What Month Is Too Cold for an Alaska Cruise?

If you are thinking of a summer cruise, what better place than Alaska? Alaska, with its breathtaking views of the glaciers, landscape, wildlife, and aurora borealis (Northern Lights), is a bewitching sight. While the beauty of this majestic state is undeniable, it’s important to consider the weather when planning your cruise. With its northern location, the weather in Alaska can vary greatly throughout the year. But how cold is too cold in Alaska? “What Month is Too Cold for an Alaska Cruise?” is your month-by-month guide to answering all your questions about Alaskan cruise weather.

Where Is Alaska? 

Alaska is the largest US state and one of the two non-contiguous states. It is in the extreme northwest of North America. It is bordered by water on three sides. 

What Is the Weather in Alaska? 

The northern part of Alaska mostly experiences a Tundra climate, with extremely low temperatures around the freezing point. The southern regions experience a mostly subarctic climate with very cold winters and short, cool, short, and mild summers. 

Why Is Alaska So Cold? 

Being in the far North, close to the North Pole, and away from the equator, Alaska leans away from the sun, making it colder. In winter, it also gets the brunt of the cold air from northern Canada and Siberia.  

When Does Alaskan Cruise Season Begin and End?

The Alaskan cruise season extends to six months, starting from May to October. During these months, the weather is more bearable for outdoor activities like sightseeing, wildlife watching, hiking, trekking the glacier, dogsledding, or trekking across a glacier. These months offer considerably moderate temperatures with not-so-severe weather disruption. 

What Month Is Too Cold for an Alaska Cruise?

The coldest month in Alaska is between November and April, during which time cruises to these routes are not available. You can visit Alaska all year round, but the sea route is not available. 

Here are the reasons why  

• Sub-freezing temperatures: Alaska’s coastal areas, especially in the northern regions, can experience sub-freezing temperatures, which makes outdoor exploration uncomfortable or impossible. 
• Shorter daylight hours: Alaska experiences darker and colder days in winter. The daylight is limited, especially in the farther North, making it difficult to see much during your cruise.
• Frozen ports and waters: There is also the risk of icy waters and frozen docks during winter, making it difficult to navigate in the harsh weather and ice floats, which would mean many of the Alaskan ports are inaccessible to cruise ships. 
• Limited shore excursions: One of the many attractions of an Alaskan Cruise is its shore excursions. But during these months, whale watching, hiking, and dog sledding are either not available or not comfortable due to dark days, cold, snow, and ice. 

Which Is the Coldest Month in Alaska?

That would be January, with average temperatures during the day ranging between 5 and 30 °F (-15 to -1.1 °C). The Northern regions and the interior of Alaska are mostly below zero during all winter. 

Here is a month-by-month overview of Alaskan Cruise weather 

May: Early Spring 

Temperature: 54-70°F (12-21°C) 

May marks the start of Alaska’s cruise season, with fewer crowds and pristine, untouched landscapes. The temperatures are still on the cooler side but are pleasant or bearable. You may experience rain. Many cruise lines start operating in late May. If you want less crowd and better rates, this is the month. 

• Pleasant weather: Mild temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities. 
• Fewer crowds: Shoulder season, less crowded ports and attractions. 
• Wildlife sightings: Opportunities to spot whales, sea lions, and other marine life. 
• Salmon runs: Sockeye salmon and King Salmon.  
• Fishing: Great for fishing Expeditions. 
• Daylight: Fifteen Hours of daylight.

June: The Start of the Peak Season

Weather: 61-70°F (16-21°C) 

June brings the beginning of peak season in Alaska. The temperatures are more comfortable, with warmer and longer days than in May. June may experience occasional rain in some regions. The landscapes are in full bloom, and the wildlife can be spotted along the coastline. You will have multiple cruise options, but at this time, prices will be on the higher side. 

• Longer days: Longer daylight, up to 18 hours for explorations and outdoor activities. 
• Blooming wildflowers: Landscapes are in full bloom. 
• Wildlife: A great month for wildlife viewing, including whales, bears, moose, nestling eagles, and sea otters. 
• Alaskan summer festivals: Summer solstice festivals include Anchorage’s Downtown Summer Solstice Festival, Alaska Family Fests, and music festivals. Celebration in Juneau, Kenai River Fest, and Big-Time Solstice Brewfest in Healy near Denali Park are also some of the notable festivals you can experience. 

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July: Peak Summer  

Weather: 65-74 °F (18-23°C)
The height of the summer season, July is the best month, with the best of the weather and plenty of outdoor activities. Days are long, and temperatures are warmer. It is a month when you can spot active wildlife. The ports will be crowded as this is the peak season. The cruise fares will be at the highest, too. 

