Sailing Through the Last Frontier: Our 2017 Alaskan Cruise on Radiance of the Seas

In the summer of 2017, we embarked on an extraordinary voyage through Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes aboard Radiance of the Seas. From towering glaciers to charming coastal towns, this cruise was an immersive journey into the heart of The Last Frontier—a place where nature’s grandeur is on full display.

The Perfect Ship for an Unforgettable Experience

Radiance of the Seas proved to be the ideal vessel for an Alaskan adventure. With floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views, every sunrise and glacier sighting felt like a private showing of the best scenery nature has to offer. The ship’s intimate size allowed us to experience Alaska in a way that felt both personal and awe-inspiring.

Highlights of the Journey

1. Cruising the Inside Passage
Our adventure kicked off with smooth sailing through the Inside Passage, a waterway framed by lush forests and rugged coastline. We lucked out with clear weather, making for stunning views right from the ship.

2. Juneau—A City of Glaciers and Craft Brewing

Juneau is a place where adventure and flavor come together, and no visit is complete without a stop at the Alaskan Brewing Company. Founded in 1986, this iconic brewery is known for its award-winning craft beers inspired by Alaska’s rugged terrain and rich history.

We had the chance to visit the Alaskan Brewing Company Tasting Room, where we sampled their signature Alaskan Amber, a smooth, malt-forward beer rooted in a historic Gold Rush-era recipe. Other favorites included the Smoked Porter, a robust, smoky brew that has won countless accolades, and seasonal specialties that reflect the essence of Alaska.

Beyond the fantastic beer, the brewery itself offers a glimpse into Alaskan ingenuity, incorporating sustainable brewing practices and even using glacier-fed water to craft their creations.

For those looking to bring home a piece of Juneau, the brewery’s Depot location in downtown Juneau is the perfect spot to pick up exclusive beer gear, gifts, and locally brewed beverages. Whether sipping a flight of expertly crafted ales or chatting with passionate brewers, this stop added a flavorful highlight to our journey through Alaska’s capital.

3. Skagway—A Step Back in Time

Skagway is a town where history comes alive. Nestled at the edge of the wilderness, it remains a gateway to the Gold Rush era, a place where prospectors once braved treacherous terrain in search of fortune. Walking its wooden boardwalks and passing by restored buildings, it’s easy to feel transported back to the late 1890s.

One of our first stops was the Gold Miners Museum, a treasure trove of artifacts and stories from those who sought their fortune in the Klondike. Photographs, mining tools, and relics from Skagway’s boomtown days gave us a glimpse into the grit and determination that fueled the gold rush.

After exploring the museum, we wandered through Skagway’s unique gift shops, each one brimming with Alaskan crafts, hand-carved totems, and gold rush memorabilia. The town’s storefronts exuded an old-world charm, making every shop feel like a discovery waiting to unfold.

Of course, no visit to Skagway is complete without experiencing the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad. This historic railway winds through breathtaking alpine passes and deep valleys, tracing the same route gold seekers once traveled on foot. As the train ascended, we were treated to panoramic views of waterfalls, glacier-fed lakes, and towering peaks—a landscape as rugged as the pioneers who once ventured through it.

Skagway felt like more than just a stop—it was a journey through time, a chance to step into the past while admiring the wild beauty that continues to define this extraordinary corner of Alaska.

4. Icy Strait Point—Where Wilderness Meets the Sea
A secluded gem, Icy Strait Point offered an intimate connection with nature. As we walked the coastline, the waters came alive with the sights and sounds of whales surfacing in the distance—a breathtaking moment that felt like a gift from the wild.

5. Hubbard Glacier—A Moving Masterpiece
The grandeur of Hubbard Glacier was a sight to behold. Watching massive chunks of ice calve into the sea was both thrilling and humbling, reminding us of the sheer power and beauty of Alaska’s frozen wonders.

6. Disembarkation in Seward & Scenic Journey to Anchorage
Leaving the ship in Seward, our adventure continued with a journey through some of Alaska’s most iconic landscapes. Exit Glacier, our first stop, brought us face to face with an ancient force of nature. Walking the trails leading up to the glacier was an experience in itself—a quiet reflection on the passage of time and the changing world around us.

At Alyeska Resort, we paused to take in the majestic mountain views, a final breathtaking moment before reaching Anchorage. The city welcomed us with its blend of modern energy and rugged charm, providing the perfect finale to an unforgettable trip.

Final Thoughts

Final Reflections

Alaska’s landscapes, history, and untamed beauty left an imprint on us that will never fade. From glacier-filled waters to the warmth of small-town hospitality, our 2017 Alaskan cruise aboard Radiance of the Seas was more than a vacation—it was an experience that deepened our appreciation for the world’s wild places.

Whether standing before a glacier’s towering walls or watching whales dance in the distance, this journey was a reminder that nature’s wonders are best experienced with eyes wide open and hearts full of adventure.