Great tips! I thought it was cool the sun could rise at 4:30 AM, and set at 11:30 PM in May. The best tips I can give are get a alcony if possible, dress in layers so clothing can be removed or put on for the weather. A jacket should have a liner and be water-resistant. You stll need sunscreen and sunglasses for snow activities!
Thanks for the advice on the sunscreen. I have watched many videos but never heard that tip. I know you saved us money because now I know to pack it in the suitcase.
I have fair skin and burn easily, I have to be very careful. In Alaska, it seems to me the sun is stronger, even though it is cooler in fair weather and in snow. I think Alaska gets more direct sunlight in the Spring/Summer months.
When our girls are older, we'll go on an Alaskan Cruise. The nature there must be breathtaking. I'll probably spend a large part of the day on the balcony just watching in awe!
Don, I always suggest people take the cruise tour with the land part first and as many days as they can get. Also, a balcony cabin so they don't have to fight for railing space with others. If it takes an extra year of savings to afford the trip it will be worth it because for most people it will count as 2, the first and last time they will ever see Alaska. I used to live there and definitely agree with your comments about the amount of photography people will be taking.
the best excursion i ever took in alaska was in juneau. my mom and i took a whale watching tour on a smaller boat. we wete able to get into places the larger boats did not. we saw many whales,sime from a distance,some closer. the best was the last. a humpback came right up to the side of the boat. close enough to see barnacles on its nose and eye right even with the boat! scared the captain. it was great!!
I know this is an older video but I came across it today and really appreciate it. Very informative. We are headed to Alaska in June for the first time. Thank you for the info!!!
Great advice Don. We have been to Alaska twice. First time Vancouver 7 day inside passage round trip and we and our traveling companions were so impressed that we went again five years later, but took a land package from Fairbanks to Seward before the cruise south. OMG! What a vacation. Worth every cent. Would love to go yet again. Keep up the great work on your videos. All the best from Cuzzin Brucie, NJ.
Don, you are 100% correct that you will take a ton of pictures and video. I probably have more pictures from my 1 Alaskan cruise than from my 8 Caribbean cruises combined. Planning on going back on another Alaskan cruise in the next year or 2.
It was awfully cold when I went to Alaska in September. I'm going again in September of 2019! I LOVE the cold, especially when it's been hot all summer.
acapella - living in south FL makes it very easy to cruise to the Caribbean (Eastern, Western & Southern)! I’m about an hour away from Port Everglades in Ft. Lauderdale!! Easy to catch a cruise ship - but I still live going to Alaska & even New England/Canada!
Don This video nailed it!!! Was fortunate enough to do a Holland 7 Night Cruise with a 5 Day Land Package back in 2016 to Alaska, which included a three day/two nights stay in Denali. The wilderness trip into the park was amazing with the number of different animals and birds we saw that are native to the State. Your video brought back great memories, like the helicopter ride to the top of a glacier to take a sled ride pulled by actual Iditarod dogs, as well as the White Pass Train ride through the mountains. You were absolutely spot on when you said the scenery and the views were breath-taking which still understates how truly spectacular those things both are and seeing is believing. Neither words or pictures do either proper justice. As an added bonus, while on the dome train ride back to Anchorage, we were fortunate enough to join the "30% Club" by witnessing the majestic peaks of Mount Denali!!! Visiting Alaska has been a "Bucket List" item since I was a child, and the trip also enabled me to cross off the dog sledding as well! Amazingly, I am not a big nature guy, but even so, I must say this cruise/tour is out of this world unbelievable. As always, I look forward to your videos for both the entertainment, humor, and educational value that you provide. Continued Good Health To You, and Continued Safe Travels.
Thanks Don for all the tips. My family and I are taking an Alaskan trip next week! Super excited. I have been watching and sharing your videos for the past few months. I am so glad i happened upon your channel.
I have been to Alaska 2 times and it has never rained when I was there. I wish it would snow when I'm there. I love the snow. I was on Holland America both times. I wish Viking or AmaWaterways , or Avalon would go to Alaska. They would be the best ship to cruise through the inside passage in Alaska.
Great advice! Been 3x... 2 of the 3 we had heat waves. BUT we always carried (and they rolled up or tied to waist easily) nylon hoodie pullover jackets, in case of rain.. If there's anyway you can do a balcony cabin, you wont regret. Even an ocean view.. You can watch all the beauty go by from your stateroom and it's truly beautiful! Hope to book trip #4 soon...never gets old!
