If you have an Alaska cruise on your itinerary, maximizing your experience becomes essential. With summer at its peak, now is an ideal moment to meticulously plan a family trip that will leave lasting memories. Alaska boasts an array of captivating wildlife and awe-inspiring landscapes, making it imperative to equip yourself with a pair of top-notch binoculars. To ensure you find the perfect binoculars for your Alaska cruise, there are several crucial factors to take into account.
I have done all the ground research here by analyzing different binoculars and picked up some suitable choices for you, in case you want to invest in the best inexpensive binoculars for Alaska cruise.
The best binoculars should be rugged and good enough to provide you with great quality views so you don’t miss out on a thing while having a cruise on the Alaska sea or onshore excursions.
Quick Answer: Here are my top 4 binoculars for Alaska cruising.
- Steiner Marine Binocular – High-end, brilliant quality durable binocular
- Hooway Waterproof Binocular – With Compass and Rangefinder
- Celestron Nature Binocular – Best for nature and ocean viewing
- Vanstarry Kids Binocular – Best for kids, families and beginners
Here is a comprehensive guide on how to choose the best binoculars for the Alaska cruise?
How to choose the best binoculars for Alaska Cruise
Selecting the ideal binoculars has become increasingly challenging amidst the saturation of the market and the vast array of available options. Delving into the intricacies of binoculars can quickly transform what appears to be a straightforward task into a bewildering experience.
The abundance of terms and technical details can easily overwhelm individuals, particularly when seeking a specific requirement, such as the finest binoculars for an upcoming Alaska cruise adventure. However, there is no need to fret, as I am here to provide valuable guidance on the key factors that should be at the forefront of your mind when selecting binoculars for your maritime excursion.
So, here we go.
#1 Buy waterproof and fog proof binoculars
As the weather patterns in Alaska are quite unstable, you should always prefer waterproof and Fog proof binoculars.
These binoculars are O-ring sealed and Nitrogen purged, so even if they get wet, you will get a clear picture and the internal lens won’t get damaged.
#2 Buy non-slip sturdy binoculars
Go with binoculars that are rubber-armoured and have a non-slip grip. Non-slip binoculars will serve you well because even if the external casing gets wet, they won’t easily slip off your hands.
#3 Buy binoculars with high image quality
Going to Alaska means you will get to witness nature in its most beautiful form in all shapes and sizes. From wildlife to beautiful vistas, Alaska won’t disappoint you.
But you need to have binoculars that will provide you with a clear view and image quality so you can enjoy the most out of your trip.
#4 Shockproof binoculars
Shock-proof binoculars are good to have by your side if you accidentally drop them. They can absorb shock and not get damaged.
It’s a worthy investment because no one likes spending a hefty amount on binoculars every now and then.
#5 Look for floating binoculars
Most ship binoculars these days have floating binocular feature. It means that if you drop the binoculars in the water while on the cruise (it can really happen if you are sloppy like me), the binoculars won’t sink to the bottom and keep floating on the surface.
A dependable feature to have in your cruise binoculars.
#6 Look out for ideal magnification
This part is quite tricky as you will be tempted to go for higher magnification- but that is not always a wise choice.
As you will be on a moving cruise, you should not go for binoculars with more than 7x magnification.
If you go for higher magnification, the image stability will get compromised and every bump and move will be magnified too.
#7 Invest in a High-Quality binocular
It will be nice to use your cruise binoculars for your future endeavours, so opt for a good quality binocular. You can have fun with your binoculars even when the trip is over.
A good-quality binocular is a durable one and can be used for quite some time.
#8 Buy marine binoculars
Marine binoculars are specially designed keeping in mind all the nautical aspects which is why these binoculars are compact and lightweight compared to other binoculars.
If you like watching whales and other marine creatures, do check my guide on the whale watching binoculars.
#9 Binocular with compass and rangefinder
Most marine binoculars come with internal compass and rangefinder. If you want to determine the size and location of the objects, it is a must-have feature for you.
By following this guide, you can easily choose the best binoculars for cruising.
Top 8 best inexpensive binoculars for Alaska Cruise reviews
To make the binocular buying decision even easier, I have picked up 8 top rated binoculars for your Alaska cruise trip.
