Backward Design Kent State University

Table Of Content

• Backwards Design Lesson Planning Template
• For Educators
• Psychology Resources
• Contents
• Time-Consuming Planning Phase

Nor does it ask them to “demonstrate knowledge” of how the whole system works. The standard wants students to develop a model and use it to describe the system. As educational paradigms continue to evolve, frameworks like Backward Design will likely undergo revisions and adaptations. Current trends in educational technology, personalized learning, and inclusive education all offer exciting avenues for integrating and evolving the principles of Backward Design.

Backwards Design Lesson Planning Template

Understanding how it compares to other frameworks helps educators make more informed choices about which approach to use in different teaching and learning contexts. At the same time, the other disadvantage of traditional lesson planning is that the process ignores the learner’s needs and role throughout the curriculum design process. Given this context on the traditional design process, backwards design is a much more practical and effective framework to help course creators design an engaging learning experience that makes an impact for the learners and their business. Backward design in a lesson plan means starting with the end objective, such as student-focused learning goals, and designing your assessments and learning materials afterward to ensure your students achieve those objectives. In a standard content-oriented approach to course design, the design process begins by identifying course content. From there, the instructor plans lectures, activities, and assignments to help students engage with that content.

For Educators

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Predictably, some fell behind in the book like they did with all assigned reading. The key question is whether a one-size-fits-all approach can adequately cater to a classroom that is increasingly diverse in terms of learning styles, physical abilities, and cultural backgrounds. Educational scholars like Alfie Kohn have raised concerns that an approach like Backward Design, which starts with outcomes and assessments, might place too much emphasis on testing and grading. By acknowledging these theories and the scholars who contributed to them, we not only appreciate the intellectual roots of Backward Design but also understand its strong academic underpinnings. These theories collectively validate why Backward Design is more than a passing trend; it's a research-based, effective approach to education.

Psychology Resources

Let’s take a look at an example to illustrate the difference between a unit planned the traditional, topic-driven way, and the same unit planned with backward design. Curriculum theorist Jay McTighe, another co-creator of Backward Design, highlights how the approach can be adapted for different subjects, age groups, and educational settings. This adaptability makes it a popular choice for a wide range of educational contexts, from K-12 to higher education and corporate training. According to these critics, the structured, step-by-step nature of Backward Design could potentially stifle spontaneity and limit opportunities for exploratory learning. This could be particularly problematic in subjects like the arts, where creative exploration is key.

I. Identify the desired outcomes

Pursuant to the Backward Design model, desired results of instruction might be based upon national, state and local standards. This model prioritizes knowledge and focuses on what is most important for students to understand and achieve. Arguably, if design begins with the end in mind, instruction is more likely to clearly focus on the identified desired results[3].

Once you're comfortable with the approach, you can expand to more complex planning projects. Scholars in the field of special education, such as Thomas Hehir, question whether the Backward Design framework is flexible enough to accommodate learners with diverse needs. Issues around accessibility, differentiated instruction, and cultural responsiveness come to the fore. While these challenges and criticisms provide a more nuanced view of Backward Design, they don’t necessarily invalidate its effectiveness. Many educators find ways to adapt the approach to suit different learning environments and needs. Even outside the traditional educational environment, Backward Design has its place.

Contents

Ohio State historyLong before Wiggins and McTighe popularized backward design, Ralph Tyler was working with fellow faculty at The Ohio State University to improve data gathered from assessments. As early as his 1934 article, “Some Findings from Studies in the Field of College Biology,” Tyler details how he helped faculty sketch out the ideas of needs analysis, backward design, and setting behavioral objectives. In Understanding by Design, Wiggins and McTighe reference Tyler as the originator of behavioral objectives (2005, p. 20). If we assume that a large portion of a student’s grade is based on the test, then students are not being measured on their achievement of that standard.

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Teaching methods will include direct instruction, inductive methods, cooperative learning, and group activities. When you create your course learning goals, you describe how you want students to change internally as a result of taking your course. Learning goals broadly state what students should know or care about by the end of a course or curriculum.

Time-Consuming Planning Phase

I mean, even though I loved the book, my students’ response to it was mostly lukewarm. Maybe it was the connections I was able to make to the stuff students dealt with on a day-to-day basis. I taught that book a few times, and even though I looked forward to it every time, I always finished the unit a little unsatisfied. By following these practical tips, educators can take meaningful steps towards successfully implementing Backward Design. The transition may come with its challenges, but the potential benefits for both teachers and students are substantial.

