Normal
We were portside going northbound on our first cruise and were not disappointed -- Sunrises and sunsets wont really be an issue because the rooms have "blackout" drapery. As you go further north, you will eventually arrive at midnight and it is still light enough to read fine print outside - We took midnight pictures very night - a cool progression in our photo album. While the sun dips below the horizon, actual darkness doesn't happen (during waking hours) as you head north.With that said, I was insistant that we be starboard side on our second cruise. I found that the scenery is much more dramatic (big snow covered mountain peaks with hanging glaciers on the mainland) the further north you go. There are lush tree-covered, rugged islands on the portside while you are in the Inside Passage. When the ship leaves the inside passage on your northbound cruise you will only see ocean out a portside window (maybe two days out of seven). It all depends how much time you will spend in your room/on your balcony... Port side will probably have the longest balcony views of the Margerie GlacierIf I go back (when I go back) I will probably want a starboard side room again. IF IT IS EASY TO CHANGE, I would, but I probably wouldn't settle for a lesser-grade cabin. Again, I don't think you would be disappointed with a portside room -- especially if it is your first time! Alaska is SO AWESOME! Sorry I ramble to much. You are just going to love this trip!
We were portside going northbound on our first cruise and were not disappointed -- Sunrises and sunsets wont really be an issue because the rooms have "blackout" drapery. As you go further north, you will eventually arrive at midnight and it is still light enough to read fine print outside - We took midnight pictures very night - a cool progression in our photo album. While the sun dips below the horizon, actual darkness doesn't happen (during waking hours) as you head north.
With that said, I was insistant that we be starboard side on our second cruise. I found that the scenery is much more dramatic (big snow covered mountain peaks with hanging glaciers on the mainland) the further north you go. There are lush tree-covered, rugged islands on the portside while you are in the Inside Passage. When the ship leaves the inside passage on your northbound cruise you will only see ocean out a portside window (maybe two days out of seven). It all depends how much time you will spend in your room/on your balcony... Port side will probably have the longest balcony views of the Margerie Glacier
If I go back (when I go back) I will probably want a starboard side room again. IF IT IS EASY TO CHANGE, I would, but I probably wouldn't settle for a lesser-grade cabin. Again, I don't think you would be disappointed with a portside room -- especially if it is your first time! Alaska is SO AWESOME!
Sorry I ramble to much. You are just going to love this trip!
