This was my third Alaskan cruise and probably the best one yet! I flew into Seattle and stayed at the W close to the pier. Seattle was great especially the visit to Pike's Market. Other than having to cross a very busy parade route on my way to the pier embarkation was fast and easy. We boarded the Pearl and headed for the buffet for a great lunch. I had initially planned this trip for my mother who had just turned 90 and was going to join some friends. At the last minute I invited my daughter and her 6 month old son. They managed to get a good room close to ours which helped make our trip fantastic. The ship is beautiful and well maintained. For the most part the food was terrific. The staff excellent we were were pampered and spoiled the whole trip. Traveling with an elderly parent and young baby can be challenging but in this case it was not. The staff helped with embarkation and always seated us in great locations, were quick to help with high chairs etc and were gracious at all time.

The ship itinerary is good but pretty standard for the Alaskan cruises. Our excursions were lots of fun but some of them a little crowded. The beauty of the Alaskan mountains and the abundance of wildlife is breathtaking.

Debarkation was smooth and efficient. Read more