We began our cruise vacation by flying to Seattle, spending two nights there, and then taking AMTRAK's Cascades train to Vancouver on the day of our sailing. We loved the trip on Cascades -- beautiful scenery, very comfortable seating in business class, and with business class you receive priority seating for breakfast and departure from the train in Vancouver. You pass through Canadian customs at the Vancouver train station after leaving the train. The process was easy and fast.

We then embarked on a 7 day Alaska cruise from Vancouver on July 30, 2006. The embarkation process went smoothly and was very easy. If you have done all your paperwork in advance on RCCL's website ( completed the Set Sail form ), the process is greatly facilitated. We arrived at the pier about 1:30pm and the total time from our cab arriving at Ballantyne Pier to arriving at our stateroom was no more than 20 minutes.

THE SHIP: Serenade of the Seas is a beautiful ship in outstanding shape. The centrum lobby - 12 stories high - is very appealing and beautifully conceived. Our favorite public spaces were the Safari Club and Schooner Bar. This was our 6th cruise, all on different ships, and these were the two most attractive venues were have encountered. There's lots of room in both lounges. The main dining area is attractive and tables are well spaced. We saw lots of tables of various sizes, both large and small, so there are lots of seating options. The exercise facilities are very ample and modern, but like most gyms, are crowded at peak hours. They offer several different exercise sessions, such as Yoga, for $10 per session. Read more