1. Nikon ACULON Zoom Binocular
- Aculon A211 10 22×50 zoom binoculars are designed to be as light as possible along with excellent ergonomics
- Easy to reach fingertip zoom control knob allows for quick and easy adjustment of the binoculars magnification from 10 up to 22 power. Interpapillary distance adjustment (millimeter) – 56-72
Nikon is a trusted brand in the market when durability is your first concern. Nikon Aculon zoom binocular is an ideal binocular for your Alaska Cruise trip because with zoom feature you can see everything down to its tiniest details.
Many zoom binoculars struggle with maintaining focus as you zoom in, often requiring you to zoom out slightly to regain clarity. However, NIKON binoculars defy this norm.
Even at maximum zoom, NIKON binoculars maintain exceptional focus, delivering crystal-clear images. This remarkable feature proves to be a delightful advantage during a cruise trip. Additionally, the zoom lever operates flawlessly, ensuring seamless adjustments.
The presence of Eco-Glass lenses in these binoculars guarantees optimal clarity, allowing you to capture every detail without missing a single moment. Remarkably, this top-tier cruising binocular offers outstanding performance while remaining budget-friendly.
The smooth central focus knob enables swift and precise focusing, enabling you to promptly observe any captivating sights that catch your eye.
Nikon Aculon Binoculars are rugged and clad in rubber armour so the wet and slippery environment of Alaska won’t hurt it one bit. Perfect match for a perfect trip!
Specifications
- Magnification power is 8X.
- Lens diameter is 50 mm.
- Zoom power is 10x-22x.
- Item weight is 32 oz.
- Item dimensions are 8.58 x 4.25 x 4.25 in.
- Field of view @1000 m is 199 ft.
- Turn and slide eyecups ideal for easy viewing experience.
2. Celestron Nature DX 8×42 Binocular
- Nature Dx 8 X 42 Binocular; 10 x 42 Exit Pupil
- 10 x 42 Exit Pupil
Celestron nature binoculars aims at providing the best for nature and outdoor enthusiasts. The nature DX 8×42 binoculars will add more splendour to your Alaska cruise trip and turn it into a memorable one.
The phase-coated Bak-4 prisms makes the wildlife stand out by increasing the contrast. You will not have a hard time spotting whales, eagles, bears and other wildlife.
These are mid-sized binoculars that are fog-proof and water-proof so you can lug them around without any worry. In wet weather of Alaska, you need a product that can withstand all the harsh blows the terrible weather throws its way.
Celestron Nature DX binoculars are super affordable and the picture quality is stunning. Fully multi-coated lens coatings will let you see everything around the cruise with spotless accuracy.
The wider field of view of Nature DX binocular will let you take in all the beauty of great Alaska and you can enjoy nature to its fullest.
This binocular is best for cruising because they are pretty lightweight- an ideal trait to have in travel binoculars.
Ergonomic design and good construction material make them a popular choice for birders and nature lovers.
Specifications
- The item weight is 1.75 pounds.
- Item dimensions are 5.5 x 2 x4.9 inches.
- Magnification is 8x.
- Lens diameter is 42 mm.
- Field of view is 388 @1000 yards.
3. Wingspan Optics Spectator 8×32 Binocular Review
- PERFECT COMPACT BINOCULARS FOR BIRD WATCHING AND ANY OTHER OUTDOOR ACTIVITY. Small pocket sized binoculars for the GO ANYWHERE EXPERIENCE. You can’t get a higher quality binocular for bird watching, nature watching, star gazing or other outdoor activities enjoyed by adults or children, than the Wingspan Optics Spectator. Formerly Polaris Optics
- WIDE VIEWS – IMAGINE VIEWING an ENTIRE FIELD of ACTION then FOCUSING IN on YOUR TARGET for BRILLIANT Detail at 1000 YARDS OUT. Wide Field of View makes these the best small, but high-powered binoculars you can buy today.
Best binoculars for cruising are the ones that are compact, lightweight and generates an image that is crystal clear and crisp. Wingspan Optics Spectator 8×32 binoculars meet all these standards and more.
Fully multi-coated lenses help you enjoy wildlife and far-off views, on the cruise, with clarity and detail.
The wider field of view is also an advantage when you want to spot wildlife while on the cruise.
