Living the Dream in Retirement
This is the last installment of Back to Alaska. I’m including photos taken from my balcony suite as the views were so stunning to witness. The sea is ever-changing, reflecting clouds, mountains, sunrises and sunsets. It’s surreal and mystical.
In short, it was a trip I’ll never forget!
Toward the end of my two week Alaskan cruise we visited Ketchikan again and explored the city taking in the beauty of this coastal town.
This included Creek Street which was highly recommended and it was easy to see why.
A top attraction in Ketchikan, Creek Street is a wooden boardwalk of brightly painted buildings resting on pilings perched over Ketchikan Creek. Though it’s best known for its history as a Red Light District, Ketchikan Creek has a rich and fascinating history. We found charming shops with lots of local artists represented.
The day started out cloudy and foggy but cleared up nicely and we walked a lot that day.
Another glorious day at sea was the viewing of the College Fjords and Hubbard Glacier. I love how the water creates a mirror image reflection.
On the cruise ship Discovery Princess, you can count on delicious salads, starters, entrees and yes, the desserts. And some days a light breakfast of almond croissants fresh from the oven or my Brie croissant sandwich with arugula, orange marmalade and toasted walnuts. Chef’s kiss!
Our at-sea day of viewing Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve was one of my favorites. Starting with hot chocolate and cookies delivered to my suite, I prepared myself for the most spectacular 180° views as the ship slowly rotated a full 360° over the course of several hours. To sit on my balcony and bear witness to this magnificent place is hard to describe. The mirror-like reflections in the sea made for stunning photos.
Our next stop was Skagway and we took one of their most popular excursions, the Skagway White Pass Railroad Summit Excursion
You board the train in Skagway and travel 20 miles from tidewater to the Summit of the White Pass – a 2,865-foot elevation.
Traveling in vintage passenger coaches you retrace the original route to the White Pass summit, passing Bridal Veil Falls, Inspiration Point, and Dead Horse Gulch. We enjoyed viewing mountains, glaciers, gorges, waterfalls, tunnels, trestles, and historic sites along the White Pass Railroad. The railroad cars are each heated with a potbelly stove and we were comfortable.
Our second port was Juneau where we took a tour of Glacier Gardens Rainforest and the Whale Park.
Glacier Gardens Rainforest, a local gem established in 1998. Nestled within the heart of the Tongass National Forest is a floral sanctuary boasting a vibrant Alaska botanical garden. Aboard a covered tram we took a guided journey into the ancient splendor of Thunder Mountain’s old-growth rainforest at an elevation of 580 feet above sea level, overlooking Juneau.
Overstreet (Whale) Park, photographing the life-sized breaching whale statue and fountain, named Tahku, and the stunning views of the Gastineau Channel.
When people ask me why I love cruises?
Why is a balcony so important?
This represents the ocean on May 11th and 12th. The ocean is the attraction with ever changing views that take my breath away.
I’m mesmerized……
Our first stop was Ketchikan, Alaska where we took a Waterfront & Wildlife Cruise. We saw a lot of eagles and these are some of my favorite photos from the day.
It started off cool but by the time we returned to the ship I was barefoot on my sunny balcony sipping prosecco!
This cruise I booked a full suite which came with so many perks – including a Concierge Lounge. It was literally across the hall from my suite. Over two weeks I was there every day at least three times as they change out incredible food offerings for breakfast, lunch and dinner bites of deliciousness.
Every Happy Hour my sister, brother-in-law and I would have drinks and enjoy the ambience, often including live music, before heading off to dinner. We played games there many afternoons, often as the only guests in the lounge.
The staff was exceptional, accommodating and fun. I already miss them.
The Suite life was sweet indeed.
