Embarking on a cruise through the wilds of Alaska was a dream come true, and the 8-day voyage from Anchorage to Vancouver on a Princess Cruise surpassed every expectation. From the moment I set foot on the ship with my family and friends, to the final farewell in Vancouver, the journey was filled with breathtaking landscapes, thrilling adventures, and moments of quiet reflection as we sailed through some of the most remote and beautiful parts of North America.
Day 1: Anchorage – Setting Sail
Our adventure began in Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city, surrounded by mountains and filled with a spirit of adventure. After a day of exploring Anchorage—strolling through the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail and visiting the Anchorage Museum—we was ready to board the ship. Excitement bubbled within me as we made my way to the port in Whittier, where the magnificent Princess Cruise ship awaited. This is 1 1/2 hour drive by car, so prepare yourself for this extra drive.
The embarkation process was smooth and well-organized, and soon I was stepping onto the ship, greeted by friendly staff and the warm ambiance of the ship’s interior. My stateroom was cozy yet spacious, with a private window offering an unobstructed view of the ocean—a perfect spot to relax and take in the scenery.
As the ship set sail from Whittier, I stood on the deck with my family and friends, watching the small cityscape fade into the distance and the vast expanse of the ocean stretch out before me. The fresh, crisp Alaskan air filled my lungs, and I knew I was in for an unforgettable journey.
Day 2: Hubbard Glacier – A Frozen Wonderland
On the second day, we reached Hubbard Glacier, one of Alaska’s most impressive natural wonders. The day began early, with the ship slowly navigating through the icy waters of Disenchantment Bay toward the glacier. I bundled up in warm layers and made my way to the top deck to witness the spectacle.
The sight of Hubbard Glacier was awe-inspiring. Towering over 400 feet above the water and stretching more than six miles wide, it was a colossal wall of ice, shimmering in shades of blue and white. The ship paused a respectful distance from the glacier, allowing us ample time to take in its grandeur. Every so often, a thunderous crack echoed across the bay as chunks of ice calved off the glacier and plunged into the sea below—a mesmerizing and humbling reminder of the power of nature.
The rest of the day was spent enjoying the ship’s amenities. I took a dip in the heated pool, enjoyed a relaxing session at the spa, and indulged in a gourmet dinner at one of the ship’s specialty restaurants. The evening was capped off with a Broadway-style show in the ship’s theater—a perfect end to an incredible day.
Day 3: Glacier Bay National Park – A Day of Natural Splendor
Glacier Bay National Park was the highlight of the third day, and it was an experience I will never forget. The ship entered the park early in the morning, and as I stepped out onto the main deck, I was greeted by a landscape of rugged mountains, dense forests, and sparkling glaciers.
National Park rangers boarded the ship to provide commentary and insights as we sailed through the bay, and I found myself glued to the deck, eager to soak in every detail. The ship glided past several glaciers, each one unique in its formation and beauty. The Margerie Glacier was particularly stunning, with its jagged ice formations and deep blue hues.
The waters of Glacier Bay were calm and reflective, creating a mirror-like surface that perfectly captured the surrounding landscape. As we sailed deeper into the bay, we encountered many different mountain and ice formation which be a nature enthusiast’s dream come true. Unfortunately, we did not see any whales or other animals, it still was exciting and beautiful.
That evening, we dined at the ship’s main dining room, where the menu featured Alaskan specialties like local crustacean and wild-caught salmon. The food was exquisite, and the service impeccable. After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll on the deck, breathing in the crisp night air and marveling at the beauty of the Alaskan wilderness under the midnight sun.
Day 4: Skagway – Stepping Back in Time
Our first port of call was Skagway, a small town with a rich history rooted in the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 19th century. As we disembarked, I felt like I had stepped back in time. The town’s historic buildings, wooden boardwalks, and old-fashioned storefronts transported me to a bygone era.
We opted for a shore excursion that took us on a ride aboard the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, a scenic train journey that follows the path of gold prospectors through the mountains. The narrow-gauge railway climbed steep grades, crossed over trestle bridges, and passed through tunnels as it wound its way up to White Pass Summit. The views were breathtaking, with rugged peaks, cascading waterfalls, and deep gorges stretching out in every direction.
Back in Skagway, we spent the afternoon exploring the town. we visited the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, where I learned about the town’s role in the gold rush and the hardships faced by those who sought their fortunes in the Yukon. We also browsed the local shops, picking up a few souvenirs to remember my time in this charming town.
