5 Best Binoculars for Alaska Cruise – Enjoy an Unforgettable Experience to the Fullest!

By
James Harper
James Harper
Research Writer
Being a professional journalist, James knows how to turn any topic into a comprehensive, easy-to-digest text. Even if you've never dealt with telescopes before, rest assured read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Charles Goebel
Charles Goebel
Expert Consultant
Charles holds a Master’s degree in Physics Engineering (optics and photonics specialization), has been teaching physics at school for almost 15 years and recently has star read more
Last updated: September 15, 2023
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Cruising in Alaska is fun, but a whack bino makes the experience unpleasant. Most sellers brag about their waterproof and fog proof equipment that promise heaven but leave you cursing when you’re not even halfway on your trip. You deserve a great bino to capture the birds, wild game and more while maneuvering in the bays and islands. It’s unnecessary to pay attention to all the features during your selection process, but if you ignore some like the magnification and objective lens diameter, then we guarantee you that you can land on a bino you’ll use once or twice and dump.

We selected the five binoculars for Alaska cruise and based our selection on the weather resistance, eye relief, prism system, length, weight and other features. You should buy a compact bino with a strap if you’re planning to use it for several hours. Your binoculars should also be able to withstand the harsh weather conditions in Alaska.

Quick Summary

  • "Shock absorbing binoculars with roof prism, multi-coated lens and 17-mm eye relief. FoV of 305 ft at 1000 yds. O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged. Twist eyecups."
  • "IPX-4 waterproof binoculars with Porro prism, CAT coating and 15-mm eye relief. FoV of 120 m at 1000 m. Auto focus. Ergonomic silicone eye cups."
  • Best All-Weather Model: Nikon 7576 Monarch 5 8x42 Binocular
    "Waterproof and fogproof binoculars with roof prism, high-reflective multilayer coating and 19.5-mm eye relief. FoV of 330 ft at 1000 yds. Polycarbonate body. Multi-position twist lock eyecups."
  • Best for Long Distance Viewing: Nikon 8252 ACULON A211 10-22x50 Binocular
    "Top-notch binoculars with Porro prism, multi-coated eco glass lenses and 8.6-mm eye relief. FoV of 199 ft at 1000 yds. Finger-tip zoom control. Turn-and-slide rubber eyecups."
  • "Tripod adaptable binoculars with roof prism, 14.8-mm eye relief and waterproof construction. FoV of 362 ft at 1000 yds. Fogproof. Lifetime warranty."

Top 5 Binoculars for Alaska Cruise Review 2024

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Features
  • Prism: roof, BAK4
  • Eye relief: 17 mm
  • Field of view: 305 ft at 1000 yds
  • Lens coating: multi-coated
  • Length: 7”
  • Weight: 25 oz.

Other features: waterproof, fogproof, twist eyecups, O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged, shock absorbing

With a 4.2mm exit pupil, Bushnell H2O 10x42mm Waterproof Binoculars covers 305/102 feet@1000 yards/ meter@1000-meter field of view.

It offers 10X magnification and 17mm eye relief. You can use it with sunglasses though some users recommend removing it for the bino to fit in your eye sockets well and avoid stray light. Most customers used it for hunting and bird watching.

Bushnell H2O 10x42mm Waterproof Binoculars has lots of awesome features. It’s waterproof and purged with Nitrogen to give you a fog-free experience in high humidity regions.

The multicoated optics and BAK 4 prism enhance your image quality while the O-ring seal fosters unparalleled light transmission fosters quality viewing.

The sellers indicate that the non-slip shock absorbing rubber offers a good grip, reducing your chances of damaging it. It also comes with twist cups.

You will get crazy accessories like the rubber lens, cloth for the lenses carrying case, and a neck strap. Some customers mention that the carrying case and strap are soft.

Experts confirm that this equipment is 100% waterproof. One user mentioned that the lenses are anti-scratch. He used them in Sandy areas in Florida, but they never got scratched.

Unlike most binoculars, Bushnell H2O 10x42mm Waterproof Binoculars rubber surface does not become sticky. The manufacturer, however, warns that it can expose you to cancer-causing elements like TDI.

Overall, Bushnell H2O 10x42mm Waterproof Binoculars is lightweight and well-proportioned. Some users complained that it’s hard to focus quickly and lacks night vision.

    What makes it special?
  • Awesome accessories
  • Waterproof
  • Anti-scratch
  • Lightweight
  • Well-proportioned
    What cons did we find?
  • Hard to focus fast
  • No night vision
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Features
  • Prism: Porro, BAK4
  • Eye relief: 15 mm
  • Field of view: 120 m at 1000 m
  • Lens coating: CAT coating
  • Length: 4.7”
  • Weight: 19 oz.

Other features: IPX-4 waterproof, fog-proof, auto focus, rugged Makrolon housing, ergonomic silicone eye cups

Steiner 2045 8×30 Predator AF Binocular is designed in Germany. Unlike most Germany-based binoculars, it does not scrimp on materials.

It has a rugged housing and fog-proof design for enhancing durability and clarity, respectively. Users mention that its 10X magnification suits hunting game.

The packaging comes with a rain guard, neck strap, carrying case and objective lens cover, shoulder strap etc.

Most users say that Steiner 2045 8×30 Predator AF Binocular ergonomic design makes it feel great in the hands.

The open bridge design fosters one-hand grip for watching the game. Unlike several optics in its price range, Steiner 2045 8×30 Predator AF Binocular feels lightweight.

Steiner highlights that Steiner 2045 8×30 Predator AF Binocular covers 20 yards and beyond. It offers 101 meters at 1000 meters field of view and 18 meters close focus.

You will spot fast-moving objects, and the best part is its color adjusted transmission ensures that you uncover animals disguising in shade or foliage. You will also enjoy 3D bright depth with the enhanced visuals. Experts say it’s IPX4 rated for water tightness.

Several buyers loved the auto-focus focus system. One user said that it stayed in focus when used with eyeglasses.

Others claimed that the autofocus goes up to 30 to 40 feet. The lens cover remains intact, so you don’t have to worry about losing it.

Experts mention that Steiner 2045 8×30 Predator AF Binocular advanced technology offers consistent focus at different speeds. They recommend its wide field of view for watching game and hunting.

    What makes it special?
  • Ergonomic design
  • Lightweight
  • IPX4 rated
  • Great auto-focus system
  • Consistent focus
    What cons did we find?
  • Not found
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3
Best All-Weather Model

Nikon 7576 Monarch 5 8x42 Binocular

Features
  • Prism: roof, BAK4
  • Eye relief: 19.5 mm
  • Field of view: 330 ft at 1000 yds
  • Lens coating: high-reflective multilayer
  • Length: 6.97”
  • Weight: 31.89 oz.

Other features: fogproof, waterproof, polycarbonate body, multi-position twist lock eyecups

Nikon 7576 Monarch 5 8×42 Binocular offers 288@1000 yards field of view. Its extra-low dispersion light fosters sharp and clear views even in the dark. Experts add that the extra-low dispersion glasses combat chromatic aberrations for natural images.

Nikon 7576 Monarch 5 8×42 Binocular is not only lightweight but comes with a small easy-to-grip size and body that suits trips. Experts say it is nitrogen-filled, O-ring sealed and covered in rubber for enhanced durability.

Its multiple features make it unique. The dielectric reflective multilayer prism coating provides accurate colors, and its multi coated eco glass lenses offer high light transmission across the light spectrum. It minimizes light loss for clearer and more natural views.

Nikon 7576 Monarch 5 8×42 Binocular has a rugged frame for durability. The design is tailored to bring in far objects as near as possible. You can use the turn-and-slide rubber eyecups to customize the eye relief.

You will get nice features like flip-down lens cap, smooth central focus knobs, and rubber eyecups.

The seller states that Nikon 7576 Monarch 5 8×42 Binocular is designed for extreme use. They recommend using soft cloth or lens pens for cleaning the lens, or you risk scratching or removing the coatings.

Some buyers say Nikon 7576 Monarch 5 8×42 Binocular suits deer hunting. Others claim it has poor build quality, loose rubber housing case, poor strap assembly and junk lens caps that come off.

    What stands out?
  • Extra-low dispersion light
  • Lightweight
  • Best for deer hunting
  • Great for extreme use
  • Easy to grip
    What cons did we manage to find?
  • Poor build quality
  • Loose rubber housing
  • Junk lens
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4
Best for Long Distance Viewing

Nikon 8252 ACULON A211 10-22x50 Binocular

Features
  • Prism: Porro, BAK4
  • Eye relief: 8.6 mm
  • Field of view: 199 ft at 1000 yds
  • Lens coating: multi-coated
  • Length: 8.9”
  • Weight: 48.92 oz.

Other features: center focus, turn-and-slide rubber eyecups, finger-tip zoom control

Nikon 8252 ACULON A211 10-22×50 Binocular is top-notch equipment with an ergonomic and lightweight design.

It comes with an easy-to-grip knob for adjusting your magnification from 10X to 22X. Its turn-and-slide rubber eyecups are designed for adjusting the eye relief to enjoy extended views. You will find a smooth central focus knob for fast viewing and adjusting your magnification.

Nikon 8252 ACULON A211 10-22×50 Binocular has multi-coated eco glass lenses that offer bright yet clear images in varying light conditions. Its rubber-armoured coating fosters a non-slip gripping experience even in dump regions.

Experts add that this equipment gathers a good amount of light at dawn and dusk due to the wide lens diameter.

The lens is lead and arsenic-free and offers multi-purpose functionality. Some customers loved that they could view coyotes at dusk time.

Customers mentioned that it comes with a nice carrying case with no strap included.

One user said that Nikon 8252 ACULON A211 10-22×50 Binocular sharpness drops with an increase in zooming, so it works great for users with steady hands.

Experts note that it’s not subject to chromatic aberrations. It lacks autofocus but zooms in well. One customer says that it takes some time to get used to the zooming in Alaska, but the focus becomes smooth with time.

Overall, this equipment has eco-safe components. The images are more steady than small size binoculars.

Some users say the quality build is poor while others claim it’s insanely hard to adjust with eyeglasses.

    What are its best features?
  • Ergonomic design
  • Multicoated eco glass lenses
  • Eco-safe components
    What could be improved?
  • Poor quality build
  • Hard to adjust with glasses
  • No straps included
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7060 people in the past 30 days
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Product Review
8.5
9.0
Features
  • Prism: roof, BAK4
  • Eye relief: 14.8 mm
  • Field of view: 362 ft at 1000 yds
  • Lens coating: n/a
  • Length: 4.5”
  • Weight: 15.2 oz.

Other features: waterproof, fogproof, lifetime warranty, tripod adaptable

Wingspan Optics FieldView 8X32 Compact Binoculars is the go-to binocular for bird and game watching.

Its 8X magnification makes distant objects bright and clear. Wingspan Optics highlights that it comes with a 14.8 mm eye relief and offers 362 feet/ 1000 yards field of view.

The eye relief is great due to its compact nature. You can use it with your sunglasses. Experts recommend using the eye relief offset to position your eyes a few millimeters away from your binocular’s lens.

The packaging contains a neck strap, nylon mesh carrying case, microfiber lens, cleaning cloth and lens protection covers etc. Some users highlighted that the case and straps are nice.

Wingspan Optics FieldView 8X32 Compact Binoculars is good for kids, unlike the 10X40 models that are sensitive for their movement. Experts feel you may have to give your kids several instructions.

You can adjust Wingspan Optics FieldView 8X32 Compact Binoculars for the narrow distance between your eyes and move it in or out to your face’s focal fit.

Overall, this equipment is solid with sharp optics. One user said that it offers little field of vision for game spotting.

Others say it’s great for hiking and the compact nature suits cruising in Alaska. Few users also recommended it for horse racing and indoor events like trans-Siberian orchestra concerts.

Some customers complained that Wingspan Optics FieldView 8X32 Compact Binoculars is subject to stiction and prone to fogging.

    What makes it stand out?
  • Great eye relief
  • Compact nature
  • Good for kids
  • Sharp optics
    Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
  • Subject to stiction
  • Prone to fogging
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Things to Consider

These days cruising in Alaska without a bino is disheartening. How will you enjoy the bays and the small inlets while hiking or kayaking?
There are several Binoculars you can use, but not all can deliver exceptional results you’re after. Some are not waterproof and fog proof while others come with a small field of view that limit your experience.
In this section, we will cover the features to consider before buying a binocular for Alaska cruise, and the frequently asked questions.

Features to consider when choosing binoculars for Alaska cruise

Like most online products, all binoculars are not created equally so your “perfect fit” depends on your preferences and the activities you will use it for.

You will also have to consider the weather conditions of the bays you’ll visit while cruising. For foggy places like Alaska, the most important features to look at is the weather resistance and your field of view.

In this section, we will cover other key features you should consider before making purchases like the image stability, magnification, prism system, optical coating size and weight of your equipment etc.

Magnification

5 Best Binoculars for Alaska Cruise - Enjoy an Unforgettable Experience to the Fullest!

The higher your binocular’s magnification, the bigger your images will appear. However, binoculars with extra high magnification destabilize your images.

An equipment with 8X32 like Wingspan Optics FieldView means that it offers eight times magnification.

Most of the equipment we picked like the Bushnell H2O 10x42mm Waterproof Binoculars have a 10X magnification.

You can also look at the Nikon 8252 ACULON A211 10-22×50 Binocular if you prefer up to 22X magnification.

Weather resistance

Binoculars that are not waterproof or fog proof suck. One minute you’re catching a lovely sight, but the next everything goes blank, or you’re straining to see.

The weather-resistant binoculars like Bushnell H2O 10x42mm Waterproof Binoculars, Steiner 2045 8×30 Predator AF Binocular ensure that there is even light transmission in your binocular.

Some customers complained that the Wingspan Optics FieldView 8X32 Compact Binoculars is prone to fogging.

Overall, pick a model that won’t blur your lens when small droplets enter the lens or if you want to use your binoculars the next time you’re going to Alaska.

Image stability

The image stability depends on your binocular’s magnification power. Your images will be stable if your binocular has eight or 10X magnification power like Wingspan Optics FieldView 8X32 Compact Binoculars and the Bushnell H2O 10x42mm Waterproof Binoculars respectively.

You can adjust the Nikon 8252 ACULON A211 10-22×50 Binocular anywhere from 10 to 22X magnification and identify the best point for ultra-clear images.

Experts recommend buyers to pick a model with 8 to 20X magnification to enjoy clear images while cruising.

Size and weight

The size and weight of binoculars matters to everyone planning to use their bino for several hours or days. Heavy equipment with neck straps will strain your neck.

Experts prefer a lightweight tool with a neck strap like Bushnell H2O 10x42mm Waterproof Binoculars, Steiner 2045 8×30 Predator AF Binocular, Nikon 7576 Monarch 5 8×42 Binocular for kids or if you’ll use your binocular for hours.

You can consider other lightweight models like Wingspan Optics FieldView 8X32 Compact Binoculars.

Prism system

Porro and roof are the two main types of prism systems.

Porro prism has a zigzag shape. They offer clearer 3D images, a wider field of view and better depth perception. You can check out Steiner 2045 8×30 Predator AF Binocular, Nikon 8252 ACULON A211 10-22×50 Binocular with Porro, BAK-4 prism.

Roof prisms are streamlined and lighter than Porro. They look simple but have great magnification and durability.

5 Best Binoculars for Alaska Cruise - Enjoy an Unforgettable Experience to the Fullest!

Optical coating

Some binos are uncoated, coated, fully coated while others are multi-coated.

Though optical coatings are less shiny, they ensure even light transmission for sharper images. Coated lenses have glass surfaces with multiple coatings for increased light transmission.

The glass surface and the lens of fully coated lenses have a coating while the optical elements in multi-coated have several coatings on their surfaces.

We selected binoculars with multi-coated lenses like Nikon 7576 Monarch 5 8×42 Binocular, Bushnell H2O 10x42mm Waterproof Binoculars and Nikon 8252 ACULON A211 10-22×50 Binocular.

Field of View

You don’t want to miss capturing any moment in Alaska so you should get binoculars with a wide field of view like Wingspan Optics FieldView 8X32 Compact Binoculars, Nikon 7576 Monarch 5 8×42 Binocular or Bushnell H2O 10x42mm Waterproof Binoculars.

Though some models like Steiner 2045 8×30 Predator AF Binocular and Nikon 8252 ACULON A211 10-22×50 Binocular are effective, they have a relatively smaller field of view.

Eye relief

Eye relief is the distance between your eyes and the rear lenses, and it’s overlooked by most people who buy binos, especially those wearing sunglasses.

The longer the distance, the better you will view objects. Your eyes will squint if the distance is shorter and you have sunglasses.

Experts feel that eye relief should be the last thing to consider if your eyes are in great condition. They recommend buying binos with more than 15mm like Bushnell H2O 10x42mm Waterproof Binoculars, and Nikon 7576 Monarch 5 8×42 Binocular.

Eyecups

Eyecups are made from silicon. They serve several purposes like safeguarding your eyes from the sunlight as you capture the scenes in Alaska.

Our top picks like Bushnell H2O 10x42mm Waterproof Binoculars, Nikon 7576 Monarch 5 8×42 Binocular and Nikon 8252 ACULON A211 10-22×50 Binocular have eyecups.

You can twist them inwards or outwards. Users with sunglasses should twist them inwards to get a good distance between the eyes and the binoculars. Twist your eyecups outwards if your eyes are in great condition.

FAQ

Are 10x42 binoculars better than 8x42?

Both 10X42 and 8X42 binoculars work well but what sets them apart is the magnification power. 10X42 binos have a high magnification power that makes distant objects appear larger compared to 8X42. Experts prefer binos with 10X magnification.

What are the best binoculars for long distance viewing?

A great binos for long-distance viewing should have a higher magnification power and a wide field of view. You should pay attention to binoculars with at least 10X magnification power like Bushnell H2O 10x42mm Waterproof Binoculars or pick a model offering up to 22X magnification power like Nikon 8252 ACULON A211 10-22×50 Binocular.

Our verdict

You have everything you need to select great binos you’ll carry along every time you’re cruising in great Alaska. Pay attention to the features we have discussed above to select a good tool that fits your needs.

You should also factor in your budget though you may have to spend slightly more if your perfect fit falls above your budget.

Our first pick is Bushnell H2O 10x42mm Waterproof Binoculars with a 10X magnification and 305/102 feet@1000 yards/ meter@1000-meter field of view. It’s waterproof and anti-scratch. Experts recommend it for bird watching.

We also loved the Steiner 2045 8×30 Predator AF Binocular with great accessories and features. It has an ergonomic design and experts say you can use it to spot fast-moving objects without straining.

Our team preferred Nikon 7576 Monarch 5 8×42 Binocular as the third pick. This equipment is lightweight and suitable for extreme use though some users claimed it has a poor build quality.

References

1.
15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Alaska | PlanetWare
As Alaska is big, so too is its beauty.
2.
How to use binoculars
Binoculars are used to help see things close up.
9,9
Total Score
Bushnell H2O 10x42mm Waterproof Binoculars - Editor’s Choice
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