ms Westerdam sailing on May 25th, 2013

About Seattle

Seattle is often characterized by its laid-back attitude and rainy climate, but this thriving metropolis also offers one-of-a-kind architecture, the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges, and a unique urban sophistication.

Seattle Attractions

Pacific Science Center began as the United States Science Pavilion during the 1962 Seattle World's Fair. Millions came to explore the wonders of science during the World's Fair and upon closing ceremonies, the Science Pavilion was given new life as the private not-for-profit Pacific Science Center, becoming the first U.S. museum founded as a science and technology center.

Seattle Activities

• Woodland Park Zoo is a conservation and education institution demonstrating the value, beauty and interdependence of all living things.
• See, touch and explore our amazing underwater world at the Seattle Aquarium. Get face-to-fin with marine life and discover the natural wonders of the Puget Sound.
• The Space Needle is located at Seattle Center. That’s an apt description of where we are: the center of Seattle. Whatever your interests—theatre, ballet, opera, professional sports, rock ‘n’ roll history, roller coasters, science, movies, shopping, exploring or just plain walking around—the city unfurls from the Space Needle.
• The Washington Park Arboretum is a spectacular urban green space on the shores of Lake Washington just east of downtown Seattle and south of the University of Washington. Its 230 acres comprise a dynamic, living museum with collections of oaks, conifers, camellias, Japanese maples and hollies that are known internationally as our country's largest.
• Check out the Experience Music Project, a rock-n-roll museum known not only for its contents, but for its architectural design.
• Stroll through the historic district of Pioneer Square, filled with art galleries, restaurants, and plenty of bookstores and boutiques.
• Gain some historical insight at the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park.

About At Sea

Relax and enjoy your vacation onboard your ship. You can do as much or as little as you want.

About Juneau

Juneau, the capital of Alaska, was founded during a gold rush in 1880. Today, the former gold-mining town counts among its riches some of Alaska's most spectacular scenery. Nestled at the foot of Mt. Juneau in the Alaska Panhandle, it faces the water from the mainland side of Gastineau Channel. Several magnificent fjords are located along the channel coast, and the majestic Mendenhall Glacier, a favorite of visitors, is nearby.

Juneau Attractions

When you're in Juneau, you shouldn't miss the amazing glacial landscape. The best view available is from the seat of a helicopter on one of our shore excursions, where you can watch for bear, mountain goats, and moose. Then, once you've landed, we'll take you on a once-in-a-lifetime dogsled ride.

Juneau Activities

• Relive Juneau's gold-rush history and pan for gold in the authentic setting of Gold Creek. Trace the route taken by Joe Juneau and Richard Harris in their search for gold over 100 years ago. Get hands-on experience panning for gold in Gold Creek. "Guaranteed gold in every pan!" Then explore Juneau's mining past with a look at the remnants of a century-old mine.
• Fly in a floatplane over five breathtaking glaciers to the Taku Glacier Lodge for a king salmon feast. And don't be surprised if a black bear wanders into the yard.
• Take a fully narrated helicopter flight over four translucent glaciers within the Juneau Ice Field. You'll soar past towering peaks and picturesque alpine lakes on this exciting adventure.
• Explore Juneau on foot. With more trails than roads, Alaska's capital features world-class hiking - through glacial waterfalls and the largest temperate rain forest in the state.

About Glacier Bay

Cruise quietly, watching as giant pinnacles of ice crack off the face of the glacier and float off as icebergs.

About Sitka

Sitka, the site of Russia's initial foray into Alaska, has perhaps the richest history of any Alaskan town. Explore the melding of Russian and Native American cultures, while enjoying the unspoiled landscape at the gateway to remote Southeast Alaska. Both the local residents and abundant wildlife add to Sitka's authentic feel.

Sitka Attractions

When the Russian American Company invaded Alaska in 1799, the Tlingit locals greeted them with fierce resistance. The site of this battle and the remains of the Tlingit-built fort are the center of the Sitka National Historic Park, which also boasts an impressive collection of totem poles. Bring your imagination and perhaps a good camera when you visit this important cultural site!

