Regatta Review
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We're getting a little tired of the big ships and wanted to finally visit Alaska. Being Florida residents, Alaska is a bit of trip - it was always easier for us to fly to Europe direct from Miami or Orlando, so we never did, until now. There was no way we would cruise Alaska on a behemoth cruise ship, so let's respond the many marketing pieces from Oceania and see what we can see! So here we go!
After a lovely three days in Seattle WA, our first visit to the Pacific NW, we boarded the Regatta, directly across the street from our hotel, with no snags at our appointed time between 11am and noon. Our cabin was a Concierge Class room on Deck 7, mid-ship. The rooms were still being worked on so we headed up to the Terrace Cafe for lunch on a bright sunny day. After a brief look around we were greeted by a waiter with our drink requests. We had the drink package which allowed for unlimited drinks during lunch and dinner -all from a very nice selection of wines by-the-glass. Champagne was our choice to kick things off and we were pleasantly surprised when it turned out to be actual Champagne!
We like the Terrace system of ordering at the head of the counter and then being served at your table by a waiter when the order was up. Opting for our usual DR fare and service, we only accessed the Terrace twice during our 7-day cruise and only perused the adjacent inside buffet a couple of times. On this occasion at the Terrace, we each had the mahi plate which was very good.
Cabin Review
Deluxe Ocean View
(Dupe from main review) We found the stateroom is good order - with a bottle of Heidsick Champagne on ice! Yes, it's an older ship with only 600+ passengers, so opt for a Penthouse or Full suite if you're claustrophobic or will require a bit more room. Our room was just fine and had plenty enough storage for a 7-day. The video system provided a vast selection of films, live TV, classic TV series, and several music channels - as well as the daily menus. Luggage fit under the bed. The balcony was outfitted with 2 comfortable, padded chairs and a small table.
The bathroom however, was ergonomically deficient with the head placed at an awkward angle in a space that was too narrow for any adult other than the smallest amongst us. The shower was basically a phone booth for all those who remember those wonderful conveniences! Fixtures were high-end and the amenities were Bulgari. Plenty of good towels were provided. Our steward provided very good service but had a frequent propensity for knocking on our door during shower, rest, and dressing times. Tip: put the Do Not Disturb tag out whenever you're in your cabin.
Port Reviews
Inside Passage (Cruising)
A beautiful cruise on a spectacular day.
Ketchikan
Over-crowded with several massive ships in port. We did the Crab Feast at a waterside lodge outside of town and it was wonderful!
Outside Passage (Cruising)
Very foggy - good day to relax onboard.
Sitka
Had a great time visiting the Fortress of the Bears and the Raptor sanctuary.
Seattle
Enjoyed our three days here. Brought a three-attraction CityPass and went to the Space Needle and Chihuly Gardens, took the monorail down to the Public Market and ended the day with a Harbor cruise. On the other full day we brought a Viator package that took us to Snoqualmie Falls and two wineries - one being the Chateau St. Michelle, where we enjoyed a nice lunch and tasting. Both days were wonderful.
Victoria
Took the HOHO for a tour around the entire island - very beautiful city!
Wrangell
Lovely small town that doesn't get the mass-market cruise ships. Great museum and warm, friendly, welcoming people.