Cruise Diva Goes Ashore in ALASKA
Sights to see & things to do
Glacier Bay, Alaska
With approximately 5,000 glaciers in Alaska it may seem peculiar that such a fuss is made about Glacier Bay. Part of Glacier Bay’s allure is the abundant wildlife, including seals, bears, Dall sheep, and—if you’re quick—even humpback whales. Another source of its mystique is its inaccessibility. Until 1870 it was frozen behind a wall of ice a mile high. Today 3.3 million acres, including Glacier Bay, is designated as a national park and limited “passes” are issued to the many cruise ships plying Alaska’s coastal waters. If your cruise to Alaska won’t be complete without seeing Glacier Bay, choose your ship and itinerary with care.
Each ship entering the bay takes on a park ranger who provides commentary throughout the day about the history of the bay and its glaciers, as well as the wildlife. The highlight of any day spent viewing one of Alaska’s glaciers is calving. The first warning is an eerie creaking sound, followed by a roar as massive chunks of ancient ice break away from the glacier’s face and crash into the water.
Diversions
Dress warmly and find a place at the ship’s rail early to view the day’s spectacular show. Don’t forget your camera and binoculars. Your ship will creep slowly through iceberg-strewn waters toward the glacier before stopping—often for several hours. Prepare to be stunned when you first glimpse the color—glacial ice is an incredible and indescribable blue.
Most ships will lower a lifeboat to snare a small iceberg. Brought on board, it’s often used as a centerpiece for the evening’s late-night buffet, either left natural, carved into a sculpture, or used to chill passengers’ cocktails.
Cool Cruising-- Spring! It's in the air and cruisers' fancies turn north. North to Alaska, with thoughts of majestic scenery, frontiers to explore, and what to pack.
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