Sailing through Glacier Bay is truly an ethereal experience. The ship slowly moves through the bay, turns around, and exits the same way it entered giving everyone the opportunity to soak in the amazing views. Imagine being peacefully surrounded by a frozen tundra. It is simply surreal.
The highlight was reaching Margerie Glacier. She is stunning! Would you believe the moment we stopped filming and taking pictures was the moment there was a calving?! It really is as loud as people describe. By the time we got our cell phone cameras back out, all that was left were tiny specs of ice wafting in the air. Boo!
On embarkation day, we signed up for a family photo session with the glacier as the background. This was done with Perspectives Studio onboard, and not with the standard NCL photographers. It was rainy, foggy, and cold, and I was so worried they would not turn out, but look:
As with most Alaska cruises, there are Park Rangers on board adding narrative to the sweeping views. You can hear them over the ship’s speakers in the common areas, and through the ship’s tv channel in your cabin. The context is fantastic. They also had a Jr. Ranger station set up, and items for sale in the Observation Lounge.
I’m the only early riser, and often ate first breakfast alone, then retreated to a quiet spot in the Observation Lounge to read. On this morning, already at 7:00 am, the Observation Lounge was bustling with activity. Nearly every seat was occupied and the level of conversation was at a roar. Outside, guests were allowed on the forward deck, and this too was packed. Turns out, the best viewing spot was from our balcony; private, unobstructed views, and available seating. Ha!
You definitely want to invest in a quality pair of binoculars for a sailing like this. We spotted whales, seals or sea lions (still hard to differentiate from a distance), and birds a number of times. I know I’ve been teasing about bears in previous posts, but spoiler alert, early June is too early to see them. They follow the salmon, which tend to arrive later in the season.
On our way out of the bay, the clouds began to clear, making way for the sun and the most beautiful rainbow.
A few moments later, we saw a double rainbow. Can you see it?
I am so very thankful for opportunities like these to make memories with my little family.
Next, find out where Norwegian docks in Ketchikan, and why that’s important information to understand!
Our Alaska Adventure: Norwegian Encore
Our Alaska Adventure: Glacier Bay
Our Alaska Adventure: Ketchikan (Ward Cove)
Our Alaska Adventure: Victoria + Alaska Cruise Tips
Shop my winter staples from Amazon that I’ve used and loved for years:
Down Coat With Fur Hood (silver not available at this time) / Satin Lined Beanie with Faux Fur Pom / Waterproof Winter Gloves with Touch Screen / Ankle Boot
affiliate links used
As a full-service travel agent, I would love to be of assistance to you. I am passionate about what I do and pour that energy into crafting perfectly planned itineraries for you. Email ebony@familytraveladventuresllc.com to learn more.
Family Travel Adventures LLC 