Sunday, March 31, 2024

Alaska in September Should You Visit in September?

alaska cruise in september weather

So, you could find a 7-day cruise from USD 300 to 500 per person, plus taxes and fees. Cloud cover and precipitation conditions from May persist throughout June and July, and wind speeds remain low as well. May brings warmer weather within the cities and towns of the Alaskan inside passage.

What Are Temperatures And Rainfall Like In Alaska in September?

In this article, you’ll discover what to expect of Alaska’s weather, the pros, and cons of a late season cruise, and if it’s suited to you. You’ll also have a chance to visit the incredible Butchart Gardens, witness glaciers, pan for gold, hike through temperate rainforests, and much more. If you’re prepared for the weather and pack the right attire for your destination, nothing can get in the way of having a good time. Like July, nights and early mornings can be very cold, so late nighters and early risers should be prepared to bundle up for icy temperatures. The late nights and early mornings can be very cold, but these are also the hours when most people are asleep in their cabins. July is known as the hottest month in this section of Alaska with the hottest day of the year falling on July 9th.

alaska cruise in september weather

Utilizing the cabin’s window or porthole for relaxation

alaska cruise in september weather

Daylight quietly recedes and the growing twilight perfectly contrasts the luminous green lights of the Aurora Borealis. The enchanting colors invite you to marvel at the miracles of Mother Nature that so often act as the inspiration for treasured postcards. With only 12 hours of sunlight, temperatures range from around 43 degrees to the mid-50s. These new, cooler climates encourage Alaska’s famed wildlife to begin preparing for hibernation. Gaze at the water’s surface as thousands of bald eagles congregate to enjoy the final salmon of the season. Cast your line into the marvels of an Alaska summer by cruising in August.

Wildlife Viewing Cruises

In the southeast, you can expect a daily average high of 56 degrees and a low of 44. Rainfall is relatively high there in September compared to the rest of the year, with 22 days of rain in the month. In the first half of the month, visitors can still enjoy summer tours and activities.

Alaska in September: A Complete Guide to Visiting in Autumn

The inner layer provides warmth, the outer shell is waterproof, and worn together, they make the ideal coat for very cold and wet conditions. We walked through many rivers in Alaska and returned to our ship with dry socks and feet. We did a 3-1/2-hour outdoor excursion in the pouring rain in Juneau, but we stayed cozy and dry thanks to our waterproof shoes and Columbia jackets. Select jackets, backpacks, and waterproof shoes, not water-resistant. Our favorite Vessi runners are 100% waterproof, vegan, washable, and lightweight.

It was such a treat to wake up every morning to the soothing sound of the waves and watch the sun rise over the horizon. When you step into an ocean view cabin, you’re immediately greeted by the warm glow of sunlight flooding through the large windows. The natural light not only brightens up the space, but also creates a calming and inviting atmosphere.

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However, most of Alaska's tastiest fruits and vegetables aren't on offer until later in the summer. Most cruise ships have a medical center onboard staffed with qualified medical professionals. However, services at sea can be costly, so travel insurance with medical coverage is recommended. Most cruise ships cater to international travelers and thus provide both 110V and 220V outlets. However, as it’s later in the season, there might be occasional cancellations based on weather conditions.

We locals call these early snows Termination Dust, as in signaling the end of summer and that old man winter is just around the corner. Weather in Alaska in August may keep some cruisers away, but there are still many excursions and experiences to enjoy. Even if you're a seasoned fisherman, we recommend using a local guide to help find you the best fishing spot.

Cruising Alaska Responsibly in September

The road through the park is only partially open until early June. Alaska is known for its unpredictable and often erratic weather, so many travelers hesitate over which month to book their sailing. Despite having the best weather, Alaska’s weather in July is very unpredictable.

As a result, trains, motorcoaches, and many tourist attractions that operate during summer close down by September 15th in anticipation of rough weather and sparse crowds. Harvest Moon Local Food Festival is the Kenai Peninsula’s biggest one-day farmers market and local food celebration. Held at Soldotna Creek Park, this festival spotlights local Alaskans who grow, harvest and produce all sorts of Alaska Grown and Made in Alaska food and wellness products. It includes vendors, cooking demos, wild edibles walks, a fermentation station, live music and fun activities for kids and families.

