Planning your Alaska trip and trying to decide on the most important detail – aka food! Here's a list of where to eat in Sitka, based on my travel experiences.

Are you scheduled to cruise to Alaska from Seattle? Find out everything you need to know about cruising from Seattle from a downtown resident and regular cruiser!

There’s nothing like gallivanting around the globe on your own. These are the best solo travel destinations in the world

You too will fall in love with San Juan Island Washington when you find out this island packs a serious punch when it comes to the variety of things to do.

Looking for a Pacific Northwest road trip itinerary? You came to the right place! Here are all the perfect sites to see with kids, with budget travel tips!

In a way, the Inside Passage is to the Pacific Northwest what the Intracoastal Waterway is to the East Coast—a protected waterway used by mariners to reach

Are you looking for things to do in Astoria on a cruise? This Oregon city offers nostalgia, cultural history and beautiful west coast views.

Book your British Columbia Yacht Charter. Enjoy an unparalleled experience with Worth Avenue Yachts.

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The Pacific Northwest really heats up in the winter.

Known as the Last Frontier, Alaska is an untouched region home to incredible wonders, and there are few better ways to take in the thrills of seeing glaciers and humpback whales than on board a cruise—especially on a ship like Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas. Imagine seeing the northern lights in Juneau and retracing the storied path of the Klondike Gold Rush in Skagway, or sky diving without ever leaving the ship and taking in panoramic views from 300 feet above sea level on North Star, the signature glass observation capsule. With Ovation returning to Alaska, joined by Quantum, Brilliance and Radiance of the Seas, there will be multiple ways to witness the grandeur of the state. So what exactly awaits when you traverse Alaska? For a glimpse, we turned to crew member Stephen Burke, an acoustic guitarist and singer who was on Ovation: The North Star is the ultimate vantage point for glimpsing the natural beauty of Alaska. Credit: Royal Caribbean Q: Tell us about your first impression of Ovation. Stephen: It’s ridiculous how much you can do in one trip. I love Ovation! Catching breathtaking views of the rugged Alaskan landscape from North Star is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and also the fact that you can surf and sky dive from the middle of the ocean is something I’ll never get over. Guests can partake in tons of cool activities inside, like at the SeaPlex. It’s an unbelievable venue with bumper cars, gaming consoles, roller skating and—wait for it—a trapeze school. Q: Speaking of North Star, what are the views like from inside? Stephen: As the highest vantage point of any cruise ship, and offering 360-degree views of Alaska in all its glory, North Star is unlike anything you’ve ever seen. I was lucky enough to view the Hubbard Glacier from inside. To be 300 feet above sea level with the ocean below and have snowcapped mountains all around was just amazing. Fun fact: North Star is listed as the “Highest Viewing Deck on a Cruise Ship” by Guinness World Records. The RipCord by iFly sky diving simulator is a vertical wind tunnel that creates a cushion of air for riders to float on—no parachute or plane necessary. Credit: Royal Caribbean Q: Where are some lesser-known spots on the ship to catch a great view? Stephen: My go-to tip is to head over to the very front of the ship to the Solarium. On either side, you’ll find open-air spaces that overlook the edge of the ship—where you’ll get a stunning glimpse of the surrounding glaciers. A bonus: Though guests don’t always think of it, you’ll get breathtaking ocean views from 40 feet above deck by scaling the rock climbing wall. Q: Tell us about some of the features that set Ovation apart from other cruise ships. Stephen: Guests are continuously wowed week in and week out because of what we have to offer. Being able to sip a cocktail mixed and muddled by robots, and then head to Two70 for an unbelievable production starring our Roboscreens are experiences you won’t find anywhere else. There’s also a mind-blowing, 11,000-piece art collection on board: One of my favorite works is a wall installation, featuring moving butterflies, that lights up when you touch the screen! Q: What are some of your favorite experiences on board? Stephen: RipCord by iFly stands out because nowhere else can you sky dive at sea—especially with a view like this! As a performer myself, I also love to watch the live entertainment going on around the ship. We have incredibly talented performers and entertainers from across the globe. Wonderland serves up magical dishes like crispy crab cones and a mystical mushroom dessert. Credit: Royal Caribbean Q: Tell us about your favorite restaurant and some of the most memorable dishes you’ve had. Stephen: My favorite place to eat is Izumi, our Asian-inspired restaurant. I start with the miso soup and gyoza before digging into the futomaki, a thick sushi roll typically filled with vegetables. I also recently dined at Wonderland and was blown away—a highlight for sure is the chocolate dessert ball that melts before your eyes with caramel sauce! Q: Can you tell us about some standout shore excursions offered on the seven-night Alaska itineraries from Seattle? Stephen: Alaska is so beautiful that any adventure is sure to be spectacular. If I had to choose one, it would be the Dog Sledding and Glacier Flightseeing by Helicopter excursion. From getting a surreal view of the glaciers below by helicopter to playing with husky puppies before meeting their big brothers and sisters for a sled ride, nothing beats that day. Cuddling with husky puppies before going dog sledding is just one of many once-in-a-lifetime excursions you can experience. Credit: Royal Caribbean Q: Have you spotted any wildlife? Stephen: It’s hard not to spot wildlife in Alaska! I’ve been in the right place at the right time and have been lucky enough to see bald eagles, porcupines, bears and even dolphins and humpback whales. Q: What other experiences are you looking forward to trying out? Stephen: The Glacier Discovery by Helicopter experience is at the top of my summer bucket list, quickly followed by exploring Upper Dewey Lake in Skagway. Pro tip: Upper Dewey Lake is a phenomenal spot to see unparalleled views of glaciers, rocky peaks and crystal-clear waters from 3,000 feet above sea level. Q: Any recommendations for what to pack for a trip to Alaska? Stephen: Good hiking shoes and a waterproof jacket are must-haves. And layer up! Always be ready to put extra clothing on or take some off as the temperature can change instantly. It’s been such lovely weather so far that I often go out in shorts and flip-flops, which I hadn’t expected. This is just a sampling of what’s in store when you book a cruise to the Last Frontier with Royal Caribbean. Departing from Seattle, Ovation sails seven-night itineraries to Skagway, Endicott Arm Fjord and more. Head here to book a once-in-a-lifetime cruise vacation to Alaska.

