As someone who loves river cruising, it might surprise you to learn that my family just returned from a trip on Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas! My passion for river cruises and my enjoyment of a recent large-scale Royal Caribbean voyage can actually coexist quite seamlessly.
As many know, I'm a firm believer in the magic of European river cruises. But I knew for a family vacation with adult children in their 20’s, the energy of a large ship with all it’s included amenities would be the right fit. The aqua show, ice show and Broadway style performance of Mama Mia were very impressive! We enjoyed a wonderful day at the beach on the private island of Cococay and took a day pass to experience the Atlantis during our port of call at Nassau. It was a wonderful way for our family to reconnect and recharge. But it also made me appreciate the unique joys of river cruising. The opportunity to slowly immerse ourselves in the culture, history, and natural beauty of a region is simply unmatched. So while the Royal Caribbean cruise was a wonderful family escape, it has ultimately reinforced my passion for the river cruising experience. If you're considering branching out from the traditional ocean cruise, I highly encourage you to explore the magic of Europe's waterways. Let me know, and I'll be delighted to plan your next unforgettable river cruise journey. Wishing you safe and happy travels!
0 Comments
Cruising is one of the best ways to experience the breathtaking natural wonders of Alaska. But with so many cruise lines sailing to the area, it can be difficult to decide which ship is right for you. At Sunlit Travel, we specialize in planning and managing trips to Alaska and can help match your travel style and preferences with the right vacation. Photo by Benton Sherman on Unsplash Princess Cruises: Seamless Cruise and Land Experiences For people seeking a more immersive Alaskan adventure, Princess Cruise Line offers "Cruisetours"- a one way cruise with a land extension either before or after the sailing for 3 or 4 days. These seamless land and sea experiences allow you to maximize your time in Alaska, with the train transportation and accommodations all coordinated for you. Not only will you get to experience the famous cruise ports, but all the interior areas such as Denali National Park. Princess owns and operates five custom built lodges in the best locations throughout Alaska - Copper River, Kenai, Mt. McKinley, Denali and Fairbanks, ensuring a consistent level of quality throughout your vacation.
Royal Caribbean: Perfect for Families If you are traveling with the entire family, Royal Caribbean's expansive ships are an excellent choice for an Alaskan Cruise. With a wide variety of onboard activities, from rock climbing walls and sports court to an adults only solarium, there is certainly something to keep everyone entertained on sailing days. And with like-minded families traveling alongside you, the atmosphere is lively and fun-filled.
Holland America Line: Intimate and Immersive If you prefer a more intimate cruise experience, Holland America Line is a fantastic option for sailing Alaska's waters. Their mid-sized ships foster a relaxed, sophisticated ambiance, ideal for travelers looking to disconnect and embrace the wilderness of Alaska. Most sailings with Holland America include a visit to Glacier Bay National Park, the undisputed highlight of the inside Passage.
Celebrity Cruises: Modern Luxury in Alaska For a touch of contemporary elegance, Celebrity Cruises offers an exceptional Alaskan experience. The fleet of stylish, mid-sized ships provides an upscale yet relaxed atmosphere. The modern design offers expansive viewing decks providing unparalleled opportunities to admire the breathtaking landscapes. Travelers will enjoy exceptional cuisine and top entertainment while exploring the rugged beauty of Alaska.
Silversea: Ultra-Luxury Alaskan Adventure If you're seeking the ultimate in all-inclusive luxury, Silversea Cruises is the way to go for your Alaskan voyage. Their intimate, all-suite ships offer the highest levels of personalized service, gourmet dining, and bespoke shore excursions, perfect for travelers who appreciate the finer things in life. Prepare to be pampered as you discover the grandeur of Alaska.
Regent Seven Seas: All-Inclusive Alaskan Indulgence Regent Seven Seas takes the luxury cruise experience to new heights, with an all-inclusive approach that covers everything from round-trip airfare to unlimited shore excursions. Their Alaskan itineraries provide an unparalleled level of comfort and convenience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the region's natural wonders without worrying about the details.
