Zaandam Review
Rating by category
Additional details
We did the land and sea trip, landing first in Fairbanks AK. The arrival to Fairbanks Airport was seamless and staff were waiting for us with envelopes in hand. Communication was excellent and we proceeded by coach to the hotel. Was a quick night stay in a lovely hotel before being shuttled off to the Riverboat tour. This was an informative, relaxing and enjoyable tour with a hearty meal afterwards.
We then proceeded by coach to the McKinley Westmark Hotel in Denali. Took a bit of a learning curve to figure how to get about the grounds and where things were located but otherwise the beauty of this area is astounding. Cost to eat meals is quite expensive and most of the entire area is owned by Holland America or Princess Cruise lines. We learnt that after the last cruise of the season, the entire area is boarded up, stop lights shut off and everything is closed till spring.
Took part in the bus tour into Denali National Park in attempts to see Mt. McKinley or Denali Mountain. Only about 30% of visitors get to witness the highest mountain in Alaska. We weren't part of the lucky ones, however we did see plenty of wildlife and enjoyed the rugged scenery along the way. Our driver and guide "Becky" was extremely knowledgeable of the area and the animals/birds we were seeing.
Cabin Review
Large Interior Stateroom
Plenty large enough for the 2 of us. Didn't spend much time in room other than to sleep, clean up and get dressed. Shower temperature fluctuated so make sure you don't have it too hot. Bed was a bit too firm so room steward brought a foam topper and this solved the problem. Awful Smell in the hallway for several days.
Port Reviews
Seward
We went right from the train several hundred feet from the port, into customs and onto the ship. Would have been nice to of had some time to explore but didn't appear that there was much around it.
Glacier Bay
Guests did not get off the ship for this port of call as we don't exactly land anywhere. We sailed to the end of the waters opening into an area where the glaciers meet the ocean. Words and pictures do not show the great beauty of this port of call. Was my favourite!!!
Ketchikan
Was the most affordable place to buy items. By far the most prettiest stopping port of the 3 stopped at. Walked easily around town. Ate lunch at a place called "Burger Queen" great halibut sandwiches!!!!.