Staff Stories: Exploring North America by land and sea with Sas
Get the lowdown on Alaska and the Great White North with a first-hand account from our account manager for the Midlands and North Wales, Sas.
With its striking blend of untamed wilderness, cosmopolitan centres and pristine coastal vistas, Canada’s timeless beauty has made it a firm favourite of holidaymakers for years and continues to lure travellers to its shores. It’s no surprise then, too, that the best way to experience all that the ‘Great White North’ has to offer is with a Tour and Cruise combination!
Our regional account manager for the Midlands and North Wales, Sas, has just returned from her very own wish-list Canadian getaway and we recently sat down to find out what she thought of it. From her first impressions of the cruise ship to her top highlights to see across this enchanting region, here’s what she had to say:
1. Have you been cruising before and, if so, how would did this experience measure up?
I’ve only ever really been on short-break cruises, so it was great to actually spend time on one that was a bit slower-paced. It’s definitely a lot more relaxed and a completely different atmosphere onboard, so it was a more enjoyable experience in my opinion.
2. Have you ever been to this region before, and if not has it surprised you at all?
I have been to Vancouver but only in October, so it was lovely to see the city with the sun shining. I think it’s such a lovely city with Stanley Park, Granville Island and the beautiful Capilano Suspension Bridge. In my opinion, it’s a great alternative to New York.
I hadn’t been to Alaska before, and it totally blew me away with just how quirky and pretty it is!
3. How did you find the on-board amenities – did you have enough ways to occupy your days?
As it was a cruise for nature and wildlife enthusiasts, there were loads of wildlife-spotting opportunities and talks throughout the day which I attended. The cruise also had park rangers on board sharing their animal-watching tips.
If wildlife’s not your thing, there are loads of activities held every day, from bingo and pickleball to drinks masterclasses. Even just being sat on deck with a mango daiquiri and watching the world go by was incredible, and there was always something to see.
4. What’s the ratio like between shore excursions and time at sea?
We spent three days on shore and three days at sea. We experienced Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau, Alaskan sledge dogs and gold panning in Skagway, and took in a lumberjack show in Ketchikan. There are loads of excursions that can be pre-booked as well and there are booking offices in each port for those that want to do their own thing.
5. Would you recommend this tour to somebody who may not be as comfortable sailing?
In all honesty, cruising is not my normal type of holiday at all, but this was fantastic! Travelling by boat really is the only way to see the phenomenal sights of Alaska and the crew helped it all feel quite seamless. It’s all about seeing wildlife and relaxing with stunning scenery so this would be perfect for people not sure about cruising.
6. Did you get the chance to spot any of the local wildlife?
Yes, we saw humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, and sea lions. There were also bald eagles overhead, and we even saw bears on the mainland. In Mendenhall, we watched a porcupine nibbling on a tree and even saw mountain goats as we sailed past various inlets!
7. How does Vancouver compare to your favourite cities, and what was the highlight of your stay there?
As I mentioned before, Vancouver is very similar to New York – so much so that many films are now shot here and made to look like they’re filmed in ‘The Big Apple’. The weather isn’t as predictable as New York because it’s technically in a rainforest so it can be rainy a lot more. My personal highlight was trying the doughnuts at Granville Market – just wow! The meal we had at the Top of Vancouver Revolving Restaurant was another highlight, and we watched the sunset with 360-degree views of the city.
8. If you had to pick out one wish-list experience that you most recommend, what would it be?
That’s a tough question as there were so many stand-out moments! I think my personal favourite was the day in Glacier Bay. Seeing the John Hopkins Glacier and then the Marjorie Glacier was just the pinnacle of this trip. The pictures and videos will never do the beauty of this place justice.
9. How did you find the food on the tour? Was there a good variety?
As expected, the buffet restaurant, Lido, was always very busy but offered a great range each day, from its ‘design your own salad’ counter, and Asian corner, to the hot meal options.
We dined in the main dining room and there was always a large selection of meals which were all lovely. We also experienced a bit of fine dining at the Tamarind restaurant as part of the ‘Have it All’ package but for guests without this.
10. If you had to sum up your whole experience in three words, what would they be?
Indulgent, spectacular and wow!
Raise anchor on your next escape with Newmarket Holidays
Are the wonders of North America calling your name? Secure a last-minute escape, or perhaps plan ahead for next year and beyond, with the help of our friendly holiday planners. Simply give them a call to book your next wish-list getaway, or chat about which option is right for you, and they’ll help you through the process. For our whole range of land-and-sea itineraries, check out our dedicated Tour and Cruise page, or browse our full collection of destinations, here.
