Ultimate Alaska Cruise Guide: What You Need to Know Before You Go

 

Part Three: Tips, Surprises, and Must-Knows for Your Alaska Cruise

In Part One of this series, we explored the joys of onboard life—dining, amenities, and the little luxuries that make your cruise ship feel like home. In Part Two, we stepped ashore to experience the unforgettable excursions that bring Alaska’s history and natural beauty to life.

Now, in this final part of the series, I want to share something different: the surprises, practical tips, and lessons learned from my own cruise experience. If you’re planning an Alaska cruise—or just wondering what makes it so special—this guide will help you prepare for a trip that’s every bit as magical as it is memorable.

 

 Surprising Things You Might Not Know

Alaska isn’t just glaciers and bald eagles—it’s full of quirks and unexpected details that might surprise even seasoned travelers. And yes, even the ship itself had a few wow factors I wasn’t expecting.

 

Onboard Surprises

1.  A massive tree in the atrium – Not a fake one either—an actual tree that instantly sets a unique, natural tone in the middle of the ship.
2.  A wine cellar in the dining room – Instead of just being tucked away, it’s a centerpiece, making meals feel extra special.
3.  A real grass lawn on the upper deck – Perfect for picnics, lounging, or just walking barefoot while surrounded by the sea.
4.  Original art on the walls – Not just reproductions—genuine pieces that give the ship a gallery-like feel.
5.  Apple tech everywhere – With an actual iStore onboard, you can buy Apple products or even join free training sessions.

 

Alaska Surprises

1.  Alaskans love ice cream – Despite the cold, residents eat more ice cream per capita than people in any other U.S. state.
2.  No roads to Juneau – The capital city is only accessible by boat or plane, making it one of the most unique capitals in the world.
3.  Occupied during WWII – Few people realize enemy forces actually occupied part of Alaska during World War II.

These little details remind you that Alaska isn’t just stunning—it’s full of character and fascinating stories.

 

 My Cruise Experience

One of the highlights of our trip was the incredible weather. Precipitation is common in Alaska, but we lucked out with clear skies and comfortable temperatures in the 60s almost every day. That alone made the scenery even more breathtaking.

Every port—Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway—offered something different and wonderful. From the lively Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show to the historic White Pass Railway, each stop had its own personality.

One thing worth noting: Alaska cruises are popular, and we weren’t the only ship in port. At times, three or more vessels were docked in the same location. That means thousands of travelers can flood into the same small towns at once. While it adds to the lively energy, it also means excursions and restaurants fill up quickly—making planning ahead essential.

 

 Top 5 Tips for an Alaska Cruise

If you take away one thing from this blog, let it be this: planning makes all the difference on an Alaska cruise. The right prep means you’ll spend less time stressing and more time soaking up the views. Here are my top recommendations:

1. Plan Early

Unlike cruises to the Caribbean or Europe, Alaska cruises sell out fast. While last-minute bookings can sometimes mean deals in other destinations, I wouldn’t risk it here. If Alaska is on your bucket list, book early for the best cabins, excursions, and pricing.

2. Budget Twice What You Expect

Alaska is expensive—there’s no way around it. Both travel to the state and life there come with higher-than-average costs. Many excursions run into the hundreds of dollars, but they’re once-in-a-lifetime opportunities like dog sledding, whale watching, or helicopter tours that you won’t want to miss. Build room into your budget so you don’t feel like you’re constantly saying no to experiences.

3. Make the Most of Your Ports

Shore excursions aren’t optional here—they’re the heart of the journey. Whether you choose a guided tour or explore on your own, don’t skip the ports. Just remember: excursions sell out early, sometimes six months in advance. If something like glacier hiking or gold panning is on your list, book it the moment you book your cruise.

4. Pack Smart—Dress in Layers

Alaska weather is unpredictable. The best way to prepare is by layering:

• A waterproof jacket
• Sweaters or fleeces
• A scarf and hat
• Comfortable walking shoes

Onboard, casual wear is fine, but prioritize practicality over fashion when in port. It’s better to have too many layers than too few.

5. Don’t Forget the Accessories

The little things make a huge difference:

•  A good camera or phone with zoom capabilities
•  A portable charger for long excursion days
•  Binoculars for spotting whales, bears, and eagles
•  Sunscreen (yes, really!)
•  Insect repellent (Alaska mosquitos are no joke)
•  A dry bag or daypack for carrying layers and protecting gear

These items keep you comfortable and ready for anything—from sudden rain showers to the surprise of seeing a pod of whales breaching in the distance.

 

 Final Thoughts

An Alaska cruise isn’t just another trip—it’s an experience of a lifetime. From quirky surprises like grass lawns at sea to unforgettable excursions through rugged mountains, every day is filled with something remarkable.

If Part One of this series showed how the ship becomes your cozy home, and Part Two highlighted the adventures waiting ashore, then this final part is about balance: preparing well, budgeting wisely, and being open to surprises that make Alaska so unforgettable.

 Whether it’s your first cruise or your fiftieth, Alaska has a way of making you feel like you’re exploring the world for the very first time.