Planning a cruise? Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner. It's a 47 page cruise travel planner with packing checklists, shore excursion planning forms and much more! ($10 off for a limted time). Details here: lifewellcruised.com/ultimate-cruise-planner/
we toured around Fairbanks, Anchorage, Seward and other areas by car (staying at hotels/lodges/cabins) around 2 years ago. The world was still insane--but AK was overall pretty sane, I loved it.
It is a rain forest not an ice cave. Beautiful State, great sights. Easier to visit by cruise ship, either inside passage or outside. Terrific fjords only matched by New Zealand and Norway. Inland is superb scenery. Best thing the Russians ever did was sell it to US. A State since 1959, Land of the Rising Sun. Should be on everyones "to visit" list.
Ilana, we were thrilled to have you and your family sail with us to Alaska on board the Koningsdam! Thank you for sharing your first thoughts on cruising with Holland America Line and the many helpful Alaska cruise tips in advance of your full recap video.
About the boarding process at the Port of Vancouver - for context - it may help to remember that pax go through two processes there … clearing immigration, as you’re departing Canada and traveling to/entering to the US …. Followed by the ship’s embarkation process. I used to be frustrated with the total time until I remembered that typically I go through half the process at the airport when I depart Canada to fly to America … and then the ship’s embarkation process at the cruise port (typically next day). Additionally in Vancouver there are typically a few ships doing this all in the same terminal at the same time. Realizing this helped me adjust my expectations and dig deep for more patience. :) Now I plan accordingly- have my audiobook / AirPods reading in my ear while I’m waiting, or pack my e-reader. Oh - and last time I embarked at Vancouver I asked if there was a NEXUS line (it wasn’t prominently signed), and I was directed to a different line to clear customs/immigration - similar to my airport experience. Hey it still wasn’t “fast” … but was fast”er”.
Just got off the same boat as you were getting on. Wait til you get to Glacier Bay! Skagway was my favourite! Make sure you get a Klondike coffee at the Red Onion Saloon!
We are taking Norwegian encore from Seattle on May 28, 2023 to Alaska for seven days. Thank you for the informations. Your videos are very informative.
heading there in 18 days 0 hours and 19 minutes, but who is counting. Thank you for making my anticipation go through the roof again!!!! Now I am really excited!!
We have now done 6 Alaskan Cruises. My recommendation is the 14 day round trip from Vancouver. You see twice as much for the same airfare and the extra ports of call are amazing. You even get to see Prince Rupert!!!
I stood right next to you in the lift on the 2nd day of the cruise and thought gee the looks like Ilana off UA-cam. Never saw you again on the 7 day cruise. I am very thorough researching trips and found your video's very informative. I haven't been on a cruise since I was 11 and that was last century. We upgraded to Orange Class with separate dining room and other benefits which we found very handy. The train in Skagway was excellent, the helicopter trip in Jeanu was a waste of money , billed as a 2 hour excursion... time travelled to airport included so it was basically was a 6 minute helicopter flight up and 6 minute flight back, and 12 minutes on Glacier between helicopter shuttle service. On the first day/afternoon I also won one of the spa raffle prices $75 voucher sort of but then you have to spend another $130 plus for a massage, next time I will not bother. Staff were excellent, food was very good. Jeanu and Skagway I did not like and nothing really there besides endless tourist shops, Ketchikan was very good. And boarding in Vancouver and going through customs took over 2 hours... what a nightmare. There were 3 ships leaving that day.
People’s dress ranged from tuxedos to dressy casual. Ladies were in sparkly gowns to cocktail dresses to smart pantsuits. Not as dressy as other cruises but the cruise has a more outdoorsy feel to it.
Oh darling, you just teared me up. I'm so glad you are enjoying your cruise. I live in Victoria and every time we have to take the ferry to Vancouver, we also have this beautiful scenery that sometimes we take advantage of but hearing about it from someone with a new perspective is amazing. Yes, you will need to come back again and do the train in Skagway ❤️
I went last year in June, you could see snow on the peak of the mountains, I want to go back again, It hard to believe Alaska is in the United States I love it.
Tell us what people are wearing in the evening, especially a gala Night. We will be on HAL Nieuw Amsterdam Alaska cruise in late June. Love your videos. Thank you.
I’d love to see an unpack with me video about what you brought, what you wish you didn’t and what you’re glad you did. As well I’d love to hear what people wore to dinner. I’m going in august!
