Spend the next day familiarising yourself with Norwegian Bliss as you sail in style.
Head to the fitness centre for a workout, bask in the bright lights of theatre productions at sea, delight in a pamper session at Mandara Spa, browse the onboard boutique shops or enjoy a delicious meal at one of the mouthwatering onboard eateries. Get your adrenaline fix at the Aqua Park, race around Bliss Speedway or soak in the glittering sun poolside with a cocktail in hand.
Hidden on the east coast of Baranof Island, tiny Sitka is only accessible by air or sea. With its uniquely diverse cultural heritage, this artsy American settlement features historically Russian buildings, all on the traditional lands of the Tlingit community.
With some of the state’s best fishing, the chance to catch king salmon or hearty halibut is a perpetual draw for visitors. Taste these fresh catches at one of the local restaurants, or choose to visit the Sitka National Historical Park for the chance to uncover the region’s fascinating history.
The most remote state capital in the United States – and one of its most strangely beautiful – Juneau is a blend of glacial grandeur and gold rush history, surrounded by water, forest and mountains. From here, you could hike a glacier, eat freshly caught fish on a seaside patio and meet professional mushers and their canine companions all in one day.
The real highlight of a visit to Juneau is tracking down the wildlife. Take a hike up Mount Roberts and you might chance upon wild deer and bald eagles.
Back on board your cruise vessel, turn your attention from your world at sea as you look to the jaw-dropping Dawes Glacier in Endicott Arm. At the end of this narrow, breathtaking fjord, you can experience the thrilling scale of the frozen landscape, watching for calving glaciers and cascading waterfalls.
If you’re lucky, you may even spot a sea lion among the floating ice, or a seal basking in the sun. An important mating ground for harbour seals, the wildlife-filled waters are shadowed by Dawes’ towering glacial face in all its icy-blue grandeur.
Welcome to the place ‘where the north wind doesn’t blow’. Icy Strait Point is the ideal destination for adventurists. With its stunning natural beauty, Icy Strait Point takes you deep into the heart of the wilderness. It is one of the few locations in the world where wildlife outnumbers humans. A visit here will undoubtedly satisfy any craving for the wilderness.
This morning, arrive in the quaint town of Ketchikan, just three blocks wide, where Alaska’s busiest waterfront comes to life. From the joys of an Alaskan lumberjack show to invigorating hiking trails crossing your scenic surrounds, your day ashore contains a unique taste of America’s northernmost state’s coastal life.
Visit the independent galleries of Creek Street, where you’ll get a glimpse of native Alaskan art, or stop in for freshly caught Dungeness crab at any of the seafood establishments just a stone’s throw from the cruise terminal. Then come afternoon, rejoin your cruise and set sail for farther shores.
Majestic mammals and marine wildlife abound in the waters surrounding Victoria. British Columbia’s provincial capital, Victoria is also home to a slew of impressive architectural wonders, including the iconic Parliament Buildings and the waterfront Fairmont Empress Hotel.
Victoria’s pioneering heritage and traditions are well preserved in their museums, art galleries, homes and great mansions. Here, visit the unique shops of Chinatown, stroll along the Inner Harbour and enjoy time in Thunderbird Park with a guided sightseeing tour, before returning to your lively vessel for one final evening at leisure.
Your ship arrives back in Seattle at 6am this morning. From here, your Alaskan adventure concludes as you disembark, ready to make your own way to the airport for your included flight home.