1. Binoculars: Before our trip we found a great deal on Amazon for binoculars for the whole family. We got them small enough to fit in a pocket and our kids loved whipping them out to view the wildlife up close. From just getting a closer look at a glacier to spying bears, and eagles they enjoyed them.
2. Telephoto Lens: Bring the best camera you’ve got and if you can get a telephoto lens for it bring that too. You will absolutely want to take pictures of the amazing scenery in Alaska. I’m just an armature photographer but the Alaskan exposure is great for taking pictures. The overcast days keep out harsh light and the perfect combination of blues and greens in the mountains, ocean, and glaciers is stunning in pictures. Take that telephoto lens so that you can get a close up picture of the things you see through your binoculars.
3. Knit cap, scarves, and gloves: I had been to Alaska before in the summer and from what I remembered it was not all that cold. When I was there they were having a heat wave and the weather was in the high 70’s and low 80’s. Perfect weather! What I didn’t take into account was that on my previous trip I was mostly inland not near the ocean. Out on the decks on a cold misty day you will want your knit cap and gloves. Here’s my account of our cold and misty day on deck. As for your scarf, you should plan on wearing these as fashion accessories the weather will always be breezy enough to appreciate them.
4. Rain proof coat: As I stated I was not really expecting it to be very cold and was planning on only bringing a windbreaker. Thankfully my husband talked a little sense into me and I brought a heavier jacket. You don’t have to bring your parkas but certainly something heavier than a windbreaker could be nice to have on those unexpected rainy days. And yes make sure it is water resistant.
5. Tennis Shoes: Comfortable shoes are a must. And no, your flip flops and sandals won’t really work for Alaska, that’s another cruise. Something water resistant and good for walking is what you need. Keep those tootsies warm and dry, you and the little ones you travel with will be much happier.
6. Your Dining Attire: This was one of the best things about the Alaskan cruise. The dining room was much more casual so bring a couple of outfits for the formal and semi formal evenings but the rest of the time your jeans and tennis shoes will be just fine. No last minute rush to scramble and get ready for dinner after a day of sight seeing and excursions.
7. Swimsuits: The pools are heated on board and trust me your kids will swim. On those at sea days even when you are using the warm fleece blankets provided for you on deck your kids will be in and out of the pool and the hot tubs. And, if you are truly brave at heart you may just want to join them.
8. Cell Phone: Because when in Alaska you’re on American soil and if you have a smart phone it works. When at the ports and on land in Alaska you are able to text home and access the internet using your phone. It is great for sending photos back to your family and friends at home, or finding your way to a destination point at your port. Being able to use our phones on a cruise was a first for us and we loved it. Just remember to stow it away when out at sea and in Canada.
9. Pirate costume: Don’t bring it! Because pirates are not environmentally friendly. While sailing up the inside passage you are in environmentally protected waters and so the ship has to follow specific rules in relation to noise on deck. There are no movies played on the Tunnel Vision or outdoor deck parties including fireworks. However, do be ready for some Pixar Party fun indoors in the main atrium.
10. Reservation for Palo: Unlike the Caribbean cruises when you are out at sea and there is really nothing but open sea to look at in Alaska you are surrounded by Mountains, glaciers, and wildlife. A meal at Palo with all of its windows will be extra special. You can go in the morning for brunch one our favorite things to do or the evening for dinner since it won’t be dark till at least 11:00 you can still enjoy the views.
Bonus Tip: While on the ship you really won’t be bothered with mosquitoes you may still want to bring some insect repellant for those wilderness adventures you will be going on while at your Ports of Call.
Now be sure to check out my other articles on 10 Things To Pack For A Better Cruise and my biggest tip for the Tracy Arm Fjord day at sea.
Other Disney Alaskan Cruise related articles: Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan
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