National Geographic Sea Bird Review
Rating by category
Additional details
We have cruised to Alaska several times on larger ships, but decided to try the Lindblad/National Geographic cruise because we have taken others of their cruises and loved them - and because we wanted to go where the bigger ships can't go and do what the larger groups can't do. We were not disappointed.
What sets Lindblad/National Geographic apart for me is its emphasis on adventure, its excellent group of knowledgeable naturalists, its lectures and presentations about the places and the things to be seen and experienced, and the opportunities offered to guests to explore the destinations with guides to explain and to help every step of the way.
Every trip we have been on has also had at least one National Geographic photographer on board who talks about his/her (always interesting) photography career, offers tips about photographing whatever the destination might be - and helps everyone on board who wants some advice about cameras, picture taking and picture processing.
Cabin Review
Although the room looks like most of the other rooms and is as well-appointed as they are, there is one drawback to consider, which is that it is located next to one of the two sliding entry/exit doors located on that deck. The doors are heavy and very noisy, which resulted in our not being able to sleep until everyone else on board had quit coming in or going out for the evening. If you are a light (or even a medium!) sleeper, I would recommend not staying in room 208 (or 209, which most probably has the same problem). I read one of the other reviews, which suggests that there is a similar issue with rooms on the 100 level deck.
Port Reviews
Ketchikan
A lovely, charming town with much to see and do.
Petersburg
We took a ride in one of the Dibs boats to see the wildlife and the scenery.
Glacier Bay
We were on board with the park rangers hearing them lecture about the wildlife, the glaciers and the culture of the area. The glaciers are spectacular.
Icy Strait
We hiked in the morning and took a Dibs ride in the afternoon, when we saw many sea lions very close by. An excellent experience.