As a long time Disney cruiser, I am a pro at packing for a cruise. Packing for an Alaskan or Canadian cruise is a lot different from a Caribbean or Mexican cruise. Packing for an Alaskan or Canadian cruise is a lot different from a Caribbean or Mexican cruise. #Alaska #Cruise #CruisePacking Share on X
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Dress in layers
Disney cruises sail from late May through early September. Expect a range of 45 degrees to 75 degrees during June, July, and August. The cruises in May and September may be 5 – 10 degrees cooler. It is also common to have some rain, especially in Ketchikan which is one of the rainiest cities in North America.
Layers means to wear multiple layers of tops. Start with a lightweight tee-shirt or tank top, add a hoodie, or fleece jacket, add to that an all-weather coat and a scarf and gloves if needed. If you get hot, simply shed enough clothes to be comfortable. A lot of people get a 3-in-1 coat to wear for outings.
We had some days, especially in Ketchikan where we wore shorts. A lot depends on where you are going. On board the Wonder if you are inside, you can dress as you would at home or in any other indoor climate-controlled area. On the outside decks, you will be exposed to the elements and may need your layers.
For an excursion have a day bag to hold a water bottle and any layers of clothing you may shed.
Shoes
You will need comfortable walking shoes. I suggest taking a couple of pairs in case one gets wet so you have a spare until the others dry. We did an excursion on the Denver glacier and they provided snow boots, so I would not add to your luggage weight by taking boots. If you have a hiking excursion planned that might be the exception.
Of course, you will need shoes for dining and also I take flip-flops for around the pool. The weather can be warm enough to swim. The pools are heated and there are also hot tubs, so pack your swimsuit. Children especially spent time in the pool on our last Alaskan cruise.
Dining attire
The Alaskan cruise is a little more casual than other destinations. Dining is cruise casual (no swimwear, tank tops). I think dressing up is fun and you will see many variations of casual and dressy.
There will be a formal night and some people will be in long formal dresses and tuxedos, but wear what you are comfortable with.
If you plan to dine at Palo men need at least a dress shirt (collared) and nice pants. Ladies need a dress or dressy pants and top. The rules have been relaxed recently (which I don’t like), so check the website to be comfortable with your decision.
Other things to pack
You will need sunscreen, sunglasses, your camera, and medications. Binoculars are also something that will be handy, especially when going to Tracy Arm Fjord and see the Sawyer Glaciers.
Get a FREE Packing List For an Alaskan Cruise
I created a 4 page PDF checklist of essential items for your Alaskan cruise. Go here and request your free download.
Thank you for checking out my Alaskan cruise packing post. 🙂
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We are longtime Disney cruisers, having taken 15 cruises so far. We have sailed on each of the 4 Disney ships and have been to Alaska, Western Caribbean, Eastern Caribbean, Bahamas, Southern Caribbean, Canadian Coastline, and a special Mexican Mayan itinerary. If you have any questions, please contact me. I love to talk about Disney cruising!
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