Hoodies are a must.. been to 8 different Norwegian fjords and the scenery outweighs the weather every time!!! It’s stunningly beautiful, peaceful and serene…
I have cruised and cruise toured Alaska several times. My recommendation would be to do the tour segment first followed by the cruise. My reasoning is that a y of the excursions start early in the morning (5 or 6 a ) and others start at 8 pm. With sunset near midnight you can schedule 2 or 3 excursions ach day. After 4 or 5 days you are ready for relaxation on the ship.
Took a Princes cruise to Alaska, best ever ! I even flew in helicopter to glaciers ( swore i would not) went in july wore summer clothes in town but also needed winter wear. LAYER, LAYER!
Enjoying..... Princess recently added (Feb 2023) the ability to upgrade cabins with a bid arrangement thru a 3rd party vendor. We got lucky and upgraded our mini-suite to a full suite for our next cruise begining May 26 on Island Princess, 33 days Fort Lauderdale to Norway to Southampton. Sweet.
Been on 6 Alaska Cruises and We were either on the Deck or sitting on Our Balcony enjoying the Sights ..You should look into a LAND SEA Cruise either on HAL or Royal both are GREAT !!
From what I looked up, May I’d the least rainy month. August is the rainiest. So you are trading warmer temps for more rain. On the last day of my Alaska cruise on the Solstice and the weather has been great. Been a great cruise
This will be my first cruise ever. Going to Alaska. Found your channel and absolutely love it. Your videos have been so helpful in planning. I appreciate your tips and information. Thank you. I’ve learned so much about cruising and what to expect. Yay.
I was surprised too on a Norwegian Fjords trip last week with similar weather and temperatures how many people were swimming or in the hot tubs all fully outside. I was sat with a down jacket and woolly hat on. Looks amazing cruise.
I’ve only done one cruise. It was on this ship to Alaska in September 2022. It was amazing. Holland America did it well. Only 2 complaints 1 service in main dinning room was not what I had been lead to believe it would be. But I blame that on lack of staff just like every other restaurant in the world at the time. 2 certainly no fault of Holland America I came home with Covid. So if that was my only complaints it was fantastic!
What amazing timing, we are leaving tomorrow for Vancouver and depart on the Koningsdam on Saturday afternoon. Thank you so much for the photos, I'm even more excited now!
I was talking to one of my Supervisor’s about cruising a bit ago because she used to be one of the main directors on a ship and she was telling me how she met you and had you go talk to her in her office and I thought it was so cool! When I first started watching videos about cruising, your channel was the first to pop up and I watch every video you post even when it doesn’t pertain to our cruising..just in case. You put out amazing content and I appreciate always learning something new!
An Alaskan cruise tour was the best way for me to appreciate the beauty of Alaska. I would recommend a tour first then finish off with the relaxing cruise.
Don’t forget mittens if you plan any glacier excursions. By layering clothes we were able to do our Alaska cruise with carry-on only. And that included a telescope and tripod, which really helped in spotting wildlife.
We were on the dock waiving and video taping your ship leaving port!!!! Did not know you were on that ship. We sailed out of Vancouver on the Nieuw Amsterdam the day after you left. I have a lot to share about the Nieuw Amsterdam (some good and some not so good things). Hope you had a great time. Looking forward to hearing more about your trip.
Thank you for taking the time to post this video. You covered alot of bases and that really gives us a feel for the cruise. Continue to enjoy to the fullest! PS - some of the scenery looks fake it's so breathtakingly beautiful!
Hi Ilana! When we did this cruise way back in 1997, we grabbed a lot of information. For example, in Juneau, there are only an average of 44 sunny days per year. Now, mind you, this could have changed since then.
Thank you as always for your great information. I'm leaving tomorrow for my Alaskan Cruise tour and can't wait to see that beautiful scenery for myself. Happy travels
I just had to thank you for your wonderful advice to unpack and organize your room as soon as you get in! This was the best advice! I used the shoe holder on the inside of the bathroom door - it worked great! And I unpacked everything and put it away. It made the week so much easier! We had 2 or 3 grandkids in our room each night so there was no room for living out of a suitcase! This was our first cruise. Alaska was beautiful and was unseasonably warm for May. You never know what the weather will be like! Thank you so much for all your videos - they helped so much! (Oh and the magnets on the wall - yes!). One thing I thought about on the cruise - people with small children might need a blackout curtain for the kiddos to be able to sleep - maybe a large curtain that is hung with the magnets? The blackout curtains on the ship are great but light gets in around the edges and down the middle.
