Alaskan Cruise Adventure: A Memorable Journey
My unforgettable seven-night Alaskan Cruise adventure aboard Cunard's Queen Elizabeth began with a stay at the RYDGES hotel near Sydney Airport. If you have lounge access, I strongly recommend forgoing breakfast inclusions, especially if you have an early morning flight, as you'll be dining again within an hour of boarding.
As I had booked Business class flights, I was able to access the Air Canada lounge. It's important to note that there isn't a dedicated Air Canada lounge in Sydney, but they have a partnership arrangement with Air New Zealand. Business Class passengers can make use of the Air New Zealand lounge facilities in both Sydney (SYD) and Brisbane (BNE).
Onboard Air Canada: A Comfortable Journey
Traveling in Air Canada's Business Class provided an exceptionally comfortable journey. As soon as I stepped onto the plane, I received a friendly greeting and a quick inquiry about my beverage preference. I opted for soda water. About 20 minutes into the flight, a delightful assortment of mixed nuts was offered. A mere 10 minutes later, I savoured an appetizer - a delicious duck salad served with warm bread. I had the pleasure of choosing from a variety of beverages and decided on Sprite with a touch of Grand Marnier for a bit of indulgence.
In my opinion, the extra cost for the Business Class upgrade on my flight from Sydney to Vancouver was worth it. I'm not one to easily fall asleep during flights, and since I knew I would be arriving in Vancouver in the morning, I wanted to maximize my travel experience. Business Class presented several advantages, including an amenity kit with headphones similar in quality to Bose. Additionally, I was provided with a spacious, fully flat bed, a blanket, and a pillow. Throughout the flight, I was graciously offered a variety of meals, snacks, and beverages.
One noteworthy observation, however, was that despite the confined space of the aircraft, I was served a small cup of mixed nuts, which might be something to consider for passengers with nut allergies. For my main course, I opted for the Barramundi. Regrettably, I wasn't particularly fond of the sweet butter that accompanied the dish. Nevertheless, it was a well-prepared meal, though I personally don't prefer sweet and salty combinations. Following dinner, there was a delightful selection of cheese, along with coffee, desserts, and fruit. I settled for some cheese and a cup of coffee to end the meal.
The Business Class experience extended to the seating, which included the option for in-seat massages, lovely mood lighting, two cozy blankets, and an amenity kit containing essentials such as socks, moisturizer, hand cream, and earplugs. I particularly enjoyed the quality of the headphones, which effectively drowned out any ambient noise and enhanced my in-flight entertainment experience, including a wide selection of shows, movies, and music. It's safe to say that boredom was not a concern during this 14-hour flight. In fact, I indulged in my love for horror movies and managed to watch about four of them, a choice that added an extra layer of excitement to my journey. My business class flights with Air Canada provided a comfortable experience, complete with amenities, entertainment, and a delicious meal service. However, the offering of mixed nuts in the confined space raised concerns for those with nut allergies. While the flight staff were, for the most part, exceptionally friendly, there was one steward who seemed rather grumpy throughout most of the flight. Whether he was having a tough day or simply appeared fed up with passengers, it was evident in his abrupt responses to guest inquiries. Nonetheless, I didn't allow this minor interaction to dampen my spirits. After all, I was embarking on a remarkable adventure to Canada and Alaska!
Arrival in Vancouver: Effortless Transition
Upon arrival at Vancouver Airport, the process of collecting our luggage was swift and hassle-free, requiring minimal effort. To reach downtown Vancouver, I recommend taking a taxi as the most cost-effective option. (On previous visits, I had relied on trains for transportation.) The taxi fare amounted to approximately $35 to $39 in Canadian dollars, and the journey to downtown Vancouver took roughly 20 minutes. While there was some traffic, it was by no means gridlocked.
Upon reaching our destination, the Georgian Court Hotel, which had been arranged by Cunard, we received a warm reception. A friendly concierge greeted us and immediately made us feel comfortable and welcome. He generously shared valuable tips and went above and beyond in helping. He even offered us water, ushered us to a lounge area, and readily addressed any questions we had. His level of service exceeded all expectations.
It's worth noting that the hotel is not very close to the cruise port terminal. Therefore, I would strongly discourage guests, particularly if you are elderly or with large amounts of luggage, from attempting to walk to the terminal. While the hotel is an excellent choice for those staying in Vancouver without cruise-related transportation needs, it is not the most centrally located option in relation to the port or other key attractions.
On the culinary front, the hotel's restaurant, Frankie's Italian Kitchen & Bar, offered exceptional food and is highly recommended even if you're not a guest at the hotel. The establishment served delightful drinks and delicious cuisine. Unfortunately, the breakfast buffet was somewhat limited in its offerings. While à la carte options were available, our specific package did not include them. However, I did observe that some guests were able to order items like crepes or omelettes.
