So, You Wanna Set Sail from Seattle? A Hilarious Guide to Cruise Lines
Ah, Seattle! The Emerald City, land of grunge music, Pike Place Market, and...cruises? That's right, this rainy metropolis is also a launching pad for epic oceanic adventures. But with so many cruise lines battling it out like overzealous seagulls for your tourist dollar, where do you even start? Fear not, intrepid traveler, for this guide will cut through the kelp and point you towards the perfect cruise line for your inner Captain Kirk.
Ahoy, Mates! Here be the Cruise Lines of Seattle:
The Big Kahunas: We're talking heavy hitters like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Holland America, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Celebrity Cruises. These guys offer a smorgasbord of Alaskan itineraries, with glaciers galore, whales that spray more than a rogue wave at a water park, and maybe even a glimpse of a grumpy Sasquatch (no guarantees though).
For the Fancy Folks: If you like your champagne flutes extra sparkly and your canap�s with a side of caviar, then set your sights on Oceania Cruises. They're all about intimate ships, swanky service, and itineraries that might take you beyond Alaska to far-flung corners of the globe.
Adventurer's Paradise: Looking for a cruise line that caters to the Indiana Jones in you? Then Holland America might be your best bet. They focus on longer voyages to Alaska, with plenty of time for shore excursions that could involve hiking on glaciers, fishing for halibut the size of your grandma, or dodging playful otters (seriously, those things are adorable but feisty).
Choosing Your Ship: A Swashbuckling Showdown
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So you've narrowed it down to a cruise line (or maybe you just went with the one with the best mascot - looking at you, Carnival with that happy little funnel cake dude). Now comes the real challenge: picking your perfect vessel. Here's a cheat sheet:
The Party Animals: For a cruise with more poolside shenanigans than a bachelorette party in Vegas, set sail with Carnival. Think waterslides, dance clubs, and enough tequila to make a pirate proud.
The Foodies: If your idea of a good time revolves around stuffing your face with delicious food, then Princess Cruises or Holland America might be your best bet. They're known for their excellent dining options, from fancy multi-course meals to casual poolside grills.
The Relaxation Station: Feeling tense as a deckchair in a hurricane? Celebrity Cruises and Oceania Cruises offer a more serene experience, with adult-only areas, luxurious spas, and enough lounge chairs to make a sloth jealous.
How to Set Sail from Seattle: A Crash Course
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- Book Your Voyage: This might seem obvious, but hey, some people need a captain-obvious moment.
- Pack Your Bags: Don't forget the essentials - sunscreen, seasickness meds (just in case!), your fanciest flip flops, and maybe a good book for those lazy days at sea.
- Get to the Pier: Most Seattle cruises depart from Smith Cove Cruise Terminal at Pier 91. Arrive a few hours early to check in and avoid a Bridget Jones' Diary-level meltdown.
- Board the Ship: Find your cabin, unpack your bags, and get ready for a week (or more!) of fun in the sun (or maybe just some light drizzle, it is Seattle after all).
What Cruise Lines Sail Out Of Seattle |
FAQs for the Aspiring Sailor
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How to avoid seasickness? Ginger chews, acupressure wristbands, and avoiding that questionable shrimp cocktail at the buffet might be your best bets.
How to pack for a cruise? Think casual and comfortable, with some dressier options for fancy dinners. Don't forget your swimsuit and cover-up!
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How much does a cruise cost? Prices vary depending on the cruise line, itinerary, and time of year. But you can find deals if you book in advance or travel during the shoulder seasons.
How long are Alaskan cruises from Seattle? Most Alaskan cruises from Seattle are 7 days, but there are some longer options available.
What should I bring on a shore excursion? Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera to capture all those unforgettable memories (like that time you got chased by a seagull trying to steal your fries).
So there you have it, mateys! With this guide, you're well on your way to setting sail from Seattle and having an epic adventure. Just remember to pack your sense of humor, because the only thing worse than rough seas is a boring cruise!
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