• Weather: July, being the hottest month in Alaska, is great for outdoor activities and enjoying the scenery. 
• Wildlife: A great time for spotting bears, salmons, whales, and other animals. 
• Longer day: Northern regions get 19 hours of daylight, and inside passage will get close to 17 hours of daylight.
• Shore excursions and activities: July is the best month for fishing, trekking, hiking, kayaking, and wildlife photography. 
• Festivals: The ports are bustling with festivals and lively events, including Fourth of July events, the Girdwood Forest Fair, Copper River Salmon Jam, Bear Paw Festival, and the Fairbanks Golden Days celebration. 

August: Late Summer

Weather: 61-73°F (16-23°C) 

Yet another excellent time to cruise is in August. While Alaska experiences a decrease in the weather and may not be as warm as in July, the temperatures are still mild. Frequent rain is a possibility in August. The days begin to shorten. July brings an end to Salmon Run, but you still get to see them. It is an excellent time to view the wildlife, and glaciers are at their best. As the peak season winds up, the crown starts to thin out. 

• Weather: Comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. 
• Daylight: Get 15 hours of daylight. 
• Stunning scenery: Lush landscapes and vibrant fall foliage. 
• Wildlife: Excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, including bears, whales, and seabirds. 
• Glacier calving: Enjoy the incredible sight of glacier calving with huge ice breaking off and crashing into the sea. 
• Festivals: Salmonfest on the Kenai Peninsula, Alyeska’s Blueberry Festival, Tanana Valley State Fair, and the Alaska State Fair are some of the interesting festivals you can enjoy in August. 

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September: Early Fall 

Weather: 55-60°F (12-15°C) 

As the summer winds down, so do the crowds. September in Alaska offers a more tranquil experience. The weather is cooler, and the chances of rain are higher. The days become shorter and shorter, especially towards the end of the month. However, fall foliage starts to show its magic, turning everything it touches into hues of oranges, reds, and yellows. It is really a great time for photography. September sees the end of whaling season, but you will see a few of them. 

• Fewer crowds: Fewer tourists mean less crowded, making way to enjoy nature in peace. 
• Beautiful fall foliage: Stunning autumn colors in the forests. 
• Northern lights: If you are visiting Fairbanks or further North in September, you may be able to get a glimpse of the Northern Lights. 
• Wildlife spotting: You can spot moose and bear. 
• Day lights: 12 hours of daylight. 
• Lower prices: More affordable cruise deals. 

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October: Late Fall 

Weather: 28-40°F (-2-4°C) 

October is a good time for those who want a quieter time to experience Alaska. The temperatures drop significantly, days are shorter, and snow starts falling on the mountaintops. While the wildlife is less active, a trip to Alaska in October will be completely worth the trip if you are lucky enough to experience the Northern Lights. Only a few cruises sail to Alaska in October. 

• Lesser crowd: If you prefer less crowd and a tranquil vacation, this is an excellent time. 
• Northern lights: If you are visiting Fairbanks or further North in September, you may be able to get a glimpse of the Northern Lights. 
• Landscape: You can experience the first glimpses of winter in Alaska with stunning snow-dusted landscapes. 
• Wildlife sightings: Rare chances to spot caribou and moose up in the far North. 
• Daylight: Alaska experiences an average of about 10 to 11 hours of daylight.  
• Excursions and activities: Visit Butchart Gardens, watch the glaciers, hike through temperate rainforests, and fishing.
• Festivals: You will enjoy Oktoberfest in Anchorage and Alaska Day in October. 

Tips for Alaskan Cruising in Colder Months

If you’re planning an Alaska cruise during the shoulder seasons, here are some tips to stay warm and comfortable: 

• Layer up: Pack warm clothing, including a waterproof jacket, boots, sweaters, hats, and gloves. 
• Stay dry: Rain gear is very important, as you cannot avoid precipitation. 
• Book shore excursions wisely: Properly research excursions that are suitable for colder weather. 

Major Alaska Cruise Lines 

These are some of the cruises offering Alaskan Cruises  

• Royal Caribbean 
• Princess Cruises 
• Holland America Line 
• Celebrity Cruises 
• Norwegian Cruise Line 

Final Notes 

The ideal time to cruise depends on your personal preferences and priorities. Before making your decision, consider factors like weather, crowd, budget, and what you would like to see, such as whether you want to experience an Alaskan Northern Light, see the wildlife, or trek the glaciers.

• If you’re after the warmest weather, abundant wildlife, and long days of sunshine, then June, July, and August are your best bet. 
• For those seeking fewer crowds and stunning landscapes, May and October offer quieter, more affordable options. 
•  No matter when you decide to cruise, Alaska offers an unparallel raw beauty and unique experience, something you cannot experience anywhere else in the world 

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