Tips Before You Travel

Weather in Alaska’s Inside Passage

Alaska’s Inside Passage is located in the heart of a temperate rainforest. Warmed by ocean currents, the Inside Passage enjoys mild summers and rain is not unusual. Daytime temperatures typically range within 55-65° F. And, being in the north, daylight extends late into the evening. Our up-close wilderness focus makes any month of the season equal: May, June, July, August or September.

Stateroom and Vessel Amenities

We provide each stateroom with a hair dryer, iPod docking station, alarm clock, refillable water bottles, towels and high quality, eco-friendly toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, lotion, and soap).

Alaska Reading List

This suggested reading list is for your pleasure, to help enhance your understanding and enjoyment of your Alaskan adventure and exploration.

Klondike: The Last Great Gold Rush
Pierre Berton, 1896-1899
 
Alaska’s South East: Touring the Inside Passage
Sarah Eppenbach, 1997

National Geographic Society Field Guide to the Birds of North America
 
The Raven and the Totem – Traditional Alaska Native Myths and Tales
Collected and edited by John E. Smelcer
 
Reaching Home: Pacific Salmon, Pacific People
N. Forbes, Jay & B. Matsen, 1997

The Sea Runners
Ivan Doig, 1982

Travels in Alaska
John Muir, with forward by John Haines, 1988
 
Where the Sea Breaks Its Back
Corey Ford, 1966, 2nd printing 1995
 
Passage To Juneau
Jonathan Raban

Packing for Your Adventure Cruise

Think active comfort when selecting outfits to bring with you. Each day you will have the opportunity to kayak or explore ashore. Plan to layer your clothes to adjust to different temperatures.

Here are some suggestions:

• Pants and shorts: Jeans, khakis, or whatever you feel most comfortable wearing. Keep pants comfortable and durable.  Temperatures can vary in the summer so pack at least one pair of shorts for possible warm weather. The ships have rain pants available in several sizes onboard for your use while kayaking or hiking, if necessary.
• Shirts: Bring comfortable, casual shirts in versatile styles that can be layered if the weather requires. T-shirts, polo shirts (long sleeves), sweatshirts, sweaters, or turtlenecks are recommended.
• Jackets: Warm & versatile water and windproof jacket with a hood, a fleece or zip-up vest and/or casual jacket. Although unisex rain slickers are provided onboard to supplement your outerwear, please plan on bringing your own as well to guarantee the most comfortable fit.
• Shoes: Sneakers or comfortable, sturdy walking shoes, hiking boots (preferably waterproof). Waterproof wading boots are provided onboard as well.
• Cold weather clothes: Gloves or mittens, scarf, hat, and a pair of thick warm socks. Plan for cooler weather during off-ship activities, such as kayaking, exploring by skiff and glacier viewing.
• Sunny weather gear: Sunglasses, sun block, a brimmed hat.
• Bathing suit: Bring swimwear for hot tubs, saunas and even quick stints in the water for those wishing to join the "Polar Bear Club."
• Binoculars: Binoculars are provided for your use but you may be more comfortable bringing a pair that you are already familiar with. If you bring your own, please mark them with your name.
• Camera and film: Don’t forget to pack plenty of film, or have ample digital storage and batteries for your camera. You are bound to use more than you think you’ll need. You may want to store your camera in a waterproof case and bring heavy-gauge re-sealable plastic bags as extra protection for your camera and film.
• Other items to consider bringing include: motion sickness remedies and a day bag or back pack to carry things. A travel journal to write of your adventures in is also a great idea.

No Dress Code

Our dress code, including the dinner hour, is casual. The InnerSea Discoveries lifestyle emphasizes both elegance and comfort. Bring the clothes you feel most relaxed in and the ones you will be comfortable wearing during the included activities and excursions.