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Cruising Alaska on a Budget: A Cruise and Port Guide
THIS IS A PRE-PANDEMIC GUIDEBOOK Much of the specific information in this book has changed because of COVID-19, especially regarding cruising itself and the services and businesses in the ports. What hasn't changed much is the natural beauty and wonder of Alaska and many of the independent outdoor activities described in the book, such as hiking and wildlife watching. Alaska's soaring mountains, ice-blue glaciers, and forested coasts are still there. Its colorful history, culture, and majestic wildlife are patiently waiting. When cruising resumes in Alaska, many things will have changed, but until then, this book gives -Descriptions and practicalities of free and beautiful hikes and walks within easy reach of the port towns -Other outdoor sites to see in the ports you'll visit -Bits of local culture and history -Fascinating tidbits about glaciers -A quick wildlife guide, including hints on where and how to spot various animals -Pictures to help you dream of future travel -Resources, including lists of books, movies, and TV shows you can use now to tide yourself over -Detailed pre-COVID-19 information (some of which will still be relevant) on pricing, booking, itineraries, onboard life, free and inexpensive things to do in ports, and practical information for each port and embarkation city, including public transportation. Alaska is one of the most beautiful places you can hope to visit on a cruise. Hold on to hope.
301 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 25, 2017
About the author
Melinda Brasher
13 books36 followersPraise for Cruising Alaska on a Budget: A Cruise and Port Guide
“A must read for anyone planning a cruise to Alaska.”
“Thoroughly researched and very informative.”
“I could imagine myself on the cruise and even 'Hear the ice crack and pop at the foot of the glacier.'”
“Fascinating portrayals of animals native to Alaska.”
“I am now wanting to make a return trip, see more of the off the beaten track sights.”
“A must read for anyone planning a cruise to Alaska.”
“Thoroughly researched and very informative.”
“I could imagine myself on the cruise and even 'Hear the ice crack and pop at the foot of the glacier.'”
“Fascinating portrayals of animals native to Alaska.”
“I am now wanting to make a return trip, see more of the off the beaten track sights.”
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
April 14, 2017
This book is a great guide for someone that has never been on a cruise or someone like me has been on one and thought they had seen it all. No, this book lets you know in a hurry, you have lots more to see. I am now wanting to make a return trip, see more of the off the beaten track sights and participate in more nature hikes.
Truly I knew there was more to see, but I didn't realize that visiting the same towns on these cruises could give such a vast difference in the experience. There is also beyond the stops you can make and adventures you can participate in, there is the introduction to the cruising experience. Tips on tipping, and drinks and all the accompaniments of the cruise. Take your time looking through this book. There is so much to digest. it takes a while to make notes and decisions about what you most want to do on your Alaskan cruise.
Truly I knew there was more to see, but I didn't realize that visiting the same towns on these cruises could give such a vast difference in the experience. There is also beyond the stops you can make and adventures you can participate in, there is the introduction to the cruising experience. Tips on tipping, and drinks and all the accompaniments of the cruise. Take your time looking through this book. There is so much to digest. it takes a while to make notes and decisions about what you most want to do on your Alaskan cruise.
October 26, 2017
What a great book!I may be one of the few people who don't want to cruise in the Caribbean, then again I used to live in the FL Keys.
However, for the past decade I am hoping to allocate the time and money to cruise the waters around Alaska. Now, I feel better prepared (still haven't organized the time and money thing).
Since I have never been on a cruise ship other than on a 4 hr gambling cruise I truly appreciated the extensive introduction about the dos and don'ts of spending time of a cruise ship. Author Melinda Brasher lays out a clear plan and explains the positiva and negativa of types of cabins, dinner seating, tipping, cancellation policies, the need to bring a passport, etc.
Never having been on a cruise I appreciated the detailed info, e.g.
"Laundry. Again, don't even think about having the ship clean your clothes for you, unless you want to spend more on a load of laundry than you did on your entire shipboard wardrobe.
... bring a bit of laundry soap (or dish soap) with you to hand wash if necessary. There's a string in the shower where you can hang item to dry..."
Of course, I would have never guessed.
Though it is clear that the featured prices won't last forever, I found the pricing guide (Loc. 177) extremely informative.
I love the honest approach, "... You'll have the best luck with weather mid June or later, though it's always a gamble..."
Ever since I spent 7 days in Scotland, in pouring rain. 24/7, with another 2 weeks of rain in the forecast, I appreciate honesty when it comes to weather reports and forecasts.
The same goes for "instructions what to do when ones meets a bear."
