After a lovely, relaxing day at sea, we arrived in Torshavn, Faroe Island. Disembarkation was scheduled for 10am, but due to bad weather, we were delayed for a short time. Once we received the all clear, we boarded a tender and made the short trip to the island. The Faroe Islands is an archipelago and autonomous country within the Kingdom of Denmark and is situated between the Norwegian Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean. It is approximately halfway between Norway and Iceland, and about 200 mi north-north-west of mainland Scotland. Torshavn is the capital and largest city of the Faroe Islands. It is located in the southern part on the east coast of Stremoy. The name of the town means Thor’s Harbor and is likely named after the god of thunder and lightening in Norse mythology. The Vikings established their parliament on the Tinganes Peninsula in 850 CE and has remained the capital ever since. Tinganes, the old part of town, it is still made up of small wooden houses covered with turf roofs. The oldest one dates back 500 years. We did not have any excursions planned, so we decided to walk through town and have an adventure. We found a lovely streaming running through the middle of town and saw amazing sculptures. We ended up on the far side of the town. The view was incredible. After exploring a grocery store, we decided to walk back into town and see what else we could discover. I tried to purchase some packaged goods, but my credit card would not work. Rats! We wandered back through town to the harbor on the other side of Tinganes. We found a small cafe/pub on the waterfront. Frank had a local beer and I had a cider. Yep…that’s my phone. They had free wifi, so we were able to check in at home. Love wifi! This harbor is where the local fisherman are. We saw a table filled with the largest mussels I have ever seen. Horse mussels are buried or partly buried in gravel. They are most frequently found at subtidal depths from 10 to 25 meters, but there are registrations from 150 meters depth. They are often aggregated in large groups. We did not buy any, as we could not cook them. But boy…did I want to try some! Torshavn Cathedral is the second oldest received church of the Faroe Islands, on Tinganes in the old town of Torshavn. It is painted white and roofed with slate, and was established in 1788. The cathedral church lies in the north of the peninsula Tinganes and is one of the main attractions of the town. Like most churches of the country, it belongs to the Evangelical-Luthern national church of the Faroe Islands. Since 1990, it has been the seat of the bishop of the Faroes and is therefore known as a cathedral. The interior was stunning, with boats suspended from the ceiling in honor of the sailors lost at sea. We were lucky to be there on a Saturday and witnessed a parade of weddings. Apparently, summer weddings are very popular in the cathedral. The wedding party wore traditional Faroses costumes that are handed down through the generations. All too soon, it was time to return to the ship and continue our journey. As we sailed past the island, I was reminded of the Scottish Highlands. Off to Iceland! Let’s Connect: Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum, A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum, A Celebrity RETREAT class forum and Alaska Cruise Lover Forum You can also follow me at: YouTube at Travels With Mickey Pinterest at Travels with Mickey Instagram at Travels with Mickey Please visit and follow my Amazon store for more helpful items to make your cruise even more enjoyable! P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself. Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much! *Zest4Travel is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associate Program. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases.
Category Archives: Cruise
Exploring Ketchikan: Top Activities for Your Alaskan Adventure
Ketchikan is often called the rainfall capital of the United States, so it’s smart to be prepared. That said, in more than 10 visits there, we’ve only had rain once! Ironically, we’ve experienced much more rain in Juneau and Skagway—go figure! Ketchikan has no shortage of things to do. You can dive into Alaskan Native culture, explore its incredible natural scenery, wander historic Creek Street, visit totem parks, take scenic boat tours, go hiking, or catch the always-entertaining Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show. This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. This is a great place to simply wander and explore at your own pace. Depending on where your ship docks, the main tourist area is either just a short walk away or right outside the ship. If you’re tendering in, you’ll be dropped off directly at the main dock area. If you haven’t pre-booked an excursion, don’t worry—there are plenty of kiosks available offering a variety of tours and activity options right on site. A popular destination for day trippers is Creek Street. This is a pleasant 10-15 minute walk from the cruise port. When walking in Ketchikan, be sure to follow the crossing guard’s directions. The roads are busy with tour busses and the guards are there to keep you