Cunard: 10 nights from Seattle with Queen Elizabeth (Sep 18, 2025)

Ketchikan

Juneau

Diving into Juneau's Rich History

Juneau, Alaska's remote and stunning capital, boasts a history steeped in the lore of the Gold Rush era. Founded in 1880 after gold was discovered in the area, Juneau quickly grew from a miners' camp into a thriving city. Its rich past is preserved in sites like the Juneau-Douglas City Museum and the iconic Red Dog Saloon, which provide glimpses into the rugged days of prospectors and pioneers. This history, intertwined with the Tlingit Native American culture, offers a fascinating narrative that makes Juneau a unique American city.

Experiencing Juneau's Unique Climate

Juneau's climate is a mix of oceanic and subpolar, leading to cool summers and mild winters, a rarity for its northern latitude. This climate supports a lush temperate rainforest, adding to the city's mystique and natural beauty. While rain is common, it enhances the verdant landscapes, making outdoor adventures in places like the Tongass National Forest unforgettable. Juneau's weather, with its misty days and clear, crisp nights, adds to the enchanting atmosphere of Alaska's capital.

Juneau's Must-See Attractions

The natural wonders surrounding Juneau are breathtaking, with the Mendenhall Glacier and Tracy Arm Fjord standing out as highlights. The city serves as a gateway to outdoor activities, including glacier hiking, whale watching, and kayaking among icebergs. For a bird's-eye view of the stunning landscapes, the Mount Roberts Tramway offers panoramic vistas. Juneau's rich cultural heritage is also on display at the Sealaska Heritage Institute, celebrating the art and traditions of the indigenous peoples of Southeast Alaska, making it a compelling destination for travelers and cruisers seeking both adventure and cultural enrichment.

Savoring Juneau's Local Cuisine

Juneau's culinary scene is a testament to its rich natural resources, with fresh seafood taking center stage. The city's restaurants boast dishes featuring salmon, halibut, and crab, sourced from the cold, nutrient-rich waters of the Pacific. Local breweries and distilleries add a modern twist to the dining experience, offering craft beers and spirits that incorporate Alaskan ingredients. The blend of traditional Alaskan dishes with contemporary culinary techniques provides a unique tasting journey through the region's flavors.

Embarking from Juneau on a Cruise Adventure

As a popular port of call and departure point for cruises, Juneau is the perfect start or finish to an Alaskan cruise adventure. The city's natural beauty and cultural depth enrich the cruise experience, offering travelers the chance to explore glaciers, rainforests, and wildlife before setting sail. With unique itineraries that take in the awe-inspiring Inside Passage and beyond, starting or ending your cruise in Juneau promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Alaska's wilderness.

Tracy Arm

Sitka

Victoria

Seattle

Discovering Seattle's Historical Roots

Seattle, nestled between Puget Sound and Lake Washington, boasts a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1851. Originally inhabited by the Duwamish and Suquamish tribes, the city has grown from a small logging town to a thriving metropolis, known for its pivotal role in the Klondike Gold Rush. This era of prosperity laid the foundation for the city's diverse cultural landscape, further enriched by the influence of Asian, Scandinavian, and Native American communities. The historic Pioneer Square district, with its Renaissance Revival architecture, stands as a testament to Seattle's storied past, inviting visitors to explore its deep historical roots.

Experiencing Seattle's Unique Climate

Contrary to popular belief, Seattle's climate is not solely defined by rain. The city enjoys a temperate marine climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. This unique weather pattern supports a lush, green environment year-round, earning Seattle the nickname "The Emerald City." The mild climate encourages outdoor activities, from hiking in the nearby Cascades to boating on Puget Sound, making Seattle an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Seattle's Must-Visit Attractions

Seattle's landscape is dotted with iconic attractions that cater to a wide array of interests. The Space Needle, a legacy of the 1962 World's Fair, offers breathtaking views of the city and beyond. Pike Place Market, one of the oldest continuously operated public markets in the United States, provides a taste of local culture and cuisine. For art enthusiasts, the Seattle Art Museum and the Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit showcase the city's artistic side. Outdoor adventurers will find solace in Discovery Park's expansive trails and beaches. These attractions, among others, make Seattle a vibrant destination for visitors and cruisers alike.

