DCL Advice - AK Cruise

[Coastie]

My wife and I have never been on a cruise of any kind. After seeing some of the threads posted by others on AK we are overwhelmed with options and when would be the best time. We had heard there are certain times when bugs/misquitos can be a nuisance. Any advice is greatly appreciated.

 

[PrincessShmoo]

My wife and I have never been on a cruise of any kind. After seeing some of the threads posted by others on AK we are overwhelmed with options and when would be the best time. We had heard there are certain times when bugs/misquitos can be a nuisance. Any advice is greatly appreciated.

We've been to Alaska many times between May and September. In spite of being warned about the bug issue (usually late May through July), we've never experienced it. Just be sure to have some bug repellant if it does happen.

"Best" time - define "best". Weather is generally better mid summer, but prices are higher then.

 

[Cheburashka]

I've sailed twice in early June and had great weather both times. Cool but not freezing cold, mountains still capped by snow. Rain reportedly becomes more of an issue the later it is in the summer.

 

[shosh1530]

Our first cruise was Alaska on the Wonder in mid-June. We did not experience any issues with mosquitos. Later in the summer (July/August) can afford more opportunities for seeing bears if that is appealing (when the salmon start running).

We chose our dates based on price of the cruise and price of airfare (and school dates prevented us from doing May/September).

 

[cruisehopeful]

I would prioritize the time by what you want to see the most/excursions you are interested in. For example, bears are more active late July - early September. Longer days are in June. More ice, earlier sailing.