My wife Kim had been after me for years to take an Alaskan Cruise, but I really didn’t have an interest....wasn’t on my bucket list! I’m a “throw the bathing suit, flip flops and shorts in the suitcase” kinda guy! Give me some sun, the beach and scold drink and l’m a happy camper.
However, I finally acquiesced and we were off to Alaska. I am now one of those people who have done a complete 180.
I truly can now recommend an Alaskan Cruise. I would also recommend doing a cruise/land package. And do it with Princess...they have their own trains to take you into the interior and their beautiful lodges are in the National Park.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Once we got through Customs (arrived in Vancouver), it was clear “sailing”! The motor coaches supplied by Princess were waiting at the airport to whisk you right to the port. Boarding the ship at the port was swift and smooth!
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
The food and drinks were really good. It certainly lived up to Princess standards. Even the buffet, which can get boring on most cruises, was varied and well done.
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
Obviously, on an Alaskan Cruise there are not many poolside activities. However, “Movies Under the Stars” was a good experience....good movies.
The group we were with really enjoyed the onboard (inside) activities...dance lessons, cooking classes, health classes, wine tastings and especially the “Learn to Play the Harmonica” (which we did!). There were a number of presentations (that I usually don’t attend, but glad I did) given by Naturalists and a woman who won the Iditarod. Great talks with videos.
Entertainment
3 out of 5
Here’s where expectations were not met. The entertainment was not what we usually experience on Princess. However, considering that Alaska is “The Land of the Midnight Sun”, this was no biggie, since there was plenty of daylight to take in the scenic views.
Children's Programs
Don’t have children
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
From the cabin steward, to the dinner waiters, to the buffet staff, to the guest relations staff and everyone in between....we were pleased with all interactions with these folks.
We did the cruise/land package and found all the staff in the Princess Lodge’s and restaurants to be friendly and eager to please.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Most of the ship was clean and tidy.
Cabin / Stateroom
4 out of 5
Room was large enough, nice layout, comfortable bed, adequate bathroom and good storage. The cabin(s) is (are) dated. Also, balcony area definitely needed “sprucing” up.
Ship tip
Definitely do not forget to visit The International Cafe. Great coffee(s), desserts and quick bites. Not as good for “people watching” as The International Cafes on the other Princess ships which are located in ships’ atrium, but it is still a good bet! AND don’t fail to purchase the coffee card!
Beautiful city with lots of “stuff” to see....rivers, canneries, totem poles, wildlife and let’s not forget, Dolly’s House! (Look that one up!). We took an excursion that showed you a lot of the highlights of this city.
Main Street in Skagway is loaded with historic buildings, cafes and shops. Booked a sight seeing tour there which dog sledding and visit to great museum and petting zoo. Lots of fun. Our bus driver was terrific. She was a novelist and was so entertaining and knowledgeable.
KiwiAussie....you’re welcome. BTW, my wife’s nickname is Kiwi....so there you go!
Sus50
Yep...you’re going to love. It is truly awe/inspiring. The only thing I wish we had done differently was to have done this cruise the way you’re doing it...Southbound.
Please, please.... if you have the time to do it (while in Fairbanks) do the Discovery III Sternwheeler your. You will definitely thank me!
Have fun...you’ll really enjoy your cruise!
Thank you for such a great review. We are doing the same trip but south bound. Starting in Fairbanks. thank you for making me so exited my husband has been wanting this trip forever and I’m like you. Now I’m exited for our adventure.
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