Keeping Gear Dry on Dream Alaskan Cruises with Sitka Bags

Keeping Gear Dry on Alaskan Adventures with Sitka Dry Bags

Alaska is notorious for its wet, rugged wilderness. From cruising past glaciers to kayaking remote fjords, many adventures in the Last Frontier involve getting on or near the water. That's why having dependable dry bags from brands like Sitka is a must for travelers heading north.

The Challenges of Wet Alaskan Environments

Alaska's coastal regions see an average of 60 to 220 rainy days per year. Even on sunny days, glacier melt keeps waters cold and damp year-round. Whether hiking to fishing spots, whale watching from a kayak, or cruising past tidal glaciers, wet conditions abound.

Wet climates pose challenges for protecting sensitive gear. Without waterproof bags, supplies like cameras, binoculars, and electronics risk exposure damage. And there's nothing worse than unpacking soggy, moldy clothing after an all-day paddle or hike.

How Sitka Dry Bags Keep Essentials Safe

Designed for hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts, Sitka dry bags utilize heavy-duty tarpaulin fabric that is both lightweight and ultra-durable. They feature waterproof welded seams and a roll-top closure to seal out moisture.

Sitka makes submersible sacks in a range of sizes, from compact pouches to large duffles. The brand's signature camo prints help the bags blend into natural settings. Features like daisy chains and haul handles boost carrying versatility.

Top Uses for Sitka Dry Bags in Alaska

From protecting pricey photography kits to organizing a day's worth of layers, Sitka dry bags have many valuable uses for Alaskan adventures. Some top applications include:

• Stowing camera gear like DSLR bodies, lenses, tripods, and accessories.
• Packing extra base layers, socks, and hats to stay warm and dry.
• Toting spotting scopes, compact binoculars, and wildlife field guides.
• Securing permits, maps, satellite communicators, batteries, and other essentials.
• Waterproofing luggage for transport in small bush planes and water taxis.

Planning an Alaskan Dream Cruise

For many travelers, exploring Alaska by cruise ship is a bucket-list dream vacation. Luxury lines like Princess Cruises offer exceptional Last Frontier itineraries where iconic sights abound around every bend.

Why See Alaska By Sea

Viewing Alaska's epic scenery from offshore vantage points allows you to get surprisingly up close and personal in safety and comfort. Benefits of Alaskan dream cruises include:

• Glacier Encounters - Float within a half mile of actively calving tidal glaciers for rare views and photo ops.
• Wildlife Sightings - Scan shorelines and waters for bears, moose, whales, seabirds, and more.
• Fjord Forays - Cruise into narrow bays and inlets surrounded by soaring peaks and braided waterfalls.
• Local Culture - Meet Alaskan Natives, see traditional dances, browse local crafts at ports of call.
• Onboard Education - Attend free lectures from naturalists, cultural experts, and adventure guides.

Choosing the Right Alaskan Cruise Itinerary

Princess offers Alaskan cruise options ranging from 7-day sampler sailings to 12+ day extended expeditions. Popular ports-of-call include:

• Juneau - Alaska's cosmopolitan capital, surrounded by lush Tongass National Forest.
• Skagway - Gateway to the Klondike's historic gold rush country.
• Ketchikan - Known as the "Salmon Capital of the World" with rich Tlingit culture.
• Glacier Bay - A protected 3.3-million acre national park with 16 actively calving glaciers.
• College Fjord - Home to five tidewater glaciers, perfectly framed by sharp mountain peaks.

When choosing your ideal Alaskan cruise, consider your top sightseeing priorities. Seeking up-close glacier views? Go for 8+ day sailings to Glacier Bay. Hoping to spot wildlife like bears and whales? Opt for 7-day routes through rich feeding grounds.

Packing Pro Tips for Alaskan Cruises

While cruise ships handle most logistics, savvy packing is still essential for Alaska sailings. With fickle weather, adventurous excursions, and four distinct seasons in one day, preparation is key. Some handy packing pointers include:

Research Regional Weather Patterns

Alaska's climate varies greatly by region. Southeast panhandle spots like Juneau and Ketchikan see far more rain than arid Interior hubs like Denali. Check historical monthly averages to gauge what temperatures and conditions to expect.

Bring Layers Upon Layers

Alaska's weather shifts fast. Bright sun can quickly turn to chilly rains, even mid-summer. Locals dress in layers and so should you. Pack base layers, mid-layers, insulating outerwear, waterproof jackets, and weather-appropriate accessories.

Include Gear for Optional Excursions

From flightseeing to zip lining to salmon bakes, cruises offer numerous shore excursions. If partaking, pack proper footwear, activewear, rain gear, and other essentials. Waterproof Yeti coolers keep local seafood chilled for culinary adventures.

By sailing Alaska with a well-prepared mobile basecamp, you're free to roam ashore carefree. Then retreat to your climate-controlled stateroom to warm up, dry out, and rest between adventures - the ultimate way to experience the Great Land's awe-inspiring landscapes and thriving ocean ecosystem.

FAQs

What size Sitka dry bag should I get for an Alaskan cruise?

For cruises, mid-sized 10-20L bags work well for day excursions while 40L+ expedition sacks hold enough for multi-day inland trips. Have a variety of sizes to customize for different activities.

What are the rainiest parts of Alaska to visit?

Southeast Alaska sees the most precipitation, especially around Juneau and Glacier Bay. Farther north tends to be drier with some rain shadows. But anywhere can see four seasons in a day.

What should I pack clothing-wise for Alaska?

Locals recommend dressing in layers with waterproof and wind-resistant jackets and pants. Bring waterproof hiking boots, warm hats and gloves, base layers, and quick-dry mid layers to stay comfortable.

Can I see glaciers and wildlife without taking cruise ship excursions?

While joining guided tours can maximize sightings, independent travelers can also view glaciers and spot regional wildlife if traveling prepared with proper gear for remote areas.

What should I pack in my checked luggage versus carry-on for Alaska?

Pack most clothing/layers and Sitka dry bags in checked baggage. Carry valuables like medications, cameras, battery packs, cash/cards, and essential electronics on board with you.