safe. From the 1920’s to the 1950’s, Creek Street is where fishermen, miners, and some more genteel characters, found entertainment and feminine companionship. You can visit Dolly’s House Museum ($5 admission fee), which is locally owned and operated by a life long Ketchikan resident who takes great pride in being able to offer this unique and historic video narrated tour that looks back into Ketchikan’s infamous past. Creek Street is also well known for the annual salmon run that happens each summer. During peak season, the creek becomes so full of fish it almost looks like you could walk across it! You may also spot a resident seal near the bridge who has become quite the local character—often seen hanging around and trying to steal a fisherman’s catch when it gets the chance. From the end of Creek Street, you can continue your walk to the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. Inside, you’ll find exhibits showcasing the commercial, cultural, and recreational importance of the world’s largest temperate rainforest. The center also features a comfortable theater that screens short films about Ketchikan and the Tongass National Forest, offering a great way to learn more about the region and its incredible natural surroundings. Did you know you can take a distillery tour in Ketchikan? Unchartered Alaska Distillery (Station One Distillery) is located right on Main Street and offers a unique experience inside a historic former fire station. On this 2-hour tour, you’ll get a fascinating overview of the building’s history along with an introduction to the distilling process behind their locally crafted spirits. You’ll also enjoy tastings of their house spirits, followed by a hands-on class where you can blend your own custom infusion using provided botanicals, herbs, and spices. To top it off, you’ll design your own custom label for your creation—giving you a one-of-a-kind bottle to take home and share with friends and family. Be sure to plan accordingly for this immersive and interactive experience. Bawden Street Brewing Co. is currently the only active microbrewery in Ketchikan, offering a fun stop for craft beer lovers. They’re known for their creative lineup of offbeat ales, saisons, and sours, giving visitors a chance to try something a little different from the usual brewery fare. You’ll find them just a few blocks from the pier at 325 Bawden Street, making it an easy walk if you’re exploring the downtown area during your visit. We finally visited the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show—and it was such a fun experience! Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show runs several times a day, and you can hear the laughter and cheering from the crowd well before you even step inside. It’s also very reasonably priced, and we were able to book it through the cruise line using onboard credit, which made it even more convenient. I highly recommend this family-friendly excursion if you’re in Ketchikan—it was an absolute hoot from start to finish! Is spotting bears at the top of your list? Then get ready for the ultimate Alaska wildlife adventure in Ketchikan! From the incredible salmon ladder to unforgettable bear sightings at Herring Cove, this is one destination that delivers nonstop nature. You can also explore Rotary Beach, where you might catch glimpses of whales offshore and discover fascinating marine life in the intertidal zones. There is the chance you will see bears in town. We have stumbled on them several times. Please keep your distance from them. They are wild animals and could attack if they feel threatened. Ketchikan is home to the largest collection of totem poles in the world, including some of the oldest still in existence. While the very oldest are preserved in climate-controlled environments and a few remain in private collections, many can still be seen throughout the town. You can explore a significant number at the Totem Heritage Center, or visit one of the nearby totem parks to see these remarkable works of art up close and learn more about their cultural significance. The Misty Fjords are one of the most popular excursions in the region. Misty Fjords National Monument can be experienced in two unforgettable ways—by boat or by air. Personally, nothing beats seeing it from a floatplane. There’s something incredibly “Alaska” about lifting off the water and soaring over it all. This is the Alaska you imagine before you ever arrive: icy blue lakes, dramatic waterfalls, snowcapped peaks, and deep glacial valleys stretching as far as you can see. No matter where you point your camera, it feels like you’ve landed inside a postcard. Have you ever watched Deadliest Catch? The Deadliest Catch tour gives you a glimpse into Alaska’s intense crab fishing industry—but you canContinueContinue reading “Exploring Ketchikan: Top Activities for Your Alaskan Adventure”
Packing for Alaska…What To Bring
Planning an Alaska cruise? After more than 10 years cruising Alaska, here’s exactly what to pack for changing weather, glacier viewing, rainy port days, and comfortable onboard travel, including the must-have clothing, shoes, cabin essentials, and cruise accessories that actually make a difference.
