If you've sailed HAL to Alaska this season . . .

[Richard in Panama]

I'm curious . . . I understand HAL has a new program in Alaska where they bring on indigenous speakers from tribes in Alaska to talk about the culture and the background of the ports . . . more than just where to buy diamonds . . . and I'm curious what you thought of it if you've sailed HAL to Alaska this season. Thanks!

 

Regards, Richard

 

http://www.hollandamerica.com/news/NewsRelease.action?newsReleaseId=554

[Kane]

This is true ... at least for Glacier Bay. They board about the same time as the park rangers.

 

One of them makes a presentation in the main showroom to explain their culture. Quite informative.

 

They then "hang out" inside and outside the Crows Nest and answer any questions folks may have.

[judynorth]

They also do this at Hubbard Glacier.

[MWGuy]

We did not experience this on the 5/03 Oosterdam sailing...??

[Krazy Kruizers]

The Park rangers did come onto the ship when we were in Glacier Bay.

 

Otherwise - no other speakers on the Westerdam.

[cruisepal48]

This is true ... at least for Glacier Bay. They board about the same time as the park rangers.

 

One of them makes a presentation in the main showroom to explain their culture. Quite informative.

 

They then "hang out" inside and outside the Crows Nest and answer any questions folks may have.

 

I was on the Westerdam June 1-8 and we had the Park Ranger and Native Alaskan give a presentation in the showroom both were very informative. I didn't hang out in the crow's nest as people get there first thing in the morning to take all the good seats. I went outside and I think that was better. I also loved the pea soup. We spent a lot of time on our verandah.

[sppunk]

On the Westerday (May 25 sailing) we had both the rangers and native American speakers.

 

They spoke in the midst of Glacier Bay, so I'm not sure how well attended the sessions were - I for one was definitely not there.

[Krazy Kruizers]

I forgot about the Native American Speaker -- yes we had one as well.

 

Don't know how well attended it was - same as others have said - during the talk at Glacier Bay.