Budgeting and Choosing the Best Fit for an Alaskan Cruise
Budgeting and Choosing the Best Fit for your Alaskan Cruise

Ugh, that sticky subject when planning a vacation; it comes up eventually every time you travel. Maybe you are one to plan a budget in advance and try to stick close to those numbers. You might be one to pull a number out of a hat, book the cruise right at your limit and not plan for excursions and ship board expenses. Another personality will just put it all on the card and figure it out later.
Knowing in advance what your expenses might be will help to plan your trip and enjoy it to the fullest. Factors to consider are broken out below, plan out your wish list as you go down the list. When budgeting, though, work in order of your personal priorities. This will help to determine the cruise line and sailing that is right for you.
The reason there are at least a dozen cruise companies sailing the Alaska coast successfully is the differences and markets they tend to attract. Let a travel agent help you explore which one is the best fit for your next vacation.
Ship Size:
More so than in any other market, there are varied ship options for your sailing to Alaska. From 12 person yachts that can visit uncharted nooks and crannies to large floating cities with every imaginable amenity and offering. While budget will play a role in this decision, your personal interests need to be considered to find the best fit.
Cruise Line:
Several companies sail the icy Pacific Ocean to the Bering Sea and beyond from May through October. Choosing the best fit for you might be as easy as listing your top dream activities on board. For instance, do you want the giant outdoor movie screen to looking at the best children’s programs? This thought may lead you to or away from a particular kid friendly line. You may enjoy privileged status with one company or you may want to gain that status for your dream future trip around the world. Quite often, clients know if they want formal nights and country club casual attire or if they’d prefer the casual anything goes climate, how do you like to travel? Do you prefer a set dinner time or do you prefer my style dining? Are you looking for an inclusive drink package? These are important differences between the cruise companies.
You could always call the cruise line directly and ask questions; they will certainly tell you all about their ships. Will they tell you about a competitor that might be a better fit for you? Not likely, but a travel agent will tell you.
Travel Dates Affect Budget:
If you are traveling with children, the school calendar may dictate your options for travel dates. If you don’t mind the colder weather, like a true New Englander, May or September can offer the same experience but with fewer crowds. Floridians might prefer July, Alaska’s warmest month. The calving glaciers are best seen with the warmer weather beginning in late May and newborn cubs and wildlife will be more abundant then too. Highest season in July is also highest priced but because of the warmer temperatures and longer days.
Trip Itineraries:
Alaskan cruises are generally 7 days or longer. The most common southern Alaska 7 day itineraries follow Read More