The whole experience was absolutely fantastic. We enjoyed every minute of our trip.
Before this cruise, we had an exhausted week long trip in Alaska already (including Fairbanks, a Haul Road journey up to MP270, Denali NP, Russian River, Exit Glacier, Kenai Fjord NP and Anchorage). Alaska is truly a bucketlist destination for a life time.
Embarkation: On the Embarkation day, we woke up early to catch the Coastal Classic train from Anchorage to Seward. RCL had been sweet to take care of our luggage at Anchorage depot, so we do not need to worry about it on our train ride or the little exploration in Seward. We arrived in the terminal around 2pm (sail on 8pm). There was few guests so we did not wait at all for check-in, and everything went on smoothly. The only thing bothered me was they kept my passport saying because I am holding a non-US passport.
The first stateroom with a balcony I've ever tried. Of course it was more expensive than ocean view, but totally worth it. We saw so many killer whales on our balcony. The room was spacious with everything I expected. The room attendant was sweet and did a very good job on cleaning.
TBH, the most beautiful parts were in Canada in our journey...
The history of Skagway is worth knowing, for lacking a better expression.