North of Ordinary: My Trip to Alaska
It’s known as America’s final frontier, but it won’t be my final visit.
Alaska has long held a spot on my bucket list. Whether for its staggering scenery, proximity to wildlife, or distinctive cuisine, it’s one of those once-in-a-lifetime destinations that quietly calls to you. After spending a week aboard the Norwegian Bliss, I’m determined to make sure it won’t be my last visit.
We explored just a sliver of southeastern Alaska—a maze of islands and straits nestled beside the Canadian mainland. Our itinerary included Sitka, Juneau, Icy Strait Point in Hoonah, and Ketchikan.
From start to finish, the experienced exceeded expectations. I’ll admit, I was initially hesitant to visit Alaska via cruise ship. Documentaries like The Last Tourist shed light on troubling labor practices and the exploitation of local ports, casting a shadow over the $75B+ global cruise industry. But I went with open eyes—and came back with my own view.
In this recap, I’ll share what I learned, highlight our itinerary, reflect on the most memorable moments, and offer tips for anyone considering an Alaskan cruise.
A Day at Sea and Sitka
We embarked from Seattle on a surprisingly sunny Saturday afternoon. The Norwegian Bliss—o floating city among the largest in Norwegian Cruise Line’s fleet—carried us through Puget Sound to the Salish Sea before nightfall. From the forward observation deck to the aft pool deck, the views were nothing short of spectacular.
Our first full day was spent entirely at sea, tracing the western coastline of Canada on our way to Alaska’s southeastern cities. With 4,000 passengers abord, the cruise team kept things lively. From themed bars and casino slots to waterslides and card games on deck, there was no shortage of entertainment. My personal favorite? A seminar-style Q&A with the ship’s leadership—insightful, candid, and incredibly engaging!
We spent much of the day unwinding and learning the ship before docking Monday morning in Sitka. This charming city of around 10,000 residents is spread across several islands in the Juneau borough. It’s scenic downtown, framed by incredible hillsides and mountain vistas, felt almost surreal. Alaskan landscapes are so jaw-droppingly beautiful they almost feel fake.
Juneau, Hoonah, and Ketchikan
Day four brought us to Juneau, the state capital, and its crown jewel: Mendenhall Glacier (you may have even seen recent news about an outburst from the Glacier in late-summer 2025, a couple months after our visit). With its glowing blue ice situated between towering peaks, it’s impossible to miss. A short bus ride from the port took us to the trailhead, followed by an easy 20-minute walk to the best vantage points. Later, we joined a salmon bake in the backwoods outside Juneau—fresh salmon, beans, cornbread, salad, cake, and more. Thankfully, the hike helped offset the feast!
That afternoon and evening, we cruised through stunning inlets and passages along the jagged coastline. From the bow, I watched as we glided past floating ice blocks, spotting a couple bears, numerous bald eagles, and even whales in their natural habitat, unaware they were the characters of focus for thousands of eager onlookers. It was quiet, humbling, and unforgettable. I felt blessed to enjoy it with my family, sipping wine on a mid-level deck and taking in the experience for every ounce of majesty it offered.
Whale watching in Hoonah was a highlight of day five. Though we didn’t explore the town itself, we ventured out on a tour boat and were rewarded with sightings of Orcas and Humpbacks. Our guide—a twenty-something young woman brimming with knowledge—narrated the experience beautifully. If whale watching isn’t on your bucket list, it should be.
Our final Alaskan stop was Ketchikan, a city similar in size to Sitka but nestled deeper into the Inside Passage. Known for its hiking and scenery, it surprised me with one unexpected fact: it’s part of a temperate rainforest. Like many people, when I hear rainforest, I think about the Amazon or geographies near the equator. Ketchikan averages nearly 150 inches of rain annually, defying the typical Alaskan stereotype, making it a lush, green adventure.
Journey Back to Seattle
We wrapped up with another day at sea and a stop in Victoria, British Columbia before returning to Seattle. There’s something to be said for a cruise itinerary like this one. It’s designed for ease—no packing and unpacking, no transit logistics, and endless entertainment and dining options between ports.
The consultant in me admires the customer-first business model. But I’m also mindful of the ethical responsibilities cruise companies carry. Sustainability, fair labor practices, and respectful engagement with local communities aren’t just nice-to-haves—they’re essential.
Cruising Concerns: Ethical Issues in the Industry
It’s no secret that the cruise industry faces justified criticism. My own concerns—about profitability overshadowing ethics—weren’t erased during our trip aboard the Norwegian Bliss. But they did evolve. First-hand conversations with crew members and local guides gave me a more nuanced view of the impact cruising has on communities and the people who bring ships to life.
Overtourism is a global issue. Destinations like Venice, Phuket, and parts of the Caribbean often struggle to accommodate seasonal surges. Now imagine a cruise ship arriving with 4,000 passengers—then multiply that by two or three more ships. The disruption to small towns like Sitka or Ketchikan can be significant.
