Wildlife Watching
Best Binoculars for an
Alaskan Wildlife Cruise
From budget essentials to image-stabilized optics — our picks for every deck and every budget.
Prices from Amazon.com · May 2026 · Subject to change
Wildlife Watching
From budget essentials to image-stabilized optics — our picks for every deck and every budget.
Prices from Amazon.com · May 2026 · Subject to change
Disembarking from a cruise at Canada Place in Vancouver and heading straight to the airport is incredibly easy. Whether you prefer speed, budget‑friendly options, or maximum comfort, Vancouver offers several convenient ways to travel between the cruise terminal and Vancouver International Airport (YVR). This guide breaks down each option so you can choose the best fit for your travel day. Prices in CAD as of 2026; confirm on translink.ca or yvr.ca.
The Canada Line SkyTrain is the most popular way to get from the cruise port to the airport.
How it works:
Cost: Typically $4–$6 CAD (adult single fare; no AddFare outbound). Frequency: Trains run every 6–10 minutes.
Why choose it: Fast, inexpensive, and reliable — ideal for most travelers (elevators available for luggage).
If you want a door‑to‑door option, taxis are lined up directly outside the cruise terminal.
Travel time: ~18–20 minutes Cost: $35–$50 CAD (metered; traffic-dependent) Good for: Families, heavy luggage, tight schedules
Rideshare services operate throughout Vancouver and are easy to book once you exit the terminal.
Travel time: ~20 minutes Cost: Usually similar to taxis ($35–$60 CAD), sometimes cheaper depending on demand/surge.
Several companies offer pre‑booked transfers from Canada Place to YVR.
Travel time: ~20 minutes Cost: $120–$170 CAD depending on vehicle type Best for: Groups, luxury travel, guaranteed pickup
A public bus option exists but requires walking to Burrard Station and takes significantly longer.
Travel time: ~1 hour Cost: $3–$7 CAD Not recommended unless you’re on a strict budget and have plenty of time.
| Option | Time | Cost (CAD) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| SkyTrain | 26–30 min | $4–$6 | Most travelers |
| Taxi | 18–20 min | $35–$50 | Convenience & luggage |
| Rideshare | 20 min | $35–$60 (varies) | Flexible pricing |
| Private Car | 20 min | $120–$170 | Comfort & groups |
| Bus | ~1 hr | $3–$7 | Strict budget |
You’ll be on the waterfront side, facing the sails of Canada Place.
The hotel sits directly above the cruise terminal. Follow the pedestrian walkway that slopes upward toward the hotel lobby area.
Once inside, follow signs for “Waterfront Station / SkyTrain / SeaBus”. These signs are very visible and consistent.
You’ll exit onto Howe Street or Cordova Street, depending on which escalator you take.
Turn left (east) and walk along W. Cordova Street for about 2 minutes. You’ll see the historic brick Waterfront Station building ahead — it’s large and unmistakable.
Go through the main doors into the grand hall.
Inside the station:
You’ll see the fare gates directly before the escalators leading down to the Canada Line platforms.
Trains are clearly marked:
5–7 minutes, depending on where you start at Canada Place.
Norwegian Viva – Balcony Staterooms
Sailing October 5–14, 2026 | Europe
Decks 9-14
| Category | Description | Max Guests | Promo Price (Per Guest) | Total Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA | Balcony Stateroom | 2 | $4,668.95 | $10,219.70 |
| BB | Balcony Stateroom | 2 | $4,659.20 | $10,198.24 |
| BF | Balcony Stateroom | 4 | $4,639.05 | $10,153.90 |
| B4 | Family Balcony | 4 | $4,679.35 | $10,242.58 |
| M2 | Forward-Facing Club Balcony Suite | 4 | $5,489.25 | $12,024.34 |
Promotions applied: DISC35, EASYFARE, FREESRVC. Final pricing may vary based on taxes, additional guests, and optional services.
View cabin layouts and deck amenities on the official Norwegian Viva deck plan:
The best cruise ship cabin location to avoid seasickness is midship (center of the ship) on a lower deck, ideally with a window or balcony for horizon visibility.
Midship cabins are located at the center of the ship, which is the most stable area. This section experiences the least amount of pitch (front-to-back motion) and roll (side-to-side motion).
