We didn't book any tour in Ketchikan - just jumped on the local bus for $1 each return (senior rate)to the State Totem Pole Park, had a hour or so there, then rode back to downtown and walked around the shops before returning to the ship in time for early sailing at 1pm. 


Ketchikan

We booked an independent whale watching tour with Harv and Marv - chose this because of good reports on the Cruise Critic and Trip Advisor forums. Had a great trip out and saw some whales, the dropped off at the Mendenhall glacier on the way back - opted for a local shuttle bus back ($8 each) rather than the return transport offered by Harv & Marv, which only waits for 15 minutes. We wanted to walk up to the waterfall near the face of the glacier - much better views - an hour and a half needed for this walk. Took the shuttle back to downtown and walked arouynd the shops, had fish and chips lunch, then walked back to the ship. 


Juneau

We booked DyeaDave emerald lake tour independently - chosen because of great reports here and in Trip Advisor. Had a great day out, saw wildlife including bears, a porcupine and eagles. Dave is an entertaining and informative guide. 


Skagway

Reasonable size cabin, good balcony, great wardrobe space, small shower.
Balcony is double sized - partially covered and open area overlooked fro decks above.
Shame that no tea and coffee making facility provided (we have had this on every other cruise we have been on).

The final day included a cruise-by visit to College Fjord - not such good weather this time and a lot of floating ice in the water, which deterred the captain from taking the ship too close.But still good glacier viewing, although not a patch on Glacier Bay.

Island Princess Review

First time Alaska

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