From Cool Alaska to the Balmy South Pacific, Sail with Bill & Mary Ann on the Volendam 9-6-23 to11-22-23 77 days

[WCB]

Report #8  September 12, 2023   Sea Day- Cruising The Inside Passage Enroute To Vancouver Canada    Rain And Wind All Day  55 Degrees  Part #1 Of 1........18  Pictures

 

We are currently sailing south outside the Inside Passage, but did enter between the island of Vancouver and the mainland of Canada in the late afternoon.   It did not matter a lot, because the weather wasn’t the best.  It remained windy, rainy, and quite cold for most of the day.   Our morning began as usual with a nice breakfast in the Pinnacle Grill.  Today we had a visit from the Pinnacle chef, a nice young lady from Mexico.   We thanked her for such excellent meals, and promised we would be back.   There were only a handful of diners this morning, and we figured it was due to the fact that there was a dining room brunch from 10 to 12:30pm.  Since we did not participate, we will have to ask if it was a tasting menu, like they do on a grand voyage.

 

Back to our room, we found two Delft tiles with the 150 year logo on them to add to our collection.   We did have a few jobs this morning such as getting a printout of our shipboard account at the Front  Desk.  To our surprise, we had a $79 credit due to refunded port charges.   As we understand it, port charges are paid when the balance is due.  Then if the price goes down at the time of sailing, they refund the difference.  So far, we have not seen the opposite, if the charges increased.  We have never been charged more.  And since the port charges were paid by credit card months ago it is refunded to that same card.  Or you can take it in cash.

 

It was time to stretch our legs and resume walking the promenade deck.  There were about three other folks doing the same thing.  The rest of the guests must have been taking advantage of the super sales, gambling in the casino, or heaven forbid….packing.  Glad we don’t have to do that for awhile.

 

At 2:30pm there was a special classical concert by Elliot Finkel in the Main Stage.  His performance was stellar, filling the room on both decks.  We have seen him, along with his late father and brother on many cruises years ago.  He has only gotten better with age.  He has had quite a career with performances at Carnegie Hall, Kennedy Center, and Broadway to name a few. 

 

Around 4pm, there was wildlife spotting on the aft deck, but with the driving rain we did not even bother to go.  During our walk this morning, we happened to spot another sun fish as it floated by the ship.  Normally we see whales and dolphins, but not today.  We did spot one bird.

 

Dinner was in the dining room with the Culinary menu.  We had one zucchini soup and a crab cake with salmon.  Salads followed, then we both ordered prime rib.  They were large servings, but a bit over done.  It is very hard to order the meat just right, because many times it is served almost raw in the center.  It was tasty despite being more well done.  The maitre’d, Komang, came by and we asked how many folks were sailing onward like us.  He said the number was 20, and we may know some of them.  Another wonderful waiter also came to see us…Prio, who we know from many grand voyages.  We chatted until most everyone was gone from the dining room.  Our waiters said they would be rotating tomorrow, as they do every 3 weeks or so.  If we are lucky, maybe Prio will be our new waiter.

 

The show this evening was Musicology performed by the Step One Dance Company.  We have seen this show while on the N. Statendam, where it was really done well in their special round stage.  Maybe next week, we will attend more of the shows.

 

Bill & Mary Ann

 

 

[WCB]

Report #9    September 13, 2023      Vancouver, Canada  Intransit Day  Docked - Port Side To Pier  7am-4pm   Partly Cloudy With Sun 68 Degrees   Part #1 Of 5........77 Pictures Of 249

 

Our Alaskan adventure begins again……By the time we woke up, we were already docked in Vancouver.   The forecast was for broken clouds and 59 degrees.  No rain.  Breakfast was early this morning – 6am in the Lido, 6:30am in both the dining room and Pinnacle Grill.  Since today was debarkation day for all but 20 of us, many folks probably ate in the Lido.  Today is a “zero clearance” day where everyone has to be off of the ship by 10am or so.  Also, the Canadian version of the CDC will come onboard today for inspection in all departments.  Endrian said they always pass with flying colors.

 

Last night, we did not see any luggage sitting in the hallway after dinner.  So today, we noticed the largest group debarking were the expedited guests who lugged their stuff off by themselves.  Guess you can do that if your cruise is only seven days.   Shore excursions was selling transfers to the airport for $29.  If you had a later flight, you could book a Ho-Ho bus tour with an airport transfer for $120. 

