About a year ago, my friend Samadhini, who lives in New York, reached out to invite us on an Alaska cruise with a few friends. Since it was my husband’s 60th birthday year, we eagerly said yes. We had also decided to take it a little easier in 2025, and a cruise seemed like the perfect way to celebrate. The planning, of course, began months in advance—cruises require early booking if you want the best cabins and excursions.
To reach Seattle, Washington, the cruise’s departure city, we flew from Sri Lanka. It’s almost a full day of travel, so we extended our trip into a three-week adventure, visiting Vancouver, Whistler, Olympia, and Portland before the cruise, and staying four more days in Seattle afterward. I’ll be sharing posts about these cities separately.
Sailing through Alaska is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and aboard the Norwegian Encore, it felt both luxurious and unforgettable. Our 7-night roundtrip cruise from Seattle included stops at Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan (Ward Cove), Glacier Bay National Park, and Victoria, British Columbia, with a relaxing day at sea to enjoy the ship’s many amenities. The Encore is more than a vessel—it’s a floating resort, designed to entertain, comfort, and indulge guests amidst some of the world’s most dramatic scenery.
Arriving in Seattle
After our road trip around nearby U.S. and Canadian cities, we returned to Seattle to drop off our rental car—a task that turned into a mini adventure of its own when the address on the booking led us not to the car park, but to the building’s lift lobby!
With the car returned, we checked in at the Alexi Royal Sonesta Hotel Seattle, a stylish downtown hotel conveniently located near the port. It was to be our base for two nights before the cruise. That evening, we gathered to celebrate our friend Nilmini’s birthday at Il Nido, a fine Italian restaurant tucked inside a century-old log cabin. The cozy, rustic atmosphere paired with exquisite food made the dinner extra memorable. To keep the festivities going, we wandered into a few lively bars in downtown Seattle, enjoying the city’s vibrant nightlife before turning in for the night.
The following morning, we set out to explore Seattle on foot and stopped for a hearty breakfast at Conversation, a modern restaurant with a creative take on morning favorites. Afterwards, we drove out to visit the Boeing Factory, where massive hangars revealed the fascinating behind-the-scenes world of aircraft production. From there, we continued to Snoqualmie Falls, a breathtaking 268-foot cascade framed by lush forest—a dramatic natural contrast to the morning’s industrial wonder. Back in downtown Seattle, we treated ourselves to the city’s famous lobster rolls at Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls before taking a leisurely stroll along the Alaskan Way Pier.
That evening, as anticipation for the cruise grew, we met our travel companions for a welcome dinner at the elegant Six Seven Restaurant, overlooking the Puget Sound. Sharing stories and laughter over fresh seafood while the sun dipped low over the bay, we felt the excitement building—tomorrow, our Alaskan adventure would truly begin.
Day 1 – Embarkation
We had booked priority boarding, with our time slot set for 12:30 pm. Luggage tags had been emailed to us by Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), which I simply printed and stapled onto our bags. NCL also has its own mobile app, which quickly becomes your go-to guide for the trip. It shows your packages, excursions, dining reservations—basically everything about your cruise. A small note: if you book excursions through your travel agent, they won’t appear on the app, so it’s best to keep a separate record.
Since we had several bags, we took an Uber to the port (though it’s only about a 12-minute walk from downtown). At Pier 66, we handed over our luggage and joined the security queue. Even with priority boarding, security checks are the same for everyone. NCL recommends carrying only a small backpack with essentials such as medication, documents, and anything you might need until your cabin is ready—usually after 2–3 hours.
After security, priority passengers were directed to NCL check-in staff. We were given two cruise cards, which we used throughout the journey for everything from ordering food and drinks to embarking and disembarking. At this stage, our passports were collected, and we were issued a receipt. The staff explained this was to simplify the Canadian customs border crossing during the cruise. Initially, we felt uneasy about handing over our passports, but after clarifications and assurances, we agreed.
First Moments Onboard
Our group consisted of 20 friends, and we had agreed to meet at the Garden Café after check-in. The whole process, including security, took around 30 minutes.
