Howdy from Texas! We're also on the 7/27 Southbound on the Island. Will be our 3rd time for Voyage of the Glaciers. Obviously, we enjoy it so much we just keep repeating! Hints/Highlights:
--That's a good suggestion to sit on right side of train, although the windows are so large, the visibility is good from either side. Last time we were on left side and would have missed the Dall sheep on the mountainside if we'd not been able to look straight up out the windows!
--If you arrive in Whittier in time (train arrives at 12:20), HIGHLY recommend the Major Marine glacier/sightseeing cruise into Blackstone Bay. The bay is rimmed with breathtaking waterfalls and a number of glaciers--two of which are very active! Departs at 1:15 and returns at 6:30. You'll have time to board the ship and check in before heading over to the Major Marine dock.
--There is plenty to do in the ports. I'd suggest reading the message boards for individual reviews. One thing we ALWAYS do is the whale watching cruise in Juneau (Auke Bay)--that's an absolute MUST!
--If you're interested in whale watching, recommend buying one of the books on cruising the Inside Passage that notes the best areas to watch for whales along your route. Some of the areas we always see whales: entering/leaving Glacier Bay, all around Juneau (approaching via Lynn Canal very early a.m. and for several hours after leaving Juneau while cruising Stephens Passage) and around Johnstone Strait (mainly Orcas) in B.C.
--Good binoculars are essential--take them with you everywhere! Go prepared for warm, cold, dry and wet weather!
Hope you folks enjoy it as much as we do!
