7 NIGHT Alaska Glacier Cruise |
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THINGS TO DO IN
SEATTLE
Departs at 4:00 PM
Seattle is a young city, but it's short history is part of the landscape and charm. Cruise to Seattle and check out the Hiram Chittenden Locks in the Ballard neighborhood — this impressive feat of engineering passed its first ship through in 1916, and today, it's one of the busiest lock systems in the U.S. Then, stroll through the nearby Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Gardens, an English-style landscape garden with over 1,500 varieties of plants. Or head to Gas Works Park, on the grounds of the former Seattle Gas Light Company: This former business is now a prime vantage point to view the Seattle skyline. And don't miss the famous Space Needle: From the top, you can take in clear views of the bay, the Cascade Mountains and Mount Rainier.
View of the Space Needle from below in Seattle, Washington
The Seattle Center was home of the 1962 World's Fair, which portrayed a mid-century view of the Land of Tomorrow. Since the fair, this 74-acre park has remained a cultural hub within the city. Get a good look at Seattle with a 360-degree view from the observation deck of the Space Needle, or check out the Museum of Pop Culture, which has exhibits on popular music as well as science fiction and fantasy in film and television.
INSIDER TIP
Seattle weather can change quickly. Dress in layers so you can adapt to the changes in temperature.
Tour of Seattle's underground level in Washington
The Seattle Underground tour takes you under the city to the Gold Rush-era streets of Seattle, before the city was rebuilt on top of itself. Then, head to Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park in Pioneer Square, where you can get even more info on the Gold Rush and how it shaped the city.
Seattle skyline viewed from the water, Seattle, Washington
Kiosk selling jewelry in a markeplace in Seattle, Washington
Shopping in Seattle means a visit to Pike Place Market — first opened in 1907, the historic marketplace is the go-to spot not only for fresh produce but also for artisan crafts ranging from handmade jewelry to ceramics and beauty products. During your Seattle cruise vacation, head to Ballard Avenue NW for hip boutiques, and shop for big brands downtown.
A view of the needle amongst the skyscraper building in Seattle Washington
The Seattle Center complex encompasses an assortment of impressive attractions. View colorful masterpieces by glassblower Dale Chihuly at the Chihuly Garden and Glass museum. Explore the Pacific Science Center or the Museum of Pop Culture. Then take in sweeping city views from the top of the 605-foot-tall Space Needle.
Seattle Great Wheel and skyline at the pier in Seattle, Washington
Assorted Dungeness crab legs with butter mustard sauce and fresh lemons in Seattle, Washington
Seafood is king in Seattle. Geoduck clams, Penn Cove mussels and Dungeness crab are some of the most sought-after local specialties. At Pike Place, pick up curried beef bao, a Chinese-style dumpling best eaten by hand. For a snack or breakfast, head to Coyle's Bakeshop and pick up a cretzel, a pretzel-croissant combo that's all the rage among locals.
PLAY ANY WAY YOU LIKE
Bumper Cars Family Competing
Buckle up and take the wheel for nonstop fun on the only bumper cars at sea. Rush hour gets a thrilling spin at the largest indoor activity space ever to set sail — SeaPlex®.
North Star Lounge Chairs in the Upper Deck
Bumper Cars at Night
The largest indoor active space at sea is only on Royal Caribbean®. Basketball and bumper cars — it's the first time you'll ever play like this on a cruise.
Girl Surfing Flowrider at Daytime with a Smile
Grab your board and get ready for 30,000 gallons of rushing awesome headed your way. The surf’s always up on the 40-foot-long FlowRider® surf simulator.
Ripcord iFly Couple Flying Mid Air
Sunny Day at the Solarium
Slip away to this adults-only indoor and outdoor retreat. The Solarium is your slice of paradise, with soothing whirlpools, warm sunshine and a refreshing water mist.
THINGS TO DO IN
KETCHIKAN
From 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Ketchikan sits at the southern end of Alaska’s Inside Passage— a gateway to the wild landscapes and seascapes of Misty Fjords National Monument. The canned salmon capital of the world, it’s a hub for fishing and outdoor sports. It’s also home to three tribes of Northwest Coast Indians, making it a great place to get a taste for the local culture. You’ll see it in the colorful, hand-carved totems that line the city’s streets and parks, and in the unique stilted homes that cling to Deer Mountain’s slopes. If you want to get up close and personal with nature, venture into the Tongass National Forest, the largest in the United States. Or head to Ketchikan Creek Waterfall for amazing views of downtown Ketchikan and a glimpse at the yearly salmon runs.
Detail of totem pole at Saxman Village tribal house near Ketchikan, Alaska
Ketchikan has more totem poles than anywhere in the world. And just south of downtown at Saxman Native Village you’ll find a nice collection of finely carved and decorated totems— all authentic replicas— plus a replica clan house.