Hello Don, I am sorry but I strongly disagree with your comment on Norwegian Bliss not being a good ship for VIEWS. I have just been on the maiden transatlantic voyage of Norwegian Bliss and there are so many places to view the landscape: The Waterfront - what better place could there be to view the landscape? The Observation Lounge - they have a huge and totally new concept on this ship. And it's great and it's especially build to enjoy the views. A great place for cold or bad weather by the way ... The Spice H20 ... on Bliss it offers good a really good view. So yes you could enjoy the views from there too! Yes there is a go kart track but the ship is over 300m long and on both sides (one deck above the pool area) you have long and good places to watch the view. You even have hot tubs at the edge so you can even take the views out of the hot tubs. Or on the hot tubs at Spice H20 or at the hidden hot tub on deck 19 that is also available to all guests. The Garden Buffet is connected with the observation lounge and has a two stories high Window at the front ... Not to mention the lucky people in the Haven who have another Observation lounge and their own places outside with great views. You can go up to Lasertag and watch the Views from Deck 19 or 20 ... there are some of the best views! Other places like the Brew House have great panorama windows ... So all in all i am really sorry to say but your comment about the NCL Bliss is just as wrong as it could be. There might be things on the Bliss where you might feel or notice the amount of passengers. But you will never have problems with having enough places to enjoy the mountain, glacier or (if you are lucky) animal view in Alaska. I would even say that there are more, better and more advanced options especially for having the views than on some of the smaller ships. Besides that good video. No offense! Having done a lot of cruises on big and small ships and knowing the Bliss and the advantages of both types (big and small) I just feel the need to correct this one statement and the wrong picture about Bliss this could send out. If you like Norwegian, Bliss is a great option for Alaska. And one more information: the pools on the Bliss and the outside area at the pool can be heated. Also a feature especially made for those Alaska cruises. Best Regards Nicolas
Nicolas Funke reassuring to read what you had to say about the Bliss. We are on the 11th August Alaska cruise on the Bliss and chose it for its latest features. Fortunately we have a balcony cabin but it is nice to know that the ones who have opted for inside cabins, can also enjoy Alaska's natural beauty comfortably. Thanks.
@@nicolasfunke395 I'll have to look to see where Bliss sails from. Like so many who live in florida and are fortunate to take lots of Caribbean cruises, we've done Alaska several x out of San Francisco, and love it, but have done so much each time, dont feel the need to do excursions. Would love to have more to do on the ship. Love the Grand Princess (out of SFO) but it seems like it's time for an update!
Alaska is always amazing, no matter what the activities or weather as far as I am concerned. On the last day of the first part of a back to back and the weather has been all over the place. But up here in Alaska, roll with the punches and enjoy whatever mother nature sends your way. :)
Sailing toAlaska for 2 weeks in July, on HA Zaandam, from Seattle. The 2 couples I'm sailing with have taken this cruise twice. One piece of advice they gave me was to dress for the fall, and bring a raincoat. We will be doing 1day at sea and 1 day in port. Rain is no problem as I'm from BC. ⛴✈🚁☔🌧☃️⛈⛅🌤
Bring some summer items as well as it can be 80 on July but bring a change of cloths with you when off the ship in case the weather changes quickly like it tends to do :)
Our very first cruise was in May of 2018 to Alaska and It was Amazing!!!! 11 day round trip from S.F. Loved all the towns. When back in May of 2019 we did 15 day land/cruise with great friends we made on our first trip. We love Princess Cruises.
Thanks Don for the info We booked our Royal princess cruise to Alaska,this past March for next September from Los Angles round trip. You are right about booking early ,we booked midship balcony. Once a week I look at the bookings,And the better areas on the ship are selling already . We are really looking forward for this cruise. Our first time to Alaska.
Roger St martin - I’ve cruised thru Alaska 8 times, and New England/Canada twice - not at all the same! Both beautiful - but Alaska & it’s different ports are incredible!! The most amazing views!! Think of glaciers that no person has ever set foot on (saw them from a helicopter & floatplane)!! Love New England & I know New England gets snow & winter - but not the same as Alaska!
Hey Don - I got to meet my friends from Toronto on the Regal Princess this past January- they were friends I met thru RUclips & they always get out of Canada & cruise in January (they actually did a B2B)! I normally wouldn’t book a Caribbean cruise in January since I live in FL & it’s nice in FL in January- but I wanted to cruise on the Regal & I wanted to meet my friends!! It was great to meet them in real life - such a lovely couple!! Next January they’re doing the Princess Hawaiian cruise (but I’m doing the Scott Singer Alaska cruise in May - I’ll meet some more RUclips & FB friends)!
Don, veryhelpful...thanks for the itinerary comparison/difference. And recommendations. We hope to get to Alaska one day. Close friend grew up in Ketchikan. Gotta see it! -Reggie
Don been on two Alaskan cruises, both on Princess. You nailed it about everything! Water slides aren’t appealing up there, though hot tubs work out good.
We really enjoyed Holland America. Casual and elegant at the same time. The Eurodam has plenty of open deck space for viewing the scenery and glacier. Great experience, can't wait to go again!
Most Alaska cruises will have a stop in Victoria BC. Something I didn't know until we took a tour there is that Victoria is in a rain shadow because of the mountains and the weather is generally warm and dry. We were there in early June and it was in the low 80s. A bit uncomfortable wearing jeans and long sleeves since we didn't pack for warm weather! Inside passage was drizzly and chilly, but you will want to be outside as much as you can. I would love to go again.
Say what??? " A bit uncomfortable wearing jeans and long sleeves since we didn't pack for warm weather." If you're in jeans and long sleeves, you're packed for warm weather.
aHi Don. We went to Alaska on that Celebrity Solstice two years ago. You are right. It is unbelievably pristine and beautiful. Regarding the comment you made about rain, I’ve got one for you. The weather where I live had been very rainy and foggy for months on end. So we were excitedly waiting to embark on our 15 day Hawaii cruise this past April. Out of the 15 days it rained and we had gale force winds for 14 days. Just a note. We were on deck 10 of the Grand Princess. Because of the ship’s design, our balcony was 81 square feet Instead of the usual 35 to 40.
