HELP!! Clothing for Alaska
 

Hi everyone,

I'm a crew member heading to Alaska for the first time and don't have a clue what kind of clothing to bring with me. I'll be there from May 24th to September 21st.

I assume super casual is the way to go? What about a winter jacket and winter boots, do I need them? I just bought a winter sports jacket but I'm wondering if it might be too warm for the summer months, although I am the kind of person who is cold most of the time. I was looking at the windbreakers and thought they looked too thin so... I really don't know what to bring!! I read that it could get up to 27 degrees in summertime but I don't know if it feels that warm being surrounded by ice? What do you recommend? Should I get something that is waterproof cuz I hear it can rain for a month straight!? Will running shoes be ok and will they get all muddy from the rain? Jeans, cargo pants or capris? I plan on doing some excursions so I want to be prepared!

I'll also be in Hawaii in May and in October and was wondering if the temperature was nice and warm at this time of the season. Should I bring nicer clothes to visit the ports there or are people dressed up casual / "surf" style?

Any kind of help will be greatly appreciated! Thanks!!

I've only been to Alaska once--in August--and it was warm-ish most of the time. I was told that it can get pretty cold in September. It sounds like you'll be there for a range of temperatures, so probably should bring layers.

Re Hawaii, the weather stays pretty moderate year-round. It can get fairly hot in the summer months, but usually in May and October, most of the islands have highs around the high 70s F. That can vary some from island to island, but not dramatically. The upcountry on the Big Island and Maui can get fairly cool, however.

Hawaii is usually pretty casual. You don't see a lot of dressing up, except sometimes in the really upscale restaurants.

You need a wide range of attire, leave the boots at home, no need for them. Layers are the key, and a lined jacket, knit hat and gloves, rain gear.

If you are a crew member, you will receive a list of acceptable attire from the cruise line. I worked on ships and also hired for NCL and they were quite strict on clothing, make up, hair and jewelry except in your in port off duty time.

Entertainment and CD staff have a bit more felxibility.

Your living quarters are very small so keep that in mind.

I would not wear running shoes in Alaska and would pack a waterproof pair of Merrells or similar. They can get trashed when wet. Many locals wear the slip on rubber boats.

Pack layers so you can add on and peel off as needed. You can pack some capris for very warm days and jeans and cords or athletic wear (like Nike Dri Fit) work well.

Hawaii is quite casual. I pack sundresses and skirts/tees for daytime and slacks and tops for evenings when the weather is a bit cooler. I found the water freezing in July but I live in FL so am used to heat and humidity.

This might help you out...
http://cruisediva.com/cool_packing.htm

You probably don't need a parka or boots, but it can get quite chilly when the ship is approaching a glacier even in the middle of summer. Dressing in layers is advised--you can add or remove layers according to the weather conditions.

Definitely have something that is waterproof! Unless you are hiking off the beaten track immediately after it rains, you probably won't encounter muddy conditions.

Jeans, cargo pants, and capris should cover just about any conditions you'll find.

In Hawaii, you don't need to dress up ashore. Most people adhere to the casual "Aloha" style.

Hope this helps.

Linda

I went to Alaska in early August. Wore jeans or cargo pants most of the time with tennis shoes or hiking shoes. On top wore T-shirts, a fleece, AND a windproof/waterproof jacket. (There is a supercute one at eddiebauer right now). Some days I was still chilly and others I could take off everything but the t-shirt. People are pretty casual. I think you would be cold in capris...you might be able to get away with them during the warmest part of the year...but I thought that was july/august. It is cold at night and in the morning.

I don't think you need winter boots...I would wait for someone else to reply about the winter jacket...a lightweight down jacket might not be a bad idea. Hope that helps!!!

Thanks so much everyone for writing back and helping me out. I brought back my snowboard jacket that I had bought and got myself a nice waterproof/windbreaker instead.

Now...I'm just wondering about what to wear on my feet. Should I bring a pair of rain boots? Not the big black ugly ones but the really cutes "stylish" ones they have out now. I just don't want to look like a dork! I know I won't be able to go hicking in them but at least they'll keep my feet dry! What do you think?

Speaking of hiking, check out some waterproof hikers. Some are really lightweight and pretty cute, so you could wear them on and off the trail.