Groovyyaya

I was on the Pearl over the 4th of July week. Glacier Bay was not that cold to me - I had on a turtleneck and a thin jacket (think exercise/running jacket) as I thought my fleece would be too warm. I got cool at one point, but just put on a hat and I was fine. I brought long johns, but didn't bother putting them on (as I thought I might be warm, and could always go back to the room).

I hardly ever wear shoes and socks (even in the winter - I love my Naot clogs). But will say I was incredibly grateful I brought along and wore my new hiking boots (appropriately broken in weeks before of course) and appropriate sockets for them. Came in handy, especially in Juneau when we hit low clouds and rain. Although I was happy to have my long rain jacket in Juneau, I think I would go with a more packable "shell" type of windbreaker that my sweatshirt or fleece could fit over next time.

So, short answer is layers, layers, layers - as thin as you can get unless it is a sweatshirt or fleece (and keep those to one or two)

I'm just back from my very first ever cruise! Loved it, hooked - and now I would like to go with my folks.

However, I know that at least my mom's first one will need to be a short one, to see if she would get seasick. I was on the NCL Pearl to Alaska, and the water conditions were ideal. However, I know that I typically have better "sea legs" than she does.

Ideally, there are some cruises from Seattle to Vancouver, BC. They are just one night. BUT, they aren't Norwegian. I know they would like the freestyle, no need to dress up for a formal night (that is so not us!) These ones are Holland America, whose website isn't as good as NCL in telling you what is on board. Obviously if we're on board for one evening, I want it to be fun - a show, or piano bar, restaurants or nice balconys to watch teh scenery go by.

I can't seem to even find it on here - a list of the typical type of cruise each line offers. NCL is freestyle, but are there others where you could avoid a formal night? Ones geared towards "older families" like mine? My folks are in their 70s, but I'm only 46. I'll hang with older peeps, but I want a little nightlife (fun bar, karaoke, piano bar, casino, etc.) But don't want totally drunken asshats all over either.

What other cruise lines are similar to the NCL experience? Princess? Carnival?

Thanks for review. I am on Pearl 7/23/17. A few questions.

1) when on train which way did you take it for the view to be on right did you use train going or coming back from. To which which city did you take the train and who was excursion with?

2) what is Stony Moose? A spa?

3) how did you book tour in Juneau.. At dock?

4) any other tips as I just booked this a few days ago and under gun to make quick plans

 

Thank you

Not the original poster, but I just got off the Pearl this past Sunday.

When going up on the train, SIT LEFT! We rode the train back down and our lovely guide had us trade places with people on the way down. However, if you are wanting to take pictures (like me!) the train is SLOWER going up. Plus, she gave more details about what we were seeing going up. I loved the train FYI - we did the combo sled dog/gold panning/train. I'd do the sled dog and train again - the gold panning was a little disappointing (thought we were going to get more details about how they do it now)

I didn't book a tour in Juneau - it was our ONE day of rain, so we were actually happy we didn't. We had thought about booking the Mendenhall and Mt. Roberts through the cruise line, but I read that you can always catch a shuttle in town to the glacier and the tram leaves right from the main pier (not exactly where the Pearl is, but still easy) It was cloudy, etc., so we skipped the glacier, but went up the Mt. tram anyway. Had enough breaks in the clouds to get a few pics, but the paths were too muddy to try out. If I do Alaska again, will DEFINITELY walk those trails if it is sunny!

A friend recommended the state museum if weather was bad - and it looks AMAZING - but we were there on the 4th and it was closed.

AS OF JUNE 2017,

I've found this on the "guest conduct" part of NCL.com:

"PROHIBITED ITEMS

ITEMS WITH HEATING ELEMENTS OR OPEN FLAMES

Certain items that generate heat or produce an open flame are not permitted onboard. This includes clothing irons, hotplates, candles, incense and any other item that may create a fire hazard. Curling irons and hair dryers are allowed and may require a converter.

