Day of Disembarkment

Ah, that day finally came. Our time in Alaska has now come to a close and we are back in Seattle, Washington. Before our group left the ship, one final picture on the main stairs.

Every one was in a great mood and ready to head back to their homes.

And, thus, ends another wonderful experience and trip to the great state of Alaska!

Stay tuned. Dianne's sister mentioned recently that she would like to take a trip to----

you guessed it Alaska! Dianne's response--we'll go with you and your husband! That would be trip number five. I think I hear my luggage, camera case and camera equipment calling my name!

Ketchikan, Alaska

Our last port was Ketchikan, a small town which is famous for its "Creek Street", former brothel during the gold rush era. Ketchikan is unique in Alaska since its airport is a ferry boat ride across the inlet of water!

Two unique events took place while in Ketchikan and both had to do with salmon. The salmon were running late in Alaska this year. But, we saw for the first time on this cruise salmon running in the stream near Creek Street. It's amazing to watch these beautiful fish "sit" stationery in the water. What an amazing abilitiy.

The second salmon happening was watching a young boy fishing for salmon next to the boat slips. He worked hard to snare the fish, and began the labor intensive task of reeling his catch to the slip area. As he moved the fish closer to the slip, his dad brought the net to capture the prey. You guessed it. As the father gathered the salmon in the net, he accidently cut the line and the salmon excaped for another day. The crowd watch was wanting the son the push the dad into the water for that mistake!

Back onboard the ms Zaandam, we were pleasantly surprised that Holland American Lines has been raising money for breast cancer research, called On Deck For The Cure. Since Dianne's mother died of cancer, she purchased her t-shirt and joined the others to walk five miles on the deck in honor of her mother. Such a wonderful cause and idea for cruise ship passengers.

This night was the last night all the passengers would be onboard. (Our following night we would be porting in Victoria, B.C.). With that in mind, it was dress up night for the final dinner onboard.

The dinning area passengers were entertained by the wait staff with juggling act and singing. A wonderful night to end with the midnight buffet and the orchestra quartet playing.

Another night's rest, a full day of sailing at sea and porting in Victoria, B.C. early evening for approximately four hours.