Alaska was very cold and very wet. It was beautiful to see and experience, but will not return. Once was enough for me. Alaska was very isolated and although the people were nice, most of our tour guides were people not from Alaska, which was disappointing. I didn’t care for the feeling of being constantly isolated from the rest of the world. It’s worth seeing once in your lifetime, but like I said once was enough for me. Despite the weather being ugly, I did enjoy my vacation as did my teen sons and husband.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
We were a part of a 5 day pre cruise land tour that included Fairbanks, Denali, Anchorage and Seward. Embarkation for us was very late due for us due to a sightseeing trip that was part of our land tour. It was fast and relatively easy. The one complaint I do have, was that a separate Covid test was required for the land tour portion. When we arrived in Fairbanks-not one person from Royal asked to see the results. If I had known this, I would never have paid to have the test done.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
Food was always delicious! We had most of our meals in the main dining room and we were never disappointed. Would like Royal to add more selections. It seems like after day 4, they were offering things that were already on the previous night’s menu. Would like them to bring back the Parmesan crusted turkey medallions they had years ago. It was one of my favorites.
Onboard Activities
1 out of 5
Didn’t do onboard activities. This was an extensive sight seeing trip for our family, so we were busy doing things off ship.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
As always with the smaller ships, the service is outstanding and very personalized. Love the the smaller ships for this.
Ship Quality
4 out of 5
This ship was great. Yes it is older, smaller, and doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of the newer mega ships, but these are the ships I truly enjoy! It was absolutely perfect for this itinerary. I can’t wait to sail her again in November.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
We were upgraded by Royal to a balcony from an inside. This was done by Royal and not through the ‘Royal Up’ program. The stateroom was great and we got see so much marine life. Keeping the door open at night to have fresh air while we slept was an added bonus. We could really use the balcony because of the rainy, cold weather on most days though.
Best stop. We actually splurged and did the excursion that went right up to the Hubbard Glacier. It was worth every penny! The glacier was so beautiful and seeing/hearing it calve was beyond comprehension. Best experience of the trip!
Interesting perspective. You don't hear many people say what they didn't like about their vacation spot was that there were too few people. Everyone is different.
@AuntPinkie-thats how I felt. I’ve been born and raised in Northeastern PA. Granted our mountains are not as tall as Alaska and Colorado, I’m still surrounded by beautiful mountains, wildlife, lakes and trees. The scenery was pretty similar.
Appreciate your feedback. I understand your attitude towards Alaska. I enjoyed our visit, but living in Colorado the mountains didn’t impress me as much as it seemed to others. Glad you enjoyed your trip and happy you were able to see it at least once.
Guess Alaska is not for everyone. We feel it is a gem of a destination for cruising, the beauty is unsurpassed. We have been to many areas in this world to compare. It is terrific that overall you enjoyed your cruise and experience.
Thanks for the review. I just completed my 3rd cruise to Alaska in May and will gladly go back anytime. I love the scenery and lack of major cities / large populations in the majority of the ports. Cruising in May / June will generally be less rain and better weather than July through the end of the cruise season.
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