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 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!
The moon over the ocean is pure magic. I make it a point to get up before daybreak to catch sunrises when on a cruise.
One morning well before daylight, I got to enjoy the moon reflecting in the sea below. Mesmerized, I sat on my balcony with a steaming cup of tea and watched the sky until sunrise. I’ll never know if any other passengers were up that early to see it.
It might’ve just been me and the moon enjoying each other‘s company, sharing a moment…
As the sun came up, the moon hung over this cluster of clouds for a while longer. Stunning.
For a foodie, cruise food is always a treat and this trip was no exception. From hearty breakfasts to salads, appetizers and dinners, the offerings were beautifully plated and delicious while the desserts were decadent and (almost) too pretty to eat.
