What a fabulous cruise! Alaska is breathtakingly beautiful and we had a wonderful cruise on the Norwegian Pearl. We were somewhat concerned with the spotty reviews but by the end of the cruise we were shaking our heads at where the negative comments were coming from. Great service, delicious and varied dining options and a beautiful and clean ship. We've cruised the Med on RC, Bermuda on Celebrity and 2 cruises to the Caribbean on NCL and this was our favorite to date.

Embarkation was slow (yes, Seattle has ONE security screening station so it does get backed up). We spent two nights at the Marriott Waterfront before leaving. Nice hotel with a GREAT location across the street from the cruise dock and within walking distance to Pike Place Market. Enjoyed a fabulous dinner at Matts at the Market and enjoyed a great food tour of Pike Place Market with Savor Seattle (www.savorseattletours.com). I had read not to arrive between Noon -1pm but we had friends who lived in Seattle who dropped us off after brunch and it just worked out we arrived at the worst time. If you can, come early (11a) or later (1:30p) to avoid the lines.

We had a starboard balcony room on the 9th floor that was comfortable for two with adequate storage and we were very well cared for by our room stewards. We were early birds but our room was always cleaned quickly in the morning and turndown happened while we were at dinner, often with animal towels ?. I read that the port side is better viewing but don't be concerned if you're in a starboard room. Gorgeous views cruising up to Juneau in the Inside Passage, in Glacier Bay and fantastic sunsets cruising back. Some of my favorite moments on this cruise were on our balcony watching whales spout in the distance and soaking up the vista's. Read more