We chose this cruise because an "expert" told us this was the best way to see Alaska. We disagree completely after this experience. The actual ship itself was beautiful as we know it was just about a year old. Booking was not clear and seamed like everything was "extra" which is odd for a typical cruise. Once booked at not the best price by any means, the process from there of checking in etc was not as clear as it should be.
Embarkation was smooth as possible. Disembarkation for each port was awful. No clear communication of what the plan was, they called everyone at once vs floor by floor so it was long lines, slow moving and a complete fire hazard. If we actually had to get off the boat for an emergency, thank goodness we didn't, it would be a disaster. The fact they only had one door open for thousands of people to exit was mismanagement. The staff had contradicting directions and operated like they've never done this before. Final disembarkation was a cluster as people didn't understand the tag system, when they needed to get off, where the luggage was going to be etc. I honestly felt bad for 1/2 the travelers because they were foreign or elderly and purely lost.
Dining was fine as we didn't get the upgraded dining packages. Probably the one area of our experience that was on par with expectations.
Cabin was nice. Thank goodness for the balcony.
Very pretty
Victoria is gorgeous, but we didn't have enough time on the island.