Lower decks feel less movement than higher decks. The higher you go, the more sway you’ll feel during rough seas.
Balcony or oceanview cabins help your body orient visually. Seeing the horizon can reduce nausea and dizziness caused by motion confusion.
Forward (front) and aft (back) cabins experience more motion and are more likely to trigger seasickness.
High decks amplify the sensation of movement, especially during turbulent weather.
Interior cabins with no windows can worsen symptoms due to lack of visual reference




Escape the everyday and save on a future cruise up to $500 to the most breathtaking destinations on earth.
Step 1: If you don’t have an NCL account, create one here.
Step 2: Purchase a $500 CruiseFirst credit for $250 here.
Step 3: Contact Cerchio Travel to begin your booking.
Step 4: Provide me with your NCL Latitudes number so I can apply your $500 credit.
*CruiseFirst Credits can only be applied to new future cruise reservations of 3 days or longer.
Only one CFC can be applied per stateroom. CruiseFirst Credits purchased on or after 12:30 pm Eastern Standard Time, January 9, 2024 are issued by Goodwill Credit, Ltd. Full terms listed below.
Planning your first cruise? These essential tips will help you pack smart and sail stress-free.
Your checked luggage might take time to arrive at your cabin. Keep medications, travel documents, swimwear, and a change of clothes in your carry-on.
Cruise cabins often have limited outlets. A non-surge protected power strip helps you charge multiple devices safely.
📸 Image: Cruise Cabin Power Setup 🔗 Packing Checklist for First-Timers
Packing cubes keep your clothes organized and make unpacking a breeze. They’re especially handy for families or longer cruises.
📸 Image: Packing Cubes in Suitcase 🔗 Family Packing Tips from Carnival
Include a day bag with sunscreen, water shoes, and a waterproof phone case. Tailor your gear to the excursions you’ve booked.
📸 Image: Shore Excursion Essentials 🔗 14 Best Shore Excursion Packing Tips
Pack like a pro for 12 sunny days of sea, cities, and sightseeing — from Naples to Mykonos.
Stay stylish and secure while exploring cobblestone streets, bustling markets, and scenic ports.
Roam at-ease, and hands-free! The Crossbody bags have a built-in 5-Point Anti-Theft security system with: a slash-resistant body and straps; Locking compartments; Lock-down hardware and RFID blocking pockets for passports and cards, prevents thieves from breaking into, snatching your bag, or scanning your identity.
UPGRADE TO VIKING PREMIUM HOTEL:
The Pulitzer Amsterdam hotel, located in the heart of Amsterdam’s canal district, is comprised of 25 historic houses and boasts premium amenities. This Premium experience includes a guided small-group walking tour so you can explore the city intimately.
These do not include transfers or Viking concierge services.
Nestled in the heart of Amsterdam, the Hyatt Regency Amsterdam offers an urban oasis with a unique blend of modern comfort and botanical-inspired design. Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, this hotel provides the perfect retreat with its luxurious amenities and exceptional service.
One of the standout features of the Hyatt Regency Amsterdam is its exclusive Club Lounge, located on the third floor. Here’s what you can expect:
Taking a taxi from the Hyatt Regency Amsterdam to the cruise port.
Located in the heart of Amsterdam, the Amsterdam Marriott Hotel offers a perfect blend of luxury and convenience. Situated across from the vibrant Leidseplein, this 5-star hotel is just moments away from iconic attractions like the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Rijksmuseum.
Getting from the Amsterdam Marriott Hotel to the cruise port.

This program is the perfect fit for train buffs seeking a Denali and Fairbanks experience, relaxing travel days and two segments on the rails of Alaska Railroad.
5-Day Pre-Cruise Land Tour. 7-Day Cruise. 6 Ports.