Our very first cruise was Alaska in 2003! Inside cabin with our two young children! Actually no regrets… everyone slept well.. Didn’t break the bank. It worked! But looking forward to a redo one day soon as empty nesters. With a balcony this time😂
I am on the Westerdam a day ahead of you. I took all your advice, i.e., hooks, first aid, etc. Great advice all around. The weather has been great. Happy travels and thanks for all your valuable advice.
YES do a cruisetour. We did one 15 yrs ago. Doing it again next year. We will be on the Noordam in Aug '24. We will be celebrating my husband's retirement and our 30th wedding anniversary! Just 454 more days!! LOL
My son and I are cruising the inside passage with HAL in June (my first cruise!). I'm so glad that you're showing the ins and outs of this cruise line and itinerary! Thank you and enjoy your trip!
What a great video mid-journey! I’m curious about how you upload your video file to UA-cam. Do you have enough speed and bandwidth on the cruise itself to do it?
Thanks for sharing! I'm going alaska this weekend and still strugling to know what to pack, specially for the tours outsite the ship, I hope you can share before our departure🎉
don't bring a heavy parka jacket. A waterproof outer jacket, ideally with hood, is good, along with another couple of layers or so under it. Waterproof shoes of some kind could be good. Note that you can get some Kiwi brand spray to make a lot of regular shoes more waterproof. Temps can vary quite a bit city to city. So one city might be in the upper 40s, but others will often be more like 60-65 or so.
I was on your next cruise period of the same route! It brings me back to the all good times I just had! Sunny day all day for mine and I would suggest people if you want good weather, May is a good choice. Thank you for sharing this video! Love it!
We just returned from a 9-day Alaskan cruise out of Vancouver on Radiance of the Seas. We are already talking about our next Alaskan cruise! Vancouver itself is a destination worth spending time in. We only allowed one full day of touring and wish we'd had more time there. Embarkation was more or less a nightmare. The port and its employees were simply overwhelmed by more than 14,700 passengers embarking and disembarking at the same time. It took us close to 3 hours before we were able to board the ship. Despite this, Vancouver and the beauty of Alaska more than made up for this. It is impossible to capture the sheer beauty of Alaska in photographs. The scenery is breathtaking and ever changing. We were fortunate enough to experience excellent weather throughout our trip as well. Can't wait to do it again!
Thank you for the Q&A very informative! When you get to skagway can you get some more information regarding the rockslides please? Can't wait for our first Alaska cruise in September on Royal Caribbean Ovation of the Seas!!!!
Never had or have an inclination of taking a Alaskan cruise, do not enjoy colder weather when on vacation and on a cruise, glad you are having a good time!
I departed from Vancouver on May 1 on the ncl jewel and it was crazy that day there were two other ships leaving and it was chaotic. I loved my trip and took a ton of pics.
Going on my first Alaska cruise in July, on the Westerdam. Loved your video and can’t wait for your complete one. This was a dream of mine and my late husband, who passed 14 months ago. I’m so excited to finally fulfill that dream.
Going on our 2nd Alaska cruise in September. Once was definitely not enough as there is so much to see and do. Alaska cannot be described with words or pictures. You simply must experience it to be able to appreciate the magnitude of the beauty! Have a great time and keep the videos coming. Can't wait to get back there!
I agree pictures don’t do the scenery justice! I also say if you don’t believe in God before you go, you will after an Alaskan/Hawaiian cruise! So glad you’re enjoying the cruise.
Good Morning. I'm glad that your enjoying your Alaskan cruise. Thanks for your tips. We're 17 days from our Alaskan cruise. This is our second trip. We went there for our homeymoon.
Leaving for a cruise to Alaska on the discovery Princess in a few days! Really happy to see a first impressions video from you - very helpful as I pack ❤ Our family is loyal to princess but the koeningsdam is beautiful with all of its large windows and beautiful natural light! That’s one thing I wish the discovery Princess had more of
Ah, Alaska! I can't believe you've never been there. I'm taking my second Alaskan cruise in September. I loved it so much I'm doing the exact same one. Hopefully, we'll get to stop at Skagway and do the Whitepass Railroad. That was to be the highlight of last year's cruise, but since the port was broke(landslides), we missed out. But NCL said we should get to stop there this time. Yay! I know you'll have a blast. Thanks for all your great info. It's helped me in my cruises.