Wingspan Optics 8×32 has on “point focus” that lets you focus from wide field to sharpest focus in a jiffy.
When embarking on your Alaska cruise, this premium binocular proves to be an impeccable companion, boasting exceptional features such as fog-proof and waterproof capabilities. This invaluable attribute ensures reliable performance, regardless of the unpredictable weather conditions you may encounter.
Considering its price point, the overall quality of this binocular is truly remarkable, providing a satisfying tactile experience that feels substantial in your hands. The incorporation of a non-slip design further enhances its durability, guaranteeing a long-lasting investment in superior optics.
Ease of use is a standout characteristic of this binocular, as its user-friendly nature is accentuated by the ergonomic design. The inclusion of thumb grooves on both sides of the binocular facilitates a comfortable and secure grip, even during extended viewing sessions. This thoughtful feature enhances the overall usability and convenience of the binocular, ensuring a delightful experience throughout your cruise adventure.
The lens caps are attached so you don’t lose them again and again. This binocular also comes with a neck strap and a high-quality padded cover case.
Specifications
- Magnification power is 8x.
- The lens diameter is 32 mm.
- The item dimensions are 4.5 x 4.5 x 1.75 inches.
- Wide field of view, 362 feet @1000 yards.
- This binocular weighs 15.2 ounces
- Inexpensive and high-quality binocular
- Longer eye relief of 14.8 mm.
4. Bushnell H2O Waterproof/Fog proof Binocular Review
- Beautiful design and durability built to last
- 100% waterproof, O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged for reliable, fog-free performance
Bushnell H2O binoculars will make your Alaska cruise trip better and more enjoyable because you won’t miss anything with Bushnell by your side.
Be it observing humpback whales in the water or admiring majestic eagles perched on mountains, these exceptional binoculars ensure that no detail goes unnoticed.
Specifically designed for ship use, these 7X50 binoculars deliver a remarkably stable and crystal-clear image, making them the ultimate choice for your Alaska cruise expedition. The primary allure of this Bushnell binocular lies in its ability to perfectly cater to your wildlife and bird watching endeavors, which serve as the main highlights of your tour.
Crafted with utmost precision and durability, this binocular offers exceptional value for its price. The resulting images are vibrant and sharp, ensuring an immersive visual experience.
Featuring Bak-4 prisms and multi-layered optical coatings, this binocular guarantees superior performance during your Alaska cruise tour. These advanced features enhance light transmission and optimize image quality, making this binocular a valuable asset for your wildlife observation needs.
Being O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged, Bushnell H2O are great inexpensive binoculars for Alaska cruise trips because even if they are wet, the internal lens won’t get wet hence providing you a clear picture.
Specifications
- Waterproof, fog proof, perfect for travel
- Big focusing knob provides easy adjustment
- Sturdy and non-slip armour
- 7x magnification and 50 mm lens diameter
- Equipped with Bak-4 prism
- Lightweight and compact
- Reasonable price tag without affecting the quality
5. Vanstarry 8×21 Kids Binoculars Review
- ❤ YOUR INVESTMENT IS FULLY GUARANTEED – Our kids binoculars are manufactured under strict quality standards to give our customers best experience. For any questions, please contact us and we will reply to you immediately to solve your problems.
- ❤ SAFETY & DURABLE – Durable binoculars can withstand drops and falls on floors due to rubber coating that absorbs shock.There is extra coating surrounding the eyepieces,provides better protection of the lens during falls,meanwhile don’t hurt children’s eyes or face.
Kids are very curious creatures and they want to explore everything. A good binocular will make a great gift for your kids and they can utilize it on the cruise trip too.
Vanstarry 8×21 kids’ binoculars is excellent binoculars for kids. It is kids friendly and has soft rubber eye-contact so your child’s eyes don’t get hurt.
Recognizing that children can be prone to mishaps, Vanstarry binoculars are specifically designed to be drop-resistant and durable, ensuring they can withstand the occasional bumps and tumbles.
Additionally, a neck strap is included, allowing your child to conveniently carry the binoculars and minimize the risk of misplacing them during their adventures.
