Emerald Princess Review

A mammoth cruiser that feels homely

Review for Alaska Cruise on Emerald Princess
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JimChar
2-5 Cruises • Age 50s

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Sail Date: May 2017
Cabin: Oceanview

We didn't realise the size of it (2900+ passengers) until the massive wait for tenders. They also allowed smoking on the upper deck front, where those 2nd hand smoke from inconsiderate travellers blows into our face at the open deck and the swimming pool below it. This is spoiling our fresh air of the Alaskan Glaciers. The bar crews, after receiving the drinks orders and cash tips, just didn't do anything about this. What can we do about this ? Smokers' rights, yes, go to the aft and near the ship smoke stack. Beyond this minor unhappiness, we had a good time with the restaurants, the shows and classes and chatting with fellow passengers. Got up at 0545hrs for the rangers to arrive and slow sail into Glacier Bay. WOW ! The front observation deck is full. Had fun chatting with everyone and sharing/exchanging our "reserved spot" for photography. Yup, those noisy irritating and push tourist have to shove their way into rudely and most of us, just stand firm. You want a good spot, come early. You want a snap shot at our spot, be polite and ask nicely. We'd be happy to share but leave after that please, there are others whom we liked to share that spot with or that I need to get back to make a few more shots.

Cabin Review

Oceanview

Cabin OF

Spacious for our 2 luggages and hanging clothings. Brightly lit room from the windows. Just that there is the table top that I wished can be removed to make more space.

Port Reviews

Vancouver

The port is easily reach by skytrain (their subway) and plenty of good coffee places nearby. However, when going to Alaskan cruises, please please please be as early as you can. The US Boarder control has only 6 counters open for 5 ships. A nightmare that gives no privilege to those silver haired and with walking aid

Sitka

This is a very small town and I think our 2800 cruise ship just overwhelmed it. Restaurants services were slow to bad, food were mediocre. We paid $45 for a burger, a beer and a soup, plus tips. So-so stuff and disappointing seating. In all due respect, we decided to eat at the ship. Speciality restaurants only asked for US$29/pax cover

Glacier Bay

Stunning view and the highlight of the trip. We had only seen this on Discovery & Nat Geo. Was sad to hear from a fellow traveller that the Glacier is much smaller than when she 1st visited 10 years ago. Ouch. Better hurry and visit before it is gone.

Ketchikan

Took us over 2 hours to get on a tender and another hour to shore. Almost got seasick. Gone for a walk in the rain. Bought something from the local salvation army and made a donation too. The PolarBear/Husky is now safely in the topics enjoying the warm weather. hehehehe

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