You are invited!
The YAZ Cruise: Alaska Edition
Who & What We Will Be Celebrating;
You are officially invited to slay the seas with us on a once-in-a-lifetime voyage aboard Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas, sailing from Vancouver, BC to Seward (Anchorage), Alaska. Pack your sequins, your sass, and your sea legs—it’s going to be glam from bow to stern.
Booking Resources
Already Booked?
Seven Nights. Endless Looks. Iconic Memories.
Cruise Details
- Date: May 15, 2026 – May 22, 2026
- Length: 7 Nights • 8 Days
- Ship: Ovation of the Seas
- Departure Port: Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Arrival Port: Seward, AK, USA
Itinerary
Cruise Day 2 – Day at Sea
Time to werk the waves—lounging by the pool, sipping something sparkly, or exploring every glam corner of the ship. The ocean is your runway today.
Pacific Ocean
May 16, 2026 · All Day
Cruise Day 4 – Ketchikan, Alaska
Known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” this colorful waterfront town serves up rich Native culture, vibrant totems, and adventures wrapped in small-town charm. Here are some of the excursions available at this port:
Ketchikan, Alaska
May 18, 2026 · Docked 7AM – 4PM
Cruise Day 5 – Sitka, Alaska
Where Russian history meets rugged wilderness. Explore seaside trails, spot bald eagles, or savor fresh seafood with postcard-perfect mountain backdrops. Here are some of the excursions available at this port:
- Sitka Historic Downtown District Walking Tour
- Wildlife Expedition Cruise, Homestead Adventure & Treats
- Wildlige & Otter Spotting with Alaskan Canapés
- Sheet’ka Treetop Aerial Adventure
- Sea Otter and Wildlife Quest
- Best of Sitka
- Sea Otters, Raptors and Bears Oh My
- Discover Fortress of the Bear
- Alaska Bear and Silver Bay Homestead
- Science in Sitka with a Taste of Alaska
Sitka, Alaska
Cruise Day 6 – Skagway, Alaska
Join us for our annual spring meetup to connect with community members and enjoy some seasonal activities. Here are some of the excursions available at this port:
- White Pass Scenic Railway
- Glacier and Sled Dog Experience by Helicopter
- Skagway Byt Helicopter & Glacier Hike
- To the Summit!
- Gold Fever & Alaskan Sled Dogs
- Grizzly Falls Ziplining Expedition
- Klondike Summit and Historic City Tour
- White Pass Railway and Skagway Highlight
- White Pass Railroad & Klondike Highway Combination
- Rainforest Bicycle Tour
Skagway, Alaska
Cruise Day 7 – Hubbard Glacier, Alaska
An icy giant stretching 76 miles—watch it shimmer, crack, and roar as you glide past nature’s most jaw-dropping runway of blue and white. Here is the excursions available on this day:
Hubbard Glacier, Alaska
The Quantum Class Ship
Ovation of The Seas
She’s not just a ship—she’s the stage. With skydiving simulators, robot bartenders, panoramic lounges, and chic staterooms, Ovation of the Seas is where glaciers meet glamour and every hallway doubles as a catwalk.
13
Restaurants
14
Pools & Hot Tubs
15
Bars & Lounges
16
Decks
Cabins
Pick the vibe that fits your trip. Inside is the best value if you’ll be out exploring all day. Oceanview adds natural light and scenery without the balcony price. Balcony (our pick) gives you a private front-row seat to Alaska—perfect for coffee with glaciers. Suites offer extra space and elevated perks; ask Minnie for specifics.
Prices are per person (based on two guests). A $250 per person deposit holds your spot; final payment is due 90 days before sailing (Feb 6, 2026). Want to be near friends, prefer mid-ship for less motion, or need an accessible room? Tell Minnie and she’ll match you to the right cabin.
Interior
$690
Per Person (Based on Double Occupancy)
A chic and cozy retreat with two twin beds that convert to a Royal King, full bathroom. Some feature connecting layouts for friends and family, while others offer a Virtual Balcony—a nearly floor-to-ceiling HD screen streaming real-time ocean views.
Ocean View
$1,085
Per Person (Based on Double Occupancy)
Bright and inviting with two twin beds that convert to a Royal King, sofa sitting area, and full bathroom. Choose a classic oceanview window or upgrade to a Spacious Oceanview with a panoramic forward-facing window and extra room to lounge.
RECOMMENDED Option
Balcony
$1,221
Per Person (Based on Double Occupancy)
Enjoy fresh air and private outdoor space with two twin beds that convert to a Royal King, sofa sitting area, and full bathroom. Options include standard or connecting layouts, some with partially obstructed views, and others with extra-large balconies for even more room to unwind.
