WHEN TO GO ON AN ALASKAN CRUISE

Travelers love Alaskan cruises. This is one destination that is so awe inspiringly, jaw droppingly unique that it should be on everyone's 'bucket' list. And on most 'return again' lists, too!

However, when you go may determine how high on the 'Wow' meter your cruise will score for you.

Most Alaskan Cruise ships sail  between May & September with May & September usually offering the least expensive fares. Would this be a good time to go? It depends on what you want to see & how much you want to pack.

Although many travel consultants say that you should go to Alaska when you have the most time to stay & not to book because of the temperatures, a wise traveler should be aware of the following average temperatures and amount of sunlight hours:

                             High             Low        Amt. of Sunlight
May                      59                 38            18 hours
June                      70                 50            21 hours
July                       72                 52            20 hours
August                  66                 47            16 hours
Sept                      54                 36            13 hours

Looking at this chart, you can decide whether or not 'temperature' would affect you.

Another consideration - when asked, 'Why do you want to go to Alaska?' many people respond - 'I want to see wildlife', 'I want to see the glaciers' or 'I want to see the Northern Lights'. If you agree with any (or all) of these answers, this will definitely determine when you sail.

'I want to see wildlife'. Since most Alaskan wildlife doesn't become active until the end of May, it would be disappointing for these travelers to sail before then. And actually, Alaskan wildlife is the most active closest to the fall when the animals are searching for food in preparation for their winter's hibernation.

'I want to see glaciers.' There is really no glacier activity until the end of May. Early May cruises would cause frown lines for these travelers.

'I want to see the Northern Lights.' The best time for this is the end of August and the beginning of September. Labor Day is usually a great choice. But travelers must remember, it has to be dark to see them. The best time is usually between 1 and 2am! Some cruises will actually give you a 'Northern Lights Wake Up Call' so you won't miss this spectacular natural sight.

By the way, if you plan to get off the ship at a port, you should be aware that most 1,500 passenger and less ships may be able to tie up at a dock. Larger ones may need tender boats to get passengers on and off.