Despite being labeled as “kids’ binoculars,” don’t underestimate their quality. These binoculars boast high-quality features such as Bak-4 prisms and premium lenses, guaranteeing a crystal-clear image that is perfect for wildlife spotting, bird watching, and even ship use.
Adding to its appeal, this adorable binocular comes with an equally charming carrying case, making it a travel-friendly gadget. Not only does the case enhance its aesthetics, but it also provides essential protection, keeping the binoculars safe from accidents and mishaps that may occur during travels.
The price and the performance of this binocular are unmatched. You can also gift it to your kids or your friend’s kids as this is such a unique product. I bet all kids will love it.
Specifications
- Perfect binoculars for little boys and girls
- Satisfy their curiosity and exploring thirst with this inexpensive Vanstarry binoculars
- Kids friendly design, Drop safe and durable
- Easy to focus perfect for kids
- Bak-4 prism for clean and clear pictures
- Suitable for kids from age 3 to 12.
6. Hooway 7×50 Marine Binocular with Rangefinder and Compass
- PERFECT FOR MARINE – Marine binoculars with 7x magnification and 50mm objective lens;22 mm eye relief,6.8mm exit pupil,and field of view is 396 feet at 1000 yards / 132 meters at 1000 meters.
- ADAPT TO EXTREME ENVIRONMENT – Completly waterproof and float in water.Nitrogen-purged fog proofed Stable,comfortable to hold and highly durable.
If you want a binocular that can be used for different purposes such as fishing, boating, hunting, marine, and water sports, HOOWAY 7×50 waterproof binoculars won’t disappoint you.
The Hooway binocular is an exceptional floating device that ensures it remains afloat even if accidentally dropped onboard a vessel, providing peace of mind during your maritime adventures.
Equipped with a large ocular lens, this binocular delivers an expansive and immersive view in high-definition quality, allowing you to capture every detail of your surroundings.
Featuring Bak-4 prisms and fully multi-coated lenses, the Hooway binocular guarantees color-corrected and remarkably sharp images with impressive clarity.
Designed to meet military standards, this binocular is IPX7 waterproof and fog proof, making it suitable for extreme weather conditions and ensuring its performance remains unaffected.
The added convenience of a built-in compass and range finder enables you to accurately determine the location, size, and extent of objects, making it perfect for wildlife viewing and exploration.
With an individual focusing system, you have the flexibility to adjust the focus to meet the unique vision requirements of each eye. The left and right diopter adjustments allow for precise customization.
Crafted from durable and robust materials, this binocular is built to withstand rigorous use. Its ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip, allowing for extended viewing sessions without causing strain or fatigue to your hands.
The objective lens colour is green which looks pretty cool…flaunt it on your Alaska cruise tour all you want!
Specifications
- Magnification power is 7x.
- Lens diameter is 50 mm.
- Wider field of view of 396@1000 yards.
- Extended eye relief of 23 mm.
- The item dimensions are 200 x 85 x 150 mm.
- Comes with useful accessories like a carry case, neck strap, lens cap, floating strap, etc.
Also Read: Are Binoculars a good gift for kids?
7. Steiner Model Marine 7×50 Binoculars Review
Steiner Marine 7×50 binocular is the best ship binocular because it is ALWAYS focus-ready. This feature is worth it if you are taking a cruise trip because it is difficult to adjust focus on a ship or cruise generally.
- HIGH CONTRAST OPTICS – For bright, high-contrast images with true-to-life color reproduction, 7x magnification, 50 mm objective diameter, field of view at 1000YD – 356FT.
- SPORTS AUTO FOCUS – Delivers, once shot, always sharp, briliant 3D images from 20yds to infinity without refocusing, perfect for your active life.
The Steiner Marine binocular is a distinguished choice for those seeking high-quality optics. Renowned for their exceptional durability and robustness, Steiner products are built to withstand the rigors of military and marine environments. This particular 7×50 binocular model excels in all weather conditions, making it a reliable companion on your Alaska cruise.
Featuring a non-slip rubber armor, the binocular offers a secure and comfortable grip, ensuring ease of use even in challenging circumstances. Furthermore, it is both fog proof and waterproof, guaranteeing its integrity even if accidentally dropped into the water while aboard the ship.
