Travel Counsellors set sail for Alaska with Norwegian Cruise Line

A group of Travel Counsellors recently headed to Alaska with Norwegian Cruise Line, setting off from Seattle aboard Norwegian Bliss. The trip gave the group a chance to experience the ship and its ports first-hand, picking up ideas and insights to share with customers planning their own cruise. And with Alaska on the bucket list for so many, there was plenty to look forward to once the ship left Seattle behind.

Travel Counsellors set sail for Alaska with Norwegian Cruise Line

A taste of Seattle before setting sail

The group began with time in Seattle, taking in the city’s waterfront and some of its best-known sights. They visited the Space Needle, explored Pike Place Market, rode the giant Ferris wheel at Pier 57, and toured the Boeing factory. There was time to stop by the original Starbucks and sample local favourites, including fresh seafood chowder and mac and cheese. Seattle proved easy to get around, with buses, trams, and taxis available, while many of the central sights were within walking distance. The cruise terminal’s waterfront location made embarkation simple: the group was checked in and on board in around ten minutes.

Racing, dining, and showtime aboard Norwegian Bliss

There was no shortage of ways to spend time on Norwegian Bliss. The group tried the two-tier Bliss Speedway, joined a wine and cheese tasting, and toured The Haven, the ship’s private suite complex. Dining brought its own variety, from the theatrical cooking at Teppanyaki to steaks at Cagney’s, barbecue at Texas Q Smokehouse, and seafood at Palomar. The entertainment kept the evenings lively, too. The Choir of Man, set in a traditional British pub, had the group laughing one minute and reaching for tissues the next, while a Beatles tribute band brought the Cavern Club to life with a set that had everyone talking.

Skagway and the White Pass Railway

Alaska quickly delivered the scenery the group had been hoping for. In Skagway, historic streets and buildings evoke the town’s role as a gateway to the 1897 Klondike Gold Rush. The group boarded the White Pass Railway for a scenic journey through mountain passes, taking in sweeping views and the bald eagles which soared above the route, making an already memorable train ride feel even more special.

Whale watching, salmon runs, and coastal wildlife

In Juneau, the group set out on a whale-watching trip, with humpback whales appearing close to the boat and putting on an unforgettable show. Ketchikan offered a different kind of wildlife encounter: visiting in September meant the group could see salmon spawning, a remarkable sight in the town known as the ‘Salmon Capital of the World.’ They also visited the totem pole collection at Saxman Native Village and wandered along Creek Street, a historic boardwalk built on stilts above the water. Sea lions, dolphins, and playful sea otters were spotted nearby, while some of the group were lucky enough to glimpse bears along the shoreline.

Glaciers and inspiration for your own Alaska

Between the ports, sailing past Alaska’s monumental glaciers gave the group a quieter moment to take in the scale of the landscape. The trip brought together the big scenery, close-up wildlife encounters, and the freedom to enjoy a different experience each day, with the ship providing a comfortable base throughout.

To book your Alaska cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line, speak to your Travel Counsellor today.

A slower way to discover Spain and France in 2027

23 October 2026

Some holidays are about fitting in as much as possible. Others give you the luxury of taking your time. A voyage along the Atlantic coasts of Spain and France with Cunard offers a little of both: days spent discovering great food, architecture, and historic cities ashore, balanced by unhurried time on board as the scenery changes beyond the ship. In 2027, consider a seven-night voyage from Southampton aboard Queen Anne. You can wake up ready to explore Bilbao, spend the following days discovering Galicia, and finish with a taste of Normandy, without changing hotels or repacking along the way. Two days at sea create a natural pause between these stops, giving you time to enjoy the ship rather than simply moving from one destination to the next.

Cunard’s Winter 2028/29 voyages bring big journeys and landmark moments

21 October 2026

Cunard’s new voyages for October 2028 to May 2029 bring together winter sun, European city stays, and far-reaching journeys across the world. Guests can mark a milestone at sea on Queen Mary 2, spend an evening in Rio de Janeiro during Carnival with Queen Anne, or join Queen Elizabeth for a 115-night World Voyage. There’s also a 10% Early Booking Saving on eligible bookings made by 30th December 2026.*

Experience the best of Norway’s winter with Hurtigruten

16 October 2026

Norway in winter is pure magic. Think dramatic fjords dusted with snow, cosy coastal towns illuminated by warm lights, and the mesmerising Northern Lights dancing across the sky. If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind winter adventure, Hurtigruten’s voyages along Norway’s coastline combine stunning landscapes with authentic Arctic experiences. Whether you’re chasing the aurora, sailing historic routes, or looking for stargazing opportunities, Hurtigruten offers something special for everyone.

Villas 1 Awali Background Colour Banana Island 3 (2)

Finding your match...

Every unforgettable journey starts with the right person by your side.