This cruise was our third cruise since the restart. Overall we had a good cruise but I think all the cruise lines have some work to do to earn back the loyalty of their customers.

This Alaska cruise is one of my favorite Alaska itineraries. Because it begins and ends in Vancouver BC there is no need for a stop in Victoria. Although I like Victoria, some of the cruise ship stops are at bad times and basically a waste of a day.

Glacier Bay is the highlight of this cruise. Although it was mostly cloudy during our time there, we were able to see the glaciers well and I got some good pictures. Koningsdam is great for this as you have the full Promenade Deck on 3 as well as numerous outdoor areas from which to view the glaciers. You feel close to the water on Deck 3 and you can hear the calving of the glaciers. Traditional Dutch split-pea soup is served and it makes for a memorable event. HAL also brings the National Park Service Rangers aboard for a full day of Alaska related programming. They set up on 12 up in the Crows Nest/Explorers Lounge at the front of the ship. There has been much talk about newer ships from different lines not having a forward lounge and reserving this prime location for suite passengers only. That is not the case on Koningsdam. Read more