Suite
$2,399
Per Person (Based on Double Occupancy)
The ultimate upgrade for space, style, and perks. From Jr. Suites with roomy balconies to multi-level Suites with panoramic views, suites offer expansive living areas, spa-like baths, and private balconies perfect for entertaining or soaking in Alaska’s scenery.
*These are the lowest available price as of September 2, 2025. Prices can change. Most rates have a refundable $250 deposit, Minnie can verify wether your rate would be refundable or not.
Cabin Locations*
| People | Cabin |
|---|---|
| Alex & Seric | 9262 |
| Zillah & Ruben | 9270 |
*Cabins locations are only displayed if people elect to show that information.
Book with Minnie & Vacation To Go
We’ve partnered with Vacations To Go to make the booking process as smooth as possible.
Minnie can:
- Secure your cruise booking at exclusive Vacations To Go rates (better than Royal Caribbean’s direct pricing).
- Keep you on track with payment deadlines.
- Help with flights and travel arrangements if needed.
- Advise on cabin locations and dining details, so you can be near friends and part of the celebration.
💡 Note: You are welcome to book directly through Royal Caribbean if you prefer. But with Vacations To Go, Minnie’s services come at no extra cost—her commission is paid by Royal Caribbean.
Travel Agent’s
Contact Info
Name:
Minnie Tomlin
Email:
Phone:
1-800-514-9986 ext. 7894
Office Hours:
Mon-Fri – 8am-5pm (US Central Time)
Shore Excursions: How You’ll Explore Alaska
Alaska is all about big scenery and bucket-list moments—think glacier flyovers, whale watching, and the White Pass railway. You can book tours three ways: through Royal Caribbean (simple and integrated), through Vacations To Go(smaller groups, strong guarantees), or on your own (max flexibility, more DIY). Below we break down the pros/cons so you can pick what fits your style, budget, and comfort with logistics.
Tip: Popular tours sell out—especially flightseeing and dog-sled/helicopter combos—so book early and leave plenty of time to get back to the ship.
Royal Caribbean® Shore Excursions
Tours sold and operated (or contracted) by the cruise line
What it is: Tours sold and operated (or contracted) by the cruise line.
Pros
- Easiest + most integrated (book in the Cruise Planner, meet at the pier).
- The ship knows where you are; if a tour runs late, they’ll wait or coordinate.
- Simple cancellations if the ship skips a port or weather changes.
Cons
- Usually pricier than third-party and DIY.
- Larger groups, less customization.
- Popular tours can sell out early.
Best for: First-timers, families, long/remote trips from the port, tender ports, or “can’t-miss” bucket-list activities.
Vacations To Go-Vetted Excursions
Curated third-party tour—typically smaller groups and better pricing.
Pros
- Often up to ~40% less than cruise-line tours.
- Smaller groups (around a dozen guests) = more personal, less waiting.
- Back-to-ship guarantee: if a tour’s delay ever made you miss the ship, they cover hotels/meals/transport to the next port plus $1,000 per person.
- Lowest-price match + money-back if you’re not satisfied.
- Clear meet-up instructions and 24/7 traveler support.
Cons
- Not run by the cruise line (you’ll meet a local operator just off the pier).
- Not eligible for onboard credit.
- Limited spots on small-group departures—book early.
Best for: Price-sensitive travelers who still want quality, and anyone who prefers a more intimate experience.
Book Independently (DIY with Local Operators)
You find and book your own tour or explore on your own
What it is: You find and book your own tour or explore on your own.
Pros
- Often the lowest cost; widest choice of unique experiences.
- Full control over timing and pace.
- Great for simple, in-town exploring (walkable sights, short taxis).
Cons
- You own the timing—if you’re late, the ship won’t wait.
- Refunds/policies vary; more research and coordination on your part.
- Logistics (meeting point, transport, currency, language) are on you.
- Port/time changes can complicate plans.
Best for: Confident travelers doing close-to-port activities with generous time buffers.
Royal Caribbean – Drink Package Calculator
Results (per 7-night cruise)
No Package
$0.00
Classic Soda
$0.00
Savings vs No Package: $0.00
Refreshment
$0.00
Savings vs No Package: $0.00
Deluxe
$0.00
Savings vs No Package: $0.00
| Option | Total Cost | Savings vs No Package |
|---|
Tips & FAQ
Booking & Preparation
What’s included in my cruise fare, and what costs extra?
Included: accommodations, most dining venues, entertainment, kids’ programs, pools, and fitness center.