On our Alaska cruise there was an Iditerod musher give a talk. My wife became so interested i. the rave that she twice flew to Anchorage for the veremonial start
Thanks for the tips and reviews! We are looking forward to enjoy our cruise and hopefully have the great experience similar like yours 😊 on the Konlingsdam in the coming week.
We were on the Koningsdam. Definitely recommend the land portion before hopping on the cruise ship. Preferably followed by a week going southbound from Whittier. So. Much. Fun! We made lifetime friends on that trip!
My first cruise is in 17 days to Alaska on Discovery Princess. Im super excited. Your tips and tricks are being followed and are super appreciated. We wish you fair winds and fond journeys.
We are going on our first cruise ever and it's to Alaska this Sunday, May 14th on Discovery Princess. So excited! Thank you for all the awesome videos.
We went last August on the Celebrity Millineum and loved it. We took helicopters out to where the mushers were with their dogs for sledding. There were two sets of puppies too. An experience I will never forget. The ship wasn't that packed and not many kids either.
Nice video. We got off the day you got on. Embarkation was 4 hours. But loved the ship. Great music on board. Say hi to George and Lina at the piano bar.
Was on the Nieuw Amsterdam a week before you. I loved loved loved it. I may even book a longer one next time. Thanks for sharing your cruise experience to Alaska.
We are on the Grand Princess (cruise tour) and left in that same embarkation. We looked for you knowing you left the same time. Weather has been fantastic for us all this trip. We too are really enjoying the trip.
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Planning a cruise? Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner. It's a 47 page cruise travel planner with packing checklists, shore excursion planning forms and much more! ($10 off for a limted time). Details here: lifewellcruised.com/ultimate-cruise-planner/
As someone born and raised in Alaska, it’s so cool seeing people tour Alaska and being amazed at the views and what it has to offer!
I’ve been here 7 years and people I meet online think I live in an ice cave 😂. I share summer pictures and they are shocked
we toured around Fairbanks, Anchorage, Seward and other areas by car (staying at hotels/lodges/cabins) around 2 years ago. The world was still insane--but AK was overall pretty sane, I loved it.
You have an amazing state!!
Ditto! :-)
It is a rain forest not an ice cave. Beautiful State, great sights. Easier to visit by cruise ship, either inside passage or outside. Terrific fjords only matched by New Zealand and Norway. Inland is superb scenery. Best thing the Russians ever did was sell it to US. A State since 1959, Land of the Rising Sun. Should be on everyones "to visit" list.
Ilana, we were thrilled to have you and your family sail with us to Alaska on board the Koningsdam! Thank you for sharing your first thoughts on cruising with Holland America Line and the many helpful Alaska cruise tips in advance of your full recap video.
Thanks for having us! We had a fantastic cruise (miss it already 😂)
About the boarding process at the Port of Vancouver - for context - it may help to remember that pax go through two processes there … clearing immigration, as you’re departing Canada and traveling to/entering to the US …. Followed by the ship’s embarkation process. I used to be frustrated with the total time until I remembered that typically I go through half the process at the airport when I depart Canada to fly to America … and then the ship’s embarkation process at the cruise port (typically next day). Additionally in Vancouver there are typically a few ships doing this all in the same terminal at the same time. Realizing this helped me adjust my expectations and dig deep for more patience. :) Now I plan accordingly- have my audiobook / AirPods reading in my ear while I’m waiting, or pack my e-reader.
Oh - and last time I embarked at Vancouver I asked if there was a NEXUS line (it wasn’t prominently signed), and I was directed to a different line to clear customs/immigration - similar to my airport experience. Hey it still wasn’t “fast” … but was fast”er”.
Just got off the same boat as you were getting on. Wait til you get to Glacier Bay! Skagway was my favourite! Make sure you get a Klondike coffee at the Red Onion Saloon!
We are taking Norwegian encore from Seattle on May 28, 2023 to Alaska for seven days. Thank you for the informations. Your videos are very informative.
heading there in 18 days 0 hours and 19 minutes, but who is counting. Thank you for making my anticipation go through the roof again!!!! Now I am really excited!!
Woohoo!! Enjoy!
