Cruise In Alaska Is Ready To Create New Records: Know Why!
BY Mashum MollahJan 26, 2021
A cruise in Alaska is one of the most immersive ways of taking in all the beauty that the state has to offer. It is one of the best multigenerational vacation ideas you can think of. Further, cruising in Alaska is crucial for the economy. For example, Juneau has been one of the most popular cruising ports in Alaska. The City and Borough of Juneau (CBJ), in association with the McKinley Research Group, has conducted research on the “ECONOMIC IMPACT OF JUNEAU’S CRUISE INDUSTRY.” The 2023 report says, “The cruise industry accounted for $375 million in direct spending in Juneau in 2023, $320 million of which is attributable to passenger spending; $39 million to cruise line spending; and $16 million to crew member spending. Spending was largely concentrated in the tour/activity ($152 million) and retail ($144 million) sectors.” Cruising in Alaska is like surfing through paradise. And you know that Alaska will not look the same in the coming years. Global warming is real, and we are losing the ice splendors along with the birds, animals, and marine creatures of Alaska. So, let’s start cruising! Cruise In Alaska: Setting New Records With All Its Spectacle Alaska just celebrated its 65th statehood anniversary on 3rd January 2024, and it’s great that the year looks promising for the cruising industry. You cannot agree more when destination marketing manager for Travel Juneau, Kristi Switzer, says, “Visitors come for the otherworldly experience of being in the presence of glaciers and fjords, seeing whales and bears and finding the balance of Alaska Native cultural heritage with the rustic sophistication found in the capital city.” The number of visitors and the days they spent in Alaska also state that Alaska is “the destination” for people looking for exotic experiences. 2,724,180 people visited Alaska in 2022-23, and there were 22,465,847 visitor days. This season, it’s expecting another major spike in visitors, setting new records. It’s time for you to know why this season and every season in Alaska is special. 1. A Cruise in Alaska Is Affordable Cruising will be the cheapest and easiest way to explore Alaska if you are on vacation for two weeks or even a shorter period. To cruise in Alaska, your pocket pinch will be around $400 to $2200 per person (cruise-only fare). In addition, there will be port expenses, taxes, and fees. 2. See the Glaciers Even when there are no port calls, your Alaskan cruise will take you so through some spectacular scenery. When you visit the inside passage there are thousands of islands and hundreds of miles of beautiful rainforests along the shoreline. You will see mountains that rise to at least 3000 feet out of the sea. You get to experience wildlife, such as humpback whales, dolphins, and orcas. However, while these are spectacular, one of the most beautiful things to see is the glaciers. Alaska has thousands of glaciers. Most Alaskan cruises make glacier stops so that you can get an up-close view of these beautiful gifts of nature. 3. Activities for Everyone https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BtAFeylVCXw When in Alaska, go gold panning, kayaking, bear touring, whale watching, dog sledding, fishing, and hiking. There will never be a dull moment, so book a trip now so you can find the best time to cruise. Alaska Tourism Impacts As you cruise in Alaska, you contribute to the state’s economy. In 2022-2023, the direct spending on tourism in Alaska was $3.9 billion. The overall economic impact, however, was much higher, recording $5.6 billion. Further, the average trip spending went up to $1,485 in summer 2022 compared to $934 in 2006. (Source) Cruise in Alaska and tourism based on that are renewable sources, creating and supporting employment to an extent. In 2023, Alaskan tourism supported 48,000 jobs. Book Your Trip Now Now that you know what’s special about taking a cruise in Alaska, you shouldn’t procrastinate. Go ahead and book your trip early. Alaska, being a multigenerational destination, is ideal for cruising with your family. The little one especially loves watching the birds, whales, and other sea animals. Further, looking at the glowing glaciers and just relaxing on the cruise deck can be the perfect “Aha” moment for you! Let’s go cruising! Cruise In Alaska FAQs Are Cruises To Alaska Worth It? Yes, cruising in Alaska is definitely worth it. Sitting on the decks of the ships, you will get to enjoy the panoramic view of Alaska. You will come across small islands, majestic cliffs, and icebergs. The trip also includes disembarking at designated locations and exploring the local areas on foot. What Is Unique About Alaska? Alaska is unique, with its icebergs and monumental cliffs rising over three thousand feet. It is also a wonderland with fjords, never-ending stretches of forests, and icy splendors. Get ready to enjoy most of the spectacle at Glacier Bay, Mendenhall Glacier, and Hubbard Glacier. How Rough Is An Alaskan Cruise? Cruising in Alaska can be a little rough as your cruise sails through the Gulf of Alaska. However, it is quite seamless when you are in the protected waters of the Inside Passage. The ride becomes bumpy as the cruise moves toward Anchorage, Whittier, or Seward through the Gulf of Alaska. What Is Alaska’s Cruise Season? Alaska’s cruising season starts in May and continues to September. However, if you want to experience sunnier weather and warmer temperatures, July and August are the best months to embark on Alaska cruises. Read Also: 10 Best Things To Do In San Diego (USA) Why You Should Move To San Diego