The cruise is August 29 – September 05, 2026. Destination CLEs
6 CLE hours total Destination CLEs
This is a combined travel + CLE experience (Eduvacation℠).
- Closest Major Airport: Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
- Airport transfers are not included. However, we will book your transfers upon request for an additional fee.
U.S. Citizens:
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Passport not required for closed‑loop cruises (departing and returning to the same U.S. port).
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Must show:
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Original or certified birth certificate and
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Valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license)
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Passport recommended for faster embarkation, emergencies, or if you need to fly home from a foreign port.
Non‑U.S. Citizens:
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Passport required for all travelers.
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Some nationalities may also need visas—check before travel.
Tips:
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Always keep a photocopy of your passport separate from the original.
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Even U.S. citizens may prefer carrying a passport to avoid complications during port visits or emergencies.
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Strongly recommended to cover trip cancellation, medical emergencies, flight delays, etc.
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Destination CLEs will offer a travel insurance plan, or you may waive this option at your own risk.
Steps for cruise arrival:
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Check in online with your cruise line (Norwegian) using:
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Booking confirmation number
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Personal details (name, date of birth, passport or birth certificate info)
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Upload travel documents:
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Passport (recommended) or birth certificate + government photo ID for U.S. citizens
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Any visas if required for non-U.S. citizens
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Enter travel information:
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Flight arrival into Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
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Hotel/temporary lodging in Seattle if arriving early
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Complete online forms:
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Health questionnaire (if required by cruise line)
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Customs & Immigration forms (for Canadian port stops, e.g., Victoria, BC)
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Receive confirmation:
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Print or save your boarding pass and luggage tags
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Keep digital copies accessible on your phone
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📸 Tip: Save screenshots or PDFs of your boarding pass, luggage tags, and any forms for quick access at the terminal.
If you have any questions before or during your trip, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me directly. I’m here to make your experience smooth and enjoyable.
For your safety and peace of mind, I also recommend leaving my contact information, along with your travel itinerary, with a trusted family member or friend at home. This ensures that someone can reach you—or me—if needed while you’re away.
Mary DeSpain 907-231-2111
If you need emergency services while in the United States or Canada during your cruise, please see the following:
United States (Seattle / onboard U.S. waters):
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Ambulance & Fire – Dial 911
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Police – Dial 911
Canada (if visiting ports like Victoria, BC):
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Ambulance & Fire – Dial 911
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Police – Dial 911
Shipboard emergencies:
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Contact the ship’s Guest Services or Medical Center immediately from your cabin phone or nearest deck phone.
This Alaska CLE cruise involves moderate physical activity, with most days offering a balance of relaxed onboard learning, sightseeing, and optional excursions. Guests should feel comfortable walking at a leisurely to steady pace on uneven surfaces such as piers, historic streets, boardwalks, and steps, and being on their feet for portions of the day. Shore excursions in ports like Sitka, Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan, and Victoria may include walking tours, light hiking, or navigating small inclines, while sea days provide opportunities to explore the ship’s venues, enjoy the Observation Lounge, or participate in onboard activities that require some movement. All excursions and activities are optional, allowing guests to tailor their experience to their comfort level. This itinerary is ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic exploration, wildlife observation, cultural discovery, and a rewarding cruise experience at a manageable pace.
On Norwegian Bliss, you’ll find comfortable accommodations ranging from interior staterooms to ocean-view and balcony rooms, plus luxurious suites in The Haven with premium amenities and private spaces. Dining options are plentiful, from casual buffets and cafés to specialty restaurants serving steak, Mediterranean, Asian, and more. Onboard, enjoy multiple pools and hot tubs, a full-service spa and fitness center, Broadway-style shows, live music, lounges, boutique shopping, and scenic outdoor areas. Norwegian Bliss offers a relaxing yet vibrant cruise experience, perfectly suited for exploring Alaska at your own pace.
Contact Mary DeSpain at 907‑231‑2111 for pre/post hotel arrangements.
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Very low violent crime on and around the ship and in Alaska ports
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Pickpocketing and scams are rare
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Safe to walk around most port towns during the day
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Onboard and port medical care is available if needed
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No vaccinations are required, though routine immunizations are recommended
- Day 1, Embarkation Day – Seattle
- Day 2, CLEs at Sea
- Day 3, Sitka
- Day 4, Juneau, Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier
- Day 5, Icy Strait Point
- Day 6, Ketchikan (Ward Cove)
- Day 7, Victoria, British Columbia
- Day 8, Debarkation Day – Seattle
Destination CLEs requires advance notification of food allergies and dietary restrictions to properly prepare for your trip.
Expect late-summer conditions with daytime temperatures around 50–65°F (10–18°C), cooler mornings and evenings, occasional rain or drizzle, and crisp breezes on open decks or near glaciers.
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A water-resistant jacket or raincoat for unpredictable Alaskan weather
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Comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven surfaces and outdoor excursions
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Compact umbrella or packable rain jacket for light rain or drizzle
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Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for sunny days on deck or shore
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Layers such as sweaters or fleeces for cooler mornings, evenings, or open decks
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Smart-casual attire for onboard dining, lectures, and evening activities
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Optional: dressier outfit if attending specialty dining or shipboard events
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Optional: binoculars for wildlife and glacier viewing during excursions
While onboard, casual attire is recommended, including for CLE sessions and daily activities. There are no formal nights—dressing up for dinner or specialty restaurants is optional. Hats, swimsuits, and tank tops are not permitted in dining areas.
It is recommended to bring some U.S. dollars for tipping, souvenirs, or small purchases in ports. Most purchases onboard the ship are cashless—credit or debit cards are accepted throughout the ship.
Currency Name: U.S. Dollar (USD) | Symbol: $
Cash: Small bills ($1–$20) are handy for tips, port taxis, or small vendor purchases. Most Alaska ports and excursion operators accept cash, though larger shops and restaurants often take cards.
ATMs: Widely available in major towns like Juneau, Ketchikan, Sitka, and Victoria. Most accept international debit and credit cards.
Credit Cards: Visa, Mastercard, and often American Express are accepted onboard, at cruise terminals, hotels, and larger restaurants or shops. Carry some cash as a backup.
Currency Exchange: Rarely needed since Alaska and Canada (Victoria, BC) accept U.S. dollars. Local currency (Canadian dollars) may be used in Victoria; small exchange counters or ATMs are available there if desired.
150 minutes of Wi-Fi for 2 devices is included.
Wi‑Fi is available throughout Norwegian Bliss, including staterooms and public areas. Smartphones can be used on Wi‑Fi for messaging and internet calls, helping you avoid high roaming fees. Cellular service at sea is available but expensive, so relying on the ship’s Wi‑Fi is recommended.
Stateroom phones can be used for ship-to-shore calls, but charges apply per minute.
Check with your phone service provider about coverage and international calling options before you sail.
Alaska and its communities value friendliness, respect, and environmental awareness, so being mindful of local customs will enhance your experience. A warm greeting or simple “hello” is appreciated, and polite, courteous behavior is expected in shops, restaurants, and public spaces. Many ports and natural areas emphasize conservation and wildlife safety—stay on marked trails, maintain a safe distance from animals, and follow guidelines provided by guides or park staff. Tipping is customary in Alaska for services such as dining, taxis, and excursions, and crew onboard the ship rely on gratuities as part of their compensation. Photography is generally welcome but always ask permission before taking pictures of people or private property. Finally, Alaskans take cleanliness and environmental responsibility seriously, so dispose of trash properly or carry it with you when bins are unavailable. Being aware of these practices will help you enjoy your cruise and shore visits respectfully and responsibly.