The author writes a lot about bears, I guess that's because Alaska is "bear-country." After reading everything I am torn on whether I'd like to see a bear (half-way) up-close or not. Loved that Brasher pointed out that all bears, including polar bears which tourists don't get to see in the wilderness, can be found in the zoo.
Throughout the book - helpful hints (e.g. bring binoculars {mental note: right! I don't even own binoculars}) descriptions of cities, places of interest, ways to get around (public transportation, bicycle rentals), hiking trails, glaciers, animals that will likely be found in the regions, etc.
In short, I am bringing my Kindle when I finally take this trip. It's obvious to me that it'll help me make best decisions as far as spending time and money in the best way.
Lastly, I did not know that "... there are only about seventeen countries in the world that are bigger (than Alaska), yet the population density is low in Alaska—averaging just over one person per square mile..."
Great color pictures throughout the book,
This was the book I was looking for to plan my trip.
5 stars.
Gisela Hausmann, author & blogger
However, for the past decade I am hoping to allocate the time and money to cruise the waters around Alaska. Now, I feel better prepared (still haven't organized the time and money thing).
Since I have never been on a cruise ship other than on a 4 hr gambling cruise I truly appreciated the extensive introduction about the dos and don'ts of spending time of a cruise ship. Author Melinda Brasher lays out a clear plan and explains the positiva and negativa of types of cabins, dinner seating, tipping, cancellation policies, the need to bring a passport, etc.
Never having been on a cruise I appreciated the detailed info, e.g.
"Laundry. Again, don't even think about having the ship clean your clothes for you, unless you want to spend more on a load of laundry than you did on your entire shipboard wardrobe.
... bring a bit of laundry soap (or dish soap) with you to hand wash if necessary. There's a string in the shower where you can hang item to dry..."
Of course, I would have never guessed.
Though it is clear that the featured prices won't last forever, I found the pricing guide (Loc. 177) extremely informative.
I love the honest approach, "... You'll have the best luck with weather mid June or later, though it's always a gamble..."
Ever since I spent 7 days in Scotland, in pouring rain. 24/7, with another 2 weeks of rain in the forecast, I appreciate honesty when it comes to weather reports and forecasts.
The same goes for "instructions what to do when ones meets a bear."
The author writes a lot about bears, I guess that's because Alaska is "bear-country." After reading everything I am torn on whether I'd like to see a bear (half-way) up-close or not. Loved that Brasher pointed out that all bears, including polar bears which tourists don't get to see in the wilderness, can be found in the zoo.
Throughout the book - helpful hints (e.g. bring binoculars {mental note: right! I don't even own binoculars}) descriptions of cities, places of interest, ways to get around (public transportation, bicycle rentals), hiking trails, glaciers, animals that will likely be found in the regions, etc.
In short, I am bringing my Kindle when I finally take this trip. It's obvious to me that it'll help me make best decisions as far as spending time and money in the best way.
Lastly, I did not know that "... there are only about seventeen countries in the world that are bigger (than Alaska), yet the population density is low in Alaska—averaging just over one person per square mile..."
Great color pictures throughout the book,
This was the book I was looking for to plan my trip.
5 stars.
Gisela Hausmann, author & blogger
December 22, 2017
This is a fantastic resource, and an eye-opener. As a reasonably enthusiastic traveller, Alaska is high on my list of must-see places, but it would never have occurred to me to consider a cruise. I do independent travel: make your own way, get off the beaten track, find the lonely spots, the local art and craft, discover the history… and of course that’s also the most economical option, isn’t it?
While cruises are for the luxury-seeking traveller without a lot of interest in the places they’re floating past, and more in their creature comforts. The lazy, expensive way. Right?
Well no, not at all, at least not when it comes to Alaska.
Melinda makes a convincing case that if you are going to Alaska, a cruise is not only highly practical, but also economically sound. In a land where everything has to be flown or shipped in, expenses are high, and travelling independently is actually quite exorbitant. Taking a cruise, on the other hand, gets you to some really good places in comfort and luxury, and you still get to explore the incredible landscape, walking trails, history, culture and wildlife – and at considerably less expense, if you book wisely, than going it alone.
This is a real surprise, but also makes sense if you think about it: the big ships load up with everything they need down south, where it’s cheaper, and then head up to the land where people will fly their own airplanes to get a family MacDonald, and where the only road out of Juneau, the capital, fizzles out after 40 miles with a sign: THE END.
