Alaska Cruise Experts - Ports of Call Tips

ARRIVING IN PORT

When the ship arrives in port, it will either dock at the pier or anchor slightly offshore. You may think that when the ship docks right at the pier you can walk must be signed, and local authorities must give their clearance, a process that can take as long as 2 hours. Don't bother going down to the gangplank until you hear an announcement saying the ship has been cleared.

If your ship anchors rather than docks (which ships usually will do in Alaska), you will go ashore in a small boat called a launch or tender, which ties up next to your ship and shuttles passengers back and forth all day. Getting on the tender may require a helping hand from crew members, and the waves may keep the tender swaying, sometimes requiring passengers to literally jump to get aboard.

Whether the ship is docked or anchored, you are in no way required to get off at every port of call. The ship's restaurants will remain open, and there will be activities offered, though usually on a limited basis. If you do get off, before you reboard you may want to use the phones at the docks to call home. This is much cheaper than making calls from the ship. But be prepared to wait for a phone. No matter how many telephones there are on the pier, you will invariably find that off-duty members of the crew, who generally get off the ship earlier than passengers, have beaten you to them. It's an interesting exercise to stand near a dozen public telephones and listen to the Filipino, cockney, French, Norwegian, and other languages and dialects being spoken by the users.

THE ESSENTIALS: DON'T LEAVE THE SHIP WITHOUT 'EM

You must bring your ship boarding pass (or shipboard ID) with you when you disembark or you will have trouble getting back on board. You may also be required to show a photo ID or driver's license (the ship will let you know if you have to carry this as well). And also don't forget to bring a little cash-although your ship operates on a cashless system, the ports do not. Many passengers get so used to carrying no cash or credit cards while aboard ship that they forget them when going ashore.

WATCH THE CLOCK

If you're going off on your own, whether on foot or on one of the alternate tours or transportation options that we've listed, remember to be very careful about timing. Cruise lines are very strict about sailing times, which will be posted around the ship. You're generally required to be back at the dock at least a halfhour before the ship's scheduled departure. Passengers running late on one of the line's shore excursions needn't worry: If an excursion runs late, the ship accepts responsibility and won't leave without the late passengers.

If you're on your own and do miss the boat, immediately contact the cruiseline representative at the port. You'll probably be able to catch your ship at the next port of call, but you'll have to pay your own way to get there.

Alaska Cruise Experts, your source for information on Alaska Cruises, Ports of Call, Packing tips and more.

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A Luxury Alaskan Cruise is a Great Vacation Choice

When most people think of a luxury cruise their thoughts turn to tropical ports of call surrounded by crystal blue waters. Alaska is not always the first destination most people think of when choosing a cruise, but those who do visit this largest of states aboard ship will tell you it is not to be missed. There is a rawness to this land that is hard to describe without seeing it and a cruise will give you a view that most people will never see.

Depending on how adventurous you are there are several ways to enjoy the experience of an Alaskan cruise. For the more adventurous soul who wants to explore every nook and cranny of a particular area there are day charters on small boats available. While they may be short on comfort and amenities these day charters allow you to get up close and personal with everything this land has to offer.

For those more inclined to sit back and enjoy the scenery from farther out and in more comfort then a large cruise ship is the answer. Carrying upwards of three thousand people these large floating hotels are the picture of pampered comfort where your every want and need is taken care of by an attentive staff. Depending on the length of the cruise you will also get the chance to visit several ports of call where you can take part in different shore excursions, one of which might include a day trip on a small boat charter.

Once you get off the ship you will not be lacking in things to do. Many of the ports of call have a very old west rustic feel to them. You can also take hikes through the temperate rain forests that run along the rugged coastline, go watch brown bears catch salmon during their yearly spawning run, or charter a fishing boat and go catch some salmon or halibut yourself. And the best part is that while you are doing these things you will be surrounded by some of the most pristine wilderness on the face of the earth.

There is one experience on a cruise to Alaska that you will not experience anywhere else; visiting one of the many glaciers that tumble directly into the sea. A cruise will normally offer two ways to enjoy the glacier experience. You can watch from on board ship as huge chunks of ice break free from the glaciers face and plunge into the water or you can take a guided trip and actually walk across this vast moving river of ice.

The wilderness of Alaska is vast and largely untamed, making any trip there a true adventure. How you choose to see it is up to you but an Alaskan luxury cruise can be a truly memorable experience.

