ANCHORAGE, Alaska - The last time Alaska saw a full-length cruise season, complete with large ships, was nearly three years ago now. The COVID-19 pandemic wiped out the 2020 season and 2021 saw a shortened cruise calendar overall.some companies have said they believe the industry could not just rebound, but cruise to a record summer in 2022
“Guests want to be there. There will be some nuances around the different jurisdictions and protocols that may or may not have an impact on that,” Royal Caribbean Group V.P. Josh Carroll said. “But as far as consumer demand goes, we can absolutely and intend to fill the ships this summer safely.” That represents an 18% increase from 2019, which is the last time Alaska had a full large cruise ship season.One reason for optimism this year is related to the pandemic. Carroll believes questions about it in other countries will keep more tourists closer to home this summer.