Kim's Alaska Cruise: Glaciers, Dutch Pea Soup, and Pure Wonder
I'll be honest. An Alaska cruise was never on my radar. I had this idea in my head that it wasn't for me, that it would be too cold, too slow, too something. But when the opportunity came up to join a TravelOnly symposium at sea aboard Holland America's Koningsdam, I said yes. And I'm so glad I did, because it completely transformed how I think about Alaska and cruising in general.
What drew me in was the chance to experience firsthand what I'd only read about in brochures. As a travel advisor, I knew I needed to see those glaciers myself, to walk the ports, to taste the food. There's only so much you can learn from other people's stories. I wanted my own.
The Views That Wouldn't Let Go
From the moment we set sail, I couldn't pull myself away from those views. The glaciers, the mountains, the endless expanse of blue and white. I kept thinking I'd get used to it, that the awe would fade. It never did. When we reached Glacier Bay, the ship opened up Deck 5 Bow for an up-close viewing experience that took my breath away. They served Holland America's famous Dutch pea soup right there on deck, and I stood in the cold with a warm bowl in my hands, watching massive chunks of ice break away and crash into the water. That moment stays with me.
The Koningsdam surprised me in ways I didn't expect. The main pool deck was covered, which was perfect for cooler days or when the rain rolled in. Many ships have open decks without that option, but this felt thoughtful. And the food? Absolutely fantastic. The a la carte restaurants all delivered, but I keep telling people about the candied bacon appetizer. Simple, indulgent, unforgettable. I also noticed the passenger demographic wasn't what I anticipated. I had assumed Holland America would skew older, but there was a real mix of ages, and the energy on board reflected that.
Port Discoveries and Local Charm
Each port stop had its own personality. What struck me most was how the local communities rely on tourism and take such pride in sharing their home with visitors. Every stop had its own brewery, and yes, we tried them all. In Ketchikan, I stumbled onto something wonderful. There's a Dairy Queen where you can order food, and they'll deliver it to the Artic Bar across the road. Sitting in that bar with a drink and my lunch, soaking in the atmosphere, felt like discovering a local secret. It's the kind of thing you'd never find in a guidebook.
The ship itself had so much to offer in the evenings. The dueling pianists were incredible, and BB King's Blues House on Music Walk had everything from R&B to rock to piano hits. When I wanted something quieter, I'd head to the Crow's Nest with a drink and just watch the scenery roll by. It's not a party cruise, and that's exactly the point. It's a place to slow down and really take everything in.
Who This Trip Is Perfect For
This cruise is ideal for travelers who want scenery, wildlife, and a genuine connection to the landscape. If you're hoping to come home with a tan, this isn't it. If you're bringing kids, bring the ones who will appreciate glaciers, whales, and learning about the natural world. It's quieter than a Caribbean sailing, but it's far from boring. The entertainment is excellent, and the experience feels rich and intentional.
Now that I've been there myself, I can recommend Alaska with real conviction. I know what that Dutch pea soup tastes like in the cold. I know where to sit in Ketchikan. I know how it feels to stand on deck and watch a glacier calve. When clients ask me about Alaska, I'm not just repeating what I've heard. I'm sharing what I've lived. And honestly? I'm already thinking about going back. There's so much more I want to see.