat 2 SHOES:  Hiking Boots and Slip-On Sneakers

Here are our readers recommendations for the best shoes to wear on your Alaska cruise !

FORMAL CAPSULE WARDROBE 

3 TOPS:  Peplum Blouse (similar),  Cream Sleeveless ,  Black Nude Lace 1 SKIRT: Maxi Skirt 1 FORMAL: Maxi Dress 2 SHOES:  Heels and Flats 2 EARRINGS 1 SWEATER: Cardigan 1 PURSE: Wristlet 2 SCARVES: Scarf and Wrap

When planning what to pack for Alaska Cruise in August, the easiest way to use your Capsule Wardrobe is to write out both your itinerary and each corresponding outfit by day. For Example:

Day 2: At Sea

• Morning: Yoga, Climbing Wall, Breakfast (Yoga Pants, Tank, Fleece, Black Sneakers)
• Afternoon: Enrichment Lecture, Reading, Lunch (Change into Black Jeans)
• Evening: Formal Dinner, Dancing, Music in the Lounge (Gown, Heels, Earrings, Pashmina & Clutch)

Day 3 Ketchikan: Flight Plane Excursion

• Morning: Breakfast, Ashore to explore town  (Black Jeans, T Shirt, Grey Sweater, Hiking Boots)
• Afternoon: Flight Plane over Misty Fjords (Add Raincoat, Grey Scarf and Wool Hat)
• Evening: Dinner in Specialty Restaurant (Skirt, Peplum Top, Cardigan, Clutch, Black flats, Earrings)

My formal clothing was worn each evening as per the cruise dress code. I probably could have worn the same top for the semi-formal dinners, but it was more fun to have options. Each night after dinner, my husband and I would race back to the cabin to change into jeans and a sweater before checking out the evening activities.

I wore the same gown with a different scarf and earrings for our two formal nights. Although some people did not go all out, there were enough of us who did, making it very festive and totally glamorous; definitely worth the effort.

That being said, my casual wardrobe made up the majority of what I wore for this trip. I must say that I was pretty glad that I brought my little bottle of Febreze ; especially after our 9 mile hike to the Mendenhall Glacier and our horseback riding excursion!

Follow the rules of The Capsule Wardrobe . Stick with one color palette and make sure that you have a plan to wear the majority of your items at least twice. This will ensure that you have the perfect packing list for your Alaska Cruise Adventure.

What are your suggestions on what to pack for Alaska cruise in august? Comment below!

For more cruise packing tips, please read:

• What to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise
• What to Wear on a Cruise to the South Pacific
• Caribbean Cruise Wear Essentials
• What to Pack for a Transatlantic Cruise

Suggested Travel Resources:

• Lonely Planet USA and Canada on a shoestring
• Lonely Planet USA (Travel Guide)

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Hope you liked this post on what to pack for Alaska cruise in August. Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Author Bio: Wendy Craig is a transplanted New Yorker living in the Pacific Northwest. Her wanderlust comes from a lifetime of Nomadic travel (Having lived in 14 different places across the US and Australia before graduating from High School) She has a passion for discovering the authentic and looks at each trip as an opportunity to see the world with new eyes. From researching to writing checklists, planning to packing, Wendy is in Love with every step of the Travel process.

37 Comments

Did you not need a packable down jacket?

I will be following these recommendations closely, I’m excited to have an Alaskan cruise on my itinerary for May 2024!

As many have stated above, layers, layers, layers! We did a 10 rail tour of Alaska in June, and wore everything from shorts and tank tops to hats/scarfs, mittens and long underwear. The weather is SO variable, depending on where you are in Alaska. Everything was super casual, even at dinner so that made it much easier. I did “dress” for dinner one night on our anniversary, which just consisted of wearing my clean jeans and a nicer top with a cardigan. ENJOY! Alaska is beautiful!

This information helped me decide what I would bring on our Alaska cruise. I dressed more casual on this trip than a Caribbean cruise.

Great ideas. Just returned from a JulyAlaskan Expedition cruise with Lindblad. 2 weeks and carryon only . My list was a little different as we spent lots of time hiking and on the zodiacs, and never “dressed” for dinner. Lots of layers and wool socks( my Bogg boots were my best friends).

Wish I would have had this before my Italy and Great Britain trips. Will definitely help me on my next excursion to Alaska. Found the tips and suggestions very helpful. Will definitely follow from now on for future trips. Especially now that I’m traveling solo. Will save the need for all that heavy luggage.

Thank you Wendy, Alex and bloggers for tips on packing for an Alaska cruise. Splitting the packing cubes in two – dress up and excursion was genius. Just got back from our cruise and all the rest in our group were so jealous that I could pack carry-on for the trip. Layering was definitely the key. We went from 80’F to 49’F over the week. For dress up nights everyone was pretty casual on our cruise so one of your flexible bottoms and a nice top would be perfect. Pack good waterproof shoes for excursions. Thanks again.

I just got back from a cruise to Alaska and had a great time! I looked here for ideas of what to pack before I went. Thinking of packing two capsule wardrobes was so helpful! I felt I had exactly what I needed and didn’t overpack like I usually do. It was so nice to be able to easily get through the airport and onto the ship with just carryon!

I’m leaving for Alaska in a month! This will be so helpful!!!

I should have rread this before article before I went on my cruise! Of course, both my Husband and I overpacked and also had lost luggage on our return trip. If we would gave each only taken a carry-on, we would have been able to enjoy our travels so much more. I will be back to research Travel Fashion Girl the next time we travel!

My husband and I are leaving for an Alaskan cruise that departs from Vancouver the beginning of September for a week. We will also have 3 days in Vancouver first. I’m a mess regarding packing for this trip. These wardrobe tips are helping me to begin organizing my thoughts for what to pack. Please let me know if you have any further suggestions. Thank you!

Thank you! An avid cruiser, part of the whole experience for me is to have as many different outfits as possible. I use your same strategy but on a much larger scale! Everything is a mix and match color palette and all goes together. I have found that I wear more casual pieces, shorts and t-shirts, than I do dressy pieces, as I also run back and change after dinner! Since we don’t go out much (ie, ever) i love the dressing up process on a cruise, probably the main reason that we like to cruise. I also do a rough plan for each day and each adventure. Thank you! (We also live in the PNW)

So glad you found this guide helpful Daryl, happy travels!

All this information is wonderful! Thank You so much

That is so amazing to hear, so glad it helped. Have an amazing time on your travels Laura! 🥰

Thank you so much for the helpful packing tips! Like another reader, I am traveling to Norway in July for a Norwegian Fjords cruise. The idea of two wardrobes – one for day and one for night – makes so much sense on a cruise! I have an LBD and a couple of other dresses for evening as our cruise doesn’t really have formal dining. My plan of hiking shoes and pants/skorts for day seems to be doable. So glad to see a visual of this capsule wardrobe!

Thank you so much for your feedback Gina, we are so happy to hear that you have found this helpful. Have the most incredible time on your travels ❤

We are cruising for a week to Seattle on July 21 (after spending a preceding 3 weeks in Anaheim/Palm Springs/PCH/Yosemite/PAC NW starting July 3!). Since we are flying from Florida for a month, my goal is to pack carry on only for both a long California vacation + Alaskan cruise. I also want both of my kids and husband to do the same, although I’m less optimistic there. This article was helpful, particularly (a) writing out all the outfits to go with the cruise itinerary, and (b) the small febreze bottle suggestion! Thank you TFG for all your packing lists and articles – been enjoying them since 2013!

