We just returned to Seattle from an Alaskan cruise aboard the MSC Poesia.  It was wonderful; the experience far exceeding our expectations.  The crew on the ship was amazing.  

We were treated to stunning views of the Alaskan coast and the many islands that make up the inside passage.  The waters were smooth and full of opportunities to see humpback whales, orcas, dolphins, sea lions, and more.  We don't know what we were thinking but we didn't even expect to see wildlife! 😆  But we saw so much!  And we didn't even go on one organized excursion!  As we exited the ship at Icy Strait we were greeted by a beautiful bald eagle sitting in a tree as if welcoming us to his home.  Located in the Tongas National Forest, Icy Strait is true, raw Alaska. Several cruise passengers saw bear, but we did not.

Ketchikan is the salmon capital of the world and we enjoyed walking seven miles exploring the area.  We explored the famous Creek street and watched the Silver salmon in full run up the Ketchikan Creek to their spawning ground.  There were so many that one could walk across the creek on the backs of the salmon and not get their feet wet.  Although you would probably fall into the icy cold water!

Our day in Juneau was a wet one.  We walked to the Alaskan state capital and did the self-guided tour of the building.  We learned about Alaska's days before statehood and the process leading up to Alaska becoming our 49th state.  

The most unexpected but truly remarkable experience, was the diversity of cultures on the cruise ship.  We met so many amazing people from around the world.  Our dinner table companion from the Ukraine told us first hand stories about life in that country and the current events impacting her family.  We also shared a dinner with our new friends from Cuba, now US citizens.  Google translate to the rescue.  We learned of their life in Cuba and the oppression of the people.  Truly amazing.  Yuri and Bibian came to the US with nothing.  Through hard work and frugality, they have succeeded in realizing their American dream.

More to come from our next stop....