Alaska Cruise Mistakes You Don't Want to Make

Рет қаралды 47,372

Күн бұрын

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Don't Make the same Alaska cruise mistakes we made. Learn from our mishaps with our last Alaska tips and tricks video!
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Alaska Cruise Mistakes
0:00 Introduction
1:00 Not Budgeting Appropriately
2:55 Failing to Focus on the Itinerary
5:12 Not Comparing Ships Within a Cruise Line
6:27 Sailing at the Wrong Time of Year
7:40 Picking the Wrong Stateroom
9:15 Overpacking for the Cruise
11:30 Booking the Cruise Late
12:33 Booking Directly with the Cruise Line
14:05 Flying in On Cruise Boarding Day
14:52 Waiting to Book Shore Excursions
15:54 Doing an Organized Tour at Every Port
17:12 Relying Solely On Your Smartphone
18:18 Sleeping in During the Cruise
19:08 Skipping the Onboard Enrichment
ALASKA CRUISE MISTAKES TO AVOID
Embarking on an Alaska cruise promises a journey through icy fjords, encounters with majestic wildlife, and the thrill of exploring rugged landscapes. But to ensure your voyage is smooth sailing, it's crucial to steer clear of common pitfalls that can derail your experience.
Many travelers need to pay more attention toof the additional expenses associated with an Alaska cruise, from onboard activities andshould be focusing more shore excursions. Learn how to plan and allocate your budget effectively to fully savor every moment of your cruise without worrying about your wallet.
One Alaska cruise Please take a look at on the ship. The cruise itinerary is actually more important. Review the different options, ports of calls, and routes to find the destinations you want to visit the most.
Not all ships are created equal, even within the same cruise line. Each vessel offers its own set of amenities, features, and ambiance. By neglecting to compare ships, you risk choosing one that doesn't align with your preferences.
Booking your cruise during the wrong season can mean facing unfavorable conditions or missing out on wildlife sightings. But you may also overpay for your trip if you sail during peak season. So, weigh the pros and cons of sailing during the shoulder season, which is our preferred time to take an Alaska cruise.
While whether you should book a balcony in Alaska is debated. We believe a balcony is essential in the region, but you should refrain from splurging on a balcony and blowing your cruise budget. We rather have you spend more money on experiences and less on accommodations.
It is true we overpacked for our first trip way up north, but we haven't made that Alaska cruise mistake again. You probably don't need as much outerwear as you think. Bring plenty of layers and accessories like gloves and hats. Also, don't forget that bathing suit and sunscreen.
Waiting too long to book your Alaska cruise can limit your options and lead to higher prices. You can take advantage of early bird deals and secure your preferred cabin by booking early.
By avoiding these common mistakes and following our expert tips and advice, you can confidently embark on an Alaska cruise, knowing you're prepared for every twist and turn along the way.
LEARN MORE ABOUT Alaska Cruise Mistakes to Avoid Back on the Blog
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Пікірлер: 83

@jpentzien 22 күн бұрын

I appreciate these videos. It’s because of videos like these we decided to not get a balcony room and instead get an interior so we could spend that money on once in a lifetime excursion experiences. Can’t wait for our Alaskan cruise in 2025.

@gerrygibeault Ай бұрын

Although there are many factors to consider when choosing a ship for an Alaska cruise, I lean to Holland America since more of their ships have retractable roofs over the main pool, so that guests can enjoy it even in inclement weather.

@Rottnwoman Ай бұрын

I take your point but we are Australian. We don't cruise to alaska for the swimming.

@Eatsleepcruise1 Ай бұрын

The Pinnacle-class is a great ship for cruising to Alaska. Many other cruise lines do offer indoor pools.

@marianjeffrey8684 Ай бұрын

Just came back last week from our first Alaskan cruise. The flight to Vancouver from Melbourne is long. We had 2 days prior to cruise and 3 days after in Vancouver. Loved, loved this holiday. Didn't see much wildlife but we have been to BC before so have seen bears and whales before. We sailed HAL Noordam and had a balcony. We also had the have it all package and that was well worth the money. Favourite place was Ketchikan, the history is brilliant and I found a great book shop near Creek St. Met so many Aussies working in Alaska. The fish was mouthwatering great and I will miss Halibut and cod. Definitely want to go back to Ketchikan and have worked out a route. So go people, go on an Alaskan cruise.

