THE INSIDE PASSAGE

The Inside Passage is a protected waterway that runs along the Pacific coast of North America, stretching from Puget Sound in Washington State to the Alaska Panhandle. We spent the entire day sailing north thru smooth seas. Early in the day we spotted colorful houses along the coast. As the day wore on, the sky became more grey with mountains in the distance and lush vegetation near the water.

THE RETREAT

The Westerdam has 14 Cabins on Deck 11, which are available for rent daily or for the entire voyage—$85 for a sea day and $55 in port.   You can reserve on for the entire voyage in advance by calling Ship Services in Seattle for a discounted rate.   Once the cruise starts, see Guest Services about renting one for the day.

We reserved three sea days—today for the Inside Passage and later when we cruise Glacier Bay and Misty Fjord. Three Cabins were rented for the entire voyage, so there were plenty of choices left—we picked Cabana #14. Cabana #14 has a power outlet to run a laptop or charger.

COFFEE CHAT

Coffee Chat, hosted by Cruise and Travel Director Stone, was at 9 am in the Rolling Stone Lounge. Today’s guests were the Shore Excursion Manager, Guillermo,  and Wildlife Guide Kurt. They discussed what excursions were available in Alaska and other insights about visiting the Last Frontier.

LEGENDARY TOTE BAGS

CAPTAIN’S WELCOME

Capt Bart Vaartjes welcomed the guests to the Westerdam at 7:15 pm on the World Stage. After a few remarks, he introduced the senior officers.

DRESSY NIGHT

Tonight was the first of four dressy nights. There were very few tuxedos. Most men were wearing jackets and collared shirts. Men with ties were in the minority. Here is a copy of the menu—the “surf and turf” was filet mignon with grilled shrimp.

MAIN STAGE

Step One Dance company performed a new (to us) show called “Moves”. There wasn’t any introduction or explanation.

Here is a list of the 11 different dance numbers they performed. We found them very entertaining with outstanding dancing. If you liked Step One shows in the past – you’ll like this one, too.

Here is the rundown of the dances

– Let me see you move by Santana
– A percussion instrumental with a big skirt
– Mirror by Sigrid
– Higher by Michael Bublé
– Like a Wrecking Ball by Eric Church
– Dance with Me Tonight by The Wonders
– Nice ‘N’ Easy by Frank Sinatra .. a dance with office chairs
– An all drum percussion piece
– Hold My Hand by Lady Gaga
– Happy Dance by MercyMe .. a humorous dance with exercise/posture balls
– Dancing in the Moonlight by Toploader

TOWEL ANIMALS RETURN