Our wonderful adventure began in Seattle — the sea air, the seagulls, and the Ferris wheel set the perfect mood. We chose a cruise on the Westerdam, and what an unforgettable first cruise it was! The ship had everything — pools, a spa, an observation deck, walking trail, fitness center, theater, library, even a casino and art gallery. One of the cutest little touches was inside the elevator — the floor mat showed the day of the week! (It reminded me of Robinson Crusoe. 😄)

Our first port was Juneau, where we visited a Dog Sled Summer Camp. It was even more fun than we imagined — especially the moment a ground squirrel dashed across the trail and our dogs made a dramatic turn toward a cliff! Later, we got to cuddle some adorable puppies. ❤️

Many tours in Alaska aren’t full-day affairs, so we often had time to enjoy a good meal afterward. The food in Alaska is incredible, though some spots are definitely tourist traps. One unforgettable experience was at The Red Dog Saloon in Juneau. The food was delicious, the entertainment was fabulous — and if you haven’t met a real bear yet, this place almost makes up for it!

One of my favorite excursions was in Sitka — the Haunted Historical Walking Tour. We explored the rich and dramatic history of the Russian-American era. Our guide — a lovely woman dressed in full 1860s costume — told ghostly tales that sent shivers down our spines. I was completely enchanted!

In Ketchikan, our guide took us to his private dock, where we boarded a small tour boat for a three-hour adventure on the water. We cruised out to one of the first lighthouses ever built in Alaska. The wind was wild, the rain icy, and the waves tossed our little boat — not the easiest conditions for taking photos! We spotted majestic bald eagles along the way, while the crew did their best to warm us up with freshly brewed coffee and hot chocolate. It was wild and beautiful — a true taste of Alaska’s spirit. Next time I cruise to Alaska, I won’t worry about the weather: it could be cold, rainy, cloudy, or even hot — and the truth is, I can’t control it. Instead, I’ll be ready for anything. The key is packing layers! It helps avoid disappointment and keeps you comfortable so you can enjoy everything Alaska has to offer.

It’s tempting to book every tour, but it’s also wonderful to leave time to explore on your own. Sitka, Ketchikan, and Juneau offer great opportunities to wander and see what’s around the next corner. I loved stumbling into cozy coffee shops, discovering historical landmarks, or simply sitting on a bench and soaking in the view.

This journey brought me new friends, delicious food, and unforgettable memories. It was just a glimpse of all Alaska has to offer — and that’s exactly why I hope to return one day.