Sitka Activities

• The Alaska Native Brotherhood building is a registered National Historic Landmark built in 1914. Located on Katlian Street in the heart of the traditional Tlingit village, it serves as an Alaska Native community center.
• Totem Square contains a Russian cannon and three anchors recovered from the Sitka vicinity, probably lost by early British or American explorers. The totem pole displays the double-headed eagle of Sitka's Russian heritage.
• Built in 1934 on the old Russian Parade Ground, the Sitka Pioneers Home is a state home for elderly Alaskans. Handicrafts made by the residents are sold in the gift shop located on the first floor. The pioneers welcome visitors. The 13-1/2 foot bronze statue standing in front of the Pioneers Home was made by Alonzo Victor Lewis and was dedicated on Alaska Day 1949. The model was a real pioneer--William "Skagway Bill" Fonda.
• All elements of Sitka's history converge in one place: The Isabel Miller Museum. Packed with displays, photographs and artifacts from Sitka's Tlingit, Russian and American history, the museum is a worth-while first stop.
• The 107 acre Sitka National Historical Park preserves and interprets the site of a Tlingit Indian Fort and the battle fought between the Russians and the Tlingits in 1804. The museum contains an exhibit of Tlingit and Russian artifacts.
• The Southeast Alaska Indian Cultural Center provides a place for local Sitka Tlingits to teach themselves about their own culture, while also helping the Sitka National Historical Park visitors understand the Native people whose history is part of the Park story.
• Dedicated in July 1995, Whale Park provides an opportunity to view wildlife (from the boardwalk), including humpback whales in the fall and spring.

About Ketchikan

Ketchikan originated as an Indian fish saltery, but the town's major growth began when it became a supply base and entry port for miners during the 1898 Gold Rush to the Klondike. Much of the town's colorful past is still in evidence, especially in the nearby Indian villages, where you'll see colorfully carved totem poles and hear the fascinating legends that surround them.

Ketchikan Attractions

While fishing is by far the most popular sport in Ketchikan, there are a lot of other activities for people to take part in. In fact, one of the best ways to see the area and enjoy the scenery is simply to take a walk through town and to the Totem Heritage Center. There, you can explore the history of totem poles and see some terrific examples.

Ketchikan Activities

• Experience the sheer granite cliffs, plunging 1,000-foot waterfalls, crystalline lakes and low-hanging mists of Misty Fjords from the air on a seaplane.
• Fill your senses with excitement and adventure as you take the wheel of a four-wheel-drive vehicle and wend your way through a lush rain forest.

About Victoria

Located on the southern tip on the island of Vancouver in British Columbia, the city of Victoria is probably best known for its mild climate and active outdoor lifestyle. (In fact, the city has been named the "fittest city" in Canada more than once.) As the capital of British Columbia, the city is very tourist-friendly. Among the many attractions are world-famous gardens, its 150 years of British history, gourmet dining and fantastic shopping.

Victoria Attractions

Visit the world-famous Butchart Gardens or the lush and exotic Butterfly Gardens and see how Victoria earned the nickname "The City of Gardens."

Victoria Activities

• Explore Victoria's history on a Grand City Drive. Visit the awe-inspiring Craigdarroch Castle with its 39 rooms and five stories of stained glass and end the day with high tea at the world-famous Fairmont Empress Hotel.
• Tour a few of the local pubs and microbreweries along the Victoria Ale Trail or maybe some wine tasting at one of the area's award-winning vineyards.
• Enjoy an afternoon of sightseeing on a tour of exclusive residential districts, historic Chinatown, and Antique Row, one of the many shopping districts.

About Seattle

Seattle is often characterized by its laid-back attitude and rainy climate, but this thriving metropolis also offers one-of-a-kind architecture, the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges, and a unique urban sophistication.

Seattle Attractions

Pacific Science Center began as the United States Science Pavilion during the 1962 Seattle World's Fair. Millions came to explore the wonders of science during the World's Fair and upon closing ceremonies, the Science Pavilion was given new life as the private not-for-profit Pacific Science Center, becoming the first U.S. museum founded as a science and technology center.

Seattle Activities

• Woodland Park Zoo is a conservation and education institution demonstrating the value, beauty and interdependence of all living things.
• See, touch and explore our amazing underwater world at the Seattle Aquarium. Get face-to-fin with marine life and discover the natural wonders of the Puget Sound.
• The Space Needle is located at Seattle Center. That’s an apt description of where we are: the center of Seattle. Whatever your interests—theatre, ballet, opera, professional sports, rock ‘n’ roll history, roller coasters, science, movies, shopping, exploring or just plain walking around—the city unfurls from the Space Needle.
• The Washington Park Arboretum is a spectacular urban green space on the shores of Lake Washington just east of downtown Seattle and south of the University of Washington. Its 230 acres comprise a dynamic, living museum with collections of oaks, conifers, camellias, Japanese maples and hollies that are known internationally as our country's largest.
• Check out the Experience Music Project, a rock-n-roll museum known not only for its contents, but for its architectural design.
• Stroll through the historic district of Pioneer Square, filled with art galleries, restaurants, and plenty of bookstores and boutiques.
• Gain some historical insight at the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park.