7-Night Royal Caribbean Alaska Cruise: Ovation of the Seas

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Hey fellow travelers! If you’re like me, the thought of exploring Alaska’s wild beauty by cruise ship is enough to get your heart racing. I recently embarked on a 7-night Royal Caribbean Alaska cruise aboard the Ovation of the Seas and let me tell you—it was everything I dreamed of and more! From stunning glaciers to unforgettable excursions and even some delightful surprises on board, this trip was truly one for the books. Whether you’re planning your own Royal Caribbean Alaska cruise or just gathering inspiration, I’m here to give you the lowdown on what to expect, what to do, and how to make your journey as magical as mine. So, grab a cup of coffee (or maybe a hot cocoa, Alaska-style!), and let’s dive in!

Introduction

Alaska, with its towering glaciers, vast wilderness, and abundant wildlife, is a dream destination for many. And what better way to explore it than by cruising through its pristine waters? I recently set sail on a 7-night Royal Caribbean Alaska cruise, Ovation of the Seas, and it was nothing short of spectacular. From the incredible onboard experiences to the adventurous excursions, this cruise offered the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. In this detailed guide, I’ll share my personal journey, including the must-do activities, dining highlights, and insider tips to help you plan your own Royal Caribbean Alaska cruise. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time cruiser, this guide has everything you need to make the most of your Alaskan adventure!

Day 1: Setting Sail from Seattle

Our adventure began in Seattle (get there a day or two early if you can and explore the city!), a bustling city known for its iconic skyline and vibrant food scene. After checking in and settling into my balcony cabin (trust me, it’s worth the splurge!), I spent the evening exploring the Ovation of the Seas. This ship is a destination in itself, with everything from gourmet dining to live entertainment. The Ovation of the Seas is a marvel in itself—there’s so much to do onboard, from dining at specialty restaurants to catching a live show. But as excited as I was about the ship’s amenities, I couldn’t wait to get to Alaska!

Day 2: Cruising the Inside Passage and Whale Watching by the Pool

Day two was all about relaxation and soaking in the scenery as we cruised through the Inside Passage. This narrow waterway is surrounded by towering mountains and lush forests, making it a prime spot for whale watching. I spent most of the day lounging by the pool with my book, occasionally looking up to spot humpback whales and orcas playing in the distance. If you’re cruising this route, keep your camera handy—you never know when you’ll catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures! Later that evening, I indulged in a dinner at the Wonderland restaurant, where the whimsical Alice in Wonderland-inspired menu was a feast for both the eyes and the palate. The creative dishes and quirky atmosphere made it a dining experience to remember.

Day 3: Juneau and Dog Sledding Adventure

Juneau, Alaska’s charming capital, was our first port of call, and it did not disappoint. There are so many excursions to choose from here, but I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to go dog sledding on a glacier. This adventure began with a thrilling helicopter ride over the Mendenhall Glacier, offering breathtaking views of the icy expanse below. Upon landing at a remote dog sled camp, I was greeted by enthusiastic huskies ready to take me on a ride of a lifetime. There’s something truly magical about gliding over the snow, surrounded by Alaska’s stunning wilderness. If dog sledding isn’t your thing, Juneau offers plenty of other excursions, from whale watching tours to a visit to the historic Red Dog Saloon. Just be sure to book early—popular activities fill up fast!

Day 4: Skagway and a Hike to Remember

Our next stop was the quaint town of Skagway, known for its gold rush history and scenic beauty. I opted for a hike through the Tongass National Forest, where the trail took me past rushing streams, dense forests, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The fresh Alaskan air and stunning scenery made this hike one of the highlights of my trip. For those looking for something different, Skagway also offers the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, a scenic train ride that follows the old gold rush route, or a thrilling zip-line adventure over the treetops. After my hike, I spent the afternoon wandering through Skagway’s charming streets, visiting local shops, and learning more about the town’s gold rush history at the museum.

