Question:

My wife and I are looking at taking a cruise in September of 2003 to Alaska. I would like advice as to what type of cruise we should take, a North bound, a South bound, or a round trip? This is going to be our first cruise and we would like to see as much as possible, as we have only 7 days to do it in.Thanks in advance for any help.                                                       Chad

Response:

If you only have 7 days, I strongly recommend a round trip.  The travel time to or from Anchorage will consume many many more hours and dollars than the similar travel to or from Vancouver. Look for a cruise that includes Glacier Bay — it is the star attraction and not all cruises go there. KK – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > My wife and I are looking at taking a cruise in September of 2003 to Alaska. > I would like advice as to what type of cruise we should take, a North bound, > a South bound, or a round trip? This is going to be our first cruise and we > would like to see as much as possible, as we have only 7 days to do it > in.Thanks in advance for any help. >                                                       Chad

Response:

I should have explained better I have 7 nights for the cruise itself , I can take a few extra days to travel to and from Detroit if I need it.Thanks in advance.                                                        Chad

Response:

>My wife and I are looking at taking a cruise in September of 2003 to Alaska. >I would like advice as to what type of cruise we should take, a North bound, >a South bound, or a round trip? This is going to be our first cruise and we >would like to see as muc

I would go the earliest possible in Sept as the bad weather factor multiplies as the month goes on.  I wouldn’t consider a one way for my self without at least 5 additional interior touring days.  It is such a long and expensive trip to get there that I want to make the most of it.  If you do want a one way, I would go south- again for the weather factor.  But don’t think round trips are shortchanging your self,  they offer a lot in 7 days, 3 ports and a glacier same as the one ways.  I also highly recommend Glacier Bay-  my clear preference.  More ships go into the Bay in Sept as they are outside the permit restrictions- at least I know that Carnival goes in???

Response:

Hi Chad, I too am doing my first Alaska cruise on Aug. 30 to Sept. 6th on Celebrity Infinity, its doing an inside passage.  In case you want to check it out, here is the link: http://www.cruisemates.com/Articles/CMcruises/alaska2002.cfm I believe after this one, there will be 2 more Alaska cruises for this ship before heading south.   Hope you find the right cruise for you. Donna Tuesday Chat Host http://www.cruisemates.com

Response:

I am from Italy and i think to booking a 7 night cruise from Seattle to Alaska (roundtrip) in July 18, 2004. My preferred ship is Sapphire Princess and i find the best price at this internet travel agency: http://www.awcv.com/ It’s a good TA ? Someone of you had book a cruise with this TA ? Please write me your experience. Thanks in advance Frank

Response:

Be aware that this route has a lot of outside passage sailing compared to some Vancouver departures.  The more inside the better in my experience.  (my opinion only).

Response:

My husband and I would like to take an Alaska cruise.  This will be probably mid 2002 or after.  What I am looking for is anyone who has taken an Alaska cruise…what ship did you take, why did you like that ship/or not like it & would you recommend it.  We are in the "looking" stage and gathering information, so anything you would like to contribute to our search would be gratefully appreciated! Teresa

Response:

Teresa, I’ve used Princess and did the 7 day tour and 7 day cruise. Alaska is incredible and if oyu can afford the time & money try to do the tour too. I picked Princess before I had cruised with them before and felt they gave good value for the money. You can go to their website 7 get info. Norma

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->My husband and I would like to take an Alaska cruise.  This will be >probably mid 2002 or after.  What I am looking for is anyone who has >taken an Alaska cruise…what ship did you take, why did you like that >ship/or not like it & would you recommend it.  We are in the "looking" >stage and gathering information, so anything you would like to >contribute to our search would be gratefully appreciated! >Teresa

Far more important than a specific line should be the route- ports, and glacier as most of what you should go to Alaska for is OUTSIDE the ship.  :)   I have cruised Alaska 9 times.  I also DO NOT recommend a cruise tour.  Very fixed schedule that glosses over the tourist areas.  You can see more on your own for 1/2 the costs.  None go far enough into Denali – I recommend at least to Eielson.

Response:

> I had the opposite experience with my 7-day Princess cruise earlier > this month.  Princess botched pretty much everything under their > direct control; the shore excursions were generally OK, though (and > one was excellent).  I would NOT recommend them.  YMMV.

My experience on four Princess cruises is that they do not botch anything. They have been the best of all the lines doing things right, including the small details. I would recommend Princess over the other cruise lines.

Response:

> My husband and I would like to take an Alaska cruise.  This will be > probably mid 2002 or after.  What I am looking for is anyone who has > taken an Alaska cruise…what ship did you take, why did you like that > ship/or not like it & would you recommend it.  We are in the "looking" > stage and gathering information, so anything you would like to > contribute to our search would be gratefully appreciated! > Teresa

We took a cruise from Vancouver to Seward on the Ryndam (Holland America Lines) this past June.  The ship and service were first rate and we highly recommend this ship and HAL for those who like a quiet, subdued, and elegant atmosphere.  As others have attested to in this newsgroup, HAL caters to the more sedate crowd, and if  you’re looking for  lots of nightlife, this might not be the line for you. We also took a four day land tour to Anchorage, Denali, and Fairbanks following the cruise, and although we enjoyed it very much, our opinion is that the Westours branch of HAL, which arranges and leads such tours, is not quite up to the excellent standards of effiency that we saw on the ship.  For example, there were not enough busses waiting at the dock in Seward to accomodate all the people on our particular tour and some folks had to wait for an additional bus to arrive. On the other hand, the activities and sights were well worth it and we didn’t regret having signed up for the  land tour as well as the cruise.                         Naomi

Response:

HOLLAND AMERICA has retractable pool cover – nice in Alaska climate.

Response:

> >HOLLAND AMERICA has retractable pool cover – nice in Alaska climate. > Indeed, it was VERY nice.  The Westerdam has no balcony cabins, > though.  I think, if we should ever go to Alaska on a cruise again, I > would like a balcony cabin.

Its the reason I didnt choose that ship for my Panama Cruise… despite the fact i liked its ports better… I went with the Maasdam… was very happy too ! jay Sun, Jul 22, 2001 > Karen >    http://www.cupcaked.com/cupcaked >  (and leave off the "potatoes" to e-mail)

– Legend insists that as he finished his abject… Galileo muttered under his breath: "Nevertheless, it does move."

