Finding Affordable Small Boat Cruises In Alaska

Alaska is a delight for adventure seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, and nature lovers. The best way to explore Alaska is by opting for small boat cruises that offer a more intimate experience of the region's stunning scenery and diverse wildlife. Small ship cruises in Alaska are generally more expensive than big-ship cruises, but they offer a more personalised level of service and a more adventurous experience. These cruises are ideal for those who want to get up close and personal with nature and wildlife and are willing to pay a premium for it. The average cost of a small ship cruise in Alaska is $6,000 per person, with prices ranging from $3,000 to $10,000 per person. The season for small ship cruises in Alaska is short, starting in April and ending in September, with the best prices being offered during the shoulder seasons of April, May, and September.

When to book Alaska small boat cruises

The best time to visit Alaska on a small boat cruise is between April and September, with the high season falling in June and July. The warmer weather and longer days make this peak season, and you can also expect to pay a premium for cruises during this period.

If you're looking for a good deal, consider booking your cruise for mid-April to early May or the end of August to mid-September. These shoulder months offer lower prices, fewer crowds, and the chance to see the Northern Lights due to the shorter days.

April and May are also great months to visit Alaska, as you'll be treated to stunning scenery, with the mountain peaks still covered in snow. This time of year is also ideal for whale watching, particularly if you want to spot Orca and Humpback whales.

No matter which month you choose to visit Alaska, you're in for a treat when it comes to wildlife. You can expect to see everything from bald eagles and black bears to humpback whales and seals.

When planning your trip, it's important to book early, as spaces on small boat cruises tend to sell out 6-9 months in advance. Arriving at your departure port a day early is also recommended to ensure you don't miss your cruise due to travel delays.

Happy sailing!

How much Alaska small boat cruises cost

The cost of an Alaska small boat cruise varies depending on the cruise line, duration, season, and additional expenses. Here is a breakdown of the factors that contribute to the cost:

Cruise Line

Mainstream cruise lines like Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival, Princess, and Royal Caribbean offer more affordable options, with prices ranging from around $120 to $250+ per person per day. On the other hand, luxury lines like Seabourn can cost upwards of $300 to $500+ per person per day.

Duration

Most Alaskan cruise tours run for 7 to 12 nights, with 7-night cruises being the most popular. The longer the cruise, the higher the cost.

Season

The cruise season in Alaska typically runs from May to the end of September, with peak months being June, July, and August. During these high-demand months, prices tend to be higher. For more budget-friendly options, consider cruising during the shoulder seasons of late April/May and September/October.

Additional Expenses

In addition to the base cruise fare, there are several other costs to consider when budgeting for an Alaska small boat cruise. These include port taxes and fees, gratuities, internet and communication packages, onboard activities and amenities, specialty dining and beverage packages, shore excursions, travel insurance, souvenirs, and pre-and post-cruise expenses such as hotel stays and transportation to and from the port.

Taking all these factors into account, small boat cruises in Alaska can range from $3,000 to $10,000 or more per person, depending on the specific cruise and inclusions. It's important to carefully review the itinerary and inclusions to understand the overall cost of the cruise.

What to pack for an Alaska cruise

When packing for an Alaskan cruise, it's important to remember that the weather can be unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from warm and sunny to cold and rainy, all in the same day. So, it's crucial to pack layers that you can easily take on and off. Here's a comprehensive list of what to pack for your Alaskan cruise:

