Each time the glacier calved, a crack like a shotgun blast echoed across the water, followed by a cry from the passengers, a crashing splash, a cheer, then the mellow rocking of our giant ship as the shock waves reached its hull. It was nature's finest show of the trip, unrivaled, at least in adult eyes. Anchorage, our final port, was a sight for sore eyes, red and swollen from staying up too late and rounding the ship again and again to make sure no good-byes had been overlooked. Back home, Cole dedicated a box to finance our next trip, filling it with whatever change he can scrounge. We forgive her.
Alcoholic beverages are extra, as are excursions, which are booked on the ship.
Kids can keep an eye out for glaciers and sea lions while following their Camp Carnival counselors around the bridge or vying for first place in the kite-flying contest. Holland America Westours offers families-only packages combining seven days of cruising with overnights at the McKinley Chalet Resort in Denali National Park and the Talkeetna Lodge. Pack warm jackets, even for a summer cruise. Comfortable shoes or hiking boots are necessary for some excursions. Don't forget bathing suits.