The woodstove was crackling, the Christmas cookies were in the oven, and December snow had been falling for a few days. Michael and I were warm and dry while visiting my parents on Bowen Island. Then our friend Candice asked if we would cruise with her to Princess Louisa Inlet on Boxing Day. It didn’t take much thought, we never say no to sailing. Heron, my Dana 24, was tied up at the dock on Bowen. I’d never been up […]

Vancouver is a lively city with so much to offer the beer and food lover. Check out my guide to Vancouver in a weekend to make the most of your getaway!

Are you looking for things to do in Astoria on a cruise? This Oregon city offers nostalgia, cultural history and beautiful west coast views.

Victoria – British Columbia - The capital of British Columbia, known as ‘the garden city’, is home to around 80,000 people and is situated on Vancouver Island. Much of the architecture

Through the Broughton Archipelago to the northeast of Vancouver Island …

Enjoy an unforgettable meal at Victoria’s restaurants and cafés, where sustainable seafood, farm-fresh produce, and award-winning wines are all on the menu.

In a way, the Inside Passage is to the Pacific Northwest what the Intracoastal Waterway is to the East Coast—a protected waterway used by mariners to reach

If the cruise port in Victoria BC is a stop on your cruise itinerary, check out these spots in this beautiful Instagram-worthy Canadian city.

The Carnival Alaska Cruise may just be one of the best cruises to take in America. Alaska is the most beautiful state to explore by boat!

Visit remote and beautiful destinations like Antarctica, the Galapagos, and more on these adventure cruises.

On a walking tour of Ketchikan, discover the local attractions, and hidden gems. Expect to spend a few hours on foot from the cruise port.

Historic Creek Street in Ketchikan, Alaska is a boardwalk built over Ketchikan creek. It's a great location to browse the shops and watch the salmon spawn.

Are you taking an Alaska cruise soon and wondering about the best things to do in Juneau, Alaska from a cruise ship? I've got you covered!

Journey through the rugged and breathtaking wilderness of British Columbia's west coast to Prince Rupert on the Inside Passage ferry.

The Nordic Kingdom is putting its sovereign wealth fund (ironically built up from oil profits) to good use by revolutionizing sustainable nautical travel.

Victoria, British Columbia is a fantastic city for families! Fill your itinerary with this list of fun things to do in Victoria with kids.

Physical map of Alaska showing major cities, terrain, national parks, rivers, and surrounding countries with international borders and outline maps. Key facts about Alaska.

This coast to coast journey on Vancouver Island offers panoramic views of the Juan de Fuca, Haro and Georgia straits as well as the Saanich Peninsula.

Parliament of Victoria BC

Stay in the heart of Victoria's picturesque Inner Harbor and save on your getaway when you bundle Victoria Clipper ferry and hotel!

One of the highlights of our cruise to Alaska was sailing through the Endicott Arm to the Dawes Glacier. The views and wildlife are the classic Alaskan experience.

Condé Nast Traveler readers' favorite train trips in the world, as voted in the 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards survey.

Prince Rupert, Nordwestküste von B.C.: 300 Regentage pro Jahr. "Canada's wettest city". Oder doch nicht?? Fotos von Prince Rupert im Sonnenschein.

Top attractions and things to do Victoria, Canada, including whale watching, beer tasting, bike rides, hiking trails, museums, castles and sightseeing.

The Pacific Northwest most commonly refers to Oregon, Washington and British Columbia. It's home to some of the most beautiful scenery on earth, from spectacular towering mountain peaks to wild, rocky shores.

The Pacific Northwest most commonly refers to Oregon, Washington and British Columbia. It's home to some of the most beautiful scenery on earth, from spectacular towering mountain peaks to wild, rocky shores.