RV trip for first visit?

Question

We booked a 7 day cruise with 4 day land package from Vancouver for mid May but having second thoughts now. We are in our mid 70’s and are not usual RV travelers. However, having schedule flexibility and being able to change plans based on weather or finding unexpected sights is appealing. We will mostly be sightseeing and a few excursions to see wildlife. We want to have time to enjoy the sights and don’t expect to see everything. We still have two weeks to cancel the cruise and do our own land trip. We would need to start planning ASAP. We would still plan to do 8-10 day trip. Any suggestions?

Answer

For a first-time visit to Alaska, especially in your mid-70s, an RV trip offers flexibility but also requires comfort with driving and handling the vehicle in potentially unpredictable spring weather. Since you are not usual RV travelers and want a more relaxed sightseeing experience, a self-guided land trip with pre-booked accommodations may be a safer and more comfortable option.

Here are some suggestions if you decide to cancel the cruise and plan your own 8–10 day land trip in mid-May:

Start in Anchorage: Spend 1–2 nights in Anchorage. You can visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, and take easy day trips along Turnagain Arm for wildlife viewing and scenic vistas.
Drive to Seward: Allocate 2 nights in Seward. Take a Kenai Fjords National Park day cruise to see glaciers, whales, sea otters, and puffins. If weather allows, do the short Exit Glacier hike or take a guided glacier walk suitable for beginners.
Kenai Peninsula or Homer: Consider a night in Homer to explore the “Halibut Capital” of the world, with optional easy boat trips to see wildlife or visit Kachemak Bay. This adds more variety without heavy hiking.
Drive north to Talkeetna and Denali: Spend 2–3 nights near Denali National Park. Book guided bus tours or short ranger-led walks in the park for wildlife spotting and views of Denali without strenuous hiking. Talkeetna is charming for a night or two if you want a quieter stop.
Return to Anchorage: Spend the final night in Anchorage before flying out. This allows you to avoid rushing and ensures you are close to the airport for your departure.

Additional planning tips:

Book accommodations early, especially in Denali and Seward, as mid-May is the start of the tourist season and choices are limited.
Consider a mix of hotels, lodges, and bed & breakfasts rather than an RV to avoid the stress of driving and parking in remote areas.
Plan for flexible weather. May can still be chilly and rainy in Alaska, especially near glaciers and coastal areas.
Include a few guided excursions (wildlife tours, glacier walks, short hikes) to maximize your experience without overexertion.

Overall, a land-based itinerary with pre-booked accommodations and selective guided tours will likely be more enjoyable, relaxing, and safer for your first visit to Alaska, while still giving you the flexibility to see wildlife, glaciers, and the stunning landscapes at your own pace.