Alaskan Dream Cruises Tips, Activities, and Overview
Who goes on Alaskan Dream Cruises cruise ships?
You'll find the majority of Alaskan Dream Cruises passengers to be in their 50s to 70s, some with adult children. The company also encourages younger families and multigenerational cruising by providing a Youth Expedition Leader who leads activities, exploration and educational programs for children ages 7 and older; plus there's a discount for children ages 15 and under. Most passengers come from North America, but you'll also meet folks from Australia, South Africa and Europe.
Do I have to dress up on a Alaskan Dream Cruises cruise?
Leave your formal wear at home; dress is casual on Alaskan Dream cruises. Passengers dress casually and appropriately for the weather and for the outdoor-oriented, active itinerary. The lines does recommend that cruisers bring warm jackets and suggests layers, since Alaskan weather can range from very chilly to T-shirt warm, and swimsuits for those ready to join the Killer Whale Club by swimming in a wilderness inlet. (Alaska Dream provides rainwear and sturdy boots for exploring during the cruise.)
Is everything free on Alaskan Dream Cruises cruises?
No, but the list of what's included reflects the focus of the company: some shore excursions, National Park fees, airport and hotel transfers, all meals, nonalcoholic and alcoholic beverages (ncluding local brews made in Auke Bay), Alaska-made shampoos and body washes, and Alaskan gear for use during the cruise, including rain jackets, pants, rain boots and binoculars.
Extra costs include optional gratuities, pre- and post-cruise hotel accommodations, taxes and port fees. Additionally, Alaskan Dream requires that all passengers purchase travel insurance.
What are Alaskan Dream Cruises’s most popular activities?
The emphasis on an Alaskan Dream cruise is squarely on the Alaskan experience and shore excursions; wildlife viewing and evening enrichment programs are the main draws of any voyage. Ships carry skiffs for shallow water and glacial fjord exploration, as well as for beach landings for hiking opportunities in more remote areas. Kayaking is also an integral part of the cruises. One of the most popular activities on any Alaskan Dream cruise is the chance to visit the villages of three indigenous cultures, the Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian. In the evening, onboard naturalists give lectures on the biology, geography and ecology of the Inside Passage.
Why go with Alaskan Dream Cruises?
- Alaska-based company with insider knowledge and special access
- Casual and cozy vibe onboard, focused on Alaska culture
- Expect an outdoor-oriented, wildlife-seeking crowd
- Fresh Alaskan seafood, microbrews served onboard
Best for: Active travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path Alaska through nature- and culture-focused exploration with native Alaskans
Not for: Travelers who gasp for life when unplugged from cell phones, TV or Wi-Fi, plus anyone not interested in very active onshore exploration. Those with mobility issues may also want to look elsewhere, as vessels involve stairs, narrow passageways and, in some cases, cabins with bunk-style berths.