Response:

I’ve cruised Alaska 7 times and my advice would be to go on one of the adventure cruiselines like Clipper or Alaska Sightweeing. They have very small ships, have no onboard night life. they spend the nights in various ports and local entertainers come onboard. The cruises have no casinos, they are designed to really see Alaska. They carry historians and naturalists and in Alaska, Clipper brings a native totem carver onboard. An independent tour into either Denali or the Kenai Peninsula before or after the cruise would make it an ideal trip. The advantage of the small ship over the large one is the ability to go where the large ship can’t go and the ability to follow more wildlife. Carole

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> My husband and I would like to take an Alaska cruise.  This will be > probably mid 2002 or after.  What I am looking for is anyone who has > taken an Alaska cruise…what ship did you take, why did you like that > ship/or not like it & would you recommend it.  We are in the "looking" > stage and gathering information, so anything you would like to > contribute to our search would be gratefully appreciated! > Teresa > We took a cruise from Vancouver to Seward on the Ryndam (Holland > America Lines) this past June.  The ship and service were first rate > and we highly recommend this ship and HAL for those who like a quiet, > subdued, and elegant atmosphere.  As others have attested to in this > newsgroup, HAL caters to the more sedate crowd, and if  you’re looking > for  lots of nightlife, this might not be the line for you. > We also took a four day land tour to Anchorage, Denali, and Fairbanks > following the cruise, and although we enjoyed it very much, our > opinion is that the Westours branch of HAL, which arranges and leads > such tours, is not quite up to the excellent standards of effiency > that we saw on the ship.  For example, there were not enough busses > waiting at the dock in Seward to accomodate all the people on our > particular tour and some folks had to wait for an additional bus to > arrive. > On the other hand, the activities and sights were well worth it and we > didn’t regret having signed up for the  land tour as well as the > cruise. > Naomi

Response:

I have the Radiance booked for August of next year….but, unfortunately will need to postpone that trip…anyway, I hear the Radiance is a gorgeous ship and has LOTS of glass to view the beauty of Alaska. Besides that, she’s brand-spanking new!

Response:

I don’t like viewing through glass except in the dining room (fortunate to have a window table on the Rhapsody when that ship was "new").    Only a front open deck for me.  :)

Response:

Princess does wonderful things in Alaska.  There are several ships and itineraries to choose from. To read our reviews and see our pictures go to http://www.elite.net/~thehalls/cruising.html Mike

Response:

Read so many postings how to avoid cruises with kids.  We want to cruise Alaska for 10-12 days in 2002.  If we are to avoid the months when school is out, would May or September be very much cooler and  more rainy than  the  three summer months.  We want as few kids  as possible on board.  Also would a later dinner necessarily mean less kids in the dinnig room?  We are retired and never been on a cruise.  Suggestions would be appreciated.

Response:

>Read so many postings how to avoid cruises with kids.  We want to cruise >Alaska for 10-12 days in 2002.  If we are to avoid the months when >school is out, would May or September be very much cooler and  more >rainy than  the  three summer months.  We want as few kids  as possible >on board.  Also would a later dinner necessarily mean less kids in the >dinnig room?  We are retired and never been on a cruise.  Suggestions >would be appreciated.

Weather is unpredictable; however, we sailed in Alaska in late-May one year and it was beautiful–more snow on the distant mountains and not terribly cold nor rainy.  The only time during our cruise that I considered it "cold" was when we were viewing the glacier up close and spent most of the day outside on deck.  Before we arrived at the glacier it was sunny and warm.  The key is to dress in layers (add or subtract as necessary), have a cap to cover your ears, and at least light gloves. You won’t find any large cruise lines that outright bar children but you might want to look into some that don’t necessarily have very many on board.  As a rule, they are the more upscale lines such as Crystal and Radisson. Seven Seas.  Yes, later seating generally means fewer small children.  Either that, or possibly some of the smaller soft expedition type ships like Cruise West. Hope this helps. —– Linda Coffman Cruise Diva http://cruisediva.com "The best islands in the world are the ones that  float and move.  They’re called cruise ships."

Response:

There are never as many kids on an Alaska cruise as there are on a Caribbean cruise. I remember sailing to Alaska on Princess when my daughter was a young teenager.  She was the only kid onboard.  The last time I sailed to Alaska was on Celebrity’s Galaxy and there were only 144 kids of all ages on the ship, a veery small percentage. Carole

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Read so many postings how to avoid cruises with kids.  We want to cruise > Alaska for 10-12 days in 2002.  If we are to avoid the months when > school is out, would May or September be very much cooler and  more > rainy than  the  three summer months.  We want as few kids  as possible > on board.  Also would a later dinner necessarily mean less kids in the > dinnig room?  We are retired and never been on a cruise.  Suggestions > would be appreciated.

Response:

I live in Anchorage.  Come in May instead of Sept. It is sure to be rainy in Sept. May is a great month, leaves are coming out and the air is crisp. And you get here before everyone in the tour industry is tuckered out and get grouchy !!! Alaska is the vacation of a lifetime, please come on up.

Response:

thank you for responding to my inquiry.

Response:

hiya! I think if you pick a trip longer than 7 days, you will have fewer kids onboard, (definitely do not pick less than 7 days) also if you check the pricing on the 3rd & 4th supplement, if it is higher than the average fees, that might stop some parents from cruising on those trips.. muffin > well at least that is the reasoning I would use if I was bringing kids.

Read so many postings how to avoid cruises with kids.  We want to cruise Alaska for 10-12 days in 2002.  If we are to avoid the months when school is out, would May or September be very much cooler and  more rainy than  the  three summer months.  We want as few kids  as possible on board.  Also would a later dinner necessarily mean less kids in the dinnig room?  We are retired and never been on a cruise.  Suggestions would be appreciated.

Response:

You wrote; <<Come in May instead of Sept. It is sure to be rainy in Sept. May is a great month, leaves are coming out and the air is crisp.>> I wish WE could come earlier, but unfortunately, we only have August 10, 2002 as our one sailing option. It is absolutely impossible to change it. I realize you said the weather is nicer in May and early summer, but will early August be half-way decent, too, at least SOME of the days??:)

Response:

We have done the Anchorage to Vancouver trip in early August. The weather was mid to high 60’s and most days were sunny. It did rain in Ketchikan and that is almost a given to have rain there. We wore layers of clothing and had travel umbrella’s and didn’t miss a thing. Have a wonderful trip. —

Response:

This is no problem in Alaska as there are far fewer kids compared to the Caribbean.  With your choice of the time I would think World Explorer would be a good option for very few kids.  I do not recommend Sept travel.  As the month goes on the bad weather factor multiplies many times over.  Likely more rain, cold temps and dusk by 7pm,  May is far better in my experience.   As for Aug- it is my favorite time to travel Alaska- lower rates and still decent weather, great wildlife spotting.   .>ead so many postings how to avoid cruises with kids.  We want to cruise – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->Alaska for 10-12 days in 2002.  If we are to avoid the months when >school is out, would May or September be very much cooler and  more >rainy than  the  three summer months.  We want as few kids  as possible >on board.  Also would a later dinner necessarily mean less kids in the >dinnig room?  We are retired and never been on a cruise.  Suggestions >would be appreciated.

Response:

You can have iffy weather in May and September but it will reduce the number of kids onboard.  Plus the longer cruisetour will not attract as many families – however there may be some on the cruise portion.  Another option is try cruise on an upscale line – limited children’s programs.  Late dinner used to mean less kids, but it’s not always the rule. Debbie Schroeder  MCC Days Off Travel http://www.daysofftravel.com – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > Read so many postings how to avoid cruises with kids.  We want to cruise > Alaska for 10-12 days in 2002.  If we are to avoid the months when > school is out, would May or September be very much cooler and  more > rainy than  the  three summer months.  We want as few kids  as possible > on board.  Also would a later dinner necessarily mean less kids in the > dinnig room?  We are retired and never been on a cruise.  Suggestions > would be appreciated.

Response:

>You can have iffy weather in May and September but it will reduce the number >of kids onboard.  Plus the l

In my  experience May is far better than September.