Your Amazing Vacation Includes:
Overnights in Fairbanks, Denali and Anchorage • Enjoy amazing 360º views on Two Deluxe Dome Railcar segments on the rails of Alaska Railroad • Visit an Iditarod Sled Dog Musher’s kennel for a private tour • Explore Denali National Park on a Natural History Tour • Tour the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center • Plenty of Time in Denali for Optional Activities
NCL offers excursions that you can book. I have also provided links to Get Your Guide which will provide you with information on other excursions that may be available. Please book through my links if you are interested.
| Day | DATE | PORT | ARRIVE | DEPART | Non-NCL Excursions |
| 1 | 7/8/23 | Denver to Fairbanks Flights to be assigned | |||
| 1 | Bus from Airport to Hotel | ||||
| 1 | Arrival into Fairbanks | Viator | |||
| 1 | Hotel to be assigned Fairbanks | ||||
| 2 | 7/9/23 | Bus from hotel to city | |||
| Your Norwegian Cruise Line Tour Director will greet you at your Fairbanks Hotel. This morning, enjoy traveling along the rails of the Alaska Railroad to Denali National Park with 360-degree views from your deluxe dome railcar seats. As you travel through the high tundra plateau into the gorgeous scenery of the Healy Gorge and Canyon, be watchful for wildlife during your rail journey. Full bar and meal service are available for purchase during your rail journey. | |||||
| 2 | Hotel to be assigned Denali Park | 3:00 pm | Viator | ||
| 2 | Fairbanks/Denali | ||||
| 3 | 7/10/23 | Bus from Hotel to City | |||
| 3 | Hotel to be assigned Anchorage | 3:00 pm | Viator | ||
| 3 | Denali | ||||
| This morning is open for optional activities in Denali before heading out to learn about the Alaska state sport of dog mushing with an included stop at a local Iditarod sled dog kennel. You’ll be amazed to learn about this fascinating sport, the musher, the dogs, and even get to hold a future champion puppy in your arms. After this authentic visit, we won’t be surprised if you are ready to run “The Last Great Race” yourself. More than just the mountain, Denali National Park is six million acres of wild land. After lunch on your own, your tour will take you into this pristine region of Alaska on the only road into and out of the park. Along the way, enjoy a fully narrated ride learning about the flora and fauna of the area while looking out for the wild animals that roam freely and call this park home. While in this beautiful area, set aside time to experience the solitude and tranquility that vast wilderness can provide. During your Natural History Tour, enjoy the incredible scenery and some of the best opportunities to see wildlife in its natural setting. Overnight: Denali | |||||
| 4 | 7/11/23 | Denali/Anchorage | |||
| This morning travel by motorcoach to the town of Talkeetna and then, you’ll take your second segment along the rails of the Alaska Railroad from Talkeetna to Anchorage in a deluxe dome railcar. As the gorgeous scenery of Alaska rolls past, be watchful for wildlife, as well as glimpses of Mt. Denali, or, as the Alaskans call it, “The Great One.” Full bar and meal service are available for purchase during your rail journey. Overnight: Anchorage | |||||
| 5 | This morning, enjoy a brief city tour of Anchorage and then continue south down the Turnagain Arm along the Seward Highway. This “All-American Scenic Highway” has spectacular views of the Cook Inlet and Chugach Mountains. In dramatic fashion, see where the mountains meet the sea. Stop at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and get up close to moose, bears, musk ox and other indigenous animals of the region. Taking in orphaned animals and providing quality animal care year-round, the Conservation Center is dedicated to the protection and preservation of Alaska’s wildlife. Animals that cannot be released back into the wild are given a permanent home at the Center. Continue on by motorcoach to Seward to board Norwegian Spirit for your 7-day Alaska Cruise. Avg. Temperature 50 – 62 ºF Avg. Precipitation 2.2 In. | ||||
| 5 | 7/12/23 | Embark Spirit | |||
| 5 | Ship Departs Seward, Alaska | ||||
| 5 | Anchorage/Seward | ||||
| 5 | Seward, Alaska | Viator | |||
| 5 | Best known for its beautiful parks and mountain scenery, Seward, Alaska is not to be missed. There is nearly an endless variety of outdoor activities to enjoy in Seward, from mountain biking and climbing, to rafting, sea kayaking, and dog-sledding, and even skiing, fishing or white water rafting. Explore scenic hiking trails or have a picnic among the pristine landscape. There’s no shortage of enjoyable pastimes in Alaska’s City of Seward. | ||||
