Alaska in Mat-- Outer clothing to take

[seagoingJLW]

When cruising in Alaska in May, should we take parkas along? Would appreciate responses from those who have returned from such a cruise.

 

Joan

[dustyroad]

how far up are you going? to glacier bay or up to anchorage. that will make a difference. i was in glacier bay last sept and the weather was gorgeous. in the 60's during the day and warm. i only wore a tee shirt with a hooded sweatshirt over it. on the deck at night is a little brisk but not unbearable. i had a unlined lightweight nylon jacket in case it rained which it never did except about 1/2 hr in ketchikan. and in glacier bay i did not need the gloves and ear band i took. of course i am from the midwest so i am used to a more chilly temperature. of course there will still be snow on the mountains as opposed to what was there in sept. i am going again in may of 2005 and will leave a heavy coat home. if i need one i will have to buy one as a souvenier. for me personally, i would not take the parka. unless you are going all the way up to hubbard bay and anchorage. it will be colder there im sure. but i know another poster will know for sure on that. keep going back on this alaska thread and i know you will find your answer. have a great time and i hope this helps.

[emma2u]

We did the transition cruise from San Diego to Alaska in May 2002, it was very cold. Take the coat! Ketchikan was cold and wet. Juneau was cold, Sitka was lovely. Have a blast!

[Budget Queen]

Layers are better- I never take a winter coat and always a lightweight lined jacket, knit hat, gloves, 2 pair of walking shoes, rain gear. Make do with what you have- a few sweatshirts, turtlenecks etc can be combined if needed.