As we boarded, the crew welcomed guests with music, dancing, and warm smiles—a festive beginning! We attended the mandatory safety briefing and then stopped for a round of drinks at the Sugarcane MojitoBar. Watching the ship sail out of Seattle from the deck, drinks in hand, was the perfect start. Afterwards, we reunited with our friends at the Garden Café. The Garden Café, is the ship’s main complimentary buffet, open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. With spacious seating and a self-service setup, the venue provides a relaxed, casual dining option throughout the day.
By 2:00 pm, our rooms were ready. We found our luggage neatly stacked in the corridor outside our stateroom. The cabin itself was surprisingly spacious, with smartly designed cabinets that allowed us to tuck everything away neatly. The balcony was generous in size and offered lovely views—even from our king bed. One thing we quickly learned was that while water is freely available at restaurants, bottled (or in this case, canned!) water in your room requires a package. This was the first time I’d ever drunk water from a can, but it soon became part of our daily routine. We also had a friendly steward assigned to us, with direct contact details for anything we needed.
After unpacking and freshening up, we headed to the Observation Lounge—a spacious, forward-facing lounge on Deck 15 with floor-to-ceiling windows and 180-degree panoramic views of the ocean and landscapes. The modern, elegant design, comfortable seating, full-service bar, and complimentary snacks and desserts made it one of the ship’s most inviting spaces.
We had signed up for the unlimited food and beverage package, which included a wide selection of dining venues and as much wine and cocktails as we liked. As the afternoon passed, we enjoyed live performances—a band, piano music, and even some spontaneous dancing. The energy on board was electric, and excitement was in the air.
For dinner, we chose the Manhattan Room, one of the ship’s main dining restaurants. The décor was tasteful, the food delicious, and the service excellent. Afterwards, we headed to the Social Club, where we danced late into the night—an unforgettable start to our Alaskan journey.
Day 2 – At Sea
The next morning, we got up and headed straight to the Starbucks coffee shop on board. Here, we had to pay separately since we hadn’t taken the Starbucks unlimited coffee package. With coffee in hand, we explored the ship. Something unique I noticed about the cruise was that guests were allowed to carry their drinks from different restaurants, bars, and lounges anywhere on the ship. This was very convenient and quite amazing to us.
We decided to do a quick workout at The Pulse Fitness Center—a modern, ocean-view gym equipped with cardio machines, free weights, and dedicated spaces for rowing and TRX training. Access to the gym is complimentary, though certain fitness classes—like spin and Pilates—require an additional fee. Floor-to-ceiling windows provided stunning ocean views, making workouts feel less like exercise and more like an experience. For those who prefer the outdoors, there’s also a jogging track, perfect for a run or a brisk walk with fresh sea air and panoramic views.
Lunch on the second day was at the Taste Restaurant—one of my favorites on board. Taste is one of the three complimentary Main Dining Rooms, located beside Savor. Both venues share the same rotating menu, which changes daily and is available for breakfast, dinner, and lunch on select days. Guests can either reserve a table in advance or simply walk up, making it a flexible and elegant dining option. Afterwards, we spent time at the Observation Lounge for more socializing. Since the ship wasn’t docking at any port that day, it was a full day of cruising at sea.
In the evening, we got ready for our pre-arranged group dinner at Le Bistro, the elegant French specialty restaurant serving classics like escargot, coq au vin, and fresh seafood. It’s a refined, intimate dining experience that requires reservations and comes with an extra charge. It was an evening of fun and laughter as we wined and dined. A friend of ours had paid the corkage fee and brought 24 bottles of wine on board—since NCL allows guests to bring wine and beer with a corkage charge.
Where else could we head after such a feast but to the Social Club, for another night of fun and dancing? The Social Club—officially the Social Comedy and Night Club—is a lively late-night venue featuring stand-up comedy, themed shows like Prohibition, and fun events such as Silent Discos. By day it’s a casual lounge, and by night it transforms into an entertainment hotspot with great cocktails, music, and plenty of laughs.
Day 3 – Juneau, Alaska
The next morning, we woke up to breathtaking views of the mountains and horizon from our room. This time, we grabbed our coffees from the Observation Deck and headed to Deck 16 to explore the Aqua Park, which features two multi-story waterslides, a kids’ splash park, the Main Pool area with hot tubs, and the adults-only Spice H2O with hot tubs and infinity pools. For breakfast, we tried the Savor Restaurant, which offers a contemporary dining experience in a stylish, intimate setting. After relaxing by the pool and taking a short nap, we decided to hit the gym. Later, we joined others for lunch at Taste again.
