This was our first Alaskan cruise and our 2nd cruise on the Oosterdam this year. It previously sailed out of San Diego to the Mexican Rivera. The ship does not disappoint. We had the back, corner room with the wrap around veranda. This is what we wanted so that was great. The only drawback to this room is there is some vibration from underneath and the seas were a little choppy the first full day at sea. Seasick bags were even put out in the public places. Fortunately we did fine and the seas subsided after that day. The staff on the Oosterdam is first-rate. There is not one person that didn't speak to us in passing. The casino crew were just great. Tons of fun the entire time. The performers were good, the food yummy, and the atmosphere just perfect. Every need was met.Now for the ports of call.....AWESOME! I would suggest sailing early in the season if you want to see the snow in the mountains. Don't be afraid to pack cold weather clothes if you're going in May-June! I had on my ski jacket, wind suit, ski gloves, cap, & rain coat in Glacier Bay! The glacier was beautiful and we had plenty of time to watch for calving. Juneau was spectacular. We were so blessed to have a 70 degree day. Lots of sunshine. The Mendenhahl Glacier was awesome and we did the Salmon Bake excursion. The salmon was GREAT and the setting for the bake was very nice with a waterfall and river running beside the camp. Sitka is such a quaint, beautiful town. St. Michael's is lovely and St. Lutheran's Church was selling popcorn on the street! Yummy!! We took the Sea Otter/Bear Fortress excursion. We saw multitudes of sea otters, harbor seals, and even found whales in action including a mother and her calf! The captain of the boat was so informative and pleasant. We only a few minutes at the bear fortress but it was worth the drive. Ketchikan was true to its word with its "liquid sunshine!" It's no problem if you go prepared. A rain jacket with a hood is sufficient! We had a delicious bowl of clam chowder at a little sidewalk hut called the Grizzly Grill. It is located just down from the ship. A little green hut, or maybe yellow, I believe! The Lumberjack Show was very entertaining and very enjoyable. Not much time in Ketchikan so you have to look and buy quick! Victoria is quite lovely. Be sure to stop at the "Cafe" restaurant right at the pier. There is a dive shop located on the bottom floor, the restaurant on the top. Clam chowder was divine!All in all the cruise was perfect. If you are prepared for the elements then there is nothing to worry about. Our cabin had a pair of binoculars for our use, but next time I will take an extra set so my husband and I can both have a pair to use. The Pinnacle Grill for dinner is a must, as is Canelleto Restaurant. Make your reservations for The Pinnacle online in order to get the time you wish. Reservations for the Canelleto should be made as soon as you board. We are looking forward to our next Holland America Cruise! We love this line and love the way they treat their guests! Bon Voyage!