This is a review of Holland America's Alaska Cruisetour #Y4C, 11 Night Yukon & Double Denali.
Day 1 - Vancouver
As I write, I'm sitting on the balcony of our Verandah stateroom, enjoying a sea view with mountains in the background, cuddled up with a cozy blanket on a perfectly crisp, sunny day. Not a bad start to an Alaska cruise vacation.
I'm about to embark on a Holland America Land & Sea Journey, my first-ever trip to Alaska. My 22-year-old daughter is my travel partner, and we've just checked into our pleasantly roomy cabin.
Technically, this is our day 2, as we spent a pre-cruise overnight at the Sheraton Wall Centre in Vancouver, which was wonderful. An ideal location within walking distance of a shopping and restaurant district, the most gracious staff and beautifully appointed rooms made for an enjoyable stay.
We took our 10 minute cab ride from the hotel to the Vancouver pier, where the check-in process was surprisingly quick and seamless. We arrived at the port at about 10:45am, and by 11:30am were enjoying lunch on deck. Around 11:45am we received notification that our stateroom was ready, a category VH aboard the Nieuw Amsterdam. More cabin details and pics tomorrow!
This afternoon we took advantage of Holland America's signature Greenhouse Spa. Our massage therapists were wonderful; very friendly and attentive. They were running about 15 minutes behind, but because we didn't have a set dinner time, it had no impact on us and we left happy and relaxed.
And so here I sit on my balcony, in a state of post-pampering bliss, admiring the stunning view at Canada Place pier. Paddle boats passing by, sea planes taking off and landing, Stanley Park and Lions Gate bridge in the background... This is sure to be an active and adventure-packed trip, so the serene beginning is appreciated.
We'll be having a late dinner at the buffet and calling it a night. We have lots of time to explore the ship tomorrow as we cruise the Inside Passage northbound to Alaska.
Click here to read Day 2 - Cruising the Inside Passage