And with salmon runs in full force, you can catch fishing bears in the southeast. Consider using a travel agent specializing in cruises or booking directly through a cruise line’s official website. Look for deals and discounts, especially as September is late in the season. September is a great time to spot brown bears, moose, and caribou as they prepare for winter. In the waters, you might see humpback and orca whales, seals, and sea otters. As such, when cruising these serene waters, it’s our collective responsibility to minimize our environmental footprint.

Cruises at the start of the season in April and May also offer discounted rates. Since most guests avoid the cold weather, cruise lines struggle to fill cruises, especially in the later weeks. As you can see, Ketchikan, Alaska’s southernmost city, experiences the warmest temperatures but the most rain.

Alaska in September: Weather, Things to Do, and What to Wear

alaska cruise in september weather

With low wind speeds, cold temperatures, and precipitation, travelers may want to pack plenty of knit sweaters, a jacket, warm pants, and waterproof boots or shoes. The Alaska cruise season is a little over six months long, but choosing the best time to cruise Alaska is surprisingly not that simple. For many, the summer months, when the kids are out of school, is the best time to travel due to warmer weather. However, you’ll pay the highest prices for a cruise to Alaska during peak season.

What is the best time to cruise Alaska?

Selected excursions, transportation (like the railroad), and lodges offer shoulder season pricing in September--but not all do. However, beyond the breathtaking landscapes and awe-inspiring wildlife encounters, it’s the intangibles that linger. An Alaska September cruise isn’t just any vacation; it’s an immersive experience into one of the last great wild frontiers on Earth. Your choice of cruise line can significantly shape your Alaskan experience. All in all, cruising to Alaska in September is like discovering a well-kept secret. While it’s different from the peak summer experience, it offers its own array of unforgettable moments.

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Bears will be fishing; in late August, they will be looking for blueberries, which also become a featured item on restaurant menus. Toward the end of August, you'll see leaves changing to fall colors. Peak cruising months, July and August, are the best time of year to cruise to Alaska. During these months you will have the warmest weather and the greatest chance to see wildlife. The warmer the weather, the better your chance to view a once-in-a-lifetime occurrence called “calving.” This is when a large chunk of the glacier separates in a giant icy landslide.

alaska cruise in september weather

Glacier Bay National Park

Norwegian Cruise Lines has the first departures of the season in early April from Seattle. To truly enjoy an Alaskan cruise, cruisers can visit from April to October when daylight hours, weather and wildlife are better. Explore Alaskan cruises and learn more about each fun-filled trip to the 49th state.

It might surprise many, but July and especially August are rainy, so don't expect endless sunshine. That said, you are in Alaska at a time for festivals and other special events, and frontier towns really come alive. Whether you’re drawn to the great outdoors or prefer the comfort of indoor exploration, there’s no shortage of things to do that cater to the season’s conditions. Here’s what travelers can expect in different parts of the state during this transitional month. While the month begins with the remnants of summer’s extended daylight, the nights quickly begin to reclaim their dominance.

Alaska Weather - Travel Alaska

Alaska Weather.

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As the month progresses, temperatures rise slightly, and daylight hours increase. Choosing to cruise in the early spring of Alaska will impact your experience. Less travelers might sound appealing, but many port towns aren’t fully “tourist operational” until late June when summer workers start to arrive. Since the skies do still get dark during this month, there is a slight chance that you’ll be able to view the Northern Lights on an Alaskan cruise in April. For major cruise lines, the Alaska cruise season runs between May and late September, including Viking and Disney. Cruisers can typically enjoy Alaska in October at lower rates than the Alaska summer cruise season prices.

Alaska Cruise in April: Fewer Rainy Days When You Visit Alaska in April

Both May Alaska cruise itineraries and those in September are considered the shoulder season. Although since the pandemic, some lines offer cruises as early as late April, and Norwegian offers cruises from Seattle until almost November. If you’re trying to decide on the best month to cruise to Alaska and thought about taking an end of the season cruise, you’ve come to the right place.