@Rottnwoman Ай бұрын

Our plan is: Hawaiian Airlines to Honolulu- 2 nights at the Alohiani; HAL to Seattle, stay a few nights; Victoria Clipper for a few nights. BC Ferry to Tsawassen, a few nights in Vancouver then board the cruise. No flight over 10 hours 😊

@Eatsleepcruise1 Ай бұрын

Sounds like the long flights were worth it for you! Glad to hear you enjoyed your time way up north. Australia is one place we haven't been to yet, but we are eying a cruise there this December. Happy sailing!

@southernchristopher2680 Ай бұрын

We are heading to Alaska in August on the NCL Bliss. Great information, thank you for the video.

@Eatsleepcruise1 Ай бұрын

Have fun! We sailed on NCL BLiss in Alaska in 2018 and had a fabulous time. When you return, let us know your review!

@KayTee979 19 күн бұрын

Did a cruise to Alaska last year in early September. Due to inclement weather and rougher seas we could not dock in Skagway so we missed the port entirely. Also, due to weather and rough seas in Ketchikan our excursion was canceled entirely. We made the mistake of booking quite late (it was a special offer type thing we got only a few months prior). Also we got unlucky with the weather. It was still a great time. This was our first ever cruise and I still loved it, but we are hoping round 2 will go better. So that later shoulder season is nice as I suspect crowds were less, but the weather later on can be more unpredictable and can affect your cruise, if you can dock in the ports, your shore excursions etc. So that is something else to have people keep in mind. Round 2 is happening next year in May or May/June we are debating between a one-way 7 day cruise or a longer round-trip 10 day cruise. Those flights into/out of Anchorage/Vancouver are quite pricey compared to Seattle. Hotels are also a bit more as well. So even though the cruise is only 7 days compared to 10 days, as we are figuring out the finances, the 10-day cruise is looking to be on par with or even cheaper than the 7-day one. We will also visit more ports of call and for longer times on the 10-days cruise. So we may end up on a 10-day cruise for this second visit, with the hope that going in May/June will be better weather-wise. Super excited for it, just wish it wasn't almost an entire year away, but good things are worth waiting for.

@PUFFFIRE Ай бұрын

We are heading on our first Norwegian Cruise to Alaska in August on the Encore enjoyed this video great pointers.

@stevebartley628 Ай бұрын

My wife became a big fan of the Iditerod from the lecture on our cruise. the whole family went one year for the start in Anchorage. she did a second trip with her friend. And we’ve had 4 Siberian huskies since then.

@Eatsleepcruise1 Ай бұрын

We guess she did fall in love. lol.

@jacquelyns9709 Ай бұрын

I first became aware of the modern-day Iditerod race when I read a mystery that took place during it. The protagonist is a woman. Unfortunately, I don't remember the title or the author. It really brought the race alive. And gave lots of details of the musher's experience.

@shelleylundstedt7487 Ай бұрын

This is solid advice on what to expect when you book your bucket list adventure to Alaska. Smart tips to avoid leaving any money on the table. Thanks!

@Eatsleepcruise1 Ай бұрын

Thanks. No one likes to waste money, no matter how much they make. Planning an Alaska cruise?

@shelleylundstedt7487 Ай бұрын

@@Eatsleepcruise1 Yes! We took out first ever cruise last summer to Alaska on Holland America’s Nieuw Amsterdam and loved it so much we’re going again this August on Princess. I appreciate this list even though we have one trip under our belt, it’s never too late to take in good advice 😊

@deba175 Ай бұрын

I just came back from on eurodam loved it , do you recommend a cruise tour I like try a different cruise ports and our cruise didn't got glacier bay they changed it several months or more before. What's your best experience

@michaeldrewel4243 Ай бұрын

If you get Princess plus is it included with the cruise tour portion of Alaska trip?

@mdmcfp 18 күн бұрын

Really informative and helpful. Thank you for this video. I’m trying to weigh a Disney Cruise versus other options. My daughter loves Disney and only wants to go if we can have the characters and shows that she’s used to on previous cruises. At the same time it seems like Glacier Bay and other offerings might be better on other lines, not to mention lower prices and even a bigger room for our family at a lower cost. How would you weigh these two options if you were me?

@michaelmelendez882 Ай бұрын

Wife and I are on the Celebrity Edge in July! We can’t wait

@Eatsleepcruise1 Ай бұрын

Awesome. Celebrity Edge is one of our favorite ships and perfect for the region. Have a great cruise. Have you sailed with Celebrity before?

