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TAPROOM DRAFT ONLY SPECIALTIES
These limited releases are available at our taprooms and at the finest craft beer accounts throughout our distribution network. We have hosted parties from 20 to 90 people and are ideal for business lunches, dinners and happy hours. With our full bar, we are great for group celebrations and can host events such as a cocktail hour with light appetizers, a dinner buffet or a full four-course meal. We can even host private events with a DJ or live music. Give us a call or send us an email and we will be happy to provide you with a free quote.
Wine Wednesdays
We will confirm your reservation within 24 hours. At Barrel House, every week is a new adventure. Our weekly specials bring a touch of excitement lunch or dinner out routine. From Tacodilla Tuesday featuring unique taco and quesadilla creations to Firecracker Friday, there's always a reason to visit us throughout the week.
GREAT BEER
At The Grill House, we’re grilling everything with a local flair. All of our chicken comes from Petaluma and our burgers are ground daily. Our bar also features a number of local selections and we are a recipient of a ‘San Mateo County As Fresh as it Gets’ award for sourcing local. The Grill House features a weekend brunch every Saturday and Sunday until 2pm with a full breakfast menu (see below) including discounted food and drinks. Our spaces are perfect for everything from laid-back gatherings to unforgettable parties. And if you're looking for catering that wows, we've got that too – think foods that steal the show and spreads that make your event pop.
The grill house All Day menu
The Grill House bar's motto is "Drink Local". Join us for happy hour and enjoy $2 off all appetizers, all 16 of our local craft draft beers, every glass of our locally-sourced wine and our GH custom-crafted cocktails. Located less than two miles from both downtown San Carlos and the Belmont train station, we are known as one of Redwood City's best craft beer bars, featuring a rotating tap selection comprised of limited, local craft draft beers. With 16 all-local draft taps available, our beer list is constantly changing, so make sure to check back to see what new local, craft beer we just tapped.
And don't forget about our Happy Hour, available Monday through Friday from 3pm to 6pm. We feature a carefully selected wine list featuring only Northern California wines and a full bar including a number of local craft spirits. We also showcase a selection of 18 whiskeys, including 4 produced locally. Check out our 18 other local spirits, including tequila, rum, gin and vodka. Additionally, since our brew house first fired up, our team has been crafting an impressive line-up of sour and non-sour barrel-aged beers. The "de Robles" series of beers is the canvas for our brewing artists.
Catering & large parties
Passion fruit beer wins silver medal for Blue Mountain Barrel House - The Daily Progress
Passion fruit beer wins silver medal for Blue Mountain Barrel House.
Our menu is flavor-packed that caters to all taste buds. From mouthwatering starters to hearty classics, like burgers and wraps, our food game is strong. And let's not forget about our unique beers on tap – each pour is a taste of something special that'll keep you coming back for more. Welcome to Barrel House – your hub for good times, delicious bites, and a seriously chill vibe. With multiple locations to choose from, we're not your average bar and grill – we're the ultimate spot to hang out and unwind. Find your new go-to spot for burgers, appetizers, salads, wraps, signature favorites, quesadillas, tacos, pizzas, desserts, and even kids' meals.
If your heart flutters when you see the work of Bunny Williams or Dorothy Draper, this ceiling design is right up your alley. Treillage—also known as trellis or latticework—is a unique treatment that takes what many assume is an outdoor garden structure and places it on the walls or ceiling. In this room by Cara Fox, panels of white treillage cover the ceilings, armoire, and custom bed frame for a subtle, textural twist that transforms an attic into a sunny escape. Bedrooms rarely have vaulted ceilings because they are a bit expensive. But because of the extra height in a vaulted ceiling bedroom, you have more room to create an even more lavish space. An 1840s Southampton guest bedroom has a coastal palette and cozy architecture.
Statement Chandeliers: Enhance Height and Elegance
"It might seem like a bold move to paint the ceiling in a saturated color, but the effect is warm and enveloping," Farmer notes. For subtle texture and an innately casual feel, consider installing tongue-and-groove paneling on your ceiling. Because the feature can be painted any hue, it will seamlessly blend into your existing design scheme, allowing you to add a layer of depth to your space without a complete overhaul. In this Florida bedroom by Tom Scheerer, white tongue-and-groove paneling draws the eye up to the expansive vaulted ceiling. There’s a whole lot to love about wood paneling designs – abundant in texture, natural warmth, and bundles of character.
Projected Sky Ceilings: Immerse Yourself in Nature’s Beauty
The ceiling can often be left behind when planning bedroom ideas, simply painted white or another simple neutral shade for ease. However, thinking carefully about how this area can feel integrated and united with your scheme can make for an impactful and unique design. Instead, think about the size of the room and the ceiling’s height when choosing a ceiling idea. You could have a vaulted ceiling in the living room and a coffered ceiling in the formal dining room. Or you could have a tin ceiling in the kitchen and exposed beams in the family room or basement. A wood ceiling is one of the easiest ways to add warmth to a room.
Can I paint my bedroom ceiling a different color than the walls?