Response:

I’m coming in August, Roses.  It’s the only month when my daughter and cabin mate can travel. Carole

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> I live in Anchorage.  Come in May instead > of Sept. It is sure to be rainy in Sept. May is a great month, leaves > are coming out and the air is crisp. And you get here before everyone in > the tour industry is tuckered out and get grouchy !!! Alaska is the > vacation of a lifetime, please come on up.

Response:

I can personally say that on Crystal there were very few children.  They even drop the Children’s Program person first if the ship get booked! We went at the end of June last year for 12 days and are doing the same time period this year slightly different cruise! Wayne

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Read so many postings how to avoid cruises with kids.  We want to cruise > Alaska for 10-12 days in 2002.  If we are to avoid the months when > school is out, would May or September be very much cooler and  more > rainy than  the  three summer months.  We want as few kids  as possible > on board.  Also would a later dinner necessarily mean less kids in the > dinnig room?  We are retired and never been on a cruise.  Suggestions > would be appreciated.

Response:

Is this newsgroup appropriate to discuss cruises to Alaska? Thank you,

Response:

> Is this newsgroup appropriate to discuss cruises to Alaska?

Absolutly. — Charles

Response:

Good day, I have a few questions concerning a cruise to Alaska: 1)  Any preference in the directin of the cruise; i.e. northbound vs southbound? 2)  Any preference in the location of the cabin? Looking at the sea or looking at the land? 3)  Position of the cabin on the boat: high, center or low and front, center or back? 4)  Best time of the year; spring, summer or fall? That’s all for now. Thank you, G. Robert

Response:

> I have a few questions concerning a cruise to Alaska: > 1)  Any preference in the directin of the cruise; i.e. northbound vs > southbound? > 2)  Any preference in the location of the cabin? Looking at the sea or > looking at the land? > 3)  Position of the cabin on the boat: high, center or low and front, center > or back? > 4)  Best time of the year; spring, summer or fall?

if you want to see the real alaska, don’t come on a cruise ship. the cruise lines will do their best to ensure that you *never* escape their clutches, and will steer you to stores and "attractions" that pay them kickbacks to do so.     If you want to see the real Alaska, don’t come on a     cruise ship!  See the cruise industry rogue’s gallery     at http://www.cruisejunkie.com/#Environmental_Issues

Response:

> Good day, > I have a few questions concerning a cruise to Alaska: > 1)  Any preference in the directin of the cruise; i.e. northbound vs > southbound?

South will bring you more towards major cities like Vancouver, but that’s a personal preference. > 2)  Any preference in the location of the cabin? Looking at the sea or > looking at the land?

If you do the Inside Passage, there’s land on both sides of the ship. If the ship goes out to sea, you see no land except when very close to ports. > 3)  Position of the cabin on the boat: high, center or low and front, center > or back?

One way to experience the scenery of Alaska is within the cabin. I find it confining in the sense of space, perspective, viewing levels. Even with the emphasis with the current cruiser on balconies I say they are totally unnecessary to enjoy Alaska. I sailed in Alaska with no balcony. The open deck spaces are there and afford more in the way of choice. You can view whatever you like, change what side of the ship you are on, change the level of your viewing perspective providing the ship has open access to another level. With cabins, I think the important thing has to do with ship motion, lower and closer to center is best. Higher and more forward, the most motion is felt. If the ship has aft vibrations that may be notice aft and lower. There’s also the issue of how close the cabin is to stairways or perhaps under high traffic areas where you may hear noise overhead or in surrounding areas. > 4)  Best time of the year; spring, summer or fall?

Summer the weather is less extreme. I think spring tends to have more days that are misty. > That’s all for now.

Good questions. Ben S. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Thank you, > G. Robert

Response:

> Good day, > I have a few questions concerning a cruise to Alaska: > 1)  Any preference in the directin of the cruise; i.e. northbound vs > southbound? > 2)  Any preference in the location of the cabin? Looking at the sea or > looking at the land? > 3)  Position of the cabin on the boat: high, center or low and front, center > or back? > 4)  Best time of the year; spring, summer or fall?

Sounds more like a survey, than just you having questions…

Response:

I hope so, cuz that’s my next cruise, although not until July 31 of 2005. But, in the meantime, half the fun is in the planning and discussing. Welcome! Let’s talk Alaska! Lindsay – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >Is this newsgroup appropriate to discuss cruises to Alaska? >Thank you,

Response:

>> Good day, > I have a few questions concerning a cruise to Alaska: > 1)  Any preference in the directin of the cruise; i.e. northbound vs > southbound? > South will bring you more towards major cities like Vancouver, but > that’s a personal preference.

When going north, how is Vancouver missing?

Response:

i like southbound.  tour first, then more relaxing to cruise to vancouver. i love a balcony, although not necessary.  southbound port side look at sea but also land only goes late spring, summer — Sheree

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Good day, > I have a few questions concerning a cruise to Alaska: > 1)  Any preference in the directin of the cruise; i.e. northbound vs > southbound? > 2)  Any preference in the location of the cabin? Looking at the sea or > looking at the land? > 3)  Position of the cabin on the boat: high, center or low and front, center > or back? > 4)  Best time of the year; spring, summer or fall? > That’s all for now. > Thank you, > G. Robert

Response:

>>> Good day, >> I have a few questions concerning a cruise to Alaska: >> 1)  Any preference in the directin of the cruise; i.e. northbound vs >> southbound? > South will bring you more towards major cities like Vancouver, but > that’s a personal preference. >When going north, how is Vancouver missing?

It isn’t.  You board in Vancouver. We went on the northbound trip in July.  I’m glad we did it that way.  The scenery became more and more spectacular as we went up the coast, so each day was better and better.  We particularly liked ending with the view of Harvard Glacier.   We also liked being on the right side of the ship.  Yes, it is true that, on an Inside Passage cruise there is often land on both sides, the mainland is more likely to have mountains to view in the distance.   Sheila

Response:

> if you want to see the real alaska, don’t come on a cruise ship. > the cruise lines will do their best to ensure that you *never* > escape their clutches, and will steer you to stores and > "attractions" that pay them kickbacks to do so.

Hey, Dennis – I hear that the old bitch that you called a "mother" finally died!  Tell us, was it the arsenic in her mashed potatoes, or did you do the "antifreeze in the orange juice" trick?  BTW, did you get the house?

Response:

I have cruised BOTH ways,  the other posters may not have?  I prefer southbound for the excellent last sailing day back to Vancouver alone Vancouver Island- good chance for orca sightings.  This is done at night on the northbound.  You need to look at and consider more than the route-  strongly consider adding a week for interior touring-  round trip Vancouver sailings and one ways are actually more similar than different- so TAKE ADVANAGE of being in Anchorage. I rarely consider any one ways without College Fjords and give a big edge to Seward over Whittier. BUT again- way too many people just pass though- don’t be one of them- again experience the excellent touring possibilities. A MAJOR mistake people make with interior touring planning is to underestimate time and distance-  don’t get caught up in a short tour with all your time in transit. I am no fan of cruisetour and they are way overpriced for what little you get- extremely simple and far better to go on your own.  Also look at time in ports, ports, and glacier.  Budget fully for costly excursions- you get only half a trip without them.

