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Sailing Through Alaska: Our Unforgettable Journey on the Norwegian Bliss
- Evangelina Montes de Oca
- Nov 12
- 4 min read
There are some trips that stay with you forever—and my Alaska cruise aboard the Norwegian Bliss was one of them. Last year, my mom, grandma, uncle, and I embarked on a 7-day adventure roundtrip from Seattle, and to say it exceeded every expectation would be an understatement. Between the breathtaking glaciers, the endless buffet of delicious food, and the cozy evenings spent watching the horizon fade into gold, this trip became one of our most treasured family memories.
Setting Sail from Seattle
Our journey began in Seattle—a city that feels like the perfect gateway to the wild beauty of Alaska. We were only there for the night before embarking, so we didn't get to visit Pike Place Market, but we did have some clam chowder at Iver's Acres of Clams--amazing chowder and fish and chips! I booked us at the Lotte Hotel Seattle, a 4.5 star luxury hotel located a few blocks from the ports. These rooms were gorgeous and spared no expense on comfort and atmosphere. My uncle, who had his own room down the hall, had the best panoramic views of the city and bay. The following morning, we ate breakfast at the restaurant located on the top floor of the hotel before heading to the port for embarkation.
As we stepped on deck after checking in, which was so fast and stress-free, we were greeted by panoramic ocean views and friendly crew members ready to make our week at sea unforgettable. The ship buzzed with excitement—families, couples, and adventure-seekers all ready to experience Alaska’s magic.
The Ship: Norwegian Bliss
The Norwegian Bliss isn’t just a cruise ship—it’s an experience. Every corner of the ship felt thoughtfully designed, from the chic lounges and world-class restaurants to the observation lounge that quickly became our favorite hangout. There’s something incredibly peaceful about sipping a cocktail while watching whales breach in the distance.
We spent evenings indulging in multi-course dinners—steak one night, seafood the next, and a little bit of everything in between. And yes, we absolutely made the most of the dessert bar. 🍰
When we weren’t eating (which was rare), we explored the ship’s entertainment. There were Broadway-style shows, live music, and even a go-kart track on board (yes, really!). Unfortunately, it was raining most of our trip, so most of the activities out on the deck were cancelled or closed. We were the second-to-last cruise of the season, so next time we plan, we will go in August for better weather.
Ports of Call: Alaska’s Natural Wonders
Each stop on our itinerary brought a new kind of beauty:
🌿 Juneau – Alaska’s capital city felt like a dream surrounded by snow-capped peaks. We took a tour to the Mendenhall Glacier, where the crisp air and ice-blue landscape took our breath away. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
🐋 Sitka – This was one of the most charming and surprising stops. With its blend of Russian and Native Alaskan history, Sitka felt unique compared to the other ports. We explored the scenic coastal paths and visited Sitka National Historical Park, where totem poles stood tall among moss-covered trees. The mix of culture and coastal beauty made it one of my personal favorites.
We got caught in a bad storm after Juneau, so our other stops were canceled, and we were at sea for two days...but here are the other stops for future reference (there are 4 stops on the 7-day cruise itinerary, including Victoria, BC).
🦅 Skagway – A charming gold rush town straight out of a storybook. We explored its historic streets, and my grandma especially loved the old-timey shops filled with handmade trinkets.
🐋 Ketchikan – Known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” this colorful port was perfect for a relaxing day stroll. We caught sight of bald eagles and visited local totem poles—an experience rich in culture and history.
🌊 Glacier Bay National Park – Perhaps the most jaw-dropping part of the trip. Standing on deck with my mom and grandma, watching massive glaciers crack and tumble into the sea—it was pure magic. The stillness of the ice and the sound of nature reminded us how small and connected we truly are.
Life Onboard: Food, Fun, and Family Memories
One of the best parts of cruising with Norwegian Cruise Line is how easy it is to balance adventure and relaxation. While the ports delivered the thrills, the Bliss offered every comfort imaginable.
We enjoyed late-night hot chocolate in the observation lounge, laughed during trivia nights, and enjoyed the live bands in the Atrium. For my grandma, it was the perfect mix of activity and leisure—she loved the panoramic lounges and live music. My mom and I were all about the fine dining and scenic views, while my uncle preferred the casino and craft beer at the onboard brewery.
Every day felt effortless—no worrying about transportation, meals, or logistics. Just pure enjoyment.
Why Everyone Should Experience an Alaska Cruise
Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, an Alaska cruise on the Norwegian Bliss is something truly special. It combines the comfort of luxury travel with the raw beauty of nature. You wake up to new scenery each morning—towering glaciers, misty mountains, and endless ocean.
For families, it’s the perfect blend of bonding and exploration. There’s something magical about sharing those “wow” moments together—watching whales, spotting glaciers, and simply slowing down to take it all in.
Final Thoughts
Our Norwegian Bliss cruise to Alaska wasn’t just a vacation—it was an experience that brought three generations together in the most memorable way. It reminded us to pause, appreciate beauty, and embrace adventure.
If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting Alaska, this is the way to do it. Trust me—between the views, the food, and the family memories you’ll make, you’ll come home with your heart as full as your camera roll. Travel with Faith would love to help plan your cruise vacation. Reach out to us today to secure your spot.
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