The book is extremely well-written, very clear and easy to follow, informative and well-organized. The author obviously knows Alaska very well and loves it. It is the sort of guide you could easily dip into, choosing sections that are of particular relevance such as the trails in a particular area, or places of interest in a particular town, or clothing to take on a typical cruise, or passport and visa requirements. I love walking and hiking, and it’s rich with information about the best places to go and how to get there – and how to deal with the bears along the way. Must admit, after The Revenant this bit was a tiny bit sobering…
One of the most important benefits, I think, is that the author never loses sight of her intended audience: the budget traveller. This is not a book aimed at people with huge funds, and so is quite refreshing I think, offering a very different angle (budget/cruise?? When did those two ever go together?) and Melinda is also consistent: pricings and sensible use of funds, the basic economics of travelling, are always given attention at every point. A fantastic resource, highly recommended.
While cruises are for the luxury-seeking traveller without a lot of interest in the places they’re floating past, and more in their creature comforts. The lazy, expensive way. Right?
Well no, not at all, at least not when it comes to Alaska.
Melinda makes a convincing case that if you are going to Alaska, a cruise is not only highly practical, but also economically sound. In a land where everything has to be flown or shipped in, expenses are high, and travelling independently is actually quite exorbitant. Taking a cruise, on the other hand, gets you to some really good places in comfort and luxury, and you still get to explore the incredible landscape, walking trails, history, culture and wildlife – and at considerably less expense, if you book wisely, than going it alone.
This is a real surprise, but also makes sense if you think about it: the big ships load up with everything they need down south, where it’s cheaper, and then head up to the land where people will fly their own airplanes to get a family MacDonald, and where the only road out of Juneau, the capital, fizzles out after 40 miles with a sign: THE END.
The book is extremely well-written, very clear and easy to follow, informative and well-organized. The author obviously knows Alaska very well and loves it. It is the sort of guide you could easily dip into, choosing sections that are of particular relevance such as the trails in a particular area, or places of interest in a particular town, or clothing to take on a typical cruise, or passport and visa requirements. I love walking and hiking, and it’s rich with information about the best places to go and how to get there – and how to deal with the bears along the way. Must admit, after The Revenant this bit was a tiny bit sobering…
One of the most important benefits, I think, is that the author never loses sight of her intended audience: the budget traveller. This is not a book aimed at people with huge funds, and so is quite refreshing I think, offering a very different angle (budget/cruise?? When did those two ever go together?) and Melinda is also consistent: pricings and sensible use of funds, the basic economics of travelling, are always given attention at every point. A fantastic resource, highly recommended.
October 28, 2020
Detailed and helpful book for penny pinchers and options to spend more
Thorough information by someone who knows! Which cruises visit which cities, optional extension trip possibilities, and city information. Hiking trails, places to stay including hostels, whale watching trips, bear watching (who knew), area travel to cruise ports, and tips on how to avoid over spending. For the adventurous traveler budget conscious - a complete guide to get the most out of your trip. Plan ahead with this guide!
Thorough information by someone who knows! Which cruises visit which cities, optional extension trip possibilities, and city information. Hiking trails, places to stay including hostels, whale watching trips, bear watching (who knew), area travel to cruise ports, and tips on how to avoid over spending. For the adventurous traveler budget conscious - a complete guide to get the most out of your trip. Plan ahead with this guide!
November 2, 2017
I've been on many cruises in the past and I thought I knew my way around cruising, but this book was filled with information I haven't heard of and reminded me of things I have forgotten. In addition, it is very thorough in its descriptions of all the places to visit.
October 18, 2017
I admit it. I don't consider myself the kind of person who takes cruises, preferring instead to leave luxury behind and strike out on my own. But that kind of travel can be exhausting, research-intensive, and sometimes more pricey than it needs to be. Brasher's guide on making the most of Alaskan cruises is absolutely perfect for independent travelers like me as well as travelers who simply want to make the most of their precious vacation time - and their even more precious money.
Packed full of information about all things Alaska, Brasher provides solid guidance on the nuts and bolts of cruises, including onboard expenses, lines, itineraries, tours, and on-board activities. But it doesn't stop there, providing solid tips on a number of Alaska ports and even the local flora and fauna. All in all, 42 quick, jam-packed chapters.
I recommend it without reservation. You won't be sorry you bought this extensive, well-informed, engaging guide to Alaskan cruises. I can't wait to put Thrasher's advice into action on my first ever cruise.
Packed full of information about all things Alaska, Brasher provides solid guidance on the nuts and bolts of cruises, including onboard expenses, lines, itineraries, tours, and on-board activities. But it doesn't stop there, providing solid tips on a number of Alaska ports and even the local flora and fauna. All in all, 42 quick, jam-packed chapters.