Response:

As for time- don’t consider anything past the first week of Sept-  too much range in possible weather.   If touring interior- strongly advised- have an arrival after June 1 for Denali Park roads to be open to at least Eielson.

Response:

Very interesting; we are thinking about the same kind of vacation in 2006, open jaw either to Fairbanks and back to Vancouver/Seattle or to Seattle/ Vancouver and out of Fairbanks, with one half being a cruise and the other a self-driven land vacation. We are just beginning planning. Why Seward over Whittier? Why are the excursions so important.  Is it difficult to arrange/do these things on your own? Thanks in advance, Julie – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > I have cruised BOTH ways,  the other posters may not have?  I prefer southbound > for the excellent last sailing day back to Vancouver alone Vancouver Island- > good chance for orca sightings.  This is done at night on the northbound.  You > need to look at and consider more than the route-  strongly consider adding a > week for interior touring-  round trip Vancouver sailings and one ways are > actually more similar than different- so TAKE ADVANAGE of being in Anchorage. > I rarely consider any one ways without College Fjords and give a big edge to > Seward over Whittier. BUT again- way too many people just pass though- don’t be > one of them- again experience the excellent touring possibilities. A MAJOR > mistake people make with interior touring planning is to underestimate time and > distance-  don’t get caught up in a short tour with all your time in transit. > I am no fan of cruisetour and they are way overpriced for what little you get- > extremely simple and far better to go on your own.  Also look at time in ports, > ports, and glacier.  Budget fully for costly excursions- you get only half a > trip without them.

– Julie Check out my Travel Pages (non-commercial) at http://www.dragonsholm.org/travel.htm

Response:

>Why Seward over Whittier? >Why are the excursions so important.  Is it difficult to arrange/do these >things on your own?

Seward offers just EXCELENT touring opportunities, Kenai Fjords boat trips are just superior for any varied marine wildlife viewing compared to other areas. But as I mentioned most people don’t have a clue and use this port to just pass though- don’t be one of them.  :)  As for why excursions are the most important????  The brochures are GREATLY enhanced-  for wildlife viewing you NEED TOURS,  superb are the flights which are my top recommendations.  You need to consider FAR more than just getting off the ships in the ports and just walking around- you will see VERY little going this route.  Necessary are plans and reservations in advances and certainly- plenty to arrange on your own. Myself- I NEVER consider any ship tours and alway go direct with venders, superior more personal tours, not always money savings.  Request each city’s visitor guide- plenty of info.  Head to your library and take out Frommer’s Alaska and Fodor’s Alaska- good concise books.  There are NO Seattle one way cruises only Vancouver/ Whittier or Seward on the major lines.  But easy transfer between Vancouver and Seattle.  A MAJOR factor in your planning- do not underestimate time and distance in interior Alaska- too many people do. Don’t consider plans that are too time consuming on the travel. Best is to spend time in areas to see it.  :0

Response:

Thanks so much for your input.  We plan to preplan independant excursions in most areas. We’re headed via Seattle because we have friends there, I guess our plan is to take the train to Vancouver for a one way cruise (or back; still have not decided which. . . . ) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->Why Seward over Whittier? >Why are the excursions so important.  Is it difficult to arrange/do these >things on your own? > Seward offers just EXCELENT touring opportunities, Kenai Fjords boat trips are > just superior for any varied marine wildlife viewing compared to other areas. > But as I mentioned most people don’t have a clue and use this port to just pass > though- don’t be one of them.  :)  As for why excursions are the most > important????  The brochures are GREATLY enhanced-  for wildlife viewing you > NEED TOURS,  superb are the flights which are my top recommendations.  You need > to consider FAR more than just getting off the ships in the ports and just > walking around- you will see VERY little going this route.  Necessary are plans > and reservations in advances and certainly- plenty to arrange on your own. > Myself- I NEVER consider any ship tours and alway go direct with venders, > superior more personal tours, not always money savings.  Request each city’s > visitor guide- plenty of info.  Head to your library and take out Frommer’s > Alaska and Fodor’s Alaska- good concise books.  There are NO Seattle one way > cruises only Vancouver/ Whittier or Seward on the major lines.  But easy > transfer between Vancouver and Seattle.  A MAJOR factor in your planning- do > not underestimate time and distance in interior Alaska- too many people do. > Don’t consider plans that are too time consuming on the travel. Best is to > spend time in areas to see it.  :0

– Julie Check out my Travel Pages (non-commercial) at http://www.dragonsholm.org/travel.htm

Response:

>Good day, >I have a few questions concerning a cruise to Alaska: >1)  Any preference in the directin of the cruise; i.e. northbound vs >southbound?

Southbound,  Go up and sight see before the cruise, go see denali! then when you get on the cruise you can relax after the running around >2)  Any preference in the location of the cabin? Looking at the sea or >looking at the land?

I had a Ocean side Balcony room on the summit in Sep. It was Great but I thing the Land side would have been better as you can only be "inspired" by ocean so long. One major plus though was the sunsets. >3)  Position of the cabin on the boat: high, center or low and front, center >or back?

We wer all the way Aft and had a smooth ride >4)  Best time of the year; spring, summer or fall?

Been to alaska twice in the Fall and Loved both times though the weather can be rainy >That’s all for now. >Thank you, >G. Robert

x–   100 Proof News – http://www.100ProofNews.com x–   3,500+ Binary NewsGroups, and over 90,000 other groups x–   Access to over 1 Terabyte per Day – $8.95/Month x–   UNLIMITED DOWNLOAD

Response:

>As for time- don’t consider anything past the first week of Sept-  too much >range in possible weather.  

I’m glad we hadn’t been given this advice the first time we cruised to Alaska. We departed sunny San Francisco the last week of September for a ten-day cruise.  The only day of rain we had was in Ketchikan.  We had a lot of sun most everywhere else.   Would I prefer earlier?  Sure.   It’s warmer in Alaska earlier in the season. But if a great September deal came up, especially on a round-trip from San Francisco (which is at her best in September), I wouldn’t hesitate booking a round-trip cruise to Alaska after the first week of September.

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->As for time- don’t consider anything past the first week of Sept-  too much >range in possible weather.   >I’m glad we hadn’t been given this advice the first time we cruised to >Alaska. >We departed sunny San Francisco the last week of September for a ten-day >cruise.  The only day of rain we had was in Ketchikan.  We had a lot of sun >most everywhere else.   >Would I prefer earlier?  Sure.   It’s warmer in Alaska earlier in the season. >But if a great September deal came up, especially on a round-trip from San >Francisco (which is at her best in September), I wouldn’t hesitate booking a >round-trip cruise to Alaska after the first week of September.

Agree. I have also been very lucky in September too. Sure there were times there was more rain, but hey, I am from AZ and rain is a novelty. The only problem I have seen is getting up there before bearwatching season is over. But I lucked out on my September 19th cruise and had excellent flying weather in Ketchikan and saw many bears at Neets Bay! This happenned after being told it was too late in the season by many experts on this board and elsewhere. Next year I have planned a cruise on the Zaandam that departs September 10th. By going earlier in September, I hope to increase my chances to see the bears feeding on salmon (at Traitors Cove this time). The SF departure sounds wonderful and I would love to do it…..but I can’t get off that much work Sean

Response:

I am from Italy and i think to booking a 7 night cruise from Seattle to Alaska (roundtrip) in July 18, 2004. My preferred ship is Sapphire Princess and i find the best price at this internet travel agency: http://www.awcv.com/ It’s a good TA ? Someone of you had book a cruise with this TA ? Please write me your experience. Thanks in advance Frank

Response:

Be aware that this route has a lot of outside passage sailing compared to some Vancouver departures.  The more inside the better in my experience.  (my opinion only).

