Alaskan Cruise Best Time To See Whales
Alaska is a land of awe-inspiring beauty and wildlife. One of the most sought-after experiences in Alaska is whale watching. The magnificent creatures that swim in the Alaskan waters are a sight to behold. If you are planning an Alaskan cruise and want to know the best time to see whales, you have come to the right place. In this article, we will discuss the different types of whales you can see in Alaska and the best time to spot them.
Types of Whales in Alaska
There are several types of whales that can be seen in Alaska. The most common are:
- Humpback Whales
- Gray Whales
- Killer Whales (Orcas)
- Minke Whales
Humpback whales are known for their acrobatic skills, breaching the water with their massive bodies, and their haunting songs. Gray whales are known for their long migrations, traveling thousands of miles between their feeding and breeding grounds. Killer whales are the apex predator of the sea, with a reputation for hunting seals, sea lions, and even other whales. Minke whales are the smallest of the baleen whales, reaching a maximum of 35 feet in length.
Best Time to See Whales
The best time to see whales in Alaska is from May to September. During this time, the weather is milder, and the days are longer, providing more time to enjoy the beautiful scenery and wildlife. The months of June and July are considered the peak period for whale watching, as this is when the whales feed on the abundant schools of fish in the Alaskan waters.
If you want to see humpback whales, the best time is from mid-June to mid-September. During this time, the whales migrate to the cold and nutrient-rich waters of Alaska to feed and mate. The Inside Passage and Glacier Bay are two of the best places to see humpback whales in Alaska.
Gray whales can be seen in Alaska from mid-March to mid-May, as they make their way from their breeding grounds in Baja California, Mexico, to their feeding grounds in the Bering Sea. During their journey, they pass through the Inside Passage, providing a great opportunity to see them up close.
Killer whales can be seen all year round in Alaska, but the best time is from May to September when they follow the migrating salmon to the Alaskan waters. The Inside Passage is one of the best places to see killer whales in Alaska.
Minke whales are the most elusive of the baleen whales and can be seen in Alaska from May to September. They tend to stay closer to shore and can be seen in the Inside Passage and around Glacier Bay.
Tips for Whale Watching
Whale watching is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and there are a few things you can do to make the most of it:
- Dress in warm layers, as it can get chilly on the water
- Bring binoculars to get a better view of the whales
- Be patient and keep a sharp eye out for any signs of whales
- Respect the whales' space and keep a safe distance
- Choose a reputable whale watching tour company
Conclusion
Alaska is a paradise for whale lovers, and the best time to see them is from May to September. Humpback whales, gray whales, killer whales, and minke whales can be seen in the Alaskan waters, providing a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Remember to dress appropriately, bring binoculars, and respect the whales' space. With the right preparation and a little bit of patience, you can have an unforgettable whale watching experience in Alaska.