Juneau is our port of call today. It has been the capital of Alaska even before it became the 49th state in 1959. The only way to access this city is by air and sea. But before we arrived to Juneau, we made a quick stop near Tracy Arm where a catamaran picked up a group from the ship for a 6 hour excursion to Twin Sawyer Glaciers. So for $290, they took a scenic boat ride and possibly a hike, then were brought back to Juneau where the ship would be docked.
Last night, we all got a detailed map of Juneau with the recommended shops and a few restaurants. It was so nice to see them go back to using some paper again. We also had a customs declaration card for Canada to fill out and leave at the front desk. Since we will be intransit, they will send us those slips before the cruise ends on the 13th.
After another excellent breakfast in the Pinnacle Grill, we headed to deck six forward to watch the scenery as we were sailing in narrow passages. Close enough to shore, we watched for any signs of wildlife…hopefully whales, porpoise, or eagles. There are bears in this area, but they are shy. We did see some eagles and a pair of mountain goats with the help of powerful binoculars. The skies were heavily overcast, but we did not have any rain. However, it was wicked cold on the bow, and we were sure glad we packed the arctic jackets with the gloves.
While we were watching the tour boat leave, the captain announced that there was a patient that was in need of a blood transfusion. Only those who had the proper certificates to donate, and of course, the right blood type could apply. In the meantime, he wasted no time in getting to Juneau. Our scheduled time was 1pm, but we arrived at noontime. The US customs and border agents came onboard, but no one was allowed to leave until the crew was cleared, and the patient was taken off to the hospital.
Other ships in port were the Disney Wonder, who was already docked in the boonies. Later on, RCI Quantum of the Seas parked in front of us. We suspect many of the guests went on tours, and the town might not be too over-crowded. We left the ship after 1pm, and walked the downtown area. Our destination was lunch at the Hangar at the Wharf. We were lucky to get a table, since this place was about full. We ordered two Alaskan Amber draft beers and a shared cheeseburger with bacon and Jack Daniels BBQ sauce. With a pile of fries, it was plenty for both of us. But what we really looked forward to was their mud pie, which we also shared. Honestly, it was the first dessert we have had for a long time, so it tasty especially good.
Speaking of excursions, there were plenty of them offered here. Among them were whale watching for 5 ½ hours for $220. Shorter tours were priced less. Mendenhall Glacier is one of the highlights, so there were various ways to see it, such as a drive to it, a walk on it, a helicopter ride over it, or even dog sledding on it. They started at $60 and went up to $500. We watched the float planes leave for the Taku Lodge salmon bake for 3 ½ hours for $460. We have done the whale watching tour many times, and really enjoyed it. And an easy self-guided tour is by taking the Mt. Robert's tram up to the top, which was $50, which we have also done many times.
We walked the town on the way back, stopping at the Alaskan Fudge Company, buying a ½ pound each of peanut brittle and walnut laden fudge. By now, there was a line out the door to buy the sweet treats. The shops were over-flowing with customers, so we wisely stayed clear of the crowds. We will be back two more times, so we can explore the souvenirs next time.
Although it looked like rain, and a few drops fell, it stayed dry. Lucky for us, we were told it rained yesterday. So the forecast we saw last week for this area was incorrect. Now tomorrow, who knows? We got back to the ship by 4:30pm, and worked online until it was time for a dinner in the Pinnacle Grill. Just as he promised, Endrian had saved our table by the window for us. We ordered the wedge salads with a shared side of clothesline bacon. Now there is no charge for an extra appetizer, but we do think the price of the meal here has gone up since our last cruise. Will have to inquire about that. Our mains were halibut and a small filet mignon. A baked potato for one of us and French fries for the other. It was more than ample, and since we indulged with dessert at lunch time, we said no thanks to dessert.
Taking a short walk on the promenade deck, we saw that the gangway was being lifted after 9pm. Looks like everyone was back onboard and we might leave early. And we did…..the ship was turned around and we were heading out of the channel by 9:30pm heading towards tomorrow's port of Skagway.
Bill & Mary Ann