Clothing

• Base layers: Pack comfortable base layers, such as long thermal underwear, to keep you warm without the bulk.
• Rain pants: Trade your shorts for rain pants to stay dry and comfortable.
• Sweaters: Instead of sundresses, pack cosy sweaters to layer over your outfits.
• Waterproof jacket: A lightweight, waterproof jacket will protect you from the rain and wind. Look for one that packs down small.
• Insulated jacket: An insulated jacket or vest will provide extra warmth on colder days.
• Long-sleeved shirts: Pack several long-sleeved shirts to layer under your other garments.
• T-shirts: Bring a few t-shirts for warmer days or to wear as a base layer.
• Hiking pants: Consider bringing hiking pants that are both durable and breathable.
• Waterproof trousers: If you don't have waterproof trousers, opt for water-resistant ones to keep yourself dry.
• Socks: Bring plenty of warm wool socks to keep your feet cosy.
• Warm cover-up: Pack a loose, warm cover-up for evenings on the deck.
• Dress pants or skirts: For dinner and evening wear, bring a couple of pairs of dress pants or skirts.
• Nice shirts or sweaters: Bring a few nice shirts or sweaters for a more dressed-up look.
• Sweaters/wraps/light jackets: These will be useful for layering and keeping warm in the evenings.
• Waterproof shoes or hiking boots: Sturdy waterproof shoes or hiking boots are a must for excursions and walking on uneven terrain.
• Casual or athletic shoes: Bring a pair of comfortable shoes for daily wear.
• Sandals or dress shoes: Depending on your preference, pack a pair of sandals or dress shoes for men.
• Slippers or slipper socks: These are optional but highly recommended for keeping your feet warm and cosy.
• Sun hat: A wide-brimmed hat will protect your face and neck from the sun.
• Knit hat: For colder days, a knit hat will keep your head and ears warm.
• Gloves: Pack a light pair of gloves to keep your hands warm.
• Swimming costume: Don't forget to pack a swimming costume for the ship's hot tubs or heated pools.

Accessories

• Binoculars: Bring binoculars to get a closer look at the wildlife, such as eagles, whales, and bears.
• Camera and accessories: Bring a traditional camera to capture the stunning scenery and wildlife. Consider bringing a monopod for steady shots and a waterproof case to protect your camera.
• Multi-outlet adapter: Cabins often have limited outlets, so bring an adapter to charge multiple devices.
• Alarm clock: With the long daylight hours in summer, an alarm clock will help you maintain your sleep schedule.
• Lanyard: A lanyard will keep your cruise card and room key handy and safe.
• Refillable water bottle: Stay hydrated with a refillable water bottle, especially during excursions.
• Day bag or backpack: A waterproof day bag or backpack is ideal for carrying items during shore excursions.
• String bag or fanny pack: These are useful for carrying small items around the ship.
• Sunglasses: The sun's glare off the water and snow can be intense, so pack a good pair of polarised sunglasses.
• Lip balm: The wind and sun can be drying, so bring lip balm to keep your lips moisturised.
• Toiletries: Don't forget your basic toiletries, including toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, etc.
• Medications: Bring any necessary medications, including seasickness pills or patches if you're prone to motion sickness.
• Insect repellent: Insects, especially mosquitoes, can be an issue in the summer, so pack insect repellent.
• Travel documents: Ensure you have your passport, cruise documentation, and any other necessary paperwork.

Other Items

• Magnetic hooks: These are useful for hanging coats, sweatshirts, or hats in your cabin.
• Shoe organiser: A shoe organiser saves space and can also be used for storing small items like hats, gloves, and toiletries.
• Ziploc bags: Pack a few Ziploc bags for organising your belongings and keeping things dry.
• Entertainment: Bring books, card games, or other entertainment for downtime during the cruise.

Wildlife to see on an Alaska cruise

Alaska is known for its diverse wildlife, and a cruise along the Inside Passage offers the chance to see a variety of species in their natural habitat. The best time for wildlife sightings is typically from May to September when the weather is milder, and animals are more active. Here is a guide to the wildlife you may encounter on an Alaska cruise:

Whales

Whales are high on many people's wish lists, and humpback whales are the most common species encountered on Alaska cruises, particularly from June to August. Humpbacks can often be spotted soon after leaving Juneau, where they come to feed. Another popular whale to see is the Orcas, also known as "killer whales", which can be spotted from June to September. Orcas are actually the largest member of the dolphin family, not whales, and they travel in pods, making them exciting to watch with their acrobatic behaviours and distinctive black and white markings. Other whale species found in Alaskan waters include grey whales, fin whales, sei whales, blue whales, and minke whales. These whales are more solitary and harder to find.

Smaller Cetaceans

Keep an eye out for smaller cetaceans such as Dall's porpoises, harbour porpoises, and Pacific white-sided dolphins. Dall's porpoises swim incredibly fast, leaving a "rooster tail" in their wake, and are often mistaken for baby Orcas due to their black and white markings. Harbour porpoises, on the other hand, are usually busy feeding and don't spend much time on the surface. Pacific white-sided dolphins travel in large groups and enjoy riding the bow waves of ships.

