Experiencing the Wonder and Beauty of Alaska

Imagine this: you are headed to your shift but decide to walk across the open deck, and below you, whales are dancing in the ocean. Or late at night, you step out of the elevator and a coworker stops you because the northern lights are out. This was my reality for four months. Alaska reminded me what untouched beauty looks like, and for that, I am forever grateful.

My first contract onboard the Disney Wonder took me through the natural wonders of Alaska, and it’s time to reflect on everything I experienced and saw. It’s the travel and sense of adventure that make ship life so addictive.

Vancouver, Canada

During the Alaskan season, the Disney Wonder begins and ends each voyage in Vancouver, Canada, a city that quickly became one of my favorite home ports. I loved wandering aimlessly through its streets, discovering hidden cafes and little pockets of charm. The streets themselves felt alive. Live music spilling from small corners, seaplanes taking off overhead, and the constant hum of a city that never seemed to sleep.

For me, the perfect way to explore a new city is through coffee and pastries. A standout was the Hello Kitty Cafe on Robson Street, Vancouver’s premier shopping district. The space was a vibrant pink paradise, complete with a Hello Kitty cutout perfect for photos. There’s still so much of Vancouver I haven’t explored, like the suspension bridge, but I can’t wait to broaden my horizons on my next visit.

Victoria, Canada

Also located in Canada is the city of Victoria, a port I was only able to visit once, yet it quickly stole my heart. As a huge fan of architecture, I was immediately drawn to the Gate of Harmonious Interest welcoming visitors into Chinatown. Even the crosswalk leading inside features illustrations of all 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac, a detail that instantly piqued my curiosity. 

Because Chinatown is so rich in history, the alleys and repurposed buildings feel preserved yet alive. My favorite was Fan Tan Alley, picturesque and tucked away like a hidden gem. With lanterns overhead and red accents throughout, it hardly felt like we were still in Victoria.

Skagway, Alaska

A port I visited nearly every week was Skagway, Alaska, a town that proudly preserves its Gold Rush history and feels straight out of an old western film. When I first stepped off the ship, I thought I could explore it in just two visits. I sampled incredible wings at the

Skagway Brewing Company, indulged in a Klondike Doughboy, and tried fudge from nearly every shop in town. But what kept pulling me back was not the food. It was nature.

I hiked part of the Chilkoot Trail, the same path gold hopefuls once traveled, stopping often not because I was out of breath but because the views demanded it. Our guide shared stories of the Klondike Gold Rush along the way, bringing the landscape to life. We later rafted down the Taiya River, letting the current carry us. Spotting a bald eagle during the float felt symbolic, and there was something powerful about being moved entirely by nature rather than by a machine.

I also rode the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad, standing on the back platform of the caboose with unobstructed views of mountains, rivers, and waterfalls. At that elevation, it felt like I could reach out and touch the clouds.

One afternoon, I attempted a solo hike to Smugglers Cove and quickly learned not to ignore trail markers. I was convinced I was lost until I reached a quiet lake framed by snowcapped mountains. I stayed for a while, listening to the wind and water. Wildlife seemed to follow us everywhere in Skagway. Near the dock, a stream ran alongside the ship, and a particular otter often appeared as guests debarked, almost like part of the welcoming committee.

Juneau, Alaska

Juneau, Alaska, the state’s capital, is another place where I spent a lot of time. In full transparency, for being the capital, it did not stand out to me as much as the other ports. It was an incredible place for whale watching, but I had not explored it as deeply as I could have. There were beautiful totem poles and historic buildings scattered throughout the city, and I shared a darling brunch at Sandpiper Cafe with friends where I had the most delectable French toast. I also sampled the food truck scene and enjoyed delicious crepes. I am a foodie, after all. Many of my coworkers call this their favorite port, so next season I plan to dig a little deeper and see what I may have missed.

Ketchikan, Alaska

Ketchikan is  home to the famous Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show. Seeing it in person was exactly what you would expect in the best way possible, lumberjacks competing in high-energy events

and chopping wood with unbelievable force. Ketchikan is a fairly small town and very proud of its Walmart. There is even a shuttle from the cruise port that takes passengers there, which always made me smile. During my Ketchikan Duck Tour they made sure to point out their Walmart, like a national landmark. However, the biggest surprise came when the vehicle transitioned from land into water, we unexpectedly spotted a whale. That kind of experience feels uniquely Alaskan.

My coworkers and I quickly became fans of a local spot called Pop’s Popcorn. We kept a bag handy for ourselves and loved sharing it with guests. They had classic flavors like kettle corn and caramel, and some bold ones like blue raspberry and pickle, which made snacking around town a little adventure of its own. Ketchikan is also known for Creek Street, the former red light district built along a creek (you guessed it), where salmon often leap upstream, keeping the area lively and full of energy.

Icy Strait Point, Alaska

The ship visited Icy Strait Point several times, and it was easily the best location for whale sightings. One afternoon, while leading a craft session in the French Quarter Lounge, I glanced out the portholes and saw whales breaching. It was a true pinch-me moment. 

I also joined a guided bear excursion. For most of the tour, it seemed unlikely we would see anything, but near the very end, a Coastal Brown Bear

appeared and pulled a salmon straight from the stream. Watching wildlife exist exactly as it should, without fences or barriers, was unforgettable.

Icy Strait Point is also home to the world’s longest ZipRider. I am not a fan of heights, but our manager organized a team bonding experience, and somehow I ended up being sent down first. From that height, the view was astonishing. For a brief moment, it felt like flying.

Sitka, Alaska

The final port we visited was Sitka, Alaska. I was only there for about an hour, but it left an impression. I tried mushroom coffee, which was surprisingly delicious despite my skepticism. The town reminded me of Mystic Falls from The Vampire Diaries. Something about the architecture and layout made it feel cinematic. What stood out most were the vibrant murals lining the streets. However, a coworker of mine would beg to differ as she spotted a black bear out in the city's streets, perhaps the bear was looking for a souvenir as well. I wish I had more time there, but my camera roll says I made the most of it.

Stikine Icecap

I would be remiss not to mention my favorite part of the entire season: Glacier Day. We sailed past the Stikine Icecap and navigated through Endicott Arm to Dawes Glacier. The scenery never grew old: towering trees, cascading waterfalls, and even mountain goats along the cliffs. At one point, we watched a piece of the glacier break off into the ocean. I would relive that day endlessly if I could.

I have never felt so fully immersed in nature. In my everyday life, I am surrounded by manmade structures. Beautiful gardens, yes, but carefully manicured and perfected. In Alaska, everything felt raw and untouched. Even the air seemed fresher.

A Season I Will Never Forget

In the wise words of Elphaba and Glinda, “Because I knew you, I have been changed for good.” That is exactly how I feel about the Disney Wonder Alaskan Season. This experience reminded me to slow down and truly appreciate nature. Too often, I’m glued to a screen or hiding inside out of laziness. But when you step outside, you never know what you might see, or the memories you might make. My future children will probably get tired of hearing these stories, but honestly, how lucky am I to have lived an adventure like this?