Boarding day

While it was a somewhat long morning, we saw a couple interesting things along the way from anchorage to Seward. A large luxury passenger bus picked us up at the hotel. Unfortunately, the driver had to stop at about 8 other hotels along the way. So we got a good tour of the anchorage hotel options and the airport terminal. We re finally on our way about 10 am. 

The bus tour included 4 stops, including 3 scenic stops at key points along the way and an hour long stop at the wildlife conservation center. This small non-profit rescues orphaned animals and raises them with the hope of releasing them into the wild. They had musk ox, reindeer, bison, bear, elk, caribou, lynx, owls, eagles, porcupine and moose. They had several babies, including moose, deer and caribou, which were really cute. We were within feet of bull moose and bear, which was exciting even though you know they are behind a fence. The bear started to pee in front of the crowd and Colby shouted out, "awesome!" which made everyone crack up. Yup, we have boys!

The trip into Seward was delayed because of construction but we made it to the pier a little past 2:15. The town of Seward is a little fishing town with a large harbor of boats, but not a lot else. To be honest, we were so excited to board that we decided not to spend any time in Seward itself. 

I have been on 4 previous cruises and this was by far the best boarding experience we have ever had! We walked straight into a large warehouse building where we had to fill out health forms confirming we are not ill. Then we proceeded immediately to a counter where we checked in. No waiting! No lines! Steve and I have waited literally for hours in the Miami and fort lauderdale piers for boarding (miserable experiences) but this was great. Even security was quick, although they confiscated dads leather man (ours was in our checked baggage and made it through along with a few fifths, for those of you wondering if that is indeed possible).

Upon boarding we had to be photographed with our sea pass cards which act as room key, charge card, soda package and wine package cards and everything else relating to purchases aboard and identification. Then they wanted to take our group photo for boarding, finding one of our party not interested in participating. It was a bad photo anyway.

Immediately upon boarding the boys were assigned wristbands they have to wear during this cruise. The bands identify their muster station in case they were in a kids class at the time of an emergency. They also told us all about the kids programs, which interested the boys a great deal.

Our room is 8056 and is about the size of our first trailer (tiny!). We have a nice size bed but the couch is really a single chair that slides out into a twin bed. And where might the second child sleep? In a bunk that pops out from the ceiling over the top of our heads. Yes, one bunk is over the top of our bed. It's a tight fit but cozy and fun in a lot of ways. We were able to unpack all our clothing in either the closet or the drawers, which says something about the storage space in here. The Cole's room is exactly the same, but the Perry's place is a palace indeed. They have not only double the room inside but a gigantic balcony that is positioned in a 45 angle out over the ship. Best view in the boat!

We spent several hours just checking out the boat and getting used to where things are located. Once again, the weather had been surprisingly good. It's chilly but not cold and not a drop of rain to speak of. How did we luck out?

Sent from mobile