@michaelmelendez882 Ай бұрын

This is our first cruise on Celebrity. My previous 7 were all Carnival. She’s been on only 2

@bhawnagupta6611 3 күн бұрын

What amenities r provided in the state rooms of NCL. Should I bring all toiletries with me. Is water free flowing ?

@jacquelyns9709 Ай бұрын

I have recently purchased several merino wool t-shirts. Ads promised that they will be cool in the heat and warm in the cold. So far that has proven true. In addition, they are lightweight, soft,and take up little room when folded. Perfect for layering. And I can handwash them in the sink. I live in San Antonio, Texas. In the winter, it frequently can start the day ar 32 degrees and end in the 70s and sometimes in the 80s. We are looking forward to possible cooler weather in July and August.

@Eatsleepcruise1 Ай бұрын

Let us know how those sweaters work out for you! Which ship and itinerary are you doing in Alaska?

@jacquelyns9709 Ай бұрын

@Eatsleepcruise1 Royal Princess southbound. Visiting Hubbard Glacier, Glacier Bay, Juneau, Icy Strait, and Ketichan, and Vancouver. We will be spending several days in Vancouver before flying home.

@michellebarney5634 Ай бұрын

I'm looking at going in 2 years. Age then 83. I use a walker. How can I get around, on-ship and in ports? My interests include Inuit culture, history (good enrichment vital), wildlife, glaciers & scenery. Hope to go in early June for my birthday, June 21! Tell me about mobility, ships, etc. Thanks.

@stevebartley628 Ай бұрын

Flights back from Anchorage often leave in the middle of the night, so i think it us more convenient ( and usually cheaper ) if you do a southbound one-way rather than the northbound

@Eatsleepcruise1 Ай бұрын

Good point. We did a southbound and spent a couple days in anchorage. Have you done a one way Alaska cruise?

@stevebartley628 Ай бұрын

@@Eatsleepcruise1 northbound, then 10 days in an RV

@jacquelyns9709 Ай бұрын

Even people with plenty of money like to save where they can. My friend has a lot more money than I do. She also took advantage of a shore excursion sale. She is also very generous. As part of my birthday gift this year, she said she would pay for our land meals that weren't already paid for on our upcoming Alaskan CruiseTour.

@Eatsleepcruise1 Ай бұрын

That sounds like a pretty fabulous friend. What cruise line are you sailing with for your cruise tour?

@jacquelyns9709 Ай бұрын

@@Eatsleepcruise1 Princess Cruises.

@tucky12300 Ай бұрын

I have been saving for this bucket list cruise.I have heard about the mosquitos but no one talks about them.Are they bad walking around the ports or just if you go hiking in the woods. This may be a strange question but I lived most of my life in Florida and the mosquitos eat me alive. Thank you for answering my question.

@lisatrevino7127 Ай бұрын

I took some off wipes with me, but I never used them.i did t see a mosquito. I would still take the off wipes tho. Just in case.

@dawnmcgaffick5005 Ай бұрын

How is Alaska in the first 2 weeks of September or is it better to pay a little more and go at the end of August? No kids, looking at the haven on an NCL ship

@Eatsleepcruise1 Ай бұрын

We sailed in early September and were lucky with the weather. Some of the shore excursions won't be running, as it can get icy that time of year. But we wouldn't let that stop you. The Haven is amazing, so if you can get a good deal and the ship is doing Glacier Bay, we say go for it!

@greglucas701 Ай бұрын

My wife and I are on the Royal Prince cruise july 13th, and the cruisetoue as well a total of 14 days.

@greglucas701 Ай бұрын

Royal princess

@Eatsleepcruise1 Ай бұрын

Awesome. Which itinerary?

@jacquelyns9709 Ай бұрын

My friend and I are going on the Royal Princess in early August. We are doing the land portion first. We are working with a local travel agency and our tour will be escorted. They are also paying for tours in Fairbanks and Denali National Park. We are getting on-board credit due to our military service. We were able to sign up for discounted shore excursions due to a sale. Some excursions we both are going on and some we are doing separately sine I am using a rollator walker. We have an accessible balcony cabin. It cost no more than a regular balcony cabin but is much larger. We went on the Regal Princess earlier this year and had a great time. Since the Royal Princess is a sister ship we will feel right at home.

