The cruise season in Alaska runs from May to September, with July and August the most popular months. May is best for wildflowers and September is great for the fall foliage, but the weather may be fickle.
Is cruising expensive?
Just do the math. Compare a one week cruise against a week at a resort. With a cruise vacation, your meals, accommodations, entertainment, and most activities are included in the fare. It's easy to stick to your budget. Plus, on a cruise you get to visit many different ports of call. Unpack once and settle in for a journey that can take you anywhere you want to go. At the end of the day, retreat to your own floating resort to enjoy fabulous cuisine, world-class entertainment and be lulled to sleep at sea.
What about seasickness?
Today's cruise ships are engineered with state-of-the-art stabilizers that greatly reduce ship motion. If seasickness is a concern, choose a cabin towards the center of the ship where ship movement is less pronounced. Also, consult your doctor about medications you can take in case of motion sickness.
What is there to do on the ship?
Lots! How would you like to go ice skating, rock climbing, practice your golf swing, shoot a few hoops, go to the casino, see a Broadway-style show, do some shopping, workout at the gym, relax at the spa, take a dip in the pool, log onto the Internet, all without ever leaving the ship! Plus, there are some fantastic innovations such as Royal Caribbean's new Voyager of the Seas, which will feature an ice skating rink and rock climbing wall. Every ship has a Cruise Director whose job it is to make sure each guest has the opportunity to make the most of their vacation. In fact, there are so many things to do that you will probably book a longer cruise next time.
Are there different classes of service?
Every guest can enjoy the use of any of the ship's facilities. The price and category of staterooms are based primarily on size and location. Whichever category you book, you'll enjoy the same courteous service, dining, activities, and entertainment as everyone else.
What is there to do in port?
So much that you'll have a hard time choosing! You can go off on your own. Or take a guided tour. You can search ancient native villages or hunt for shopping bargains. Ride a raft over river rapids, bicycle down the side of a 10,000 foot volcano, or ride a horse across miles of hills and beaches. Climb a waterfall or listen to live bands. Follow the footsteps of history or the wake of a waterskiing boat. If there's still time enjoy a folklore show. Play golf or tennis. Eat native foods. Learn how to windsurf. Sun and swim or catch a record marlin. Go to a nightclub or glittering casino. Take a cable car to the top of a mountain. Explore dark catacombs. In short, a cruise is the easiest way to see new places and do all the things you dream of. Cruising is the perfect way to sample a number of destinations that you may want to return to for another vacation and you never have to pack and unpack - the destinations come to you. Don't forget that we can book you on almost any cruise in the world, not just to Alaska!
How about family cruises?
25% of cruise vacations are booked by families with children. Most cruise lines offer special programs, facilities and activities based on age. Children and teens not only get to meet kids their own age but often travel at a substantially reduced rate.
What about the night life?
At night, life aboard a cruise ship really turns on. There's dancing, live entertainment in nightclubs, discos and lounges, feature films, and parties with all your new friends. Most ships have casinos. There are also many special events like the Captain's Cocktail Party, Passenger Talent Night, the Masquerade Parade, and the Late Night Buffet (for that one last bite to tide you over 'til breakfast). And the night can go on as long as you want. Even until the spectacle of sunrise at sea.
What should I pack?
Pack like you would for any resort. Cruise vacations are casual by day, whether you're on the ship or ashore. In the evening, ships vary as to dress. As on shore, attire is dictated by occasion. For the Captain's Gala, for example, you'll probably want to wear something more formal, such as a dark suit, or cocktail dress; perhaps even a dinner jacket or gown. But don't buy a tuxedo just for the trip.
Can I use my hair dryer or shaver?
Most ships have 110-volt outlets in the staterooms. But do check with our cruise consultant to be sure.
Tipping etiquette
Tipping is a matter of individual preference. Most cruise lines will include a tipping guideline in your stateroom; a general rule of thumb is to plan for about $2.50 to $3.00 per person per day for your room steward and dining room waiter, about half that amount for your busboy. A few cruise lines include tipping in the price and will inform you. Other ship board personnel can be tipped for special services at your discretion.
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Rawhide Travel & Tours Inc
6008 W Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, AZ 85308-3793
(602) 843-5100
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