Highlights of Alaska

Arrive in Seattle where you have 1 night pre-cruise to explore the city. Seattle is a young city with a rich history. Settlers first landed at Alki Point in 1851 and named the area after Sealth, the Suquamish Indian chief who befriended them. Rebuilt after the Great Fire of 1889, “The Emerald City” has a legacy of vision and strength. Seattle has hosted two World’s Fairs (1909 and 1962) and is the birthplace of two modern marvels, Boeing and Microsoft.

Today you’ll join your cruise of Alaska.

On a sea day aboard the Discovery Princess while cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage, immerse yourself in a range of activities designed for relaxation and enrichment. Unwind at the tranquil Sanctuary, an exclusive retreat perfect for enjoying stunning views in peace. Indulge in a rejuvenating treatment at the Lotus Spa or attend a captivating lecture about Alaska’s wildlife and history. For a bit of excitement, join a culinary class, catch a live performance in the Princess Theatre, or explore the ship’s various lounges and boutiques. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, the Discovery Princess offers a wealth of options to enhance your scenic sea day.

Ketchikan is known as Alaska’s “First City” because it’s the first major community travelers come to as they journey north. Located on an island, Ketchikan began life as an Indian fishing camp. The name Ketchikan comes from a Tlingit phrase that means “eagle with spread-out wings,” a reference to a waterfall near town.

In the early 1900s, when gold was Alaska’s claim to fame, fishing and timber industries were established in Ketchikan. The growth of these industries helped make this Inside Passage port Alaska’s fourth-largest city.

Visitors to Ketchikan will be intrigued by its rich Native heritage, which includes the world’s oldest collection of totem poles at Totem Heritage Center. The Haida, Tlingit and Tsimshian are all a part of the city’s colorful history. Ketchikan, with its abundance of salmon, is also a sportfishing paradise. Sightseers will be impressed with both the scenic town and its surroundings, especially Misty Fjords National Monument.

Endicott Arm is a jewel in Alaska’s crown. This 30-mile waterway is surrounded by cliffs, valleys and dozens of waterfalls. Icebergs and harbour seals decorate the water below while Dawes Glacier soars into the sky above. Revel in the beauty of Mother Nature’s masterpiece and listen closely as the scenery whispers secrets of times long ago during your cruise to Alaska.

In 1880, it was slow going for Joe Juneau and Richard Harris as they searched for gold with the help of Native guides. After climbing mountains, forging streams and facing countless difficulties, they found nuggets “as large as beans.”

From their discovery came three of the largest gold mines in the world. By the end of World War II, more than $150 million in gold had been mined. Eventually the mines closed, but the town Joe Juneau founded became the capital of Alaska and the business of gold was replaced by the business of government.

Some 30,000 people live in Juneau. Its total area makes it one of the biggest towns, in size, in the world. Only Kiruna, Sweden, and Sitka, Alaska, exceed Juneau’s 3,248 square miles.

Today Juneau is famous not only for gold and government but also for its breathtakingly beautiful glaciers and stunning views of both water and mountains.

Skagway was the gateway to the gold fields for the thousands who flocked to Alaska and the Yukon with the hope of striking it rich. Skagway may have boasted the shortest route to the Klondike, but it wasn’t the easiest.

Over 100 years ago, the White Pass route through the Coast Mountains and the shorter but steeper Chilkoot Trail were used by countless stampeders. Many a would-be miner perished on the treacherous Chilkoot Trail.

The gold rush was a boon and by 1898, Skagway was Alaska’s largest town with a population of about 20,000. Hotels, saloons, dance halls and gambling houses prospered. But when the gold yield dwindled in 1900, so did the population as miners quickly shifted to new finds in Nome.

Today, Skagway has less than 1,000 residents. It still retains the flavor of the gold rush era.

Enjoy a relaxing day at sea

Victoria exudes old-world charm and fragrant, colorful flowers are everywhere. Founded in 1843 by James Douglas of the Hudson’s Bay Company, the city was first known as Fort Victoria. By 1848, Vancouver Island was a British colony and Victoria was its capital.

In 1858, Victoria was a tent city and the base for some 25,000 prospectors on their way to the Frasier River gold fields. When Vancouver Island was incorporated with mainland British Columbia in 1868, Victoria became the capital of the entire province.

Although it’s a port city, Victoria is not as industrially oriented as Vancouver. The harbors, especially Inner Harbour, are dotted with pleasure craft, ferries and floatplanes. The city is renowned for its beautiful gardens, charming houses and very British feel.

Your cruise comes to an end today. You have 1 night post cruise to explore Seattle.

Depart for Honolulu today where you have 2-nights to relax. Discover the vibrant spirit of Honolulu, where stunning landscapes and rich culture await! Start your adventure at the iconic Waikiki Beach, perfect for sunbathing, surfing, and enjoying vibrant nightlife. Explore the historic Pearl Harbor, where you can pay tribute to the past and learn about World War II. Hike to the top of Diamond Head for breathtaking panoramic views of the island.

Wander through the lush beauty of Hanauma Bay for snorkeling with tropical fish, or relax in the serene atmosphere of the Honolulu Botanical Gardens. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in local cuisine at bustling farmers’ markets and food trucks. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural experiences, Honolulu has something for everyone!

Your holiday comes to an end today. Interested in extending? Your flights are flexible so ask our agents about options that meet your needs!