Jane Thrall | Article . Photos by Jane Thrall , Peggy Hof , and Tracie Kyne .

Prior to the pandemic , a friend and I were presented with an irresistible opportunity to cruise to Alaska on a last-minute spring voyage . We departed Vancouver at 4 p . m . on a cool but sunny Wednesday afternoon in mid-May 2019 .

The ship passed beneath the Lions Gate Bridge and into Burrard Inlet before encountering the full brunt of the cool sea wind sending us scurrying down to our portside suite . At just under 300 square feet , the room was spacious enough for two narrow beds , a small seating area , and a desk , as well as a tiny bathroom with a stand-up shower .

Thursday was our first full day aboard , and we spent it at sea . Although there were no ports to visit , there was no lack of activity aboard the ship . I attended a lecture about the origin and activity of Alaskan volcanoes and glaciers , and my friend went to the test kitchen to learn about preparing and cooking fresh salmon . I spent the afternoon at an Alaskan beer-tasting session . We topped off the day with the first of two gala evenings in the dining room .

On day three we docked in Juneau , greeted by clear but cool weather . Packing a small shore lunch , we headed out to explore the small port , the only state capital inaccessible by road .

Locals were friendly and warm , and the shops were diverse . We visited the Alaska State Museum , a must-see with a well-curated selection of Indigenous and historical items , which give a vivid picture of life in Alaska from early days to recent times .

The Red Dog Saloon is the most famous pub in town , but we found a brewery popular with the locals , with a good selection of mild to bitter beers . Nearer the harbour , we ate at a great restaurant with fabulous home cooking and a view of float planes as they take off and land .

From Juneau , several passengers departed for a whale-watching tour , reporting back that they

Marjorie Glacier news & views SUMMER 2022 | 35