My husband and I booked this cruise, our third Alaskan cruise, with HAL Ryndam for two specific reasons. First we wanted an itinerary that cruised through the Inside Passage, and secondly; we wanted to try a smaller ship. We are in our early 40's and did not travel with children. Our previous cruises have been on Celebrity and Princess.

We arrived in Anchorage the night before the cruise and stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn. A very nice hotel for the night with a free shuttle from the airport and then to the conference center where we then picked up a transfer bus to Seward. We arrived early and were on the first bus out of the center. The bus ride to Seward was a little long, but a beautiful ride. When we arrived at the cruise terminal, there was no line and check-in and it took less than 5 minutes. When we got on the ship our cabin was already ready and we just walked right to it.

We booked an inside large stateroom (611) and it was lovely! The bathroom was spacious and had a large beautiful countertop. There was a small couch, chair, table and credenza with a flat screen T.V. The bed was a queen and very comfortable. The room was in a quiet location, in the middle of the ship. Based on past experience, it is important to check the ship layout to make sure your cabin is not above or below a noisy area, ie: children's play area, fitness equipment, bar or lounge with music. Read more