We did the Grand Alaska tour in May 23. We can't say enough about the marvelous tour director, Michael Furillo. The land journey week was exceptional. We were early in the touring year so the weather was sometimes chilly. I bought one of the fleece lined rain repellent jackets available at the Princess Lodges for...24.95. The help at the lodges were new and young people from all over the world so sometimes we had to be patient with service but they will be up to speed now! The buses are very comfortable and while traveling the tour director will keep you fascinated by his history knowledge and great sense of humor. Some people put a couple of "Tide pods" or a baggie of detergent in their luggage. At the resort, we had washing machines but not soap. We had enough clothing that we did not need the laundry. Your camera will be your best friend; the views are magnificent. If you are thinking of upgrading your iPhone this would be the time to do it. People share their photos on "WhatsApp" and the pictures taken with the iPhone 13 and 14's were amazing. We were not as impressed with Princess as a cruise line. This was the Grand Princess and I think one of the older ships. Our main complaint was the constant hawking of souvenir drink cups, the wine-tasting event, and the cocktail program. The cocktail program allowed for 15 drinks a day per person...you would miss Alaska if you drank that much! The food in the two specialty restaurants was wonderful and our tour included dinner in those two venues. Essentially the tour group stays pretty much together on the cruise so you are sort of a "cruise within a cruise"...Michael always had a space set aside for our dinners and we got to know each other as great travel mates and friends...Have a fabulous time!
