My husband and I traveled with 10 other family members to Alaska. While this was our third cruise, it was the first cruise adventure for almost all the others. Our ages ranged from 6 years old to 87 years old. It was the first time we had all vacationed together and cruising was the perfect choice. Each person found plenty to interest them in and out of port and we didnt all have to be together every minute of every day. We enjoyed meeting up at meals to share experiences and visit. It was a great family vacation!
Embarkation was a zoo. Some family members checked in early (11:30) and breezed right in. It took us at least an hour of standing in line before we got on board. But once aboard our rooms were ready and we were able to go straight to them. Then lunch was waiting for us in the Lido buffet and the food overdose officially began!
Alaska is truly magnificent and beautiful and several of us vowed to go back again and explore it on our own someday. The cruise ship is lovely but the Alaskan wilderness is the real star of the show. I urge anyone going to Alaska on a cruise to get out and do as many shore excursions as possible. Its well worth the money and you will not be disappointed (if you choose wisely). I booked 2 excursions directly with the vendors (via the internet) versus booking them through the ship. We saved a ton of money this way.