In terms of location, the hotel is within walking distance of popular areas such as Robson Street and Gas Town. The stroll to Canada Place, where the cruise port is located, is a peaceful 20-minute walk. As for the accommodations, the rooms were spacious and well-appointed. However, my room had a view overlooking a predominantly concrete landscape, which did not provide the most inspiring vista.
Exploring Vancouver
During our visit to Vancouver, we explored Grouse Mountain and the Capilano Suspension Bridge. Then, on our final day in the city, we visited The Aquarium and indulged in a delightful Horse-Drawn Carriage ride through Stanley Gardens.
Embarkation onto the Queen Elizabeth: Smooth Sailing Ahead
Checking into the Queen Elizabeth was a straightforward process. Assistance was readily available for those who needed it. It's important to note that when visiting both Canada and the USA on an Alaskan cruise, you'll require an ETA to enter Canada and an ESTA to enter the USA.
Setting Sail: An Unexpected Welcome
My initial impression as I stepped aboard the Queen Elizabeth was one of surprise. I had anticipated a setting of old-world charm and strict formalities, but to my delight, the atmosphere was far more relaxed than I had imagined. Gone are the days when cruising was an exclusive affair reserved for the elite; today, it welcomes travellers from all walks of life.
Balcony Cabin on Deck 8
My cabin, a Balcony situated on Deck 8, was comfortable, although the transition from a king bed to a single bed took some getting used to. The room featured amenities such as an ironing board, clothes hangers, a safe, and a small desk and chair. However, the cabin's lighting left much to be desired, particularly for tasks like makeup and hairstyling.
Exquisite Treats and Unexpected Adventures
As part of this trip, the cruise had an array of delightful offerings. Alternative dining options, a delectable champagne high tea, and a captivating cocktail tasting class were among the highlights. Cunard even generous USD$300.00 onboard credit to us, which I used for some indulgent spa therapies. Wi-Fi left onboard keep in mind you are in some very remote locations, it's important for you to understand that connectivity can be challenging in certain areas.
While the dress code was mostly casual, it's advisable to pack some elegant attire for formal nights and themed dress-up events.
A Cruise for All: Welcoming Everyone Aboard
This cruise attracted a diverse array of passengers, from solo travellers to couples, families, and multi-generational groups. Although it's not widely advertised, Cunard welcomes children and even provides a dedicated kids' zone onboard.
For travellers planning an Alaskan adventure, I recommend layering clothing due to fluctuating temperatures. Even on warm days, the chill of the high seas can be felt while viewing glaciers from the deck. Don't forget to pack a disposable raincoat and binoculars, especially if you plan to venture out into the Tundra for wildlife viewing or whale watching.
The Queen Elizabeth: Elegance Afloat
Despite its capacity, the ship never felt crowded, and there was always ample seating in dining areas. Queen Elizabeth boasts a splendid infusion of art deco in its design. The Queen Elizabeth radiates an enchanting Art Deco allure, whisking passengers away to a bygone era of ocean voyages. Even with its sizable capacity, the ship consistently maintained a spacious and uncluttered atmosphere. But let me tell you, once you're aboard, you'd hardly believe there are thousands of fellow passengers with you. It never felt crowded or congested.
Culinary Highlights
Now, let's talk about dining – you're in for a treat. The Britannia Restaurant, reserved for Britannia passengers, promises a delightful dining affair. But wait, there's more – the LIDO buffet is a gem. And here's a pro tip: don't miss the Norwegian Shrimp; they may be small, but they're bursting with delectable flavours! So, whether you're seeking a formal evening or a casual meal, there's always a welcoming table or spot waiting just for you.
A culinary highlight of our journey was the specialty dinner at The Steak House. Here, we delighted in a captivating array of meat cuts, from which we made our meal selections and provided specific preparation preferences. It was a tailor-made dining experience to remember. Dining in the Britannia Restaurant, exclusive to Britannia passengers, was equally delightful. The menu rotated daily and featured the expertise of a sommelier who skilfully assisted with wine pairings.
Cunard truly delivered when it came to culinary experiences. The ship offered a relaxed and diverse dining atmosphere, catering to all tastes. Whether you were in the mood for a light bite, the buffet, or a voyage through the ship's various dining venues, options abounded.
Afternoon Tea experience as Cunard is known for its traditional afternoon tea service. We got to enjoy and savour finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries in elegant surroundings. Queen Elizabeth also offers 24-hour room service, so you can dine in the comfort of your cabin if you prefer.