Hi Sandy, so pleased we have been able to help you with your packing!! Have an incredible time on your trip, sounds so exciting!! ?

Great ideas. What changes if any would you make for an early May cruise to Alaska? Thanks

Hi Amy, so pleased you enjoyed the article. Thanks for your question! We’ll share your question here so the author of the article can reply 🙂

Thanks for this list! I’m going on a cruise to Alaska in a month and this list will be very helpful. Thanks!

In 15 days cruise to Alaska 10 days. Thanks I thought this wardrobe out , I am packing just like you shared . woohoo excited for adventure.❤

Grateful for this list! I’m cruising the Norwegian Fjords in September and this is easily adaptable to my trip. I’m still stressing a bit about it since the weather can be very changeable plus we’re on a small ship where the dressing for dinner each night is required. Eeek! I have found a great LBD plus a couple of wrap dresses & a shift dress that don’t wrinkle. I think I’ll just recycle those for the entire trip (4 dresses total). LOL

Yes, recycle those dresses and add a colorful pashmina and costume jewelry to change the look. You can even add a light cover up 🙂

Great ideas… thanks so much for the tips. My husband and I will be cruising to Alaska for 7 days this July in between other travels to the Pacific northwest (we’ll be gone a month). Your suggestions are very doable. Since we’ve retired, I’ve been working on developing a travel wardrobe made up of three colors – navy, gray, and purple/raspberry, so your examples were pretty right-on. Was there anything you wished you had that you didn’t bring?

That sounds like a great plan Janis! The article was written by a guest author, I haven’t been on this cruise unfortunately. I hope you have a great time 🙂

Hello, I am about to go on an Alaskan Cruise in the end of June. Any suggestions?

Help…I’m planning on a cruise to Alaska, leaving on May 29th. Will be on the Carnival Legend. Will be doing some sightseeing off ship and want to be dressed nice, not formal for dinner. What do I need to pack for this type of vacation?

Thanks for the tips. It was helpful for our Alaska cruise.

That’s awesome Muriel! Glad to help! Anything we should change?

We are going to Anchorage, Seward and Denali for 2 weeks! I leave in 6 days! Any ideas for layering? I like what you have shown on this website. We are not doing the cruise. Five days is going to be fishing. I won’t be fishing but I will be on the fishing boat. And how cold will it be near the glaciers? I want to be comfortable and not cold or wet. Should I wear elastic pants? lol

This sounds like a great trip 🙂 Take a look at this post for layering ideas http://bit.ly/2a93zi4

Thank you so much for these graphics and tips. I am packing for cruise/ two weeks in Northern Isles including Iceland. After much perusing of web, I landed on your page. Very helpful!

You are so welcome 🙂 Glad you’ve found the page useful!

please make a list for visiting Dubai in early April.

Hi there! I’ll add it to the list 🙂

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My Itchy Travel Feet

The Baby Boomer's Guide To Travel

Don’t know what to pack for an Alaska Cruise? Our Alaska Cruise Packing List to the rescue!

This article may contain referral links. Read our DISCLOSURE

Are you worried about what to pack for an Alaska Cruise? Don’t let that angst ruin anticipation of a wonderful trip. I’ve packed for plenty of Alaska cruises, including Seabourn, Regent, and UnCruise. This article will show you what to pack for excursions and evenings on the ship.

Too many folks become caught up in worrying about packing for an Alaska cruise. With my practical Alaska cruise packing tips, you’ll look forward to your cruise rather than dreading preparing for it.

Table of Contents

What to wear on a cruise to Alaska?

What to pack for an Alaska cruise? I’m asked this question a lot. And my answer is always the same: not as much as you think.

With the typical Alaskan cruise ranging from one to two weeks, your Alaska cruise packing list should include clothing layers for outdoor fun with mix and match outfits for evenings, including formal night—if the cruise will have one.

In fact, as couple travelers, you and your partner could probably manage with one checked bag between you, a rolling carryon for her plus a personal item bag. He’ll be fine with a backpack, which you can also share on those fabulous Alaska cruise excursions . This advice remains the same for solo travelers, too.

And, if you’re an especially efficient packer, there’s no reason why you can’t pack your Alaska cruise attire into a rolling carryon , even when including cold weather gear .

Remember, lightweight, layered clothing is your friend. I traveled for 21 days in China using only a rolling carryon and a personal item bag. You can do it, too!

What to pack for a 2-week Alaska cruise

If you read my luxury cruise reviews here at My Itchy Travel Feet, then you know that I love to bring fancy cruise wear for dressing up on cruises. But that’s not the case for Alaska, where the cruise is all about active travel fun. Here are my suggestions for what to pack for a two-week Alaska cruise:

Daywear for Alaska

When it comes to what to wear during the day on an Alaska cruise, I opt for layers with items that will work well on the ship or on excursion. Even on scenic cruising days, I know that I’ll be outside on deck admiring Hubbard Glacier or another beautiful Alaskan scene.

Alaska weather is changeable. You never know if it will be cloudy and cold, sunny and warm, or rainy and whatever. Packing an assortment of layers that dry quickly—no bulky clothing allowed—prepares you for any situation.

Cute Alaskan cruise outfits for casual nights

In Alaska, most of the nights onboard ship will be designated casual night—elegant casual, country-club casual, whatever term the cruise line uses. And that’s just fine with this baby boomer.

With so many outdoor adventures, Alaskan cruises are busy enough that there’s not a lot of time for night life. I mainly wear pants because I look better in them rather than skirts or dresses.

Boomer Travel Tip

Know your style and what looks best on you. For me, the mix and match clothing at Chico’s or J.Jill is perfect for cruises.

Accessories are an easy way to extend the life of an outfit, making it feel different each time that you wear it. A scarf or eye-catching necklace can instantly change your look without adding bulk to luggage. 

Alaska cruise formal nights

Although Alan and I love dressing up for formal nights, we leave the dinner jacket and long gown at home when cruising to Alaska. In fact, we’d do the same on any 7 to 14-day cruise. During port-intensive cruises, there’s not enough time on ship to make bringing the formal wear worth it.

I’ll pack a pair of dressy black pants, sparkly top and shoes, especially if I’ve adhered to the two pants/five top/1 par of shoes list I mentioned for casual nights in the packing list that follows. If you really want to cut down on clothing, wear the black pants from elegant casual night in place of an additional pair of dressy pants.

For an Alaska formal night, Alan wears a sport coat and dress pants or khakis, perhaps without a tie as they are usually optional. He’ll bring one, though, just in case he changes his mind.

No need to worry about formal nights on an expedition cruise because there aren’t any.

Two-week Alaska cruise packing list

Do you need help packing for your Alaska cruise? Check out my  Alaska cruise packing tips .

Here’s a packing list that should cover a 2-week cruise in Alaska. Feel free to print this out. One of these days, I’ll create a fancy downloadable for you (once I learn how) so stay tuned.