 

We left the ship about 8:45am without joining the in transit group.  Sometimes going in a group is more time-consuming, and with an all aboard time of 3:30pm, we did not want to waste any time waiting to be released.  All we needed were our passports, room keys, and the in transit card.  We showed this card all the way out, but were asked to show our passports to some officials.  We believe they were making sure we had them, or we would not be allowed back on the ship. 

 

We lucked out today, since the Volendam was the only ship in port today.  Sure made a difference in the terminal.  We took our usual walk down past the convention center, following the waterfront past the Seaplane Terminal and Coal Harbour.  The trees in the park that line the walkway were beginning to take on some fall color.  In a few weeks, we bet we see a big difference.  We went past the yacht area, noting some nice yachts for sale.  One was priced over $900,000 Canadian $.  Following Stanley Park Drive, we walked past the Rowing Club, then onto the horse-drawn carriages.  The horses used today were the Percheron Draft Horses the ones with the huge hooves.  Gentle as can be, they are quite impressive and well- tended by the staff here.  Further up, we gathered all of the brochures we needed for local information.

 

We lucked out again with the weather.  By now the sun had peeked out and clouds lifted.  Sure was nice to get clear and bright photos.  We do hope the weather improves and the rain stays away.

 

This park is 1001 acres with an 8.8 kilometer seawall surrounding it.  Our hike took us through the woods and over the hill to the Aquarium and the Lumberman’s Arch, which is fenced off now to the public.  We went far enough to be able to see the Lions Gate Bridge, then it was time to turn back.  We did see many black squirrels in the park, busy with the abundance of acorns.  The trees are majestic here, with several of them cut down due to bad weather and storms in the recent past.  There are Douglas fir, western red cedar, and Sitka spruce to name a few of the giants.  Maples, sycamore, redbuds, and catalpa trees are a few of the smaller varieties.  The roses are done blooming, and the rhododendrons and azaleas are setting their blossoms for next spring.  Some large pink crocus were already blooming here and there. 

 

The clock was ticking, so we went directly back to Canada Place where the ship was docked, then continued on towards Gastown.  A block or two up from the Pan Pacific Hotel was our lunch destination – the Steamworks Brewing Company.   They have the best beer and pizza, which we ordered, along with a shared dessert of an apple galette.  It was wonderful relaxing for over an hour before we had to head back to the ship.    All aboard was at 3:30pm, but the US customs officials were supposedly only there until 2pm, cutting our afternoon short.  

 

Before we went back, we made a swoop through the Pan Pacific Hotel, where we stayed before an Asia/Pacific cruise in 2002.  It was just as nice as we remembered it.  Going back was simple, showing our in transit cards.  All of the taxis and buses were gone by now, and there was no line at the xray stop.  We scanned our passports in the kiosk, waited for the printed slip, then handed it over to an agent.  From there, we re-boarded and had some time to work on photos. 

 

We had an invitation to another gathering of the 3,4, and 5 star and President’s Club Mariners in the Crow’s Nest at 3pm.  We enjoyed a glass or two of the sparking wine, then went off to watch the sailing out of the harbor.   We have never seen such a crowd of passengers from deck 10 forward to deck 9, and a very over-crowded Seaview Pool.  The festivities were already in full swing on that deck and we had a heck of a time wiggling our way to the back railing.  Of course, there was not a single space to stand there, so we headed down the back stairs to deck six aft.  We were about the only ones there, and appreciated the quiet.  Judging by scanning the crowd, this appears to be a younger group of guests.  By 5pm, it got chilly and we headed back home.

 

Dinner tonight was in the Pinnacle Grill with starters of the wedge salad and clothes line bacon.  Mains were halibut and the rib eye steak, which was huge.  Dessert was out of the question this evening.  We made reservations for two more evenings in here for the coming week.  The ship sailed in the Inside Passage, but it was too dark to appreciate the scenery.

 

Bill & Mary Ann

 

 

[StartrainDD]

1 hour ago, WCB said:

Report #9    September 13, 2023      Vancouver, Canada  Intransit Day 

Hi Mary Ann & Bill!

 

Curious if you have ever visited the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park?

We are in Vancouver next month on Eurodam.  I found this information:

 

"Free shuttle leaves from Canada Place Way near the information kiosk.  8:30 and then every 15 minutes."

 

Great to be following your adventures once again!