Information that fits within this question is the lowest priority content information that will be mentioned in the lesson, unit, or course. The older version (version 1.0) can also be downloaded at the Jay McTighe site previously mentioned, as well as other resources relevant to Understanding by Design. Wiggins and McTighe and other scholars have presented several arguments in favor of a backward design process.

However, Grant Wiggins and Jay McTighe argue that this framework is flawed, because its emphasis on teaching methods is misplaced. With Backward Design’s focus on the desired result (for example, preparing a clear, well-written case brief), instruction can be tailored to support this desired product. An integration of “backwards planning” unit design with the “two-step” lesson planning framework – This article takes a look at the process of backwards planning in a detailed case study of a math class. Unfortunately, this results in tests or assessments that don’t always reflect what the students did or learned. We’ve all experienced an unfortunate class or two where the test didn’t seem to reflect anything we had learned in lessons or course materials up until that point.

Where to Start: Backward Design Teaching + Learning Lab

Table Of Content

• Qualities of effective intended learning outcomes
• Relevant Books
• Traditional Design Approach
• Stage 1: Identify Desired Results
• Backwards Design in Lesson Planning
• Integration into Curriculum Planning

To evaluate the success of a course, you must be able to observe the internal changes you identified in Step 1 happening in your students. So in Step 2, you create learning outcomes that describe how those internal changes will manifest externally. Your learning outcomes clarify exactly what it looks like for students to meet your learning goals. Learning outcomes should be specific and stated in concrete, observable, and measurable terms. The traditional approach to education planning, sometimes called "Forward Design," usually starts with content and activities.

Qualities of effective intended learning outcomes

Exercises designed to allow students to practice using new knowledge, or gain new skills, will give them a sense of mastery over the content that mere memorization cannot. Posing hypothetical questions or problems designed to allow students to apply new knowledge, or to practice newly acquired skills, will give them a sense of mastery that mere memorization cannot. In addition to these guidelines, it is also helpful to categorize the goals you have for the course in order of importance.

Relevant Books

You study standards, learning objectives, or profit margins, then create your lessons and learning materials based on those goals. While there are many approaches to planning a course, backward design is a useful framework that puts at the forefront what matters most—student learning. Unlike content-oriented approaches, the backward design process begins by determining learning goals and outcomes for students. You then develop assignments that will help students practice and meet those outcomes. Decisions about course content and teaching strategies appear last, guided by reflection on what students will need to demonstrate their learning.

Traditional Design Approach

Backward design begins with the objectives of a unit or course—what students are expected to learn and be able to do—and then proceeds “backward” to create lessons that achieve those desired goals. In most public schools, the educational goals of a course or unit will be a given state’s learning standards—i.e., concise, written descriptions of what students are expected to know and be able to do at a specific stage of their education. Backward Design can be summarized as a process or model for designing instructional materials where the instructor or instructional designer focuses on the desired end results (i.e., the outcome) of a class or course instruction.

Stage 1: Identify Desired Results

Crafting realistic learning outcomes requires some understanding of students’ prior knowledge and skills in your subject. The idea behind backwards design is simply starting from the outcome or end result that you’d like your students to experience and build the modules/chapters/sections one by one with the outcomes guiding the process. This approach helps define the results that your learners can expect from each section and or chapter and helps you. By focusing on the results, you will deliver a better learning experience by showing the path to the transformation promised to them.

Backwards Design in Lesson Planning

Backward Design allows for a more accurate and meaningful assessment of student learning. Experts like Dylan Wiliam have pointed out that because assessments are aligned with learning objectives from the get-go, they are more likely to be valid measures of student understanding and skill. This stands in contrast to traditional methods where assessment can sometimes feel disconnected from the teaching. In choosing the strategies for your course, then, it is important to consider the levels of thinking, understanding, and reasoning that will best serve your desired learning goals for the course.

The idea in backward design is to teach toward the "end point" or learning goals, which typically ensures that content taught remains focused and organized. This, in turn, aims at promoting better understanding of the content or processes to be learned for students. The educator is able to focus on addressing what the students need to learn, what data can be collected to show that the students have learned the desired outcomes (or learning standards) and how to ensure the students will learn. Although backward design is based on the same components of the ADDIE model, backward design is a condensed version of these components with far less flexibility. Be thoughtful about selecting tools that will best support students in meeting your learning goals and outcomes.Read more in Understanding Learning Technologies at Ohio State and Integrating Technology into Your Course.

