Multi-Generation Family Cruise
By Beverly Fonner
It had been a plan to travel to Alaska with our children and grandchildren. However, every year, there seemed to be a conflict and although disappointed, we would look forward to trying to make it happen the next year.
Finally, there were no conflicts. We cleared our schedules and made reservations on UnCruise on the advice of our dear friend, Ted Scull for 2020.
And you know what happened.
But this past summer, 2021, we coordinated our calendars and booked optimistically for June and IT HAPPENED!!
A very special small ship
From the minute we boarded it became instantly clear, that this was a very special small ship that would provide us with a memorable week in Alaska.
We were a group of seven — two grandparents, two children, one daughter-in-law and two grandchildren.
Multi-Generation Family Cruise with UnCruise in Alaska. * Photos: Beverly Fonner
The crew was amazing
From the start, the crew of the 36-passenger Safari Explorer was welcoming, informative and kind!
On our multi-generation family cruise, our days were filled with options for activities to fit each individual’s capabilities and wishes.
So many options available for our small ship with a small guest list and extraordinary crew. The crew and staff were ready to answer questions and fill our requests.
In fact, most of the time they had anticipated our wishes and we continued to be enchanted by our UnCruise adventure.
Family bonding time
As the week passed (much too quickly) it was interesting and magical to experience how close our family became each passing day as we all shared our fun experiences when we gathered for dinner.
There was much laughter, many giggles and embellished story telling.
And looking around the dining room, I noticed other families sharing their days with smiles and laughter too. We weren’t the only family on board, the guest list included other families having a great time just like us.
Lots to do on our multi-generation family cruise
There was a choice of activities to select from depending on ability and curiosity.
We were in a constant state of AWE as we observed the Alaskan wildlife that included grizzlies, eagles floating by on ice chunks and everywhere, walruses and more!
Sometimes our wildlife viewing was from the vantage point of a kayak or paddle board.
The bridge was open all day most days and sightings of wildlife were announced over the speaker so we could all run to the front deck to check it out. Sometimes in our bathrobes.
A most memorable UnCruise multi-generation family cruise in Alaska. * Photos: Beverly Fonner
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Getting your feet (& everything else) wet
The last day, when all passengers were “invited” to plunge into the icy water, was the climax of the week-long activities.
Most guests gathered to leap into the cold water followed by optional time in the “hot tub.”
Being one of the senior passengers, my husband and I passed on this event. But we loved cheering our family on watching them leap. Such fun.
We also enjoyed watching an amazing display of waterskiing show by many of the crew. Really wonderful.
A get-together like no other
This wonderful adventure was a very special gathering of our family unlike any other.
We were together on a small ship for one week, dined together on wonderful meals, and were entertained by crew with talks following dinner or exercise for the early risers each morning.
And I must add that cell phones were not around except to photograph the events of this special week.
Loved it.
And my granddaughter loved it too!
“My trip to Alaska was so fun. We saw so many cool and interesting creatures and plants. I went on a lot of amazing hikes and small boat rides, along with kayaking and paddleboarding.
My kayaking adventure was incredible! We went around a whole island 🙂
The food was just incredible and the meals, snacks and pastries were delicious!! YUMMY 🙂
I would totally go on this cruise again, and I recommend it for everyone who loves outdoor adventures and wildlife.
Ok, well that’s my review! I love you so much Bevy!!!! ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ❤️
Love, Emily ❤️”
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HEIDI SARNA
I am so happy that the Fonner family had such a great time, and it is not easy to satisfy three generations with a week of group activities, but apparently UnCruise knows how to pull it off, in spades. Thank you both for sharing your positive comments with our readers.