With advanced lens coating and top-quality marine glass, the Steiner binocular produces color-corrected and bright images, providing an immersive viewing experience. Its superior optics enable focused images within a 20-yard radius, saving you valuable time when attempting to capture rare sights.
Steiner Marine has earned a stellar reputation for crafting exceptional optics designed specifically for marine environments. Their commitment to durability, clarity, and performance ensures that their binoculars are the preferred choice for marine enthusiasts. Whether you’re a casual boater or a seasoned mariner, Steiner offers a range of options tailored to your specific needs. Experience the remarkable beauty of wildlife and the natural world with Steiner Marine binoculars, allowing you to fully appreciate the wonders of your Alaska cruise and beyond.
Specifications
- Bak-4 prism and superior quality glass render incredibly bright pictures.
- Waterproof and fog proof, an excellent choice for wet conditions.
- Always focus readily.
- Comes with neck strap, rain guard and lens cap.
- Steiner heritage lifetime warranty, no warranty card or receipts needed.
8. BARSKA Deep Sea 7×50 Waterproof Binocular Review
- HIGH CONTRAST OPTICS – For bright, high-contrast images with true-to-life color reproduction, 7x magnification, 50 mm objective diameter, field of view at 1000YD – 356FT.
- SPORTS AUTO FOCUS – Delivers, once shot, always sharp, briliant 3D images from 20yds to infinity without refocusing, perfect for your active life.
This deep-sea binoculars by Barska is a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts and people who love cruising. They are perfect for your Alaska cruise trip as Barska has designed these binoculars according to your needs.
Allow me to explain why I highly recommend the BARSKA 7×50 floating binocular:
To begin with, this remarkable binocular is designed to float on the water’s surface if accidentally dropped, ensuring that your valuable optics remain easily retrievable. This feature is not only convenient but also provides a sense of relief, safeguarding your investment during maritime adventures.
In addition to its floating capability, the Barska deep-sea binocular is equipped with a built-in range finder and illuminated compass, further enhancing its functionality. The compass facilitates easy navigation, allowing you to effortlessly navigate the sea and locate your desired targets.
The internal illumination is thoughtfully designed in red, ensuring optimal visibility while using the range-finding scale and compass. This strategic choice maintains clarity without compromising night vision or creating unnecessary glare.
Thanks to its fully multi-coated lens and Bak-4 prism, this binocular delivers bright and vibrant images with minimal discolouration. The superior optics provide exceptional image quality, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the surrounding marine environment.
Overall, the BARSKA 7×50 floating binocular combines practical features and high-performance optics, making it an excellent choice for any seafaring expedition.
This binocular is waterproof and Fog proof which again makes them pretty ideal for cruise trips and marine adventures.
Specifications
- Field of view is 395 feet@1000 yards
- Magnification of 7x
- Lens diameter is 50 mm
- Keeps floating if dropped in water
- 23mm extended eye relief
- Built-in range finder and compass for better navigation
6 tips you need to know before you go Alaska Cruising
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is the best month to cruise to Alaska?
The most recommended time for cruising to Alaska is, from the end of April to September. July to August can be quite busy as these months witness quite a bit of rainfall. For wildlife viewing, the hot weather is ideal. Plan your trip further into the summer if you want to catch some marine life and wildlife.
If you are looking for reasonable cruise fares, May and September are your best bets. But bear in mind, that due to the unpredictable weather, you may not get the chance to take a cruise trip as they get cancelled frequently.
If you are keen on catching northern lights, September is the best month. However, the Gulf of Alaska is quite stormy so keep that in mind while planning your trip.
Q. Which cruise line is the best for Alaska?
The good thing is that every Cruise line has one cruise available for Alaska. The most recommended cruise lines are Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Princess, Disney, Norwegian, and Holland America.
For more exclusive experience (that includes wildlife viewing), you can go for luxury cruises such as Crystal, Oceania, Windstar, Viking ocean, etc.
Q. What is the best side of the ship for Alaska cruise?
When you are cruising on the sea, it is highly unlikely that you are going to miss anything staying on the particular side because come on, it’s a sea after all.
Most people get confused about which side to choose: Port or Starboard. Both of them refer to the left and right sides of the ship.
Does staying on one side really makes that much of a difference?
The difference is very little as you are out in the open sea. Moreover, the cabins on both sides have the same layout.
