Are You A First Time Cruiser?

Alaska's waterways, in my opinion, offer some of the best reasons to try out cruising for the first time.  

Whether you are looking at a big, small or expedition ship cruise, Alaska itineraries offer a wide variety of experiences to excite and inspire any type of traveler of all ages.

Incredible Photo Opportunities 
Having been through Alaska's Inside Passage several times, I never tire of the gorgeous and ever changing scenery this itinerary offers.  From misty fjords to majestic mountains and lush forests, no matter where you are, incredible photo opportunities abound.

Glaciers! Glaciers! Glaciers!
A big reason why people come to Alaska is to see glaciers, and Inside Passage itineraries do not disappoint.  Tracy Arm Fjord, Glacier Bay and College Fjord all offer stunning and pristine scenery.  And at 7 miles wide,  the sheer size and beauty of Hubbard Glacier is just incredible.  

Abundant Wildlife
It doesn't take long to spot the wildlife in Alaska.   Orcas, humpback whales, sea lions and otters are common sightings.  Bald eagles are seen in most ports, along the shores and overhead searching for their next meal.  Be on the lookout for bears, moose and mountain sheep - a bit harder to see from a ship but not uncommon!

Charming Ports of Call
Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Haines, Icy Straights and Sitka are just a few of the charming towns and cities along the Inside Passage.  Take a step back into history, experience the days of the Gold Rush, Russian settlements and the traditions of the native Alaskans.   

Ship Options
Alaskan itineraries are offered by a wide variety of cruise lines: large, small and expedition ships, ranging from ultra luxury to premium and mass market brands.  Whatever your needs and wants, there is a line and itinerary for you.  

Smooth sailing
If you are prone to motion sickness, many ocean going cruises may be off limits.  Alaska's Inside Passage, however, is protected from the open waters, and thus offers much smoother sailing.  On occasion there might be some rough waters, but this is not common.

Taking a cruise for the first time is exciting, and choosing the right destination and ship make up a big part of this experience.  With so many options available, Alaska is a perfect first time cruise destination.   

Learn more about Alaska.

By Laurie Marschall
#Alaska #Alaskacruise #Insidepassage #Smallshipcruises #Wildlife