We joined this cruise very much under protest as we had been due to sail with Un=Cruise on one of their "tiny" ships (36 passengers) but it had engine trouble and so we were offered the alternative (cost met by Un-Cruise) of 5 nights aboard L'Austral. None of us wanted a large cruise ship -anything above 500 passengers is not our scene and even the 250 passenger L'Austral seemed huge in comparison to what we had planned.
However we were made very welcome on board and quickly settled into a life of luxury. Obviously with only 250 passengers the choice of activity and food is more limited than on a larger ship but we had absolutely no reason to complain. The crew were all attentive and friendly form the tender boat crew right up to the Captain and the officers were very much in evidence at all meals.
The cabin so far as we were concerned was very suitable and indeed we praised its design with separate WC room and showeroom with washhand basin. Yes these 2 rooms were small but how long do you intend to spend in them! The kingsize bed was extremely comfortable,
Kayacking on Lake Chilkoot. Well organised and guided by experienced local kayackers
Minibus tour of town and environs. Very average bot reasonable value for money
This was a hike combined with rafting so hiking up through woodland close to a river and then rafting back to the minibus. The guide was very knowledgeable about local flora.
As we had not seen any bears yet we arranged a float plane trip out to a very remote river and forested area not much frequented by tourists. The pilot left us there with a highly experienced guide but had to take a photo on his camera to be sure of finding the right place to collect us 3 hour or so later. Excellent intro to the wilds of Alaska but no bears.
As to Juneau it itself we were there for the 4th July parade which was an experience in itself for we Brits