Long ago I set the goal to visit all 50 states in the U.S. and was excited to have the opportunity to see Alaska on the beautiful new Diamond Princess. 
 
Our ports of call included Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan which are all very quaint towns that welcome cruise passengers with open arms each summer.  All of the ports offered a variety of shore excursions such as dog sledding, panning for gold, helicopter tours of the glaciers, kayaking and salmon fishing. 
 
On board the ship there are also lots of options and you will never be bored!  During the day, there are activities such as trivia contests, a movie in the theater, bridge tournaments and a full selection of spa treatments. Every evening there is entertainment in the main theater and lounges that runs the gamut from Broadway production shows to Karaoke! 
 
You also have choices for dining because Princess offers standard dining and Personal Choice Dining. 
 
Standard dining is the traditional cruise ship dining experience.   You are assigned a specific table and dinner time which remains the same for the length of your cruise.  Typically cruise ships have an early seating at about 6 p and a late seating at about 8:30 p.  Since you have the same waiters and dinner companions each evening, you really get to know each other and the waiters come to know who likes ice tea or coffee, who wants ice and who doesn’t.  It’s really fun!
 
If you prefer more control over your dining times and companions, Personal Choice Dining allows you to dine when, where and with whom you prefer.  And, both traditional dining guests as well as Personal Choice guests also have the choice of ala carte restaurants such as a steak house, an Asian Restaurant, Italian and Tex Mex. Most of these are included in your cruise fare, but one or two have a nominal service fee.
 
Whatever you choose, you will enjoy wonderful food and impeccable service plus no bill at the end of your meal! I highly recommend both Princess Cruises and the Alaska cruise experience!  Please call or email if this is a trip you might enjoy!