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Compliments of Holland America

Alaska

Journal of The Ideal Alaska Vacation

There's no better way to experience Alaska than on a cruise.  You'll experience glaciers, wildlife, and of course, a world-class cruise.

Here is an excerpted day by day Journal of The Ideal Alaska Cruise Vacation found in Holland America's

online travelogue.

 

View Alaska Video Clips

Kenai  Whitepass Yukon Railroad Ketchikan Overview Seattle Overview  Glacier Bay Hubbard Glacier Kluane Whitehorse Yukon River  Dawson Tombstone Territorial Park  Tok  McKinley Explorer  Anchorage  Tundra Wilderness Tour  Denali  Fairbanks  Dalton Highway

 

Day 1: Scenic Cruising Inside Passage

We sailed yesterday evening from Vancouver, British Columbia, excited to be heading toward Alaska. After getting comfortably settled in our stateroom, we strolled the decks, pausing to admire the art, gorgeous flowers and dazzling public rooms. Dinner last night was delicious, and we look forward to more culinary treats over the next week. Today, we're sitting on the deck while we cruise the incredible Inside Passage and keep a lookout for glimpses of bears, eagles and whales.
 
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- 7 DAYS IN AMAZING ALASKA -
 

Day 2: Scenic Cruising Tracy Arm & Juneau, Alaska

This morning the onboard naturalist told us that this area is part of more than 600,000 acres of pristine back country. We were most excited about the tidewater glaciers that naturally slough off their ice when they come in contact with salt water - a process called "calving," which is often accompanied by a thunderous roar as the ice splits away and splashes into the sea. This afternoon it's on to Juneau, where we've signed up for a dog-sledding adventure. Can't wait!
 
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- 7 DAYS IN AMAZING ALASKA -
 

Day 3: Skagway, Alaska

Many a gold prospector passed through Skagway en route to the Yukon, and it's been a thrill for us to visit this historic place. We had a hard time choosing between all the interesting excursions offered here: there's rock climbing, biking, rail tours and more. In the end, we joined a "flightseeing" tour so we could experience more of the beautiful scenery from a bird's-eye view.
 
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- 7 DAYS IN AMAZING ALASKA -
 

Day 4: Scenic Cruising
Glacier Bay National Park

Glacier Bay feels like a trip through the Ice Age - simply breathtaking views! Today we're taking advantage of some of the ship's wonderful features. I'm scheduled for a massage and facial in The Greenhouse Spa & Salon this afternoon. Later, our group will gather for cocktails in our favorite of the lounges on board. Then it will be another elegant dinner, followed by a few rolls of the dice in the casino.
 
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- 7 DAYS IN AMAZING ALASKA -
 

Day 5: Ketchikan, Alaska

We started the day with an early-morning walk around the wrap-around teak deck - invigorating! Then we enjoyed a savory breakfast of fresh-baked pastries, fruit and steaming hot coffee. This afternoon, we arrive in Ketchikan. I'm excited to learn more about Tlingit Native culture and to view the large collection of totem poles. Yes, a guided tour of this historic city sounds just right.
 
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- 7 DAYS IN AMAZING ALASKA -
 

Day 6: Cruising the Inside Passage

Another day of cruising means another chance to relax on board this spectacular ship. I'm currently enjoying a cappuccino and newspaper in the Explorations Café, and soon I'll meet the others to browse the onboard boutiques for a few souvenirs and gifts. Later, we're planning an evening of dancing and perhaps some star-gazing from the Crow's Nest observation deck.
 
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- 7 DAYS IN AMAZING ALASKA -
 

Day 7: Vancouver, British Columbia

We arrived back in Vancouver after an incredible trip. Seeing Alaska in person exceeded all my wildest dreams! We will certainly miss the gracious crew of this ship - they really made us feel welcome and comfortable. I'm already thinking about our next cruise on Holland America Line - maybe an Alaska CruiseTour to explore more National Parks next time. . .
 
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