As another Alaska cruise season comes to a close, it’s appropriate to reflect on what draws cruisers in particular and tourists in general to the 49th state. The main attractions — at least from our two visits, the most recent on the Star Princess — are mountains, glaciers and wildlife…and not necessarily in that order. The mountains, of which there are so many that it’s easy to lose track, are headed by mighty Denali, and so is our photo essay of Alaska…
Denali, now officially named after a century as Mount McKinley, at its most majestic.
A different look at Denali, from about 9,000 feet and out the window of a small plane.
A sea lion, relaxing in the sunshine on ice from a glacier, waiting for tourists to leave.
Juneau’s the hot spot for whale watching tours, and rarely do you not see one breech.
Almost every cruise ship goes into Glacier Bay, and this is a snapshot of the scenery.
Unique Mendenhall Glacier, seen by thousands from around the world every cruise season.
In the news…
• Carnival achieves $5 million goal for St. Jude's two years ahead of schedule
• No more free lobster in dining room on formal nights during short Carnival cruises
Today at portsandbows.com: WestJet in the mix for Europes
Carnival Triumph
10 nights
November 4, 2015
San Juan, St. Thomas, St. Kitts, St. Maarten, Antigua, Grand Turk, Half Moon Cay, Galveston
Inside: $429
Cost per day: $42
www.carnival.com