This was my third cruise to Alaska, second cruise to Alaska on the Pearl. I cruised last year in August with my daughter, son-in-law and three wonderful grandsons. Previously, I have cruised on Carnival's Spirit and Victory.

My son-in-law's mom (J) asked me to plan a cruise to Alaska for herself and her friend (D). They had both cruised a couple of times in the past but never to Alaska. I was confident that the Pearl would provide a great cruising experience. After I worked out all the cruise details, it sounded so wonderful I decided to go along. J and D are in their mid 70's and I'm 65.

I booked the cruise, pre-cruise hotel, and transfers through the cruise line but booked air travel independently. All of our shore excursions were booked through NCL. Read more