Cruise line suggestions

[DLM1980]

I figured Alaska would be more expensive but wasn't ready for the price I saw the other day

We have no kids, I just like Disney. My partner had said we should go elsewhere but I don't know what line to choose

For the heck of it I stopped by the travel agency in the mall I work at and asked "for an Alaskan cruise what line would you choose" and the lady said Holland America or Princess.

I don't know if they gave that answer because that's what they push or if they were being genuine

Our first cruise was this past February on the wonder. It was fun, characters didn't matter, the shows were great each night. Every night I found myself in the lounge listening to Supernova Duo before heading to bed.

So what cruise line would you guys choose if DCL is not in the budget

 

[xlxo]

IMO.... Holland and Princess get high recommendations because of access to Glacier Bay... a must include itinerary stop for glacier seekers. Other cruise lines have some access to Glacier Bay, but not much sailing days as HAL/Princess.

DCL has only one boat and is limited to the 7 day Vancouver return that skips Glacier Bay. Other cruise lines have multiple boats giving them a variety of itineraries.... one-day? Yukon combo's? Different ports? Very handy for repeat Alaskan cruisers who want something a little different.

I vote for Holland because of the photo packages. It's been discussed that Holland has a more generous smoking policy.

In addition to cruise lines..... carefully think about the month...

• May and September is cheaper, but colder and some excursions are not running
• May can mean ice congestion to some glacier viewing sites like Tracy Arm/Sawyer
• May to July is dryer in Alaska, August will see more rain and September will be wettest. If too stormy to dock.... cruise ships will skip the port.
• July to August will be dryer in Cascadia
• May to August will give you more day light
• August and September offer better wildlife opportunities
• I like late-July for weather compromise and wildlife. It's also priced higher.
• some ports offer season opportunities like fireworks and pride celebrations, but can also mean congestion.
• http://www.alaska.org/advice/best-time-to-visit-alaska => it recommends mid-June to mid-July!