I was invited to join my friends on this Alaskan cruise to celebrate their anniversary. I had never really considered going to Alaska because I live in the Pacific Northwest and thought it woukd be too similar to where I live. I was so wrong! The scenery is beyond words. The colors are intense and the mountains are majestic and wildlife abundant. I would go on the exact same cruise on Solstice in a heartbeat.I hope I get the opportunity to do this again in my lifetime. Highly recommended.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
We booked an Aqua class cabin and had priority boarding. It was a fast process, and all passengers were offered champagne as we boarded.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
Aqua class gave us access to the restaurant called Blue that offers healthy options. We enjoyed it for most of our meals.
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
We enjoyed the presentations about Alaska and wildlife. The captain also gave a great presentation about the ship. We participated in glass blowing, and enjoyed the actual grass lawn on the top deck. The spa was wonderful, with heated lounges and an ocean view.
Entertainment
4 out of 5
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
Ship tip
We did not use our balcony because it was very cold outside. And at Dawes glacier you get a better overall view of the glacier from up on deck than from your cabin balcony. Pack a winter jacket gloves and hat, even in the summer, because it is freezing near the glacier.
We took the Photo Safari tour. It was supposed to be guided by a photographer on a walk to the glacier and then on a whale watching boat. The walk to the glacier was a disappointing. Our guide was not interested in photography, and he spent all his time talking about conservation. We were in the woods for over two hours and ended up with a distant view of the glacier for a couple minutes Before being rushed back to the bus because we were late. Our guide spent the tour talking about his interests in conservation, not photography. The boat tour was much better because we did see many whales, Eagles, and seals and I was able to capture a few great shots.
The captain sailed as close as possible. The ships design is unique, allowing it to spin in circles so the glacier could be viewed from all sides of the vessel. The sun decided to emerge from the clouds at the exact moments we arrived at the glacier. Spectacular!
We walked through town, Creek Street, and saw the lumberjack show. The show was a bit corny, but also very entertaining. Even in the rain the scenery eas spectacular.
We went on a bus tour past White Pass to the Yukon and a suspension bridge. We had the funniest bus driver.She stopped multiple times on the side of the road so that we could take pictures of bears, a mama and baby moose, and spectacular views of the Yukon and tundra landscape. We still had time to explore Skagway and shop afterward. This was my favorite tour.
I've never been interested in going to Alaska, but after seeing your beautiful pictures and reviews, I've changed my mind about cruising to Alaska. Thank you for sharing.
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