Ahoy there, future Alaska cruisers! If you’re getting ready to set sail for the Last Frontier, we’ve got some tips to help you prepare for a smooth voyage. And don’t worry, we promise not to steer you wrong.
- Get your sea legs ready! Spend some time on a wobbly dock or rocky beach to build up your balance. You don’t want to be the one swaying like a pendulum when the boat starts moving.
- Bring layers like a captain. Alaska weather can be unpredictable, so make sure you’re ready for anything. Think warm base layers, cozy sweaters, waterproof jackets, and hats to keep your noggin warm.
- Check the forecast ahead of time. You don’t want to be caught off guard by sudden rain, fog or snow. It’s always a good idea to keep an eye on the weather and plan accordingly.
- Don’t forget your passport, matey! Even if you’re a US citizen, you’ll need to have your passport with you for an Alaska cruise that stops in Canada. Otherwise, you’ll be walking the plank!
- Pack some motion sickness remedies, savvy? If you’re prone to seasickness, bring some ginger candies or over-the-counter meds to keep you feeling shipshape.
- Bring binoculars to keep an eye out for wildlife. You don’t want to miss the chance to spot whales, seals, bald eagles or even bears from the deck of your ship.
- Stay hydrated, shipmate! It’s easy to forget to drink enough water when you’re surrounded by ocean, but it’s important to stay hydrated to avoid getting dehydrated or seasick.
- Check the dress code, me hearties! Different cruise lines have different dress codes for dinner and other events. Make sure you pack the right clothes for the occasion, or you may feel like you’re all at sea.
- Download some offline maps to your phone. You may not have cell service in some of the more remote ports of call, so it’s a good idea to have a map handy just in case.
- Get ready to snap some pictures, landlubbers! Alaska is one of the most photogenic places on Earth, so make sure you bring your camera (or phone) and plenty of memory cards.
- Bring some snacks or drinks for shore excursions, like a savvy Alaskan. Depending on your itinerary, you may not have access to food or drinks for several hours at a time, so pack some granola bars or water bottles to keep you going. You don’t want to be feeling hangry like a grizzly bear in hibernation.
- Get your exercise in! Alaska offers plenty of opportunities to stay active, from hiking and biking to kayaking and fishing. So, don’t be a lazy walrus, make sure you take advantage of all the outdoor activities available.
- Don’t forget to tip the crew, ye buccaneers! They work hard to make your cruise enjoyable, so show them some appreciation with a little extra cash at the end of the trip.
- Bring a non-surge power strip. Most cabins only have a few outlets, so if you have multiple devices to charge, a power strip will come in handy.
- Finally, get ready for some amazing memories, mateys! An Alaska cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so soak it all in and enjoy every minute. Get ready for some whale of a time!