Everything you'll need to get to the store and start your project. Cover popcorn ceilings with the better alternative to scraping and sanding. She is an architecture and design journalist with over 10 years of experience.
Design Style
Whether you choose rough-hewn beams or smooth, polished ones, this bedroom ceiling design idea creates a cozy retreat reminiscent of a charming countryside cottage. This ceiling idea combines a modern, elegant look with a rustic feel. This example shows how adding painted beams to the ceiling creates an interesting contrast between the two different hues.
Stunning Ceiling Design Ideas That Will Have You Looking Up All Day Long
The result is a soft and elegant look that brightens up the space while maintaining the rustic appeal. Whether you use a mix of functional spotlights and decorative wall lights, or choose a collection of unique pendants, there are a range of options to beautifully light up your bedroom space. While this makes sense, it tends to miss out on a great opportunity. You could illuminate the recesses of your floating, suspended, or tray ceiling. Or you could place lighting along the base of your vaulted ceiling to illuminate the slant.
7 Best Ceiling Fans of 2024 U.S. News - U.S. News & World Report
Just be sure to consider the architectural style of your bedroom, your personal taste, and the atmosphere you wish to create in your bedroom. This example shows how adding wood trim creates an interesting contrast. The light wood beams complement the warm tones of the furniture, creating a cozy atmosphere in this bedroom. Tin ceiling tiles have a rich history and add vintage charm to any bedroom. These intricately designed tiles come in various patterns, from floral motifs to geometric shapes.
A cousin of the coffered ceiling, tray ceilings are another structural design that can bring dimension and drama to a room. In this Southern California home, Brian Paquette used the ceiling treatment over a dining table, filling it in with a rich green hue that ties into the palette of the surrounding spaces. “Consider the height of the ceiling and scale of the room,” Pratt says, elaborating that only styles, objects, and patterns that complement and enhance the space should be implemented. “For example, we would not suggest a coffered ceiling in an 8' space, but perhaps a pattern of lines or woven texture to enhance it more, making it feel higher,” she says. Embrace the opportunity to think beyond conventional designs and transform your ceiling into a stunning focal point that enhances your home. With careful consideration and creativity, your bedroom can truly become a work of art that adds depth, texture, and visual interest to this looked-over space.
A perfect way to add a sense of warmth and coziness is adding wood-look planks. Stay with white or a lighter finish to make your bedroom appear larger or select a darker finish for an added sense of grandeur and comfort. Wood-look planks are perfect for creating a mini upscale-cabin feel in your bedroom retreat.
This plain ceiling, with pale white paint and LED lights for a modern aesthetic look, ensures balanced lighting in every corner. Make your bedroom classy and symmetrical with this aesthetic ceiling design. Lighting significantly improves your room's appearance and is crucial to any bedroom decoration. This exquisite modern bedroom ceiling lighting design has beautiful LED lights that set the right mood.
Complement exposed rafters with a gentle country-neutral shade on walls for a bright and breezy balance. Soft green walls and a wood-panelled ceiling with exposed beams evoke the feeling of a forest. This room has a minimalist, Scandi design that's still warm—and we'd love to wake up to the light pouring in from wraparound windows. Into the sophisticated, classic look but still looking to make your room more moody and modern? Take it to the finish line with baseboard-to-ceiling, top-to-bottom navy paint and a vaulted ceiling for a high-impact finish. It’s cozy while still a touch formal, and it creates the perfect inky backdrop for art pieces.
Several San Pedro hotels will shuttle you to the Port of LA the morning of your cruise. No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something to do at night near the Los Angeles cruise ports. Whether you have a few hours or a couple of days before or after your cruise, there’s so much to explore. Dive into the excitement of theme parks, soak up the sun on pristine beaches, or immerse yourself in the rich local culture.
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Ideally, put all your luggage tags in ziplock or similarbags. Staple or zip tie these bags to your luggage.The plastic will protect the tags and help prevent your luggage being lost ordelaying delivery to your room on the ship. You and your luggage will be checked by the Expedited U.S.Customs security clearance and baggage handling. They are also committed to conservation and can help youlearn how to make a difference in ocean conservation on your cruise and athome.
Shortcuts
The parking area is next to the terminal and costs USD 20 per day. The cruise line arranges the flights and will get you to the cruise terminal. The advantage is that if your flights are late, the cruise line will ensure you get transportation to the cruise ship. You are probably okay to fly same day if you are coming from Phoenix, Las Vegas, San Francisco, or Sacramento.
Port of Los Angeles revives plan for new cruise terminal - L.A. Business First - The Business Journals
Port of Los Angeles revives plan for new cruise terminal - L.A. Business First.
Restaurants Near the Los Angeles World Cruise Center (Plus Shopping and Other Services)
Port of Los Angeles officials first confirmed that they had been looking at a proposal to create a new passenger terminal at the entrance to the Main Channel in 2003. They’re still discussing building the Outer Harbor Cruise Terminal 20 years later. Be aware of California’s specific driving laws, such as no handheld devices while driving. Los Angeles is renowned for its diverse culinary scene, offering a wide array of local ethnic food options. Marine fans should head to Mission Bay, near San Diego to visit Sea World.
