Packing

• Alaska can be cold even in the summer. However, heat waves are also possible, making it hard to know what clothes to pack. Most cruises limit the amount of luggage you can bring aboard the ship, further making packing difficult.
  
  

Short Season

• Because of the cold winters, the cruise season in Alaska is short. It typically starts in May and ends in September.
  
  

Ship Size

• Smaller ships can more easily maneuver through small passageways, creating a more scenic trip, but larger ships offer more comfort and amenities. You'll need to choose between having more scenery or more comfort.
  
  

No Wildlife

• Many people cruise to Alaska for a chance to see whales, bears, seals and other wildlife, but there's no guarantee that you'll see any animals.
  
  

Considerations

• Despite the potential problems with Alaska cruises, the state is the world's third most popular cruise destination, with several cruise lines offering voyages there.