Just returned from my favorite place, Alaska. I have been on three Alaskan cruises and this was the worst although I have to admit there were some bright spots.

Smoking...there were smokers everywhere it seemed......in the cabin next door which the smoke came out into the hall (there were only 3 cabins on this aisle) so we had to pass by them every time we came and went into our room. On all of the outside areas and especially on level 7 which is the promenade deck. I love to get out and walk especially on sea days and it was hard not to have to breath in the smoke as you walked by. Even up on the level 13 decks where there would not only be smoke but cigar smoking as well. Can't wait for cruise lines to go completely smoke free.

Dining Room Food...we ate in both non-specialty dining rooms and it was really hit or miss. Where has all the fun gone from these rooms......when did they go from five courses to three?? When did the portions shrink? It seemed the waiters where always in a hurry to get you through dinner so someone else could come in and use the table. Quality of food was marginal at best. My partner ordered a steak and when they brought it to her I burst out laughing. It looked like a breakfast steak in size and looks as it was very thin and rather grey looking. I ordered the special one night and it was a small piece of fish with cold BBQ sauce over it. The one meal I did enjoy was half of a lobster tale with a small piece of Snapper. Read more