Travelers must pre-book transportation for one-way or round-trip service. Due to the location of the ports, there aren’t many independent lots nearby. Your best bet is to simply park at the cruise port using their official port parking. Long Beach Hotels with Cruise ParkingAgain, if you plan to stay in the area and want to save on parking, be sure to check out our list of hotels offering cruise parking packages. There are tons of cruises operating out of this port allyear round.
Depending on the cruise, and the anticipated wait time, yourcruise operators may provide snacks while you’re going through luggage check. Opened in 1999, after the expansion of John T’s Tavern, SanPedro Brewing Company lays claim to the title “the original ‘Brew Co’ ofSan Pedro”. Open all week, San Pedro Brewing Company does add late-nighthours Friday and Saturday. It can be a fun destination after your cruise as youtransition back to your day-to-day. In 1912, the city invested in dredging the harbor andwidening the main channel.
The area around the port (San Pedro) offers a number of hotels within just 1-3 miles of the ships. This includes some right on the waterfront and some that offer a shuttle service to get guests to the cruise terminal. If you are close enough to drive to the cruise terminal, bringing your own car will save you the cost of airfare! If you have stayed overnight at a hotel, some offer discounted parking rates for cruise guests.
As the size and number of cruises ships increased, the cruise ship center underwent a 21 million dollar major renovation and improvement project in 2003. Today the Port of Los Angeles World Cruise Center serves as the West Coast’s largest cruise port with hundreds of thousands of passengers using the facility. After the first hour, parking is $2.00 per hour with a maximum of $20.00/per day. Alternatively, stay overnight in downtown Long Beach, which is 6 miles away. When flying into Long Beach Airport or LAX (Los Angeles Airport) , many hotels are located within close distance of these airports. Properties nearby offer a complimentary free shuttle service to/from the airport.
How To Get To Long Beach Cruise Port
Of course, if you live in the area — as millions do — then you may be interested in simply driving and parking at the port. Both ports are located just a few miles of each other, with one in San Pedro and the other in Long Beach. More than half a million passengers each year sail from the Port of Los Angeles, not even including the Long Beach Cruise Terminal a few miles away that serves Carnival Cruise Lines. Hilton Hotel Long Beach – This Hilton Hotel offers a complimentary cruise shuttle.
For example, the Port of Los Angeles has more than 2,500 individual parking spaces. Instead of making a reservation, you simply show up on cruise day and you’ll be directed to a spot. The Port of Los Angeles still sees the Outer Harbor facility as a key part of its strategy to grow the cruise ship business.
Remember to plan and make parking arrangements that best suit your needs before setting off on your cruise adventure. The Los Angeles Harbor is a busy place where lots of different ships come and go. There are big cargo ships bringing things from far away, and fishing boats with their catch of the day. One great way to expedite your boarding experience is to bedropped off instead of parking.
But on June 22, 1947, the tanker ship Markay exploded while taking on fuel at the Shell Oil terminal, across the channel at Berth 167. Flaming fuel from the exploding ship raced across the 600-foot wide waterway to the APL terminal buildings, which were destroyed. Try to plan your travels around peak traffic times to minimize congestion and potential accidents. You can either walk, take a taxi, or use a ride-sharing service to get to the rental location.
When searching for dolphins either from a boat or land, there are a number of tell-tale signs of their presence. Dolphins are extremely friendly and social animals, but physical interaction in the wild can lead to injury or transfer of disease. It is here that you can have the experience of a lifetime with the Gulfarium’s VIP “Trainer for a Day” adventure.
We have the perfect boat for your next family outing.
While certain tours may include snacks, waters and sodas, and even an adult bev or two, it’s best to bring your own reserves. As with most water activities, this dolphin cruise is subject to weather and water conditions. This private adventure cruise is a great way to skip the crowds of the Pensacola area beaches and get an up-close-and-personal glimpse at Bottlenose Dolphins in their natural habitats. Carrying up to 28 guests, it’s less crowded than other boat tours, but can still accommodate mid-size to larger groups.
What Is The Best Month To See Dolphins In Florida?
Of course there’s nothing better than letting the dolphins entertain you in their natural environment. So, bring the whole family on a cruise you will remember long after your vacation ends. We also offer private charters for reunions, weddings, school groups, dinner cruises, etc. We took the sunset dolphin cruise which exceeded our expectations.
Dolphin Cruises in Florida
All other public beaches and parks in the area are off limits to your furry friends. The best way to closely yet safely interact with these mammals is on a kayak or paddle board. Of course, the best way to view them is to get out on the water. Dramamine is a generally safe over-the-counter medicine but check with your physician or medical provider to make sure it’s right for you.