@greglucas701 Ай бұрын

Voyage of the glaciers. Sailing out of Vancouver, stops in Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway. Also glacier bay, and College Fjord, then Dunbar in Whittier. After that heading on our cruise your portion.

@greglucas701 Ай бұрын

Sorry disembark

@rachelsnyder3361 9 күн бұрын

What are we supposed to wear in July? Do we really need cold weather clothing?

@Eatsleepcruise1 5 күн бұрын

Not in our experience. While the mornings might be chilly daytime temps will probably be in the 50s and 60s. Layers are key! Which cruise line?

@rachelsnyder3361 5 күн бұрын

@@Eatsleepcruise1 Royal. On the Quantum.

@peterlongo3343 Ай бұрын

I booked a 9/22/24 cruise. Im ok with less people!

@Eatsleepcruise1 Ай бұрын

Us too! Which cruise line?

@icedteamama176 Ай бұрын

Planning on my first Alaskan cruise for next May. Thinking either RCL Quantum (5/26/25) or NCL Encore (5/25/25). We’re bringing a 15 yr old son. Which are your top 3 favorite ports and which travel advisors do you use please? Which port has the dog sled please? From my brief research so far, it appears Glacier Bay, Juneau & Ketchikan are top ports. Thank you!

@Eatsleepcruise1 Ай бұрын

Great questions. We would lean towards NCL Encore, especially if it visits Glacier Bay National Park. We did our dog sledding tour in June on top of the Mendenhall Glacier. It was well worth the steep price tag. Juneau and Ketchikan are our favorite ports as there is so much you can do, plus you can walk around the towns on your own without a tour. Stacy's Crab Shack is a must in Juneau, and you can't go wrong with The Alaska Fish House in Ketchikan. You can check out our trusted travel partner, MEI Travel, using this exclusive link to get their latest deals and promotions. mei-travel.com/?apid=escy

@icedteamama176 Ай бұрын

@@Eatsleepcruise1 thank you very much for the tips!!! I’ll contact MEI Travel this week. 🙏

@deniselanglois6193 Ай бұрын

What port has the eagle zoo

@dgermaine8408 16 күн бұрын

Sitka has a rapter center where they rehab wounded birds of prey. We walked there from town. We were leaving just as a large excursion group arrived and sort of overwhelmed the center.

@lindaguida4074 18 күн бұрын

Don’t go on a cruise if you’re not ready to spend!

@ajbennett-iu5fk 26 күн бұрын

😂how much it cost

@ChrisHodges87 15 күн бұрын

There is something mechanical about your reading this script. I can’t keep listening. Sorry.

@Rottnwoman Ай бұрын

WTF?? South EAST Alaska? How is the Pacific coast east?

@jacquelyns9709 Ай бұрын

It's the southeast part of Alaska. The biggest part of Alaska is to the west and north of there. I highly suggest you check out an atlas showing Alaska and the rest of the world.

@ReDEclipsE28 Ай бұрын

Are you a potato? Every state has a north, south, east, and west part of the state.

@tvv728 22 күн бұрын

Man way too long and not much new info.

@mea3665 17 күн бұрын

Biggest mistake is not doing a land trip in Alaska, and cruising from port to port. You all did not " Go to Alaska"

@noelreynolds4861 Ай бұрын

It just gets old, watching YT videos with advise for saving money, pinching pennies, and cutting corners. Doesn't anybody just save-up so a bucket-list cruise is memorable without regrets due to looking for the cheapest way to go? If you have to, I get it, but videos always seem to assume they are talking to people who can't afford nice things.

@a.leehilliard4716 Ай бұрын

Troll

@noelreynolds4861 Ай бұрын

@@a.leehilliard4716 Bite me, not trolling here. I'm just tired of videos geared towards people who maybe shouldn't be traveling if they can't afford it.

@richardbrabham7107 Ай бұрын

Then just go to a video you might enjoy.

@noelreynolds4861 Ай бұрын

@@richardbrabham7107 Already had, but you called me back here with your pointless suggestion, thanks.

@Eatsleepcruise1 Ай бұрын

We never recommend cutting corners or pinching pennies. But even those who have saved money don't want to waste it or throw it away. Any advice we provide for saving money can simply be ignored and you are more than free to spend your money however you want and not worry if it is a good value or if you are getting a deal. Happy sailing!