Holland America Koningsdam
We boarded Holland America’s Koningsdam for our cruise in Vancouver, and while it took over two hours to embark due to two ships in port, the ship's atmosphere quickly impressed us. The ship had a diverse crowd and a recent renovation that made everything feel fresh. Music lovers will enjoy venues like BB King’s, Billboards, and the Rolling Stones Lounge.
Our spacious balcony cabin fit three comfortably, with a pull-out sofa for the third person. The cabin had plenty of closet space, a mini-fridge, a safe, and free 24-hour room service. Dining options included the main dining room, Lido Marketplace, and specialty restaurants (extra charge). Complimentary drinks were provided with meals, though sodas and alcohol came at an additional cost. The crew was exceptional, adding to our great experience.
Exploring Juneau 
Ziplining at the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary, Ketchikan.
In Juneau, we easily walked off the ship into town, enjoying the shops, bars, and restaurants. A tram ride up the mountain offered stunning views and hiking trails. A visit to Mendenhall Glacier and Nugget Falls is a must. We took a USD$75 taxi for a scenic tour to Douglas Island, where we enjoyed incredible views of the glacier, followed by Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Centre, where we spent 1.5 hours at the park with a hike to Nugget Falls which was incredible. No food is allowed, and while bear sightings are possible, we didn’t encounter any.
Ketchikan Adventures
In Ketchikan, we braved the rain for a thrilling zip-lining tour at the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary. The weather cleared just in time, and we even saw deer. Afterwards, we explored Creek Street, known for its colourful shops.
Glacier Bay & Inside Passage
Glacier Bay was breathtaking, especially Johns Hopkins Glacier. The ice formations and serene waters made for an unforgettable experience. Our return journey through the Inside Passage offered more wildlife sightings, rounding out a perfect cruise.