| 6 | 7/13/23 | DOCK Keystone Canyon (Valdez), Alaska | 8:00 am | 7:00 pm | |
| 6 | If you’re interested in dramatic landscapes and diverse wildlife, then Valdez is for you. Ideally nestled along Prince William Sound, this picturesque town seems to have it all—towering mountains, wildflower-carpeted meadows, iceberg-dotted waters and expansive glaciers. Feel Free to go a little wild on an exhilarating shore excursion, from fishing and whale watching to glacier hikes and much more. Or explore the town’s Gold Rush history, browse local shops and savor fresh seafood. Avg. Temperature 48- 63ºF Avg. Precipitation 4.0 In. | ||||
| 7 | Cruise Hubbard Glacier | ||||
| 7 | Get up close and personal with the gigantic Hubbard Glacier, North America’s largest tidewater glacier. It’s 1350 square miles of blue ice and one of the most active in Alaska. | ||||
| 8 | 7/15/23 | DOCK Skagway, Alaska | 7:00 am | 8:00 pm | Viator |
| 8 | In a single year from 1896 to 1897, this remote town along the Inside Passage grew from a few tents to a city of 20,000 gold seekers. Today, travelers come in search of other riches – to experience yesteryear along Skagway’s charming boardwalk lined with buildings that replicate those Gold Rush days. Avg. Temperature 51- 64 ºF Avg. Precipitation 1.1 In. | ||||
| 8 | How to spend a day in Skagway | ||||
| 8 | White Pass & Yukon Route Railway This is a must do. | ||||
| 9 | 7/16/23 | DOCK Juneau, Alaska | 7:00 am | 5:00 pm | Viator |
| 9 | Juneau has been called “Alaska’s peak experience,” certainly due in part to its unparalleled glacier viewing from such places as Tracy Arm Fjord, the Juneau Icefields and Glacier Bay National Park. Kayak up one of the area’s many protected waterways, go flightseeing, tour historic downtown or try your hand at panning for gold. The majestic Mendenhall Glacier lies nearly 12 miles outside Juneau, a treck worthwhile. Avg. Temperature 50 – 64ºF Avg. Precipitation 4.6 In. | ||||
| 10 | 7/17/23 | DOCK Ketchickan (Ward Cove), Alaska | 9:00 am | 7:00 pm | Viator |
| 10 | Its Tlingit Indian name, Kach Khanna, means “spread wings of the eagle.” Chances are you’ll see one of these magnificent birds perched atop a Sitka tree. Thanks to its abundant rainfall, Ketchikan is surrounded by some of the world’s most lush wilderness. Avg. Temperature 51- 64 ºF Avg. Precipitation 6.6 In. | ||||
| 11 | 7/18/23 | At Sea | |||
| 12 | 7/19/23 | DOCK Ship arrives at Vancouver, Canada | 6:00 am | ||
| 12 | Vancouver, British Columbia | Viator | |||
| 12 | Positioned between the snow-dusted North Shore Mountains and the rich, blue waters of the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver blends big-city sophistication with small-town charm. Don’t miss Queen Elizabeth Park – a 130-acre civic arboretum accented with sculptures by modern artist Henry Moore. Avg. Temperature 54- 71ºF Avg. Precipitation 1.4 In. | ||||
| 12 | Vancouver to Cincinnati |
INCLUDED TRAVEL EXTRAS
With BookSafe Standard Travel Protection you get:
Up to 100% cash-back reimbursement for covered cancellation causes, or future cruise credit certificates should your cancellation reason not qualify for reimbursement.
Coverage for lost, stolen, damaged or delayed luggage.
Reimbursement of medical and medical evacuation expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling.
For sailings embarking September 3, 2022 and beyond:
Guests ages twelve and over will be allowed to board unvaccinated. Unvaccinated guests age twelve and over will be required to show proof of a medically supervised negative PCR or Antigen test taken no more than 72 hours prior to embarkation.
For guests age 11 years or under, no additional protocols or testing requirements apply.
Local regulations may have different requirements to enter certain countries – make sure to check Travel Requirements by Country to understand country specific requirements. Guests may b coole denied boarding if all country specific requirements are not met.
Log on to ‘My NCL’ at www.ncl.com/login to make book excursions, activities and extras and to complete the online registration so you can save time at the pier and receive valuable pre-cruise information to prepare you for your best vacation ever.
Please email me if you have any questions.
