Princess Cruise to Alaska

(26 Reviews)
100% Recommended

Cristine Etue

Austin, TX
Washington DC Travel Agent Specialist

Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States, is a city rich in history, culture, and political significance. Established by the Constitution of the United States to serve as the nation's capital, it is situated on the Potomac River, borderi...

Embarking on an Alaskan cruise is an adventure like no other and coming from Texas, I need my hikes, but not in 100 degree weather! Alaska is one of my favorite destinations for a mix of soul-searching and adventure.


From the breathtaking landscapes to the rich wildlife and cultural experiences, Alaska offers a unique blend of natural beauty and tranquility. Here's a glimpse into my unforgettable journey through the Last Frontier.


Our journey began in Seattle, where we boarded the Princess cruise ship bound for Alaska. The excitement was thick as we set sail, leaving behind the bustling city and venturing into the serene waters of the Pacific Northwest.


The second day was spent cruising the Inside Passage, a network of fjords and islands. The scenery was nothing short of spectacular, with towering cliffs, lush forests, and crystal-clear waters. We spotted humpback whales breaching and sea lions basking on rocky shores, a true testament to Alaska's abundant wildlife.


Our first port of call was Ketchikan, a charming town known for its rich native culture and salmon fishing. We explored the Totem Heritage Center, which houses an impressive collection of Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian totem poles. A highlight was the Misty Fjords National Monument, where we took a floatplane tour to witness the dramatic cliffs and waterfalls from above.


Juneau, Alaska's capital, greeted us with its stunning glaciers and rich history. We visited the Mendenhall Glacier, a massive river of ice that flows from the Juneau Icefield. Hiking to Nugget Falls provided a close-up view of the glacier and its icy splendor. Later, we delved into the town's gold rush past at the Alaska State Museum and took a scenic tram ride up Mount Roberts for panoramic views.


To me, Skagway is a town frozen in the gold rush era, offering a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved buildings and historic railway. The White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad took us on a journey through rugged mountains and deep gorges, retracing the steps of fortune seekers from over a century ago. The stories of perseverance and adventure were truly inspiring.


The highlight of the cruise for me was sailing through Glacier Bay National Park. The sheer scale of the glaciers was awe-inspiring. We witnessed calving glaciers, where chunks of ice broke off and crashed into the water, creating a thunderous roar. Park rangers on board provided insightful commentary on the geology and ecology of this pristine wilderness.  The Icy Strait Point offered a unique cultural experience with its native-owned shops and excursions. We learned about the Tlingit culture, their traditions, and connection to the land and sea. Whale watching here was phenomenal, with humpbacks putting on a spectacular show of breaches and tail slaps.


As we returned back to Seattle, I reflected that the journey had been a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and learning. The majestic landscapes, the wildlife encounters, and the rich cultural experiences had left an indelible mark on all of us.  I'll cherish this trip forever, and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a truly unique and enriching travel adventure.

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