Response:

My wife and I are looking at taking a cruise in September of 2003 to Alaska. I would like advice as to what type of cruise we should take, a North bound, a South bound, or a round trip? This is going to be our first cruise and we would like to see as much as possible, as we have only 7 days to do it in.Thanks in advance for any help.                                                       Chad

Response:

If you only have 7 days, I strongly recommend a round trip.  The travel time to or from Anchorage will consume many many more hours and dollars than the similar travel to or from Vancouver. Look for a cruise that includes Glacier Bay — it is the star attraction and not all cruises go there. KK – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > My wife and I are looking at taking a cruise in September of 2003 to Alaska. > I would like advice as to what type of cruise we should take, a North bound, > a South bound, or a round trip? This is going to be our first cruise and we > would like to see as much as possible, as we have only 7 days to do it > in.Thanks in advance for any help. >                                                       Chad

Response:

I should have explained better I have 7 nights for the cruise itself , I can take a few extra days to travel to and from Detroit if I need it.Thanks in advance.                                                        Chad

Response:

>My wife and I are looking at taking a cruise in September of 2003 to Alaska. >I would like advice as to what type of cruise we should take, a North bound, >a South bound, or a round trip? This is going to be our first cruise and we >would like to see as muc

I would go the earliest possible in Sept as the bad weather factor multiplies as the month goes on.  I wouldn’t consider a one way for my self without at least 5 additional interior touring days.  It is such a long and expensive trip to get there that I want to make the most of it.  If you do want a one way, I would go south- again for the weather factor.  But don’t think round trips are shortchanging your self,  they offer a lot in 7 days, 3 ports and a glacier same as the one ways.  I also highly recommend Glacier Bay-  my clear preference.  More ships go into the Bay in Sept as they are outside the permit restrictions- at least I know that Carnival goes in???

Response:

Hi Chad, I too am doing my first Alaska cruise on Aug. 30 to Sept. 6th on Celebrity Infinity, its doing an inside passage.  In case you want to check it out, here is the link: http://www.cruisemates.com/Articles/CMcruises/alaska2002.cfm I believe after this one, there will be 2 more Alaska cruises for this ship before heading south.   Hope you find the right cruise for you. Donna Tuesday Chat Host http://www.cruisemates.com

Response:

My husband and I would like to take an Alaska cruise.  This will be probably mid 2002 or after.  What I am looking for is anyone who has taken an Alaska cruise…what ship did you take, why did you like that ship/or not like it & would you recommend it.  We are in the "looking" stage and gathering information, so anything you would like to contribute to our search would be gratefully appreciated! Teresa

Response:

Teresa, I’ve used Princess and did the 7 day tour and 7 day cruise. Alaska is incredible and if oyu can afford the time & money try to do the tour too. I picked Princess before I had cruised with them before and felt they gave good value for the money. You can go to their website 7 get info. Norma

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->My husband and I would like to take an Alaska cruise.  This will be >probably mid 2002 or after.  What I am looking for is anyone who has >taken an Alaska cruise…what ship did you take, why did you like that >ship/or not like it & would you recommend it.  We are in the "looking" >stage and gathering information, so anything you would like to >contribute to our search would be gratefully appreciated! >Teresa

Far more important than a specific line should be the route- ports, and glacier as most of what you should go to Alaska for is OUTSIDE the ship.  :)   I have cruised Alaska 9 times.  I also DO NOT recommend a cruise tour.  Very fixed schedule that glosses over the tourist areas.  You can see more on your own for 1/2 the costs.  None go far enough into Denali – I recommend at least to Eielson.

Response:

> I had the opposite experience with my 7-day Princess cruise earlier > this month.  Princess botched pretty much everything under their > direct control; the shore excursions were generally OK, though (and > one was excellent).  I would NOT recommend them.  YMMV.

My experience on four Princess cruises is that they do not botch anything. They have been the best of all the lines doing things right, including the small details. I would recommend Princess over the other cruise lines.

Response:

> My husband and I would like to take an Alaska cruise.  This will be > probably mid 2002 or after.  What I am looking for is anyone who has > taken an Alaska cruise…what ship did you take, why did you like that > ship/or not like it & would you recommend it.  We are in the "looking" > stage and gathering information, so anything you would like to > contribute to our search would be gratefully appreciated! > Teresa

We took a cruise from Vancouver to Seward on the Ryndam (Holland America Lines) this past June.  The ship and service were first rate and we highly recommend this ship and HAL for those who like a quiet, subdued, and elegant atmosphere.  As others have attested to in this newsgroup, HAL caters to the more sedate crowd, and if  you’re looking for  lots of nightlife, this might not be the line for you. We also took a four day land tour to Anchorage, Denali, and Fairbanks following the cruise, and although we enjoyed it very much, our opinion is that the Westours branch of HAL, which arranges and leads such tours, is not quite up to the excellent standards of effiency that we saw on the ship.  For example, there were not enough busses waiting at the dock in Seward to accomodate all the people on our particular tour and some folks had to wait for an additional bus to arrive. On the other hand, the activities and sights were well worth it and we didn’t regret having signed up for the  land tour as well as the cruise.                         Naomi

Response:

HOLLAND AMERICA has retractable pool cover – nice in Alaska climate.

Response:

> >HOLLAND AMERICA has retractable pool cover – nice in Alaska climate. > Indeed, it was VERY nice.  The Westerdam has no balcony cabins, > though.  I think, if we should ever go to Alaska on a cruise again, I > would like a balcony cabin.

Its the reason I didnt choose that ship for my Panama Cruise… despite the fact i liked its ports better… I went with the Maasdam… was very happy too ! jay Sun, Jul 22, 2001 > Karen >    http://www.cupcaked.com/cupcaked >  (and leave off the "potatoes" to e-mail)

– Legend insists that as he finished his abject… Galileo muttered under his breath: "Nevertheless, it does move."