INCLUDED TRAVEL EXTRAS
With BookSafe Standard Travel Protection you get:
Up to 100% cash-back reimbursement for covered cancellation causes, or future cruise credit certificates should your cancellation reason not qualify for reimbursement.
Coverage for lost, stolen, damaged or delayed luggage
Reimbursement of medical and medical evacuation expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling
For sailings embarking September 3, 2022 and beyond:
Guests ages twelve and over will be allowed to board unvaccinated. Unvaccinated guests age twelve and over will be required to show proof of a medically supervised negative PCR or Antigen test taken no more than 72 hours prior to embarkation.
For guests age 11 years or under, no additional protocols or testing requirements apply.
Local regulations may have different requirements to enter certain countries – make sure to check Travel Requirements by Country to understand country specific requirements. Guests may b coole denied boarding if all country specific requirements are not met.
Log on to ‘My NCL’ at www.ncl.com/login to make book excursions, activities and extras and to complete the online registration so you can save time at the pier and receive valuable pre-cruise information to prepare you for your best vacation ever.
Please email me if you have any questions.
DEPARTING JULY 17, 2023, FROM ORLANDO, FL.

This offer expires Monday, 11/25/22 at 8 pm. Contact Vince ASAP to book. I will need a text to 513.341.5882 of the front and back of a credit card, and the photo page of the passport for each person.
I also need a phone number, current home address, and your email. If you have a Royal Caribbean Crown & Anchor number, please send it as well. Advise if you are a veteran, law enforcement, or 55+ years of age. You can email or text that info.
Staterooms 30% Savings Cyber Non-Refundable Deposit Rate, Vacation Protection Plan
$2600.44 2 Adults, 2 Children, Ocean View Stateroom (Type 3N), Deck 3
$2064.58 2 Adults, 1 Children, Ocean View Stateroom (Type 3N), Deck 3
$1,999.72 (+ Insurance) 2 Guests, Ocean View Balcony Stateroom (Type 2D), Deck 6
| Deposit | Deposit Date | Booking Type |
|---|---|---|
| $200 | Dec. 18, 2022 | GROUP |
| Balance in Full | May 3, 2023 | GROUP |
| $100 per person | Nov. 25, 2022 | Individual |
| Balance in Full | May 2, 2022 | Individual |
| Cancellation Schedule | Cancellation Amount | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Prior to Final Payment Due Date | No Charge (except for Non-Refundable Deposit amounts) | |
| 74 to 61 Days Prior to Sailing | 50 % per Guest | 04 MAY 2023 |
| 60 to 31 Days Prior to Sailing | 75 % per Guest | 18 MAY 2023 |
| 30 to 0 Days Prior to Sailing | 100 % per Guest | 17 JUN 2023 |
ACCEPTED IDENTIFICATION DOCUMENTS
For additional United States passport information visit the United States Department of State travel information website. Visa Central is the passport and visa service that we recommend, should our guests need passport and visa assistance. You may contact Visa Central for all your passport needs. Visa Central can obtain passports in as little as one day. US Residents, please contact VisaCentral online at www.visacentral.com/royalcaribbean, email rci@visacentral.com or call 800-858-8579, and be sure to reference Royal Caribbean account 44988 for reduced service fees.
What if the name on my identification doesn’t match the name on my reservation?
It is important that the name on your reservation be exactly as it is stated on your passport or other official proof of nationality. If your name has changed since your document was issued (e.g., marriage or divorce), it is required that you update the document with the new name or provide an official supporting document (e.g., a state, county or province issued marriage license, divorce decree or legal name change document) of the name change. All documents must be the original or a notarized copy. Additionally, if you are using an identification (e.g., driver’s license) and a citizenship document (e.g., birth certificate), then BOTH documents must match the name on your reservation. Otherwise, it may result in delay or possible denial of boarding.
There is no minimum age for an Ohio ID card. You may apply for an Ohio ID card for your child at any deputy registrar location.
You must provide proof of your child’s:
Any child under age 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian with an Ohio driver license or ID card. If the parent or guardian does not have an Ohio driver license or ID card, then they must also provide proof of:
Go to our Acceptable Documents page for a full list of identity documents and links to use our interactive process to assist you with what to bring to a deputy registrar agency.