Extra: specialty dining, alcohol, Wi-Fi, shore excursions, spa services, and gratuities.
Do I need travel insurance?
Not required but highly recommended for medical emergencies, trip delays, or cancellations.
Is the Drinking Package worth it?
It depends on your habits. The Deluxe Beverage Package covers cocktails, beer, wine, specialty coffee, bottled water, and more. If you usually have 5–6 drinks a day (alcoholic or not), it often pays for itself. For lighter drinkers, or if you’re fine with included options like basic coffee, tea, juice, and water, paying per drink may cost less. Keep in mind Royal often runs pre-cruise sales on packages. (We are working on a calculator to help you decide)
How early should we arrive before the cruise?
Plan to get to Vancouver at least one day before embarkation. This gives you time to relax, avoid travel delays, and explore the city. On embarkation day, Royal Caribbean assigns arrival times, usually starting around 11:00 AM. Arriving the day before ensures you’re stress-free and ready to board on time.
What are the nearest airport to the ports?
Vancouver (Embarkation): Vancouver International Airport (YVR), about 30 minutes from the cruise terminal.
Seward (Debarkation): Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) is the closest major airport. It’s about 2.5–3 hours by car, bus, or train from the Seward cruise terminal.
When should I check in for my cruise?
Royal Caribbean allows online check-in starting 45 days before departure via the app or website. Doing it early helps you pick your boarding time.
Can I bring alcohol onboard?
You can bring one bottle of wine/champagne per adult at embarkation. Everything else—beer, liquor, and additional bottles—must be purchased on board.
What is the payment schedule?
A $250 deposit per person is due at booking. The remaining balance must be paid no later than 90 days before sailing (February 14, 2026). You can also make partial payments anytime before the deadline to spread out the cost.
Should I book flights through Royal Caribbean or on my own?
You can do either. Booking through Royal Caribbean’s Air2Sea program offers flexible fares, flight protection if there are delays, and easy transfers. Booking on your own may give you more control over airlines, times, and price. Many travelers compare both options before deciding. If you book your flight through Royal Caribbean, Minnie can help you as well.
On Board
I have allergies or dietary restriction, can that be accommodated?
Yes! Royal Caribbean accommodates most dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, low-sodium, kosher, and common food allergies. Just note your restrictions when booking and remind your server onboard—they’ll guide you to safe options at every meal.
What should I pack for Alaska?
Layers are key! Bring a mix of warm sweaters, waterproof jackets, comfortable shoes for walking, and accessories like hats and gloves for chilly deck time. Don’t forget binoculars for wildlife spotting and sunscreen for long daylight hours.
What entertainment and activities are included?
Plenty! Expect Broadway-style shows, live music, comedy acts, game shows, and themed parties. During the day, you’ll find trivia, dance classes, poolside fun, and activities like bumper cars, a rock-climbing wall, and the North Star viewing pod. All of this is included in your fare—no extra ticket required. Specialty classes, arcade games, and spa services may carry an additional cost.
Do I need to book excursions through Royal Caribbean?
No—you can book directly with Royal Caribbean or through independent tour operators in each port. Booking with Royal Caribbean gives you peace of mind (the ship will wait if an excursion runs late), while independent tours may be smaller groups or better priced. Many travelers mix both depending on the activity.
Will there be children on board?
Yes—unlike Virgin, Royal Caribbean is family-friendly, so you’ll see kids and teens around the ship. That said, there are plenty of adult-focused spaces to escape to, including the Solarium (18+) pool and lounge area, specialty restaurants, bars, and late-night venues. Royal also has a 1:00 AM curfew for guests under 18, and kids tend to be kept busy with their own supervised programs and clubs. So while you’ll notice families, there are still lots of spaces and times that feel very adult-only.
Do I need formalwear for the cruise?
Royal Caribbean has “dress your best” nights, but they’re more cocktail-chic than black-tie. Think nice dresses, jumpsuits, or slacks with a button-down. Otherwise, casual wear is perfectly fine throughout the cruise.
Do I need to book shows or dining in advance?
Some yes, some no. Main dining rooms and most shows don’t require reservations—just show up. But specialty restaurants, North Star, iFly skydiving, and certain theater productions do book up quickly, so it’s smart to reserve them in the Royal Caribbean app before sailing or early on embarkation day.
Is seasickness common on this route?
Alaska cruises are generally calmer than open-ocean routes since much of the sailing is through sheltered passages. That said, some areas can still be choppy. If you’re prone to motion sickness, bring remedies like Dramamine, Sea-Bands, or ask your doctor about patches. The ship also has stabilizers and onboard medical staff if needed.