Alaska Cruising Is Back
Thanks to the Pandemic, the Cruise Industry has been on standby, waiting for the CDC to say we can go back to cruising. It has finally happened. Cruising is back, and we would like to discuss the Alaskan Cruise season available through Royal Caribbean. We want to start by thanking Royal Caribbean for paving the way to getting back to cruising.
Most people don't realize that many of these cruise ships are internationally owned, making them follow Maritime Law. This law makes cruise ships visit at least one foreign country when traveling from state to state. This is why many of the Alaskan cruises have cruises out of Canada. However, Canada is still restricting travel, making it hard for the 2021 Alaskan Cruise Season. Back in May, Royal Caribbean and many travel agents went to Washington DC to help get the Alaskan Tourism Restoration Act to pass in the House and Senate. This Act temporarily lets cruise line vendors bypass the Maritime Law mentioned above, meaning they don't have to go to Canada.
Royal Caribbean has two ships that will be sailing in Alaska this Summer. The Serenade of the Seas will be sailing from Seattle, Washington starting July 19, 2021, and The Ovation of the Seas will be sailing from Seattle, Washington starting August 13, 2021.
Serenade of the Seas- Photo by Royal Caribbean International
The Serenade of the Seas is part of the Radiance class ships. In 2017 it had some major upgrades done. Guests can now dine at three complimentary eateries, including the two-level Main dining room. There are also six specialty venues that include Izumi Asian Cuisine, Rita's Cantina, and more. Cruisers can enjoy a rock climbing wall, a mini-golf course, and six pools and whirlpools. Evening Entertainment has a range from Broadway-style performances to acrobatic shows. You'll also have your pick of many bars and lounges, showcasing panoramic views of the surrounding Alaskan scenery.
Serenade of the Seas Itinerary
Day 1 - Seattle, Washington
Day 2 - Day at Sea
Day 3 - Sitka, Alaska
Day 4 - Icy Strait Point, Alaska
Day 5 - Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier and Juneau Alaska
Day 6 - Ketchikan, Alaska
Day 7 - Day at Sea
Day 8 - Seattle, Washington
Ovation of the Seas- Photo by Royal Caribbean International
Ovation of the Seas is one of the newest ships in the Quantum Class. It has many new features that you can't find on any other ship. The ship features a skydiving simulator, an observation pod that hovers 300 feet above the sea, and a bionic bar where robots mix cocktails. Just like the Searende, it also has a rock-climbing wall. It also has a surf simulator, an outdoor movie screen, and some upscale shopping boutiques. There are 20 eateries that include six signature restaurants (reservations required with an additional fee). In its interior staterooms, this ship has virtual balconies that give a real-time view of the ship's location. This ship also has a range of entertainment, from Broadway-style to acrobatic shows.
Ovation of the Seas Itinerary
Day 1 - Seattle, Washington
Day 2 - Day at Sea
Day 3 - Alaska Inside Passage and Juneau, Alaska
Day 4 - Skagway, Alaska
Day 5 - Sitka, Alaska
Day 6 - Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier, Alaska
Day 7 - Day at Sea
Day 8 - Seattle, Washington
There are certain things you need to know when booking. Everyone 16 (12 and up after August 1, 2021) and up is required to have a Covid Vaccination. Anyone younger than 16 or who cannot receive a vaccine is required to have a negative Covid test at the terminal before boarding. I don't know about you, but I am ready to jump on one of these cruises. If you are ready to book an Alaskan Cruise or get more information about either of these ships, contact us today.
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