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Packing for Alaska
 

Packing for an Alaska cruise is different from most other cruise destinations. The weather changes quickly at times so it is best to be prepared.   An umbrella is a much needed commodity.  The easy to fold and carry are the best kind.  If it is a crisp, clear day,  you will be able to experience a midnight sun.   You really should be prepared to encounter all four seasons of weather on your cruise.  LAYERING is the key word for your wardrobe tips.  The weather conditions you see when you look out your stateroom window or on deck, probably will not be the same for the balance of the day.  This especially applies to shore excursions.  You may select a train ride on the White Mountain Pass,   experience the cold icy waters of a fishing trip or whale watching excursion,  ice trekking on a glacier,  or  leisurely strolling through cultural centers and you will want to be prepared for that particular excursion..

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Being comfortable is the key to really enjoying your cruise.   Wear clothing that you can layer as it gets cooler, or remove as temperatures rise.  A handy, fold-up rain poncho can be conveniently carried in case of those sudden rain showers.

You'll appreciate that you've been told to bring a weatherproof ski jacket with a hood for warmth.  They are usually designed to be lightweight but will protect you from very cold temperatures and wet weather.   You'll be glad you did on visits to Glacier Bay because you will want to be on deck to experience the astounding blue ice glaciers and to witness chards of ice plummeting  into the sea.  

                            Start off with a lightweight t-shirt as a base.  Then add a long-sleeve shirt or sweatshirt.    Then bring a ski jacket,  one with a hood is the best choice.  Make sure the jacket is large enough to easily slip over the shirt or other clothes.  Large pockets are great to store gloves,  scarves,  ski-masks or other layers of clothing to add if you get cold.   Being prepared with layered clothes will keep you comfortable so you will not miss any of the amazing sights.

A ski mask is certainly beneficial to protect your face and ears from the cold during some of the excursions, as are ski gloves.  If you can keep your head and hands warm you will be able to experience the sights for longer periods of time and still be comfortable.  .

Because rain is common in Alaska in the summer months, some sort of rainwear is also essential.  Take along a rain poncho or parka.  A carry all umbrella is just as effective.  Don't let getting wet spoil your excursion, be prepared!    

On the other hand,  don't assume that the weather in Alaska will always be cold!  At certain parts of the day,  temperatures can rise to 75 degrees or perhaps more. Also keep in mind that your cruise ship probably has a pool and/or a spa that you might want to enjoy, so you will want to bring a swim suit.  Again,  pack accordingly.  

 Aaaaaahhh nice and warm!   So you think people are looking at you funny???  NO!  They probably wish they would have packed the same.   YOU WILL appreciate that you came prepared with the warm socks, gloves, ski jackets and ski masks so you can stay on deck experiencing cruising through Glacier Bay or other excursions.

With just a lightweight sweater or jacket, you'll probably only be able to stay out for no more than fifteen minutes or so.   Of course, you can stay warm inside to view the magnificent scenery from many of the decks viewing locations,  but being outside to experience the temperature without a window in the way is just more exhilarating.   

 Most evening attire during  your Alaska cruise is generally casual depending on the restaurant you select.  Some require that you do not wear jeans, but casual slacks for men are accepted.  Formal nights are still quite formal, but on most ships, there are certain days and times for the formal attire.  So you don’t need a jacket and tie or extra cocktail dresses for daily dinners.   Also NCL cruises offer "freestyle" cruising that allows you to select your dining preference.  This is certainly less restrictive but still offers a formal night or two for those who enjoy dressing to the occasion.  There is something for everyone!  

Since Alaska has diverse weather conditions, you might want to bring a lightweight backpack for shore excursions.  If it turns cool, your prepared with your jacket and rain gear if needed, plus you'll have a very handy place to store any gifts or souvenirs that you might pick-up along the way.   The ports-of-call that you visit usually offer something for the traveler as a reminder of their visit.  Having a back-pack, or large, foldable, linen bag for your purchases will certainly come in handy.    

Even for those Caribbean, Mexican or Hawaiin cruises,   a lightweight backpacks is also handy for carrying beach towels, sun screen and other items that you purchase. 

If you take one of the many  "adventure excursions" available in Alaska, bring a good pair of hiking boots, or shoes that are rain proof.  If you are just walking around town, then wear comfortable walking shoes.   Don't try wearing a new pair of sandals,  why risk discomfort?  Wear what is comfortable to you.    Tennis shoes/sneakers combined with a good pair of socks  can keep your feet warm and comfy for all kinds of  Alaskan weather.  

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SOME OTHER ITEMS!!!  This is a MUSTS for an Alaska cruise.

(1) Insect repellent!!!  The joke is that the  mosquitoes are  Alaska  state bird.   I would suggest to buy it before leaving since they will charge you a lot more up there and the selection is not as great.    

(2) Binoculars, a most to bring you up close to view f wildlife, glaciers and the many waterfalls you will see taking the inside passage.

(3) More film than you think if your are using a film camera or a lot of memory if you are using a digital unless you have a storage device toe store you picture on.    I brought my laptop so I could back up my pictures onto it and to burn a CD.  Most cruise ship have ability to do this for you now but I always like doing my own.  The scenery is truly breathtaking, and you'll be surprised at how many times you click!  I did it over 1500 times on our last cruise to Alaska and every shot was memorable.  Probably you should plan on 100 to 200 picture a day if you are a photo buff and at least two to three roll of a film camera.

What type of Camera should I bring?  It should be one that is easy for you to use and can take several shots in a row of at all possible.   Each time we look at it we feel we are ready to go back for some more.     Telephoto lens are great to have.  I use a Camon 20d and it is great,  the Camon rebel or similar camera with a telephoto lens is recommend.   I also have one of the small pocket camera that takes great pictures.  It is easy to bring everywhere.  Smaller camera are nice but for the best results the new digital 35 mm digital with changeable lens. .   

Taken with a 200 telephoto lens

   50 mm lens

 75- 200 mm lens.  

 75- 200 mm adjustable lens. 

If you would like to e-mail us any of your favorite please make sure you pictures are 1 mb or less and only on pictures per e-mail.  We would be happy to consider yours on one of our cruise web site. Happy sailing.

By D. Casey.
July 2006

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