When Is Alaska Cruise Season?

Alaska cruise season runs from roughly early May through late September. Outside that window the weather turns and cruise lines reposition their ships elsewhere, so there are essentially no big-ship Alaska sailings in winter. Within the season, June through August is the warm, busy peak, while May and September are cheaper shoulder months with their own advantages.

The peak: June, July, and August

These are the most popular months for good reason. Daytime temperatures in the ports often reach the 60s Fahrenheit, daylight stretches to 18 hours or more around the summer solstice, and the long evenings give you more time for scenery and excursions. The trade-off is higher fares and busier ports — this is when demand and prices peak.

Shoulder months: May and September

The edges of the season suit travelers who want lower prices and smaller crowds:

• May is drier than later months in many areas, with snow still capping the peaks for dramatic scenery and lower fares.
• September brings fall color, the start of the northern lights season, and strong deals as the season winds down, though it tends to be wetter and cooler.

When to go for wildlife

Timing matters if you have a wildlife wish list:

• Whales (humpbacks, orcas): best from June through August
• Bears feeding on salmon: peak in July and August
• Bald eagles: visible throughout the season
• Salmon runs: generally July into August

Choosing your trip

If you want the warmest, brightest conditions and don’t mind crowds or higher prices, sail in mid-summer. If you’d rather save money and trade a little weather for fewer people — and a shot at the northern lights — book the May or September shoulder weeks. Either way, plan ahead: the short season means the best sailings sell out early.

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