Day 5: Cruising Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier

One of the most awe-inspiring moments of the cruise was our journey through Endicott Arm to Dawes Glacier. The ship navigated through icy waters dotted with floating icebergs, all leading up to the massive glacier itself. I secured a spot on the upper deck early in the morning, bundled up with a hot drink in hand, to take in the sights. The crackling sound of ice as it broke off the glacier and crashed into the water was both eerie and exhilarating. For those looking for an even closer view, there’s an option to take a smaller boat excursion that gets you up close and personal with the glacier—just be sure to book it as soon as you board the ship!

Day 6: Victoria, British Columbia, and the Butchart Gardens

On our way back, we made a stop in Victoria, British Columbia, a city known for its British charm and stunning gardens. I spent the afternoon exploring the Butchart Gardens, a world-renowned garden that’s a feast for the senses. The vibrant flowers, meticulously landscaped grounds, and peaceful water features made for a relaxing day. Victoria also offers other great excursions, like whale watching tours, a visit to the Royal BC Museum, or high tea at the Fairmont Empress. If you’re a nature lover like me, though, the Butchart Gardens are a must-see.

Day 7: At Sea and Farewell Dinner

Our final day was spent at sea, giving me time to relax and soak in the last moments of this incredible journey. I treated myself to a morning at the Vitality Spa (highly recommend booking your spa appointments early through the Royal Caribbean app!) before heading to the pool for some more whale watching. The Ovation of the Seas has plenty of entertainment options, from live shows to bumper cars at SeaPlex, but I chose to take it easy and enjoy the views. That evening, I had a farewell dinner at one of the ship’s specialty restaurants. Whether you’re dining at Wonderland or savoring Italian cuisine at Jamie’s Italian, the food onboard is top-notch and a great way to end your cruise on a high note.

Excursion Options You Should Consider

In addition to the amazing excursions I did, here are some other fantastic options you might want to explore on your Alaska cruise:

Whale Watching in Juneau: If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a whale-watching tour is a must. Juneau is one of the best places in the world to spot humpback whales, and many tours offer guaranteed sightings.

White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad in Skagway: For history buffs, this scenic train ride follows the same route taken by prospectors during the Klondike Gold Rush, offering stunning views of the mountains, waterfalls, and gorges.

Kayaking in Ketchikan: Paddle through the serene waters of Ketchikan, where you can get up close to Alaska’s marine life, including sea otters and bald eagles.

Salmon Fishing in Icy Strait Point: If you love fishing, try your hand at catching wild Alaskan salmon in one of the richest fishing areas in the state.

Insider Tips for Booking Activities on Royal Caribbean Alaska Cruise

Use the Royal Caribbean App: The app is a game-changer for booking dining reservations, excursions, and spa appointments. You can also check the daily schedule and stay up-to-date with onboard events.

Book Excursions Early: As I mentioned earlier, popular excursions fill up quickly, so be sure to book as soon as you can—either before you sail or as soon as you board.

Plan Your Dining: Specialty dining restaurants like Wonderland and Jamie’s Italian require reservations, so if you’re a foodie like me, make sure to secure your spots early.

Spa Appointments: If you’re planning to pamper yourself, don’t wait until the last minute to book your spa appointments. The spa can get busy, especially on at-sea days.

Tips for Planning Your Royal Caribbean Alaska Cruise

Now that you’ve got a taste of what to expect, here are a few tips to help you plan your own Alaska cruise:

Book excursions early: Popular excursions, especially dog sledding and glacier tours, tend to sell out quickly. Reserve your spots as soon as you can.

Pack for all weather: Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable, even in summer. Bring layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy shoes for hiking.

Choose a cabin with a view: A balcony cabin is worth the splurge for the breathtaking scenery you’ll encounter throughout the cruise.

Take advantage of onboard activities: The Ovation of the Seas has plenty to offer, so make sure to check out the entertainment, dining, and relaxation options.

Conclusion

This 7-night Royal Caribbean Alaska cruise was everything I had hoped for and more. From the incredible landscapes to the thrilling excursions, every moment was a new adventure. If you’re dreaming of an Alaska cruise, I hope this guide helps you plan the perfect trip. Trust me, you won’t regret it—Alaska’s beauty is something you have to see to believe.

Happy cruising!