Last May, spring once again proved to be an ideal time for a cruise to Alaska—in this case a one-week, round-trip sailing from Seattle aboard Holland America Line’s spacious Oosterdam. Just over 2,000 guests enjoyed splendid weather; visits to Juneau, magnificent Hubbard Glacier in Yakutat Bay, Sitka and Ketchikan; and an evening in Victoria, British Columbia.
Although I have embarked previously on numerous Alaska cruises on a variety of lines, the Oosterdam’s excellent food, wide variety of onboard entertainment options and exceptional shore excursions combined to make this voyage one of the most memorable.
In addition to glacier viewing, our sightseeing options included sea kayaking, exploring pristine beaches and beautiful island rainforests (sans the rain), an air/sea trip to Misty Fjords National Monument, plus a wonderful evening exploring the uncrowded, extensively illuminated Butchart Gardens.
This particular itinerary did not feature the famed “Inside Passage,” but it did offer sunshine and bright blue skies, lengthy hours of daylight, Alaska before countless land travelers arrive beginning Memorial Day weekend (although cruise vessels were already out in force) and the inevitable June mosquito hatch, plus exceptional shoulder-season pricing.
For more information, contact Heidi Jo Davis or visit hollandamerica.com.
Top photo by Bob Hoelscher