[PalmSprings]

Your informative and comprehensive reports are fantastic!  I love the Volendam and you are bringing back many good memories from our trip in the spring on her for a Panama Canal transit.  

 

A couple of thoughts came to my mind to mention:  first, if the lovely Melinda is still onboard and at her station in the Crow’s Nest bar, please give her the best regards from the 2 guys from Palm Springs; and second, since you (like me) seem to enjoy Pinnacle, I can very, very highly recommend the wine dinner, if they schedule one (ours was sold out and I didn’t hear a single complaint and lots of praise for the special menu and excellent wine pairings).

[WCB]

Report #10   September 14, 2023   Cruising The Inside Passage Enroute To Tracy Arm    Sunny And Partly Cloudy  57 Degrees  Part #1 Of 1..........43 Pictures

 

Guess what?  We had a special announcement from the Captain that we will not be calling on Skagway Saturday due to extreme inclement weather, and the fact we would have to use tender boats to get ashore.  Well, that’s a first.  That is one port we have never skipped.  However……..they have substituted Haines, a town we have visited only once in past years.   So we will miss our walk to the Soapy Smith Cemetery and the great pizza, but we will have a chance to explore Haines.  We will also have to use the tenders to get into that port, so it may be limited for folks in wheelchairs.

 

Yesterday we received more things in our room such as Coke Zero, 2 bottles of Wyclif sparkling wine, and more shipboard credit.  All perks of booking this cruise with separate booking numbers.  We had a brochure outlining the buying of shore excursions, making reservations in the specialty restaurants, and purchasing a drink package.  This is the 15 beverages per day priced under $11 or less.  Non-alcoholic drinks are included in this package.  This was $60 per person per day and both of us would have to purchase the package.  We never buy it, and when we had it as a perk, we never came close to the 15 drink limit.  The internet packages were also promoted.  Finally, we had a flyer to begin collecting exclusive travelers tags (pendants) from the Shops, but you have to attend their talks.  The time, place, and day were listed, which is helpful if you like free things.

 

This morning we had another canvas Mariner bag and an invite for wine tasting in the afternoon left on our bed.  We missed it again.  On the morning promenade walk, one of saw two more sun fish.  Later we saw some sightings of porpoise skimming the surface, but they never breached the water.  Every now and again, there were whales spouting in the far distance.   The cloudiness increased as the day advanced.  And that was a good reason for the guests to attend the many sales that were held around the ship.  A special clearance sale of up to 75% happened in the Lido Pool area.  Many passengers were buying the Alaskan t- shirts and the reversible jackets, as well as knit hats and gloves.

 

Later in the afternoon, we collected some Dive In food – a burger and a hot dog and fries and brought it to our room to enjoy.  We could have ordered it from room service and paid the $5 price for each item, but having done that on past cruises, we know they come cold.  

 

There were three talks in the World Stage – what to do and see ashore, The Iditarod, and Pacific Giants.  The Call of the Wild was shown in the Wajang Theater three different times during the day and evening.  The new ships do  not have a real movie theater, so this one is nice as an alternate activity.

 

Around 3:45pm, we went out to deck six forward and whale-watched.  One of the officers on watch on the navigation deck knocked on the window and pointed to the starboard side.  They had spotted some feeding whales.  We must have been at least 20 miles off shore, so seeing them was difficult.  The only positive thing was that there was a following wind, and we did not have problems holding the camera steady.  There were many whales breaching, but not diving.  There were several blows as they continued their feeding.  Coming back to the room to warm up, was when the Captain announced the itinerary change.  Now that we think about it, the hotel director mentioned that conditions up north were not going to be ideal.  They probably already knew we were aborting Skagway.

 

Dinner was “dressy” this evening with all of the photographers taking pictures everywhere.  Although our waiters had mentioned they would be moved to a different section, they were both back where we dine.  We both ordered salads, one shrimp cocktail, and a bowl of tomato soup…..very good, especially on a cold day.  Our mains were rack of lamb, a bit overdone, but better than half raw.  The chops were quite tasty and seasoned nicely.  We added desserts of a flourless chocolate cake and a slice of apple tart.  Our waiter decided we needed ice cream and brought a glasses of coffee and vanilla ice cream.  Then we learned it was his birthday today, so we wished him a good one upon leaving the dining room.   Maybe some of his buddies sang the birthday song for him.