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A unit or sequence of lessons framed around enduring understandings and essential questions. I was first introduced to this concept in my sixth year of teaching, and the genius of it completely blew me away. I used it when planning my next unit and experienced the biggest spike in student success I’d ever seen. On top of that, I was actually excited about teaching the lessons I had planned.

In Step 4, you will choose the course content that will support students to succeed on those assessments. Your completed Course Plan should lay out, in brief, the weekly assessments, course content, and teaching strategies and activities that align to the learning outcomes you create in Step 2 below. Again, there are numerous strategies for enhancing students’ learning experience, and again, the ones you choose should align well with the goals you’ve defined for the course. For instance, exercises that are active and collaborative allow students to explore new concepts and idea in a relaxed way that encourages them to “own” them.

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The rigidity of the Backward Design framework has also been critiqued by educators like Sir Ken Robinson, who champion the benefits of creativity and freedom in educational settings. However, proponents argue that the time investment upfront often leads to more effective and efficient teaching down the line. This is particularly burdensome for educators who may already be grappling with other responsibilities like grading, classroom management, and ongoing professional development.

In this model, traditional classroom activities and homework assignments are reversed. Teachers like Aaron Sams and Jonathan Bergmann have popularized this approach, which often involves students watching lectures at home and engaging in activities during class. While the Flipped Classroom also aims for active learning and engagement, it doesn’t necessarily start with specific outcomes in mind, making it different from Backward Design in its initial focus. Popularized by education reformers like John Dewey, Project-Based Learning focuses on complex questions or challenges that require students to engage in critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration.

Curriculum theorists like Jay McTighe have developed specific materials to assist educators in applying this method effectively. Renowned educator Grant Wiggins, one of the creators of Backward Design, emphasized the value of well-defined learning goals in providing direction to both teaching and learning. Students know right from the start what they're aiming for, which helps keep them motivated and on track. Now you might be wondering, "Isn't this how all teaching is done?" Not exactly. The old-school way of designing lessons—let's call it "Forward Design"—starts with the teaching materials and activities, sort of like making up the clues for your treasure hunt before you even know where the treasure is hidden. By way of example, consider a paralegal instructor who wants students, as a result of her instruction, to be able to prepare case briefs.

Click on each step for further details, key considerations, and guiding questions to walk you through backward designing your Course Plan. Okay, so we’ve looked very closely at one small unit for a middle school science class. Some chapters we did in class (I would read to them, then they would read silently), and others at home. Some students became as absorbed in the novel as I’d hoped they would; others, not so much.

The designer then identifies what types of evidence are sufficient proof of the desired end result. The designer works “backwards” from that end goal and intentionally plans and develops supporting instruction and learning experiences around the desired outcomes and evidence[1]. In contrast, the backward design approach has instructors consider the learning goals of the course first. These learning goals embody the knowledge and skills instructors want their students to have learned when they leave the course. Once the learning goals have been established, the second stage involves consideration of assessment. The backward design framework suggests that instructors should consider these overarching learning goals and how students will be assessed prior to consideration of how to teach the content.

Instead of starting with a topic, we’d do better if we start with an end goal, and that’s where backward design comes in. Please consider supporting us and gaining full access - click here to become a member. Backward Design Template with Descriptions (click link for template with descriptions).

Shell Key Boat Tour Madeira Beach

Table Of Content

• Live Jazz Sunset Sail
• Island Tours
• Book the best dolphin watching and sunset cruises in John’s Pass Village, today!
• About the Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise
• The Dolphin Quest
• Reviews From Tripadvisor
• Become A Pirate!

Come along with us and be astonished by one of the most intelligent and graceful sea creatures you’ll ever meet. So whether you are aged seven or 70, little swabbies or salty dogs, our pirate ship in Johns Pass has something amazing prepared for you. Water gun battles, treasure hunts, pirate stories, face painting, and limbo are great activities kids will surely enjoy.

Live Jazz Sunset Sail

At our dolphin cruise John’s Pass, we have drinks and snacks that you can purchase. Some of the beverages we have are sangria, sodas, seltzers, beer, wine, water, and Gatorade. Commemorate the whole experience by dropping by our gift shop before or after the cruise. Many people adore our pirate ship in Johns Pass, especially kids! Most of the positive feedback we receive comes from parents who brought their kids on our tour. Pirate tales, treasure hunts, and water gun battles are some of the things they truly loved.

