First, My husband and I have taken 33 cruises in the last 17 years. So we did miss cruising. We chose an Alaskan cruise because we felt that Alaska wanted cruisers to return and would try to make sure the approved cruises did take place.
We chose the Celebrity as we purchased it at a reduced price. We booked our flights through Celebrity, which to my surprise, saved us $300.00. We did fly out on the day of the cruise; however, we were in Seattle by 9:00 AM which gave us plenty of time. We took a taxi (which cost $30.00) to the cruise port. While we were early, we found a place to sit and other people waiting. The harbor area was dead at that time on Friday morning, but we felt completely safe. They took our bags and actually allowed us to embark early. Yes, we did have to show our papers three times, but NO Problem, just keep it in your hands!
We had an inside room, but it was very nice and updated. We especially, liked the glass shower door. There was plenty of space for all our things. We only sleep and shower in our room, so inside does not bother us. The ship was only about half full. There was no waiting, and plenty of seats wherever you went. It was really nice!! Because everyone had to be vaccinated, we did not have to wear masks on this ship.(This is another reason I chose it) The ship was updated and had a lot of class. However, we felt the entertainment was a little weak but we understand that with only half capacity you can not afford the higher talent.
Very updated, bed very good. Stewart came once a day, but we still got our chocolates on the pillows!
Endicott Arm was actually a fiord, which was very beautiful. We had never been there before.
Icy Strait had sure changed in the last 7 years. I just wished we had not spent so much money going on a bear hunt when they knew the bears had been gone for a month. I did enjoy walking around. You could not walk to Hoonah . They stated they had a COVID outbreak. We did that last time and really enjoyed it! You could only stay in the port area.
We bought a city tour right on the dock. Many people saw many whales, we have seen only a few whales when we went on a whale watch so we did not do this this visit. Beautiful place to visit. The food on the dock was very good.!
Ketchikan is a fun place to visit - Totem poles, eagles, Lumperjack show - so we did something different and booked a Crab Feast. It was wonderful!! All the crab you could eat in an hour and 30 minutes. The drive was also beautiful