I enjoyed the whole time with my expectations set appropriately for short staff all over the world, short tempers for those who should probably just stay home. We had amazing calm seas and beautiful views.
Embarkation
3 out of 5
So much confusion regardless of all of the notifications.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
Service staff deserve so much credit for their patience, grace and good humor in most cases. Food was ok but seemed a little more institution style than usual. I wish I would have brought gloves to serve myself at the buffet stations to discard prior to eating.
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
Massage, thermal suites were my favorite. I enjoyed arcade time with my grandson and North Star with family, too.
Entertainment
4 out of 5
My main complaint is that it was all too loud and added to the constant feeling of overstimulation and exhaustion. We wanted to stay out and shop and party but it was too overwhelming.
Children's Programs
Our youngest members weren't interested in doing what they an do in their home or suite. They wanted to be with their incredible families, of course!
Service and Staff
4 out of 5
The concierge and most wait staff were absolutely incredible. Our room steward was fine and probably overwhelmed. I've had more engaged service on prior cruises. Massage therapist was excellent and I was sad not to be able to get back to see her again.
Ship Quality
4 out of 5
It's so big but seemed fairly clean. I appreciate that staff wasn't in the way doing upkeep and maintenance during busy times unless absolutely necessary.
Cabin / Stateroom
4 out of 5
The coffee table should be smaller. Being glass made it easy to overlook and trip on especially at night. It felt dangerous entering at night before inserting the key card for light. Everything was comfortable and well thought out otherwise.
Ship tip
Get a map in your mind of how to get to your room. Put decorations on your door to help you and family find it. Be prepared to spend a week after the trip in isolation with Covid. Over half of our group got it.
Most port towns seem about the same any more whether we're in New Zealand or Alaska. Getting away from them with the right crew makes them worth the process. The trolley tour we took was probably not the best choice.
It was very disappointing that we left the glacier area before we got to a spot on the ship where we could see it. Luckily for me, I've been to Alaska on Alaska Dream Cruise line but my kids will have to return if they want to see calving. Endicott Arms area is beautiful from anywhere on the ship.
Our trip to the fish hatchery, Mendenhall and Alaskan Brewing Co with Gene was definitely a success though we would have loved even more time. I was astonished at the change in Mendenhall from just 6 years ago.
We had a fantastic whale tour with Eagle Wing and a stunningly beautiful evening for it. We didn't have time to see any of Victoria but it looked lovely.
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