Aquatic Charters & Dolphin CruisesPensacola Beach, Florida
Frisky Mermaid Dolphin Tours & Boat Rentals specializes in creating the most memorable dolphin tours, snorkeling tours and pontoon boat rentals in Pensacola Beach, Florida. Founded in 2018 and with over 50 years of combined hospitality experience, we are your most mermazing water adventure choice and only all tri-toon rental fleet. On this cruise, we will have time to explore the waters of Pensacola Bay by powerboat in search of dolphins and other wildlife and stop for snorkeling. Though swimming with dolphins is prohibited by law, viewing them by boat in their natural habitat is an amazing encounter. Fun in the Sun is owned and operated by a group of the best fishing guides in Pensacola. With that being said we basically tailor each trip around what you and your family or friends want to do.
The Pensacola Beach Resort Opens in Florida - Recommend Magazine
Six hours is the perfect amount of time needed on the water to see all the sites and/or dock & dine at a local waterfront Pensacola Beach restaurants. My wife and I did the private Pensacola Bay boat ride while we were visiting Pensacola Beach on our anniversary vacation and it was great. We ask if we could go later and it was not a problem, we went at sunset and the captain took us to a private beach. This scenic trip typically covers approximately a 20 + mile round trip through Pensacola Bay , Santa Rosa Sound and the Gulf of Mexico ( when conditions are calm).
We saw several tour boats with 20+, while this boat only had 6 passengers. She let the children come closer to get a better look and educated them on dolphin facts. Cap Steve did a great job as well keeping passengers engaged. Pensacola Beach’s Premier Dolphin Cruise offers the best cruising experience on Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Dolphin Tours Pensacola
With its stunning beaches and abundant wildlife, this area provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxing day out on the water. Book early and enjoy your uncrowded private or shared adventure with us. We offer complimentary refreshments on all trips (water and soda). Come see dolphins play on Pensacola Beach and Santa Rosa Sound. We strive to provide a safe, relaxing, and entertaining excursion for our guests.
Condor Sailing Adventures
They communicate with other boats to know where the dolphins are. When there are fewer boats and people out on the water, dolphins come out to feed and play. The best time to spot dolphins in the wild is any time the water traffic is low. You will enjoy a bird’s eye view of dolphins feeding, hunting, and even playing with their young during certain times of the year. It’s best to call the day or morning before your scheduled cruise to check the weather and water conditions. Along the way, you will search for wild dolphins on the National Seashore.
They can of course be seen in wildlife parks and aquariums, but the best way to encounter these majestic mammals is in their natural habitat. There are multiple species of dolphins that live in the waters in the Pensacola, FL area. The most common is the bottle-nosed dolphin, known for their intelligence. Bottle-nosed dolphins are typically about 6 to 12 feet long and have blue-grey bodies, with lighter sides and bellies. We did the two hour Pensacola Bay adventure and it was an absolute blast. We departed from Portofino and went to sand island near Pensacola Pass where the kids played on the giant sand hills.
Come dip your toes (and snorkel mask!) in our Pensacola waters and view life under the surface. Kid friendly and perfect for all ages, you’ll experience a whole new world under the sea. If you are looking for a Pensacola dolphin cruise with a laid back, uncrowded atmosphere, you’ve found it. Let your captain and crew handle all the details while you sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. You can book small group or even private sailing adventures, as well as jet ski dolphin excursions, and larger cruise boats for larger groups. In the early morning hours as well as golden hour in the afternoon, dolphins love to scope the sandbar for fish.
However, the best and most eco-friendly way to site dolphins is on a local dolphin cruise. The shallow waters of Pensacola’s surrounding bays and estuaries are prime breeding and feeding grounds for marine life, including the Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin. We will cruise through Pensacola Bay and out to the Pensacola pass.
There were plenty of dolphins, a great sunset, and the crew was enthusiastic and fun. The price was more than reasonable, the seating comfortable. For an unforgettable experience, Pensacola Beach is the perfect place to take a dolphin cruise.
I’ve put together a great list of the best dolphin cruises in Pensacola Beach below. We'll tell you all we know about dolphins, other Pensacola Beach marine life and the many landmarks you're seeing as you ride along. This was our 3rd time to see the dolphins with Frisky Mermaid.
Cruise aboard the Miss Sabine – and spy dolphin, birds and the other marine life that make their home along the protected Gulf Islands National Seashore. We cruise along the National Seashore and sometimes pass by landmarks such as Fort Pickens, NAS Pensacola — home of the Blue Angels — the Naval Aviation Museum, and the Pensacola Lighthouse. Discover Florida’s friendly dolphins on our two-hour Pensacola Bay cruise! Twin diesel Navy Launch converted into a cruise ship certified for 49 passengers. With plenty of open deck space, passengers can move about for the perfect photo or take advantage of the shaded area.
A boating adventure with Fun in the Sun Boat Rides is a must do if you’re visiting Pensacola, Pensacola Beach, Navarre, or Perdido Key. Spotting dolphins in the wild are on the top of the sand-bucket lists of many Pensacola Bay Area visitors. According to the Marine Mammal Protection Act, it’s best to respect nature and simply admire these beautiful animals from afar. One of the only ways to responsibly swim with bottlenose dolphins is under professional supervision in a controlled environment. The designated dog beaches located at parking lots 21.5 and 28.5 are the only dog beaches in Pensacola.
