Which Cruise Fits Your Travel Personality?

Are you planning your next cruise? Do you get daily email offers for Early Saver or casino deals? 

I know I do and my mailbox (and my inbox) are overflowing. My only suggestion there – book a cruise and recycle the endless piles of junk mail before they turn into 100,000 + unread emails. 

So, where do you go on this cruise that you are planning to book? Do you prefer sunnier weather with a palm tree nearby or cold weather where you can be bundled up in a winter coat and a mug of hot chocolate that’s never too far away? 

That is the ultimate question, isn’t it? Both options are amazing and provide experiences that you will remember for a lifetime. Never fear – we are here to help you. Grab a pen, some paper, and let’s figure out which cruise fits your personality. 

Alaska

For some, it’s hard to imagine taking a cruise to Alaska. Cruises are supposed to be hot and visit Cozumel, right? (Seriously, my first 4 cruises as a child stopped there. I thought all cruises had to stop in Cozumel.)  

A cruise to Alaska is a 180 degree turn from the Caribbean and it is absolutely breathtaking. Here, you will experience things you’ve only watched on television or heard from friends and family. Scenery is a focus and the crowd does tend to sway a bit older. There will be plenty of time for educational seminars and a very relaxed vibe. 

Keep in mind that Alaskan cruises are seasonal and usually run from May to September. Be sure to plan accordingly. 

How do I get there? 

For most, flying is the biggest hurdle in taking a cruise to Alaska. Many fly into Seattle or Vancouver, allowing themselves plenty of time beforehand and after. It can easily turn a week-long cruise into a 10+ day adventure. Don’t let that deter you. Alaska is well worth it! 

What can I do in Alaska? 

In Alaska, there is an adventure around every corner. Each town offers something very different. Here’s a few ideas dependent on your preferred activity level: 

• Active – Check out a dogsledding adventure in Skagway, a Mendenhall glacier adventure, or a Juneau helicopter tour. 
• Medium – Take a whale watching adventure, an Anchorage “flightseeing” tour, or a “catch-your-own” dining tour. 
• Laid Back – Be sure not to miss a city trolley tour or the White Pass Scenic Railway in Skagway. 

Of course, you are free to explore the area around the port and make your own schedule for the day. Just be sure to return before sail away! 

What will the weather be like? 

Unfortunately, weather for an Alaskan cruise is VERY unpredictable. The weather can range from freezing cold to very mild. With this factor in mind, packing can be a bit more difficult than for a Caribbean cruise. 

The most important takeaway from this is, “Layers and Waterproof”! Be sure to pack sufficient clothing so that you can layer up for the cold and have thinner layers underneath for days that warm up in the afternoons. 

Your footwear is also an important point to remember. Closed-toe shoes are a must and boots are ideal – preferably ones of the waterproof variety! 

Caribbean

Most peoples’ minds tend to lean toward the word “Caribbean” when they think of cruising. The warm sun shines around every corner and the lively people who reside there are enough to make anyone want to visit. 

The moment you board your Caribbean cruise, there is a buzz in the air. Happy vacationers are excited to order their first fruity drink – don’t forget the umbrella! The sail away party is the beginning of a week-long adventure into some of the world’s most beautiful ports. 

You can catch a Caribbean cruise year-round to dozens of fantastic locations. The options are plentiful and so are the adult beverages. 

How do I get there? 

Caribbean cruise ports are sprinkled at various spots in the U.S. If you live on the west coast or east coast, you have options. If you live in the southern states, you have even more ports to choose from.

You can even choose to fly down to Puerto Rico and begin your cruise vacation there. That will allow you to explore some of the southernmost Caribbean hot spots. 

What can I do in the Caribbean? 

The possibilities are absolutely endless! Here’s a few ideas dependent on your preferred activity level: 

• Active- You will love a hike up Dunn’s River Falls in Jamaica, a zipline in Belize, or a private snorkel adventure in Grand Cayman. 
• Medium – Check out a catamaran sail in Barbados, horseback riding in Cozumel, or off-roading in Aruba. 
• Laid Back – Be sure to take a sightseeing tour at any stop or glass-bottom boat tour in the Bahamas. 

Many prefer to not book excursions while on a Caribbean cruise. Many ports offer activities nearby that are easily accessible via taxi or walking. 

What will the weather be like? 

For the most part, your Caribbean vacation will be HOT and pretty humid. Pack shorts and be sure to bring your favorite beach wear. Flip flops are a must (unless you decide to take a horseback riding tour!) 

While on the ship, you will be comfortable and it’s always a great idea to pack a light jacket. Show rooms tend to get a little chilly and evening strolls on the deck can be downright cold. Don’t spend the extra cash on a jacket in the onboard shops if you don’t have to! 

Which Should I Choose? Alaska or Caribbean? 

So. What fits your cruise personality? A trek to the adventurous northern state of Alaska or a warm, relaxing cruise to the Caribbean? 

Fortunately, there is no right or wrong answer. Whatever you choose, you will have an amazing time and make memories that cannot be replaced. My advice – try both. You only live once and you might as well try the cruising gamut. 

For me, I fit into both categories. One day, I am completely in the mood to book a trip to Alaska while other times, I’m Caribbean all the way, and that’s perfectly okay.