My personal favourite was Café Carinthia, a charming and cozy little spot where I could indulge in specialty teas, coffee, and delightful light snacks. It's a sophisticated setting where you can unwind with friends or a captivating book. They had these delightful trays of bite-sized treats, which were just perfect for those moments when you didn't fancy a full buffet or a three-course meal. They even offered a selection of light sandwiches! And, oh, let me tell you about their hot chocolate – it was an absolute treat for the senses. It was rich, decadent, and made with real chocolate pieces, crowned with a dollop of cream and a sprinkle of marshmallows. What made it even more special was that it came deconstructed. For those unfamiliar with the term, it means you get to assemble it yourself using steaming hot milk from a charming little milk pot!
Port Experiences
Our encounter with the Tracey Arm Glacier was simply breathtaking. You must point out to clients that this is a sail-by experience; the ship turns around gracefully, ensuring that passengers on both sides of the deck had a stunning view of the glacier. If clients have a balcony cabin, this experience also allows them to enjoy this natural wonder comfortably, even in the chilly air. The ship's turn was a deliberate move to offer everyone the best possible view.
On arrival to Sitka, offers bus rides from the port to the town; on arrival at the port it offered tours and free buses for cruise passengers. Additionally, there's a shuttle service available for all cruise passengers on every ship. If you didn't pre-book through the personalizer, don't worry; there are plenty of tours available at the port or in town. I explored the Cultural Centre which operates on a donation basis for entry. Sitka bears a strong Russian influence, and I took the opportunity to purchase Russian souvenirs like babushka doll sets for my nieces and religious Christmas gifts for my family.
In Juneau, we had a pre-arranged shore excursion arranged for us by Cunard, to go whale watching, we did not experience the opportunity to see this town.
In Ketchikan, there were numerous shops, and the port was bustling with many ships. It felt a tad overcrowded, to be honest. I also discovered that if you were in the market for winter jackets, this port had some fantastic deals, particularly on waterproof ones. I decided to take an aqua duck tour around town and picked up some last-minute souvenirs, along with some packaged salmon to bring back home; there were plenty of tasting opportunities. At lunch, I tried some seafood, but I was quite disappointed as the halibut, a staple in Alaska, was overcooked!
Entertainment Galore
Entertainment on the Queen Elizabeth was incredibly diverse, ensuring there was something for everyone. From exciting scavenger hunts and informative art talks to health and wellness seminars, bingo, and karaoke, there was no shortage of activities to enjoy. The ship's theatre performances were a standout feature, offering a continuous array of captivating shows.
Some notable highlights included enchanting West End-Style Productions and exceptional solo acts. A standout for me was the fantastic Motown show – as a blues and Motown enthusiast, I was thoroughly entertained. Additionally, the Silent Disco held in the Yacht Club was a personal favourite.
We also enjoyed the Cocktail Tasting event in the Commodore Club, where attendees could savour signature cocktails inspired by past Cunard "Commodores."
We had an absolute blast at the "Cocktail Tasting" event held in the fabulous Commodore Club. Now, I must admit, there's a small additional cost of USD$46 to join in the fun, but let me tell you, it's worth every penny. Picture this: a skilled bartender playing the role of your cocktail maestro, guiding you through the art of crafting some truly special drinks. And guess what? Each of these delightful concoctions bears the name of a remarkable Cunard "Commodore" from the past.
But here's the kicker – you don't just watch; you get to taste these marvellous creations in all their glory. Yep, full-sized versions! So, whether you're marking a special occasion with friends or throwing a memorable hen or bucks’ night, I wholeheartedly recommend giving this experience a whirl. It's a delightful way to raise your glass and cheers to a fantastic time on board!
Gala Nights: "Ice White" and "Masquerade"
During the cruise, we had the pleasure of attending two Gala Nights: "Ice White" and "Masquerade." The "Ice White" theme encouraged attendees to don various shades of white attire, resulting in a captivating array of elegant gowns and tuxedos. Keeping my mask on for the Masquerade was a bit of a challenge without it irritating my skin but it was all in the fun of things!
Mareel: A Day Spa Experience
Onboard, Mareel is the DAY spa, and I opted for a day pass, providing access to a hydrotherapy suite, heated lounges, and more. I indulged in various treatments, including a sugar scrub, acupuncture, and a hydro facial. Notably, there was no aggressive sales pressure to purchase products, as can sometimes be the case with cruise lines.
In conclusion, my Alaskan cruise aboard Cunard's Queen Elizabeth was an extraordinary experience. The ship's elegance, culinary offerings, and entertainment options exceeded my expectations. While minor inconveniences such as Wi-Fi connectivity in remote areas and cabin lighting were present, they did not overshadow the overall enjoyment of the cruise.
A key point to keep in mind is that CUNARD does not provide packages like those offered by Holland America or Princess, which include lodge stays, visits to tundras, and trips to Mount McKinley in Anchorage.
If you are seeking this specific experience, it's important to be aware that CUNARD may not be the best fit for your Alaskan adventure without considering some level of land extension.