 

On the way back to our room, we passed through the casino and noticed it was very busy with gamblers.  Unlike the grand voyage, these folks make it a point to do everything since there are only 7 days to do it all.  Tomorrow we will be stopping briefly at Tracy Arm for a tour group, then we will be going to Juneau…..again.  Lastly, the clocks went back one hour tonight.  We like that.

 

Bill & Mary Ann

 

 

 

[dchip]

Hi You two!

In 2019 we docked in Haines on the Maasdam. Are you sure you have to tender? It’s such a fun port. Hopefully the artisans are still there. We bought some beautiful shirts and fabulous earrings. 
see you soon, 

Denis and Howie, too

[Ready2go11]

If they are open, Alpenglow pizza in Haines was tasty when I was there in June. I can’t remember beverage options. it is a doable walk up the hill and into town (past the giant hammer). 
 

I’ve read how you both enjoy a good pizza!

[WCB]

Report #11   September 15, 2023   Juneau, Alaska  1pm-9:30pm  Docked Starboard Side To Dock  Mostly Cloudy With Sun And A Few Rain Showers 52 Degrees  Part #1 Of 2.......75  Pictures Of 151

 

Our port of call for today is Juneau, with a brief stop at Tracy Arm to let a tour off.  About 100 guests took the boat ride up to see the Twin Sawyer Glaciers, then will re-join the ship in Juneau later in the afternoon.  We watched the guests board the high speed boat bundled up in jackets and hats, and over-loaded backpacks.   We wonder what they put in these bags for a six hour excursion?  Once we had a tablemate who packed his bed pillow in his bag for a long ride on a tour bus in China.  Clever.

 

The weather was rainy, windy, and darn cold.  Fog hugged every mountainside in the passage, and got dense enough for the Captain to sound the foghorn every two minutes.  We had gone to deck six forward to watch the tour boat load up and leave, then stayed until we sailed in the Gastineau Channel.  We were rewarded for our efforts by spotting several whales as we got closer to Juneau.  They were diving near the shoreline, and only surfaced a few times. 

 

As we sailed into Juneau, we spotted the Disney Wonder docked in her spot, the furthest from downtown.  The RCI Quantum of the Seas was in her normal spot, while the Carnival Miracle was docked near the Disney vessel.  We squeezed in between Carnival and RCI.   With this many ships in port, there will be thousands of folks out and about.  And that includes a large number of crew as well.  Arriving this late in the day at 1pm, we might have trouble finding room in any restaurant for lunch.  Our only hope is that most passengers booked tours and would be out of town.

 

Before we left the ship, we had some mail.  One was a new form with Haines tours for tomorrow.  One of the excursions was a ferry ride from Haines to Skagway, our cancelled port.  This tour would involve a train ride for $330 for an all day tour.  Wonder if this will still happen after we had to skip this port?  Then we got the second customs form for Canada that we will turn in at the front desk before this 7 day cruise is over.  In transit again, we will follow the same procedure we did in Vancouver on Wednesday.  Lastly, there is a scheduled maintenance for the air conditioning system on the Dolphin deck.  Our air will be shut down from 1pm to 6 pm, which is when we planned to be off of the ship for the most part. 

 

So we bundled up and went off the ship by 1:30pm.  The downtown was crowded as we expected.  And it was bone-chilling cold.  The main streets were so full of shoppers, we stayed off of them, and walked the waterfront.  We decided to go right to the Hangar on the Wharf to see if they had room for lunch.  It was mostly filled with guests, but they did have a table for us without waiting.  Larger groups came in after us, and were handed a buzzer to wait for a free table.  We shared a burger with fries,  Alaskan Amber beers, and also one order of the mud pie.  Our waitress said that the computer showed they were sold out, but she would go in the back and check it out.    She came back with the very last pie slice of the day……lucky for us. 

 

From there, we slowly walked back towards the ship, going even further to see if we could spot some bald eagles in the trees.  We did see at least two of them as they perched on the branches of the fir trees.  They seem to be in the same spot as previous years.  Bet there are some nests up high.  Passing by some of the newer shops, we strolled through one to check out the new editions of the Lazy One t’s.  In this shop, the sleep t’s were $8 more than what we found in Ketchikan.  Now we wonder if next week, the end of the season, the prices will drop even more?   This is when the crew members shop for their families at home, we have been told.