INSIDER TIP
You can pick up useful maps and brochures at the Ketchikan Visitors Center, located on the dock at Berth 2.
Majestic body of water along the mountains with clouds floating over the water in one of Ketchikan, Alaska's national monuments known as Misty Fjords
If you really want to experience Alaska’s dramatic landscape, visit Misty Fjords National Monument. It’s 3,570 square feet of rock walls, towering trees, sea cliffs and dramatic fjords.
INSIDER TIP
Ketchikan’s crossing guards mean business. Use the crosswalks and listen to their instructions.
Lots of sail boats docked in the water in a small and quaint town with picturesque log cabins lined up along the water in Ketchikan, Alaska
The pier is home to specialty shops, galleries and boutiques. But be sure to wander downtown Ketchikan for local finds like authentic Alaskan art, Native crafts, furs and jewelry.
Hiking through the Tongass Trail Forest in Ketchikan, Alaska
If you’re craving natural thrills, venture past the town limits into Tongass National Forest. The largest national forest in the U.S., it’s a great place to spot local wildlife like deer, seals— even black bears and bald eagles.
INSIDER TIP
Ketchikan is one of the rainiest towns in North America, so bring waterproof gear and umbrellas.
Grilled Salmon topped with rosemary, which is one of the most popular dishes in Ketchikan, Alaska
Ketchikan isn’t called the canned salmon capital of the world for nothing. Seafood is incorporated in all sorts of dishes, from chowders and omelets to sandwiches and burgers. You’ll find plenty of American staples, but for a taste of the local culture try some traditional native foods like beach asparagus or seaweed. And for a pick-me-up, have a cup of locally roasted Raven’s Brew Coffee.
THINGS TO DO IN
ICY STRAIT POINT
From 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Icy Strait Point is one tiny port that’s big on Alaskan wilderness and Native culture. Opened a decade ago by the Huna Tlingit Native Alaskans, it’s easily one of the best spots in the region for fishing and whale watching. Dive into Native Alaska culture at a tribal dance show or pay a visit to Hoonah, Alaska’s largest Tlingit village. If you want to venture over to the wild side, go on a guided nature hike through nearby rainforests or hop into an ATV and explore the backroads of Chichagof Island. At the end of the day, you can take in forest views while soaring high above the trees on the longest zip line in the world. No matter what kind of Alaska adventure you’re craving, you’ll find it in Icy Strait Point.
Alaska Icy Strait Point Longest Zip Line
Brave the ZipRider®, the world’s longest zip line, and enjoy amazing views of the forest as you race from a mountain peak at 60 miles per hour.
Alaska Icy Strait Point Tribe Local Performance
Watch members of the Huna Tlingit Dancers troupe tell the story of their tribal heritage through song and dance at the Native Heritage Center Theater.
Beautiful mountain view in the national park in Icy Strait Point, Alaska
One of the many historic cannery buildings at Icy Strait Point
You’ll find plenty of authentic Alaska gifts just a quick stroll from the dock at the historic Cannery Shops. Look for jewelry made from fine gold nuggets, handcrafted objects, and warm winter fashions.
Alaska Icy Strait Point Whale Watching
See the amazing humpback whales that call the waters of Icy Strait Point their home. You might even catch them bubble net feeding!
Delicious Dungeness Crab cuisine in Icy Strait Point
Hearty and rich, Alaska cuisine is made to hit the spot. Most meals spotlight local fish or caribou, and Dungeness crab when it’s in season. For a real Alaska specialty, head to the Cookhouse Restaurant and try the reindeer chili or the Alaska Blue Burger, made with reindeer meat, blue
THINGS TO DO IN
ENDICOTT ARM & DAWES GLACIER
Sightseeing from 5:30 AM - 10:00 AM
One of Alaska’s lesser-known gems, Endicott Arm Fjord marks the southern edge of Fords Terror Wilderness area. As you drift through its 30-mile-long stretch, you can’t help but be awed by the surrounding granite cliffs, mountain valleys and dozens of gushing waterfalls. Drifting icebergs, deep blue waters and a spectacular tidewater glacier only add to this natural spectacle’s appeal.
Endicott Arm is one of the largest breeding grounds for harbor seals on the planet. Keep your eyes peeled for these creatures splashing in icy waters near the ship. Along the shore you might also glimpse brown bears, bald eagles, sea ducks, deer, moose and wolves.
INSIDER TIP
Dress in wind-resistant layers when viewing the scenery outside on deck.
