Cruise West Alaska Frequently Asked Questions

In Alaska you're alone in a magnificent wilderness, adrift on a magical sea – up-close to whales, up-close to waterfalls and glaciers, far removed from the day-to-day world.

• What's the weather going to be like?
• What clothes should I pack?
• Will I see whales?
• Will I see bears?
• Will I see Mt. McKinley?

What's the weather going to be like?
Weather can vary quite dramatically in Alaska. Each departure and each day can be completely different from the next. Alaska's coastal areas and interior also vary. On average the highs will be between the mid-40s and the mid-60s, but it's quite common for Alaska's interior to get into the 70s and even 80s. When we are near glaciers the temperatures drop by about 10 degrees. May and June have longer, sunnier days, but are a bit cooler. July and August are warmer but have a greater chance of rain.

What clothes should I pack?
Casual clothes - warm, comfortable, layers. What you should pack depends on the trip you choose, the amount of activity you want to participate in and the weather you are likely to encounter. Suggested packing lists will come with your documents that will be specific to your itinerary. Click here to see our complete online packing list.

Will I see whales?
This depends on the cruise you select, but you will have an excellent chance of seeing whales if you choose Alaska's Wilderness Waterways, Coastal Waterways, Gold Rush Voyage, or Inside Passage cruise.

Will I see bears?
While bears are plentiful throughout Alaska, your best chance of seeing bears will be on the Daylight Yacht Tours, Inside Passage, or Wilderness Waterways cruises, or on any of Cruise West's Cruisetours visiting Denali National Park.

Will I see Mt. McKinley?
To see Mt. McKinley, weather permitting, you will have to include Anchorage in your trip and your chances of seeing this magnificent peak will improve if you choose a cruisetour.