DRUGS OR OTHER ILLEGAL SUBSTANCES

No illegal drugs or other illegal substances including but not limited to medical marijuana are allowed onboard or may be utilized during a Norwegian Cruise Line vacation, including during transfers to and from ships, inside terminals, during shore excursions or at our private island. Illegal drugs or substances will be confiscated and appropriate action taken,which may include removal from the ship and involvement of appropriate authorities. In addition, foreign governments at Norwegian Cruise Line ports of call have strict laws that address drug possession. Guests found in violation of such laws are subject to arrest and prosecution by the foreign jurisdiction (and perhaps United States or other authorities as well) and may be prevented from re-boarding the ship.

WEAPONS, EXPLOSIVES OR OTHER DANGEROUS ITEMS

No weapon, explosive, or other item that presents a risk of harm to persons or property, are permitted onboard. They will be taken by ship’s Security and appropriate action taken. Guests are not allowed to bring their own scuba gears onboard such as oxygen tanks, diving knives, spears, etc.

Non-Alcoholic Beverages

Non-alcoholic drinks such as water, soda and juices – are prohibited to be brought onboard either as carry-on or checked luggage on both embarkation and port days. The only exception to this policy is purified or distilled water in factory-sealed containers for use in conjunction with medical devices or for the reconstitution of infant formula."

and I've found this on the F.A.Q. part of NCL.com:

What can't I bring onboard?

Passengers should not bring the following items onboard any Norwegian Cruise Line ship:

• Drones (Game Flying Device)
  Guests are not permitted to bring drones onboard for safety of other guests, as well as the welfare of the vessel.
  
• Samsung Galaxy Note7
  In light of recent safety issues with the Samsung Galaxy Note7, we are asking our guests who own this model to please avoid traveling with this mobile device. The Federal Aviation Administration has banned the Samsung Galaxy Note7 from all air travel, and until further notice, this device will be restricted from all Norwegian Cruise Line ships. Fire is one of the greatest threats at sea and due to the safety concerns these devices present, if one is found in a guest’s possession or unattended in a stateroom onboard, our policy instructs the crew to confiscate the device for safekeeping. The device will remain in our possession, in a safe, monitored location, for the duration of the cruise. Guests can reclaim their device at the conclusion of the cruise from the reception desk.
  
• Alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages of any kind including water, soda and juices*
  For more information read our FAQ about "Can I bring water or soda on board?".
  
• Unsealed food items will not be allowed onboard.
  
• Firearms, weapons of any kind, ammunition, explosive substances or any goods of a dangerous nature
  
• Irons / Ironing Boards and Steamers
  Guests are not permitted to bring and use their own irons or steamers onboard. Norwegian Cruise Line carries a limited number of irons and ironing boards which can be loaned to guests for a few hours at a time. They can be requested through housekeeping or Guest Services Desk.
  Irons and steamers would both be taken from guests at embarkation and returned at the end of the sailing.
  
• Animals of any kind, except service or guide animals, provided the passenger notifies Carrier prior to the cruise of his intention to bring such animal and agrees to take sole responsibility for any expense, damage, injuries or losses associated with or caused by such animal.
  

No where does it mention surge protectors vs power strips. I think what I have is a surge protector dammit. Is the surge protector rule really true for NCL?

I've not cruised yet but am from Washington state. Frankly speaking, it isn't just the time the ship arrives on dock, etc. that you need to worry about. Depending on your flight, even if you left the ship and immediately got a taxi with no wait you may still have to navigate Seattle traffic. Sure, you are avoiding the workday commute on a Sunday - but in September the Mariners, the Seahawks, AND the Sounders are all still playing. The stadiums are between the pier and the airport, and on a game day the traffic can be a nightmare (especially on a double game day where the Hawks or Sounders are playing on the same day as the Mariners)

Then there is Seatac. Now, I consider myself lucky to live near such a large, international airport. Easy to navigate, lots of direct flights to where I want to go, etc. BUT the TSA lines can be very long, even if you have TSA precheck or Global Entry. I've been there when they had long lines, and only one security checkpoint open. Better to wait at the airport and enjoy the shopping and restaurants (they aren't bad at all there!) than miss a flight in my opinion!