If it is scenic cruising, the captain of the ship will most likely turn the ship around if you come across something significant.
Apart from that, you can always head out on the top deck to get a good view as that is the best place for getting clear views.
If you are on a cruise that sails in one direction like one way south or northbound Alaska cruise and if you want to see the sunset, choose a port side.
To experience sunrise while sailing north or west, you can also choose the port side.
Q. Is it worth getting a balcony on a cruise?
This is the most common and confusing question which is the reason the answer here is subjective. Having your own private veranda on a cruise -where you can enjoy all that nature has to offer- is the best thing to have.
But it all comes with a price tag attached.
This is why you have to consider all the pros and cons before making this decision.
When you are sailing, especially to Alaska or Norwegian, having a balcony is quite preferable because you will get to witness the most beautiful waterfalls, mighty glaciers, Green Island and wildlife.
It’s natural to head out on the front deck to have a view so it can get crowded. A private veranda can come in handy if you don’t prefer the hustle bustle and wants to enjoy the natural scenery in private while relaxing.
Q. Which cruise line has the largest balcony cabins?
Sailing on the ship these days doesn’t have to be bumpy and unpleasant at all. The cruise standards have improved significantly and now they offer different-sized luxurious rooms with large balcony cabins.
If you want to relax in your own room and spend more time there, check out the list below to get an idea of which cruise line has the best balcony cabins.
- Royal Caribbean, royal loft suite, 2253-2474 square ft.
- Cunard cruised, queen’s grill pant house, 2249 square ft.
- Princess Cruises, a family suite with balcony, 1781 square ft.
- Norwegian Cruise line, haven 3 bedroom garden villa, 4251-6695 square ft.
- Celebrity Cruises, reflection suite, 1830 square ft.
Q. Which deck level is best on a cruise?
Central location: decks in the middle of the ship usually do not witness much of a traffic and the hustle and bustle that is apparent upfront is more subdued here.
Moreover, if you suffer from motion sickness, this is a place to be. If you don’t like trudging from one end of the ship to another, well, the centre of the ship is a good choice.
The rear of the ship: most upfront decks are crowded as everyone thinks you can get a better view from there but that is not always the case.
A seasoned cruiser will tell you that you can immensely enjoy landscapes and sceneries from the rear of the ship as well. And that too in a more relaxing and calm environment.
As the rear is not a popular place to be and there is much less traffic here.
I would recommend checking the cruise critic for planning and preparing your next cruise adventure.
Q. Is Royal Caribbean or Carnival better?
The experience is almost the same, with more similarities and fewer differences, as these both are the most popular cruise liners in America.
So if you are a fun-loving person and love having food (that too free), Carnival is a winner. For a more exclusive and elegant cruising experience, you should definitely go with Royal Caribbean.
For a more fun-filled cruise adventure, Royal Caribbean takes the cake. Although carnival is not particularly lacking in this department, Royal Caribbean offers cool new things like the tallest water slide into the sea, ice skating, surf simulator.
Carnival sticks to traditional things like movies, pools, jogging tracks, golf, etc.
Conclusion
So we are done with our best picks here. I have done all the legwork here for you to help you choose the best inexpensive binoculars for Alaska cruise.
While picking up all the above-mentioned products, I have taken care to keep in mind all the feature that comes in handy while you are cruising to Alaska.
All the binoculars mentioned in this article are best in their own regard.
However, here are my top 3 favourites:
Looking for kids-friendly binoculars that are cute and perform exceptionally well? Vanstarray Kids binocular will not disappoint you. Your kids will have fun exploring and inspecting different things.
If you want the best quality at a lower price, Wingspan optics spectator binoculars will meet all your needs. High-quality pictures with ready to focus system make it the best binocular for ships.
If you want the guarantee of longevity and durability along with high performance, Steiner Marine Binoculara is where you should invest your money.
Also, read my complete guide on choosing binoculars for beginners.
An optics enthusiast – I love bird watching as well as wildlife. Originally from South Africa, I moved to the UK at a young age. I love reviewing the latest binoculars as well as traveling. I work as a comms consultant during the day. My plan is to travel across the world so building up to that goal.
Last update on 2024-04-06 at 11:15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
