A Perfect Getaway

Cruises: 2-3 cruises

Reviews: 0

Helpful Votes: 39

Review summary

My wife and I took the cruise to celebrate our anniversary and to get away from daily life for a little while. Right from the start the baggage handler in Seattle was up beat and made you feel welcome. We had some wait in the check in line, but that was the only delay of the entire trip. Once on board we felt like we were in a 5-star hotel with the rich appointments and beautiful art displayed throughout the ship. Our ocean view stateroom was ready for us shortly after boarding and our bags came shortly after, the stateroom was roomy and very clean. We found the ship to be easy to move around in and the layout was great. We were never more than a few floors from where we wanted to be and took the stairs versus the numberous elevators. The food was excellent for the most part. The Pinnacle Grill was outstanding and worth every penny of the $20 up charge per person. The Rotterdam Dining Room was also very good and the wait staff and wine stewards were outstanding providing excellent service as well as the occational magic trick. The buffet on the Lido deck seemed to be always available and with a huge selection that would be sure to please the pickiest of eaters. If all else fails you can get a burger or hot dog at the Lido Pool Grill or even build a taco or get a slice of pizza. We ordered breakfast in bed most every morning and it was a perfect to start each day. The ports we visited were all great and each has too many assets to list in this review. We were able to sample the local cultures and enjoy the beatiful landscapes that make Alaska so special. We were able to see Dall's porpoises, Humpback whales, Sealions, harbor seals, numberous eagles and a grizzly bear on our way into Glacier Bay from the ship. The facilities on board that we used were fantastic. The gym area was on the top floor of the ship over the navigation deck and has a commanding view over the bow of the ship. I was able to be on a treadmill and watch Humpback whales play as we cruise by. The evening shows by the Zaandam Dancers and Singers was a great surprise, as well as the culinary arts kitchen were we attended a cooking class by on of the great chefs on board. We also attended a beer tasting event in the Compass Bar and sampled some of the great beers of Alaska. Overall the trip was a huge success in our eyes and we couldn't find a thing to complain about, I even won money in the casino which is a rare event in it's self. We found that we could be alone if we chose to or with others partaking in one of the on-board activities. The ship was large enough to not feel crowded, but small enough to be able to get around it quite easily. It was the best.

Ship experiences

Food and Dining

Entertainment

Service and Staff

Ship Quality

Cabin / Stateroom

Ports of call

Sitka, Alaska