As the ship sailed away from Skagway that evening, I reflected on the resilience and determination of the people who had once flocked to this remote corner of the world in search of gold. Their stories were a testament to the human spirit, and I felt grateful to have experienced a small part of that history.
Day 5: Juneau – Adventures in the Capital
Juneau, Alaska’s capital city, was our next destination. Nestled between towering mountains and the Gastineau Channel, Juneau is only accessible by boat or plane, giving it a secluded, almost mystical feel.
My wife and I started our day with a visit to the Mendenhall Glacier, one of the most famous glaciers in Alaska. A short drive from downtown Juneau brought me to the visitor center, where we joined a helicopter tour to get up close to the glacier. The flight wound through mountain forests and past serene lakes, with the glacier always in view. Standing on the glacier’s edge, I was struck by its immense size and the vibrant blue of the ice—a sight that photos simply cannot capture.
Other members of our group headed for a whale-watching tour. Juneau is known for its abundant marine life, and they were eager to see whales in their natural habitat. The tour did not disappoint. Within minutes of leaving the harbor, they spotted a pod of humpback whales. The captain cut the engine, and they watched in awe as the whales breached, their massive bodies breaking the surface of the water before crashing back down with a splash. It was an unforgettable experience.
In the evening, we explored Juneau’s downtown area. some visited the Alaska State Capitol, a modest building that reflects the state’s rugged, no-frills character. And some of us also stopped by the Red Dog Saloon, a historic bar with a lively atmosphere, where I enjoyed a drink and listened to live music.
Day 6: Ketchikan – The Salmon Capital of the World
Ketchikan, known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” was our final stop in Alaska. The town is famous for its rich Native Alaskan culture, stunning totem poles, and thriving fishing industry.
We began the day with a visit to Totem Bight State Historical Park, where we marveled at the intricate totem poles that tell the stories of the Tlingit and Haida peoples. Each pole was a work of art, with detailed carvings and vibrant colors that depicted animals, spirits, and historical events. The park also had a replica of a traditional Native Alaskan clan house, offering a glimpse into the lives of the people who have called this region home for centuries.
Next, we headed to Creek Street, a historic boardwalk built over the waters of Ketchikan Creek. Once the town’s red-light district, Creek Street is now a charming area filled with shops, galleries, and restaurants. we spent some time browsing the local art and crafts before heading to a nearby restaurant for lunch. Naturally, we had to try the salmon, and it did not disappoint—fresh, flavorful, and perfectly cooked.
Many from the ship joined a guided fishing excursion, eager to try their hand at catching some of Ketchikan’s famous salmon. The waters around Ketchikan are teeming with fish. From what I heard, reeling in a large king salmon was an exhilarating experience and a sense of accomplishment. Maybe if I come this way again, I will try this excursion.
Back on the ship that evening, the whole group enjoyed a seafood feast featuring the freshest Alaskan salmon, crab, and halibut. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with new experiences and the natural beauty of Alaska.
Day 7: At Sea – A Day of Relaxation
After several days of exploration and adventure, a day at sea was a welcome opportunity to relax and enjoy the amenities of the ship. I started my morning with a leisurely breakfast at the wonderful buffet, watching the coastline of Alaska drift by as I sipped my coffee.
The day was spent indulging in the ship’s many offerings, like a massage at the spa, or learning about Alaska Huskie dogs. I could have attended a cooking demonstration, where the ship’s chefs shared their secrets for preparing Alaskan seafood dishes—recipes that you can try at home. I choose to learn about the Alaska Huskies. They are sooo cute!
In the afternoon, I joined a dessert event, sampling a selection of different dessert from around the world. It was a delightful way to spend the afternoon, and I even discovered a few new favorites sweets to have with my coffee.
Every Good Thing Must Come to an End
As the sun began to set on the final evening of my 8-day Princess Cruise from Anchorage to Vancouver, I found myself reflecting on the incredible journey I had just experienced. The breathtaking landscapes of Alaska, the fascinating wildlife encounters, the rich history of the towns we visited, and the luxury of the cruise itself all combined to create a truly unforgettable adventure. Each day had brought new discoveries, from the towering glaciers and majestic mountains to the charming coastal towns and vibrant local cultures. As the ship sailed into the night, leaving the rugged beauty of Alaska behind, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the memories I had made and the awe-inspiring natural wonders I had witnessed. This journey through the Last Frontier had been everything I had hoped for and more—a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and exploration that I will cherish for years to come.
