We take you out on our balcony aboard the Ovation of the Seas for front-row views of the mighty Hubbard Glacier, and share our honest thoughts on whether an Alaska cruise is truly right for you!
Welcome back to the vlog! Eric, Beth, and Devin are continuing our unforgettable 7-night northbound Alaska cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas.
Instead of docking at a port today, we had a dedicated scenic cruising day heading deep into Disenchantment Bay to witness the legendary Hubbard Glacier ([00:12]). Along the way, we sat down to answer one of the biggest questions we get asked: Should you actually book an Alaska cruise, or stick to the warm beaches of the Caribbean? ([02:17])
1. Sailing Into the Ice Field & Freezing Bow Views
As our ship glided closer to Disenchantment Bay, the temperature dropped fast and the water around us transformed into a massive field of floating sea ice ([00:23]).
Unlike most glaciers around the world that are receding, the Hubbard Glacier is actually advancing—still actively pushing forward into the bay ([00:32])!
Eric first headed up to the open front deck of the ship to capture the view straight ahead ([01:04]). While the sight of the glacier looming through the fog was spectacular, the freezing wind blowing straight off the ice field was no joke—especially when you forget to wear a heavy jacket ([01:17])!
2. Why a Balcony Stateroom is 100% Worth It
After braving the open bow, we retreated back to our port-side Junior Suite balcony, which turned out to be the ultimate VIP viewing spot ([01:25]).
As the captain slowly rotated the Ovation of the Seas in the bay, our balcony swung around to face the glacier directly ([01:30]). Staying dry under the overhang while looking out at the deep, vibrant blue chunks of ice floating past the ship was surreal ([02:02]).
If you listen closely out on the balcony, you can actually hear the sea ice creaking and popping in the water—almost like ice melting in a giant cup, echoed across an entire bay ([03:42])! You can also spot dark streaks in the snow and ice where the massive glacier has scraped up rock and sediment while grinding down the mountains ([03:31]).
3. Up Close with the 30-Story Hubbard Glacier
Even from five miles away, the Hubbard Glacier looks deceptively close because of its sheer, mind-blowing scale ([04:21]).
The Size: The ice wall towers up to 30 stories tall above the waterline ([05:56])!
Glacier Calving: When chunks of ice break off the front of the glacier (known as calving) and crash into the bay, those "little" pieces of ice can easily be the size of a three-story building ([05:51]).
Wildlife: If you keep your eyes peeled along the floating ice chunks, you can also spot harbor seals hanging out in the bay ([06:02]).
4. Honest Review: Is an Alaska Cruise Right for You?
While taking in the views of the glacier and the snow-capped mountains, Eric and Beth shared their candid takeaways on who should—and shouldn't—book an Alaska cruise:
Eric’s Take ([02:22]): If you love nature, towering mountains, and cooler summer temperatures, an Alaska cruise is hands-down one of the best vacations you will ever take. Waking up to majestic mountains outside your window every single day is something you can hardly quantify with words ([02:50]). However, if your idea of a cruise is 80-to-90-degree sunshine, high humidity, and lounging by the pool every afternoon, stick to a Caribbean cruise ([02:30])!
Beth’s Take ([04:37]): Cruising is the absolute best way to see a wide range of Alaska in one trip, and I wouldn't think twice about doing it again ([05:14]). However, you must prepare for the weather! Even in the middle of June, temperatures at the glacier dropped into the 30s and 40s, and because Southeast Alaska is essentially a temperate rainforest climate, we experienced rain almost every single day ([04:58]).
💡 PRO TIP: Pack More Layers (And Real Gloves!) Don't underestimate the chill when sailing near a glacier! Even with wrist warmers on, Eric regretted not bringing a full pair of winter gloves out on the balcony ([07:35]). Pack waterproof outer layers, thermal base layers, a warm hat, and real gloves—even for a June sailing!
The Final Verdict
Seeing the scope of nature up close at the Hubbard Glacier in Disenchantment Bay was a true bucket-list moment ([06:33]). If you pack the right cold-weather gear and come ready for adventure, an Alaska cruise will completely blow you away.
Have you ever cruised to Alaska, or what is your favorite port and itinerary? Let us know in the comments below—we did a northbound route this time, and we might just try a round-trip itinerary next ([03:18])!
Want to hear the sea ice creaking and see the 30-story wall of the Hubbard Glacier for yourself? Watch our full vlog on YouTube right here:
👉 Should YOU Take an Alaska Cruise? | Hubbard Glacier on Ovation of the Seas ❄️
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