Why You Should Definitely Go on an NCL Encore Alaskan Cruise”

1. Scenery You Truly Can’t Get Anywhere Else

The views of Glacier Bay, snow-capped mountains, misty forests, and endless water are breathtaking—especially from a balcony or open deck. It’s hard to overstate how stunning it is.

2. Wildlife Sightings (When They Happen) Are Magical

Spotting whales from your ship or seeing eagles soar overhead hits differently when you're bundled up on a moving balcony with nothing but mountains in sight. We were able to see whales, seals, otters, bald eagles, mountain goats, and bears.

3. A Floating Hotel Means No Packing and Repacking

You get to see multiple Alaskan towns and landmarks without ever changing hotels, booking flights, or dragging your suitcase down cobblestone streets.

4. Glacier Viewing From Your Own Balcony

Watching glaciers calve and mountains glide by while sipping coffee wrapped in a blanket? That’s an experience you’ll remember forever—and it's only possible on a cruise.

5. The Cruise Itself Feels Like a Vacation Within a Vacation

Even when you’re not in port, the ship offers entertainment, dining, pools, hot tubs, lounges, and incredible views. You get downtime and adventure in one trip.

6. Well-Organized and Easy for First-Timers

If you’re new to Alaska or cruising in general, NCL makes it simple. Excursions are easy to book, the app is user-friendly, and logistics are mostly stress-free.

7. You Get a Taste of Multiple Towns

From the charm of Skagway to the lush surroundings of Ketchikan, each port is unique—and cruising gives you a sample of them all, with no extra planning required.

8. Great for Multi-Generational Travel

It’s a perfect option if you’re traveling with older parents or kids. Everyone can do their own thing during the day and come together for meals and stories in the evening.

9. The Food Was Solid, with Upscale Options Available

The included dining was decent across the board—there’s plenty of variety, and you definitely won’t go hungry. If buffet-style eating isn’t your thing (think Piccadilly-level quality), you’ve got several included sit-down restaurants like Taste, Savor, and the Manhattan Room, each offering daily rotating menus. The American Diner serves casual comfort food—comparable in quality to a good Steak ’n Shake—and The Local Bar & Grill offers wings, burgers, salads, and other late-night favorites. If you’re looking for something a bit more elevated, NCL also offers specialty dining options (for an additional fee) that add an upscale touch to your experience.

10. Friendly, Helpful Staff Make a Big Difference

From room stewards to restaurant hosts, the staff was consistently kind, attentive, and willing to help. Their friendliness really added to the overall experience and made the ship feel welcoming from day one.