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Why is there minimal sunlight in Alaska during the winter months?

Question by TS: Why is there minimal sunlight in Alaska during the winter months?
What EXACTLY happens to cause this? Is unique to Alaska? What other habitable places does this? Exactly how many hours/days of sunlight do Alaska get during the winter?

Best answer:

Answer by Roger S
The earth’s axis of rotation is tilted. In the summer it is pointing towards the sun and northern regions have very long days. In the winter it is on the exact opposite side of the sun and now tilts away. This causes long nights. The same thing happens in the southern polar regions, but in exactly the opposite order. Christmas comes in the middle of summer in Australia.

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Q&A: Anyone traveled the Alaska Marine Highway (Ferry) in winter?

Question by Denali Rose: Anyone traveled the Alaska Marine Highway (Ferry) in winter?
I’m hoping to go to Washington this winter from Alaska without flying. I know the summer ferry trips are gorgeous, but are the winter trips worth it? Or is it too dark and cold?

Best answer:

Answer by cyanne2ak
They’re cold as hell!!! But, you get what you pay for, so the more you spend the more comfort you’ll be in on the Ferry. I lived in Alaska for 16 years.

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Are there any cruises that tour Alaska in the winter?

Question by curious boy: Are there any cruises that tour Alaska in the winter?
I’ve always wanted to go to Alaska, particularly in the winter because of the northern lights, and I’ve been looking for future dates like maybe sometime in December or January, but I was unable to find any. Are there no available dates for the winter? Is it too cold? An off season?

Best answer:

Answer by Linda S
The latest month to take a cruise to Alaska would be October becasue after that the weather is too cold. But let me tell you, I did this cruise at the end of May and it was absolutely AMAZING. The scenery is breathtaking. There was 16 hours of daylight as the sun did not set until 11pm. If you are interested in seeing photos or learning more about Alaska and where the best ports are to visit, please call our Travel Agency office and you can speak to out ALASKA agent. We NEVER charge for any of our planning services. Call us by visiting our travel agency website at www.cruisewithafriend.com

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