7 Best Tips for an Unforgettable Disney Alaska Cruise Experience
Embarking on a Disney Alaska cruise combines the magic of Disney with the stunning wilderness of Alaska, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience that’s perfect for both families and adventure-seekers. Imagine sailing alongside majestic glaciers, watching humpback whales breach, and exploring secluded trails—all while enjoying Disney’s unparalleled entertainment and service. To ensure you get the most out of this magical journey, here are the seven best tips for an unforgettable Disney Alaska cruise experience.
Table of Contents
1: Plan Ahead and Book Early for the Best Experience
When it comes to Disney Alaska cruises, planning ahead is essential. Disney cruises are known for their popularity, and Alaska routes are no exception. To secure the best staterooms, dining options, and excursions, it’s wise to book as early as possible.
- Choose Your Stateroom: The type of stateroom you choose can significantly impact your experience. Verandah staterooms, for example, offer private balconies where you can enjoy breathtaking views of glaciers and wildlife without leaving your room. If you prefer a more budget-friendly option, consider an ocean-view or interior stateroom.
- Best Booking Times: Booking early not only gives you more options but might also help you secure a better price. Disney’s Alaska cruises typically open for booking about 18 months in advance, and popular dates fill up quickly. Watch for promotions or discounts for early bookers, especially if you plan to travel during peak months.
Types of Staterooms on a Disney Alaska Cruise
- Verandah Staterooms: Private balcony, ideal for scenic views.
- Oceanview Staterooms: Large porthole windows for ocean views.
- Interior Staterooms: Budget-friendly, with “virtual portholes” for a touch of magic.
2: Pack Smart for Alaskan Weather
Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable, and packing for your Disney Alaska cruise requires careful planning to keep you comfortable no matter the conditions. Even in summer, temperatures can range from warm and sunny to chilly and rainy within the same day. Layering is your best friend on this cruise.
- Essentials for All Weather: Pack waterproof outer layers, such as a rain jacket, along with a few warm layers that you can add or remove as needed. Don’t forget comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots for excursions.
- Accessories for Adventure: Consider bringing a pair of binoculars for wildlife watching from the ship or onshore, a hat to protect you from unexpected rain or sun, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated on excursions.
Essential Items for Your Disney Alaska Cruise Packing List
- Layers and Warm Clothing: Jackets, sweaters, and base layers.
- Waterproof Gear: Rain jacket, water-resistant pants, and boots.
- Binoculars: Great for spotting wildlife from a distance.
3: Make the Most of Port Excursions with Disney’s Unique Shore Experiences
Disney offers exclusive, family-friendly shore excursions that give you an immersive taste of Alaska’s wild beauty. To get the most out of these excursions, consider booking early since popular activities often fill up.
- Must-Try Excursions: Some top excursions include dog sledding on Mendenhall Glacier, whale watching in Juneau, and taking a scenic train ride through Skagway. These excursions cater to different age groups and activity levels, so you’ll find something suitable for everyone in your group.
- Book in Advance: Booking shore excursions before you board is a smart way to ensure availability and helps you avoid long lines on the ship. Disney allows you to reserve excursions 75-120 days before departure, depending on your membership tier in their Castaway Club.
Top Disney Alaska Cruise Excursions
- Juneau Glacier Trekking: Hike on Mendenhall Glacier.
- Skagway Historic Train Ride: A scenic journey through Alaska’s gold rush country.
- Ketchikan Whale Watching: Spot whales in their natural habitat.
4: Embrace Disney’s Onboard Magic (For Kids and Adults Alike)
While the scenic views and Alaskan adventures are amazing, Disney’s onboard activities bring an extra layer of magic to your cruise. This includes special character meet-and-greets, themed parties, and Broadway-style shows that make the cruise an experience for all ages.
- Entertainment for Everyone: Families with young children will enjoy character experiences featuring beloved Disney friends in unique Alaskan attire. For adults, Disney offers exclusive areas like Senses Spa and dining options like Palo, where guests can enjoy a sophisticated evening away from the little ones.
- Signature Disney Events: Look forward to Disney-exclusive events such as the Frozen Deck Party, which adds a winter wonderland vibe to the Alaskan scenery.
Unique Disney Events on an Alaska Cruise
- Frozen Deck Party: A celebration of Frozen-themed fun.