 

By the time we passed through the Taku Shop, it began to rain around 4:30pm.  Perfect timing, we did not get too wet.  Back in our room, we relaxed and worked online until dinnertime.  By the way, we heard from Endrian at breakfast that technicians have installed a better internet service called Starlink.  He said there was an immediate improvement, especially for the crew members who like to go to Facebook and do streaming and Netflix.  That was good news.  And we noticed that the area that used to be the art gallery on deck 4 was closed in and is in the process of being remodeled into something else.  We shall have to investigate and find out exactly what they plan to build there.  

 

Dinnertime revealed some different items on the menu, or what we missed by going to the Pinnacle Grill last week.  Arancini Pomodoro was a good starter, and the French onion soup was finally hot-hot-hot.  We both ordered the parmesan-coated veal and it was OK, but rather bland.   We shared a main of lasagna, but found that lacking in flavor.  This was the first dinner that failed the excellent test.  Now we know that Friday will be a good evening to go to the Pinnacle Grill as the menu repeats itself every 7 days on these Alaskan cruises.

 

Tomorrow we will be in Haines.  Hope the rain stays away.

 

Bill & Mary Ann

 

 

[WCB]

Greetings,

 

We have never been to the Capilano Suspension Bridge due to lack of time in Vancouver.  Perhaps staying an extra day after the cruise would work.

 

We shall search for Melinda in the Crow's Nest.  There are no wine pairing dinners in the Pinnacle Grill on the 7 day voyages.  No pop-up menus as well.

 

Alpenglow Pizza is on the must-do list for today.  Thanks.

 

Bill & Mary Ann

[dchip]

On 9/14/2023 at 7:40 AM, StartrainDD said:

Hi Mary Ann & Bill!

 

Curious if you have ever visited the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park?

We are in Vancouver next month on Eurodam.  I found this information:

 

"Free shuttle leaves from Canada Place Way near the information kiosk.  8:30 and then every 15 minutes."

 

Great to be following your adventures once again!

Since Bill and Mary Ann haven’t been there, I thought I’d answer. We did go to the suspension bridge. It was really fun. There are totems there and a wonderful walk on suspended platforms. We went on a Princess tour but the bus was out there waiting for passengers. 
Denise

[carolyn22]

Thank you for including the updates they are doing on the Volendam.  I’m very excited to hear about the Starlink upgrade as I’ll be on the Volendam for the 94 day Grand Australia and New Zealand voyage. 

[Ineke]

4 hours ago, carolyn22 said:

Thank you for including the updates they are doing on the Volendam.  I’m very excited to hear about the Starlink upgrade as I’ll be on the Volendam for the 94 day Grand Australia and New Zealand voyage. 

Yes, sure made me happy to know this. Leaving soon for 56 days, which will be exciting by itself. But having to keep up with some work emails should be much more reliable, so more good news.

[WCB]

Report #12    September 16, 2023   Haines, Alaska At Anchor  7am-8pm Tender Port   Light Rain All Day  With Heavy Overcast Skies  52 Degrees And Cool.......Part #1 Of 2........78  Pictures Of 156

 

Well, here we are in Haines, the substitute port for Skagway.  We’re not exactly sure why we did not go there, but it wasn’t due to the weather conditions.  We believe we were bumped so the Sapphire Princess, the Carnival Miracle, and the Seven Seas Regent Explorer had room to dock.  We may be wrong, but probably not.  Anyway, it has been a long time since we visited Haines, and we had a fine time there despite the constant rain. 

 

Located at the upper end of America’s longest and deepest fjord, the Lynn Canal, we were here in 2011.  It is also known as the home to 30,000 bald eagles, the highest concentration in all of North America.  Haines is 80 miles north of Juneau, and 14 miles south of Skagway.    Haines is also home to Fort William H Seward, named after the man who negotiated the purchase of Alaska from Russia.  This impressive fort was built on 4000 acres, which has been converted to businesses and bed and breakfast hotels these days.

 

Breakfast was first, and we did learn from the hotel director that the former art corner next to the wine bar outside the Pinnacle Grill is being converted to another shop that will feature the HAL Captain’s logo items and clothing.  Interesting.  It will take another week before the project is completed.  There was some noise from the hammering, drilling, and sawing.  And the adjacent wine bar will eventually be turned into something involving the photo department.  It does not appear that this wine bar is being used for sip and savor anymore.