Island Tours

If you do not see a dolphin during the cruise, we’ll make it up to you with a voucher. Experience something new together with your loved ones. John’s Pass, Florida, offers the perfect avenue for a variety of activities. Get everything you need in one place — peace, adventure, fun, and relaxation. Reservations are required as trips sell out well in advance.

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Book the best dolphin watching and sunset cruises in John’s Pass Village, today!

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Our pirate cruise in John’s Pass might be the most extraordinary swashbuckling tour you will ever encounter in the briny deep. There’s nothing quite like the Hudson River at sunset. It’s called “Golden Hour” for a reason - as the sun sets on the horizon, everything is awash in a breathtaking glow you’ll never forget. Whether you want to relax and see the sights or join in the activities, there is always something for everyone.

Join us for a magical evening of live jazz aboard the decks of our stunning 105 foot schooner. Sit back and relax with a glass of Champagne in hand and glide through NY Harbor with the magical sun setting behind the Statue of Liberty. This sail is perfect for date night or a group of friends looking to do something unique. Enjoy a live Jazz trio from the decks of this elegant schooner.

This Valentine’s Day Cruise is one of the best date ideas in the city of Manhattan. This romantic, intimate and breathtaking NYC Cruise is something that you will make a regular annual event on this special day. Join us aboard the luxury yacht Manhattan II or Manhattan– our cozy, elegant, 1920s-style yacht — as we travel past abandoned islands rich with history and modern day wildlife! Join us for a captivating 3-hour cruise through the heart of our city, where history and nature converge in breathtaking harmony.

While sailing you will be treated to a glass of champagne by our exceptional crew as you watch the vibrant warm rays of the sun sink peacefully into the horizon. Get away from the hustle and bustle of the city with your favorite companions when you board this 105-foot, 1800s styled vessel, America 2.0. She’s perfect for romantic outings, entertaining friends from out of town, or just relaxing. Cruise aboard a board one of our classic boats for this is a peaceful and, picturesque sunset. Whether you are sightseeing or you just want to take in the views it is the perfect way to end your day.

The sunset cruise leaves from Hubbard’s Marina inside historical Johns Pass. Our big blue dolphin watching nature cruise and eco tour boat also runs our sunset cruise with free beer and wine. We offer 5, 10, 12, 39, 44, hour party boat fishing trips. We also offer private charters for corporate events, bachelor parties, family trips, cruises and more. We have daily dolphin watching nature cruise & Eco tours, and a daily sunset cruise with free beer and wine.

Become A Pirate!

There’s a restroom on our John’s Pass pirate ship available for everyone’s use. We also have food and drinks for sale onboard, so you don’t have to worry if you forget to bring some snacks. You also don’t have to worry about getting seasick as we only sail on calm waters.

Pirate hats, swords, eye patches, and more pirate gear are available for purchase at our gift shop. You can also bring your camera with you to take photos and videos. Our pirate-themed cruises are a one-of-a-kind experience, so don’t forget to capture some of its most precious moments. At New York Harbor Tours, we wash down the boat with bleach and soap every evening, and wipe down and disinfecting all surfaces between trips. Masks must be worn when entering the cabin to use the bathroom or galley, but masks are not required for parties when they are outside in the open cockpit.

Climb aboard our beautiful 80-foot schooner, the Adirondack, and join your captain in this peaceful, picturesque sail away from the concrete and noise of the city. Our dolphin boat tours in John’s Pass will encourage your children to understand and appreciate marine life. For a truly magical experience, hop on a boat, head out into the open sea, and see how common bottlenose dolphins thrive in their natural habitat. Should you decide to come to our pirate cruise in John’s Pass, don’t forget to wear something comfortable. If you’re visiting in the winter, bring your jacket along with you. It’s also advisable to bring extra clothes because there’s a good chance you’ll get wet.

The sunset cruise also makes it possible to reach and see the places surrounding Boca Ciega Bay. Our staff can point out must-visit establishments, restaurants, and other areas of interest near Boca Ciega Bay. We also offer the Dolphin Quest for private parties, whether it be a birthday celebration, corporate outing, team building, or an educational tour for schools and summer camps. Coast Guard-inspected, spacious and covered catamaran. It’s equipped with comfortable cushioned seating around the perimeter and at the center of the boat. You may also book our dolphin cruise in John’s Pass for special events.

