We recently sailed on the Celebrity Solstice to Alaska on a 7-night Dawes Glacier itinerary, and it was a trip to remember.
From the moment we embarked, we were greeted with warm service and a host of amenities that made our journey comfortable and memorable.
The landscapes of Alaska are awe-inspiring, and Celebrity Solstice offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, whether you're watching icebergs drift by, indulging in gourmet dining, or exploring historic towns like Skagway.
The ship itself is well-maintained and provides everything you need for an enjoyable vacation, from relaxing pools and spas to an array of dining options that cater to every taste.
For those seeking a mix of nature, wildlife, and top-notch service, this cruise delivers it all in one incredible package.
Embarkation
Embarkation in Vancouver took longer than expected due to three ships being in port.
However, once on board, we were greeted with champagne as part of our concierge class perks and had a unique opportunity to meet the staff on the helipad as we set sail—an exclusive experience that set a great tone for the rest of the voyage.
Cabin and Concierge Class Perks
We booked well in advance to secure our veranda room on the 12th floor (room 2144) with a larger deck, which provided the perfect spot for enjoying Alaska’s stunning landscapes.
Being in concierge class brought several nice perks, like daily canapés delivered to our room and special concierge events that made us feel well taken care of throughout the cruise.
Dining Experiences
The main dining room was the culinary highlight of our trip.
Our waiter team—Tofani, Eby, and Romel—made each meal special, ensuring our dishes were served hot, checking on food allergies, and always keeping our wine glasses full.
The aged prime rib of beef was a standout dish, perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor.
As for appetizers, our group indulged in a variety, from the rich wild forest mushroom soup to escargots and the classic baked French onion soup.
The combination of exceptional service and delicious food made the main dining room a memorable part of our cruise.
Martini Bar
Evenings at the Martini Bar were another highlight.
Our favorite bartender, Dewa, always kept the energy high with lively humor and excellent service.
It became our go-to spot after dinner, where we enjoyed expertly crafted drinks and a fun, social atmosphere.
The Martini Bar was the perfect place to unwind and connect with friends after a day of exploring.
Specialty Dining at Le Petit Chef
We also dined at Le Petit Chef for a specialty night, where we pre-booked a table for six.
The animated dining presentation was entertaining, and the meal itself was fantastic.
You can mix and match the two menus to customize your meal experience. I'd recommend trying the pork - most delicious.
This was our second time at Le Petit Chef, and it didn’t disappoint.
It’s a fun, immersive experience, and our friends loved it as much as we did.
Onboard Relaxation and Spa
The Solstice offers both indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs, but I preferred the indoor hot tub, which was the perfect temperature for relaxing after long days of exploring.
My husband treated himself to a spa day, getting a manicure and pedicure, and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
For anyone who enjoys a bit of pampering, the ship’s spa services and relaxing hot tubs provide a nice way to unwind.
Shore Excursions
Day 4: Skagway - Destination Highlights
Skagway was a true highlight. We took the White Pass and Yukon Railway, which offered stunning views of the rugged Alaskan landscape. Afterward, we enjoyed a delicious salmon bake in Liarsville, complete with sides like cold salads and beans with caribou meat. While the visit to the Red Onion Saloon was interesting, I would recommend spending more time walking around the charming town of Skagway.
Day 5: Juneau - Exploring on Foot
In Juneau, we opted to explore the city on foot. We took the Goldbelt tram up Mount Roberts, ascending 1,750 feet to incredible panoramic views, even with the occasional rain showers. Hiking along the Mt. Roberts Trail System was peaceful and offered even more breathtaking vistas.
Day 6: Ketchikan - Wilderness Exploration and Crab Feast
Ketchikan did not disappoint! We joined the Wilderness Exploration and Crab Feast excursion at George Inlet Lodge. Despite the rainy weather, the boat ride was informative and entertaining, with our guide sharing interesting facts about crabbing. The crab feast that followed was one of the best meals of the trip—endless servings of Dungeness crab in a cozy lodge atmosphere.
Who Is a Cruise to Alaska For?
An Alaskan cruise is ideal for adventure seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those who appreciate the majesty of nature.
With abundant opportunities to view wildlife and explore the outdoors, it’s perfect for families, solo travelers, couples, and groups of friends looking to share a unique adventure in one of the world’s most beautiful destinations.
Ports of Call and Glacier Viewing
Our itinerary included stops in Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and Icy Strait Point.
While the fog limited our view of Dawes Glacier, we did see some gorgeous blue icebergs floating by the ship, which was a real treat.
Each port offered unique experiences, with Skagway standing out for its scenic beauty and historical charm.
Icy Strait Point was our least favorite stop, but it still provided a peaceful day for walking to the "hidden lake".
Debarkation
Debarkation was much smoother than embarkation.
The day before disembarking, we received our luggage tags and easily put our luggage out for collection between 6-10 p.m.
We coordinated our departure time with friends via the guest relations desk, which made the process convenient since we were renting a car in Vancouver.
This flexibility made the final day of our trip stress-free.
Final Thoughts
Our Alaska cruise on Celebrity Solstice was a fantastic experience, with beautiful landscapes, unforgettable shore excursions, and superb service from the crew. One of the best ways to spend time with our friends was during this cruise.
The onboard amenities and dining options are varied and high-quality, and concierge class made the trip feel even more luxurious.
For anyone looking for a great blend of adventure and relaxation, this cruise should be on your list.
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