We embarked on our first ever and first Alaska cruise in 1997 on the Crown Princess. We sailed down from Seward, Alaska to the beautiful city of Vancouver, British Columbia that we called our home at that time. Wow, have times changed since then. We did not have all the security screening, we were walked to our rooms and when we came back from dinner our suitcases were unpacked and our clothes stored away. Cruising was not cheap at the time and we could only afford an Oceanview and of course we were the youngest on board the ship. However, you really want a Balcony to take all the scenery in. Shore excursions were booked in the theater or one of the lounges with paper and pencil. Sambuca was still served flamed and crepes suzettes served with the Champagner in the Atrium. I think, we bought every photo they took of us and spent about $700 USD on those. Our highest bill at the end of a cruise ever.

In August 2018, I was lucky enough to have been invited on a Holland America Fam trip that included also the Yukon and Denali. We departed Vancouver on the Nieuw Amsterdam and while the cruise was only three days from Vancouver to Skagway, we had such a great time. From our Balcony that was spacious to the food and entertainment, it was fantastic. My friend had never been whale-watching so she booked a tour while I wandered around Juneau our only port of call. From Skagway we continued to Whitehorse, Dawson City, Fairbanks, Denali and Anchorage. You will find more information on these towns under Sightseeing.