• 1 pair water resistant safari pants . On 14-day Alaska cruises, make this 2 pair of safari pants.
• 1 pair jeans for on the ship or walking around ports. Don’t wear jeans on active excursions, especially if you’ll be around water or where it might rain. Nothing is worse—or colder—than wearing soggy, wet jeans.
• 2 safari shirts that go with safari pants or the jeans. On warm days, roll the sleeves up.
• 2 long-sleeve crew-neck shirts (or turtlenecks) to layer underneath safari shirts or to wear with a quilted vest. Or make this one long-sleeve crew-neck shirt and one short-sleeve solid color tee, just in case the weather is warmer than you think it will be.
• Quilted sleeveless vest for layering with a long-sleeve shirt over jeans or safari pants.
• Fleece jacket , choose a colorful one for showing up against snow scenes in photos.
• Water-resistant jacket , same advice as for the fleece jacket—color rules!
• 1 set of thermal underwear. You probably won’t need these however they don’t take up much room so pack them anyway.
• Gloves, glove liners, hat, neck warmer, warm socks
• Shoe covers that have treads . Wear them on wet, muddy excursions or in port when it’s raining.
• Lightweight hiking shoes that can also be used for walking laps on deck. You can also use these for the gym in a pinch. Wear these shoes on travel day. 
• Comfortable pants/top for travel day (wear them to and from the cruise). This can double as an extra outfit for on the ship or port days.
• Two pair of pants: black and another color. Gray is good. Or if you’re in a summery mood bring white ones.
• Five tops—make one a cute summer sweater— that go with both pair of pants, which makes ten outfits. On a 14-day cruise, repeat 3 of your favorite looks. For 1-week Alaska cruises, three tops will do.
• 1 pair of shoes that will go with all outfits. Pewter flats are a great choice if you can find them.
• Optional: 1 pair of fancier black pants and sparkly top with appropriate shoes for formal night.

Expedition cruisers might consider bringing a heavier jacket, but check with your cruise line, first. Many small ship luxury expeditions provide a jacket to passengers.

Of course you’ll need room in luggage to bring it home. Alan and I always forget that part, which is why you’ll see us wearing ours through the airport.

Don’t forget these must-have items for an Alaska cruise

• Bathing suit for the hot tub, yes you’ll enjoy a soak while admiring the scenery. You’ll probably want to pack a coverup, or wear a t-shirt over your suit that can double as a workout top.
• Flip-flops or sandals for walking to and from the hot tub (or pool). Make them cute enough to double as daywear or nightwear shoes, especially if the weather surprises you with a warm spell.
• Baseball hat or sun hat for lounging on deck, on your balcony, or on a sunny wildlife watching excursion.
• 1 pair pajamas. I cheat here by wearing a t-shirt and shorts that I can also use in the gym. If they become sweaty, hand wash with TSA-approved laundry packets. Using the ship’s laundromat is another option, if your ship has one. That’s Alan’s job.
• Sunscreen to protect your skin from bright sun reflecting off snow. 
• Do you get seasick? I wear this motion sickness band in rough seas.
• Insecticide repellent towelettes for those pesky gnats, flies and mosquitos.  Citronella coils are another choice.
• And don’t forget your underwear. I’m leaving the amount and type up to you.

If you’re worried about sweaty clothing or spilling food on clothing, bring a package of laundry packets for hand washing clothes. That’s what I do. Of course that means the clothing that you bring should wash easily by hand, dry quickly and require no ironing.

If you’re cruising on an Alaska expedition ship, reduce this list by one pair of pants and 2 tops. The relaxed style of expedition cruising means you will wear less. Some adventure cruises are so busy that you’ll find yourself wearing safari pants and a top to dinner because there isn’t time to change clothes.

Alaska cruise shopping list

Is your Alaska cruise coming up quickly? This Amazon shopping list makes it easy for you to purchase what you need all in one place. Happy shopping!

Kirkland Signature Ladies' Water-Repellent Wind Resistant Softshell Jacket

I wear my red Kirkland Signature jacket on almost every adventure. The lining adds a bit of warmth, plus the outer shell is water repellent and wind resistant. It fits easily over a fleece jacket if you need to layer up for additional warmth.

Columbia Women's Benton Springs Full Zip Jacket, Soft Fleece with Classic Fit

Wear a fleece jacket over a turtleneck or henley shirt and you'll be warm enough for most Alaska cruise adventures. Slip a rain jacket over it to stay dry or for additional warmth. That's what I do!

Columbia Women's Saturday Trail Pant, Water and Stain Resistant

A trail pant that's water and stain resistant? Yes, please. What a perfect addition to your Alaska cruise wear.

Amazon Essentials Women's Mid-Weight Puffer Vest, Navy, Large

Layer a quilted vest over long sleeve turtleneck or short-sleeve shirt for those days when you don't need a coat but a little bit of warmth around your core makes for a comfortable cruise excursion.

Merrell Lightweight Hiking Shoes

Lightweight hiking shoes double as fitness shoes on my Alaska cruises. Although, with all the fun Alaska activities, who has time to work out in the ship's gym?

Waterproof Rain Boot Shoe Cover

Packing shoe covers that have treads is a smart move. These are perfect for covering lightweight hiking shoes rather than bringing heavy waterproof boots. And the treads provide sure footing.

EmeTerm Motion Sickness Band

When the seas get rocky, I put on the EmeTerm anti-nausea wristband. It really works! The motion sickness band is rechargeable and comes with conductive gel. Put this tiny tens-type unit to work on your seasickness.

Cliganic Mosquito Repellent Bracelets

Clignaic Mosquito Repellent Bracelets come in a 10 Pack. The DEET-Free bands are Individually wrapped making them convenient for travel. And the bands can be worn more than once.

And there you have it. As you can see, deciding what to wear on an Alaskan cruise doesn’t have to be complicated. This is one trip where you’ll be happy that you packed light.

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Alaska cruise guide: Best itineraries, planning tips and things to do

Alaska might be one of the most beautiful places in the world, but it's rugged and can be tricky to get around. Explore the Last Frontier by cruise ship, and you can travel to gold rush towns, glaciers, Alaska Native heritage sites and natural areas brimming with wildlife in comfort, even luxury.

When planning an Alaska cruise, you have many things to consider: when to go for the experience you're anticipating, which cruise line is best suited to your travel style, the best Alaska cruise ports to visit and which shoreside activities you want to prioritize. It's not the kind of trip you want to throw together at the last minute — especially since the best fare deals typically go to organized travelers who book early.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

If you're eager to spot bald eagles in the wild, ride a dog sled atop an ice field or pan for gold after a hearty salmon feast, an Alaska cruise is calling your name. Dive into The Points Guy's Alaska cruise guide for all the planning tips you need for your dream cruise up north.

Why cruise Alaska?

Most people have similar reasons for cruising Alaska. They want to admire its rugged beauty, seek out wildlife (such as eagles, bears and whales) and learn about its Native cultures and gold rush history. It's so far from the rest of the mainland U.S. that it's become a bucket list destination, especially for travelers looking to visit each of the 50 states.

One of the key reasons to cruise Alaska versus taking a land tour is to visit destinations along the Inside Passage that you cannot reach by road. Plus, many of the state's famous glaciers are best viewed from the sea.

If you want to see landlocked areas, such as Denali National Park, you can tack a cruise line-operated tour onto the beginning or end of your sailing for a seamless land and sea vacation. It's easier than fumbling with multiple train, bus, ferry and hotel reservations to cobble together the same trip on your own.