We have now done 6 Alaskan Cruises. My recommendation is the 14 day round trip from Vancouver. You see twice as much for the same airfare and the extra ports of call are amazing. You even get to see Prince Rupert!!!
I like that idea!
My ship is calling at Prince Rupert next month
Which side cabin is best Port or starboard sailing from vancouver to alaska?
We will be sailing on princess cruise line mid August. Cant wait!
We are cruising Royal Caribbean last week in August. Any suggestions of places to eat at ports.
I stood right next to you in the lift on the 2nd day of the cruise and thought gee the looks like Ilana off UA-cam. Never saw you again on the 7 day cruise. I am very thorough researching trips and found your video's very informative. I haven't been on a cruise since I was 11 and that was last century. We upgraded to Orange Class with separate dining room and other benefits which we found very handy. The train in Skagway was excellent, the helicopter trip in Jeanu was a waste of money , billed as a 2 hour excursion... time travelled to airport included so it was basically was a 6 minute helicopter flight up and 6 minute flight back, and 12 minutes on Glacier between helicopter shuttle service. On the first day/afternoon I also won one of the spa raffle prices $75 voucher sort of but then you have to spend another $130 plus for a massage, next time I will not bother.
Staff were excellent, food was very good. Jeanu and Skagway I did not like and nothing really there besides endless tourist shops, Ketchikan was very good.
And boarding in Vancouver and going through customs took over 2 hours... what a nightmare. There were 3 ships leaving that day.
Thank you for sharing! Currently been saving for 2 years to go to Alaska when I retire.Truely my dream vacation!
Thanks for the update! How were people dressing for the casual vs dressy nights?
People’s dress ranged from tuxedos to dressy casual. Ladies were in sparkly gowns to cocktail dresses to smart pantsuits. Not as dressy as other cruises but the cruise has a more outdoorsy feel to it.
Thank you just booked my first cruise ever and I am going to Alaska for the first time too. Appreciate your videos.
Oh darling, you just teared me up. I'm so glad you are enjoying your cruise. I live in Victoria and every time we have to take the ferry to Vancouver, we also have this beautiful scenery that sometimes we take advantage of but hearing about it from someone with a new perspective is amazing. Yes, you will need to come back again and do the train in Skagway ❤️
I can imagine!! We loved Vancouver too btw
I went last year in June, you could see snow on the peak of the mountains, I want to go back again, It hard to believe Alaska is in the United States I love it.
Tell us what people are wearing in the evening, especially a gala Night. We will be on HAL Nieuw Amsterdam Alaska cruise in late June. Love your videos. Thank you.
Thank you for posting. I leave in 7 days for my Alaskan cruise, so I had been waiting for your posts!
I’d love to see an unpack with me video about what you brought, what you wish you didn’t and what you’re glad you did. As well I’d love to hear what people wore to dinner. I’m going in august!
Can’t wait to hear your final review!
Hoodies are a must.. been to 8 different Norwegian fjords and the scenery outweighs the weather every time!!! It’s stunningly beautiful, peaceful and serene…
If you drive to the Vancouver port, make a parking reservation ! We had to scramble to find a place to park our car that was secure
I have cruised and cruise toured Alaska several times. My recommendation would be to do the tour segment first followed by the cruise. My reasoning is that a y of the excursions start early in the morning (5 or 6 a ) and others start at 8 pm. With sunset near midnight you can schedule 2 or 3 excursions ach day. After 4 or 5 days you are ready for relaxation on the ship.
Going to Alaska on Holland America and wondering what to bring to wear and recommendations for formal nights if you’re able!
We are going in July
Took a Princes cruise to Alaska, best ever ! I even flew in helicopter to glaciers ( swore i would
not) went in july wore summer clothes in town but also needed winter wear. LAYER, LAYER!
Enjoying..... Princess recently added (Feb 2023) the ability to upgrade cabins with a bid arrangement thru a 3rd party vendor. We got lucky and upgraded our mini-suite to a full suite for our next cruise begining May 26 on Island Princess, 33 days Fort Lauderdale to Norway to Southampton. Sweet.
Thank you for your comments! We are sailing next week from Seattle!
I absolutely loved our Alaska Cruise, we had full sun during the first week of September 🎉
Been on one Alaskan Cruise on Carnival in 2018. Was my favorite cruise. Of course all my other cruises are tied for second!
Please, please do the full review for all of us doing the same this season! Great video!!