Response:

I’ve cruised Alaska 7 times and my advice would be to go on one of the adventure cruiselines like Clipper or Alaska Sightweeing. They have very small ships, have no onboard night life. they spend the nights in various ports and local entertainers come onboard. The cruises have no casinos, they are designed to really see Alaska. They carry historians and naturalists and in Alaska, Clipper brings a native totem carver onboard. An independent tour into either Denali or the Kenai Peninsula before or after the cruise would make it an ideal trip. The advantage of the small ship over the large one is the ability to go where the large ship can’t go and the ability to follow more wildlife. Carole

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> My husband and I would like to take an Alaska cruise.  This will be > probably mid 2002 or after.  What I am looking for is anyone who has > taken an Alaska cruise…what ship did you take, why did you like that > ship/or not like it & would you recommend it.  We are in the "looking" > stage and gathering information, so anything you would like to > contribute to our search would be gratefully appreciated! > Teresa > We took a cruise from Vancouver to Seward on the Ryndam (Holland > America Lines) this past June.  The ship and service were first rate > and we highly recommend this ship and HAL for those who like a quiet, > subdued, and elegant atmosphere.  As others have attested to in this > newsgroup, HAL caters to the more sedate crowd, and if  you’re looking > for  lots of nightlife, this might not be the line for you. > We also took a four day land tour to Anchorage, Denali, and Fairbanks > following the cruise, and although we enjoyed it very much, our > opinion is that the Westours branch of HAL, which arranges and leads > such tours, is not quite up to the excellent standards of effiency > that we saw on the ship.  For example, there were not enough busses > waiting at the dock in Seward to accomodate all the people on our > particular tour and some folks had to wait for an additional bus to > arrive. > On the other hand, the activities and sights were well worth it and we > didn’t regret having signed up for the  land tour as well as the > cruise. > Naomi

Response:

I have the Radiance booked for August of next year….but, unfortunately will need to postpone that trip…anyway, I hear the Radiance is a gorgeous ship and has LOTS of glass to view the beauty of Alaska. Besides that, she’s brand-spanking new!

Response:

I don’t like viewing through glass except in the dining room (fortunate to have a window table on the Rhapsody when that ship was "new").    Only a front open deck for me.  :)

Response:

Princess does wonderful things in Alaska.  There are several ships and itineraries to choose from. To read our reviews and see our pictures go to http://www.elite.net/~thehalls/cruising.html Mike

Response:

Read so many postings how to avoid cruises with kids.  We want to cruise Alaska for 10-12 days in 2002.  If we are to avoid the months when school is out, would May or September be very much cooler and  more rainy than  the  three summer months.  We want as few kids  as possible on board.  Also would a later dinner necessarily mean less kids in the dinnig room?  We are retired and never been on a cruise.  Suggestions would be appreciated.

Response:

>Read so many postings how to avoid cruises with kids.  We want to cruise >Alaska for 10-12 days in 2002.  If we are to avoid the months when >school is out, would May or September be very much cooler and  more >rainy than  the  three summer months.  We want as few kids  as possible >on board.  Also would a later dinner necessarily mean less kids in the >dinnig room?  We are retired and never been on a cruise.  Suggestions >would be appreciated.

Weather is unpredictable; however, we sailed in Alaska in late-May one year and it was beautiful–more snow on the distant mountains and not terribly cold nor rainy.  The only time during our cruise that I considered it "cold" was when we were viewing the glacier up close and spent most of the day outside on deck.  Before we arrived at the glacier it was sunny and warm.  The key is to dress in layers (add or subtract as necessary), have a cap to cover your ears, and at least light gloves. You won’t find any large cruise lines that outright bar children but you might want to look into some that don’t necessarily have very many on board.  As a rule, they are the more upscale lines such as Crystal and Radisson. Seven Seas.  Yes, later seating generally means fewer small children.  Either that, or possibly some of the smaller soft expedition type ships like Cruise West. Hope this helps. —– Linda Coffman Cruise Diva http://cruisediva.com "The best islands in the world are the ones that  float and move.  They’re called cruise ships."

Response:

There are never as many kids on an Alaska cruise as there are on a Caribbean cruise. I remember sailing to Alaska on Princess when my daughter was a young teenager.  She was the only kid onboard.  The last time I sailed to Alaska was on Celebrity’s Galaxy and there were only 144 kids of all ages on the ship, a veery small percentage. Carole

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Read so many postings how to avoid cruises with kids.  We want to cruise > Alaska for 10-12 days in 2002.  If we are to avoid the months when > school is out, would May or September be very much cooler and  more > rainy than  the  three summer months.  We want as few kids  as possible > on board.  Also would a later dinner necessarily mean less kids in the > dinnig room?  We are retired and never been on a cruise.  Suggestions > would be appreciated.

Response:

I live in Anchorage.  Come in May instead of Sept. It is sure to be rainy in Sept. May is a great month, leaves are coming out and the air is crisp. And you get here before everyone in the tour industry is tuckered out and get grouchy !!! Alaska is the vacation of a lifetime, please come on up.

Response:

thank you for responding to my inquiry.

Response:

hiya! I think if you pick a trip longer than 7 days, you will have fewer kids onboard, (definitely do not pick less than 7 days) also if you check the pricing on the 3rd & 4th supplement, if it is higher than the average fees, that might stop some parents from cruising on those trips.. muffin > well at least that is the reasoning I would use if I was bringing kids.

Read so many postings how to avoid cruises with kids.  We want to cruise Alaska for 10-12 days in 2002.  If we are to avoid the months when school is out, would May or September be very much cooler and  more rainy than  the  three summer months.  We want as few kids  as possible on board.  Also would a later dinner necessarily mean less kids in the dinnig room?  We are retired and never been on a cruise.  Suggestions would be appreciated.

Response:

You wrote; <<Come in May instead of Sept. It is sure to be rainy in Sept. May is a great month, leaves are coming out and the air is crisp.>> I wish WE could come earlier, but unfortunately, we only have August 10, 2002 as our one sailing option. It is absolutely impossible to change it. I realize you said the weather is nicer in May and early summer, but will early August be half-way decent, too, at least SOME of the days??:)

Response:

We have done the Anchorage to Vancouver trip in early August. The weather was mid to high 60’s and most days were sunny. It did rain in Ketchikan and that is almost a given to have rain there. We wore layers of clothing and had travel umbrella’s and didn’t miss a thing. Have a wonderful trip. —

Response:

This is no problem in Alaska as there are far fewer kids compared to the Caribbean.  With your choice of the time I would think World Explorer would be a good option for very few kids.  I do not recommend Sept travel.  As the month goes on the bad weather factor multiplies many times over.  Likely more rain, cold temps and dusk by 7pm,  May is far better in my experience.   As for Aug- it is my favorite time to travel Alaska- lower rates and still decent weather, great wildlife spotting.   .>ead so many postings how to avoid cruises with kids.  We want to cruise – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->Alaska for 10-12 days in 2002.  If we are to avoid the months when >school is out, would May or September be very much cooler and  more >rainy than  the  three summer months.  We want as few kids  as possible >on board.  Also would a later dinner necessarily mean less kids in the >dinnig room?  We are retired and never been on a cruise.  Suggestions >would be appreciated.

Response:

You can have iffy weather in May and September but it will reduce the number of kids onboard.  Plus the longer cruisetour will not attract as many families – however there may be some on the cruise portion.  Another option is try cruise on an upscale line – limited children’s programs.  Late dinner used to mean less kids, but it’s not always the rule. Debbie Schroeder  MCC Days Off Travel http://www.daysofftravel.com – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > Read so many postings how to avoid cruises with kids.  We want to cruise > Alaska for 10-12 days in 2002.  If we are to avoid the months when > school is out, would May or September be very much cooler and  more > rainy than  the  three summer months.  We want as few kids  as possible > on board.  Also would a later dinner necessarily mean less kids in the > dinnig room?  We are retired and never been on a cruise.  Suggestions > would be appreciated.

Response:

>You can have iffy weather in May and September but it will reduce the number >of kids onboard.  Plus the l

In my  experience May is far better than September.