Best Things to Do in Alaska in September

The best time to cruise to Alaska is a matter of personal preference. The "best time" could be different for a solo cruise traveler who dreams of photographing bears than it is for a parent who wants a family vacation in the great outdoors. From May to September, the Alaska cruise season is just five months long, although Holland America Line offers Alaska cruises in late April and early October. Spending time on the deck and outdoor areas offers passengers a chance to enjoy the refreshing ocean breeze. Approximately 80% of cruise ship guests seek out these prime spots for relaxation and stunning ocean views. Despite the allure, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider when booking an ocean view cabin.

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Purchasing an all-inclusive package can be beneficial as it allows unlimited drinks and can save money in the long run. When it comes to champagne, the cruise line offers a variety of options to suit different tastes and preferences. From popular brands to more exclusive labels, there is something for everyone. Additionally, if you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion or indulge in some bubbly, Norwegian Cruise Lines also offers a great selection of champagne with varying costs. From reds to whites, and everything in between, they offer a range of options to suit every palate. If you’re traveling with children, Norwegian Cruise Lines also offers special drink pricing for them.

Ketchikan averages 16 hours of daylight in May; you’ll get even longer days as you travel north to Anchorage and still more if you take a cruise tour up to Fairbanks. The best time to cruise Alaska for good weather is between late June and early July. The summer months have the warmest temperatures and the least amount of snowfall. The weather conditions can change several times throughout the day, which is why it’s best to pack plenty of layers and a lightweight raincoat. The temperatures in September are slightly cooler, with highs of 55 and lows around 40 degrees fair height. July is an ideal month to visit for salmon fishing, cultural festivals, bear viewing, and small-town exploring.

You should still wear layers when visiting the port, but if you’re planning active shore excursions like hikes or glacier walks, you’ll want to stick with lightweight clothing. The Alaska cruise weather in June is fairly cool, but it has the least amount of rainfall during the Alaska cruise season. You can expect Alaska cruise temperatures in May to have lows of around 40 and highs of around 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Longer cruises, like the Holland America Alaska Arctic Solstice Cruise spans 28 days, and will take you from your port to the Arctic Circle.

This decrease in sunlight can have an impact on outdoor activities and sightseeing opportunities during a cruise in Alaska. When visiting Alaska, be aware that average precipitation levels can vary throughout the state, impacting outdoor activities and creating lush landscapes. By analyzing historical data and observing rainfall patterns, we can gain valuable insights into the weather and rainfall trends in Alaska during September. You may encounter freezing rain or even snow on your April cruise and should expect to tread through mud. Some tourist facilities — including those at national parks — may still be shuttered for the winter. Some adventurous cruisers will board ships when they arrive in Alaska in April to see the remnants of winter.

Choosing the best time of year for an Alaskan cruise can be challenging. From month to month, the weather, wildlife, and your chances of viewing the mesmerizing Northern Lights vary greatly. A little over an hour south of Anchorage, the small town of Whittier is situated on the shores of Prince William Sound.

September in Alaska, a time of significant transition, beckons with the allure of crisp autumn air, the last whispers of summer warmth, and the early hints of winter’s chill. September is also an excellent time to witness a towering Alaskan moose. With shoulder heights at 6 foot 9 inches and over 1,400 pounds, these massive animals are as dangerous as impressive, so you’ll want to view them from a distance. Birds also haven’t started their migration, so you can spot both songbirds and seabirds as you cruise along the coast. There is a chance you will see some snow, so a winter coat, gloves, and a hat are a smart addition to your packing list. Warmer weather in Alaska also has an unexpected bonus for cruisers in the form of glacial calving.

Not to mention you’ll have a better chance of seeing humpback whales, king salmon, bears, moose, and bald eagles. Due to the shorter daylight hours, September provides the best opportunity to see the Aurora Borealis from an Alaskan cruise. The Alaska cruise season generally runs from May to September, with occasional cruises in April and October.

For the fishing aficionado, consider May when king salmon reach their greatest appearance. If you prefer to explore the lush scenery by foot, wait until June when the sun has overcome the frosty terrain of the Inside Passage and trails are primed for adventures. Regardless of which month you choose to explore Alaska, you’ll encounter iconic marine life and embark on heart-stirring adventures when you set sail with Princess. Alaska’s cruise season is seven months long, from April to October. During the cruise season, popular cruise lines assist travelers in enjoying all of the unique sights, wildlife, excursions, events and food.

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