A cruise can also make an Alaska trip more affordable. Instead of taking a long and expensive flight to Anchorage or Fairbanks, you can choose a cruise that sails round-trip from Seattle or Vancouver (note, you won't be able to tack on a post-cruise land trip to Denali if you do this). Restaurant prices in Alaska can be high, but a cruise bundles meals, accommodations and transportation into one price that, with sales, can be cheaper than you'd think.

Related: Best Alaska cruise tips to help you make the most of your time aboard and ashore

When do cruises go to Alaska?

Nearly every major cruise line has a presence in Alaska from May through mid-September, with some offering sailings as early as April or as late as October. The season is short due to weather. Cold temperatures, icy waters and a long snowy season are not conducive to early spring and late fall cruises.

Alaska cruise weather can be chilly (in the 40s to 50s) first thing in the morning and at night. However, if it's a sunny summer day, temperatures can shoot into the 70s and even low 80s. It also rains a lot in Alaska; it's drier in the spring than in the summer.

When you want to go will depend on which activities you want to do, how you feel about cool weather and rain, and the price. Cruises at the beginning (April and May) and end (September and October) of Alaska's cruise season are generally a bit cheaper than those in June, July and August.

Related: Best time to cruise to Alaska

Best Alaska itineraries

Where do Alaska cruises even go? Most sail along the Inside Passage, a maritime route along the state's southern coast (and into British Columbia and Washington state) that weaves around the area's thousand islands. Some venture farther north into the Gulf of Alaska; these are often one-way cruises that begin and end at the ports near Anchorage.

Learn more about the best Alaska cruise itineraries for your next vacation.

Inside Passage

The Inside Passage is the most popular Alaska cruise route. Weeklong itineraries generally embark in either Seattle or Vancouver, British Columbia — though some itineraries originate in Juneau. A few lines, such as Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line and Cunard Line, offer 10-night Inside Passage cruises from Seattle or Vancouver.

Glacial ice carved this passageway long ago, and today, cruise ships and fishing vessels thread their way through the islets and channels to see some of the most spectacular natural sights in the world.

You'll find magnificent mountains (often snowcapped, even in the summertime), lush forests, waterfalls, fjords and calving glaciers. If it's marine life you've come to see, you'll find it in abundance, from whales and dolphins to sea lions and harbor seals. On land, you'll likely spy bears and Dall sheep while eagles, puffins and a host of seabirds circle above.

Many people trek to Alaska to commune with nature, but there's also history here that you shouldn't overlook. Shore excursions and onboard lectures will explain the cultures of the Indigenous peoples of Alaska, as well as more recent inhabitants from the Russian community in Sitka and the fortune-seekers who moved to Skagway during the Klondike gold rush in the late 1890s.

Popular Inside Passage ports of call include Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan, Petersburg, Haines and Skagway. Most cruises will visit three or four ports of call.

Additionally, you'll have one day spent cruising the Inside Passage and one focused on "scenic cruising," where you can enjoy the landscapes but won't go ashore. This is not nearly as boring as you might think since you'll see incredible sights like Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve or Hubbard Glacier .

One nice thing about the Inside Passage is how calm the water is because you're sailing between land masses. If you worry about seasickness, an Inside Passage trip is the best Alaska cruise itinerary versus a sailing where your ship transits rougher, open waters.

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler

Gulf of Alaska

If you book a weeklong Gulf of Alaska voyage, you'll also enjoy exploring parts of the Inside Passage and its ports that could include a mix of Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, Ketchikan, Haines and Icy Strait Point.

You'll have up to two days of scenic cruising, in addition to sailing the Inside Passage. Because Gulf of Alaska cruises sail farther north, scenic destinations might include College Fjord, in addition to Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier.

Generally, these one-way sailings travel from Seward or Whittier (the cruise ports closest to Anchorage) to Vancouver (or vice versa). Most itineraries are seven nights, but you'll find a handful that are longer.

For these itineraries, you'll need to fly into or out of Anchorage and take a train or bus to/from the cruise departure ports, which can take an hour or two. You can book the transportation on your own or through your cruise line.

Gulf of Alaska sailings — especially those in late August and September — can encounter rough seas in the gulf portion of the voyage. Be prepared if you're particularly prone to seasickness.

Related: One-way Alaska cruises vs. round-trip: Which is best?

Longer sailings from the West Coast

Finally, you'll find some round-trip San Francisco itineraries — usually 10 or 11 nights long — as well as longer sailings between San Francisco and Vancouver. These cruises are best suited to travelers who love days at sea.

On a 10-night cruise, you'll have four sea days (for example, two days from San Francisco to Juneau) plus a day of scenic cruising at a spot like Tracy Arm (Twin Sawyer Glaciers), Endicott Arm, Hubbard Glacier or Glacier Bay National Park. The waters before you enter the Inside Passage can be calm, rough or anything in between, depending on when you go.

Ports on these longer sailings might include Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point and Victoria, British Columbia.

You can also find one-way repositioning cruises between Southern California ports (Los Angeles and San Diego) and Vancouver at the beginning or end of a ship's Alaska cruise season.

Related: The 5 best luxury Alaska cruises you can book right now

Cruisetours

Cruise lines understand that not all of Alaska's best sights lie along the coast. Denali National Park and the city of Fairbanks are well inland. And some coastal highlights, like the Kenai Peninsula, aren't typically visited on a seven-night cruise. So the cruise lines created their own "cruisetours": vacations that combine a weeklong cruise with a two- to seven-night bus tour.

On a cruisetour, you'll sail on a one-way Gulf of Alaska cruise, so your cruise starts or ends in Alaska. Depending on the tour itinerary you choose, you might visit Seward and the Kenai Peninsula, Alyeska, Talkeetna, Anchorage and Fairbanks — as well as spend one to three nights in Denali National Park.

Some lines also offer Alaska cruisetours that venture into Canada's Yukon, including a few Holland America tours that combine half a cruise with a cruisetour that starts or ends in Skagway.

Your tour might include a ride on the scenic Alaska Railroad . Some activities are included in the cost of the cruisetour; other outings can be booked like shore excursions, depending on your interest and budget. If you're hoping to see the northern lights, booking a cruisetour in September might be your best bet to see the aurora on a cruise vacation.

Related: The best credit cards for booking cruises

Best Alaska cruise lines

Most big-ship and luxury cruise lines send at least one cruise ship to Alaska every summer. Some of the best Alaska cruise lines are Holland America and Princess Cruises because they have especially long histories in the region and offer cruises, as well as cruise and land tour combinations, on multiple ships each season.

If you want a more active trip in less touristed areas, a great choice would be a small-ship expedition line, including Alaska specialists such as Alaskan Dream Cruises and UnCruise Adventures.

Ships in all price ranges sail a variety of itineraries, so don't let budget stop you from visiting. If luxury is what you're after, you can find lines that will go overboard pampering you on your journey north.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

Best cruise lines for extended trips to Alaska

If you want to cruise Alaska but also see some of the interior and enjoy a stay in a lodge or hotel, go for a cruisetour package from either Holland America or Princess Cruises. Both have fantastic itineraries that take passengers not only to the Inside Passage, but also to Anchorage, Denali National Park, the Yukon, Kenai Peninsula, Talkeetna and Fairbanks. Princess even owns a handful of its own lodges.

