Going Kilted on an Alaskian cruise

[Jock Scot]

----------- but like I said has anyone dealt with wearing a kilt in a rainy vacation?

Er well, it rains all, OK most, well alright, a lot of the time in Scotland, where, some say, the kilt comes from.

We wear waterproof coats-----an inverness is traditional and effective--- and assorted bonnets, an umbrella is useful too. Failing that, we get wet. If the kilt gets wet and assuming its made of wool, hang to dry with the pleats in order in a naturally airy place. Avoid direct, or too much, heat at all costs.

[unixken]

Careful Laddie, be sure you have a means to return. I went up for an 18 month cruise in 1974 and returned in 1999. I didn’t own any kilts until after I returned to the CONUS. I spent most of those twenty five years in the Bristol Bay region with some cruising out in Gulf of Alaska, and the Bering Sea. A very brief cruise on the Inside Passage makes me think that what you are asking is probably not very different from climatic conditions in Scotland regarding the wearing of the kilt.

I too, lived in Alaska for a few years (I was flight crew at the Coast Guard Air Station, in Sitka.) Having lived in southeast Alaska, I can vouch for the rain, but it was always more drizzle, than downpour. You'll be cruising up the Inside Passage, and I can tell you, it's beautiful! Temps in southeast Alaska are mild for the state (they call that region "Alaska's Banana Belt"). I would say that a comparison to Scotland's weather is accurate. And with Sitka and Edinburgh at similar latitudes, daylight hours should be somewhat similar, too.

*Do* pack a kilt or two, and enjoy your trip!

[MuffinMan]

I know the weather is similar to Scotland, but living out of a closet they call a cabin, I was worried about the drying time and having to wear a damp kilt. Of course hanging a kilt to dry in the room will make my beloved just jazzed.
Gayle, Alaska will be great, but my bucket list is to visit your Country, I have been following your replies and you fit here just great

MM

[Barnfee]

I did an Alaska cruise a couple of years ago, in June not September. I'd agree that the weather was quite Scottish - drizzly one day, sunny the next - and the scenery was amazing - like Scotland's only bigger!
I didn't take my kilt, mostly because of the weight limit on our flights, and definitely felt I was missing out on the formal nights as a result.
I'm making up for it on my next cruise to Hawaii next year. The kilt is coming, weight limits or not. I'll wear it on the transatlantic flights if need be!

[walkerk]

Have a look at the rain cape made by Mr Antony. Unlike the Inverness used by pipers, it's lightweight and takes up little room in the suitcase. Have taken it on my past two kilted cruises to Alaska. There's some pictures in an old post here: http://www.xmarksthescot.com/forum/f...in-cape-36510/

Steve's shop is a short cab ride from the docks. Stop by if you can.

[david30101]

Ive been on 18 cruises, and the last 3 was wearing Kilts. Ive only gone to warm areas of the world. And didnt take any pants or shorts on cruise, except short running shorts I wore while in the ships gym. They were not worn at all at other times. Im taking another cruise after thanksgiving this year, and will be doing the same. Im taking 2 sportkilts, my new 5.11, Elkcomando, and a black original Utilikilt with the SS buttons to wear on formal night. No pants or shorts will be worn.. Closest thing will be a speedos while at beach or pool.

[Cecil]

The Alaskan cruise we went on was one of the best. I know you are going to love it. Kilted will be even better.
Cecil

[Sharkman]

My lady and I were just in Alsaska last week on a cruise and the weather was a mixed bag. If you're staying on tours and on the boat you'll be fine, but you may be testing the Fates if you plan on going on a few more exciting excursions.

We went zip-lining in Ketchikan and I believe you'll give everyone a thrill if you try that with a kilt. Between the harness and the wool you'll be hot mess for sure!!

It rained on us in Juneau and a little bit in Skagway. While in Ketchican, the rainiest place in the US it was blue skies and beautiful. Go figure!

Take you're gear with you and enjoy yourself!!

By the way, the trip was awesome and the glaciers were incredible. I really enjoyed this trip a lot. Saw a lot of wildlife and beautiful country!