 

Armed with a map (oops…forgot the umbrellas), we headed off  the ship about 9:45am.  Rounding the corner at the elevator lobby, we ran right into the “moose” or the mascot of the ship’s photographers.  Yesterday it was a wolf, and the day before a bear.   No, thanks, but we still don’t need the photo.  Been there, done that.

 

Going down to deck A, we just showed our room key to the security gal.  No tender ticket needed.  One of the tours was going off, so the boat filled quickly.  Actually, it was the excursion that took the 45 – minute ferry ride to Skagway with the train ride.  There were nine tours in total, some easy sight-seeing rides, or kayak or floating down the river in the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve.  We took this tour and found it quite enjoyable.  In today’s rain?  Probably not so much.  There were several museums to visit, a wilderness safari, or a visit to a wildlife refuge to see a wolf, a Kodiak bear, porcupine, lynx, and a reindeer up close and personal.  Unsuited to release back into the wild, they are cared for by a man named Steve Kroschel, who has a 60 acre park.

 

Once we walked up the steep gangway to the top, there was a convenient tourist info shop.  We picked up more brochures and a better map, then hopped on a waiting free shuttle to downtown.  The friendly driver made four stops along the way, and we got off at the Bald Eagle Raptor Center.  We have seen a similar bird display and live show in Sitka, and this looked much the same.  So we continued to walk up the Haines Highway past the police and firehouse stations and uphill to the center of town.   Everything was here in a tight 3 or 4 block section.  Many restaurants were closed until 11am, some not until 5pm.  We had heard there was an excellent wood-fired pizza parlor, and we did locate it.  They opened after 11am.  We would come back of course.

 

We happened to pass the Haines Library where a 20 – foot totem pole was erected.  The figures on this pole told the story of the library’s beginning.  But the most interesting part was the fact this pole was carved from an 800 year old cedar tree.  This town has a total of fifteen such totems located all throughout the town and its outskirts. 

 

Making our way to Main Street, we ducked in and out of some shops and stores.  One was the main supermarket, which had just about anything you might need.  Not only a food store, but also cosmetics, clothing, and some hardware items.  Like a mini -Walmart.   Following the map, we strolled past more historic buildings, and also past one neat souvenir shop called Gold Spot.  A rack of locally crafted copper earrings caught our eye, so we went in to check it out.  Made in the designs of totems and more, one of us found a pair of earrings to buy, and the store owner happened to locate a matching bracelet.  They will be a nice keepsake to remember our unscheduled stop in Haines.  

 

It was close to noon, so we headed right for the Alpenglow Pizzeria.  We could already smell the smoke drifting out of their traditional pizza oven.  What we found was a very casual order-at-the-counter café with the menu printed in chalk on the side wall board.  All of the pizzas were 12 inches with the usual varieties.  We choose a simple pepperoni pizza, which was delivered to our table.   It was as good as it looked, and today our beverages were Coke Zero.  No beer sold here.

 

We stayed in town walking every street, taking photos, then made our way to the town’s other information center.   It was also a convenient restroom stop which was located next to the center.  Once inside, we realized this was the “candy store” of info centers.  They had walls full of pamphlets, maps, and brochures.  Loaded up with many of them, we signed their guest book and thanked the info ladies for having such a wonderful shop.

 

Instead of taking the shuttle back, we decided to walk back, even in the rain.  It wasn’t as far as it looked on the map, and soon we were directly across from the fort.  It would have been quite a wet walk up the hillside to access the property, so we just took photos and kept going.   Some of the crew members were also walking back from the market.  We could see their bags were loaded with small snack packages.  There were still some tour groups coming off the tenders for the second round for the day.  Too bad we did not have a better day for touring. 

 

Have we mentioned the use of the facial recognition screens they use for boarding the ship?  We have had this in most every port, and it seems to work well.  We still have to use our room key to get back onboard, but it seems the line moves quicker using the computer screen.  The ride back took only 15 minutes.  Then we dried off for the rest of the afternoon working on photos and reading all of the brochures.  The rain never stopped.

 

The last tender was at 7:30pm and we think the ship left the bay by 8pm or earlier.  Dinner was in the Pinnacle Grill with the usual starters and the filet mignons for our mains.  They were more tender than ever and were wonderfully delicious.  One tiny scoop of vanilla ice cream with a drizzle of chocolate sauce finished our meal.    Sitting by the “window” we watched the stream of guests coming from the show lounge.  The Step One Dance Company performed Humanity once again.  It appeared to be well-attended.  Last night after dinner, we passed by the Ocean Bar and caught the end of a piano concert played by the cruise director, Glenn Michael.  He had played music from Phantom of the Opera, and got a huge round of applause as he exited the room.  A very talented fellow.

