Infinity for first timers

[uk sue]

we are off to Alaska on Infinity and it will be our first ever cruise. we travel often during the year but always do the independent thing, never packages or tours. so we are a bit cautious about being seen to be 'green' (hopefully not because of the roll of the waves!) we have prepaid our tips, so depending on the level of service may add to this and I am sure we will tip on the last day to the cabin guy/girl.

We have a balcony (concierge class) and to be honest I hate dressing up or even wearing a dress so I can see us eating in the cafes and in our room if necessary. What is dress code on Infinity in the main dining room please?

I have heard the tea and coffee generally are pretty bad, we like strong for both. Shall I stick to Cova coffee ?

Has anyone ever stayed on board at Sitka or Juneau just to get some peace and quiet. ? We are really taking this trip to see Alaska from the balcony of room - seems like fun. We are frequent travellers to Vancouver and USA and Europe but this trip will give us a break from driving and hopefully open a new world up to us. But I fear we are too set in our ways to do the whole socialising bit !! What shouldn't we miss whilst on board please ?

[uk sue]

we are off to Alaska on Infinity and it will be our first ever cruise. we travel often during the year but always do the independent thing, never packages or tours. so we are a bit cautious about being seen to be 'green' (hopefully not because of the roll of the waves!) we have prepaid our tips, so depending on the level of service may add to this and I am sure we will tip on the last day to the cabin guy/girl.

We have a balcony (concierge class) and to be honest I hate dressing up or even wearing a dress so I can see us eating in the cafes and in our room if necessary. What is dress code on Infinity in the main dining room please?

I have heard the tea and coffee generally are pretty bad, we like strong for both. Shall I stick to Cova coffee ?

Has anyone ever stayed on board at Sitka or Juneau just to get some peace and quiet. ? We are really taking this trip to see Alaska from the balcony of room - seems like fun. We are frequent travellers to Vancouver and USA and Europe but this trip will give us a break from driving and hopefully open a new world up to us. But I fear we are too set in our ways to do the whole socialising bit !! What shouldn't we miss whilst on board please ?

[shofer]

We have done Alaska with a balcony and loved it. The dress code for each evening will be posted in the "Daily" newspaper placed on you bed each evening for the next day. On boarding day,the paper will spell out the dress code for each evening of the cruise.

You are not required to wear a dress. Many wear slacks in the dining room. Jeans & shorts are not allowed. There is a very nice casual dining option in the buffet area every evening, but you have to make a reservation for it. There is a $2/pp charge which is just a tip for the waiters. Celebrity does not have a 24 hr buffet.

There is not really much to see in Sitka and it is a tender port. Juneau was great in that we docked at the pier and could come & go as we pleased.
There are kiosks right at the pier to take local tours and they are much cheaper than what the ship offers. Mendenhall Glacier was worth the trip. It is only 13 miles from the dock and quite interesting.

[LisaP]

From one fellow tea drinker to another...

Tea on Infinity was served with bags, both in the dining room and Cova Cafe. While that's not my preference, at least I was able to let it darken to my liking. There was a very good selection. We were not in Concierge Class, so I can't answer as to the special tea held one afternoon for those in this group.

On the other hand, my husband didn't care much for the coffee in either location.

[Karen Knowlton]

We found Sitka a delightful port, and if you go on your own, you may discover you will be missing the crowds. We had a wonderful time exploring the Russian Bishop's house, a National Park Service location, which is maybe 1/4 to 1/2 mile outside of town (walkable). It wasn't included on any tour, but was a real gem - a little museum devoted to the daily life of the Russian fur traders who first settled this area, plus the upstairs included the Orthodox bishop's own personal chapel, bedroom and large sitting/reception room. There were very few people there. If you have an interest in the history of the area, I'd recommend getting off the ship to explore a bit. You may still be able to return to the ship earlier than most excursions and enjoy some peace & quiet onboard, without missing out on what would be a new port for you.

[Karen Knowlton]

Forgot to mention, Juneau is very walkable as well, and you can discover some other aspects of Alaska, including a great view of the port from the cable-car tram operated by the Tlingit tribal corporation. If the weather is good and you don't have a strong fear of heights, I recommend it. At the top, the visitor center offers a short film on Tlingit culture, and there are some nice hiking trails in the woods. Again - good chance for some relative peace & quiet.

[uk sue]

Hey, thanks everyone. My first request for help and 4 answers within 24 hrs. you cruise people are a great bunch !

You must all have been cruise virgins at one time so you know how it feels !

[Karen Knowlton]

Everyone has a first time! Mine was a while ago now, but I still remember it. Have a great cruise!