Our ferry boat operates daily in the spring and summer and nearly every day in the fall and winter. The ride to the island is about twenty minutes and offers great chances to spot dolphins, sea turtles, and even manatees! We also often spot sea birds on the ride to and from Shell Key aboard the green ferry boat.

Our passenger’s safety and comfort are paramount to us, and we will continue to adhere to these strict guidelines for the foreseeable future. We’ve had customers bring dinner tables and enjoy a nice meal on the water. People have thrown birthday parties, bachelor and bachelorette parties, and celebrated anniversaries to enjoy a truly novel New York City experience.

Florida Tiki Tours

Table Of Content

• Florida Tiki Tours
• NYC Sunset Boat Tours
• Live Jazz Sunset Sail
• Pirate Ship Cruise
• Have a Once in a Lifetime Experience
• Sunset Cruise on Yacht Manhattan
• Don't Miss out on this fun and relaxing cruise

Joining a New York Harbor Tours cruise is a great way to avoid crowds. It is much less crowded out in the harbor than it is in the city and all of our tours are private and entirely crowd free. Dolphins are abundant at Madeira Beach, so there is a high chance that you’ll be seeing these breathtaking sea creatures before the day is at an end. Join us aboard the most intimate classic yachts in town to take in the spectacular New York City Skyline at Sunset! You and only up to 48 other guests will be aboard one of our 1920s style water taxis to zip out on to the Hudson in style! Our identical “mini yacht”, Kingston is the smallest and newest power yacht in the Classic Harbor Line fleet.

Florida Tiki Tours

Occasionally this cruise will take place on her sister ship the classic Yacht Kingston. This charming plumb-bowed mini-yacht features wrap-around seating to take in all the amazing views this city has to offer. Each excursion will feature a slow pass by the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island. Experience the most stylish means of viewing a New York City sunset; sailing aboard the Schooner America 2.0.

NYC Sunset Boat Tours

Take a walk along the boardwalk as you listen to the calming waves. This outdoor shopping and dining complex remains one of the go-to vacation spots for many. At Sunshine Scenic Tours, your safety is our priority during our pirate cruise John’s Pass. We’ll make sure you and your family will be well taken care of on our tour from start to finish. Bring any alcohol you would like to consume on your trip to enjoy.

Live Jazz Sunset Sail

Apart from the ship being regularly inspected by the U.S. Coast Guard, all employees are trained in first aid and undergo regular drug testing. There is also a very slim chance that the ship will encounter rough seas, as most of our cruises take place in the peaceful waters of Boca Ciega Bay. Experience a Romantic New York Sightseeing cruise like never before. Join us aboard our luxurious 1920s inspired motor yacht. Cozy up in the climate controlled observation cabin to take in the iconic sights.

We highly recommend that you make reservations before you go to guarantee your spot. Arrive one hour before the indicated departure time so you can secure a parking spot and get the boarding pass in the gift shop. If the minimum number of guests is not met until the departure time, we may cancel the cruise. Watch as they squeal with joy and as their eyes fill with wonder and curiosity. Not only will everyone have fun, but you’ll also learn a thing or two about the dolphins and the rich history that envelopes John’s Pass. John’s Pass is a lively neighborhood full of great dining spots, dainty souvenir shops, and several establishments offering rentals for different watersports activities.

Have a Once in a Lifetime Experience

At our John’s Pass dolphin cruise, get the chance to make new friends. While you watch the dolphins and traverse the clear waters, strike conversations with other passengers. Sip your beverage of choice and enjoy onboard snacks while meeting new friends. Join us aboard one of the smaller more intimate wooden yachts of the Classic Harbor Line fleet and departs from Chelsea Piers for a cruise in New York Harbor at Sunset. Yacht Full Moon is equipped with comfortable seating and excellent views of the city skyline and New York harbor.

Sunset Cruise on Yacht Manhattan

Our John’s Pass dolphin cruise is an educational and fun way to watch bottlenose dolphins up close. Witness the beautiful sunset unravel and turn John’s Pass into a golden haven. There’s something perfect for the kids and the young-at-heart in this family-friendly tourist spot. Join us in NYC for a Champagne Valentine’s Day Cruise aboard the luxury yacht Manhattan II. This cruise has limited capacity to create an intimate, comfortable and quiet NY Harbor cruise.

