Alaska is one of the best places in the world to see whales. In addition to enjoying the spectacular glaciers, mountains, and landscapes of this huge state, many people visit between April and September to see whales such as humpbacks and orcas. A cruise is a comfortable and luxurious way to travel to Alaska for whale watching. Let’s look at some of the cruises that offer you this unique opportunity.
Alaska Cruises
Alaska Cruises offers several different cruises, including ones that depart from Vancouver and Seattle. There are also southbound cruises that depart from Anchorage. Both small and large vessels are used for whale-watching tours. Passengers seeking the ultimate in comfort can choose the Regent Seven Seas Alaska Cruise, an all-inclusive ship that accommodates 700 guests. Alaska Cruises has departure dates May through October, and ships pass through many areas where whales are commonly spotted.
Alaska Tours
Alaska Tours offers the Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise which provides you with an opportunity to see not only whales but also harbor seals, sea lions, eagles, and numerous other Alaskan wildlife. Kenai Fjords National Park also features amazing glaciers and scenery unlike anywhere else on earth. This is a six hour cruise that departs from Seward, making it appropriate for people who are vacationing in Alaska and who want to include a short but breathtaking cruise during their trip.
Juneau Whale Watch Tours
Juneau Whale Watch has custom boats that depart from Auke Bay Harbor from May through September. These tours guarantee that passengers will see whales as it enters an area that has one of the world’s largest populations of humpback whales. This company offers a variety of whale-watching tour packages to accommodate groups of varying sizes.
All Aboard Yacht Charters
This is a small company that has been offering intimate Alaska cruises since 1981. This is ideal for a family or group of friends who want to take an unforgettable adventure in the wildest parts of Alaska. From the cruise ship Discovery, you can enjoy a trip with a flexible schedule. Unlike larger cruises companies, if you encounter a pod of whales or other interesting creatures extra time is taken to stop and enjoy the sight. The ship also travels through areas with amazing fjords.
Preparing For an Alaskan Whale-Watching Cruise
There are quite a few choices when it comes to finding an Alaskan whale-watching cruise. There are luxurious ships that provide you with a complete, all-inclusive vacation. Additionally, there are also day cruises that allow you to incorporate whale watching into your own self-planned trip. When you prepare for such a trip, you should expect a variety of weather conditions. While it isn’t usually frigid during the months when cruises run, it does get chilly, and there is sometimes rain. It’s therefore best to dress in layers. Other things you should not forget to bring include:
- Sunglasses
- Binoculars
- Camera
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellant
- Prescription drugs (if you take any)
- Medication for motion sickness (if you are susceptible to this)
Whale watching in Alaska is a one-of-a-kind experience that you will never forget. A cruise ship is the best place from which to view these magnificent creatures in their natural environment.
