Our Alaskan adventure began with a smooth journey from Sydney to Vancouver, before continuing north to Anchorage. After a restful overnight stay at the Lakefront Anchorage Hotel – complete with rustic cabin décor and views across the lake – we appreciated the hotel’s complimentary transfers, which made reaching the train station the next morning seamless.
From Anchorage, we boarded the Glacier Discovery train to Whittier. The two-and-a-half-hour ride was breathtaking, winding through dramatic mountain scenery and perfectly setting the tone for what lay ahead. One of the real conveniences of this transfer was luggage handling: once checked in at the station, our bags were delivered directly to our stateroom aboard Norwegian Jade.
At Whittier we boarded Norwegian Jade, her colourful exterior standing out against the snow-capped mountains. A mid-sized ship carrying just over 2,400 guests, she combines a lively, friendly atmosphere with an ease of navigation that worked perfectly for an Alaskan itinerary. Despite sailing full, the ship never felt crowded thanks to multiple dining venues, bars and public spaces. Our balcony stateroom quickly proved a must for this destination, offering the chance to enjoy passing glaciers and mountain views from the comfort of our own private space.
Dining onboard was consistently good. Complimentary venues such as the Garden Café buffet, Alizar, The Grand Pacific, O’Sheehan’s Irish Pub and Jasmine Asian Restaurant offered plenty of variety and quality. Our package also included two specialty restaurants, which were highlights in themselves. At Moderno Churrascaria we sampled a generous array of grilled meats served tableside Brazilian style, while Cagney’s Steakhouse delivered classic favourites with polished service.
Entertainment was equally enjoyable. We attended a lively Broadway-style cabaret in the Stardust Theatre, karaoke nights, game shows and even an illusionist performance. Beyond the stage, there was plenty of variety for all ages, from a quiet library and games room to a bustling 24-hour arcade. The ship’s atmosphere felt casual and relaxed but always fun.
The itinerary itself was unforgettable. In Icy Strait Point, owned by the Tlingit people, we explored rainforest by gondola and admired bald eagles perched in the trees. Juneau became a firm favourite, where our whale-watching tour rewarded us with multiple sightings, including a playful calf named Cha Cha leaping from the water. Back in town we squeezed in Tracey’s Crab Shack for their famous king crab before riding the cable car to take in sweeping views of the capital.
In Skagway we travelled the White Pass Railroad, climbing to 2,865 feet along the Klondike Trail. Exploring the gold-rush town afterwards was a delight, and a local treat – the cinnamon-sugar Klondike Doughboy – hit the spot. In Ketchikan we attended the lively Lumberjack Show, then visited Saxman Totem Park to learn about the symbolism and stories carved into the towering poles. Our final day back in Vancouver gave us time for a city tour, with stops at Stanley Park, Granville Island, Gastown and Chinatown before heading to the airport.
We were incredibly grateful for the chance to experience Alaska – a destination that lived up to every expectation and left us wanting more. Norwegian Jade proved an excellent base: a mid-sized ship that’s easy to navigate, an inclusive package that adds real value, and an itinerary showcasing the best of Alaska’s wildlife, landscapes and culture. For travellers who prioritise flexible dining, lively entertainment and casual style, NCL is a fantastic choice. We loved every moment and would return to Alaska in a heartbeat.
