Best Time To See Whales On Alaska Cruise
Alaska’s pristine waters are home to a wide variety of whales, making it a premier destination for whale watching enthusiasts. If you are planning to go on an Alaska cruise and want to see whales, it’s important to know the best time to go. Depending on the time of year, certain whales are more likely to be seen than others. In this article, we will explore the best time to see whales on an Alaska cruise, as well as the types of whales you can expect to see.
Best Time To See Whales On Alaska Cruise
While whales can be seen year-round in Alaska, the best time to go on a cruise for whale watching is from May to September. During this time, the weather is milder, and the waters are calmer, making it easier to spot whales. The peak season for whale watching is from mid-June to mid-July, when many species of whales migrate to the waters around Alaska to feed and mate.
Whales are most active during the summer months, so you are more likely to see them breaching or performing other behaviors during this time. Additionally, there are more hours of daylight in the summer, which means you have more chances to spot whales. If you want to increase your chances of seeing whales, it’s best to go on a cruise that specializes in whale watching.
Types of Whales You Can See
On an Alaska cruise, you can expect to see a variety of whale species, including humpback whales, killer whales (orcas), gray whales, and minke whales. Humpback whales are the most commonly seen whale in Alaska, and they are known for their impressive acrobatics, such as breaching and tail slapping. Killer whales are also a common sight in Alaska, and they are known for their distinctive black and white coloring.
Gray whales and minke whales are less commonly seen than humpback and killer whales, but they can still be spotted on an Alaska cruise. Gray whales are typically seen in the spring and fall, while minke whales can be seen year-round. In addition to these whale species, you may also see other marine wildlife, such as sea otters, seals, and porpoises.
Conclusion
If you want to see whales on an Alaska cruise, the best time to go is from May to September. During this time, you have a good chance of seeing a variety of whale species, including humpback whales, killer whales, gray whales, and minke whales. Be sure to go on a cruise that specializes in whale watching to increase your chances of spotting these magnificent creatures. With a little bit of luck, you may even get to witness their impressive acrobatics firsthand!