Alaska: A Land of Wonder

When I embarked on my first Alaska cruise, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But after spending seven unforgettable days sailing through its breathtaking landscapes, I now have a true sense of what Alaska is.

Our Adventure Begins on the Majestic Princess

I was lucky enough to cruise aboard the Majestic Princess. This beautiful ship lived up to its name, offering excellent service, delicious food, and a serene atmosphere. Each day felt like a new adventure, made even more exciting by spontaneous announcements of nearby whale sightings. Imagine the thrill of spotting whales right from your own balcony! Sailing into Endicott Arm was a highlight, where we were greeted by towering cliffs, scattered icebergs, and the mesmerizing beauty of Dawes Glacier.

Our journey included three unique port stops, each offering its own unforgettable experience:

Ketichikan: Salmon, Scenery, and Totem Tales

Our first stop was Ketchikan, where I embarked on a City and Wildlife Tour. Our adventure began at Ketchikan Creek, where salmon were plentiful and active. Watching them swim and leap upstream was fascinating.

Next, we made our way to a “bear viewing area.” While the elusive bears decided to remain hidden that day, the surrounding landscapes more than compensated. The rich greenery and peaceful atmosphere were stunning.

We concluded the tour at the Totem Heritage Center, home to ancient totem poles from the Tlingit and Haida villages. The intricate craftsmanship and the stories behind each totem, told passionately by our guide, made for an enriching and inspiring visit.

Skagway: History in the Rain

Skagway, a quaint little town brimming with charm, was our second stop. Though it was the only day we experienced rain, considering that this area sees over 300 rainy days a year, we considered ourselves lucky. The drizzle didn’t dampen our spirits, nor did it stop me from taking a ride up the White Pass Summit in a cozy van.

The drive was nothing short of spectacular. We paused at Pitchfork Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in the world, and again at the summit for panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. Our guide entertained us with fascinating stories about the town’s history, giving life to this lovely stop despite the gray skies.

Juneau: Whales Stealing the Show

In Juneau, I opted for a whale-watching tour, which turned out to be the crown jewel of the entire trip. After a bus ride with a lively guide pointing out eagles (both adult and juvenile), we boarded a small boat and set off into the bay.

The anticipation built as we neared the watching site. Soon, we saw the first telltale spout, followed by more and more sightings. Over the next hour, we were treated to a dazzling display—10 to 12 different whales rising, diving, and giving us their playful farewell as they waved their tails before sinking into the depths. As if choreographed, one whale breached entirely out of the water, sending a collective gasp of awe through the boat. It was magical.

Victoria: A Quiet Evening Aboard

Our final port stop was Victoria, but because it was a late evening arrival, I chose to stay aboard the Majestic Princess. With many passengers exploring the city, the ship felt tranquil. It’s one of the hidden perks of port days—when the ship empties out, you get to enjoy all its amenities with less crowding and shorter waits at the restaurants.

Alaska’s Timeless Allure

After my cruise, I now fully understand the deep attraction of Alaska. It’s a place where stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife come alive, as if stepping straight out of a postcard. The sense of adventure, awe, and serenity makes Alaska a destination you could visit again and again without ever tiring of its beauty. Alaska is charming, thrilling, and undeniably picturesque—the perfect combination for any traveler.

Julie DeMille

Julie DeMille is a tour manager for Morris Murdock Escorted Tours. Her journey in the travel industry began in 2019 when she joined Morris Columbus Travel. Julie is a proud graduate of Weber State University.

Despite her relatively short tenure in the travel industry, Julie's passion for exploration and her commitment to helping people plan unforgettable journeys have taken her to the British Isles, the Netherlands, Italy, Greece, Israel, and Belize.