Best Alaska cruises for families with kids

Carnival, Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian, Princess and Royal Caribbean all have extensive kids clubs aboard their ships that cater to all ages, from babies to teens. Little kids will adore meet-and-greets with beloved characters onboard Disney cruises, or hanging with Dr. Seuss characters when sailing with Carnival. Older kids will love the rock climbing walls, video game stations, sports courts, go-karts and laser tag on Royal Caribbean and NCL ships.

Related: 6 best Alaska cruises for families

Best cruise lines for adventure-seekers

Active travelers might prefer expedition-style voyages on smaller ships that include more time for adventurous activities, such as hiking in the Tongass National Forest, wildlife and glacier viewing from Zodiac rafts or kayaks, or even overnight camping. These ships often feature complimentary shore excursions, kayaks and bikes for guest use and onboard scientists and naturalists.

If you've got active teens who have an interest in nature and the environment, an expedition voyage could be exactly what will keep them engaged and off their devices. Just expect the majority of your shipmates to be older adults.

Look to UnCruise Adventures, Alaskan Dream Cruises, Hurtigruten and Lindblad Expeditions for the best adventure cruises.

Related: Pros and cons of small-ship cruising in Alaska

Best for multigenerational groups

Sailing with grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles and kids? Try Celebrity Cruises, Holland America and Princess Cruises. These cruise lines, especially on their newer ships, offer something for everyone — as well as a higher caliber of onboard dining than on the cheapest cruises.

Kids can hang out in the youth lounges while parents hit the spa or try a wine-tasting class. Everyone can come back together for dinner and evening entertainment or onboard activities suitable for all ages.

Best for couples and big celebrations

The luxury cruise lines are your best bet if you're a couple and enjoy spacious suites, gourmet food, pampering (many luxe lines hire butlers to cater to every passenger) and the opportunity to meet other like-minded cruisers. The personalized service and all-inclusive nature of luxury voyages might also be attractive to anyone celebrating a milestone, such as an anniversary, big birthday or retirement.

Look at Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea Cruises and Viking.

Related: The best Alaska cruises for couples

Things to do in Alaska

Alaska cruises offer a wide range of activities in port, with options for active travelers, wildlife lovers, history buffs and shoppers. Whether you're traveling with young kids or require more sedentary recreation, the Alaska cruise ports won't disappoint.

Related: Best shore excursions on an Alaska cruise

Wildlife tours are available in every port. Hop a bus, kayak, boat or plane to look for bears, eagles, whales, sea otters and other wildlife. Note that moose don't regularly show up in the Inside Passage; you'll need to head farther north to find them.

Book a fishing trip to try your hand at catching salmon or halibut, or go out crab fishing for a glimpse into that type of work.

Active travelers can explore Alaska by sea kayak or canoe, hike on glaciers and through rainforests, zip line, bike, ride an ATV and even snorkel (you'll need a dry suit). You can even opt for a round of golf at the course in Haines.

In Alaska, sightseeing doesn't only take place on the ground. Floatplane and helicopter tours take you around scenic areas like Misty Fjords or land you on a glacier, perhaps for a dog-sledding or hiking adventure on the ice. If you prefer to stay grounded, you can find informative trolley tours of ports like Skagway.

Alaska cruises provide plentiful opportunities to learn about Native Alaskan culture. You can get a taste of the gold rush life by trying your hand at panning for gold, attending a salmon bake or visiting a dog-sled camp. A hike on the Chilkoot Trail or ride on the White Pass Railway lets you follow in the footsteps of the miners who came to seek their fortunes. Cap your day by trying out locally brewed craft beers.

Shopping abounds, and you can buy everything from diamond jewelry to T-shirts and other souvenirs. You'll need to look carefully for Alaskan-owned stores selling local handicrafts, but they're worth seeking out.

Related: 15 Alaska cruise mistakes you never want to make

Best Alaska cruise ports

The best Alaska cruise ports are also the most crowded because no matter which type of itinerary and cruise line you select, you'll likely visit a mix of the same ports. The immediate port area will be filled with tourist shops and eateries. If you want to see nature at its finest, you must book a tour or venture farther afield.

If you want to see some of Alaska's most rustic and charming villages or stick to wild places, book a voyage with a line like Alaskan Dream Cruises or UnCruise to visit destinations like Baranof Island, Chichagof Island, Petersburg and Wrangell.

Ketchikan is known for three things: Native Alaskan (Tlingit) totem poles, Misty Fjords National Monument and the city's distinction as the Salmon Capital of the World. The town has more standing totem poles than anywhere else in the state; see them at the Saxman Native Village and the Totem Heritage Center. Access the Misty Fjords by kayak, floatplane or scenic cruise. Fishing excursions are plentiful here, too.

Ketchikan is where folks go to see the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, with athletes wielding axes and saws in traditional lumbering activities. It is also the jumping-off point for a Bering Sea crab fishing tour.

Alaska's capital city is interesting because no road leads from here to the rest of the state. It's located at the base of Mount Juneau, and you can only get there via boat or small plane — even residents have to bring their cars to Juneau via ferry. Home to Mendenhall Glacier, this is a popular port for hikes by, kayak tours to and helicopter landings on the glacier.

For a view of the city and cruise port, take a ride in the sky on the Mount Roberts Tramway. Various wildlife-viewing trips (whale, bears and more) and visits to dog-sled camps and salmon bakes leave from Juneau.

If you're interested in Alaska's gold rush history, Skagway — 90 miles northwest of Juneau — is a port you shouldn't miss. In fact, it's the gateway to the Klondike and Dawson mining district in Canada's Yukon territory, where prospectors searched for gold in the late 1890s. The historic district still has a Wild West feel, though that's been a bit commercialized for the modern era. This port can get crowded in summer when several ships can call on the same day.

Skagway is an easy port for independent travelers who want to explore the town or go for a hike on their own. It's most famous as the terminus for the White Pass Railway into the Yukon.

Sitka is as much a working fishing town as it is a tourist destination. Sitka's Russian heritage also sets it apart from other Alaskan ports on your cruise itinerary. See St. Michael's Orthodox Cathedral with its onion dome and the Russian Bishop's House.

Before the Russians came, the Tlingit people settled here. You can learn about their history and culture at the Sitka National Historical Park and Sheldon Jackson Museum of Native Alaskan art. Wildlife enthusiasts might want to visit the Alaska Raptor Center, or go bird- and bear-watching.

The population of Haines remains less than 2,000, according to the United States Census Bureau, and it isn't yet as touristy as some of the other Alaskan ports, such as nearby Skagway. It's known for great fishing (salmon, halibut and trout) and an eagle preserve — because eagles know where the best fish can be found.

Animal lovers and kids tend to enjoy a visit to the Kroschel Center for Orphaned Animals here. For a special tour, go bear-watching at twilight.

Icy Strait Point

Icy Strait Point is notable among Alaska cruise ports because the area and its attractions are all Native Alaskan-owned. Most port and tour staff hail from Hoonah, Alaska's largest Tlingit village. The port is set on Chichagof Island, which is known for its large bear population. Wildlife lovers have plenty of opportunities to search for whales and eagles here; adventure-seekers won't want to miss the ZipRider, with its course of six zip lines.

Scenic cruising

Most Alaska itineraries include some "scenic cruising," where your ship sails past incredible natural sights. You'll rarely leave the ship during these sail-bys (unless you happen to be aboard certain expedition, luxury or small ships that offer the chance to get on board a skiff to get closer ... but, even then, you're still viewing these sites from the water).

