Cruising in Sept.....What to Expect

Question

Okay so today is our last cruise ship for the season in Haines.......Instead there are two ships in port......the weather is heavy rain and strong winds.....so windy that the unexpected ship cannot port in Skagway and has been sent here to Haines......

Since our one-ship dock is occupied, the larger ship that was bumped from Skagway is at anchor out in the harbor while their tenders are bringing folks to the dock on very bumpy seas......Most are braving the weather with decent rain gear and umbrellas but some are wearing those flimsy garbage bag type rain poncho.....truly unprepared, they must be miserable......

The clouds are low down to the sea, so no view of our lovely snow covered mountains......

Just wanted to share the reality of September cruises for those who may be expecting more from their Alaskan trip......

Answer

September cruises in Alaska can offer a quieter, less crowded experience compared to peak summer months, but the weather is more unpredictable and can significantly affect your trip. As described, heavy rain, strong winds, and low clouds are common, especially in southern ports like Haines and Skagway.

Travelers should be prepared for the following:

Weather variability: Rain, wind, and fog are frequent in September. Even if early September can have milder days, storms or low visibility are possible.
Glacier and mountain views: Low clouds can obscure the scenery, meaning snow-covered peaks and glaciers may not always be visible.
Port operations: Smaller docks can only handle one ship at a time. When two ships arrive simultaneously, the second ship may anchor offshore and use tenders to transport passengers, which can be rough in windy conditions.
Preparation: Proper rain gear is essential. Heavy-duty waterproof jackets, pants, and boots are much more effective than thin plastic ponchos or umbrellas in strong wind and rain.

Tips for September cruises:

Expect cooler temperatures, especially early morning and evenings; layering is key.
Plan indoor activities or excursions as backups in case of poor weather.
Be flexible with port days—some excursions may be canceled or modified due to weather.
Embrace the quieter experience; fewer crowds make dining, shows, and sightseeing on board more enjoyable.
Keep seasickness remedies handy, particularly if tendering to shore is required in choppy conditions.

In short, September cruising in Alaska offers a more intimate and less crowded experience but requires realistic expectations and solid preparation for variable weather. If you are prepared for rain, wind, and occasional low visibility, it can still be a beautiful and rewarding time to visit.

Cruising in Sept.....What to Expect

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