Take in the most famous skyline in the world with a glass of Champagne in hand and the breeze in your hair. This is the perfect date idea and one of the most romantic activities to do in NYC. Hubbard’s also has a Egmont Key ferry with a snorkeling option that runs daily from Fort de Soto park’s Bay pier out to Egmont key (an island only accessible by boat). We also offer a 3 hour beach shelling cruise that leaves from Hubbard’s marina.

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The Calypso Breeze, a 68-foot triple decked ship, specifically designed for cruising in the intracoastal waterways, offers casual sightseeing, luncheon and dinner cruises. This colorfully appointed vessel with a Caribbean theme, boasts 2 dining levels that are enclosed, air-conditioned and contain guest seating. The third level is an open-air deck that serves a variety of functions and provides beautiful views of the passing waterfront. The vessel is complete with restrooms on both dining levels, full service bar, full service galley and state of the art sound system. Celebrate this New Year’s Eve with your special someone or your close and dear friends on Classic Harbor Line’s New Year’s Eve Champagne Tasting Cruise!

We also cater birthday parties for all ages, corporate events, field trips/educational tours, reunions, and graduations. So the next time you plan for your special event, consider giving it a little twist. Another highlight that makes this tour kid-friendly is the high chance of a dolphin encounter. Dolphins are amazing creatures, and nothing beats witnessing these exceptional marine mammals swimming in their natural habitat. Madeira Beach is home to dozens of bottlenose dolphins who love to amuse anyone who gets the chance to see them from boats passing by. Dolphins plunging in and out of the water are a regular sight for the Royal Conquest Pirate Ship.

While real piracy is not a career an adult might want for themselves or their children, some of our guests shared that the cruise simply brought out the kid in them. And, you’ll never have to worry about safety aboard because our captain sails with a clean record and thousands of hours at sea. Between the captain and our experienced deckhand, you and your loved ones can be assured of a safe and enjoyable trip. As you cruise on the Yacht Manhattan II or Yacht Manhattan, you will be able to take in all the beauty the New York City skyline has to offer while relaxing in our grand observatory. Come and experience an exciting adventure in the waters. Explore John’s Pass’s calm waterways inside the belly of a shark on the SHARK BOAT!

Experience a beautiful New York City sunset and the illuminated cityscape during a comfortable and unique NYC Harbor sunset cruise through the Hudson and NY Harbor. Sit back and enjoy the gorgeous 360-degree view of the island from the open decks or the glass observatory of this Gatsby-esque 1920s style yacht. The New York Harbor Tour sunset cruise offers the beauty of the Hudson at Golden Hour and incredible and up-close views of New York City’s most iconic sites. See New York City sunset from the water on this evening sightseeing sail of the borough’s waterside landmarks.

The overall ambiance tells the story of a real pirate’s vessel with a living, breathing crew. Feel free to bring your own drinks and snacks to enjoy on the islands. Egmont Key Ferry This runs from Fort de Soto’s bay pier out to Egmont key daily during peak season. It doesn’t leave from or go back to Hubbard’s Marina in anyway. Come party like it’s 1666 on the Royal Conquest Pirate Ship! Our captains and crew do work for tips, and those are greatly appreciated for the 90-minute tour and service you receive onboard.

Take a photo or two together with your newfound friends. Plan adventures together and try something new once in a while. John’s Pass has its fair share of majestic birds — egrets, ospreys, eagles, glossy ibis, great blue herons, and more. Another bonus is the stretch of white sand and pristine blue waters surrounding the fishing village. Ready your cameras and snap a few photos to add to your adventure scrapbook. You can rest assured that we will never embark on dangerous waters.

Coast Guard-inspected pirate ship can hold up to 46 passengers. It’s the most realistic pirate ship that you will ever set your eyes on. Can you imagine an hour and a half of pirate fun, all while surrounded by the most enchanting waters you will ever see in your life? Whether you are a pirate fanatic or just a curious land lubber, this immersive cruise will make you feel like you’re on a genuine buccaneer’s conquest.

Inhale the fresh air and get rid of the negativity. Get your dose of relaxation alongside the majestic swimmers of John’s Pass. Their signature smiles are sure to melt anyone’s heart. Here at Sunshine Scenic Tours, our priority is to give you the perfect escape.

