packing for a cruise in August
 

We're doing a firsttime cruise (7 days) to Alaska, leaving August 27, '05, from Seattle. Our itinerary is - - - Juneau - Scenic Cruising Hubbard Glacier - Sitka - Ketchican - Victoria, B.C. - Seattle.

We will be on Holland America's Ms Oosterdam. How, or rather, WHAT do I pack? I know only that we will be doing at least 2 dress-up type dinners.

What can we expect re - weather? mosquitos?

Pack layers including one waterproof jacket. Go to Cruise critic for more info on Alaska

Thanks, Hilda!

Now then. . . .how do I get to the Cruise critic?

Try google. ((b))

cruisecritic.com

Go onto Fodors "talk" cruises section, browse there,and you'll find mentions of other informational sites on cruising.

Have a great trip!!!! I'm envious!

You will need a wide range of attire. Basic= lined lightweight jacket, layers of tshirts, sweatshirts, turtlenecks, rain gear, knit hat gloves, 2 pair of walking shoes. I like lined wind pants, key is quick drying reason why I never take jeans. I also always do laundry, most often from Skagway.

thanks to everyone who responded!!! I have some good info.

do we need to worry about mosquitos??

Yes, be afraid of mosquitoes! Be very afraid! They've been terrible this year. Prepare yourself with a thorough coating of Deet.

Pack for these two weather possibilities: 40s-50s and rainy and windy, or 70s-80s and sunnier than all get out. Don't be fooled by the whole "Alaskan sun isn't as bad as Florida sun" myth.... wear sunscreen! I got a sunburn while gardening last week, it was pretty intense sunshine out there.

thank you - thank you - thank you!

I've asked 3 questions - - - how 'n what to pack, a general idea of what to expect re the weather, do I need to worry 'bout mosquitos.

The first question got answered and thanks to you, I now have sorta of an idea re the weather and the frigggin' mosquitos. I hate mosquitoes. . . .if there's one within a one mile radius, it'll find me! A trip to Target and some Deet will be forthcoming.

Thanks again!

Actually from what I've heard, bugs in SE Alaska haven't been bad this year. I think AKChickie is in the Anchorage area, which is nearly 600 miles away. It's a different climate zone.

You'll rarely if ever need bug spray on the boat and the amount you'll need it elsewhere will be determined by the land excursions you choose. If you're gardening (with AKChickie or anyone else), then definitely dope up :).

I'm also planning to take a pair of sweatpants for sitting out on the cabin's veranda enjoying my morning coffee!