Explorer of the Seas Review
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Overall this was a great trip to Alaska, however there are some areas which could use some improvement.
We flew in to Seatac the day before which was a good decision since our flights were delayed over two hours due to thunderstorms. We stayed overnight near the airport at the Quality inn Seatac. We chose this hotel because it has a free shuttle to and from the airport and also offers transfers to and from the port throug Seattle express. The hotel stay was a disaster, but that is a story for a different time.
Embarkation
Cabin Review
Port Reviews
Seattle
Great city with lots to do and beautiful scenery nearby, but the port itself is terrible and poorly designed. We rented a car and drove to the famous Pike Place Market, Mt Rainier NP, and Olympic NP.
Skagway
Skagway is a small town that looks like something straight out of the old west. We rented a car and drove up to White Pass into the Yukon Territory. This route is very scenic and is a much cheaper alternative to the train trips. If you plant to drive, make sure you take your passport.
Victoria
Victoria is a town that you can easily walk if you just want to see the sights and do some shopping. We rented a car and drove up to Goldstream provincial park which is about 30 minutes outside the city. The park is in the middle of the temperate rainforest and is a great place for hiking. Make sure you get a map from the Rangers or visitor center because many of the trails are not marked and there are few signs. The best spots are Niagara Falls and the old train trestle.