The Best Time To Cruise Alaska? Month By Month Guide

Table Of Content

• When is The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska in 2024?
• Norwegian Cruise Line’s Alaska: Glacier Bay, Skagway & Juneau
• What to Do in Alaska: Top Things to Do in September
• August in Alaska
• So, Which Is the Best Time to Cruise Alaska?
• Month-by-Month Breakdown: Best Time to Cruise to Alaska
• The Ultimate​ Guide to Cruise Ship Dining

They are quite an awe-inspiring sight to see as they travel in pods, breech, and feed. The short sailing season and rapidly changing weather conditions mean that each cruise is a completely different experience than the last. The above guide serves to help you find the best time to take an Alaska cruise, whether you’re hoping to see wildlife, avoid crowds, or experience good weather. If whale watching is a must on your Alaska cruise bucket list, you’ll want to visit during peak whale season in June. During this month, you’ll find the largest number of whale species in the Inside Passage and Alaskan Coast. The best time to take an Alaska cruise is in the summer when beauty and adventure instill a newfound sense of wonder into the Great Land.

When is The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska in 2024?

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The spring and summer months are when nearly all cruise ships visit each year. This month brings the warmest weather of the year, the longest hours of daylight and the largest number of tourists. And for good reason, as July in Alaska is ideal for salmon fishing, culture festivals like the Girdwood Forest Fair, bear viewing and memorable trips into the interior. This is but one of the incredible experiences that may be had when visiting Alaska in the “secret season”—springtime.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Alaska: Glacier Bay, Skagway & Juneau

Breathe in the tranquility of the shoulder season when you sail to Alaska in May or September. With fewer crowds in May, take a step inside Alaska’s finest fisheries and taste fresh king salmon — a local delicacy — as they’re plucked from the cool waters. Revel in the rousing vibrations of May sunlight and lookout for humpback whales as they make their first appearance of the year. Or, explore the outdoors on a peaceful boat tour through deep fjords and enjoy a relaxing train ride up the sweeping mountains.

What to Do in Alaska: Top Things to Do in September

Plus, Royal Caribbean will adjust prices according to demand, so if a shoulder season cruise is not selling well, prices may drop until more people book the cruise. By cruising in May, you can beat the rush and enjoy a more relaxed and peaceful experience. You can also take advantage of the lower rates offered by the cruise lines during the shoulder season, which can help you save money. Most cruise passengers tend to avoid the early season because of the school calendar and cooler weather. By going in the summer months, many people get to enjoy Alaska when things are in full swing and of course the warmer weather. Since Alaska cruises are so dependent on outdoor activities, your best chance for sunny days can be opposite of when the best time for crowds are each season.

As the school season begins and fall approaches, cruise prices start to dip, affording the opportunity to snag a last-minute bargain for Alaska. We still recommend planning ahead though, as an increasing number of tourists have been booking cruises each year in September. Peak cruising months, July and August, are the best time of year to cruise to Alaska. During these months you will have the warmest weather and the greatest chance to see wildlife. If you are hoping to travel during peak Alaskan cruise season (July and August), you should plan on booking your Alaskan cruise at least one year in advance.

So, Which Is the Best Time to Cruise Alaska?

Cruise prices during those times may be lower, perhaps by a couple hundred dollars per person. The warming weather even allows cruise ships to penetrate Arctic waters, giving you the opportunity to see polar bears on Wrangel Island. The cruise season in Alaska is short (just May-September), but what this state lacks in winter tours it makes up for in stunning summer vistas, exciting wildlife and a travelogue of iconic land excursions. When traveling from Vancouver in the Inside Passage of Southeast Alaska, the waters are mostly protected and provide smooth sailing. If ports include Anchorage, Seward, or Whittier, cruise ships must cross the Gulf of Alaska, which has notoriously rougher waters.

Not only are the flowers and plant life awakening from their wintertime slumber, so is its wildlife. The cruise season beefs up in June, with the number of ships growing and the season in full swing by the end of the month. The midnight sun means many hours of daylight, especially on June 20, the longest day of the year — when you'll have to stay up late to see any darkness at all. But the summer season is short, lasting only from late May to September, and this is when it’s peak season, and the cities and glaciers are full of cruise ship tourists. The ideal time to experience the stunning glaciers of Alaska is during the summer, particularly from June through August. During these months, the warmer temperatures melt much of the winter ice, allowing cruise ships to navigate closer into the Inner Passage and Fjords.