We also explored the onboard branded shops and jewelry stores. The Encore offers a mix of luxury and duty-free shopping, from fine jewelry, perfumes, and fashion accessories to souvenirs and art. Guests can also browse contemporary and classic art at Park West Gallery—all with the bonus of daily tax-free savings. As we neared Juneau, we spotted many whale spouts and tails from the Observation Lounge, hearing oohs and excitement from the crowds around us.
We arrived at our first port of call—Juneau, Alaska—at 2:30 p.m. Known for the Mendenhall Glacier and prime whale-watching opportunities, Juneau offers the perfect mix of adventure and accessibility. The Mount Roberts Tramway provides sweeping views of the Gastineau Channel, while local breweries and seafood shacks add plenty of flavor to the visit.
For our excursion, we had booked the Whale Watching and Lighthouse Adventure through NCL, scheduled from 4:05 p.m. to 8:35 p.m. To our delight, it was a beautiful sunny afternoon—we didn’t even need jackets, though we had packed several in anticipation of the cold. Disembarkation was leisurely and stress-free. After scanning ourselves out, we met the tour bus driver at the pier. He drove us about 40 minutes while sharing interesting commentary about the area. We stopped just outside Juneau town to take stunning photos with the Mendenhall Glacier and mountain backdrops.
Juneau had been one of our most anticipated stops, and it did not disappoint. We boarded a small, comfortable catamaran with large viewing windows and outdoor decks, perfect for wildlife spotting. Within minutes of leaving the dock, the excitement began. Almost immediately, we saw two orcas—a rare sighting, according to our guide. Not long after, we spotted plumes of mist rising in the distance—several humpback whales feeding in the channel. Their sheer size and grace were breathtaking. We watched as tails lifted elegantly before each dive, and at one point, a humpback breached completely, sending gasps and cheers across the boat. Our naturalist explained the whales’ bubble-net feeding behavior, making the experience even more fascinating.
The surprises didn’t end there. A group of Steller sea lions barked noisily from a buoy, while harbor seals bobbed curiously nearby. Overhead, bald eagles soared effortlessly, occasionally swooping toward the water. We even saw a few playful Dall’s porpoises racing alongside the boat in the waves.
The scenery itself was spectacular. Snowcapped mountains rose dramatically from the sea, their slopes blanketed in lush green forest. Amid this beauty stood the charming Sentinel Island Lighthouse, perched on a rocky outcrop like something out of a postcard. We disembarked and hiked the trail to the lighthouse, climbing the stairs to the top. From there, we could see whales surfacing with the mountains as a stunning backdrop—a view I’ll never forget.
What struck me most was the balance of adventure and serenity. One moment we’d be rushing to the railing, thrilled by a whale’s tail slap, and the next, we’d be gliding silently past remote islands, surrounded by still waters and towering peaks.
By the time we returned to shore, I had taken countless photos—but more importantly, my heart felt full. This excursion was more than sightseeing; it was a reminder of how wild, raw, and breathtaking Alaska truly is. Juneau locals even know many of the whales by name, which made the connection feel even more special.
Back on board, after scanning our way in, we went for dinner at the Manhattan Room. Tired but exhilarated from the day, and with an early start ahead for our dog sledding excursion, we went to bed early. The Encore left Juneau at 10 p.m. that evening.
Day 4 – Skagway, Alaska
We kept the alarm on and got up early, mindful that we had an excursion at 9:30 a.m. I went to the Observation Lounge, grabbed our coffees, and brought them back to the room so we could enjoy them while taking in the Skagway scenery. The two of us later had a leisurely breakfast at the Taste restaurant—me with a full English breakfast complete with bacon and sausage. Afterward, we joined the rest of our group of 20 at the pier.
Skagway, Alaska, is a Gold Rush town steeped in history, with wooden sidewalks and preserved saloons. The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway is a highlight, tracing steep mountain passes with breathtaking panoramas. Active travelers can also enjoy hiking the Chilkoot Trail or joining a dog-sledding adventure on a glacier.
