Introduction

If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes, spotting majestic wildlife, and enjoying top-notch entertainment, an Alaskan cruise is the perfect way to do it. Recently, I had the pleasure of sailing on Royal Caribbean’s Serenade of the Seas, and I’m here to share my experience with you. From the stunning embarkation city of Vancouver to the lively onboard activities, this cruise was a journey to remember. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or considering your first voyage, this review will give you a glimpse of what makes an Alaskan cruise so special.  

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Vancouver: The Perfect Start to an Alaskan Adventure 
Our adventure began in Vancouver, a city so beautiful it could make a postcard jealous. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains, Vancouver is the kind of place where you can sip coffee while gazing at snow-capped peaks and then stroll through a bustling waterfront. If you have time before your cruise, I highly recommend checking out Vancouver Lookout, which offers amazing views, as well as some great pieces of information about the city.

 

Serenade of the Seas: A Comfortable and Clean Home at Sea  
Royal Caribbean’s Serenade of the Seas served as our floating home (or Floatel, if you will) for the week, and let me tell you, it was like staying in a five-star hotel that just happens to move. The ship was clean, well-maintained, and offered a cozy yet elegant atmosphere.  The ships small size and smart layout also lent itself to not ever feeling crowded, which is nice when you are sharing a boat with 2,500 other folks. Whether you’re relaxing in your stateroom, enjoying the panoramic views from the ship’s floor-to-ceiling windows, or strolling along the deck, Serenade of the Seas provides the perfect setting to take in Alaska’s natural beauty.  

The only real negative had nothing to do with the amenities on the ship and was instead due to an engine propulsion issue that caused the ship to remain in Vancouver for the entire first day and much of the second, causing us to miss our stop in Sitka.  This was after attempting to leave the cruise terminal and being forced to return to fix the issue.  To Royal Caribbean's credit, we were given onboard credit equal to one day's worth of our cruise fare.  This compensation was polarizing, as it seemed that a good amount of guests did not think this was enough reimbursement considering what we were missing out on.  However, I have seen less compensation offered for similar circumstances, so I didn't have issues with what we got.  With that said, everyone will likely feel differently about a situation like this.

 

Entertainment and Activities: Fun for Everyone  
If you think cruising is all about lounging around, think again! Serenade of the Seas kept us entertained with a lineup of activities that could rival a Vegas weekend. The cruise director, Joff, was a comedic genius who had us laughing until our sides hurt. Karaoke nights were a riot, trivia sessions were surprisingly competitive, and game shows like “Love and Marriage” had everyone in stitches.  The theater performances were top-notch, featuring singers and an orchestra that could easily headline Broadway. While the band in the Centrum and the Caribbean Waves Duo were good, the piano singer in the Schooner Bar was a standout. And let’s not forget the standup comedian—hilarious! My wife also remarked that the illusionist show was very entertaining (I unfortunately was not feeling well enough to attend; more on that later).  There was also a unicyclist comedian we saw that was, well, let’s just say it was an acquired taste.

 

Dining: A Culinary Adventure at Sea  
Food is a big part of any cruise experience, and Serenade of the Seas didn’t disappoint. Most meals were delicious, with a few dishes that were downright unforgettable. Whether you’re indulging in a multi-course dinner in the main dining room, grabbing a quick bite at the Windjammer Café, or treating yourself to a specialty restaurant, there’s something for everyone.  

 

Ports of Call: Alaska’s Gems (and a Little Drama)  
Due to the aforementioned engine issues, our first port of call was Juneau, and it was love at first sight. We took the sky tram into the mountains and walked the trails, soaking in the stunning views. We also took a 20-minute taxi ride to see Mendenhall Glacier, which was  was a showstopper—breathtaking doesn’t even begin to describe it. Juneau quickly became my favorite stop.  

Next up was Ketchikan, where my wife and I attended a lumberjack show and visited Totem Bight Park as part of a Royal Caribbean excursion. It was rainy and chilly, but the activities were fun. Unfortunately, I started feeling a bit under the weather, which made the chill a little harder to bear.  

Our final port was Prince Rupert, British Columbia. By this point, I was feeling downright miserable and stayed onboard while my wife explored. She reported that while the town was charming, there wasn’t much to do unless you booked an excursion.  

 

Why Choose an Alaskan Cruise?  
An Alaskan cruise offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. From the towering glaciers of Tracy Arm Fjord to the charming towns of Juneau and Ketchikan, every port of call is an opportunity to explore Alaska’s rugged wilderness and rich culture. Onboard, you’ll enjoy world-class amenities, entertainment, and dining, making it a vacation that truly has it all.  

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Conclusion: Let’s Plan Your Alaskan Adventure!  
If you’re ready to experience the magic of Alaska for yourself, I’d love to help you plan your dream cruise. As a travel advisor specializing in Royal Caribbean cruises, I can ensure every detail of your trip is tailored to your preferences. Whether you’re drawn to the glaciers, the wildlife, or the onboard fun, I’ll help you create memories that will last a lifetime.  

Contact me today to start planning your Alaskan adventure. Let’s make your travel dreams a reality!