Been on 6 Alaska Cruises and We were either on the Deck or sitting on Our Balcony
enjoying the Sights ..You should look into a LAND SEA Cruise either on
HAL or Royal both are GREAT !!
So happy to hear about the cruise! We are still having doubts about it!
I’ll share more :)
From what I looked up, May I’d the least rainy month. August is the rainiest. So you are trading warmer temps for more rain. On the last day of my Alaska cruise on the Solstice and the weather has been great. Been a great cruise
This will be my first cruise ever. Going to Alaska. Found your channel and absolutely love it. Your videos have been so helpful in planning. I appreciate your tips and information. Thank you. I’ve learned so much about cruising and what to expect. Yay.
We love Alaska! Sailed there twice. My husband doesn’t like to visit the same places, but he said he’d go again!
I was surprised too on a Norwegian Fjords trip last week with similar weather and temperatures how many people were swimming or in the hot tubs all fully outside. I was sat with a down jacket and woolly hat on. Looks amazing cruise.
I've watched many of your videos...going for first time in Oct to Alaska. Good info👍
Would love a little tour of your room :) thank you
I’ve only done one cruise. It was on this ship to Alaska in September 2022. It was amazing. Holland America did it well. Only 2 complaints
1 service in main dinning room was not what I had been lead to believe it would be. But I blame that on lack of staff just like every other restaurant in the world at the time.
2 certainly no fault of Holland America I came home with Covid.
So if that was my only complaints it was fantastic!
What amazing timing, we are leaving tomorrow for Vancouver and depart on the Koningsdam on Saturday afternoon. Thank you so much for the photos, I'm even more excited now!
We are on Koningsdam in July
I was talking to one of my Supervisor’s about cruising a bit ago because she used to be one of the main directors on a ship and she was telling me how she met you and had you go talk to her in her office and I thought it was so cool! When I first started watching videos about cruising, your channel was the first to pop up and I watch every video you post even when it doesn’t pertain to our cruising..just in case. You put out amazing content and I appreciate always learning something new!
Awe thanks so much! I don’t recall that specifically, but we’ve met some really nice people on cruises :)
I am leaving on my 1st Alaska cruise on June 4th on the Celebrity Eclipse . So excited
I'm going on the Konigsdam to Alaska in September and I'm so glad to see a recent video of the ship. I'm so excited to go!
An Alaskan cruise tour was the best way for me to appreciate the beauty of Alaska. I would recommend a tour first then finish off with the relaxing cruise.
Good idea
We leave next week for Alaska. Cannot wait. But packing is my problem. Lol
Don’t forget mittens if you plan any glacier excursions. By layering clothes we were able to do our Alaska cruise with carry-on only. And that included a telescope and tripod, which really helped in spotting wildlife.
We are sailing tuesday from seattle on carnival spirit. Thanks for this video, so helpful.
We will be staying at the Westin Bayshore.
Thank you for being so clear and concise in your video explanations! As one who is considering a cruise these are always helpful tips. Appreciate you!
Perfect timing! Im going on my first Alaska cruise in early June. 😊 I've been binge watching all your videos - so excited!
I just got back from Alaska and the weather was sunny on 70s the whole time
Yes, do a cruise tour they are great. I am on my 2nd one in early July
We were on the dock waiving and video taping your ship leaving port!!!! Did not know you were on that ship. We sailed out of Vancouver on the Nieuw Amsterdam the day after you left. I have a lot to share about the Nieuw Amsterdam (some good and some not so good things). Hope you had a great time. Looking forward to hearing more about your trip.
We did Alaska on the HAL Westerdam, September 2022 and loved it. Would go back and definitely recommend it.
We stayed at the pan-pacific almost 23 years ago, and it was wonderful. This was at the end of our cruise as we flew to Anchorage to start.
Thank you for taking the time to post this video. You covered alot of bases and that really gives us a feel for the cruise. Continue to enjoy to the fullest! PS - some of the scenery looks fake it's so breathtakingly beautiful!
Omg you should see Glacier Bay! I’ll share in an upcoming video - surreal
We will be in Alaska in early June, good to see your video with the nice weather before our cruise starts
Hi Ilana! When we did this cruise way back in 1997, we grabbed a lot of information. For example, in Juneau, there are only an average of 44 sunny days per year. Now, mind you, this could have changed since then.
Imagine!!
We are going in one week! So excited!