Onboard naturalists generally narrate what you're seeing, so head to the observation lounge (or tune to a broadcast on your in-room television) to learn about some of the top sights featured on scenic cruising days.

Top scenic cruising destinations in Alaska include Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve , Hubbard Glacier, Tracy Arm (Twin Sawyer Glaciers), Dawes Glacier at Endicott Arm and College Fjord.

Related: Hubbard Glacier vs. Glacier Bay: Which is the better scenic cruising spot in Alaska?

When to book an Alaska cruise

The best time to book an Alaska cruise is when a cruise line first opens bookings on that sailing, often more than a year in advance. You'll have your pick of itineraries and cabins — balcony cabins are popular in this scenic destination — and often the best fares.

Because Alaska has such a short season with a limited number of ships and is a dream trip for many, cruises are in high demand and people plan early.

If you wait to book, you're not entirely out of luck. Cruise lines often run sales in the fall or in the early months of the year (a period known in the cruise industry as " wave season "). You can take advantage of discounted fares, free upgrades or complimentary add-ons, such as Wi-Fi, gratuities, restaurant meals, beverage packages and tours. Some of the most desirable cabins might be sold out; being flexible about your sail date or itinerary can help.

In general, waiting until the last minute is not the best idea, unless you live in Seattle or Vancouver and don't need to book flights. While some less preferred sail dates or cabin categories might be available a few months out, spurring cruise lines to drop rates, you might have trouble finding affordable airfare and pre- or post-cruise hotel accommodations that do not consume your cruise savings.

Related: When is the best time to book a cruise?

What to bring on an Alaska cruise

When it comes to packing for an Alaska cruise, your mantra should always be: dress in layers. On the same day, you might be warm in town but chilly on your tour to a glacier. If you plan on hiking, kayaking or riding on a dog sled, you'll need the appropriate activewear.

Definitely pack for rain; consider skipping the umbrella and instead bringing a wide-brimmed waterproof hat, rain jacket, rain pants and waterproof shoes or boots.

This is also the trip for a camera with good telephoto lenses and binoculars. For more on what to bring on an Alaska cruise, check out our Alaska cruise packing list .

Bottom line

An Alaska cruise is a memorable experience. The beauty of the land and its immense history; the thrill of seeing bears, moose and bald eagles; and the mysteries of the surrounding marine life will astound you. It's a trip worth taking the time to plan and doing right — because who knows if or when you'll make it back to the Last Frontier.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Help me choose: which Alaska Cruise is right for me?

Apr 23, 2024 • 7 min read

Taking to the water is a wonderful way to see Alaska's incredible coastline © Bala Sivakumar / Getty Images

Alaska's impressive southern coastlines contain hordes of island archipelagos, deep fjords and ancient glaciers. Nearly all of the area is roadless, so seafaring vessels, including cruise ships, are a popular way for visitors to experience these pristine areas.

Large cruise companies sail Alaska's Inside Passage from Seattle , Washington and Vancouver , and on through the Gulf of Alaska to Seward or Whittier. In between, passengers usually stop in Ketchikan , Juneau and Skagway , and then sail up College Fjord to see glaciers stretching their icy fingers into the sea. You'll see plenty of stunning scenery along the way but not up close – for most cruisers, it's more than enough to satisfy.

Smaller cruises max out at around 200 passengers and can nose into Southeast Alaska's nooks and crannies, launching skiffs and kayaks from their lower decks for an immersive shore visit full of exploration. These vessels may not stop in local ports, instead anchoring at night and offering guests the chance to hike a remote shoreline, whale-watch from a kayak or attend a presentation by indigenous artisans. If any ports are visited, they're likely to be smaller communities like Wrangell, Sitka, Petersburg and Yakutat.

Additionally, with the Northwest Passage now open to marine traffic, the northwestern city of Nome is a regular port of call for higher-end, midsize cruise lines to expose passengers to the rural reaches of coastal Alaska. The Aleutian Island city of Unalaska is also on some boutique cruise line itineraries, so check carefully that the region that sparks your interest.

Which part of Alaska should I choose to cruise?

For an overview of Alaska The standard Inside Passage cruise between Vancouver or Seattle and Seward or Whittier is an excellent choice, boasting beautiful scenery and the chance to experience a route taken by steamships of the late 1800s. You’ll get a snapshot of the Tongass National Forest , glaciers and the occasional whale or bear, but not up close unless you’re on a specific shore excursion. Holland America, Cunard and Viking all have cruises that fit this itinerary.

Taking a deep dive into Alaska’s coastal regions   Book a small ship cruise between Sitka, Ketchikan, and Juneau for a week or longer in the nooks and crannies of southeast Alaska. You’ll hike where there are no trails, paddle without another human in sight, and get to know the traditional lands of Alaska’s Coastal Native tribes. We like Alaskan Dream Cruises, UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions for smaller, more sustainable cruises.

To discover Alaska’s rich history You can’t skip Ketchikan, Juneau or Skagway on an itinerary. Juneau is the state capital and a former mining community. Ketchikan once was a major player in the timber industry and has a sordid past steeped in bootlegging and brothels. Skagway was a jumping-off point for the Klondike Gold Rush beyond Chilkoot Pass and has an old railroad to prove it. All three cities are often on large ship itineraries.

Explore Alaska’s most remote coastal areas Consider a luxury midsize (or smaller) cruise to places like Dutch Harbor in the Aleutian Islands or to the northwestern city of Nome. Both combine a look at the rugged, raw coastlines with time spent on shore in towns with few frills. Weather can often be cold, rainy and windy, but if you want a unique adventure in Alaska, check out the itineraries from Hurtigruten.

When should I go?

Depending on the cruise line, sailings begin in late April and continue through to early October. The most dependable weather typically appears in July and August, but that's also the most popular (and expensive) time; pick a trip earlier or later in the season for cheaper passage and shore excursions.

For spring and fall passengers, know that temperatures will be cooler than you might expect and variable types of precipitation, including snow showers, aren't unusual. In the summer, it's still cool on deck and near glaciers, so don't expect a lot of outdoor pool time or sunbathing on board.

If spotting wildlife is a priority, consider cruising during the salmon runs, when bears are most active and can be spotted from the decks of the ship. Humpback whales often follow schools of herring and other small fish during the summer and can be seen anytime between May and September before they migrate to Hawaii or Mexico .

How do I know my cruise line is operating sustainably?

While all travel has environmental and cultural impacts, cruising leaves its mark to varying degrees on Alaska's fragile ecosystems. The average large cruise ship can have a carbon footprint greater than 12,000 cars and produce up to a ton of trash each day. While there can be a positive economic impact on ports of call, a small community visited by 15,000 people per day during sailing season can intrinsically change.

The industry's trade group Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) touts a desire for "conscious cruising." They have guidelines for water conservation and upgrades to heating, air-conditioning and ventilation, with a goal for ships to be net zero by 2050. There is also a focus on respecting the cultural traditions of destinations through cooperative regenerative tourism that preserves a community's unique history, culture and values.

What kinds of activities can we experience?

Onshore activities differ depending on the size and style of the cruise. Traditional excursions are created to fit a specific number of people, all of whom come from the ships and are expected to be in port for a specific time. They provide an overview of Alaska's history, culture, recreation and industry, and don't offer much of a personal touch.