Explore Skagway: A Cruise Passengers’ Guide
A popular cruise port, Skagway has a fascinating history. Cruisers who stop in Skagway will find a town brimming with gold rush history, unique culture, and amazing opportunities for enjoying the state’s renowned natural beauty. Skagway is the northernmost point in Alaska’s Inside Passage, at the far end of Lynn Canal. Once the boomtown gateway to the Trail of ’98 and the Klondike gold fields, the population has now dwindled about 1,000 year-round citizens. In the summer, those numbers increase dramatically with over 1 Million cruise passengers visiting each season. Prior to 1896, Skagway was a Tlingit hunting and fishing area. In 1896, gold was discovered on a tributary of the Klondike River, about 600 miles from Skagway. After the Klondike gold rush began, the population of Skagway boomed to between 8,000 and 10,000. Many of the original buildings still exist, along with a raised wooden walkway. On June 28, 1900, Skagway became the first incorporated city of Alaska, beating Juneau by ONE day! Most cruise ships arriving in Skagway will dock at one of three locations right on the edge of town: Ore Dock, Railroad Dock or Broadway Dock. Railroad dock has been affected by rock slides the past few years. If your ship docks there, you may have to take a tender to shore, as the farthest end of the pier is not safe. What You Need to Know About Skagway Cruise Port The city of Skagway is within easy walking distance of the cruise port. There are many shore excursions to choose from, including the popular and historic White Pass Trail, that are accessible to cruise passengers. If you have not pre-booked, there will be vendors available onshore. Currency Although close to Canada, Skagway is located in Alaska (USA). The official currency is the USD (United States Dollar). Businesses in Skagway will accept cash, credit and debit cards. Language In Alaska, you might hear some unusual vernacular including “Lower 48” (the 48 contiguous United States), “break-up” (spring time when ice and snow finally melt) and “cheechako” (a newcomer), but the primary language is English. Time Zone Most of Alaska (including Skagway) is within the Alaska Standard Time Zone. Alaska Standard Time Zone is one hour behind Pacific Time and four hours behind the Eastern Time Zone. Weather Weather in Skagway will range from the 40s to the low 60s during Alaska cruise season. Skagway has the driest climate of any of the Southeast passage port towns, which means you will probably enjoy sunny weather during your visit. That being said, one of the wettest days I’ve had in Alaska was in Skagway. It was POURING! Also, due to the location at the end of the Lynn Canal and the configuration of the valley, Skagway tends to be windy. Tip: When considering what to wear on your Alaska cruise, dressing in layers is always a good idea. Mornings will start off cool, but the weather can warm up significantly later in the day. Getting Around Town It is very easy for cruisers to get around Skagway on foot. It’s only a short walk from the dock to downtown Skagway and the terrain is flat. Be careful of the elevated wooden walkways….it can be easy to trip on them if you aren’t looking. Overall, this city is very walkable. Public Transportation The Skagway Municipal And Regional Transit (SMART) offers a SMART shuttle bus. Their “Dock to Downtown” Loop runs every 15 minutes during cruise season. An all-day SMART bus pass costs $5 per person or you can pay $3 per person for a one-way pass. Car Rentals There aren’t many car rental options in this small town. DIY Jeep Tours is one innovative option that combines a rental car with a built-in tour guide. Each rental includes a CD that will give you mile-by-mile guide explaining historic and scenic spots. Other places to look for car rental are Expedia and Avis. Be sure to reserve your car as early as possible…there is a limited supply. In 2018, we rented a car for the day and made the trip on the Klondike Highway heading to the Yukon. There really isn’t any need to worry about getting lost…there is only one real road in and out of Skagway. Be sure to take your passports with you if you plan to cross into Canada! We made several stops along the way to enjoy the scenery and to stretch our legs. The driving was very easy, but there was some construction along the way, which slowed us down a little. Keep an eye on the time…you don’t want to miss the “all aboard”! Top Skagway Shore Excursions There are many activities to choose from in Skagway, but several of my favorites are the White Pass train, horseback riding, hiking and just wandering the town. White Pass and Yukon Route Railway Probably the #1 thing to do in Skagway is to take the White Pass train. The White Pass and Yukon Route opened on August 1, 1900 and is a narrow gauge railroad linking the port of Skagway, Alaska with Whitehorse, the capital of Yukon. It is an isolated system and has no direct connection to any other railroad. Recognized as an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark, the train gains nearly 3,000 feet over 20 miles, and engineers faced harsh weather conditions and difficult terrain to make it happen. This honor is awarded to engineering feats like the Panama Canal, the Eiffel Tower, and the Statue of Liberty. This breathtaking train ride will take you on the White Pass Summit route that gold miners took in 1898. You will see glaciers, waterfalls, mountains and even signs of the original Klondike trail worn into rocks. The train ride lasts from 2.5-2.75 hours and goes 40 miles round trip. You do not need your passport to ride the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway (I recommend taking it just in case). Be sure to bring your camera! If this is your first Alaska cruise, the White Rail Pass is a shore excursion to definitelyContinueContinue reading “Explore Skagway: A Cruise Passengers’ Guide”
