How far in advance should I book an Alaska cruise?

Alaska is one of the most beautiful places in the world, with its rugged terrains, glaciers, and brimming wildlife. Traveling in the ‘last frontier’ by cruise ship would allow you to explore the state in comfort and luxury. To find the best deals and offers for your Alaska cruise, it is advisable to book a year in advance. Early booking can also allow you to enjoy onboard credits and prepaid gratuities. However, you can also find last-minute cruise deals during the ‘wave’ booking season during January and February. While booking for your Alaska cruise in advance, knowing some factors can be invaluable for getting the lowest price best cabins, and experiencing a hassle-free vacation. 

Checkout Factors while Booking an Alaska Cruise in Advance: 

1. Choose a suitable itinerary:

While booking for your Alaska cruise, you must decide whether you want a one-way or round-trip cruise itinerary. Round-trip itineraries would allow you to avoid paying for high airfares. They also provide the convenience of embarking and disembarking at the same port. If you want to tour the Interior of Alaska and Southcentral by land, it is better to choose a one-way itinerary. Such an itinerary would also allow you to visit additional places that may not be in your cruise itinerary. 

2. Research early on shore excursions:

Make a list of all the shore excursions you want to go on during your Alaska cruise. This should also include the best places in Alaska where you can get the best experience for a particular excursion. To get budget-friendly prices, you can shop for cruise deals that provide onboard credits. 

3. Select a comfortable stateroom:

Booking your Alaska cruise in advance would provide you with the advantage of choosing staterooms as per your preference. Balcony staterooms are the best suited for enjoying the scenic beauty of Alaska. Inhaling the crisp Alaskan wind from your cabin balcony is indeed an experience and a dream for many cruisers. An interior stateroom would be suitable for you if you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodations. You can also choose from a range of lavish interior suites at a modest price. 

4. Determine the type of ship:

It is important to decide beforehand on what type of ship you want to travel on. Cruises sailing to Alaska can range from luxurious mega-ships to intimate expedition ships. Mega ships would provide abundant amenities, including multiple dining venues, onboard activities, and entertainment options like casinos and wine bars. Expedition ships would provide you with an enriching experience. Most ships have photographers, biologists, or naturalists onboard who give lectures and presentations. These ships would also provide you with more adventurous trips and activities.  

5. Make hotel room bookings:

It is advisable to reach the port a day before your cruise ship’s departure. If you’re arriving at the port by air, it is always a wise choice to fly in the night before. You can book hotels or lodges around your cruise port where you can stay overnight and reach the port on time.

Also read: What is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Alaska?

Cruise lines to consider if you want to book an Alaska cruise in advance:

1. Holland America Line:

Holland America Line cruise line has been a pioneer in providing cruises to Alaska for more than 70 years. Holland America holds the maximum permits to Alaska’s Glacier Bay National Park than any other cruise line. The cruise hosts daily programs conducted by onboard wildlife experts and guides. It is also known for its immersive activities and shore excursions.

2. Cunard:

The cruise line is known to offer the best luxury cruises to Alaska. With Cunard, you can sail to Alaska with elegant gala evenings, specialty dining, traditional afternoon teas, and exciting onboard games. Cunard is known for hosting the ‘Ice White Ball’ gala during the Alaska cruise, a formal event that would give an immersive experience with a touch of elegance. 

3. Disney Cruise Line:

With a wide range of accommodations, onboard Broadway shows, and fine dining, the Disney cruise line would offer an enriching experience to families cruising to Alaska. The line’s Alaska cruises feature kid’s clubs and spacious staterooms with split bathrooms. Disney cruises also provide shore excursions like hiking, zip lining, photo safaris, and high teas.

Also Read: How early should you plan a cruise?

Conclusion:

Cruising to Alaska is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many travelers. Alaska cruises can have distinct ships, prices, and itineraries. NCL, Holland America, and Silversea Cruises are some of the cruise lines that provide amazing Alaska cruise deals. You can also consider other cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Disney, and Celebrity. Whether you’re making early bookings or last-minute bookings, you must do thorough research on the onboard amenities and shore excursions. Compare the price differences of the cruise lines to choose your package. To book your Alaska cruise in advance, visit cruisebooking.com.