Choosing Your Perfect Alaska Cruise
When it comes to selecting the best Alaska cruise line, your travel style and preferences are the key. Are you looking for non-stop family fun, a seamless land and sea adventure, or a more serene, intimate onboard experience? Maybe you crave modern luxury or all-inclusive indulgence. Sunlit Travel can help you weigh the pros and cons of each cruise line to ensure you embark on the Alaskan voyage of your dreams. For an extra-special Alaskan adventure, consider joining one of Sunlit Travel's exclusive group sailings with Princess Cruises. These curated voyages offer the opportunity to cruise with like-minded travelers, and take advantage of discounts and amenities. Our Princess group cruises are an excellent choice for solo travelers, couples, friends, and multi-generational families alike. While we strive to provide the most valuable information to our readers, this blog post may include some affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission if you make a purchase through those links. Your support helps us continue creating content to inspire your travels. Alaska offers an opportunity to experience nature and still have the luxury and comforts of home. Cruise ships provide the perfect accommodations for solo travelers, couples, friend groups and multi-generational families. Days at sea experiencing the glaciers in Alaska allow the destination to be just as spectacular as the amazing ports of call. I have curated some of the best excursions to showcase the true essence of Alaska. I want to be sure to link your interests with your activities to make the most of every port. KETCHIKAN: SALMON CAPITAL OF THE WORLD Ketchikan is a charming coastal town known for its rich Native Alaskan culture and breathtaking natural beauty. It is the gateway to some of Alaska's most thrilling excursions and unforgettable experiences. Misty Fjords National Monument Board a floatplane and soar over the lush rainforests, glistening lakes, and striking granite cliffs of this magnificent monument. Known as the "Yosemite of the North," Misty Fjords offers unparalleled scenic beauty. Totem Heritage Center Dive into the rich indigenous culture at this impressive center, home to one of the largest collections of original 19th-century totem poles. Learn about the history and craftsmanship behind these intricate works of art. Alaskan Lumberjack Show Enjoy an action-packed, family-friendly show that offers a peek into the rugged life of an Alaskan lumberjack. Cheer on the talented performers as they compete in log rolling, chopping, and sawing events. Sea Crab Fisherman's Tour Step aboard a crab boat and experience the world of commercial fishing. Learn about life on the Bering Sea and spot fascinating marine life along the way. Photo by Christopher Luther on Unsplash SKAGWAY: RELIVING THE GOLD RUSH GLORY Stepping off the cruise ship in Skagway, passengers are transported back in time to the days of the Klondike Gold Rush. From thrilling train rides through the mountains to immersive journeys into the region's storied past, the excursions in Skagway offer a glimpse into Alaska's pioneering spirit. White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad Take a historic train ride through the mountains on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad. This scenic journey retraces the steps of the Gold Rush stampeders, offering breathtaking panoramas of steep cliffs, gorges, and waterfalls. Klondike Gold Dredge Immerse yourself in Gold Rush History at the Klondike Gold Dredge. Try your hand at panning for gold, explore the remnants of the dredge and learn about the feverish gold rush days that shaped Alaska. Chilkoot Train Hike and Float For the adventurous, embark on a hike along the historic Chilkoot Trail. Follow in the footsteps of the stampeders, then enjoy a tranquil float down the Taiya River, surrounded by lush forests and stunning mountain views. Yukon Discovery and Sled Dog Adventure Cross the border into Canada and explore the scenic Yukon Territory. Visit an authentic dogsled camp, meet the mushers, and take a ride on a dog sled through the breathtaking wilderness! Photo by Robert Boston on Unsplash JUNEAU: ADVENTURES IN THE CAPTIAL Juneau offers a wealth of opportunities to immerse yourself in the region's natural wonders. From up-close glacier encounters to thrilling whale watching adventures, the excursions in Juneau showcase the best of this vibrant hub. Mendenhall Glacier Visit this iconic glacier, just a short drive from downtown Juneau. Explore the visitor center, hike the scenic trails, or take a guided tour to get up close to the glacier’s icy blue expanse. Whale Watching Juneau is one of the best places in the world for whale watching. Set off on a boat tour to spot humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, and other marine life in their natural habitat. Dog Sledding on a Glacier Experience an iconic Alaskan adventure with a thrilling dogsled ride over a glacier! One of the most incredible excursions for all cruises! Meet the mushers and their enthusiastic sled dogs, then soar over the glacier’s pristine surface in a helicopter before your sledding adventure begins. Juneau Salmon Bake Indulge in the flavors of Alaska at an enchanting salmon bake nestled in the lush rainforest. Savor the aroma of wild-caught Alaskan salmon sizzling over an Alderwood fire, accompanied by the soothing sounds of live music. As you relax in this unique, nature-inspired setting, take a short stroll along a nearby salmon-spawning creek to complete this immersive culinary experience. Photo by James Padolsey on Unsplash Combining Sea and Land: The Ultimate Alaska Experience Extend your Alaskan adventure with our thoughtfully designed land tours. These journeys take you deeper into the heart of Alaska, offering a well-rounded and immersive experience. Denali National Park Marvel at the grandeur of North America’s highest peak. Spot grizzly bears, moose, and caribou as you explore the park via guided tours or scenic bus rides. Fairbanks Experience the charm of frontier life in Fairbanks. Visit the Museum of the North, pan for gold, and relax in natural hot springs while keeping an eye out for the magical Northern Lights. Anchorage From vibrant downtown markets to scenic parks, Anchorage is a city that perfectly blends urban life with wilderness adventures. Don’t miss the Alaska Native Heritage Center and the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. Photo by Vincent Guth on Unsplash |
AuthorI enjoy guiding clients through the planning process: from finding the right destination to organizing the logistics and finally hearing about the trip upon your return! I am a strong advocate for my clients when it comes to price, quality and service. Trust and building lasting relationships along with continuing education are all extremely important to my business. Categories |