LOVED our Alaska cruise! But it was our most expensive cruise hands down. We fell in love with Alaska through our cruise and will move there when my husband retires! But you won’t see the Northern Lights on a cruise. Typically the Northern Lights are seen during the winter season when it is cold, dark, and clear. During the summer there is very little dark up there.
going on the Bliss in about 3 weeks (Sept 2019)cant wait....our 3rd trip to Alaska.....most relaxing cruise ever....sit back. have a tasty beverage and enjoy the amazing views
I have family who live in Alaska and it's beautiful up there! Please don't be a bone head tourist and mess with the Wildlife or get too close! You can get hurt or in serious trouble! Alaskans take their Wildlife protection very seriously!
Don's Family Vacations my Sister in law Joyce lives in Fairbank's and they have Moose that wander freely around and the locals know better than to mess with them! Well I guess a couple of bone-headed tourist wanted a selfie with the Moose and I guess the Moose wasn't having it and started to charge at the tourists! Luckily nobody was seriously injured just a couple of scrapes and bruises when they were knocked down! The Moose gave them a good warning to stay far away for now on! The Police didn't charge them the Police believed they learned their lesson! 😂😂😂
Hey Don - I first cruised thru the inside passage in 1990 & have been on a total of 8 Alaskan cruise (and I’m booked for May, 2019 - The Scott Singer group cruise)!
I've been on 4 Alaskan cruises and my wife's been on 5. We've only been on one Caribbean cruise, however the Panama canal cruise we went on did make some Caribbean stops. We've experienced the weather changes. It never got cold enough to snow, but close. Also been there when it was in the high 80s. Only one of the cruises we went on did we luck out and have no rain the entire cruise. My battery died on a whale watching trip. Took photos of friends on the boat then it died when the whales showed up, ugh.
Im goin to alaska on hollands Eurodam sept 2020. I cant wait. I was able to book a year in advance & the price was great. Alot cheaper than any other cruise line & i got the drink package. It was about $300 less than princess & princess did not include the drink package. The earlier u book, the more u save. Im not into the carribean. Ive been on 1 carribean cruise & it wasnt for me. I actually lik the cold (i kno, im odd) & i lov to see nature, snow capped mountains, whales, etc. I can not wait...im counting down the months. I have 9 more to go 😆
We actually got a great deal at the last minute (well, 6 weeks before the cruise) on Princess, about half the original price for a deluxe balcony for mid-May.
Save your money, forget a balcony, take that money and spend it on an excursion. You just sleep and dress there anyway. 13 days until our land/sea Princess Alaska Tour.
Don't wear shoes that don't protect your feet from water! Plastic tennis shoes are perfect, not cloth. Take a rain coat with a hood to put over a sweat shirt. It rains a LOT in some of the Alaskan towns. Don't expect to swim in the pool, it's outside. If you are diabetic, take plenty of sugar-free hot chocolate mix. We loved Holland America cruise ship! It was quiet & they didn't overbook it. Take a book, or something to do in a chair. Bears, moose & sheep are rare to see on a cruise, even a land/sea cruise. Rent a car for a day while in Anchorage & go to the nature preserve. You'll see more animals there.
I am so excited to say that we are going to an Alaskan Cruise this month via NCL Bliss! I can't wait to grab the memories of this cruise, share my experience with friends and families later on. Thank you for the tips Don!
I really like your videos Don! I have been turned off from cruising since I discovered all inclusive resorts. This video has me wanting to cruise to Alaska! I am adding it to my list...lol!
Don thanks for the info. Taking our cruise in August of 2019. Thanks for the tips on clothing and memory cards. Want to be totally prepared for this trip.
Great tips! take a pull over nylon (or zip front) with hood lightwt jacket. Can be tied around waist or in backpack. Keeps you warm and dry. Two of our three Alaskan cruises had record setting heat - you just never know. Have to be prepared tho (week before our last one it rained everyday). Cant "second" re: memory cards enuf.. They're expensive when buying on ship or on shore.
Can't wait to start our Alaskan cruise on this 11th. We are on the Norwegian Bliss, yes, the almost brand new ship. Luckily we have a balcony room so hope to have a ring side view of the beautiful scenery.
Been to Alasks twice on Holland America and loved every minute. Planning on going on one again in a couple of years, land and sea on Princess. Panama Canal this year and Canadian/New England next year. Love to go cruising. Enjoy your videos.
We just got off the Star Princess this morning from our Alaskan cruise and it’s an amazingly beautiful place!! Highly recommend!! Just bundle up for glacier days especially.
Don's Family Vacations we loved it-sure it's an older ship but we sailed on the Grand when it first came out and we love the design and layout of those ships. We would sail on the Star again.
My favorite tip was to not book too much. That’s true i do wanna do everything! I booked the Hubbard glacier excursion and a seaplane in Juneau. Decided to just walk around icy strait point and Ketchikan. Thanks don!
