SUMMER 2024: JULY 7TH – JULY 21ST
Day 1: Our journey began with a sense of excitement as we arrived in Seattle on the first day. After checking into our hotel, we took the evening to rest and acclimate ourselves to the city’s vibe. The air was fresh, filled with a blend of salty sea breezes and hints of coffee from the city’s numerous cafes. It was a relaxing start to what promised to be an incredible trip.
Day 2: The second day took us to one of Seattle’s most iconic landmarks—Pike Place Market. This lively market was brimming with activity. Vendors enthusiastically displayed their fresh seafood, vibrant flowers, and local crafts. The famous fish throwers put on quite a show, launching salmon across the stalls to the cheers of passersby. After exploring the market, we stopped at the original Starbucks, located right within Pike Place. The cozy atmosphere and rich aroma of coffee were a perfect interlude before heading to our next destination: The Space Needle.
Standing 605 feet tall, the Space Needle offered breathtaking panoramic views of Seattle. From the observation deck, we could see the distant Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges, and of course, the city’s skyline stretched below. The revolving glass floor gave us a thrilling yet slightly dizzying perspective of the city from all angles. It was the perfect conclusion to our day, and we felt fully immersed in Seattle’s charm.
Day 3: On day three, we ventured north to Everett for a tour of the Boeing Factory. The sheer size of the facility was overwhelming. Known as the largest building in the world by volume, the factory houses the production of Boeing’s 747, 777, and 787 Dreamliners. The tour was both educational and fascinating, providing insight into the intricate process of aircraft manufacturing. Watching engineers and technicians at work gave us a new appreciation for the innovation behind modern aviation.
Day 4: The following day was one of nature and adventure. We set out early for Mount Rainier National Park, one of Washington’s most famous natural landmarks. The towering peak of Mount Rainier was awe-inspiring, standing at over 14,000 feet. Hiking through the lush meadows and pristine forests, we marveled at the wildflowers and waterfalls. The mountain was shrouded in mist for part of the day, but as the fog cleared, we were treated to spectacular views of its snow-capped summit. The peaceful beauty of the park provided a stark contrast to the urban energy of Seattle.
Day 5: Day five took us to the Washington coast and the small town of La Push. Known for its rugged coastline and breathtaking beaches, La Push didn’t disappoint. We strolled along the shoreline of First Beach, where the ocean waves crashed against sea stacks that jutted out from the water. The remote and wild feel of the place was truly captivating, and we found ourselves lost in the serenity of the landscape.
Day 6: On day six, we ventured into the Hoh Rainforest, one of the crown jewels of Olympic National Park. The dense forest was like something out of a fairy tale, with towering trees draped in moss and ferns carpeting the forest floor. The steady patter of rain added to the mystique, creating an almost ethereal atmosphere. We hiked along the Hall of Mosses trail, surrounded by ancient trees and the deep green hues of the rainforest. It was a truly magical experience, and the sense of tranquility stayed with us long after we left.
Day 7 & 8: After six days of exploring Washington State, we returned to Seattle on day seven, where we prepared for the next leg of our adventure: a cruise to Alaska. The following morning, on day eight, we embarked on NCL’s Encore, a massive and luxurious cruise ship, setting sail toward Alaska. The anticipation was palpable as we left the port, ready for the wonders that awaited us in the northern wilderness.
Day 9: Day nine was a day at sea, allowing us time to fully enjoy the amenities onboard the Encore. The ship was packed with activities. We raced around a go-kart track, slid down exhilarating water slides, and even tried out some virtual reality games. That evening, we indulged in a fine dining experience at one of the ship’s many restaurants, savoring delicious seafood while gazing out at the endless ocean.
Day 10: On day ten, we docked in Ketchikan, the first stop on our Alaskan journey. The town was charming, with colorful wooden buildings lining the waterfront. We visited the Totem Heritage Center, which showcased the region’s rich Native American history through beautifully carved totem poles. Later, we kayaked along the serene coastline, spotting bald eagles soaring overhead and seals playing in the water. It was an unforgettable introduction to Alaska’s natural beauty.
Day 11: The next day, we arrived in Juneau, Alaska’s capital. Surrounded by towering mountains and glaciers, Juneau felt like a gateway to the wilderness. We spent the day exploring Mendenhall Glacier, a massive ice field that stretched into the distance. Hiking the nearby trails provided stunning viewpoints of the glacier, and the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center offered fascinating exhibits on the area’s geology and glacial history.
Day 12: On day twelve, the ship docked in Skagway, a town steeped in Gold Rush history. Walking through its historic district felt like stepping back in time to the late 1800s. We learned about the Klondike Gold Rush and explored old saloons and general stores. A ride on the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway took us through breathtaking mountain scenery, with views of cascading waterfalls and steep cliffs.
Day 13: Day thirteen was spent in Glacier Bay National Park, one of the highlights of the trip. As the ship sailed through the icy fjords, we were captivated by the sight of massive glaciers calving into the sea. The sound of the ice breaking away and crashing into the water was both awe-inspiring and humbling. The grandeur of the park’s natural beauty left us speechless.
Day 14: On day fourteen, we made our final stop in Victoria, British Columbia. The city’s charm was evident as we wandered through its picturesque streets. We visited the famous Butchart Gardens, a beautifully landscaped oasis of vibrant flowers and tranquil ponds. The peaceful atmosphere of the gardens was the perfect way to wind down after the excitement of Alaska.
Day 15: Finally, on day fifteen, we returned to Seattle and prepared to fly home. Reflecting on the past two weeks, we realized how lucky we were to experience the diverse landscapes and cultures of Washington State, Alaska, and Victoria. Each day brought new adventures and unforgettable memories, leaving us with a deep appreciation for the beauty of the Pacific Northwest and Alaska.
