The Alaskan cruise season begins in May and ends in September. The warmest months are July and August; however, the spring wildflowers and the fall foliage are added attractions to any wilderness sightseeing trip.
Most Alaskan cruises originate in Seattle, Vancouver or San Francisco. Sea cruises average four to seven days and usually include the Gulf of Alaska, Glacier Bay and various other coastal stops such as Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway and Sitka. The train tour usually lasts three to eight days and visits places such as Mount McKinley, Anchorage, Fairbanks and Denali National Park.
Many cruise lines offer Alaskan cruises. Some travel cruise companies have their own railways as well. The Alaska Railroad and the White Pass Scenic Railway also have a variety of land tours available.