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Exploring amazing cruise destinations around the world

October 22 – Victoria, BC, Canada
CanadaCruises

October 22 – Victoria, BC, Canada

Today has been all about rest and recharge, especially after dealing with an urgent family situation. The highlight was definitely the Choir of Man show this afternoon, which exceeded our expectations. While we’re taking it easy in our room and enjoying some naps, I want to dedicate this post to my “Vacation Heroes” — the amazing crew members who have made this trip truly memorable. Surina Taljaard, the GM Secretary, has been a lifesaver, arranging crucial details...

October 21 – Ketchikan
2022 Alaska, Panama Canal RepoAlaska

October 21 – Ketchikan

The day started strong with an impressive new docking facility in Ketchikan, but quickly unraveled as our excursion left little time to explore the town. The 20-minute drive to George Inlet felt like a race against time, with only 2.5 hours left to enjoy Ketchikan before heading back. Despite the long bus rides, the George Inlet Crab Feast was a highlight, serving up generous portions of Dungeness crab that completely overshadowed the day’s setbacks.

October 20 – Cruising Glacier Bay
2022 Alaska, Panama Canal RepoAlaska

October 20 – Cruising Glacier Bay

The highlight of my day was witnessing a humpback whale blow, likely an adult and a calf, near the beach. Although I missed the shot, seeing the double blow was exhilarating. The day was cold and damp, yet I found myself feeling more comfortable than the day before. Glacier Bay National Park was stunning, but I must admit, I prefer Hubbard Glacier over Johns Hopkins. Here are some photos from the trip...

October 19 – Icy Strait Point
2022 Alaska, Panama Canal RepoAlaska

October 19 – Icy Strait Point

Our guide today was entertaining and informative, known around Hoonah as “Rainbow.” I wonder why? The “kitchen” is part of a recently-constructed theater building that’s in an alcove at the “far” end of the main attraction area. We were able to enjoy a wine spritzer, taste smoked salmon dip, and eat salmon burgers and halibut breakfast sausage. You honestly can’t tell the meat in the sausage is fish.

October 18 – Juneau, Alaska
2022 Alaska, Panama Canal RepoAlaska

October 18 – Juneau, Alaska

The day in Juneau began with a raw chill, the thermometer hovering between 57-60 degrees. After a massage to ease my tight neck, we decided to brave the weather and go ashore. With rain briefly paused, we headed to Tracy’s Crab Shack, right on the dock. I opted for the crab bowl, a satisfying mix of crab, rice, and coleslaw. Though the cashier seemed unsure about the season's success, her comment about the weather resonated with the locals' perspective...

October 17 – Sailing the Outside Passage
2022 Alaska, Panama Canal RepoAlaska

October 17 – Sailing the Outside Passage

As we navigated the choppy seas with winds shifting to the southeast, the day was filled with vibrant meet-and-greet events. With over 90 signed up, the Cruise Critic and Facebook group gathering brought together laughter and stories, though I foolishly forgot to capture the moments in pictures. Following the cocktail party at Q Texas Smokehouse, we ventured on a bar crawl, sampling unique shots and specialty drinks, all while trying to...

Embarkation Day: Seattle
2022 Alaska, Panama Canal RepoUS West Coast

Embarkation Day: Seattle

The check-in process dazzled me, taking just over 25 minutes from door opening to boarding lounge. It was a stunning day in Seattle, the smoke from last night diminished, and as we settled in, I couldn't help but notice how smoothly everything flowed. The new safety adaptations in muster drill training felt like positive changes. We kicked off our journey at The Local with celebratory drinks, soaking in the atmosphere...

Day 1: Getting to Seattle
2022 Alaska, Panama Canal RepoUS West Coast

Day 1: Getting to Seattle

As we flew over the breathtaking landscapes of Wyoming and Idaho, I was once again reminded of the beauty our country holds. Upon arriving in Seattle, we checked into the Hampton Inn, eager for some well-deserved rest after our uneventful flight. But first, we indulged in a delicious lunch at Sharp's RoastHouse, where I savored a four-cheese patty melt that was nothing short of heavenly.