Pride will probably be insane with people! (actually, if you are so inclined, it might be fun to check out - but probably not enough time unless you are in Seattle the night before)

It is worth checking out the game schedules if you are coming to Seattle any other weekend for the Pearl, FYI. Even when they are terrible, we in Washington tend to support the teams and that means TRAFFIC. If something is going on at the center, forget about it.

You all may have saved my trip!

Went back to my local waterfront, and took 3 photos of the same thing on the water. Full zoom (on my 18-300mm lens).. 2 with the filter (at different settings) and one without the lens. The hood I got was on for all three pictures, and I used the auto setting. Even checking the photos afterwards via the camera's viewscreen and zooming in - the non-filter pic was crystal clear, the filter was fuzzy crap.

So... the Hoya Moose is not available on Amazon or Adorama in the size I need. (I prefer to go with Amazon Smile - I don't have a local camera store and Amazon will send via Prime in 2 days).

Was looking at a Tiffen (which was cheaper but had a TON of positive reviews on Amazon) but then stumbled on this. From what I've been reading - glass is preferable over fiber, as is "multi-layer". I could be very wrong with that - but this one is in my "willing to splurge" price range.

https://smile.amazon.com/67mm-Circular-Polarizer-Hardened-Multi-Coated/dp/B001G7PMFY/ref=sr_1_10?s=photo&rps=1&ie=UTF8&qid=1498280563&sr=1-10&keywords=hoya&refinements=p_n_feature_four_browse-bin%3A1258879011%2Cp_85%3A2470955011%2Cp_n_condition-type%3A2224371011#HLCXComparisonWidget_feature_div

Thank you for all the advice. I took out the camera to "play" yesterday down at the local waterfront. I forgot to do the "with the filter off" comparisons (I was excited that I was finally seeing the difference when I spin it - it was so overcast the other times I had the opportunity to do it.). When I zoom clear out though, it is slightly fuzzy... but I'm not sure that wasn't me :) So, going to experiment one more time before purchasing a Hoya or other high quality CP lens. Quick newbie question though - do UV filters also take out glare?

Thanks for the info, peeps! I wasn't as worried in Juneau - more time there - and Skagway - lots of time and we're doing an excursion. Victoria I have been to so many times I'm not bothering with an excursion (my friend is ziplining, I'm heading to an open late drugstore for my tylenol with codeine!) My worry was Ketchikan (and getting the time info to my cousin before I got on board)!

Good to know! Hopefully we'll be safe lining up around 12:30 PM then, with a listed 1 PM all aboard.

SQUEEEE!

Thank you so much! Has helped with the planning already! When it says "all aboard" - is that when you should line up at the pier to get back on, or when your hiney better be on board?

Planning on winging it in two ports - and in one port a family member will be giving myself and my traveling companion a personal tour. I want to be sure that my "island time" relative doesn't make us miss the boat, but don't want to line up too early either!

I'm sure you will mention this later, but planning a quick visit with family in Ketchikan while on the Pearl. What time did you have to line up to get back on the ship in Ketchikan? I'm in an inside cabin, so no extra privileges for me.

I know, it is killing me!!!

I am NOT an over packer but I'm an over planner! I really would love to know the schedule of events - trivia, shows, etc. to plan accordingly!

Hey, Mom! Surprise!" LOL Did she have it washed and folded by the time you got home?:D:D

I am thinking she didn't. When she saw how wonky I was from jet lag, she felt BAD and let me sleep while ahe did laundry.

Gingersvp - I'm doing the cruise a week before you!

Quilting_Cruiser - Thanks! It is good to know that at least for now, the "freestyle" also includes the embarkation. Glad we can give our bags to the porters ahead of time too. If we do get up earlier than expected, I might suggest we head down early, drop of the bags, and find a place with a good brekky or at least a good Bloody Mary. As for mailing stuff - I have family in the military, and they've lived overseas multiple times. Anything they mail from base is considered "domestic" - so much to my mother's dismay, when visiting Japan I mailed home all my dirty laundry so I could fit all the more fragile souvenirs in my carry on suitcase! (She opened the box, thinking I sent her something)

Amanda_14wa - definitely have things on the list for downtime, although naps sound good too! (I'm also looking forward to stuff like the spa and casino). You wouldn't happen to have pictures of the dailies, would you?

