{"id":69833,"date":"2023-03-02T21:43:23","date_gmt":"2023-03-03T05:43:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.hollandamerica.com\/blog\/?p=69833"},"modified":"2023-05-02T14:02:17","modified_gmt":"2023-05-02T21:02:17","slug":"best-binoculars-for-wildlife-viewing","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.hollandamerica.com\/blog\/cruise-planning\/preparations\/best-binoculars-for-wildlife-viewing\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Find the Best Binoculars for Wildlife Viewing in Alaska"},"content":{"rendered":"

Alaska is a prime destination for wildlife viewing. But if you don\u2019t have suitable binoculars, that Alaska brown bear and her cubs might look like \u2026 a few blurred dots. That mountain goat? Nothing but a spec. That humpback whale? A floating log. Find the best binoculars for wildlife viewing<\/a> so you don\u2019t miss a single magical moment.<\/p>\n

Everyone in your group should have their own pair, especially on an Alaska cruise<\/a>. That way, you won\u2019t have to fumble with the settings as you pass them around.<\/p>\n

Binoculars can cost anywhere from $100 to well over $1,000. Look for deals, and whether you buy new or used, it\u2019s important to try them on before you buy.<\/p>\n

The Best Binoculars for a Cruise<\/h2>\n

Binoculars have two important numbers, listed this way: 10×42. The first number is magnification power and the second is the objective lens diameter. Consider the following when exploring options:<\/p>\n

Magnification<\/strong>
\nLook for magnification of 8x to 10x. It might be tempting to buy a pair with high magnification, but anything higher than 10x will be hard to hold steady, especially on a moving platform such as a ship or whale-watching boat.<\/a><\/p>\n

A large objective lens diameter<\/strong>
\nThe bigger the objective lens, the more light comes in and the brighter the view. In terms of wildlife viewing, look for a diameter of at least 42mm so that even on a dim day, you can spot animals in Alaska.<\/p>\n

Prism systems<\/strong>
\nThere are roof prism and Porro prism configurations. Binoculars with roof prisms have a sleek, streamlined shape and less bulk. That said, ones with Porro prism systems cost less and the view is brighter.<\/p>\n

Size<\/strong>
\nBigger isn\u2019t always better. Aim for a compact pair that you can hold around your neck for a few hours. Try a few on in the store.<\/p>\n

Binocular Basics<\/h2>\n

Familiarize yourself with your new binoculars. Practice spotting birds and squirrels in the backyard. That way, you\u2019ll have no problem using them on a cruise. A few tips:<\/p>\n