Departure from Seward

The alarm sounded at six AM and light was already streaming in through the crack in the curtains. Does the sun every really go down up here at this time of year? Locals say yes, but only for a few hours. This pattern will follow us on our journey south, only returning to a semblance of normal in Victoria, BC.

 

Downtown Anchorage at six AM.

This is an all-inclusive cruise, so breakfast today starts with a nice buffet in hotel restaurant before the two-hour bus ride from Anchorage to Seward offering absolutely fantastic scenery. We had a humorous and informative driver who pointed out natural and historical sights along our way. 

Upon arrival in Seward we checked in and processed aboard. We were greeted by the crew and presented with a welcome glass of Champagne. Since our cabins were not yet ready we took a walking tour of our home for the upcoming week. I have never done a cruise before, so I did not know what to expect other than what I learned from episodes of Love Boat. I knew the Regent does a particularly good job, and I was not disappointed. Everything looked first class, and the size (640 passengers) seemed just right.

 

Welcome aboard glass of Champagne

It was announced that the cabins were ready for guests, so we went below to see what awaited us. Wow, iced Champagne, fresh fruit, and a refrigerator with sodas, beer, and ice. The marble bath and well appointed cabin comfortable sitting area opened on to a nice balcony with comfortable chairs. Our bags arrived, and the steward made it clear that if we needed anything at all we just needed to ask. Barbara asked for a bottle of Merlot, and it arrived within minutes. It was obvious that this was going to be a very nice week.

Jocelyne and Randy as we explored the SS Mariner in beautiful Seward

Pay no attention to the man behind the glass, Dorothy

The first order of business as the ship left the dock was the emergency briefing and drill. This was an important orientation, and attendance was taken, but our minds were on the Champagne back in the room.

 

Honey, does this vest make my stomach look big?

The potential occupants of Lifeboat 8

After finishing the bottle of Champagne, we enjoyed a nice buffet and retired to the observation lounge for drinks and enjoying the beautiful scenery as the ship transited the fjords enroute to the open sea and our journey south.