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Alaska cruises run May through September only

The cruise season is short. July is the warmest and most popular month. May and September offer fewer crowds and lower prices but cooler temperatures. Expect rain at any time — this is a rainforest climate in many ports.

Layer up — it's colder than you think

Even in July, temperatures in Juneau and Ketchikan can drop to 10°C (50°F) with wind and rain. Pack waterproof layers, a warm mid-layer fleece, waterproof hiking shoes, and a hat and gloves. Shorts are rarely needed.

Spend time on deck — especially at glacier bays

Glacier Bay and Tracy Arm Fjord are the highlights of any Alaska cruise. Rangers board the ship and narrate as you sail in. Bring binoculars — you'll spot humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, bald eagles, and brown bears from the deck.

Book whale watching and floatplane tours early

Whale watching in Juneau, floatplane glacier tours, and the White Pass railway in Skagway are Alaska's bucket-list excursions. They sell out months in advance. Book as soon as your cruise is confirmed.

Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway are walkable

All three main ports are compact and easy to explore on foot. Ketchikan's Creek Street, Juneau's Mount Roberts Tramway, and Skagway's historic downtown are all within walking distance of the pier.

Charge your camera the night before glacier days

Glacier days are the most photographed moments of any Alaska cruise. Cold temperatures drain batteries faster than normal. Carry a spare battery or a portable charger, and keep your phone or camera warm in an inside pocket.

Check visa requirements for every port

Most European cruise itineraries visit multiple countries. Canadian and US passport holders don't need visas for Schengen countries, but always verify requirements for every port — especially if your itinerary includes Turkey, Montenegro, or non-EU countries.

May, June, and September are the sweet spots

July and August are peak season — crowds are massive at popular ports like Santorini, Dubrovnik, and Barcelona. May, June, and September offer better weather, fewer tourists, and lower prices. The Mediterranean is warm enough to swim from May onward.

Pack smart casual for European cities

European ports expect more than flip-flops and shorts. Pack at least one smart casual outfit for city exploration — many churches and cathedrals require covered shoulders and knees. Comfortable walking shoes are essential; cobblestones are everywhere.

Carry euros in cash for smaller ports

Major ports accept credit cards widely, but smaller Greek islands, Croatian villages, and Turkish bazaars often prefer cash. Withdraw euros at an ATM ashore — ship currency exchange rates are poor. Notify your bank before you leave Canada.

Many ports require a tender — plan your time

Santorini, Portofino, and several other iconic ports don't have a dock — you take a small tender boat ashore. Tender queues can take 30–45 minutes each way. Factor this into your day and book early tender tickets at the shore excursions desk.

Book private tours for smaller groups

European ports are best explored at a slower pace. Large ship excursions can feel rushed. Consider booking a private guide or small-group tour for Rome, Athens, or Istanbul — you'll see more and wait less.

Research visas well in advance

Visa requirements vary significantly across Asia. Vietnam, China, and India may require visas for Canadian passport holders. Some are available on arrival; others must be arranged weeks in advance. Check requirements for every port at least 60 days before departure.

November to March is the best season for most of Asia

Southeast Asia (Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore) is best November through March — dry, warm, and less humid. Japan is spectacular in late March and April for cherry blossoms, and in October and November for autumn foliage. Avoid monsoon season (June–September) in Southeast Asia.

Consult a travel health clinic before you go

Depending on your itinerary, you may need vaccinations for Hepatitis A, Typhoid, or other conditions. Visit a travel health clinic at least 6–8 weeks before departure. Bring hand sanitiser and be cautious with street food and tap water in some ports.

Carry local currency for each port

Cash is king in many Asian ports. Vietnamese dong, Thai baht, and Japanese yen are widely used and credit cards are not always accepted at markets and temples. Withdraw local currency at ATMs ashore — they offer better rates than the ship.

Dress respectfully at temples and religious sites

Many of Asia's most iconic sites are active religious spaces. Cover your shoulders and knees, remove shoes when required, and follow posted rules. Lightweight linen pants and a scarf or wrap are easy to pack and essential for temple visits.

Book guided tours for complex ports

Ports like Ho Chi Minh City, Shanghai, and Osaka can be overwhelming to navigate independently. A guided excursion takes the stress out of transportation and language barriers. For Japan ports, the train system is excellent — pick up a day pass ashore.

