This was our first exciting cruise to Alaska and we opted for the inner passage. Decision was made to start from Seattle because our friends were there, could have started from Vancouver and saved a sea-day.
Ports of call:
- Juneau, was surprisingly small for us. Booked a shore excursion to view the whales and was not disappointed. Coach to a smaller port where we boarded a 50-60 footer boat. Took us to the inlet where we spotted eagles (thought it was great but saw so many at Ketchikan later on), seals, and whales. Boat was a bit crowded so we had to nudge our way for a good view. The unique memory was to see the humpback whales form a bubble curtain to trap fish and then swoop up to eat them. Visited a receding glacier on the way back to the ship. Returned to the port and walked around town a bit. Wanted to try the Alaskan crabs but it was pricey on shore so decided to return to ship for a meal.
Had an inside stateroom on an upper deck, was comfortable with a bit of vibration, especially in open waters enroute to pass Victoria, once in the protected waters, vibration was not apparent. Clean and well cared for by the steward.
Close up of many glaciers.
Small, not so interesting, a bit of shopping.
Wonderful park nearby.
Many went to see the gardens, but it was a long trip out.
Busy, huge city.