Time4Vaca

Trip was great! We went for a relaxing time, used Thermal Spa and made the best of our trip. Yes the shuttles in Sitka and Ketchikan take a lot of time (plan for an hour each way). They are short port times and early morning. Expect lots of people up early for breakfast with early ports. Due to icebergs stopping our ship we didn’t see Dawes glacier. But it is a pretty cruise up the Fjord. Enjoyed a bottle of champagne on our deck in our coats. Realistically I don't think it typically can reach it. But we went to Mendenhall glacier in Juneau.

Look into a car rental. One of the videos I watched suggested Turo (privately owned cars) then you can drive to the glacier with your group. With 11 people you may need 2 vehicles but would give you a lot more flexibility.

We decided on Bliss and booked the Thermal Suite. We have been on the Encore (Caribbean) so decided on a different boat. Plus cruised Glacier bay years ago. We will drive to Seattle Friday so no flights to deal.

We were just comparing the 2 choices but for this May 2024. Really similar ships and pricing. Our factors were itinerary, Saturday vs Sunday and the Main Entertainment. Encore- 1 sea day, 4 port days and 1 day glacier bay for cruising. Visits Juneau (afternoon/evening), Skagway (full day), Ketchikan (morning) and Victoria (night) Sunday to Sunday cruise (consider transportation to/from cruise, which is easier for you) Entertainment- Choir of Man Bliss- 1 sea day, 5 port days with 1/2 day Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier Visits Sitka (day), Juneau (morning), Icy Strait Point (morning/early afternoon), Ketchikan (morning) and Victoria (night) Saturday to Saturday cruise (consider transportation to/from cruise, which is easier for you) Entertainment-Jersey Boys