Best Time to Take an Alaska Cruise

When to Go for Glaciers, Wildlife, Weather, and the Best Prices

An Alaska cruise is unlike any other vacation. Towering glaciers, humpback whales, bald eagles, charming coastal towns, and breathtaking scenery make it one of the world's most unforgettable cruise destinations.

But when should you go?

The answer depends on what you hope to experience. Some travelers want warm weather and long daylight hours, while others dream of spotting bears catching salmon or seeing the first hints of the northern lights.

This guide breaks down Alaska's cruise season month by month so you can choose the best time for your perfect vacation.

Planning your Alaska cruise? Compare Alaska cruise itineraries, prices, and special offers before you book with CruiseDirect.

Alaska Cruise Season at a Glance

Most Alaska cruises operate from May through September.

Each month offers something unique.

Month Best For
May Lower prices, waterfalls, and snow-capped scenery
June Long daylight and pleasant weather
July Warmest temperatures and peak wildlife viewing
August Whale watching and salmon runs
September Fall colors, fewer crowds, and possible northern lights

May: Best for Lower Prices and Snow-Capped Scenery

If you're looking for beautiful scenery without peak-season crowds, May is hard to beat.

You'll often find:

  • Lower cruise fares

  • Fresh mountain snow

  • Powerful waterfalls

  • Fewer visitors

  • Excellent glacier viewing

Wildlife is becoming active, and the forests begin turning green after a long winter.

Average temperatures:


45°–60°F

Best for:

  • Budget travelers

  • Photography

  • First-time Alaska cruisers

June: Long Days and Beautiful Weather

June is one of the most popular months to cruise Alaska.

One reason?

The daylight.

Near the summer solstice, Alaska enjoys nearly 18–20 hours of daylight, giving you more time to enjoy glacier viewing, shore excursions, and wildlife.

You'll also experience:

  • Mild temperatures

  • Beautiful green landscapes

  • Active wildlife

  • Excellent whale watching

Average temperatures:



50°–65°F

Best for:

  • Families

  • Sightseeing

  • Outdoor excursions

👉 Compare hotel prices, availability, and traveler reviews on Expedia to find the perfect place to stay before your cruise.

July: Peak Alaska Cruise Season

July offers the warmest weather of the season.

It's also:

  • The busiest month

  • The most expensive

  • One of the best times for whale watching

Expect:

  • Busy ports

  • More children on board

  • Excellent hiking conditions

  • Comfortable temperatures

Average temperatures:


55°–70°F

If school schedules determine your vacation dates, July is an excellent choice.

August: Incredible Wildlife

August is a favorite among wildlife lovers.

Salmon begin returning to Alaska's rivers, attracting:

  • Brown bears

  • Bald eagles

  • Seals

  • Other wildlife

You'll also enjoy excellent whale watching throughout the month.

Rain becomes more common, so waterproof clothing is recommended.

Average temperatures:


50°–65°F

Best for:

  • Wildlife photography

  • Nature lovers

  • Whale watching

September: Beautiful Colors and Smaller Crowds

September marks the end of Alaska's cruise season.

Many travelers love September because it offers:

  • Lower prices

  • Fewer crowds

  • Beautiful fall colors

  • Crisp air

  • A chance to see the northern lights after dark (on land or before/after your cruise)

👉Browse top-rated shore excursions, sightseeing tours, and unforgettable experiences on Viator before your cruise.

Some excursions begin winding down later in the month, but you'll enjoy a quieter Alaska experience.

Average temperatures:


45°–60°F

Best for:

  • Couples

  • Budget travelers

  • Fall scenery

Best Time for Wildlife

If wildlife is your priority:

🐋 Whales: June–August

🐻 Bears: Late July–September

🦅 Bald Eagles: Throughout the season

🐧 Puffins: May–July

🐟 Salmon Runs: Late July–September

Best Time for Glacier Viewing

Good news.

Glaciers are spectacular throughout Alaska's cruise season.

Whether you cruise in May or September, you'll still experience towering blue ice, glacier calving, and breathtaking scenery.

Best Time for Budget Travelers

Generally:

🥇 May

🥈 September

These months often offer lower cruise fares while still delivering unforgettable scenery.

Best Time for First-Time Cruisers

If this is your first Alaska cruise, June is often the sweet spot.

You'll usually enjoy:

  • Comfortable temperatures

  • Long daylight hours

  • Great wildlife viewing

  • Plenty of available excursions

It's an excellent balance of weather, scenery, and activities.

What Should You Pack?

Alaska weather can change quickly—even in July.

Bring:

  • Waterproof rain jacket

  • Warm layers

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Hat and gloves

  • Waterproof backpack

Amazon Pick

A quality pair of waterproof binoculars makes glacier viewing and wildlife spotting much more enjoyable.

Recommended Amazon Picks:

Plan Your Shore Excursions Early

Some of Alaska's most popular excursions sell out well before sailing.

👉Browse our curated Viator collections for:

  • Juneau

  • Skagway

  • Ketchikan

  • Sitka

  • Icy Strait Point

  • Victoria, British Columbia

to find top-rated excursions before your cruise.

Final Thoughts

There really isn't a bad time to cruise Alaska.

Each month offers something different.

If you want lower prices, choose May or September.

If you want the warmest weather, choose July.

If wildlife is your priority, August is hard to beat.

No matter when you sail, Alaska delivers unforgettable scenery, incredible wildlife, and memories you'll talk about long after your cruise ends.

Related Articles

← Return to Home