An Alaska cruise is my dream vacation but sadly, in the real world, dreams don't come true (it is way out of my price range). So I love watching these videos about Alaskan cruises instead.
Thank you for all your awesome tips! Came upon your channel searching for Alaska info - enjoyed your advice for an exciting cruise! Will be watching you for our next trip! Thank you!
Hello don, we recently completed a cruisetour on the Royal Princess. We enjoy your videos which are very informative. Next is a Panama canal cruise in early 2020.
It’s COLD even in the summer. The plus is the cruise company charged what seemed like 1/2 price for coats, scarves, gloves and hats when we went June 2017. I figured they didn’t need any passengers catching a cold or the flu.🤧😷🤒🤢. 😊
I take RC in Alaska a few year ago and I spend $500 each people mean$2,000 for a inside stateroom and spend $1,500 each on tours $6,000 for the four of us but was really amazing
The thing I don’t get about the fancy Norwegian ship, you are going to Alaska where it’s likely to be colder and wetter than and Caribbean cruise, it makes no sense to have water slides and go karts.
Wildlife is plentiful in Alaska, but remember that you aren't in a zoo. Count yourself lucky if you catch a glimpse of a bear or sheep on the coast. and be careful if you wander about outside the villages... it's usually very safe, but then again you are very quickly in complete wilderness.
Alaska is so beautiful!!!!!!! don't forget to pack the binoculars...
Or at least a good long lens on the camera :)
Julie Ochoa You should also pack night vision also
3 of the 4 cruises I've been on have been to Alaska. Such a special place. Amazing every time.
Great tips! I thought it was cool the sun could rise at 4:30 AM, and set at 11:30 PM in May. The best tips I can give are get a alcony if possible, dress in layers so clothing can be removed or put on for the weather. A jacket should have a liner and be water-resistant. You stll need sunscreen and sunglasses for snow activities!
Thanks for the advice on the sunscreen. I have watched many videos but never heard that tip. I know you saved us money because now I know to pack it in the suitcase.
Thanks, don't forget the lip balm with sunscreen too. Have a wonderful trip!
Sunscreen I never forget the sunscreen lol
I have fair skin and burn easily, I have to be very careful. In Alaska, it seems to me the sun is stronger, even though it is cooler in fair weather and in snow. I think Alaska gets more direct sunlight in the Spring/Summer months.
After watching about 25 of your videos, i dont know if im going to get the jingle out of my head, that plays during the intro. :)
We just finished an Alaskan cruise on Holland America and it was the best!!! Can't wait to go back!!!
nice, they are a nice relaxing line to sail with in Alaska :)
When our girls are older, we'll go on an Alaskan Cruise. The nature there must be breathtaking. I'll probably spend a large part of the day on the balcony just watching in awe!
It will leave you in Awe :)
Don, I always suggest people take the cruise tour with the land part first and as many days as they can get. Also, a balcony cabin so they don't have to fight for railing space with others. If it takes an extra year of savings to afford the trip it will be worth it because for most people it will count as 2, the first and last time they will ever see Alaska. I used to live there and definitely agree with your comments about the amount of photography people will be taking.
I can fill a hard drive on a computer pretty easy on a trip
Alaska is my absolute favorite cruise! I loved every moment of it!! ❤️
me too :)
the best excursion i ever took in alaska was in juneau. my mom and i took a whale watching tour on a smaller boat. we wete able to get into places the larger boats did not. we saw many whales,sime from a distance,some closer. the best was the last. a humpback came right up to the side of the boat. close enough to see barnacles on its nose and eye right even with the boat! scared the captain. it was great!!
Your videos are always timely!!!!! I booked our Alaskan Cruise July 2019! This HELPS A LOT!!!! Thank you so much!
glad I could help :)
I'm so excited for my Alaskan cruise. Thanks for your help.
I know this is an older video but I came across it today and really appreciate it. Very informative. We are headed to Alaska in June for the first time. Thank you for the info!!!
Great advice Don. We have been to Alaska twice. First time Vancouver 7 day inside passage round trip and we and our traveling companions were so impressed that we went again five years later, but took a land package from Fairbanks to Seward before the cruise south. OMG! What a vacation. Worth every cent. Would love to go yet again. Keep up the great work on your videos. All the best from Cuzzin Brucie, NJ.
Thank you Cuzzin Brucie :)
Valid points. Been twice, still haven't done everything. Instead of mid May, I am going later in year. Alaska is always exciting.
What do you mean?
@@fbksfrank4 did you look at the dates of this post?
Don, you are 100% correct that you will take a ton of pictures and video. I probably have more pictures from my 1 Alaskan cruise than from my 8 Caribbean cruises combined. Planning on going back on another Alaskan cruise in the next year or 2.
everywhere I turn wow click oooo click lol
It was awfully cold when I went to Alaska in September. I'm going again in September of 2019! I LOVE the cold, especially when it's been hot all summer.
acappella - me too (I live in south FL. & go to Alaska to get away from the heat)!
