Wouldn’t you love to see Alaska close up and personal? You’ve probably always thought you’d never make it there, because it’s a long, pricey trip even if you take the land route. One of the finest ways to get a glance at the attractive country in America’s forty-ninth state is to take an Alaskan cruise ship. Although these can also be dear, there are tips which can save you plenty of money and help you take the cruise you want for a reduction cost.

Plan on taking your cruise at either the beginning or the very end of the Alaskan cruise season. This runs from late April to sometime in October. Most cruisers who head north like to go in the summer when the temperatures are more moderate. By traveling early or late in the season, you will get the most acceptable rates, as the cruise lines will be attempting to fill the space on their ships. You may save a lot of money if you’re willing to take a cabin on the inside of the ship instead of one that looks out towards the ocean. As an example, a 14 day Alaskan cruise that departs in late April, 2010 costs $900 for an insider room, $1050 for an external room, $1500 for a room with a balcony, and $2700 for a suite.

You will frequently find the least expensive costs on Norwegian Cruise Lines trips. A7 day cruise starting in Seattle with an inside room in May, 2010 costs $650. If you want to leave from Vancouver, you can take the same cruise for $450. The prices are per person based primarily on a2 person occupancy. Rooms are extremely small, so if you’re susceptible to cabin fever, this may not be a good way for you to go. For these prices, though, don’t expect to get plenty of extras. Side trips you take from the ports of call, for example, will cost you extra. Onboard service charges will be added to your final bill.

If you’d actually like to see Alaska, and you aren’t worried about space, service, and luxury, then a discount Alaskan cruise just might be for you.