We chose this cruise for itinerary & price, and to visit my sister in Otaru. Embarkation was very smooth. Cabin (8129) was OK, but was showing its age. TV was an old LCD with a "fuzzy" picture. Our cabin's housekeeper always greeted us and took care of our needs. Cabin was kept clean & lines fresh. We purchased soda package. Limited selection of diet sodas, but good enough. They don't stock bitter lemon! Why? Servers made sure that were never "dry" on sodas. We spent most of our free time in coffee lounge. Staff members there were wonderful and cookies fresh.
Captain Alex could be counted on to keep us informed of cruise progress & issues. His jokes were deliberately "corny." Fun hearing from him.
Fellow passengers were very friendly and were very interested in other travel experiences. Some children on cruise, but they were well behaved & courteous.
Clean cabin, but showing age. Power went off twice the first night at sea. When power came back, water was brown(rust, not other stuff). Communicating door to next cabin had gaps that let cold air whistle into our cabin. They would leave veranda door open.
TV programming selection was average. Movie selections were poor.
Strolled on to shore for a few pictures. Took shuttle to town. Sitka was winding down tourist season.
Nice vibrant city wwith excellent asian restaurants.