All of Disney Cruise Line's ships are officially registered in Nassau, Bahamas.[1] Disney Magic began operation July 30, 1998.[2] Disney Wonder began operation on August and were both built at Fincantieri shipyard, Italy. These approximately ton (the measurement of the two differ slightly) ships are 964 ft (294 m) long and 106 ft (32 m) wide. The ships each contain 875 staterooms[3] and are not identical in their design, with a lot of variations in interior design, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Cruises
It’s worth noting that while the larger Disney ships tend to upsize everything — meaning that theatres, dining rooms, and pools might be bigger — most of the ships still have relatively equal offerings. As an example, the Magic (smaller) and Dream (larger) both have three major restaurants, a night club district, kids clubs, pools, waterslides, a water ride, a spa, and live shows — just with differences in size, layout, and theming. To support the additional concierge staterooms, the Concierge Lounge was expanded. The ship features two theaters, five kids clubs, a spa, four restaurants (plus a buffet and quick-service food stalls) and three pools.
Deck 7
Your adventure begins when you climb the steps to the top of one of Disney Magic’s iconic red smokestack funnels; there, you’ll step into the launch chamber of a 215-foot-long water slide tube. Seconds later, you’ll splash down in a shallow run-out area that makes it easy to stand up, perform the necessary wedgie extraction (since we’re being honest here), and head out for more fun. Below we list each of the main meal periods onboard the ship, and your best options for each. An adults-only piano lounge featuring live music in a classy 1950s Hollywood atmosphere. Cool down with all-you-can eat soft-serve ice cream cones (included in the cost of your cruise!), or spend a bit for a specialty smoothie. You’re invited to a special celebration for Rapunzel in the kingdom of Corona!
“An Encanto Celebration” Brings the Family Madrigal to the High Seas for the First Time
Sleeping spaces are tucked away on one side of the stateroom and hidden behind a curtain, for privacy. The ship boasts an Art Deco style and you’ll see similar motifs on later Disney cruise ships, including Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy and Disney Wish. The overall aesthetic blends vintage ocean sailing with modern appeal, plus a hefty helping of Disney magic.
Deck Parties
Travel agents offer Onboard Credit — that’s free spending money that you can use toward purchases you make while you’re onboard the ship! Use it towards specialty dining, spa treatments, souvenirs, shore excursions, gratuities, and more! Booking through The Vacationeer can earn you up to $1,000 in onboard credit. As an Earmarked Diamond level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, The Vacationeer offers completely free help booking your cruise.
Pirate Night / Pirates in the Caribbean Deck Party with Fireworks
Last August, I was able to sail on Disney Cruise Line onboard the beautiful Disney Fantasy. As an adult with no children, I was curious how this family-friendly cruise brand would appeal to me. Disney had cruise ship designs drawn up by February 1994.[29] Disney Cruise Line in 1995 ordered Disney Magic and Disney Wonder from Fincantieri in Italy. The ship was built in two halves with the bow built at Fincatieri's Ancona shipyard and the stern at their Marghera shipyard. Click deck pictures to go to individual cruise deck plan pages where you can see all the public areas, venues and stateroom cabins categories for each deck.
Verandah staterooms are designed with multiple cruisers in mind, and are suitable for groups of up to five. If you’ve been disappointed by cruise ship staterooms in the past, and found that they’re just overall lacking when it comes to style, as well as function, then you might be pleasantly surprised by Disney Magic’s staterooms. The ship was built by Fincantieri in Italy, simultaneously with sister ship Disney Wonder. The ship’s construction was delayed slightly, as was the later maiden voyage, but the ship finally launched in 1998. Unlike as you might on other cruise ships, this is one where you won’t feel overwhelmed by everything going on and all the different options. You can fully immerse yourself in the true magic of Disney Magic, even on shorter itineraries.
tips for the best sea day on Disney Cruise Line
Exploring Disney Cruise Merchandise Aboard the Disney Magic - MiceChat
Exploring Disney Cruise Merchandise Aboard the Disney Magic.
I do have a shorter list of more realistic upgrades I'd love to see on Disney Magic in the coming years. The unexpected upside of this was that I did not feel like I was missing out by ditching the bars for my room, where I could enjoy a glass of wine on my balcony. Once your kiddo turns 11 (or 10 with parent permission and enough space), they can start visiting Edge, which has a submarine-under-the-sea look on Disney Magic. In the interest of setting realistic expectations, expect pools to look much more like this (or worse) during the heat of the day.
However, this strict schedule does mean less flexibility for some guests. Guests will need to be aware of exactly when and where their dinner is each night, as they're expected to arrive on time. Arriving late means that the other guests who are seated at the same table will not be able to be served, as cast members work off of a strict schedule to maintain an orderly dinner time onboard for everyone.
This original Disney ship would benefit from at least one brighter bar or lounge, as the ship can feel cavernous at times. As I mentioned, for me, the bars weren't inviting spaces when compared to my own cabin's balcony. This is in stark contrast to all the beautiful bars and lounges on Wish I was excited to spend time in.