I recommend it without reservation. You won't be sorry you bought this extensive, well-informed, engaging guide to Alaskan cruises. I can't wait to put Thrasher's advice into action on my first ever cruise.
September 25, 2017
I really, really enjoyed this loving portrayal of Alaska! At first, it starts out cruise-heavy, which is understandable as it may be the primary method for tourists to visit Alaska, but this book also offers many helpful tips to backpackers or suitcase travellers who fly in. Hey, Vancouver and Victoria, part of my home country, are also featured! Neat! I also appreciated the fascinating portrayals of animals native to Alaska at the back of the book — something that tourist guides don’t often include.
I had a chuckle when I read this line: Yes, there are enough lifeboats.
Other tidbits I found very interesting:
If a bear starts eating you, fight back.
Nugget Falls photo comes after the mention of McDonalds, probably an uncanny coincidence and not meant by the author.
There is no way to drive to the capital of Alaska, Juneau, continuously from Canada or the United States.
Seals know how to differentiate between species of orcas, those that feast upon seals, and those that eat only fish. Also, orcas are some of the most intelligent animals on Earth.
I definitely will make this the to-go book whenever I plan a visit to Alaska. Lots of budget tips as well on how to save money and still have fun. Suggest including the reference to the book in the listing Never Cry Wolf by Farley Mowat, because he made the Arctic wolf a more likeable creature which was traditionally subject to fear and hostility.
I had a chuckle when I read this line: Yes, there are enough lifeboats.
Other tidbits I found very interesting:
If a bear starts eating you, fight back.
Nugget Falls photo comes after the mention of McDonalds, probably an uncanny coincidence and not meant by the author.
There is no way to drive to the capital of Alaska, Juneau, continuously from Canada or the United States.
Seals know how to differentiate between species of orcas, those that feast upon seals, and those that eat only fish. Also, orcas are some of the most intelligent animals on Earth.
I definitely will make this the to-go book whenever I plan a visit to Alaska. Lots of budget tips as well on how to save money and still have fun. Suggest including the reference to the book in the listing Never Cry Wolf by Farley Mowat, because he made the Arctic wolf a more likeable creature which was traditionally subject to fear and hostility.
June 1, 2017
This book is a wonderful guide to cruising Alaska on a budget. It's very thorough. The author begins by discussing the beauty of the Alaskan landscape and why you should consider visiting.She then reviews the basics of pricing your cruise which includes how to save money on shore excursions and goes on to explain how to book your cruise, what to pack, and the ins and outs of life on a cruise ship. One of my favorite sections is on hiking safety and includes bear and moose safety. Who knew moose injure more people in Alaska than bears? The author explains how to deal with both animals. She also reviews the ports and glaciers you could see and has a section on Alaskan wildlife that includes an overview of each animal and where to spot them. After reading this thorough guide, I am ready to start saving for a cruise to Alaska.
July 26, 2017
Credit needs to be given where credit is due, and first thing that impressed me about this book was the thorough work done by the author in order to ensure that no information was left out.
Even without any illustrations, the author has managed to give a picturesque description. I could imagine myself on the cruise and even 'Hear the ice crack and pop at the foot of the glacier.'
This is definitely a go - to - book for those who are planning to visit Alaska or have been holding back solely because of the price. For,as the title of the book - 'Cruising Alaska on a Budget' - suggests, the author has provided excellent tips on how to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of this iced-heaven, without burning a hole in one's pocket.
Even without any illustrations, the author has managed to give a picturesque description. I could imagine myself on the cruise and even 'Hear the ice crack and pop at the foot of the glacier.'
This is definitely a go - to - book for those who are planning to visit Alaska or have been holding back solely because of the price. For,as the title of the book - 'Cruising Alaska on a Budget' - suggests, the author has provided excellent tips on how to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of this iced-heaven, without burning a hole in one's pocket.
June 15, 2017
Thoroughly researched and very informative, Cruising Alaska on a Budget is a practical guide and a precious source of information.
January 10, 2018
My first and only cruise was on the RMS Carinthia, from Montreal to Liverpool and back during the summer of 1956. On the return we ran into a hurricane, during which my brother was the only passenger to sit in the dining room waiting for dinner while the rest of us wished for an early death to end the suffering from motion sickness. Melinda Brasher’s well-written Cruising Alaska on a Budget has convinced me to give cruising another try. Maybe ships are better now.