Wow, that's a long trip -- It must be awfully convenient for a cruiser to live in Florida !!
acapella - living in south FL makes it very easy to cruise to the Caribbean (Eastern, Western & Southern)! I’m about an hour away from Port Everglades in Ft. Lauderdale!! Easy to catch a cruise ship - but I still live going to Alaska & even New England/Canada!
yes Alaska is one of those places where the weather can jump all over the place over night anytime of year
Awesome places! In July, I'm taking a 14-day cruise up the Norwegian coast to see the fjords and up across the arctic circle. Can't wait!
Don This video nailed it!!! Was fortunate enough to do a Holland 7 Night Cruise with a 5 Day Land Package back in 2016 to Alaska, which included a three day/two nights stay in Denali. The wilderness trip into the park was amazing with the number of different animals and birds we saw that are native to the State. Your video brought back great memories, like the helicopter ride to the top of a glacier to take a sled ride pulled by actual Iditarod dogs, as well as the White Pass Train ride through the mountains. You were absolutely spot on when you said the scenery and the views were breath-taking which still understates how truly spectacular those things both are and seeing is believing. Neither words or pictures do either proper justice. As an added bonus, while on the dome train ride back to Anchorage, we were fortunate enough to join the "30% Club" by witnessing the majestic peaks of Mount Denali!!! Visiting Alaska has been a "Bucket List" item since I was a child, and the trip also enabled me to cross off the dog sledding as well! Amazingly, I am not a big nature guy, but even so, I must say this cruise/tour is out of this world unbelievable. As always, I look forward to your videos for both the entertainment, humor, and educational value that you provide. Continued Good Health To You, and Continued Safe Travels.
Thanks Matt, sounds like you have a great trip when you went :)
Thanks Don for all the tips. My family and I are taking an Alaskan trip next week! Super excited. I have been watching and sharing your videos for the past few months. I am so glad i happened upon your channel.
Thank you so much very happy you are here and like the videos :)
I have been to Alaska 2 times and it has never rained when I was there. I wish it would snow when I'm there. I love the snow. I was on Holland America both times. I wish Viking or AmaWaterways , or Avalon would go to Alaska. They would be the best ship to cruise through the inside passage in Alaska.
they could handle the passage okay but not sure about the sections getting there :)
Great advice! Been 3x... 2 of the 3 we had heat waves. BUT we always carried (and they rolled up or tied to waist easily) nylon hoodie pullover jackets, in case of rain.. If there's anyway you can do a balcony cabin, you wont regret. Even an ocean view.. You can watch all the beauty go by from your stateroom and it's truly beautiful! Hope to book trip #4 soon...never gets old!
Hello Don, I am sorry but I strongly disagree with your comment on Norwegian Bliss not being a good ship for VIEWS. I have just been on the maiden transatlantic voyage of Norwegian Bliss and there are so many places to view the landscape:
The Waterfront - what better place could there be to view the landscape?
The Observation Lounge - they have a huge and totally new concept on this ship. And it's great and it's especially build to enjoy the views. A great place for cold or bad weather by the way ...
The Spice H20 ... on Bliss it offers good a really good view. So yes you could enjoy the views from there too!
Yes there is a go kart track but the ship is over 300m long and on both sides (one deck above the pool area) you have long and good places to watch the view. You even have hot tubs at the edge so you can even take the views out of the hot tubs. Or on the hot tubs at Spice H20 or at the hidden hot tub on deck 19 that is also available to all guests.
The Garden Buffet is connected with the observation lounge and has a two stories high Window at the front ...
Not to mention the lucky people in the Haven who have another Observation lounge and their own places outside with great views.
You can go up to Lasertag and watch the Views from Deck 19 or 20 ... there are some of the best views!
Other places like the Brew House have great panorama windows ...
So all in all i am really sorry to say but your comment about the NCL Bliss is just as wrong as it could be. There might be things on the Bliss where you might feel or notice the amount of passengers. But you will never have problems with having enough places to enjoy the mountain, glacier or (if you are lucky) animal view in Alaska. I would even say that there are more, better and more advanced options especially for having the views than on some of the smaller ships.
Besides that good video. No offense! Having done a lot of cruises on big and small ships and knowing the Bliss and the advantages of both types (big and small) I just feel the need to correct this one statement and the wrong picture about Bliss this could send out. If you like Norwegian, Bliss is a great option for Alaska.
And one more information: the pools on the Bliss and the outside area at the pool can be heated. Also a feature especially made for those Alaska cruises.
Best Regards
Nicolas
Nicolas Funke reassuring to read what you had to say about the Bliss. We are on the 11th August Alaska cruise on the Bliss and chose it for its latest features. Fortunately we have a balcony cabin but it is nice to know that the ones who have opted for inside cabins, can also enjoy Alaska's natural beauty comfortably. Thanks.
The Bliss is a wonderful ship, I wish you a really great time! Thank you so much for let me know that my comment was helpful/reassuring for you.
@@nicolasfunke395 I'll have to look to see where Bliss sails from. Like so many who live in florida and are fortunate to take lots of Caribbean cruises, we've done Alaska several x out of San Francisco, and love it, but have done so much each time, dont feel the need to do excursions. Would love to have more to do on the ship. Love the Grand Princess (out of SFO) but it seems like it's time for an update!
Sanober Malhotra Are you sailing august 11th 2019? So are we!!!