Savoring Seattle's Culinary Scene

Seattle's culinary scene is as diverse as its population, with a strong emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. The city's coastal location ensures a steady supply of seafood, with Pacific Northwest salmon and Dungeness crab featured prominently on many menus. Coffee culture is deeply ingrained in Seattle's identity, home to the original Starbucks and a plethora of independent coffee shops. The fusion of Asian, European, and Native American cuisines provides a rich gastronomic landscape, offering everything from gourmet dining to street food delights.

Setting Sail from Seattle

As a premier gateway to the Pacific Northwest and Alaska, Seattle is an ideal starting point for cruises. The city's modern cruise terminals, located along the stunning waterfront, provide easy access to the breathtaking beauty of Alaska, the Canadian Pacific coast, and beyond. Embarking on a cruise from Seattle not only promises an unforgettable voyage but also the opportunity to explore this dynamic city's history, culture, and natural beauty. With special deals and packages available, beginning your journey in Seattle offers a seamless transition from urban exploration to the serene landscapes of the sea.

San Francisco

The Historical Tapestry of San Francisco

San Francisco, a city that rose from the Gold Rush frenzy of 1849, has a history as diverse and colorful as its population. This transformative event turned a small settlement into a booming city almost overnight, laying the groundwork for a place rich in cultural heritage and pioneering spirit. Landmarks like the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and the notorious Alcatraz Island tell stories of engineering marvels and tales of infamy. The city's storied past, from the devastating 1906 earthquake to the Summer of Love in 1967, showcases its resilience and capacity for reinvention, inviting visitors to explore its rich historical narrative.

Embracing San Francisco's Climate

San Francisco's climate is famously unpredictable, characterized by cool summers, foggy mornings, and mild winters. This microclimate, influenced by the cold currents of the Pacific Ocean, creates a unique weather pattern that can change from one neighborhood to the next. Despite its variability, the climate allows for year-round outdoor activities, from walking across the Golden Gate Bridge to exploring the city's numerous parks and beaches. The mild weather encourages visitors to enjoy the outdoor beauty and vibrant street life that define San Francisco's charm.

Iconic Attractions of San Francisco

The attractions in San Francisco are as varied as the city itself. The historic cable cars offer a nostalgic ride through scenic routes, while Fisherman's Wharf provides a bustling waterfront experience with sea lions, seafood, and souvenir shops. The artistic enclave of the Mission District, with its vibrant street murals and the lush expanse of Golden Gate Park, offers cultural and natural escapes within the city. For tech enthusiasts, Silicon Valley's proximity provides a glimpse into the future. These attractions, among others, make San Francisco a must-visit for travelers and cruisers seeking a rich, diverse experience.

The Culinary Delights of San Francisco

San Francisco's culinary scene is a reflection of its cultural mosaic, offering an array of international cuisines alongside farm-to-table freshness. The city is renowned for its sourdough bread, fresh Dungeness crab, and the invention of the Mission burrito. The thriving food scene spans from gourmet restaurants in the North Beach neighborhood, known as Little Italy, to the authentic Chinese eateries in Chinatown. San Francisco's emphasis on local, sustainable ingredients and culinary innovation makes it a paradise for food lovers.

Launching a Cruise from San Francisco

San Francisco is not only a destination but also a premier starting point for cruises. The city's picturesque bay serves as a gateway to the Pacific, offering routes to Alaska, the Mexican Riviera, and even trans-Pacific journeys to Asia. Embarking on a cruise from San Francisco allows travelers to extend their exploration of this eclectic city, from its historic landmarks to its culinary delights, before setting sail on an unforgettable maritime adventure. With its strategic location and stunning views, a cruise departing from San Francisco promises a journey as captivating as the city itself.