I'm looking at a Holland America cruise for next year to Alaska. Leaving from Vancouver and cruising for seven days. When doing this cruise what are the chances of seeing whales? Is there a time when chances are greater to see whales? I'm thinking of June, July or August.

We had a Celebrity cruise 3 August North from Vancouver to Seward. We saw whales from dinner as the ship was moving North (very cool - someone would see them, and the entire restaurant would run over)......

You can see them from a cruise ship. But to really see them, you are best to invest a considerable amount of time out on a front deck, needing proper attire and, a must, a good pair of wide angle binoculars. I really like my 10x50's.

It will be beneficial to hook up with your ship naturalist, I know likely areas but you won't and they can provide this information and trends for you.

Be happy with "looking" for a couple hours for 5 minutes of viewing.

I am out on deck during most of the sailing. Have been greatly rewarded with many wildlife sightings, BUT you will also ALWAYS see me on the whale watches. Superior for extended close up viewing.

We had a cabin that was directly at the back of the ship...my husband would sit out there with his binoculars and we saw ORCA - 2 groups at least, and many whales here and there. Go on a whale watching group with Harv and marv in Juneau. They are wonderful and there are only 6 people on the boat. They pick you up...no worry, they will get you back to the ship without a problem. It was a highlight of our trip.

Forgot to tell you we got off the ship a week ago....so second week of sept.