Curator’s statement
Picture this: you wake up each morning, step out onto your balcony, and sip your coffee surrounded by towering glaciers, endless green forests, and stunning snow-capped peaks. The air is crisp and fresh, and the only sound is the gentle lapping water while you watch for eagles, bears, whales, or sea lions. Then step ashore for an incredible excursion that brings Alaska’s ports to life—that’s the magic of an Alaska cruise.
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The adventure began in Seattle, where I stayed at the Seattle Marriott Waterfront—perfectly located with beautiful views of the harbor and easy access to Pike Place Market. Across the street from the port, I woke up to see the Norwegian Bliss waiting for me! Seattle treated us to perfect late May weather, with Mount Rainier clearly visible in all its snow-capped glory. The city’s energy set the stage for what was to come, and before I knew it, we were sailing north toward Alaska’s wild, breathtaking landscapes.
Our first stop was Sitka, a coastal town where Russian and Native Alaskan histories blend. I spent the day visiting a brown bear sanctuary and exploring bays and coves on a whale-watching boat ride, then a snack and fire pit at a local homestead where I enjoyed the peaceful beauty of the surrounding islands.
Bear sanctuary in Sitka, AK
Outside of Sitka, AK
Then came Juneau, where I joined another whale-watching tour that left me speechless as humpbacks breached just yards from the boat. Boat views stretched for miles—snowy peaks, ancient glaciers, and endless forest in every direction.
Juneau, AK
Mendenhall Glacier, AK
One of the most unforgettable moments was the scenic sailing through Endicott Arm to Dawes Glacier. We glided past towering cliffs and waterfalls before arriving at the massive wall of blue ice. All from the cabin balcony, I was in awe—it was truly one of the most unforgettable moments of the cruise!
Dawes Glacier, AK
In Icy Strait Point, I took an eight-minute gondola ride up to a scenic lookout, which was very cool, but the rain and fog clouded the view. Next, I hiked along quiet trails with views of the coastline that felt completely untouched. Finally, we arrived in Ketchikan, where I strolled along the famous Creek Street boardwalk, drove Polaris ATVs through the forest, and explored the town’s rich Native and gold rush history. It was so fun to reminisce about my eight weeks in the summer of 1996 working at the local salmon cannery there!
Each port offered something different: history, adventure, and scenery that takes your breath away. And at the end of every day, I returned to the ship, coffee or cocktail in hand, ready for what the next incredible destination had in store.
Mount Rainier welcoming us back to Seattle
Need to know
The Norwegian Bliss is a great ship, and the Haven is a special treat. Port excursions are early, giving you time to enjoy the area afterward and get the most out the ship. There's a cute bar-restaurant with a great covered deck for viewing at Icy Straight Point called Duck Point Smokehouse. I saw sea lions and whales over a cocktail!
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our cruises page.
Travel Advisor
Meghan Driggers
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