Response:

I’m coming in August, Roses.  It’s the only month when my daughter and cabin mate can travel. Carole

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> I live in Anchorage.  Come in May instead > of Sept. It is sure to be rainy in Sept. May is a great month, leaves > are coming out and the air is crisp. And you get here before everyone in > the tour industry is tuckered out and get grouchy !!! Alaska is the > vacation of a lifetime, please come on up.

Response:

I can personally say that on Crystal there were very few children.  They even drop the Children’s Program person first if the ship get booked! We went at the end of June last year for 12 days and are doing the same time period this year slightly different cruise! Wayne

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Read so many postings how to avoid cruises with kids.  We want to cruise > Alaska for 10-12 days in 2002.  If we are to avoid the months when > school is out, would May or September be very much cooler and  more > rainy than  the  three summer months.  We want as few kids  as possible > on board.  Also would a later dinner necessarily mean less kids in the > dinnig room?  We are retired and never been on a cruise.  Suggestions > would be appreciated.

Response:

Is this newsgroup appropriate to discuss cruises to Alaska? Thank you,

Response:

> Is this newsgroup appropriate to discuss cruises to Alaska?

Absolutly. — Charles

Response:

Good day, I have a few questions concerning a cruise to Alaska: 1)  Any preference in the directin of the cruise; i.e. northbound vs southbound? 2)  Any preference in the location of the cabin? Looking at the sea or looking at the land? 3)  Position of the cabin on the boat: high, center or low and front, center or back? 4)  Best time of the year; spring, summer or fall? That’s all for now. Thank you, G. Robert

Response:

> I have a few questions concerning a cruise to Alaska: > 1)  Any preference in the directin of the cruise; i.e. northbound vs > southbound? > 2)  Any preference in the location of the cabin? Looking at the sea or > looking at the land? > 3)  Position of the cabin on the boat: high, center or low and front, center > or back? > 4)  Best time of the year; spring, summer or fall?

if you want to see the real alaska, don’t come on a cruise ship. the cruise lines will do their best to ensure that you *never* escape their clutches, and will steer you to stores and "attractions" that pay them kickbacks to do so.     If you want to see the real Alaska, don’t come on a     cruise ship!  See the cruise industry rogue’s gallery     at http://www.cruisejunkie.com/#Environmental_Issues

Response:

> Good day, > I have a few questions concerning a cruise to Alaska: > 1)  Any preference in the directin of the cruise; i.e. northbound vs > southbound?

South will bring you more towards major cities like Vancouver, but that’s a personal preference. > 2)  Any preference in the location of the cabin? Looking at the sea or > looking at the land?

If you do the Inside Passage, there’s land on both sides of the ship. If the ship goes out to sea, you see no land except when very close to ports. > 3)  Position of the cabin on the boat: high, center or low and front, center > or back?

One way to experience the scenery of Alaska is within the cabin. I find it confining in the sense of space, perspective, viewing levels. Even with the emphasis with the current cruiser on balconies I say they are totally unnecessary to enjoy Alaska. I sailed in Alaska with no balcony. The open deck spaces are there and afford more in the way of choice. You can view whatever you like, change what side of the ship you are on, change the level of your viewing perspective providing the ship has open access to another level. With cabins, I think the important thing has to do with ship motion, lower and closer to center is best. Higher and more forward, the most motion is felt. If the ship has aft vibrations that may be notice aft and lower. There’s also the issue of how close the cabin is to stairways or perhaps under high traffic areas where you may hear noise overhead or in surrounding areas. > 4)  Best time of the year; spring, summer or fall?

Summer the weather is less extreme. I think spring tends to have more days that are misty. > That’s all for now.

Good questions. Ben S. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Thank you, > G. Robert

Response:

> Good day, > I have a few questions concerning a cruise to Alaska: > 1)  Any preference in the directin of the cruise; i.e. northbound vs > southbound? > 2)  Any preference in the location of the cabin? Looking at the sea or > looking at the land? > 3)  Position of the cabin on the boat: high, center or low and front, center > or back? > 4)  Best time of the year; spring, summer or fall?

Sounds more like a survey, than just you having questions…

Response:

I hope so, cuz that’s my next cruise, although not until July 31 of 2005. But, in the meantime, half the fun is in the planning and discussing. Welcome! Let’s talk Alaska! Lindsay – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >Is this newsgroup appropriate to discuss cruises to Alaska? >Thank you,

Response:

>> Good day, > I have a few questions concerning a cruise to Alaska: > 1)  Any preference in the directin of the cruise; i.e. northbound vs > southbound? > South will bring you more towards major cities like Vancouver, but > that’s a personal preference.

When going north, how is Vancouver missing?

Response:

i like southbound.  tour first, then more relaxing to cruise to vancouver. i love a balcony, although not necessary.  southbound port side look at sea but also land only goes late spring, summer — Sheree

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Good day, > I have a few questions concerning a cruise to Alaska: > 1)  Any preference in the directin of the cruise; i.e. northbound vs > southbound? > 2)  Any preference in the location of the cabin? Looking at the sea or > looking at the land? > 3)  Position of the cabin on the boat: high, center or low and front, center > or back? > 4)  Best time of the year; spring, summer or fall? > That’s all for now. > Thank you, > G. Robert

Response:

>>> Good day, >> I have a few questions concerning a cruise to Alaska: >> 1)  Any preference in the directin of the cruise; i.e. northbound vs >> southbound? > South will bring you more towards major cities like Vancouver, but > that’s a personal preference. >When going north, how is Vancouver missing?

It isn’t.  You board in Vancouver. We went on the northbound trip in July.  I’m glad we did it that way.  The scenery became more and more spectacular as we went up the coast, so each day was better and better.  We particularly liked ending with the view of Harvard Glacier.   We also liked being on the right side of the ship.  Yes, it is true that, on an Inside Passage cruise there is often land on both sides, the mainland is more likely to have mountains to view in the distance.   Sheila

Response:

> if you want to see the real alaska, don’t come on a cruise ship. > the cruise lines will do their best to ensure that you *never* > escape their clutches, and will steer you to stores and > "attractions" that pay them kickbacks to do so.

Hey, Dennis – I hear that the old bitch that you called a "mother" finally died!  Tell us, was it the arsenic in her mashed potatoes, or did you do the "antifreeze in the orange juice" trick?  BTW, did you get the house?

Response:

I have cruised BOTH ways,  the other posters may not have?  I prefer southbound for the excellent last sailing day back to Vancouver alone Vancouver Island- good chance for orca sightings.  This is done at night on the northbound.  You need to look at and consider more than the route-  strongly consider adding a week for interior touring-  round trip Vancouver sailings and one ways are actually more similar than different- so TAKE ADVANAGE of being in Anchorage. I rarely consider any one ways without College Fjords and give a big edge to Seward over Whittier. BUT again- way too many people just pass though- don’t be one of them- again experience the excellent touring possibilities. A MAJOR mistake people make with interior touring planning is to underestimate time and distance-  don’t get caught up in a short tour with all your time in transit. I am no fan of cruisetour and they are way overpriced for what little you get- extremely simple and far better to go on your own.  Also look at time in ports, ports, and glacier.  Budget fully for costly excursions- you get only half a trip without them.