For more detailed information about a Luxury Alaskan Cruise please visit the website Travel-Choices-Net.com by clicking here.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrew_Bicknell

Discover the Excitement of Alaskan Cruises

By David Everett

Looking for an exotic travel location that is thrilling and luxurious? Alaskan cruises have surged in popularity in recent years, and demand to see America's last unspoiled frontier continues to grow. Alaskan Cruises only operate between the months of May and September or early October and tend to follow one of two principal routes; the Gulf of Alaska or the Inside Passage.

Anchorage is the starting (or ending) point for many Alaskan cruises, but most passengers actually board or disemabark their ships from Seward (125 miles sounth on Resurrection Bay). Alaskan cruises may also start in the town of Vancouver BC.

Alaskan cruises enable you to see the wealth of arctic wildlife and the many national parks and preserves at a comfortable distance, yet close enough to appreciate the splendour of the glaciers. Alaska has a great deal to offer along its many miles of coastline. Alaska's amazing wilderness should be experienced rather then merely passed through.

Ships cruise between massive glaciers and weave among the thousands of islands to offer stunning views. Lucky passengers may even glimpse whales providing an unofficial escort, making "days at sea" a completely different experience than on tropical voyages. And on board one of the modern cruise ships there are a mind-boggling array of spectacular activities and sights. Cruise lines are always willing to help you celebrate special occasions such as birthdays, promotions, retirements, or other momentous events, making your cruise a truly personal one.

Small ships provide more adventure and offshore activities than bigger ships. Big ships are designed for people who are looking for more luxury and comfort, while small ships are designed for adventure seekers. One of the most popular adventures is riding in a helicopter to the top of a glacier. If adventure is more to your liking, there are a number of "sporting" type boats that have kayaks and zodiacs available for use throughout the cruise.

A far cry from tropical vacations featuring snorkeling and sunbathing, Alaskan cruises are perfect summer getaways to experience truly adventurous tours and destinations. Although most Alaskan cruise companies travel to similar destinations, the smaller lines may include more wilderness oriented cruises.

Alaska is like nowhere else on earth; an unspoilt wilderness that will take your breath away. Resplendent with natural beauty and steeped in adventure, Alaskan cruises are popular summer destinations. While the main attraction for Alaskan cruises is the stunning natural beauty found simply by cruising through the region, there are a number of interesting ports of call. With rustic historical attractions combined with incredible natural wonders, Alaskan cruises visit a number of unique ports of call.

To discover the complete guide to Alaskan Cruises, I suggest the following as further reading. Ocean Cruise Guides - Alaska By Cruise Ship (Alaska By Cruise Ship) (Paperback) It will tell you everything you need to know.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Everett

Discover the Excitement of Alaskan Cruises

By David Everett

Looking for an exotic travel location that is thrilling and luxurious? Alaskan cruises have surged in popularity in recent years, and demand to see America's last unspoiled frontier continues to grow. Alaskan Cruises only operate between the months of May and September or early October and tend to follow one of two principal routes; the Gulf of Alaska or the Inside Passage.

Anchorage is the starting (or ending) point for many Alaskan cruises, but most passengers actually board or disemabark their ships from Seward (125 miles sounth on Resurrection Bay). Alaskan cruises may also start in the town of Vancouver BC.

Alaskan cruises enable you to see the wealth of arctic wildlife and the many national parks and preserves at a comfortable distance, yet close enough to appreciate the splendour of the glaciers. Alaska has a great deal to offer along its many miles of coastline. Alaska's amazing wilderness should be experienced rather then merely passed through.

Ships cruise between massive glaciers and weave among the thousands of islands to offer stunning views. Lucky passengers may even glimpse whales providing an unofficial escort, making "days at sea" a completely different experience than on tropical voyages. And on board one of the modern cruise ships there are a mind-boggling array of spectacular activities and sights. Cruise lines are always willing to help you celebrate special occasions such as birthdays, promotions, retirements, or other momentous events, making your cruise a truly personal one.

Small ships provide more adventure and offshore activities than bigger ships. Big ships are designed for people who are looking for more luxury and comfort, while small ships are designed for adventure seekers. One of the most popular adventures is riding in a helicopter to the top of a glacier. If adventure is more to your liking, there are a number of "sporting" type boats that have kayaks and zodiacs available for use throughout the cruise.

A far cry from tropical vacations featuring snorkeling and sunbathing, Alaskan cruises are perfect summer getaways to experience truly adventurous tours and destinations. Although most Alaskan cruise companies travel to similar destinations, the smaller lines may include more wilderness oriented cruises.

Alaska is like nowhere else on earth; an unspoilt wilderness that will take your breath away. Resplendent with natural beauty and steeped in adventure, Alaskan cruises are popular summer destinations. While the main attraction for Alaskan cruises is the stunning natural beauty found simply by cruising through the region, there are a number of interesting ports of call. With rustic historical attractions combined with incredible natural wonders, Alaskan cruises visit a number of unique ports of call.

To discover the complete guide to Alaskan Cruises, I suggest the following as further reading. Ocean Cruise Guides - Alaska By Cruise Ship (Alaska By Cruise Ship) (Paperback) It will tell you everything you need to know.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Everett

Have a Memorable Trip with Alaska Fishing Charter

By Arindam Chattopadhyaya

If you are a fishing enthusiast, Alaska fishing charters definitely promise a different experience. One of the most untouched fishing regions, Alaska offers spectacular natural scenery and associated wildlife. Without a doubt one of the best things Alaska has to offer is its fish. Renting Alaska fishing charters are a good way to help you find first-rate fish. Even if you are planning to go for a long camping trip, the charters can be hired in between to fulfill any latent fishing ambitions.

Normally, a person can not imagine the amount of fishing opportunities available in Alaska. There are innumerable lakes where one can venture out for fishing- some totally untouched and untapped. However, only seasoned visitors have knowledge of these waters and their fish. If you are a first timer or have not visited the place often, renting fishing charters would be the safest bet. Alaska fishing charters have specialist fishing guides who are experts in their local areas. Knowledgeable captains will take you the best waters for fishing and you can take your pick from the not so common lingcod to halibut, salmon and bottom fish. Other than just fishing, the charter companies will also give advice on other things you can do and explore on your Alaskan expedition.

There are other reasons besides the above, why you should plan your trip with an Alaskan fishing Charter Company. If you are coming from outside for relaxation with some serious fishing thrown in, you will not like to get mired in the tedious details of complicated trip planning. This will be even more burdensome if you are absolutely new to the place and don’t know one end of the place from another. Chances are that your expedition to Alaska is one of those once in a lifetime sort of trips. Alaska fishing charters will help you make the most of it. They are the best way to see all that Alaska has on offer- beautiful lakes, wildlife and of course not to forget the amazing fishing opportunities.

If you are looking for adventure on your trip, then the recommended way to do so is through the services of Alaska fishing charters as they will make sure that the associated risks involved are completely minimized. They will also help organize dream trips such as a stay in a private cabin or even a remote island accessed through a helicopter. Alaska fishing charter companies are the best way to explore uncharted territories and find those fishing spots, which are hidden for others.

Ice fishing is a hobby which is full of adventure. If you want to have a memorable ice fishing vacation, download the FREE report on how to plan and budget fishing trip from http://www.fishingletsgo.com

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See Alaska By Cruise Ship This Summer

By Mandy Karlik

Sometimes I think that even if nobody new ever went on a first-ever cruise to Alaska, the cruise industry would stay busy with Alaskan cruises just taking people who've already been there back again...and again.

The largest state in a very large country, Alaska is probably not the place you think it is. First, it is a vast land where civilization exists in outposts against a wilderness background. There are many parts of Alaska where animals outnumber people.

The wilderness theme crops up where you would least expect it. Try to get in and out of the state's capital city, Juneau, and you find that you need to do it by boat or plane. The place is not accessible by car.

Flying is altogether a normal way of going from point A to point B in Alaska. The state has made flight-seeing popular since so many great natural attractions were best accessed from the air.

Alaska also has a railroad system that was built specifically to show off the state's enthralling natural beauty. Though not extensive, you can travel by rail in Alaska in dome-topped luxury club cars and see the mountains, valleys, and wildlife from the comfort of a luxury vehicle.

That's not such a very different concept from cruising, where you can sail by glaciers, mountains, wildlife, and postcard-perfect scenery all without leaving the comfort of the balcony of your stateroom. (If you like to travel inside stateroom to save money, you can watch this from the many public rooms on the ship.)

If you cruise to Alaska, expect to find chilly temperatures, even in summer. Factor in the breeze off the water and the chill when the sun sets and you can see why a cruise to Alaska requires you to take what passes for winter wear in some of our more southern states.

Of course, that has never stopped adventurous souls from appreciating Alaska. The state has a very diverse history. First, it's the only part of the United States that was ever once part of Russia. You may find Russian artifacts, habits, and even souvenirs in some places. When Seward bought Alaska for the U.S. in the 19th century, the deal was negotiated with Russia.

Early in its American history, Alaska became the sight of a gold stampede as lots of miners headed north to make their fortunes. A few even planned to pan for gold.

Today, Alaska is more concerned with "black gold," or its native oil reserves. Despite abundant natural wealth and beauty, life and even tourism in Alaska isn't always easy. Many products and services in Alaska are expensive, at least by lower-48 standards. The climate is cold and can be hostile, so travel requires a lot of advanced preparation and some physical hardiness.

That's why an Alaskan cruise makes sense, particularly for those modern-day adventurers who aren't so sure they want to climb a mountain of ice to see a glacier or struggle along an unpaved road in an off-road vehicle in the snow to get to the next town.

When shopping for an Alaskan cruise, look at the excursions that are offered. Most cruise ships offer plenty of time for you to soak up on-board activities, so you should take advantage of whatever shore excursions best match your interests.

Want to see polar bears? Go whale watching? Go fly fishing? Flight-see around a glacier? Shop for native art? Drive a dog sled? Most Alaskan cruises offer great excursions like these.

Some cruise shoppers penny pinch for excursions, but it is usually a better deal to penny pinch on a stateroom. Here's why. The biggest part of your bill in seeing Alaska is getting there. That's your cruise fare. Once you're there, you may be able to flight-see or whale watch or do other once-in-a-lifetime thing for a few hundred dollars.

Think of it this way. If you wanted to go fishing for Alaskan king salmon, right this minute, you'd have to get to Alaska and then charter a fishing trip.

If you wanted to whale watch today, you'd have to get to Alaska and then book passage on a whale-watching expedition.

On the cruise, you're already there. You're just paying a supplement or up - charge for these incredible experiences. If you have to economize, you're better off making do with a smaller or inside stateroom and getting the excursions.

Years from now, you won't remember your cruise so much from what your room was like but rather the excursions you had.

Mandy Karlik loves to travel and wishes she was on a cruise ship to Alaska right now. If you're not on an Alaskan cruise, either, find out how to get there by going to http://www.thecruise-shopper.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mandy_Karlik

Why You Should Consider An Alaskan Adventure Cruise Now

By Dean Caporella

Alaska amazingly holds some fears for many and I guess the fear of the unknown has something to do with this however, what better way than to face those fears by hopping on board a ship and getting immersed in all it has to offer with an adventure cruise.

Long time Alaskan cruise enthusiasts have been discovering the magical qualities this vast wilderness has to offer over and over again and it's one of the few places left in the world where history has been relatively left untouched.

An adventure cruise should be just that and despite the wonderful experience you can have sailing on board one of the bigger ships on the seas, for those who want to get "down and dirty" and have plenty to choose from, smaller charter operators offer anything from kayaking adventures to fishing expeditions along with marine life experiences such as whale watching.

Experienced charter operators offer Inside Passage adventure cruises and if you are a keen angler then you'll get a whole new meaning to the word "big!" King Salmon and Halibut are in plentiful supply and the only problem will be whether you have the strength to haul them in. Kayaking trips are a great way to get amongst the wilderness and packages usually involve hiking trips as well. It's amazing once someone gets a taste of Alaska close up, the experience can be so overwhelming that it becomes a regular destination during their vacation schedule.

Did You Know?

Alaska is such a huge and diverse area however, there are places where big ships cannot go. Adventure cruise enthusiasts have the choice of a number of smaller operated charter services which can take them into areas that would normally be seen from a distance.

Then there's the trip along the amazing coastline between Vancouver and Anchorage. It's a long trip and along the way you'll get to see all of the Inside Passage from British Columbia, all the way to the Alaskan Gulf Coast. Adventure cruise specialists include land excursions as part of the packages available and you'll experience some of the Denali National Park and spend one or two nights in the midst of the wilderness in fabulous lodges.

Glaciers despite there enormity and mystery hold a magic fascination for many people. On an Alaskan adventure cruise, you have every opportunity to get close up and personal with the mighty glaciers. Shorter four day excursions from Juneau take you right into the hight of Glacier Bay. Not only will you get a close hand look at one of nature's most awe-inspiring structures but the marine life there to greet you will have you snapping away vigorously on your camera.

Package Prices

There are an array of options available to holidaymakers from shorter 3-4 day trips right up to near month-long adventure cruises. One of the best ways to enjoy the smaller charter operated expeditions, which include anything from glacier cruising to fishing, is to have your vacation tailor-made. You simply tell them what you're after and an itinerary will be drawn up to suit your particular needs. Otherwise, booking a passage on any one of the cruises on offer will ensure Alaska remains high on your list of destination highlights!

Dean Caporella is a professional broadcaster. Great tips and advice for your next Alaskan adventure cruise.You'll want to read this informative guide! Plus, read the latest cruise news and reviews at:http://www.cheapcruiseheaven.com

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