Few places in the world today have no airport, and in most cases it’s easy to get a reservation and get on the plane. You can be to almost any destination in the world within a few hours. However, if you want to enjoy the time that you spend getting to your vacation destination, why not try a cruise line instead. When you go on a cruise ship, your travel starts when you leave the dock, not when you arrive at your destination. In fact, with an Alaskan cruise package, your travel time IS your destination.
Given all the activities included in an Alaskan cruise package, you may wonder how you can fit it all in without emptying your pocketbook. But, if you plan carefully, you may find that not only can you see some sights you wouldn’t see in the Bahamas, but you can do it at an affordable price as well. There is no question that a vacation can be expensive, but with the help of some good travel tips, you may find your Alaska cruise will provide wonderful activities at an affordable price.
You can either do the research yourself, or contact a travel agent. Sometimes an agent can find a better deal for you than you would be able to locate on your own. You can start by making a list of all the cruise lines which offer service to Alaskan ports.
This is a fairly lengthy list now, so allow yourself time to check out rates and packages.
Book your cruise during off peak seasons to save money.
The first factor to check out is the time of year. You will want to pick a time when the fewest people are going, because often the cruise lines will offer discount tickets during off-peak times.
Book your cruise early.
You will definitely want to book your cruise well in advance of the time you plan to travel. Rooms often fill up fast and prices can change unexpectedly for many reasons.
Choose the size of ship you would like to cruise with.
Some ships will carry up to 2000 passengers and crew, while others will carry less than 150. The prices will depend to some extent on how large the ship is. The type of cabin which you select will also make a difference in the price. If you’re on a large ship with lots of activities, you probably won’t spend much time in your cabin, so you may not care if there isn’t much of a view from your window.
It’s a good plan to choose a package that includes insurance for you during your trip, just in case something unforeseen happens.
Several shipping companies schedule Alaskan cruise vacations. Each of these larger ships carries a thousand or more people and contains the best of service and amenities for their passengers.
Royal Caribbean Alaskan Cruise
For example, the Royal Caribbean Line with its vessel Radiance is deployed in the Pacific Ocean. The Radiance will provide guests with excellent service, superb food and additional facilities such as a casino, bar and disco. The Radiance stops at ports in Canada and Alaska such as Juneau, Skagway, Hubbard Glacier, and Ketchikan. The disadvantage to this ship is its size. It carries 2500 passengers.
Princess Cruise Lines
Second choice is the large ships of the Princess Cruise Lines. The amenities and the size of the Princess is equal to that of the Royal Caribbean. A travel agency will usually recommend one of these ships if you want a romantic weeklong cruise.
Carnival and Celebrity Alaskan Cruises
Both the Carnival and the Celebrity are worth checking as well. These two ships are somewhat less expensive and the rooms come with a balcony or veranda in order to better be able to watch the icebergs which the ship will pass through.
American Safari and Cruise West Alaskan Cruises
Smaller ships which carry few passengers are the American Safari and Cruise West. The service is still great. Only the most experienced crews are allowed to navigate the ship through Alaskan waters. These travel lines have over ten years of experience now.
On-board entertainment on each of the ships includes a theater, movie halls, casino, disco, bar and gym. Most all ships have activities for young people as well as those who are less active. Some even provide for handicapped accessibility. Special menu arrangements or dietary restrictions are provided in the dining choices.
Passengers should book far in advance for these Alaskan cruises in order to be assured of space. Sometimes there are promotional events which will allow you to get a discount on regular prices. A group rate is also available for those traveling in a party of ten or more people.
The originating port for the cruise liners bound for Alaskan waters is either Los Angeles or San Francisco. Those passengers coming from out of state will need to arrange for transportation to LA or San Francisco, plus arrangements to travel from the airport to the pier.
From May until September is the best time of year to enjoy an Alaskan cruise. This is when the ships are most crowded, but the weather is ideal for those who are seeing Alaska for the first time. You can often find all inclusive package deals for your Alaskan cruise if you shop around, particularly on the internet.
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