Your journey through scenic Endicott Arm Fjord ends with a front-row view of Dawes Glacier. Standing over 600 feet tall and a half-mile wide, this very active icecap is known for its spectacular calving displays which produce huge, chunky icebergs that float in area waters.
THINGS TO DO IN
JUNEAU
From 1:30 PM - 10:00 PM
You can’t get to Juneau easily without a sprint by air or by sea. But once you arrive you’ll find majestic views and rich culture in every corner. With its snowcapped mountains, misty rainforests, massive glaciers and bounty of wildlife, Alaska’s remote state capital is the perfect place to dive into nature. Framed by Mount Juneau and Mount Roberts, the city’s picturesque downtown area offers centuries-old bars, boutique shops and historic landmarks. For a taste of the local culture, visit the historic district and the Alaska State Museum. And for outdoor thrills, you can take your pick of activities ranging from whale watching in Auke Bay Harbor to tundra trekking over Mendenhall Glacier, and even try your hand at gold panning in Last Chance Basin.
Humpback whales shooting out water in the ocean in Juneau, Alaska
Watch for humpback whales, orcas, harbor seals, and Steller sea lions as you cruise through the icy Alaskan waters on a charter boat.
INSIDER TIP
Summer temperatures average in the 60’s but can jump into the mid-80s or drop unexpectedly into the 40s or below, so dress in layers.
Family fun activity of gold panning in Juneau, Alaska
Follow in the footsteps of fortune hunters and pan for gold along trails forged by prospectors over a hundred years ago during the Juneau gold rush.
Humpback whales shooting out water in the ocean in Juneau, Alaska
For some frontier retail therapy, head to downtown Juneau and you’ll find plenty of shops and boutiques selling Native art, locally-crafted goods and designer brands.
A family out on an excursion of dog sledding with the huskies in the snow in Juneau, Alaska
Travel to Juneau’s Mendenhall Glacier and join a team of professional mushers and their huskies on a sleigh ride over the snow.
INSIDER TIP
Keep your eyes peeled, because Juneau is in the heart of Bear Country. While the bears don’t typically bother humans, it’s always a good idea to keep your distance.
Salmon being cooked on the grill in Alaska
From coffee shops to local pubs, Juneau’s food scene is all about seafood and simple fare, like burgers and sandwiches. If you’re craving a cold one, be sure you try Alaskan Brewing Company’s Alaskan Amber or Smoked Porter— they’re both local favorites.
LET THE FLAVOR FEST BEGIN
A roasted beet salad, with quinoa, hass avocado, wild arugula and citrus-vinaigrette. Cruise food dining from Coastal Kitchen
Exclusively for suite guests and Pinnacle Club members, Coastal Kitchen fuses Mediterranean influences with farm-fresh flavors from California. Filled with Pacific Coast favorites and Med-inspired entrees, the menu here rotates to spotlight delicious, seasonal ingredients. And you can pair every bite with a glass or bottle of wine off a list that includes vintages from the sun-kissed valleys of Napa to the golden-green hills of Tuscany.
QN, Quantum, AN, Anthem, Jamie''s Italian, dynamic dining, cuisine, culinary image, Spinach Ricotta Rotolo, cheese, pasta, restaurant, dish
Solarium Bistro Dipping Sauces and Food
Dip into a dining experience unlike any other onboard. With roots in Chinese culture, Hot Pot at Solarium Bistro features a style of dining where you cook your meats and vegetables right at the table in a simmering pot of stock — or a “hot pot.”
A dessert at Chef's Table on Royal Caribbean cruises
Welcome to Chef’s Table, the most exclusive and elevated dining experience on our fleet. Join an intimate group of fellow foodies on a private epicurean journey led by the ship’s Chef de Cuisine. You’ll sit down to a white tablecloth dinner spotlighting five exquisite courses that range from scallop carpaccio with yuzu vinaigrette, to grilled filet mignon served with truffle potato puree — each expertly paired with the perfect wine to highlight every flavor on the menu.
A top-down view of assorted dishes on a table at Izumi on a Royal Caribbean ship
La Patisserie Entrance with Outside Dining
Get ready for some French confectionary perfection. Take your sweet tooth on a decadent journey through an exciting assortment of flaky macarons, tantalizing petits-fours and rich artisan chocolates — all paired with tasty espressos, frothy cappuccinos and more at La Patisserie.
THINGS TO DO IN
VICTORIA
From 5:30 PM - 11:00 PM
Victoria delivers a delightful blend of British pomp and outdoor adventure. Here you can admire Victorian architecture at Craigdarroch Castle and eat your way around Canada’s oldest Chinatown. Explore “Garden City” floral displays or go biking in the “Cycling Capital of Canada”. From orcas whistling in the harbor to glow-in-the-dark scorpions at the Bug Zoo, Victoria has every adventure covered.