Month-by-Month Breakdown: Best Time to Cruise to Alaska

This is why you must pack for all weather conditions if you plan an Alaska cruise. If you want to avoid the cooler temperatures and potential for rain, you may want to choose the late summer to early fall. With that in mind, recognize that you may have to contend with larger crowds and the dreaded Alaskan mosquito swarms. While late spring and early summer might offer pleasant weather in the lower American states, Alaska’s far north latitude means that temperatures are still cooler. If you choose to cruise Alaska during this time, bring water-resistant clothing and plenty of warm layers.

Located along the Chilkat, Klehini, and Tsirku Rivers, the preserve becomes a prime spot for viewing these birds as they fish and rest near the waterways. For bird watchers, especially those keen on seeing eagles, May and June are prime times as the weather is nice and the birds are plentiful. A 7-day cruise from Seattle is perfect for exploring Inside Passage.

This is when you can find grizzly bears fishing along Alaska’s many rivers and streams. The state is home to 15 national parks and 16 state parks, and its federally-protected lands cover an area the size of California. During the month of February, whales begin their migration from the warm waters of Mexico to Alaska. After a long migration along the pacific coast, these magnificent creatures can be first spotted in April – albeit in small numbers. Fortunately, there are plenty of opportunities to spot these majestic creatures throughout the cruising season.

After a long winter, Alaska begins to wake up in April, and that includes the wildlife. A few big ships, such as the 4,000-passenger Norwegian Bliss out of Seattle, begin their season this month with discounted early season pricing. While some people prefer the reduced crowds and whale-watching opportunities of midsummer, others might value the warmer weather and greater options for excursions you get in the late summer months.

If you’re looking to eschew the cruise ship behemoths for something more intimate, this is it—Alaska Dream Cruises’ Alaskan Dream holds only 40 passengers. Meals and activities (including going for high-speed Zodiac rides, kayaking, and paddleboarding) are included. Each part of the season offers something different, so aligning your cruise with these times will maximize your chances of a successful fishing experience. Whether you’re a novice or an avid angler, Alaska’s rich waters provide an unforgettable salmon fishing adventure. The best month to cruise to Alaska largely depends on your preferences; however, July offers the warmest weather and is excellent for wildlife spotting and shore excursions.

Warmer weather in Alaska also has an unexpected bonus for cruisers in the form of glacial calving. You also might see fuzzy harbor seal pups and sea lion pups (born in June and July) warming themselves on rocks with their mothers. Add high-powered binoculars to your Alaska packing list to ensure that you get to see all of the wildlife possible. Juneau gets about 17 days of rain in August, so a high-quality raincoat is essential. After the Summer Solstice in June, Alaska begins losing daylight with each passing day.

Best Time to Visit Alaska in 2023 When Is the Best Time to Go to Alaska? Trusted Since 1922 - Reader's Digest

Best Time to Visit Alaska in 2023 When Is the Best Time to Go to Alaska? Trusted Since 1922.

Posted: Mon, 18 Mar 2024 07:00:00 GMT [source]

The state’s climate varies considerably from month to month and by region, affecting everything from visibility to outdoor activities. Being from Arizona, I was specifically looking for cool, chilly weather on my Alaskan cruise. The month of May can often be a great time to sail to Alaska depending on a few factors. The price is often the lowest of the season, so if you are looking for a great rate, May might be your best bet.

The northern lights are mainly seen during the winter months and typically more north. Salmon have a fascinating, beautiful life cycle well worth viewing. When they’re fully mature, millions take a harrowing upstream journey from the ocean to the rivers where they were born. Salmon runs in Alaska start in early May until September, with different species of salmon running at different times of year. A suite that costs $2000 per person in May may cost upwards of $3300 per person in mid-July. Such a large price difference allows you to enhance your Alaska cruise experience in other ways, whether booking a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter tour or kayaking through fjords.

While gray whales are active in Alaskan waters during the early spring, most species, including belugas, orcas, humpback whales, and blue whales, peak between May and September. This partially explains why this stretch is much busier than other times of year for tourism in Alaska. If you’re hoping to spot some famous Alaska wildlife, you have the highest chances in late summer and early fall. Toward the end of summer and early fall, bears are highly active as they prepare for winter hibernation.