My Seabourn Alaska Cruise

When I think back on our Alaska cruise, the seaplane flight over the glaciers is the first thing that comes to mind. Then I remember the humpback whales, the sea otters, and lunch at a historic wilderness lodge. We had some wonderful days exploring.

But Chris and I also loved coming back to Seabourn Encore. Our aft suite and balcony, the warm service, and the smaller ship atmosphere were just as much a part of what we enjoyed.

That’s what I want to share with you: what made this cruise a good fit for us, what I’d keep in mind for next time, and how our experience might help you choose your own Alaska adventure.

Why the Ship Matters in Alaska

It’s easy to focus on the ports and excursions when planning an Alaska cruise. There’s so much to look forward to seeing. But you’ll also spend a meaningful part of your vacation onboard, so choosing a ship you enjoy matters.

For us, Seabourn Encore’s smaller ship atmosphere was a lovely fit. The service was wonderful, the food was very good, and the entertainment was excellent.

I’ve sailed with several cruise lines, and each offers a different experience. When I help someone compare options, I want to understand how they like to spend their time. Do they enjoy a quieter atmosphere, or do they want lots of activities and lively spaces? What matters most at dinner and in the evenings?

The answers help narrow the choices beyond simply finding an itinerary with the right ports.

Our Aft Suite and Balcony

We loved our aft suite and balcony. It was one of the parts of the cruise I would happily choose again.

In Alaska, where the scenery is such a big part of the journey, I’d give some thought to how you’ll use your accommodations. If you enjoy having your own outdoor space, a balcony may be worth prioritizing.

Location deserves attention, too. Before choosing a suite, I’d look at what’s above and below it, its position on the ship, and the walking distance to restaurants and other spaces you expect to use often.

Our choice suited us beautifully. Yours should reflect what will make you comfortable throughout the trip.

Our Highlight: Flying Over Glaciers in Juneau

The highlight of our cruise was a seaplane excursion from Juneau, flying over glaciers and stopping for lunch at Taku Glacier Lodge.

Seeing the glaciers from above gave us a different perspective on Alaska’s landscape. Pairing that flight with a visit to a historic wilderness lodge made it an especially memorable outing.

Taku Glacier Lodge dates to 1923. The Wings Airways excursion combines glacier flightseeing with a landing on the Taku River and a meal at the lodge.

For anyone considering an Alaska cruise, I’d suggest identifying the experience you’re most excited about early in the planning process. It might be flightseeing, wildlife watching, or an outing on the water. Give yourself time to compare the options and understand how they fit your port schedule.

For us, this was the excursion that stood out most.

Humpback Whales, Sea Otters, and Sea Lions

Another excursion I really enjoyed was seeing humpback whales, sea otters, and sea lions.

Between the glacier flight and the wildlife encounters, we experienced Alaska in very different ways, and I’m glad we made room for both.

That variety is something I’d keep in mind when choosing excursions. Rather than booking several similar outings, think about what each day adds to your trip.

You might want one day focused on wildlife, another on scenery, and some time to explore a port at your own pace. You don’t need to fill every available hour to come home with wonderful memories.

Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, which makes those encounters all the more special when they happen.

Adventure With a Comfortable Place to Return To

I would especially recommend considering Seabourn in Alaska if you enjoy adventure alongside attentive service and onboard comfort.

Through its optional Ventures by Seabourn program, the line offers guided expedition-style experiences such as Zodiac outings and kayaking. These can give travelers opportunities to explore Alaska from closer to the water.

The specific activities depend on the sailing, destination, and conditions. I’d review the options for your itinerary, including the cost, activity level, and boarding requirements, before deciding what suits you.

You can also choose a pace that feels right for you. An interest in adventure doesn’t mean everyone in your party needs to book the same activity.

For me, the appeal is having interesting ways to explore while also enjoying the dining, service, and atmosphere back onboard.

The Part I Would Change: The Weather!

If I could have improved one thing about our cruise, it would have been the weather.

It didn’t take away the experiences we loved, but it belongs in an honest account of the trip. Alaska calls for some flexibility, and I’d approach another visit with that in mind.

My planning advice would be to bring layers, include waterproof outerwear, and leave room for plans to change. Weather can affect outdoor activities and flightseeing, so it helps to understand an excursion’s cancellation arrangements before booking.

This is another reason I’d put thought into the ship itself. Having comfortable accommodations, enjoyable meals, and excellent entertainment gives you plenty to appreciate when conditions outside are less inviting.

Who I’d Recommend This Cruise To

Based on our experience, I’d recommend looking at Seabourn Encore in Alaska if you appreciate:

• A smaller ship atmosphere.
• Attentive, personal service.
• Very good dining and enjoyable evening entertainment.
• Opportunities for wildlife viewing and outdoor exploration.
• The option to combine adventurous excursions with a comfortable onboard experience.

If your priority is a ship filled with waterslides, large production venues, and activities around every corner, I’d explore other options with you. The best choice comes down to the vacation you want to have.

What I’d Keep in Mind for Next Time

I’d give just as much attention to our suite, the ship atmosphere, and our excursion choices as I would to the itinerary.

Our aft suite was a success. The glacier flight and wildlife outing were memorable highlights. And the service, food, and entertainment helped make our time onboard enjoyable.

I’d also keep my expectations flexible about the weather. There’s only so much planning can control, but choosing a ship and experiences that suit you gives the trip a strong foundation.

Let’s Find Your Alaska Cruise

Our Seabourn Alaska cruise brought together two things we enjoy: getting out and exploring, and having a lovely place to return to afterward.

If you’re thinking about Alaska, I’d love to hear what you’re hoping to experience. Together, we can compare the ships, itineraries, and excursions to find a cruise that feels right for you.