How long to transfer from train to ship at Whittier?

[VT Hokie Cruiser]

After a land tour, we are scheduled to arrive at Whittier by train from Denali on June 4 at 5:30 p.m. How soon should the train passengers group expect to be onboard the Diamond Princess? We have the 6 p.m. dinner seating. Can we make it the first night? (We cannot miss a meal, you know).

[cruiseluv]

I think the first night is open seating.

[Budget Queen]

The first night is open seating. Everyone is not on the ship by 6pm.

 

This is a 10 hour train ride, with the scenery the last 2 hours. So if you doze off, wake up by then, otherwise, you are missing the highpoint of the ride. :)

[Great Sky Girl]

It's really quick to get on board as they check you in on the train.:) You just get off the train and walk across a small area and board the ship. You do have to pause for a flash to have your picture taken! However, just because your schedule says 5:30, don't expect to be there by then. We were over and hour later than our schedule and some coming from Anchorage were much later. There is open seating, and you also may always eat at any of the other restaurants.

[Putterdude]

The distance walked is about equal to a block, all under cover from the rain. Seating for dinner on the first night is open.

[VT Hokie Cruiser]

Thanks, everyone, for the info!

[VT Hokie Cruiser]

Another question. We are a family group of 11 and have assigned seating in the International dining room at 6. If seating is open on the first night, can we do a different dining room that one night just to do something different? Or will we have to do the International with open seating? Thanks.

[Putterdude]

Another question. We are a family group of 11 and have assigned seating in the International dining room at 6. If seating is open on the first night, can we do a different dining room that one night just to do something different? Or will we have to do the International with open seating? Thanks.

 

It's completely open, go to dine wherever you wish.

[PennyAgain]

Not only is it an open choice of where to eat but there is no dress code advised as every one will be worn out from traveling either from flights or from a cruise tour.