Ahoy there Nelson, and welcome aboard planDisney!
I've spent quite a few years sailing up and down the
Pacific Coast, and in fact my very first year living at sea saw me heading up to
Alaska for a season of cruising as part of the Entertainment department on board the
Disney Wonder. Based on my observations over several years of working among the youngest Oceaneers heading out on their Alaskan adventures, I'm happy to provide you with my insights about what you might be able to expect:
- When you look around after debarking from the ship at the Ports of Call for Alaskan voyages, you might just immediately notice a significant demographic shift not only in town but also at the various destinations and touristy hotspots that you may share with other cruise ships while you head out on your Port Adventures. That said, Disney Cruise Line does tend to bring its fair share of families to balance out the crowds of more seasoned travellers who flock to these itineraries that are a distinct change of pace and scenery for the kinds of cruises you'll find sailing out of Florida.
- In my personal experience, there was still a fair amount of children on board enjoying Disney's Oceaneer Club and Disney's Oceaneer Lab - though certainly less than what you might see on a ship sailing to the beaches of Disney Castaway Cay during school holidays. September may have fewer school-aged sailors on board, especially when these voyages tend to be longer and typically take place over the course of a week (or even longer).
- The major positive aspects to this are many - more personalized interactions with Youth Activities Counselors, Character Experiences with shorter waits, a chance to form even stronger bonds over time with the other children that they meet on board and even significantly less crowded pool areas (as long as the kids are willing to brave the sensation of leaving the heated water into the brisk Alaskan air).
For the best chance of success, some parents have found it useful to connect with each other via groups online for each particular voyage and see who else may be sailing with them. From my observations, the kids who really seem to make the most of these Alaskan itineraries are the ones with a great sense of adventure and a respectful appreciation for wildlife - as well as a desire to learn and watch the natural wonders around them. Ultimately you know your kids best but this could very well be one of the most unforgettable experiences to prepare them for longer itineraries at sea! In the meantime, don't hesitate to come back to us here at planDisney for any other tips or bits of nautical knowledge, Blake!
Wishing you all the best on your future Alaskan adventures!
Prince