 

Tomorrow we will be entering Glacier Bay once again.

 

Bill & Mary Ann

 

 

 

[cunnorl]

Thank you very much. I am really enjoying your trip!

[ON cruiser]

I always enjoy reading of your travels—your descriptions of your walks and the ship make me feel as if I’m right there with you! Thanks for taking the time.

 

Re the ‘23 World Cruise, I recall that you wrote to HAL’s CEO, providing some detailed concerns. Did you receive a satisfactory response (not a form letter)? As a 5 star Mariner, I’m very much on the fence about returning to HAL, albeit you seem to be experiencing on this cruise much better food and experiences, generally, than on the “glitchy” Zuiderdam, so far.

 

Are you taking the ‘24 GWV?

 

Thanks again,

ON Cruiser

[WCB]

Greetings,

 

Thank you for the compliments....it does mean a lot knowing you are following along with us.

 

In regards to our comments about the 2023 GWV, we did receive a positive response from the CEO, Gus Antorcha.  He promised to improve areas that needed fixing, and we are seeing some of that on this cruise.

 

Yes, we are booked on the 2024 GWV as well.

 

Bill & Mary Ann

[FLCruiser97]

Hi Bill & Mary Ann. I have enjoyed reading your adventures. This is the first time I have read your blog. Quick question...How do I see the photos that you post? I can't seem to open it from your first link.

[dchip]

1 hour ago, FLCruiser97 said:

Hi Bill & Mary Ann. I have enjoyed reading your adventures. This is the first time I have read your blog. Quick question...How do I see the photos that you post? I can't seem to open it from your first link.

You can see their photos here:

https://cruisingwithbillandmaryann.blogspot.com/

[FLCruiser97]

1 hour ago, dchip said:

You can see their photos here:

https://cruisingwithbillandmaryann.blogspot.com/

Thanks.

[Fred321]

Hey guys,

Saw you mentioned that Glenn Michael is the current cruise director. Can you check and see whether he will be aboard for the 94 day Grand in January? Thanks. As usual, enjoying your travels.

Rich and Peg

[Ellencruise]

I love cruising with Bill and MaryAnn, so informative. And I really appreciate the time it takes to post the reports and photos. 

[canadianbear]

4 minutes ago, Ellencruise said:

I love cruising with Bill and MaryAnn, so informative. And I really appreciate the time it takes to post the reports and photos. 

Totally agree!  We have learned so many tips from their posts and blog.  Love all the photos too. 

[WCB]

Report #13    September 17, 2023  Sea Day  Cruising Glacier Bay  7am-4pm   Rain And Strong Wind All Day  42 Degrees Felt Like 30 Degrees  Part #1 Of 2.......57  Pictures  Of 114

 

If it’s Sunday, then it’s Glacier Bay Day.   The forecast was not the best as there was heavy rain at times, plus the wind chill, with a temperature of 43 degrees – too cold.  Despite the wet and windy conditions, we made our way once again to deck six forward around 7:30pm.  We were met with more rain and even worse….fog.  The winds blowing across this deck were powerful, but the surrounding waters of the narrows showed barely a ripple.  Carefully making our way to the starboard side, we found a spot mostly out of the rain.  A river of water was flowing where we stood, because most times, the drains do not work well.  It was a good test of our waterproof boots. 

 

We lasted out there for one hour, keeping a vigilant eye on Gloomy Knob, but could not spot any mountain goats.   They must be smart enough to stay under trees to stay dry.  We did see many gulls and kittiwakes.  And we noticed we had two stowaways……little green and yellow birds were hoping along the walls of the promenade deck.  They must have come aboard while we were in Haines yesterday.  If they survive the foot traffic and weather outside, they will live in Ketchikan now.

 

At one time Glacier Bay’s ice was 4000 feet thick and up to 20 miles wide.   From 1794 to 1879, the ice had retreated 65 miles from the mouth to the top.  With 3.3 million acres, this national park is larger than the state of Connecticut.   A typical cruise ship like the Volendam can take up to nine hours to cover it all.  We do it in far less time than that, but need to keep a fast speed to enter by 7am and leave by 3pm.  There are over 1000 glaciers in the park, but only a dozen are tidewater ones that reach the bay.  By the way, the bow never did open up until later, since the rain was falling too much.  We only saw a handful of folks out there.  Since we would not arrive to Margerie Glacier until 10:15, it was time to catch the last 20 minutes of breakfast.

