Alaskan Vacation - Part 1

A couple of weeks ago we headed out for a vacation to Alaska for a 7 day cruise. We went with Mark's dad and mom and had an amazing time. I was a little hesitant about bringing a toddler on board a ship, but she did great and they were so accommodating for us. She ended up charming every worker she came in contact with as she usually does! We saw some amazing sites, ate fantastic food and created wonderful memories together as a family. Let me take a few minutes to share about our experience.

Day 1- Set sail out of Vancouver
We boarded the ship on Sunday afternoon and sailed away at 5:00 p.m. It was incredible to see this huge ship maneuvering itself out of the harbour, under bridges and out into what looked like the vast unknown. There was music playing on the pool deck and a buzz of excitement as we began our trip. Kaley was beside herself with curiosity and excitement as she explored the ship and all of its newness. We ended the night after supper on the deck closest to the water and watched the sun set on the horizon.

Enjoying the limo ride to the ship.

All of us on the pool deck as we set sail.

Day 2- Sitka, Alaska
On the second day of the cruise, we stopped at Sitka for a good portion of the day. We had to go in the lifeboats in order to get back and forth from the ship which was a fun experience. It actually put my mind at ease that they worked well and I had nothing to worry about (..duh!) Mark and I went into Sitka while Kaley had a nap and enjoyed the town quite a bit. We were in search of water wings and a ball as Kaley really enjoyed the pool earlier that day. We ended up buying Kaley a book and a set of nesting dolls which she had a lot of fun playing with that week. We were also looking for a pair of moccasins for Kaley from Grandpa and Grandma as a souvenir. We were successful on all accounts! It was a lot of fun and nice to be on land for a bit.





Day 3- Cruising & Hubbard Glacier
This day was by far the best in regards to the scenery. We were cruising for a good portion of the day, but stopped at the Hubbard Glacier for the mid morning and afternoon. The day couldn't have been better. The sun was out, there was hardly a cloud in the sky and it was actually not that cold out. It was amazing seeing this massive glacier and bits of ice floating in the clear blue water. They stopped the ship a ways away from the glacier and turned the ship 365 degrees so that everyone could get a glimpse of the glacier. It was quite cool. I'll let the pictures do the talking!

Kaley enjoying the glacier in the safety of the Snugli

America the Beautiful indeed!

The view outside our window!