Seals and Sea Lions

The adorable harbour seals can be spotted year-round in Alaska and are often seen resting on chunks of ice. They are commonly seen in Glacier Bay, near the LeConte Glacier, and Tracy Arm. Their larger cousins, the Steller sea lions, are always seen in Glacier Bay and sometimes along other parts of the coastline. Steller sea lions are named after Georg Steller, a naturalist who travelled with Vitus Bering in the 1740.

Sea Otters

Sea otters are another beloved sea mammal that is most active during the cruising season from May to September. They were once hunted to near extinction for their luxurious pelts, but their populations are now recovering thanks to conservation efforts. Sea otters are often spotted floating on their backs, with a baby on their belly, as ships sail by.

Salmon

Salmon are an iconic part of Alaska's ecosystems, and their migration occurs during specific seasons, with different species migrating at different times. Salmon can be observed migrating through the nutrient-rich waters along the coast, and they are also a food source for bears and eagles during their salmon runs.

Bears

Summer is the prime season for bear-viewing in Alaska, especially in areas with salmon runs. While bears are sometimes seen from the ship along the coastline, shore excursions offer a better chance of spotting them. The complimentary Valley of the Eagles Nature and Wildlife Expedition in Haines is a good option, but for a guaranteed bear sighting, try the Wild Bears of Anan excursion in Wrangell, where both black and brown bears gather to feed on spawning pink salmon.

Mountain Goats

Mountain goats can be spotted in Glacier Bay and other parts of Southeast Alaska, including Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway. They spend their lives precariously perched on high, craggy cliffsides, and you'll need strong binoculars or a keen eye to get a close look at these shaggy beasts.

Eagles and Other Birds

Bald eagles are abundant in Alaska, and you're likely to spot at least one every day. They can be seen soaring overhead, swooping down to catch fish, or perched in large nests along the shoreline. Another bird to look out for is the pigeon guillemot, which can be identified by its black duck-like appearance, bright red feet and mouth, and white wing patches. Seabirds such as puffins, murre, auklets, murrelets, and rhinoceros auklets can be spotted in Glacier Bay. Keep an eye out for the colourful tufted puffins and the cute horned puffins.

Other Wildlife

To see an even greater variety of wildlife, consider adding a land tour to your cruise, such as the Alaska National Parks tour, which includes Denali National Park. Here, you may have the chance to see moose, caribou, Dall sheep, wolves, marmots, pikas, red foxes, snowshoe hares, and various bird species.

Pros and cons of small boat cruises

Small boat cruises in Alaska offer a unique experience, with pros and cons to consider before booking. Here are some key points to help you decide if a small boat cruise is the right choice for your Alaskan adventure:

Pros:

• No crowds or long waits: Small boats typically carry fewer passengers, which means no queues when embarking or disembarking, and a more relaxed dining experience with no need for reservations.
• Personalised service: With fewer passengers, staff can provide more personalised attention and quickly learn your name and preferences.
• Casual atmosphere: Small boat cruises tend to have a casual and comfortable dress code, so you can leave your cocktail dresses and suits at home.
• Authentic port experiences: Smaller boats can access narrower passages and less-visited towns, offering a more authentic experience of local life in Alaska.
• Expedition days: Small boats often include expedition days where you can explore the coastline via kayak or Zodiac directly from the ship, without the need to book separate excursions.

Cons:

• Fewer dining options: Small boats usually have limited dining venues, so if you're looking for a variety of culinary experiences, a larger ship may be preferable.
• Minimal entertainment: Small boats typically don't offer the same level of onboard entertainment as larger ships, such as casinos, musical shows, or specialty bars.
• Limited shopping: Smaller ports may have fewer shopping options compared to major cruise ports, which could be a disadvantage if you enjoy browsing souvenir shops.
• Fewer excursion options: With fewer passengers and tour companies in smaller ports, the range of shore excursions may be more limited compared to what larger ships offer.

Small boat cruises in Alaska provide an intimate and adventurous experience, allowing you to connect with fellow travellers while exploring the state's breathtaking scenery and wildlife up close. However, they may not offer the same level of dining, entertainment, and shopping options as larger ships. Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal preferences and what you value most in a cruise holiday.

Frequently asked questions