Best Alaska Cruise departing from Seattle?

Question

So I'm trying to book a 6-8 day cruise cruise out of Seattle to Alaska for a group of six people (4 people ages 20-25, and 2 people ages 49-52) just had a few questions (currently working with different travel agents for options but just wanted to get more opinions):

1) suggested cruise line for our budget (around 2,000 per person) and age group..any cruise lines that may have family suites that could possibly hold all six (rather than just 4)?

2) What's the best area of alaska to cruise if we want to see glaciers, whales, etc...(i.e. inside passage?)

3) How will the weather be in the first week of July as opposed to the first week of August?

4) Any must do's / must sees on an alaska cruise?

5) for those who did this cruise and had a balcony, i heard most people don't use them at all, because it's pretty cold..is that true? (I live in Seattle so i'm used to Seattle weather).

6) any additional info, recommendations, questions?

Thanks a bunch!

Answer 1

Hi

There is an informative article on Alaska Cruise and there is also recomendation on the right cruise liner.... you must check it out.

source: http://www.klikks.com/alaskacruise

Hope you find what you are looking for.

Answer 2

Well a cruise that woul dbe meet your criteria the best would be Princess.  The Dawn or Grand Princess is sailing out of Seattle this summer.  This cruise line would appeal to both age groups.  You are better off NOT booking a suite, but maybe to connecting cabins or adjoining cabins as the suites are really designed to be a luxury and not really to accmodate families.  They usually are not a cost effective way of accomodating more people.  TWO Balcony or Minisuite cabins would be a better deal and give you the use of two full baths.

Inside passage is the most popular, visiting glacier bay or Tracey Arm, which would be a great place to see the glaciers.

The weather will be practically the same the beginning of July and the beginning of August  about Mid 60s.  

Must visit Juneu, Ketchikan, and Sitka.  These are the most popular ports.

I believe a balcony is a must on an Alaska sailing.  It is NOT to cold and guarantees you a place to view the scenery -- this is one of the most awesome cruises I have ever been on.

Princess would be a great choice as they bring on wilderness guides to tell you what you are viewing in most ports, but more importantly because they will have activities and services that appeal to all of the ages in your group.

I would also recommend that you use a travel agent who will be able to guide you with your choices and help you select the right sailing, ship, and cabins for your group. Let me know if I can assist in any way!

Answer 3

1) suggested cruise line for our budget (around 2,000 per person) and age group..any cruise lines that may have family suites that could possibly hold all six (rather than just 4)?

I would go with Princess or Celebrity.  I think Celebrity may be out of the budget, but NCL is not worth the money.

2) What's the best area of alaska to cruise if we want to see glaciers, whales, etc...(i.e. inside passage?)

You don't need inside passage, plus you most likely will not get that out of Seattle.  It's better to leave from Vancouver for that, but Glacier Bay, Hubbard Glacier, Juneau, Ketchikan are good to see.

3) How will the weather be in the first week of July as opposed to the first week of August?

Much warmer.  It's always gold near the glaciers, but it's much warmer and less rain.

4) Any must do's / must sees on an alaska cruise?

Umm...Glacier walks, Dog sleding camps, Heli rides, sport fishing.

5) for those who did this cruise and had a balcony, i heard most people don't use them at all, because it's pretty cold..is that true? (I live in Seattle so i'm used to Seattle weather).

Since you live here and you know the weather, it is pretty much the same weather in AK, but say 5 - 10 degree cooler in the glacier areas.  Balconies are ok and fun in warm destinations, but weather it is cold outside or not you don't use it that much.

6) any additional info, recommendations, questions?

Have fun!

Answer 4

1. either NCL or Princess have the best fares. Also for 6 you would need a suite. Food & Service excellent on both plus excellent buffet.

2. They all travel inside passage.

3. weather normaly in 60' & 70's.

4. For gifts Salom Mall at end of pier in Ketchikan & Alaska T Shirt in all ports.Whale watching tours make sure you go on the ones guranteed. Wait till you are in port to see how everyone feels & weather. Play it by ear lots to see and do. Ask for an excursion brouchure so you will see what there & cost.

5. A balcony is not used much as you can only see 1 side & you are not in room that much. Too much to see & do on decks.

6. Every time they take your picture they want you to buy it for $20.00 each. Relax and enjoy you will meet people of all ages from all over the world.