Best things to do in Tallinn, Estonia
A few years ago, we took a Baltic cruise on the Celebrity Eclipse. One of our ports was Tallin, Estonia. Tallinn is a fascinating city. The old town is on a hill and is an easy walk from the cruise terminal. Most cruise lines offer busses for a fee, if you prefer to save the walking for the town. Even though Tallinn was founded in 1248, the earliest human settlements are over 5,000 years old, which makes it one of the oldest capital cities of Northern Europe. Due to its strategic location on the Baltic Sea, the city became a major trade hub. It grew in importance as part of the Hanseatic League from the 14th to the 16th century. Tallinn’s number one attraction is without a doubt the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town. Here you will find medieval ambience with an exceptionally well-preserved street network and city walls. Stroll along the narrow, cobble stone streets, admire the centuries-old architecture, climb towers, and peek into mysterious courtyards and archways – some hide romantic cafés, cute shops, or secret gardens. In the heart of the Old Town is the Town Hall Square. The square has been a marketplace and the center of this old Hanseatic town since the Middle Ages. Now, it is a main venue for a variety of events, from the Old Town Days in summer to the fairy-tale Christmas Market and a popular meeting place for the townspeople. Incidentally, the world’s first public Christmas tree was erected here in 1441 by the Brotherhood of the Blackheads. The Town Hall Square is named after the Gothic Town Hall, which stands on the edge of the square and offers beautiful views from the tower. At the other end of the square is the Raeapteek, one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe and the oldest in Tallinn. Next to the pharmacy is a museum, where you can learn about the history and medieval healing methods. You can also take a guided tour and workshops are held in the basement. Toompea Castle, with its late Baroque façade, was built between 1767 and 1773 on the foundations of a crumbling eastern wing of a fortress dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries. Today the castle is home to the Riigikogu (the Estonian parliament). The national flag can be seen flying on top of the 45.6-metre Tall Hermann tower. Free tours of the castle for visitors takes place every day Monday to Friday, if booked ahead of time. https://www.riigikogu.ee/en/visit-us/ Sessions of parliament can be watched from the public gallery. The Seaplane Harbor and Estonian Maritime Museum is built in a unique seaplane hangar. This exciting maritime museum is located in the Seaplane Harbor and is the most impressive maritime museum in the region. With approx. 200 authentic items on display, you will find a submarine called Lembit, a century-old icebreaker Suur Tõll, a seaplane called Short 184, remains of the oldest ship found in Estonia and much more. If you are traveling with children, they will enjoy having their picture taken in a navy uniform, an aquarium, simulators, throwing paper airplanes and a children’s corner with drawing tools, building blocks, an authentic sailboat, and an outdoor playground. Walking and exploring can make one hungry. Tallinn is steadily becoming a foodie destination with more restaurants, gastro pubs, and cafés than sometimes seem possible. Here you will find everything from high-end Nordic cuisine to cheap, local favorites. The Old Town has it all, even the historic foods. You will probably not see many locals in the restaurants, especially in the summer. It’s not because they don’t like them or there are too many tourists, it’s just that eating out in the Old Town is usually reserved for special occasions like anniversaries and birthdays. Here you will find various local fare from wild boar to bear and barley sausage. The unusual flavors are novel but really good and the unique experience makes for a treasured memory. You can also take a food tour with a guide. This gives you the opportunity to explore Estonian foods with someone who can explain all of the dishes while you eat them. https://foodsightseeing.ee/en Enjoy wandering this beautiful medieval town….explore the nooks and crannies, walk down the pathways, climb the towers, eat some local food. And be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes! Let’s connect: Let’s connect: Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum, A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum, A Celebrity RETREAT class forum and Alaska Cruise Lover Forum You can also follow me at: YouTube at Travels With Mickey Pinterest at Travels with Mickey Instagram at Travels with Mickey Please visit and follow my Amazon store for more helpful items to make your cruise even more enjoyable! P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself. Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much! *Zest4Travel is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associate Program. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases.
