Planning a spellbinding summer cruise to Alaska? This comprehensive weather guide is your must-have companion. The Alaskancruise season kicks off in May and runs until October. The warmest months are June, July, and August, but don't let that fool you into thinking Alaska is solely for the snow hounds. The climate here varies vastly across the state.
Here's what you can anticipate weather-wise for your impending Alaska cruise, and some handy suggestions on what to pack.
In May, Alaska's towns and cities start warming up. Although the weather can sometimes be freezing, it's often surprisingly pleasant. The mercury typically fluctuates between the mid-thirties to upper fifties in Fahrenheit.
Expect plenty of cloud cover and possible showers throughout May. But the silver lining is getting over fifteen hours of daylight for outdoor escapades such as whale watching. For your May travel wardrobe, pack knit sweaters, warm pants, a jacket, and waterproof footwear.
June in Alaska oscillates between cool to cold, with unusually frigid conditions less common than in May. Expect temperatures averaging between forty-three degrees and into the sixties Fahrenheit.
Wispy clouds gathering and the occasional drizzle persists, adding to the charm of Alaskan cruises. Ensure your suitcase contains waterproof jackets and shoes, layered clothing, and cozy options like jeans, long skirts, and tights.
July is typically the warmest month in this part of Alaska, with the peak temperature day hover around July 9th. The temperature pendulum swings between fifty and sixty degrees, marking cool mornings and evenings, interjected with slightly warmer afternoons.
Thermals can drop significantly during late nights and early mornings when most cruisers are tucked comfortably inside their cabins. For those cruising to Alaska in July, packing plenty of removable layers and waterproof outerwear is advisable.
August signals a gradual decrease in temperatures, but it remains one of the hottest months of the year. Typically, temperatures range from mid-forties to low sixties.
Like July, the cold can surprise in the early morning or late at night. Waterproof jackets, shoes, and bags should make their way into your luggage for August as it, along with September, are the rainiest months in Alaska.
As one of the coolest months and the end of the cruise season in Alaska, September offers a unique experience. With temperatures predominantly between the low to high forties, bundling up is necessary.
The frequent rain and abundant cloud cover lend a surreal beauty to the Alaskan landscape. With at least twelve hours of sunlight for excursions, dressing warmly with waterproof gear is paramount to enjoy this chilly, yet beautiful month.
October ushers in the cold with temperatures that can hit a low of 28° Fahrenheit and highs of up to 40° Fahrenheit. Increased precipitation morphs into flurries adding to the wintry charm.
September and October offer optimal opportunities to witness the breathtaking Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis between midnight and 2am.
Even though Alaska may be chillier than your typical summer holiday destination, its unique allure lies in novel experiences such aswild orca sightings, exhilarating ziplines, glacier expeditions, panning for gold or strolling in the beautiful Butchart Gardens. As long as you dress for the weather, your Alaskan adventure promises to be unforgettable.