I have read as many threads as I could about what to pack for Alaska. Some suggest a heavy jacket, some say it's not needed. So for those who have gone on a cruise to Alaska, please help me out. We will be cruising with our 4.5 yr old and 3 yr old boys. We are going on the first cruise of the season (May 27)
Here is what I have found.
3 in 1 Coat/Parka (Some have said no, as the excursions that need it provide it)
Hat and gloves
Waterproof pants (Opinions about these, as I would need to buy)
Hiking boots
Do you think the boys would benefit from having snow/winter boots? We have them, but they do take up some room in luggage.
Yes, we have done an Alaskan cruise. I was really stressed out about the weather and what to pack but ended up doing really well. Layers is the key and I struggled with that advice for a long time. I wasn't sure what layers, how many, etc.
But, here's what we ended up with and it was great. I'll start with the base layer and work up. T-shirt (usually long sleeve but also brought short sleeve); then a sweatshirt or fleece or fleece vest; then a fleece jacket; and then a rain jacket. Add on a hat and gloves. Add in rain pants. Makes for a very puffy, marshmallow like person but was awesome! We were never cold and never wet and miserable like so many other people we saw. And then as the weather changes you add or subtract layers as needed. I personally like the fleece vest as opposed to a sweatshirt because it cuts down on the arm puffiness without sacrificing warmth. And I do believe that on our Glacier Bay morning I wore the vest AND the fleece pullover. It was chilly.
Obviously, carrying around said layers can be a pain, especially for a whole family on an excursion, so you'll want a decent backpack for excursions. I'd recommend buying a can of waterproof spra and spraying the backpacks. Otherwise you'll end up with a bag of wet clothes. Oh, and we wore baseball hats a lot too to keep the rain out of our face.
I say for sure get the waterproof pants - shop around online, you can find reasonable prices. I was leary of spending the money for something we might not use, but it POURED all day in Juneau but my DH and I were totally dry and had a great day there while my DFIL and DMIL went back to the ship because they were cold andwet. Hiking boots - yes or no - it's more important to have a comfortable waterproof shoe. We have Keens low trail shoes and they are a dream. I do not think you'll need snow boots.
A hat and gloves really are a must. You're going in May which is still early there. It can get very cold on deck when you are at the glaciers or out on the water for an excursion. The weather is so unpredictable too. We had gorgeous sun in Ketchikan which is unheard of. But then pouring all day in Juneau. Alaska is expensive and far away. You don't want to waste a vacation because you are unprepared clothing wise.