14 Night Great Alaskan Explorer (Seattle Roundtdrip)
Sail date: July 15, 2019
Ship:
Amsterdam
Cabin type: Balcony
Traveled as: Singles/Friends
Reviewed: 5 years ago
Review summary
I had a great time on my first Alaskan Cruise. It definitely won't be my last. I did tours (ship based) at each port, and still felt I missed things! It was exciting, yet I felt calm and well looked after on the ship. I went solo on this cruise, and though I didn't mind it, I will work harder to bring a travel-buddy for the next adventure!
Embarkation
5 out of 5
I spent extra time in the Port City to see the Seattle area, and it helped to know what pier to get to. The embarrassing was easy and the staff were very helpful. I even found what turned out to be my "cruise drink" during the sail away party!
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
The meals were all well done, and if something didn't suit my taste, there was plenty more to take care if my needs. The Somellier even made me rethink my "no white wine" idea, everything that was recommended was perfect!
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
This Holland America ship was a bit more refined than on other ships, but the shows, lessons, and even afternoon teas were great. The "Explore the Port" lectures were less informative than a 5 minute online research, but otherwise a fine set if options.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
I enjoyed spending time with the piano bar crowd, though I didn't go to many of the other shows.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
The waiters, sonelliers, and room stewards all definitely deserved and earned extra tips from me. All were extremely helpful and friendly.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
This was a well cleaned ship. At times I wish it was a little bigger, but my biggest complaint was the poor quality of the wifi (even the package I had) and the lack of up to date services (the room TV was simply a TV, and not the essentially computer I have been spoiled with)
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
My room 6226, was at the back, so I was rocked to sleep some nights, and heard a few "happy birthday" sings from the dining room below. There was plenty of space, and the sights from the balcony were well worth the cost.
Ship tip
It is an older ship, so don't expect hi tech amenities.
I had a lot of fun here. I did the train and booze tour. We took Railroad Alaska to the Alyska (?) Ski slopes, then after coming back down the team way, we got on a bus and visited/sampled at a brewery, cidery and distillery back to the ship. Sad I could not get bottles for home shipped.
I had a lot of fun. I went to the Eagle Hospital/sanctuary, the Fortress of the Bears, and a hatchery/science museum. I even was able to get a nice quilt with lovely scenes of the local animals from a local shop.
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