Navigating the Alaskan Coast: Decoding the Best Side of Your Cruise Ship
Embarking on a cruise to Alaska from Seattle is a dream for many, offering breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife, and an unforgettable adventure. But as you finalize your booking, a common question arises: which side of the ship offers the best views? This isn't a simple answer, as the "best" side can depend on your specific itinerary, the direction of travel, and what you hope to see. Let's break down the factors to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the Alaskan Cruise Route from Seattle
Cruises departing from Seattle typically sail north along the coast of British Columbia before entering Alaskan waters. The most popular itineraries focus on the Inside Passage, a sheltered waterway characterized by numerous islands, fjords, and dramatic mountains. This route generally leads to destinations like Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan.
The journey itself is as much a part of the experience as the ports of call. You'll be sailing through a region renowned for its natural beauty, and understanding the prevailing geography will help you anticipate the best vantage points.
The Northbound Journey: East vs. West
When sailing northbound from Seattle, the general direction of travel is towards Canada and then Alaska. On this leg of the journey, the mainland of British Columbia and parts of Southeast Alaska will predominantly be to your left (port side). Conversely, the open Pacific Ocean and potentially some of the outer islands will be to your right (starboard side).
What You Might See on the Port (Left) Side (Northbound):
- Dramatic Mainland Coastlines: Expect to see towering, snow-capped mountains plunging directly into the sea.
- Fjords and Inlets: Many of the most stunning fjords and protected inlets are along the mainland coast.
- Smaller Islands: You'll likely see numerous smaller islands as you navigate the intricate waterways.
- Potential Wildlife Sightings: While wildlife can appear on any side, marine mammals like whales and dolphins are often seen closer to shorelines or in nutrient-rich waters that can be found along these coastal areas.
What You Might See on the Starboard (Right) Side (Northbound):
- Open Ocean Views: This side will offer more expansive views of the Pacific.
- Outer Islands: You might catch glimpses of larger islands that form the outer barrier of the Inside Passage.
- Sunsets: Depending on the time of year and your specific route, the starboard side can offer spectacular sunset views over the water.
The Southbound Journey: East vs. West
If you're on a southbound cruise returning to Seattle, the situation is reversed. The mainland will now be primarily to your right (starboard side), and the open ocean to your left (port side).
What You Might See on the Starboard (Right) Side (Southbound):
- Mainland Alaskan and Canadian Scenery: The same dramatic coastlines, fjords, and mountains you might have missed on the northbound journey will now be on your right.
- Glaciers: Some itineraries include glacier viewing days (like Glacier Bay or Hubbard Glacier). Depending on the location of the glacier relative to your ship's path, either side could offer the best view at that specific moment. However, the mainland coastline often holds these impressive ice formations.
What You Might See on the Port (Left) Side (Southbound):
- Pacific Ocean Vistas: Similar to the northbound journey, this side offers open water views.
- Distant Islands: You'll likely see the outer islands.
- Sunrises: This side can be ideal for catching stunning sunrise views over the ocean.
Factors Beyond the General Route
While the general directions provide a good starting point, several other factors influence the "best" side:
1. Specific Itinerary and Ports of Call:
Some itineraries are more focused on specific geographical features. For instance, a cruise that emphasizes glacier viewing might offer better views from one side than another on a particular day. It's worth researching your specific cruise line and itinerary for any known advantages of one side over the other.
2. Glacier Viewing Days:
When a cruise ship approaches a glacier, the captain will often maneuver the ship to provide the best possible views for passengers. This means that the "best" side can change dynamically. On a glacier viewing day, it's often recommended to be on deck and actively look in both directions, as the captain will do their best to showcase the spectacle to everyone.
3. Wildlife Sightings:
Wildlife can be unpredictable and appear anywhere. However, marine mammals like whales and sea lions are often found in bays and along coastlines. Therefore, on a northbound journey, the port side (mainland) might offer slightly more consistent opportunities to spot creatures near shore. Conversely, on a southbound journey, the starboard side (mainland) would be your best bet.
4. Time of Day and Sunlight:
The position of the sun plays a crucial role in photography and general viewing pleasure.
- Sunrise: Often best viewed on the eastern side of the ship (port side if traveling north, starboard side if traveling south).
- Sunset: Often best viewed on the western side of the ship (starboard side if traveling north, port side if traveling south).
5. Your Cabin Location:
If you have a balcony or window, knowing the orientation of your cabin is key. If your cabin faces the mainland, you'll have consistent views of the stunning scenery. If it faces the ocean, you'll have open water views and potentially sunsets or sunrises.
6. The Captain's Maneuvers:
Captains are skilled at navigating and will often adjust the ship's position to maximize scenic viewing and glacier access. Don't be afraid to ask the ship's staff or look for announcements regarding the best viewing areas on specific days.
The Verdict: It's Not a One-Size-Fits-All Answer
Ultimately, there isn't a universally "best" side for an Alaskan cruise from Seattle. However, for the majority of the journey through the Inside Passage, the port side (left) on a northbound trip and the starboard side (right) on a southbound trip will generally offer more consistent views of the dramatic mainland Alaskan and Canadian scenery, fjords, and islands.
That being said, the ocean side also offers its own unique beauty, including vast horizons and the chance to witness spectacular sunrises and sunsets. And when it comes to wildlife, you never know where they might appear!
Our strongest recommendation is to:
- Research your specific itinerary: Look for any recommendations from the cruise line or past passengers.
- Be prepared to move: Spend time on both sides of the ship, especially during scenic cruising days.
- Utilize public viewing areas: Cruise ships have ample deck space for everyone to enjoy the views.
- Enjoy the journey: The magic of Alaska is so pervasive that you'll find beauty from every perspective.
Don't stress too much about picking the "perfect" side. The sheer grandeur of Alaska will undoubtedly captivate you, regardless of whether you're gazing out to sea or towards the majestic coastline.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How can I find out which side of my specific cruise ship faces the mainland?
The best way to determine this is to check your cruise booking details or contact your cruise line directly. They can often tell you the orientation of your cabin if you have a specific stateroom. For general ship orientation, you can sometimes find deck plans online that indicate which side is forward/aft and port/starboard relative to the ship's direction of travel.
Why is the Inside Passage the primary route for Alaskan cruises from Seattle?
The Inside Passage is favored because it's a protected waterway, offering calmer seas compared to the open Pacific Ocean. This makes for a more comfortable and predictable journey. It also showcases the stunning coastal scenery and abundant wildlife that makes Alaska so appealing.
How likely am I to see whales from the ship?
You have a very good chance of seeing whales, especially during the northbound and southbound legs through the Inside Passage. Humpback whales, orcas, and other marine mammals are frequently spotted. They tend to congregate in areas with abundant food sources, often closer to shorelines or in specific bays, so being on the side facing the coast can sometimes increase your odds.
What if my cabin is on the "wrong" side for the scenery I want?
Don't worry! Cruise ships have plenty of public observation decks and lounges with panoramic windows. Make it a point to explore these areas, especially during scenic cruising hours. This is often the best way to get unobstructed views and a 360-degree perspective of the Alaskan wilderness.
When is the best time of day to be on deck for wildlife spotting?
Early mornings and late afternoons are often considered prime times for wildlife activity. This is when animals may be more actively feeding. However, don't discount midday sightings, as marine life can be active throughout the day. Being present on deck during these times, and keeping an eye on both sides of the ship, is your best strategy.
