We awoke just as we pulled into port. After getting ready for the day, we headed to the buffet for breakfast. I arrived in the dining room just in time to see the fresh scrambled eggs being prepared, so I helped myself to some, along with bacon, hash browns, and fruit. After eating, we returned to our room to grab our rain gear and backpacks as it was raining outside. Disembarking from the ship was smooth, and we entered the city center. After taking the bus to Walmart to purchase essentials, I picked up an adorable Alaskan teddy bear, which I named Eira, meaning ‘snow’ in Welsh. Additionally, I got a t-shirt, hat, gloves, and a deep conditioner for my hair, which needs extra care after being bleached and dyed red. After returning to the ship to drop off our purchases, we ventured out again.
We stopped off at the Ketchikan Discovery Center and spent time learning about the area’s cultural and natural history. We listened to the captivating history of Alaska and watched a documentary on the Tongass National Forest. I found it all fascinating and gained some new insights. After that, we braved the rain to visit Creek Street and capture some memorable moments with our cameras. We were looking forward to visiting the Dolly’s House Museum. After exploring Creek Street, we realized that the tour accepts cash only. We plan to revisit next week when we are back in Ketchikan.
As the ship’s departure time approached, we headed back on board and returned to our room to remove our rain gear and stow our backpacks. Afterward, we went to the ship’s pizza restaurant for lunch. I ordered the pizza capriccioso, and Kel and Tommy made the same choice. For dessert, we enjoyed tiramisu. Following lunch, we relaxed in a lounge with comfortable sofas and tables, where we played the game Ticket to Ride. I enjoy playing that game; it’s so much fun. I came in second place, but Tommy outperformed us both. After playing, Tommy and Kel became tired, so we went back to the room to unwind. Tommy and Kel are currently asleep while I’m here writing.
Later in the evening, we enjoyed a delightful Italian dinner in the main dining room, where I treated myself to some delicious lasagna, shrimp, and scallops. Following dinner, Kel and I savored London Fog (Earl Grey tea with milk) while listening to music while Tommy was busy taking pictures on the deck. Afterward, Kel retired early, and Tommy and I discovered a bar where we enjoyed a drink and listened to live piano music. Feeling the exhaustion creeping in, we eventually returned to our room, both ready for a good night’s sleep.
Tomorrow, we will be in Juneau.