Smaller boutique cruises strive to immerse their guests in the wild Alaska they've researched and desire to experience. Trips to shore rarely involve large port cities except for embarking and disembarking – instead, they drop kayaks in the water from the ship or use a rubber skiff to reach a deserted shoreline for a hike. The communities they visit are usually smaller, like Petersburg, Wrangell or Haines.

• Glacier & Wildlife Tours: Cruise for a few hours aboard a smaller vessel to witness whales, otters, seals and icy glaciers.
• Dogsledding: Learn about mushing, huskies and the operations of sled-dog kennels before taking a spin behind a team.
• ATV Adventuring: Rev up for a wilderness or tundra tour aboard a four-wheeler or side-by-side vehicle.
• Flightseeing:  Take a unique peek at Alaska's landscapes from above, spotting wildlife, and ogling glaciers and mountain ranges.
• Alaska Native Traditions:  Learn the ways of Alaska's many tribal groups, with dancing, drumming and art displays as part of the program.
• Ride a Historic Train:  Skagway's White Pass Yukon Railroad climbs over Chilkoot Pass for a hands-on gold-rush history tour.
• Paddle Power:  Hop in a raft or kayak and explore Alaska's beautiful coastlines and rivers.

Need-to-know before you go

Plan for wet weather Alaska’s southeastern region is part of a rainforest, where wet conditions are the norm even in summer. Bring waterproof rain gear, sturdy shoes, a hat and gloves to stay warm and dry.

Know your physical limits If mobility or other health issues may affect your ability to enjoy a cruise to the fullest, consider traveling with a larger operator. These companies are well-versed in accessibility and have made accommodations for those with mobility needs. 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.

Plan your own shoreside activities There is no requirement to book excursions or activities through the cruise line. If a more independent style of exploration is your thing, feel free to do your own research ahead of time or visit each port of call’s visitor bureau upon arrival. Just be sure to adhere strictly to the ship’s boarding time. 

Look to shoulder season sailings Not only will you often receive a significant discount, you’ll also be able to witness Alaska’s seasonal transitions and fewer crowds at ports of call.

Know what "all-inclusive" really means:  Drill down into the details of your cruise and ask questions about meals, alcoholic beverages, activities and shore trips. It may be that a smaller cruise line will include everything at one price.

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The best Alaska cruises for every type of traveler

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Even with a season that only runs from April through October, there are some 40 big ships and dozens of small ships cruising Alaska , making it one of the most popular cruise destinations in the world after the Caribbean and Europe. The best Alaska cruises range from off-the-beaten-path voyages on vessels carrying fewer than 100 passengers to weeklong jaunts through the Inside Passage aboard megaships that hold thousands.

The itinerary choices are numerous in Alaska. Some ships stick to tried-and-true ports, sailing through Southeast Alaska and into western Canada. Others wander deeper along the Alaska coastline to places such as the Kenai Peninsula, north to Nome and Barrow and even deep into the Bering Sea.

Some trips hit multiple national parks; others dive into Alaska culture, allowing guests to learn the stories told by totem poles or hear about “the big one” from a fisherman at a dive bar.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG’s cruise newsletter .

It can be hard to figure out which ship will deliver your idea of a “bucket list” experience in The Last Frontier. A lot comes down to your travel style, preferences and budget. Some travelers demand luxury, while others don’t mind going less fancy if it means close encounters with bears and other creatures in the wilderness. Some look for romance, while others want to introduce the kids or grandkids to glaciers and eagles, gold panning and sled dogs.

The good news is there’s a ship in Alaska for you no matter your taste or style. Here’s a beginner’s guide to the best Alaska cruises to help you narrow down your choices.

Best for megaresort fans

Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean both sail some of their largest ships in Alaska. They are floating megaresorts, carrying thousands, and are big on amenities, glitz and a certain amount of glamor — think flashy casinos, Broadway shows, lavish spas. Dining and drinking venues number in the dozens, while amusement park features thrill the kids and adrenaline-seekers.

Norwegian Encore

On Norwegian Encore, you can race along a go-kart racetrack, compete in outdoor laser tag and zoom down slides at the water park while you traverse Alaska’s Inside Passage. The ship sails seven-night cruises from Seattle, visiting Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan in Alaska, as well as Victoria, British Columbia, and Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve .

Related: A beginner’s guide to picking a cruise line

Ovation of the Seas

On Royal Caribbean’s Quantum-class ships, you can order a drink from a robotic bartender, try simulated skydiving or surfing experiences and take a ride in a glass capsule that travels high above your ship on a mechanical arm — a weird and wonderful way to see the Alaska scenery.

Ovation of the Seas sails round-trip from Seattle on seven-night cruises, but the exact itinerary varies by week. The ship cruises Endicott Arm for scenic views of Dawes Glacier and typically visits three Alaska ports and Victoria.

Best for land and sea adventures

You’ve traveled far to get to Alaska, and it would be a shame to miss inland sights such as Denali National Park and Preserve and the sight of Denali, North America’s largest peak — so big it’s often shrouded in clouds caused by its own weather system.

Market leaders Holland America Line and Princess Cruises both send a half-dozen ships to Alaska each year, and they have 75 and 55 years in the market, respectively.

They top the list in terms of cruises, as well as cruise tours, which combine time sailing with overnight stays on land. The companies operate their own lodges, rail cars and motorcoaches for exploration of Alaska’s interior and beyond. Many of the ships have permission to sail in Glacier Bay.

Related: The coolest things to do on an Alaska cruise

Choose from 10- to 17-night land tours that combine a standard weeklong cruise (sometimes half a cruise) with time spent exploring Alaska’s interior by bus, train or even plane.

Holland America will base six ships in Alaska in 2024, with tour offerings to Denali, Fairbanks and Anchorage.

However, it also offers nine- to 14-night cruise tours on Koningsdam that head into the Canadian Yukon, following the route of the Klondike Gold Rush from Alaska to northwestern Canada. Disembark your cruise ship in Skagway, then travel to Whitehorse and Dawson City in the Yukon before continuing on to Fairbanks (the gateway to Arctic Alaska), Denali National Park and Anchorage.

Sapphire Princess

Princess Cruises offers a cruise tour where you visit four national parks: Glacier Bay, Denali, the Kenai Fjords and America’s largest national park, Wrangell-St. Elias. The 15- and 17-night trips combine a seven-night cruise on Sapphire Princess from Vancouver to Whittier, Alaska, with another week or more on land, ending in Fairbanks or Anchorage.

Best for travelers on a budget

Older ships in Norwegian and Royal Caribbean’s fleets tend to offer more reduced prices than you’ll find on the lines’ larger and newer ships, based on the fact the older ships don’t have as many bells and whistles.

Since they have so many ships in the market, Holland America Line and Princess Cruises also tend to offer frequent sales — especially on their older tonnage. These ships have a loyal following and tend to have fewer families on board, which some couples find particularly appealing.

Related: Best time to cruise Alaska

If you’re looking for other surefire ways to save, consider sailings in the area’s shoulder season. You’ll find better deals from April to early June and in September than you will in the height of summer.

Also, in Alaska, balcony cabins are highly desirable, with everyone seeking views of the wilderness, snow-capped peaks and glaciers. As those reserves get low, the prices tend to get higher. Bargain seekers should either book early for these accommodations or choose inside, outside or guarantee cabins (where you don’t pick your room location) to save more.