Thank you as always for your great information. I'm leaving tomorrow for my Alaskan Cruise tour and can't wait to see that beautiful scenery for myself. Happy travels
I just had to thank you for your wonderful advice to unpack and organize your room as soon as you get in! This was the best advice! I used the shoe holder on the inside of the bathroom door - it worked great! And I unpacked everything and put it away. It made the week so much easier! We had 2 or 3 grandkids in our room each night so there was no room for living out of a suitcase! This was our first cruise. Alaska was beautiful and was unseasonably warm for May. You never know what the weather will be like! Thank you so much for all your videos - they helped so much! (Oh and the magnets on the wall - yes!). One thing I thought about on the cruise - people with small children might need a blackout curtain for the kiddos to be able to sleep - maybe a large curtain that is hung with the magnets? The blackout curtains on the ship are great but light gets in around the edges and down the middle.
Our very first cruise was Alaska in 2003! Inside cabin with our two young children! Actually no regrets… everyone slept well.. Didn’t break the bank. It worked! But looking forward to a redo one day soon as empty nesters. With a balcony this time😂
I am on the Westerdam a day ahead of you. I took all your advice, i.e., hooks, first aid, etc. Great advice all around. The weather has been great.
Happy travels and thanks for all your valuable advice.
Alaska is breathtaking!
YES do a cruisetour. We did one 15 yrs ago. Doing it again next year. We will be on the Noordam in Aug '24. We will be celebrating my husband's retirement and our 30th wedding anniversary! Just 454 more days!! LOL
My son and I are cruising the inside passage with HAL in June (my first cruise!). I'm so glad that you're showing the ins and outs of this cruise line and itinerary! Thank you and enjoy your trip!
Awesome!!
We are early July
What a great video mid-journey! I’m curious about how you upload your video file to UA-cam. Do you have enough speed and bandwidth on the cruise itself to do it?
Thanks for sharing!
I'm going alaska this weekend and still strugling to know what to pack, specially for the tours outsite the ship, I hope you can share before our departure🎉
don't bring a heavy parka jacket. A waterproof outer jacket, ideally with hood, is good, along with another couple of layers or so under it. Waterproof shoes of some kind could be good. Note that you can get some Kiwi brand spray to make a lot of regular shoes more waterproof. Temps can vary quite a bit city to city. So one city might be in the upper 40s, but others will often be more like 60-65 or so.
I was on your next cruise period of the same route! It brings me back to the all good times I just had! Sunny day all day for mine and I would suggest people if you want good weather, May is a good choice. Thank you for sharing this video! Love it!
We just returned from a 9-day Alaskan cruise out of Vancouver on Radiance of the Seas. We are already talking about our next Alaskan cruise! Vancouver itself is a destination worth spending time in. We only allowed one full day of touring and wish we'd had more time there. Embarkation was more or less a nightmare. The port and its employees were simply overwhelmed by more than 14,700 passengers embarking and disembarking at the same time. It took us close to 3 hours before we were able to board the ship. Despite this, Vancouver and the beauty of Alaska more than made up for this. It is impossible to capture the sheer beauty of Alaska in photographs. The scenery is breathtaking and ever changing. We were fortunate enough to experience excellent weather throughout our trip as well. Can't wait to do it again!
So happy to see this. We're taking our first Alaskan cruise on the Koninsgdam on May 27th and can't wait!
Yay!! Enjoy 🎉
We leave in July
Thank you for the Q&A very informative! When you get to skagway can you get some more information regarding the rockslides please? Can't wait for our first Alaska cruise in September on Royal Caribbean Ovation of the Seas!!!!
We are going in July and will also vlog it
Never had or have an inclination of taking a Alaskan cruise, do not enjoy colder weather when on vacation and on a cruise, glad you are having a good time!
we were on the same sailing with you. I think we had the perfect weather, especially our day at Glacier Bay!
It was definitely perfect in Glacier Bay! Hope you had a great cruise :). “Review” video will be out in a few days
We are on Celebrity on Sept. since we will have been through another hot Dallas summer by then I think we’ll enjoy the change
We have been thinking about an Alaska trip, thanks for the information
the seaplane timing was impeccable
Haha, yup!!
Thank you for the video, we’re heading on our Alaska cruise 8/5
Thanks for the video
I’m a single parent taking my two young kids on an Alaskan cruise this September from Australia
I’m very excited!!