 

Boy, did we need that cup of hot coffee in the Pinnacle Grill this morning.  We literally had to defrost.  No matter how bundled up you are, the time spent standing still depletes the body heat quickly.  We were served immediately, although we were not the last customers in there.  Manager Endrian spent some time visiting with us.  He will be missed when he leaves for home. 

 

Then we went to the promenade deck to watch the entrance into Tarr Inlet and Margerie Glacier.  The Captain spent about one hour for all of the guests and crew to enjoy the sights.  This is the first time ever there was no calving whatsoever.  It’s like a “watched” pot that never boils.  Here it is a “watched” glacier that never calves.  But we did witness something we have never seen before ever anywhere.  Right near where we were standing, a young man went down on his knee, and proposed to his lady companion.  No kidding.  We believe she said “yes” and added oh my God.  It appeared some of their friends were in on the secret, and were there to takes photos of the special occasion.  Then someone got the ship’s photographers who also took some professional shots with Margerie Glacier in the backdrop.  Pretty special……

 

We stayed outside until the coldness penetrated our bones, then went back to the room by 12:30pm to warm up.   For some reason, we never saw any waiters handing out the pea soup as was advertised in the newsletter.  There was a bartender pushing a cart with all of the makings for special drinks.  We worked on photos while watching the steady rainfall outside.  At 1:40pm, one of us took a run to the Dive In Grill and brought back one cannonball burger and one hot dog with fries for both.  Something new has been added at this grill.  It is the offer of a milkshake for $5.50 or a banana split for $6.50. 

 

Then we went out again a 3pm to watch the rangers leave the ship.  We stayed on the promenade deck until 4pm to watch for possible sightings of otters and whales.  As we were about to leave, we saw one otter near the ship, and a group of whales near the coastline.  They were breaching as they were feeding, and diving also.  Satisfied that we had seen some wildlife, we headed home.  The Captain came on the speakers and announced that we were taking a different route due to rough conditions out in open seas.  He turned left at point Gustavus, and followed the route we had come early in the morning.   Later in the evening, he would take the ship out to the Pacific Ocean until about 1am, then cut back inside the islands on the way to Ketchikan.  In the meantime, he warned everyone to be careful with walking and swinging doors.  With this route, we may even be an hour earlier to Ketchikan.

 

By the way, last week while cruising Glacier Bay, the sound system was terrible.  We took the time the following day to report what we heard or could not hear while on the outside decks that day.  Guess what?  Today the speakers were working perfectly.  Guess it pays to let them know.

 

We would have gone back outside to watch the Stellar sealions on South Marble Island, but it was not printed in the itinerary this week, and we did not sail even close enough to see them.    Oh well, it was still raining and still cold as ever.

 

Dinnertime was dressy, but we have to admit that this group of guests are not into it.  This evening, we saw very few men with jackets (if any), and the ladies were casual like most every evening.  We think the day is coming when there is no dress code.  Hope it is when we are done with cruising.   It’s nice to see the folks in something other than jeans and t-shirts or sweatshirts in this area.  The menu had some gala  items like a shrimp cocktail or escargots.  We had Caesar salads, and one salmon dinner and a chicken entrée.  Both were most and tasty and served hot the way we like it.  For some reason, the upper dining room was about half full.  

 

Tonight’s entertainment was the Step One Dance Company with In Tandem.  For us, the time would be 9:30pm, which happened to be about the same time the Chocolate Surprise was to occur on deck five.  We were so tired from today’s activities outside, we passed on both.

 

Tomorrow’s port will be the last on this cruise….Ketchikan.  Bet it is going to rain there.

 

Bill & Mary Ann

 

 

 

[bcummin]

Congratulations to the young couple on their engagement.

Barbara

[lindaler]

On 9/6/2023 at 10:28 AM, dchip said:

BON VOYAGE!!! Have a wonderful time in Alaska. We will be waiting for you to arrive in San Diego. 🛳️
Denise and Howie, too 

Me too. I am excited to finally get to meet you two as I have read so many of your blogs. See you soon.