Alaskan Voyages - Useful Information
Alaska is the largest state in the United States in land area at 570,380 square miles (1,477,277 km²), more than twice as large as Texas, the next largest state.
Total area: 663,267 sq mi
626,932
Alaska is often described as a Republican-leaning state but with strong libertarian tendencies, except it strongly supports federal subsidizing of the Alaskan economy. In presidential elections, the state's electoral college votes have been almost always won by a Republican nominee.
December 4, 2006, Sarah Palin was sworn in as the first woman and youngest Governor of Alaska. Her running mate was Lieutenant Governor Sean Parnell. Palin is the former two-term mayor of Wasilla, Alaska.
Alaska is one of two U.S. states not bordered by another state, Hawaii being the other. Alaska has more coastline than all the other U.S. states combined. It is the only non-contiguous U.S. state on continental North America;
Peak Season
Mid-May to Mid-September
This is when most of Alaska's visitors travel. The days are longest, the temperatures warmest. Some activities or accommodations may only be available during this season.
Shoulder Seasons
Early May, Late September and October
There are fewer visitors in May, September and October. This is when you're likely to find discounts on travel and activities. The weather in the shoulder season is often very mild.
Winter
November to April
If you want to see the Northern Lights, go skiing or snow shoeing, attend Fur Rendezvous, watch ice carving competitions, or share the excitement of championship sled dog races...winter is the season for you.
Temperatures in Alaska during the summer range from 60°F-80°F. Nighttime and early mornings are cooler, from the 40's - 50's. Late August and September departures could encounter cooler temperatures and slightly fewer hours of sunlight, as fall arrives early at these latitudes.
To appreciate this extraordinary continent one needs the finest naturalist and ecologists. To this end every cruise has a number of leading experts in their respective field to guide you. Their skills jointly cover Arctic history, ornithology, geography, geology, oceanography, marine biology and glaciology.
This is hard to predict. Sailors always advise when heading to the open sea "prepare for the worst and hope for the best." At some point during the voyage, it is likely that you will encounter heavy seas - although how rough and for how long is unpredictable. Please consult your doctor about the appropriate medication for sea sickness.
UK passport holders require a valid passport for travel to the USA. Under the Visa Waiver Programme (VWP), most British citizens do not require a visa for holiday, transit or business purposes providing their passports are machine-readable, the stay does not exceed 90 days and a return or onward ticket is held.
No special vaccinations but we recommend polio and tetanus. (if you are a seasoned traveller you will already have these). We recommend that you consult a medical practitioner or call MASTA on 09068 224100.
This expedition is not physically demanding and exactly how much you do in terms of landings is your choice. There is a qualified doctor and infirmary on board each expedition. Although we spend as much time as possible ashore, you are welcome to remain aboard ship or return whenever you like. Much of the wildlife and scenery can be appreciated from deck and they cater for all fitness levels when on shore.
The minimum age is 16 years of age. There is no upper age ceiling, however prospective travellers should be aware that this is an adventurous exopedition rather than a conventional cruise.
High quality cold weather gear is essential, including parka, scarf, thick woollen sweaters, hats, socks, mittens and warm trousers, waterproof rubber boots. Your day sack should include sun protection, sun block, sunglasses, camera and binoculars. A full kit and equipment list is supplied on booking together for warm clothing suggestions and advise.
This venture can easily be combined with extra travel plans in Seattle.
