Into the Wild: Our Alaskan Cruise Adventure (with a Dash of Vancouver Charm) 🚢🌲🦀

If you’re craving nature, fresh air, seafood that’s actually worth the hype, and jaw-dropping views from the comfort of a cruise ship—this one’s for you.

In May, we set off on a journey that took us from the mountains of British Columbia to the icy fjords of Alaska. From hiking waterfalls in Skagway to watching glaciers calve in Glacier Bay, this trip had everything: adventure, relaxation, and plenty of moments that made us just stop and say, wow. Here’s how it all went down—and why I’d recommend it to anyone looking for the perfect mix of wild and wonderful.

Day 1: Vancouver to Squamish – Mountains, Gondolas & Local Brews

We landed in Vancouver early in the morning, picked up our rental car, and hit the Sea-to-Sky Highway—one of the most scenic drives in North America. Winding roads, lush forests, and towering peaks made the two-hour drive fly by.

Highlights:

• Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish – Think panoramic mountain views, suspension bridges, and crisp alpine air. An unforgettable way to kick off the trip.
  
  
• Dinner at The Watershed Grill – A cozy riverside spot in Brackendale serving up comfort food and local beer. Super casual, super good.
  
  
• Overnight at Howe Sound Inn & Brewing, right in Squamish. Great location, friendly vibe, and yes—they brew their own beer.

Day 2: All Aboard in Vancouver

After returning the rental, we made our way back to Vancouver to board our ship: a Holland America Alaskan cruise setting sail from Canada Place. The energy at the port was electric—everyone buzzing about where we were headed and what we might see.

Day 3: Day at Sea – Settling In

This was our first full day at sea, and we took full advantage. Spa time, reading on the balcony, and exploring all the little nooks of the ship. We capped the evening with dinner at Tamarind, a beautiful Asian-fusion restaurant onboard. Don’t skip the wasabi soy-crusted tenderloin.

Day 4: Juneau – Glaciers and King Crab

We docked in Juneau early afternoon and headed straight to the famous Mendenhall Glacier. Standing in front of that massive wall of ice was a surreal moment.

Can’t-Miss Experience:

• Dinner at Tracy’s King Crab Shack – Yes, it’s hyped. Yes, the lines are long. But the crab legs and bisque were absolutely worth it.

Day 5: Skagway – Waterfalls and Railroads

Skagway feels like a slice of the Old West, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. We started with a scenic hike to Lower Dewey Falls—peaceful, easy, and just enough to get our legs moving.

Then came the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad. Imagine a vintage train climbing mountains, with panoramic views of rivers and valleys far below. One of our favorite moments of the whole trip.

Day 6: Glacier Bay – A Silent, Stunning Wonder

This day was all about Glacier Bay, and honestly? It was everything we hoped it would be. Towering blue ice, the occasional crack and roar of glaciers calving into the sea, and total, breathtaking stillness. We bundled up, grabbed coffee, and just watched the world float by.

Day 7: Ketchikan – Logging Shows & Colorful Streets

We spent the day in Ketchikan, walking along Creek Street and catching the Lumberjack Show—a surprisingly fun and energetic performance! Afterward, we wandered local shops, tried smoked salmon jerky, and soaked in the quirky charm of this waterfront town.

Day 8: One Last Day at Sea

Our final full day on the ship was slow and cozy. We lounged, ate (a lot), packed, and enjoyed our final sunset from the top deck. It was the perfect way to wind down the adventure.

Day 9: Back to Vancouver & Heading Home

We disembarked at noon, spent the afternoon soaking in our last few hours in Vancouver, and caught a red-eye flight back home. Tired, happy, and already dreaming of our next cruise.

🧭 Final Thoughts & Travel Tips

• Layer up – Weather changes fast on the ship and in Alaska. Bring light waterproof gear and warm accessories.
  
  
• Excursions are everything – Book glacier tours, train rides, and special dinners ahead of time.
  
  
• Don’t skip the balcony room – Waking up to ocean and mountain views from your cabin? Absolutely worth it.

Planning your own Alaskan escape? Whether it’s your first cruise or your fifth, I can help tailor every piece—pre-stays, shore excursions, dining, and more—so all you have to do is show up and take it all in.

📩 Reach out to start planning the cruise you’ll never forget.

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