Embarkation Day Begins

From our hotel window, I watch our cruise ship waiting at the port. It feels unreal. After months of planning, the moment finally arrives. Today, we are leaving Seattle for Alaska, and the adventure is about to begin.

Heading to the Cruise Port

After breakfast, we gather our luggage and step outside. The first challenge appears quickly. We need to fit everything into two Prius taxis. Somehow, it works. Even now, I am not sure how.

The short ride to the port feels different than expected. There is excitement, but also a calm sense of relief. Leaving Seattle for Alaska cruise day is finally here.

As we pull in, the ship rises above the terminal. Its size is hard to ignore. It feels massive in person, even knowing it is not the Royal Caribbean’s largest ship in the fleet.

Boarding the Ship

The boarding process feels familiar, much like an airport. We move through security, metal detectors, and passport checks. At the time of our sailing, we also show vaccination proof and test results.

Everything moves smoothly. Before long, we step onto the ship. Just like that, leaving Seattle for Alaska becomes real.

Settling In Onboard

With dining and drink packages already purchased, Dawn heads to book reservations. I track down our drink package cups and get the first small task checked off.

Lunch comes next at the Windjammer on Deck 14. The buffet stretches on, filled with more options than we can count. It feels like the right way to start the trip.

From the windows, I notice people still standing on the dock with their luggage. I do not know their story, but soon the ship begins to move.

Sailing Away

After lunch, we head to our stateroom. Our checked bags wait in the hallway, which feels like a small victory. Stepping onto the balcony, I breathe in the ocean air and let the moment sink in.

As the ship pulls away, the Seattle skyline slowly fades into the distance. The evening passes with unpacking, dinner in the main dining room, and quiet time together.

Excitement fills the ship. We are officially leaving Seattle for Alaska.

The Adventure Begins

This is only the beginning. Glaciers, wildlife, and long days at sea wait ahead. Alaska has a way of slowing things down and making every moment feel bigger.

To learn more about Ovation of the Seas and Alaska travel planning, visit travelalaska.com or alaska.org.

Continue the journey with Day One of our Alaska adventure, or follow the full story in Alaska 2022 Adventureas it unfolds.