Interestingly, both cities have held referendums in recent years to regulate the industry. Citizens of Sitka, for example, rejected a ballot proposition in early 2025 to cap cruise ship traffic in their port.
So, does that mean locals welcome the influx?
Yes and no. As one guide told me, “It depends who you are and how close you live to the industry.” Retirees trying to run errands downtown Sitka may find the crowds frustrating. “But locals are pragmatic,” he said. Tourism is a top economic driver, generating over $5 billion in economic impact in 2023, and cruise passengers play a vital role—even if their presence is sometimes begrudged.
The best thing travelers can do is show up with respect and generosity. Spend money at local shops. Tip your servers and drivers. Offer genuine thanks. Ask questions. And treat the destination like you would you own hometown—don’t litter, keep noise down, and be mindful of wildlife and walkways.
I’m also hyperaware of the ethical responsibilities cruise companies carry. Labor practices and environmental sustainability are major concerns. While I didn’t expect perfection, I was struck by the warmth and professionalism of the crew. From bartenders to housekeeping, everyone was consistently kind and helpful.
Norwegian Cruise Line, like others, has faced scrutiny over wage and labor policies. In response, they’ve implemented programs to improve compliance and reward performance. One example: a standard service fee paid by guests helps fund a crew rewards and recognition pool, replacing traditional tipping and encouraging teamwork.
As travelers, we have power. Research the company you’re sailing with—look into their legal history, environmental record, and labor practices. Don’t be swayed by glossy, pie-in-the-sky marketing. Vote with your wallet and support businesses striving to do better not solely for the sake of a buck but because it’s the right thing to do.
And while onboard, take time to connect. Whether it’s the bartender who remembers your order or the blackjack dealer with a great sense of humor, acknowledge their work. Ask about their journey. Understand their story. A little curiosity and kindness go a long way.
Most Memorable Moments
Some of the most memorable moments weren’t excursions—they were the quiet rhythms of cruise life. After each day’s adventure, I’d hit the fitness center, walk laps on the pool deck, or curl up with a book and blanket in an outdoor seating area. It was Alaska, after all—cozy layers were part of the charm.
Our family had no trouble splitting off for solo time. A good vacation isn’t just about togetherness—it’s also about reconnecting with yourself.
Dining onboard was a highlight. Beyond the buffet, we loved the Manhattan Room steakhouse and the twin restaurants Taste and Savor. Evenings often ended with drinks at the wine or whiskey bar, or on the peaceful Observation Deck.
Two excursions stood out: whale watching and hiking in Ketchikan. Wandering through a temperate rainforest, spotting slugs the size of Sharpies and bear claw marks on trees, felt exciting. Watching Humpbacks feed and bald eagles soar overhead was like stepping in a nature documentary—minus David Attenborough’s narration.
Alaska is often called “God’s country,” and it’s easy to see why. Sitting on deck with the breeze in my face and snowcapped peaks on the horizon, I felt completely present.
The cruise was perfect for our family—Jason and I, my parents, my sister, and her boyfriend. Whether you’re traveling with adults or older kids, an Alaskan cruise offers something for everyone. Between card games, shared meals, and plenty of laughter, it was a trip defined by connection.
Seven Tips for Your Cruise
No trip like this comes without a few lessons learned. While every cruise and itinerary is different, here are seven tips that made our experience smoother, more meaningful, and more fun:
Research your excursions—but stay flexible. Read reviews and plan ahead, but don’t feel obligated to book something at every port. Some of our favorite moments came from simply exploring on foot or taking a shuttle.
Find your favorite spot onboard. Spend time on day one walking the ship. Discover which decks and spaces are lively and which are quiet. Pick a go-to space for solo time and a meet-up point for your group. Ask cruise ship staff the best spots that align with your preferences—they’re the experts!
Explore dining beyond the buffet. Depending on your package, you’ll have access to multiple restaurants and bars beyond the general buffet. Ask crew members for recommendations and try a few spots—you’ll be glad you did.
Unpack and stay organized. Settle into your cabin early. Use the closet and drawers, and keep clean and dirty clothes separate. It’ll make your week feel more relaxed and less chaotic.
Talk to the crew. They know the ship inside and out—and they’re fascinating people. Ask about their favorite views, quiet corners, or stories from life at sea. A few conversations can enrich your whole trip.
Make time for yourself. Even with family or friends, carve out solo time. Read, journal, or hit the fitness center. Cruises are a great chance to recharge.
Keep a journal. From wildlife sightings to memorable meals, so much happens on a cruise. Jot down highlights—even in a notes app. You’ll be grateful for the record later.
Have questions about my cruise to Alaska? Send me an email at danny@dannyloomans.com.