Top Things to Do in Juneau, Alaska
Nestled between towering mountains and the waters of the Inside Passage, Juneau is one of the most breathtaking destinations on an Alaska cruise itinerary. From spotting humpback whales and exploring glaciers to riding scenic tramways and sampling local breweries and distilleries, Juneau offers the perfect mix of adventure, wildlife, and small-town charm. Whether you’re visiting for a few hours on a cruise stop or spending several days exploring Alaska’s capital city, there are countless unforgettable experiences waiting around every corner. Here are some of the best things to do in Juneau, Alaska. Fun fact: Juneau – the capital of Alaska — is the only U.S. state capital you can’t drive to. The only way to reach it is by air or by water, whether that’s by ferry, private boat, or cruise ship. This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy, I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. Some of my favorite things to do in Juneau include browsing the shops near the cruise docks, zip lining through the rainforest, taking a whale watching excursion, exploring Mendenhall Glacier, and visiting the local breweries and distilleries. Located about 12 miles from downtown Juneau, Mendenhall Glacier is part of the 5,815-acre Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area within the Tongass National Forest. There are several excellent ways to experience the glacier, including Mendenhall Glacier Trolley Tour, Mendenhall Glacier Express Tour, a Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watching Tour or even Mendenhall Glacier Lake Canoe Tour. Prefer to explore Juneau at your own pace? A self-guided walking tour is a fantastic way to discover the city’s history and culture. Stroll through downtown while visiting popular spots like Red Dog Saloon, Juneau-Douglas City Museum, and Amalga Distillery. Along the way, you’ll hear fascinating stories about the gold rush era, Alaska Native heritage, and the unique architecture that gives Juneau its charm. Best of all, you can start, pause, and continue the tour whenever it fits your schedule. Ride the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway for some of the best views in Juneau! This scenic tramway lifts you 1,800 feet above the city in just five minutes from the cruise ship pier. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Chilkat Mountains, the Gastineau Channel, downtown Juneau, Douglas Island, and the towering peaks of Admiralty Island. At the top, you can explore hiking trails, cultural exhibits, local artisan crafts, and nature displays while soaking in one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in Alaska. One of our all-time favorite excursions in Juneau was zip lining. It’s the perfect adventure if you’re looking to do something a little different while visiting Alaska. One of the most popular options is Alaska Canopy Adventures, a locally owned company offering an unforgettable experience on Douglas Island. Your adventure begins with a scenic drive through the Tongass National Forest as you make your way toward Eaglecrest Ski Area. From there, you’ll soar through the rainforest canopy on a series of exhilarating zip lines, stopping at elevated platforms along the way to take in the incredible scenery and capture photos. The experience also includes crossing a suspension bridge over a rushing stream and ends with the chance to try axe throwing. The entire excursion lasts about three and a half hours and is an exciting way to experience Alaska’s wilderness from above Whale watching is easily one of my favorite excursions in Alaska. Seeing these incredible animals in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience and often becomes the highlight of an Alaska cruise. In Juneau, there are several tour options available, ranging from larger group cruises to more intimate private excursions. Many tours also offer combination experiences that include a visit to Mendenhall Glacier, allowing you to experience two of Juneau’s top attractions in one memorable outing. Looking for even more adventure in Juneau? A kayaking excursion with humpback whales is an unforgettable way to experience Alaska’s incredible wildlife and scenery up close. Your journey begins with a scenic boat ride through the Inside Passage, where you’ll travel toward the whales’ feeding grounds while taking in breathtaking views of glaciers, dense forests, and snow-capped mountains. Once you arrive, you’ll hop into kayaks and paddle through the calm waters in search of humpback whales, sea lions, bald eagles, and other native wildlife. It’s an incredible combination of adventure, nature, and unforgettable Alaskan scenery. Is fishing in Alaska on your bucket list? A small-group salmon fishing excursion in Juneau is a fantastic way to experience Alaska’s famous fishing culture without heading out on the open ocean. This half-day shore fishing adventure lets you skip the possibility of seasickness while still enjoying a hands-on experience focused on catching salmon. Guides provide all the necessary equipment and helpful instruction, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced anglers. Even better, any salmon you catch can be sent to a local fish processor and shipped directly to your home, so you can enjoy your Alaska catch long after your trip ends Did you know that Juneau has a thriving brewery and distillery scene? It’s a great destination for craft beer lovers looking to experience a local side of Alaska. One of the most popular stops is Alaskan Brewing Company — often called “ABC” by locals. Their downtown gear shop is a fun place to pick up souvenirs, clothing, and branded merchandise, and it also features a restaurant where visitors can enjoy local brews. If you want the full brewery experience, head to the main brewery located about five miles from downtown Juneau and just a few miles from the airport. A complimentary shuttle makes getting there easy, and guests ages 21 and older can sample a rotating selection of more than 20 Alaskan beers on tap for a small tasting fee. Did you know Alaskan Brewing Company also produces a creative lineup of ready-to-drink canned beverages beyond beer? One standout from their innovative craft lineup is the Rainforest Gin & Tonic canned cocktail—a crisp, refreshing drink made with house-distilled gin and spruce-tip tonic inspired by Alaska’s coastal rainforest. In addition to their canned cocktails, Alaskan Brewing also offers hard seltzers with a distinctly Alaskan twist, often infused with local flavors like Sitka spruce tips. My favorite is distillery is AmalgaContinueContinue reading “Top Things to Do in Juneau, Alaska”