The current season has come to a close, leaves are falling, and one would think we would be settling in for some quiet reflection on a wonderful summer’s visitors. But instead, we are already looking forward to 2012.
Today, courtesy of the Bed & Breakfast Association of Alaska, we learned this:
The 2012 cruise season will welcome back many of the same vessels and cruise lines to Alaska. Disney Cruise Line is scheduled back for another season, but will change their home port to Seattle. Norwegian Cruise Line will replace the Norwegian Star with the Norwegian Jewel. We’ll welcome back the Star Princess for the Princess Cruises lineup. The World of ResidenSea will also make an appearance for one voyage in 2012.
This will give us a total of 30 large cruise ships back into Alaska in 2012. Ketchikan will see 434 port calls, Juneau 449 port calls, and Skagway 377 port calls. Seward will see 52 port calls and Whittier will see 36 port calls for the 2012 season.
With this to look forward to, we have great hope for the coming year!
When you are here, whether via a cruise or other travel, plan to take the Port of Anchorage tour next summer. The staff volunteer their weekend hours to talk about the Port and its activities. Did you know that nearly all furnishings, vehicles, and foods pass through this Port when coming to Alaska? Did you know that this Port is one of several in the USA that border a military base and therefore have special duties and securities? It is an amazing glimpse at the importance of water shipping for residents and visitors to Alaska! The tour is given without charge – just check ahead for the schedule as it has a limited run.
Wait to 2012? Or visit this Fall/Winter? Many prefer to see Alaska in these seasons, timing visits for hunting or wild life viewing, or winter sports. It is all good – and we welcome you to heartier breakfasts and warm fireside beverages. Check with the Hotline staff at 907-272-5909 or view photos on the site. You might want to visit our Travel Partners to discover the tours, sports, cultural events, and other activities available in coming months. We just learned that a local mushing family is offering dog sled tours IN Anchorage soon – you will have a taste of the Iditarod experience with Dallas Seavey’s Alaska Sled Dog Tours. And of course, a trip to Girdwood, Seward, or other spots will provide you with additional choices for a similar experience.
Coming in December? Plan to attend the Oscar Anderson House Swedish Christmas Tour. Then come home to your B&B and revisit that cozy spot by the fire place…. sweet dreams!
–Mary M Rydesky offers JarviHomestay B&B. She is an active member of the Anchorage Alaska Bed & Breakfast Association