Plenty of drawers, a closet with sliding doors, a desk-dressing table, a smart HDTV, electronic safe bos, 2 portable "Wave Phones" (with texting capabilities and coverage throughout the ship and on Castaway island). Disney Magic TIPS (totaling US $12 PP per day, automatically charged to guests' shipboard accounts), given to $8 waiters (dining room server $4, assistant server $3, head server $1) and $4 to cabin attendants. Additionally, a 15% gratuity is included on all bar drinks and onboard service areas. Out on deck, you'll also find many grab-and-go outlets, which are also included in your cruise fare. These venues serve up such basics as soft serve ice cream, pizza, fries and chicken tenders, but two of these fast-food stations were surprise hits.
The flagship dining experience on the first four Disney ships (including Disney Magic), Animator’s Palate offers a fan-favorite menu along with a taste of the magic of animation. It might be the first Disney Cruise ship, but thanks to continued updates (plus a major refurbishment in 2013), the Disney Magic is still a great ship. Onboard you’ll find spacious guest rooms, ample dining, lots of lively activities and entertainment, and plenty of places to relax and enjoy the open ocean.
Pamper yourself with spa treatments, salon services, and rejuvenation procedures at this restful retreat. Experience Swedish massage, aroma stone therapy, deep tissue massage, facials, acupuncture, teeth whitening, shampoo/cut/style, manicures, pedicures, CoolSculpting, and more. Complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, showers, lockers, sandals, and robes round out the offerings. A partner facility to the Oceaneer Club, the Oceaneer Lab offers lots of hand-on activities and experiences for kids ages 3-10. Room Service is included at no additional charge on the Disney Magic – all you’re expected to pay for is a tip for the crew member who delivers the food (and any specialty items you might opt for).
Its Art Deco design is also complemented by nautical decor, and the Disney staple of "hidden Mickeys" stealthily placed in everything from wallpaper to light fixtures keep the magic alive for those who find them. Disney Magic has come a long way since its 1998 debut as the first vessel on the Disney cruise line. Continual updates – including a 21-night dry dock refurbishment in May 2023 – have kept the ship up-to-date, and both kids and adults who are young at heart will find plenty of pixie dust scattered throughout their cruise. This teens-only retreat is in one of the coolest places on the ship – right inside one of the iconic red smokestack funnels! Those aged 14 to 17 can enjoy a specialty coffee or smoothie while relaxing with newfound friends. Meanwhile, active teens will enjoy dance parties, karaoke sessions, and group activities.
The Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise and the Spring Wildlife Alaska Whale Watching Cruise in Ressurection Bay provide an excellent overview of Alaska’s breathtaking scenery and wildlife. These cruises are perfect for travelers looking to make the most of their limited time in Alaska. Alaska cruises are popular with multi-generational groups, and as such, North American school schedules tend to dictate pricing peaks. Price-conscious travelers will generally find price breaks before Memorial Day or after mid-August, when schools in many parts of the country will be in session.
Best Time to Visit Alaska in 2023 When Is the Best Time to Go to Alaska? Trusted Since 1922 - Reader's Digest
Best Time to Visit Alaska in 2023 When Is the Best Time to Go to Alaska? Trusted Since 1922.
You'll have your pick of itineraries and cabins — balcony cabins are popular in this scenic destination — and often the best fares. If you're interested in Alaska's gold rush history, Skagway — 90 miles northwest of Juneau — is a port you shouldn't miss. In fact, it's the gateway to the Klondike and Dawson mining district in Canada's Yukon territory, where prospectors searched for gold in the late 1890s. The historic district still has a Wild West feel, though that's been a bit commercialized for the modern era. This port can get crowded in summer when several ships can call on the same day. The best Alaska cruise ports are also the most crowded because no matter which type of itinerary and cruise line you select, you'll likely visit a mix of the same ports.
Cruises for families
Your views will likely include snowy mountains, but they are gorgeous nonetheless. May is an excellent cruising month for birdwatchers as migratory songbirds start to arrive in Alaska and seabirds gather in their nesting spots or rookeries. Keep an eye out for my favorite, the ever-adorable puffins, Arctic terns, cormorants, and bald eagles.
Gulf of Alaska Cruises: Denali National Park, Kenai Peninsula and More Beautiful Scenery
Choose a longer vacation that lets you soak up the warmer weather that July is known for in Alaska. The Grand Heartland Adventure Cruisetour combines a 7-night Alaska cruise with seven days of touring the inland area of Alaska through Denali National Park and up into Fairbanks. You can also choose tours tailored to your interests during your July cruise.
In fact, June brings maximal daylight with over 18 hours of golden sunshine in the Southeast and Inside Passage regions. Princess travels to Alaska during this season so guests can maximize their time on shore and enjoy the beautiful scenery from their ship. Take a relaxing ride on Mount Roberts Tramway for an unparalleled view of Juneau’s exquisite features, or journey into the vast waters for a chance to observe 50-foot humpback whales in their natural habitat. From emerging wildlife to lasting sunlight, early June through late August welcomes some of the most iconic moments known to the Great Land. The main cruise season in Alaska is May through September, though many cruise lines are adding shoulder season itineraries in April and October. The sunniest months are July and August and the best time for whale watching is May and June.