For us, Skagway became the gateway to one of the most unforgettable adventures of the entire cruise—a dog sledding excursion into the Yukon. Lasting 4.5 hours, this trip combined stunning mountain scenery, a touch of history, and the thrill of meeting some very enthusiastic four-legged athletes.
We began by boarding a comfortable tour bus that wound its way through the legendary White Pass & Yukon Route, the same rugged trail stampeders once took during the Gold Rush. The scenery was jaw-dropping from the very start—jagged peaks, misty valleys, and crystal-clear lakes that seemed to stretch on forever. Each twist of the road revealed new vistas, and we couldn’t help but keep our cameras ready. Crossing the border into Canada added a fun novelty to the trip, passports in hand as we entered the wild beauty of the Yukon.
Our destination was a remote dog sledding camp nestled in the wilderness. The moment we stepped off the bus, we were greeted by the sound of excited barks—dozens of Alaskan Huskies, tails wagging and eyes sparkling, eager for their run. Meeting the mushers (dog sledding guides) gave us a glimpse into the deep bond between these dogs and their handlers. Each dog had its own personality—some calm and regal, others bursting with energy, ready to charge ahead.
We climbed into a specially designed wheeled sled (since summer lacks snow in the Yukon, the dogs pull sleds on wheels for training). The moment the musher gave the signal, the dogs surged forward with incredible power. The ride was exhilarating! The crisp mountain air rushed past us as the huskies worked in perfect rhythm, pulling us effortlessly along forested trails framed by sweeping Yukon landscapes. At one point, they stopped at a water hole, dipping in to cool themselves off as the summer was unusually hot, according to our guide. Their joy was infectious—you could tell these dogs were born to run.
After the ride, we had the chance to spend time with the dogs—petting them, asking questions, and even cuddling a few adorable puppies in training. Holding a fluffy husky pup in my arms, I couldn’t help but smile; it was impossible not to fall in love.
The return journey to Skagway was equally breathtaking. The late afternoon light cast golden reflections on the lakes and snow-dusted peaks, making it feel like we were driving through a painting. We made a few stops along the way to take photos. This excursion wasn’t just about dog sledding—it was about adventure, history, and the raw beauty of the Yukon. It left us with memories that will last a lifetime (and about 200 photos on my camera roll!).
Since we had a whole day in Skagway, we decided to explore the town and grab some lunch. We found a delightful restaurant right in the middle of town called the Historical Skagway Inn, with a charming garden and a barbecue set up outside. On offer were specialties like the Reindeer Reuben (hot dog). We enjoyed a delicious lunch, complete with extra sausages from the BBQ, then explored the souvenir shop while indulging in ice cream and homemade fudge.
Back on board, after freshening up, we gathered as usual at the Observation Lounge bar for drinks. Later, we had dinner at Cagney’s Steakhouse, one of the most sought-after restaurants on board. The atmosphere was warm and elegant, and we had our own bottles of wine to complete the experience. As usual, we ended the evening at our favorite nightspot—the Social—for a late-night dance party.
Day 5 – Glacier Bay National Park
The undisputed highlight of the voyage. With a National Park ranger narrating onboard, passengers learned about the ecosystem while marveling at glaciers calving into icy waters. Wildlife sightings often included bald eagles, seals, and humpback whales—or even orcas. We woke up to an “Omg, what a view!” moment right from our bed and balcony.
One of the absolute highlights of our Alaska cruise was sailing through Glacier Bay National Park. This isn’t just a stop—it’s an experience. The Norwegian Encore glided slowly and gracefully into this UNESCO World Heritage site, and suddenly the world around us transformed into an untouched wilderness of towering glaciers, icy-blue waters, and snow-dusted peaks.
From the moment we entered the bay, the atmosphere onboard shifted. Passengers crowded the decks, balconies, and observation lounges, coffee (or cocktails) in hand. There was a hushed excitement—almost reverence—as the ship drew closer to the glaciers. Rangers from the National Park Service had boarded earlier and gave live commentary over the ship’s speakers, pointing out landmarks, wildlife, and fascinating history.
As we sailed, we passed dramatic fjords, icebergs floating gently in the water, and cliffs where sea lions and seabirds gathered. The highlight, of course, was the Margerie Glacier—a massive wall of ice that seemed to stretch endlessly across the horizon.