Alaska is always amazing, no matter what the activities or weather as far as I am concerned. On the last day of the first part of a back to back and the weather has been all over the place. But up here in Alaska, roll with the punches and enjoy whatever mother nature sends your way. :)
agree, you have to be laid back in Alaska and just roll with it
Sailing toAlaska for 2 weeks in July, on HA Zaandam, from Seattle. The 2 couples I'm sailing with have taken this cruise twice. One piece of advice they gave me was to dress for the fall, and bring a raincoat. We will be doing 1day at sea and 1 day in port. Rain is no problem as I'm from BC. ⛴✈🚁☔🌧☃️⛈⛅🌤
Bring some summer items as well as it can be 80 on July but bring a change of cloths with you when off the ship in case the weather changes quickly like it tends to do :)
Good info! Thank you! I lived in Kodak many years ago, but we just booked an Inside passage Alaskan cruise for Aug 2022!
Our very first cruise was in May of 2018 to Alaska and It was Amazing!!!! 11 day round trip from S.F. Loved all the towns. When back in May of 2019 we did 15 day land/cruise with great friends we made on our first trip. We love Princess Cruises.
we had 75 weather every day for 9 days then 40 on the last day
Yep! we saw locals taking pictures of the temperature... really really lucked out
Alaska Cruise is definitely on my bucket list! Thanks for sharing Don.
thank you glad you liked it :)
Great info. Gosh I hope I can do an Alaska cruise some time soon.
I've been searching cruises everyday for a week just dreaming and one day I'll click Book
Don, yeah. If you can do it you should.Nick, I wasn't asking for suggestions.
Thanks Don for the info We booked our Royal princess cruise to Alaska,this past March for next September from Los Angles round trip. You are right about booking early ,we booked midship balcony. Once a week I look at the bookings,And the better areas on the ship are selling already . We are really looking forward for this cruise. Our first time to Alaska.
Oh yes and the best views for the trip will be the first to go
Thank goodness we have a balcony on the Bliss! I would have been so sad...
Looking forward to an Alaska cruise in the future.
14 days on Crystal Symphony coming up, first Alaskan trip. exciting
nice and a very good cruise line
yup that can go on my bucket list
should be on everyones
I live in New England. We have Alaska five months. Thank you very much.
Roger St martin - I’ve cruised thru Alaska 8 times, and New England/Canada twice - not at all the same! Both beautiful - but Alaska & it’s different ports are incredible!! The most amazing views!! Think of glaciers that no person has ever set foot on (saw them from a helicopter & floatplane)!! Love New England & I know New England gets snow & winter - but not the same as Alaska!
Go back in your corner guys. I meant temperature. We have Winter ❄️ for five months out of the year.
I like in Ottawa Canada bet I have you beat lol
Hey Don - I got to meet my friends from Toronto on the Regal Princess this past January- they were friends I met thru RUclips & they always get out of Canada & cruise in January (they actually did a B2B)! I normally wouldn’t book a Caribbean cruise in January since I live in FL & it’s nice in FL in January- but I wanted to cruise on the Regal & I wanted to meet my friends!! It was great to meet them in real life - such a lovely couple!! Next January they’re doing the Princess Hawaiian cruise (but I’m doing the Scott Singer Alaska cruise in May - I’ll meet some more RUclips & FB friends)!
It sounds crazy to me to hear about people "escaping the heat" lol. But to each their own.
thank you forthis video! we are going on a alaskan cruise in may of 2020. you are very informative. his will help us so much. again thank you don!!!
I would LOVE 2 go on an Alaska Cruise just 2 hopefully see the Northern Lights. That's on my Bucket List.
make sure you sail at the right time of year and even then it's still rare to be able to catch them.
U see the northern lights, when it's really really cold, winter.
Don, veryhelpful...thanks for the itinerary comparison/difference.
And recommendations. We hope to get to Alaska one day. Close friend grew up in Ketchikan. Gotta see it!
-Reggie
Ketchikan has a great seafeast and cruise tour I love :)
Don been on two Alaskan cruises, both on Princess. You nailed it about everything! Water slides aren’t appealing up there, though hot tubs work out good.
yes the outdoor pool don;t get a lot of use lol
We really enjoyed Holland America. Casual and elegant at the same time. The Eurodam has plenty of open deck space for viewing the scenery and glacier. Great experience, can't wait to go again!
This is my and wife's first cruise and this was very informative.
Most Alaska cruises will have a stop in Victoria BC. Something I didn't know until we took a tour there is that Victoria is in a rain shadow because of the mountains and the weather is generally warm and dry. We were there in early June and it was in the low 80s. A bit uncomfortable wearing jeans and long sleeves since we didn't pack for warm weather! Inside passage was drizzly and chilly, but you will want to be outside as much as you can. I would love to go again.
Say what??? " A bit uncomfortable wearing jeans and long sleeves since we didn't pack for warm weather." If you're in jeans and long sleeves, you're packed for warm weather.
You will see all kinds of weather on an Alaskan cruise for sure :)
Great review and different from all others.