Alaska Cruise Highlights By Month
Down south, the waters around the southwestern and southcentral regions of Alaska teem with ships visiting Kodiak Island, the Aleutian Islands, Prince William Sound and Katmai National Park. Experience the wonders of Endicott Arm Fjord and Dawes Glacier on the gorgeous Celebrity Solstice on a June cruise to Alaska. Celebrity Cruises has roundtrip Alaska cruise itineraries that depart from Seattle, Washington, and Vancouver, British Columbia, and one-way cruises (northbound and southbound) to and from Seward, Alaska. It’s one of the state’s most lucrative industries, and many cruisers can’t wait to try their hand at it.
When it comes to May vs. September, May is slightly cooler, but gets significantly less rainfall. Read on for the best time of year to cruise to Alaska, based on your personal preferences and the breathtaking experiences you want to check off your bucket list. The good news is that no matter which month you choose, your Alaskan cruise will reward you with incredible experiences and memories that last a lifetime.
The best time to view this dramatic display is mid-July to mid-August, though you can take wildlife excursions to bear hangouts at any time during cruise season. The cruise season in Alaska is short (just May-September), but what this state lacks in winter tours it makes up for in stunning summer vistas, exciting wildlife and a travelogue of iconic land excursions. The height of the Alaska cruise season (June, July, and August) is the best time to cruise Alaska on these itineraries to ensure you’ll be able to see and enjoy the glaciers on each of the routes. Most major cruise lines also offer the opportunity for pre or post-cruise land packages that will take you by bus or train to destinations in Southcentral and Interior Alaska. If you have the time, these cruise packages give you the best of both worlds for exploring Alaska's coastal communities and some of the top sights in Alaska's heartland, including Denali National Park. Starting in 2024, Uncruise Adventures will be offering a winter cruise, where winter sports and northern lights viewings are all part of the package!
At the beginning of the month, you might still be able to find some early season pricing; the peak season for Alaska cruising begins in late June. Some adventurous cruisers will board ships when they arrive in Alaska in April to see the remnants of winter. A few big ships cruise into mid-October for those who want a peek at what life is like in Alaska towns when all the other tourists have returned home. There will be fewer visitors around, and Alaska in September and October is likely to be rainy, but weather is rarely a deterrent from wildlife watching or outdoor activities. Salmon are spawning, peaking in July, when bears come down to the rivers to feast.
Nature is in full bloom during cruise season in Alaska, but what you’ll see depends on the time of year and location. The warming weather even allows cruise ships to penetrate Arctic waters, giving you the opportunity to see polar bears on Wrangel Island. On an Alaska whale-watching cruise, you’ll have the chance to see some of the state’s eight magnificent species of whales that frequent its icy waters.
If you're on a budget, stick to interior rooms and look for the big cruise ships, which tend to have more inventory. If you want to spot herds of caribou, book an Alaska cruise that puts you in range of Denali National Park. And with salmon runs in full force, you can catch fishing bears in the southeast. National park facilities and some tourist businesses will switch to winter hours.
Or, explore the outdoors on a peaceful boat tour through deep fjords and enjoy a relaxing train ride up the sweeping mountains. As the driest month of the year, May provides optimal conditions to experience the great outdoors. While temperatures cool off in September, witness schools of halibut glisten beneath the Alaska waters and try your hand at casting a reel. Or, strap into a dog sled and venture over frosted terrains that make for an unforgettable ride. While the end of cruising season brings darker skies, guests can discover the secrets behind the mystifying Northern Lights. Although catching a glimpse of the lights is rare, learning about them is just as enchanting.
Just like June, expect your cruise prices in July to be higher compared to the shoulder season. Breathe in the tranquility of the shoulder season when you sail to Alaska in May or September. With fewer crowds in May, take a step inside Alaska’s finest fisheries and taste fresh king salmon — a local delicacy — as they’re plucked from the cool waters. Revel in the rousing vibrations of May sunlight and lookout for humpback whales as they make their first appearance of the year.
If luxury is what you're after, you can find lines that will go overboard pampering you on your journey north. If you want a more active trip in less touristed areas, a great choice would be a small-ship expedition line, including Alaska specialists such as Alaskan Dream Cruises and UnCruise Adventures. If you book a weeklong Gulf of Alaska voyage, you'll also enjoy exploring parts of the Inside Passage and its ports that could include a mix of Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, Ketchikan, Haines and Icy Strait Point. Seas in Alaska are choppiest on Gulf of Alaska itineraries where waters are open.
Other adventurous activities, such as hiking trails, open up in the summer months. Hatcher Pass typically opens up in July, depending on the specific Hatcher Pass weather conditions. Mt. Denali is another option for cruisers, but be sure to check on the Mt. Denali weather with your cruise line.