The Encore’s Observation Lounge on Deck 15 was the perfect place to take it all in—floor-to-ceiling windows, comfortable seating, and waiters circling with drinks. But honestly, the real magic was outside on the open decks, where you could feel the cold Alaskan air and take in the sheer scale of the glaciers with unobstructed views.
Bring binoculars—you might spot whales surfacing in the distance or bald eagles soaring above the trees. This is the moment you’ll want to capture forever.
Glacier Bay wasn’t just another stop on the itinerary—it was a reminder of the raw, breathtaking beauty of our planet. Sailing through it on the Encore felt like drifting through nature’s own grand theater. Only a few cruise ships are allowed to pass through Glacier Bay, and Norwegian Encore is one of them.
For lunch, I headed to the Garden Café’s Indian Corner. Being Sri Lankan, I was craving curry, and the flavors were very welcome. Since my husband isn’t a fan, I went on my own and splurged—it even cured my hangover!
As the passage takes 9–10 hours, we also made time to relax and use the gym, trying to lose a few kilos—or at least tone up a bit. A few of us opted for something more exciting and tried the Encore Speedway—a two-level go-kart track on the top deck, where electric karts race at speeds up to 30 mph, with parts of the track extending over the side of the ship. It costs about $15 per session, with unlimited passes available, though reservations are recommended as it’s very popular.
Dinner that evening was at the Manhattan Dining Room, where we made another attempt to finish the wine we had brought onboard. As usual, we ended up at The Social to dance a little before deciding on a midnight snack. Around 1 a.m., we headed to The Local Bar & Grill for fish and chips and chicken wings, chatting away until the early hours of the morning.
Day 6 – Ketchikan (Ward Cove), Alaska
We woke up to views of the Ketchikan port in the morning. After breakfast at Savor, we quickly decided to disembark since we had only a few hours in Ketchikan. The port is about a 15-minute walk from town, but we opted for the shuttle to save time.
Known as the “Salmon Capital of the World” and a gateway to Native Alaskan culture, Ketchikan offers totem parks, the Tongass National Forest, and lively local shops. Ward Cove, the newer port, is quieter and less crowded, with easy shuttle access into town. After days of glorious summer sunshine, Ketchikan greeted us with its famous drizzle. But according to our guide, this light mist counted as good weather—no umbrellas needed.
Ketchikan also boasts the world’s largest collection of standing totem poles, a reminder of its deep Native heritage.
Instead of choosing a glacier hike or forest tour, we tried something different: The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show—and it turned out to be one of the most entertaining excursions of the trip!
The outdoor arena is just a short walk from the pier, buzzing with energy before the show even began. Wood chips covered the stage, axes and saws lined the backdrop, and the crowd was already cheering.
The show itself was part competition, part comedy, and completely fun. Two teams of lumberjacks (U.S. vs. Canada) went head-to-head in traditional logging skills: axe throwing, speed climbing, chainsaw carving, sawing giant logs, and of course, log rolling. The strength, skill, and balance were jaw-dropping—especially when the lumberjacks rolled each other off floating logs to roars of laughter.
The audience was split into cheering sections for each team, stomping, clapping, and shouting encouragement. It felt like a mix of sports and stand-up comedy, with plenty of good-natured banter. The one-hour show was the perfect length, leaving us enough time to explore more of town.
Afterward, we walked to Creek Street, a historic boardwalk lined with colorful early 1900s buildings, once home to the city’s red-light district. From the footbridge, we had fantastic views of salmon swimming and leaping upstream at Ketchikan Creek Falls. Crowds gathered to watch the salmon push against the current—it was mesmerizing.
With limited time, we hurried back toward the shuttle stop. The queue was long, and it took about 30 minutes to board. We made it back just in time for sail-away at 1:15 p.m.
That night, the ship came alive with the Glow Party at the Social Club—a white-hot theme party where everyone dresses in white and literally glows under blacklights. We dug into our suitcases for anything white to wear, had dinner first at the Garden Café buffet (ideal when everyone wants something different), then joined the fun.
The Glow Party was a highlight of Encore’s nightlife. DJs blasted a mix of club hits, throwbacks, and global beats while the entertainment crew led the crowd in dances. Neon accessories—glow sticks, bracelets, and headbands—lit up the room, and the energy was electric.
