Believe it or not the weather in late august early sept WILL most likely be different than say june or july for this cruise. In Early july we had 70 degree days while cruising and used the hot tubs. In late August you shouod expect 50-60 degree days while cruisng the inside passage (But weather changes fast and dramatically the farther north you travel) and will need to use wind breakers and a warmer jacket more often than in July......Im not talking a winter snow jacket here but definitely dress in layers. Regarding clothes for a glacier walk...when we went on our helicopter trip to a glacier in early July, their was one guy and his wife dressed for Artic cold weather with heavy coats, winter boots scarfes, gloves .. the works. And when we landed on the glacier the weather was beautiful, clear sky and probably in the upper 30s..cool but nothing a light jacket or windbreaker could not accomodate during your 20 minute stay on the glacier. You will land on hard packed ice so the need for boots is unlikely but you should not wear sandals or open toed shoes either. I wore sneakers while some brought along the lightweight totes to cover whatever they were wearing and that was fine. YOu may see or land near cravases but you will be advised to stay away from those areas.
With airline restrictions on luggage and weight, you have to pack smart and that means take only what you really need and make it light weight. WE were actually colder while on deck when we were crusing Hubbard Glacier....the chill in the air comming from the Galcier was unbelieveable and it was windy adding to the uncomfort. However the cruise line provides good size blankets for you to use while on deck during this period of time but you also need to dress warm (Sweaters and windbreakers) if you are going on deck..... AND you want to be on deck to see and HEAR the glacier calving ..even though you may be 1/4 - 1/2 mile from the glacier depending upon the weather the roar is tremendous. As an option, you can simply go to the front upper deck lounge and look through the glass windows enjoying a hot drink of your choice.
Another great moment was in the mornings while cruising, especially if you are comming in and out of fog banks and you hear the ship's fog horn blarring while half asleep. Go top side or on your balcolny..its definitely an errie sight and feeling moving when you cannot see where you are going but quite and adventure...and its very cool in the mornings at sun rise.
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