In short summary this was one of the best cruises we have ever taken and with the amount of cruises we have taken this is no small compliment.

Arrived into Anchorage (hubby and I) very late and then caught the early train to Denali. The train was great and so easy. We booked directly with the AK Railroad but somehow made it to the Princess roster. Princess had a great private car and as this trip was early in the season there were not many of us. great views and service. We saw lots of wild life and enjoyed the ride.

We stopped at the McKinley Lodge and stayed there. This was the only negative of the trip. While the lodge is lovely, Carnival in its infinite cost cutting wisdom had severely understaffed the resort and on only its second week of the season I spoke with several staff who were so frustrated they were on the verge of tears. They still kept up with the best service they could but I felt horrible for what we were seeing and the mess up with our reservation did not help either. These are folks who have worked many seasons and several were considering leaving as this "was not the same place they had enjoyed through the years". As an example, the porters (mostly college boys) were being used double duty as housekeeping on double shifts....yes, Carnival Corp. has "vast wisdom" but hopefully they will wake up. A scathing call to Princess Corporate as well as a follow up letter will hopefully help. However, the lodge is a lodge and those looking for luxury are going to be disappointed here. Still the views on the clear days we had were breath taking! Recommend to bring strong insect repellent with you and spend time in Talkeetna. This is a great little town and lots of great shops with excellent prices. The chowder at the Main Street Cafe was out of this world! The short hike to the river off of Main Street in Talkeetna (yes, it really is short and easy) was well worth the view of McKinley! Take the trail to the right, it is shorter and somewhat less traveled. There is also a big old log nearby the water's edge to sit on and just enjoy the beauty. Read more