We chose Un cruise because a boat is the best way to see these parts of Alaska, and we are not Cruise-type travelers. We wanted the ability to see more out of the way areas, and to have access to them via hikes, skiffs, or kayaks. We also wanted a smaller boat with fewer travelers and a staff that would be able to educate us about what we were visiting and seeing. Though more expensive than most of the cruises we looked at, Un-cruise succeeds at this on many levels. Though the cabins are small (we had a Captains cabin on the first level (111), they are cozy and comfortable and we had a nice sized window. The showers are small for a normal sized adult. Having said that, we were entirely comfortable throughout our week on the boat. There is a comfortable and spacious all purpose room on the second level, a nice dining room, and adequate deck space including two small hot tubs and a small exercise area. From our cabin, there was minimal engine noise and the cruising was smooth, something that had concerned me because I get seasick easily.

The ship is organized with remarkable efficiency and the staff is exceptional. They are organized into navigation, expedition, hotel, and wellness departments, and each do their jobs beautifully. From a service standpoint, you want for nothing on this boat. Highlights include a ship's captain and staff that are welcoming and are willing to alter course to follow whales or other wildlife until everyone has seen them; guides who are knowledgeable and accommodating; waiters and waitresses who are eager to please, a skilled bartender, and yoga instructors and massage therapists who are friendly and caring. The menus change every day (all you can eat crab night was my favorite). The food was for the most part solid, though there were a couple of misses (occasionally overcooked fish). If you don't like the menu, the chef and kitchen staff will work hard to prepare something else for you.

The daily activities are particularly well organized and executed from the back of the boat, where access to skiffs, kayaks, and even paddle boards is made easy. There is even a carefully supervised polar bear plunge for those who want a taste of arctic swimming. Though we had rain almost every day, the weather failed to distract from the beauty and overall experience. High quality rain and wet hiking gear (especially boots) is a must for this trip. If you don't bring your own, they supply high quality jackets and rain pants. Read more