The short review is, great cruise, would absolutely recommend it and would even do this trip again. This was a really good way to see some of the Pacific coast, plus it gave 2 days and 1 night in San Francisco - cruising into San Francisco at dawn was stunning. So, we arrived in Seattle a day early and spent the afternoon walking the area, taking in Pike's Place Market and enjoying the sites. The ship itself is a beautiful ship and I found it easy to learn your way around. The ports of Astoria, Oregon and Victoria, Canada were quaint and just beautiful places to visit. We rented a car in Astoria and in Victoria, this was a very cost-effective way to see the area on your own time and leisure. Heading South out of Astoria takes you to Seaside and then a bit further to Cannon Beach - just beautiful areas of rugged shoreline, broad beaches and the mesmerizing surf. The car rental companies were relatively close to the ports and easy to get to with shuttles. Butchart Gardens in Victoria are beyond gorgeous, would love to see this place in the different seasons. In San Francisco we booked a Jail and Sail tour thru Viator, this got us to Alcatraz and then later a sunset cruise in the San Francisco bay, both were outstanding. This particular tour combination was not offered by the cruise line, but Viator was easy and a good price.

If doing Alcatraz, via the cruise line or Viator, whoever, book early, Alcatraz sells out and it doesn't disappoint. We did a Sonoma wine country tour through the cruise line and had a very nice day at Cline Cellars and a quick stop for lunch in Sonoma, the excursion was on a comfortable tour bus and we also actually got to see sites in San Francisco like China Town and other spots. Loved having a sea day in the beginning and then near the end of the week, perfect time for relaxing and enjoying the ship.

All staff I encountered on the cruise were friendly and cheerful and wanted to please. I found there to be plenty of staff available and attending to your needs in the Windjammer (buffet) dining area, whether it was clearing dishes or offering to bring you something to drink. I also found it easy to get a drink on this ship, the bar staff were ample and ready to wait on you, service on this ship was outstanding on all levels - the room attendant, the bar staff, buffet staff, main dining room staff (I did not go to specialty restaurants). Read more