Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) announced its plans to resume cruise operations from the US, as of Aug. 7, 2021 with 11 week-long voyages from Seattle to Alaska, one of the company’s top destinations.
The news follows a waiver of the Passenger Vessel Services Act, which allows US vessels to resume cruising to Alaska upon obtaining the pending Conditional Sailing Certificate from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Looks like conditions are now ripe for fully vaccinated passengers to board NCL ships and explore once again the Last Frontier and all its beauty.
“Seattle has always been our second home, and we are beyond excited to return to this incredible homeport and to once again bring our guests to Alaska,” said Harry Sommer, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line. “Twenty-one years ago, we were the first to offer itineraries to Alaska from Seattle, and we continue to celebrate a strong relationship with our partners in this spectacular destination. We have been waiting for a very long time to announce a resumption of cruising from the U.S. We are so proud to be sailing for the first time in over a year from our special homeport of Seattle to the breathtaking state of Alaska.”
This summer, travelers will be able to board Norwegian Bliss on 11 week-long adventurous voyages to Alaska, starting Aug. 7, 2021 through Oct. 16, 2021, with seven to 13 hours of port time in Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan and Icy Strait Point, Alaska. On select voyages, guests will also be able to take in the serene views of Glacier Bay National Park or the Holkham Bay Glacier Fjord.
Another benefit for passengers is the opening of the second cruise pier in Icy Strait Point, which Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. developed together with Alaska Native-owned Huna Totem Corporation. Recently expanded, the Wilderness Landing on Icy Strait Point caters to visitors looking to enjoy individualized experiences with the Alaskan land, wildlife and native peoples. The pier includes retail and restaurants, as well as shore excursions like the world’s largest ZipRider zip line, best accessible coastal brown bear viewing platforms in Southeast Alaska, whale watching, fishing excursions and treks, as well as Alaska’s first gondola connecting both piers with the Historic Hoonah Packing Company Cannery.
According to Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy, “Alaskans are ready to welcome visitors from across the globe to Alaska, where they can personally experience the scenic and cultural wonders that can only be found here. I am grateful for the teamwork and thoughtful planning that many people from Norwegian Cruise Line, Alaska’s local governments, our congressional delegation, tourism industry, and the state’s public health team put into preparing for a cruise ship season that promises to be both safe and rewarding for everyone.”