Radiance of the Seas

Royal Caribbean’s 20-year-old ship Radiance of the Seas mainly sails weeklong, one-way cruises between Vancouver and Seward, Alaska, with prices below $100 per person, per night, for inside and outside cabins on many departures.

However, its early-season May 2024 sailing from Seward to Vancouver is the cheapest Royal Caribbean Alaska cruise of the season. It starts at $368 per person for an inside cabin.

Grand Princess and Sapphire Princess

Princess Cruises has so many ships based in Alaska that you’re bound to find deals, especially on shoulder-season cruises. Both Grand and Sapphire Princess offer weeklong Alaska cruises in May 2024 starting from $548 per person for inside cabins. The itinerary starts in Vancouver and ends in Whittier, Alaska, with calls in Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway and scenic cruising in Glacier Bay and College Fjord.

Best for off-the-beaten-path travel

Want to see and deeply experience coastal Alaska, and don’t mind a mellower environment where lectures and impromptu guitar singalongs replace casinos and show productions? Consider lines such as UnCruise Adventures , Lindblad Expeditions and Alaskan Dream Cruises, all with ships that carry fewer than 100 passengers (and in the case of Alaskan Dream, even under 20 passengers).

On these small ships, captains have the flexibility to alter itineraries and linger if the naturalist onboard spots a pod of whales or bears digging for clams on a beach.

Small ships can go places bigger ships can’t, so itineraries stretch far beyond the traditional ports. You’ll visit more remote places such as Petersburg, a fishing town with strong Norwegian roots, and Wrangell, one of Alaska’s oldest communities. Some itineraries are conducted entirely in the wild, with no port calls at all.

UnCruise Adventures

UnCruise Adventures explores Southeast Alaska on seven-, 12- and 14-night itineraries. A day might start with a morning birding expedition, continue with a kayaking adventure and end with an evening campfire ashore. You might visit LeConte and Baird Glaciers (where the big ships don’t go), plus UnCruise has the only permits for hiking and biking adventures on Chichagof Island.

Lindblad Expeditions

Lindblad Expeditions frequents off-the-beaten-path destinations in both Alaska and British Columbia, with itineraries ranging from six to 15 nights.

Guests might explore the small fishing town of Petersburg or discover native petroglyphs on the beaches of Wrangell Island in Alaska, or search for grizzly bears in Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest. Lindblad has special permits to bring passengers into the wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve and the Tongass National Forest, beyond what the big ships can offer.

Alaskan Dream Cruises

Alaskan-owned Alaskan Dream Cruises’ ships carry 12 to 76 passengers to remote Native villages that rarely see visitors, with plenty of time for wildlife viewing far from the cruise ship crowds. Itineraries range from five to nine nights, from departure ports such as Sitka, Ketchikan and Juneau.

Best for families

If you’re traveling with your kids or grandkids in Alaska and want an activity- and entertainment-packed experience, target the newest and biggest ships of Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Carnival and especially Disney Cruise Line. All have excellent camp-like activity programs for kids, plus eye-popping amusement attractions.

Disney Wonder

On Disney ships, Goofy might make an appearance as you admire soaring eagles, blue icebergs and glaciers. The extensive children’s program, entertainment and such activities as water slides and play areas deliver what you would expect from the purveyor of dreams. Bonus: Cabins are designed with families in mind and include split bathrooms (one with a toilet and sink, the other with a shower/tub combo and sink).

Related: 5 best cruise lines for families

Discovery Princess

While lacking in whiz-bang attractions, Princess Cruises is another good choice, both for its children’s and teens program, complete with spacious facilities, and for such programming as bringing sled dogs on board, which is a hit with young passengers. The line’s newest ship, Discovery Princess, sails round trip from Seattle, a convenient U.S. home port for families to fly or drive to.

Carnival Spirit

Water slides, a partnership with Dr. Seuss and three hangouts for kids and teens make Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Spirit a great bet for families in Alaska.

The ship’s huge array of included quick eats — pizza, tacos, Guy Fieri’s burgers and unlimited soft serve ice cream — and casual atmosphere take the stress out of dining with the family. The ship sails round trip from Seattle on seven-night itineraries that call in Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan and Victoria, with scenic cruising in Tracy Arm Fjord.

Best for luxury lovers

If you envision sipping Champagne as you watch a glacier thunderously calve into the sea, consider booking one of the all-inclusive luxury cruise lines in Alaska: Seabourn , Regent Seven Seas Cruises or Silversea .

All these lines include ships that are experts at delivering gourmet cuisine and the other finer things in life in intimate, cushy floating environments. Additionally, all the lines are big on featuring lectures by experts, which provides passengers with a deeper insight into Alaska.

Itineraries tend to include the popular ports and beyond. You might, for instance, visit Wrangell and Prince Rupert, a port city in Canada, and linger in places such as the Misty Fjords and Prince William Sound. Seven- to 14-night sailings embark from ports such as Vancouver, Seward and Juneau.

Seven Seas Explorer

Regent’s 750-passenger Seven Seas Explorer is an all-suite ship offering guests in Alaska multiple gourmet onboard restaurants, all-inclusive beverages, free airfare and included gratuities. Many shore excursions are complimentary. Enjoy little luxuries, like an afternoon in the thermal suite of the two-story spa-and-fitness center, or really splurge out by booking the Regent Suite, the most lavish suite you’ll find at sea.

Seabourn Odyssey

The 450-passenger Seabourn Odyssey boasts an onboard expedition team and does a posh version of expedition cruising in Alaska, using inflatable Zodiac craft and kayaks.

Seabourn calls its program Ventures by Seabourn. Experts onboard these sailings include naturalists, biologists and other scientists who are members of the expedition team. Once guests finish communing with nature, they can indulge in complimentary Champagne and caviar on board or relish a meal created by famed chef, Thomas Keller.

Related: The 4 best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Best for solo travelers

Solo travelers don’t always have to pay double to cruise Alaska on their own. Several ships feature cabins designed and priced for one. Single cruisers should also note that luxury lines Silversea and Seabourn, while not cheap, do a great job of taking care of single cruisers, hosting them at dinner and providing easy opportunities to meet and mingle with other travelers.

Norwegian Bliss

The ships in Norwegian Cruise Line’s Breakaway and Getaway classes all have cozy studio cabins designed and priced for one person. Additionally, they’re located in a complex where a private lounge encourages mingling. Norwegian Bliss offers 82 solo rooms on its round-trip Seattle cruises that visit Dawes Glacier, Sitka and Icy Strait Point.

Quantum of the Seas

Royal Caribbean’s studio staterooms, on its Quantum-class ships in Alaska, give solo travelers the benefits of both decent space and balconies.

On Quantum of the Seas, choose a 101-square-foot inside cabin or a 119-square-foot ocean-view room with a 55-square-foot balcony. Either way, you get a full-size bed and plenty of space for one person. The ship sails a similar weeklong itinerary to sister ship Ovation of the Seas, round-trip from Seattle with scenic sailing along Endicott Arm.

Holland America offers ocean-view accommodations for one in Alaska only on Koningsdam. Measuring 127 to 172 square feet, these rooms come with a full-size bed and a picture window.

Koningsdam sails round trip from Vancouver to Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan, with scenic cruising in Tracy Arm and Glacier Bay. Its cruises can be combined into nine- to 14-night cruise tours to the Yukon and Denali.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Additional reporting by Erica Silverstein.

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