Vancouver to Victoria

Flying from Anchorage to Vancouver presents some truly spectacular mountain vistas from the plane windows. A fond farewell and reminder of the majesty we've witnessed these past few weeks.



Vancouver is really lovely and seems like we've been away from here so much longer than the only two weeks it's been since we sailed. Our dear friend, Kimberly, is flying in from Orlando and meeting us this evening. We are so excited to have her join. Dinner in downtown Vancouver at a recommended pub begins our "catch up" session and the three of us rest extremely well this first evening after all of our long journeys to reach each other.


Morning brings more beautiful skies and the 1 and 1/2 hour ferry ride to Victoria is absolutely breathtaking. Mountains reign all around the crystal clear waters of the Sound and Orca whales are spotted often. A good sign of what's in store.


We are all in awe of the beauty surrounding us everywhere. The excitement is mounting as we plan for our fun week ahead!

Sail Away

An amazingly beautiful drive from Seattle brings us over the border into Vancouver this morning safely. After a little trepidation regarding customs, finding the port successfully and securing the Vue for the next few weeks, all challenges are met, and stepping on Holland America's Volendam goes quite smoothly.


We can't believe it! We're finally on our way to Alaska!












Finding a spot on the Lido Deck for the obligatory first drink, we take in our surroundings, get acquainted with the ship and finally settle into our room we'll inhabit for the next three days heading through the Inside Passage. As our continuing luck has presented, we enjoy our upgraded balcony room with relish. The extra room is gleefully welcomed and we are excited about the views we'll be able to experience from the privacy of our little haven.





We had been told that the sail away from Vancouver toward the Inside Passage was beautiful and we were informed correctly. The rain that was predicted, of course, stays away and we are afforded a serene and truly breathtaking departure. The beauty that unfolds along this route lives up to expectations and we indulge in one more toast as this adventure begins.