By way of background, this was our 21st cruise, our second to Alaska, and our first on Princess. The previous cruise was on Celebrity.

Our cruise began a day early when we flew to Seattle to spend an evening and next morning sight seeing and getting ready for the ship. Using Alaska Airlines from Phoenix to Seattle was an easy trip. We booked a GrayLine bus to downtown to stay at the Warwick Hotel. This hotel is well situated for touristing around the area; Pike place, the Space Needle, and the waterfront are all within easy walking distance. After checking in, we strolled down to Pike place, a real must-see, and on over to the waterfront where we had dinner at Ivers. This restaurant is a long time fixture in Seattle and well worth the effort.

Sunday morning we strolled over to the Space Needle and the park surrounding it. All the locals we met were friendly and helpful, especially the fire-fighters who were justifiably proud of their city. Returning to the hotel, we repacked, checked out, and found a taxi waiting for us, arranged by the hotel, and left for the ship at 11:45AM The ride to the dock was a little difficult since the Seahawks were in town and traffic was heavy. Total cost with tip about $20.00. We found a most helpful porter who took our bags, looked at our paperwork and found us a shortcut into the checkin area where we were processed and sent to the ship in quick order. Since our bags were not yet in our room, we started exploring the ship and ended up in the buffet where we were eating lunch by 12:30PM. Far and away the easiest boarding we have ever had. Read more