There's a saying in the travel industry: "I go so you know." Alaska was the most requested itinerary from my clients this year, so I sailed it myself on the Disney Magic. The photos honestly don't do it justice.
Why is Alaska perfect for Canadians?
Disney's Alaska cruises leave from Vancouver. No long flight to Florida, and a chance to spend a day or two on Canada's beautiful west coast before you sail. Canadian resident rates have also been available on many Alaska sailings, which can make a real difference on what is usually a premium itinerary.
Typical seven-night itineraries include a day of glacier viewing (often the Stikine Icecap) and ports such as Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan and Icy Strait Point.
Getting to the ship
We stayed at the Fairmont Vancouver Airport, which sits right inside the terminal. It wasn't the cheapest choice, and I love a deal. But it's one of the hotels Disney's cruise shuttle serves. Our bags were collected from our room in the morning, and using Disney transportation got us an earlier port arrival time.
My advice: fly in the day before. Our flight home was delayed and we missed a connection, so I don't trust a same-day arrival for a cruise. More on flights here.
Alaska is all about the ports
On warm-weather cruises, we often skip excursions and enjoy a quiet ship. Alaska is different. The ports are the point.
- Skagway: We did a small-group sailing tour on the Lynn Canal, with only six guests. Snacks, stories from a local captain, bald eagles overhead and stunning scenery. One of the highlights of our trip.
- Ketchikan: A photo safari, plus a fun walk into town. Charming streets, and a perfect sunny day.
- Icy Strait Point: Alaska excursions are pricey, so I booked the least expensive option on purpose, as research for clients on a budget.
The point: there's a range of excursions, from splurges to simple, and a good plan mixes both.
What should I pack for Alaska?
Layers, layers, layers. On our June sailing, Skagway was actually warmer than home in Newfoundland. But weather on the water changes quickly, especially on glacier day. Pack a warm layer, a rain shell and comfortable walking shoes.
The Disney touches
Alaska sailings have their own themed deck party, and Disney often shows brand-new film releases on board. We caught a premiere at sea on ours. On cool sea days, the adults-only Cove Café is a cozy place to watch the scenery with a coffee.
Book early
Alaska sells out quickly, and verandahs carry a real premium on these sailings because the views are the whole point. If Alaska is on your list, look at next summer's sailings here, with the Canadian resident answer on, and send me the one you like. I'll compare the sailings, check for Canadian rates, and help you plan the ports.