If you're hoping to see the northern lights, booking a cruisetour in September might be your best bet to see the aurora on a cruise vacation. You'll have up to two days of scenic cruising, in addition to sailing the Inside Passage. Because Gulf of Alaska cruises sail farther north, scenic destinations might include College Fjord, in addition to Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier.
Arriving at your embarkation port early is key to having a smooth sailing.
When booking a cruise on Cruise.com you can select your preferred cruise line, destination and many other search options to find the best cruise for your next vacation. Our agents are experts in cruising and are available 24/7 in case you prefer to book over the phone. As one of the largest cruise sellers Cruise.com is able to offer our clients exclusive discounts, onboard credits, upgrades and many other valuable amenities. Cruise sites provide a convenient and efficient way to plan and book your next cruise vacation. With a wide range of options and specialized expertise, these platforms offer personalized service, exclusive deals, and a seamless booking experience.
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If you’re booking a cruise vacation, you’ll find there are benefits to both strategies. Planning ahead is a great way to score big savings, as Royal Caribbean often runs early saver deals to guests booking well in advance. It’s also pretty safe to assume prices usually go up as availability goes down the closer you get to your sail date, so booking ahead is a surefire way to lock in a great rate. That said, booking a cruise at the last minute can also yield some unexpected savings — but only if the itinerary you’re interested in hasn’t sold out yet.
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If you’re only concerned about finding the cheapest price, scroll down to the price comparison section at the bottom of this post to see how all of these sites stack up against each other. Search SmarterTravel Hotels for great accommodations in your port of call. It can be a complicated, time-consuming process that involves dozens of open tabs and maybe a spreadsheet or two. Expert travel tips, dream destination inspiration, and timely travel news delivered to your inbox daily.
Expedia, a major travel booking platform, offers many services, including cruises. Its user-friendly interface provides a hassle-free experience for those seeking a straightforward cruise booking process. However, the simplicity of Expedia may limit your ability to customize and delve into specific cruise preferences.
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Expedia’s cruise deals tend to come paired with other enticing offers, including steep discounts on pre-departure hotels when you book both your cruise and hotel through Expedia. There’s also a dedicated 800 number that lets you speak to Expedia’s cruise experts and, often but not always, a generous amount of onboard credit thrown in for good measure. On Expedia, it’s common to find bookable cruises for 70 percent off face value, with the ability to sort by price so the best cruise deals come up at the top of the list, saving you the scrolling. Sometimes the best cruise website is actually a cruise line’s own site—since technically, cruise booking websites aren’t allowed to undercut the prices that the cruise lines set.
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While you could go to an online travel agency that offers flights, hotels, and cruises, why not try a cruise-specific booking website first? After all, these are the pros that specialize in cruising, so they know what you’re looking for and how to give it. Kayak, known as a travel deal aggregator rather than a traditional online travel agency, offers a unique advantage to its dedicated users. Kayak simplifies finding the best cruise deals by consolidating travel deals from various websites and comparing them to competitors like Expedia and Priceline.
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A subsidiary of Tripadvisor, Cruise Critic has similar search results to that site, but it offers a bit more comprehensive information for seasoned cruisers who want more details before they book. Cruise Critic has tons of filters and sort options to help you find what you want, including everything from cruise line to cruise style (family cruises, luxury cruises, cruises for the disabled). Each itinerary clearly lists what is and isn’t included in the fare; Wi-Fi, alcoholic drinks, gratuities, and port taxes and fees are among the common exclusions.
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They want to admire its rugged beauty, seek out wildlife (such as eagles, bears and whales) and learn about its Native cultures and gold rush history. It's so far from the rest of the mainland U.S. that it's become a bucket list destination, especially for travelers looking to visit each of the 50 states. Alaska might be one of the most beautiful places in the world, but it's rugged and can be tricky to get around.
Expedia is an obvious first mention in a list of the best cruise booking sites, in part because it’s an absolute juggernaut (Expedia also owns Travelocity and Orbitz). Its cruise-booking interface is simple and straightforward, only requiring you to enter your preferred sailing destination and date range, as well as how many passengers you’ll be bringing along. Then Expedia does the heavy lifting for you, with comprehensive results that make it one of the best cruise search engines.
Bookaacruises.com is known for its extensive selection of cruise options, including cruises with popular cruise lines. Travelers appreciate the site’s straightforward booking process and competitive pricing. The site’s detailed cruise line and ship information make it easy for travelers to make informed choices. Travelocity.com is celebrated for its user-friendly interface and comprehensive search options.
Depending on the tour itinerary you choose, you might visit Seward and the Kenai Peninsula, Alyeska, Talkeetna, Anchorage and Fairbanks — as well as spend one to three nights in Denali National Park. Gulf of Alaska sailings — especially those in late August and September — can encounter rough seas in the gulf portion of the voyage. Popular Inside Passage ports of call include Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan, Petersburg, Haines and Skagway. Glacial ice carved this passageway long ago, and today, cruise ships and fishing vessels thread their way through the islets and channels to see some of the most spectacular natural sights in the world.
