Alaska Experience Cruise 7 Nights • Seattle, Washington • Quantum of the Seas

Seattle, Washington: Visitors to the Emerald City find a fusion of American, Asian and Native American cultures, set against a backdrop of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. There’s so much to discover on Seattle cruises. Founded in the 1850’s, Seattle continues to evolve while preserving many of its treasured landmarks. The city’s defining modern symbol is the Space Needle. Head up to the top of the 605ft. hourglass-shaped structure for amazing panoramic views of this beautiful port city. And right next door is the Chihuly Garden and Glass where the extraordinary glassworks and garden installations of Dale Chihuly will dazzle. Stroll through the famous Pike Place Market for a taste of local flavor and style. Established in 1907, the market is brimming with fresh produce and seafood stalls, wonderful restaurants, and specialty shops with local handcrafts that make unique souvenirs and keepsakes.

Your ship departs promptly at 4:00 pm, so plan to arrive at least 2-3 hours early to account for checking in and boarding protocols. During this time, many of the ship's amenities are open and operating, so feel free to start your vacation early.

Sitka, Alaska: A Russian settlement until the Alaska Purchase of 1867, Sitka’s Russian heritage is still very much rooted in the city. Visit St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Cathedral for a pristine example of period architecture. Nestled on the coast of the Gulf of Alaska, there’s much natural beauty to explore on a Sitka cruise. A walk along the promenade in Whale Park offers a chance to view breaching humpback whales while a trek into Sitka Historical Park reveals stunning coastal trails and hundred-year-old totem poles. Venture to Tongass National Forest for up close views of wildlife, including Alaska Coastal Brown Bears, American Bald Eagles and Sitka Blacktail Deer. Or head to the Sheldon Jackson Museum, the oldest standing structure in all of Alaska which is home to a small, yet impressive collection of artifacts from all of Alaska’s indigenous groups.

Skagway, Alaska: The great Klondike Gold Rush lives on in Skagway's charming downtown of restored 19th-century buildings and its historic railway. Located on the edge of the wilderness, this small town saw its fair share of gold rush, get rich dreamers pass through. Today, it’s residents are more than welcome to share the stories of its untamed past. And there’s so much fascinating history to uncover on a Skagway cruise. Head to Klondike Gold Rush National Park Museum for an in-depth look at Klondike and the two routes out of Skagway – Chilkoot Pass and White Pass. From the vintage train, admire the mountains and see the 1898 trail that fortune seekers traveled on foot. The White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad runs the vintage locomotives through the famously steep Chilkoot Trail and offers sweeping mountain views during its climb toward Canada.

Here's your chance to take a glacial dogsled adventure in Alaska's capital, where cultured sophistication meets the ruggedness of the Last Frontier.

Victoria, British Columbia: The seaside capital of British Columbia, Victoria is located on Vancouver Island at the southern tip of Western Canada. Named after Queen Victoria, this one-time British colony has retained much of its colonial charm with decorative English gardens and castles, but also reflects its modern landscape with bohemian shops, coffee bars and international cuisines. The year-round moderate temperatures are perfect for exploring this incredible city. From hiking and golfing to dining and shopping, there’s much to discover on a Victoria cruise.

Start your day in Victoria with a walk through the enchanting Butchart Gardens and experience one of the world’s finest floral display gardens. Meander along the flower-lined paths and marvel at the brilliant composition of color in Japanese, Mediterranean, and Italian themes, plus much more.

Experience the time-honored English afternoon tea at the historic Fairmont Empress Hotel. The menu includes many traditional favorites, like dainty finger sandwiches, scones, and a host of sumptuous varietal teas.

Venture 35 miles northwest to Cowichan Valley for a day hike, golfing, or winetasting. There are six regional parks with trails for mild walks around lakes or more intense climbs. This region is also increasingly becoming known for its wines as well. Take a guided wine tour on your Victoria cruise and discover the delicious wiines that are being produced at the wonderful vineyards in the valley and perhaps pick up a few bottles as mementos, too.

For a full introduction to the history and culture of Victoria and Western Canada, head to the Royal British Columbia Museum. Explore the fascinating indigenous artifacts dating as far back as 10,000 B.C. to British royalty pottery, glass and papers, plus a wonderful native plant garden. The museum also has a wonderful IMAX theater and rotating special exhibits.

The large waterfront park Beacon Hill Park in downtown Victoria is within walking distance of the inner harbor. With more than 200 acres, there’s a lot of ground to cover in the sprawling grounds. This unspoiled park features many walking trails through the forest, a children’s zoo with baby lambs, ducks, and piglets and an abundance of relaxing nature.

Victoria’s Chinatown is the oldest of its kind in Canada. Stroll the colorful streets of this National Historic district and enjoy a wonderful Chinese-style brunch (dim sum) or shop for locally made unique trinkets and souvenirs.

Seattle, Washington: Visitors to the Emerald City find a fusion of American, Asian and Native American cultures, set against a backdrop of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. There’s so much to discover on Seattle cruises. Founded in the 1850’s, Seattle continues to evolve while preserving many of its treasured landmarks. The city’s defining modern symbol is the Space Needle. Head up to the top of the 605ft. hourglass-shaped structure for amazing panoramic views of this beautiful port city. And right next door is the Chihuly Garden and Glass where the extraordinary glassworks and garden installations of Dale Chihuly will dazzle. Stroll through the famous Pike Place Market for a taste of local flavor and style. Established in 1907, the market is brimming with fresh produce and seafood stalls, wonderful restaurants, and specialty shops with local handcrafts that make unique souvenirs and keepsakes.

The cruise might have ended, but there are still some great activities to enjoy in the area. If you flew into this port, be mindful of your departure flight time and plan accordingly.