Thanks for all the tips, peeps. I'm not the original poster, but I am going to Alaska on my first ever cruise.

Some follow up questions and comments.

We stuck with the default "boarding time" around noon. We live in the area, so haven't really determined what time we'll head for the waterfront yet. My traveling companion (my BFF from college) and I both have extremely busy schedules leading up to the cruise, so we might not even decide until the night before.

So, if we picked an earlier boarding time in case we got up at the butt crack of dawn in excitement, but ended up sleeping in because of some pre celebration the night before - would we run into problems doing a late check in?

If we stick with our noon (or later) designated time, and do get there early, can we check our bags ahead of time at the pier so that we can walk around unencumbered by our bags?

Some comments - I'm a HUGE believer in carry on only when I am going on an airplane. Did carry on only to Europe for 3 weeks (trick is - when you find that perfect souvenir, like a glass bowl from Murano or pottery in Florence, mail that stuff home on the slow boat. Ask the salesperson if you can put your other stuff, like postcards, coffee table books, etc. in the box as well. Offer a tip. I even mailed home a sweatshirt I no longer needed as we had traveled south, wrapped around some of my purchases). Even when I don't mail home purchases, etc. I do carry on. Have only checked my bag once in the last 15 or so years (and that was when I got bumped up to 1st class, had a direct flight, and arrived 3 hours early to the airport that had some great shopping. I didn't want to schlep around the bag, so put the Kindle and tablet in my larger purse along with meds, etc. and checked that sucker.

However, I feel like cruising is a whole different ballgame for me.

I'm not arriving at embarkation after a flight. Going to Alaska in July means I may go from 80 degrees to 60 and back again, so a variety of clothing may be needed (long underwear under my thinner pants is a solution I used in Europe with great success. Doing that again). We also are looking forward to some great down time in the spa, etc.... so I'm adding to the load by bringing some stuff like a knitting project, etc. I have some down throw blankets that have their own squishy bags (like a sleeping bag) that I use for outdoor movie nights and keep in my car in case of emergency. Not heavy, but not something I'd usually travel with in an airplane because of the room. Bringing them so we can sit out on the deck warm and toasty, even at sea and windy.

I guess my point is that for a cruise - I can see racking up the pounds in 2 bags, 50 lbs each.

The casino and the shops are treated the same on an Alaskan cruise as on any other cruise.

Having never been on a cruise, I have no idea what this means.

If you use Splash Academy, they will note the allergy on the wristband. They also have you drop off the Epi Pen each time your child is there. However, there has never been an unplanned food activity there so you really don't have to worry. There is rarely any food activity there, so it's easy to avoid.

 

 

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I'm guessing that the daughter is old enough to bring a boyfriend along on a family trip they are both too old for Splash Academy.

Speaking as one who used to carry an Epi-Pen, I would make sure that NCL is aware of said allergies ahead of time, AND that you remind servers, etc. at every meal.

I would also ask said boyfriend what he is comfortable with in terms of discussion with servers, etc. Also, ask him what the procedures are if he does have an allergic reaction. When I first started carrying an epi, I got a "practice" device. My boss was awesome. She found out that I had a practice epi, and made every single employee come to me to practice jabbing me in the leg. Everyone in your group needs to know what to do in case some one (a server, a chef, the allergic person, etc) screws up in terms of his allergies.

I've not cruised yet - heading to Alaska in July!!! However, thanks to Rick Steves I was ready for the scammers/sidewalk sales in Paris. I recommend finding out how to say no firmly in whatever language your destination uses. I took French in high school. My language skills plus my inadequate training (one of the teachers wasn't great) meant that I couldn't hold a conversation in French when visiting 15 years later. (thanks to linguistics classes, etc. - I could read maps, etc. in French). In preparation for the trip though, I got some French language tapes focused on travel, etc.

One of the scams at the time was someone approaching you and quickly "weaving" a bracelet on your wrist, then demanding payment. A guy tried this on me near the Sacre Coeur. I may have channeled some French speaking ancestor, because the family that was with me said that I just went on full on bitch mode with the guy - in French!