Of course, no night was complete without a late-night snack at The Local Bar & Grill, where fish and chips or chicken wings at 1 a.m. hit the spot perfectly.
Day 7 – Victoria, British Columbia
After a very late night of partying on the Norwegian Encore, we let ourselves sleep in and began the day a little later than usual. A good gym session was the perfect way to shake off the night before, and instead of breakfast, we went straight for a leisurely lunch at the Taste Restaurant, one of the ship’s elegant main dining venues.
Later in the afternoon, we met up with friends at the Observation Lounge for drinks, where the floor-to-ceiling windows once again reminded us why this was one of our favorite hangouts on board. We had an early dinner at the Taste Restaurant, and we were all sadly aware that this was our last meal together. We also tried to finish the rest of the wine we had bought on board.
As the Encore docked in Victoria around 7 p.m., we were greeted by a magnificent sunset painting the harbor in golden hues. Unlike the other ports, this stop was quite short—just four hours—so we decided to make the most of it with a long evening walk.
We strolled through the charming streets toward the British Columbia Parliament Buildings, beautifully illuminated against the twilight sky, their grand architecture standing proudly as a symbol of the province’s history. From there, we wandered down to Fisherman’s Wharf, a colorful little harbor dotted with floating homes, seafood shacks, and a lively local vibe. The fresh evening air, the sound of seagulls, and the sight of boats bobbing in the marina made for a perfect way to end the day.
Though our time in Victoria was brief, it left us with lasting impressions of a city that’s both picturesque and full of character. Sometimes, even a short visit is enough to capture the magic of a place.
Victoria, British Columbia, is an elegant Canadian port best known for the world-famous Butchart Gardens and its charming Inner Harbour. Many passengers choose to stroll along the waterfront, visit tea houses, or take a quick city tour before the evening sail back to Seattle. We were told to leave our baggage outside our stateroom by 10 p.m., which we did, keeping only our hand luggage with us. Although they mentioned we could take everything off in the morning, we didn’t want the hassle of carting it around ourselves.
Since it was our last night, none of us wanted to go to bed early. Instead, we lingered until late at our favorite lounge, savoring every last moment of the voyage.
Day 8 – Disembarkation
We reminded ourselves to keep the alarm set, as disembarkation day had finally arrived. Everyone on board had to be off the ship by 9:30 a.m., with time slots allocated to different groups to avoid congestion. As priority guests, we had the flexibility to disembark at any time starting from 6:00 a.m., which gave us the freedom to plan our morning at a more relaxed pace.
The Encore arrived in Seattle right on schedule at 6:00 a.m. The morning air was crisp, and the city skyline slowly came into view as the ship glided gracefully into port. Instead of rushing off with the first wave of passengers, we decided to linger a little longer and enjoy breakfast at the Garden Café. Knowing that most Seattle hotels only allowed check-in as late as 4:00 p.m., there was no need to hurry, and this gave us the chance to savor one last meal on board while watching the harbor come alive with the bustle of arrival day.
When it was finally time to leave, we walked out of the ship for the very last time. The crew had lined up along the gangway, greeting guests with dancing, smiles, and lively music—a cheerful farewell that softened the bittersweet feeling of the journey coming to an end. Just as promised, our luggage was neatly arranged at the designated color-coded tag station, making pickup quick and hassle-free.
With our bags in hand, we called for an Uber and made our way to our hotel in Seattle. As the car wound its way through the city streets, we couldn’t help but reflect on the incredible week behind us—a week filled with glaciers, wildlife, and laughter with friends, new discoveries, and the magic of Alaska. Though the voyage had ended, the memories we carried felt like treasures that would stay with us for a lifetime.
Overall Impression
The Norwegian Encore’s Alaska cruise is a perfect blend of exploration, adventure, and modern luxury. With historic towns, cultural insights, and Glacier Bay’s breathtaking scenery, this voyage is unforgettable. Onboard, vibrant dining, entertainment, and social experiences cater to every type of traveler.
⭐ Rating: 4.9/5 – A magical journey combining the wonders of Alaska with the comfort and sophistication of contemporary cruising.
