Setting sail in majestic Alaska again this August, Norwegian Encore marked not only Norwegian Cruise Line’s return to the domestic destination but also the brand’s first voyage from the U.S. since the COVID-19 pandemic began — and it was a glorious resumption filled with celebrations of new port partnerships.
Thanks to a 2021-season waiver of the Passenger Vessel Services Act of 1886, which ordinarily requires all foreign-flagged passenger ships carrying guests between U.S. destinations to include a stop at a foreign port, Encore was able to bypass Canada — where cruise ships are currently prohibited. Sailing roundtrip from Seattle couldn’t have been easier, save for delays in pre-cruise testing.
As part of Norwegian’s Sail Safe program, all guests and crew must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to embark on cruises through Dec. 31, 2021, and as an added precaution, passengers must also be tested for COVID-19 at the pier before boarding. During this latter step, some had to wait upwards of three hours to embark, but hopefully things have since been streamlined.
Norwegian does not enforce onboard physical distancing or mask wearing, except for in Europe where onboard face coverings are required.
Off the ship, distancing and masking requirements are often still in place, mostly indoors for the time being, as largely determined by the Alaskan ports themselves. Our excellent itinerary was scheduled to include Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway, but due to rerouting for the medical evacuation of a passenger (unrelated to COVID-19), the ship had to forego the last destination.
Guests can enjoy go-kart racing onboard Norwegian Encore.
Credit: 2021 Jason LeppertUpdates at Alaskan Ports of Call
In Juneau, I visited Douglas Island for the first time. At a regional favorite — Louie's Douglas Inn — we enjoyed a tasting of unique smoked salmon bloody marys and Alaskan Brewing Co. beers.
At Icy Strait Point, the once-sleepy port of call has expanded to include a new pier for Norwegian, in addition to a gondola system connecting it to the central hub of buildings and activities, each inaugurated during our visit. Set to open in time for the 2022 season, a second aerial tram will offer quick and convenient access up the mountain to additional hiking trails, tours and the destination’s signature run of six parallel ziplines back down to the base.
As a change for previous visitors to Ketchikan, Norwegian is now docking at the newly opened Ward Cove, also celebrated with a ribbon cutting during our cruise. The former pulp mill now acts as a welcome center with shopping and snacks. The plan is to develop it further in the near future to include its own gondola up the adjacent hilltop, as well as attractions such as an alpine-style coaster and reservable cabins (think an Alaskan version of private Caribbean cabanas, but with fire pits and more). In the meantime, 15-minute transfers can be purchased to head to the main town.
One could say sailing toward Dawes Glacier was the cherry on top, but that’s really what Coco’s premium sundaes offer onboard. No one should miss the opportunity for the treats available at either, especially heading to the bow of the ship, which is opened during the scenic passage through Endicott Arm.
The bow of the ship is opened during the scenic passage through Endicott Arm.
Credit: 2021 Jason LeppertWhat to Do Onboard Norwegian Encore
When not enjoying the Alaskan scenery, Encore offers so much to do — from dining at a massive array of specialty restaurants (Onda by Scarpetta is a favorite Italian venue) to enjoying entertainment offerings (including the exceptional The Choir of Man show). Guests also love the ship’s signature go-kart racetrack and thrilling water slides.
For a more relaxing alternative, the thermal suite at the Mandara Spa is sublime, as is the expansive Observation Lounge, both of which offer wraparound views of Alaska. (If either is busy, consider lounging at the Garden Cafe buffet. It’s equally well-suited to taking in passing vistas, thanks to its floor-to-ceiling windows.)
No matter what clients want to do on or off the ship, Norwegian Encore is a fantastic cruise option to visit The Last Frontier.
The Details
Norwegian Cruise Line
