Welcome aboard, Marcia! From your question about packing for the cold, I'm guessing that you're taking the Disney Wonder on an amazing Alaskan adventure. My family has a
Disney Alaskan cruise planned too, so I've got my list started and have some great
packing tips for you!
Temperatures really vary throughout the day and week in Alaska, from lows in the 40's to highs in the 70's, so I recommend checking the weather for the port cities you'll be visiting up until the week you set sail, so you can plan accordingly. Dressing in layers for your Alaskan cruise is the best bet. Be sure that your outer layer is waterproof, as you will get wet! Layer underneath that a fleece jacket or sweatshirt, which you could wear on its own at other times, and a t-shirt or long sleeve shirt. Hats and gloves are a good idea too.
If your kids have waterproof boots, bring those, especially when you head out on Port Adventures, or when you're up on deck sailing through the Tracy Arm Fjord enjoying the breathtaking views! The deck can get wet and the wind can make the temperatures feel lower than they really are.
Now, back inside the ship, you'll want to pack nicer clothing for dinners and formal night. And even though you're sailing in Alaska, swimming is still very much a big part of the cruise! The pools are always heated if the temperature dips below 75 degrees, so don't forget a bathing suit!
Finally, remember that there are self-service laundry rooms throughout the ship, so you can do a load of laundry half way through your sailing to save valuable luggage space. I like to pack a sample size detergent from home, but there is soap available for purchase.
I hope those tips help as you count down to your sailing date, Marcia!
-Marcy