I am planning to take the Alaska Southbound cruise with either Princess or Celebrity in mid June or early September. I am also planning to stay about 4 days on my own around Seward and Denali. I want to be sure and see the wildlife and would love to see some glaciers cracking and falling. Does anyone know if I have a good chance to see these things in mid June or early September? If anyone has any tips on where to stay they would also be appreciated.

Sharon, In my humble opinion-go in June-generally better weather-less rain. We went end of June last year and really lucked out weather wise. I thought we'd be snowed under with youngsters but that didn't happen. Saw a good bit of wildlife ,etc. Even May is supposed to be good in Alaska. Good luck.

We went the first week in August and it was spectacular.

Sharon, I think you have a better chance of good weather in southcentral Alaska and the interior in early Sept. than June, although it can go either way. And with only 4 extra days I think you'll need to choose between Seward and Denali Park, owing to the travel time needed to get to Denali from Anchorage or Seward, plus time to ride the bus into the park (a whole day in most cases) which is needed in order to see the mountain and/or wildlife. Seeing glaciers calving is generally a matter of luck.

<BR>Hi Sharon, <BR> <BR>Do go in early September. Denali is all hype. Rent auto in Anchorage drive to Seward. Stop on the way and pan for gold at the Crow Creek Mine, visit the Portage Glacier. <BR> <BR>In Seward stay at the Hotel Edgewater on the bay across from the old railroad station (Chugach Heritage Center and the wonderful Alaska SeaLife Center. Shop 'till you drop. <BR> <BR>Go on a sled dog kennel tour and pet a dog. Ride on a sled. Take a short hike and pet the Exit Glacier. <BR> <BR>Take the Wildlife Quest Catamaran cruise through the Kenai Fiords and you will see more wildlife you would ever care to see in an entire lifetime. Definitely you will see the calving of glaciers and mountains more spectacular than Mt. Mckinley. You will see the most beautiful tidewater glaciers in the world. <BR> <BR>Then when you are all pooped out, get on your ship and relax for the remainder of your vacation. <BR> <BR>If you get a chance, stay an extra day or two in Vancouver. Stay in one of the bay hotels (if you can afford it). Visit Gastown and Stanley Park (resonable buses). <BR> <BR>Do not go to Alaska for your trip of a lifetime and miss any of the above. <BR> <BR>I have taken the trip 4 times and have sent many of my customers there. <BR> <BR>Paul

I would suggest mid-June. You will have several more hours per day of daylight! We thoroughly enjoyed walking on the ship's decks at 10:30PM with the sun still bright. <BR>We were very lucky with Denali - had clear views of Mt. McKinley for two days (I hear it's only visible about 15% of the time) and saw a variety of wildlife.

We took a 10 cruisetour to Alaska on Princess in early June and loved it! The weather was great on land and ship. Our land tour took in Midnight Sun train tour to Denali as well as touring Fairbanks and Anchorage. We would love to do it again. We have been on several other trips including another cruise and a trip to Hawaii and found this our most enjoyable trip ever. Have fun!!