Response:

As for time- don’t consider anything past the first week of Sept-  too much range in possible weather.   If touring interior- strongly advised- have an arrival after June 1 for Denali Park roads to be open to at least Eielson.

Response:

Very interesting; we are thinking about the same kind of vacation in 2006, open jaw either to Fairbanks and back to Vancouver/Seattle or to Seattle/ Vancouver and out of Fairbanks, with one half being a cruise and the other a self-driven land vacation. We are just beginning planning. Why Seward over Whittier? Why are the excursions so important.  Is it difficult to arrange/do these things on your own? Thanks in advance, Julie – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > I have cruised BOTH ways,  the other posters may not have?  I prefer southbound > for the excellent last sailing day back to Vancouver alone Vancouver Island- > good chance for orca sightings.  This is done at night on the northbound.  You > need to look at and consider more than the route-  strongly consider adding a > week for interior touring-  round trip Vancouver sailings and one ways are > actually more similar than different- so TAKE ADVANAGE of being in Anchorage. > I rarely consider any one ways without College Fjords and give a big edge to > Seward over Whittier. BUT again- way too many people just pass though- don’t be > one of them- again experience the excellent touring possibilities. A MAJOR > mistake people make with interior touring planning is to underestimate time and > distance-  don’t get caught up in a short tour with all your time in transit. > I am no fan of cruisetour and they are way overpriced for what little you get- > extremely simple and far better to go on your own.  Also look at time in ports, > ports, and glacier.  Budget fully for costly excursions- you get only half a > trip without them.

– Julie Check out my Travel Pages (non-commercial) at http://www.dragonsholm.org/travel.htm

Response:

>Why Seward over Whittier? >Why are the excursions so important.  Is it difficult to arrange/do these >things on your own?

Seward offers just EXCELENT touring opportunities, Kenai Fjords boat trips are just superior for any varied marine wildlife viewing compared to other areas. But as I mentioned most people don’t have a clue and use this port to just pass though- don’t be one of them.  :)  As for why excursions are the most important????  The brochures are GREATLY enhanced-  for wildlife viewing you NEED TOURS,  superb are the flights which are my top recommendations.  You need to consider FAR more than just getting off the ships in the ports and just walking around- you will see VERY little going this route.  Necessary are plans and reservations in advances and certainly- plenty to arrange on your own. Myself- I NEVER consider any ship tours and alway go direct with venders, superior more personal tours, not always money savings.  Request each city’s visitor guide- plenty of info.  Head to your library and take out Frommer’s Alaska and Fodor’s Alaska- good concise books.  There are NO Seattle one way cruises only Vancouver/ Whittier or Seward on the major lines.  But easy transfer between Vancouver and Seattle.  A MAJOR factor in your planning- do not underestimate time and distance in interior Alaska- too many people do. Don’t consider plans that are too time consuming on the travel. Best is to spend time in areas to see it.  :0

Response:

Thanks so much for your input.  We plan to preplan independant excursions in most areas. We’re headed via Seattle because we have friends there, I guess our plan is to take the train to Vancouver for a one way cruise (or back; still have not decided which. . . . ) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->Why Seward over Whittier? >Why are the excursions so important.  Is it difficult to arrange/do these >things on your own? > Seward offers just EXCELENT touring opportunities, Kenai Fjords boat trips are > just superior for any varied marine wildlife viewing compared to other areas. > But as I mentioned most people don’t have a clue and use this port to just pass > though- don’t be one of them.  :)  As for why excursions are the most > important????  The brochures are GREATLY enhanced-  for wildlife viewing you > NEED TOURS,  superb are the flights which are my top recommendations.  You need > to consider FAR more than just getting off the ships in the ports and just > walking around- you will see VERY little going this route.  Necessary are plans > and reservations in advances and certainly- plenty to arrange on your own. > Myself- I NEVER consider any ship tours and alway go direct with venders, > superior more personal tours, not always money savings.  Request each city’s > visitor guide- plenty of info.  Head to your library and take out Frommer’s > Alaska and Fodor’s Alaska- good concise books.  There are NO Seattle one way > cruises only Vancouver/ Whittier or Seward on the major lines.  But easy > transfer between Vancouver and Seattle.  A MAJOR factor in your planning- do > not underestimate time and distance in interior Alaska- too many people do. > Don’t consider plans that are too time consuming on the travel. Best is to > spend time in areas to see it.  :0

– Julie Check out my Travel Pages (non-commercial) at http://www.dragonsholm.org/travel.htm

Response:

>Good day, >I have a few questions concerning a cruise to Alaska: >1)  Any preference in the directin of the cruise; i.e. northbound vs >southbound?

Southbound,  Go up and sight see before the cruise, go see denali! then when you get on the cruise you can relax after the running around >2)  Any preference in the location of the cabin? Looking at the sea or >looking at the land?

I had a Ocean side Balcony room on the summit in Sep. It was Great but I thing the Land side would have been better as you can only be "inspired" by ocean so long. One major plus though was the sunsets. >3)  Position of the cabin on the boat: high, center or low and front, center >or back?

We wer all the way Aft and had a smooth ride >4)  Best time of the year; spring, summer or fall?

Been to alaska twice in the Fall and Loved both times though the weather can be rainy >That’s all for now. >Thank you, >G. Robert

x–   100 Proof News – http://www.100ProofNews.com x–   3,500+ Binary NewsGroups, and over 90,000 other groups x–   Access to over 1 Terabyte per Day – $8.95/Month x–   UNLIMITED DOWNLOAD

Response:

>As for time- don’t consider anything past the first week of Sept-  too much >range in possible weather.  

I’m glad we hadn’t been given this advice the first time we cruised to Alaska. We departed sunny San Francisco the last week of September for a ten-day cruise.  The only day of rain we had was in Ketchikan.  We had a lot of sun most everywhere else.   Would I prefer earlier?  Sure.   It’s warmer in Alaska earlier in the season. But if a great September deal came up, especially on a round-trip from San Francisco (which is at her best in September), I wouldn’t hesitate booking a round-trip cruise to Alaska after the first week of September.

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->As for time- don’t consider anything past the first week of Sept-  too much >range in possible weather.   >I’m glad we hadn’t been given this advice the first time we cruised to >Alaska. >We departed sunny San Francisco the last week of September for a ten-day >cruise.  The only day of rain we had was in Ketchikan.  We had a lot of sun >most everywhere else.   >Would I prefer earlier?  Sure.   It’s warmer in Alaska earlier in the season. >But if a great September deal came up, especially on a round-trip from San >Francisco (which is at her best in September), I wouldn’t hesitate booking a >round-trip cruise to Alaska after the first week of September.

Agree. I have also been very lucky in September too. Sure there were times there was more rain, but hey, I am from AZ and rain is a novelty. The only problem I have seen is getting up there before bearwatching season is over. But I lucked out on my September 19th cruise and had excellent flying weather in Ketchikan and saw many bears at Neets Bay! This happenned after being told it was too late in the season by many experts on this board and elsewhere. Next year I have planned a cruise on the Zaandam that departs September 10th. By going earlier in September, I hope to increase my chances to see the bears feeding on salmon (at Traitors Cove this time). The SF departure sounds wonderful and I would love to do it…..but I can’t get off that much work Sean

Response: