We picked up the Statendam in Seward after a week in the interior (independent travel). Our B&B host (Walk About) dropped us at the rail station early in the morning. As we were standing in line to check-in, HAL people walked up and asked us if we were on the Statendam. When we answered "yes" they took our bags to a separate area and told us we would see our bags in our room. We didn't expect this since we were not on a cruise-tour with HAL. What a pleasant surprise, we just went in doors and got our tickets.

The train ride to Seward was very pleasant. The guide pointed out animals and points of interest along the way. We even saw some Beluga whales in Turn Again Arm - a first for us. When we got off the train, we found Major Marine for their tour. By this time it was starting to get drippy but we took off anyway. The gray clouds were very low so although we saw anything in the water (sea otters, humpback) or immediately on the shore (seals, eagle) we didn't get to see the mountains. By the time we got to the glacier, the weather was getting pretty bad (rain, wind, cold), so most people didn't go out of the main cabin. Going back was very rough (they wouldn't have sailed if it had been this way earlier). Several people were getting seasick which kept the staff busy. They did a great job cleaning up after those who got sick. When we got back, a bus took us to the Statendam. We had to make a pit stop but a bus was still there for transport.

Boarding for the Statendam was OK. On previous cruises we've boarded from major cities, not a small town. I guess they were as well organized as possible since most everyone got to Seward by bus or train, arriving about the same time. Our stateroom was ready when we got on so we settled in after living out of a suitcase for over a week. It's nice that we don't need to take our life vests to muster before we sailed. Read more