Whats should I bring on an Alaskan cruise?

Base your packing on the number of days in port and the activities that you plan on while doing there. Onboard the ship you will need clothing to meet the dress codes and the line itself can offer you valuable tips on what to wear, just check the website or brochure. They will also have tips on what to bring for shore excursions. It all depends on the line you travel on, and whether you plan on eating in the dinning room with it’s formal, semiformal, and casual nights or eating at the buffet or alternative restaurants (if the line offers them).

For shore excursions a good pair of walking shoes are a must (runners, light hiking shoes), you may want to bring an extra pair just in case. A couple pair of jeans or casual style cargo/hiking pants, which I believe are a better option, (more room to carry things securely) should meet most, if not all, of your on shore activity needs. Bring a variety of shirts although when I go I prefer collared golf-style shirts simply because they can lend themselves to several different clothing options. On my trips I enjoy buying t-shirt “souveniers”, a memory and something you can use if necessary. Bring a light windproof jacket that you can layer with other clothing and perhaps a slightly warmer one. No heavy clothes though, it is better to wear a t-shirt under another shirt and a jacket over everything than that heavy jacket you never wear. Also remember your swim suit and workout clothes if you want to hit the gym. I was on the Radiance and they had a wonderful gym where you could workout and sightsee at the same time. No winter boots, it won’t get that cold in August unless there is strange weather going on.

The weather in Alaska can vary dramatically. The last time I was there the weather in Juneau was sunny and warm while in Ketchikan it was pouring down in the morning when we arrived. Something water proof is always a good idea or, for just walking around town, a packable (collapsable) umbrella. Most importantly though, have fun.

Dont’ forget your camera and a decent pair of binoculars though…