Most South Pacific cruises depart from Sydney or Auckland

Factor in the long-haul flight from Canada to Australia or New Zealand. Arrive at least two days early to recover from jet lag before boarding. Sydney and Auckland are both spectacular cities worth exploring before your cruise.

April to October is the dry season

The South Pacific dry season runs April through October — warm, sunny, and lower humidity. November through March is cyclone season. Most cruise itineraries operate in the dry season. Water temperatures are warm enough for snorkelling year-round.

Pack snorkelling gear if you have it

The South Pacific has some of the world's best snorkelling — Bora Bora's lagoon, Fiji's coral reefs, and the Blue Lagoon in Vanuatu. Ship rental gear is available but limited. Bringing your own mask and fins ensures a perfect fit.

Many islands are tender ports — be patient

Most South Pacific islands don't have cruise ship docks. You'll take a tender ashore, which can take time. Arrive at the tender queue early on popular port days. The wait is worth it — the scenery is extraordinary.

Respect local customs and dress codes

Fijian and Polynesian cultures are warm and welcoming but have strong customs around modesty. Cover up when entering villages — a sulu (wrap skirt) is often required. Participating in a kava ceremony is a highlight — accept graciously.

Carry small USD or AUD notes for local markets

Many island markets and craft stalls prefer cash in small denominations. US dollars and Australian dollars are widely accepted. Credit card machines are rare outside of resort areas. Bring a mix of small bills for shopping and tipping local guides.

Most expeditions depart from Ushuaia, Argentina

Ushuaia is the world's southernmost city and the gateway to Antarctica. Fly into Buenos Aires first, then connect to Ushuaia. Arrive at least two days early — weather delays are common and missing your departure ship is not an option.

The season runs November through March only

Antarctica's summer is the Southern Hemisphere's summer. November brings the most dramatic ice and wildlife activity. December and January offer the best weather and 20+ hours of daylight. February and March are calmer with penguin chicks and whale sightings.

Waterproof everything — twice

Zodiac landings involve stepping into shallow water. Your boots, pants, and jacket must be fully waterproof. Most expedition lines provide rubber boots and parkas, but bring thermal base layers, wool socks, waterproof gloves, and a balaclava. Cold is relentless.

Penguins, whales, and seals — up close

Antarctica has strict wildlife approach rules — you must stay 5 metres from penguins, though they often approach you. Humpback whales, orcas, leopard seals, and millions of seabirds are common sightings. Bring a long camera lens and a waterproof camera bag.

Prepare for the Drake Passage

The Drake Passage between South America and Antarctica is one of the roughest stretches of ocean on Earth. Two days each way. Stock up on prescription seasickness medication before you leave Canada — over-the-counter remedies are often not strong enough.

Follow IAATO guidelines strictly

All reputable Antarctica expedition operators follow IAATO (International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators) guidelines. No food, no rocks, no souvenirs leave or enter the continent. Biosecurity boot washes before every landing protect the ecosystem.

Fly into Quito or Guayaquil, Ecuador first

All Galápagos cruises depart from either Baltra Island or San Cristóbal Island. You'll fly from Quito or Guayaquil — both are worth a day or two of exploration before your cruise. Book your inter-island flights well in advance as seats are limited.

You need a Galápagos Transit Control Card

Every visitor must purchase a Galápagos Transit Control Card (TCT) at the mainland airport before departure — currently around USD $20. You'll also pay a National Park entrance fee of USD $200 on arrival. Have cash or a card ready.

Two distinct seasons — both are excellent

December through May is the warm, wet season — calmer seas, lush green islands, and excellent snorkelling. June through November is the cool, dry season — rougher seas but incredible wildlife activity, including penguin and sea lion breeding. Both are spectacular.

The wildlife is completely fearless

Galápagos animals evolved with no natural predators and have no fear of humans. Sea lions will sleep next to you on the beach. Marine iguanas will walk across your feet. Blue-footed boobies will nest inches from the trail. Stay calm, move slowly, and never touch them.

Pack snorkelling gear and a dry bag

Snorkelling with sea turtles, penguins, and reef sharks is the highlight of any Galápagos cruise. Bring your own mask and fins for the best fit. A dry bag protects your camera and phone during Zodiac transfers and wet landings on the beach.

Strict rules protect the ecosystem

The Galápagos National Park has firm rules — stay on marked trails, never remove anything, and always follow your certified naturalist guide. Cruise ships are limited in size and visitor numbers are capped per site per day. These rules are what keep the islands pristine.