Cruise Diva's FOCUS is on Cool Cruise Destinations
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Calving glacier—the highlight of an Alaska cruise
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Alaska & the North Cape,
COOL Cruises
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.
Resources:
Cool Cruising - The Alaska cruise experience by Linda Coffman
Cruise Norway & The North Cape - By cruise expert Mary Ann Rizzo
Ports of Call - Exclusive Alaska port profiles from CruiseDiva.com
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