We escaped the hot Michigan summer for a refreshing 10-day Alaska Inside Passage cruise with Oceania Cruises, starting and ending in Seattle, Washington.
We loved the wide-open spaces and raw nature. The small towns felt rustic, cozy, and full of life.
Ketchikan
After a day at sea, we arrived in Ketchikan, Alaska. We walked along the famous Creek Street wooden boardwalk. This unique street sits high on tall wooden poles right above Ketchikan Creek. Long ago, it was a busy red-light district. Today, it is a fun spot filled with local shops, art galleries, and the historic Dolly’s House museum.
Juneau
We kicked off the day at Tracey’s Crab Shack with a bucket of sweet, buttery red crab legs, and Brian was in heaven. Whale watching is a favorite pastime of mine, and Juneau did not disappoint. We hired a local boat tour, and witnessed an unforgettable spectacle: humpback whales bubble-net feeding off the port side while a pod of orcas hunted a sea lion on the starboard side. It was simply amazing.
Skagway
Skagway was one of our favorite ports. We spent a golden sunshine day traveling the White Pass & Yukon Route on a vintage train that climbed steep mountain grades with deep gorges and waterfalls. After, we wandered the wooden sidewalks of Skagway and enjoyed a meal in a local saloon. This town captures the spirit of the Alaskan Gold Rush.
Icy Strait Point
Our ship docked at Icy Strait Point, a cruise port in Alaska. I went on a whale watching tour and saw many orcas and humpbacks. Seeing these great animals never gets old. Afterward, we walked to the nearby town of Hoonah and ate fresh, local fish chowder for lunch.
Wrangell
Victoria, British Columbia
From the Victoria cruise terminal, we took a scenic walk into downtown and explored the charming streets and shops. We stopped in at the historic Fairmont Empress, well known for afternoon tea.
That’s a wrap from Alaska,
Brian & Betty