Cruising Connection by Jill

Alaskan cruise season out of Seattle is actually pretty short 👀

So when certain weeks still have availability, that’s usually where you’ll find some of the better deals—especially if your dates are flexible.

If you’ve been thinking about Alaska, being open to different weeks can make a big difference in both options and pricing ✨

✨✈️ Big Cruise News from Your Favorite Travel Insider!✈️✨

Pack your bags and raise a glass—Norwegian Cruise Line just leveled up their fan-favorite Free at Sea with the all-new Free at Sea Plus! 🛳️🍾

For just $49.99 per person, per day, you’ll unlock over $3,000 in premium perks that make your vacation feel extra first-class. Here’s what’s waiting onboard:

🌴 Sip Like a VIP – Upgraded Beverage Package
Enjoy everything in Free at Sea™ plus top-shelf spirits, premium wines & champagne, Starbucks®, energy drinks, juices, bottled water—and an unlimited open bar at Great Stirrup Cay. Cheers to that! 🥂

🍽️ Dine in Style – Upgraded Dining Perks
Already love the specialty dining? Now enjoy 50% off cover charges on additional specialty dining nights. More gourmet moments, less guilt! 😋

📶 Stream at Sea – Upgraded Wi-Fi
Stay connected with unlimited high-speed streaming Wi-Fi powered by Starlink—yes, the fastest internet at sea. Work, stream, scroll, repeat.

💼 Service Charges? Covered!
Daily prepaid service charges are now included

📅 Important Booking Scoop
• Available to purchase starting December 18, 2025
• Must already have Free at Sea or More at Sea Beverage & Dining
• Can be added after your cruise is booked and deposited
• Valid for sailings February 1, 2026 and beyond

📊 A handy comparison chart is attached so you can see all the upgrades at a glance.

Ready to cruise smarter, sip better, and travel happier? Let’s get you booked! 🌊✨

🚂 Took a ride on the Snoqualmie steam train this weekend — and yes, steam, not the usual yellow diesel! The weather didn’t exactly cooperate (cold, windy, and rainy ☔), but it was still a fun little outing.

The train has windows, but that meant no great scenery pics for me 😅 and of course, I was on the wrong side to see Snoqualmie Falls, the water power generator, and a deep cavern the conductor talked about. (Tip: sit on the street side, not the depot side!)

The ride reverses to the museum for a 30-minute stop, then heads up to North Bend before returning to the Snoqualmie Depot. The weather did clear up later, and the area itself is super cute and walkable with plenty of shops and places to eat. Definitely worth checking out — especially on a nicer day! 🌧️➡️🌤️