Bryan Warren

My wife and I are taking a Holland America cruise on the Noordam in August and will be stopping in Ketchikan, Juneau, Sitka, Glacier Bay, Valdez and Seward. We love nature, wildlife viewing, photography, kayaking, hiking and shopping and we are trying to plan our activities in advance. Any suggestions would be welcome. Is it better to plan activities thru the ship or on your own? While saving money is great, time is short so we would be willing to pay a little more for the benefit of the best experience. Thanks!!

JoAnn

In Seward-take the Kenai Fjord cruise-we did and saw whales near the boat, puffins fly by, bears on shore, up close to a glacier, seals, sea otters-it was the 8 hr trip and WONDERFUL! Enjoy Alaska, it's beauty is awesome and beyond description--and if you can, read Michner's "Alaska" to learn about the state.

Robbye

I highly recommend a helicopter flightseeing excursion from Juneau (Temsco Aviation) called "pilot's choice". We landed on Taku Glacier and on the ice field. It was beautiful! I hear those who took the Kenai cruise were impressed as was the previous poster.

Nora

Hi, I was in Seward in July/August. I took the same boat tour as previously posted to you and recommend it. Prepare for cold weather. Even at the end of July we were wearing heavy coats aboard the boat. Our favorite lodge was in Seward. It was the WINDSONG LODGE. Beautiful place, brand new, great bar and wonderful food in the restaurant. If you can, stay at least two days in this place. It was our favorite lodge of all on our summer trip

Joy in Virginia

Vancouver, BC, is a lovely city. If you have time, allow a few days before or after your trip to sightsee there. Renting bicycles and biking around Stanley Park is a terrific way to spend an afternoon. We were there a few years ago & enjoyed Vancouver very much.