coasterchitchat Posted February 17, 2015 Share Posted February 17, 2015 Hey Elissa and Robb, This past December, I took my parents on a Western Carribean cruise the Carnival Glory (won't go on a Carnival cruise again.) I am in my mid 20s while my parents are in their upper 50s (if that helps.) For a couple of years, we have had plans to go on an Alaskan cruise. I would like this to be the year that happens. Do you guys have any tips on how to plan the trip? I am pretty much starting from a blank slate and would like to know what is the best option for doing this Alaska cruise. I am thinking of going to Anchorage, explore, then go on the cruise. Also, I would prefer avoiding Princess and Holland America as my friends, and coworkers have told me to avoid those ships since they filled with older people. Thanks Henry Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SharkTums Posted February 17, 2015 Share Posted February 17, 2015 A few things: - Do one of the 7 day north or southbound cruises. - Do NOT do a round trip cruise. - Royal Caribbean sounds like it would be good for you and your family, but don't totally rule out Princess as they are a staple of Alaska. - We prefer the Northbound itinerary as it gets more and more impressive each day. - Anchorage isn't that amazing, but if you have time add on Denali for two days. - Budget for shore excursions as they're much more expensive than their Caribbean counterparts. Have fun! We loved our Alaska cruise last year and will certainly do another one again soon! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
coasterchitchat Posted February 17, 2015 Author Share Posted February 17, 2015 Got it, thanks! I happened to look on Royal Carribean's websites and they only have the Radiance of the Seas and Jewel of of the Seas sailing out of Alaska. Which one is better? I happened to look on Cruise Critic and it seems that they are both equally same in guest reviews BUT the site gives Jewel of the Seas a higher rating than Radiance of the Seas even though Radiance got a refit in 2011 while Jewel is newer. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SharkTums Posted February 17, 2015 Share Posted February 17, 2015 Jewel and Radiance are sister ships meaning they're nearly identical. We've been on both and love that class ship. Pick whichever one works better for you and has the 7 day one way itinerary. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nrthwnd Posted February 18, 2015 Share Posted February 18, 2015 *And you get to visit Vancouver, too!* One way - or the other. Or Seattle. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bert425 Posted February 19, 2015 Share Posted February 19, 2015 I know Elissa said not to do round trip, but we loved our 7 day round trip sailing from Vancouver up to Hubbard Glacier (with stops in Kechikan, Icy Strait Point, Juneau, and Skagway) on Celebrity. Great food too. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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