Every sentence informed. Organization was perfect. Suggestions and resources were on the mark; even to the point of warning of uneven pavement on one of the recommended walks. Only flaw, and this was due to the book’s organization, is repetition, especially in describing the animals that might be encountered. But this was totally unimportant. And a little more of Melinda’s personal experiences would have been a nice addition, as one reviewer suggested.
As a seasoned traveler, I’ve studied many guide books. This one ranks at the top: clear, concise, friendly and comprehensive. If you’re thinking about visiting Alaska, this is the place to start. Well done, Melinda.
Every sentence informed. Organization was perfect. Suggestions and resources were on the mark; even to the point of warning of uneven pavement on one of the recommended walks. Only flaw, and this was due to the book’s organization, is repetition, especially in describing the animals that might be encountered. But this was totally unimportant. And a little more of Melinda’s personal experiences would have been a nice addition, as one reviewer suggested.
As a seasoned traveler, I’ve studied many guide books. This one ranks at the top: clear, concise, friendly and comprehensive. If you’re thinking about visiting Alaska, this is the place to start. Well done, Melinda.
May 8, 2019
This is a pretty comprehensive book, and well written. Although I've never cruised Alaska I got a fairly good idea of what it's like from just reading this. Ms. Brasher doesn't sugar coat. The drawbacks and pitfalls are pointed out as well as the highlights - and there are many highlights.
The book is sensibly divided into several parts. Nuts and Bolt tells you what you need to know about the practicalities of cruising, from pricing, tipping and cancellation policies to booze, shore excursions, laundry and internet (Just don't!). There are sections on life aboard a cruise ship, the ports you visit, where to eat what to do there, the amazing wildlife, and even the cuise lines and itineraries you can choose from, though I would imagine these will change with time.
I can't actually think of anything that hasn't been covered in this book, but if you need more, there's a useful 'resources' section in the back.
The one thing I'd like to see added to the book is a map - or even several maps, but then I'm irrationally keen on maps.
The book is sensibly divided into several parts. Nuts and Bolt tells you what you need to know about the practicalities of cruising, from pricing, tipping and cancellation policies to booze, shore excursions, laundry and internet (Just don't!). There are sections on life aboard a cruise ship, the ports you visit, where to eat what to do there, the amazing wildlife, and even the cuise lines and itineraries you can choose from, though I would imagine these will change with time.
I can't actually think of anything that hasn't been covered in this book, but if you need more, there's a useful 'resources' section in the back.
The one thing I'd like to see added to the book is a map - or even several maps, but then I'm irrationally keen on maps.
January 22, 2018
Excellent Readable Cruise Primer
This is the real deal for Alaska cruise newbies, written by a knowledgeable author who has done her homework.It not only identifies which ports are best for paid excursions but also points out free insider tips on exploring ports of call on your own. Highly recommended.
This is the real deal for Alaska cruise newbies, written by a knowledgeable author who has done her homework.It not only identifies which ports are best for paid excursions but also points out free insider tips on exploring ports of call on your own. Highly recommended.
March 2, 2019
Can’t wait to go!
This book is terrific! I read it cover-to-cover in one sitting. It’s engaging, detailed, and infused with a love for Alaska. We’re going this July, and part of the fun of travel, to me, is the anticipation. This book stoked it perfectly!
This book is terrific! I read it cover-to-cover in one sitting. It’s engaging, detailed, and infused with a love for Alaska. We’re going this July, and part of the fun of travel, to me, is the anticipation. This book stoked it perfectly!
July 26, 2017
Quick and informative read
A must read for anyone planning a cruise to Alaska. The author gives many tips on how to avoid the higher priced excursions offered by the cruise ships.
A must read for anyone planning a cruise to Alaska. The author gives many tips on how to avoid the higher priced excursions offered by the cruise ships.
December 8, 2017
The book is both entertaining in style and very informative. At the end, you know everything you need to know for booking, itineraries, local culture, ports, glaciers, wildlife or … luggage and laundry. As mentioned in the title, there are also very good hints for savings on booking, and who doesn’t want a better price for a dream cruise? If you know what to do, a cruise can be more affordable than you think.
All in all, ‘Cruising Alaska on a Budget’ is a good read and a handy reference along your way.
All in all, ‘Cruising Alaska on a Budget’ is a good read and a handy reference along your way.
March 18, 2018
Good info
We are cruising to Alaska for the first time and there is great information provided. Lots of shore excursion info from free to pricy.
We are cruising to Alaska for the first time and there is great information provided. Lots of shore excursion info from free to pricy.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews