Alaska Cruise Outfits to Wear

An Alaska cruise offers a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, exciting outdoor activities, and elegant evenings. To make the most of your trip, packing the right Alaska cruise outfits is essential. Here's a guide to help you choose the perfect wardrobe for your Alaskan adventure.

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Alaska Cruise Weather

The Alaska cruising season starts in May, with some select cruise lines cruising at the end of April, and running through September. The most popular time to cruise to Alaska is June, July, and August.

What is the Weather like in Alaska?

April - Upper mid-40s and 50s

May - Upper mid-40s and 50s

June - Upper 60s but still lows in the 40s

July - Upper 60s to low 70s and reaching upper 40s for a low

August - Low 60s to mid-40s for a low (this month is the transition to fall)

September - Mid 50s to low 40s

As you can see, July is the warmest month and typically the driest month with the longest days as well.

Any month you choose to cruise, you could experience some chilly and rainy days. While I cruised in July and August, the weather fluctuated from the low 40s to the mid-70s one afternoon. However, as the afternoon felt warm and sunny, the evening cooled off quickly.

So, planning your Alaska cruise outfits for any month can be tricky, as you need to be prepared for all weather types that could occur. Plus, some ports of call on your itinerary, such as Ketchikan, could see chillier and rainier days than Skagway or Juneau.

If you need help planning your packing list for Alaska, check out my Free Ultimate Cruise Packing Checklist, including 7 & 3-day Alaska cruise packing lists.

Alaska Cruise Outfits

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Layering is Key

Alaska's weather can be unpredictable, with warm sunny days and chilly evenings. Layering is the key to staying comfortable.

Wear warm breathable tops and bottoms. Consider wearing a flannel button down for layering.

For outerwear be sure to have a warm waterproof jacket with a hood. A jacket is essential even in the summer months.

Essential Outerwear

You will want to make sure you have a jacket, but also don't forget to pack a hat and gloves for those chilly mornings. If you plan on doing a glacier excursion you will definitely need these.

Casual Wear

Jeans are perfect for comfort around the cruise ship and exploring ports. Be sure to pack a variety of T-shirts and light sweaters, and a sweatshirt.

Hiking pants are great to wear on excursions and even around the cruise ship. Plus, leggings and even fleece-lined leggings will keep you warm and comfortable. I loved wearing my leggings on early mornings, viewing the scenery.

Waterproof Hiking Shoes

Hiking Pants

Packable Puffer Jacket

Hooded Rain Jacket

Beanie, Gloves Scarf Set

It's not a great picture, but here I am in my hiking pants and hiking shoes in Juneau.

Formal Wear

While Alaska cruises are generally more casual than those in warmer climates, most cruise ships still have formal nights. You can expect two formal nights on a seven-day cruise. You pack a cocktail dress or dressy pantsuit for women or dress pants for men with a dress shirt.

Note: I noticed Carnival Alaska cruises tended to be a little more casual on formal night than other cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean.

Black Cocktail Dress

Dressy Sweater

FAQ Alaska Cruise Questions

Should I bring a swimsuit on my Alaska cruise?

While you most likely will not be doing any swimming out and about on your Alaskan cruise, you can bring a swimsuit to enjoy the pools or the spa area. Alaska cruise ships have enclosed and heated pools to enjoy during the cruising season.

Should I pack shorts for my Alaska cruise?

I was quite surprised at how warm it could get in the afternoon on my Alaska cruise, and a couple of days I wore shorts out at the cruise port. While this may not be something on your list for April, May or September, I do recommend packing at least one pair of shorts for your June, July or August sailing.

Other Essentials to Pack

Binoculars

Any month you are cruising in Alaska, you do not want to forget your binoculars. There is always something to see from whales, sea lions, bears, eagles, to mountain goats. So, you definitely don't want to miss it.

Waterproof Sling Backpack

A waterproof sling backpack is something I took on my Alaskan cruise, and it's great for walking around at the port and for shore excursions. You could also use this as your carry-on bag on embarkation day.

For more basic cruise essentials to pack, check my Ultimate Packing Cruise list, and don't forget to download your free Alaska Cruise Packing List.

Alaska Cruise Packing List

Packing for an Alaskan cruise is a little bit different than a Caribbean cruise. This is the type of cruise where overpacking is understandable. Here is a list of cruise packing essentials not to forget.