Weather & What to Expect

Alaska cruise season runs roughly from late April to early October. The *Voyager of the Seas* will be sailing Alaska between April 19, 2026, and October 11, 2026. Expect average temperatures between 35°F and 65°F (2°C to 18°C) during this period, though conditions can change rapidly. May and June tend to be drier, while July and August are slightly warmer but also bring increased rainfall. September often sees cooler temperatures and more precipitation.

The weather will directly impact your daily activities. In Juneau, a visit to Mendenhall Glacier will feel significantly colder and wetter than exploring the shops downtown. Similarly, a whale watching tour from Sitka will expose you to wind and spray, requiring extra layers. Evenings in Skagway can be surprisingly chilly, especially after a day of hiking. Be prepared for all conditions.

The Layering System

The key to comfort on an Alaska cruise is layering. Start with a base layer of either merino wool or a synthetic material like polyester or nylon. Merino wool offers excellent warmth-to-weight ratio and naturally resists odors, crucial for active excursions. Synthetic fabrics excel at wicking moisture away from your skin, keeping you dry and comfortable, particularly important under rain gear.

Your mid-layer should provide insulation. Options include fleece jackets, down vests, or insulated hoodies. Fleece is lightweight, quick-drying, and provides good warmth, even when damp. Down offers superior warmth for its weight but loses its insulating properties when wet. Consider a down jacket with a water-resistant treatment.

Your outer shell needs to be truly waterproof. Look for a jacket with taped seams to prevent water from seeping through stitching. A hood is essential for keeping your head dry. Breathability is also important to prevent overheating. Jackets with a waterproof/breathable membrane (like Gore-Tex or similar) allow moisture vapor to escape while keeping rain out. A moisture-wicking Alaska cruise t-shirt makes an excellent base layer under your other layers.

Footwear

Your primary footwear for an Alaska cruise should be water-resistant walking shoes or lightweight hiking boots. Opt for footwear with good traction, as you'll encounter varied terrain from paved surfaces to gravel trails in ports like Skagway and Juneau. Look for shoes with ankle support if you plan on doing any serious hiking.

A backup pair of comfortable shoes is also recommended. These could be sneakers, boat shoes, or even comfortable sandals (for onboard use). They'll provide a comfortable alternative for sea days or less strenuous port excursions.

Avoid wearing open-toed shoes or sandals in port, especially if rain is expected. They offer no protection from the elements and can be slippery on wet surfaces. High heels are also impractical for most excursions and should be reserved for evenings onboard the ship.

Essential Gear & Accessories

• Binoculars: Essential for wildlife viewing, especially whale watching and glacier viewing. Choose a compact, waterproof pair with good magnification.
• Waterproof dry bag: Protect your phone, camera, and other electronics from rain and splashes during shore excursions.
• Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated while exploring Alaska's ports and onboard the ship.
• Small backpack: Carry extra layers, snacks, water, and other essentials during shore excursions.
• Camera and extra batteries: Capture the memories of your Alaska cruise. Cold weather can drain batteries quickly, so bring spares.
• Gloves and beanie: Keep your hands and head warm, especially on glacier viewing days and whale watching tours.
• Sunscreen and sunglasses: Even on cloudy days, the sun can be intense, especially reflecting off the water and glaciers.

Onboard vs. Port Day Packing

On sea days and glacier viewing days, prioritize warmth and comfort. Wear layers, including a base layer, mid-layer, and waterproof outer shell. Bring a hat and gloves, even if the forecast seems mild. The wind chill on deck can be significant, especially when sailing near glaciers. An Alaska cruise hoodie or sweatshirt is perfect for cool evenings on deck.

For port days, dress according to the planned activities. If you're hiking in Skagway, wear sturdy shoes and layers that you can easily remove as you warm up. If you're exploring Juneau, bring a rain jacket and umbrella, as rain is common. For Victoria, dress in smart casual attire for exploring the city's gardens and shops.

Royal Caribbean's *Voyager of the Seas* typically has a smart casual dress code for evenings in the main dining room. This usually means collared shirts and slacks for men and dresses, skirts, or dressy pantsuits for women. There are usually one or two formal nights per cruise, where guests are encouraged to dress up in cocktail dresses, suits, or tuxedos. Check your specific cruise itinerary for details on formal nights.

What to Skip

• Heavy winter coat: A layering system is more versatile and adaptable to changing conditions. A bulky winter coat will take up valuable space in your luggage.
• Expensive jewelry: Leave valuable jewelry at home. It's unnecessary for an Alaska cruise and could be a target for theft.
• Multiple pairs of dress shoes: One pair of comfortable dress shoes is sufficient for evenings onboard the ship.
• Hair dryer: Hair dryers are typically provided in cruise ship cabins.
• Too many books: E-readers are more space-efficient and allow you to carry multiple books without adding weight to your luggage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there laundry service available on the Voyager of the Seas?

Yes, laundry and dry cleaning services are available for a fee. Check your onboard account for pricing. Self-service laundry facilities are typically not available to passengers.

What is the dress code on formal nights?

On formal nights, guests often wear cocktail dresses, evening gowns, suits, or tuxedos. However, dressing up is optional, and guests who prefer to wear smart casual attire are welcome to do so.

What kind of weather should I expect in Alaska in September?

September in Alaska tends to be cooler and wetter than the summer months. Expect average temperatures in the 40s and 50s Fahrenheit (4-15 Celsius) and a higher chance of rain. Pack accordingly with layers and waterproof gear.

Do I need to bring insect repellent?

While mosquitoes are not as prevalent on the coast as they are inland, it's still a good idea to bring insect repellent, especially if you plan on doing any hiking or spending time outdoors in wooded areas.

What kind of power outlets are available in the cabins?

Royal Caribbean ships typically have both North American (110V) and European (220V) power outlets in the cabins. However, it's always a good idea to bring a universal adapter, just in case.

Will my cell phone work in Alaska?

Cell service can be unreliable in some areas of Alaska, especially in remote ports and during glacier viewing. Check with your cell phone provider about international roaming charges and consider purchasing an international data plan or using Wi-Fi when available.

More Voyager Of The Seas Articles

• Best Alaska Shore Excursions from Voyager of the Seas
• VOYAGER OF THE SEAS vs. Other Royal Caribbean Alaska Ships Compared
• Alaska Cruise Packing List 2026
• Best Alaska Cruise Ports 2026
• Best Alaska Cruise Itineraries 2026

Explore Alaska Cruise Port Guides

• Juneau Cruise Port Guide
• Ketchikan Cruise Port Guide
• Skagway Cruise Port Guide
• Glacier Bay Cruise Port Guide
• Sitka Cruise Port Guide
• Alaska Cruises 2026: All Ports & Ships

Gear Up for Your Alaska Cruise

Browse our collection of Alaska cruise t-shirts, long sleeves, sweatshirts, and hoodies — designed for cruise travelers who want comfort and style at every port.