Hit some very important pounts.
aHi Don. We went to Alaska on that Celebrity Solstice two years ago. You are right. It is unbelievably pristine and beautiful. Regarding the comment you made about rain, I’ve got one for you. The weather where I live had been very rainy and foggy for months on end. So we were excitedly waiting to embark on our 15 day Hawaii cruise this past April. Out of the 15 days it rained and we had gale force winds for 14 days. Just a note. We were on deck 10 of the Grand Princess. Because of the ship’s design, our balcony was 81 square feet Instead of the usual 35 to 40.
LOVED our Alaska cruise! But it was our most expensive cruise hands down. We fell in love with Alaska through our cruise and will move there when my husband retires! But you won’t see the Northern Lights on a cruise. Typically the Northern Lights are seen during the winter season when it is cold, dark, and clear. During the summer there is very little dark up there.
Because of the demand and only being able to sail for a few months these cruises get very pricey for sure.
It's not typically, northern lights only in winter months
going on the Bliss in about 3 weeks (Sept 2019)cant wait....our 3rd trip to Alaska.....most relaxing cruise ever....sit back. have a tasty beverage and enjoy the amazing views
Thank you Don!! You answered all my questions! Love your channel!😘
thank you Glad I could help in any small way :)
Starboard side generally have better views for most of the cruise.....unless youre on a Southbound cruise...then book port side
Oh wow, a cruise on the Disney Magic in Europe. 11-day, Dover to Copenhagen.
Nice, love Disney but as a solo cruiser the cost is just too high most time for me to go by myself. Saving that for taking my granddaughters :)
Hope to be able to go on an Alaskan Cruise one day. It’s on the bucket list,
should be on every ones :)
I have family who live in Alaska and it's beautiful up there! Please don't be a bone head tourist and mess with the Wildlife or get too close! You can get hurt or in serious trouble! Alaskans take their Wildlife protection very seriously!
so any people run into a bear on the trail and try and get close for a selfie. Not a good idea
Don's Family Vacations my Sister in law Joyce lives in Fairbank's and they have Moose that wander freely around and the locals know better than to mess with them! Well I guess a couple of bone-headed tourist wanted a selfie with the Moose and I guess the Moose wasn't having it and started to charge at the tourists! Luckily nobody was seriously injured just a couple of scrapes and bruises when they were knocked down! The Moose gave them a good warning to stay far away for now on! The Police didn't charge them the Police believed they learned their lesson! 😂😂😂
Alaska is pretty legit
Great info. We have been looking into an Alaskan Cruise but I am a complete newbie on that part of the world. LOL
there are a ton of ships and choices in Alaska almost as many as in the caribbean now
Hey Don - I first cruised thru the inside passage in 1990 & have been on a total of 8 Alaskan cruise (and I’m booked for May, 2019 - The Scott Singer group cruise)!
I've watched a few of Scott's videos. Seems like a nice guy
Don we just booked a May 03,2021 Alaska cruise. Thanks for the video. Your format has changed a lot.
Don,yes I would like to do alaska2020 2 for a balcony.
How did that work for you?
Hi Don. Thanks so much for all your great tips and suggestions. My wife and I are excited for our first Alaskan cruise in a couple of weeks. 😀
2013 celebrity out of seattle - pretty cool - lots of deals - went in cold weather march 2013 - kinda dirty ports - but cool history.
I've been on 4 Alaskan cruises and my wife's been on 5. We've only been on one Caribbean cruise, however the Panama canal cruise we went on did make some Caribbean stops. We've experienced the weather changes. It never got cold enough to snow, but close. Also been there when it was in the high 80s. Only one of the cruises we went on did we luck out and have no rain the entire cruise. My battery died on a whale watching trip. Took photos of friends on the boat then it died when the whales showed up, ugh.
ouch that's always the way Doh
One of my favorite destinations You may get a call saying for one of those bookings
I may be calling myself soon to go again as well :)
Im goin to alaska on hollands Eurodam sept 2020. I cant wait. I was able to book a year in advance & the price was great. Alot cheaper than any other cruise line & i got the drink package. It was about $300 less than princess & princess did not include the drink package. The earlier u book, the more u save. Im not into the carribean. Ive been on 1 carribean cruise & it wasnt for me. I actually lik the cold (i kno, im odd) & i lov to see nature, snow capped mountains, whales, etc. I can not wait...im counting down the months. I have 9 more to go 😆
We actually got a great deal at the last minute (well, 6 weeks before the cruise) on Princess, about half the original price for a deluxe balcony for mid-May.
I'm going on my first cruise to Alaska in August, I can't wait!
Thanks Don. I've gotta do an Alaskan cruise.
I have to go again soon as well getting that itch :)
Save your money, forget a balcony, take that money and spend it on an excursion. You just sleep and dress there anyway. 13 days until our land/sea Princess Alaska Tour.
Don't wear shoes that don't protect your feet from water! Plastic tennis shoes are perfect, not cloth. Take a rain coat with a hood to put over a sweat shirt. It rains a LOT in some of the Alaskan towns. Don't expect to swim in the pool, it's outside. If you are diabetic, take plenty of sugar-free hot chocolate mix. We loved Holland America cruise ship! It was quiet & they didn't overbook it. Take a book, or something to do in a chair. Bears, moose & sheep are rare to see on a cruise, even a land/sea cruise. Rent a car for a day while in Anchorage & go to the nature preserve. You'll see more animals there.
