After two full days in Denali, it was time to depart.  After some last minute arrangements so the bus picked us up at our hotel, we were on our way.  It was another clear day and we could see the mountain from the bus.  We stopped at Talkeetna Lodge late in the morning.  It’s not near anything, but we picked up some more passengers and had a short break.  The view out the deck of the lodge was spectacular on such a clear day.

We arrived in Anchorage in time for lunch and then we’re on our way to meet the ship at Whitier.  There is a single tunnel that we need to be at at 4:30.  It reverses direction every half hour so we have no need to rush.  We stop for a couple photo opportunities and then arrive in Whitier.  It’s sunny which we’re told is exceptionally rare.

We board the ship quickly, find our room, and then go for dinner. Following the emergency drill, we go to the room to unpack and sleep.   We sleep in and catch up on sleep. 

It’s fogged in and we’re at sea all day.   This is perfect for us- we sleep in, eat, take a nap, eat, catch the evening show, and go to sleep again.  We’re able to explore the ship and get acclimated to life on the cruise ship.  We’re finally rested and ready for tomorrow’s big day-sailing in Glacier Bay.