When summertime in the
"lower 48" is sizzling, that's the perfect time to
experience a cool cruise break.
Alaska
From late-spring through
fall, Alaska beckons to thousands of cruise passengers. Eagles glide
effortlessly overhead as ships sail past ice floes covered with seals
basking in the Arctic version of summer.
With dozens of vessels
positioning to the northwest and Alaska, there's never been a better
time to sail from Seattle, Vancouver, or Seward to discover the
"great state" by ship.
Preparation is key for a
cruise to northern regions, particularly if you are a fair-weather and
beach cruising aficionado. Explore Cool
Cruising and the experience of an Alaska cruise.
One question often posed
to Cruise Diva is, "What is the BEST cruise line to select for an
Alaska itinerary?" While Princess Cruises and Holland America
Line were pioneers in the region, Carnival, Celebrity, Crystal,
Norwegian, Radisson Seven Seas, and Royal Caribbean all have the
expertise to deliver an excellent cruise vacation as well.
For an Alaska itinerary, choice of cruise line depends
on a number of factors, including your expectations, your budget,
whether you are more comfortable with a "freestyle" versus
traditional atmosphere, and, of course, the itinerary. They are not
all alike. Another factor to consider is the desire for a cruise-tour.
To explore the majesty of Denali or delve into Alaska's native culture
and history aboard deluxe motorcoaches and custom domed railcars,
these cruise lines offer noteworthy pre- or post-cruise land tour
extensions—Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Royal Caribbean,
and Celebrity Cruises.
Norway
& the North Cape
Thinking
"north" and not Alaska? My dream cruise itinerary follows
the coast of Norway and into its fjords, with port calls on villages
where legendary trolls abound. Its highlight is crossing the Arctic
Circle to the North Cape. Cruise expert Mary Ann Rizzo has graciously
offered her observations and advice to passengers bound for Norway
& The North Cape.
Preparing
& Packing
Cruise wear and cruise gear for a cool cruise is
different than what veteran Caribbean cruisers pack. Begin with Cruise
Diva's Original Packing List. One
thing to remember is that you are not going to the North Pole, but you
want to be prepared for just about any contingency—rain is a
definite possibility. Warm sunny days ashore can easily segue into
chilly nights at sea. Continue your preparations by following the
suggestions for Cool Weather Cruise
Packing.
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