I am so excited to say that we are going to an Alaskan Cruise this month via NCL Bliss! I can't wait to grab the memories of this cruise, share my experience with friends and families later on. Thank you for the tips Don!
Hello Jojo. So are we!!! We depart from Seattle August 11th
I really like your videos Don! I have been turned off from cruising since I discovered all inclusive resorts. This video has me wanting to cruise to Alaska! I am adding it to my list...lol!
Don thanks for the info. Taking our cruise in August of 2019. Thanks for the tips on clothing and memory cards. Want to be totally prepared for this trip.
Great tips! take a pull over nylon (or zip front) with hood lightwt jacket. Can be tied around waist or in backpack. Keeps you warm and dry. Two of our three Alaskan cruises had record setting heat - you just never know. Have to be prepared tho (week before our last one it rained everyday). Cant "second" re: memory cards enuf.. They're expensive when buying on ship or on shore.
Just wanna say....I love you, Don! lol You are the kindest man and deliver such great advice! Thank you!!!!
so love Alaska
Can't wait to start our Alaskan cruise on this 11th. We are on the Norwegian Bliss, yes, the almost brand new ship. Luckily we have a balcony room so hope to have a ring side view of the beautiful scenery.
Another great video. My husband I really like your videos. Thank you so much for doing these!
thank you so much for watching :)
I once went on an Alaska cruise in early September. Aside from the Glacier Bay part, it wasn't cold. Lots of bugs in other parts of Alaska.
The Ovation of the Seas is going to do 7 night cruises to Alaska from Seattle in 2019.
Great video. Added it to my favorites.
Thank you John :)
Alaska is the BEST!!!!!! Love Alaska!
Been to Alasks twice on Holland America and loved every minute. Planning on going on one again in a couple of years, land and sea on Princess. Panama Canal this year and Canadian/New England next year. Love to go cruising. Enjoy your videos.
Been on Alaska cruises three times and could go every year. Princess, Holland America and NCL like the non party 24 hour
well said. thanks for the information. it really helped.
thank you :)
We just got off the Star Princess this morning from our Alaskan cruise and it’s an amazingly beautiful place!! Highly recommend!! Just bundle up for glacier days especially.
nice yes this time of year for sure dress warm :)
Nice how did you like the Star Princess?
Don's Family Vacations we loved it-sure it's an older ship but we sailed on the Grand when it first came out and we love the design and layout of those ships. We would sail on the Star again.
Thanks Don. I'm a 25 year Scouter! Be Prepared. Lol 🇨🇦⚜
This video was extremely helpful. I have my Hubbard glacier cruise in 45 days in the celebrity eclipse! First Alaskan cruise so very excited
My favorite tip was to not book too much. That’s true i do wanna do everything! I booked the Hubbard glacier excursion and a seaplane in Juneau. Decided to just walk around icy strait point and Ketchikan. Thanks don!
An Alaska cruise is my dream vacation but sadly, in the real world, dreams don't come true (it is way out of my price range). So I love watching these videos about Alaskan cruises instead.
Thank you for all your awesome tips! Came upon your channel searching for Alaska info - enjoyed your advice for an exciting cruise! Will be watching you for our next trip! Thank you!
Hello don, we recently completed a cruisetour on the Royal Princess. We enjoy your videos which are very informative. Next is a Panama canal cruise in early 2020.
Very good advise.
Thanks for the videos don
thanks for watching :)
Hope your doing better. Nice to hear advice from a Canadian Ta.
Excellent, great job👍👍👍👍👍😁😁😁😁
thank you so much :)
It’s COLD even in the summer. The plus is the cruise company charged what seemed like 1/2 price for coats, scarves, gloves and hats when we went June 2017. I figured they didn’t need any passengers catching a cold or the flu.🤧😷🤒🤢. 😊
The one thing I would add is... remember your passport!... on an Alaskan cruise you will likely be in Canadian waters...
Vancouver or Victoria are most likely on the cruise for sure. Thanks for reminding us :)
CP140405 as long as you start and stop in the US no passport is needed.
I take RC in Alaska a few year ago and I spend $500 each people mean$2,000 for a inside stateroom and spend $1,500 each on tours $6,000 for the four of us but was really amazing
Thank u for the information becase I want to go to Alaska s
thank you :)
Thanks a lot for your tips. I enjoy watching all your clips and of course they are always thumbs up :)
The thing I don’t get about the fancy Norwegian ship, you are going to Alaska where it’s likely to be colder and wetter than and Caribbean cruise, it makes no sense to have water slides and go karts.
Awesome cruise. But don't forget to do what I forgot to do: pack a jacket!
Don, you're the best!
Alaska, in the cruise ports, is a rain forest....on average, they get rain every other day
Wildlife is plentiful in Alaska, but remember that you aren't in a zoo. Count yourself lucky if you catch a glimpse of a bear or sheep on the coast.
and be careful if you wander about outside the villages... it's usually very safe, but then again you are very quickly in complete wilderness.
Uh oh. It's May and early June, not April. 😳 I did 'Like" the video. 😜 Love Alaska. 🌲