$10.00
Don’t forget to include a listing for your child’s Next of Kin in connection with his or her state ID. It will help police get in touch with parents or guardians.

Vaccination documents will not be required to board, but we will ask that you disclose your vaccination status to us prior to boarding (via the app, on our website, or at the terminal).
Check your travel documents when you print them out for any updates.
We recommend you bring your vaccination documents with you, as local authorities or businesses in some destinations require it for entrance. A few of our departure ports still require guests to be vaccinated to sail.
Local regulations may have different requirements to enter certain countries – make sure to check Travel Requirements by Country to understand country specific requirements.

NCL offers excursions that you can book. I have also provided links to Viator which will provide you with information on other excursions that may be available.
| DATE | PORT | DEPART | ARRIVE | Non-NCL Excursions |
| 6/10/23 | Cincinnati (CVG) to Miami (MIA) | |||
| 6/10/23 | Transfer to Hilton Miami Downtown | |||
| 6/10/23 | Things to Do in Miami | |||
| 6/11/23 | Transfer to Miami Cruise Port | MAP | ||
| 6/11/23 | Board Ship Time will be provided on check-in documents. | |||
| 6/11/23 | Miami, Florida | 5:30 PM | ||
| 6/12/23 | Cruise | |||
| 6/13/23 | Dock at Roatán, Bay Islands | 10:00 AM | Viator | |
| 6/13/23 | Depart Roatán, Bay Islands | 6:00 PM | ||
| 6/14/23 | Dock at Harvest Caye, Belize | 8:00 AM | ||
| 6/14/23 | Depart Harvest Caye, Belize | 5:00 PM | ||
| 6/15/23 | Dock at Costa Maya, Mexico | 8:00 AM | Viator | |
| 6/15/23 | Depart Costa Maya, Mexico | 5:00 PM | ||
| 6/16/23 | Dock at Cozumel, Mexico | 8:00 AM | Viator | |
| 6/16/23 | Depart Cozumel, Mexico | 6:00 PM | ||
| 6/17/23 | Cruise | |||
| 6/18/23 | Dock at Miami, Florida Disembarkation Time set on 6/17/23 | 7:00 AM |
Here is a page full of information.
If your flight is delayed on your day of sailing, please follow these guidelines:
All E-Docs will be available up to 21 days prior to departure, provided full payment has been received and Online Check-In has been completed. Make sure you bring a printed copy of your eDocs with you to the pier as they will serve as your boarding pass. It is important to download your eDocs ahead of time as they will become unavailable 72 hours prior to sailing. You or your travel professional will be notified via email when your eDocs are ready to be printed. Please reconfirm your flight details.
Online Check-In to eDocs… everything you need to do before your cruise.
Please watch this video.
Make sure you have the proper forms of identification needed for your cruise. Give yourself plenty of time to obtain or renew your passport, if necessary. In order to make the boarding process as simple as possible, we strongly encourage you to visit RoyalCaribbean.com/onlinecheckin to check in online and print your SetSail Pass no later than three days prior to your sail date. Additionally, guests should look into any visa requirements for their itinerary. Learn more about required travel documents.
INCLUDED TRAVEL EXTRAS
With BookSafe Standard Travel Protection you get:
Up to 100% cash-back reimbursement for covered cancellation causes, or future cruise credit certificates should your cancellation reason not qualify for reimbursement.
Coverage for lost, stolen, damaged or delayed luggage
Reimbursement of medical and medical evacuation expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling
For sailings embarking September 3, 2022 and beyond:
Guests ages twelve and over will be allowed to board unvaccinated. Unvaccinated guests age twelve and over will be required to show proof of a medically supervised negative PCR or Antigen test taken no more than 72 hours prior to embarkation.
For guests age 11 years or under, no additional protocols or testing requirements apply.
Local regulations may have different requirements to enter certain countries – make sure to check Travel Requirements by Country to understand country specific requirements. Guests may b coole denied boarding if all country specific requirements are not met.
Log on to ‘My NCL’ at www.ncl.com/login to make book excursions, activities and extras and to complete the online registration so you can save time at the pier and receive valuable pre-cruise information to prepare you for your best vacation ever.
Please email me if you have any questions.