Although this was my very first cruise, my expectations were high and I was not disappointed. I flew into Seattle from Los Angeles the morning of the cruise and arrived without incident. The transfer from the airport was through Holland America and it went like clockwork. The registration process took approximately 20 minutes and was also seamless. Upon boarding, I wandered around the ship just exploring the layout and the beautiful artwork exhibited throughout. Rather than fighting the masses trying to feed in the Lido, I opted for a leisurely drink at the aft bar. The bar personnel were very personable and efficient from the beginning of the cruise until the very end. It was a little over an hour until the staterooms were ready and when I entered my SY cabin, it was wonderful and very spacious. I was traveling solo and it was a real luxury to have all that space to myself. My cabin steward, Rohman, came by and introduced himself and took excellent care of my cabin and me throughout the entire voyage. The verandah sported a round dining table and two chairs and there were two other faux wicker chairs with matching ottomans. Despite the occasional rain and chilly weather, it was wonderful to be able to relax in the piece and quiet of my verandah and enjoy the spectacular scenery. Very early the second morning while having my morning coffee and cigarette, a single orca leapt out of the ocean and made a spectacular splash. It was my only whale sighting and I will never forget it.

I had room service breakfast 6 of the 7 mornings on board and everything arrived on time, hot and tasty. The one morning I had breakfast in the Vista was also excellent and the service impeccable. I had room service several more times throughout the cruise for lunch or dinner and never had bad service nor bad food. The room service stewards were friendly and timely in the delivery of each meal and in picking up the dishes after I called. The one meal that I had in the Pinnacle Grill was absolutely delicious and the service was 5 star. You certainly couldn't get that type of meal or service for $30 in any land restaurant.

I didn't plan any land excursions so I have nothing to report on that subject. The day in Glacier Bay was slightly damp and a little overcast, but what scenery! Mother Nature is unparalleled in her creations. The stop in Juneau was also rainy and cold and not very exciting. It is wonderful to be able to walk off the ship into port, but the port itself is unimpressive. Sitka and Ketchikan were far more interesting and provided much more to do than shop (although shopping there is just as plentiful). I had a great lunch in Sitka and toured the historic Russian "Cathedral" which is loaded with breathtaking religious icons. Read more