Back in 2016, our cruise from Vancouver was to be one of many firsts. The first ‘big’ cruise, taken, the first time to Vancouver, Canada and to Alaska. It certainly did not disappoint!
Our Alaskan Cruise Itinerary
Starting from Vancouver, we sailed on a round trip to [almost] Anchorage cruising the inside and outside passage, stopping at Prince Rupert, Skagway and more.
Vancouver Canada
Ketchikan , AK
Juneau, AK
Hoonah, AK
Skagway, AK
Tracy Arm, AK
Whittier AK
Sitka, AK
Prince Rupert, Canada
Victoria, Canada
Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver was a great place to start the cruise. With a direct flight from LHR we checked in for a night or two at the Fairmont Waterfront, giving us a chance to conquer jet lag and to check out this amazing city. A truly cosmopolitan city, Vancouver is surrounded by mountains and water, giving it a definite feel of space mixed with urban sophistication and outdoor adventure. Before the cruise we enjoyed getting to know the cities waterfront area and visiting the Totem Poles in Stanley Park.
Staying directly above the cruise terminal that gave us a birds eye view of the incoming cruise ships.
Ketchikan, AK
After a day at sea, we reached the ‘Salmon Capital of the World’ , Ketchikan showcased more of the Native American history and culture with totem poles and a wonderful (but deserted) museum the Totem Heritage Centre.
A Button Blanket (Eagle-Raven Design) at the Ketchikan Totem Heritage Center.
Long before contact with Europeans, the Native peoples of the Northwest Coast made ceremonial robes of fur, hide, or woven cedar bark. The most prized of these garments were intricately designed Chilkat robes, pain- stakingly woven of mountain goat wool and cedar bark fibers.
https://www.experienceketchikan.com/totem-heritage-center.html
One of the town’s most photographic spots was “Creek Street’ which at one time was the red light district!
Juneau, AK
The capital of Alaska, si
An Alaskan Adventure Awaits
We are looking forward to a great fortnight at sea with Crystal Cruises Alaska. We’ve probably booked too many excursions but hope to see Humpback Whales, Sea Otters, and Bears. Some Wolf and Husky sightings would be an absolute treat too!
I still don’t know what clothes to pack as the weather looks to be on par with England, and not the cold I was expecting. That said, we are visiting the Klondike Mine and ’40 Below’ which might need a jacket! I’ve packed the technology though – I want to ensure no part of this journey is knowingly undocumented!
First, we need to fly to Vancouver, another city to tick off my list. From what I have read, and been told, ‘Van’ is a great city with some great culture and places to eat. No doubt I will be posting more upon my return.
All Aboard!
Want to hear about some of my other adventures? Check out our Croatian cruise trip on the luxurious Crystal Esprit.
