The Serenade of the Seas is one of the most beautiful and modern ships currently cruising the Inside Passage of Alaska.
Able to accommodate some 2100 passengers, the Royal Caribbean ship is also one of the larger in Alaska - in fact, it fits just within the size restrictions for passage through the Panama Canal.
First launched in 2003, Serenade has a huge amount of glass incorporated into its design, allowing for incredible views from many of the ship's public areas.
Overall, the ship is simply beautiful, and it offers a wide range of choices both in dining and in entertainment, making it a great choice for everyone from seniors to families.
The centerpiece of the ship is a dazzling 10 story glass atrium, along with glass elevators. The overall feel of the ship is uncrowded, despite its large capacity.
Dining options aboard Serenade of the Seas
The ship's restaurants and dining rooms are truly diverse. They include the ship's gorgeous main dining room, Reflections, which comes complete with an indoor waterfall. Reflections offers traditional style dining, with set meal times and seating assignments.
The Seaview Cafe offers lite pub food, and is a great place for lunch or a late dinner. The Solarium Cafe offers a wide variety of snacks.
The Windjammer Buffet offers cafeteria style food and is wisely divided into many smaller serving stations rather than forcing everyone into one long line.
The two premium restaurants on the ship are Chops Steakhouse and Portofino Italian Restaurant. A $20 per person surcharge applies to both these restaurants.
Finally, complimentary round the clock room service is available to all passengers.
Activities and entertainment
There's a great deal to do and see aboard the ship, when you are not off viewing glaciers or enjoying shore excursions.
Sports offerings include a health club, spa, a basketball court, golf cages, and a rock climbing wall. Many fitness and yoga classes are also offered.
Tropical Theater offers a great variety of Broadway style shows and other entertainment each night.
Then there's gambling in the Casino Royale, dancing at the Vortex bar and disco, live entertainment in the ship's lounges, and dancing in the atrium's lobby.
The Serenade of the Seas is a great ship and a wonderful way to cruise Alaska.