- Disney Character Appearances: Meet your favorite Disney characters.
- Adult-Only Dining: Enjoy fine dining experiences at Palo and Remy.
5: Enjoy Alaskan Cuisine Onboard with Disney’s Culinary Creations
Disney’s culinary team takes full advantage of Alaska’s local ingredients, offering a menu that gives you a true taste of Alaskan cuisine. From fresh seafood to wild game, you’ll find Alaskan-inspired dishes in various onboard dining areas.
- Highlights of Alaskan Cuisine: Alaskan cuisine is all about fresh and local ingredients. Try dishes like smoked salmon, halibut, and king crab. The culinary team also prepares wild berry desserts and the iconic Baked Alaska.
- Special Dining Experiences: Some Disney cruises feature Alaska-themed dinner menus, so keep an eye out for these exclusive offerings during your trip.
Table for Reference: Sample Alaskan-Inspired Menu
| Course | Dish |
|---|---|
| Appetizers | Smoked Salmon, Crab Cakes |
| Main Course | Grilled Halibut, Wild Elk |
| Desserts | Alaskan Berry Cobbler, Baked Alaska |
6: Capture the Magic with Photography Tips for Alaska’s Unique Landscape
With Alaska’s dramatic landscapes, your Disney Alaska cruise provides plenty of picture-perfect moments. By following a few simple photography tips, you’ll be able to capture memories that last a lifetime.
- Timing is Key: Early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting for photos. For glacier photography, try to shoot during the “golden hour” for a softer, more atmospheric light.
- Gear Recommendations: Bring a DSLR or mirrorless camera if you have one, along with a telephoto lens for capturing distant wildlife. A tripod can also be helpful for steady shots, especially during long exposure photography.
Best Photography Spots on a Disney Alaska Cruise
- Deck Views for Glaciers: The upper decks offer unobstructed views of Alaska’s stunning glaciers.
- Observation Areas for Wildlife: Head to the bow or observation decks for prime wildlife spotting.
7: Prepare for Wildlife Sightings and Scenic Viewing
One of the best parts of a Disney Alaska cruise is the chance to see incredible wildlife in its natural habitat. From humpback whales to bald eagles, Alaska’s wildlife is as diverse as it is abundant.
- Whale Watching Tips: The Inside Passage is known for its whale sightings, especially near Juneau. Bring binoculars and watch for tell-tale signs of whales, like spouts or fins.
- Scenic Glacier Viewing: Alaska’s glaciers are a major highlight, with massive ice fields like Glacier Bay offering jaw-dropping scenery. Some cruises even arrange narrated sessions by naturalists to explain the history and ecology of these magnificent landscapes.
Top Wildlife Viewing Opportunities on Your Disney Alaska Cruise
- Whale Watching Near Juneau: Watch for humpback whales and orcas.
- Bald Eagles and Glacial Viewing: Spot eagles soaring near glaciers.
Conclusion: Make Your Disney Alaska Cruise the Adventure of a Lifetime
A Disney Alaska cruise is the perfect way to combine adventure, family bonding, and the wonder of the Alaskan wilderness. By following these seven essential tips, you’re all set to make the most of your journey. From choosing the right stateroom and booking must-try excursions to packing for Alaska’s variable weather and savoring the region’s cuisine, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable experience. So set sail, embrace the journey, and let Disney’s magic elevate every moment of your Alaskan adventure.
FAQ
Q: What are the best months for a Disney Alaska cruise?
A: The best time for a Disney Alaska cruise is between May and September, when the weather is warmer, and wildlife sightings are more frequent.
Q: Is a Disney Alaska cruise worth it for adults?
A: Absolutely. Disney’s Alaska cruises offer numerous adult-exclusive amenities, such as fine dining, spa services, and excursions, making it a well-rounded experience for all ages.
Q: What should I pack for a Disney Alaska cruise?
A: Pack with layers in mind to handle Alaska’s variable weather. Essentials include a waterproof jacket, warm layers, and binoculars for wildlife viewing.
Q: Are there kid-friendly excursions on Disney Alaska cruises?
A: Yes, Disney offers a wide range of family-friendly excursions like wildlife tours, glacier visits, and dog sledding, ensuring that every member of the