I guess (I was so mad, I don't remember) that when he started to back up, I kept stepping forward. Now, I don't recommend this exact technique - I was lucky the guy got scared by my womanly assertive aggressiveness. However, I DO recommend researching your specific destination and the language used there. If it is European, check out Rick Steves' message board aka Graffiti Wall. Check out Trip Advisor if another destination. Ask questions about beggars in that community. In my own, home community, if asked for change I look the person in the eye and say I'm sorry, I don't have change or any cash (If coming out of a store with items, I include "I used my credit card"), but I do donate to the local shelter/food bank where they can go (and I do). Sometimes the "I don't have any cash on me" is enough, especially if included with the local language variation of a firm "NO!"

My god you are making it sound like a major undertaking to use. They are really EASY to use. You rotate the camera 90 deg you just rotate the fiter 90 deg....it really isn't that hard.

 

A CPL is one of the few filters effects that you really can't reproduce in post processing. They are cheap enough and small enough to always have with you and only take a minute to screw on. I don't use it all the time but it is always with me.

THANK GOD you posted this. It was making me nervous!

I'm very new to photography, but taking my Nikon D3300 on my first cruise (to Alaska). Bought a zoom lens (18-300 mm) upon the recommendation of a relative who is very into photography, familiar with Nikon, AND familiar with my skill set. It came with a filter kit as part of a package deal, and cousin said to definitely use it with the glacier shots. He can always help me with any photo editing afterward.

I live in Bellingham, yes! Moved up here from Seattle to attend grad school in 2006 as an older "non-traditional student," fell in love with the area, and stayed. I'm doing a Holland America 14-day cruise to Alaska in September, beginning and ending in Seattle. I feel lucky to be living close to two popular cruise stops (Seattle & Vancouver) -- makes it a little more convenient, I think.

GO VIKINGS!!! My grandparents met at Western - then Bellingham Normal. Grandpa didn't get to finish - I think it was more finances than grades, although I have not confirmed this (it is what I was told, but considering Gma was a teacher and an academic rock star, it might have been a pride thing). Grandma, and Grandpa's sisters graduated (I think) as well as some of Grandpa's hometown best friends (McCleary area, and one of the besties married one of the sisters). My goal in the next couple of years is to dig out proof I'm related to all of them so that the special archives section and Registrar will cough up their academic records. I've already found mention of them in old school newspapers, etc.!

I'm doing Alaska via Norwegian from a Sunday to a Sunday out of Seattle in July - actually with my BFF from WWU.

If I decide I like cruising, one of my goals is to save up for the more expensive (but look incredible) Alumni trips on a river cruise.

So new - don't know how to delete a post, and somehow DOUBLE posted. Sorry folks! Happy travels!

Dramamine is still available, and I asked my PCP specifically about it. His opinion was that it has more side effects than meclizine (Bonine), especially drowsiness (and I'm somewhat prone to that anyway with allergy meds). And, like you, I'm allergic to many adhesives used with bandaids, adhesive tape, etc., so the patch might be problematic.

 

Sooooo ... I just ordered some OTC meclizine for my September cruise (my first ever cruise) which I'll take along just in case.

We might be related! I'm definitely taking the allergy meds too, just because I don't know if I won't be allergic to stuff blooming in the Alaskan ports - and allergies themselves make me drowsy. I plan on taking naps in the spa, but I don't want to have a drugged nap :) I actually take the Pepcid for hive reactions too.

I think I'll be ordering the same stuff then. Thanks!

On a side note - you are from B'ham? I went to Western - I love Bellingham! Wish they had a cruise port stop - it would be great to leave from it and tack on some time visiting the old haunts.

Is dramamine not sold anymore? I've never used anti-seasickness pills before, but it has been ages since I was on a boat or ferry, especially in open seas, and I've never been on a cruise. I didn't even know the patch was prescription only - I wasn't considering it really because I've had reactions from the glue on a band aid before! (Around an open wound or especially sensitive skin)

I sometimes take Pepcid in prescription strength amounts for another reason (on doctor recommendation/permission), but wanted to get something for my personal med kit just in case.

Did you snap any pics of the dailies?