Alaska is the destination that changed my life forever. In 1997, I celebrated my 5th year working on board and decided to go back home and have a "normal life", so for my final contract I chose Alaska.
On my first Alaskan cruise, I had the privilege of exploring the awe-inspiring Glacier Bay while sailing from Vancouver. As our experienced Captain guided the ship through the picturesque bay, my excitement grew in tandem with the stunning vistas that surrounded us. It was a momentous occasion when we finally approached the imposing glacier, leaving me with a lasting impression of this incredible journey.
So, that evening, I contacted the head office and informed them that I will be back. And, on my next contract, in Nov 1997, I met Maria, my future wife (now, my ex-wife), and the mother of our son, Oliver.
Cruising in Alaska is a popular and breathtaking experience, offering stunning landscapes, wildlife viewing, and the opportunity to explore remote and picturesque destinations. Here are some of the reasons why Alaska is one of the top cruise destination in the world:
Spectacular scenery: Alaska is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world, including towering mountains, lush rainforests, and tidewater glaciers. Cruising is a great way to see all of this beauty up close, without having to worry about transportation or logistics.
Abundant wildlife: Alaska is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, including whales, bears, eagles, and more. You're likely to see some amazing creatures on your cruise, either from the deck of the ship or during shore excursions.
Photo Source - adfg.alaska.gov
Unique culture: Alaska has a rich and unique culture, influenced by its Native American, Russian, and American history. You can learn about this culture through shore excursions, onboard lectures, and cultural performances.
Photo Source - Wikipedia
Variety of activities: There are plenty of activities to keep you busy on an Alaska cruise, from hiking and kayaking to shopping and dining. You can choose the activities that interest you most and create a personalized itinerary.
Photo Source - Homeralaska.org
Remember that the specific details can vary based on the cruise line and itinerary you choose, so it's essential to check the details of your selected cruise. Here are some key points to consider when planning an Alaska cruise:
Choosing an Itinerary: Alaska cruises typically sail through the Inside Passage, visiting ports such as Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway, and Sitka. Some itineraries also include Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier, or Tracy Arm Fjord, providing opportunities to witness impressive glaciers. Consider whether you want a one-way (Northbound or Southbound) or round-trip cruise.
Time of year: The best time to cruise to Alaska is generally between May and September, when the weather is mild and the days are long. However, shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) can offer lower prices and smaller crowds.
Length of cruise: Cruises to Alaska typically range from 7 to 14 days. The longer the cruise, the more ports you will visit and the more time you will have to explore.
Cruise line: There are many different cruise lines that offer Alaska cruises, each with its own unique style and amenities. Consider what is important to you in a cruise line (e.g., size, atmosphere, activities) when making your choice.
Room - You MUST book a room with a balcony and if you book a one-way cruise, either northbound or southbound, you MUST make sure your room is on the "correct side" of the ship, so you can enjoy the view from your balcony as much as possible.
Whether you're interested in the stunning natural beauty, wildlife encounters, or cultural experiences, an Alaska cruise offers a unique and unforgettable adventure.
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Alaska was my first experience on cruiseships. It's a wonderful place, great landscapes, great history, special tours. For sure one of the best cruise experience. I was there with Carnival Spirit. We also experienced the great cruise Alaska-Miami, at the end of september, through the Panama Canal. Great memories!