Tuesday, July 4 – Icy Strait Point – the ship actually sailed to the port during the evening of July 3rd and docked at the port. No rocking of the boat during the night. This was a day you could get off the boat and see the town of Icy Strait Point and Hoonah (Xunaa). In Icy Strait Point is the historical salmon Cannery Museum which ran from 1912 till 1953. Icy Strait Point opened for cruise ship in 2004 and then opened the world’s largest zipline ride in 2007. Kendra & Jeff had the pleasure and the thrill of riding it. The weather was perfect to see all around. The tide was down when we arrived so many of us headed to the shore line to see the wonders of left behind sea life. Headed to the end of the main road in Hoonah to see 2 young bears playing in the grasses before the tide comes back up, and many bald eagles nesting/flying around. There are number of unique totems or kooteeyaa (in Tlingit) stand around town. Had the opportunity to meet Gordan Greenwald, Master Carver of the Totem Pole Project. Learned about the story of the totem pole his group of 6 are working on right now. Takes 6 months to do one. Getting back to the ship was done with water shuttles. The waters have become more turbulent so the shuttle over was a little rocky.
Wednesday, July 5 – Juneau – another beautiful sunny day! The capital of Alaska and so much to go and see. Monika & Rob headed on an excursion to Mendenhall Glacier and then to the top of Mount Roberts with the Goldbelt Tram. At the Glacier we were able to walk to the fresh glacier waterfall and fill up our water bottles with clean water as we took in the fabulous view of the Glacier. The Tram ride up allowed for spectacular view of Juneau and beyond. We meet the energetic Hunsinger family who hiked up the trail and then ran down the trail due to the Tram stopped working for 1.5 hrs. Many of us (who didn’t hike down) were worried about the time and the ship departure. Made it just in time to board. Cliff went fishing and caught 2 chum salmon 6lbs each. So many more stories where shared during our smaller group dinner.
Thursday, July 6 – Ketchikan – Started our day off with a water shuttle to town. Shorts and sun glasses! Many more ships docked this time which means more people on the streets. Another fascinating town to have an adventure in. Alaska’s first city and The Salmon Capital of the World. Walking along the walking tour you can read the history of the building on the wall plaques. Eli decided he wanted to catch a fish in the Ketchikan Creek. He created his own fishing gear and went to work. The story told was it was easier to catch the fish with his hat. Determinism and creativity at it’s finest. Many of us took in the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show – which side won? Spruce Mill Camp (US) or Dawson Creek Camp (Canda). Seems the shorter lumberjacks (US) are a little faster than the other camp. Laughter and competition. This was our last stop in Alaska and if you missed buying something, now was the time to get it. Farwell but not goodbye. Wonderful dinner was had again with a smaller group. Dress up and enjoy the evening programs on the ship.
Friday, July 7 – At Sea to Vancouver – Time change of 1 hr has slowed us down this morning. That is fine due to we are still on holiday time. Foggy weather along the straight hindered any sight seeing of the coast line. Relaxation day with time to reflect on the trip. Our journey through so many different geographical wonders, meet so many Alaska residents who shared so many stories and their love of the land/culture and the time spent with fellow travelers. The time is coming to an end with no regrets (except that it’s coming to an end) and much appreciation to all for a wonderful journey. Our last dinner together as a group was enjoyed with much conversation and sorrow. The ship provided an opportunity to thank the wonderful culinary staff with a parade and applause. I know I gained weight during this time on the ship with so much selection every meal and wonderful service.
Saturday, July 8 – Vancouver departure – Sunny skies greeted us as we gathered to disembark the ship. Princess Cruise line has looked after all aspects of the trip very well from each stop, transfers between towns, luggage and departure. Thank you for a very enjoyable and memorable journey.
– Monika Wismer, Alaska 2023 tour host