Step out for a stroll along the boat-lined Inner Harbour, home to Victoria’s most notable landmarks. Check out First Nations tribal artifacts at the Royal British Museum. Admire the neo-baroque stylings of Parliament Buildings where the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia gathers. Then marvel at Thunderbird Park’s ornate totem poles.
INSIDER TIP
It’s mandatory in British Columbia to wear a helmet when bicycling.
Indulge in the city’s time-honored British heritage with classic Victorian afternoon tea at the world-renowned Empress hotel. A beloved tradition for over a century, this quintessential Victoria experience includes a fabulous menu of fine loose-leaf teas served with house-made finger sandwiches, scones and clotted Empress cream.
Waterfront Wharf Street satisfies all your souvenir needs, while Government Street is known for funky boutiques, First Nations art galleries and famous hand-knit Cowichan sweaters. Lower Johnson Street, nicknamed “Lo-Jo”, houses local designer boutiques and indie stores galore. Check out Victoria Public Market for epicurean goods.
Enter the colorful and aromatic world of Butchart Gardens to wander its 55 acres of flower-lined paths. This National Historic Site bursts with bright blooming tulips, daffodils, roses and hyacinths. Explore its manicured themed gardens— and don’t miss a ride on the hand-carved Rose Carousel.
INSIDER TIP
Restaurants typically include a 12% harmonized sales tax to the bill — add 15% extra for exceptional service.
Victoria’s West Coast cuisine showcases local ingredients from the Saanich Peninsula and Cowichan Valley. Savor shellfish fresh from Pacific waters and shepherd’s pie in an English-style pub. Eat Asian noodles in Chinatown and hit Victoria Public Market for handmade cheese and smoked salmon. With over a dozen craft breweries, cider houses, artisanal distilleries and wineries, you certainly won’t go thirsty.
THINGS TO DO IN
SEATTLE
Arrives at 7:00 AM
Seattle is a young city, but it's short history is part of the landscape and charm. Cruise to Seattle and check out the Hiram Chittenden Locks in the Ballard neighborhood — this impressive feat of engineering passed its first ship through in 1916, and today, it's one of the busiest lock systems in the U.S. Then, stroll through the nearby Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Gardens, an English-style landscape garden with over 1,500 varieties of plants. Or head to Gas Works Park, on the grounds of the former Seattle Gas Light Company: This former business is now a prime vantage point to view the Seattle skyline. And don't miss the famous Space Needle: From the top, you can take in clear views of the bay, the Cascade Mountains and Mount Rainier.
View of the Space Needle from below in Seattle, Washington
The Seattle Center was home of the 1962 World's Fair, which portrayed a mid-century view of the Land of Tomorrow. Since the fair, this 74-acre park has remained a cultural hub within the city. Get a good look at Seattle with a 360-degree view from the observation deck of the Space Needle, or check out the Museum of Pop Culture, which has exhibits on popular music as well as science fiction and fantasy in film and television.
INSIDER TIP
There are many hills in Seattle, including the downtown area. Take this into consideration when planning your day and allow extra time for walking up hills.
Tour of Seattle's underground level in Washington
The Seattle Underground tour takes you under the city to the Gold Rush-era streets of Seattle, before the city was rebuilt on top of itself. Then, head to Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park in Pioneer Square, where you can get even more info on the Gold Rush and how it shaped the city.
A hiking path to West Point Light lighthouse in Seattle, Washington
Kiosk selling jewelry in a markeplace in Seattle, Washington
Shopping in Seattle means a visit to Pike Place Market — first opened in 1907, the historic marketplace is the go-to spot not only for fresh produce but also for artisan crafts ranging from handmade jewelry to ceramics and beauty products. During your Seattle cruise vacation, head to Ballard Avenue NW for hip boutiques, and shop for big brands downtown.
A view of the needle amongst the skyscraper building in Seattle Washington
The Seattle Center complex encompasses an assortment of impressive attractions. View colorful masterpieces by glassblower Dale Chihuly at the Chihuly Garden and Glass museum. Explore the Pacific Science Center or the Museum of Pop Culture. Then take in sweeping city views from the top of the 605-foot-tall Space Needle.
Aerial view of Seattle, Washington
Assorted Dungeness crab legs with butter mustard sauce and fresh lemons in Seattle, Washington
Seafood is king in Seattle. Geoduck clams, Penn Cove mussels and Dungeness crab are some of the most sought-after local specialties. At Pike Place, pick up curried beef bao, a Chinese-style dumpling best eaten by hand. For a snack or breakfast, head to Coyle's Bakeshop and pick up a cretzel, a pretzel-croissant combo that's all the rage among locals.