I departed from Vancouver on May 1 on the ncl jewel and it was crazy that day there were two other ships leaving and it was chaotic. I loved my trip and took a ton of pics.
The scenery in Alaska is breathtaking! We took the inside passage on the Crown Princess and really enjoyed it.
I’ll be on that ship in 6 days for a 10 night cruise to Alaska!
Going on my first Alaska cruise in July, on the Westerdam. Loved your video and can’t wait for your complete one. This was a dream of mine and my late husband, who passed 14 months ago. I’m so excited to finally fulfill that dream.
Doing my 1st cruise and it will be to Alaska on Holland America in September. I’m so excited, thank you for the info!
Leaving on Crown Princess on the 23rd for the 10 day inside passage! Going to stay at the Pan Pacific as well!
Going on our 2nd Alaska cruise in September. Once was definitely not enough as there is so much to see and do. Alaska cannot be described with words or pictures. You simply must experience it to be able to appreciate the magnitude of the beauty! Have a great time and keep the videos coming. Can't wait to get back there!
Thanks for sharing & watching!!
I agree pictures don’t do the scenery justice! I also say if you don’t believe in God before you go, you will after an Alaskan/Hawaiian cruise! So glad you’re enjoying the cruise.
I get to go in September too with a ladies group from Vancouver.
Good Morning. I'm glad that your enjoying your Alaskan cruise. Thanks for your tips. We're 17 days from our Alaskan cruise. This is our second trip. We went there for our homeymoon.
Leaving for a cruise to Alaska on the discovery Princess in a few days! Really happy to see a first impressions video from you - very helpful as I pack ❤
Our family is loyal to princess but the koeningsdam is beautiful with all of its large windows and beautiful natural light! That’s one thing I wish the discovery Princess had more of
Princess is a wonderful cruise line as well!! Enjoy every moment 👏
Ah, Alaska! I can't believe you've never been there. I'm taking my second Alaskan cruise in September. I loved it so much I'm doing the exact same one. Hopefully, we'll get to stop at Skagway and do the Whitepass Railroad. That was to be the highlight of last year's cruise, but since the port was broke(landslides), we missed out. But NCL said we should get to stop there this time. Yay! I know you'll have a blast. Thanks for all your great info. It's helped me in my cruises.
On our Alaska cruise there was an Iditerod musher give a talk. My wife became so interested i. the rave that she twice flew to Anchorage for the veremonial start
We will be on the Koningsdam in September.
Thanks for the tips and reviews! We are looking forward to enjoy our cruise and hopefully have the great experience similar like yours 😊 on the Konlingsdam in the coming week.
Thanks for making this video! By any chance could you share what deck level is the best one to stay at?
We were on the Koningsdam. Definitely recommend the land portion before hopping on the cruise ship. Preferably followed by a week going southbound from Whittier. So. Much. Fun! We made lifetime friends on that trip!
My first cruise is in 17 days to Alaska on Discovery Princess. Im super excited. Your tips and tricks are being followed and are super appreciated. We wish you fair winds and fond journeys.
So exciting!! Thank you & I hope you have a fantastic cruise 👏
We are going early July
@Just Ramblin' Around I will cheers a drink to you while on board.
@@andershay99212 Thanks we will do the same a little over a month later!!! Have a great time!
Great narration. I almost......almost feel like I was cruising with you! HAL rocks! I've never been ob the Koningsdam.
Love your videos!! I can’t wait to go back on an Alaska cruise… miss it very much
We are going on our first cruise ever and it's to Alaska this Sunday, May 14th on Discovery Princess. So excited! Thank you for all the awesome videos.
Enjoy!!
We went last August on the Celebrity Millineum and loved it. We took helicopters out to where the mushers were with their dogs for sledding. There were two sets of puppies too. An experience I will never forget. The ship wasn't that packed and not many kids either.
Nice video. We got off the day you got on. Embarkation was 4 hours. But loved the ship. Great music on board. Say hi to George and Lina at the piano bar.
Was on the Nieuw Amsterdam a week before you. I loved loved loved it. I may even book a longer one next time. Thanks for sharing your cruise experience to Alaska.
We are on the Grand Princess (cruise tour) and left in that same embarkation. We looked for you knowing you left the same time. Weather has been fantastic for us all this trip. We too are really enjoying the trip.
Love this video!! I’m a Vancouverite and have been to Alaska multiple times! It is truly one of the most beautiful scenery in the world!
It really is!!