Norwegian Bliss: A Family's Voyage Through Alaska's Wild Wonders

Overview:

If you're looking for a laid-back Alaskan cruise with a balance of family-friendly fun, excellent dining and a slower pace than high-energy cruise lines, Norwegian Cruise Line is a great option. Our 7-day journey through Alaska was filled with natural beauty, exciting activities and a host of dining and entertainment options that kept everyone in the family entertained. NCL’s "More at Sea" package also enhanced the experience by offering great value for excursions and onboard activities.

Pre-cruise:

We embarked on the Norwegian Bliss in Seattle, which was a smooth process, with clear signage and easy check-in. The pre-cruise process was efficient, though be prepared for the typical security checks and the formalities of a cruise departure. If you’re looking for a relaxing start to the trip, make sure to take advantage of Norwegian’s early boarding options and enjoy some time in the port city before the adventure begins.

The ship:

The Norwegian Bliss is an excellent vessel for those looking for a variety of experiences without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The ship’s size is ideal — large enough to offer plenty of activities, but not so enormous that you feel lost in the crowds.
• Aqua Park: This was a hit with the kids (and adults too). The water slides and pools are well-maintained, and it’s a perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
• Laser tag: Set in an outdoor space with a futuristic cityscape, this laser tag arena was a lot of fun. It’s an activity that’s accessible for all ages and provides some fun competition. It’s not something you’d expect on a more traditional cruise but was a great addition.
• Go-carts: For those seeking a bit of thrill, the go-kart track is a fantastic option. It's not particularly long, but it's a fun way to spend some time racing your family or fellow cruisers.
• Mini golf: The mini golf course, situated on the top deck with spectacular ocean views, is a great spot for a family outing or a relaxed afternoon activity.

Dining:

Norwegian Cruise Line is known for its Freestyle Dining policy, which was a real plus for us. There were multiple dining options, ranging from casual to upscale, and we enjoyed the freedom of dining at our own pace. Some of the standout venues included:
• Le Bistro (French Bistro): For a special night out, we visited Le Bistro, which served exquisite French cuisine. The escargot was a hit, and the ambiance was perfect for a more intimate evening.
• Cagney’s Steakhouse: This is one of NCL’s premium dining venues and did not disappoint. The steaks were cooked to perfection, and the service was top-notch.
The Buffet (Garden Café): A large and varied buffet offering something for everyone. The seafood station was especially noteworthy, with fresh options each day, including Alaskan king crab legs. We never had trouble finding something we enjoyed even for the kids.
• Specialty Dining Package (More at Sea): With the "More at Sea" package, we had access to several specialty dining venues, which added great value to the experience. The package made it easier to explore the different dining options without worrying about paying extra every time.

Entertainment:

The entertainment was top-tier. Norwegian Cruise Line really excels in this department, and the shows were consistently high quality.
• Jersey Boys: This Broadway-style musical was absolutely fantastic. The talented cast brought the story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons to life in a way that felt fresh and energetic, even for those not already familiar with the music.
• Live music and bars: In addition to the big shows, there were several intimate venues featuring live music. The bar staff was excellent, and the mixologists at the "Skyline Bar" whipped up some creative cocktails while you enjoyed the beautiful views.

Ports of Call:

We had the opportunity to visit some of Alaska's most iconic ports:
1. Ketchikan: Known for its rich Native American heritage, we spent the day exploring the charming streets filled with art galleries, shops and the famous Creek Street. The weather was a little chilly, but the scenic beauty made up for it.
2. Juneau: We went on a journey to explore Mendenhall Glacier. We hiked down a trail that got us right up and close to the waterfall flowing near the glacier as we enjoyed sightseeing all the wildlife in the area (eagles, other native birds and seals).
3. Glacier Bay National Park: The natural beauty of Glacier Bay is indescribable. Watching glaciers calve into the sea and spotting wildlife like seals and otters made this an awe-inspiring day. We took in the views from the observation lounge, the deck and our room balcony. NCL’s naturalists provided insightful commentary, which made the experience even more educational.
4. Victoria: During our stop we decided to forgo the traditional shore excursions and instead take a leisurely stroll around the town to immerse ourselves in its natural beauty, charming streets and iconic landmarks (Empress Hotel). Victoria is an incredibly walkable city, and we had plenty of time to explore the best sights at our own pace.

Overall experience:

Norwegian Cruise Line provided the perfect balance of relaxation and fun for this Alaskan adventure. For those who prefer a slower pace than the fast-paced, party-centric cruise lines, NCL is a great choice. The variety of activities, from Aqua Park fun to more serene moments like watching glaciers calve, meant that everyone could find something they loved.
The More at Sea package is a great value, offering easy access to dining, excursions and more. The food was fantastic, the entertainment top-tier and the onboard activities made this a wonderful cruise for families, couples, and anyone looking for an enjoyable Alaskan adventure.
I’d highly recommend this cruise for those looking to experience Alaska without the hustle and bustle of some of the larger, higher-energy cruise lines. It’s a fantastic way to see the beauty of the Last Frontier in comfort and style.

Tips I recommend for future Alaskan cruisers:

• Book excursions early, especially for popular activities like whale watching or the dog sledding experience in Juneau.

• Dress in layers — even in the summer months, Alaska can be chilly, particularly in the evenings.

• Consider upgrading to the "More at Sea" package if you plan to indulge in specialty dining and excursions — it’s a great way to save.

Happy cruising!

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Cruises page.