ACL has this approach to cruising figured out. The ships match the ports, the shore and sea excursions match the guests interests, and the staff provide a complete support program to ensure all guests expectations are met. The ACL staff was remarkably competent and compatible, The guest lecture and artist were highly talented and professional. The entertainers fit into the overall concept as did all the shore excursion people we met. We had a similar experience on ACL's 2019 Hudson River Cruise, so it is our hope we will find this everywhere ACL goes.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Super, good hotel, followed by informative and entertaining city tour of Seattle. Set a high bar for the rest of the trip!
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
ACL's Spirit has one dining room. every seat has a great view of the passing scenery, A smaller menue but done right. Food was very good, wine included, and service was top notch.
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
The ship has exercise equipment, but ACL has designed to fit in at least one port everyday, and every port has guided walking tours, plus a host of on shore tours. Guests are comfortable on-board and active on shore.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
ACL spends time preparing guests to take full advantage of a unique, beautiful, and one-of-a-kind small ship cruise, exploring in-depth the San Juan islands. The briefings by the cruise director, pre and post visit lectures on history, geology, flora an fauna, plus careful selection of small group local guides to explore every stop. The artistically inclined develop a watercolor diary of every stop and notable sea-scene under the supervision of a multitalented artist, who introduces new painting techniques daily. These plus the focus on local entertainment every day, allow the guests to leave the cruise with a balanced view of the Puget Sound and full appreciation of it's magnificence.
Children's Programs
5 out of 5
n/a
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
The staff is young, eager and fun to be around. No matter what the job description, it was all-hands-on-deck when it cam time to load supplies, prepare for port calls, and conduct drills. This carried over to the dining and entertainment venues, there was always someone there to help. Having trouble with a hot spot, the Cruise Director would be there in a minute. No surly "not my job" employees on this ship
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
We think the ship is well designed for this type cruising. Stable shallow draft boat able to nose into small ports, slow or stop to see whales or a perfect sunset, or lower the ship's boat to save guests long walks around the quay. The ship was clean, top to bottom.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
The cabins are large, comfortable, and well equipped. The average cruise is 7 nights and dress codes are relaxed so storage is fine. The stewards offer morning clean-up and evening turn-down and touch up services; very nice.
Ship tip
Take full advantage of everything ACL has to offer. This is a rare opportunity to immerse yourselves in one of America's most beautiful spots. ACL will make this a once-in a lifetime experience for you.
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